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Title: Cooley's Practical Receipts, Volume II
Author: Cooley, Arnold, Tuson, Richard
Language: English
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Transcriber’s Note: This is Volume II. Volume I is etext 39733 at
the abbreviations used in this text. Near the end of this Volume II will
be found a list of publications referenced in the footnotes.
The original publication has been replicated faithfully except as shown in
the TRANSCRIBER’S AMENDMENTS near the end of the text. To preserve the
alignment of tables and headers, this etext presumes a mono-spaced font on
the user’s device, such as Courier New, but another font might be needed
to render odd unicode characters better. Words in italics are indicated
like _this_. Text emphasized with bold characters or other treatment is
shown like =this=. Superscripts are indicated like this: S^{ta} Maria.
Subscripts are indicated like this: H_{2}O.
* * * * *
COOLEY’S CYCLOPÆDIA
OF
PRACTICAL RECEIPTS
AND
COLLATERAL INFORMATION
IN THE
ARTS, MANUFACTURES, PROFESSIONS, AND TRADES
INCLUDING
Medicine, Pharmacy, Hygiene, and Domestic Economy
DESIGNED AS A COMPREHENSIVE
SUPPLEMENT TO THE PHARMACOPŒIA
AND
GENERAL BOOK OF REFERENCE
FOR THE MANUFACTURER, TRADESMAN, AMATEUR, AND
HEADS OF FAMILIES
SIXTH EDITION
REVISED AND GREATLY ENLARGED BY
RICHARD V. TUSON, F.I.C., F.C.S.
PROFESSOR OF CHEMISTRY IN THE ROYAL VETERINARY COLLEGE;
FORMERLY LECTURER
ON CHEMISTRY AT THE CHARING CROSS HOSPITAL.
VOL. II
[Illustration]
LONDON
J. & A. CHURCHILL, NEW BURLINGTON STREET
1880
A CYCLOPÆDIA
OF
PRACTICAL RECEIPTS, &c.
VOLUME II
=Ink, Lithograph′ic.= _Prep._ 1. Mastic (in tears), 8 oz.; shell-lac, 12
oz.; Venice turpentine, 1 oz.; melt together, add, of wax, 1 lb.; tallow,
6 oz.; when dissolved, further add of hard tallow soap (in shavings), 6
oz.; and when the whole is perfectly combined add of lampblack, 4 oz.;
lastly, mix well, cool a little, and then pour it into moulds, or upon a
slab, and when cold cut it into square pieces.
2. (Lasteyrie.) Dry tallow soap, mastic (in tears), and common soda (in
fine powder), of each 30 parts; shell-lac, 150 parts; lampblack, 12 parts;
mix as last. Both the above are used for writing on lithographic stones.
3. (AUTOGRAPHIC.)——_a._ Take of white wax, 8 oz., and white soap, 2 to 3
oz.; melt, and when well combined, add of lampblack, 1 oz.; mix well, heat
it strongly, and then add of shell-lac, 2 oz.; again heat it strongly,
stir well together, cool a little, and pour it out as before. With this
ink lines may be drawn of the finest to the fullest class, without danger
of its spreading, and the copy may be kept for years before being
transferred.
_b._ From white soap and white wax, of each 10 oz.; mutton suet, 3 oz.;
shell-lac and mastic, of each 5 oz.; lampblack, 3-1/2 oz.; mix as above.
Both the above are used for writing on lithographic paper. When the last
is employed, the transfer must be made within a week.
_Obs._ The above inks are rubbed down with a little water in a small cup
or saucer for use, in the same way as common water-colour cakes or Indian
ink. In winter the operation should be performed near the fire, or the
saucer should be placed over a basin containing a little tepid water.
Either a steel pen or a camel-hair pencil may be employed with the ink.
See LITHOGRAPHY.
=Ink, Mark′ing.= _Syn._ INDELIBLE INK, PERMANENT I. Of this there are
several varieties, of which the following are the most valuable and
commonly used:——
1. Nitrate of silver, 1/4 oz.; hot distilled water, 7 fl. dr.; dissolve,
add of mucilage, 1/4 oz.; previously rubbed with sap green or syrup of
buckthorn, q. s. to colour. The linen must be first moistened with ‘liquid
pounce,’ or ‘the preparation,’ as it is commonly called, and when it has
again become dry, written on with a clean quill pen. The ink will bear
dilution if the writing is not required very black.
The POUNCE or PREPARATION. A solution of carbonate of soda, 1-1/2 oz.; in
water, 1 pint, slightly coloured with a little sap green or syrup of
buckthorn, to enable the spots wetted with it to be afterwards known.
2. (WITHOUT PREPARATION.) Take of nitrate of silver, 1/4 oz.; water, 3/4
oz.; dissolve, add as much of the strongest liquor of ammonia as will
dissolve the precipitate formed on its first addition, then further add of
mucilage, 1-1/2 dr., and a little sap green, syrup of buckthorn, or finely
powdered indigo, to colour. Writing executed with this ink turns black on
being passed over a hot Italian iron, or held near the fire.
3. Terchloride of gold, 1-1/2 dr.; water, 7 fl. dr.; mucilage, 2 dr.; sap
green, q. s. to colour. To be written with on a ground prepared with a
weak solution of protochloride of tin, and dried. Dark purple.
4. (Rev. J. B. Reade.) Nitrate of silver, 1 oz., tartaric acid (pure), 3
dr., are triturated together in a mortar in the dry state; a little water
is then added, by which crystals of tartrate of silver are formed, and the
nitric acid set free; the latter is then saturated with liquor of ammonia,
sufficient being added to dissolve all the newly-formed tartrate of
silver, avoiding unnecessary excess; lastly, a little gum and colouring
matter is added.
5. (Rev. J. B. Reade.) To the last is added an ammoniacal solution of a
salt of gold. Mr Reade has used for this purpose the ‘purple of Cassius,’
the hyposulphate, the ammonio-iodide, the ammonio-periodide of gold, but
any other compound of gold which is soluble in ammonia will do as well.
This ink is unacted on by nearly all those reagents which remove writing
executed with solutions of the salts of silver alone, as cyanide of
potassium, the chlorides of lime and soda, &c.
6. (Redwood.) Nitrate of silver and pure bitartrate of potassa, of each 1
oz. (or 4 parts), are rubbed together in a glass or Wedgwood-ware mortar,
and after a short time liquor of ammonia, 4 oz. (16 parts, or q. s.), is
added; when the solution is complete, archil, 4 dr. (or 2 parts); white
sugar, 6 dr. (or 3 parts); and powdered gum, 10 dr. (or 5 parts), are
dissolved in the liquor, after which sufficient water is added to make the
whole measure exactly 6 fl. oz., when it is ready to be bottled for use.
The last three are used in the same manner as No. 2.
7. (Dr Smellie.) From sulphate of iron, 1 dr.; vermilion, 4 dr.; boiled
linseed oil, 1 oz.; triturated together until perfectly smooth. Used with
type.
8. (Soubeiran.) Nitrate of copper, 3 parts; carbonate of soda, 4 parts;
nitrate of silver, 8 parts; mix, and dissolve in liquor of ammonia, 100
parts. Used like No. 2.
9. (Ure.) A strong solution of chloride of platinum, with a little
potassa, and sugar and gum, to thicken.
10. The fluid contained between the kernel and shell of the cashew nut. On
linen and cotton it turns gradually black, and is very durable. This has
been called ANACARDIUM or CASHEW-NUT INK.
11. Sulphate of manganese, 2 parts; lampblack, 1 part; sugar, 4 parts; all
in fine powder, and triturated to a paste with a little water. Used with
types or stencil-plates; the part, when dry, being well rinsed in water.
Brown.
12. Black oxide of manganese and hydrate of potassa are mixed, heated to
redness in a crucible, and then triturated with an equal weight of pure
white clay, and water, q. s. to give it due consistence. Used like the
last. (Brown.)
13. (Aniline Black Marking Ink.) This ink is prepared by means of two
solutions, one of copper, the other of aniline, prepared as follows:——
(1.) COPPER SOLUTION. 8·52 grams of crystallised chloride of copper, 10·65
grams of chlorate of soda, and 5·35 grams of chloride of ammonium are
dissolved in 60 grams of water.
(2.) ANILINE SOLUTION. 20 grams of hydrochlorate of aniline are dissolved
in 30 grams of distilled water, and to this are added 20 grams of solution
of gum Arabic (1 part of gum to 2 of water) and 10 grams of glycerin.
By mixing in the cold 4 parts of the aniline solution, with 1 part of the
copper solution, a greenish liquid is obtained which can be employed
directly for the marking; but as this liquid can only be preserved for a
few days without decomposition, it is advisable to keep the solution
separately, until the ink is required for use.
The ink may be used either with a pen, or a stencil plate and brush; if it
do not flow freely from the pen it may be diluted with a little water
without fear of weakening the intensity of the colour. At first the
writing appears of a pale green colour, but after exposure to the air it
becomes black, or it may be changed to a black colour immediately, by
passing a hot iron over the back of the fabric, or heating it over the
flame of a spirit lamp. As, however, a dry heat is apt to make the fibre
saturated with the ink, brittle, it is preferable to hold the marked
fabric over a vessel, containing water in full ebullition; the heat of the
vapour is sufficient to determine almost immediately, the reaction by
which aniline black is formed. After the steaming, the writing should be
washed in hot soapsuds, which gives the ink a fine blue shade. The ink is
not acted upon by acids or alkalies, and if care be taken that the fibres
are well saturated with it, there is no danger of its being removed by
washing. (‘Dingler’s Journal.’)
14. In addition to the above formulæ, the following of M. Henry may be
worthy of attention in large establishments where economy is an
object:——Take 1 oz. of iron filings and 3 oz. of vinegar, or diluted
acetic acid. Mix the filings with half the vinegar, and agitate them
continually till the mixture becomes thick, then add the rest of the
vinegar and 1 oz. of water. Apply heat to assist the action, and when the
iron is dissolved, add 3 oz. of sulphate of iron, and 1 oz. of gum
previously dissolved in 4 oz. of water; and mix the whole with a gentle
heat. To be used with brush and stencil plates.
15. (Crimson Marking Ink.) Dissolve 1 oz. of nitrate of silver, and 1-1/2
oz. of carbonate of soda in crystals, separately in distilled water, mix
the solutions, collect and wash the precipitate on a filter, introduce the
washed precipitate still moist into a Wedgwood mortar, and add to it
tartaric acid 2 dr. and 40 gr., rubbing together till effervescence has
ceased; dissolve carmine 6 grains, in liquor ammoniæ (·882) 6 oz., and add
to it the tartrate of silver, then mix in white sugar, 6 dr., and powdered
gum Arabic, 10 dr., and add as much distilled water as will make 6 oz.
(‘Pharm. Journal.’)
_Obs._ The products of the first two of the above formulæ constitute the
marking ink of the shops. They have, however, no claim to the title of
‘INDELIBLE INK,’ “which no art can extract without injuring the
fabric”——as is generally represented. On the contrary, they may be
discharged with almost as much facility as common iron-moulds. This may be
easily and cheaply effected by means of ammonia, cyanide of potassium, the
chlorides of lime and soda, and some of the hyposulphites, without in the
least injuring the texture of the fabric to which they may be applied. The
only precaution required is that of rinsing the part in clean water
immediately after the operation. The ‘marking ink without preparation’ is
more easily extracted than that ‘with preparation.’ The former has also
the disadvantage of not keeping so well as the latter, and of depositing a
portion of fulminating silver, under some circumstances, which renders its
use dangerous. The thinner inks, when intended to be used with type or
plates, are thickened by adding a little more gum, or some sugar.
=Ink, Mark′ing.= _Syn._ PACKER’S INK. Ink bottoms. Used by packers for
marking bales, boxes, &c.
=Ink, Perpet′ual.= _Prep._ 1. Pitch, 3 lbs.; melt over the fire, and add
of lampblack, 3/4 lb.; mix well.
2. Trinidad asphaltum and oil of turpentine, equal parts. Used in a melted
state to fill in the letters on tombstones, marbles, &c. Without actual
violence, it will endure as long as the stone itself.
=Ink, Print′er’s.= See PRINTING INK.
=Ink, Pur′ple.= 1. A strong decoction of logwood, to which a little alum
or chloride of tin has been added.
2. (Normandy.) To 12 lbs. of Campeachy wood add as many gallons of boiling
water, pour the solution through a funnel with a strainer made of coarse
flannel, or 1 lb. of hydrate, or acetate of deutoxide of copper finely
powdered (having at the bottom of the funnel a piece of sponge); then add
immediately 14 lbs. of alum, and for every 340 galls. of liquid add 80
lbs. of gum Arabic or gum Senegal. Let these remain for three or four days
and a beautiful purple colour will be produced.
=Ink, Red.= _Prep._ 1. Brazil wood (ground), 4 oz.; white-wine vinegar
(hot), 1-1/4 pint; digest in glass or a well-tinned copper or enamel
saucepan, until the next day, then gently simmer for half an hour, adding
towards the end gum Arabic and alum, of each 1/2 oz.
2. Ground Brazil wood, 10 oz.; white vinegar, 10 pints; macerate for 4 or
5 days; then boil as before to one half, and add of roach alum, 4-1/2 oz.;
gum, 5 oz.; and when dissolved, bottle for use.
3. As the last, but using water or beer instead of vinegar.
4. Cochineal (in powder), 1 oz.; hot water, 1/2 pint; digest, and when
quite cold, add of spirit of hartshorn, 1/4 pint (or liquor of ammonia, 1
oz., diluted with 3 or 4 oz. of water); macerate for a few days longer,
and then decant the clear. Very fine.
5. (Buchner.) Pure carmine, 20 gr.; liquor of ammonia, 3 fl. oz.;
dissolve, then add of powdered gum, 18 gr. Half a drachm of powdered drop
lake may be substituted for the carmine where expense is an object. Colour
superb.
6. (Henzeler.) Brazil wood, 2 oz.; alum and cream of tartar, of each 1/2
oz.; rain water, 16 fl. oz.; boil to one half, strain, add of gum
(dissolved), 1/2 oz.; and when cold, further add a tincture made by
digesting powdered cochineal, 1-1/2 dr., in rectified spirit, 1-1/2 fl.
oz.
7. (Redwood.) Garancine and liquor of ammonia, of each 1 oz.; distilled
water (cold), 1 pint; triturate together in a mortar, filter, and dissolve
in the solution, gum Arabic 1/2 oz.
=Ink, Se′pia.= See SEPIA.
=Ink, Sil′ver.= From silver leaf or powdered silver, as GOLD INK.
=Ink, Sympathet′ic.= _Syn._ DIPLOMATIC INK, INVISIBLE I. Fluids which,
when used for writing, remain invisible until the paper is heated, or
acted on by some other chemical agent. Sympathetic inks have been
frequently employed as the instruments of secret correspondence, and have
often escaped detection; but by heating the paper before the fire until it
begins to grow discoloured by the heat, the whole of them may be rendered
visible.
The following are the most common and amusing sympathetic inks:——1.
Sulphate of copper and sal ammoniac, equal parts, dissolved in water;
writes colourless, but turns YELLOW when heated.——2. Onion juice; like the
last.——3. A weak infusion of galls; turns BLACK when moistened with weak
copperas water:——4. A weak solution of sulphate of iron; turns BLUE when
moistened with a weak solution of prussiate of potassa, and BLACK when
moistened with infusion of galls.——5. The diluted solutions of nitrate of
silver and of terchloride of gold; become respectively DARK BROWN and
PURPLE when exposed to the sunlight.——6. Aqua fortis, spirits of salts,
oil of vitriol, common salt, or saltpetre, dissolved in a large quantity
of water; turns YELLOW or BROWN when heated.——7. Solution of chloride or
nitromuriate of cobalt; turns GREEN when heated, and disappears again on
cooling. If the salt is pure, the marks turn BLUE.——8. Solution of acetate
of cobalt, to which a little nitre has been added; becomes ROSE COLOURED
when heated, and disappears on cooling.——9. A weak solution of the mixed
chlorides of cobalt and nickel; turns GREEN. The last three are about the
best of our sympathetic inks.——10. Solution of acetate of lead; turns
BROWNISH-BLACK when exposed to the fumes of sulphuretted hydrogen.——11. A
weak solution of nitrate of mercury; turned BLACK by heat and sulphuretted
fumes.——12. Rice water or decoction of starch; turned BLUE by a solution
of iodine in weak spirit, and by the fumes of iodine, if the paper is
first slightly moistened by exposure to steam or damp air.
=Ink, Vi′olet.= The same as PURPLE INK, but weaker.
=Ink, Yel′low.= 1. From gamboge (in coarse powder), 1 oz.; hot water, 5
oz.; dissolve, and when cold, add of spirit, 3/4 oz.
2. Boil French berries, 1/2 lb., and alum, 1 oz., in rain water, 1 quart,
for half an hour, or longer, then strain and dissolve in the hot liquor
gum Arabic, 1 oz.
=Ink, Zinc Labels, to write on.= _Syn._ HORTICULTURAL INK. 1. Dissolve 100
gr. of tetrachloride of platinum in a pint of water. A little mucilage and
lamp black may be added.
2. Sal ammoniac 1 dr.; verdigris, 1 dr.; lampblack, 1/2 dr.; water, 10
dr.; mix.
=INK POW′DERS.= _Prep._ 1. Aleppo galls, 4 oz.; sulphate of iron, 1-1/2
oz.; gum Arabic, 1 oz.; lump sugar, 3/4 oz.; (all quite dry and in
powder); mix, and divide into 3 packets. A pint of boiling water poured
over one of them produces, in a few hours, a pint of excellent ink.
2. Aleppo galls, 3 lbs.; copperas, 1 lb.; gum Arabic, 1/2 lb.; white
sugar, 1/4 lb.; all in powder; mix, and divide into two-ounce packets, to
be used as the last. Ink powders are very useful in travelling.
=INK STAINS, to remove.= See SPOTS.
=INOCULA′TION.= _Syn._ INOCULATIO, L. In _medicine_ and _surgery_, the
application of poisonous or infectious matter to any part of the body for
the purpose of propagating a milder form of disease, and thus preventing
or lessening the virulence of future attacks. In this country the term is
generally restricted to the artificial propagation of smallpox. See
VACCINATION.
=INOSIN′IC ACID.= An acid said by Liebig to exist in the juice of the
flesh of animals, after it has deposited its kreatine.
=IN′OSITE.= A species of unfermentable sugar, discovered by Scherer in the
juice of flesh. It forms beautiful crystals.
=IN′SECTS.= _Syn._ INSECTA, L. A class of invertebrate animals belonging
to the subkingdom Annuloso. The true insect is defined as an articulated
animal, having six legs, 2 antennæ, 2 compound eyes; a small brain at the
anterior extremity of a double medullary cord; its circulation is effected
by a pulsating dorsal vessel, provided with numerous valves; its
respiration by tracheæ, which form 2 lateral trunks, and ramify through
the body. The generation of insects is oviparous. There are two distinct
sexes. The adult state is attained through a series of metamorphoses. In
general, every insect possesses 2 pairs of wings; the trunk in the adult
animal is usually composed of 3 chief parts——the head, thorax, and
abdomen. The trunk of an insect may also be described as consisting of 13
segments, of which 1 constitutes the head, 3 constitute the thorax, and 9
the abdomen. Insects are arranged in the following orders:——1.
Hymenoptera, including bees, wasps, ichneumon-flies, &c.——2. Coleoptera,
including all those kinds commonly called beetles.——3. Neuroptera,
dragon-flies, ephemeræ, white ants, &c.——4. Strepsiptera, the stylops,
&c.——5. Lepidoptera, the butterflies and moths.——6. Diptera, the house-fly
and other 2-winged insects.——7. Orthoptera, crickets, grasshoppers,
locusts, earwigs, &c.——8. Hemiptera, bugs, frog-hoppers, aphides, &c.——9.
Aptera, fleas, &c. There are several animals belonging to the classes
MYRIOPODA and ARACHNIDA which are commonly but erroneously called
‘insects.’ Of these the centipedes, spiders, and acarides, or mites, are
well-known examples. Several useful products, as SILK, WAX, HONEY,
COCHINEAL, LAC, CANTHARIDES, &c., are supplied by insects. The class
includes numerous creatures which are extremely destructive, and others
which are regarded as domestic pests. In the articles devoted to these
offensive insects various methods of exterminating them are noticed. A
powder for destroying insects has recently been introduced into this
country, and has been found peculiarly efficacious. This powder, which is
known under various names (INSECTS-DESTROYING POWDER, DUMONT’S
INSECTICIDE, &c.), is produced by the _Pyrethrum roseum Caucasicum_, a
composite flower growing wild in the Caucasus. The central or tubular
florets of the disc are alone employed, and when ground, furnish the
powder of commerce. This powder, though so destructive to insect life, has
no injurious effect upon man or domestic animals. See ACARI, ANT, BEE,
BUG, BITES and STINGS, CANTHARIDES, COCHINEAL, LAC, PEDICULI, SILK, &c.
=INSECT′ICIDE POWDER.= See INSECTS.
=INTEM′PERANCE.= Under this head we refer to habitual indulgence in the
use of spirituous or fermented liquors, whether accompanied or not by fits
of intoxication or drunkenness.
The pernicious influence of intoxicating liquors upon individuals and upon
society has been so often and ably exposed by the clergy, judges, and
magistrates, and by philanthropists of every kind, that it would be folly
to do more than refer to it here. Fully one half of the dark or
disreputable deeds of those who fill our gaols, and fully an equal
proportion of the poverty and wretchedness which pauperises our population
and crowds our workhouses, are traceable to this damning vice of the
Anglo-Saxon race——intemperance.
To cure HABITUAL DRUNKENNESS various means have been proposed, most of
which are more ingenious than useful. The following, however, deserves
respectful notice:——
Dr Kain, an eminent American physician, recommends tartar emetic, given in
alterative and slightly nauseating doses, for the cure of habitual
drunkenness. “Possessing,” he observes, “no positive taste itself, it
communicates a disgusting quality to those fluids in which it is
dissolved. These liquors, with the addition of a very small quantity of
emetic tartar, instead of relieving, increase the sensation of loathing of
food, and quickly produce in the patient an indomitable repugnance to the
vehicle of its administration. My method of prescribing it has varied
according to the habits, age, and constitution of the patient. A
convenient preparation of the medicine is 8 gr., dissolved in 4 oz. of
boiling water; 1/2 an oz. (say a table-spoonful) of the solution to be put
into half a pint, pint, or quart of the patient’s favorite liquor, and to
be taken daily in divided portions. If vomiting and purging ensue” (which
is seldom the case), “I should direct laudanum to allay the irritation,
and diminish the dose. In some cases the change suddenly produced in the
patient’s habits has brought on considerable lassitude and debility,
which, however, were of short duration. In a majority of cases no other
effect has been perceptible than slight nausea, some diarrhœa, and a
gradual but very uniform distaste to the menstruum.”
Dr W. Marcet has described the more or less disordered state of the brain,
nerves, muscles, and stomach, brought on by the continual use of alcohol,
even without intoxication being produced. The symptoms of this state,
which he terms CHRONIC ALCOHOLISM, are quite distinct from those of
DELIRIUM TREMENS, which is an acute and violent disturbance of the
nervous system. From experiments on a large number of patients, Dr Marcet
has arrived at the important conclusion, that oxide of zinc is the true
antidote in cases of slow alcoholic poisoning. It seems to act as a strong
tonic on the nerves, being at the same time a powerful sedative and
antispasmodic.[1]
[Footnote 1: ‘On Chronic Alcoholic Intoxication.’ By W. Marcet, M.D.,
1862.]
The symptoms of actual intoxication, or the disordered condition of the
intellectual functions and volition, produced by taking excessive
quantities of alcoholic liquors, need not be described.
Among the remedies employed to remove the ‘fit of drunkenness,’ the
preparations of ammonia, and the vegetable acids, are the most common and
important. About 2 or 3 fl. dr. of aromatic spirits of ammonia (spirits of
sal volatile), or a like quantity of solution of acetate of ammonia
(mindererus spirit), mixed with a wine-glassful of water, will in general
neutralise or greatly lessen the action of intoxicating liquors. In some
cases these fluids produced vomiting, which is, however, a good symptom,
as nothing tends to restore an inebriated person so soon as the removal of
the liquor from the stomach. Hence tickling the fauces with the finger or
a feather, until sickness comes on, is a method very commonly adopted by
drunkards to restore themselves to a sober state. The use of aromatic
water of ammonia was first suggested by Mr Bromly. With a like intention,
some persons have recourse to soda water, which acts by the free carbonic
acid it contains, and also as a diluent and, from its coldness, as a tonic
on the coats of the stomach. The carbonates and bicarbonates of soda and
potassa are also favourite remedies with habitual drunkards. Among the
vegetable acids, acetic acid is the one that appears to possess the
greatest power of removing intoxication; and after this follow the citric,
tartaric, malic, and carbonic acids. These substances are commonly taken
by soldiers before going to parade. The usual dose of vinegar is a small
teacupful. In the West Indies lime juice and lemon juice are had recourse
to. Both these juices act from the citric acid they contain. The use of
bitter almonds, as a means of lessening or retarding the effects of
fermented liquors was known to antiquity, and is still common among heavy
drinkers at the present day. Even small doses of medicinal prussic acid
have been foolishly taken with a like intention. See ABSTINENCE, ALCOHOL,
EFFECTS OF, DELIRIUM TREMENS, &c.
=INTERMIT′TENT FEVER.= _Syn._ AGUE. A disease consisting of paroxysms or
periods of fever with perfect intermissions or periods without fever.
Marsh miasmata, or the effluvia arising from stagnant water or marshy
ground, when acted upon by heat, are the most frequent causes of this
malady. For the prevention of ague in situations where it prevails
endemically, small doses of quinine should be taken two or three times a
day, and flannel clothing should be constantly worn.
_Symp._ Each febrile paroxysm is of three periods or stages——the cold, the
hot, and the sweating stage, and these occur in regular succession. The
cold stage commences with great languor and aversion to motion; a sense of
coldness down the back soon follows; then the extremities become cold, the
fingers shrunken, and the nails blue; the skin assumes that peculiar
condition which is commonly known as ‘goose-skin,’ the patient shivers,
his teeth chatter, and he is glad to draw close to the fire or envelop
himself in blankets. After this state of things has continued for a
greater or less time, the heat of the surface begins to return, the
patient has flushings and becomes warmer and warmer, and ultimately the
whole surface is of a dry burning heat; intense thirst, restlessness,
severe headache, and sometimes delirium, characterise this second or hot
stage. After this stage has continued for some time, another change comes
over the patient; moisture appears on the face and forehead, the harsh and
hot skin becomes soft, and at last a copious sweat breaks out over the
whole surface. This is the third or sweating stage, and after it has
passed, the several functions of the system return to their ordinary
condition. The paroxysm may return daily (QUOTIDIAN AGUE); or every other
day (TERTIAN A.); or every fourth day, including that of the first attack
(QUARTAN A.).
_Treatm._ During the cold stage everything should be done to bring on the
hot; the patient should be placed in a warm bed, with warm pans or bottles
of water; he may be allowed the free use of warm diluent drinks. In the
hot stage the opposite course should be adopted; the coverings must be
diminished and lemonade and other cooling drink administered. In the
sweating stage there is no occasion for any treatment beyond care to avoid
checking the perspiration by premature exposure. During the intermission
the disease must be fought with the tonics, Peruvian bark, or its chief
alkaloid, quinine. The most effective form of this remedy is the sulphate,
which may be given in doses of from 2 to 4 gr. every three hours, the dose
being greater for a quartan than for a quotidian. See AGUE-CAKE, FEVER,
&c.
=INTOXICA′TION.= See INTEMPERANCE.
=IN′ULIN.= _Syn._ INULINE, ALANTINE, DAHLINE. A peculiar starch-like
substance, first obtained by Rose from the root of _Inula Helenium_ or
_elecampane_. It has been found in several other vegetables.
_Prep._ From the rasped root, by the same method that is adopted for
arrow-root or potato farina; or by boiling the sliced root in 7 or 8 times
its weight of water, and after filtration, whilst hot, allowing the
decoction to repose for a short time.
_Prop., &c._ Only very slightly soluble in cold water; very soluble in
boiling water, but is nearly all deposited as the solution cools; it is
precipitated by alcohol.
Inulin is distinguished from starch by giving a yellow or yellowish-brown
instead of a blue colour with iodine; in the decoction not being
precipitated by either acetate of lead or infusion of galls; and by the
precipitate formed in the cold decoction by an infusion of gall-nuts not
disappearing until the liquid is heated to above 212°, whilst the
precipitate from starch redissolves at 122° Fahr. It appears to be a
substance intermediate between starch and gum.
=I′ODATE′.= _Syn._ IODAS, L. A salt of iodic acid. The iodates closely
resemble the chlorates of the corresponding metals. They are recognised by
the development of free iodine when their solutions are treated with
reducing agents; thus, sulphuretted hydrogen passed into a solution of
iodate of potassium reduces this salt to an iodide, iodine being liberated
and sulphuric acid and water formed. They deflagrate like the chlorates
when heated with combustibles. They are all of sparing solubility, and
many are quite insoluble in water. They may be made by adding iodine to
soluble hydrates or carbonates, and crystallising the sparingly soluble
iodate from the very soluble iodide. See IODIC ACID, IODINE, and
POTASSIUM.
=IODHY′DRIC ACID.= See HYDRIODIC ACID.
=IOD′IC ACID.= HIO_{3}. _Syn._ ACIDUM IODICUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. Iodate of sodium is dissolved in sulphuric acid in considerable
excess, the solution boiled for 15 minutes, and then set aside to
crystallise.
2. Decompose iodate of barium by dilute sulphuric acid.
3. (Boursen.) Iodine, 1 part; nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·5), 40 parts; mix,
keep them at nearly the boiling temperature for several hours, or until
the iodine is dissolved, then evaporate to dryness, and leave the residuum
in the open air at a temperature of about 59° Fahr.; when, by attracting
moisture, it has acquired the consistence of a syrup, put it into a place
where the temperature is higher and the air drier, when in a few days very
fine white crystals of a rhomboidal shape will form.
_Prop., &c._ Iodic acid is a crystalline solid, white or yellowish-white;
it is decomposed into oxygen and iodine by a heat of about 450° to 500°
Fahr.——a property of which we avail ourselves for the conversion of the
salts of this acid (iodates) into iodides. It is very soluble in water,
and is rapidly decomposed when heated with inflammable bodies. Iodic acid
is used as a test for morphia and sulphurous acid. It has been employed as
a tonic, stimulant, and alterative, in catarrhal hoarseness, strumous
cases, incipient phthisis, &c.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 gr.
_Test._ When iodic acid is mixed with an equal quantity of an alkaloid
(preferably quinine), on a capsule or watch-glass, and a drop or two of
water added, several distinct explosions occur, accompanied by the copious
evolution of gas. No other substance exhibits a similar reaction. See
IODATE.
=I′ODIDE.= _Syn._ IODURET*, HYDRIODATE*, IODIDUM, IODURETUM, HYDRIODAS, L.
A compound of iodine with a metal or other basic radical. The iodides
belong to the same class of bodies as the bromides and chlorides, and may
be, for the most part, made in the same manner. All the principal iodides
are noticed under the names of their respective bases. See IODINE, &c.
=I′ODINE.= I. _Syn._ IODUM, B. P.; IODINIUM (Ph. L. & D.), IODINEUM (Ph.
E.), L.; IODE, Fr.; IOD, Ger. An elementary substance accidentally
discovered in 1812, by De Courtois, a saltpetre manufacturer at Paris. It
was first examined and described by M. Clement, in 1813, and its precise
nature was soon afterwards determined by Sir H. Davy and M. Gay-Lussac. In
1819, some six years after its discovery, iodine was first employed in
pharmacy. The merit of the introduction of this powerful curative agent
into medicine is due to Dr Coindet, a physician of Geneva, who in that
year commenced a series of experiments upon it as a remedy for bronchocele
or goitre. It is found in each of the three kingdoms of nature, but exists
in greatest abundance in the vegetable family _Algæ_ (Seaweeds).
_Prep._ Iodine is principally manufactured in the neighbourhood of
Glasgow, from the mother-waters of kelp known as iodine lye.
1. Kelp, the half vitrified ashes of seaweed, is exhausted with water, and
the solution filtered; the liquid is then concentrated by evaporation
until it is reduced to a very small volume, the chloride of sodium,
carbonate of sodium, chloride of potassium, and other salts, being removed
as they successively assume the crystalline form; oil of vitriol is now
added, in excess, to the residual dark-brown mother-liquor (iodine-lye),
and the evolved gases are either kindled or allowed to escape by a flue;
the liquid, after standing some time, is decanted or filtered, heated to
about 140° Fahr., and mixed with as much binoxide of manganese as there
was oil of vitriol employed; the whole is then introduced into a
cylindrical leaden still, furnished with a very short head and connected
with 2 or 3 large globular glass receivers, and heat is applied, when
fumes of iodine are evolved and condensed in the receivers. During the
distillation very great care is taken to watch the process, and prevent
the neck of the still becoming choked with condensed iodine. For this
purpose the head of the still is usually furnished with a movable stopper,
by which the process may be watched, and additions of manganese or
sulphuric acid made, if required. To render the product pure, it should be
pressed between blotting paper, and then resublimed in glass or stoneware.
2. A solution of sulphate of copper, 4 parts, and protosulphate of iron, 9
parts, are added to the mother-liquid of the soda-works, as long as a
white precipitate is thrown down; this precipitate (iodide of copper) is
collected, dried, and mixed with its own weight of finely powdered black
oxide of manganese, and distilled by a strong heat in a retort, when dry
iodine passes over. By the addition of sulphuric acid with the manganese,
a less heat is required, but the product is wet with water, like that of
the last formula.
3. The residual liquor of the manufacture of soap from kelp (or other
iodine lye), of the sp. gr. of 1·374, is heated to 230° Fahr., with
sulphuric acid diluted with half its weight of water, after which the
liquor is allowed to cool, and is either decanted or filtered; to every 12
fl. oz. of the filtrate 1000 gr. of black oxide of manganese, in powder,
are added; the mixture is put into a glass globe or matrass with a wide
neck, over which is inverted another glass globe, and heat is applied by
means of a charcoal chauffer, when iodine sublimes very copiously, and
condenses in the upper vessel; as soon as the latter is warm, it is
replaced by another, and the two globes are thus applied in succession, as
long as violet fumes are evolved. The iodine is washed out of the globes
with a little cold water. A thin disc of wood, having a hole in its
centre, is placed over the shoulder of the matrass, to prevent the heat
from acting on the globular receiver. On the large scale, a leaden still,
as before described, may be employed, and receivers of either stoneware or
glass; and the addition of the sulphuric acid is made in a basin or trough
of stoneware or wood. _Prod._ 12 oz. yield 80 to 100 gr.
4. Another method of preparing iodine has been patented by a Mr Stanford,
which consists of compressing the wet weed, drying in an oven, and
distilling at a high temperature. The inventor claims that double the
usual amount of iodine is obtained besides other useful products.
5. Considerable quantities of iodine are now obtained from the
mother-liquor of Chilian saltpetre or nitre (nitrate of soda). In 1873, a
nitre refinery in Peru which separates the iodine in combination with
copper, as cuprous iodide, by means of bisulphide of soda and sulphate of
copper, produced 15,000 kilos of cuprous iodide, corresponding to 9000
kilos of iodine.
Other methods of obtaining it from Chilian nitre consist in treating the
mother-liquors left after the salt has been crystallised out with
sulphurous acid, until the separated iodine begins to redissolve. Nitrous
acid has also been substituted for sulphurous. The iodine so procured is
purified by sublimation, whilst that which remains in the residual saline
matter is removed by treatment with chlorine.
_Prop._ Iodine is usually met with under the form of semi-crystalline
lumps having a semi-metallic lustre, or in micaceous, friable scales,
somewhat resembling plumbago or gunpowder. By carefully conducted
sublimation, or by the slow evaporation of its solution in hydriodic acid,
it may be obtained in rhombic plates an inch long. It has a greyish-black
colour, a hot acrid taste, and a disagreeable odour not much unlike that
of chlorine. It fuses at 225° into a deep-brown liquid, volatilises slowly
at ordinary temperatures, boils at 347°, forming a magnificent
violet-coloured vapour, when mixed with water it rapidly rises with the
steam at 212° Fahr. It dissolves in about 7000 parts of water, and freely
in alcohol, ether, solutions of the iodides, liquid hydriodic acid,
chloroform, petroleum, bisulphide of carbon, &c. Most of these solutions
have the brown colour of liquid iodine, but some (particularly those
formed by the last three solvents named above) have the beautiful violet
colour of the vapour. It bleaches like chlorine, only more feebly. Iodine
has an extensive range of affinity; with the metals it forms compounds
termed iodides, of which several are used in medicine. Its principal
compounds with oxygen are the iodic and periodic anhydrides. Sp. gr. 4·946
to 4·948. According to Debaugne, the addition of syrup of orange peel or
tannin to water greatly increases its power of dissolving iodine. 2 gr. of
the latter will enable 6 fl. oz. of water to take 10 gr. of iodine. A
knowledge of these facts may prove useful to the pharmaceutist.
_Pur._ It is entirely soluble in rectified spirit, and in a solution of
iodide of potassium. On applying heat to it, it first liquefies, and then
(wholly) sublimes in violet-coloured vapour. The iodine of commerce is
usually that of the first sublimation, and generally contains from 12% to
20% of water. Some of the foreign iodine, prepared by precipitation with
chlorine, without subsequent sublimation, even contains 1-4th part of
water, and has a dead leaden-grey colour, and evolves a sensible odour of
chlorine. Coal, plumbago, oxide of manganese, crude antimony, and
charcoal, are also frequently mixed with iodine to increase its weight.
Water may be detected by the loss of weight it suffers when exposed to
strong pressure between bibulous paper; or more accurately by drying it in
the manner directed below,——chlorine may be detected by the odour, and the
other substances mentioned above, by their insolubility in rectified
spirit and in a solution of iodide of potassium. Before use as a medicine
it should be dried by being placed in a shallow basin, of earthenware, in
a small confined space of air, with 10 or 12 times its weight of
fresh-burnt lime, till it scarcely adheres to the side of a dry bottle, or
else prepared from the commercial iodine as follows:——Place it in a deep
circular porcelain capsule, and having covered it accurately with a glass
matrass filled with cold water, apply a water heat to the capsule for 20
minutes, and then allow the whole to cool; should the sublimate attached
to the bottom of the matrass include acicular prism of a white colour, and
a pungent odour, it must be scraped off with a glass rod, and rejected;
the apparatus is then to be again exposed to a gentle and steady heat
until the whole of the iodine has sublimed; the sublimate is, lastly, to
be collected from the bottom of the matrass, and at once enclosed in a
stoppered bottle.
_Tests._ Free iodine may be recognised by the violet colour of its vapour,
by its imparting a violet colour to bisulphide of carbon, and by its
striking a blue colour with starch. The latter test is so delicate, that
water containing only 1/450000th part of iodine acquires a perceptible
blue tinge on the addition of starch. Free iodine may be eliminated from
solutions of iodides by chlorine, nitric acid, concentrated sulphuric acid
and peroxide of manganese, and may be made evident by adding starch-paste.
This reagent serves to detect minute traces of iodine in insoluble as well
as in soluble compounds of that element. The substance under examination
is mixed in a retort with concentrated nitric acid, and a strip of white
cotton cloth moistened with a solution of starch suspended from the
stopper; in a few hours the cloth will become coloured blue if the most
minute trace of iodine be present. By mixing the liquid containing the
iodine with the starch and acid, and lightly pouring thereon a small
quantity of aqueous chlorine, a very visible blue zone will be developed
at the line of contact, even in very dilute solutions.
Iodides give a pale yellowish precipitate with nitrate of silver, scarcely
soluble in ammonia, and insoluble in dilute nitric acid; a bright yellow
one with acetate of lead; and a scarlet one with bichloride of mercury.
This distinguishes them from the iodates which give white precipitates
with the same reagents. In solutions of alkaline iodides, chloride of
palladium produces a black precipitate.
_Estim._ The proportion of free iodine in a mixture may be estimated: by
separating it by heat, and collecting and weighing the sublimate; by
solution in rectified spirit, adding water, and collecting the resulting
precipitate, which must then be dried and weighed; by dissolving it in a
solution of iodide of potassium, and then adding a standard solution of
hyposulphite of sodium, until the whole of the free iodine is taken up,
and the mixture no longer strikes a blue colour with starch. 24·8 gr. of
the hyposulphite are necessary to absorb 12·7 gr. of free iodine;[2] by
comparing the tint of a solution prepared by chloroform with that of a
standard solution containing a known quantity of iodine, as in Crum’s
process for estimating chlorine.
[Footnote 2: For details of this and other methods of accurately
determining the per-centage of iodine, free or combined, the reader is
referred to Sutton’s “Systematic Handbook of Volumetric Analysis.”]
_Uses, &c._ Iodine is chiefly used as a medicine, a chemical test, and in
photography. Until within the last year it was largely used in the
manufacture of the green coal-tar colours; these latter are now chiefly
made from anthracene. In small doses it appears to be both alterative and
tonic, rapidly diffusing itself through the body, and exerting a
stimulating action on the organs of secretion. It is also said to be
diuretic, and in some cases to have produced diaphoresis and salivation.
Iodine has been exhibited in the following diseases, as well as in most
others depending on an imperfect action of the absorbents, or
accompanied by induration or enlargement of individual glands or
organs:——_Internally_, in bronchocele, goitre, Derbyshire neck, scrofula,
ovarian tumours, enlargement or induration of the lymphatic, prostate, and
parotid glands, amenorrhœa, leucorrhœa, diseases of the muco-genital
tissues, phthisis, chronic nervous diseases, lepra, psoriasis, chronic
rheumatism, dropsies, hydrocele, &c.:——_Externally_, in scrofula, numerous
skin diseases, (especially the scaly), erysipelas, diseased joints,
chilblains, burns, scalds, various wounds, to check ulceration, to promote
absorption, &c.——_Dose_, 1/2 gr. dissolved in spirit, or in water by means
of an equal weight of iodide of potassium. It is seldom exhibited alone,
being usually combined with the last-named substance, which, in fact, is
now generally preferred by practitioners. It is applied externally in the
form of ointment, solution, or tincture.
=Iodine, Bro′mides of.= Bromine and iodine unite rapidly by mere mixture.
By careful distillation a red vapour is obtained, which, on cooling,
condenses into red crystals, of a form resembling fern leaves. This is
said to be the protobromide (IBr). By adding more bromine, these crystals
are converted into a fluid, said to be a pentabromide (IBr_{5}).
=Iodine, Chlo′′rides of.= When dry chlorine is passed over dry iodine, at
common temperatures, heat is evolved, and a yellow solid terchloride
(ICl_{3}) results when the iodine is fully saturated, and an orange-red
liquid protochloride (ICl) when the iodine is in excess. They both absorb
moisture in the air, are volatile, and very soluble in water.
=Iodine and Hydrogen.= HYDRIODIC ACID, HI. _Syn._ IODHYDRIC ACID; ACIDUM
HYDRIODICUM, L. An acid compound of iodine and hydrogen. _Prep._ 1.
(GASEOUS).——_a._ Into a glass tube, closed at one end, introduce a little
iodine, then a small quantity of roughly powdered glass moistened with
water, next a few small fragments of phosphorus, and upon this some more
glass; this order (iodine, glass, phosphorus, glass) is to be repeated
until the tube is one half or two thirds filled; a cork and delivery tube
are then to be fitted, a gentle heat applied, and the gas collected by
‘downward displacement’ or over mercury. If the gas be passed into water a
solution of hydriodic acid will be obtained.
_Obs._ Hydriodic acid gas can only be retained a short time over mercury,
owing to its action on that metal.
_b._ Pour a little water over some pentiodide of phosphorus, previously
put into a glass retort, apply a gentle heat, and collect the gas as
before.
_c._ Heat together in a retort water, iodide of potassium, iodine, and
phosphorus, and collect the gas as in _b_.
_d._ Place pure iodide of barium in a retort, and decompose it with
sulphuric acid.
2. (SOLUTION OF HYDRIODIC ACID.)——_a._ The gas prepared by either of the
above methods passed into cold distilled water.
_b._ Iodine, in fine powder, is suspended in water, and a stream of
sulphuretted hydrogen passed through the mixture as long as sulphur is
deposited, or until it becomes colourless. The liquid is then gently
heated, to expel the excess of sulphuretted hydrogen, and either decanted
or filtered. A cheap and excellent process.
_c._ (MEDICINAL HYDRIODIC ACID.) Dr Buchanan.——Tartaric acid, 264 gr.;
pure iodide of potassium, 330 gr.; dissolve each separately in 1-1/2 fl.
oz. of water; mix the solutions, and when the precipitate has settled
decant the clear liquid, and add a sufficiency of water to make it up to
6-1/4 fl. oz. The liquid retains a little acid tartrate of potassium in
solution, but this does not interfere with its medicinal properties. This
preparation “possesses all the therapeutic powers of iodine without its
irritating properties.” (Pereira.)——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 fl. dr., gradually
increased to 2 or 3 fl. dr., twice or thrice daily.
_Prop., &c._ Gaseous hydriodic acid is colourless, fumes in the air, is
very soluble in water, and has a density of about 4·4. Liquid hydriodic
acid, when strong, is very liable to decompose, and should be kept in
well-stoppered bottles. Both the gas and the solution are decomposed by
potassium, zinc, iron, and other metals, with the evolution of hydrogen
and the formation of salts called iodides.
IODIZED COTTON WOOL. (Mehu.) _Prep._ Finely powdered iodine (5 to 10 per
cent.) is strewn upon loose cotton wool in such a manner that the glass
jar in which this operation is performed contains alternate layers of
cotton wool and iodine. The mixture is gently heated in the open jar on a
water bath to expel the air; when this is accomplished the jar is closed
and the application of heat continued for about two hours, during which
the iodine vapour thoroughly penetrates the wool, imparting to it a yellow
colour.
=IODO′FORM.= CHI_{3}. _Syn._ IODOFORMUM, L. A solid, yellow,
crystallisable substance, obtained by the action of iodine on alcohol.
_Prep._ 1. An alcoholic solution of potash is added to tincture of iodine,
carefully avoiding excess; the whole is then gently evaporated to dryness,
the residuum is washed with water, and then dissolved in alcohol; the
alcoholic solution yields crystals by evaporation.
2. (Paris Pharmaceutical Society.) Pure carbonate of potash, 2 parts;
alcohol (84°) 5 parts; distilled water, 15 parts. The potash, water,
alcohol, and the iodine reduced to powder are placed together in a flask,
and the whole heated in a water bath until the decoloration of the liquid.
Another 1/2 part of iodine is then added and heat again applied, and the
addition of the element is repeated until the liquid remains slightly
brown coloured. It is then decolorised by the addition of one or two drops
of caustic potash solution, and upon cooling crystals of iodoform are
obtained.
These are collected upon a filter, washed lightly with cold distilled
water, then dried upon blotting paper and enclosed in well-stoppered
bottle.
By the evaporation of the mother liquor iodide of potassium is obtained.
_Prop., &c._ Nearly insoluble in water; freely soluble in alcohol; the
solution is decomposed by caustic potassa into formic acid and iodide of
potassa.——_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 3 gr. Medicinal applications, the same as
those of iodine itself.
=IPECACUAN′HA.= _Syn._ (IPECACUANHA, L.; IPECACUHAN, E., B. P.) RADIX
IPECACUANHÆ, IPECACUANHA (Ph. L. E. & D.), L. The dried root of _Cephaëlis
Ipecacuanha_, or the true ipecacuanha plant, one of the _Cinchonaceæ_.
“Ashy coloured, tortuous, very much cracked, and marked in rings with deep
fissures, having an acrid, aromatic, bitterish taste.” (Ph. L.) It occurs
in pieces 3 or 4 inches long, and about the size of a writing
quill.——_Dose._ As an emetic, 10 to 20 gr., assisted by the copious use of
warm water; as a nauseant, 1 to 3 gr.; as an expectorant and sudorific,
1/2 to 1 gr. It is undoubtedly the safest and most useful medicine of its
class. It has recently been highly recommended in dyspepsia, combined with
other bitters or aperients. Almond meal is sometimes used as an adulterant
in ipecacuanha powder.
The following is Bucholz’s analysis of ipecacuanha root:——
Emetic extractive (emetina) 4·13
Soft resin 2·43
Wax 0·75
Gum 25·17
Starch 9·00
Woody fibre 10·80
Bitter extractive 10·12
Sugar 2·00
Extractive, gum and starch }
extracted by potash } 34·80
Loss 0·80
——————
100·00
The annexed process for the determination of the emetina in ipecacuanha is
by Zenoffsky:——Take 15 grammes of the root, mix with 15 drops of dilute
sulphuric acid, and so much of 85 per cent. alcohol that the volume shall
be 155 c.c. Digest 24 hours, filter, measure 100 c.c. of the filtrate,
evaporate the alcohol, and add a deci-normal solution of iodo-hydrargyrate
of potassium until no more reaction takes place. The number of c.c. of
the reagent used multiplied by 0·0189 (1/10000th of an equivalent of
emetine) gives the amount of emetine in the 10 grammes of root to which
the 100 c.c. of liquid corresponds. The deci-normal solution of
iodo-hydrargyrate of potassium is made by dissolving 13·546 grammes of
mercuric chloride and 49·8 grammes of potassium iodide in water, and
making up to 1 litre.
Quantitative determination showed that one c.c. of such a solution
corresponds to 0·0189 gramme of emetine. To perform the volumetric
estimation, the standard solution is added to the liquid containing the
alkaloid, until no more turbidity is produced. To determine the end of the
reaction, filter a few drops on to a watch-glass (placed on black glazed
paper) and touch with a glass rod previously moistened with the standard
solution. To prevent loss both filter and filtrate should be returned to
the liquor.
=IRID′IUM.= Ir. A rare metal discovered by Descotils in 1803, and by
Tennant in 1804, in the black powder left in dissolving crude platinum.
This powder is an alloy of iridium with osmium. The metal is also found
native and nearly pure amongst the Uralian platinum ores.
_Prep._ The native alloy of iridium and osmium remaining after dissolving
crude platinum in aqua regia is reduced to powder, mixed with an equal
weight of dry chloride of sodium, and heated to redness in a glass tube,
through which a stream of moist chloride gas is transmitted. The further
extremity of the tube is connected with a receiver containing liquor of
ammonia. Chloride of iridium and chloride of osmium are produced; the
former remains in combination with the chloride of sodium; the latter,
being volatile, is carried forward into the receiver, where it is
decomposed into osmic and hydrochloric acids, which combine with the
ammonia. The contents of the tube, when cold, are treated with water to
dissolve out the double chloride of iridium and sodium; the solution thus
formed is mixed with an excess of carbonate of sodium, and evaporated to
dryness. The residue is ignited in a crucible, boiled with water, and
dried; it then consists of a mixture of sesquioxide of iron and a
combination of oxide of iridium with sodium hydrate. It is reduced by
hydrogen at a high temperature, and treated successively with water and
strong hydrochloric acid, which remove the alkali and the iron, leaving
metallic iridium in a divided state. By strong pressure and exposure to a
welding heat, a certain degree of compactness may be given to the product.
_Prop., &c._ Brittle, white, very hard, only fusible by the strongest heat
of Deville’s gas furnace. In its pure state it is not acted upon by any of
the acids, but it is oxidised by fusion and nitre, and by ignition to
redness in the air. An ingot of iridium, weighing 27-3/4 oz., melted by
Deville’s process, was displayed in Messrs Johnson and Matthey’s case at
the International Exhibition of 1862. An alloy of iridium and osmium
(artificial or native) has been employed for tipping the nibs of gold pens
(everlasting pens).
=Iridium, Chlo′rides of.= DICHLORIDE. IrCl_{2}. An olive-green powder
formed by transmitting chlorine over powdered iridium, heated to a dull
red, or by digesting the hydrated protoxide in hydrochloric acid.
SESQUICHLORIDE, Ir_{2}Cl_{6}, obtained by calcining iridium with nitrate
of potassium, digesting in nitric acid, washing with water, and solution
in hydrochloric acid. TETRACHLORIDE, IrCl_{4}, obtained in solution by
adding hydrofluosilicic acid to the tetrachloride of iridium and potassium
(formed when chloride is passed over a heated mixture of iridium and
chloride of potassium). HEXACHLORIDE, IrCl_{6}, obtained in combination
with potassium by heating iridium with nitrate of potassium, dissolving in
aqua regia, and evaporating to dryness.
=Iridium, Ox′ides of.= MONOXIDE, IrO, prepared by adding potassium hydrate
to the hexachloride of iridium, and digesting the precipitate in an acid.
It is a heavy black powder, insoluble in acid. SESQUIOXIDE, Ir_{2}O_{3},
is best prepared by fusing in a silver crucible a mixture of carbonate of
potassium and the double chloride of iridium and potassium, and boiling
the product in water. Bluish-black TRIOXIDE, IrO_{3}, is produced when
carbonate of potassium is gently heated with hexachloride of iridium. A
greyish-yellow hydrate, containing alkali.
=IRITIS.= A very dangerous disease of the eye, producing inflammation in
the iris or coloured circle which surrounds the pupil. Iritis is
frequently produced by rheumatism, as well as by scrofula and gout, and
often places the sight in great peril.
The symptoms are pains around the ball of the eye and on the brow, which
increase at night, cloudiness of the cornea, difficulty, and inequality of
contraction in the pupil, change of colour in the iris, frequently
disturbed vision, and much pain in and watering from the eye when the
patient is placed in the light, particularly a strong light.
We have described the principal symptoms of this serious disorder in order
that any one affected by them may at once seek the assistance of a skilful
surgeon or oculist.
=I′RON.= Fe. _Syn._ FERRUM, L.; FER, Fr.; EISEN, Ger. The history of this
most important metal extends to the remote past. The discovery of an iron
rod in one of the Assyrian bronzes brought to England by Mr Layard
established the interesting fact that this metal was known and commonly
employed, where strength was required, nearly 3000 years ago. Rust of iron
and scales of iron were used as medicines at a period equally remote.
_Sources._ Iron in a metallic state (native iron) is of very rare
occurrence; but it invariably enters into the composition of meteorites.
Combined with oxygen and other elements, as iron ores, it occurs in nearly
every part of the earth. These ores may be divided into the oxides and the
carbonates. The oxides may be again divided into four distinct classes,
viz.——(1) Magnetic iron ore, consisting of 31% protoxide and 69%
sesquioxide, with an insignificant proportion of silica; (2) specular
iron, or iron glance, composed of the sesquioxide, with a small admixture
of magnetic oxide; (3) red hæmatite, consisting of the sesquioxide nearly
in a state of purity; and (4) brown hæmatite, the hydrated sesquioxide of
iron. The carbonates are principally two, viz.——(5) spathose iron, the
protocarbonate of iron in a sparry condition, and (6) clay ironstone or
black band ironstone, which consists of the protocarbonates associated
with clay and carbonaceous matter.
Swedish iron is made almost entirely from No. 1, which occurs in massive
beds at Arendahl and Dannemora, in Sweden. This iron is of great purity,
being perfectly free from sulphur and phosphorus. The titaniferous iron
sand found at Taranaki, in New Zealand, consists almost entirely of No. 1
and the metal titanium. No. 2 found principally in the island of Elba, in
the form of rhombohedral crystals. The micaceous iron ore found in small
quantities in Wales and Lancashire has nearly the same composition, but
crystallises in brilliant plates. No. 3 occurs in radiated fibrous masses
in different parts of the world. It is found in large quantities in Wales
and Lancashire, some of the specimens from the latter locality containing
nearly 99% of the sesquioxide. It makes excellent iron. No. 4 occurs in
reddish-brown masses of a botryoidal form. It is a valuable ore, and is
found in England, Wales, and Scotland. No. 5 is found chiefly at Siegen,
in Prussia. No. 6 is the principal ore of the Staffordshire and Scotch
iron districts, where it occurs in great abundance, associated with the
fuel and the flux required for smelting it. Iron is contained in plants,
and forms an essential component of the blood of the higher animals.
_Prep., &c._ Iron is only prepared on the large scale, and an account of
the manufacture would be out of place here. Those requiring detailed
information must consult the elaborate works of Percy, Hunt, Fairbairn,
Phillips, and other metallurgists.
Pure iron may be prepared by introducing fine iron wire, cut small, 4
parts, and black oxide of iron, 1 part, into a Hessian crucible; covering
with a mixture of white sand, lime, and carbonate of potassium (in the
proportions used for glass-making); and, after applying a closely fitting
cover, exposing the crucible to a very high degree of heat. A button of
pure metal is thus obtained, the traces of carbon and silicon present in
the wire having been removed by the oxygen of the black oxide.
_Prop., &c._ The properties and uses of iron are too well known to require
description. Its applications are almost universal. It is remarkably
ductile, and possesses great tenacity, but is less malleable than many of
the other metals. Its sp. gr. is 7·844. It is the hardest of all the
malleable and ductile metals, and when combined with carbon (steel) admits
of being tempered to almost any degree of hardness or elasticity. In dry
air it does not oxidise at common temperatures; but at a red heat it soon
becomes covered with a scaly coating of black oxide, and at an intense
white heat burns brilliantly with the production of the same substance.
Pure water, free from air or carbonic acid, does not tarnish the surface
of polished iron, but the combined action of air and moisture, especially
when a little acid vapour is present, causes its surface to be soon
covered with rust, which is hydrated sesquioxide of iron (ferric hydrate).
Nearly all acids attack iron; dilute sulphuric and hydrochloric acid do so
with considerable energy and the evolution of hydrogen gas. At a red heat
iron decomposes water rapidly, hydrogen being evolved, and the black oxide
of iron formed. Iron is magnetic up to a dull-red heat, at which point it
loses all traces of that property. It melts at about 3300° Fahr. With
oxygen, chlorine, iodine, the acids, &c., it forms numerous important
compounds. As a remedial agent, when properly exhibited, iron acts as a
genial stimulant and tonic, and generally proves beneficial in cases of
chronic debility, unaccompanied with organic congestion or inflammation.
The carbonate (ferrous carbonate), as it exists in mineral waters, held in
solution by carbonic acid in excess, appears to be the form most congenial
to the human body; and from its state of dilution is rapidly absorbed by
the lacteals, and speedily imparts a ruddy hue to the wan countenance.
Iron is undoubtedly one of the most valuable articles of the materia
medica, and appears from the antiquity of its introduction into medicine,
and the number of its preparations, to have been deservedly appreciated.
_Tests._ Iron forms two classes of salts, namely, ferrous or proto salts,
in which iron exhibits a power of combining with two atoms of any monad
element, and the ferric or persalts in which iron has a capacity of
uniting with three atoms of any monad element.
The ferrous or proto salts have generally a greenish colour, but yield
nearly colourless solutions, except when concentrated. Their solutions
are known by the following reactions:——They are not precipitated by
hydrosulphuric acid when acid, and but incompletely when neutral. Sulphide
of ammonium produces a black precipitate, becoming brown on exposure to
the air, insoluble in alkalies, but easily soluble in the mineral acids.
Ammonia and potassa give a greenish-white precipitate, gradually becoming
green and then brown in the air. This precipitate occasionally is of a
bluish-black if excess of potassa is used. The presence of ammoniacal
salts interferes with the action of these tests. Ferrocyanide of potassium
gives a nearly white precipitate, becoming gradually blue in the air, and
immediately so on the addition of a little weak nitric acid or chlorine
water. Ferricyanide of potassium produces a rich deep-blue precipitate,
insoluble in hydrochloric acid. In highly dilute solutions the effect is
only a deep bluish-green coloration. Phosphate of sodium produces a white
precipitate, which after a time becomes green.
The ferric salts, which are also called the sesqui or persalts of iron,
have for the most part a reddish-yellow colour, yielding deep-coloured
solutions, which exhibit the following reactions:——They redden litmus
paper. Hydrosulphuric acid in acid solutions reduces ferric to ferrous
salts, giving a white or yellow precipitate of sulphur only. In alkaline
solutions it yields a blackish precipitate, consisting of sulphur and
ferrous sulphide. Sulphide of ammonium gives similar reaction. Ammonia and
potassa produce bulky reddish-brown precipitates insoluble in excess.
Ferrocyanide of potassium gives a rich blue precipitate, insoluble in
hydrochloric acid, and readily decomposed by potassa. Ferricyanide of
potassium deepens the colour, but does not give a blue precipitate, as it
does with ferrous salts (proto salts). Sulphocyanide of potassium gives an
intense ruby-red colour to neutral or acid solutions. Tincture and
infusion of galls strike a black colour. Phosphate of sodium gives a white
precipitate, which becomes brown, and finally dissolves on the addition of
ammonia.
_Estim._ The iron may be thrown down in the state of ferric hydrate or
hydrated sesquioxide, washed, dried, ignited, and weighed. The weight, in
grains, multiplied by ·7, indicates the weight of metallic iron.
Fifty gr. of the ore are reduced to powder, dissolved in aqua regia, with
the aid of heat, and the solution filtered in order to separate the silica
and a little alumina which sometimes is left in an insoluble state; an
excess of ammonia is then added to the filtered liquor, which produces a
reddish-brown precipitate of ferric hydrate mixed with alumina which is
collected on a filter, washed, and boiled with a solution of potassa, in
order to dissolve the alumina; the whole is next thrown upon a filter,
washed, dried, carefully ignited, and weighed. The above is well adapted
to determine the quantity of iron in clay ironstone, the most common
ferruginous ore in England.
The sulphur in cast and wrought iron, and steel, may be estimated by the
following process, invented by M. Koppmayer:——10 grammes of iron, finely
produced and sifted, are introduced into a bottle holding from 1/2 to
1/3rd litre. The stopper has three holes. Through one of these passes a
funnel with a ground-glass tap, its neck reaching to the bottom of the
bottle. Through the second passes the tube at right angles, fitted with a
tap and reaching also to the bottom of the bottle.
Through the third hole passes a delivery tube, connecting the bottle to
the condensing apparatus.
This latter consists of a series of bulbs arranged like a staircase, so as
to permit the gas to come into the greatest possible contact with the
standard solution of iodine in iodide of potassium, with which the
condenser is filled, this solution ought not to be exposed to light.
When the apparatus is arranged as above, the atmospheric air is first
driven out of the bottle by means of a current of hydrogen gas, introduced
by the tube bent at right angles. When it is considered that the air is
entirely expelled, the tap of this tube is closed. The funnel is now
filled with hydrochloric acid, its tap is opened, and by means of the
application of heat the acid is allowed to run down upon the iron without
allowing any common air to enter. Hydrogen and sulphuretted hydrogen are
formed which pass into the condenser.
Acid is thus added until all disengagement of gas ceases. The bottle is
then heated till its contents boil, a little water having been first added
by means of the funnel. After these operations, hydrogen is allowed to
enter anew to sweep out all remaining gases. The iodised solution is then
poured out, care being taken to rinse the bulb-tube thoroughly, and
titrated with hyposulphite of soda, so as to find the remaining proportion
of free iodine. The difference between the original amount of free iodine
present in the solution, and the amount thus found, shows the proportion
of iodine which has been converted into hydriodic acid, and which is
proportional to the sulphur contained in the sample under examination.
=Iron, Preparations of=:——
=Ferric Acetate.= Fe_{2}(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{6}. _Syn._ PERACETATE OF IRON;
FERRI SESQUIACETAS, L. _Prep._ Ferric carbonate, 1 part; acetic acid, 6
parts; digest three days and filter. A dark brownish-red, uncrystallisable
liquid, very soluble and powerfully astringent. The calcined sesquioxide
of iron of the shops, commonly sold as carbonate of iron, does not answer
well for this or any of the sesqui-compounds, owing to its being with
difficulty dissolved by acids, especially by the weaker ones.——_Dose._ (Of
the last) 10 to 25 drops, in water or wine.
=Ferric Albuminate.= _Syn._ FERRI ALBUMINAS, L. _Prep._
Precipitate a filtered solution of white of egg with another of ferric
sulphate or persulphate of iron, wash the deposit in water, and dissolve
it in alcohol holding potassium hydrate in solution.
This preparation is highly spoken of by M. Lassaigne as especially adapted
by its nature, on theoretical grounds, for combining with the tissues of
the body.
=Ferric Citrate.= Fe_{2}(C_{6}H_{5}O_{7})_{2}. _Syn._ PERCITRATE OF IRON,
CITRATE OF SESQUIOXIDE OF I., CITRATE OF I.; FERRI CITRAS.
_Prep._ By saturating a solution of citric acid in an equal weight of
water with freshly precipitated moist hydrated ferric hydrate, evaporating
at 150° Fahr. to the consistence of a syrup, and spreading on glass plates
to dry.
By either of the methods adopted for the AMMONIO-CITRATE, merely omitting
the addition of the ammonia. It much resembles the ammonio-citrate, but is
only slightly soluble in water, and has a rather less agreeable
taste.——_Dose_, 3 to 5 gr.
=Ferric and Ammonium Citrate.= _Syn._ AMMONIO-CITRATE OF IRON: AMMONIO
FERRIC CITRATE; FERRI AMMONIO CITRAS. L. There are several preparations in
which the term ‘citrate of iron’ has been applied. That commonly known
under this name is really a double citrate of iron and ammonia, and
appears to be correctly called ‘ammonio-citrate of iron.’
B. P. Liquor Ferric Persulphatis (B. P.), 8; liquor ammonia, 19-1/2;
citric acid (in crystals) 4; distilled water, a sufficiency, mix 14 of the
solution of ammonia, with 40 of water, and all gradually; the solution of
ferric sulphate stir constantly and briskly; let the mixture stand two
hours, and put into a calico filter and allow to drain. Wash well the
precipitate until it no longer gives a precipitate with barium chloride.
Dissolve the citric acid in 8 oz. of the water, and having applied the
heat of a water bath add the precipitate of ferric hydrate previously well
drained, stir them together until the whole or nearly the whole of the
hydrate has dissolved. Let the solution cool, then add 5-1/2 of the
ammonia, filter through flannel, evaporate to the consistency of syrup,
and dry it in thin layers on flat porcelain or glass plates at a
temperature not exceeding 100°.
_Prep._ (Ph. L.) Ferrous sulphate, 12 oz.; carbonate of sodium, 12-1/2
oz.; dissolve each separately in boiling distilled water, 6 pints; mix the
solutions whilst still hot, and allow the precipitate to subside; after a
time decant the supernatant liquor, wash the precipitate frequently with
water (drain it), add of citric acid (in powder), 6 oz., and dissolve by
the aid of a gentle heat; when the whole has cooled, add of liquor of
ammonia, Ph. L., 9 fl. oz., and gently evaporate to the consistence of a
syrup; in this state spread it very thinly on flat earthenware dishes (or
sheets of glass), dry by a gentle heat, and when dry keep it in
well-stoppered bottles.
(Ph. D.) Citric acid, 4 oz.; distilled water, 16 fl. oz.; hydrated ferric
oxide, obtained from the sulphate, 5 oz.; liquor of ammonia, 4 fl. oz., or
q. s.
(Wholesale.) A mixture of iron filings and citric acid, in powder, with
barely sufficient water to cover it, is kept in a warm situation for some
days, occasionally stirring the mass, and replacing the water as it
evaporates. A saturated solution is next made in distilled water, there
being previously added more citric acid (about half the weight of the acid
first used), as required; it is then neutralised with liquor of ammonia
(about 1-1/4 oz. of liquor of ammonia, sp. gr. ·882, to every gallon of
the solution of sp. gr. 1·025), and the solution is concentrated by
evaporation; the process is then completed as in No. 1. The first part of
this process produces a salt of the protoxide of iron, or ferrous citrate,
which is afterwards converted, by exposure to the atmosphere, into a
citrate of the magnetic acid, or ferri, ferro-citrate, and, lastly, into
citrate of peroxide of iron, or ferric citrate.
B. P. Liquor Ferri Persulphatis 8. Liquor ammoniæ 19-1/2. Citric acid (in
crystals) 4. Distilled water, a sufficiency. Mix 14 of the solution of
ammonia with 40 of water, and add gradually the solution of ferric
sulphate. Stir constantly, let the mixture stand 2 hours and filter
through calico, and allow to drain. Wash until the washing ceases to
precipitate barium chloride, dissolve the citric acid in 8 of water, add
the precipitated ferric hydrate, and heat in a water bath until dissolved.
Let the solution cool, add 5-1/2 of the ammonia, filter through flannel,
evaporate to the consistency of syrup, and dry on flat porcelain plates in
thin layers at a temperature below 100° F.
_Obs._ Pharmaceutical writers have been so diffuse in their disquisitions
on the preparation of this salt, as would lead to the inference that there
is some difficulty attending it. The contrary is, however, the case. The
only care necessary is to spread the syrup solution very thinly on warm
sheets of glass to dry, which it will rapidly do if they are placed in an
atmosphere of warm dry air, for which purpose a ‘drying closet’ is the
most convenient. The dry salt may then be easily detached from the glass,
and will form thin scales, or lamellæ, of great brilliancy and beauty. It
is also better to use a little more oxide than the acid will dissolve, as
the remainder will be employed in a future operation. Less water may be
used, or even a larger quantity than that mentioned; but in the first case
the liquid will become difficult to filter——in the latter it will require
more evaporation. Boiling water dissolves about twice its weight of citric
acid, and there remains 13/20ths of this quantity in solution when cold,
and it takes rather more than twice the weight of the citric acid in
moist hydrated protoxide of iron to produce saturation.
_Prop., &c._ This beautiful salt is of a rich ruby colour, and forms
glistening transparent scales, very soluble in aqueous menstrua, and the
resulting solution is less easily decomposed by reagents than the
solutions of most of the other salts of iron. It is ‘compatible’ with the
alkaline of carbonates and bicarbonates, and several other salts, and is
nearly tasteless, advantages which have been perhaps overrated by both
prescriber and patient. It is doubtful whether this article has not
obtained a larger sale from its pleasing appearance than from its
medicinal virtues. Several persons who have prepared it in lumps or
powder, by the simple evaporation of the solution to dryness, have been
unable to sell it under that form, even at a lower price.
Ammonio-citrate of iron is soluble in water; the solution neither changes
the colour of litmus nor turmeric; nor is it turned blue by ferrocyanide
of potassium; but either potassium hydrate or lime water being added, it
throws down ferric hydrate, and ammonia is evolved. From 100 gr. dissolved
in water, potassium hydrate precipitates about 34 gr. of ferric
hydrate.——_Dose_, 3 to 10 gr., in water, wine, or bitter infusions.
=Ferric and Strychnine Citrate.= (U. S.) _Syn._ FERRI ET STRYCHNIÆ CITRAS.
_Prep._ Citrate of iron and ammonia, 500 gr.; strychnia, 5 gr.; citric
acid, 5 gr.; distilled water, 9 fl. dr. Dissolve the citrate of iron and
ammonia in 1 oz. of the water, and the strychnia and nitric acid in 1 dr.
of distilled water. Mix the two solutions, evaporate the mixture over a
water bath, at 140° Fahr., to the thickness of a syrup, and spread on
glass plates, so that the salt, when dry, may be obtained in scales.
=Ferric and Magnesium Citrate.= _Syn._ CITRIC OF IRON AND MAGNESIA; FERRI
MAGNESIO CITRAS; FERRI ET MAGNESIÆ CITRAS, L. _Prep._ As the last, but
using carbonate of magnesium instead of ammonia to neutralise the
solution.——_Dose_, 2 to 10 gr. It has been recommended as a chalybeate in
the dyspepsia of gouty and debilitated habits.
=Ferric and Quinine Citrate.= _Syn._ CITRATE OF QUININE AND IRON;
FERRI-QUINIO-CITRAS, L. As the ammonio-citrate, but using quinine,
recently precipitated, instead of ammonia, to neutralise the acid.
B. P. Pure ferric hydrate is prepared from liquor ferri persulphatis,
4-1/2 pints, and liquor ammoniæ, 8 pints, as in the ferric and ammonium
citrate. Sulphate of quinine 1 is mixed with water 8, and sulphuric acid
1-1/2, and when dissolved, ammonia added until the quinine is
precipitated. The precipitate is collected and washed with 30 of water.
Citric acid 3 is dissolved in 8 of water by the aid of a water bath, and
the ferric hydrate, well drained, added; stir together until dissolved,
and add the quinine, stirring well until all is dissolved, and allow to
cool; add 1-1/2 of solution of ammonia diluted with 2 of water, stirring
the solution briskly until the quinine at first thrown down by the ammonia
is redissolved; filter and evaporate to a syrup, drying in thin layers on
flat porcelain or glass plates at a temperature of 100°.
Ferric citrate, 4 parts; citrate of quinine, 1 part; distilled water,
q. s.; dissolve, gently evaporate, and proceed as directed for
ammonio-citrate of iron. Greenish golden-yellow scales when prepared by
the B. P. process, soluble in 2 parts of water, and somewhat deliquescent;
entirely soluble in ether; taste bitter as well as chalybeate.——_Dose_, 2
to 6 dr.; in cases where the use of both iron and quinine is indicated.
=Ferric and Sodium Citrate.= _Syn._ FERRI SODIO-CITRAS, FERRI ET SODÆ
CITRAS, L. _Prep._ From citric acid, carbonate of sodium, and iron or the
hydrate, as the ammonio-citrate or potassio-citrate.
=Ferric Chlo′ride.= Fe_{2}Cl_{6}. _Syn._ SESQUICHLORIDE OF IRON,
PERCHLORIDE OF IRON, PERMURIATE OF I.; FERRI SESQUICHLORIDUM, L. _Prep._
1. (Anhydrous.) By passing dry chlorine over heated iron filings. Brown
scales.
(Hydrated.) Dissolve ferric hydrate in hydrochloric acid, evaporate to the
consistence of a syrup, and crystallise. Yellow or red scaly crystals. The
impure solution of this salt has been greatly used as a sewage deodoriser.
See TINCTURE.
=Ferric and Ammonium Chloride= (Fe_{2}Cl_{6}NH_{4}Cl.Aq). _Syn._ DOUBLE
CHLORIDES OF IRON AND AMMONIUM, AMMONIO-CHLORIDE OF IRON; FERRI AMMONIUM
CHLORIDUM.
Ferric oxide, 3 oz.; hydrochloric acid, 1/2 pint; digest in a sand bath
until dissolved, then add of ammonium 2-1/2 lbs., dissolved in water, 3
pints; filter the liquid, evaporate to dryness, and reduce the mass to
coarse powder. Orange-coloured crystalline grains readily soluble in
water.
Ammonio-chloride of iron is tonic, emmenagogue, and aperient.——_Dose_, 5
to 15 gr.; in glandular swellings, obstructions, &c.
=Ferric Ferrocy′anide.= (Fe_{4}(FeCy_{6})_{3}. 18Aq). _Syn._
SESQUIFERROCYANIDE OF IRON, PRUSSIAN BLUE; FERRI FERROCYANIDUM, F.
SESQUIFERROCYANIDUM, L. _Prep._ Ferrous sulphate, 4 oz.; water, 1 pint;
dissolve, add to the solution of nitric acid, 6 fl. dr., in small portions
at a time, boiling for a few moments after each addition; next dissolve
ferrocyanide of potassium, 4-1/2 oz., in water, 1 pint, and add this last
solution, by degrees, to the first liquid, stirring well each time;
lastly, collect the precipitate, wash it with boiling water, drain, and
dry it.——_Dose_, 3 to 5 gr., three or four times daily, as an alterative,
febrifuge, and tonic, gradually increasing the quantity until some obvious
effect is produced; in agues, epilepsy, and neuralgia. See PRUSSIAN BLUE.
=Ferric Hydrate.= Fe_{2}(HO)_{6}. See under Ferric Oxide.
=Ferric Iodide.= Fe_{2}I_{6}. _Syn._ FERRI PERIODIDUM, L. _Prep._ Freely
expose a solution of ferrous iodide to the air; or digest iodine, in
excess, on iron, under water, gently evaporate, and sublime. A
deliquescent, volatile red compound, soluble in water and alcohol. It is
rarely employed in medicine.
=Ferric Oxide.= Fe_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ SESQUIOXIDE OF IRON, PEROXIDE OF IRON,
RED OXIDE OF I.; FERRI SESQUIOXYDUM, F. PEROXYDUM, F. OXYDUM RUBRUM, L.
This substance is found native under several forms, but that employed in
the arts is prepared by one or other of the following methods:——
From metallic iron. From iron wire or clean iron filings cut into pieces,
moistened with water, and exposed to the air until completely converted
into rust; it is then ground with water, elutriated, and dried, in a
similar way to that adopted for chalk. For sale, it is usually made up
into small conical loaves or lumps.
By calcination:——(BROWN-RED COLCOTHAR, CROCUS, INDIAN RED, ROUGE,
JEWELLERS’ R.; FERRI OXYDUM RUBRUM, L.)——Calcine ferrous sulphate until
the water of crystallisation is expelled, then roast it with a strong fire
until acid vapours cease to rise; cool, wash the residuum with water until
the latter ceases to affect litmus, and dry it.
Ferrous sulphate, 100 parts; common salt, 42 parts; calcine, wash well
with water, dry, and levigate the residuum. This process yields a cheap
and beautiful product, which is frequently sold for the ferri
sesquioxydum; but it is less soluble, and therefore unfitted for a
substitute for that preparation.
By precipitation;——FERRI SESQUIOXYDUM——B. P., FERRI OXYDUM RUBRUM——Ph. E.
L. By precipitating a solution of ferric sulphate or chloride with
ammonia, in excess, and washing, drying, and igniting in the resulting
hydrate. Pure; anhydrous.
Ferrous sulphate, 4 lbs.; sodium carbonate, 4 lbs. 2 oz.; dissolve each
separately in water, 3 galls.; mix the solution whilst hot, set the
mixture aside, that the precipitate may subside, and subsequently wash and
dry it as before. Contains water, and a trace of alkali.
FERRIC HYDRATE, FERRI PEROXYDUM HYDRATUM——(Ph. D., FERRUGO——Ph. E.)——_a._
(Ph. E.) Ferrous sulphate, 4 oz.; sulphuric acid, 3-1/2 fl. dr.; water, 1
quart; mix, dissolve, boil, and gradually add of nitric acid, 9 fl. dr.;
stirring well and boiling for a minute or two after each addition, until
the liquor yields a yellowish-brown precipitate with ammonia; it must then
be filtered and precipitated with liquor of ammonia (fort.), 3-1/2 fl.
oz.; rapidly added and well mixed in; collect the precipitate, wash it
well with water, drain it on a calico filter, and dry it at a heat not
exceeding 180° Fahr. When intended as an antidote for arsenic it should
not be dried, but kept in the moist or gelatinous state.
FERRIC PEROXIDE, MOIST (B. P.) _Syn._ FERRI PEROXIDUM HUMIDUM. _Prep._ Mix
solution of persulphate of iron (B. P.), 4 fl. oz., with 1 pint of
distilled water, and add it gradually to 33 fl. oz. of solution of soda
(B. P.), stirring constantly and briskly. Let them stand for two hours,
stirring occasionally; then put on a calico filter, and when the liquid
has drained away, wash the precipitate with distilled water till what
passes through ceases to give a precipitate with chloride of barium.
Lastly, enclose the precipitate without drying it in a stoppered bottle,
or other vessel, from which evaporation cannot take place.
DRY HYDRATE OF PEROXIDE OF IRON (B. P.). FERRI PEROXIDUM HYDRATUM. Dry the
moist peroxide, 1 lb., at a temperature not exceeding 212° Fahr., till it
ceases to lose weight. Reduce to a fine powder.——_Dose_, 5 to 30 grains.
_Prop._ Ferric oxide, prepared by precipitation (1, _c_), is an impalpable
powder, of a brownish-red colour, odourless, insoluble in water, freely
soluble in acids, and possessing a slightly styptic taste, especially when
recently prepared. When exposed to heat its colour is brightened, its sp.
gr. increased, and it is rendered less easily soluble in acids. The oxide
prepared by calcination is darker and brighter coloured, less soluble, and
quite tasteless. It has either a scarlet or purplish cast, according to
the heat to which it has been exposed. The finest Indian red, or crocus,
usually undergoes a second calcination, in which it is exposed to a very
intense heat. It is then known as ‘purple brown.’ The best jeweller’s
rouge is prepared by calcining the precipitated oxide until it becomes
scarlet.
The hydrate is of a yellowish-brown colour, and though it can be dried
without decomposition, it requires to be kept in a moist state. It is best
preserved in a well-stoppered bottle, filled with recently distilled or
boiled water.
_Pur._ Medicinal ferric oxide or sesquioxide of iron (FERRI SESQUIOXYDUM,
Ph. L. & D.) is soluble in dilute hydrochloric acid, scarcely
effervescing, and is again thrown down by potassa. The strained liquor is
free from colour, and is not discoloured by the addition of either
sulphuretted hydrogen or ferrocyanide of potassium.
The hydrate (FERRI PEROXYDUM HYDRATUM——Ph. D., FERRUGO——Ph. E.) is
entirely and very easily soluble in hydrochloric acid, without
effervescence; if previously dried at 180° Fahr., a stronger heat drives
off about 18% of water.
_Uses, &c._ The precipitated oxide is employed in medicine as a tonic and
emmenagogue, in doses of 10 to 30 gr.; and as an anthelmintic and in tic
douloureux, in doses of 1 to 4 dr., mixed up with honey. It is also
employed to make some preparations of iron. The calcined oxide is employed
as a pigment, as an ingredient in a plaster, &c. The hydrate is used
medicinally as a tonic in doses of 10 to 30 gr.; and in much larger, as an
antidote in cases of arsenical poisoning.
We are indebted to Bunsen and Berthold for the introduction of this
substance as an antidote to arsenic. A table-spoonful of the moist oxide
may be given every 5 or 10 minutes, or as often as the patient can swallow
it. (Pereira.) When this preparation cannot be obtained, rust of iron or
even the dry so-called carbonate (sesquioxide) may be given along with
water instead. According to Dr Maclagan, 12 parts, and to Devergie, 32
parts, of the hydrate are required to neutralise 1 part of arsenious acid.
Fehling says that the value of this substance as an antidote to arsenic is
materially impaired by age, even when kept in the moist state. The
presence of potassium, sodium, ammonium, hydrates, sulphates, chlorides or
carbonates, is not of consequence, and, therefore, in cases of emergency,
time need not be lost in washing the precipitate, which, in such cases,
need only be drained and squeezed in a calico filter. The magma obtained
by precipitating ferrous sulphate with magnesia, in excess, and which
contains free magnesia and magnesium sulphate, besides ferric hydrate,
precipitates arsenious acid not only more quickly, but in larger quantity,
than ferric hydrate does when alone. It will even render inert Fowler’s
solution, and precipitate both the copper and arsenic from solutions of
Schweinfurt green in vinegar, which the pure gelatinous oxide alone will
not do.
=Soluble Saccharated Oxide of Iron.= (G.) _Syn._ FERRUM OXYDATUM
SACCHARATUM SOLUBILE. _Prep._ Solution or perchloride of iron (sp. gr.
1·480), 2 oz. (by weight); syrup, 2 oz. (by weight); mix, and add
gradually, solution of caustic soda (sp. gr. 1·330); 4 oz. (by weight);
and set aside for 24 hours; then add to the clear liquid 30 fl. oz. of
distilled hot water; agitate and set aside. Pour off the supernatant
liquid from the precipitate which will have formed, and pour on fresh
distilled water; then collect the precipitate on a filter and wash
thoroughly with distilled water.
Put the drained precipitate into a porcelain vessel, and mix with it 9 oz.
of sugar in powder, and evaporate to dryness with constant stirring over a
water bath, then mix in enough sugar in powder to make up 10 oz. by
weight; reduce to powder and keep in a closed vessel. One hundred parts
contain three of metallic iron.
=Ferric Nitrate.= Fe_{2}(NO_{3})_{6}. _Syn._ PROTO NITRATE OF IRON,
NITRATE OF SESQUIOXIDE OF IRON; FERRI PERNITRAS, L. By digesting nitric
acid (diluted with about half its weight of water) on iron or ferric
hydrate. A deep-red liquid, apt to deposit a basic salt. It is used in
dyeing, and has been recommended in dyspepsia, calculous affections, and
chronic diarrhœa.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 or 12 drops.
=Ferric Phosphate.= Fe_{2}H_{3}(PO_{4})_{3}. _Syn._ FERRIC ORTHOPHOSPHATE
(Odling); FERRI SESQUIPHOSPHAS, PHOSPHAS FERRICUS, L. A white powder
obtained by precipitating ferric chloride by sodium phosphate.——_Uses_ and
_dose_. As the last.
FERRIC PYROPHOSPHATE. Fe_{6}(P_{2}O_{7})_{3}. A salt containing ferric
iron combined with the radical of pyrophosphoric acid.
_Prep._ By precipitating a solution of ferric sulphate with one of
pyrophosphate of sodium, taking care to operate at a temperature below 59°
Fahr.
_Prop., &c._ A gelatinous precipitate which dissolves with facility in
excess of pyrophosphate of sodium. The citrate of ammonium is the most
eligible solvent according to M. Robiquet, who first called attention to
this salt as a remedial agent.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
=Ferric Sulphate.= Fe_{2}(SO_{4})_{3}. _Syn._ PERSULPHATE OF IRON,
SULPHATE OF SESQUIOXIDE OF IRON; FERRI PERSULPHAS, L. _Prep._ By adding to
a solution of ferrous sulphate exactly half as much sulphuric acid as it
already contains, raising the liquid to the boiling-point, and then
dropping in nitric acid, until the liquid ceases to blacken by such
addition. The solution evaporated to dryness furnishes a buff-coloured
mass, slowly soluble in water.
_Prop., &c._ With the sulphates of ammonium and potassium it unites to
form compounds to which the name ‘iron alums’ has been given. It forms the
active ingredient in the ‘liquor oxysulphatis ferri’ of Mr Tyson, and is
said by Dr Osborne to be a constituent of ‘Widow Welch’s pills.’ This salt
is also formed when ferrous sulphate is calcined with free exposure to the
air. Dissolved in water, it is used as a test for hydrocyanic, gallic, and
tannic acids.
=Ferric Sulphide.= _Syn._ PERSULPHIDE OF IRON. This compound is prepared
in the hydrated state (FERRI PERSULPHURETUM HYDRATUM) by adding, very
gradually, a neutral solution of ferric sulphate to a dilute solution of
potassium sulphide, and collecting, &c., the precipitate, as in the case
of the hydrated ferrous sulphide. Proposed by Bouchardat and Sandras as a
substitute for ferrous sulphide, to which they say it is preferable.
=Ferric Tan′nate.= _Syn._ FERRI TANNAS, FERRUM TANNICUM, L. _Prep._ From
tannin, 1 part; boiling water, 150 parts; dissolve, add of freshly
precipitated ferric hydrate (dried at 212° Fahr.), 9 parts; evaporate by a
gentle heat to one half, filter, add of sugar 1 part, complete the
evaporation, and at once put it into bottles.——_Dose_, 3 to 5 gr., thrice
daily; in chlorosis, internal hæmorrhages, &c.
Double Ferric and Ammonium Tartrate. _Syn._ AMMONIO TARTRATE OF IRON,
DOUBLE TARTRATE OF IRON AND AMMONIUM; AMMONIO FERRIC TARTRATE, FERRI
AMMONIO TARTRATE; FERRI AMMONIO TARTRAS.
_Prep._ (Aikin.) Tartaric acid, 1 part; iron filings, 3 parts; digest in a
sufficient quantity of hot water to barely cover the mixture for 2 or 3
days, observing to stir it frequently, and to add just enough water to
allow the evolved gas to escape freely; next add ammonia, in slight
excess, stir well, dilute with water, decant, wash the undissolved portion
of iron, filter the mixed liquors, and evaporate to dryness; dissolve the
residuum in water, add a little more ammonia, filter, and again gently
evaporate to dryness, or to the consistence of a thick syrup, when it may
be spread upon hot plates of glass or on earthenware dishes and dried in a
stove-room, as directed for the corresponding citrate.
Tartaric acid, 6-1/2 oz.; water, 7 pints; dissolve, neutralise the
selection with sesquicarbonate of ammonium, and add 6-1/4 oz. more
tartaric acid; to the solution heated in a water bath, further add moist
hydrated oxide of iron (obtained from sesquioxide of iron, 53-1/2 dr.,
dissolved in hydrochloric acid, and precipitated by ammonia); when
dissolved, filter, and evaporate, &c., as before.
_Prop., &c._ Glossy, brittle lamellæ, or irregular pieces, of a deep
garnet colour, almost black, very soluble in water, and possessing a
sweetish and slightly ferruginous taste. By repeated re-solution and
evaporation its sweetness is increased, probably from the conversion of a
part of its acid into sugar. It contains more iron than a given weight of
the sulphate of the same base. It is the most pleasant-tasted of all the
preparations of iron except the ammonio-citrate, last noticed.——_Dose_, 3
to 10 gr.
=Ferric and Potassium Tartrate.= _Syn._ TARTRATE OF POTASSA AND IRON,
FERRO-TARTRATE OF POTASSA; FERRIC TARTRATE OF P.; FERRI TARTARATUM (B.
P.), FERRI POTASSIO-TARTRAS (Ph. L.), FERRUM TARTARIZATUM (Ph. E.), FERRI
TARTARUM (Ph. D.), FERRI ET POTASSÆ TARTRAS (Ph. U. S.), L. _Prep._ (B.
P.) Prepare ferric hydrate from 4 fl. oz. of liq. ferri persulphas, B. P.,
as in making the double citrate, and add it to 2 oz. of the acid tartrate
of potassium, dissolved in 30 oz. of water. Digest for 6 hours at 140°,
allow to cool, and decant off the clear solution, which is to be
evaporated down and dried on glass plates.——(Ph. L.) Ferrous sulphate, 4
oz., is dissolved in water, 1 pint, previously mixed with sulphuric acid,
1/2 fl. oz.; heat is applied to the solution, and nitric acid, 1 fl. oz.,
gradually added; the solution is boiled to the consistence of a syrup, and
then diluted with water, 4 galls. (less the pint already used); liquor of
ammonia, 10 fl. oz., is next added, and the precipitate washed, and set
aside for 24 hours; at the end of this time, the water being decanted, the
still moist precipitate is added, gradually, to a mixture of bitartrate of
potassium, 2 oz., and water, 1/2 pint, heated to 140° Fahr.; after a time
the undissolved oxide is separated by a linen cloth, and the clear
solution either gently evaporated to dryness or treated in the same manner
as the citrate (lastly, preserve it in well-stoppered bottles). The
formulæ of the Ph. E., D., & U. S., are essentially the same. The Ph. D.
orders a heat not beyond 150° Fahr. to be applied to the mixture of the
oxide and bitartrate, with occasional stirring for 6 hours, and the
desiccation to be conducted at the same temperature.
_Obs._ This preparation is a double salt of potassium and iron; it is
therefore wrongly called ‘tartrate of iron’ as is commonly heard. It is
totally soluble in water; the solution is neutral to litmus and turmeric,
unaffected by ferrocyanide of potassium, and not precipitated by acids nor
alkalies, nor acted on by the magnet. Heated with potassa, 100 gr. throws
down about 34 gr. of sesquioxide of iron. Entirely soluble in cold water;
taste freely chalybeate. That of commerce has generally a feebly inky
taste a slight alkaline reaction, is slightly deliquescent, dissolves in 4
parts of water, and is nearly insoluble in alcohol.
Potassio-tartrate of iron is an excellent ferruginous tonic.——_Dose_, 10
to 20 gr., made into a bolus with aromatics, or dissolved in water or
other convenient menstruum.
=Ferric Valerianate.= _Syn._ VALERIANATE OF SESQUIOXIDE OF IRON, VALERIATE
OF IRON; FERRI VALERIANAS (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.) By adding a
solution of sodium valerianate to another of ferric sulphate, and
collecting and washing the precipitate, which is to be dried by placing it
for some days folded in bibulous paper, on a porous brick; after which it
is to be carefully kept from the air.
_Prop., &c._ A reddish-brown amorphous powder; nearly insoluble in water;
soluble in rectified spirit, and in the dilute acids with decomposition.
Citrate or tartrate, flavoured with oil of valerian, is frequently sold
for it.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr.; in anæmia and chlorosis complicated with
hysteria.
=Ferroso-Ferric Hydrate.= Fe_{3}(HO)_{6}. _Syn._ HYDRATED FERROSO-FERRIC
OXIDE, HYDRATED MAGNETIC OXIDE. (B. P.) Liquor ferri persulphas, 5-1/2;
ferri sulphas, 2; solution of soda, 80; distilled water, a sufficiency.
Dissolve the ferrous sulphate in 40 of water, add the solution of soda,
stirring them well, boil the mixture, let it stand for two hours, put in a
calico filter, wash with distilled water until the washing gives no
precipitate with barium chloride, and dry at a temperature not exceeding
120.
Ferrous sulphate, 6 oz.; sulphuric acid, 160 minims; nitric acid, 4 fl.
dr.; stronger solution of ammonia, 4-1/2 fl. oz.; boiling water, 3 pints;
dissolve half of the sulphate in half of the water, add the oil of
vitriol, boil, add the nitric acid gradually, boiling after each addition
for a few minutes; dissolve the remaining half of the sulphate in the rest
of the boiling water; mix the two solutions, add the ammonia, stirring
well (and boil for a short time); collect the precipitate on a calico
filter, wash it with water until it ceases to precipitate a solution of
nitrate of barium, and dry at a heat not exceeding 183° Fahr. The formulæ
of Gregory and Dr Jephson are similar.
Ferrous sulphate, 8 oz., dissolved in a mixture of water, 10 fl. oz., and
sulphuric acid, 6 fl. dr., is converted by means of nitric acid, 4 fl.
dr., diluted with water, 2 fl. oz., into ferric sulphates; this solution
is then added to another, formed by dissolving ferrous sulphate, 4 oz., in
water, 1/2 pint; the whole is then mixed with liquor of potassium hydrate,
2-3/4 pints, and after being boiled for 5 minutes is collected on a calico
filter, and washed, &c., as before; and is to be preserved in a
well-stoppered bottle.
_Prop., &c._ The hydrate is a black sand-like substance, consisting of
very minute crystals. When pure it is attracted by the magnet, and is
entirely soluble in hydrochloric acid; and ammonia added to the solution
throws down a black precipitate. The oxide is the chief product of the
oxidation of iron at a high temperature in the air and in aqueous vapour.
It is more permanent than ferrous oxide, but incapable of forming
salts.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr. two or three times a day.
=Ferroso-ferric Oxide.= Fe_{3}O_{4}. _Syn._ MAGNETIC O. OF I.; FERRI
OXYDUM NIGRUM, F. O. MAGNETICUM (Ph. D.), OXYDUM FERROSO-FERRICUM, L. This
occurs native, but that used in medicine is prepared artificially.
From the black scales of iron that fall around the smith’s anvil, by
washing, drying, detaching them from impurities by means of a magnet, and
then treating them by grinding and elutriation, as directed for prepared
chalk. The product of this process is inferior as a medicine to the
hydrate obtained as below, being less easily soluble in the juices of the
stomach.
=Ferroso-ferric Oxide.= Fe_{3}O_{4}. _Syn._ MAGNETIC OXIDE. See
FERROSO-FERRIC OXIDE.
=Iron, Black Oxide of.= (B. P.) _Syn._ FERRI OXYDUM MAGNETICUM; FERRI
OXYDUM NIGRUM; MARTIAL ÆTHIOPS. _Prep._ Dissolve sulphate of iron, 2 oz.,
in 2 pints of distilled water, and add solution of persulphate of iron (B.
P.), 5-1/2 fl. oz., then mix with solution of soda, 4 pints (B. P.),
stirring well together. Boil the mixture, let it stand for 2 hours,
stirring occasionally, then put it on a calico filter, and when the liquid
has drained away wash the precipitate with distilled water till what
passes through ceases to precipitate chloride of barium. Finally, dry the
precipitate at a temperature not exceeding 120° Fahr.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
=Ferrous Acetate.= Fe(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ FERRI ACETAS, L.
_Prep._ 1. From freshly precipitated ferrous carbonate dissolved in dilute
acetic acid.
2. By adding a solution of calcium acetate to another of ferrous sulphate,
and evaporating the filtered liquid, out of contact with the air. Small,
colourless, or pale-greenish needles or prisms, very soluble and prone to
oxidation.
=Ferrous Arsenate.= Fe_{3}(AsO_{4})_{2}. _Syn._ FERRI ARSENIAS, L. _Prep._
1. From a solution of sodium arseniate, added to a solution of ferrous
sulphate, the precipitate being collected, washed in a little cold water,
and dried.——_Dose_, 1/20 to 1/12 gr., made into a pill; in lupus,
psoriasis, cancerous affections, &c. Externally, combined with 4 times its
weight of ferrous phosphate and a little water, as a paint to destroy the
vitality of cancerous formations. An ointment (20 to 30 gr. to the oz.) is
also used for the same purpose. They are all dangerous remedies in
non-professional hands.
2. (B. P.) _Prep._ Sulphate of iron, 9 oz.; arseniate of soda dried at
300° F., 4 oz.; acetate of soda, 3 oz. Dissolve the arseniate and the
acetate of soda in 2 pints, and the sulphate of iron in 3 pints, of
boiling distilled water, mix the two solutions, collect the white
precipitate which forms on a calico filter, and wash until the washings
cease to be affected by a dilute solution of chloride of barium. Squeeze
the washed precipitate between folds of strong linen in a screw-press, and
dry it on porous bricks in a warm air-chamber whose temperature shall not
exceed 100° F.——Dose, 1/16th of a gr.
=Ferrous Arsenite.= Fe(AsO_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ FERRI ARSENIS, L. From the
potassium arsenite, and ferrous sulphate, as the last. A yellowish-brown
powder, occasionally used in medicine as a tonic, alterative, and
febrifuge.——_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/12 gr.
=Ferrous Bromide.= FeBr_{2}. _Syn._ FERRI BROMIDUM, L. _Prep._ (Moir.)
Bromine and iron filings, of each 1 part; water, 3 parts; mix in a
stoppered phial, set it aside, occasionally shaking it, for 2 or 3 days,
and when the colour of the bromine has disappeared, and the liquid becomes
greenish, filter and evaporate to dryness.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 gr., as a
tonic, diuretic, and resolvent, in similar cases to those in which iodide
of iron is given.
FERROUS CARBONATE. Fe(CO_{3}). _Syn._ PROTOCARBONATE OF IRON; FERRI
CARBONAS, F. SUBCARBONAS, L. This occurs in nature as SPATHOSE ORE, the
chief constituent as of CLAY IRONSTONE, and in many CHALYBEATE WATERS.
_Prep._ (B. P.) Ferrous sulphate (sulphate of iron), 2; ammonium
carbonate, 1-1/4; boiling distilled water, 320; refined sugar, 1. Dissolve
the sulphate and ammonium carbonate each in 1/4 of the water, and mix;
allow to stand for 24 hours and decant, of the clear solution, add the
remainder of the water to the precipitate, stir well, allow to settle, and
decant off. Collect the deposit in a calico filter, press, rub in the
sugar in a porcelain mortar, and dry at a temperature not exceeding 212°
Fahr. Small coherent grey lumps. Precipitate a solution of ferrous
sulphate with a solution of sodium carbonate, well wash the green powder
with water which has been boiled, and dry it out of contact with the air.
On the slightest exposure to air it is converted into ferrous hydrate or
oxide. This change is for the most part prevented by combining it with
sugar, as in the following preparation.
With sugar: FERRI CARBONAS SACCHARATA, B. P.; SACCHARINE C. OF I.; FERRUM
CARBONICUM SACCHARATUM, FERRI CARBONAS CUM SACCHARO——Ph. L., FERRI
CARBONAS SACCHARATUM——Ph. E. & D. L.——(Ph. L.) Ferrous sulphate, 4 oz.;
sodium carbonate, 4-1/4 oz.; dissolve each separately in quart of boiling
water, and mix the solutions whilst hot; after a time collect the
precipitate, wash it frequently with water, and add of sugar, 2 oz.,
previously dissolved in water, 2 fl. oz.; lastly, evaporate the mixture
over a water bath to dryness, and keep it in a well-closed bottle.
_Prop., &c._ A sweet-tasted greenish mass or powder, consisting chiefly of
carbonate of iron. It is one of the best of the chalybeates.——_Dose_, 5 to
10 gr. When pure, it should be easily soluble in hydrochloric acid with
brisk effervescence.
=Ferrous Chloride.= FeCl_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOCHLORIDE OF IRON; MURIATE OF
IRON; FERRI CHLORIDUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Anhydrous.) By passing dry
hydrochloric acid gas over ignited metallic iron. The chloride sublimes in
yellowish crystals.
2. (Hydrated.) Dissolve iron filings or scale in hydrochloric acid,
evaporate and crystallise. Soluble green crystals.
=Ferrous Citrate.= Fe_{3}(C_{6}H_{5}O_{7})_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOCITRATE OF
IRON, CITRATE OF PROTOXIDE OF IRON. This salt is easily formed by
digesting iron filings or wire with citric acid, and evaporating the
solution as quickly as possible out of contact with the air. It presents
the appearance of a white powder, nearly insoluble in water, and rapidly
passing to a higher state of oxidation by exposure to the air. Its taste
is very metallic. It is exhibited under the form of pills, mixed with gum
or syrup, to prevent it from being prematurely decomposed.
=Ferrous Ferricy′anide.= _Syn._ FERRIDCYANIDE OF IRON. _Prep._ By adding a
solution of potassium ferricyanide (‘red prussiate of potash’) to a
solution of ferrous sulphate (or any other soluble ferrous salt), and
collecting and drying and precipitate. A bright-blue powder. (See
TURNBULL’S BLUE.)
=Ferrous Hydrate.= Fe_{2}(HO)_{2}. See under FERROUS OXIDE.
=Ferrous Hydrate.= Fe(HO)_{2}. May be precipitated from ferrous solutions
as a white powder, by alkaline hydrates. It rapidly absorbs oxygen, and
turns first green, and then red, by exposure to the air. Both the oxide
and hydrate are very powerful bases, neutralising the acids and forming
stable salts, which, when soluble, have commonly a pale green colour, and
a nauseous metallic taste.
=Ferrous Hypophosphite.= _Syn._ FERRI HYPOPHOSPHIS. From the double
decomposition of hypophosphite of lime and sulphate of iron, as
hypophosphite of potash.
=Ferrous Iodide.= FeI_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOIODIDE OF IRON, IODIDE OF IRON; F.
IODIDUM, FERRI HYDRIODAS, F. IODURETUM, L. _Prep._ (B. P.) Fine iron wire,
1; iodine, 2; distilled water, 10. Introduce the iron, iodine, and 8 of
water into a flask, heat it about ten minutes, and boil until all the red
colour is gone. Filter through paper into a polished iron dish, washing
with the rest of the water, and boil until a drop of the solution taken
out on iron wire solidifies on cooling. Pour on porcelain and cool. (Ph.
L. 1836.) Iodine, 6 oz.; iron filings, 2 oz.; water, 4-1/2 pints; mix,
boil in a sand bath until the liquid turns to a pale green, filter, wash
the residuum with a little water, evaporate the mixed liquors in an iron
vessel at 212° Fahr. to dryness, and immediately put the iodide into
well-stoppered bottles.
Iodine, 1 oz., and clean iron filings or turnings, 1/2 oz., are put into a
Florence flask with distilled water, 4 fl. oz., and having applied a
gentle heat for 10 minutes, the liquid is boiled until it loses its red
colour; it is then at once filtered into a second flask, the filter washed
with water, 1 fl. oz., and the mixed liquid is boiled down, until it
solidifies on cooling.
With sugar: SACCHARINE IODIDE OF IRON, SACCHARUM FERRI IODIDI, FERRI
IODIDUM SACCHARATUM, L. Iron (in powder), 1 dr.; water, 5 dr.; iodine, 4
dr.; obtain a solution of iodide of iron, as above, and add to it of sugar
of milk (in powder), 1-1/4 oz.; evaporate at a temperature not exceeding
122° Fahr., until the mass has a tenacious consistence, then further add
of sugar of milk, 1 oz., reduce the mixture to powder, and preserve it in
a well-stoppered bottle. Every 6 gr. contains 1 gr. of iodide of iron.
From “syrup of iodide of iron” exposed in a shallow vessel, in a warm
place, until it crystallises; the crystals are collected, dried, and
powdered. A simpler plan is to gently evaporate the whole to dryness, and
to powder the residuum. The saccharine iodide may be kept for some time in
a corked bottle without undergoing decomposition.
_Obs._ The preparation of the above compound, like that of the citrates,
has formed a fertile subject during some years for pharmaceutical amateurs
to dilate upon. There is in reality not the least difficulty in the
process. As soon as iodine and iron are mixed together under water much
heat is evolved, and if too much water be not used the combination is soon
complete, and the liquor merely requires to be evaporated to dryness, out
of contact with the air, at a heat not exceeding 212° Fahr. This is most
cheaply and easily performed by employing a glass flask, with a thin broad
bottom and a narrow mouth, by which means the evolved steam excludes air
from the vessel. The whole of the uncombined water may be known to be
evaporated when vapour ceases to condense on a piece of cold glass held
over the mouth of the flask. A piece of moistened starch paper
occasionally applied in the same way will indicate whether free iodine is
evolved; should such be the case, the heat should be immediately lessened.
When the evaporation is completed, the mouth of the flask should be
stopped up by laying a piece of sheet india rubber on it, and over that a
flat weight; the flask must be then removed, and when cold broken to
pieces, the iodide weighed, and put into dry and warm stoppered wide-mouth
glass phials, which must be immediately closed, tied over with bladder,
and the stoppers dipped into melted wax.
_Prop., &c._ Ferrous iodide evolves violet vapours by heat, and ferric
oxide remains. When freshly made it is totally soluble in water, and from
this solution, when kept in a badly stoppered vessel, ferric hydrate is
very soon precipitated; but with iron wire immersed in it, it may be kept
clear in a well-stoppered bottle.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr., or more, as a
tonic, stimulant, and resolvent. It has been given with advantage in
anæmia, chlorosis, debility, scrofula, and various glandular affections.
=Ferrous Lactate.= Fe(C_{3}H_{5}O_{3})_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOLACTATE OF IRON;
FERRI LACTAS, FERRUM LACTICUM, L. _Prep._ Boil iron filings in lactic acid
diluted with water, until gas ceases to be evolved, and filter whilst hot
into a suitable vessel, which must be at once closely stopped; as the
solution cools, crystals will be deposited, which after being washed,
first with a little cold water, and then with alcohol, are to be carefully
dried. The mother liquor, on being digested, as before, with fresh iron,
will yield more crystals.
Into sour whey, 2 lbs., sprinkle sugar of milk and iron filings, of each,
in fine powder, 1 oz.; digest at about 100° Fahr., until the sugar of milk
is dissolved, then add a second portion, and as soon as a white
crystalline powder begins to form, boil the whole gently, and filter into
a clean vessel; lastly, collect, wash, and dry the crystals as before.
_Prop., &c._ Ferrous lactate is a greenish-white salt; and when pure,
forms small acicular or prismatic crystals, which have a sweetish
ferruginous taste, and are soluble in about 48 parts of cold and in 12
parts of boiling water. It has been regarded by many high authorities as
superior to every other preparation of iron for internal use, as being at
once miscible with the lactic acid of the gastric juice, instead of having
to be converted into a lactate at the expense of that fluid, as it is
asserted is the case with the other preparations of iron.——_Dose_, 2 to 6
gr., frequently, in any form most convenient.
=Ferrous Ma′late (Impure).= _Syn._ FERRI MALAS IMPURUS, L. _Prep._ (P.
Cod., 1839.) Porphyrised iron filings, 1 part; juice of sour apples, 8
parts; digest for 3 days in an iron vessel, evaporate to one half, strain
through linen whilst hot, further evaporate to the consistence of an
extract, and preserve it from the air.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr., where the use
of iron is indicated.
=Ferrous Nitrate.= (FeNO_{3})_{2}. _Syn._ PROTONITRATE OF IRON, NITRATE OF
PROTOXIDE OF IRON; FERRI NITRAS, L. By dissolving ferrous sulphide in
dilute sulphuric acid, in the cold, and evaporating the solution _in
vacuo_. Small green crystals, very soluble, and prone to oxidation.
=Ferrous Oxalate.= (U. S.) _Syn._ FERRI OXALAS. _Prep._ Sulphate of iron,
2 oz.; oxalic acid, 396 gr.; distilled water, q. s. Dissolve the sulphate
in 30 oz. (old measure), and the acid in 15 oz. (old measure) of distilled
water. Filter the solutions, mix them, shake together, and set aside until
the precipitate is formed. Decant the clear liquid, wash the precipitate
thoroughly, and dry it with a gentle heat.
=Ferrous Oxide.= FeO. _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF IRON, FERRI PROTOXYDUM, L. This
substance is almost unknown in a pure state, from its extreme proneness to
absorb oxygen and pass into the sesquioxide.
=Ferrous Phosphate.= _Syn._ PHOSPHATE OF IRON, NEUTRAL P. OF PROTOXIDE OF
IRON, BIMETALLIC FERROUS ORTHOPHOSPHATE (Odling); FERRI PHOSPHAS (Ph. U.
S.), L. A salt formed from ordinary or tribasic phosphoric acid.
_Prep._ (B. P.) Ferrous sulphate, 3; sodium phosphate, 2-1/2; sodium
acetate, 1; boiling distilled water, 80; dissolve the sulphate and sodium
salts, each in half the water, mix, and stir carefully, filter through
calico, wash with hot distilled water until it ceases to give a
precipitate with barium chloride, dry at a heat not exceeding 120° Fahr.
(Ph. U. S.) Ferrous sulphate, 5 oz.; sodium phosphate, 6 oz.; dissolve
each separate in 2 quarts of water, mix the solutions, and after repose
for a short time wash and dry the precipitate.
_Prop., &c._ A slate-coloured powder; insoluble in water; soluble in
dilute nitric and hydrochloric acid.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; in amenorrhœa,
diabetes, dyspepsia, scrofula, &c.; and _externally_, as an application to
cancerous ulcers.
=Ferrous Sulphate.= FeSO_{4}.7Aq. _Syn._ PROTOSULPHATE OF IRON, SULPHATE
OF IRON, COPPERAS, GREEN VITRIOL, SHOEMAKER’S BLACK; FERRI SULPHAS (B. P.,
Ph. L. E. & D.), VITRIOLUM FERRI. The crude sulphate of iron or green
vitriol of commerce (FERRI SULPHAS VENALIS, Ph. L.) is prepared by
exposing heaps of moistened iron pyrites or native bisulphuret of iron to
the air for several months, either in its unprepared state or after it has
been roasted. When decomposition is sufficiently advanced, the newly
formed salt is dissolved out with water, and the solution crystallised by
evaporation. In this state it is very impure. The ferrous sulphate or
sulphate of iron employed in medicine is prepared as follows:——
_Prep._ (B. P.) Iron wire, 4; sulphuric acid, 4; distilled water, 30. Pour
the water on the iron, add the acid, and when the disengagement of gas has
nearly ceased, boil for ten minutes. Filter through paper. Allow to stand
twenty-four hours, and collect the crystals. Sulphuric acid, 1 fl. oz.;
water, 4 pints; mix, and add of commercial sulphate of iron, 4 lbs.; iron
wire, 1 oz.; digest with heat and occasional agitation until the sulphate
is dissolved, strain whilst hot, and set aside the liquor that crystals
may form; evaporate the mother-liquor for more crystals, and dry the
whole.
Dissolve the transparent green crystals of the impure sulphate of iron in
their own weight of water, acidulated with sulphuric acid, and
re-crystallise.
The formula of the Ph. U. S. is similar.
Dried; FERRI SULPHAS EXSICCATA, B. P.; FERRI SULPHAS EXSICCATUM——Ph. E.,
F. S. SICCATUM——Ph. D. From ferrous sulphate, heated in a shallow
porcelain or earthen vessel, not glazed with lead, till it becomes a
greenish-grey mass, and then reduced to powder. The heat should be that of
an oven, or not exceeding 400° Fahr. Five parts of the crystallised
sulphate lose very nearly 2 parts by drying.
Granulated; FERRI SULPHAS GRANULATA, L. (B. P.) A solution of iron wire, 4
oz., in sulphuric acid, 4 fl. oz., diluted with water, 1-1/2 pint, after
being boiled for a few minutes, is filtered into a vessel containing
rectified spirit, 8 fl. oz., and the whole stirred until cold, when the
granular crystals are collected on a filter, washed with rectified spirit,
2 fl. oz., and dried, first by pressure between bibulous paper, and next
beneath a bell-glass over sulphuric acid, after which they are put into a
stoppered bottle, to preserve them from the air.
_Prop., &c._ Ferrous sulphate forms pale bluish-green rhombic prisms,
having an acid, styptic taste, and acid reaction; it dissolves in two
parts of cold and less than one part of boiling water; at a dull-red heat
it suffers decomposition; sp. gr. 1·82. It is perfectly soluble in water;
a piece of iron put into the solution should not be covered with metallic
copper. By exposure to the air it effloresces slightly, and is partly
converted into a basic ferric sulphate.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 4 gr., in pills or
solution; externally, as an astringent or styptic. In the arts, as
sulphate of iron (copperas), it is extensively used in dyeing, and for
various other purposes. The dried sulphate (ferri sulphus exsiccatum) is
chiefly used to make pills.
Crude sulphate of iron is frequently contaminated with the sulphates of
copper, zinc, manganese, aluminium, magnesium, and calcium, which, with
the exception of the first, are removed with difficulty. It also contains
variable proportions of the neutral and basic ferric sulphates. The
preparation obtained by direct solution of iron in dilute sulphuric acid
should, therefore, be alone used in medicine.
In commerce there are four varieties of crude sulphate of iron or copperas
known,——greenish-blue, obtained from acid liquors,——pale green, from
neutral liquors,——emerald green, from liquors containing ferric
sulphate,——and ochrey brown, which arises from age and exposure of the
other varieties to the air. Even the first two of these contain traces of
ferric sulphate, and hence give a bluish precipitate with ferrocyanide of
potassium; whereas the pure sulphate gives one which is at first nearly
white.
=Ferrous Sulphide.= FeS. _Syn._ SULPHURET OF IRON, SULPHIDE OF I.,
PROTOSULPHIDE OF I.; FERRI SULPHURETUM (Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E. &
D.) Expose a bar of iron to a full white heat, and instantly apply a solid
mass of sulphur to it, observing to let the melted product fall into
water; afterwards separate the sulphide from the sulphur, dry, and
preserve it in a closed vessel.
From sublimed sulphur, 4 parts; iron filings, 7 parts; mixed together and
heated in a common fire till the mixture begins to glow, and then removing
the crucible from the heat, and covering it up, until the reaction is at
an end, and the whole has become cold.
Hydrated; FERRI PROTOSULPHURETUM HYDRATUM, L. By adding a solution of
ammonium sulphide or of potassium sulphide to a neutral solution of
ferrous sulphate made with recently distilled or boiled water; the
precipitate is collected on a filter, washed as quickly as possible with
recently boiled water, squeezed in a linen cloth, and preserved in the
pasty state, under water, as directed under ferric hydrate.
_Prop., &c._ The sulphide prepared in the dry way is a blackish brittle
substance, attracted by the magnet. It is largely used in the laboratory
as a source of sulphuretted hydrogen. The hydrated sulphide is a black,
insoluble substance, rapidly decomposed by exposure to the air. Proposed
by Mialhe as an antidote to the salts of arsenic, antimony, bismuth, lead,
mercury, silver, and tin, and to arsenious acid; more especially to white
arsenic and corrosive sublimate. A gargle containing a little hydrated
sulphide of iron will instantly remove the metallic taste caused by
putting a little corrosive sublimate into the mouth. (Mialhe.) On contact
with the latter substance it is instantly converted into ferrous chloride
and mercurous sulphide, two comparatively inert substances. It is
administered in the same way as ferrous hydrate. When taken immediately
after the ingestion of corrosive sublimate, it instantly renders it
innocuous; but when the administration is delayed until 15 or 20 minutes
after the poison has been swallowed, it is almost useless.
=Ferrous Tar′trate.= _Syn._ FERRI TARTRAS, FERRI PROTOTARTRAS, L. _Prep._
1. From iron filings, 2 parts; tartaric acid, 1 part; hot water, q. s.;
digest together until reaction ceases, agitate the liquid, pour off the
turbid solution, and collect, wash, and dry the powder as quickly as
possible, and keep it out of contact with the air.
2. Crystallised potassium tartrate, 132 parts; ferrous sulphate, 139
parts; dissolve each separately, mix the solutions, and collect the
precipitate as before. A nearly insoluble powder; seldom used.
_Obs._ By dissolving the corresponding hydrates in a solution of tartaric
acid, employing the former in slight excess, and evaporating, both the
ferrous and ferric tartrate are easily obtained.
=IRON AL′UM.= See ALUMS.
=IRON CEMENT′.= See CEMENTS.
=IRON, DIALYSED.= (Paris Pharmaceutical Society.) _Syn._ FERRUM
DIALYSATUM. OXIDE DE FER DIALYSÉ. _Prep._ Solution of ferric chloride (sp.
gr. 1·245), 100 grams; solution of ammonia (sp. gr. 1·169), 35 grams; add
the ammonia in small quantities to the ferric chloride; at first the
precipitate formed is redissolved very rapidly, but afterwards disappears
more slowly. When the liquor has again become transparent, it is
introduced into the dialyser; the distilled water in which the vessel
containing the ferruginous solution is placed, must be frequently renewed.
After a time the highly coloured solution is no longer precipitated by
silver nitrate, and gives no acid reaction. It is then absolutely free
from the disagreeable taste of certain ferruginous preparations. A small
quantity of hydrochloric acid always remains in the liquor, which may be
shown by precipitating the oxide of iron by a slight excess of ammonia,
filtering, adding an excess of nitric acid, and then silver nitrate. Ten
c.c. are evaporated, and from the residue must be calculated how much
distilled water is required to be added to produce a 10 per cent.
solution.
2. (‘American Journal of Pharmacy.’) Take 10 parts of liq. ferri perchlor.
(B. P.), precipitate by _liquor ammoniæ_, and wash the precipitate
thoroughly. Mix this with 12 parts of liq. ferri perchlor. (B. P.), and
place in a dialyser. The dialyser is placed in a suitable vessel with
distilled water, the water under it renewed every 24 hours. The operation
is continued until no trace of chlorine exists, at which time the
preparation is found to be neutral. It usually takes from twelve to
fifteen days to complete the process.
The resulting preparation, which should be of a deep dark red colour,
contains about 5 per cent. of the oxide of iron. If the solution after
completion of the operation should contain more than 5 per cent. of iron,
it may be diluted with dialysed water till it reaches that point.
The above formula is said to furnish an article precisely similar to the
original Bravais’ dialysed iron.
3. (E. B. Shuttleworth.) Add ammonia to a solution of perchloride of iron
as long as the precipitate formed is redissolved. A solution is produced
which contains ferric hydrate dissolved in ferric chloride, with free
chloride of ammonium. Either the liquor ferri perchlor. fort. (B. P.), or
the liquor ferri chloridi (U. S.), may be conveniently used, and the
liquor ammoniæ, sp. gr. ·959 or ·960, of either Pharmacopœia will be found
a convenient strength. If the ammonia be added to the strong solution of
iron, considerable heat is evolved, and, on cooling, the preparation
becomes gelatinised——often so much so that the vessel containing it may be
inverted. It is better to avoid this result, and to such end the solution
of perchloride must be diluted until of a sp. gr. of about 1·300. This
degree may be nearly enough approached by diluting two measures of the B.
P. liquor with one of water; or adding one measure of water to five of the
U. S. preparation. This solution will generally remain permanently bright
and fluid. The amount of liquor ammoniæ required will of course vary with
the acidity of the perchloride. The liquor ferri B. P. will sometimes bear
as much as an equal volume. A gelatinised solution, even when made from
the undiluted liquor, will often become fluid when put upon the dialyser,
but, as I have said before, it is better to work with bright solutions.
4. (Dr Pile.) Dr Pile, noticing the fact that chloride of sodium is one of
the most rapid crystalloids to dialyse, used a solution of carbonate of
sodium to add to the solution of ferric chloride in place of the ammonia
so generally recommended, and with great success. The solution of ferric
chloride (U. S.) which has been neutralised by a cold solution of
carbonate of sodium is poured into a floating dialyser. Starting with 1
pint of solution of ferric chloride, which on being treated with the
sodium solution and ready to dialyse, had a sp. gr. of 1·175, it had in 5
days increased to 5 pints. The water in which the dialyser floated was
changed daily. At the end of five days it had passed through the membrane
all the crystalloids, was free from taste of foreign substances, and owing
to increase of bulk had now the sp. gr. of 1·0295, and on evaporation
yielded 5 per cent. dry oxide of iron. Too long dialysation will cause the
solution of iron to become gelatinous.
Mr Shuttleworth[3] says that an efficient dialyser may be made out of one
of the flat hoops of an ordinary flour barrel, a bell jar, or even an
inverted glass funnel. He gives the preference to the former, and limits
its diameter to ten or twelve inches; if it exceeds this, the septum is
liable to bulge in the centre, and to make the layer of liquid too deep
at that point.
[Footnote 3: ‘Canadian Pharmaceutical Journal,’ Oct., 1877.]
The parchment paper employed for the septum must be entirely free from
holes; this is an essential condition, and if any should be discovered——by
the simple process of sponging the upper surface of the paper with water,
and then carefully examining the under surface,——they must be stopped by
means of a little white of egg, applied and coagulated by heat, or by a
drop of collodion.
The parchment paper is not the kind ordinarily known under that name, but
a less porous description, which has been made by previous immersion in
dilute sulphuric acid.
Well-washed bladder, deprived of its outer coat, also makes a good septum.
The septum should be tied around the hoop with twine, but not too tightly,
and should be so arranged that its edges shall be left standing up around
the hoop, so as to absorb any liquid escaping from the hoop at its
junction with the septum. The dialyser being ready for use, the liquid
intended for dialysis is poured into it to a depth of not more than half
an inch, and the dialyser with its contents is then floated on the surface
of some distilled water, contained in a suitable receptacle.
The hoop must only be allowed to sink just below the level of the water;
if it gets below this point, it will be necessary to keep it up by some
support or the other.
It is necessary to change the water in the outer vessel daily. For the
first two or three days distilled water should always be used. When this
is not obtainable rain water should be employed. When the water shows the
absence of chlorides, and the preparation ceases to have a ferruginous
taste, the operation may be regarded as finished. The process generally
occupies one or two weeks.
“A pig’s bladder, completely filled with the iron solution, securely tied,
and immersed in water frequently changed, answers well for making this
preparation. The process requires a longer time than with a carefully
regulated and properly conducted dialysis, but it entails considerably
less trouble. I consider it an advantage to procure the bladder perfectly
fresh, as it is then easily cleaned by pure water, and alkaline ley need
not be used. Great care is necessary in tying the neck carefully. This can
be best accomplished by a few turns of iron wire. Above this may be
secured a piece of twine, to suspend the bladder, by means of a stick, or
rod, placed on the edge of the vessel containing the water. The bladder
should be perfectly full, and immersed altogether in water. The attraction
of the solution for the water is so great, that considerable pressure is
manifested, and should any parts or holes be in the bladder, the liquid
will be forced out, water will take its place, and failure result.”[4]
[Footnote 4: ‘Canadian Pharmaceutical Journal,’ Oct., 1877.]
Pretty general consent appears to have fixed the strength of the solution
of dialysed iron at five per cent. Where it exceeds this, the solution
must be diluted with distilled water; and where it falls short of the
amount, it will have to be reduced to the required volume by standing it
in a warm and dry situation. The employment of much heat must be
particularly avoided as it very frequently leads to the destruction of the
compound; hence every care should be taken to render the evaporation of
the fluid unnecessary.
There seems little doubt that the so-called “dialysed iron” is an
oxychloride of the metal. Prof. Maisch[5] believes it to be a very basic
oxychloride of iron. On the supposition that the oxychloride and chloride
of iron are both present in the liquid put into the dialyser, the origin
of the oxychloride admits of easy explanation:——The chloride being a
crystalloid, diffuses through the septum into the outer water, and thus
becomes separated from the oxychloride, which being a colloid, and
incapable of a passage through the membrane, remains in solution in the
dialyser.
[Footnote 5: Ibid., Oct., 1877.]
The comparative freedom from taste and easy assimilation of the
oxychloride of iron render it a valuable therapeutic agent. The dose of
the five per cent. solution is 15 to 50 drops daily, in divided doses.
Syrup forms a pleasant vehicle for its administration.
Dialysed iron has been successfully employed in a case of arsenical
poisoning. The ‘American Journal of Pharmacy’ for January, 1878, contains
an interesting paper by Dr Mattison detailing a series of experiments,
which conclusively prove its value as an antidote to arsenic. Dr Mattison
recommends the administration of the iron to be immediately followed by a
teaspoonful or more of common salt.
=IRON FI′′LINGS.= _Syn._ FERRI RAMENTA (Ph. L. 1836). FERRI LIMATURA (Ph.
E.), FERRI SCOBS (Ph. D.). The usual method of preparing iron filings for
medical purposes has been already noticed; the only way, however, to
obtain them pure, is to act on a piece of soft iron with a clean file. The
Fr. Cod. orders them to be forcibly beaten in an iron mortar, and to be
separated from oxide and dust by means of a fine sieve, and from the
grosser parts by means of a coarse hair-sieve.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr., in
sugar or honey, as a chalybeate; in larger doses it is an excellent
vermifuge, especially for ascarides or the small thread-worm.
=IRON LIQ′UOR.= _Syn._ PYROLIGNITE OF IRON, DYER’S ACETATE OF I., BLACK
LIQUOR, TAR IRON L.; FERRI ACETAS VENALIS, L. This article, so extensively
used in dyeing, is a crude mixed acetate of the protoxide and sesquioxide
of iron. It is usually prepared by one or other of the following
methods:——
1. Old scraps of iron (hoops, worn-out tin-plate, &c.) are left in a cask
of pyroligneous acid, occasional agitation being had recourse to, until a
sufficiently strong solution is obtained. By keeping the acid moderately
warm in suitable vessels it will become saturated with the iron in a few
days. With cold acid, on a large scale, forty days or more are required to
complete the process.
2. A solution of pyrolignite or crude acetate of lime, is added to another
of green copperas, as long as a precipitate is formed; after repose, the
clear liquor is decanted.
=IRON, REDUCED.= _Syn._ QUEVENNE IRON; FERRUM REDACTUM (B. P.), FERRI
PULVIS, L.; FER REDUIT, F. _Prep._ This preparation, which consists of
metallic iron in a fine state of division mixed with a variable amount of
magnetic oxide of iron, is made by passing perfectly dry hydrogen over
peroxide of iron heated to redness in a gun-barrel.
_Prop._ A greyish-black powder, attracted by the magnet, and exhibiting
metallic streaks when rubbed with firm pressure in a mortar. Rapidly
absorbs oxygen, and must, therefore, be preserved from the air in
well-stoppered bottles. It dissolves in hydrochloric acid with the
evolution of hydrogen. 10 grains added to an aqueous solution of 50 grains
of iodine and 50 grains of iodide of potassium, and digested with them in
a small flask at a gentle heat, should leave not more than 5 grains
undissolved, which should be entirely soluble in hydrochloric acid.
_Uses._ In _medicine_ it is chiefly given to restore the condition of the
blood in all anæmic states of the system. There is no pulverulent state of
iron so convenient as this for children, as it has no taste, and only a
very small dose is required.——_Dose_, 1 to 5 grains (children, 1/4 to 1
grain), in powder, pill, or between bread and butter.
=Iron reduced by Electricity.= See ELECTRICITY, Iron reduced by.
=Iron, to remove Rust from Polished.= Rust of iron may be removed from a
polished grate by means of emery paper, or by scraping some Bath-brick to
a fine powder, mixing it with a little oil and rubbing the spots well with
a piece of flannel dipped in this mixture; after which some whiting should
be applied by diligent friction. This operation requires daily repetition
until the rust has disappeared. Steel fire-irons, fenders, &c., when put
aside in the summer, should be previously smeared thinly over with a
species of paraffin, known to druggists by the name of ‘vaseline’ or
‘cosmoline,’ or with grease, mercurial ointment, &c.
=Iron, to remove the Stains of, from Marble.= Rub on very cautiously
(confining it to the surface only occupied by the spot) some strong
hydrochloric acid, removing it directly the spot disappears. Should this
cause any diminution in the polish, this may be restored by means of emery
paper.
=IRON WIRE.= _Syn._ FERRUM IN FILA TRACTUM (Ph. L.), FERRI FILUM (Ph. E.),
FERRI FILA (Ph. D.), L. This is the only form of metallic iron retained
in the Ph. L. It is used to make preparations of iron.
=ISATINE.= C_{16}H_{10}N_{2}O_{4}. A yellow crystalline body obtained by
the oxidation of indigo. When acted upon by potash it becomes converted
into aniline. Isatine may be formed by heating indigo in a dilute solution
of dichromate of potash and sulphuric acid, or by treating indigo under
proper conditions with nitric acid.
=ISCHU′RIA.= In _pathology_, retention, stoppage, or suppression of the
urine.
=I′′SINGLASS.= _Syn._ ICHTHYOCOLLA, L. The finest kinds of isinglass are
obtained from various species of the genus _Acipenser_, or sturgeon, that
from the great sturgeon being perhaps the most esteemed. It is the
air-bag, swimming bladder, or sound, dried without any other preparation
than opening, folding, or twisting it. The picked or cut isinglass of the
shops consists of the lamps of staple isinglass picked in shreds by women
and children, or cut by machines.
_Prop., &c._ Good isinglass is the purest natural gelatin known. Its
quality is determined by its whiteness, absence of the least fishy odour,
and ready and almost entire solubility in boiling water; the solution
forming a nearly white, scentless, semi-transparent, solid jelly, when
cold. It is soluble in weak acids, and this solution is precipitated by
alkalies. The aqueous solution is not precipitated by spirit of the common
strengths. 1 part of good isinglass dissolved in 25 parts of hot water
forms a rich, tremulous jelly. It is very commonly adulterated. Of the
different varieties of isinglass, the Russian is the best and most
soluble. See GELATIN.
=ISOM′ERISM.= In _chemistry_, identity of composition, with dissimilarity
of properties. Isomeric compounds (isomerides) are such as contain the
same elements in the same proportions, but which differ from each other in
their chemical properties; thus, formate of ethyl and acetate of methyl
are isomeric, having precisely the same ultimate composition, though
differing in the arrangement of their elements.
=ISOMOR′PHISM.= In _chemistry_, the quality possessed by bodies
differently composed of assuming the same crystalline form. Isomorphous
substances are found to be closely allied in their chemical nature; and
the fact of two bodies crystallising in the same form has often led to the
discovery of other points of similarity between them. The alums, for
instance, no matter what their components, all crystallise in octahedra,
and a crystal of potassium-alum, if transferred to a solution of
chrome-alum, will continue to increase with perfect regularity from the
deposition of the latter salt.
=IS′SUE.= _Syn._ FONICULUS, L. In _surgery_, a small artificial ulcer
formed on any part of the body by means of caustic or the lancet, and kept
open by daily introducing an ISSUE PEA covered with some digestive or
stimulating ointment; the whole being duly secured by an appropriate
bandage.
=ISSUE PEAS.= _Syn._ PISÆ PRO FONTICULIS, L. Those of the shops are the
immature fruit of the orange tree (ORANGE BERRIES). They are usually
smoothed in a lathe. Issue peas are also ‘turned’ from orris root. The
following compound issue peas are occasionally employed:——
1. Orris root (in powder) and Venice turpentine, of each 1 part; turmeric,
2 parts; beeswax, 3 parts; melted together and made into peas whilst warm.
2. Beeswax, 3 parts; melt, add of Venice turpentine, 1 part; mix, and
further add, of turmeric, 2 parts; orris root (in powder), 1 part; mix
well, and form the mass into peas whilst warm. More irritating than the
common pea.
3. (Dr Gray.) Beeswax, 12 parts; verdigris and white hellebore, of each 4
parts; orris root, 3 parts; cantharides, 2 parts; Venice turpentine, q. s.
Used to open issues instead of caustic, but their employment requires
care.
=ISSUE PLAS′TERS.= See PLASTERS.
=ITCH.= _Syn._ YOUK‡, SCOTCH FIDDLE‡; PSORA, SCABIES, L.; GALE, Fr. In
_pathology_, a cutaneous disease, caused by a minute insect lodging under
the skin, and readily communicated by contact. There are four varieties of
itch, distinguished by nosologists by the names——_scabies papuliformis_,
or rank itch;——_scabies lymphatica_, or watery itch; _scabies purulenta_,
or pocky itch; _scabies cachectica_, a species exhibiting appearances
resembling each of the previous varieties. Our space will not permit more
than a general notice of the common symptoms, and the mode of cure which
is equally applicable to each species, and will not prove injurious to
other skin diseases simulating the itch.
The common itch consists of an eruption of minute vesicles, principally
between the fingers, bend of the wrist, &c., accompanied by intense
itching of the parts, which is only aggravated by scratching. The usual
treatment is repeated applications of sulphur ointment (simple or
compound), well rubbed in once or twice a day, until a cure is effected;
accompanying its use by the internal exhibition of a spoonful or more of
flowers of sulphur, mixed with treacle or milk night and morning. Where
the use of sulphur ointment is objectionable, a sulphur bath, or a lotion
or bath of sulphurated potash, or of chloride of lime, may be employed
instead.
In the ‘Canadian Pharmaceutical Journal’ for 1872 is a paper by Professor
Rothmund recommending the employment of balsam of Peru in this
objectionable disease. The writer states that one application generally
effects a cure, and that its use does away with the necessity of baths. He
recommends the balsam being rubbed all over the naked body. Carbolic acid
is another and much cheaper remedy proposed by the same author. To obviate
its caustic action he advises the acid to be mixed with glycerin or
linseed oil, in the proportion of one scruple of the acid to two ounces of
either excipient. He considers the objection to this remedy may be that it
enters too rapidly into the circulation. Another agent employed by
Professor Rothmund is a lotion composed of one part of carbolate of sodium
dissolved in 12 parts of water. The affected parts of the skin are to be
rubbed with this three times a day.
It is further recommended to continue this treatment 8 or 10 days after
the cure, in order to kill any acari or their eggs that may have lurked
among the clothes or bed-linen. See BATH, LOTION (Itch), OINTMENT,
PSORIASIS, &c.
=I′VORY.= The osseous portion of the tusks and teeth of the male elephant,
the hippopotamus, wild boar, &c. That of the narwhal or seahorse is the
most esteemed, on account of its superior hardness, toughness,
translucency, and whiteness. The dust or shavings (IVORY DUST, IVORY
SHAVINGS) of the turner form a beautiful size or jelly when boiled in
water. VEGETABLE IVORY is the hard albumen of the seed of the _Phytelephas
macrocarpa_, one of the Palm family.
Ivory may be dyed or stained by any of the ordinary methods employed for
woollen, after being freed from dirt and grease; but more quickly as
follows:——
1. BLACK. The ivory, well washed in an alkaline lye, is steeped in a weak
neutral solution of nitrate of silver, and then exposed to the light, or
dried and dipped into a weak solution of sulphide of ammonium.
2. BLUE. Steep it in a weak solution of sulphate of indigo which has been
nearly neutralised with salt of tartar, or in a solution of soluble
Prussian blue. A still better plan is to steep it in the dyer’s green
indigo-vat.
3. BROWN. As for black, but using a weaker solution of silver.
4. GREEN. Dissolve verdigris in vinegar, and steep the pieces therein for
a short time, observing to use a glass or stoneware vessel; or, in a
solution of verdigris, 2 parts; and sal ammoniac, 1 part, in soft water.
5. PURPLE. Steep it in a weak neutral solution of terchloride of gold, and
then expose it to the light.
6. RED. Make an infusion of cochineal in liquor of ammonia, then immerse
the pieces therein, having previously soaked them for a few minutes in
water very slightly acidulated with aquafortis.
7. YELLOW. _a._ Steep the pieces for some hours in a solution of sugar of
lead, then take them out, and when dry, immerse them in a solution of
chromate of potassa.
_b._ Dissolve as much of the best orpiment in solution of ammonia as it
will take up, then steep the pieces therein for some hours; lastly, take
them out and dry them in a warm place, when they will turn yellow.
Ivory is etched or engraved by covering it with an etching ground or wax,
and employing oil of vitriol as the etching fluid.
Ivory is rendered flexible by immersion in a solution of pure phosphoric
acid (sp. gr. 1·13), until it loses, or partially loses, its opacity, when
it is washed in clean cold soft water, and dried. In this state it is as
flexible as leather, but gradually hardens by exposure to dry air.
Immersion in hot water, however, restores its softness and pliancy.
According to Dr Ure, the necks of some descriptions of INFANTS’ FEEDING
BOTTLES are thus made.
Ivory is whitened or bleached by rubbing it with finely powdered
pumice-stone and water, and exposing it to the sun whilst still moist,
under a glass shade, to prevent desiccation and the occurrence of
fissures; observing to repeat the process until a proper effect is
produced. Ivory may also be bleached by immersion for a short time in
water holding a little sulphurous acid, chloride of lime, or chlorine, in
solution; or by exposure in the moist state to the fumes of burning
sulphur, largely diluted with air. Cloez recommends the ivory or bones to
be immersed in turpentine and exposed for three or four days to sunlight.
The object to be bleached should be kept an eighth or a fourth of an inch
above the bottom of the bath by means of zinc supports. For the
preparation of ivory intended for miniature painting Mr Ernest Spon in his
useful work, ‘Workshop Receipts,’ says: “The bleaching of ivory may be
more expeditiously performed by placing the ivory before a good fire,
which will dispel the wavy lines if they are not very strongly marked,
that frequently destroy the uniformity of surface.”
Ivory may be gilded by immersing it in a fresh solution of proto-sulphate
of iron, and afterwards in solution of chloride of gold.
Ivory is wrought, turned, and fashioned in a similar manner and with
similar tools to those used for bone and soft brass.
_Obs._ Bone for ornamental purposes is treated in a similar way to ivory,
but less carefully, owing to its inferior value. The bones of living
animals may be dyed by mixing madder with their food. The bones of young
pigeons may thus be tinged of a rose colour in 24 hours, and of a deep
scarlet in 3 or 4 days; but the bones of adult animals take fully a
fortnight to acquire a rose colour. The bones nearest the heart become
tinged the soonest. In the same way logwood and extract of logwood will
tinge the bones of young pigeons purple. (Gibson.)
=1.= =Ivory, Artificial.= Let a paste be made of isinglass, egg-shell in
very fine powder, and brandy. Give it the desired colour, and pour it
while warm into oiled moulds. Leave the paste in the moulds until it
becomes hard.
=2.= (L’Union Pharmaceutique.) Two parts of caoutchouc are dissolved in 36
parts of chloroform, and the solution is saturated with pure gaseous
ammonia. The chloroform is then distilled off at a temperature of 85° C.
The residue is mixed with phosphate of lime or carbonate of zinc, pressed
into moulds and dried. When phosphate of lime is used the product
possesses to a considerable degree the nature and composition of ivory.
=IVORY BLACK.= See BLACK PIGMENTS.
=JABORANDI.= _Syn._ IABORANDI, JAMBORANDI. The above names are given by
the natives of Brazil, Paraguay, and other parts of South America to any
indigenous plants possessing strongly stimulant, diaphoretic, and
sialagogue properties, which are principally employed in those countries
as antidotes for the bites and stings of venomous snakes and insects.
As far as they have been examined, all the plants known under the generic
name ‘jaborandi’ have been traced to the two natural orders, _Rutaceæ_ and
_Piperaceæ_. Those exercising the most marked physiological effects appear
to belong to the former or the rutaceous division, and are very probably
different species of _Pilocarpus_. The drug was first introduced into
Europe by Dr Coutinho, of Pernambuco, who some four years since sent a
sample of it to Dr Gubler, of Paris, by whom it was administered to some
of the patients of the Beaujon Hospital there. The jaborandi with which
these experiments were made was identified by Professor Baillon, of Paris,
as belonging to the _Pilocarpus pinnatus_ (_pinnatifolius_). Four to six
grams of the bruised leaves and twigs were infused in a cup of water, and
the patient being put to bed, in ten minutes after taking the draught,
finds himself bathed in a perspiration lasting for four or five hours,
this being so profuse as to render several changes of linen necessary
during the time. Accompanying the diaphoresis are great salivary and
bronchial secretions, which sometimes will not permit the patient to speak
without his mouth becoming filled with water.
The quantity of saliva is stated to have sometimes equalled a litre in
measure. These experiments have been repeated in this country with
analogous effects; in one case reported with jaborandi obtained from the
Beaujon Hospital, and in another from London; results the similarity of
which strongly point to a corresponding composition in the two specimens
of the plant used, if, as seems not improbable, they may have belonged to
different species. A case of impaired vision following the administration
of jaborandi is also recorded; but this seems evidently to have been the
effect of an overdose of the drug.[6]
[Footnote 6: ‘Pharm. Journal,’ 3rd series, V, 364 and 561.]
When jaborandi is administered in divided doses instead of producing
salivation or sweating, it acts as an active diuretic only, increasing
the flow of urine to nearly double the usual amount. M. Albert Robins
says:——“The effect of jaborandi on animals is very marked; guinea-pigs are
seized with salivation, weeping and diarrhœa, true ecchymoses being found
in the intestines, and dogs become instantly salivated, their gastric
secretion being also much increased.”[7]
[Footnote 7: ‘Medical Times and Gazette.’]
Drs Coutinho and Gubler affirm they have employed jaborandi in dropsy,
bronchitis, diabetes, and various other diseases, and that they have found
it fully answer their expectations; and in one case of albuminuria it is
narrated that a permanent diminution of albumen from 14·40 to 12 grammes
followed its use.
An alkaloid has been obtained from the piperaceous jaborandi by Parodi,
and named by him _jaborandine_. Some short time afterwards Mr A. W.
Gerrard succeeded in separating the alkaloid from the rutaceous jaborandi,
to which, in accordance with Mr Holmes’ suggestion, and because Parodi had
anticipated him in the adoption of the previous title, he gave the name
_pilocarpine_.
Mr Gerrard recommends the following process for the preparation of
_pilocarpine_:——“Prepare a soft extract either with leaf or bark, with 50
per cent. alcohol. Digest this with water, filter and wash. Evaporate the
filtrate to a short extract, cautiously add ammonia in slight excess,
shake well with chloroform, separate the chloroform solution, and allow it
to evaporate; the residue is the alkaloidal pilocarpine with probably a
small amount of impurity.” Mr Gerrard has also succeeded in preparing a
crystalline nitrate and hydrochlorate of the alkaloid, both of which
possess the medicinal powers of the jaborandi.
[Illustration: _Pilocarpus pinnatifolius._ _a_, flower; _b_, flower with
the petals removed; _c_, carpels.]
The abridged description of a sample of jaborandi from Pernambuco is from
Mr Holmes’ paper in the ‘Pharmaceutical Journal.’[8] The cut is from the
last edition of Royle’s ‘Materia Medica.’ “The specimens of the plant
examined appear to belong to a shrub about 5 feet high. The root is
cylindrical, hardly tapering at all, nearly 3/4 inch in diameter for the
first 12 inches, and very sparingly branched. Bark of root of a pale
yellowish brown, about a line in thickness, and has a short fracture. The
root has an odour like a mixture of bruised pea-pods and orange-peel. Its
taste is first like that of green peas; this soon disappears, and gives
rise to a tingling sensation. The stem is 1/2 inch in diameter near the
root, narrowing to 1/4 inch in the upper branches. The bark is thin,
greyish-brown, longitudinally striated, and in some specimens sprinkled
over with a number of white dots. The wood of the stem is yellowish-white
and remarkably fibrous. The leaves (one of which is represented in the
drawing) are imparipinnate, about 9 inches long, with from 3 to 5 pairs of
opposite leaflets, which are articulated to the rachis, and have very
short, slightly swollen petiolates. The rachis of the leaf is swollen at
the base.
[Footnote 8: 3rd series, V, 581.]
The pairs of leaflets are usually about 1-1/4 inch apart, the lowest pair
being about 4 inches from the base of the rachis. The leaflets are very
variable in size, even on the same leaf. Their general outline is
oblong-lanceolate. They are entire, with an emarginate or even retuse apex
and an unequal base, and texture coriaceous. The veins are prominent on
both sides of the leaf, and branch from the midrib at an obtuse angle in a
pinnate manner. When held up to the light the leaflets are seen to be
densely pellucidly punctate. These pellucid dots, which are receptacles of
secretion, are not arranged, as in another kind of jaborandi, in lines
along the veinlets, but are irregularly scattered all over the leaf, and
appear equally numerous in every part. The whole plant is glabrous.”
Mr Holmes says there appear to be two varieties, if not species, of this
_Pilocarpus_, the one being perfectly smooth in every part, as above
described, and the other having the stems, petioles, and under surface of
the leaves covered with a dense velvety pubescence composed of simple
hairs.
=JAG′GERY.= _Syn._ PALM SUGAR. A coarse brown sugar made in India by the
evaporation of the juice of several species of palms. The following are
the principal varieties of this product:——
1. COCOA JAGGERY. From the juice of the Cocoa-nut palm (_Cocos nucifera_).
2. MALABAR JAGGERY. From the juice of the Gummuti palm (_Saguerus
saccherifer_).
3. MYSORE JAGGERY. From the juice of the wild Date-palm (_Phœnix
sylvestris_); 17 galls. yields 46 lbs.
4. PALMYRA JAGGERY. From the juice of the Palmyra palm (_Borassus
flabelliformis_); 6 pints yield 1 lb.
=JA′LAP.= _Syn._ JALAPÆ RADIX, JALAPA, B. P. (Ph. L. & D.) CONVOLVULI
JALAPÆ RADIX (Ph. E.), L. The dried tubercles of the _Exogonium purga_,
_I. jalapa_——(Royle.) Jalap is a powerful stimulant and drastic purgative,
producing copious liquid stools; but when judiciously administered, both
safe and efficacious. It appears to be intermediate in its action between
aloes and scammony.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr., in powder; in constipation,
cerebral affections, dropsies, obstructed menstruation, worms, &c. Owing
to its irritant properties, its use is contra-indicated in inflammatory
affections of the alimentary canal, and after surgical operations
connected with the abdomen and pelvis. It is usually administered in
combination with sulphate of potassa or bitartrate of potassa and ginger;
with mercurials, as the case may indicate. The powder is very generally
adulterated.
=Jalap Biscuits.= 1. An ounce of jalap mixed with 16 ounces of the
materials for gingerbread or other kind of cake.
2. Pure resin of jalap, 56 grams, powdered sugar and flour, 1000 grams;
tincture of vanilla, 10 grams, white of egg, No. 20, yolk of egg, No. 40.
Let the resin be emulsified with the yolks of the egg, add successively
the sugar, tincture, and flour, and mix thoroughly into a paste, with
which thoroughly incorporate the whites of eggs, previously beaten up. Let
the mass be divided into 144 biscuits, and bake.
=Jalap, Res′in of.= _Syn._ RESINA JALAPÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) See
EXTRACT OF JALAP.
2. (Nativelle.) Jalap root is digested in boiling water for 24 hours, and
after being reduced to thin slices more water is added, and the whole
boiled for 10 minutes, with occasional agitation; the liquid is then
expressed in a tincture press, and the boiling and pressing repeated a
second and third time (these decoctions by evaporation yield AQUEOUS
EXTRACT OF JALAP); the pressed root is next treated with rectified spirit,
q. s., and boiled for 10 minutes, and then allowed to cool; the tincture
is then pressed out, and the boiling with fresh alcohol and expression is
repeated twice; a little animal charcoal is added to the mixed tinctures,
and, after thorough agitation, the latter are filtered; the liquid is now
distilled until nothing passes over, the supernatant fluid is poured off
the fluid resin, and the latter dried by spreading it over the surface of
the capsule, and continuing the heat. The product is a friable and nearly
colourless resin, which forms a white powder resembling starch. _Prod._
Fully 10% of pure resin.
3. (Planche.) Resinous extract of jalap is dissolved in rectified spirit,
the tincture agitated with animal charcoal, and after filtration gently
evaporated to dryness.
_Pur._ The jalap resin of commerce is generally adulterated with scammony,
gum, guaiacum or resin. When in a state of purity, it does not form an
emulsion with milk, like scammony resin, but runs into a solid mass. It is
insoluble in fixed oils and turpentine, whilst the common resins are
freely soluble in those menstrua. Its alcoholic solution, dropped on a
piece of absorbent white paper, and exposed to the action of nitrous gas,
does not acquire a green or blue colour; if it does, guaiacum resin is
present. 2% of this adulteration may be thus detected. (Gobley.) It is
insoluble in ether; but guaiacum resin, common resin, and some others, are
so; the decanted ether should not become opalescent when mixed with
water, and should evaporate without leaving any residuum. Powdered jalap
resin placed in cold water does not dissolve, but forms a semi-fluid,
transparent mass, as if it had been melted. Dissolved in a watch-glass
with a little oil of vitriol, a rich crimson-coloured solution is
obtained, from which, in a few hours, a brown viscid resin separates.
These last two characteristics distinguish it from other resins.
_Obs._ Earthenware or well-tinned copper vessels must alone be used in the
above processes, as contact with copper or iron turns the resin black, and
this tinge can only be removed by redissolving the resin in alcohol, the
addition of animal charcoal, and re-evaporation.
Jalap resin is an energetic cathartic.——_Dose_, 1 to 5 gr. See JALAPIN.
=Jalap, Factitious Resin of.= _Syn._ RESINÆ JALAPÆ FACTITIA, L. A
substance frequently sold for jalap resin is made by fusing a mixture of
pale yellow resin and scammony resin, and adding, when it has cooled a
little, but still semi-fluid, a few drops of balsam of Peru or tolu; the
mixture is then poured into small paper capsules or tin moulds. Its
effects resemble those of jalap resin, but it inflames less. (Landerer.)
=Jalap, Soap of.= _Syn._ SAPO JALAPÆ, SAPO JALAPINUS, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
Bor.) Resin of jalap and Castile soap, of each 1 part; rectified spirit, 2
parts, or q. s. to dissolve the ingredients softened by a gentle heat;
subsequently evaporate the mixture by the heat of a water bath until
reduced to 4-1/2 oz., or it has acquired the consistence of a pill-mass.
_Prop., &c._ A greyish-brown mass, soluble in rectified spirit. Said to be
milder in its action than the resin alone.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 oz.
=JALAP′IC ACID.= _Syn._ ODOROUS PRINCIPLE OF JALAP.——Pereira. _Prep._ Add
an alcoholic solution of acetate of lead to a similar solution of jalap
resin, collect the precipitate (jalapate of lead), and throw down the lead
by means of sulphuretted hydrogen. (See ABSINTHIC ACID.) A brownish, soft,
greasy substance, smelling strongly of jalap, soluble in alcohol and
alkali, and slightly so in ether. Jalap resin contains about 13% of this
substance.
=JAL′APIN.= C_{34}H_{56}O_{16}. _Syn._ JALAPINA. Jalap resin is commonly
sold under this name, but pure jalapin is prepared by one or other of the
following formulæ:——
_Prep._ 1. The liquid filtered from the jalapate of lead in preparing
jalapic acid is a solution of acetate of jalapin, which, after any trace
of lead is removed, by adding a few drops of dilute sulphuric acid, and
filtration, yields the whole of its jalapin, as a precipitate, on the
addition of 5 or 6 times its volume of water; this is collected, washed
with a little cold distilled water, and dried by exposure to a current of
warm dry air.
2. (Hume.) Coarsely powdered jalap is digested in strong acetic acid for
14 days, the tincture filtered ammonia added in excess, and the whole
agitated strongly; the mixture is then filtered, the deposit washed in
cold water, redissolved in acetic acid, reprecipitated by ammonia, and
again washed and dried.
3. (Kayser.) Pure jalap resin, in powder, is digested for some time in
boiling ether, by which means the jalapic acid is removed, and pure
jalapin remains undissolved.
_Prop., &c._ A transparent, colourless, scentless, insipid resin, very
soluble in alcohol, but insoluble in ether. It is the active purgative
principle of crude jalap resin.
=JAMAI′CINE.= _Syn._ JAMAICINA. A peculiar alkaloid obtained by
Huttenschmidt from the bark of the Cabbage-tree (_Andira inermis_).
_Prep._ The aqueous solution of cabbage-tree bark, treated with
sulphuretted hydrogen and evaporated.
_Prop._ Yellow crystals soluble in water and, to a limited extent, in
alcohol; fusible, and very bitter tasted. It forms salts with the acids,
which, in small doses, produce restlessness and trembling; and in larger
ones, purging. It is said to be vermifuge.
=JAMES’S POWDER.= See POWDERS.
=JAMS.= _Syn._ PRESERVES. Conserves of fruit with sugar, prepared by
boiling. In the latter respect they differ from the conserves of the
apothecary.
_Prep._ The pulped or bruised fruit is boiled along with 1/2 to 2/3 of its
weight of loaf sugar, until the mixture jellies, when a little is placed
on a cold plate; the semi-fluid mass is then passed through a coarse hair
sieve whilst hot, to remove the stones and skins of the fruit, and as soon
as it has cooled a little is poured into pots or glasses. It is usual to
tie these over, when cold, with paper which has been dipped in brandy. The
pots must then be placed aside in a dry and rather cold situation.
The following fruits are those from which jams are commonly
prepared:——Apricots, cherries (various), cranberries, currants (black,
red, and white), gooseberries (ripe and green), mulberries, Orleans plums,
raspberries, and strawberries. Red currants are commonly added to the
last, to remove insipidity.
=JAPAN′.= See VARNISH, and _below_.
=JAPAN′NING.= The art of covering paper, wood, or metal, with a coating of
hard, brilliant, and durable varnish. The varnishes or lacquers employed
for this purpose in Japan, China, and the Indian Archipelago, are resinous
juices derived from various trees belonging to the natural order
_Anacardiaceæ_, especially _Stagmaria verniciflua_, _Holigarna
longifolia_, _Semecarpus Anacardium_, and species of _Rus_ (Sumach). For
use, they are purified by a defecation and straining, and are afterwards
mixed with a little oil, and with colouring matter, as required. In this
country varnishes of amber, asphaltum, or copal, or mixtures of them, pass
under the names of ‘JAPAN’ and ‘JAPAN VARNISH,’
_Proc._ The surface is coloured or painted with devices, &c., as desired,
next covered with a highly transparent varnish (amber or copal), then
dried at a high temperature (135° to 165° Fahr.), and, lastly, polished.
Wood and paper are first sized, polished, and varnished. For plain
surfaces, asphaltum, varnish or japan is used. See VARNISHING.
=JAPON′IC ACID.= C_{12}H_{10}O_{5}. When catechu is exposed to the air in
contact with caustic alkalies, black solutions (alkaline japonates) are
formed; with carbonated alkalies, red solutions (alkaline rubates); the
acid of the former may be separated. It is a black powder, insoluble in
water, soluble in alkalies, and precipitated by acids. Buric acid forms
red insoluble compounds with the earths and some other metallic oxides.
=JARAVE.= The Spanish name for SARSAPARILLA BEER. See BEERS (in
_pharmacy_).
=JASPER.= _Syn._ IASPIS, L. A mineral of the quartz family, occurring in
rocky masses. It takes various shades of red, yellow, brown, and green,
and is occasionally banded, spotted, or variegated. It was formerly used
as an amulet against hæmorrhages and fluxes. It is now extensively worked
up into rings, seals, snuff-boxes, vases, &c., for which it is well
calculated from its extreme hardness and susceptibility of receiving a
fine polish.
=JATRO′PHIC ACID.= _Syn._ CROTONIC ACID, IATROPHIC A. A peculiar fatty
acid discovered by Pelletier and Caventon, and originally regarded by them
as the cathartic principle of croton oil and croton seeds, but since shown
by Redwood and Pereira to be nearly inert.
_Prep._ The oil is saponified by caustic potassa, and the resulting soap
is decomposed by tartaric acid; the fatty matter which floats on the
surface of the liquid is then skimmed off the aqueous portion, and the
latter submitted to distillation; the liquid in the receiver is a solution
of jatrophic acid.
_Prop., &c._ Volatile; very acid; has a nauseous odour; is solid at 23°,
and vaporizes at 35° Fahr. It forms salts with the bases, none of which
possess any practical importance.
=JAU′MANGE.= _Prep._ From isinglass, 1 oz.; boiling water, 12 oz.;
dissolve, add of any sweet white wine, 1/2 pint; the yolks of 2 eggs
beaten to a froth, and the grated yellow peel of two lemons; mix well, and
heat the whole over the fire until sufficiently thickened, stirring all
the time; lastly, serve it up or pour it into moulds.
=JAUN′DICE.= _Syn._ ICTERUS, MORBUS LUTEOLUS, L. A disease characterised
by a yellow colour of the eyes and skin, deep-coloured urine, and pale
alvine evacuations. It appears to arise from a disordered action of the
biliary organs. The treatment consists of the administration of saline
aperients, and small doses of blue-pill, followed by tonics and
diaphoretics. The action of these remedies should be promoted by the
copious use of diluents (particularly saline water), and exertion in the
open air, when possible. When there is much pain and vomiting, anodynes
(or opium, morphia, &c.) may be administered. Jaundice is not in itself a
dangerous disease, but it sometimes lays the patient open to attacks of
others which are so.
_Animals._——Jaundice affects cattle, giving rise to a tawny hue of the
skin and membranes. Pleuro-pneumonia is frequently followed by jaundice.
The best remedies are large doses of Epsom salts combined with ginger; and
if these fail to remove the costiveness, a drachm of calomel should be
added. If necessary, the above purge must be repeated next day, the action
being assisted by giving the animal warm fluids.
Tonics and stimulants are also sometimes superadded to the above
treatment.
=JEL′LY.= _Syn._ GELATINA, L. A term now very loosely applied to various
substances which are liquid or semi-liquid whilst warm, and become
gelatinous on cooling.
Jellies are coloured by the addition of the usual stains used by
confectioners, and are rendered transparent by clarification with white of
egg.
=Jelly, Almond.= _Syn._ GELATINA AMYGDALARUM, L. _Prep._ From rich almond
milk, 1/4 pint; thick hartshorn jelly, 1/2 pint; sugar, 2 oz.; with 2 or 3
bitter almonds and a little lemon peel, to flavour, heated together,
strained, and moulded.
=Jelly, Ar′row-root.= _Syn._ GELATINA MARANTÆ, L. From arrow-root, 1-1/2
oz., to water, 1 pint. Tous les mois jelly is made in the same way.
=Jelly, Bis′cuit.= _Prep._ From white biscuit (crushed beneath the
rolling-pin), 4 oz.; cold water, 2 quarts; soak for some hours, boil to
one half, strain, evaporate to 1 pint, and add, of white sugar, 3/4 lb.,
red wine, 4 oz., and cinnamon, 1 teaspoonful. In weakness of the stomach,
and in dysentery and diarrhœa, and in convalescence combined with rich
beef gravy or soup.
=Jelly, Bladder-wrack.= (Dr Russell.) _Syn._ GELATINA FUCI. _Prep._
Bladder-wrack (_Fucus vesiculosus_), 2 lbs.; sea water, 2 lbs.; macerate
for 15 days. Applied to glandular tumours.
=Jelly, Bread.= _Syn._ PANADA; GELATINA PANIS, L. _Prep._ Cut a French
roll into slices, toast them on each side, and boil in water, 1 quart,
until the whole forms a jelly, adding more water if required; strain, and
add sugar, milk, &c., to palate. It may be made with broth from which the
fat has been skimmed, instead of water. Used as the last.
=Jelly, Broth.= _Syn._ SOUP-JELLY. From broth or soup from which the fat
has been skimmed, evaporated until it becomes gelatinous on cooling. A few
shreds of isinglass are commonly added. See SOUP (Portable).
=Jelly, Calves’ Feet.= _Prep._ For each foot take of water 3 pints, and
boil to one half; cool, skim off the fat, and again boil for 2 or 3
minutes with the peel of a lemon and a little spice; remove it from the
fire, strain through a jelly bag (see FILTRATION), add the juice of a
lemon and a glass of wine, and when it has cooled a little put it into
glasses or ‘forms.’
_Obs._ If this jelly is required to be very transparent it must be treated
as follows:——After the fat is removed it should be gently warmed, just
enough to melt it, next well beaten with the white of an egg and the
seasoning, and then brought to a boil for a minute or two, when it will be
ready for straining, &c. The calves’ feet should not be bought ready
boiled, but only scalded. Cows’ feet (‘COW HEELS’) make nearly as good
jelly as that from calves’ feet, and are much more economical.
=Jelly, Ceylon Moss.= _Syn._ GELATINA GRACILARIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr Sigmond.)
Boil Ceylon moss (_Granularia lichenoides_), 1/2 oz. in water, 1 quart,
for 25 minutes, or till the liquid jellies on cooling; strain and flavour.
Very nutritious; recommended in irritation of the mucous membranes and
phthisis.
=Jelly, Copaiba.= (M. Caillot.) _Syn._ GELATINA COPAIBA. _Prep._
Isinglass, 4 parts; water, 40 parts; dissolve in a water bath, and add 20
parts of sugar; pour the clear liquid jelly into a warm mortar, and add
copaiba, 60 parts; triturate, and pour in a vessel to jelly. Flavour with
some aromatic essential oil or balsam of tolu.
=Jelly, Cor′sican Moss.= _Syn._ GELATINA HELMINTHOCORTI, L. _Prep._ (P.
Cod.) Corsican moss (_Gracilaria Helminthocorton_), 1 oz.; water, q. s.;
boil 1 hour, and strain 8 fl. oz.; to this add of isinglass (previously
soaked in a little water), 1 dr.; refined sugar, 2 oz.; white wine, a
wine-glassful. Vermifuge. See DECOCTION.
=Jelly, Fruit.= Under this head we include those jellies made from the
juices of fruits.
_Prep._ The strained juice mixed with 1/3 to 1/2 its weight of refined
sugar, until it ‘jellies’ on cooling, observing to carefully remove the
scum as it rises. The process should be conducted by a gentle heat, and it
is preferable not to add the sugar until the juice is somewhat
concentrated, as by lengthened boiling the quality of the sugar is
injured.
_Obs._ Jellies are sold in pots or glasses, like JAMS. Both jams and fruit
jellies are refrigerant and laxative; they are, however, mostly employed
as relishes, especially during fevers and convalescences. The principal
fruit jellies are:——APPLE, BARBERRY, CHERRY (from either Cornelian or
Kentish cherries), CURRANT (black, white, and red), ELDERBERRY,
GOOSEBERRY, PLUM, QUINCE, RASPBERRY. See LEMON and ORANGE JELLY.
=Jelly, Glycerin.= _Syn._ GELATINA GLYCERINI. Mix glycerin to the required
consistence with compound tragacanth powder. Or take powdered gum Arabic,
1/2 oz.; syrup, 4 oz. (3 oz. of sugar to 1 oz. of water); the yolks of 3
eggs; olive oil, 4 oz.; glycerin, 2 oz. Rub the gum and syrup well
together, add the yolks, and when mixed add the oil and glycerine,
previously triturated together. Applied to chapped hands, abrasions, &c.
See GLYCERIN OF STARCH.
=Jelly, Gra′′vy.= By evaporating meat gravies.
=Jelly, Harts′horn.= _Syn._ GELATINA CORNU CERVI, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
Hartshorn shavings, 8 oz.; wash it in water, then boil in clean water, 3
pints, till reduced to one half; strain, press, add of sugar, 4 oz., the
juice of one lemon, and the white of an egg beaten up with a little cold
water; mix well, clarify by heat, evaporate till it jellies on cooling,
then add the peel of the lemon, and set it in a cool place. It may be
flavoured with wine, spices, &c. Very nutritious.
=Jelly, Ice′land Moss.= _Syn._ GELATINA LICHENIS, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
Iceland moss, 2 oz.; soak for 1 or 2 days in cold water, then boil for 1
hour in water, q. s. to yield a strong solution; strain, decant the clear
after repose, apply heat, and dissolve therein of isinglass, 1 dr.;
evaporate the whole to a proper consistence, put it into pots, and set
them in a cool place. Nutritious. Recommended in phthisis. The jelly of
Iceland moss and cinchona (GELATINA LICHENIS CUM CINCHONA——P. Cod.) is
made by adding to the above syrup of cinchona, 6 fl. oz.
=Jelly, Iceland Moss (Sweetened).= (P. C.) _Syn._ GELATINA LICHENIS
SACCHARATA. _Prep._ Saccharated Iceland moss (see ICELAND MOSS,
SACCHARATED), 7-1/2 oz.; sugar, 7-1/2 oz.; water, 15 oz.; orange-flower
water, 1 oz. Boil the first three substances and remove the scum which
forms, and then let the jelly flow into a vessel which contains the
orange-flower water.
=Jelly, I′′rish Moss.= _Syn._ GELATINA CHONDRI, L. _Prep._ From Irish or
carrageen moss. See DECOCTION.
=Jelly, I′′singlass.= _Syn._ CONFECTIONERS’ JELLY; GELATINA ICHTHYOCOLLÆ,
L. _Prep._ From isinglass dissolved in water by boiling, and evaporated
till it ‘jellies’ on cooling, adding flavouring, as desired. 1-1/2 oz. of
good isinglass makes fully a pint of very strong jelly. See BLANCMANGE,
ISINGLASS, CALVES-FEET JELLY, &c.
=Jelly, Lem′on.= From isinglass, 2 oz.; water, 1 quart; boil, add of sugar
1 lb., clarify, and when nearly cold add the juice of 5 lemons, and the
grated yellow rinds of 2 oranges and of 2 lemons; mix well, strain off the
peel, and put it into glasses.
=Jelly No′yeau.= As PUNCH JELLY, but strongly flavoured with bitter
almonds.
=Jelly, Or′ange.= From orange juice, 1 pint; let it stand over the grated
yellow rind of 3 or 4 of the oranges for a few hours, then strain, and
add, of loaf sugar, 1/2 lb., or more, isinglass 1/2 oz., dissolved in
water, 1 pint; mix, and put it into glasses before it cools.
=Jelly, Punch.= From isinglass, 2 oz.; sugar, 1-3/4 lb.; water, 1 pint;
dissolve, add of lemon juice, 1/2 pint; the peels of 2 lemons and of 2
oranges; rum and brandy, of each 1/4 pint; keep it in a covered vessel
until cold, then liquefy it by a very gentle heat, strain, and pour it
into moulds. A pleasant and deceptive way of swallowing alcohol.
=Jelly, Quince.= (E. P., 1744.) _Syn._ GELATINA CYDONIORUM. _Prep._ Juice
of quinces, 3 lbs.; sugar, 1 lb.; boil to a jelly.
=Jelly, Rice.= _Syn._ CRÊME DE RIZ. From rice boiled in water, sweetened,
and flavoured.
=Jelly, Sago.= _Prep._ Soak sago in cold water for 1 hour, strain, and
boil in fresh soft water until it becomes transparent; then add wine,
sugar, clear broth, milk, or spices, to flavour. 1 oz. of sugar makes a
pint of good jelly.
=Jelly, Salep.= (Soubeiran). _Syn._ GELATINA SALEPÆ. _Prep._ Ground salep,
4 dr.; sugar, 4 oz.; water, a sufficient quantity. Boil to 12 oz., and
flavour to the taste.
=Jelly, Ta′pioca.= As SAGO JELLY, but using tapioca in lieu of sago.
=JERVINE.= C_{60}H_{5}N_{2}O_{5} An alkaloid discovered in 1837, by Simon,
in the root of the _Veratrum album_, and by Mitchell, in 1874, in the root
of the _Veratrum viride_. Dr H. C. Wood, jun., describing the
physiological effects of jervine, says they consist “in general weakness,
lowering of arterial pressure, a slow pulse, profuse salivation, and
finally convulsions.” Jervine was analysed by Will, who ascribed to it the
above composition.
=JES′UIT’S BARK.= See CINCHONA.
=JESUIT’S DROPS.= See DROPS.
=JESUIT’S POWDER.= Powdered cinchona bark.
=JET.= A variety of mineral bituminous carbon, very hard, and susceptible
of a fine polish.
=JEW′ELS.= See DIAMOND, EMERALD, GEMS, &c.
=JEWEL′RY.= The gold in articles of jewelry, whether solid or plated,
which are not intended to be exposed to very rough usage, is generally
‘coloured,’ as it is called in the trade. This is done as follows:——
1. (RED GOLD COLOUR.) The article, after being coated with the amalgam, is
gently heated, and, whilst hot, is covered with gilder’s wax; it is then
‘flamed’ over a wood fire, and strongly heated, during which time it is
kept in a state of continual motion, to equalise the action of the fire on
the surface. When all the composition has burned away, the piece is
plunged into water, cleansed with the ‘scratch-brush’ and vinegar, and
then washed and burnished. To bring up the beauty of the colour, the piece
is sometimes washed with a strong solution of verdigris in vinegar, next
gently heated, plunged whilst hot into water, and then washed, first in
vinegar, or water soured with nitric acid, and then in pure water; it is,
lastly, burnished, and again washed and dried.
2. (OR-MOLU COLOUR.) This is given by covering the parts with a mixture of
powdered hematite, alum, common salt, and vinegar, and applying heat until
the coating blackens, when the piece is plunged into cold water, rubbed
with a brush dipped in vinegar, or in water strongly soured with nitric
acid, again washed in pure water, and dried. During this process, the
parts not to be dried in ‘or-molu colour’ should be carefully protected.
The frauds practised in reference to the ‘fineness’ of the metal used in
jewelry is noticed under GOLD (Jeweller’s). See also ASSAYING, DIAMOND,
GEMS, GILDING LIQUOR, GILDING WAX, &c.
=JEW’S PITCH.= See ASPHALTUM.
=JOURNAL BOXES, Alloy for.= Copper, 24 parts; tin 24 parts; antimony, 8
parts. First melt the copper, then add the tin, and lastly the antimony.
=JUICE (Spanish).= See EXTRACT and LIQUORICE.
=JU′JUBE.= A fruit resembling a small plum, produced by various species of
_Zizyphus_. Combined with sugar, it forms the JUJUBE PASTE of the shops,
when genuine; but that now almost always sold under the name is a mixture
of gum and sugar, slightly coloured and flavoured.
=JU′LEP.= _Syn._ JULAP; JULEPUM, JULEPUS, JULAPIUM, L. A term usually
regarded as synonymous with ‘MIXTURE’; but according to the best
authorities, implying a medicine which is used as a vehicle for other
forms of medicine. The word comes through the French, from a Persian
expression, which signifies ‘sweet drink.’ A julep, according to
Continental writers, is a drink of little activity, generally composed of
distilled waters, infusions, and syrups, to which mucilages and acids are
sometimes added; “but never powders or oily substances, which could
interfere with its transparency.” In England the juleps of old pharmacy
are now classed under ‘MIXTURES,’
=JU′′NIPER BERRIES.= _Syn._ JUNIPERI BACCÆ, J. COMMUNIS BACCÆ (Ph. E.),
JUNIPERUS (Ph. L.), L. The fruit of the _Juniperus communis_, or common
juniper tree. In the old Ph. L. & D. both the tops and berries (JUNIPERI
FRUCTUS ET CACUMINA——Ph. L. 1836; JUNIPERUS——BACCÆ, CACUMINA——Ph. D. 1862)
were ordered. The berries are stomachic and diuretic, and have been long
employed in dropsies, either alone or combined with foxglove and squills.
The tops (SUMMITATES) have been highly praised in scurvy and certain
cutaneous affections.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr., made into a conserve with
sugar, or in the form of infusion or tea.
Douath found 100 parts of the berries to contain——
Water 29·44
Volatile oil ·91
Formic acid 1·86
Acetic acid ·94
Malic acid (combined) ·21
Oxalic acid traces
Wax-like fatty matter ·64
Green resin (from ethereal
solution) 8·46
Hard brown resin (from
alcoholic solution) 1·29
Bitter principle (called
juniperin) ·37
Pectin ·73
Albuminous substances 4·45
Sugar 29·65
Cellulose 15·83
Mineral substances 2·33
——————
97·11
=JUN′KET.= _Syn._ DEVONSHIRE JUNKET, CURD JELLY. From warm milk put into a
bowl, and then turned with a little rennet; some scalded cream and sugar
are next added with a sprinkling of cinnamon on the top, without breaking
the curd. Much esteemed by holiday folk in the western counties during the
hot weather of summer. Sometimes, very strangely, a little brandy finds
its way into these trifles.
=JUTE.= This is the fibre yielded by the _Corchorus capsularis_, a lime
tree growing in India and China. It is the material of which sacks, gunny
bags, and coarse thread are made. It mixes even with linen or cotton, and
hence may not improbably be employed as a sophisticant of these
substances.
The plates on page 930 exhibit the different microscopic appearances of
the three substances.
=KALEIDOSCOPE.= _Syn._ FLOWER-GLASS. A pleasing philosophical toy invented
by Sir David Brewster, which presents to the eye a series of symmetrical
changing views. It is formed as follows:——Two slips of silvered glass,
from 6 to 10 inches long, and from 1 to 1-1/2 inch wide, and rather
narrower at one end than the other, are joined together lengthwise, by one
of their edges, by means of a piece of silk or cloth glued on their backs;
they are then placed in a tube of tin or pasteboard, blackened inside, and
a little longer than is necessary to contain them, and are fixed by means
of small pieces of cork, with their faces at an angle to each other that
is an even aliquot part of 4 right angles (as the 1/6, 1/8, 1/10, &c.).
The other end of the tube is then closed with an opaque screen or cover,
through which a small eyehole is made in the centre; and the other end is
fitted, first with a plate of common glass, and at the distance of about
1/8th of an inch, with a plain piece of slightly ground glass, parallel to
the former; in the intermediate place or cell are placed the objects to
form the images. These consist of coloured pieces of glass, glass beads,
or any other coloured diaphanous bodies, sufficiently small to move
freely in the cell, and to assume new positions when the tube is shaken or
turned round. A tube so prepared presents an infinite number of changing
and symmetrical pictures, no one of which can be exactly reproduced. This
toy is so easily constructed, is so very inexpensive, and at the same time
so capable of affording an almost inexhaustible fund of amusement to the
young, that we advise our juvenile friends to try their hands at its
construction. Any common tube of tin or pasteboard may be used, and strips
of glass smoked on one side will answer for mirrors.
=KA′LI.= The name formerly applied to a species of _Salsola_ employed for
making BARILLA. It is sometimes used as a designation for the crude
alkalies, and is the German synonym for ‘potassa.’
=Kali, Acid′ulated.= _Syn._ LEMON AND KALI, LEMONATED K. A common
preparation of the shops for making a pleasant effervescing draught. It is
sometimes incorrectly styled ‘citrate of potash.’ _Prep._ 1. Carbonate of
soda and tartaric acid, of each 5 oz.; lump sugar, 1 lb.; all in the state
of fine powder, and separately dried by a very gentle heat, after which
they are mixed together, flavoured with essence of lemon, 1 dr., rubbed
through a gauze sieve in a warm dry situation, put into bottles, and
corked down immediately.
2. Finely powdered white sugar, 16 lbs.; tartaric acid, 4-1/4 lbs.;
carbonate of soda, 4 lbs.; essence of lemon, 1 oz.; as the last. Keeps
well. A dessert-spoonful of either thrown into a glassful of water makes a
pleasant effervescing draught.
=KA′LIUM.= [L.] Potassium.
=KAL′YDOR.= A cosmetic lotion; it resembles ‘GOWLAND’S LOTION,’ but is got
up in a rather more pleasing style. See LOTION.
=KAMALA.= A powder consisting of the minute glands obtained from the
capsules of the _Rottlera tinctoria_, a plant belonging to the nat. ord.
_Euphorbiaceæ_. Kamala is imported from India, where it is known under the
name of kameela. The rottlera, from which it is obtained, is a tree from
15 to 20 feet in height, indigenous to India and to many of the East
Indian Islands.
Kamala has long been employed in India as a remedy for tapeworm, and
within the last few years has been given for the same purpose in this
country with very general success. It may be administered in doses of from
thirty grains to three drachms, suspended in water, rubbed up with
mucilage, or mixed with syrup. In large doses, such as three drachms, it
sometimes purges violently. After the third or fourth motion the worm is
generally evacuated dead. A second dose may be taken in about four hours
should the first fail to act; or instead of a second dose, some castor oil
may be given. Kamala is also used externally by the natives of India in
various skin complaints, particularly in scabies. It is also said to have
proved useful in herpetic ringworm.
[Illustration: COTTON, LINEN AND JUTE.]
Dr Anderson obtained from the resinous colouring matter, which is the
principal constituent of kamala, a yellow crystalline substance, to which
he gave the name _rottlerin_. The existence of rottlerin has since been
confirmed by Mr Groves, who found that it becomes changed by exposure, a
circumstance to which he attributes its non-detection in old specimens of
the drug, and to which may very reasonably be attributed Leube’s failure
to find it.
The ‘British Pharmacopœia’ ascribes the following ‘characters’ to
kamala:——“A fine granular mobile powder, of a brick-red colour; it is with
difficulty mixed with water, but when boiled with alcohol the greater part
is dissolved, forming a red solution. Ether dissolves most of it, the
residue consisting principally of tufted hairs. It should be free from
sand or earthy impurities.”
Kamala forms a very considerable article of export from India, it being a
valuable dye.
=KA′OLIN.= _Syn._ CHINA CLAY, PORCELAIN C. A fine white clay, derived from
the decomposition of the felspar of granitic rocks. The potteries and
porcelain works of this country are chiefly supplied with this substance
from extensive tracts of it which occur near St Austie, Cornwall. See
CLAY.
Elsner[9] gives the following process for distinguishing kaolin from
ordinary clay:——He agitates it in a test-tube with pure strong sulphuric
acid till a uniform mixture is produced, decants the acid after
subsidence, dilutes it carefully with six volumes of water, and
supersaturates the cooled solution with ammonia.
[Footnote 9: Dingl., ‘Pot. Journ.’ (Watts).]
Kaolin thus treated separates but slowly from the strong acid, and the
diluted acid solution gives an immediate white precipitate with ammonia,
whereas ordinary clay is but slightly attacked by the acid, separates
quickly from it, and the acid after dilution gives but an insignificant
precipitate with ammonia.
=KAP′NOMOR.= _Syn._ CAPNOMOR. A colourless oil obtained from crude
kreasote by distillation with potassa. It boils at 360° Fahr., has a
peculiar odour, and is insoluble in water, but readily soluble in an
alkaline solution of kreasote.
=KATAL′YSIS.= _Syn._ CATALYSIS, CONTACT ACTION. Terms applied to a class
of chemical actions in which the decompositions, and the recombination of
the elements of compound bodies, is apparently excited by the mere
presence of, or contact with, other bodies, which do not themselves suffer
such a change.
=KAVA-KAVA.= See AVA.
=KELP.= The alkaline ashes obtained by burning various species of
sea-weed, formerly much used for the preparation of carbonate of soda. The
weeds most valued for the purpose are the _Fucus vesiculosus_, _nodosus_,
and _serratus_, and the _Laminaria bulbosa_ and _digitata_.
Of late years the manufacture of kelp, like that of barilla, has been
almost abandoned except as a source of iodine. Mr E. C. C. Stanford, by
carefully collecting and compressing the weed, and afterwards submitting
it to dry distillation, doubles the yield of iodine and bromine, and
obtains in addition various valuable hydrocarbons. See BARILLA, IODINE,
SODA, &c.
=KER′MES.= _Syn._ KERMES-GRAINS, ALKERMES; GRANUM TINCTORIUM, L. The dried
bodies of the female _Coccus Ilicis_ of Linnæus, a small insect of the
order _Hemiptera_, which flourishes on the Ilex oak. It has been used as a
red and scarlet dye-stuff ever since the time of Moses; but is now
superseded in this country by cochineal, which gives colours of much
greater brilliancy.
=KER′MES MIN′ERAL.= _Syn._ KERMES MINERALE, K. MINERALIS, L. An amorphous
tersulphide of antimony, containing a small admixture of teroxide of
antimony and sulphuride of potassium. _Prep._ 1. IN THE HUMID WAY.——_a._
(P. Cod.) Carbonate of soda (cryst.), 128 parts (say 21 parts), is
dissolved in water, 1280 parts (say 210 parts), contained in a cast-iron
pan; tersulphide of antimony (in fine powder), 6 parts (say 1 part), is
next added, and the whole boiled for an hour, with constant agitation with
a wooden spatula; the boiling liquid is then filtered into a heated
earthen pan containing a small quantity of very hot water, and the
solution is allowed to cool as slowly as possible; the red powder which is
deposited is collected on a cloth, on which it is well washed with cold
water, and the superfluous water being removed by pressure, the powder is
dried by a gentle heat, and is, lastly, passed through a fine silk-gauze
sieve, and preserved from light and air.
_b._ (Wholesale.) From black sulphuride of antimony, 4 lbs.; carbonate of
potassa, 1 lb.; boil in water, 2 galls., for half an hour, filter, &c., as
before. The undissolved portion of sesquisulphuret of antimony may be
boiled again several times with fresh potassa and water, until the whole
is dissolved. Inferior to the last.
_c._ (CLUZELL’S KERMES.) From tersulphide of antimony, 4 parts;
crystallised carbonate of soda, 90 parts; water, 1000 parts; boil, &c., as
in 1, _a_, and dry the powder, folded up in paper, at a heat not exceeding
90° Fahr.
2. IN THE DRY WAY.——_a._ (P. Cod.) Carbonate of potassa, 100 parts;
tersulphide of antimony, 50 parts; sulphur, 3 parts; mix, fuse in a
Hessian crucible, pour the melted mass into an iron mortar, and when cold
reduce it to powder; next boil it in water, 1000 parts, contained in an
iron vessel, filter the solution, and otherwise proceed as before.
_Product_: large, but of inferior quality.
_b._ (Fownes.) From tersulphide of antimony, 5 parts; carbonate of soda
(dry), 3 parts; water, 80 parts; fuse, &c., as before. Nearly equal to 1,
_a_.
_c._ (Berzelius.) Carbonate of potassa (pure), 3 parts, tersulphide of
antimony, 8 parts; water, q. s. Resembles the last.
_Prop., &c._ An odourless, tasteless powder, insoluble in both water and
alcohol, and, when pure and carefully prepared, entirely soluble in
hydrosulphate of ammonia. As prepared by the formulæ 1, _a_, and 1, _c_,
it is a very dark crimson powder, of a velvety smoothness; but that from
the other formulæ has a brownish-red colour, more or less deep. The secret
of preparing this compound of a fine and velvety quality, like that
imported from the Continent, consists simply in filtering the solution
whilst boiling hot, and allowing it to cool very slowly, by placing the
vessel in an appropriate situation for that purpose. Another important
point, according to Rose, is to employ sufficient alkali to keep the whole
of the teroxide of antimony in solution as the liquid cools, instead of
allowing a part of it to be deposited with the kermes. This is the reason
of the superior quality and mildness of that prepared according to the
directions of the French Codex. The liquor decanted from the ‘kermes
mineral’ yields the golden sulphide of antimony on the addition of an
acid, for which purpose the acetic is generally employed.
_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 3 or 4 gr., as a diaphoretic, cathartic, or emetic. It
occupies in foreign practice the place of our James’s Powder.
=KETCH′UP.= _Syn._ CATCHUP, CATSUP, KATCHUP. The juice of certain
vegetables strongly salted and spiced, so as to be used as sauce; or a
simple sauce made without the natural juice as a substitute for the true
ketchup. The following are the principal varieties:——
=Ketchup, Camp.= _Prep._ Take of good old beer, 2 quarts; white wine, 1
quart; anchovies, 4 oz.; mix, heat it to the boiling-point, remove it from
the fire, and add of peeled shalots, 3 oz.; mace, nutmegs, ginger, and
black pepper, of each, bruised, 1/2 oz.; macerate for 14 days, with
frequent agitation, then allow it to settle, and decant and bottle the
clear portion.
=Ketchup, Cu′cumber.= _Prep._ From ripe cucumbers, in the same way as
mushroom ketchup. Very luscious. Mixed with cream, or melted butter, it
forms an excellent white sauce for fowls, &c.
=Ketchup, Marine′.= _Prep._ Take of strong old beer, 1 gall.; anchovies,
1-1/2 lb.; peeled shalots (crushed), 1 lb.; bruised mace, mustard seed,
and cloves, of each 1/2 oz.; bruised pepper and ginger, of each 1/4 oz.;
mushroom ketchup and vinegar, of each 1 quart; beat the mixture to the
boiling point, put it into a bottle, and macerate for 14 days, frequently
shaking; then strain through flannel, and bottle it for use. Excellent
with anything; like the last, it makes good white sauce, and keeps well.
=Ketchup, Mush′room.= _Prep._ 1. Sprinkle mushroom flaps, gathered in
September, with common salt, stir them occasionally for 2 or 3 days, then
lightly squeeze out the juice, and add to each gallon cloves and mustard
seed, of each, bruised, 1/2 oz.; allspice, black pepper, and ginger, of
each, bruised, 1 oz.; gently heat to the boiling-point in a covered
vessel, macerate for 14 days, and decant or strain. Should it exhibit any
indications of change in a few weeks, bring it again to the boiling-point,
with a little more spice, and a table-spoonful more salt.
2. Take of mushroom juice, 2 galls.; pimento, 2 oz.; cloves, black pepper,
mustard seed, and ginger, of each, bruised, 1 oz.; salt, 1 lb. (or to
taste); shalots, 3 oz.; gently simmer for 1 hour in a covered vessel,
cool, strain, and bottle.
3. Take of mushroom juice, 100 galls.; black pepper, 9 lbs.; allspice, 7
lbs.; ginger, 5 lbs.; cloves, 1 lb. (all bruised); salt, q. s.; gently
simmer in a covered tin boiler for 1 hour.
=Ketchup, Oys′ter.= _Prep._ Pulp the oysters, and to each pint add, of
sherry wine, or very strong old ale, 1 pint; salt, 1 oz.; mace, 1/4 oz.;
black pepper, 1 dr.; simmer very gently for 10 minutes, strain, cool,
bottle, and to each bottle add a spoonful or two of brandy, and keep them
in a cool situation. COCKLE KETCHUP and MUSSEL KETCHUP are made in the
same way. Used to flavour sauces when the fish are out of season;
excellent with rump steak, &c.
=Ketchup, Pon′tac.= _Prep._ Take of the juice of elderberries and strong
vinegar, of each 1 pint; anchovies, 1/2 lb.; shalots and spice, q. s. to
flavour; boil for 5 minutes, cool, strain, and bottle. Used to make fish
sauces.
=Ketchup, Toma′to.= _Prep._ Prepared from tomatoes or love apples, like
mushroom ketchup, except that a little very strong Chili vinegar is
commonly added. An admirable relish for ‘high’ or rich flavoured viands.
=Ketchup, Wal′nut.= _Prep._ 1. Take of the expressed juice of young
walnuts, when tender, 1 gall.; boil 10 minutes, skim, add of anchovies, 2
lbs.; shalots, 1 lb.; cloves and mace, of each 1 oz.; 1 clove of garlic,
sliced; simmer in a covered vessel for 15 minutes, strain, cool, and
bottle, adding a little fresh spice to each bottle, and salt, q. s. Will
keep good in a cool place for 20 years.
2. Take of green walnut shells, 16 galls.; salt, 5 lbs.; mix and beat
together for a week, press out the liquor, and to every gallon add, of
allspice, 4 oz.; ginger, 3 oz.; pepper and cloves, of each 2 oz.; all
bruised; simmer for half an hour, and set aside in a closed vessel and in
a cool situation until sufficiently clear.
3. Take of walnut juice, 1 gall.; vinegar, 1 quart; British anchovies
(sprats), 3 or 4 lbs.; pimento, 3 oz.; ginger, 1/4 oz.; long pepper, 1/2
oz.; cloves, 1 oz.; shalots, 2 oz.; boil and bottle, as before.
4. From the juice of walnut shells, 30 galls.; salt, 1 bushel; allspice
and shalots, of each 6 lbs.; ginger, garlic, and horse-radish, of each 3
lbs.; essence of anchovies, 3 galls.; as before.
=Ketchup, Wine.= _Prep._ Take of mushroom or walnut ketchup, 1 quart;
chopped anchovies, 1/2 lb.; 20 shalots; scraped horse-radish, 2 oz.;
spice, q. s.; simmer for 15 minutes, cool, and add of white and red wine,
of each 1 pint; macerate for 1 week, strain, and bottle.
_General Remarks._ In preparing the above articles, vessels of glazed
earthenware, or stoneware, or well-tinned copper pans, should alone be
used to contain them whilst being boiled or heated, as salt and vegetable
juices rapidly corrode copper, and render the ketchup poisonous. Nothing
in the shape of copper, lead or pewter should be allowed to touch them.
Even a plated copper spoon left in a bottle of ketchup for some time will
render its contents poisonous. Unpleasant and even dangerous fits of
vomiting, colic, and diarrhœa have resulted from the neglect of this
precaution. See SAUCE, &c.
=KIBES.= The vulgar name for ulcerated chilblains.
=KID′NEYS.= _Syn._ RENES, L. (In _anatomy_.) The kidneys, as almost every
one knows, are abdominal viscera which secrete the urine, and form the
great channels by which the effete nitrogenous matter is removed from the
blood. They are subject to various affections, both functional and
organic, chronic and acute, of which some are imperfectly understood, and
others only admit of alleviation, but not of being cured. See URINE and
URINARY AFFECTIONS.
=Kidneys.= (In _cookery_.) Soyer recommends kidneys to be dressed by
gently broiling them, having previously split them, “so as nearly to
divide them, leaving the fat in the middle,” and “run a skewer through
them, that they may remain open.” After being rubbed with a little butter,
and seasoned with salt and pepper, “they may be served on toast, or with
any sauce.” “You may also egg and bread-crumb them.” “Five minutes suffice
for a sheep or lamb’s kidney of common size.” (Soyer.) One or two lamb’s
kidneys, plainly broiled and served up with the gravy in them, eaten along
with a little dry-toasted bread, form a most excellent and appropriate
luncheon or dinner for a dyspeptic or convalescent.
=KIESERITE.= A sulphate of magnesia found in the refuse salt (abraumsalz)
of Stassfurth, near Magdeburg. It forms about 12% of the _abraumsalz_. It
is employed for washing wool and for the manufacture of ‘permanent white’
by treatment with chloride of barium; also for the preparation of Glauber
salts, and of hypochlorite of magnesia for bleaching linen. See LINEN.
=KING’S CUP.= _Prep._ Yellow peel of 1 lemon; lump sugar, 1-1/2 oz.; cold
water, 1 pint; infuse 8 or 10 hours, and strain. The addition of a
teaspoonful of orange-flower water is a great improvement. Used as a
diluent in cases where acid liquors are inadmissible. See LEMONADE.
=KING’S EVIL.= See SCROFULA.
=KING’S YELLOW.= See YELLOW PIGMENTS.
=KI′NIC ACID.= HC_{7}H_{11}O_{6}. _Syn._ QUINIC ACID, CINCHONIC ACID. A
peculiar monobasic acid occurring in the cinchona barks, in which it
exists associated with the alkaloids.
Kinic acid is somewhat extensively diffused throughout the vegetable
kingdom, being found in the bark of every species of the true cinchonas,
as well as in the leaves of the oak, the elm, the ash, the ivy, the
privet, and the coffee plant and berries. It occurs in the cinchona barks
most probably combined with the alkaloids, which therefore exist in the
plant as kinates.
It is readily obtained from kinate of lime by the action of dilute
sulphuric acid; the filtered solution evaporated to the consistence of a
syrup, gradually deposits large crystals resembling those of tartaric
acid.
Henry and Plisson give the following directions for the preparation of
kinic acid:——Make a decoction of cinchona bark with water containing some
sulphuric acid, and filter whilst hot, and to the filtrate add gradually
freshly precipitated oxide of lead, until the liquid becomes neutral, and
changes from a red to a pale yellow colour; care must be taken to add
sufficient oxide. The filtrate is freed from lead by passing sulphuretted
hydrogen through it, and filtered milk of lime is then added to
precipitate the quinine and cinchonine; and the filtered liquid is
evaporated to a syrup, which yields on cooling crystalline calcic kinate.
To separate the acid from the calcic salt, Berzelius directs an aqueous
solution of the salt to be made and to be precipitated by basic acetate of
lead; the washed precipitate, suspended in water, is then decomposed by
sulphuretted hydrogen, and the solution filtered and evaporated. Or the
calcium kinate may be decomposed by an aqueous or alcoholic solution of
sulphuric acid.[10]
[Footnote 10: Watts.]
Kinic acid is, in the form of large tubular crystals, fusible at 161° C.
These crystals dissolve in two parts of water; they are also soluble in
spirits of wine, but scarcely, if at all, in ether.
It forms salts called kinates. Kinate of calcium is obtained from an
acidulated infusion of cinchona bark, by adding an excess of lime,
filtering, evaporating to a syrup, and setting the liquid aside to
crystallise. These crystals are purified by re-dissolving them, treating
the solution with a little animal charcoal, and crystallising the salt as
before. The liquid from which the bark-alkaloids have been precipitated by
hydrate of lime affords an almost inexhaustible supply of this salt. See
KINONE.
=KI′NO.= _Syn._ GUM KINO; KINO (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.) The juice flowing
from the incised bark of the _Pterocarpus Marsupium_ or Indian, hardened
in the sun.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr., in powder; as an astringent in chronic
diarrhœa, &c.
=Kino, Factitious=, met with in the shops, is made as follows:——Logwood,
48 lbs.; tormentil root, 16 lbs.; madder root, 12 lbs.; exhaust by coction
with water, q. s.; to the liquor add of catechu, 16 lbs.; dissolve,
strain, and evaporate to dryness. _Prod._ 24 lbs. Extract of mahogany is
also commonly sold for kino.
=KIRSCH′WASSER= (-văs ser) [Ger.]. _Syn._ KIRSCHENWASSER. A spirituous
liquor distilled in Germany and Switzerland from bruised cherries. From
the rude manner in which it is obtained, and from the distillation of the
cherry-stones (which contain prussic acid) with the liquor, it has often a
nauseous taste, and is frequently poisonous. When properly made and
sweetened, it resembles noyeau.
=KISH.= An artificial graphite occasionally produced in iron-smelting
furnaces. It occurs in brilliant scales, and is said to possess peculiar
efficacy in certain forms of anæmia and chlorosis.
=KITCH′EN.= The late Alexis Soyer set down as one of the crying faults of
our countrymen the employment of an apartment for the kitchen which is
either too small or inconveniently situated, and which, in general, is not
sufficiently provided with ‘kitchen requisites.’ “As a workman cannot work
properly without the requisite tools, or the painter produce the proper
shade without the necessary colours, in like manner does every person
wishing to economise his food and to cook it properly require the proper
furniture wherewith to do it.” The neglect of these matters, which is so
general, is, undoubtedly, a mischievous and deceptive economy.
=KNIVES, to Clean.= After being used all knives should be wiped on a
coarse cloth, so as to ensure their freedom from grease previous to being
cleaned. The practice of dipping the blades in hot water not only fails to
remove any grease that may be on them, but is almost sure to loosen the
handles. It is very essential to remove any grease from them, since if
this remain it will spoil the knife-board.
For cleaning knives, a proper knife-cleaning machine, purchased of a good
maker, is best. But where this is not used, the knife-board ought to be
covered with very thick leather, upon which emery powder should be placed.
The emery gives a good polish to the knives, and does not wear them out so
quickly as Bath-brick. When the points of the knives become worn very
thin, they should be rounded by the knife-grinder. Where the handles are
good it will sometimes be worth while to fit them to new blades.
=KNOX’S POW′DER.= _Prep._ From common salt, 8 parts; chloride of lime, 3
parts; mixed together. An ounce of it dissolved in a tumblerful of water
furnishes a solution which is similar to Labarraque’s disinfecting fluid.
=KŒCHLIN’S LIQUID.= _Prep._ From copper filings, 96 gr.; liquor of
ammonia, 2 fl. oz.; digested together until it turns of a full blue
colour, and then mixed with hydrochloric acid, 5 fl. dr.; distilled water,
5 lbs.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls daily; in scrofula. It is poisonous in
large doses.
=KOOCH′LA NUT.= See NUX VOMICA.
=KOU′MISS.= A liquor prepared by the Calmucs, by fermenting mare’s milk,
previously kept until sour, and then skimmed. By distillation it yields a
spirit called rack, racky, or araka. 21 lbs. of fermented milk yield about
3/4 pint of low wines, and this, by rectification, gives fully 1/4 pint of
strong alcohol. It has lately come into use as a remedy for phthisis and
general debility.
The following formula from the _Zeitschrift des Oesterr. Apoth. Ver._
(1876, 526), for the preparation of so-called KOUMISS EXTRACT, is said to
be a good one:——
Powdered sugar of milk 100 parts
Glucose (prepared from starch) 100 ”
Cane sugar 300 ”
Bicarbonate of potassium 36 ”
Common salt 33 ”
Dissolve these ingredients in 600 parts of boiling fresh whey of milk,
allow the solution to cool, then add 100 parts of rectified spirit, and
afterwards 100 parts of strained fresh beer yeast. Stir the mixture well
and put into bottles containing a quarter of a litre each. The bottles
must be well corked and kept in a cool place.
For the preparation of Koumiss add 5 to 6 tablespoonfuls of this extract
to a litre of skimmed, lukewarm milk, contained in a bottle of thick
glass; cork well, keep the bottle for half a day in a moderately warm room
(at 16°-20° C.), and afterwards in a cool cellar, shaking occasionally.
The bottle should be filled to within 3-4 centimètres of the cork. After
two days the Koumiss is ready for use.
=KOUS′SO.= _Syn._ CUSSO, KOSSO. This substance is the dried flowers of the
_Brayera anthelmintica_, an Abyssinian tree which grows to the height of
about 20 feet, and belongs to the natural order Rosaceæ. It is one of the
most effective remedies known for both varieties of tapeworm. The dose for
an adult is 3 to 5 dr., in powder, mixed with about half a pint of warm
water, and allowed to macerate for 15 or 20 minutes. The method prescribed
for its successful administration is as follows:——The patient is to be
prepared by a purgative or a lavement, and the use of a very slight diet
the day before. The next morning, fasting, a little lemon juice is to be
swallowed, or a portion of a lemon sucked, followed by the dose of kousso
(both liquid and powder), at 3 or 4 draughts, at short intervals of each
other, each of which is to be washed down with cold water acidulated with
lemon juice. The action of the medicine is subsequently promoted by
drinking weak tea without either milk or sugar, or water flavoured with
lemon juice or toasted bread; and if it does not operate in the course of
3 or 4 hours, a dose of castor oil or a saline purgative is taken.
The flavour of kousso is rather disagreeable and nauseating. Its operation
is speedy and effectual; but at the same time it is apt to produce, in
large doses, great prostration of strength, and other severe symptoms,
which unfit it for administration to the delicate of both sexes, or during
pregnancy or affections of the lower viscera. Care should be taken not to
purchase it in powder, as, owing to its high price, it is uniformly
adulterated. The powdered kousso of the shops is, in general, nothing more
than the root-bark of pomegranate, coloured and scented.
=KRE′ASOTE.= _Syn._ CREASOTE, CREOSOTE, KREOSOTE; CREASOTUM (B. P., Ph. L.
& D.), CREAZOTUM (Ph. E.), L. A peculiar substance, discovered by
Reichenbach, and so named on account of its powerful antiseptic property.
It is a product of the dry distillation of organic bodies, and is the
preservative principle of wood smoke and pyroligneous acid.
_Prep._ Kreasote is manufactured from wood-tar, in which it is sometimes
contained to the amount of 20% to 35%, and from crude pyroligneous acid
and pyroxilic oil.
1. (P. Cod.) Wood-tar is distilled in a wrought-iron retort until white
vapours of paraffin appear; the heavy oily matter which forms the lower
layer of the product is collected, washed with water slightly acidulated
with sulphuric acid, and then distilled in a glass retort, rejecting the
first portions, which are chiefly eupion; the distillate is treated with a
solution of potassa (sp. gr. 1·12), the mixed liquids being shaken
strongly together; after it is settled, the layer of eupion which forms is
removed from the surface, and the potash-solution of kreasote exposed to
the air until it becomes black; it is then saturated with dilute sulphuric
acid, the water liquid rejected, and the remainder (consisting of crude
kreasote) submitted to distillation in glass; the treatment by exposure,
potassa, sulphuric acid, and distillation is repeated three times or
oftener, until the combination of kreasote and potassa ceases to become
coloured by the action of the air; it is, lastly, saturated with
concentrated phosphoric acid, and again distilled, rejecting the first
portion that comes over.
2. (M. Simon.) A copper still, capable of containing 80 Berlin quarts, is
filled to one third with the oil of wood-tar, and heat is applied; first,
the more volatile matters pass over; these do not contain kreasote, and
are, therefore, rejected; but when, by gradually increasing the
temperature, there passes over a very acid liquid, which becomes turbid,
and at the same time an oil separates from it when mixed with water, the
product is collected, and the distillation continued until the operator
notices a squirting in the still, when this part of the process is
complete; the distilled product is then nearly saturated with potassa and
returned to the still, which, in the meantime, has been well cleaned out,
and about half filled with water, and the distillation is recommenced; at
first an oil comes over, which floats on water, and which consists chiefly
of eupion, and is, therefore, rejected; as soon, however, as the oil
begins to sink in the water which comes over with it, it is charged with
kreasote, and is carefully collected; the distilling aqueous fluid being
reintroduced from time to time into the still, and the distillation
continued so long as any oil continues to come over with it; the heavy
oily distillate is now agitated with liquor of potassa, sp. gr. 1·120; the
portion which remains undissolved is eupion, and is skimmed off; the
potassa-solution of kreasote still, however, contains a considerable
quantity of eupion, the greater portion of which may be separated by
dilution and distillation with an equal quantity, or with at least 4/5ths
of its volume of water, fresh water being added from time to time, as long
as any eupion comes over with the distilled liquor; when this has ceased
to pass over, sulphuric acid is poured into the still in quantity exactly
sufficient to saturate 1/3rd only of the potassa formerly employed, and
the distillation is again renewed; kreasote now distils over, the first
portions of which, however, still contain eupion, after which pure
kreasote follows; that is to say, “a kreasote which, when mixed with 6 or
8 times its quantity of a solution of pure potassa, furnishes a mixture
which, by the addition of any further quantity whatever of water, does not
become turbid.” The combination of kreasote remaining in the still is now
mixed with sulphuric acid in slight excess, and the distillation renewed,
the water coming over with it being from time to time returned into the
still; and when no further oil passes over with the water, the process is
complete. The kreasote thus obtained is redistilled with the water which
has passed over with it, whilst the distilled water, as before, is allowed
from time to time to run back into the still. The kreasote thus obtained
is then colourless; but it contains a considerable quantity of water in
solution, which is separated by distillation in a glass retort. The water
distils first, and then kreasote, which, after cleaning the neck of the
retort from the water, must be received in another dry receiver. If the
kreasote assumes a red colour after being exposed for some time to the
air, it must be re-distilled, and then it keeps very well. Korne found
that tar prepared from turf furnishes much more kreasote than that from
fir-wood, &c.
3. (Ure.) In operating upon pyroligneous acid, if we dissolve effloresced
sulphate of soda in it to saturation, at the temperature of 267° Fahr.,
the kreasote separates, and floats upon the surface; it is then decanted,
and left in repose for some days, during which it deposits a fresh
portion of salt and vinegar; it is next saturated whilst hot with
carbonate of potassa, and distilled along with water; a pale yellow oily
liquid passes over, which is rectified with phosphoric acid, &c., like the
crude product of kreasote from tar.
_Prop._ Kreasote is a colourless, transparent liquid, heavier than water,
of a peculiar unpleasant penetrating odour resembling that of smoked meat,
and a very pungent and caustic taste; its vapour irritates the eyes; it
boils at 400° Fahr., and is still fluid at -16·6° Fahr.; it produces on
white filter paper greasy spots, which disappear if exposed to a heat of
212° Fahr.; dissolves in 80 parts of water, and mixes in all proportions
with spirit of wine, the essential and fatty oils, acetic acid, naphtha,
disulphide of carbon, ammonia, and potassa; it dissolves iodine,
phosphorus, sulphur, resins, the alkaloids, indigo blue, several salts
(especially the acetates and the chlorides of calcium and tin); reduces
the nitrate and acetate of silver; is resinified by chlorine, and
decomposed by the stronger acids. The aqueous solution is neutral, and
precipitates solutions of gum and the white of eggs. It kindles with
difficulty, and burns with a smoky flame. When quite pure, it is unaltered
by exposure to the air. Sp. gr. 1·071, at 68° Fahr. A slip of deal dipped
into it, and afterwards in hydrochloric acid, and then allowed to dry in
the air, acquires a greenish-blue colour. It turns a ray of polarised
light to the right, whereas carbolic acid does not affect polarisation.
_Pur._ The fluid commonly sold in the shops for kreasote is a mixture of
kreasote, picamar, and light oil of tar; in many cases it is little else
than impure carbolic acid, with scarcely a trace of kreasote. Pure
kreasote is perfectly soluble in both acetic acid and solution of potassa;
shaken with an equal volume of water in a narrow test-tube, not more than
the 1-80th part disappears; otherwise it contains water, of which kreasote
is able to assume 1-10th without becoming turbid. If it can be dissolved
completely in 80 parts by weight of water, at a medium temperature, it
then forms a perfectly neutral liquid. An oily residue floating on the
surface betrays the presence of other foreign products (EUPION, KAPNOMOR,
PICAMAR), which are obtained at the same time with the kreasote during the
dry distillation of organic substances.
Kreasote is “devoid of colour, has a peculiar odour, and is soluble in
acetic acid. When it is dropped on bibulous paper, and a boiling heat is
applied for a short time, it entirely escapes, leaving no transparent
stain.” (Ph. L.) “Entirely and easily soluble in its own weight of acetic
acid.” (Ph. E.) Sp. gr. 1·046 (Ph. L.), 1·066 (Ph. E. & D.). The density
and boiling point of absolutely pure kreasote is given above. When
prescribed in pills with oxide of silver, the mass will take fire unless
the oxide be first mixed with liquorice or other powder. (Squire.)
_Uses._ Kreasote has been recommended in several diseases of the organs of
digestion and respiration, in rheumatism, gout, torpid nervous fever,
spasms, diabetes, tapeworm, &c.; but its use has not, in general, been
attended with satisfactory results. It is given in the form of pills,
emulsion, or an ethereal or spirituous solution. Externally it has been
employed in various chronic diseases of the skin, sores of different
kinds, mortifications, scalds, burns, wounds (as a styptic), caries of the
teeth, &c.; mostly in the form of an aqueous solution (1 to 80); or mixed
with lard (5 drops to 1 dr.), as an ointment; dissolved in rectified
spirit, it forms a useful and a popular remedy for toothache arising from
decay or rottenness. In the _arts_, kreasote is extensively employed to
preserve animal substances, either by washing it over them, or by
immersing them in its aqueous solution. A few drops in a saucer, or on a
piece of spongy paper, if placed in a larder, will effectually drive away
insects, and make the meat keep several days longer than it otherwise
would. A small quantity added to brine or vinegar is commonly employed to
impart a smoky flavour to meat and fish, and its solution in acetic acid
is used to give the flavour of whisky to malt spirit. See CARBOLIC ACID.
=KRE′ATIN.= C_{4}H_{9}N_{3}O_{2}·Aq. _Syn._ CREATIN. A crystallisable
substance obtained from the juice of the muscular fibre of animals. It was
first obtained by Chevreul, but has recently been carefully studied by
Liebig.
_Prep._ (Liebig.) Lean flesh is reduced to shreds, and then exhausted with
successive portions of cold water, employing pressure; the mixed liquid is
heated to coagulate the albumen and colouring matter of the blood, and is
then strained through a cloth; pure baryta water is next added as long as
a precipitate forms, the liquid is filtered, and the filtrate is gently
evaporated to the consistence of a syrup; after repose for some days in a
warm situation, crystals of kreatin are deposited; these are purified by
redissolving them in water, agitating the solution with animal charcoal,
and evaporating, &c., so that crystals may form.
_Prop., &c._ Brilliant, colourless, prismatic crystals; readily soluble in
boiling water, sparingly so in cold water and in alcohol; the aqueous
solution is neutral, bitter tasted, and soon putrefies.
=KREAT′ININ.= C_{4}H_{7}N_{3}O. This substance exists in small quantities,
both in the juice of flesh and in conjunction with kreatin in urine. It is
also produced by the action of the stronger acids on kreatin. It forms
colourless prismatic crystals, which are soluble in water, and the
solution has a strongly alkaline reaction. It is a powerful organic base,
and produces crystallisable salts with the acids.
=KRE′NIC ACID.= See CRENIC ACID.
=KRYSTAL′LINE.= The name originally applied by Unverdorben to ANILINE.
=KUSTITIEN’S METAL.= _Prep._ Take of malleable iron, 3 parts; beat it to
whiteness, and add of antimony, 1 part; Molucca tin, 72 parts; mix under
charcoal, and cool. Used to coat iron and other metals with a surface of
tin; it polishes without a blue tint, is hard, and has the advantage of
being free from lead and arsenic.
=KYANI′ZING.= A method of preserving wood and cordage from decay, long
known and practised; patented by Mr Kyan many years since. It consists in
immersing the materials in a solution of corrosive sublimate, 1 part, and
water, 50 or 60 parts, either under strong pressure or the contrary, as
the urgency of the case or the dimensions of the articles operated on may
require. See DRY ROT.
=KY′ANOL.= A substance obtained from coal-tar oil, and at first thought to
be an independent principle, but since shown to be identical with ANILINE.
=LABARRAQUE’S FLUID.= See SOLUTION OF CHLORIDE OF SODA.
=LAB′DANUM.= _Syn._ LADANUM. An odorous, resinous substance found on the
leaves and twigs of the _Cystus creticus_, a plant growing in the island
of Candia and in Syria. It was formerly much used for making stimulating
plasters. The following compound is often vended for it:——
=Labdanum, Facti′′tious.= _Prep._ From gum anime, resin, Venetian
turpentine, and sand, of each 6 parts; Spanish juice and gum Arabic, of
each (dissolved in a little water), 3 parts; Canada balsam, 2 parts; ivory
black, 1 part; balsam of Peru, q. s. to give a faint odour.
=LA′BELS= capable of resisting the action of OILS, SPIRITS, WATER, SYRUPS
and DILUTE ACIDS, may be obtained as follows:——Lay a coat of strained
white of egg over the label (an ordinary paper one), and immediately put
the vessel into the upper portion of a common steam-pan, or otherwise
expose it to a gentle heat till the albumen coagulates and turns opaque,
then take it out and dry it before the fire, or in an oven, at a white
heat of about 212° Fahr.; the opaque white film will then become hard and
transparent. The labels on bottles containing STRONG ACIDS or ALKALINE
SOLUTIONS should be either etched upon the glass by means of hydrofluoric
acid, or be written with incorrodible ink. See ETCHING and INK.
=LAB′ORATORY.= _Syn._ LABORATORIUM, L. A place fitted up for the
performance of experimental or manufacturing operations in chemistry,
pharmacy, and pyrotechny. For full information respecting the best mode of
fitting up a chemical laboratory, the reader is referred to works
especially devoted to chemical manipulation.[11] Almost any well-lighted
spare room may be fitted up as a small laboratory at very little expense.
The gas-furnaces and improved lamps introduced of later years have to a
certain extent rendered chemists independent of brick furnaces. A strong
working bench, fitted with drawers and cupboards, and having gas-pipes at
intervals for attaching different kinds of jets, is an indispensable
fixture. A close cupboard or closet, which is connected by a pipe with the
chimney or the external air, is required to receive vessels emitting
corrosive or evil-smelling vapours; the door of this closet should be of
glass. A sink, with a copious supply of water, must be at hand, for
washing apparatus. A glass, a stoneware barrel, with a tap of the same
material, is required for holding distilled water. Shelves, supports for
apparatus, and drawers, should be provided in abundance. The fine balances
and other delicate instruments should be kept in a separate apartment.
With regard to apparatus, we may state that the articles most frequently
required in a laboratory are the gas or alcohol lamps; iron pans for sand
bath and water bath; evaporating dishes; precipitating jars, funnels, and
wash-bottles; retorts, flasks, and test-tubes; mortars and pestles;
retort- and filtering-stands; rat-tail and triangular files, and glass rod
and tubing.
[Footnote 11: The latest and best work is the ‘Handbook of Chemical
Manipulation,’ by Greville Williams. Faraday’s famous work on the same
subject has long been out of print.]
The principal philosophical instrument-makers sell chests or cabinets
filled with apparatus and chemicals, under the name of ‘PORTABLE
LABORATORIES,’ Those sold by Mr J. J. Griffin and by Messrs Jackson and
Townson are, perhaps, the most complete. They are well adapted for
illustrating all the more valuable facts of chemical science, and
performing all the ordinary operations of qualitative analysis.
=LABURNINE.= A poisonous alkaloid, found in the unripe seeds of the
laburnum plant, associated with another poisonous alkaloid called
_Cytisine_.
=LAC.= _Syn._ LACCA, L. A resinous substance combined with much colouring
matter, produced by the puncture of the female of a small insect, called
the _Coccus lacca_ or _ficus_, upon the young branches of several tropical
trees, especially the _Ficus Indica_, _Ficus religiosa_, and _Croton
lacciferum_. The crude resinous exudation constitutes the STICK-LAC of
commerce. SHELL-LAC or SHELLAC is prepared by spreading the resin into
thin plates after being melted and strained. SEED-LAC is the residue
obtained after dissolving out most of the colouring matter contained in
the resin.
Shell-lac is the kind most commonly employed in the arts. The
palest is the best, and is known as ‘orange-lac.’ The darker
varieties——‘liver-coloured,’ ‘ruby,’ ‘garnet,’ &c.——respectively diminish
in value in proportion to the depth of their colour.
_Uses, &c._ Lac was formerly much used in medicine; its action, if any,
is probably that of a very mild diuretic. It is now chiefly used in
DENTIFRICES, VARNISHES, LACQUERS, and SEALING-WAX.
=Lac, Bleached.= _Syn._ WHITE LAC; LACCA ALBA, L. By dissolving lac in a
boiling lye of pearlash or caustic potassa, filtering and passing chlorine
through the solution until all the lac is precipitated; this is collected,
well washed and pulled in hot water, and, finally, twisted into sticks,
and thrown into cold water to harden. Used to make pale varnishes and the
more delicate coloured sealing-wax.
=LAC DYE.= _Syn._ LAC, LAC-LAKE, INDIAN COCHINEAL. A colouring substance
used to dye scarlet, imported from India.
_Prep._ By dissolving out the colour of ground stick-lac by means of a
weak alkaline solution, and then precipitating it along with alumina by
adding a solution of alum.
_Obs._ To prepare the lac for dyeing, it is ground and mixed with diluted
‘lac spirit,’ and the whole allowed to stand for about a week. The ‘cloth’
is first mordanted with a mixture of tartar and ‘lac spirit,’ and
afterwards kept near the boil for three quarters of an hour, in a bath
formed by adding a proportion of the prepared lac dye to the mixture used
for mordanting. Lac dye is only applicable to woollen and silk. The
colours it yields are similar to those obtained from cochineal, but less
brilliant.
=LAC SPIRIT.= See TIN MORDANTS.
=LACE.= This decorative fabric is made by interweaving threads of linen,
cotton, or silk, into various patterns and designs. Although in some
instances lace is made by hand, the greater part is now manufactured by
machinery worked by steam or water. The hand-made lace was called bone,
pillow, or bobbin lace, these two latter names having been given it from
its having been woven upon a pillow or cushion by means of a bobbin. The
manufactured article is bobbin net. Lace and the machinery by which it is
produced is of so complex a nature that Dr Ure says of one particular form
of it “it is as much beyond the most curious chronometer in the
multiplicity of mechanical device as that is beyond a common roasting
jack.”
Owing to the improvements in machinery introduced of late years, it may be
mentioned that a piece of lace which twenty years since could only be
produced at a cost of 3s. 6d. for labour, may now be turned out for 1d.,
and a quantity of the fabric which sold for £17, now realizes only 7s. A
pair of curtains, each four yards long, may be made in one frame in two
hours.
The following statistics relating to the British lace industry are of
interest:——“In 1843 there were 3200 twist net and 800 warp frames,
returning £2,740,000 that year; in 1851, 3200 bobbin net and 800 warp,
giving a return of £3,846,000; and in 1866, 3552 bobbin and 400 warp,
returning £5,130,000. There has since been no actual census, but about
the same number is now at work, and the returns and profits are greatly
increased by improved quality and patterns of goods produced. The returns
of 1872 were certainly £6,000,000 at least; and from advancing wages and
demand for Lever’s laces, must still rapidly increase. Men are now earning
by making them from £4 to £6 for 56 hours’ weekly labour.”[12]
[Footnote 12: ‘British Manufacturing Industries.’ Stanford.]
=Lace, Gold and Silver, to Clean.= Reduce to fine crumbs the interior of a
2-lb. stale loaf, and mix with them 1/4 lb. of powder blue. Sprinkle some
of this mixture plentifully on the lace, afterwards rubbing it on with a
piece of flannel. After brushing off the crumbs rub the lace with a piece
of crimson velvet.
=Lace, to Scour.= Take a perfectly clean wine bottle; wind the lace
smoothly and carefully round it; then gently sponge it in tepid soap and
water; and when clean, and before it becomes dry, pass it through a weak
solution of gum and water. Next pick it out and place it in the sun to
dry. If it be desired to bleach the lace, it should be rinsed in some very
weak solution of chloride of lime, after removal from which it must be
rinsed in cold water. Starch and expose it; then boil and starch, and
again expose it if it has not become sufficiently white.
The following method is also said to whiten lace:——It is first ironed
slightly, then folded and sewn into a clean linen bag, which is then
placed for 24 hours in pure olive oil. Afterwards the bag, with the lace
in it, is to be boiled in a solution of soap and water for 15 minutes,
then well rinsed in lukewarm water, and finally dipped in water containing
a small quantity of starch. The lace is then to be taken from the bag, and
stretched on pins to dry.
To scour point lace proceed as follows:——“Fix the lace in a prepared tent,
draw it tight and straight, make a warm lather of Castile soap, and with a
fine brush dipped in rub over the lace gently, and when clean on one side
do the same on the other; then throw some clean water on it, in which a
little alum has been dissolved, to take off the suds; and, having some
thin starch, go over with it on the wrong side, and iron it on the same
side when dry; then open with a bodkin and set it in order. To clean the
same, if not very dirty, without washing, fix it as before, and go over
with fine bread, the crust being pared off, and when done, dust out the
crumbs.” (Ernest Spon.)
Black lace may be cleaned by passing it through warm water containing some
ox-gall, rinsing it in cold water, and then passing it through water in
which a small quantity of glue has been previously dissolved by means of
heat; it should then be taken out, clapped between the hands, and dried on
a frame.
=LAC′QUER.= A solution of shell-lac in alcohol, tinged with saffron,
annotta, aloes, or other colouring substances. It is applied to wood and
metals to impart a golden colour. See VARNISH.
=LACTALBU′MEN.= See CASEIN.
=LAC′TATE.= _Syn._ LACTAS, L. A salt of lactic acid. The lactates are
characterised by yielding an enormous quantity of perfectly pure carbonic
oxide gas when heated with 5 or 6 parts of oil of vitriol. Most of these
salts may be directly formed by dissolving the hydrate or carbonate of the
metal in the dilute acid.
=LACTA′TION.= See INFANCY, NURSING, &c.
=LACTIC ACID.= H_{2}C_{6}H_{10}O_{6}. _Syn._ ACID OF MILK; ACIDUM
LACTICUM, L. A sour, syrupy liquid, discovered by Scheele in whey. It is
also found in some other animal fluids, and in several vegetable juices,
especially in that of beet-root.
Lactic acid is by no means an unimportant constituent of the human
organism. It is contained in the gastric juice, and is frequently formed
in the sweat. It has also been detected in the saliva of persons suffering
from diabetes. A modification of the acid, termed sarkolactic acid, occurs
in the fluids of the muscular tissue.
It is likewise a product of the fermentation of many vegetable juices,
such as turnips, carrots, beet-root, and cabbage, which latter vegetable,
after undergoing the lactic fermentation, becomes converted into the sauer
kraut of the Germans.
In the form of calcic lactate it occurs in nux vomica.
_Prep._ 1. Dissolve lactate of barium in water, precipitate the barium
with dilute sulphuric acid, carefully avoiding excess, and gently
evaporate to the consistence of a syrup, or until it acquires the density
1·215. Lactate of calcium may be used instead of lactate of barium, in
which case a solution of oxalic acid must be employed as the precipitant.
Pure. (See No. 5.)
2. Milk (skimmed or stale), 1 gall.; bicarbonate of sodium, 1/2 lb.;
dissolve and expose the liquid to the air for some days, until it becomes
sour, then saturate the excess of acid with some more bicarbonate of
sodium, and again expose it to the air; repeat this as often as the liquid
becomes sour; next heat the liquid to the boiling point, filter, evaporate
to dryness (or nearly), and exhaust the residuum with rectified spirit;
filter the alcoholic solution, which contains lactate of sodium, add
sulphuric acid as long as it causes a precipitate to form, again filter,
and concentrate the clear liquid by evaporation.
3. (Boutron and Fremy.) Milk, 3 or 4 quarts; sugar of milk, 200 to 300
gr.; mix, and expose for 2 or 3 days in an open vessel at 70° to 80°
Fahr., then saturate with bicarbonate of sodium, again expose at a
moderate temperature, saturate with more bicarbonate of sodium, and repeat
the process until the whole of the sugar of milk is decomposed; then
coagulate the casein by heat, filter, evaporate, extract the acid lactate
of sodium by alcohol of sp. gr. ·810, and decompose it by the cautious
addition of dilute sulphuric acid; again filter, distil off the alcohol,
and evaporate as before.
4. (Scheele.) Evaporate sour whey to 1/8th of its bulk, saturate with
slaked lime, filter, add 3 or 4 times the quantity of water, cautiously
precipitate the lime with a solution of oxalic acid, filter, and gently
evaporate to dryness in a warm bath; digest the residuum in strong
rectified spirit, and again filter and evaporate.
5. (Wackenroder.) Sugar of lead, 25 parts; finely powdered chalk, 20
parts; skimmed milk, 100 parts; water, 200 parts; digested together at
about 75° Fahr. In six weeks the chalk will be dissolved; the whole is
then heated, but not to boiling; the cheese is strained off, pressed, and
the decanted liquid is clarified by albumen and evaporated, to let the
lactate of calcium crystallise; the salt is recrystallised and decomposed,
either by sulphuric acid or by the exact quantity of oxalic acid. This is,
perhaps, the most effective mode of preparing lactic acid.
6. (Wholesale.)——_a._ Good raw cane-sugar, 7 lbs., is dissolved in milk
(skimmed or stale), 2 galls., and cheese (in a moist or putrescent state),
1/2 lb., and chalk, 4 lbs., previously rubbed to a cream with water, 1-1/2
gall., is then added; the mixture is then exposed in a loosely covered
jar, at a temperature of 80° to 86° Fahr., with occasional stirring, for 2
or 3 weeks, or until the whole is converted into a semi-solid mass of
crystals of lactate of calcium; this is purified either by draining off
and expressing the liquid portion, dissolving the residue in water, and
evaporating the solution for crystals; or the whole is put into a
stoneware vessel and heated to the boiling-point, by which the casein is
coagulated, and the lactate of calcium is dissolved; the solution filtered
whilst hot, furnishes the salt in crystals on cooling; these crystals are
subsequently dissolved in water, and the filtered solution decomposed by
oxalic acid, as before.
_b._ From cane-sugar, 4 parts; moist cheese, 1 part; chalk, 3 parts;
water, 20 parts; as the last.
_Obs._ Lactic acid prepared by any of the used formulæ may be rendered
quite pure by dilution with water, saturation with baryta, evaporation,
crystallisation, re-solution in water, and the careful addition of dilute
sulphuric acid, as in No. 1; the liquid is, lastly, again filtered and
evaporated. Another plan is to convert the acid into lactate of zinc, by
the addition of commercial zinc-white, and to redissolve the new salt in
water, and then decompose the solution with a stream of sulphuretted
hydrogen. In all cases the evaporation should be conducted at a very
gentle heat, and, when possible, finished over sulphuric acid, or _in
vacuo_. For particular purposes this last product must be dissolved in
ether, filtered, and the ether removed by a very gentle heat. Care must
also be taken to remove the solid lactate of calcium at the proper period
from the fermenting liquid, as otherwise it will gradually redissolve and
disappear, and on examination the liquid will be found to consist chiefly
of a solution of butyrate of calcium.
_Prop._ The product of the above formulæ is a solution of lactic acid. It
may be concentrated _in vacuo_ over a surface of oil of vitriol until it
appears as a syrupy liquid of sp. gr. 1·215; soluble in water, alcohol,
and ether; exhibiting the usual acid properties, and forming salts with
the metals, called LACTATES. Heated in a retort to 266° Fahr.; a small
portion distils over, and the residuum on cooling concretes into a
yellowish, solid, fusible mass, very bitter, and nearly insoluble in
water. This is lactic acid, which has lost half (1 equiv.) of its basic
water. By long boiling in water this substance is reconverted into lactic
acid. Heated to 480° Fahr., it suffers decomposition, lactide (the
anhydrous, concrete, or sublimed lactic acid of former writers) and other
products being formed. This new substance may be purified by pressure
between bibulous paper and solution in boiling alcohol from which it
separates in dazzling white crystals on cooling. By solution in hot water
and evaporation to a syrup, it furnishes common lactic acid.
_Uses._ Lactic acid has been given in dyspepsia, gout, phosphatic urinary
deposits, &c. From its being one of the natural constituents of the
gastric juice, and from its power of dissolving a considerable quantity of
phosphate of calcium, it appears very probable that it may prove
beneficial in the above complaints.——_Dose_, 1 to 5 gr.; in the form of
lozenges, or solution in sweetened water.
=LAC′TIC FERMENTA′TION.= The peculiar change by which saccharine matter is
converted into lactic acid. Nitrogenous substances, which in an advanced
state of putrefactive change act as alcohol-ferments, often possess, at
certain periods of their decay, the property of inducing an acid
fermentation in sugar, by which that substance is changed into lactic
acid. Thus, the nitrogenised matter of malt, when suffered to putrefy in
water for a few days only, acquires the power of acidifying the sugar
which accompanies it; whilst in a more advanced state of decomposition it
converts, under similar circumstances, the sugar into alcohol. The gluten
of grain behaves in the same manner. Wheat flour, made into a paste with
water, and left for four or five days in a warm situation, becomes a true
lactic acid ferment; but if left a day or two longer, it changes its
character, and then acts like common yeast, occasioning the ordinary
panary or vinous fermentation. Moist animal membranes, in a slightly
decaying condition, often act energetically in developing lactic acid. The
rennet employed in the manufacture of cheese furnishes a well-known
example of this class of substances.
In preparing lactic acid from milk, the acid formed, after a time,
coagulates and renders insoluble the casein, and the production of the
acid ceases. By carefully neutralising the free acid by carbonate of
sodium, the casein becomes soluble, and resuming its activity, changes a
fresh quantity of sugar into lactic acid, which may be also neutralised,
and by a sufficient number of repetitions of this process all the sugar of
milk present may, in time, be acidified. This is the rationale of the
common process by which lactic acid is obtained. Cane-sugar (probably by
previously becoming grape-sugar) and the sugar of milk both yield lactic
acid; the latter, however, most readily, the grape-sugar having a strong
tendency towards the alcoholic fermentation. If the lactic fermentation be
allowed to proceed too far, the second stage of the process of
transmutation commences, hydrogen gas and carbonic acid gas are evolved,
and the butyric fermentation, by which oily acids are formed, is
established.
Pasteur ascribes the lactic fermentation to the agency of a specific kind
of ferment, which occurs in the form of a greyish layer deposited upon the
surface of the sediment formed during the fermentation of the sugar,
casein, and chalk (see Lactic acid, _b_), in the manufacture of lactic
acid.
If to a mixture of yeast, or any nitrogenous substance, and water, sugar,
and then chalk, be added, and finally a very small quantity of this
greyish substance, taken from a portion of a liquid undergoing active
lactic fermentation, lactic acid fermentation is almost immediately set
up, the chalk disappears owing to the formation of calcic lactate, and the
greyish substance is copiously deposited. When placed under the microscope
this ferment is seen to be composed of “little globules, or very short
articulations, either isolated or in threads, constituting irregular
flocculent particles, much smaller than those of beer yeast, and
exhibiting a rapid gyratory motion.” If these little particles be washed
thoroughly in pure water, and then placed in a solution of sugar, lactic
acidification immediately commences in the saccharine liquid, and goes on
steadily until stopped by the excess of free acid.
=LAC′TIDE.= See LACTIC ACID.
=LAC′TIN.= See SUGAR OF MILK.
=LAC′TOMETER.= _Syn._ GALACTOMETER. An instrument for ascertaining the
quality of milk. Milk may be roughly tested by placing it in a long
graduated tube sold for the purpose, and allowing it to remain until all
the cream has separated and measured, then decanting off the clear whey,
and taking its specific gravity; the result of the two operations, when
compared with the known quantity of cream and the density of the whey of
an average sample of milk, gives the value of the sample tested. See
MILK.
A little instrument called a ‘milk-tester’ is sold in London at a low
price. It is essentially a hydrometer which sinks to a given mark on the
stem in pure water, and floats at another mark at the opposite end of the
scale in pure milk. The intermediate space indicates the quantity of water
(if any) employed to adulterate the article. As the sp. gr. of pure milk
varies, the indications of the ‘tester’ cannot be depended on.
=LAC′TOSE.= See SUGAR OF MILK.
=LAC′TUCA.= (B. P.) _Syn._ LETTUCE. The leaves and flowering tops of the
wild indigenous plant _Lactuca virosa_. They are sedative, narcotic, and
powerfully diuretic; also mildly laxative and diaphoretic. Given in dropsy
and visceral obstructions. See LETTUCE, EXTRACT OF.
=LACTUCA′′RIUM.= _Syn._ LETTUCE OPIUM. THRIDACE; LACTUCARIUM (Ph. E. &
D.). The inspissated milky juice of the _Lactuca sativa_ (common garden
lettuce), or the _Lactuca virosa_ (strong-scented wild lettuce), obtained,
by incision, from the flowering stems, and dried in the air. The latter
species yields by far the greatest quantity. M. Arnaud, of Nancy, adopts
the following method of procuring this substance, which appears to be the
most productive and simple of any yet published:——Before the development
of the lateral branches, the stems of twelve plants are cut, one after
another, a little below the commencement of these branches; returning to
the first one, a milky exudation is found on the cut portion, and on that
which remains fixed in the earth; this milky exudation is adroitly
collected with the end of the finger (or with a bone knife), which is
afterwards scraped on the edge of a small glass; the same operation is
performed on twelve other heads, and so on; on the third day it is
repeated on every portion of the plant remaining in the ground, a thin
slice being first cut off the top; this is done every day until the root
is reached. As soon as the lactucarium is collected it coagulates; the
harvest of each day is divided into small pieces, which are placed on
plates, very near each other, but without touching, and allowed to dry for
two days, after which they are set aside in a bottle. In this way 15 or 20
times the ordinary product is obtained.
_Prop., &c._ Lactucarium is anodyne, hypnotic, antispasmodic, and
sedative, allaying pain and diminishing the force of the circulation. It
has been recommended in cases in which opium is inadmissible, and has been
administered with advantage in chronic rheumatism, colic, diarrhœa,
asthma, and troublesome cough of phthisis, the irritability and
watchfulness in febrile disorders, &c.——_Dose_, 2 to 5 gr.; made into
pills, lozenges, or tincture.
=LACTU′CIN.= _Syn._ LACTUCINUM, L. This is the active principle of
lactucarium, and is found in the juice of several species of lettuce.
_Prep._ Exhaust lactucarium with hot rectified spirit, agitate the
tincture with a little animal charcoal, filter, add a little milk of
lime, and evaporate to dryness; digest the residuum in hot rectified
spirit; filter, and evaporate by a gentle heat, so that crystals may form.
_Prop., &c._ A nearly colourless, odourless, fusible, neutral, bitter
substance; sparingly soluble in cold water and in ether, but freely
soluble in alcohol. It possesses feeble basic properties. Good lactucarium
contains fully 20% of this substance.
=LAD′ANUM.= See LABDANUM.
=LAENNEC’S CONTRA-STIMULANT.= See DRAUGHT.
=LAKE=. _Syn._ LACCA, L. Animal or vegetable colouring matter,
precipitated in combination with oxide of tin or alumina; usually the
latter. The term was formerly restricted to red preparations of this kind,
but is now indiscriminately applied to all compounds of alumina and
colouring matter. The term ‘LAKE,’ when unqualified by an adjective, is,
however, understood to apply exclusively to that prepared from cochineal.
_Prep._ Lakes are made——1. By adding a solution of alum, either alone or
partly saturated with carbonate of potassa, to a filtered infusion or
decoction of the colouring substance, and after agitation precipitating
the mixture with a solution of carbonate of potash.——2. By precipitating a
decoction or infusion of the colouring substance made with a weak alkaline
lye, by adding a solution of alum.——3. By agitating recently precipitated
alumina with a solution of the colouring matter, prepared as before, until
the liquid is nearly decoloured, or the alumina acquires a sufficiently
dark tint. The first method is usually employed for acidulous solutions of
colouring matter, or for those whose tint is injured by alkalies; the
second, for those that are brightened, or at least uninjured, by alkalies;
the third, for those colouring matters that have a great affinity for
gelatinous alumina, and readily combine with it by mere agitation. By
attention to these general rules, lakes may be prepared from almost all
animal and vegetable colouring substances that yield their colour to
water, many of which will be found to possess great beauty and permanence.
The precise process adapted to each particular substance may be easily
ascertained by taking a few drops of its infusion or decoction, and
observing the effects of alkalies and acids on the colour. The quantity of
alum or of alumina employed should be nearly sufficient to decolour the
dye liquor; and the quantity of carbonate of potassa should be so
proportioned to the alum as to exactly precipitate the alumina without
leaving free or carbonated alkali in the liquid. The first portion of the
precipitate has the deepest colour, and the shade gradually becomes paler
as the operation proceeds. A beautiful ‘tone’ of violet, red, and even
purple, may be communicated to the colouring matter of cochineal by the
addition of perchloride of tin; the addition of arseniate of potassa
(neutral arsenical salt) in like manner gives shades which may be sought
for in vain with alum or alumina. After the lake is precipitated, it must
be carefully collected, washed with cold distilled water, or the purest
rain water, until it ceases to give out colour, and then carefully dried
in the shade. In this state it forms a soft velvety powder. That of the
shops is generally made up into conical or pyramidal drops (drop lake),
which is done by dropping the moist lake through a small funnel on a clean
board or slab, and drying it by a gentle heat as before. A very little
clear gum water is commonly added to the paste to give the drops
consistence when dry.
=Lake, Blue.= _Syn._ LACCA CŒRULEA, L. Prepared from some of the
blue-coloured flowers; fugitive. The name is also applied to lump archil
(lacca cœrulea), to moist alumina coloured with indigo, and to mixed
solutions of pearlash and prussiate of potash, precipitated with another
solution of sulphate of iron and alum. These are permanent and beautiful,
but are seldom used, in consequence of indigo and Prussian blue supplying
all that is wanted in this class of colours.
=Lake, Brazil-wood.= _Syn._ DROP LAKE; LACCA IN GLOBULIS, L. _Prep._ 1.
Take of ground Brazil-wood, 1 lb.; water, 4 galls.; digest for 24 hours,
then boil for 30 or 40 minutes, and add of alum, 1-1/2 lb., dissolved in a
little water; mix, decant, strain, and add of solution of tin, 1/2 lb.;
again mix well and filter; to the clear liquid add, cautiously, a solution
of salt of tartar or carbonate of soda, as long as a deep-coloured
precipitate forms, carefully avoiding excess; collect, wash, dry, &c., as
directed above.
_Obs._ The product is deep red. By collecting the precipitate in separate
portions, lakes varying in richness and depth of colour may be obtained.
The first portion of the precipitated lake has the brightest colour. An
excess of alkali turns it on the violet, and the addition of cream of
tartar, on the brownish red. The tint turns more on the violet red when
the solution of tin is omitted. Some persons use less, others more, alum.
2. Add washed and recently precipitated alumina to a strong and filtered
decoction of Brazil wood. Inferior to the last.
=Lake, Carminated.= _Syn._ COCHINEAL LAKE, FLORENCE L., FLORENTINE L.,
PARIS L., VIENNA L.; LACCA FLORENTINA, L. _Prep._ 1. The residuum of the
cochineal left in making carmine is boiled with repeated portions of
water, until it is exhausted of colour; the resulting liquor is mixed with
that decanted off the carmine, and at once filtered; some recently
precipitated alumina is then added, and the whole gently heated, and well
agitated for a short time; as soon as the alumina has absorbed sufficient
colour, the mixture is allowed to settle, after which the clear portion is
decanted, the lake collected on a filter, washed, and dried, as before.
The decanted liquor, if still coloured, is now treated with fresh alumina
until exhausted, and thus a lake of a second quality is obtained. Very
fine.
2. To the coloured liquor obtained from the carmine and cochineal as
above, a solution of alum is added, the filtered liquor precipitated with
a solution of carbonate of potassa, and the alum or alumina; this
brightens the lake collected and treated as before. Scarcely so good as
the last.
_Obs._ Some makers mix a little solution of tin with the coloured liquor
before adding colour. The above lake is a good glazing colour with oil,
but has little body. It may be made directly from a decoction of
cochineal. (See _below_.)
=Lake, Cochineal.= _Prep._ 1. Cochineal (in coarse powder), 1 oz.; water
and rectified spirit, of each 2-1/2 oz.; digest for a week, filter, and
precipitate the tincture with a few drops of solution of tin, added every
two hours, until the whole of the colouring matter is thrown down; lastly,
wash the precipitate in distilled water, and dry it. Very fine.
2. Digest powdered cochineal in ammonia water for a week, dilute the
solution with a little water, and add the liquid to a solution of alum, as
long as a precipitate falls, which is the lake. Equal to the last.
3. Coarsely powdered cochineal, 1 lb.; water, 2 galls.; boil 1 hour,
decant, strain, add a solution of salt of tartar, 1 lb., and precipitate
with a solution of alum. By adding the alum first, and precipitating the
lake with the alkali, the colour will be slightly varied. All the above
are sold as CARMINATED or FLORENCE LAKE, to which they are often superior.
=Lake, Green.= Made by mixing blue and yellow lake together. Seldom kept
in the shops, being generally prepared extemporaneously by the artist on
his palette.
=Lake, Lac.= _Prep._ Boil fresh stick-lac in a solution of carbonate of
soda, filter the solution, precipitate with a solution of alum, and
proceed as before.
=Lake, Lichen.= See ORCEIN.
=Lake, Madder.= _Syn._ LACCA RUBIÆ, L. COLUMBINA, L. _Prep._ 1. (Sir H. C.
Inglefield.) Take of Dutch grappe or crop madder, 2 oz.; tie it in a
cloth, beat it well in a pint of water in a stone mortar, and repeat the
process with fresh water (about 5 pints) until it ceases to yield colour;
next boil the mixed liquor in an earthen vessel, pour it into a large
basin, and add of alum 1 oz., previously dissolved in boiling water, 1
pint; stir well, and while stirring, pour in gradually of a strong
solution of carbonate of potassa (‘oil of tartar’), 1-1/2 oz.; let the
whole stand until cold, then pour off the supernatant yellow liquor,
drain, agitate the residue with boiling water, 1 quart (in separate
portions), decant, drain, and dry. _Product_, 1/2 oz. The Society of Arts
voted their gold medal to the author of the above formula.
2. Add a little solution of acetate of lead to a decoction of madder, to
throw down the brown colouring matter, filter, add a solution of tin or
alum, precipitate with a solution of carbonate of soda or of potassa, and
otherwise proceed as before.
3. (Ure.) Ground madder, 2 lbs.; water, 1 gall.; macerate with agitation
for 10 minutes, strain off the water, and press the remainder quite dry;
repeat the process a second and a third time; then add to the mixed
liquors, alum 1/2 lb., dissolved in water, 3 quarts; and heat in a water
bath for 3 or 4 hours, adding water as it evaporates; next filter, first
through flannel, and, when sufficiently cold, through paper; then add a
solution of carbonate of potassa as long as a precipitate falls, which
must be washed until the water comes off colourless, and, lastly, dried.
If the alkali be added in 3 successive doses, 3 different lakes will be
obtained, successively diminishing in beauty. See MADDER, MADDER, RED, &c.
=Lake, Or′ange.= _Prep._ Take of the best Spanish annotta, 4 oz.;
pearlash, 3/4 lb.; water, 1 gall.; boil for half an hour, strain,
precipitate with alum, 1 lb., dissolved in water, 1 gall., observing not
to add the latter solution when it ceases to produce an effervescence or a
precipitate; strain, and dry the sediment in small squares, lozenges, or
drops. The addition of some solution of tin turns this lake on the LEMON
YELLOW; acids redden it. See LAKE, YELLOW.
=Lake, Red.= _Prep._ Take of pearlash, 1 lb.; clean shreds of scarlet
cloth, 3-1/2 lbs.; water, 5 galls.; boil till the cloth is decoloured,
filter the decoction, and precipitate with a solution of alum, as before.
See the LAKES noticed above (Brazil-wood, Carminated, Cochineal, and
Madder).
=Lake, Yellow.= _Prep._ 1. Boil French berries, quercitron bark, or
turmeric, 1 lb., and salt of tartar, 1 oz., in water, 1 gall., until
reduced to one half, then strain the decoction, and precipitate with a
solution of alum.
2. Boil 1 lb. of the dye-stuff with alum, 1/2 lb.; water, 1 gall., as
before, and precipitate the decoction with a solution of carbonate of
potash. See LAKE, ORANGE (_above_).
=LAMB= in its general qualities closely resembles mutton, of which,
indeed, it is merely a younger and more delicate kind. It is well adapted
as an occasional article of food for the convalescent and dyspeptic; but
it is unequal for frequent use, more especially for the healthy and
robust, to the flesh of the adult animal.
=LAMBS, DISEASES OF.= Among other diseases, these animals are particularly
prone to one affecting the lungs, in consequence of the existence of
parasites (_Strongylus bronchialis_) in the air-passages. See PARASITES.
=LAMP.= A contrivance for producing artificial light or heat by the
combustion of inflammable liquids. The term ‘lamp’ is also applied to a
portable gas-burner (GAS-LAMP), and to a tubular candle-holder, which, by
the aid of a simple mechanical device, keeps the flame at one height
(CANDLE-LAMP).
OIL LAMPS were employed for illumination among the nations of antiquity,
at the earliest period of which any record exists. The Assyrian, Greek,
and Roman lamps preserved in our museums are generally noble specimens of
art-workmanship. Though elegant in form, and rich in external
embellishment, the ancient lamp was simply a vessel to contain the oil,
with a short depression or spout on the one side, in which the wick is
laid. Lamps of this rude construction are still in common use in many
countries.
No important improvement in the principle and construction of lamps as a
source of light occurred until a comparatively recent date; the smoke,
dirt, and disagreeable odour of the common lamp having previously led to
its disuse among the superior classes in favour of candles. At length, in
1789, M. Argand made a revolution in illumination by the invention and
introduction of the well-known lamp which bears his name. In the ARGAND
LAMP a hollow tubular wick of woven cotton replaces the solid bundles of
fibres, and is so arranged that air passes through it into the interior of
the flame. Over the burner is placed a cylindrical glass chimney, open at
the bottom, and surrounding the flame at a short distance from it, by
which another current of air is made to act on the exterior portion of the
flame. In this way a due supply of oxygen is secured, and sufficient heat
generated for the perfect combustion of the gaseous products of the oil,
and the smoke and soot which escape from the ordinary lamp are converted
into a brilliant and smokeless flame.
The earliest table-lamps constructed on Argand’s principle had one serious
defect——the oil vessels had to be placed almost on a level with the
burners, in a position which caused them to cast objectionable shadows.
This defect was almost entirely removed by making the oil vessel in the
form of a flattish ring, connected by slender tubes with the burner. The
more elegant contrivances, known as the MODERATOR LAMP and CARCEL LAMP,
which are now so much used for burning colza and similar oils, cast no
shadow. In these the oil, instead of being sucked up by the wick, or
descending to it by the force of gravity, is driven up by mechanical means
from the oil-reservoir contained in the foot or pedestal. A spiral spring,
acting upon a piston, elevates the oil in the ‘moderator,’ while a little
pump worked by clockwork does the same duty in the ‘Carcel.’ The burner
and wick in each are formed on Argand’s principle.
For burning the hydrocarbon oils distilled from coal and petroleum, lamps
of very simple construction are used. These oils, in consequence of their
diffusive character, rise to a considerable height up a wick, and
therefore do not require mechanical lamps. The wicks of HYDRO-CARBON LAMPS
are usually flat, but sometimes circular. To cause perfect combustion, a
strong draught of air is created by placing over the flame a tall glass
chimney, usually much contracted above the flame. A metallic cap, with an
orifice the shape of the flame, is placed over the burner, its use being
to deflect the currents of air upon the flame. The reservoirs of
hydro-carbon lamps ought always to be constructed of some bad conductor of
heat, as glass or porcelain.
[Illustration]
For chemical operations, many forms of lamp are used. The ordinary glass
SPIRIT-LAMP, fitted with a ground-glass cap, is quite indispensable for
minor experiments. (See _engr._ 1.) Stoneware wick-holders are preferable
to those of brass, which become greatly heated, and endanger the splitting
of the glass. “An effective spirit-lamp may at any time be constructed out
of a vial having a glass tube passing through the cork, a cover being
formed from a test-tube inverted over the wick, and fitting with moderate
tightness on the superior extremity of the cork” (Greville Williams).
Alcohol or wood spirit is the fuel used.
The ARGAND LAMP, when intended as a source of heat for chemical purposes,
is so modified as to adapt it to burn either oil, spirit of wine, or
wood-spirit, and the combustion is greatly aided by the chimney, which in
this case is made of copper. (See _engr._ 2 and 3.) The lamp itself is
also made of metal, and furnished with ground caps to the wick-holder and
aperture by which the spirit is introduced, in order to prevent loss of
spirit by evaporation when the lamp is not in use. When in use this
aperture must always be left open, otherwise an accident is sure to
happen, as the heat expands the air in the lamp, and the spirit is
forcibly expelled.
In those situations in which coal-gas is cheap, it may be used with great
economy and advantage as a source of heat in most chemical operations.
Retorts, flasks, capsules, and other vessels, can be thus exposed to an
easily regulated and constant temperature for many successive hours. Small
platinum crucibles may be ignited to redness by placing them over the
flame on a little wire triangle. Of the various gas-lamps now used in the
laboratory, the first and most simple consists of a common Argand
gas-burner fixed on a heavy and low foot, and connected with a flexible
gas-tube of caoutchouc or other material. (See _engr._ 4.) With this
arrangement it is possible to obtain any degree of heat, from that of the
smallest blue flame to that which is sufficient to raise a moderately
large platinum crucible to dull redness. When gas mixed with a certain
proportion of air is burnt, a pale blue flame, free from smoke, and
possessing great heating power, is obtained. A lamp for burning the
mixture may easily be made by fitting a close cover of fine wire gauze
over the top of the chimney of the last-mentioned contrivance. The gas is
turned on, and after a few minutes ignited above the wire gauze. (See page
946). The ingenious and useful burners of Bunsen and Griffin are so
constructed that gas and air mixed in any proportions, or gas alone, may
be burnt at pleasure. Bunsen’s is a most efficient and convenient form of
burner. (See illustration on next page.) It consists of a gas jet,
surrounded by a metal tube, about 6 to 9 inches high and about 1/2 inch in
diameter; having at the bottom four large holes. On the admission of air,
when the gas is turned on, the air rushes in by these orifices, and
mingling with the gas, the mixture ascends to the top of the tube and is
there ignited, giving rise to a flame of great heat, but without
luminosity, owing to the simultaneous combustion of the carbon and the
hydrogen. The burner, however, is so contrived that by shutting off the
supply of air entirely, or limiting it, the flame may be made more or less
luminous at pleasure. To distribute the flame, a rosette burner is placed
on the top of the tube.
[Illustration]
An improved variety of this burner has been designed by Bunsen, and is
figured below.
[Illustration: FIG. 1.]
[Illustration: FIG. 2.——IMPROVED BUNSEN BURNER.]
It is so contrived as to give a flame that is a very much better
substitute for the flame of the blowpipe, than the ordinary Bunsen’s
burner, and may hence be employed for reducing, oxidising, fusing, and
volatilising, as well as for the observation of coloured flames. Fig. 1 is
a sheath which, by turning round, regulates the admission of air. When it
is used the conical chimney, _d d d d_, is placed in _e e_; it is of a
size sufficient to allow of the flame burning tranquilly. In fig. 1 the
flame is represented of half its natural size. This flame it will be seen
consists of three divisions, viz.——1, _a a a a_ the dark zone, which is
composed of cold gas mixed with about 62 per cent. of air. 2, _a c a b_
the mantle formed by the burning mixture of gas and air. 3, _a b a_, the
luminous tip of the dark cone, which only appears when the orifices for
the air are partially closed. Reductions may be performed in this part of
the flame.
Bunsen, however, divides the flame into six parts, to which he attributes
as many functions. These six divisions of the flame he names as follows:——
1. _The base_ at α has a relatively low temperature, because the burning
gas is here cooled by the constant current of fresh air, and also because
the lamp itself conducts the heat away. This part of the flame serves for
discovering the colours produced by readily volatile bodies, when less
volatile matters which colour the flame are also present. At the
relatively low temperature of this part of the flame, the former vaporises
alone instantaneously, and the resulting colour imparted to the flame is
for a moment visible unmixed with other colours.
2. _The Fusing Zone._ This lies at β, at a distance from the bottom of
somewhat more than one third of the height of the flame, equidistant from
the outside and the inside of the mantle, which is broadest at this part.
This is the hottest part of the flame, viz., about 2300°, and it therefore
serves for testing substances, as to their fusibility, volatility,
emission of light, and for all processes of fusion at a high temperature.
3. _The lower Oxidising Zone_ lies in the outer border of the fusing zone
at γ, and is especially suitable for the oxidation of oxides dissolved in
vitreous fluxes.
4. _The upper Oxidising Flame_ at ε consists of the non-luminous tip of
the flame. Its action is strongest when the air holes of the lamp are
fully open. It is used for the roasting away of volatile products of
oxidation, and generally for all processes of oxidation, when the highest
temperature is not required.
5. _The lower Reducing Zone_ lies at δ, in the inner border of the fusing
zone next to the dark cone. The reducing gases are here mixed with oxygen,
and, therefore, do not possess their full power, hence they are without
action on many substances which are deoxidised in the upper reducing
flame. This part of the flame is especially suited for reduction on
charcoal or in vitreous fluxes.
6. _The upper Reducing Flame_ lies at η, in the luminous tip of the dark
inner cone, which, as already explained, may be produced by diminishing
the supply of air. This part of the flame must not be allowed to get large
enough to blacken a test tube filled with water and held in it. It
contains no free oxygen, is rich in separated incandescent carbon, and
therefore has a much stronger action than the lower reducing zone. It is
used more particularly for the reduction of metals collected in the form
of incrustations.
The subjoined is a drawing of the gauze burner, which is an open cylinder
with wire gauze at the top.
[Illustration: Argand’s lamp, with wire-gauze cap.]
When this is placed over the gas burner, a supply of air is drawn in at
the bottom by the ascending current of gas, and the mixture burns above
the gauze, with a very hot flame, quite free from smoke, the metallic
meshes preventing the flame from passing down to the gas below. See
ILLUMINATION, FUEL, FURNACE, GAS, LABORATORY, &c.
=Lamp, Flame′less.= _Syn._ GLOW LAMP. A coil of fine platinum wire is
slipped over the wick of a spirit lamp, the greater part being raised
above the cotton; the lamp is supplied with ether or alcohol, lighted for
a moment and then blown out. The coil continues to glow in the mixed
atmosphere of air and combustible vapour, until the liquid in the lamp is
exhausted.
=Lamp, Monochromat′ic.= A lamp fed with a mixture of a solution of common
salt and spirit of wine. It gives a yellow light, and makes every object
illuminated by it appear either yellow or black. The human features are
changed in a remarkable degree; the countenance appearing truly ghastly
and unearthly.
=Lamp, Safety.= _Syn._ MINER’S LAMP, DAVY, GEORDY. The safety lamp of Sir
H. Davy and George Stephenson are similar in principle, and were
independently invented about the same time. That of Sir H. Davy consists
of a common oil lamp, surmounted with a cylinder of wire gauze, the
apertures of which are not greater than the 1/20th of an inch square, and
the wire of which it is made to the 1/40th to the 1/60th of an inch in
diameter. (See _engr._) The fire-damp (carbonetted hydrogen) along with
air passes through the meshes into the interior of the gauze cylinder.
Here it ignites, but the flame which is produced by its combustion cannot
explode a mixture of fire-damp and air by which the lamp may be
surrounded. The flame is prevented from passing to the exterior of the
gauze by the cooling action of the metal of which it is constructed. When
this lamp is taken into an explosive atmosphere, although the fire-damp
may burn within the cage with such energy as sometimes to heat the
metallic tissue to dull redness, the flame is not communicated to the
mixture on the outside. These appearances are so remarkable, that the lamp
becomes an admirable indicator of the state of the air in different parts
of the mine, and if its admonitions are attended to, gives the miner time
to withdraw before an explosion takes place.
[Illustration]
=Lamp, Telescope.= This ingenious contrivance, invented by Messrs Murray
and Heath, is intended for microscopic illumination. It consists of three
brass tubes, sliding one within the other, the oil vessel being contained
in the inner tube. The height of the lamp is regulated to the greatest
nicety by simply turning one tube in the other, interior spiral guides
preventing all chance of slipping. The great advantage of this arrangement
is absence of the stand and bar usually employed for raising and lowering
the lamp, which enables it to be used on all sides, and to be brought much
closer to the microscope than other lamps. See _engr._, below.
[Illustration]
=LAMP BLACK.= See BLACK PIGMENTS.
=LAMP′REY.= _Syn_. GREAT LAMPREY, SEAL. This fish is the _Petromizon
marinus_ of Linnæus. It generally quits the sea in the spring, for the
purpose of spawning, and remains in our rivers for a few months. Its flesh
is soft and glutinous, and though esteemed a delicacy, is extremely
difficult of digestion, if not otherwise unwholesome. Potted lampreys are
usually so highly seasoned as to become a dangerous article of food. Henry
I is said to have lost his life from the effects of a surfeit of lampreys.
=LAUDANINE.= C_{20}H_{25}NO_{3}. An alkaloid obtained by Hesse from the
aqueous extract of opium. It is homologous with morphine and codeine. It
dissolves in strong sulphuric acid with a rose-red colour, in strong
nitric acid with an orange red colour, and in ferric chloride with emerald
green colour.
=LANTHA′NIUM.= La_{92}. A rare metal, discovered by Mosander, associated
with oxide of cerium. Oxide of lanthanium is a pale salmon-coloured
powder, unaffected by ignition in open vessels. According to Zschiesche
the atomic weight of lanthanium is 90·18. See CERIUM.
=LANTHOPINE.= C_{23}H_{25}NO_{4}. A base obtained by Hesse in small
quantity, associated with other bases from the aqueous extract of opium.
It is homologous with papaverine. Strong nitric acid dissolves it, giving
rise to an orange red colour. Strong sulphuric acid gives with it a faint
violet colour.
=LA′PIS.= [L.] A stone. The term was much employed by the old chemists,
and is still commonly applied to several preparations used in medicine.
=Lapis Causticus.= See POTASSIUM.
=Lapis Divi′nus.= _Syn._ DIVINE STONE; LAPIS OPHTHALMICUS, L.; PIERRE
DIVINE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (Beer.) Verdigris, nitre, and alum, equal parts,
melted together.
2. (P. Cod.) Alum, nitre, and blue vitriol, of each 3 oz.; camphor, 1 dr.;
as last.
3. (Woolfuss.) Blue vitriol, nitre, alum, and camphor, equal parts, melted
together, adding the camphor last. Astringent and detergent. 1 oz.,
dissolved in water, 1 pint, formed a once celebrated lotion. 1 dr. in
water, 1 pint, is still used as a collyrium.
=Lapis Inferna′lis.= See NITRATE OF SILVER.
=Lapis Lazu′li.= See ULTRAMARINE.
=Lapis Lydius.= _Syn._ LYDIAN STONE. A siliceous slate, used as a
touchstone by jewellers.
=Lapis Medicamento′sus.= _Syn._ MEDICINAL STONE; LAPIS MIRABILIS, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746.) Alum, litharge, and Armenian bole, of each 6 oz.;
colcothar of green vitriol, 3 oz.; vinegar, 4 fl. oz.; mix, and evaporate
to dryness. Formerly used to make an astringent and detergent lotion:——1
oz. to water, 1 pint. Once a popular application to ulcers, and in other
cases; now disused.
=Lapis Vulnerar′ius.= Very similar to LAPIS DIVINUS.
=LARCH BARK.= The inner bark of the _Larix Europœa_, the common larch, has
been lately introduced, under the form of a tincture, into the British
Pharmacopœia.
Dr Stenhouse obtained from the bark a peculiar volatile constituent,
possessed of acid properties for which the name of lariximic acid has been
proposed. The other trees of the pine family are deficient in this acid.
The young bark abounds most in it. Gum, starch, resin, and that variety of
tannic acid, which forms olive green precipitates with the salts of iron,
have also been found, in addition to other substances, in larch bark.
The inner bark, employed internally, has a special action on the mucous
membranes, and acts as an astringent and mild stimulant. It is said to
have been given with excellent results in hæmoptysis, as well as in
bronchitis attended with copious expectoration, and in diseases of the
urinary passages. Externally has been found serviceable in psoriasis,
chronic eczema, and some other skin diseases. It is best to combine its
extract or tincture with glycerin when it is to be used outwardly. See
TINCTURE OF LARCH BARK.
=LARD.= _Syn._ HOG’S LARD, AXUNGE; ADEPS (Ph. L.), AXUNGIA (Ph. E.), A.
SUILLUS (Ph. D.), A. PORCI, A. PRÆPARATUS (B. P.), L. The fat of the pig
(_Sus scrofa_——Linn.) melted by a gentle heat, and strained through
flannel or a hair sieve. The fat about the loins yields the whitest and
hardest lard. “That which has been cured with chloride of sodium is not to
be employed.” (Ph. L.) “It is not to be used without being first carefully
washed with water.” (Ph. L. 1866.) Used chiefly to make ointments, and in
cookery. See ADEPS.
=LARD′ING.= By many this is regarded as belonging to the higher style of
cookery only, and too troublesome and extravagant to be adapted to the
kitchens of the middle classes and the poor. This, we are assured, is not
the case. On the contrary, “it is an economical process, and will make
lean meat go much farther than without it.” The process of larding is as
follows:——“Get what is called a larding needle, that is, a piece of steel
from 6 to 9 inches long, pointed at one end, and having four slits at the
other to hold a small strip of bacon when put between them. It will,
perhaps, cost tenpence. Cut the bacon into pieces 2 or 3 inches long, and
1/4 to 1/2 an inch square; put each one after the other in the pin, insert
it in the meat, and leave only about half an inch out; using 8 pieces to
each pound.” (Soyer.)
=LARK.= The _Alauda arvensis_ (SKYLARK) and the _Alauda cristata_
(FIELD-LARK), with several other species of the same genus, form a light
and nutritious article of food, by many esteemed a delicacy. The last,
according to Galen and Dioscorides, eaten either roasted or boiled, ‘helps
the colic.’ The heart, applied to the thigh, was also regarded to possess
the same virtue.
=LARYNGITIS.= Inflammation of the larynx, or upper part of the windpipe.
The symptoms that indicate this most dangerous malady are sore throat,
accompanied with considerable pain in front of the throat, difficulty in
breathing and swallowing, considerable hoarseness, change or loss of
voice, a sense of suffocation, fever, restlessness, flushing of the face,
and an eager desire for fresh air. We have described the accompaniments of
this dread disease, in order that any one seized with an attack may know
its nature, and at once send for his medical attendant. Should
circumstances prevent his doing so immediately, as many leeches as
possible should be applied to the centre of the throat.
=LAUD′ANUM.= This name is now understood to denote, exclusively, the
common tincture of opium of the Pharmacopœia; but formerly the term was
applied to several preparations of opium differing greatly from each
other, both in their strength and mode of preparation. (See _below_.)
=Laudanum, Dutchman’s.= From the flowers of bull’s hoof or Dutchman’s
laudanum (_Passiflora merucuja_——Linn.) infused in rum. Narcotic. Used as
a substitute for tincture of opium in the West Indies.
=Laudanum, Ford’s.= This is merely the common tincture of opium aromatised
with a little cloves and cinnamon.
=Laudanum, Houlton’s.= _Prep_. From opium 2-1/2 oz.; distilled vinegar,
1-1/2 pint; digested together for a week, the filtered tincture gently
evaporated nearly to dryness, and then redissolved in weak spirit (1 of
rectified spirit to 7 of water), 1 quart.——_Dose_, 10 to 60 drops.
=Laudanum, Neumann’s.= A fermented infusion of opium evaporated to the
consistence of honey.
=Laudanum, Quince.= _Syn_. EXTRACTUM OPII CYDONIATUM, LAUDANUM CYDONIATUM,
L. _Prep_. 1. Extract of opium made with quince juice; a few drops of the
oils of cinnamon, cloves, and mace being added before the mass cools. Now
seldom used.
2. LAUDANUM, LIQUID-QUINCE; (LAUDANUM LIQUIDUM CYDONIATUM, L.) (L. C.
PARATUM FERMENTATIONE, L.) A fermented infusion of opium prepared with
quince juice, aromatised with cloves, cinnamon, aloes wood, and yellow
sandal wood, and evaporated so as to possess about twice the strength of
the ordinary tincture. Now obsolete.
=Laudanum, Rousseau’s.= Wine of opium prepared by fermentation. See WINE.
=Laudanum, Smith’s Concentrated.= Resembles Battley’s LIQUOR OPII
SEDATIVUS, but possesses about 6 times its strength.
=Laudanum, Swediaur’s.= _Prep_. From extract of opium, 2 parts, dissolved
in a mixture of alcohol, 1 part, distilled water, 8 parts. Every 5 drops
contain 1 gr. of opium.
=Laudanum, Sydenham’s Liquid.= _Syn_. LAUDANUM LIQUIDUM SYDENHAMI, L.
Similar to WINE OF OPIUM——Ph. L., but rather stronger, and aromatised with
a little cloves and cinnamon. Wine of opium is now always sold for it.
=Laudanum, Tartarised.= _Syn._ LAUDANUM LIQUIDUM TARTARIZATUM, L. A
tincture of opium prepared with spirit alkalised with salt of tartar, and
flavoured with aromatics. Obsolete.
=LAUGH′ING GAS.= See NITROUS OXIDE.
=LAUR′EL.= See CHERRY LAUREL, SWEET BAY, OIL, &c.
=LA′VA.= The matter thrown out by volcanoes. The beautiful ornamental
vases, jugs, and other objects sold under the name, are a superior sort of
unglazed coloured porcelain.
=LAVE′MENT.= See ENEMA.
=LAV′ENDER.= The flowers or flowering tops of _Lavandula vera_ or common
garden lavender. An essential oil, spirit, and tincture, prepared from it,
are officinal in the Pharmacopœias.
=Lavender Dye= (for COTTON). For 100 yards of material. Take 1 lb. of
logwood, and 2 lbs. of sumach, and scald them separately. Then decant them
into a proper sized tub, let them cool to 150° Fahr., and add 2 gills of
vitriol. Winch the goods in this 20 minutes; lift, and run them slightly
through acetate of iron; wash them in two waters; then give 1 lb. of
logwood as before, raise with a pint of chloride of tin, wash in two
waters; then in a tub of cold water put 4 oz. extract of indigo, enter and
winch in this 15 minutes, lift; give one water, and dry.
=Lavender Dye= (for WOOL). Boil 5-1/2 lbs. of logwood with 2 lbs. of alum.
Then add 10 oz. of extract of indigo. When cold put in the goods, and
gradually raise to the boiling point. For 50 lbs.
=Lavender, Red.= See TINCTURE.
=Lavender, Smith’s British.= _Prep._ From English oil of lavender, 2 oz.;
essence of ambergris, 1 oz.; eau de Cologne, 1 pint; rectified spirit, 1
quart. Very fragrant. See WATER (Lavender).
=Lavender, to Dye Silk.= (Mustpratt.) Into a vessel with warm water, as
hot as the hand can bear, dissolve a little white soap, enough to raise a
lather; then add one gill of archil liquor, and work the goods in this for
fifteen minutes; ring out and dry.
Boil one ounce of cudbear, and add the solution to the soap and water
instead of archil, which will give a lavender having a redder tint than
with the archil. If a still redder shade of lavender be required the soap
may be dispensed with.
=Lavender Water.= See SPIRITS, PERFUMED.
=LAX′ATIVES.= _Syn._ LENITIVES; LAXATIVA, LAXANTIA, LENITIVA, L. Mild
purgatives or cathartics. The principal of these are——almond oil, cassia
pulp, castor oil, confection of senna, cream of tartar, figs, grapes,
honey, phosphate of soda, prunes, salad oil, tamarinds, &c.
=LAY′ERS.= Among gardeners, a mode of propagating plants, by laying down
the shoots of young twigs, and covering a portion of them with the soil,
without detaching them from the parent plant. To facilitate the rooting of
such layers, the part beneath the soil is fractured by twisting or
bruising it, or it is partly cut through with a sharp knife, immediately
under a bud. When the layer has taken root, it is divided from the parent
stem, and transplanted or potted. In this way, with a little care, nearly
all plants may be multiplied.
=LEAD.= Pb. Eq. 207. _Syn._ PLUMBUM. This metal, like gold, silver, and
iron, appears to have been known in the most remote ages of antiquity. The
ore from which it is almost exclusively extracted, as being the only one
found in abundance, is the native sulphide or sulphuret of lead, called by
mineralogists galena.
_Prep._ On the large scale lead is obtained by roasting galena in a
reverberatory furnace, and smelting the residue along with coal and lime.
The lead thus obtained generally contains small quantities of both silver
and gold, which it often pays to extract, by a method termed ‘Pattinson’s
process.’ This process is founded on the circumstance that, when melted,
lead containing silver is allowed to cool. The lead crystallises out
first, leaving an alloy of lead and silver still fused. By removing the
crystals of lead, as formed, until about four fifths are removed, the
residue is an alloy of lead and silver much richer than the original.
Repeated several times, this yields a rich alloy of silver and lead that
is expelled and the silver obtained.
Another method for the removal of silver from lead is one employed in
Glasgow, and known as the ‘Flack-Guillim’ process. It is thus described in
‘Dingler’s Polytechnic Journal,’ ccxxxv, 67-70, and in ‘Engineering’ for
September 15th, 1876. “Eighteen tons of rich lead are melted, and one per
cent. of zinc added. The molten mass then allowed to cool, the crust which
forms is removed, and the lead sweated out in a small pot. The lead in the
large pot is then treated with another half per cent. of zinc in the same
way. A third addition of a quarter per cent. of zinc suffices to remove
the greater part of the remaining silver, 5 dwts. being left in the lead
per ton. This lead is then run into the improving pan, and the last traces
of zinc oxidised out.”
Pure lead for chemical purposes may be obtained as follows, although the
lead of commerce is nearly pure:
By reducing nitrate of lead with charcoal.
By heating the oxide left by igniting pure acetate of lead with black
flux.
_Prop., &c._ The general properties of lead are too well known to require
notice here. The sp. gr. of that of commerce is about 11·35; but in a
state of absolute purity its greatest density is 11·45. It melts at about
600° Fahr., and when very slowly cooled, crystallises in octahedrons. At a
white heat it boils, and is volatilised. When exposed to moist air, it
soon becomes covered with a grey film. It is scarcely acted on by
hydrochloric or sulphuric acids, although after some time both coat it
with a film of chloride or sulphate. It is rapidly acted on by nitric
acid, with formation of the nitrate. Pure water put into a leaden vessel
and exposed to the air soon corrodes it, and dissolves the newly formed
oxide; but river and spring water have little action upon lead, provided
there is no free carbonic acid present, the carbonates and sulphates in
such water destroying their solvent powers. It has been found that a very
small amount of phosphate of sodium or of iodide of potassium, dissolved
in distilled water, prevents its corrosive action on this metal. The lead
in contact with such water gradually becomes covered with a superficial
film of an insoluble salt of lead, which adheres tenaciously, and prevents
further change. From this it appears that ordinary water (‘hard water’),
which abounds in mineral salts, may be more or less safely kept in leaden
cisterns; but distilled water and rain water, and all other varieties that
contain scarcely any saline matter, speedily corrode, and dissolve a
portion of lead, when kept in vessels of that metal. When, however, leaden
cisterns have iron or zinc fastenings or braces, a galvanic action is set
up, the preservative power of saline matter ceases, and the water speedily
becomes contaminated with lead, and unfit for consumption as a beverage.
Water containing carbonic anhydride also acts on lead, and this is the
reason why the water of some springs (although loaded with saline matter),
when kept in leaden cisterns, or raised by leaden pumps, possesses
unwholesome properties.
M. Fordos, in a communication to the ‘Journal de Pharmacie et de Chimie,’
xix, 20, states that in the course of some experiments on the
applicability of lead for water pipes and cisterns he could not detect a
trace of lead in ten litres of river water taken from the leaden cistern
of one of the Paris hospitals. But upon shaking pure water with shot and
air, a coating of carbonate of lead was formed on the sides of the bottle,
which almost rendered the glass opaque. On dissolving the film in nitric
acid, and estimating the lead, it was found that one litre of water had
produced five milligrammes of the carbonate. Wine and vinegar would also
dissolve that film; and as shot is commonly used for cleaning wine
bottles, lead frequently finds its way into wines, a fact which may
account for many of the cases of chronic poisoning by lead which occur in
large towns. The detection of small quantities of lead in forensic
investigation would afford, therefore, no proof of any intentional
poisoning.
Orfila’s erroneous statement that lead is a normal constituent of the
human organism may also be accounted for in this way.
Free carbonic acid is evolved during the fermentation or decay of
vegetable matter, and hence the absolute necessity of preventing the
leaves of trees falling into water-cisterns formed of lead. The ‘eau de
rose’ and the ‘eau d’orange’ of commerce, which are pure distilled water
holding in solution small quantities of essential oil, and are imported in
leaden canisters, always contain a small quantity of lead, and deposit a
sediment, which is not the case when they are kept in glass or
incorrodible vessels.
Lead and all its preparations are highly poisonous; and whether imbibed in
almost infinitesimal quantities with our daily beverages and food, or
swallowed in larger and appreciable doses, is productive of the most
disastrous consequences, the real cause being unfortunately seldom
suspected.
Mr G. Bischof[13] writes:——Some eight months ago a tube was passed in my
laboratory, which is supplied with water by the New River Company, into
the slate cistern so as to act as a syphon to supply some apparatus with
water. The external surface of the tube inside the cistern was therefore
alternately exposed to the action of air and water, according to the level
of water in the cistern.
[Footnote 13: ‘Journal of the Chemical Society,’ April, 1867.]
Recently I noticed a white efflorescence on the greater part of the tube
inside the cistern. An adjoining cistern of sheet lead, with a lead
overflow pipe fixed into the bottom, shows nowhere any such corrosion.
On cutting the tube it became evident that it is a composition tube, that
is to say, a lead tube, containing some antimony. On analysis it was found
to be composed of——
Lead 98·3
Antimony 1·7
————
100·0
Although the external diameter of the tube is only half an inch, 0·29 gram
of efflorescence was obtained per foot by gentle rubbing. This dried at
100° C. contained 1·02 per cent. of sulphuric acid, corresponding with 4·1
per cent. of sulphate of lead. The remainder, except 1·13 per cent. of a
residue insoluble in nitric acid, is carbonate of lead.
The alternate exposure to air and water appears not essential to the
corrosion, as I have observed a similar effect when the same tubing
remained constantly under water. The interior of the tube has also been
corroded, although of course no permanent efflorescence could be formed,
owing to the rapid flow of the water.
The frequent practice of plumbers of using composition tubing in
connection with water supplies is therefore highly reprehensible, being
fraught with considerable danger to the health of those using the water
for drinking or cooking.
Mr Louis Siebold detected lead in eight out of ten samples of concentrated
solution of acetate of ammonia as well as in a sample of the ordinary
solution of the British Pharmacopœia. In pursuing his investigations Mr
Siebold found that solutions of acetate of ammonium are capable of
dissolving lead from glass. He therefore advises that all forms of the
solution, more particularly the concentrated liquor employed by many
chemists for making the weaker solutions, should be kept in bottles free
from lead.
With the acids lead or its oxides form salts, usually white in colour, and
in the majority nearly insoluble in water, but readily soluble in acids.
_Tests._ The oxides and salts of lead, mixed with a little carbonate of
soda, and exposed on a charcoal support to the reducing flame of the
blowpipe, readily yield a soft and ductile globule of metallic lead, and
the charcoal, at the same time, becomes covered with a yellowish
incrustation of oxide of lead. Both metallic lead and its oxides are
soluble in nitric acid, furnishing a solution which may be examined with
ease.
Solution of lead salts may be recognised by the following
reactions:——Sulphuretted hydrogen, sulphydrate of ammonium, and the
alkaline sulphides, give black precipitates, insoluble in the cold dilute
acids, alkalies, alkaline sulphides, and cyanide of potassium. Potassium
and sodium hydrates give a white precipitate, soluble in excess. Ammonia
(except with the acetate) gives a white precipitate, insoluble in excess.
The carbonates of potassium, sodium, and ammonium, give a white
precipitate, insoluble in excess. Dilute sulphuric acid (in excess), and
solutions of the sulphates give a white precipitate, sparingly soluble in
dilute acids, but soluble in a hot boiling solution of potassium
carbonate. Chromate and bichromate of potassium give yellow precipitates
insoluble in dilute nitric acid, and soluble in solution of potassium
hydrate. Iodide of potassium gives a yellow precipitate, soluble in great
excess by heat, and separating in small, brilliant, golden-yellow scales,
as the liquid cools. A piece of polished zinc precipitates metallic lead
in an arborescent form, hence called the lead tree. To prepare for these
tests, a solid supposed to contain lead should be digested in nitric acid,
when the solution, evaporated to dryness and redissolved in water, may be
tested as above.
_Estim._ This has been already referred to under previous heads. The ores
of lead (galena) may be digested in nitric acid, when the solution may be
treated with sulphuric acid, and the lead estimated from the weight of the
precipitated sulphate. This is called an assay in the wet way. The method
adopted by practical mineralogists is an assay in the dry way, and is
conducted as follows:——A small but powerful air-furnace, charged with
coke, is brought to as high a temperature as possible, and a conical
wrought-iron crucible plunged into the midst of it; as soon as the
crucible has attained a dull-red heat, 1000 gr. of the galena, reduced to
powder, are thrown into it, and stirred gently with a long piece of stiff
iron wire flattened at the one end, in order to expose as large a surface
of the powdered ore to the air as possible, observing now and then to
withdraw the wire, to prevent it becoming red hot, in which case some of
the ore would permanently adhere to it, and be reduced before the intended
time; the roasting is completed in 3 or 4 minutes, and any portion of the
ore adhering to the stirrer being detached by a knife, and returned into
the crucible, the latter is covered up, and allowed to attain a full
cherry-red heat, when about 2 or 3 spoonfuls of reducing flux are added,
and the whole brought to a full white heat; in 12 to 15 minutes, the
portion of metal and scoria adhering to the sides of the crucible are
scraped down into the melted mass with a small stick of moist green wood,
after which the crucible is again covered, and the heat urged for 2 or 3
minutes longer, so as to keep the mass in a perfectly liquid state during
the whole time; the crucible is then removed from the fire with the
crucible-tongs, and adroitly tilted so as to discharge its contents into a
small, ingot-mould of brass, observing to rake the scoria from the surface
to the sides of the crucible, so as to allow the molten lead to be poured
out without it; the scoria is then reheated in the crucible with about 1/2
spoonful of flux, and after being cleansed with a piece of green wood, as
before, is at once poured into a second mould, which is instantly
inverted; the little button of lead thus obtained is added to the lead in
the other mould, and the whole is accurately weighed. The weight, divided
by 10, gives the per-centage of lead (including silver, if present) in the
ore examined.
One half of the lead thus obtained is put into a dry cupel of bone ash,
and placed in the cupelling furnace, and treated as described in the
article on assaying; the metallic button left on the cupel is then
detached and weighed. The weight, divided by 5, gives the per-centage of
pure silver.
_Obs._ The flux commonly employed in the above assay is composed of red
argol, 6 parts; nitre, 4 parts; borax, 2 parts; fluor spar, 1 part; well
pulverised and thoroughly mixed together. When the ore is very refractory,
about a spoonful of carbonate of potassium should be added for each 1000
grains of ore, in which case the roasting may be dispensed with. The
quantity of silver in argentiferous galena varies from 3/10000 to 1/3 part
of the whole. Whenever this ore contains above 2 parts of silver in the
1000, it is found to be profitable to extract the latter. Indeed, by
Pattison’s process it is found that as small a proportion as 1 in 8000 can
be extracted with profit.
_Uses._ The uses of lead in the arts are well known. It enters into the
composition of many important alloys (pewter, type-metal, shot-metal,
solder, &c.), it furnishes us with several valuable pigments (chrome
yellow, &c.), and it is extensively used in dyeing. Some of its
preparations are employed in medicine.
_Ant., &c._ Administer an emetic of sulphate of zinc or sulphate of
copper, and, if necessary, tickle the fauces with the finger or a feather,
to induce vomiting. Should this not succeed the stomach-pump may be had
recourse to. Epsom or Glauber’s salts, or alum, dissolved in water, or
water acidulated with sulphuric acid, followed by tea, water gruel, or
barley water, are the proper antidotes, and should be taken as soon after
the poison has been swallowed as possible. In poisoning by white lead, Dr
Alfred Taylor recommends the administration of a mixture of sulphate of
magnesium and vinegar, as preferable to the sulphate alone. When the
symptoms are those of painter’s colic, the treatment recommended under
that head should be adopted. In paralysis arising from lead, small doses
of strychnine and its preparations may be cautiously administered. A
symptom of poisoning by lead is the formation of a narrow leaden blue
line, from 1/20th to 1/6th of an inch wide, bordering the edges of the
gums, attached to the neck of two or more teeth of either jaw. (Dr
Burton.) This discoloration may often be detected or rendered more
conspicuous by rinsing the mouth out with water holding a little
sulphuretted hydrogen or sulphydrate of ammonium in solution. Chevallier
and Rayer recommend the use of sulphurous or hepatic mineral waters, or of
artificial solutions of sulphuretted hydrogen or alkaline sulphides in
water, both in cases of acute and chronic poisoning by lead; but the
practical success of this plan does not appear to have been in proportion
to theoretical anticipations. The moist and freshly precipitated sulphides
of iron are said by their advocates to be infallible if taken sufficiently
early.
=Lead in Aerated Water.= Some time since Sir Robert Christison condemned
the use of syphons for lemonade, owing to the action of free tartaric acid
upon lead, and the rapidity with which waters containing any free acid
become charged with lead in syphons. According to Professor Miller, 0·0175
gr. of lead per gallon is not an unusual amount for average cistern water.
Mr John S. Thompson, however, reports to the Edinburgh University Chemical
Society that, after such water has been aerated and put into a syphon, the
amount of lead dissolved in it begins to rise in a rapid manner. Thus in
potash water, drawn from a syphon, 0·0408 grain of lead per gallon was
found to be present, being nearly 25 times the quantity found in the same
water before it entered the syphon. Pure aerated water again drawn in a
similar manner from a syphon gave 0·0816 gr. of lead per gallon, or
exactly double the amount found in the potash water, showing at once the
well-known protective action that salts of the alkalies and alkaline
earths have on lead. “Although,” says the ‘Medical Journal,’ “these
results are sufficiently high and alarming; still, when the water is drawn
off in small quantities at a time, as is frequently the case with
invalids, the results are found to be still higher; thus, when potash
water was so treated, 0·0455 gr. of lead per gallon was found, while
aerated water, drawn off in small quantities, gave 0·0933 gr. of lead per
gallon, showing a very marked rise in both cases. The cause of this
increase in quantity of the lead appears to be owing, not so much to the
lengthened period of contact between the liquid and the metal as to the
fact that the nozzle of the syphon, being exposed to the atmosphere in a
moist state, becomes rapidly oxidised or carbonated, and is left in the
most suitable condition for entering into solution, so that, when merely
small portions of the liquid are drawn off each time, a comparatively
concentrated solution of lead is obtained. These results,” continues the
same authority, “compare accurately with those which were obtained by
Messrs Savory and Moore, in examining the contents of a series of syphons
of aerated water for Dr George Owen Rees, F.R.S., whose attention was
drawn to the subject by detecting symptoms of lead-poisoning in himself
after he had been in the habit for some time of drinking such aerated
water.”
=Lead, Acetate of.= Pb(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ PLUMBIC ACETATE, SUGAR
OF LEAD, PLUMBI ACETAS. (B. P.) _Prep._ Litharge (in fine powder) 24;
acetic acid, 40; distilled water, 20; mix the acetic acid and the water,
add the litharge, and dissolve with the aid of a gentle heat, filter,
evaporate until a pellicle forms, and crystallise. Drain and dry the
crystal.
Acetic acid (sp. gr. 1·0843), 23 parts, is gently heated in a copper
boiler rendered electro-negative by means of a large flat piece of lead
soldered within it, and litharge (pure, and in fine powder), 13 parts, is
sprinkled in; the heat is then continued, with constant stirring, until
the acid is saturated, when the mother-waters of a former process, if any,
are added, and the whole is heated to the boiling point, and allowed to
settle until cold; the clear portion is now decanted, and evaporated in a
similar vessel until the liquor has the sp. gr. 1·266 or 1·267, when it is
run into salt-glazed stone-ware vessels (the edges of which have been well
smeared with candle grease), and allowed to crystallise. The product is 38
to 38-1/2 parts of crystallised sugar of lead. It is found to be
advantageous to preserve a very slight excess of acid during the boiling
and crystallisation, to prevent the formation of any basic acetate the
presence of which impedes the formation of regular crystals.
From litharge, 112 lbs.; acetic acid (sp. gr. 1·057), 128 lbs. _Prop._ 180
to 184 lbs.
_Prop._ Pure acetate of lead forms colourless, transparent, prismatic
crystals, slightly efflorescent in dry air; it is soluble in 8 parts of
alcohol and in 1-1/4 part of cold water; the aqueous solution has a sweet
astringent taste, and feebly reddens litmus, but turns turmeric and the
juice of violets green; when gently heated, it melts in its water of
crystallisation; by continuing the heat, the whole of the water is
expelled, and the dry acetate obtained; at a higher temperature the salt
suffers decomposition, and acetic acid, acetone, &c., is given off.
Commercial acetate of lead is in general a confused crystalline mass,
somewhat resembling broken lump sugar. It is powerfully astringent and
poisonous.
When pure it is completely soluble in distilled water acidulated with
acetic acid forming a transparent colourless solution, “38 grains
dissolved in water require for complete precipitation 200 grains measures
of the volumetric solution of oxalic acid.” (B. P.)
_Uses, &c._ Acetate of lead is extensively employed in dyeing and
calico-printing. In _medicine_ it is used as an astringent, styptic, and
hæmostatic; in pulmonary, uterine, and intestinal hæmorrhage, colliquative
diarrhœa, phthisical sweats, &c. It is usually combined with morphia or
opium, and with acetic acid to prevent it passing into the state of the
poisonous carbonate in the stomach.——_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 2 gr. (Collier); 1
to 2 gr. to 8 or 10 gr., twice or thrice a day (Pereira); 3 gr. to 10 gr.,
every 6 or 8 hours (A. T. Thomson). _Externally_, as a collyrium, 10 gr.
to water, 8 fl. oz. (A. T. Thomson); as a lotion, 20 gr. (A. T. Thomson),
1 dr. (Collier) to water, 8 or 10 fl. oz.; as an injection, 40 gr. to rose
water, 1/2 pint. The lotion is cooling and sedative, and is commonly used
in excoriations, local inflammations, &c.
=Basic Acetates.= There are several of these salts, but only one is of any
importance.
=Tribasic Lead Acetate or Double Plumbic Acetate, and Dioxide.=
Pb(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2} 2PbO. _Syn._ SUBACETATE OF LEAD; BASIC LEAD
CITRATE; GOULARD’S ACETATE OF LEAD; PLUMBI SUBACETAS (B. P.). _Prep._
Litharge, 7; acetate of lead, 10; and distilled water, 40; are boiled half
an hour, and evaporated down, and allowed to crystallise out of contact
with air.
Used under the form of “Plumbi subacetas liquor” v. (B. P.)
=Lead, Arse′′niate of.= Pb_{3}(AsO_{4})_{2}. _Syn._ ARSENATE OF L.; PLUMBI
ARSENIAS, L. _Prep._ Gradually add a solution of acetate of lead to
another of arseniate of sodium. A white, insoluble powder. Proposed as an
external application in certain forms of cancer.
=Lead, Bro′mide of.= PbBr_{2}. _Syn._ PLUMBI BROMIDUM, L. _Prep._ By
precipitating a solution of neutral acetate or nitrate of lead with a
solution of bromide of potassium. A white, crystalline powder, sparingly
soluble in water. It fuses by heat into a red liquid, which turns yellow
when cold. It has been used in the same cases as iodide of lead.
=Lead, Car′bonate of.= PbCO_{3}. _Syn._ PLUMBI CARBONAS, L. _Prep._ By
precipitating a cold solution of either acetate or nitrate of lead with a
solution of an alkaline carbonate, observing to well wash the precipitate
and dry it in the shade. This preparation is seldom employed, the
commercial carbonate (WHITE LEAD) being substituted for it. See WHITE
PIGMENTS.
=Lead, Chloride of.= PbCl_{2}. _Syn._ CHLORIDE LEAD; PLUMBI CHLORIDUM (Ph.
L. 1836). _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1836). Dissolve acetate of lead, 19 oz., in
boiling water, 3 pints; next dissolve chloride of sodium, 6 oz., in
boiling water, 1 pint; mix the two solutions, and when cold wash and dry
the precipitate. A white, crystalline powder.
Dissolve finely powdered litharge in boiling dilute hydrochloric acid,
and set aside the filtered solution to cool. Brilliant colourless needles.
_Prop._ Soluble in 135 parts of cold and in 22 parts of boiling water; it
melts when heated, and solidifies on cooling, forming a horn-like
substance (horn lead; plumbi corneum).
_Uses, &c._ In the Ph. L. 1836, chloride of lead was ordered to be
employed in the preparation of ‘hydrochlorate of morphia.’ Mr Tuson highly
recommends it in cancerous affections, to allay pain and restrain morbid
action, either in the form of a lotion or ointment.
Various mixtures of lead chlorides and oxide are employed as a white
pigment under the name of ‘Pattison’s white.’ It is prepared by rapidly
mixing a boiling solution of lead chloride with an equal volume of lime
water. Another similar compound is called ‘patent yellow’ or ‘Turner’s
yellow.’
=Lead, Chromate of.= PbCrO_{4}. _Syn._ LEMON YELLOW, LEIPSIG YELLOW, PARIS
YELLOW. _Prep._ By adding a filtered solution of acetate or nitrate of
lead to a like solution of chromate of potassium, as long as the
precipitate forms, which is collected, washed with water, and dried. For
information respecting the manufacture of this substance on the large
scale, as a colouring substance (chrome yellow), see YELLOW PIGMENTS.
=Lead, Dichromate of.= _Syn._ CHROME ORANGE, CHROME RED. PbCrO_{4}.PbO.
_Prep._ By adding to a solution of nitrate or acetate of lead a solution
of chromate of potassium, to which an equivalent of potassa has been
added. This compound is of a splendid scarlet colour. See RED PIGMENTS.
=Lead, Cy′anide of.= PbCy_{2}. _Syn._ PLUMBI CYANIDUM, L. _Prep._ By
adding hydrocyanic acid to a solution of acetate of lead, as long as a
precipitate forms, which, after being washed with distilled water, is
dried by a very gentle heat, and preserved from the light and air.
Sometimes used as a source of medicinal hydrocyanic acid.
=Lead, Iodide of.= PbI_{2}. _Syn._ LEAD IODIDE; PLUMBI IODIDUM (B. P., Ph.
L. E. D.). _Prep._ (B. P.) Nitrate of lead, 4; iodide of potassium, 4;
distilled water, a sufficiency. Dissolve with the aid of heat the nitrate
of lead in 30 of water, and the iodide of potassium in 10 of water, mix,
collect the precipitate, wash, and dry at a gentle heat.
_Prop., &c._ A rich yellow-coloured powder, soluble in acetic acid,
alcohol, and boiling water; when heated, it fuses and volatilises in
yellow vapour, but with a higher degree of heat, violet vapours of iodine
are evolved, leaving a residuum (lead) which is wholly soluble in nitric
acid.——_Dose_, 1/4 gr. to 4 gr. or more, made into a pill; as a
deobstruent and resolvent, in enlargements of the cervical, axillary, and
mesenteric glands, and in scrofulous affections and scirrhous tumours.
=Lead, Nitrate of.= Pb(NO_{3})_{2}. _Syn._ PLUMBI NITRAS, L. (B. P., Ph.
E. D.)
_Prep._ (Ph. D.) Litharge (in fine powder), 1 oz.; pure nitric acid, 2 fl.
oz., diluted with water, 1/2 pint; mix, apply a sand-heat, and evaporate
to dryness, occasionally stirring; boil the residuum in water, 2-1/2
pints; filter, acidulate with a few drops of nitric acid, evaporate to a
pellicle, and set the liquid aside to cool; lastly, dry the deposited
crystals on bibulous paper, and preserve them in a well closed bottle.
(Commercial.) By dissolving white lead in dilute nitric acid, and
crystallising.
_Uses, &c._ This salt is extensively used in calico printing, and in the
preparation of the iodide and other salts of lead. It was formerly much
esteemed in asthmas, hæmorrhages, and epilepsy. It is now often used in an
external application in cancer, ulcers, wounds, and various cutaneous
affections. It is the basis of Liebert’s celebrated ‘cosmétique
infallible,’ and of Ledoyen’s ‘disinfecting fluid.’ A very weak solution
is an excellent application to chapped nipples, lips, hands, &c.——_Dose_,
1/2 to 1 gr.; in the form of pill or solution, washed down with a
tablespoonful of water very slightly acidulated with nitric acid.
=Lead, Nitro-sac′charate of.= _Syn._ PLUMBI NITROSACCHARAS, L. _Prep._ (Dr
S. E. Hoskins.) Nitric acid, 1 part; water, 19 parts; mix; in this dilute
acid saccharate of lead (in fine powder) is to be dissolved, and set aside
that crystals may form, which are to be dried by pressure between the
folds of bibulous paper. A weak solution of the salt, acidulated with
saccharic acid, has been employed by Dr Hoskins as a solvent for
phosphatic calculi, with apparent success.
=Lead, Oxide of.= PbO. _Syn._ MONOXIDE OF LEAD, PROTOXIDE OF LEAD, YELLOW
OXIDE OF LEAD, PLUMBI OXYDUM (B. P.) _Prep._ This substance is obtained
perfectly pure by expelling the acid from nitrate of lead, by exposing it
to heat in a platinum crucible; or, still better, by adding ammonia to a
cold solution of nitrate of lead until the liquid becomes faintly
alkaline, washing the precipitate with cold water, drying it, and heating
it to moderate redness for 1 hour.
_Prop., &c._ Pure protoxide of lead has a lemon-yellow colour, and is the
best of all the salts of lead. It is very heavy, slightly soluble in
water, and freely so in acids, particularly when in the hydrated state;
the aqueous solution has an alkaline reaction; at a red heat it melts, and
assumes a semi-crystalline form on cooling; in the melted state it rapidly
attacks and dissolves siliceous matter, with which it unites to form glass
(flint glass); when heated along with organic substances of any kind, it
is easily reduced to the metallic state.
On the commercial scale, this oxide is prepared by heating the grey film
or dross that forms on the surface of melted lead when freely exposed to
the air. When the process is arrested, as soon as the oxide acquires a
uniform yellow colour, it is called massicot; when the heat is still
further increased, until it fuses or partially vitrifies, it forms
litharge of which there are several varieties. See LITHARGE, MASSICOT.
=Lead, Red Oxide of.= _Syn._ RED LEAD, MINIUM. _Prep._ This is prepared by
exposing unfused protoxide of lead to the air for a long time, at a dull
red heat. It is a very heavy powder, of a fine red colour, decomposed by a
strong heat into protoxide of lead, and oxygen gas, which is evolved.
Somewhat uncertain in its composition, but is generally of the composition
Pb_{3}O_{4} or PbO_{2}2PbO. See RED PIGMENT.
=Lead, Dioxide.= PbO_{2}. _Syn._ BINIODIDE OF LEAD, PEROXIDE OF LEAD, PUCE
OXIDE OF LEAD. _Prep._ By digesting red oxide of lead in dilute nitric
acid; or by infusing a mixture of protoxide of lead and chlorate of
potassium at a heat a little below redness, and washing the powdered mass
in water; or by transmitting a current of chlorine gas through a solution
of neutral acetate of lead. This oxide gives up half its oxygen at a red
heat; acids also decompose it. Its chief use is in chemical analysis, to
separate sulphurous acid from certain gaseous mixtures, which it converts
into sulphuric acid, which it at the same time absorbs, forming sulphate
of lead. It has recently been employed as an oxidising agent in the
manufacture of the ANILINE DYES.
=Lead, Pyrolig′nite of.= Sugar of lead made with rough pyroligneous acid.
Used in dyeing, chiefly for the preparation of acetate of alumina.
=Lead, Sac′charate of.= _Syn._ PLUMBI SACCHARAS, L. _Prep._ (Dr S. E.
Hoskins.) Nitric acid, 2 parts; water, 10 parts; mix in a porcelain
capsule, add of sugar, 1 part; and apply heat until reaction ceases; then
dilute the liquid with distilled water, neutralise it with powdered chalk,
filter, and add to the filtrate a solution of acetate of lead, as long as
a precipitate (saccharate of lead) forms; lastly, collect the precipitate
on a filter, wash and dry it. Used to make nitro-saccharate of lead, and
as a source of saccharic acid.
=Lead, Sul′phate of.= PbSO_{4}. _Syn._ PLUMBI SULPHAS, L. This salt occurs
native in transparent octohedra (lead vitriol), and is obtained in large
quantities as a by-product in the preparation of acetate of aluminum for
dyeing.
_Prep._ By adding dilute sulphuric acid to a solution of a soluble salt of
lead. It is very sparingly soluble in water and in dilute sulphuric acid,
soluble in strong hydrochloric acid and bitartrate of ammonium.
=Lead, Sul′phide of.= PbS. _Syn._ PLUMBI SULPHIDE. This occurs abundantly
in nature in the form of GALENA.
_Prep._ By fusing metallic lead with sulphur or by passing sulphuretted
hydrogen through a solution of a salt of lead.
=Lead, Tan′nate of.= _Syn._ PLUMBI TANNAS, L. _Prep._ Precipitate a
solution of acetate of lead with an infusion of galls, and wash and dry
the precipitate. Astringent, sedative, and hæmostatic.——_Dose_, 1 gr. and
upwards, made into a pill. It has been highly recommended in the form of
ointment and cataplasms, in bed-sores, chronic ulcers of the feet, white
swellings, &c.
=Lead, Tar′trate of.= _Syn._ PLUMBI TARTRAS, L. _Prep._ By precipitating
acetate of lead, by tartrate of ammonium, washing and drying.
=LEAD DUST.= _Syn._ PULVIS PLUMBI, PLUMBUM DIVISUM, L. _Prep._ By melting
new lead, adding bruised charcoal, mixing with violent agitation, which
must be continued until the metal ‘sets,’ and then pounding and washing
away the charcoal. Used by potters.
=LEAD, GRANULATED.= _Prep._ By melting new lead, and pouring it in a small
stream from an iron ladle with a hole drilled in its bottom, into a pail
of water. Used to make solutions and alloys.
=LEAD, RED.= See RED PIGMENTS.
=LEAD, WHITE.= See WHITE PIGMENT.
=LEAD PYROPH′ORUS.= See PYROPHORUS.
=LEATH′ER.= _Syn._ CORIUM, CORIUS, L. Leather is the skin of animals which
has been prepared by one or other of several processes adopted for the
purpose, having the common object of preventing its spontaneous
destruction by putrefaction, besides other objects, which are more or less
peculiar to each variety of this useful substance.
Leather is only prepared on the large scale, and primarily either by the
process of ‘TANNING’ or ‘TAWING,’ in the manner briefly described under
these heads.
CURRIED LEATHER is leather which has been tanned, and sold to the currier,
who, after soaking it in water, and rubbing it to soften it, pares it even
with a broad, sharp knife, rubs it with a piece of polished stone or wood,
and, whilst still wet, besmears it with oil or grease (DUBBING), which
gradually penetrates the leather as the moisture evaporates. It next
undergoes the operation of ‘waxing,’ which consists of first rubbing it on
the flesh side with a mixture of oil and lamp black; it is then
‘black-sized’ with a brush or sponge, and, when dry, is lastly ‘tallowed’
with a proper cloth, and ‘slicked’ upon the flesh side with a broad and
polished lump of glass. Leather curried on the hair or grain side, termed
‘black on the grain,’ is blackened by wetting it with iron liquor, and
rubbing it with an iron ‘slicker’ before applying the oil or grease. The
grain is finally raised by the ‘pommel’ or ‘graining board’ passed over it
in various directions.
Leather is dyed or stained by the application, with an ordinary brush, of
any of the strong liquid dyes, in the cold or only gently heated, to the
surface of the skin previously stretched on a board. The surface, when
dry, is commonly finished off with white of egg and the pommel or
smoothing stick. Bookbinders generally employ copperas water as a black
stain or sprinkle; a solution of indigo as a blue one; and a solution of
salt of tartar or common soda, as a brown one.
Leather, before being japanned or varnished, as in the preparation of what
is called ‘ENAMELLED’ and ‘PATENT LEATHER,’ is carefully freed from grease
by the application of absorbent substances or hard pressure between
rollers, and the surface is nicely shaved, smoothed, and polished by
appropriate tools, the varnish is then applied to the grain side for the
former, and the flesh side of the skin for the latter, which is previously
stretched out tight on a board to receive it. The whole is, lastly,
submitted to a gentle stove-heat to harden the varnish; and the process is
repeated, if necessary.
_Uses, &c._ These are well known, and are all but universal. The leather
manufacture of Great Britain is equal in importance and utility to any
other department of our industry, and inferior in point of value and
extent only to those of cotton, wool, and iron. “If we look abroad on the
instruments of husbandry, on the implements used in most of the mechanic
trades, on the structure of a multitude of engines and machines; or if we
contemplate at home the necessary parts of our clothing——breeches, shoes,
boots, gloves——or the furniture of our houses, the books on our shelves,
the harness of our horses, or even the substance of our carriages; what do
we see but instances of human industry exerted upon leather? What an
aptitude has this single material in a variety of circumstances for the
relief of our necessities, and supplying conveniences in every state and
stage of life! Without it, or even without it in the plenty we have it, to
what difficulties should we be exposed?” (Dr Campbell.) Leather is a kind
of natural felt, but of much closer and firmer texture than that of
artificial origin. “The thinner and softer kinds of leather are sometimes
used as body-clothing; but its special and proper purpose is the
manufacture of coverings for the feet, to protect them from cold and
water.” (Eras. Wilson.) See JAPANNING, VARNISH, &c.
=Leather, destruction of, by Gas.= It is well-known that the binding of
books suffer considerable damage, when the books are kept in apartments
lighted by coal gas. That the cause of this deterioration is due, as was
believed, to the combustion of the bisulphide of carbon contained in the
gas, and its consequent oxidation into sulphuric acid, is exemplified by
the following interesting communication from Professor Church, published
in the ‘Chemical News’ for October 19th, 1877. He says:——“Vellum seems
unaffected; morocco suffers least; calf is much injured, and russia still
more so. The disintegration is most rapid with books on the upper shelves
of a library, whither the heated products of combustion ascend, and where
they are absorbed and condensed.
By comparing specimens of old leather, with specimens of new, it is quite
clear that the destructive influence of gas is due mainly to its sulphur.
True there are traces of sulphates in the dye and size of new leather
bindings, but the quantity is insignificant and there is practically no
free sulphuric acid. That leather may be destroyed by the oil of vitriol
produced by the burning of gas in a library is proved by the following
observations and analyses.
The librarian of one of our public libraries forwarded to me the backs of
several volumes, which had been ‘shed’ by the books on the upper shelves
in an apartment lighted by gas. The leather of one of these backs (a
volume of the ‘Archæologia’) was carefully scraped off so as to avoid any
paper or size from underneath. This task of scraping was easy enough, for
the leather was reduced to the consistency of Scotch snuff. On analysis of
the watery extract of this leather, the following figures were obtained:——
Free sulphuric acid in decayed
leather 6·21 per cent.
Combined 2·21 ”
————
8·42
=LEAV′EN.= Dough which has become sour or run into a state of incipient
putrefaction. When a small quantity of it is added to recent dough, it
excites fermentation, but is apt to produce a disagreeable taste and odour
in the bread. It is now superseded by yeast. Both these substances are
used in the same way.
=LEAVES (Medicated).= _Syn._ FOLIA MEDICATA, L. On the Continent several
preparations of this kind are in use. In many cases the leaves of tobacco
deprived of nicotine, by soaking them in water, are dried, and then
moistened or steeped in a tincture or infusion of the medicinal substance.
In this way belladonna, camphor, and henbane, are often administered.
Cruveilhier recommends opiated belladonna leaves for smoking in
troublesome coughs, phthisis, spasmodic asthmas, &c., to be prepared as
follows:——Belladonna leaves, 1 oz., are steeped in an infusion of opium,
10 gr., in water, 1 fl. oz. (or less), and are then carefully dried in the
shade. “MUSTARD LEAVES (Riggollot’s) consist of mustard moistened with
water, spread on paper, and dried.” (Squire.) See CIGARS (in _pharmacy_),
and VEGETABLES.
=Leaves, How to Dissect.= “For the dissection of leaves,” says Mrs
Cussons, “I find the process of maceration too long and tedious, to say
nothing of the uncertainty as to the results. I have therefore adopted the
use of alkali in saturated solution, the specimens to be introduced while
the liquid is heated to the boiling point; the time of immersion to be
regulated by the character of the various leaves and the nature of the
epidermis to be removed. When the specimen is freed from epidermis and
cellular tissue, it must be subjected to the action of chlorine to destroy
the colouring matter. The introduction of peroxide of hydrogen not only
serves to render the lace-like specimen purer in colour, but also
preserves it. In destroying the colouring matter in ferns this also is
invaluable; added to the chlorine it gives a solidity to the bleached
fronds, and appears to equalise the action of the chlorine. For
skeletonising capsules the slow process of maceration by steeping in
rain-water is alone available; a moderate heat may be applied to hasten
the process, but alkali is useless. The only known flower which can be
dissected is the _Hydrangea japonica_. The fibrous nature of the petals
renders it easy to skeletonise in the perfect truss in which it grows.
Skeletonised leaves and capsules appear to gain in the process a toughness
and durability not possessed by them in their natural state.”
=LECANOR′IC ACID.= See ORSELLINIC ACID.
=LEECH.= _Syn._ HIRUDO (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), L. The officinal leech
of the Pharmacopœias is the _Sanguisuga medicinalis_ (_Hirudo
medicinalis_——Cuv.), familiarly known as the ‘old English’ or ‘speckled
leech.’ It is also occasionally called the ‘Hamburg grey’ or ‘Russian
leech,’ from being imported from those parts. Its characteristics
are——Back, greenish or olive green, sometimes almost black or intense
brown, with 6 rusty-red or yellowish longitudinal stripes, which are
mostly spotted with black.——Belly, dirty yellow or light olive green,
spotted more or less with black. The spots are very variable in size and
number; in some cases few, in others so numerous as to form the prevailing
tint of the belly. This variety, which is the most valuable of the
commercial leeches, is chiefly imported from Hamburg.
Another variety of leech, the _Sanguisuga officinalis_, familiarly known
as the ‘Hamburg’ or ‘French green leech,’ is imported from Bordeaux,
Lisbon, and Hamburg. Its characteristics are——Back, brownish olive-green,
with 6 reddish or rusty yellow longitudinal bands.——Belly, light dirty
pea-green, or yellowish green, free from spots, but exhibiting two lateral
stripes. This leech is vastly inferior to the preceding variety, and some
of those imported from France and Portugal are absolutely useless, from
their indisposition to bite, arising from the fraud practised by the
collectors and dealers of gorging them with blood to improve their
appearance before sending them to market. The above are the species of
leech commonly employed in medicine in this country, but many others are
noticed by writers on the subject.
Leeches are best preserved in water obtained from a pond, and occasionally
changed; when kept in spring water they soon die. The introduction of a
hand to which an ill-flavoured medicine or odour adheres into the water in
which they are kept is often sufficient to poison them. The application
of saline matter to the skin of leeches, even in very small quantities,
immediately occasions the expulsion of the contents of the stomach; hence
a few grains of common salt are frequently sprinkled over them, to make
them disgorge the blood which they have swallowed. The frequent changing
of the water in which leeches are kept is injudicious. Once a month in
winter, and once a week in summer, is deemed sufficiently often by the
large dealers, unless the water becomes discoloured or bloody, when it
should be changed every day, or every other day. When clean pond water
cannot be obtained, clean rain water that has been well exposed to the air
should alone be employed. Mr J. R. Kenworthy recommends placing in the
water a few balls of irregular lumps of pure clay, about 2-1/2 inches in
diameter; a method which we can recommend as both simple and successful.
The plan adopted by M. Fée is as follows:——Place 7 inches of a mixture of
moss, turf, and charcoal, in a marble or stone trough, over which sprinkle
some small pebbles. At one end of the trough, and about half way up, place
a thin shelf of stone or marble, pierced with small holes, on which put
first some moss, or portions of marsh horse-tail (_Equisetum palustre_),
and on this a layer of pebbles to keep it down; then pour in water
sufficiently high just to moisten the moss and pebbles, put in the
leeches, and tie over the mouth of the trough with a cloth. Another plan
consists in keeping the leeches in a glass tank, or aquarium, provided
with a pebbly bottom and a few healthy aquatic plants.
_Propag._ According to Dr Wagner, an annual feast on living blood is
necessary to render leeches able to grow and propagate. These conditions
can only be fulfilled by restoring to the breeding cisterns those which
have been already employed. All artificial methods of feeding them by
bladders or sponges of blood have been found to fail. He recommends the
employment of two tanks, with the bottom formed of loam, clay, or turf,
surrounded by an inner border of a similar substance, and an outer one of
sand——the one for leeches fit for medical use——and the other for breeding,
or for such leeches as have been applied. No leeches are to be taken from
the breeding tank until a year has elapsed after their having been applied
and fed with human blood; and their removal to the first tank should take
place in September, or October, as by this time the breeding season is
over. By this plan all leeches that have been applied are to be carefully
restored to the breeding tank, without making them disgorge the blood they
have swallowed.
=LEECH′ING.= This consists in the application of leeches to any vascular
part of the body, for the purpose of withdrawing blood from it, and thus
allaying local inflammation, distension of vessels, &c. Leeches are most
conveniently applied by means of a common pill-box or a wine glass. The
part should be previously washed perfectly clean, and if covered with hair
should be closely shaved. Sometimes leeches are indisposed to bite; in
such cases, allowing them to crawl over a piece of dry linen or calico,
rolling them in porter, moistening the part with a little milk or
sweetened milk, or drawing a little blood by a slight puncture or scratch,
will usually make them bite freely. To stop the bleeding from leech-bites
various plans are adopted, among which the application of nitrate of
silver or creasote, or gentle pressure for some hours with the finger, are
the most successful. Of late years a piece of matico leaf or soldier’s
herb, applied in the same manner as a piece of lint, has been commonly
adopted to stop the bleeding of leech-bites.
=LEEK.= _Syn._ PORRUM, L. The _Allium porrum_ (Linn.). Its general
properties are intermediate between those of the onion and garlic. The
juice is said to be powerfully diuretic, and capable of dissolving
phosphate calculi.
=LEGU′MIN.= Vegetable casein. It is found most abundantly in the seeds of
leguminous (podded) plants, _e.g._ beans, peas, &c., as well as in the
sweet and bitter almond.
In properties it closely resembles the casein of milk.
Legumin may be obtained from peas or from almonds as follows:——After
digesting the crushed seeds for 2 or 3 hours in warm water, the
undissolved portion is removed by straining through linen, and the
strained liquid, after depositing the starch suspended in it, is next
filtered and mixed with diluted acetic acid. The white flocculent
precipitate which is thus produced, is then collected on a filter and
washed. It is afterwards dried, powdered, and digested, first in alcohol,
and afterwards in ether.
Rochleder considered that, as thus obtained by Dumas and Cahours, it was
not absolutely pure, since as it was not entirely soluble in a cold
concentrated solution of potash, he recommended the alkaline solution
being decanted from the undissolved portion, and again precipitated by the
addition of acetic acid.
Legumin as thus prepared was believed by Rochleder to be pure, and was
found on analysis to give results analogous to those furnished by casein.
In the seed, legumin occurs associated with considerable quantities of the
phosphates of calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Rennet coagulates it like
it does the casein of milk, its similarity to which is exemplified by the
manufacture of a kind of cheese from peas and beans by the Chinese.
Dried peas contain about a fourth of their weight of legumin.
=LEM′ON.= _Syn._ LIMO, L. The fruit of the _Citrus limonum_ or lemon tree.
The juice, peel, and essential oil are officinal. See OIL, and _below_.
=LEM′ON AC′ID.= See CITRIC ACID.
=LEM′ON FLA′VOUR.= See ESSENCE OF LEMON.
=LEM′ON JUICE.= _Syn._ LIMONIS SUCCUS (B. P.), SUCCUS LIMONUM (Ph. L. &
D.), L. The juice of the lemon, obtained by squeezing and straining. When
freshly expressed, it is turbid, owing to the presence of mucilage and
extractive matter. These substances render the juice liable to
decomposition, and various methods have from time to time been proposed
for preserving it. Amongst these may be mentioned the addition to the
fresh juice of one per cent. of bisulphite of calcium, or ten per cent. of
proof spirit.
“We have examined the juice expressed from two varieties of lemons, viz.
Palermo and Messina, with the following results:
Palermo. Messina.
“Ounces of juice yielded
by 100 lemons 108 96
Specific gravity of juice 1044·85 1038·56
Percentage of citric acid 8·12 7·04
Percentage of ash 0·289 0·301
“100 parts of the ash of the juice of Palermo lemons gave:
“Sulphuric acid 10·59
Carbonic acid 16·33
Chlorine 0·81
Phosphoric acid 6·74
Ferric phosphate 1·32
Lime 8·89
Magnesia 3·02
Potash 47·84
Soda 3·32
Silica 0·72
Loss 0·42
——————
100·00
“If lemons are kept a few months before squeezing, the yield of juice is
slightly increased, but its specific gravity and percentage of citric acid
remains unaltered. It is erroneous to suppose that the acid of the lemon
is, by keeping, changed into sugar. We have kept lemons for 12 months, and
found that the percentage of acid was not diminished. A certain proportion
of sugar was formed, but at the expense of the soluble starch contained in
the cell-walls of the lemon. Lemon juice on being kept is found to
decrease in density, but the amount of acid remains the same.” (Harkness.)
Lemon juice may be preserved by heating it to 150° Fahr., filtering, and
setting it aside in bottles completely filled. If this process be
performed in the winter, the juice, it is said, may be kept perfectly good
for 12 months. Fresh lemon juice is prevented from decomposition and
rendered fit for exportation by mixing it with 1/10th of alcohol.
(Schweitzer.)
The Merchant Shipping Act of 1867 requires that after a ship has been at
sea ten days 1 oz. of lime or lemon juice, mixed with 1 oz. of sugar and
1/2 pint of water, shall be served out to each of the crew between the
hours of 12 and 1 in the day.
_Adult._ Lemon juice is frequently adulterated, the adulterants being
water, sugar, or gum, and sulphuric or acetic acid. The _modus operandi_
is, to dilute the genuine juice with water, and then bring up the density
with the sugar or gum, and the percentage of acid with one or other of the
above acids. The examination of lemon and lime juice supplied to the navy
is now conducted in the Inland Revenue Laboratory, Somerset House, and it
speaks well for that department when we say that cases of scurvy on board
ships are now of very rare occurrence. No juice is passed unless it comes
up to a certain standard in specific gravity, and percentage of citric
acid, and any sample containing any other acid is at once rejected.
_Prop._ Lemon juice is refrigerant and antiscorbutic, and has long been
extensively employed in the preparation of cooling drinks and effervescing
draughts, which are justly esteemed as wholesome summer beverages, as well
as palliatives in fevers, nausea, &c. In scurvy, there is no remedy equal
to freshly expressed lemon juice; and in acute rheumatism and gout,
according to the united testimony of Dr Owen Rees, Dr Babington, and
numerous Continental practitioners, it has been exhibited with
considerable success. In agues, dysentery, English cholera, nausea, and
vomiting, heartburn, putrid sore-throat, hospital gangrene, syphilis, and
numerous skin diseases, it has proved most serviceable. See CITRIC ACID,
GOUT, &c.
=Lemon Juice, Facti′′tious.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO ACIDI CITRICI, SUCCUS LIMONUM
FACTITIUS, L. _Prep._ 1. Citric acid, 1-1/4 oz.; carbonate of potassa, 45
gr.; white sugar, 2-1/2 oz.; cold water, 1 pint; dissolve, add the yellow
peel of a lemon, and in 24 hours strain through a hair sieve or a piece of
muslin.
2. As the last, but using 15 or 16 drops of oil of lemon, to flavour
instead of the lemon peel.
_Obs._ The above is an excellent substitute for lemon juice, and keeps
well in a cool place. Tartaric acid, and even vinegar, are sometimes used
instead of citric acid; but it is evident that it then loses all claim to
being considered as an imitation of lemon juice, and to employ it in lieu
of which would be absurd.
=LEM′ON PEEL.= _Syn._ CORTEX LIMONUM (B. P., Ph. L.), L. “The fresh outer
part of the rind.” (B. P.) “The fresh and the dried exterior rind of the
fruit;” the latter dried “in the month of April or May.” (Ph. L.) Candied
lemon peel (CORTEX LIMONUM CONDITUS) is employed as a dessert, and as a
flavouring ingredient by cooks and confectioners. It is reputed stomachic.
See CANDYING.
=LEMON PIC′KLE.= See SAUCE.
=LEMONADE′.= _Syn._ LEMON SHERBET, KING’S CUP; LIMONADUM, L.; LIMONADE,
Fr. _Prep._ 1. Lemons (sliced), 2 in no.; sugar, 2-1/2 oz.; boiling water,
1-1/2 pint; mix, cover up the vessel, and let it stand, with occasional
stirring until cold, then pour off the clear through a piece of muslin or
a clean hair sieve.
2. Juice of 3 lemons; yellow peel of 1 lemon; sugar, 1/4 lb.; cold water,
1 quart; digest for 5 or 6 hours, or all night, and decant or strain as
before.
3. Citric acid, 1 to 1-1/2 dr.; essence of lemon, 10 drops; sugar, 2 oz.;
cold water, 1 pint; agitate together until dissolved.
_Obs._ Lemonade is a pleasant, cooling summer beverage, and when made as
above may be drank in large quantities with perfect safety. It also forms
an excellent refrigerant and antiseptic drink in fevers and putrid
diseases generally. Tartaric acid is commonly substituted for citric acid,
from being cheaper; it is, however, much, inferior, being less wholesome
and less agreeable. Lemonade for icing is prepared as above, only using a
little more sugar. Orange sherbet, or orangeade for icing is made in a
similar way from oranges.
=Lemonade, Aera′ted.= _Syn._ LIMONADUM AERATUM, L.; LIMONADE GAZEUSE, Fr.
_Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Water, charged with 5 times its volume of carbonic
acid gas, 1 pint; syrup of lemon, 2 oz.; mix.
2. (Without a bottling machine.)——_a._ Into each bottle put lemon syrup, 1
to 1-1/2 oz.; essence of lemon, 3 drops; sesquicarbonate of soda, 1/2 dr.;
water, q. s. to nearly fill the bottle; have the cork fitted and ready at
hand, then add of tartaric acid (cryst.), 1 dr.; instantly close the
bottle, and wire down the cork; it should be kept inverted in a cool
place, and, preferably, immersed in a vessel of ice-cold water.
_b._ As the last, but substituting lump sugar, 3/4 oz., for the lemon
syrup.
_c._ From lump sugar, 1 oz.; essence of lemon, 3 drops; bicarbonate of
potassa, 25 gr.; water q. s., as No. 1; then add citric acid (cryst.), 45
gr., and cork, &c., as before. The last is most wholesome, especially for
the scorbutic, dyspeptic, gouty, and rheumatic.
_Obs._ The best aerated lemonade of the London makers is prepared by
putting 1-1/2 fl. oz. of rich lemon syrup into each bottle, which is then
filled up with aerated water at the bottling machine.
=Lemonade, Antimo′′niated.= _Syn._ LIMONADUM ANTIMONIATUM, L. _Prep._ By
adding tartar emetic, 1 gr., to each pint of ordinary lemonade.——_Dose._ A
wineglassful every 1/2 hour or hour; as a diaphoretic and expectorant. See
ANTIMONY (Potassio-tartrate).
=Lemonade, Ape′′rient.= _Syn._ LIMONADUM LAXATIVUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Sugar, 1
oz.; lemon juice, 3/4 fl. oz.; sulphate of soda, 3 dr.; water, 8 fl. oz.;
put them into a soda-water bottle without shaking, have the cork ready
fitted, add of sesquicarbonate of soda (in cryst.), 1/2 dr., and instantly
cork the bottle, wire it down, and keep it in a cool place, inverted. For
a dose.
2. Heavy carbonate of magnesia, 1-1/2 dr.; refined sugar, 1 oz.; essence
of lemon, 5 or 6 drops; water, 8 fl. oz.; bottle as last, then add of
citric acid (cryst.), 3 dr., and instantly cork, &c., as before. For a
dose. It should be kept for at least 24 hours before being taken.
=Lemonade, Lactic.= _Syn._ LIMONADUM LACTICUM, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.)
Lactic acid, 1 to 4 dr.; syrup, 2 oz.; water, 1 pint; mix. Recommended in
dyspepsia, &c.
=Lemonade, Milk.= _Syn._ LIMONADUM LACTIS, L. _Prep._ Take of sugar, 1/2
lb.; water, 1 pint; dissolve, add the juice of 3 lemons; milk or whey, 1/2
pint; stir the whole together and strain through a hair sieve. Some
persons add a glassful of sherry.
=Lemonade, Min′eral.= _Syn._ LIMONADE MINERALE, Fr. On the Continent this
name is applied to various drinks consisting of water acidulated with the
mineral acids and sweetened with sugar. Thus we have limonade
chlorhydrique, nitrique, phosphorique, sulphurique, &c., all of which are
used as cooling drinks in fevers, inflammations, skin diseases, &c.
=Lemonade, Port′able.= See POWDERS.
=LEMONADE POWDERS.= See POWDERS.
=LEMONATED KALI.= See KALI, POTASSIUM (Citrate), &c.
=LEN′ITIVES.= In _medicine_, purgatives which act in a gentle manner, and
have a soothing effect. See LAXATIVES.
=LENS.= In _optics_, a piece of glass or other transparent medium, having
one or two curved surfaces, either convex or concave. A description of the
different kinds of lenses belongs to a work on optics. It may, however, be
useful to the chemical student to remark here that the CODDINGTON and
STANHOPE LENSES, which may now be bought at any of the opticians, neatly
mounted and of great power, for a few shillings, will be found of the
greatest service in examining minute crystals, precipitates, &c.; and for
all ordinary purposes offer a cheap and efficient substitute for more
complicated microscopes. An extemporaneous instrument, possessing
considerable power, may be made by simply piercing a small circular hole
in a slip of metal, and introducing into it a drop of water, which then
assumes a spherical form on each side of the metal, while the latter is
held in a horizontal position. The ingenious little TOY MICROSCOPES sold
about the streets of London, under the form of a perforated pill-box, at
one penny each, consist of such a lens made with Canada balsam instead of
water, which has the property of hardening without losing its transparency
after exposure for a few hours to the air. A still simpler substitute for
a lens is a piece of blackened card-paper with the smallest possible
needle-hole pierced through it. Any very small object held in a strong
light, and viewed through this hole at the distance of about an inch, will
appear quite distinct, and from 10 to 12 times larger than its usual size.
We have often found this little instrument of incalculable service in
situations and under circumstances in which a more powerful or complicated
apparatus was unattainable or could not be applied.
Another method for the manufacture of an extemporaneous lens, by Mr
Francis, is the following:——Procure a piece of thin platinum wire, and
twine it once or twice round a pin’s point, so as to form a minute ring
with a handle to it. Break up a piece of flint glass into fragments a
little larger than a mustard seed; place one of these pieces on the ring
of wire, and hold it in the point of the flame of a candle or of a
gas-light. The glass will melt and assume a complete lens-light or
globular form. Let it cool gradually and keep it for mounting. It may be
mounted by placing it between two pieces of brass which have corresponding
circular holes cut in them of such a size as to hold the edge of the lens.
=LEN′TIL.= _Syn._ LENS, L. The seed of the _Ervum Lens_, a plant of the
natural order _Leguminosæ_. The lentil is considerably smaller than an
ordinary pea, and is of the shape of a double convex lens. Several
varieties are cultivated on the Continent of Europe and in many parts of
Asia, where they are largely consumed as human food. Lentils are more
nourishing than any other description of pulse, but are reputed difficult
of digestion, apt to disorder the bowels, and injurious to the eyes.
Several alimentary preparations, sold at high prices as cures for
dyspepsia, constipation, &c., contain lentil flour as the principal
ingredient.
_Composition of Lentils._
Nitrogenous matter 25·2
Starch, &c. 56·0
Cellulose 2·4
Fatty matter 2·6
Mineral matter 2·3
Water 11·5
——————
100·00
(PAYEN.)
Lentils on account of their difficult digestibility require to be very
thoroughly cooked. See ERVALENTA and REVALENTA.
=LEPROSY.= _Syn._ LEPRA. A disease of the skin distinguished by circular
scaly patches.
=LEPTANDRIN.= A peculiar crystalline principle obtained from the root of
_Leptandra Virginica_, a North American plant belonging to the nat. order
_Scrophulariaceæ_. Leptandrin is chiefly employed in American medical
practice as a cathartic and cholagogue, in which latter function it has
been recommended as a substitute for mercury. It is stated to be very
serviceable in cases of duodenal indigestion and chronic
constipation.——_Dose_, 1/4 to 1/2 grain.
Mr Wayne obtained leptandrin by adding subacetate of lead to an infusion
of the root, filtering, precipitating the excess of lead by carbonate of
sodium, removing the carbonate of lead by filtration, passing the filtered
liquid through animal charcoal to absorb all the active matter, washing
the charcoal with water till the washings began to be bitter, then
treating it with boiling alcohol, and allowing the alcoholic solution to
evaporate spontaneously. By dissolving the powder thus obtained in water,
treating this with ether, and allowing the ether to evaporate,
needle-shaped crystals were obtained, which had the bitter taste of the
root. Leptandrin is soluble in water, alcohol, and ether.
=LETH′ARGY.= _Syn._ LETHARGUS, L. A heavy, unnatural sleep, sometimes
bordering upon apoplexy, with scarcely any intervals of waking, from which
the patient is with difficulty aroused, and into which he again sinks as
soon as the excitement is withdrawn. It frequently arises from plethora,
in which case depletion is indicated; or from the suppression of some
usual discharge or secretion, which it should then be our business to
re-establish. It also often arises from over mental fatigue and nervous
debility, when relaxation from business, the use of a liberal diet, and
ammoniacal stimulants and antispasmodics, are found useful. When depending
on a determination of blood to the head, cupping may be had recourse to,
and all sources of excitement avoided. In all cases the bowels should be
moved as soon as possible by means of mild purgatives.
=LET′TUCE.= _Syn._ LACTUCA, L. The early leaves or head of the _Lactuca
sativa_, or garden lettuce, forms a common and wholesome salad. They are
reputed as slightly anodyne, laxative, hypnotic, and antaphrodisaic, and
have been recommended to be eaten at supper by those troubled by
watchfulness, and in whom there exists no tendency to apoplexy. The leaves
and flowering tops of _L. virosa_ are officinal in the B. P., the
“flowering herb” (LACTUCA), in the Ph. L.; the “inspissated juice,” in the
Ph. E.; and the “inspissated juice and leaves,” in the Ph. D. The
“inspissated juice” of _Lactuca virosa_, or strong-scented wild lettuce,
is also officinal in the Ph. E.; and both the “leaves and inspissated
juice” of the same variety are ordered in the Ph. D. The last species is
more powerful than the cultivated lettuce. See EXTRACT and LACTUCARIUM.
=LEUCORRHŒ′A.= _Syn._ WHITES; CATARRHUS VAGINÆ, FLUOR ALBUS, L. The
symptoms of this disease are well known to most adult females. The common
causes are debility, a poor diet, excessive use of hot tea, profuse
menstruation or purgation, late hours, immoderate indulgence of the
passions, frequent miscarriages, protracted or difficult labours, or local
relaxation. Occasionally it is symptomatic of other affections. The
treatment must be directed to the restoration of the general health, and
imparting tonicity to the parts affected. Tepid or sea bathing, or shower
baths; bark, chalybeates, and other tonics; with local affusions of cold
water, and mild astringent injections, as those of black tea or oak bark,
are generally found successful in ordinary cases.
=LEVANT′ NUT.= See COCCULUS INDICUS.
=LEVIGA′TION.= _Syn._ LEVIGATIO, L. The process of reducing substances to
fine powder, by making them into a paste with water, and grinding the mass
upon a hard smooth stone or slab, with a conical piece of stone having a
flat, smooth, under surface, called a ‘muller.’ Levigation is resorted to
in the preparation of paints on the small scale, and in the elutriation of
powders. The term is also, sometimes, incorrectly applied to the
lengthened trituration of a substance in a marble or Wedgwood-ware mortar.
=LEVORACE′MIC ACID.= See RACEMIC ACID.
=LEY′DEN JAR.= _Syn._ LEYDEN PHIAL, ELECTRICAL JAR. An instrument for the
accumulation of the electric fluid. Its simplest form is that of a
wide-mouthed jar of rather thin glass, coated on both sides with tin-foil,
except on the upper portion, which is left uncoated, and having a cover of
baked wood, through which passes a brass wire, terminating in a metallic
knob, and communicating with the inner coating. To charge the jar, the
outer coating is connected with the earth, and the knob put in contact
with the conductor of an electrical machine. The inner and outer surfaces
of the glass thus become respectively positive and negative, and the
particles of the glass become strongly polarised. On making connection
between the two coatings with a conducting substance, discharge takes
place by a bright spark and a loud snap; and if any part of the body be
interposed in the circuit, a shock is felt.
=LIBAVIUS’S LIQUOR.= See TIN (TIN CHLORIDE).
=LI′CHEN.= In _pathology_, a dry papulous or pimply eruption of the skin,
terminating in scurfy exfoliations. “Lichen exhibits great variety in its
outward characters in different individuals; in one the pimples are
brightly red; in another, of debilitated constitution, they are bluish and
livid; in a third they are developed around the base of hairs; in a fourth
they appear as circular groups, and increase by their circumference, while
they fade in the centre, forming so many rings of various size; in a
fifth, a modification of the preceding, they have the appearance of
flexuous bands; while in a sixth they are remarkable for producing
intensity of suffering, or unusual disorganisation of the skin. They are
all occasioned by constitutional disturbance, sometimes referable to the
digestive, and sometimes to the nervous system. In some instances,
however, they depend upon a local cause. I have had a crop of lichenous
pimples on the backs of my hands from rowing in hot weather; and in hot
climates that annoying disorder called prickly heat is a lichen.” (Eras.
Wilson.) The treatment of this affection is noticed under ERUPTIONS
(Papular).
=LICHENS.= _Syn._ LICHENES——Juss., LICHENALES——Lind., L. In _botany_,
these are cryptogamous plants, which appear under the form of thin, flat
crusts, covering rocks and the barks of trees. Some of them, like Iceland
moss (_Cetraria Islandica_), are esculent and medicinal and employed
either as medicine or food; and others, when exposed in a moistened state
to the action of ammonia, yield purple or blue colouring principles,
which, like indigo, do not pre-exist in the plant. Thus, the _Rocella
tinctoria_, the _Variolaria orcina_, the _Lecanora tartarea_, _&c._, when
ground to a paste with water, mixed with putrid urine or solution of
carbonate of ammonia, and left for some time freely exposed to the air,
furnish the archil, litmus, and cudbear of commerce, very similar
substances, differing chiefly in the details of their preparation. From
these the colouring matter is easily extracted by water or very dilute
solution of ammonia. See ARCHIL, CUDBEAR, and LITMUS.
=LIEBER’S HERBS OF HEALTH——Gesundeheitskräuter Liebersche——Blankenheimer
Thee——Blankenheimer Tea=——Herba Galeopsidis Grandifloræ Concisa (Yellow
Hemp Nettle).
=LIG′ATURE.= In _surgery_, a small waxed piece of cord or string formed of
silk or thread, employed for the purpose of tying arteries, veins, and
other parts, to prevent hæmorrhage, or to cause their extirpation. To be
safe and useful they should be round, smooth, and sufficiently strong to
permit of being tied with security without incurring the danger of
breaking or slipping. There are many cases recorded in which emigrants,
soldiers, and travellers have lost their lives from the simple inability
of those around them to apply a ligature.
=LIGHT.= _Syn._ LUMEN, LUX, L. Light acts as a vivifying or vital stimulus
on organised beings, just as privation of light, or darkness, disposes to
inactivity and sleep. “In maladies characterised by imperfect nutrition
and sanguinification, as scrofula, rickets, and anæmia, and in weakly
subjects with œdematous (dropsical) limbs, &c., free exposure to solar
light is sometimes attended with very happy results. Open and elevated
situations probably owe part of their healthy qualities to their position
with regard to it.” On the contrary, “in diseases of the eye, attended
with local vascular or nervous excitement, in inflammatory conditions of
the brain, in fever, and in mental irritation, whether attended or not
with vascular excitement, the stimulus of light proves injurious, and, in
such cases, darkness of the chamber should be enjoined. After parturition,
severe wounds, and surgical operations, and in all inflammatory
conditions, exclusion of strong light, contributes to the well-doing of
the patient.” (Pereira.)
=LIGHT, ELECTRIC.= We believe we are correct in stating, that within the
last two or three years some 600 registrations for patents, more or less,
have been taken out for electricity applied to the purposes of artificial
illumination. Conceding that many, if not the greater part, of these
inventions may prove useless, their number is nevertheless an index of the
mental activity that has lately been directed to the subject of electric
lighting; and although we are far from affirming that the problem of the
practical application of electricity to the lighting of our streets and
dwellings may eventually be successfully thought out, still, we think,
looking upon these constant endeavours to accomplish the end in view as
links in the chain of that experimental evolution and gradation which has
characterised the course of most great discoveries, we are justified in
regarding them as not altogether improbable auguries and precursors of
subsequent success.
Shortly after Faraday’s discovery in 1830 of electrical induction, or the
power of a bar of magnetised steel to set up in a certain direction a
current of electricity in a coil of insulated wire when introduced into
it, Pixü, reducing the result of Faraday’s researches to practice,
constructed an instrument, which appears to have been the first dynamic
magneto-electric machine. By Pixü’s contrivance a current of electricity
was generated by means of the poles of a permanent horseshoe magnet being
made to revolve across those of an electro, or temporary magnet, the
induced electricity set up in which in its turn established in the
surrounding helix a current of electricity, which being made to escape by
the terminals or ends of the wire coils could be applied to practical use.
The dynamic electro-magnetic machines of Saxton and Clarke, which
succeeded Pixü’s, may be regarded as modifications of this latter, since
they differed only in the arrangement of their parts and mode of action.
All three machines were chiefly in use in chemical and physical
laboratories, whence they have gradually been supplanted by the far more
useful Ruhmkorff’s coil, a very powerful variety of the electro-magnetic
instrument. In a small form Clarke’s is now chiefly used for medical
purposes. That electro-magnetic machines, as cheaper and more convenient
sources of electric force, should have been applied to the purposes of
telegraphy, will be an obvious inference.
Among the most important and effective of the various instruments for
attaining this end, it will suffice to mention the magneto-electric
machine of Messrs Siemens and Halske, first brought into use in 1854.
Except, however, in the case of short distances, or with telegraphs
belonging to private persons or commercial firms, these instruments have
not met with very general adoption. This is owing to the great tension of
the induced current, and the consequent difficulty of insulating the wire,
particularly for long distances, objections from which the old galvanic
apparatus is in a much greater measure free. Mr Henley was the first to
use the dynamic magneto-electric machine for working the electric
telegraph soon after this instrument had been adopted in England; but as
we have seen, the method, except in the cases quoted, have been in great
measure abandoned. A large magneto-electric machine has lately been
invented by Wheatstone, the induced spark from which is used for firing
mines.
The first electro-magnetic machine used for lighting purposes appears to
have been one that was the joint invention of MM. Nollet and Van Malderen,
of Brussels, a circumstance to which it probably owes its name of the
‘Alliance Machine.’
Nollet, who brought out his invention (which is a modification of
Clarke’s) in 1850, originally designed it for the electrolysis of water,
the hydrogen resulting from which it was proposed to pass through
camphine, or some other hydro-carbon illuminant, and to burn as gas.
Additionally it was designed to use the hydrogen as a source of motive
power by exploding it in a suitably constructed engine. Owing to the
improvements, however, effected in the machine by Van Malderen, by which
it became a powerful generator of magneto-electricity, this purpose was
abandoned. ‘The Alliance Machine’ consists of a cast-iron frame, on the
circumference of which 40 powerful horseshoe magnets, each capable of
supporting a weight of 120 to 130 lbs., are fixed, in eight series of 5
magnets each. A number of circular metal discs, around the circumference
of which are attached sixteen bobbins of insulated wire fixed to a
horizontal shelf turned by a pulley, are in such a position with regard to
the magnets, that with each revolution of the shaft each bobbin passes
sixteen alternate poles of the magnets, and will have had sixteen
alternate currents set up or induced in it. Until replaced by the later
and smaller magneto-electric machine, the ‘Alliance’ has been the one
mostly employed for the production of the electric light in France, and it
is still in use in the lighthouses of Hève and Grisnez, as well as in
those of many other places in that country. In 1856 Mr Holmes took out a
patent for a machine, which differs from Nollet’s in increasing the number
of bobbins by arranging them in concentric circles between two brass
discs. By this device the bobbins revolve more quickly in succession in
front of the poles of the magnets, a plan which ensures the generation of
a greater number of currents for every revolution.
Like the first application of Nollet’s, Holmes’ machine was used for
lighthouse illumination. It was in work from December, 1858, until June,
1862, at the South Foreland lighthouse, since which time it has been
removed to Dungeness, in the lighthouse of which station it has been in
use ever since.
When applied to lighting purposes, both the ‘Alliance’ and Holmes’, and
the other machines named, are worked in conjunction with the carbon
points, which when arranged with proper machinery constitute the electric
lamp.
Wild’s and Ladd’s are powerful dynamic magneto-electric instruments,
capable of yielding large quantities of the electric fluid.
Artificial illumination by means of electricity has, however, been more or
less occasionally practised for other than lighthouse purposes.
For instance, in 1854, during the building of the Napoleon Docks at Rouen,
when 800 workmen were engaged nightly for four hours, the electric light
was used for several nights with perfect success, the men being able to
carry on their work at a distance of more than 100 yards from the source
of the light.
In 1862 and 1863 it was frequently employed in Spain during the night in
the construction of railways. During the late Franco-German war in 1870 it
was applied to submarine illumination, and more lately it has been used in
a series of street illumination in St Petersburg.
The electric light apparatus was placed on the tower of the Admiralty
Buildings of that city, and by means of it three of the larger streets
were illuminated at night from 7 until 10 o’clock. In this latter case, as
well as in that of the Rouen Docks, the lamps were supplied with the
electric current generated in batteries.
It may be said, however, to have been only within the last two years that
the question of electric lighting has developed into a burning one, and
that the light itself has become so much more generally and extensively
adopted.
This new era in the history of artificial illumination may be said to date
from the introduction of two forms of dynamic magneto-electric apparatus,
the one invented by Dr Siemens, the eminent telegraphic engineer, the
other by M. Gramme, of Paris, who, from having been formerly a journeyman
carpenter, has now become the head of a manufacture which forms a most
important branch of scientific industry.
In the apparatus of Gramme and Siemens three marked features and
improvements over the older machines have been achieved:——
1. A great reduction in size, and, consequently, in cost, and requisite
space for the machine.
2. The method of generating large quantities of electricity by the mutual
action between the different parts of the same machine, and the induction
therein set up.[14]
[Footnote 14: This discovery was made independently and nearly
simultaneously by Drs Siemens and Sir Charles Wheatstone.]
3. The production of the electric current at a much less expenditure of
motive power.
On this latter point Professor Tyndall, in his report to the elder
brethren of the Trinity House, states that magneto-electric machines of
old construction cost ten times more, occupied twenty-five times the
space, and weighed fourteen times as much as the recent machines, while
they produced only one-fifth of the light with practically the same
driving power; which in effect amounts to this——that taking illuminating
effect in each case into consideration, the new machines cost
one-fiftieth, and are, as regards space occupied, 125 times more
advantageous than the earlier forms.
In all the older and larger machines the current of electricity, as it was
given off from the wire and passed through the carbon points, was
alternate, or first in one direction and then in the opposite——that is, it
was a momentary current, first positive and then negative.
In Siemens’ machine, and in one form of Gramme’s, the current is
direct——that is, it pursues one uniform course in its passage through the
carbon points of the lamp, and in its circuit from the terminal of one
wire to that of the other.
Scientific opinion is somewhat at variance as to the disadvantages of the
indirect current; many electricians consider that it causes the partial
destruction of the contacts, and sets up unnecessary heat in the machine.
In magneto-electric machines employed in electro-metallurgic operations,
it is essential the current should be a direct one.
In the Gramme machine the electro-magnet consists of a ring composed of
soft iron wire attached to a horizontal spindle or axis, which latter is
turned by an endless strap revolving on a pulley. Around this iron ring
are wound a number of coils, each having 300 turns, of insulated copper
wire, each coil being bent inside the ring, and fixed to an insulated
piece of brass.
The wire being continuous, each coil is connected with the adjacent one,
the whole of the coils thus forming a single conductor. The series of
pieces of brass to which the wire is soldered are formed into a circle,
which surrounds the axis of the machine, each piece of brass being
insulated from its neighbour. The iron-wire ring with its attachments is
so arranged, that when the shaft or axis to which it is fixed is turned,
it revolves between the poles of a powerful horseshoe magnet in the same
plane with it. As it turns the ring gives rise in the coils to two
different and diverse currents of electricity, one in one half of the
coils around the ring, and the other in the other half.
These currents are made to pass to the circle composed of the insulated
pieces of brass, which are arranged radially to the axis of the machine.
Two brass brushes press against these insulated brass radii, one on each
side.
These brushes are connected one to each terminal of the machine, and so
contrived as always to be in contact with the coils, not becoming
insulated from one coil until contact is established with the next one, an
arrangement which gives rise to a continuous current of electricity
always, and in the same direction.
The Gramme, although of very small dimensions, is an extremely powerful
machine. It easily decomposes water, and will heat an iron wire 8 inches
in length and a 25th of an inch in diameter to redness.
The following description of the Siemens magneto-electric machine is from
a paper read some few months back at the Society of Arts by Dr Paget
Higgs, and is extracted from the journal published by that body:
“In the latest form of construction of the Siemens magneto-electric
machine the armature, as the revolving coil may be called, consists of
several lengths of insulated copper wire, coiled in several convolutions
upon a cylinder. The whole surface of the cylinder is covered with wire,
laid on in sections, each convolution being parallel to its longitudinal
axis. For about two thirds of its surface the wire cylinder is surrounded
by curved iron bars, there being just sufficient space left between these
curved iron bars and the wire cylinder to allow of its free rotation. The
curved iron bars are prolongations of the cores of large, flat
electro-magnets; the coils of these electro-magnets and the wire on the
cylinder (from brush to brush) form a continuous electrical circuit. On
revolving the cylinder (which is supported on a longitudinal axis in
suitable bearings, the axis carrying a pulley) an initially weak current
is generated into its wires by their passage through the magnetic field,
formed by the residual magnetism of the iron coils of the electro-magnets,
and the current being directed into the coils of the electro-magnets,
increases the magnetism of the cores, which again induce a stronger
current in the wire cylinder. This material action may continue until the
iron has attained its limit of magnetisation. The maximum magnetic power
acting upon each convolution is attained at every revolution of the
armature, when the convolution passes through the centre of both magnetic
fields, and gradually falls to zero as the convolution becomes
perpendicular to that position. Each convolution has, therefore, a neutral
position, and a convolution leaving that position on the one side of the
axis and advancing towards the north pole of the electro-magnet would be
subject to a direct induced current, and that portion of the convolution
on the opposite side of the axis would be traversed by a current of
opposite direction as regards a given point, but of the same direction as
regards circuit. Each of the sections of wire coiled upon the cylinder
consists of two separate coils, leaving four ends; two of these ends are
connected to each of the segments of a circular commutator divided into
parts. But all the coils are connected to the several segments of
commutator in such a manner that the whole of the double sections form a
continuous circuit, but not one continuous helix. Two brushes placed
tangentially to the segments of the commutator collect the electric
currents; these brushes are connected one to each electro-magnet, and the
two free ends of the electro-magnet coils are connected to the conducting
wires leading to the lamp.
“The dimensions, weight, number of revolutions made by the armature, light
equivalent in normal candles, and horse-power required for driving, are
for the three sizes of machines as follows:——
+----------------------+-------+------------+--------+------------+
| Dimension in Inches. |Weight |Revolutions |Candles’|Horse Power.|
+-------+------+-------+in lbs.|of cylinder.| Light. | |
|Length.|Width.|Height.| | | | |
+-------+------+-------+-------+------------+--------+------------+
| 25 | 21 | 8·8 | 298 | 1100 | 1,000 | 1-1/2 to 2 |
| 29 | 26 | 9·5 | 419 | 650 | 6,000 | 3-1/4 to 4 |
| 44 | 28·3 | 12·6 | 1279 | 480 | 14,000 | 9 to 10 |
+-------+------+-------+-------+------------+--------+------------+
“In the lamp which it is preferred to use with the Siemens machine, the
points of the carbons after being separated are brought together again by
the gravitation of the top carbon and its holder. The descent of the top
carbon actuates by means of the straight rack it carries at its lower end,
a large pinion, the spindle of which carries a small pinion, gearing into
a second neck attached to the lower carbon holder, the superior weight of
the top carbon and holder, in conjunction with the multiplying ratio of
the two pinions, producing a continual tendency of the carbons to approach
each other. The large and small pinions are connected to each other, and
to the spindle that carries them, by an arrangement of friction discs, and
the object of this construction is to allow of the two racks being moved
equally and simultaneously up or down for the purpose of focussing the
light when required. This movement is effected by means of bevelled
gearing, and actuated by a milled head, which can be pressed into
position when required. On the spindle carrying the large and small
pinions and the friction discs is placed a toothed wheel, connected with
the spindle by a pawl and ratchet.
“This wheel is the first of a train of wheels and pinions driving a
regulating fly in the usual way. The pawl and ratchet are provided to
allow of the rapid distancing of the carbon holders when it becomes
necessary to introduce fresh carbons. The spindle of the fly also carries
a small finely-toothed ratchet wheel. This ratchet wheel is actuated by a
spring pawl, carried at the end of a lever, which lever is the
continuation of the armature of the electro-magnet, in such a manner that
when the armature is attracted by the electro-magnet, the spring pawl
engages in the teeth of the ratchet wheel, and causes the wheels in
gearing therewith to act upon the racks of the carbon holders to draw them
apart.
“The action of the lamp is as follows:——The current passes from the
conductor to the top carbon holder, thence through the carbons to the
bottom carbon holder, then to the coils of the electro-magnet situated in
the base of the lamp. From the coils of the electro-magnet the circuit is
completed to the other conductor. Upon the current passing through the
circuit, the armature of the electro-magnet is attracted, and the abutment
from the armature lever caused to short-circuit the coils of the
electro-magnet, releasing the armature. The armature being released, the
short-circuit is removed from the coils of the electro-magnet, and the
cycle of movement repeated; in this manner an oscillatory motion is given
to the armature lever, which by the spring pawl actuates the ratchet
wheel, the train of clockwork, and the racks of the carbon holders,
forcing the carbons apart until the distance between their points
sufficiently weakens the current, so that it no longer attracts the
armature of the electro-magnet. Thus, by the combined action of
gravitation of the top carbon in drawing the carbons together, and of the
current to separate the carbons when they approach too closely, a working
distance is maintained between the points with perfect automatism.”
Siemens’ lamp is at the present time employed in the Lizard Lighthouse, in
Messrs Siemens’ Engineering Works in England and Wales, as well as in
other localities or buildings requiring powerfully lighting up.
An interesting illustration of the value of the electric light to the
sailor is furnished by the ‘Telegraph Journal’ of April 5th, 1878. This
publication contains a letter from the captain of the S.S. ‘Faraday,’
narrating how that vessel was by its means prevented from running into
another vessel during a dense fog.
Siemens’ magneto-electric apparatus and lamp were used on the occasion
above referred to.
In every form of contrivance for electrical illumination the lamp or
lighting apparatus consists of carbon points separated by a very slight
interval, through which the current of electricity passes by means of
terminal wires attached to the dynamo-electrical machine.
The lighting effect is produced by the passage of the electric spark
through the small gap which separates the carbon points, in which interval
extremely minute but solid particles of carbon, given off by the points,
are heated up to incandescence in the path of the spark, and thus give
rise to the intensely luminous focus known as ‘the electric light.’ The
brilliancy of the light of course depends upon the quantity of electricity
employed.
A very large number and variety of designs and patents for electric lamps
have made their appearance in England, America, France, and Russia within
the period following the invention of the small, powerful, and economic
dynamo-electric machines of Siemens and Gramme.
The lighting apparatus generally attached to and worked by that variety of
Gramme’s machine generating the continuous current is that known as the
‘Serrin Lamp.’ Two carbon electrodes placed vertically one above the other
(the positive being the upper one) are fixed on brass holders, which are
so connected by a suitably contrived clockwork movement, combined with the
working of an electro-magnet in connection with the electric circuit, as
to maintain the two carbon poles during their combustion at the necessary
distance from each other. Serrin’s lamp differs in detail from Siemens’,
but, like this latter, is automatic in principle. In Paris it was the one
in general use until the introduction of the Jablochkoff candle, and, with
the Duboscq lamp, may be looked upon as the precursor of the various lamps
and regulators now employed in electric lighting. Serrin’s lamp or
regulator, with some slight modification in the machinery, is also used in
the Lontin system of electric illumination, by which separate lights are
supplied by separate circuits of electricity. Lontin’s method is that by
which the Gaiety Theatre in the Strand is lighted; and is also used at the
Western Railway Station (Gare, St Lazare) at Paris. The Jablochkoff
candle, which in Paris has lately superseded the Serrin lamp, probably
because its use renders unnecessary the use of automatic machinery, is the
invention of a Russian engineer, whose name it bears.
It consists of two sticks of gas carbon, about 9 inches long and 1/5th of
an inch thick, which are placed vertically side by side, and insulated
from one another by a very thin strip of kaolin or china clay (a silicate
of alumina and potash), the whole forming a candle. Each carbon rod is
connected with one of the terminal wires of a Gramme dynamo-electric
machine, the electric current from which, however, not being continuous,
sets up an alternate current between the tips or poles of the candles,
which are gradually consumed like an ordinary taper, and with this only
difference in action between Serrin’s and Siemens’ lamps, that whereas in
these latter the spark passes from the top to the bottom carbon point, in
the Jablochkoff candle it jumps from side to side. The inventor contends
that the kaolin by becoming heated diminishes the resistance of the
circuit, and thus permits of the passage of the electric spark more easily
through the carbons, and also, we believe, asserts that the kaolin being
electrolytically decomposed as the carbons are consumed, becomes converted
into silica, which melts and drops down, whilst the aluminium liberated
contributes luminosity during combustion to the flame.
One of the chief advantages, however, claimed by M. Jablochkoff is, that
he can divide the circuit into a number of different lights, as the
resistance of the circuit is uniform.
A large number of Jablochkoff candles are employed in the celebrated
‘Magasins du Louvre,’ one of the most extensive commercial establishments
in Paris for the sale of silks, ribbons, gloves, &c., and clothing of
every description.
The pure white light diffused by electricity admirably adapts it for
viewing colours of all kinds at night, whether seen in pictures or on
fabrics and raiments, and more particularly blues and greens, the hues of
which are frequently indistinguishable from each other by gaslight. The
candle is also used to light the courtyard of the Hotel du Louvre, a large
building contiguous to, and with its apartments running over, the
Magasins, as well as in several shops.
Jablochkoff’s system is also in work in Paris in front of many public
buildings, and by its means the Place and Avenue de l’Opera, together
occupying a space 900 yards long by 30 wide, are brilliantly illuminated
every night.
That celebrated circus, so well known to every visitor to Paris, the
Hippodrome, is also lighted by it.
Another form of electric lamp is that of M. Rapieff, now in use in the
machine-room of the ‘Times’ newspaper office. In this lamp there are four
carbon points instead of two. M. Rapieff, like M. Jablochkoff, states that
by means of his system he is enabled to supply several lamps with the same
electric current. In the Wallace-Farmer lamp slabs of carbon instead of
points are had recourse to.
In the lamps of M. Regnier in one variety two revolving carbon discs are
used, whilst in another a rod of carbon descends upon a disc of the same
material, an arrangement which the inventor states leads to the
subdivision of the current and its separate utilisation by a number of
such lights.
One of the latest and apparently most successful methods for dividing the
electric current, so that one and the same current shall be made
simultaneously to supply and render incandescent a series of carbon
points, and in so doing give rise to as many effective electric
illuminators, is that of Mr Werdermann. Mr Werdermann, observing the
disparity of consumption between the positive and negative poles of the
electrodes, found by experiment that when the sectional area of the
negative pole was sixty-four times greater than the positive one, the
electric arc was so far reduced, that the two carbons were in contact.
Under these conditions the electric arc was infinitely small, the negative
electrode was not consumed, whilst the positive one was incandescent. Two
supplies of electric light, therefore, ensued, one by the electric arc,
and the other by the incandescent carbon of the positive electrode. Under
these circumstances, if it were possible to devise a plan by which the
positive pole as it consumed should be kept in uniform contact with the
negative pole, the difficulty which had hitherto proved the
stumbling-block to using a series of lights from one current would be
annihilated.
Mr Werdermann demonstrated the correctness of his premises by a practical
illustration of his plan very lately (November, 1878) at the British
Telegraph Manufactory, 374, Euston Road. The current from a
dynamo-electric Gramme machine of 2-horse power was conducted to two
electric lamps, each having an illuminating value equal to 360 candles
each. The light so produced is described by a spectator as “being soft and
sun-like, and as being capable of being looked at without discomfort,
though it was not shaded.” These being extinguished, ten smaller lamps
were ignited by means of the same current, each one having an illuminating
power equal to forty candles. “The lamps burned steadily with a beautiful
soft and clear white light. First one of the ten lights was then
extinguished, and afterwards a second, the only effect on the remainder
being that they became slightly more brilliant.”[15]
[Footnote 15: ‘Daily News.’]
Unlike Mr Edison, Mr Werdermann does not believe in the indefinite
divisibility of the electric light. It will be observed that the candle
power of the light becomes diminished by subdivision. Two lights gave a
light equal to 700 candles, whereas the same current divided into ten
lights gave an aggregate light of only 400 candles.
The following extract from the ‘Times’ of December 5th, 1878, illustrates
the financial aspect of the electric light question:——
“At the usual weekly meeting of the Society of Arts, held last evening, Dr
C. W. Siemens, F.R.S., in the chair, a paper on electric lighting was read
by Mr J. N. Shoolbred, M. Inst. C.E. The object of the author was to
present some results of the application of electric lighting to industrial
purposes, especially as regards cost. He noticed first the Holmes and the
Alliance magneto-electric machines, giving alternating currents and single
lights for lighthouse use. Secondly, he referred to the dynamo-electric
machines, producing single lights for general industrial purposes, as well
as for lighthouses, and including the Siemens and the Gramme machines. In
his third group the author included the machines used for producing
divided lights, each group indicating a marked period representing a
clearly defined stage of progress in electric lighting. With regard to
cost, Mr Shoolbred stated that in every instance his figures and
particulars were those afforded by the users of the various lights, and
not by the inventors or their representatives. In the case of the Holmes
machine the annual cost per lighthouse was about £1035, inclusive of
interest, repairs, and wages. With the Siemens machine the annual cost was
about £494 per lighthouse, including interest and the other expenses. With
the Alliance machine as used at Havre the cost was about £474 per annum
per lighthouse, interest, &c., included. The single-light Gramme machine
has been in use in the Paris goods station of the Northern of France
Railway for two years. Six machines have been kept going with one light
each, and the cost is found to be 5_d._ per light per hour, or with
interest on outlay at 10 per cent., 8_d._ per hour. The same light at the
ironworks of Messrs Powell at Rouen was stated to cost 4_d._ per light per
hour, exclusive of interest and charge for motive power, the latter being
derived from one of the engines on the works. In 1877 a series of
experiments were carried out with the Lontin light at the Paris terminus
of the Paris, Lyons, and Mediterranean Railway. The passenger station was
lighted, and the results were so satisfactory that the company have
entered into a permanent contract with the proprietors of the Lontin light
for lighting their Paris goods station with 12 lights, at a cost of 5_d._
per light per hour. The Western of France Railway Company have had 6
Lontin lights in the goods station at the Paris terminus, St Lazare, since
May last, and 12 lights in the passenger station since June. Careful
experiments have shown the cost to be 8_d._ per light per hour, inclusive
of interest. Referring to the Jablochkoff light, Mr Shoolbred placed
before the meeting some particulars with regard to its application in the
Avenue de l’Opéra, Paris, which were afforded him by M. J. Allard, the
chief engineer of the lighting department of the City of Paris. It appears
that the authorities pay the Société Générale d’Électricité 37f. 2c. per
hour for the 62 lamps in use there. These 62 lamps supersede 344 gas-jets
which were previously used, and which cost the authorities 7·244f. per
hour. The electric illumination, however, is considered as equal to 682
gas-jets, or about double the original illumination——that is, to a cost of
14·45f. per hour as against 37·2f. for the electric light, the cost of
which, therefore, is 2·6 times that of the gas. The contract for lighting
by electricity was terminated by the City of Paris on the 30th ult., and
the authorities have declined to renew it except at the price paid for
gas, namely, 7·224f. (or about 6_s._) per hour, and that only until the
15th of January next. These terms have been accepted by the Société, so
that the price paid to them will be at the rate of about 1-1/8_d._ per
light per hour. Mr Shoolbred stated that the Société place their expenses
at 1·06f. (or just 11_d._) per light per hour, which, however, they hope
shortly to reduce by one half. A series of careful photometric experiments
carried out by the municipal authorities with the Jablochkoff lights,
above referred to, showed each naked light to possess a maximum of 300
candles of intensity. With the glass globe this was reduced to 180
candles, showing a loss of 40 per cent., while during the darker periods
through which the lights passed the light was as low as 90 candles. The
foregoing were the only authenticated particulars which the author could
obtain as regards the working of the various electric systems of electric
lighting. In conclusion, Mr Shoolbred referred to the Rapieff light at the
‘Times’ office, which, he observed, worked fairly and with regularity,
which could not be said of all others, and it might therefore be entitled
to take rank as an established application of electric illumination. The
paper was illustrated by the Siemens, Rapieff, Serrin, and other forms of
electric light, which were shown in operation.”
That the electric light is eventually destined to supplant coal gas in
illuminating the fronts of large buildings, open spaces, squares, assembly
rooms, public halls, theatres, picture galleries, workshops and factories,
&c., seems no very extravagant prediction. We have already seen that it
has for some years been employed in one lighthouse; and we have the
testimony of Mr Douglas, of the Trinity House, at a very recent meeting of
the Society of Arts, that at the Souter Point Lighthouse there had been
only two stoppages in eight years, once through a bad carbon breaking, and
once through the lighthouse-keeper going to sleep.
In addition to places above specified, amongst other localities in which
it is in work, we may mention the chocolate factories of M. Menier, at
Noiselle, his india-rubber works at Grenelle, his sugar refinery at Nice,
and Messrs Caille’s works at Paris. In this country it was employed in the
erection of the Tay Bridge, as well as in the works of Messrs Head, at
Stockton-on-Tees, and in London it may be nightly seen burning before the
Gaiety Theatre in the Strand, at Billingsgate Market, and frequently
lighting up the front of the Stereoscopic Company’s premises in Regent
Street. Further, we may add that the Metropolitan Board of Works are
making the experiment of lighting the Victoria Embankment and the City
authorities the Holborn Viaduct, with the Jablochkoff candle. The former
have placed a dynamo-electric apparatus, worked by a steam engine of
20-horse power, close to the foot of Hungerford Bridge, from whence wires
will be carried right and left towards Westminster and Blackfriars
respectively.
We believe the main conducting wire is carried under the coping-stone of
the parapet running along the Embankment, and that the carbon points are
fixed on the top of a certain number of gas standards which now surmount
the wall of the Embankment.
That electricity is more economical as a method of artificial lighting
than coal-gas the figures previously given seem to demonstrate, and there
can be no question as to the much greater luminosity and purity of the
light over the gas flame, qualities which render it an admirable
substitute for the sunlight, the absence of which it may be said to supply
at night. One disadvantage urged against its employment in weaving rooms
is, that it casts such dark and distinct shadows that these are frequently
mistaken for the threads themselves, an objection which is said to have
been remedied by placing the light as near the ceiling as possible. The
non-generation of carbonic acid and sulphurous products such as are given
off by burning gas, although of slight importance when the light is
employed in the open air, becomes a great advantage when it is used in
crowded assembly rooms or theatres, since the atmospheric contamination
caused by carbonic acid becomes of course considerably reduced. The
absence of sulphur compounds especially qualifies the light for use in
large libraries. If it be true that the light gives rise to an appreciable
amount of ozone, this constitutes another point in its favour. Opinion is
at variance as to the possibility of the practical application of the
electric light for illuminating private houses and dwellings in such a
manner as to supply the place of the gas we now burn in them. One serious
impediment to the probable accomplishment of this result certainly seems
to be the fact that electricity for lighting purposes can only practically
be conveyed to short distances from its source, which would necessitate
the establishment and supervision of a number of generating machines near
the houses to be lighted. Another obstacle, which hitherto has not been
overcome, is the circumstance that the current when subdivided yields
proportionately a greatly diminished amount of light. For instance, one
light which had a certain photometric candle valve would yield when
divided into two an aggregate amount of light considerably less than the
one; and if divided into three still less, and so on. This has been
pointed out when noticing Mr Werdermann’s invention for the divisibility
of the light. Mr Edison, an American inventor, asserts that he has
conquered this difficulty, and additionally perfected a machine for
measuring the current used in the electric light. He states that it
consists of an apparatus placed in every house lighted by electricity,
which registers the quantity of electricity consumed, and uses for the
purpose 1000th part of the quantity employed in the building.
Dr Siemens, no mean authority, doubts the practicability of applying
electric lighting to household illumination.
A matter of primary importance in connection with the successful working
of the electric light is the quality of the carbon points. In their
manufacture gas carbon obtained from the necks of the retorts used in
gas-making, as being the hardest and purest, is employed.
Superior, however, as this form of carbon is to every other description of
the substance, it is never chemically pure, and as any foreign substance
imparts to the light the irregularity or flickering that sometimes
accompanies it, it is necessary the impurities should be removed. To
effect their separation the carbon has to undergo several processes, such
as soaking in caustic potash to remove the silica, treatment with strong
acids, several washings, grinding, &c. It is then kneaded and put into
moulds, in which it is subjected to a pressure as high as 12 tons to the
square foot. Subsequently the points so made are baked.
=LIGHTNING.= See ACCIDENTS.
=LIG′NIN.= C_{6}H_{10}O_{5}. _Syn._ CELLULOSE. This is woody fibre
deprived of all foreign matter. It forms about 95 per cent. of baked wood,
and constitutes the woody portion of all vegetable substances. Fine linen
and cotton are almost entirely composed of lignin, the associated
vegetable principles having been removed by the treatment the fibres have
been subjected to during the process of their manufacture.
Pure lignin is tasteless, inodorous, insoluble in water and alcohol, and
absolutely innutritious; dilute acids and alkaline solutions scarcely
affect it, even when hot; oil of vitriol converts it into dextrin or grape
sugar, according to the mode of treatment. When concentrated sulphuric
acid is added very gradually to about half its weight of lint, linen rag,
or any similar substance shredded small, and contained in a glass vessel,
with constant trituration, the fibres gradually swell up and disappear,
without the disengagement of any gas, and a tenacious mucilage is formed,
which is entirely soluble in water. If, after a few hours, the mixture be
diluted with water, the acid neutralised by the addition of chalk, and,
after filtration, any excess of lime thrown down by the cautious addition
of a solution of oxalic acid, the liquid yields, after a second
filtration, and the addition of alcohol in considerable excess, a gummy
mass, which possesses all the characters of pure dextrin. If, instead of
at once saturating the diluted acid solution with chalk, we boil it for 4
or 5 hours, the dextrin is entirely converted into grape sugar, which, by
the addition of chalk and filtration, as before, and evaporation by a
gentle heat to the consistence of a syrup, will, after repose for a few
days, furnish a concrete mass of crystallised sugar. By strong pressure
between folds of porous paper or linen, redissolving it in water,
agitation with animal charcoal, and recrystallisation, brilliant
colourless crystals of grape sugar may be obtained. Hemp, linen, or
cotton, thus treated, yield fully their own weight of gum, and 1 per cent.
of their weight of grape sugar. During the above transformation, the
sulphuric acid is converted into sulpholignic acid, and may be procured in
a separate state. A solution of oxide of copper in ammonia, or solution of
basic carbonate of copper in strong ammonia, dissolves cotton, which may
then be precipitated by acids in colourless flakes.
=LIG′NITE.= _Syn._ BROWN COAL. Wood and other matter more or less
mineralised and converted into coal. The lignites are generally dark
brown, and of obvious woody structure. They are distinguished from true
coals by burning with little flame and much smoke. Those of Germany are
largely used as a source of paraffin and burning oils.
=LIG′NUM VI′TÆ.= See GUAIACUM WOOD.
=LIME.= CaO. _Syn._ OXIDE OF CALCIUM; CHAUX, Fr.; KALK, Ger. Lime, when
pure, and as a chemical and medical reagent, will be found treated of
under CALCIUM (Oxide of). It is prepared on the large scale for commerce
by calcining chalk, marble or limestone, in kilns, and is called
quicklime, caustic lime, burnt lime, stone lime, &c. The lime kilns are
usually of the form of an inverted cone, and are packed with alternate
layers of limestone and fuel, and the burnt lime raked out from the
bottom. The lime thus obtained is a pale yellow powder, combining eagerly
with water, and crumbling to a light white powder, “slaked lime,” with the
evolution of much heat. Lime which slakes well is termed “fat lime,” while
if it slakes badly is termed “poor lime.” The slaked lime, the CALCIS
HYDRAS of the B. P., is fresh lime sprinkled with water till it falls to
powder.
=Lime, Salts of.= See under CALCIUM.
=Lime, Pyrolignite of.= An impure acetate of calcium used for making
mordants in dyeing and calico printing, as a substitute for the more
expensive acetate of lead.
=Lime, Chloride of.= _Syn._ BLEACHING POWDER, CHLORINATED LIME,
HYPOCHLORITE OF CALCIUM.
This article was formerly believed to be a compound of lime and chlorine
(CaO.Cl), and consequently received the name of ‘chloride of lime.’ We now
know, however, that it is not a definite substance, but a mixture of
calcium hypochlorite, calcium chloride, and calcium hydrate. The value of
this preparation is due to the readiness with which the calcium
hypochlorite is decomposed by acids, even by the carbonic acid of the air,
with the evolution of hypochlorous acid which abstracts hydrogen from many
vegetable colouring matters, badly smelling gases, &c.: the former are
thereby bleached and the latter deodorised.
Chloride of lime is most extensively used for bleaching linen, calico, and
similar fabrics, thousands of tons being made near Newcastle alone every
year. It is also largely employed as a deodoriser.
_Prep._ Freshly slaked lime is thinly spread out in a proper vessel and
exposed to an atmosphere of chlorine gas until it is saturated. Now
included in the Materia Medica.
Slaked lime (fresh), 20 parts, common salt, 1 part, are mixed together,
and the powder placed in long earthenware vessels into which chlorine is
passed until the mixture begins to grow damp, or until one part of it,
dissolved in 130 parts of water, is capable of decolouring 4-1/2 parts of
sulphate of indigo (see CHLORIMETRY), when the whole is transferred to dry
bottles.
(Wholesale.) The chlorine is generated from the usual materials mixed in
leaden vessels, heated by steam, and the gas, after passing through water,
is conveyed by a leaden tube into an apartment built of siliceous
sandstone, and arranged with shelves or trays, containing dry fresh slaked
lime, placed one above another, about an inch asunder. The process, to
produce a first-class article, is continued for 4 or 5 days. During this
time the lime is occasionally agitated by means of iron rakes, the handles
of which pass through boxes of lime placed in the walls of the chamber,
which thus act as valves.
The successful manufacture of bleaching powder is dependent upon the
careful observance of a number of conditions, such as the quality of the
limestone,[16] which should be free from iron; the presence of magnesia at
the time is also very objectionable, since it gives rise to the formation
and presence in the bleaching powder of deliquescent chloride of
magnesium; the apportionment of the water in slaking the lime is also a
matter of no inconsiderable importance, the lime forming into balls, which
fail to properly absorb the gas if the water be insufficient, whilst if it
be in excess, it yields a powder deficient in chlorine. When slaked, the
lime is passed through a sieve to free it from small pebbles. After being
slaked it is kept for 2 or 3 days before being used, as it is found that
under these circumstances it absorbs chlorine more readily than when
recently prepared. Previous to its entrance into the lime chamber, the
chlorine is passed through water, to free it from vapour, and solid
particles of chloride of manganese.
[Footnote 16: A very pure kind of limestone, and one which is largely used
in the preparation of bleaching powder, is found at Buxton.]
The temperature of the chamber into which the chlorine is passed ought not
to exceed 62° F. An excess of chlorine has been found to yield a powder
deficient in hypochlorite.
Bleaching powder, unless protected from the air (carbonic acid), slowly
parts with its chlorine. In summer it has been estimated that it loses as
much as 86 per cent. of the gas, and in winter about 26 per cent.
_Prop., &c._ Chloride of lime is a pale, yellowish-white powder, generally
more or less damp, and evolving a chlorine-like odour of hypochlorous
acid. Its soluble constituents dissolve in about 20 parts of water. It is
decomposed by acids with the evolution of chlorine and oxygen
(hypochlorous acid). Good chloride of lime should contain from 32% to 36%
of chlorine, of which, however, but 25% to 30% can be easily liberated by
an acid.
_Estim._ See CHLOROMETRY.
_Uses._ Chloride of lime is employed in medicine as a deodoriser and
disinfectant. An ointment of chloride of lime has been used in scrofula,
and a lotion or bath, moderately dilute, is one of the cleanest and
readiest ways of removing the ‘itch,’ and several other skin diseases. It
is also in great use as a disinfectant, and may be used either in
substance or solution. A small quantity of the powder spread on a flat
dish or plate, and placed on the chimney-piece, and a like quantity in an
opposite part of the room, will continue to evolve sufficient chlorine or
hypochlorous acid to disinfect (? Ed.) the air of an apartment for several
days. The evolution of chlorine is promoted by occasionally renewing the
exposed surface, by stirring it with a piece of stick, and after it
becomes scentless, by the addition of a little acid, as strong vinegar, or
hydrochloric acid, or oil of vitriol, largely diluted with water. Of late,
however, it has been partly superseded by sulphurous acid, carbolic acid,
&c. The most extensive consumption of chloride of lime is, however, for
bleaching textile fabrics. When employed for this purpose, the goods are
first immersed in a dilute solution of this substance, and then
transferred to a vat containing dilute sulphuric acid. The chlorine thus
disengaged in contact with the cloth, causes the destruction of the
colouring matter. This process is generally repeated several times, it
being unsafe to use strong solutions. White patterns may thus be imprinted
upon coloured cloth; the figures being stamped with tartaric acid
thickened with gum water, the stuff is immersed in the chloride bath, when
the parts to which the acid has been applied remain unaltered, while the
printed portions are bleached white.
_Concluding Remarks._——Chloride of lime is now scarcely ever made on the
small scale, as it can be purchased of the large manufacturer of better
quality and cheaper than it could possibly be made by the druggist. The
chief precaution to be observed in the manufacture of good bleaching
powder is to maintain the ingredients at a rather low temperature.
=LIME.= The fruit of _Citrus limetta_. It resembles the lemon, but is
smaller and has a smoother skin. It is imported into Great Britain in a
preserved state for use as a dessert. Its juice is also largely imported
for the preparation of CITRIC ACID, and for the prevention of scurvy on
board ship (see _below_).
=LIME JUICE.= _Syn._ LEMON JUICE. The juice of the fruits of various
species of _Citrus_, principally LIMES, is known in commerce under these
names. It is very variable as to quality, which depends upon the method of
extraction, the quality of the fruit, and the honesty of the shipper.
We have examined the juice expressed from limes sent from the West Indies,
from Jamaica, and from South Africa, with the following results:
W. Indies. Jamaica. S. Africa.
Specific gravity
of juice 1041·30 1044·18 1044·90
Per cent. of
citric acid 7·96 8·66 8·50
Per cent. of ash 0·321 0·401 0·364
The yield from limes is very small, and the freshly expressed juice
contains a large amount of pulp. This, however, on standing a few weeks,
separates, and a clear sherry-coloured liquid is obtained.
A concentrated lime or lemon juice is used by calico printers. It is a
“dark, treacly-looking fluid, marking from 48° to 54° Twaddell,” and
contains about 30 per cent. of pure citric acid.
_Adult._ See LEMON JUICE.
_Estim._ Lime juice is only valuable on account of the citric acid it
contains. If of good quality, 100 gr. will neutralise from 70 to 76 gr. of
pure crystallised carbonate of soda. “For commercial purposes each grain
of carbonate of soda neutralised may represent a half grain of
crystallised citric acid (equal to 38 gr. of dry acid), and the value of
the lime juice be calculated in proportion.” (O’Neill.) As commercial lime
juice contains variable proportions of vegetable extractive matter, the
indications of the hydrometer cannot be depended upon. ACIDIMETRY, CITRIC
ACID, &c.
=LIME′STONE.= A general term applied to a great variety of rocks in which
carbonate of lime is the principal constituent.
_Estim._ The value of chalk, limestone, marble, &c., for hydraulic mortars
and cements, may be determined as follows:
A given weight (say 100 gr.) of the sample is reduced to powder and
digested in hydrochloric acid dilated with about an equal weight of water,
with frequent agitation for an hour or longer; the mixture is then diluted
with thrice its volume of water, thrown upon a filter, and the undissolved
portion washed, dried, ignited, and weighed. This weight indicates the
per-centage of clay and silica or sand, and the loss that of the lime or
calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, and ferric oxide, present in the
substance examined. In most cases these results will be sufficient to show
the quality of the limestone for the purpose of making mortar or cement.
The filtrate and the washings are mixed together, and ammonia is added in
excess; the bulky, reddish-brown precipitate is collected, washed, dried,
ignited, and weighed. This gives the per-centage of ferric oxide.
The filtrate from last is then treated with oxalate of ammonium, and the
quantity of lime determined in the manner described under the head of
CALCIUM.
The liquid filtered from the precipitate in last is boiled for some time
with carbonate of potassium until ammoniacal fumes are no longer evolved;
the precipitate is then collected on a filter, washed with hot water,
dried, and strongly ignited for 3 or 4 hours, and, lastly, weighed. This
gives the per-centage of magnesium.
=LINC′TUS.= [L., Eng.] _Syn._ LOCH, LOHOCH, LINCTURE, LAMBATIVE; LOOCH,
Fr. A medicine of the consistence of honey, intended to be licked off a
spoon. This form of medicine is well adapted to females and children, but
is not much used in England at the present time. Those employed in modern
pharmacy and prescribing are included under the heads CONFECTION,
CONSERVE, or ELECTUARY.——The _Dose_, when it is not otherwise stated, is a
teaspoonful occasionally.
=Linctus, Acid.= (Dr Copland.) _Syn._ LINCTUS ACIDUS. _Prep._ Honey of
roses, 10 dr.; hydrochloric acid, 20 minims; syrup of red poppies, 2 dr.
Mix.
=Linctus of Borax.= (Univ. Coll. Hosp.) _Syn._ LINCTUS BORACIS. _Prep._
Borax, 3 dr.; honey, 1 oz. Melt, and stir together, and then add syrup, 1
oz.
=Linctus, Caca′o.= _Syn._ LINCTUS CACAO, L.; CRÊME DE TRONCHIN, Fr.
_Prep._ From cocoa-butter, 2 oz.; white sugar (in powder), syrup of
capillaire, and syrup of tolu, of each 1 oz.; mix. Demulcent and pectoral;
in coughs, sore throats, hoarseness, &c.
=Linctus, Common.= _Prep._ From oil of almonds and syrup of tolu, of each
1 oz.; powdered white sugar, 2 dr. As the last.
=Linctus, Cough.= _Syn._ PECTORAL LINCTUS; LINCTUS PECTORALIS, L. _Prep._
1. (Dr Latham.) Compound ipecacuanha powder (Dover’s powder), 1/2 dr.;
compound tragacanth powder, 2 dr.; syrup of tolu, confection of hips, and
simple oxymel, of each 1 oz.——_Dose_, 1 teaspoonful, 3 or 4 times a day.
“This linctus has been extensively used, as a remedy for coughs, in the
West-end of London, having been found to be a safe and generally
efficacious remedy.” (Redwood.) The preceding as well as the following are
also useful preparations.
=Linctus, Demulcent.= _Syn._ LINCTUS DEMULCENS L.; LOOCH DE TRONCHIN, Fr.
_Prep._ From oil of almonds, syrup of capillaire, manna and cassia pulp,
of each 2 oz.; powdered gum tragacanth, 20 gr.; orange-flower water, 2
fl. oz. As the last. The above is the quantity for two days, which is as
long as it will keep.
=Linctus of Egg.= _Syn._ LINCTUS OVI; LOHOCH OVI. _Prep._ Oil of almonds,
1/2 dr.; yolk of 1 egg; syrup of marshmallow, 1 oz. Mix.
=Linctus, Emol′lient.= _Syn._ OILY EMULSION; LOHOCH OLEOSUM, EMULSIO
OLEOSA, L.; LOOCH HUILEUX, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Oil of almonds, powdered
gum, and orange-flower water, of each 4 dr.; syrup of marshmallow, 1 oz.;
water, 3 fl. oz. or q. s.; for an emulsion. In troublesome coughs.
=Linctus, Expec′torant.= _Syn._ LINCTUS EXPECTORANS, LOHOCH E., L. _Prep._
1. Oxymel of squills, confection of hips, syrup of marshmallow, and
mucilage of gum Arabic (thick), equal parts. Demulcent and expectorant.
2. (Dr Copland.) Oil of almonds and syrup of lemons, of each 1 fl. oz.;
powdered ipecacuanha 6 gr.; confections of hips, 1 oz.; compound powder of
tragacanth, 3 dr.
3. (Zanetti.) Kermes mineral, 4 gr.; manna, 6 oz.; oil of almonds, syrup
of squills, and syrup of senega, of each 2 dr. Laxative, demulcent, and
expectorant. The above are useful in hoarseness, tickling coughs, sore
throats, &c.
=Linctus, Green.= _Syn._ LINCTUS VIRIDE; LOHOCH VIRIDE. _Prep._ Pistachio
nuts (or sweet almonds), no. 14; syrup of violets, 1 oz.; oil of almonds,
1/2 oz.; gum tragacanth, 15 gr.; tincture of saffron, 1 scruple;
orange-flower water, 2 dr.; water, 4 oz. Mix.
=Linctus of Linseed.= (E. 1744.) _Syn._ LINCTUS LINI; LOHOCH LINI. _Prep._
Fresh drawn linseed oil, 1 oz.; syrup of tolu, 1 oz.; sulphur, 2 dr.;
white sugar, 2 dr. Mix.
=Linctus of Manna.= (E. 1744.) _Syn._ LINCTUS MANNÆ; LOHOCH MANNÆ. _Prep._
Equal parts of manna, oil of almonds, and syrup of violets. Mix.
=Linctus of Naphthalin.= (Dupasquier) _Syn._ LINCTUS NAPHTHALINI; LOHOCH
NAPHTHALINI. _Prep._ To one common lohoch add from 8 gr. to 30 gr. of
naphthalin. The latter must be well triturated with the gum.——_Dose._ One
teaspoonful, as an expectorant.
=Linctus, Pectoral.= _Syn._ FOX LUNGS; LINCTUS PECTORALIS, LOHOCH È
PULMONE VULPIUM, L. _Prep._ From spermaceti and Spanish juice, of each 8
oz.; water, q. s. to soften the liquorice; make a thin electuary, and add
of honey, 3 lbs.; oil of aniseed, 1 oz.; mix well. A popular and excellent
demulcent in coughs. It formerly contained the herb fox lungs, but
spermaceti is now substituted for that article.
=Linctus of Poppies.= (Th. Hosp.) _Syn._ LINCTUS PAPAVERIS. _Prep._
Compound tincture of camphor, syrup of poppies, and syrup of tolu, of each
equal parts. Mix.——_Dose_, 1 fl. dr.
=Linctus of Spermaceti.= (E. 1744.) _Syn._ LINCTUS CETACEI; LOHOCH
CETACEI. _Prep._ Spermaceti, 2 dr.; yolk of egg, q. s.; triturate, and add
gradually oil of almonds, 1/2 oz.; syrup of tolu, 1 oz. Mix.
=Linctus of Syrup of White Poppies.= (P. C.) _Syn._ LINCTUS SYRUPI
PAPAVERIS ALBI; LOHOCH SYRUPUS PAPAVERIS ALBI. _Prep._ White lohoch, 5
parts; syrup of poppies (P. C.), 1 part. Mix.
=Linctus, Turpentine.= _Syn._ LINCTUS STIMULANS, L. TEREBINTHINÆ, LOHOCH
ANTHELMINTICUM, L. _Prep._ (Recamier.) Oil of turpentine, 2 dr.; honey of
roses, 3 oz.; mix.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful, night and morning, followed by
a draught of any weak liquid; in worms, more especially tape-worm.
=Linctus, White.= _Syn._ LINCTUS ALBUS, MISTURA ALBA, LOHOCH ALBUM, L.;
LOOCH BLANC, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Jordon almonds, 4-1/2 dr.; bitter
almonds, 1/2 dr.; blanch them by steeping them in hot water and removing
the skins; add of white sugar, 1/2 oz.; gum tragacanth, 20 gr.; beat to a
smooth paste, and further add of oil of almonds and orange-flower water,
of each 4 dr.; pure water, 4 fl. oz. A pleasant demulcent in tickling
coughs.
=LIN′EN.= _Syn._ LINTEUM, L. Linen is a textile fabric made of the
libre-fibres of the _Linum usitatissimum_, or common flax, a plant which
from time immemorial has been cultivated for this purpose. It is
remarkable for the smoothness and softness of its texture, and is hence
highly esteemed in temperate climates as an elegant and agreeable article
of clothing to be worn next the skin. Its fibres are better conductors of
heat, more porous, and more attractive of moisture, than those of cotton,
which render it less adapted for body linen in cold weather, as well as in
hot weather and hot climates, than calico. The latter, however, lacks the
luxurious softness and freshness of linen, whilst the peculiar twisted and
jagged character of its fibres render it apt to excite irritation in
extremely delicate skins. The common prejudice in favour of old linen and
flax lint for dressing wounds is thus shown to have reason on its side,
and, like many other vulgar prejudices, to be supported by the
investigations of science.
_Identif._ Linen fabrics are commonly sophisticated with cotton, which is
a much less costly and a more easily wrought material. Various plans have
been proposed to detect this fraud, many of which are too complicated and
difficult for practical purposes. The following commend themselves for
their simplicity and ease of application:——
1. A small strip (a square inch, for instance) of the suspected cloth is
immersed for 2 or 3 minutes in a boiling mixture of about equal parts of
hydrate of potassium and water, contained in a vessel of silver,
porcelain, or hard glass; after which it is taken out and pressed between
the folds of white blotting paper or porous calico. By separating 8 or 10
threads in each direction, their colour may be readily seen. The deep
yellow threads are LINEN, the white or pale yellow ones are COTTON.
2. A small strip of the cloth, after having been repeatedly washed with
rain water, boiled in the water, and dried, is immersed for 1 to 2 minutes
in sulphuric acid; it is then withdrawn, carefully pressed under water
with the fingers, washed, immersed for a few seconds in ammonia, solution
of carbonate of potassium, or solution of carbonate of sodium, again
washed with water, and dried between filtering paper. By this treatment
the cotton fibres are dissolved, while the linen fibres are merely
rendered thinner and more translucent according to the duration of the
experiment; after a short immersion, the cotton fibres appear transparent,
while the linen fibres remain white and opaque.
3. Böttger recommends the linen stuffs to be dipped into an alcoholic
solution of rosolic acid, then into a concentration solution of sodium
carbonate, and finally washed with water. The linen fibre assumes a pink
colour, whilst the cotton fibre remains unaltered.
[Illustration]
4. (By the MICROSCOPE.) The indications afforded by both the previous
tests, although quite visible to the naked eye, are rendered still more
palpable by the use of a magnifying glass of small power, as the common
pocket lens. Under a good microscope the presence of cotton in a linen
tissue is very perceptible. The fibres of cotton present a distinctly flat
and shrivelled appearance, not unlike that of a narrow, twisted ribbon,
with only occasional joints; whilst those of flax are round, straight, and
jointed. The fibres of cotton, after being exposed to the action of strong
alkaline lyes, untwist themselves, contract in length, and assume a
rounded form, but still continue distinct in appearance from the fibres of
linen. The engraving represents a fibre of linen (1) and a fibre of cotton
(2), as they appear when magnified 155 diameters. The difference between
the two may be perceived, although less distinctly through a good Stanhope
or Coddington lens, provided the object be well illuminated.
_Dyeing._ Linen and cotton, from the similarity of their behaviour with
dye-stuffs, are treated in nearly the same manner. The affinity of their
fibres for colouring matter is very much weaker than that of the fibres of
silk and woollen. On this account they are dyed with greater difficulty
than those substances, and the colours so imparted are, in general, less
brilliant and permanent under similar conditions. Linen shows less
disposition to take dyes than cotton. The yarn or cloth, after being
scoured and bleached in the usual manner, requires to have an additional
tendency given to it, by chemical means, to condense and retain the
materials of the dye-bath in its pores. This is effected by steeping the
goods in solutions (mordants) which have at once an affinity for both the
fibres of the cloth and the colouring matter. A similar process is
employed in dyeing most other substances; but with cotton and linen,
attention to this point is essential to the permanency of the dye. These
matters are more fully explained under the heads DYEING and MORDANT.
The following new process for bleaching linen, having been omitted from
our article on “Bleaching” is inserted here:——
Mr Hodges’ process, which is known in Ireland as the “Chemico-Mechanical
Process,” owing to the patentee turning to account the advantages
derivable from the employment of mechanical contrivances driven by steam,
combined with the introduction of a new method of obtaining the hitherto
little used hypochlorite of magnesia, may be said to date from the
discovery of the substance, known as _Kieserite_ (native sulphate of
magnesia), which occurs as an essential constituent of the Abraumsalts of
Stassfurth. For some time after the introduction of this substance into
the market, it was considered of little value except for the production of
Epsom salts; but Mr. Hodges, in the course of some investigations in
bleaching jute, having had occasion to employ large quantities of
hypochlorite of magnesia, it occurred to him that kieserite might be
substituted for the more expensive crude sulphate of magnesia; and the
importation into Ireland of the sample for this purpose was the first that
was ever sent into that country for the manufacture of a bleaching liquor,
or, indeed, for any other use. Mr. Hodges on experimenting with the
kieserite, found that it not only supplied the place of the crude
sulphate, but acted as a better precipitant for the lime of the bleaching
powder, which is employed in the production of the hypochlorite of
magnesia; and that it also produced a stronger and clearer solution.
Without entering into a minute description of the process (which is at
present successfully carried out in a factory erected for the purpose in
the neighbourhood of Belfast), the following outline will be sufficient to
show the nature of the methods adopted. The kieserite, which is imported
from Germany in square blocks, on arriving at the works, is conveyed to a
house, on the ground-floor of which it is stacked until required, when it
is ground to a fine powder, and placed in barrels, is drawn up by means of
a crane to a room at the top of the building, at one end of which is a row
of three tanks furnished with water taps, agitators, and false bottoms. In
one of the end tanks a definite quantity of the kieserite powder (varying
according to its strength, is ascertained by analysis) is placed and
dissolved in a given quantity of water, the solution being assisted by
agitators, and on settling the clear liquor is siphoned over into the
middle tank. In the third tank bleaching powder (hypochlorite of lime),
varying in quantity according to the strength of the kieserite solution,
is placed. The bleaching powder after being agitated with water is allowed
to settle, and the clear solution is siphoned over into the middle tank
containing the clear kieserite solution, the agitator being kept in
motion, not only during the mixing of the liquids, but for some time
after. The mixed liquids are then allowed to remain undisturbed all night,
after which the clear hypochlorite of magnesia solution is siphoned into a
large settling tank, which is situated in the room below. From this vessel
it is conducted through wooden pipes (which are so contrived that they can
be opened and cleansed at will), into a large cistern standing in the
bleaching house. This cistern is fitted with a ball-cock, by which
arrangement the liquid can be drawn off by a system of wooden pipes as
required. The bleaching house in which the cistern is situated is fitted
up in an original manner, and covers something more than an acre of
ground; whilst the reeling-shed, which is the only part of the works our
limits will permit us describe, is 240 feet long by 24 feet broad, and
contains ten steeps and twelve reel boxes. Each box is provided with
water, a solution of the bleaching agent, and steam pipes, and is capable
of reeling at a time about 500 lbs. of yarn. Above the box is a line of
rails or pillars. A travelling crane runs along the reels, and carries the
reels from one box to another. Attached to this crane is a newly-invented
hydraulic pump, by means of which the reels with the yarn on them can be
lifted in a few seconds from one box to another.
After the yarn has been boiled, washed, and passed through the squeezers
in the usual manner, it is put on to a wagon, in which it is carried, by
means of a line of rails, down to the first reel box. Here it is placed on
to the reels, which are made to revolve by means of steam; first in one
direction and then in another, through a solution of carbonate of soda,
previously heated by means of the steam-pipes before mentioned. The yarn
having been sufficiently scalded and so saturated with soda, the reels to
which it is attached are raised by the hydraulic pump out of the box, and
the yarn allowed to drain for a few minutes, after which the travelling
crane carries it on to the next box. Into this box the yarn is again
lowered by the pump and made to revolve as before, but this time through a
solution of the bleaching agent, which immediately re-acting on the
carbonate of soda with which the yarn is charged, renders this bleaching
agent free from the danger which attends the employment of chlorine, or
the ordinary bleaching powder used in the older methods of bleaching.
After the yarns have been brought to the desired shade in the solution of
Hodges’ bleaching agent they are either removed as before to a new box,
and there washed before being scoured, or they are thrown into one of the
steeps filled with water for the night. These operations are repeated with
weaker solutions in the remaining reel boxes, either once or twice
according to the shade required.
Mr Hodges claims as the chief features of his invention that it consists,
first, in the employment of a bleaching agent which has not hitherto been
practically employed, and a cheap method for its production; second, in
the preparation of the yarn prior to being submitted to the action of the
bleaching agent, this preparation setting free not only the imprisoned
chlorine of the hypochlorite, but also another powerful bleaching agent,
oxygen; third, in new and improved machinery, by which the work of
bleaching the yarn is greatly shortened; fourth, in doing away with the
tedious and expensive operation of exposing the yarn on the grass; if this
last were the only feature in Mr Hodges’ invention, the patentee would
have greatly improved the process of bleaching, not only, however, does
the new process supplant the old long and tedious one, but a great economy
of time is additionally gained in other parts of the process, added to
these advantages it is stated that a superior finish is given to the
yarns, and that in consequence a much greater demand for them has arisen.
Mr Hodges contends that the absence of caustic lime from his new bleaching
compound gives it great advantages over the old bleaching powder,
particularly in its application to finely woven fabrics, such as muslins,
&c. He also says that fabrics bleached by it receive an increased capacity
for imbibing and retaining colouring matter, a fact of considerable
importance to the dyer and calico-printer, as they are thus enabled to
communicate to the fabrics tints which have heretofore been considered
impossible. See KIESERITE.
The domestic management of linen may here receive a few moments’
attention. Fruit stains, iron-moulds, and other spots on linen, may, in
general, be removed by applying to the part, previously washed clean, a
weak solution of chlorine, chloride of lime, spirits of salts, oxalic
acid, or salts of lemons, in warm water, and frequently by merely using a
little lemon juice. When the stain is removed the part should be
thoroughly rinsed in clear warm water (without soap) and dried. Recent
iron-moulds or ink spots on starched linen, as the front of a shirt, may
be conveniently removed by allowing a drop or two of melted tallow from a
common candle to fall upon them before sending the articles to the
laundress. The oxide of iron combines with the grease, and the two are
washed out together. If the spot is not entirely removed the first time,
the process should be repeated. Linen that has acquired a yellow or bad
colour by careless washing may be restored to its former whiteness by
working it well in water to which some strained solution of chloride of
lime has been added, observing to well rinse it in clean water both before
and after the immersion in the bleaching liquor. The attempt to bleach
unwashed linen should be avoided, as also using the liquor too strong, as
in that case the linen will be rendered rotten.
=LING.= The _Galus molua_ (Linn.), an inferior species of the cod-fish
tribe, common in the Northern seas, and used as a coarse article of food
by the poor.
=LIN′IMENT.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM, L. A semifluid ointment, or soapy
application to painful joints, swellings, burns, &c. The term is also
occasionally extended to various spirituous and stimulating external
applications. A preparation of a thinner consistence, but similarly
employed, is called an ‘EMBROCATION,’ These terms are, however, frequently
confounded together, and misapplied. Liniments are generally administered
by friction with the hand or fingers, or with some substance (as a piece
of flannel) capable of producing a certain amount of irritation of the
skin. Sometimes a piece of linen rag dipped in them is simply laid on the
part. In most cases in which liniments are found beneficial, the advantage
obtained from them is attributable rather to the friction or local
irritation than to any medicinal power in the preparation itself. The
greater number of cerates and ointments may be converted into liniments by
simply reducing their consistence with almond or olive oil, or oil of
turpentine.
=Liniment, Ac′id.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM ACIDUM, L. ACIDI SULPHURICI, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Sir B. Brodie.) Salad oil, 3 oz.; oil of vitriol, 1 dr.; mix,
then add of oil of turpentine, 1 oz., and agitate the whole well together.
As a counter-irritant, in rheumatism, stiff joints, &c. It closely
resembles the ‘GULLTONIAN EMBROCATION,’
2. (Hosp. F.) Olive oil, 3 oz.; oil of turpentine, 2 oz.; sulphuric acid,
1 fl. dr. An excellent alterative, stimulant, discutient, and
counter-irritant, in chronic rheumatism, stiff joints, indolent tumours,
and various chronic diseases of the skin.
=Liniment of Albumen.= (Dr Christison.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM ALBUMINIS.
_Prep._ Equal parts of white of egg and rectified spirit, agitated
together. In excoriation from pressure.
=Liniment of Am′ber-oil.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM SUCCINI, L. _Prep._ 1. From
olive oil, 3 parts; oils of amber and cloves, of each 1 part. Resembles
‘ROCHE’S EMBROCATION,’
2. (Opiated; LINIMENTUM SUCCINI OPIATUM, L.) From rectified oil of amber
and tincture of opium, of each 2 fl. oz.; lard, 1 oz. Anodyne,
antispasmodic, and stimulant. A once popular remedy in cramp, stiff
joints, &c.
=Liniment of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ AMMONIACAL LINIMENT, VOLATILE L., OIL AND
HARTSHORN; LINIMENTUM AMMONIÆ (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B.
P.) Solution of ammonia, 1; olive oil, 3; mix.
2. (Ph. L. & E.) Liquor of ammonia (sp. gr. ·960), 1 fl. oz.; olive oil, 2
fl. oz.; shake them together until they are mixed.
3. (Ph. D.) To the last add of olive oil, 1 fl. oz. Stimulant and
rubefacient. Used in rheumatism, lumbago, neuralgia, sore throat, spasms,
bruises, &c. When the skin is irritable more oil should be added, or it
should be diluted with a little water.
4. (Camphorated; LINIMENTUM AMMONIÆ CAMPHORATUM, EMBROCATIO AMM.
CAMPHORATA, L.)——_a._ (Hosp. F.) Olive oil, 3 oz.; camphor, 1/2 oz.;
dissolve by a gentle heat, and when cold, add of liquor of ammonia, 1 fl.
oz.
_b._ Soap liniment, 2 oz.; olive oil and liquor of ammonia, of each 2 dr.
As the last; more especially for sprains, bruises, chilblains, &c.
5. (Compound; Dr GRANVILLE’S COUNTER-IRRITANT OR ANTIDYNOUS LOTION;
LINIMENTUM AMMONIÆ COMPOSITUM, L.——Ph. E.)——_a._ (STRONGER.) From liquor
of ammonia (sp. gr. ·880), 5 fl. oz.; tincture of camphor, 2 fl. oz.;
spirit of rosemary, 1 fl. oz.; mix. It should be kept in a well-stoppered
bottle and in a cool situation.
_b._ (WEAKER.) Solution of ammonia (·880), 5 fl. oz.; tincture of camphor,
3 fl. oz.; spirit of rosemary, 2 fl. oz.
_Obs._ The above formulæ are nearly identical with the original ones of Dr
Granville; the principal difference being in his ordering liquor of
ammonia of the sp. gr. ·872, instead of ·880. They are counter-irritant,
rubefacient, vesicant, and cauterising, according to the mode and length
of their application. The milder lotion is sufficiently powerful to
produce considerable rubefaction and irritation in from 1 to 5 or 6
minutes; vesication, in 8 or 10 minutes; and cauterisation, in 4 or 5
minutes longer. For the latter purpose the stronger lotion is generally
employed. According to Dr Granville, these lotions are prompt and powerful
remedies in rheumatism, lumbago, cramp, neuralgia, sprains, swollen and
painful joints, headache, sore throat, and numerous other affections in
which the use of a powerful counter-irritant has been recommended. They
are ordered to be applied by means of a piece of linen, 6 or 7 times
folded, or a piece of thick, coarse flannel wetted with the lotion, the
whole being covered with a thick towel, and firmly pressed against the
part with the hand. The stronger lotion is only intended to be employed in
apoplexy, and to produce cauterisation. See COUNTER-IRRITANTS.
6. (From SESQUICARBONATE OF AMMONIA;——LINIMENTUM AMMONIÆ
SESQUICARBONATIS——Ph. L.) Solution of sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 1 fl.
oz.; olive oil, 3 fl. oz.; shake them together until mixed. This
preparation resembles ordinary liniment of ammonia in its general
properties, but it is much less active, owing to the alkali being
carbonated. It is the ‘oil and hartshorn’ and the ‘volatile liniment’ of
the shops.
7. (WITH TURPENTINE.) (Dr Copland.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM AMMONIÆ CUM
TEREBINTHINA. _Prep._ Liniment of ammonia, 1-1/4 fl. oz.; oil of
turpentine, 1/2 fl. oz.; mix.
=Liniment, An′odyne.= See LINIMENTS OF BELLADONNA, MORPHIA, OPIUM, SOAP,
&c.
=Liniment, Antispasmod′ic.= _Syn_. LINIMENTUM ANTISPASMODICUM, L. CAJEPUTI
COMPOSITUM, L. _Prep._ (Hufeland.) Oils of cajeput and mint, of each 1
part; tincture of opium, 3 parts; compound camphor liniment, 24 parts.
Anodyne, stimulant, and rubefacient.
=Liniment, Arceus’s.= Compound elemi ointment.
=Liniment of Arnica.= _Syn._ ARNICA OPODELDOC, LINIMENTUM ARNICÆ. _Prep._
Dissolve by heat Castile soap, 4 parts, and camphor, 1 part, in rectified
spirit, 10 parts. Add tincture of arnica, 5 parts.
=Liniment of Belladon′na.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM BELLADONNÆ, B. P. L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Prepared the same as LINIMENTUM ACONITII. A fluid ounce is
equal to a solid ounce. Prescribed with equal parts of soap liniment, or
compound camphor liniment, and is an excellent topical application for
neuralgic pain.
2. Extract of belladonna, 1 dr.; oil of almonds, 2 oz.; lime water, 4 fl.
oz. In eczema, and some other cutaneous affections, to allay irritation,
&c.
3. (Cutan. Hosp.) Extract of belladonna, 4 dr.; glycerine, 1 oz.; soap
liniment, 6 oz. As the last.
4. (Guy’s Hosp.) Extract of belladonna 1 oz.; soap liniment, 8 fl. oz.
5. (Phœbus.) Extract of belladonna, 40 gr.; rectified ether, 1 dr.;
cherry-laurel water, 2 fl. oz. As a friction to the abdomen in lead colic.
_Obs._ The above are reputed excellent stimulants, anodynes,
antispasmodics, and resolvents, in various diseases, as rheumatism,
neuralgia, painful affections of the skin and joints, tumours, &c. &c.
=Liniment of Belladonna and Chloroform.= (Mr Squire.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM
BELLADONNÆ ET CHLOROFORMI. _Prep._ Belladonna liniment, 7 fl. dr.;
belladonna chloroform (made by percolating the root with chloroform) 1 fl.
dr.; sprinkled on piline and applied to the loins, excellent in lumbago.
=Liniment of Borax.= (Swediaur). _Syn._ LINIMENTUM BORACIS. _Prep._ Borax,
2 dr.; tincture of myrrh, 1 oz., distilled water, 1 oz.; honey of roses, 2
oz. Mix.
=Liniment of Caj′eput Oil.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM OLEI CAJEPUTI, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Dr Copland.) Compound camphor liniment and soap liniment, of each 1-1/2
fl. oz.; oil of cajeput, 1 fl. oz.
2. (Dr Williams.) Oil of cajeput, 1/2 fl. dr.; castor oil, 1 fl. dr.;
olive oil, 4-1/2 fl. dr. A warm, antispasmodic, diffusible stimulant and
rubefacient; in spasmodic asthma, colic, chronic rheumatism, spasms, chest
affections, &c. See ANTISPASMODIC L. (_above_).
=Linimentum Calcis.= (B. P.) Solution of lime, 1; olive oil, 1; mix. The
best liniment for burns and scalds.
=Liniment of Cam′phor.= _Syn._ CAMPHORATED OIL, CAMPHOR EMBROCATION;
LINIMENTUM CAMPHORÆ (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.), OLEUM CAMPHORATUM, L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Camphor, 1; olive oil, 4; dissolve.
2. (Ph. L. & E.) Camphor, 1 oz.; olive oil, 4 fl. oz.; gently heat the
oil, add the camphor (cut small), and agitate until dissolved. The Dublin
College orders only 1/2 the above camphor. Stimulant, anodyne, and
resolvent; in sprains, bruises, rheumatic pains, glandular enlargements,
&c.
3. (Compound; LINIMENTUM CAMPHORÆ COMPOSITUM——B. P., Ph. L. & D.)——_a._
(B. P.) Camphor, 5; English oil of lavender, 1/4; strong solution of
ammonia, 10; rectified spirit, 20. Dissolve the oil and camphor in the
spirit and gradually add the ammonia.
_b._ (Ph. L.) Camphor, 2-1/2 oz.; oil of lavender, 1 fl. dr.; rectified
spirit, 17 fl. oz.; dissolve, then add of stronger liquor of ammonia, 3
fl. oz., and shake them together until they are mixed.
_c._ (Ph. L. 1836.) Liquor of ammonia, 7-1/2 fl. oz.; spirit of lavender,
1 pint; distil off 1 pint, and dissolve in it camphor, 2-1/2 oz. The
formula of the Ph. D. 1826 was nearly similar.
_d._ (Wholesale.) Camphor (clean), 21 oz.; English oil of lavender, 3-3/4
oz.; liquor of ammonia, 2-3/4 lbs.; rectified spirit, 7 pints; mix, close
the vessel, and agitate occasionally, until the camphor is dissolved.
Powerfully stimulant and rubefacient. It closely resembles, and is now
almost universally sold for, Ward’s ‘Essence for the Headache.’
_e._ (Ethereal.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM CAMPHORÆ ETHEREUM. _Prep._ Camphor, 1
dr.; ether, 1 dr.; oil of vipers, 2 dr. Mix.
=Liniment of Canthar′ides.= _Syn._ LINIMENT OF SPANISH FLIES; LINIMENTUM
LYTTÆ, LIN. CANTHARIDIS (Ph. D. & U. S.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr Collier.)
Tincture of cantharides and soap liniment, equal parts.
2. (Ph. D.) Cantharides (in fine powder), 3 oz.; olive oil, 12 fl. oz.;
digest for 3 hours over a waterbath, and strain through flannel, with
expression.
3. (Ph. U. S.) Spanish flies, 1 oz.; oil of turpentine, 8 fl. oz.; proceed
as last. The above are irritant and rubefacient; but should be used
cautiously, lest they produce strangury.
=Liniment of Capsicum.= 1. (Dr Copland.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM CAPSICI.
_Prep._ Compound camphor liniment, 1 fl. oz.; volatile liniment, 1 fl.
oz.; tincture of capsicum, 3 fl. oz.; mix.
2. (Dr Turnbull.) Capsicums, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 3 fl. oz. Macerate 7
days, and strain for use.
=Liniment of Colchicum.= (Ear Infirmary.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM COLCHICI.
_Prep._ Soap liniment, 1 fl. oz.; wine of colchicum seed, 1/2 fl. oz.;
mix.
=Liniment of Colocynth.= (Heim). _Syn._ LINIMENTUM COLOCYNTHIDIS. _Prep._
Tincture of colocynth, 1/2 fl. oz.; castor oil, 1-1/2 oz.
=Liniment of Chlo′′ride of Lime.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM CALCIS CHLORINATÆ, L.
_Prep._ 1. Chloride of lime, 1 dr.; water (added gradually), 3 fl. oz.;
triturate together in a glass mortar for 10 minutes, pour off the liquid
portion, and add of oil of almonds 2 fl. oz.
2. (Kopp.) Solution of chloride of lime (ordinary), 1 part; olive oil, 2
parts.
3. (Waller.) Chloride of lime (in fine powder), 1 part; soft soap, 2
parts; soft water, q. s. to make a liniment.
_Obs._ The above are cleanly and excellent applications in itch, scald
head, herpes, lepra, foul ulcers, &c.
=Liniment of Chlo′′roform.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM CHLOROFORMI, B. P. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Chloroform, 1; liniment of camphor, 1; mix. The oil in the
camphor liniment prevents the evaporation of the chloroform. Stimulating
on application to a tender skin.
2. Chloroform, 1 fl. dr.; almond oil, 7 fl. dr.; mix in a phial, and
agitate it until the two unite.
3. (Tuson.) Chloroform, 1 fl. dr.; soap liniment, 2 fl. oz.; as the last.
Used as an application in neuralgic pains, rheumatism, &c.
=Liniment of Cod-liver Oil.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM OLEI MORRHUÆ, L. O. JACORIS
ASELLI, L. _Prep._ (Dr Brach.) Cod-liver oil, 2 fl. oz.; liquor of
ammonia, 1 fl. oz.; mix. Resolvent, dispersive; applied to glandular
tumours, scrofulous enlargements, &c.
=Liniment of Cro′ton Oil.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM CROTONIS (B. P., Ph. D.), L.
OLEI CROTONIS, L. O. TIGLII, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Croton oil, 1; oil of
cajeput, 3-1/2; rectified spirit, 3-1/2; mix.
2. (Ph. D.) Croton oil, 1 fl. oz.; oil of turpentine, 7 fl. oz.; mix by
agitation.
3. (J. Allen.) Croton oil and liquor of potassa, of each, 1 fl. dr.;
agitate until mixed, then add of rose water, 2 fl. oz.
4 (Pereira.) Croton oil, 1 part; olive oil, 5 parts.
_Obs._ The above are used as counter-irritants; in rheumatism, neuralgia,
bronchial and pulmonary affections, &c. When rubbed on the skin, redness,
and a pustular eruption ensue, and in general the bowels are acted on.
=Liniment, Diuretic.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM DIURETICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr
Calini.) Squills (in fine powder), 1 dr.; gastric juice of a calf, 2 oz.;
mix.
2. (Dr Christison.) Soap liniment, tincture of foxglove, and tincture of
squills, equal parts. In dropsies; rubbed over the abdomen or loins twice
or thrice a day.
=Liniment, Emol′lient.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM ALBUM, L. EMOLLIENS, L. _Prep._
From camphor, 1 dr.; Peruvian balsam, 1/2 dr.; oil of almonds, 1 fl. oz.;
dissolve by heat, add of glycerin, 1/2 fl. oz., agitate well, and, when
cold, further add of oil of nutmeg, 15 drops. Excellent for chapped hands,
lips, nipples, &c.
=Liniment of Foxglove.= (Dr Royle.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM DIGITALIS. _Prep._
Infusion of digitalis, 2 fl. oz.; water of ammonia, 2 fl. dr.; oil of
poppy seed, 4 fl. dr.; mix. To be rubbed on the abdomen 3 or 4 times a
day.
=Liniment of Gar′lic.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM ALII, L. _Prep._ From juice of
garlic, 2 parts; olive oil, 3 parts; mix. In hooping-cough, infantile
convulsions, &c.
=Liniment of Gin′ger.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM ZINGIBERIS, L. _Prep._ (Dr
Turnbull.) Ginger, 1 part; rectified spirit, 2 parts; make a tincture or
essence. For short-sightedness. A few drops are occasionally rubbed on the
forehead for 8 or 10 minutes at a time. How this tincture came to be
called a liniment we are at a loss to determine.
=Liniment of Glycerin.= (Mr Startin.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM GLYCERINI. _Prep._
Soap liniment, 3 oz.; glycerin, 1 oz.; extract of belladonna, 1 oz.; mix.
For gouty, rheumatic, and neuralgic pains. A little veratrine is sometimes
added.
=Liniment, Green.= (Dr Campbell.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM VIRIDE. Camphor, 1
oz.; olive oil, 6 oz.; extract of hemlock, 1 oz.; spirit of ammonia, 2 oz.
Mix.
=Liniment of Hellebore.= (Dornbleuth.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM HELLEBORI.
_Prep._ Soft soap, 4 oz.; hellebore powder, 2 oz.; hot water, q. s.
=Liniment, Hunga′′rian.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM HUNGARICUM, L. _Prep._
(Soubeiran.) Powdered cantharides and sliced garlic, of each 1 dr.;
camphor, bruised mustard seed, and black pepper, of each 4 dr.; strong
vinegar, 6 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 12 fl. oz.; macerate a week, and
filter. An excellent rubefacient and counter-irritant.
=Liniment of Hydrochlo′′ric Acid.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM MURIATICUM, L. ACIDI
MURIATICI, L. A. HYDROCHLORICI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Hosp. F.) Olive oil, 2 oz.;
white wax, 2 dr.; dissolve by a gentle heat, add of balsam of Peru, 1 dr.;
hydrochloric acid, 2 dr.; mix well. An excellent application to chilblains
before they break.
2. (W. Cooley.) Olive oil, 1/4 pint; white spermaceti (pure) and camphor,
of each 1/2 oz.; mix with heat, add of hydrochloric acid, 1/2 fl. oz., and
proceed as before. Equal to the last, and cheaper. This was extensively
employed among the seamen of the Royal Navy by Mr Cooley with uniform
success.
=Liniment of I′odide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM IODURETUM
GELATINOSUM, L. GELÉE POUR LE GOITRE, Fr. _Prep._ (Foy.) Iodide of
potassium, 4 dr.; proof spirit, 2 oz.; dissolve, and add the liquid to a
solution of curd soap, 6 dr., in proof spirit, 2 oz., both being at the
time gently warmed; lastly, aromatise with rose or neroli, pour it into
wide-mouthed bottles, and keep them closely corked. In goitre, &c.
=Liniment of Iodide of Sulphur.= (Prof. E. Wilson.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM
SULPHURIS IODIDI. _Prep._ Iodide of sulphur, 30 gr.; olive oil, 1 fl. dr.;
triturate together.
=Liniment of I′odine.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM IODI (B. P.); IODURETTED
LINIMENT; LINIMENTUM IODINII, L. IODURETUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Iodine,
5; iodide of potassium, 2; camphor, 1; rectified spirit, 40; dissolve.
2. (Cutan. Hosp.) Compound tincture of iodine and laudanum, equal parts.
3. (Dr Copland.) Soap liniment, 1 oz.; iodine, 8 to 10 gr.
4. (Guibourt.) Iodide of potassium, 1 dr.; water, 1 fl. dr.; dissolve, and
add to it white soap (in shavings) and oil of almonds, of each 10 dr.,
previously melted together. Some perfume may be added. In scrofula,
glandular enlargements, rheumatism, &c.
=Liniment of Ipecacuanha.= (Dr Neligan.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM IPECACUANHÆ.
_Prep._ Ipecacuanha in fine powder, 4 dr.; lard, 2 dr.; olive oil, 1-1/2
fl. oz.
=Liniment of Juniper.= (Dr Sully.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM JUNIPERI. _Prep._ Oil
of juniper, 1-1/2 oz.; lard, 2 oz.; oil of aniseed, 6 drops. For
scald-head.
=Liniment of Labdanum.= (Quincy.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM LABDANI; LINIMENTUM
CRINISCANI. _Prep._ Labdanum, 6 dr.; bear’s grease, 2 oz.; honey, 1/2 oz.;
powdered southernwood, 3 dr.; oil of nutmeg, 1 dr.; balsam of Peru, 2 dr.;
mix. To restore the hair.
=Liniment of Lead.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM PLUMBI, L. _Prep._ (Gaozey.) Acetate
of lead, 40 gr.; soft water, 12 fl. oz.; olive oil, 6 oz.; mix, and
agitate well. Astringent and refrigerant. Useful in excoriations,
especially when accompanied with inflammation.
=Liniment of Lime.= _Syn._ LINIMENT FOR BURNS, CARRON OIL; LINIMENTUM
CALCIS (Ph. L. E. & D.), L. AQUÆ CALCIS, OLEUM LINI CUM CALCIS, L. _Prep._
1. From olive oil (linseed oil——Ph. E.) and lime water, equal parts,
shaken together until they are mixed. Very useful in burns and scalds.
2. (Compound; LINIMENTUM CALCIS COMPOSITUM, L.)——_a._ (Camphorated——W.
Cooley.) Camphor liniment and lime water, equal parts.
_b._ (Opiated——W. Cooley.) Lime water and camphor liniment, of each 1 oz.;
extract of opium, 5 gr.; mix. Both are used as anodynes to allay pain and
irritation in severe burns, chilblains, &c., for which purpose they are
excellent. All the above liniments with lime water should be used as soon
as possible after being prepared, as the ingredients separate by keeping.
=Liniment of Mercury.= _Syn._ MERCURIAL LINIMENT; LINIMENTUM HYDRARGYRI
(B. P., Ph. L.), LIN. H. COMPOSITUM (Ph. L. 1836), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.)
Ointment of mercury, 1; solution of ammonia, 1; liniment of camphor, 1.
Melt the ointment in the liniment, add the ammonia, and shake them
together.
2. (Ph. L.) Camphor, 1 oz.; spirit of wine, 1 fl. dr.; sprinkle the latter
on the former, powder, add of lard and mercurial ointment (stronger), of
each 4 oz.; rub them well together, then gradually add of liquor of
ammonia, 4 fl. oz.; and mix well. Stimulant and discutient. It resembles
mercurial ointment in its effects; but though milder in its operation, it
more quickly produces salivation.
=Liniment of Mor′phia.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM MORPHIÆ, L. _Prep._ (W. Cooley.)
Pure morphia, 3 gr.; put it into a warm mortar, add very gradually, of oil
of almonds (warm), 1 fl. oz., and triturate until the morphia is
dissolved, then add of camphor liniment, 1 oz. An excellent topical
anodyne and antispasmodic, which often allays pain when other means have
failed.
=Liniment of Mus′tard.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM SINAPIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Flour of
mustard (best), 1 oz.; water, tepid, 2 fl. oz.; mix, and add of glycerin,
liquor of ammonia, and olive oil, of each 1 fl. oz.
2. (Béral.) Carbonate of ammonia (in fine powder), 1 part; camphor (in
powder), 2 parts; oil of lavender, 4 parts; tincture of mustard, 6 parts;
mix, dissolve by agitation, add of simple liniment (warm), 56 parts, and
again agitate until the whole is perfectly incorporated.
3. Black mustard seed (ground in pepper-mill or otherwise well bruised),
1/4 lb.; oil of turpentine, 1 pint; digest, express the liquid, filter,
and dissolve it in camphor, 1/2 lb. Stimulant and rubefacient. A popular
and useful remedy in rheumatic pains, lumbago, colic, chilblains, &c. The
last is a close imitation of Whitehead’s ‘Essence of Mustard.’
4. (LIN. OLEI VOLATILIS SINAPIS.)——_a._ From volatile oil of black mustard
seed, 1/2 dr.; oil of almonds, 1 fl. oz. As a rubefacient.
_b._ From volatile oil, 1 part; alcohol (sp. gr. ·815), 1 to 2 parts. As a
vesicant.
=Liniment of Mustard (Compound).= LINIMENTUM SINAPIS COMPOSITUM (B. P.).
Oil of mustard, 1 dr.; ethereal extract of mezereon, 40 gr.; camphor, 2
dr.; castor oil, 5 dr.; rectified spirit, 32 dr.; dissolve.
=Liniment, Narcotic.= (P. Codex.) _Syn._ LINIMENT CALMANT; LINIMENTUM
NARCOTICUM. _Prep._ Anodyne balsam, 8 parts; compound wine of opium, cold
cream, of each 1 part. Mix.
=Liniment of Ni′trate of Mercury.= _Syn._ CITRINE LINIMENT; LINIMENTUM
HYDRARGYRI NITRATIS, L. _Prep._ (Sir H. Halford.) Ointment of nitrate of
mercury and olive oil, equal parts, triturated together in a glass mortar,
or mixed by a gentle heat. This liniment is stimulant, discutient, and
alterative, and in its general properties resembles the ointment of the
same name. For most purposes the quantity of oil should be at least
doubled.
=Liniment of Nux Vom′ica.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM NUCIS VOMICÆ, L. _Prep._
(Magendie.) Tincture of nux vomica, 1 fl. oz.; liquor of ammonia, 2 fl.
dr.; mix. As a stimulating application to paralysed limbs. The addition of
1/2 fl. dr. each of glycerin and salad oil renders it an excellent
application in chronic rheumatism and neuralgia.
=Liniment of Oil of Ergot.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM OLEI ERGOTÆ. _Prep._ Oil of
ergot, 1 dr.; oil of almonds, or sulphuric ether, 3 dr.; mix.
=Liniment of O′pium.= _Syn._ ANODYNE LINIMENT; LINIMENTUM OPII (B. P., Ph.
L. & E.), L. OPII or L. ANODYNUM (Ph. D.), L. SAPONIS CUM OPIO, L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Tincture of opium, 1; liniment of soap, 1; mix.
2. Tincture of opium, 2 fl. oz.; soap liniment, 6 fl. oz.; mix.
3. (Ph. E.) Castile soap, 6 oz.; opium, 1-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1
quart; digest for three days, then filter, add of camphor, 3 oz., oil of
rosemary, 6 fl. dr., and agitate briskly.
4. (Ph. D.) Soap liniment and tincture of opium, equal parts.
5. (Wholesale.) Soft soap, 1-1/4 lb.; powdered opium and camphor, of each
1/4 lb.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; digest a week.
_Obs._ This preparation is an excellent anodyne in local pains,
rheumatism, neuralgia, sprains, &c.
=Liniment of Phos′phorus.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM PHOSPHORATUM, L. _Prep._
(Augustin.) Phosphorus, 6 gr.; camphor, 12 gr.; oil of almonds, 1 oz.;
dissolve by heat; when cold, decant the clear portion, and add of
strongest liquor of ammonia 10 drops. A useful friction in gout, chronic
rheumatism, certain obstinate cutaneous affections, &c.
=Liniment de Rosen.= (P. C.) _Prep._ Oil of mace, 4 parts; oil of cloves,
4 parts; oil of juniper, 9 parts. Mix.
=Liniment, Sim′ple.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM SIMPLEX (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph.
E.) White wax, 1 oz.; olive oil, 4 fl. oz.; melt together, and stir the
mixture until it is cold. Emollient; resembles spermaceti ointment in all
except its consistence.
=Liniment of Soap.= _Syn._ OPODELDOC, CAMPHORATED TINCTURE OF SOAP, BALSAM
OF S.; LINIMENTUM SAPONIS (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.) L. SAPONACEUM, TINCTURA
SAPONIS CAMPHORATA, BALSAMUM SAPONIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Hard soap (cut
small), 2-1/2 oz.; camphor, 1-1/4 oz.; English oil of rosemary, 3 dr.;
rectified spirit, 18 oz.; distilled water, 2 oz.; mix the water and
spirit, add the other ingredients, digest at a temperature not exceeding
70° Fahr., agitating occasionally for seven days, and filter.
2. (Ph. L.) Castile soap (cut small), 2-1/2 oz.; camphor (small), 10 dr.;
spirit of rosemary, 18 fl. oz.; water, 2 fl. oz.; digest with frequent
agitation until the solid substances are dissolved.
3. (Ph. E.) Castile soap, 5 oz.; camphor, 2-1/2 oz.; oil of rosemary, 6
fl. dr.; rectified spirit, 1 quart.
4. (Ph. D.) Castile soap (in powder), 2 oz.; camphor, 1 oz.; proof spirit,
16 fl. oz.
5. (LINIMENT SAVONNEAU——P. Cod.) Tincture of soap (P. Cod.) and rectified
spirit (·863 or 41 o. p.), of each 8 parts; olive oil, 1 part.
_Obs._ This article, prepared according to the directions of the
Pharmacopœia, from ‘soap made of olive oil and soda’ (Castile soap), is
apt to gelatinise in cold weather, and to deposit crystals of elaidate and
stearate of lime. This may be avoided, when expense is not an objection,
by first well drying the soap, employing a spirit of at least 85%, and
keeping the preparation in well-closed bottles. A cheaper and better plan
is to substitute the ‘soft soap’ of the Ph. L. (‘soap made with olive oil
and potassa’) for the Castile soap ordered by the College. The soft soap
of commerce imparts to the liniment an unpleasant smell. The following
formula, one of those commonly adopted by the wholesale druggists,
produces a very good article, though much weaker than that of the
Pharmacopœia.
6. (Wholesale.) Camphor (cut small), 1-1/2 lb.; soft soap, 7 lbs.; oil of
rosemary, 3 fl. oz.; rectified spirit of wine and water, of each 3-1/2
galls.; digest with occasional agitation for a week, and filter. This is
the ‘opodeldoc’ or ‘soap liniment’ of the shops.
_Uses._ Soap liniment is stimulant, discutient, and lubricating, and is a
popular remedy in rheumatism, local pains, swellings, bruises, sprains,
&c.
7. (With Opium.) See LINIMENT OF OPIUM.
8. (Sulphuretted; LINIMENTUM SAPONIS SULPHURETUM, L. SULPHURO-SAPONACEUM——
Jadelot, L.) Sulphuret of potassium, 3 oz.; soap, 12 oz.; water, q. s.;
melt together, and add of olive oil, 12 oz.; oil of origanum, 1 fl. dr.;
mix well. An excellent remedy for the itch, and some allied skin diseases.
=Liniment of Strychnia.= (Dr Neligan.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM STRYCHNIÆ.
Strychnia, 30 gr.; olive oil, 1-1/2 fl. oz. Ten drops to be rubbed over
the temples in amaurosis.
=Liniment of Sul′phide of Carbon.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM CARBONIS SULPHURETI,
L. _Prep._ 1. From bisulphide of carbon, 1 dr.; camphorated oil, 1 oz.;
mix.
2. (Lampadius.) Camphor, 2 dr.; bisulphuret of carbon, 4 fl. dr.;
dissolve, and add of rectified spirit, 1 fl. oz. In rheumatism, gouty
nodes, &c.
=Liniment of Sulphu′ric Acid.= See LINIMENT, ACID.
=Liniment, Tripharm′ic.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM TRIPHARMICUM (Ph. L. 1746), L.
_Prep._ Take of lead plaster and olive oil, of each 4 oz.; melt, add of
strong vinegar, 1 fl. oz., and stir until cold. Cooling and desiccative;
in excoriations, burns, &c.
=Liniment of Tur′pentine.= _Syn._ KENTISH’S LINIMENT; LINIMENTUM
TEREBINTHINÆ (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), L. TEREBINTHINATUM (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Oil of turpentine, 16; camphor, 1; soft soap, 2; dissolve the
camphor in the turpentine, then add the soap, and rub till thoroughly
mixed.
2. (Ph. L.) Soft soap, 2 oz.; camphor, 1 oz.; oil of turpentine, 10 fl.
oz.; shake them together until mixed. Stimulant; in lumbago, cholera,
colic, &c.
3. (Ph. L. 1824.) Resin cerate, 6 oz.; oil of turpentine, 4 fl. oz.; mix.
An excellent application to burns.
4. (Ph. E.) Resin ointment, 4 oz.; camphor, 4 dr.; dissolve by a gentle
heat, and stir in oil of turpentine, 5 fl. oz.
5. (Ph. D.) Oil of turpentine, 5 fl. oz.; resin ointment, 8 oz.; mix by a
gentle heat. This forms Dr Kentish’s celebrated application to burns and
scalds. The parts are first bathed with warm oil of turpentine or brandy,
and then covered with pledgets of lint, smeared with the liniment.
6. (Compound——_a._ B. LINIMENTUM TEREBINTHINÆ ACETICUM.) Oil of
turpentine, 1; acetic acid, 1; liniment of camphor, 1; mix.
_b._ (LINIMENTUM TEREBINTHINÆ COMPOSITUM, L.) Acetic: ST JOHN LONG’S
LINIMENT; (LINIMENTUM TEREBINTHINÆ ACETICUM, L.) Oil of turpentine, 3 oz.;
rose water, 2-1/2 fl. oz.; acetic acid, 5 dr.; oil of lemons, 1 dr.; yolk
of egg, 1; make an emulsion. As a counter-irritant in phthisis.
_c._ (Ammoniated——Debreyne.) Lard, 3 oz.; melt, and add, of oil of
turpentine and olive oil, of each 1 oz.; when cold, further add of
camphorated spirit, 4 fl. dr.; liquor of ammonia, 1 fl. dr. In sciatica,
lumbago, &c.
_d._ (Opiated——Recamier.) Oil of turpentine, 1 fl. oz.; oil of chamomile,
2 fl. oz.; tincture of opium, 1 fl. dr. In neuralgia, &c.
_e._ (Sulphuric——Ph. Castr. Ruthena.) Oil of turpentine, 2 oz.; olive oil,
5 oz.; mix, and add of dilute sulphuric acid, 1-1/2 dr. See ACID LINIMENT.
=Liniment of Vera′trine.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM VERATRIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Brande.)
Veratrine, 8 gr.; alcohol, 1/2 fl. oz.; dissolve, and add of soap
liniment, 1/2 fl. oz. In neuralgic and rheumatic pains, gout, &c.
=Liniment of Ver′digris.= _Syn._ OXYMEL OF VERDIGRIS; LINIMENTUM ÆRUGINIS
(Ph. L.), OXYMEL ÆRUGINIS (Ph. L. 1738), OXYMEL CUPRI SUBACETATIS (Ph. D.
1826), L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Verdigris (in powder), 1 oz.; vinegar, 7 fl.
oz.; dissolve, filter, through linen, add of honey, 14 oz., and evaporate
to a proper consistence.
_Obs._ This preparation is wrongly named a ‘liniment.’ The College, after
‘beating about the bush’ for nearly a century, found a right name for it
in 1788; but, as in many other cases, soon abandoned it for another less
appropriate.
Oxymel of verdigris is stimulant, detergent, and escharotic. It is applied
to indolent ulcers, especially of the throat, by means of a camel-hair
pencil; and, diluted with water, it is used as a gargle. Care must be
taken to avoid swallowing it, as it occasions vomiting and excessive
purging.
=Liniment, Ver′mifuge.= Syn. LINIMENTUM ANTHELMINTICUM, L. VERMIFUGUM, L.
_Prep._ Castor oil, 1 oz.; essential oils of wormwood and tansy, of each
1/2 oz.; Dr Peschier’s ethereal tincture of pennyroyal buds, 20 drops;
mix. Employed in frictions on the abdomen in cases of worms in children.
Its activity may be still further increased by the addition of a little
garlic juice. (‘Journ. de Méd.’) An excellent medicine.
=Liniment, Vesicating.= (Dr Montgomery.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM VESICANS. For
children. Prep. Compound camphor liniment, 4 fl. dr.; oil of turpentine, 2
fl. dr. To produce immediate vesication in adults. Mix one part of the
strongest liquor ammoniæ, with two of olive oil, and apply six drops on
spongio-piline for ten minutes.
=Liniment, Ware’s.= _Prep._ From camphor liniment, 1 oz.; solution of
carbonate of potassa, 1 dr. In amaurosis.
=Liniment, White’s.= The old name for spermaceti ointment.
=Liniment, White.= _Syn._ LINIMENTUM ALBUM. _Prep._ Rectified oil of
turpentine, 2 oz.; solution of ammonia, 2 oz.; soap liniment, 3 oz.;
spirit of rosemary, 1 oz. Mix in the above order, and gradually add with
continual agitation, distilled vinegar, 8 oz. For chapped hands.
=Liniment, Wilkinson’s.= _Prep._ (Phœbus.) Prepared chalk, 20 gr.;
sulphur, lard, and tar, of each 1/2 oz.; mix, and add of Boyle’s fuming
liquor, 10 or 15 drops. In certain chronic skin diseases, neuralgia, &c.
=Linimentum Aconiti.= (B. P.) Aconite root, in powder, 20; camphor, 1;
rectified spirit, to percolate, 30. Moisten the root for 3 days, then pack
in a percolator, and pour sufficient rectified spirit upon it to produce
with the camphor 20.
Strength, 1 in 1. Applied with a camel-hair pencil, alone or mixed in
equal proportions, with a soap liniment or compound camphor liniment, and
rubbed on the part. Seven parts of this, and 1 part of chloroformum
belladonna, and sprinkled thinly on impermeable piline, is the best
application for neuralgia or lumbago.
=Linimentum Potassii Iodidi cum Sapone.= (B. P.) Hard soap, in powder,
1-1/2; iodide of potassium, 1-1/2; glycerin, 1; oil of lemon, 1/8; water,
1. Dissolve the soap in 7 of water by heat of a water bath; dissolve the
iodide of potassium in the remainder of the water, and mix by trituration
the two solutions, and when cold add the oil of lemon, and mix thoroughly.
=LINOLEIC ACID.= C_{16}H_{28}O_{2}. This may be obtained by saponifying
linseed oil. It is a liquid acid, and rapidly oxidizes when exposed to the
air, becoming converted into oxylinoleic acid, which is incapable of
solidification even at low temperatures.
=LIN′SEED.= _Syn._ FLAX SEED; LINI SEMINA, L. The seed of _Linum
usitatissimum_ (Linn.), or common flax. (Ph. L.) Oily, emollient,
demulcent, and nutritive. Ground to powder (linseed meal; farina lini), it
is used for poultices. The cake left after expressing the oil (linseed
cake) contains, when of average quality, in 100 parts, moisture, 12·70;
oil, 11·32; albumenoids, 28·21; mucilage, &c., 29·42; indigestible fibre,
12·46; ash, 5·89. It is used for feeding cattle. Under the form of tea or
infusion it is used as a diluent, and to allay irritation in bronchial,
urinary, and other like affections. See INFUSION OF LINSEED.
=LINSEED CAKE.= See LINSEED.
=LINT.= _Syn._ LINTEUM, L. White linen-cloth, scraped by hand or
machinery, so as to render it soft and woolly. The hand-made lint is now
little used; it was prepared from pieces of old linen-cloth. The
machine-made lint is prepared from a fabric woven on purpose. A lint made
from cotton (cotton-lint) is now largely manufactured; it is much inferior
to the true lint, being a bad conductor of heat. Lint is used for dressing
ulcers, either alone or smeared with some suitable ointment or cerate.
=Lint, Medica′ted.= _Syn._ LINTEUM MEDICATUM, L. NIGRUM, L. INFERNALE, L.
_Prep._ 1. Nitrate of silver, 20 to 30 gr.; distilled water, 1 fl. oz.;
dissolve, saturate dry lint, 1/2 oz., with the solution, and expose it in
a saucer or capsule to the light and air, until it has become black and
dry.
2. Nitrate of silver and nitrate of copper, of each 1/2 dr.; lint, 1 oz.;
water, 1-1/2 fl. oz.; as the last. Used to dress old and indolent ulcers.
=LIP SALVE.= See SALVE.
=LIQUA′TION.= The process of sweating out by heat the more fusible metals
of an alloy. Metallurgists avail themselves of this method in assaying and
refining the precious metals and procuring antimony and some other metals
from their ores.
=LIQUEFA′′CIENTS.= _Syn._ RESOLVENTS; LIQUEFACIENTIA, RESOLVENTIA, L. In
_pharmacy_, substances or agents which promote secretion and exhalation,
soften and loosen textures, and promote the absorption or removal of
enlargements, indurations, &c. To this class belong the alkalies,
antimony, bromine, chlorine, iodine, mercury, sulphur, &c., and their
preparations.
=LIQUEFAC′TION.= The assumption of the liquid form. It is usually applied
to the conversion of a solid into the liquid state, which may arise from
increase of temperature (fusion), absorption of water from the atmosphere
(deliquescence), or the action of a body already fluid (solution).
=Liquefaction of Gases.= Under the combined influence of pressure and
cold, all the gases may be liquefied, and some even solidified. The first
satisfactory experiments in this direction were made by Faraday, who
succeeded in reducing to the liquid condition eight bodies which had
hitherto been regarded as permanent gases, namely, ammonia, carbonic
anhydride, chlorine, cyanogen, hydrochloric acid, nitrous oxide,
sulphuretted hydrogen, and sulphurous anhydride. His method of proceeding
was very simple:——the materials were sealed up in a strong, narrow, glass
tube, bent so as to form an obtuse angle, together with a little ‘pressure
gauge,’ consisting of a slender tube closed at one end, and having within
it, near the open extremity, a globule of mercury. The gas, being
disengaged by the application of heat or otherwise, accumulated in the
tube, and by its own pressure brought about liquefaction. The force
required for this purpose was judged of by the diminution of volume of the
air in the pressure gauge. By employing powerful condensing syringes, and
an extremely low temperature, Faraday subsequently succeeded in liquefying
olefiant gas, hydriodic and hydrobromic acids, phosphuretted hydrogen, and
the gaseous fluorides of silicon and boron. He failed, however, with
oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, nitric oxide, carbonic oxide, and coal-gas,
all of which refused to liquefy at the temperature of -166° Fahr., while
subjected to pressures varying in different cases from 27 to 58
atmospheres.
Within the last year, however, viz. toward the end of 1877, these hitherto
refractory gases have been reduced to the liquid, and, in the case of
hydrogen, to the solid state. These results have been accomplished by
subjecting the gases to a pressure considerably greater than that employed
by Faraday, combined with the expedient of the sudden removal of this
pressure, whereby the escaping gas (previously enormously reduced in
temperature) in the act of expansion robs the remainder of so much of its
heat as to leave it in the fluid condition.
The liquefaction of oxygen was accomplished independently by M. Cailletet,
of Paris, and M. Pictet, of Geneva; the French chemist having effected it
on December 2nd, 1877, and the Swiss one on the 22nd of the same month.
Simultaneously with Cailletet’s announcement of the liquefaction of
oxygen, that of carbonic oxide was made by the same chemist; who, about
three weeks after at a meeting in the Paris Academy of Sciences, stated
that he had also reduced hydrogen, nitrogen, and atmospheric air to the
fluid state.
In the previous November he had been equally successful in converting
gaseous nitric oxide into a liquid.
M. Cailletet, in a communication to the Paris Academy of Sciences, read by
M. Dumas at a meeting of that body on 24th December, 1877, thus describes
the process by which he liquefied the gases oxygen and carbonic oxide.
“If oxygen or pure carbonic oxide be enclosed in a tube such as I have
before described, and placed in an apparatus for compression like that
which has already been worked before the Academy,[17] and the gas be then
lowered in temperature to 29° C., by means of sulphurous acid and at a
pressure of about 300 atmospheres, the two gases preserve their gaseous
state.
[Footnote 17: This apparatus, which consists of a hollow steel cylinder,
to which is attached a strong glass tube, is described in the ‘Comptes
Rendus,’ tome 85, p. 851. The gas is forced into it by means of a
hydraulic pump with the intervention of a cushion of mercury.]
“But if they are allowed to suddenly expand, this expansion, according to
the formula of Poisson, reducing them to a temperature at least 200° C.
below their initial temperature, causes them immediately to assume the
appearance of an intense fog, which is caused by the liquefaction and
perhaps by the solidification of the oxygen or carbonic acid.
“The same phenomenon is also observed, upon the expansion of carbonic
acid, and of protoxide and binoxide of nitrogen, when under strong
pressure.
“This fog is produced with oxygen, even when the gas is at the ordinary
pressure, provided time is allowed for it to part with the heat it
acquires in the mere act of compression.
“This I demonstrated by experiments performed on Sunday, the 16th
December, at the Chemical Laboratory of the Ecole Normale Supérieure,
before a certain number of savants and professors, amongst whom were some
members of the Academy of Sciences. I had hoped to find in Paris, together
with the materials necessary for the production of a high degree of cold
(protoxide of nitrogen or liquid carbonic acid), a pump capable of
supplying the place of my compression apparatus at Châtillon-sur-Seine.
Unfortunately a pump well fixed and suited to this sort of experiment
could not be found in Paris, and I was obliged to send to
Châtillon-sur-Seine for the refrigerating substances for collecting the
condensed matters on the walls of the tube.
“To know whether oxygen and carbonic oxide are in a liquid or a solid
state in the fog would necessitate an optical experiment more easy to
imagine than to accomplish, because of the form and the thickness of the
tubes containing them. Furthermore, chemical reactions will assure me that
the oxygen is not transformed into ozone in the act of compression. I
shall reserve the study of all these questions till the apparatus I am now
having made is complete.
“Under the same conditions of temperature and pressure, even the most
rapid expansion of pure hydrogen gives no trace of nebulous matter. There
remains for me only nitrogen to study, the small solubility of which in
water induces me to believe that it will prove very refractory to all
change of condition.”[18]
[Footnote 18: ‘Comptes Rendus,’ tome 5, p. 1213.]
[Illustration]
M. Pictet’s process for liquefying oxygen, although differing in the
method of working, is similar in principle to that of M. Cailletet. His
paper, which was read at the same sitting of the Academy as M.
Cailletet’s, thus describes it:——
“A and B, in the accompanying figure, are two double section and force
pumps, coupled together on the compound system, one causing a vacuum in
the other in such a manner as to obtain the greatest possible difference
between the pressures of suction and forcing.”
The pumps act on anhydrous sulphurous acid contained in the cylindrical
receiver c. The pressure in this receiver is such that the sulphurous acid
is evaporated from it at a temperature of 65° C. below zero.
The sulphurous acid is forced by the pumps into a condenser, d, cooled by
a current of cold water; here it liquefies at the temperature of 25° above
zero, and at a pressure of about 2-3/4 atmospheres.
The sulphurous acid returns to the receiver C as it liquefies by the
little tube _d_.
E and F are two pumps resembling the preceding, and coupled in the same
manner. They act upon carbonic acid contained in a cylindrical receiver H.
The temperature in this latter receiver is such that the carbonic acid
evaporates from it at a temperature of 140° C. below zero.
The carbonic acid forced on by the pumps is driven into the condenser K,
enclosed in the sulphurous acid receiver C, which has a temperature of 65°
below zero; the carbonic acid here becomes liquefied at a pressure of five
atmospheres.
The carbonic acid, in proportion as it liquefies, returns to the
receptacle H by the small tube _k_.
L is a retort of wrought iron, sufficiently thick to resist a pressure of
500 atmospheres. It contains chlorate of potassium, and is heated in such
a manner as to give off pure oxygen. It communicates by a tubulure with an
inclined tube, M, made of very thick glass, one metre in length, which is
enveloped by the receiver, H, containing carbonic acid at the temperature
of 140° below zero.
A tap, N, situated upon the tubulure of the retort, permits of the opening
of an orifice, P, which leads into the surrounding air.
After the four pumps have been worked for several hours by means of a
steam engine of 15-horse power, and when all the oxygen has been
disengaged, the pressure in the glass tube is 320 atmospheres, and the
temperature at 140° below zero.
Upon suddenly opening the orifice, P, the oxygen escapes with violence,
producing, in doing so, so considerable an expansion and absorption of
heat as to cause a liquefied portion to appear in the glass tube, and to
spirt out from the orifice when the apparatus is sloped.
It ought to be stated that the quantity of liquefied oxygen contained in
the tube one metre long and 0·01 m. in internal diameter, occupied about a
third of its length, and issued from the orifice P in the form of a liquid
jet.
In a communication to M. Dumas, received two days after the above sitting,
M. Pictet described his experiments more fully, prefacing the account by
the following very interesting remarks:——“The end to which I have been
tending for the last 3 years has been to seek to demonstrate
experimentally that molecular cohesion is a general property of bodies
without exception.
“If the permanent gases cannot be liquefied, it must be concluded that
their constituent particles do not attract each other, and are therefore
independent of this law.
“To succeed experimentally in bringing the molecules of a gas into the
closest possible proximity, and thus to obtain its liquefaction, certain
indispensable conditions are necessary, which I thus sum up:
“1. To have a gas that must be perfectly pure and without a trace of
foreign gas.
“2. To have at one’s disposal very powerful means of compression.
“3. To obtain an intense degree of cold, and the abstraction of heat at
these low temperatures.
“4. To have a large surface of condensation maintained at these low
temperatures.
“5. To have the power of utilising the expansion of the gas under
considerable pressure to the atmospheric pressure, which expansion added
to the preceding means compels liquefaction.
“With these five conditions fulfilled, we may formulate the following
problem.
“When a gas is compressed at 500 or 600 atmospheres, and kept at a
temperature of -100° or 140°, and then let expand to the pressure of the
atmosphere, one of two things must occur. Either the gas, obeying the
action of cohesion, liquefies and yields its heat of condensation to the
portion of the gas, which expands and is lost in the gaseous form; or
under the hypothesis that cohesion is not a natural law, the gas passes
beyond absolute zero, that is to say, it becomes inert, a dust without
consistence. The work of expansion would be impossible, and the loss of
heat absolute.”
Spite of M. Cailletet’s supposition that nitrogen would prove a very
incoercible gas, his experiments showed the contrary, since he found that
it easily condensed under a pressure of about 200 atmospheres and at a
temperature of 13° C., the conditions as to its sudden expansion being
observed.
Hydrogen, the lightest of all the gases, which M. Cailletet could only
procure in the form of mist, was unmistakably liquefied by M. Pictet
within less than a fortnight afterwards, under a pressure of 650
atmospheres and 140° of cold.
The tap which confined the gas at this pressure, being opened, a jet of a
steel blue colour escaped from the orifice, accompanied by a hissing
sound, like that given off when a red-hot iron is dipped into cold water.
The jet suddenly became intermittent, and a shower of solid particles of
the hydrogen fell to the ground with a crackling noise. The hydrogen was
obtained by the decomposition of formiate of potash by caustic potash, the
gas thus yielded being absolutely pure.
Cailletet states that he succeeded perfectly in liquefying atmospheric
air, previously deprived of moisture and carbonic acid, but he omits to
mention the pressure and reduction of temperature to which the air was
subjected. He liquefied nitric oxide at the pressure of 104 atmospheres
and at a temperature of -11° C.
Carbonic anhydride is liquefied on the large scale by condensing it in
strong vessels of gun-metal or boiler-plate. Thilorier was the first to
procure it in a solid condition. It requires a pressure of between 27 and
28 atmospheres at 32° F. (Adams.) The liquefied acid is colourless and
limpid, lighter than water, and four times more expansible than air; it
mixes in all proportions with ether, alcohol, naphtha, oil of turpentine,
and sulphide of carbon; and is insoluble in water and fat oils. When a jet
of liquid carbonic anhydride is allowed to issue into the air from a
narrow aperture, such an intense degree of cold is produced by the
evaporation of a part, that the remainder freezes to a solid (solid
carbonic anhydride), and falls in a shower of snow. This substance, which
may be collected, affords a means of producing extreme cold. Mixed with a
little ether, and poured upon a mass of mercury, the latter is almost
instantly frozen. The temperature of this mixture in the air was found to
be -106° Fahr.; when the same mixture was placed beneath the receiver of
an air-pump, and exhaustion rapidly performed, the temperature sank to
-166°. This degree of cold was employed in Faraday’s last experiments on
the liquefaction of gases.
=LIQUEUR.= [Fr.] _Syn._ CORDIAL. A stimulating beverage, formed of weak
spirit, aromatised and sweetened. The manufacture of liqueurs constitutes
the trade of the ‘compounder,’ ‘rectifier,’ or ‘liquoriste.’
The materials employed in the preparation of liqueurs or cordials are rain
or distilled water, white sugar, clean flavourless spirit, and flavouring
ingredients. To these may be added the substances employed as ‘finings,’
when artificial clarification is had recourse to.
The utensils and apparatus required in the business are those ordinarily
found in the wine and spirit cellar; together with a copper still,
furnished with a pewter head and a pewter worm or condenser, when the
method ‘by distillation’ is pursued. A barrel, hogshead, or rum puncheon,
sawn in two, or simply ‘unheaded,’ as the case may demand, forms an
excellent vessel for the solution of the sugar; and 2 or 3 fluted funnels,
with some good white flannel, will occasionally be found useful for
filtering the aromatic essences used for flavouring. Great care is taken
to ensure the whole of the utensils, &c., being perfectly clean and
‘sweet,’ and well ‘seasoned,’ in order that they may neither stain nor
flavour the substances placed in contact with them.
In the preparation or compounding of liqueurs, one of the first objects
which engages the operator’s attention is the production of an alcoholic
solution of the aromatic principles which are to give them their peculiar
aroma and flavour. This is done either by simple solution or maceration,
as in the manufacture of tinctures and medicated spirits, or by maceration
and subsequent distillation. The products, in this country, are called
ESSENCES or SPIRITS, and by the French INFUSIONS, and are added to the
solution of sugar (SYRUP or CAPILLAIRE) or to the dulcified spirit, in the
proportions required. Grain or molasses spirit is the kind usually
employed for this purpose in England. As before observed, it should be of
the best quality; as, if this is not the case, the raw flavour of the
spirit is perceptible in the liquor. Rectified spirit of wine is generally
very free from flavour, and when reduced to a proper strength with clear
soft water, forms a spirit admirably adapted for the preparation of
cordial liquors. Spirit weaker than about 45 o. p., which has been freed
from its own essential oil by careful rectification, is known in trade
under the title of ‘pure,’ ‘flavourless,’ ‘plain,’ or ‘silent spirit.’
Before macerating the ingredients, if they possess the solid form, they
are coarsely pounded, bruised, sliced, or ground, as the peculiar
character of the substance may indicate. This is not done until shortly
before submitting them to the action of the menstruum; as, after they are
bruised they rapidly lose their aromatic properties by exposure to the
air. When it is intended to keep them for any time in the divided state
they should be preserved in well-corked bottles or jars. The practice of
drying the ingredients before pounding them, frequently adopted by
ignorant and lazy workmen for the sake of lessening the labour, is, of
course, even more destructive to their most valuable qualities than mere
exposure to the air. The length of time the ingredients should be digested
in the spirit should never be less than 5 or 6 days, but a longer period
is preferable when distillation is not employed. In either case the time
may be advantageously extended to 10 days or a fortnight, and frequent
agitation should be had recourse to during the whole period. When
essential oils are employed to convey the flavour, they are first
dissolved in a little of the strongest rectified spirit of wine, in the
manner explained under ESSENCE; and when added to the spirit, they are
mixed up with the whole mass as rapidly and as perfectly as possible. In
managing the still, the fire is proportioned to the ponderosity of the oil
or flavouring substance, and the receiver is changed before the faints
come over; as these are unfitted to be mixed with the cordial. In many
cases the addition of a few pounds of common salt to the liquor in the
still facilitates the process and improves the product. Ingredients which
are not volatile are, of course, always added after distillation. The
stronger spirit is reduced to the desired strength by means of either
clear soft water or the clarified syrup used for sweetening. The sugar
employed should be of the finest quality, and is preferably made into
capillaire or syrup before adding it to the aromatised spirit; and not
until this last has been rendered perfectly ‘fine’ or transparent, by
infiltration or clarification, as the case may demand. Some spirits or
infusions, as those of aniseed, caraway, &c., more particularly require
this treatment, which is best performed by running them through a clean
wine bag, made of rather fine cloth, having previously mixed them with a
spoonful or two of magnesia; but in all cases clarification by simple
repose should be preferred. Under proper management, liqueurs or cordials
prepared of good materials will be found perfectly ‘clear’ or ‘bright’ as
soon as made, or will become so after being allowed a few days for
defecation; but in the hands of the inexperienced operator, and when the
spirit employed is insufficient in strength or quantity, it often happens
that they turn out ‘foul’ or ‘milky.’ When this is the case, the liquid
may be ‘fined down’ with the whites of 12 to 20 eggs per hogshead; or a
little alum, either alone or followed by a little carbonate of sodium or
potassium, both dissolved in water, may be added, in the manner described
under FININGS.
An excellent and easy way of manufacturing cordial liquors, especially
when it is inconvenient to keep a large stock on hand, is by simply
‘aromatising’ and ‘colouring,’ as circumstances or business may demand,
spirit 60 or 64 u. p., kept ready sweetened for the purpose. To do this to
the best advantage, two descriptions of sweetened spirit should be
provided, containing respectively 1 lb. and 3 lbs. of sugar to the gallon.
From these, spirit of any intermediate sweetness may be made, which may be
flavoured with any essential oil dissolved in alcohol, or any aromatised
spirit or ‘infusion’ (see _below_), prepared either by digestion or
distillation. As a general rule, the concentrated essences, made by
dissolving 1 oz. of the essential oil in 1 pint of the strongest rectified
spirit of wine, will be found admirably adapted for this purpose. These
essences, which should be kept in well-corked bottles, are employed by
dropping them cautiously into the sweetened spirit until the desired
flavour is produced. During this operation the liquor should be
frequently and violently shaken to produce complete admixture. If by any
accident the essence is added in too large a quantity, the resulting
‘milkiness’ or excess of flavour may be removed by the addition of a
little more spirit, or by clarification. In this way the majority of the
liqueurs in common use may be produced extemporaneously, of nearly equal
quality to those prepared by distillation. For those which are coloured,
simple digestion of the ingredients is almost universally adopted. The
“process by distillation” should, however, be always employed to impart
the flavour and aroma of volatile aromatics to the spirit, when expense,
labour, and time are of less importance than the production of a superior
article.
The French liqueuristes are famed for the preparation of cordials of
superior quality, cream-like smoothness, and delicate flavour. Their
success chiefly arises from the employment of very pure spirit and sugar
(the former in a larger proportion than that adopted by the English
compounder), and in the judicious application of the flavouring
ingredients. They distinguish their cordials as ‘eaux’ and ‘extraits’
(waters, extracts), or liqueurs which, though sweetened, are entirely
devoid of viscidity; and ‘baumes,’ ‘crêmes,’ and ‘huiles’ (balms, creams,
oils), which contain sufficient sugar to impart to them a syrupy
consistence. The greatest possible attention is given to the preparation
of the aromatised or flavouring essences, in France called ‘infusions.’
These are generally made by macerating the aromatic ingredients in spirit
at about 2 to 4 u. p. (sp. gr. ·922 to ·925), placed in well-corked glass
carboys, or stoneware jars or bottles. The maceration is continued, with
occasional agitation, for 3, 4, or even 5 weeks, when the aromatised
spirit is either distilled or filtered; generally the former. The outer
peel of cedrats, lemons, oranges, limettes, bergamottes, &c., is alone
used by our Continental neighbours, and is obtained either by carefully
peeling the fruit with a knife, or by ‘oleo-saccharum,’ by rubbing it off
with a lump of hard white sugar. Aromatic seeds and woods are bruised by
pounding before being submitted to infusion. The substances employed in
France to colour liqueurs are, for——blue, soluble Prussian blue, sulphate
of indigo (nearly neutralised with chalk), and the juice of blue flowers
and berries;——amber, fawn, and brandy colour, burnt sugar or spirit
colouring;——green, spinach or parsley leaves (digested in spirit), and
mixtures of blue and yellow;——red, powdered cochineal or brazil wood,
either alone or mixed with a little alum;——violet, blue violet petals,
litmus, or extract of logwood;——purple, the same as violet, only
deeper;——yellow, an aqueous infusion of safflower or French berries, and
the tinctures of saffron and turmeric.
A frequent cause of failure in the manufacture of liqueurs and cordials is
the addition of too much flavouring matter. Persons unaccustomed to the
use of strong aromatic essences and essential oils seldom sufficiently
estimate their power, and, consequently, are very apt to add too much of
them, by which the liqueur is rendered not only disagreeably high
flavoured, but, from the excess of oil present, also ‘milky,’ or ‘foul,’
either at once, or, what is nearly as bad, on the addition of water. This
source of annoyance, arising entirely from bad manipulation, frequently
discourages the tyro, and cuts short his career as a manufacturer. From
the viscidity of cordials they are less readily ‘fined down’ than
unsweetened liquor, and often give much trouble to clumsy and
inexperienced operators. The most certain way to prevent disappointment in
this respect is to use too little rather than too much flavouring; for if
the quantity proves insufficient, it is readily ‘brought up’ at any time,
but the contrary is not effected without some trouble and delay.
A careful attention to the previous remarks will render this branch of the
rectifier’s art far more perfect and easy of performance than it is at
present, and will, in most cases, produce at once a satisfactory article,
‘fine, sweet, and pleasant.’
The cordials of respectable British ‘compounders’ contain fully 3 lbs. of
white lump sugar per gallon, and are of the strength of 60 to 64 u. p. The
baumes, crêmes, and huiles imported from the Continent are richer both in
spirit and sugar than ours, and to this may be referred much of their
superiority. Mere sweetened or cordialised spirits (eaux, of the Fr.)
contain only from 1 to 1-1/2 lb. of sugar per gallon.
The purity of liqueurs is determined in the manner noticed under BRANDY,
WINE, &c.
The following list embraces nearly all the cordials and liqueurs, both
native and imported, met with in trade in this country:——
=Absinthe.= _Syn._ EXTRAIT D’ABSINTHE DE SUISSE; SWISS EXTRACT OF
WORMWOOD. _Prep._ From the tops of _Absinthum majus_, 4 lbs.; tops of
_Absinthum minus_, 2 lbs.; angelica root, _Calamus aromaticus_, Chinese
aniseed, and leaves of dittany of Crete, of each 15 gr.; brandy or spirit
at 12 u. p., 4 galls.; macerate for 10 days, then add water, 1 gall.;
distil 4 galls. by a gentle heat, and dissolve in the distilled spirit, of
crushed white sugar, 2 lbs. Tonic and stomachic.
=Alker′mes.= This liqueur is highly esteemed in some parts of the South of
Europe.
_Prep._ 1. Bay leaves and mace, of each 1 lb.; nutmegs and cinnamon, of
each 2 oz.; cloves, 1 oz. (all bruised); cognac brandy, 3-1/2 galls.;
macerate for 3 weeks, frequently shaking, then distil over 3 galls., and
add of clarified spirit of kermes, 18 lbs.; orange-flower water, 1 pint;
mix well, and bottle. This is the original formula for the ‘alkermes de
Santa Maria Novella,’ which is much valued.
2. Spice, as last; British brandy, 4 galls. water, 1 gall.; macerate as
before, and draw over 4 galls., to which add, of capillaire, 2 galls., and
sweet spirit of nitre, 1/4 pint. Cassia is often used for cinnamon.
Inferior to the last.
=An′iseed Cordial.= _Prep._ 1. From aniseed, 2 oz. (or essential oil,
1-1/2 dr.), and sugar, 3 lbs. per gall. It should not be weaker than about
45 u. p., as at lower strengths it is impossible to produce a
full-flavoured article without its being milky, or liable to become so.
2. (ANISETTE DE BORDEAUX.)——_a._ (Foreign.) Aniseed, 4 oz.; coriander and
sweet fennel seeds, of each 1 oz. (bruised); rectified spirit, 1/2 gall.;
water, 3 quarts; macerate for 5 or 6 days, then draw over 7 pints, and add
of lump sugar, 2-1/2 lbs.
_b._ (English.) Oil of aniseed, 15 drops; oils of cassia and caraway, of
each 6 drops; rub them with a little sugar, and then dissolve it in spirit
(45 u. p.), 3 quarts, by well shaking them together; filter, if necessary,
and dissolve in the clear liquor sugar, 1-1/2 lb. See PEPPERMINT
(_below_).
=Balm of Molucca.= _Prep._ From mace, 1 dr.; cloves, 1/2 oz.; clean spirit
(22 u. p.), 1 gall.; infuse for a week in a well-corked carboy or jar,
frequently shaking, colour with burnt sugar q. s., and to the clear
tincture add of lump sugar, 4-1/2 lbs.; dissolved in pure soft water, 1/2
gall. On the Continent this takes the place of the ‘cloves’ of the English
retailer.
=Bit′ters.= These have generally from 1 to 1-1/2 lb. of sugar per
gallon.[19]
[Footnote 19: See article BITTERS.]
=Car′away Cordial.= _Prep._ Generally from the essential oil, with only
2-1/2 lbs. of sugar per gall. 1 fl. dr. of the oil is commonly reckoned
equal to 1/4 lb. of the seed. The addition of a very little oil of cassia,
and about half as much of essence of lemon or of orange, improves it. See
BRANDY (Caraway).
=Ce′drat Cordial.= _Prep._ From essence (oil) of cedrat, 1/4 oz.; pure
spirit (at proof), 1 gall.; dissolve, add of water, 3 pints, agitate well;
distil 3 quarts, and add an equal measure of clarified syrup. A delicious
liqueur. See CRÊME and EAU (_below_).
=Cin′namon Cordial.= _Prep._ This is seldom made with cinnamon, owing to
its high price, but with either the essential oil or bark of cassia, with
about 2 lbs. of sugar to the gall. It is preferred coloured, and therefore
may be very well prepared by simple digestion. The addition of 5 or 6
drops each of essence of lemon and orange peel, with about a spoonful of
essence of cardamoms per gall., improves it. 1 oz. of oil of cassia is
considered equal to 8 lbs. of the buds or bark. 1 fl. dr. of the oil is
enough for 2-1/2 galls. It is coloured with burnt sugar.
=Cit′ron Cordial.= _Prep._ From the oil or peel, with 3 lbs. of sugar per
gall., as above. (See _below_.)
=Citronelle.= _Syn._ EAU DE BARBADES. _Prep._ 1. From fresh orange peel,
2 oz.; fresh lemon peel, 4 oz.; cloves, 1/2 dr.; corianders and cinnamon,
of each 1 dr.; proof spirit, 4 pints; digest for 10 days, then add of
water, 1 quart, and distil 1/2 gall.; to the distilled essence add of
white sugar, 2 lbs., dissolved in water, 1 quart.
2. Essence of orange, 1/2 dr.; essence of lemon, 1 dr.; oil of cloves, and
cassia, of each 10 drops; oil of coriander, 20 drops; spirit (58 o. p.), 5
pints; agitate until dissolved, then add of distilled or clear soft water,
3 pints; well mix, and filter it through blotting paper, if necessary;
lastly add of sugar (dissolved), q. s.
=Clairet.= _Syn._ ROSSALIS DES SIN GRAINES. _Prep._ From aniseed, fennel
seed, coriander seed, caraway seed, dill seed, and seeds of the
candy-carrot (_Athamantia cretensis_——Linn.), of each (bruised) 1 oz.;
proof spirit 1/2 gall.; digest for a week, strain, and add of loaf sugar,
1 lb., dissolved in water, q. s.
=Cloves.= _Syn._ CLOVE CORDIAL. _Prep._ From bruised cloves, 1 oz., or
essential oil, 1 fl. dr., to every 3 galls. of proof spirit. If distilled,
some common salt should be added, and it should be drawn over with a
pretty quick fire. It requires fully 3 lbs. of sugar per gall., and is
generally coloured with poppy flowers or burnt sugar. The addition of 1
dr. of bruised pimento, or 5 drops of the oil for every oz. of cloves,
improves this cordial. See BALM OF MOLUCCA (_above_).
=Coriander Cordial.= _Prep._ From corianders, as the last. A few sliced
oranges improve it.
=Crême d’Anis.= As ANISEED CORDIAL, only richer.
=Crême des Barbades.= As CITRONELLE, adding some of the juice of the
oranges, and an additional lb. of sugar per gall.
=Crême de Cacao.= _Prep._ Infuse roasted caracca-cacao nuts (cut small), 1
lb., and vanilla, 1/2 oz., in brandy, 1 gall., for 8 days; strain, and add
of thick syrup, 3 quarts.
=Crême de Cedrat.= _Syn._ HUILE DE CEDRAT. _Prep._ From spirit of citron,
1 pint; spirit of cedrat, 1 quart; proof spirit, 3 quarts; white sugar, 16
lbs., dissolved in pure soft water, 2 galls.
=Crême de Macarons.= _Prep._ 1. From cloves, cinnamon, and mace, of each
(bruised) 1 dr.; bitter almonds (blanched and beaten to a paste), 7 oz.;
spirit (17 u. p.), 1 gall.; digest a week, filter, and add of white sugar,
6 lbs., dissolve in pure water, 2 quarts.
2. Clean spirit (at 24 u. p., sp. gr. ·945), 2 galls.; bitter almonds, 3/4
lb.; cloves, cinnamon, and mace, of each in coarse powder, 1-1/2 dr.;
infuse for 10 days, filter, and add of white sugar, 8 lbs.; dissolved in
pure water, 1 gall.; lastly, give the liqueur a violet tint with infusion
or tincture of litmus and cochineal. An agreeable, nutty-flavoured
cordial, but, from containing so much bitter almonds, should be only drank
in small quantities at a time. The English use only one half the above
quantity of almonds.
=Crême de Naphe.= _Prep._ From sweetened spirit (60 u. p.) containing
3-1/2 lbs. of sugar per gall., 7 quarts; orange-flower water (foreign), 1
quart. Delicious.
=Crême de Noyeau.= See NOYEAU.
=Crême d’Orange.= _Prep._ From oranges, (sliced), 3 dozen; rectified
spirit, 2 galls.; digest for 14 days; add, of lump sugar, 28 lbs.
(previously dissolved in water, 4-1/2 galls.); tincture of saffron, 1-1/2
fl. oz.; and orange-flower water, 2 quarts.
=Crême de Portugal.= Flavoured with lemon, to which a little oil of bitter
almonds is added.
=Curaçao.= _Prep._ From sweetened spirit (at 56 u. p.), containing 3-1/2
lbs. of sugar per gall., flavoured with a tincture made by digesting the
‘oleo-saccharum’ prepared from Seville oranges, 9 in number; cinnamon, 1
dr.; and mace, 3/4 dr., in rectified spirit, 1 pint. It is coloured by
digesting in it for a week or 10 days Brazil-wood (in powder), 1 oz., and
afterwards mellowing the colour with burnt sugar, q. s.
=Delight of the Mandarins.= From spirit (22 u. p.), 1 gall.; pure soft
water, 1/2 gall.; white sugar (crushed small), 4-1/2 lbs.; Chinese aniseed
and ambrette or musk seed, of each (bruised) 1/2 oz.; safflower, 1/4 oz.;
digested together in a carboy or stone bottle capable of holding double,
and agitated well every day for a fortnight.
=Eau de Cedrat.= _Syn._ CEDRAT WATER. As CRÊME DE CEDRAT, but using less
sugar.
=Eau de Chasseurs.= See PEPPERMINT (_below_).
=Eau de Vie d’Andaye.= _Syn._ EAU DE VIE D’ANIS; ANISEED LIQUEUR BRANDY.
_Prep._ From brandy or proof spirit, 1 gall.; sugar, 3/4 lb.; dissolved in
aniseed water, 1 pint.
=Gold Cordial.= _Prep._ From angelica root (sliced), 1 lb.; raisins, 1/2
lb.; coriander seeds, 2 oz.; caraway seeds and cassia, of each 1-1/2 oz.;
cloves, 1/2 oz.; figs and sliced liquorice root, of each 4 oz.; proof
spirit, 3 galls.; water, 1 gall.; digest 2 days, and distil 3 gallons by a
gentle heat; to this add, of sugar, 9 lbs., dissolved in rose water and
clean soft water, of each 1 quart; lastly, colour the liquid by steeping
in it of bay saffron, 1-1/4 oz. This cordial was once held in much esteem.
It derives its name from a small quantity of gold leaf being formerly
added to it.
=Huile d’Anis.= See CRÊME D’ANIS (_above_).
=Huile de Vanille.= Flavoured with essence or tincture of vanilla. It is
kept in a decanter, and used to flavour liqueurs, grog, &c.
=Huile de Venus.= _Prep._ From the flowers of the wild carrot, 2-1/2 oz.,
and sugar, 3 lbs. to the gall. It is generally coloured by infusing a
little powdered cochineal in it.
=Jargonelle.= _Syn._ JARGONELLE CORDIAL. Flavoured with essence of
jargonelle pear (acetate of amyl). Pine-apple cordial and liqueurs from
some other fruits are also prepared from the new fruit essences. See
ESSENCE.
=Lem′on Cordial.= _Prep._ Digest fresh and dried lemon peel, of each 2
oz., and fresh orange peel, 1 oz., in proof spirit, 1 gall., for a week;
strain with expression, add of clear soft water q. s. to reduce it to the
desired strength, and lump sugar, 3 lbs. to the gallon. The addition of a
little orange-flower or rose water improves it.
=Liquodilla.= Flavoured with oranges and lemons, of each, sliced, 3 in
number; with sugar 2-1/2 lbs. per gall.
=Lov′age Cordial.= _Prep._ From the fresh roots of lovage, 1 oz. to the
gallon. A fourth of this quantity of the fresh roots of celery and sweet
fennel are also commonly added. In some parts a little fresh valerian root
and oil of savine are added before distillation. It is much valued by the
lower classes in some of the provinces for its stomachic and emmenagogue
qualities.
=Oil of Ce′drat.= See CRÊME DE CEDRAT (_above_).
=Orange Cordial.= Like LEMON CORDIAL or CRÊME D’ORANGE, from fresh orange
peel, 1/2 lb., to the gallon.
=Parfait Amour.= _Syn._ PERFECT LOVE. _Prep._ Flavoured with the yellow
rind of 4 lemons, and a teaspoonful of essence of vanilla to the gallon,
with sugar, 3 lbs., and powdered cochineal q. s. to colour.
=Pep′permint.= _Syn._ PEPPERMINT CORDIAL, SPORTSMAN’S C., X. MINT; EAU DE
CHASSEURS, Fr. This well-known compound is in greater demand in every part
of the kingdom than all the other cordials put together.
_Prep._ 1. From peppermint water and gin or plain spirit (22 u. p.), of
each 1 pint; lump sugar, 3/4 lb.
2. (Wholesale.) English oil of peppermint, 5 oz., is added to rectified
spirits of wine, 3 pints, and the mixture is agitated well together for
some time in a corked bottle capable of holding 4 pints or more; it is
then emptied into a cask having a capacity of upwards of 100 galls., and
perfectly white and flavourless proof spirit, 36 galls., is poured in, and
the whole well agitated for ten minutes; a solution of the best double
refined lump sugar, 2-3/4 cwt., in about 35 galls. of pure filtered rain
water, is then added, and the contents of the cask well ‘rummaged up’ in
the usual manner for at least 15 minutes; sufficient clear rain water to
make up the whole quantity to exactly 100 gallons, and holding in solution
alum, 5 oz., is next added, and the whole is again well agitated for at
least a quarter of an hour, after which the cask is bunged down, and
allowed to repose for a fortnight before it is ‘broached’ for sale.
_Obs._ The last formula produces a beautiful article provided the
ingredients are of good quality. Care on this point is particularly
necessary in reference to the essential oil, which should only be
purchased of some known respectable dealer. The sugar should be
sufficiently pure to dissolve in a wine-glassful of clear soft water
without injuring its transparency, and the cask should be a fresh-emptied
gin pipe, or one properly prepared for gin, as, if it gives colour, it
will spoil the cordial. When these particulars are attended to, the
product is a bright transparent liquor as soon as made, and does not
require fining. Should there be the slightest opacity, the addition of 2
oz. of salt of tartar, dissolved in a quart of hot water, will have the
effect of ‘clearing it down’ in the course of a few days. The product is
100 galls. of cordial at 64 u. p.
=Pimen′to.= _Syn._ PIMENTO CORDIAL, PIMENTO DRAM. Rather strongly
flavoured with allspice or pimento. It has obtained a great repute in the
West Indies in diarrhœa, cholera, and bowel complaints generally.
=Rasp′berry Cordial.= _Prep._ From raspberry brandy, capillaire, and
water, equal parts. A similar article is prepared by flavouring sweetened
spirit with the new ‘raspberry essence.’
=Rat′ifia.= The numerous liqueurs bearing this name are noticed in another
part of this volume. See RATIFIA.
=Shrub.= See the article SHRUB in another part of this work.
=Sighs of Love.= _Prep._ 1. From proof spirit flavoured with otto of roses
and capillaire, equal parts.
2. From sugar, 6 lbs., pure soft water, q. s. to produce a gallon of
syrup, to which add, of eau de rose, 1 pint; proof spirit, 7 pints. It is
stained of a pale pink by powdered cochineal. A very pleasant cordial. A
drop or two (not more) of essence of ambergris or vanilla improves it.
=Tears of the Widow of Malabar.= _Prep._ As BALM OF MOLUCCA, but employing
cloves (bruised), 1/2 oz., mace (shredded), 1 dr., and a teaspoonful of
essence of vanilla for flavouring. Some add of orange-flower water, 1/4
pint. It is slightly coloured with burnt sugar.
=Tent.= From plain spirit (22 u. p.) and port wine, of each 1 quart;
sherry and soft water, of each 1 pint; orange-flower water and lemon
juice, of each 1/4 pint; essence of ambergris, 2 drops (not more); sugar,
2 lbs. See WINE.
=Us′quebaugh.= See the article USQUEBAUGH in another part of this work.
=LIQUEUR DE LA MOTTE.= [Fr.] See DROPS (Golden) and TINCTURE.
=LIQUEUR DORÉE.= [Fr.] _Prep._ Take of cinnamon, bitter orange peel, and
Peruvian bark, of each 1/2 oz.; hay saffron, 1/4 oz.; brandy and Malaga
wine, of each 3 quarts; digest for a week, strain, and add of lump sugar,
2 lbs. Tonic, stomachic, and stimulant; chiefly used as an agreeable
alcoholic dram.
=LIQUEUR DE PRESSAVIN.= [Fr.] _Prep._ From oxide of mercury (freshly
precipitated) and cream of tartar, of each 1 oz.; hot water, 1 quart;
dissolve and filter. For use 2 spoonfuls of this liquor are added to 1
quart of water.——_Dose._ A wine-glassful 3 or 4 times a day, avoiding the
use of common salt. This is simply a solution of potassio-tartrate of
mercury, and may be taken in the usual cases in which mercury is
administered.
=LIQUODIN′NA.= See LIQUEUR.
=LIQUID-AMBAR.= _Syn._ COPAIBÆ BALSAM. A fluid balsamic juice obtained
from the _Liquidamber styraciflua_, an American tree. It closely resembles
LIQUID STORAX in its properties, and may be applied to the same purposes.
See STYRAX.
=LIQ′UOR.= _Syn._ LIQUOR, L.; LIQUEUR, Fr. This term is given in the
London Pharmacopœia to those aqueous solutions commonly though improperly
called ‘WATERS,’ ammoniæ liquor potassæ, &c. It is now more correctly
applied to the ‘WATERS’ of the British Pharmacopœia. See SOLUTION.
The term ‘liquor’ has also, of late years, been applied to certain
concentrated preparations, most of which would be more correctly termed
‘FLUID EXTRACTS,’ as they merely differ from good extracts in their
consistence, and from ordinary extracts in containing less starchy matter,
albumen, and gum. There is also usually a little spirit added to them to
prevent decomposition. Liquors of this kind may be prepared of the finest
quality by the same processes that are required for the preparation of
good soluble extracts; observing to stop the evaporation as soon as the
consistence of treacle is acquired, and when cold, to add 1-4th or 1-5th
part of their weight (after evaporation) in rectified spirit. The addition
of 3 or 4 drops of the oils of cloves and mustard seed, dissolved in the
spirit, will secure them from any risk of ‘moulding’ or fermenting; in
fact, with this addition many of them will keep well without spirit,
provided they are evaporated sufficiently, and kept in a cool place. The
liquors, which are merely concentrated infusions or decoctions, and which,
in their consistence, do not even approximate to extracts, may be made in
the manner directed under those heads.
Much confusion would be prevented if the terms ‘concentrated decoction,’
‘concentrated infusion,’ &c., were adopted for those vegetable
preparations possessing eight times the usual strength; ‘liquors’ for
those of a higher strength, but still sufficiently liquid to be treated as
such in dispensing, &c.; and ‘fluid extracts’ for those possessing
considerable consistence, and approaching the common extracts in their
degree of concentration and mode of preparation. See DECOCTION, INFUSION,
ESSENCE, EXTRACT, SOLUTION, &c.
⁂ The following formulæ present some illustrations of the preparation of
this class of medicines.
=Liquor of Ammonia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR AMMONIÆ. _Prep._ Strong solution of
ammonia, 1 pint; distilled water, 2 pints; mix and preserve in a stoppered
bottle. Sp. gr. ·959.
=Liquor of Ammonia, Stronger.= _Syn._ LIQUOR AMMONIÆ FORTIOR. _Prep._ Mix
chloride of ammonium in coarse powder 3 lbs., and slaked lime 4 lbs., and
introduce the mixture into an iron bottle, placed in a metal pot
surrounded by sand. Connect the iron tube which screws air-tight into the
bottle in the usual manner, by corks, glass tubes, and caoutchouc collars,
with a Woulf’s bottle capable of holding a pint; connect this with a
second Woulf’s bottle of the same size, the second bottle with a matrass
of the capacity of three pints, in which 22 oz. of distilled water are
placed, and the matrass by means of a tube bent twice at right angles,
with an ordinary bottle containing distilled water 10 oz. Bottles 1 and 2
are empty, and the latter and the matrass which contains the 22 oz. of
distilled water are furnished each with a siphon safety-tube charged with
a very short column of mercury.
The heat of a fire, which should be very gradually raised, is to be now
applied to the metal pot, and continued until bubbles of condensible gas
cease to escape from the extremity of the glass tube which dips into the
water of the matrass.
The process being terminated, the matrass will contain about 43 fl. oz. of
strong solution of ammonia. Bottles 1 and 2 will now include the first,
about 16, the second, about 10 fl. oz. of a coloured ammoniacal liquid.
Place this in a flask closed by a cork, which should be perforated by a
siphon safety-tube containing a little mercury, and also by a second
safety-tube bent twice at right angles, and made to pass to the bottom of
the terminal bottle used in the preceding process. Apply heat to the flask
until the coloured liquid it contains is reduced to three fourths of its
original bulk. The product now contained in the terminal bottle will be
nearly of the strength of solution of ammonia, and may be made exactly so
by the addition of the proper quantity of distilled water, or of strong
solution of ammonia. Density ·191, contains 32·5 per cent. of ammonia.
_Antidotes._——Vinegar and water followed by acidulated demulcent drinks.
=Liquor, Anodyne.= See SPIRIT OF ETHER.
=Liquor, Antinephritic.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ANTINEPHRITICUS, L. _Prep._
(Adams.) Poppy heads, 6 oz.; water, 1-1/2 pint; boil to one third, strain
with pressure, and add of nitrate of potassa, 1 oz.——DOSE, 1 to 2
teaspoonfuls night and morning; in gravel and painful affections of the
kidneys and bladder.
=Liquor, Antipodag′ric (Beguin’s).= _Syn._ HOFFMANN’S GOUT LIQUID; LIQUOR
ANTIPODAGRICUS HOFFMANNII, L. _Prep._ From Boyle’s fuming liquor, 1 part;
spirit of wine, 3 parts. Sudorific.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 drops; or
externally, in gout, and other painful affections, either alone or
combined with camphor. See AMMONIUM, PERSULPHIDE OF.
=Liquor Antipsor′ic.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ANTIPSORICUS, LOTIO A., L. _Prep._
(Van Mons.) Sulphuret of sodium, 1-1/2 dr.; hydrochlorate of ammonia, 75
gr.; dissolve each separately in water, 1/2 pint, mix the solutions, and
filter. In itch and other moist skin diseases.
=Liquor, Bleaching.= See SOLUTION OF CHLORIDE OF LIME.
=Liquor, Blistering.= B. _Syn._ LIQUOR EPISPASTICUS, LINIMENTUM
CANTHARIDES. _Prep._ Mix cantharides in powder, 8 oz.; and acetic acid, 4
fl. oz. Pack in a percolator, and after 24 hours pass ether slowly through
until 20 fl. oz. are obtained. Keep in a stoppered bottle.
=Liquor, Boyle’s Fu′′ming.= The perhydrosulphate of ammonia.
=Liquor of Calum′ba.= _Syn._ LIQUOR CALUMBÆ, L. Same as CONCENTRATED
INFUSION OF CALUMBA.
=Liquor of Cam′phor.= See ESSENCE.
=Liquor of Chiret′ta.= Same as CONCENTRATED INFUSION OF CHIRETTA.
=Liquor of Cincho′na.= _Syn._ LIQUOR OF BARK; CONCENTRATED INFUSION OF
BARK, INSPISSATED I. or B.; INSPISSATED I. OF B.; INFUSUM CINCHONÆ
SPISSATUM (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Yellow cinchona bark (bruised),
3 lbs., is macerated in distilled water, 6 pints, at two successive
operations, as directed under EXTRACT OF CINCHONA——Ph. L.; the mixed
infusions are evaporated by the heat of a water bath to one fourth, and
placed aside to settle; the clear portion is decanted, the remainder
strained, and the mixed liquid again evaporated until its sp. gr. reaches
1·200; to this, when cold, rectified spirit is dropped in, by degrees, “so
that 3 fl. dr. may be added to each fl. oz. of the liquor;” lastly, allow
it to repose for 20 days, that the dregs may subside.
_Obs._ It is not at all clear whether the College means 3 fl. dr. of
spirit to be added to each fl. oz. of the liquid before its addition, or
that it is to be added so that each fl. oz. of the product shall contain
that quantity. We presume the former. 1 fl. dr. of this preparation is
said to represent fully 4 fl. oz. of the INFUSION OF CINCHONA——Ph. L.; but
it is obvious that it must be liable to great variations in strength. “In
a general way 1 fl. dr. may be considered equal to 3 fl. oz. of the
infusion.” (Pereira.) As commonly met with, this preparation is nearly
destitute of the cinchona alkaloids.
2. Yellow cinchona bark, bruised, 56 lbs., and water holding in solution
sulphuric acid, 1-1/2 lb., are macerated together, with occasional
agitation, in a covered earthen vessel, for 48 hours, after which the
liquor is expressed, and the residuum or marc is treated with fresh water;
the mixed strained liquid is then evaporated as rapidly as possible in
earthenware, to exactly 6 lbs.; to this rectified spirit, 1-1/4 lb., is
added, and the whole is set aside for a week or 10 days; the clear portion
is, lastly, decanted and preserved in well-closed bottles. The product is
very rich in quinine. It is 96 times as strong as the DECOCTION OF
CINCHONA——Ph. L., and 12 times as strong as the above preparation of the
Ph. L. This preparation resembles the ‘LIQUOR CINCHONÆ’ sold by certain
houses in the trade at 24s. per lb., wholesale.
3. Exhaust the bark as above by maceration in 3 successive waters without
acid, filter, evaporate the mixed liquors to 7 lbs., and proceed as
before. Inferior to the last, and less rich in the cinchona alkaloids.
Very thick; scarcely liquid.
4. From PALE BARK:——(LIQUOR CINCHONÆ PALLIDÆ; INFUSUM CINCHONÆ
SPISSATUM——Ph. L.) From pale bark, as the last. See INFUSION OF CINCHONA.
=Liquor, Disinfect′ing.= See SOLUTION (Chlorides of Lime, Soda, and Zinc),
and DISINFECTING COMPOUNDS.
=Liquor of Er′got.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF ERGOT OF RYE, CONCENTRATED INFUSION
OF E.; ESSENTIA SECALIS CORNUTI, LIQUOR ERGOTÆ, INFUSUM ERGOTÆ
CONCENTRATUM, L. _Prep._ Recent ergot of rye (reduced to coarse powder by
pounding, or preferably by grinding it in a pepper-mill), 1-1/2 lb., and
boiling distilled water, 4 lbs., are digested together in a closed vessel,
with frequent agitation until cold, and then put into a wide-mouthed
bottle, along with rectified spirit, 2 lbs.; the whole is then allowed to
macerate for a week, after which the liquor is expressed and filtered.
_Obs._ 4 fl. dr. of this essence are equal to 1 dr. of ergot in substance.
It is 8 times the strength of the INFUSION (as usually prepared according
to the formula of Pereira and others), and 2-1/2 times the strength of the
TINCTURE OF ERGOT of the London Apothecaries’ Hall. This is the only
ESSENCE OF LIQUOR OF ERGOT known in the wholesale trade.
=Liquor of Flints.= See SOLUTION.
=Liquor of Gutta Percha.= B. _Syn._ LIQUOR GUTTA PERCHA. Gutta percha in
thin slices, 1 oz.; carbonate of lead in fine powder, 1 oz.; chloroform, 8
fl. oz. Add the gutta percha to 6 fl. oz. of chloroform in a stoppered
bottle, and shake them frequently till solution has been effected. Then
add the carbonate of lead previously mixed with the remainder of the
chloroform, and having several times shaken the whole together set the
mixture aside, and let it remain at rest until the soluble matter has
subsided. Lastly, decant the clear liquid and keep in a well-stoppered
bottle.
=Liquor, Libavius’s.= Bichloride of tin.
=Liquor of Mat′ico.= _Syn._ CONCENTRATED INFUSION OF MATICO; LIQUOR
MATICONIS, INFUSUM MATICONIS CONCENTRATUM, L. _Prep._ From matico leaves,
1 lb.; rectified spirit, 1/2 pint; distilled water, 32 fl. oz.; digest 10
days, express, and filter. 1 fl. dr. added to 7 fl. dr. of water is equal
to 1 fl. oz. of the common INFUSION.
=Liquor of Myrrh.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF MYRRH; LIQUOR MYRRHÆ, LOCO
LIQUAMINIS MYRRHÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Bor.) Extract of myrrh (Ph. Bor.), 1
oz.; distilled water, 5 fl. oz.; mix thoroughly, decant, and strain. It
should be of a brownish-yellow colour, and turbid.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 fl.
dr.
=Liquor of O′pium.= _Syn._ LIQUOR OPII, L. O. CONCENTRATUS, L. OPIATUS, L.
See BLACK DROP.[20]
[Footnote 20: Under DROPS, p. 591.]
1. (Messrs Smith.) Opium, 4 oz., is made into an extract, and
‘denarcotised’ by ether; it is then dissolved in alcohol, filtered,
evaporated nearly to dryness, and redissolved in water q. s. to furnish 12
oz. of solution; to this is added, of rectified spirit, 2-3/4 oz., with
water q. s. to make the whole up to 16 oz.——_Dose_, 3 to 12 drops.
2. (Acetic; LIQUOR OPII ACETICUS, L.) See LAUDANUM (Houlton’s).
3. (Citric; LIQUOR OPII CITRICUS, L.)——_a._ Powdered opium, 1-1/2 oz.;
lemon juice, 1-1/2 pint; evaporate to one half, cool, add of rectified
spirit, 5 fl. oz., and the next day decant or filter; same strength as
‘LAUDANUM,’
_b._ (LIQUOR MORPHIÆ CITRATIS——Dr Porter.) Opium, 4 oz.; citric acid, 2
oz.; triturate, and add of boiling water, 15 fl. oz.; digest with
agitation for 24 hours, and filter. This last has above three times the
strength of ‘LAUDANUM,’ It is sadly misnamed.
4. (Hydrochloric; SOLUTION OF MURIATE OF OPIUM; LIQUOR OPII
HYDROCHLORICUS, L.——Dr Nichol.) Powdered opium, 1-1/2 oz.; distilled
water, 1 pint; hydrochloric acid, 1-1/2 fl. oz.; digest a fortnight, and
strain with expression. Same strength as ‘LAUDANUM,’ According to Dr
Nichol, this is preferable to every other preparation of opium.
5. (Sedative; BATTLEY’S SEDATIVE SOLUTION OF OPIUM; LIQUOR OPII SEDATIVUS,
L.)——_a._ Hard aqueous extract of opium (bruised), 3 oz., is boiled in
water, 1-1/2 pint, until dissolved; to the solution, when cold, rectified
spirit, 6 oz. is added, together with water, q. s. to make the whole
measure exactly 1 quart; the liquor is, lastly, filtered.
_b._ From hard extract of opium, 22 oz.; boiling water, 13 pints;
rectified spirit, 3 pints; as the last.
_c._ From extract of opium——Ph. L., 4-1/4 oz.; water, 1 quart; boil till
reduced to 34 fl. oz.; cool, filter, and add of rectified spirit, 5 fl.
oz., and water, q. s. to make up exactly 1 quart.
_Obs._ The first two formulæ, which vary only in their quantities, are
identical with that employed by Mr Battley. As hard extract of opium is
not always at hand, we have introduced a formula in which the ordinary
extract is ordered. It gives a precisely similar product to the others,
provided the cold aqueous decoction is filtered before adding the spirit.
Battley’s LIQUOR OPII SEDATIVUS is an excellent preparation, less exciting
than opium or laudanum.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops. Dr Christison states that
20 drops of Battley’s solution are equal to 30 drops of the common
tincture.
=Liquor, Pancreatic= (Van den Corput). _Syn._ LIQUOR PANCREATINI.
Pancreatin and carbonate of potash, of each 10 gr.; balm water, 2-1/2 fl.
oz.; syrup of orange peel, 5 dr.——_Dose_, 1/2 fl. oz. to 1 fl. oz.
=Liquor of Pepsin.= (Mr Squire.) _Syn._ LIQUOR PEPSINI. _Prep._ 1 drachm
of Boudault’s pepsin in 1 oz. of distilled water. Salt must be added if it
is to be preserved.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful.
=Liquor of Rhu′barb.= _Syn._ LIQUOR RHEI, INFUSUM RHEI CONCENTRATUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. Rhubarb (well bruised), 6-3/4 oz.; water, q. s.; rectified
spirit, 1/2 pint; proceed as for INFUSION OF CALUMBA (conc.); to produce a
quart. 8 times the usual strength.
2. See INFUSION OF RHUBARB (Concentrated).
3. See EXTRACT OF RHUBARB (Fluid).
=Liquor of Sarsaparil′la.= _Syn._ FLUID EXTRACT OF SARSAPARILLA; LIQUOR
SARZÆ, ESSENTIA SARSAPARILLÆ, L. _Prep._ Either the simple or the compound
liquor of sarsaparilla may be made from the corresponding decoction, or,
preferably, the infusion prepared with water at 125° Fahr., by carefully
evaporating it until sufficiently concentrated, and then straining it
through flannel, and adding a little spirit. Jamaica sarsaparilla should
be alone employed, as the other varieties, especially the Honduras, not
only possess less medicinal virtue, and yield less extract, but are very
liable to ferment and get mouldy, unless an undue proportion of spirit is
added to them. See EXTRACT OF SARSAPARILLA (Fluid).
=Liquor of Sen′na.= _Syn._ LIQUOR SENNÆ, L. Both the FLUID EXTRACT and the
CONCENTRATED INFUSION OF SENNA are called by this name, but more generally
the former. The following are additional formulæ:——
1. (Duncan.) Senna, 15 lbs.; boiling water, 5 galls.; proceed by the
method of displacement, evaporate the product to 10 lbs., add of molasses,
6 lbs. (previously concentrated over a water bath until it begins to
congeal on cooling), dissolve, and further add of rectified spirit, 1-1/4
pint, together with water q. s. to make the whole measure exactly 12
pints. Every fl. oz. represents 1 oz. of senna.
2. (Dr Tweedy.) As the last, but using tincture of ginger (prepared with
rectified spirit), 1-1/2 pint, instead of the spirit there ordered.
=Liquor of Soap.= _Syn._ LIQUOR SAPONIS, L. See TINCTURE.
=Liquor, Styp′tic.= _Syn._ LIQUOR STYPTICUS, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
Slevico-Holsat. 1831.) Alum and sulphate of copper, of each 1-1/2 oz.;
sulphuric acid, 1 oz.; water, 1 lb.; dissolve, and filter.
=Liquor of Tarax′acum.= _Syn._ FLUID EXTRACT OF DANDELION; EXTRACTUM
TARAXACI FLUIDUM, LIQUOR TARAXACI, L. _Prep._ 1. Dandelion roots (dried),
28 lbs., are rinsed in clean cold water to remove dirt, and then sliced
small, and macerated in enough cold water to cover them for 24 hours; the
liquid is next pressed out, and after the fecula has subsided the clear
portion is decanted, and heated to 180° or 190° Fahr., to coagulate the
albumen; the liquid is then filtered while hot and evaporated by steam, or
preferably by a current of warm air, until it is reduced to 22-1/2 lbs.;
to this rectified spirit, 6 lbs., is added, and after thorough agitation
the vessel is set aside for a week or a fortnight, after which the clear
portion is gently poured from the sediment and preserved in well-closed
bottles in a cool place. A very fine article. It represents an equal
weight of the root.
2. The expressed juice of dandelion is heated to near the boiling point,
strained, and evaporated, as the last, to a proper consistence; 1/4th or
1/5th of rectified spirit is then added, and the liquid is otherwise
treated as before. Very odorous and pale coloured.
3. Dried root (coarsely powered), 1 lb.; water, 1-1/4 pint; rectified
spirit, 1/2 pint; digest a week, express the liquor, pass it through a
hair sieve into a bottle, and in 10 days decant the clear portion.
4. (Ph. Bor.) Extract of dandelion, 3 parts; water, 1 part (or q. s.);
triturated together.
5. (W. Procter.) Fresh root, 2 lbs., is sliced and reduced to a pulp, and
macerated with 1/6th of its bulk of rectified spirit for 24 hours; it is
then subjected to strong pressure, the marc is treated with water
containing a little spirit, 1 pint, and the liquid is again expressed; the
mixed product is evaporated to 12 fl. oz., and when cold, rectified
spirit, 4 fl. oz. is added, and the whole filtered.
_Obs._ Liquor of taraxacum has a very large sale. The dose is 1 to 2 fl.
dr. See EXTRACT.
=Liquor of Valer′ian.= See EXTRACT OF VALERIAN (Fluid).
=Liquor of Vanil′la.= _Syn._ FLUID EXTRACT OF VANILLA; LIQUOR VANILLÆ,
EXTRACTUM V. FLUIDUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Vanilla (sliced), 1 lb.; rectified
spirit, 3 pints; prepare a tincture either by displacement or maceration,
and reduce it, by distillation at the lowest possible temperature, to
1-1/2 lb.; put this into a strong bottle whilst hot, add of white sugar
candy (in powder), 1/2 lb., cork down, and agitate the whole until it is
nearly cold. Very fine. Used chiefly for its odour and flavour. It
represents half its weight of vanilla.
2. (W. Procter.) Vanilla (cut into thin transverse slices), 1 oz.; sugar,
3 oz.; triturate until reduced to fine powder, put it into a strong pint
bottle, along with syrup, 1/2 pint; water, 2 oz.; tie down the cork, and
set the bottle for half an hour in boiling water; cool, strain, and treat
the residue in a like manner with a mixture of water, 6 fl. oz., and
rectified spirit, 1 fl. oz.; lastly, mix the two products. Greatly
inferior to the last.
=LIQ′UORICE.= _Syn._ STICK LIQUORICE; LIQUORITIA, GLYCYRRHIZÆ RADIX (B.
P.), GLYCYRRHIZÆ RADIX, GLYCYRRHIZA (Ph. L. & D.), G. GLABRA (Ph. E.), L.
“The root or underground stem of the _Glycyrrhiza glabra_, fresh and
dried, cultivated in Britain.” “The recent and the dried root of
_Glycyrrhiza glabra_,” or common liquorice. “The fresh root is to be kept
buried in dried sand for use.” (Ph. L.) It has a sweetish taste, and is
slightly aperient, expectorant, and diuretic. It is a popular demulcent
and pectoral. Its extract and solution are much used as a domestic remedy
for cough. As a masticatory it allays thirst and irritation.
Composition of the fresh root of liquorice:
Glycyrrhizin 8·60
Gum 26·60
Matter soluble in alcohol,
chiefly resin 0·75
Albumen 0·97
Starch 22·91
Woody fibre 13·36
Moisture 26·81
Ash, 3·07 per cent. ——
——————
100·00
(HASSALL.)
Roussin asserts that the sweetness of liquorice root is not due to
glycyrrhizin, as has been hitherto assumed, but to an ammoniacal compound
of that substance. Glycyrrhizin, when purified four successive times by
dissolving it in alcohol, and precipitating the foreign matter
accompanying it by ether, is a yellowish substance, insoluble in cold
water, and almost tasteless. Treated with dilute solution of potash or
soda, it rapidly develops a sweet taste. In liquorice root, however, it is
not contained in combination with either of these two alkalies, but
appears to exist as an ammoniacal compound, for solutions of potash and
soda liberate ammonia, both from the root and the extract. In its
compounds with the alkalies glycyrrhizin plays the part of an acid, as it
forms true salts capable of undergoing decomposition with most of the
metallic salts, and also with the salts of the organic alkaloids. With
ammonia it forms two compounds, a basic salt, which yields a deep yellow
solution, and another containing less ammonia, the solution of which has
an amber colour. The former is produced by dissolving glycyrrhizin in
water with an excess of ammonia. Upon evaporating the resulting deep
yellow solution to dryness it leaves a yellowish, scaly, shining, brittle,
non-hygroscopic residue, which constitutes the second ammoniacal compound.
This is readily soluble in cold water, to which it imparts a pale yellow
colour and a very sweet taste. The solution turns deep yellow on the
addition of a few drops of solution of ammonia, owing to the formation of
the basic compound. The pale yellow solution possesses, in a marked
degree, the taste of liquorice root, which, indeed, owes its sweetness to
this glycyrrhizate of ammonia, or ammoniacal glycyrrhizin, as the author
prefers to call it. One gram of this compound imparts the sweet taste of
the root to two litres of water.
The author gives the following process for the preparation of the
ammoniacal glycyrrhizin in the pure state: The carefully-selected roots,
freed from all portions presenting a dark fracture, are scraped, and then
well pounded, so as to reduce them to a kind of stringy tow. This
substance is macerated in cold distilled water for some hours, pressed,
and treated a second time in the same manner. The two liquors are mixed
and allowed to stand for some time to deposit the starch. The supernatant
liquor is then boiled and filtered, to separate the coagulated albumen.
After cooling, sulphuric acid diluted with its weight of water is added
gradually, with brisk stirring, until a precipitate is no longer formed.
The precipitate, at first gelatinous and flocculent, after standing some
time, forms a compact semi-solid mass at the bottom of the vessel. The
supernatant liquor is rejected, and after roughly washing the precipitate
several times with pure water it is finally kneaded repeatedly in
distilled water until all trace of acidity has disappeared. The mass is
then well drained and agitated in a flask with three times its weight of
90° alcohol until dissolved, when a similar quantity of 96° to 98° alcohol
is added to the syrupy liquid so produced. A little pectic acid is thus
precipitated, which is removed by filtration. Ether is then added to the
alcoholic liquor as long as a precipitate is formed. After standing
twenty-four or even forty-eight hours a blackish pitchy substance is
deposited, which adheres to the glass, and allows of the clear liquor
being decanted. To this clear liquor is added, in small quantities at a
time, alcohol of 90° charged with gaseous ammonia, which determines the
formation of a yellow, rather heavy, flocculent precipitate of
glycyrrhizate of ammonia. This precipitate is washed rapidly on a fine
cloth with a mixture of equal parts of alcohol and ether, pressed and
dried in a current of warm air, or over sulphuric acid.
The author suggests the addition of ammoniacal glycyrrhizin to pill
masses, powders, or mixtures, and states that its power of masking the
taste of nauseous medicines is equal to 100 times its weight of sugar.
Sulphate of quinine, sulphate of magnesia, iodide of potassium, and
ipecacuanha, lose much of their taste by such an addition.
A dose of cod-liver oil or syrup of iodide of iron is rendered more
palatable by being preceded by a small dose of the solid ammoniacal
glycerin.[21] Its extract is the common LIQUORICE, SPANISH LIQUORICE, or
SPANISH JUICE, of the shops. See EXTRACT, &c.
[Footnote 21: ‘Journal de Pharmacie et de Chimie,’ xii 6-11.]
=LISBON DIET DRINK.= 1. (Foy.) _Prep._ Guaiacum wood, rasped, 1 oz.;
sarsaparilla, bruised, 3 oz.; mezereon, sliced, 1/2 oz.; crude antimony
(in a rag), 2 oz.; water, 12 pints. Boil down to 8 pints, and add——red
sanders, rasped, white sandal, rasped, of each 3 oz.; rosewood, rasped
sassafras bark, sliced, of each 1 oz.; liquorice root, sliced, 1/2 oz.
Infuse for four hours, strain, and add syrup according to taste.——_Dose_,
1 to 2 pints a day.
2. (Pearson.) Sarsaparilla, bruised, 4 oz.; dried walnut peel, 4 oz.;
guaiacum, rasped, 1-1/2 oz.; crude antimony (in a rag), 1/2 oz.; water, 4
pints. Boil down to 3 pints.
=LIST.= The border or selvage torn off a piece of cloth. It is used by the
French polishers and law stationers to form their rubbers, and for
numerous other purposes.
=LITH′ARGE.= _Syn._ SEMI-VITRIFIED OXIDE OF LEAD; PLUMBI OXYDUM (Ph. L.),
PLUMBI OXYDUM SEMI-VITREUM (Ph. D.), LITHARGYRUM (Ph. E.), L. The litharge
of commerce is semi-vitrified protoxide of lead, obtained chiefly by
scraping off the drops that form on the surface of melted lead exposed to
a current of air (dross of lead; plumbum ustum), and heating it to a full
red, to melt out any undecomposed metal. The fused oxide, in cooling,
forms a yellow or reddish semi-crystalline mass, which readily separates
into scales; these, when ground, constitute the ‘powdered litharge’ of the
shops. Litharge is also prepared by exposing red lead to a heat
sufficiently high to fuse it, and ‘English litharge’ is obtained as a
secondary product, by liquefaction, from argentiferous lead ore, when it
is often called ‘silver stone.’
_Pur._ “Entirely, or almost entirely, soluble in dilute nitric acid. This
solution is blackened by sulphuretted hydrogen. Potassa throws down a
white precipitate, which is redissolved by adding the same in excess. If
sulphate of soda be added to 100 gr. of this oxide dissolved in nitric
acid, 135 gr. of sulphate of lead is precipitated.” (Ph. L.) “50 gr.
dissolve entirely, and without effervescence, in 1-1/2 fl. oz. of
pyroligneous acid, and the solution precipitated by 53 gr. of phosphate of
soda remains precipitable by more of the test.” (Ph. E.) The solution in
both acetic and nitric acid should be colourless. It is of great
importance to the pharmaceutist to obtain pure litharge, as the slightest
impurity will often colour and spoil his lead plaster (EMP. PLUMBI), and
solution of diacetate of lead (LIQ. PLUMBI DIACETATIS).
_Uses._ Litharge is employed in pharmacy, to make plasters and several
other preparations of lead; by painters as a ‘drier’ for oils; and for
various other purposes in the arts.
_Obs._ The litharge of commerce is distinguished by its colour as LITHARGE
OF GOLD (LITHARGYRUM AURI, L. AURIUM, L. CHRYSITIS), which is dark
coloured and impure, and LITHARGE OF SILVER (SILVER STONE; LITHARGYRUM
ARGENTI, L. ARGENTUM, L. ARGYRITIS), which is purer, and paler coloured.
The dark colour of the former is generally said to be owing to the
presence of red lead. Foreign litharge generally contains copper and
iron; and, not infrequently, a little silver and silica. These are readily
detected by the usual tests. In grinding litharge, about 1 lb. of olive
oil is usually added to each 1 cwt. to prevent dust. The best solvents of
litharge are nitric acid and acetic acid. As it slowly absorbs the
carbonic acid of the air, it generally effervesces slightly when treated
with acids, and this effervescence is stronger in proportion to its age.
See LEAD.
=LITH′IUM.= Li. The metallic base of LITHIA, first obtained by Sir H. Davy
by exposing hydrate of lithium in contact with mercury to galvanic action,
and decomposing the resulting amalgam by distillation. It is now obtained
by fusing pure chloride of lithium in a small, thick, porcelain crucible,
and decomposing it while in a fused state by a current of electricity. It
is a white metal, like sodium, very oxidisable, fusing at 356°, and having
a sp. gr. of ·59. It is the lightest metal known. It belongs to the
‘alkaline group,’ of which potassium, sodium, cæsium, and rubidium, are
the other members.
Lithium forms salts analogous to those of sodium, but usually somewhat
less soluble. They can be distinguished from those of potassium and sodium
by the phosphate and carbonate, being only sparingly soluble in
water,——from those of barium, strontium, and calcium, by forming
crystallisable and soluble salts with sulphuric acid and oxalic acid,——and
from those of magnesium, by the solution of its carbonate exhibiting an
alkaline reaction. Heated on platinum, they tinge the flame of the
blowpipe carmine red. The salts of lithium may generally be formed by
dissolving the hydrate or carbonate in dilute acids.
=Lithium, Benzoate.= LiC_{7}H_{5}O_{2},H_{2}O. (Paris Pharm. Society.)
Benzoic acid, 122 grams; lithium carbonate, 37 grams. Suspend the benzoic
acid in 10 parts of water, add the lithium carbonate, and heat. Solution
takes place with effervescence, and upon evaporation, handsome, much
flattened, more or less elongated prismatic crystals are obtained.
Lithium benzoate is very soluble in water. One grain of the salt calcined,
and then treated with slight excess of sulphuric acid, and heated to
redness should give 0·376 gram of lithium sulphate.
=Lithium, Bromide of.= LiBr. To 37 grams of carbonate of lithium suspended
in 200 grams of distilled water, 80 grams of bromine are added. A current
of sulphuretted hydrogen is then passed through the mixture until the
whole of the bromide has disappeared. Hydro-bromic acid is thus formed,
which decomposes the carbonate of lithium, bromide of lithium being
produced and sulphur set free. The mixture is then gently heated to drive
off the excess of sulphuretted hydrogen and to agglutinate the sulphur.
After filtration the liquor is concentrated, and if it be desired to
obtain the bromide in crystals, the desiccation is finished under a bell
jar by means of sulphuric acid.
=Lithium, Car′bonate of.= Li_{2}CO_{3}. _Syn._ CARBONATE OF LITHIA; LITHIÆ
CARBONAS (B. P.). _Prep._ To an aqueous solution of sulphate of lithium
add a strong solution of carbonate of ammonium, collect the precipitate,
drain, and press, wash with a little rectified spirit, and dry. By
dissolving it in boiling water, and slowly evaporating the solution,
crystals may be obtained.
_Prop., &c._ It resembles carbonate of magnesium in appearance; is soluble
in about 100 parts of cold water, and in considerably less of boiling
water, and is insoluble in alcohol. The tests for its purity given in the
B. P. are——in giving no precipitate with oxalate of calcium or lime water,
and leaving, when 10 grains are neutralised with sulphuric acid and
ignited, 14·86 grains of dry sulphate. It has been proposed by M.
Lipowitz, Dr Garrod, and others, as a solvent for uric acid calculi.
According to Biswanger, 1 part of carbonate of lithia in 120 parts of
water takes up, at blood-heat, nearly 4 parts of uric acid. Mr Alexander
Ure recommends a dilute solution of this substance as an injection in
lithic calculus, as it is a better solvent of uric acid than either borax
or the alkaline carbonates. “Of all the various menstrua hitherto
recommended, none appear to promise more favorably than the carbonate of
lithia.” “If by means of injections” (of this solution) “we can reduce a
stone at the rate of a grain or more an hour, we shall not merely diminish
the bulk of the calculus, but further loosen its cohesion, disintegrate
it, so to speak, causing it to crumble down, and be washed away in the
stream of urine.” (Mr A. Ure.)——_Dose_, 2 to 5 gr., twice or thrice a day;
as an injection, 1 gr. to water, 1 fl. oz.
=Lithium, Citrate of.= Li_{3}C_{6}H_{5}O_{7}. _Syn._ LITHIÆ CITRAS (B.
P.). A white deliquescent amorphous powder, made by acting on 50 grains of
lithium carbonate with 100 of citric acid, and is readily soluble in 2-1/2
parts of water.
_Tests, &c._ 20 grains burnt at a low red heat until white leave 10·6
grains of carbonate of lithium. Its medical properties are similar to
those of the carbonate.——_Dose_, 5 to 16 grains, largely diluted.
=Lithium, Citrate of, Effervescing.= (Paris Pharm. Society.) Citric acid,
40 grams; sodium bicarbonate, 50 grams; lithium bicarbonate, 10 grams. Mix
the powders and place them in a flat-bottomed vessel having a large
surface; heat to about 100° C., stirring the powder continually until it
takes the granular form, then by means of appropriate sieves obtain
granules of suitable and uniform size, and preserve the preparation in
well-closed bottles.
=Lithium, Oxide of.= Li_{2}O. _Syn._ LITHIA. An alkaline earth found in
petalite, &c., and in small quantities in most mineral waters.
_Prep._ Petalite (a silicate of aluminum and lithium) in powder mixed
with twice its weight of fluor spar is heated with strong sulphuric acid
as long as acid vapours are given off. The residue is treated with
ammonia, boiled, and filtered, evaporated to dryness, and heated to
redness. The residue consists of sulphate of lithium, from which the oxide
is obtained by decomposing it with acetate of barium, filtering and
heating after having evaporated the solution to dryness.
This yields the so-called oxide, which is in reality the hydrate, LiHO,
and is a white, non-volatile, soluble, caustic solid. The true oxide is a
white powder decomposed by water forming the hydrate, and obtainable by
igniting the metal in oxygen.
=Lithia, Effervescing Solution of.= _Syn._ LIQUOR LITHIÆ EFFERVESCENS.
_Comp._ Water charged with carbonic acid and holding in solution carbonate
of lithium. 10 fl. oz. contain 5 grains of the carbonate.——_Props._
Colourless liquid, possessing powerful diuretic properties.——_Use._
Antilithic, for dissolving calculi of uric acid.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 fl. oz.
=LITHOFRACTEUR.= See BLASTING POWDERS.
=LITHOG′RAPHY.= The art of tracing letters, figures, and other designs, on
stone, and transferring them to paper by impression. Our notice of this
beautiful and useful art must necessarily be brief.
There are two methods of lithography in general use. In the one, a drawing
is made on the stone with a lithographic crayon, or with lithographic ink;
in the other method the design is made on lithographic paper, which, on
being moistened and passed through the press, leaves its design on the
surface of the stone, reversed. In either method, water acidulated with
nitrous acid, oil of vitriol, or hydrochloric acid, is poured over the
stone, and this, by removing the alkali from the chalk or ink, leaves the
design on it in a permanent form, at the same time that it ‘etches’ away a
portion of the lights, and renders the surface more absorbent of water.
The process of lithographic printing is as follows:——Water is thrown over
the stone, the roller charged with printing ink is passed over the
surface, the paper is applied, and a copy is obtained by the action of the
lithographic press. The same process must be had recourse to for each
copy. The nature of the stone is such that it retains with great tenacity
the resinous and oily substances contained in the ink or crayon employed
to form the design and also absorbs water freely; this, combined with the
peculiar affinity between resinous and oily substances, and their mutual
power of repelling water, occasions the ink on the printing roller to
adhere to the design, and to leave untouched the lights.
The stones are prepared for lithography by polishing in the ordinary way;
the style of work for which they are intended determining the degree of
labour bestowed upon them. For crayon drawings the surface should have a
fine grain, but the finish of the stone must depend upon the desired
softness of the intended drawing; for writing or drawing on in ink the
surface must receive a higher polish, and must be finished off with
pumice-stone and water.
The best lithographic stones are obtained from Solenhofen, near Munich,
and from Pappenheim, on the banks of the Danube. The white lias which lies
immediately under the blue, near Bath, also yields good lithographic
stones, and furnishes the principal portion of those employed in this
country. See CRAYONS, INK and PAPER.
=LITHONTRYP′TICS.= _Syn._ LITHOTRYPTICS, LITHONTRYPTICA, L. Under this
head are intended numerous substances (LITHICS; LITHICA, L.) used to
prevent the formation of urinary calculi, or to dissolve them when already
formed. Those employed with the former intention are more correctly termed
ANTILITHICS (ANTILITHICA, L.), and those with the latter, LITHONTRYPTICS,
or LYTHONLYTICS (LITHONTRYPTICA, LITHONLYTICA, L.).
The following are the principal substances included under this head by
pharmacological writers:——Alkalies and their carbonates, benzoic acid,
borax, carbonate of lithia, effervescing solution of lithia, carbonic
acid, cinnamic acid, diluents (generally), diuretics (generally), juniper,
malic acid, Malvern waters, mineral acids, nitrosaccharate of lead, opium,
phosphate of soda, phosphoric acid, poppies, turpentines, uva ursi,
vegetable acids, vegetable astringents, vegetable bitters, Vichy waters,
wall pellitory, water (pure).
=LIT′MUS.= _Syn._ TURNSOLE; LACMUS, LACCA CÆRULEA, L. MUSIVA, L. MUSCI, L.
A blue substance prepared by the united influence of water, air, ammonia,
and either potassa or soda, from _Rocella tinctoria_, _Lecanora tartarea_,
or any of the other tinctorial lichens capable of yielding archil, by a
process essentially similar to that adopted for the latter substance,
except that chalk is generally used to form the paste, which is moulded
into cakes and dried.
_Pur., &c._ “Soluble in both water and alcohol. Its blue colour is
reddened by acids, and is restored by the addition of alkalies.” (Ph. L.
1836.) It is extensively used by the dyer as a red and crimson colouring
matter, and by the chemist as a test for acids.
The colouring matter of litmus, when purified as much as possible, may be
kept for an indefinite period unaltered in glycerin. Litmus is treated
with hot water, and the solution, after concentration, is mixed with a
sufficient quantity of alcohol (of 80 per cent.) to precipitate the
colouring matter. After standing for twenty hours the alcohol is poured
off, and carries with it a dirty blue foreign substance, which frequently
occurs in litmus, and is not altered by acids. The sediment is treated
with hot water, which dissolves it on account of the potassium carbonate
which is present.
To remove this carbonate, sulphuric acid is added till the liquid assumes
a faint wine tint; it is then heated to boiling for a few minutes, and
again rendered blue by the addition of a few drops of lime water. After
the lapse of twenty-four hours the liquid is filtered, and evaporated to a
syrup, and left all night in a cool place, when the potassium sulphate
crystallises out in the form of a crust. It is then filtered through a
moist cotton mixed with glycerin, and carefully preserved from damp.[22]
See ARCHIL, CUDBEAR, &c.
[Footnote 22: J. C. Martenson, from ‘Chem. Centr.,’ translated into the
‘Journal of the Chemical Society.’]
=LIVE-LONG.= Digestive candy. See CANDYING.
=LIV′ER.= _Syn._ HEPAR, L. A large abdominal viscus, the exclusive duty of
which, until recently, was stated by physiologists to be to secrete bile;
but the secretion of sugar for combustion in the lungs or capillaries is
now said to be one of its chief duties. The liver is subject to several
diseases, both functional and organic, among which inflammation
(hepatitis) holds the most prominent place. The acute form of this disease
is ushered in with pain in the region of the liver, with sickness,
costiveness, and a strong, hard, and frequent pulse, with great pain about
the clavicle and shoulders. There is cough, oppressed breathing, and often
vomiting of bilious matter. The urine is scanty, and of a saffron-yellow
colour, and the skin and eyes are also tinged yellow. The treatment
consists chiefly in purging with salines accompanied with mercurials, the
use of antimonials, and a blister applied over the region of the liver.
Bitter tonics, as calumba, cascarilla, and gentian may afterwards be had
recourse to; and if the patient resides in a hot climate a change to a
temperate one should be made, if possible. Chronic hepatitis requires
similar treatment, but of a less active character. The more usual causes
of diseases of the liver, besides those common to the other viscera, are
residence in a hot climate, and the excessive use of highly seasoned food
and alcoholic liquors.
=Liv′er.= _Syn._ HEPAR, L. In _chemistry_ and _pharmacy_, a term formerly
applied to numerous substances, on account of their colour; as liver of
antimony (HEPAR ANTIMONII), liver of sulphur (HEPAR SULPHURIS), &c.
=Liver, Edible.= The livers of animals, such as the bullock, the calf, and
the sheep, contain a large amount of nitrogenous matter,[23] as may be
seen from the following analysis by Payen:
[Footnote 23: Hence the instinct that leads man to cook it with a food
rich in carbon——such as fat bacon.]
_Composition of Calf’s Liver._
Nitrogenous matter 20·10
Fat 3·58
Carbo-hydrates (amyloid matter) 0·45
Saline matter 1·54
Water 72·33
——————
98·03
They are generally regarded as indigestible articles of diet, and as such
should be avoided by dyspeptics.
It is of great importance to have the livers of animals thoroughly cooked,
so as to ensure the destruction of a dangerous parasite——the _Distoma
hepatica_, the liver fluke——that frequently infests them.
The foie gras, of which the celebrated Strasbourg pie is made, is the
abnormally enlarged or, rather, diseased liver of the goose, brought to
its enormous size and fatty condition by subjecting the bird to close
confinement in a hot place and overfeeding it.
=LIVER AND BACON.= The liver must be washed, not soaked, then wiped dry
and cut into slices. Flour each slice. Remove the rind from the bacon, and
cut it into rashers. Let the bacon be fried first, then stand it in a hot
dish before the fire during the time the liver is being fried in the
melted fat from the bacon. When the liver is cooked place it on the bacon.
Next mix a dessert-spoonful of flour into a smooth paste with a cupful of
water, stir in it a pinch of pepper and salt, and pour it into the
frying-pan; let it just boil, stirring it meanwhile, and, lastly, strain
it over the liver and bacon.
=LIXIVIA′TION.= The process of dissolving out or extracting the saline
matter of bodies, more especially of ashes, the residua of distillations,
&c., by means of ablution or digestion in water. The solution so obtained
is called a ‘LYE,’ ‘LEY,’ or ‘LIXIVIUM,’ and the salts resulting from the
evaporation of such solutions ‘LIXIVIAL SALTS,’
=LLA′MA.= _Syn._ GUANACO; LAMA, L. A genus of animals of the family
_Bovidæ_ and tribe _Camelina_. The llama is confined to South America, and
may be regarded as the representative of the camel in the New World. The
most important species are _Lama vicugna_ (the VICUNA) and _L. Guanacus_
(the GUANACO). The wool of llamas is woven into stuffs for _ponchos_, and
made into cords, sacks, &c. See ALPACA.
=LOAD′STONE.= _Syn._ LODESTONE, MAGNESIAN STONE, MAGNETIC IRONSTONE.
Native magnetic oxide of iron (Fe_{3}O_{4}). It is often found massive,
frequently crystallised, and occasionally in beds of considerable
thickness. Its colour varies from reddish black to deep grey. Native
magnets from Arabia, China, and Bengal are commonly of a reddish colour,
and are powerfully attractive. Those found in Germany and England have the
colour of unwrought iron; those from Macedonia are more black and dull.
=LOAM.= A native mixture of clay, sand, and oxide of iron, with more or
less chalk. Loamy soils are of this description. They are called heavy or
light, according to the proportion of clay; and sandy, calcareous, or
gravelly, just as sand, gravel, or chalk, form a characteristic portion of
them.
=LOBEL′IA.= _Syn._ INDIAN TOBACCO; LOBELIA (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.), L.
“The flowering herb of _Lobelia inflata_” (B. P., Ph. L.), or
bladder-podded lobelia. The herb has an unpleasant odour, and an acrid,
burning, nauseous taste, somewhat resembling that of tobacco. In small
doses (1 to 3 gr.) it is expectorant and diaphoretic; in larger doses (5
to 15 gr.) nauseant and emetic; and in excessive doses, poisonous.
According to Dr Pereira, its principal value is that of an anti-spasmodic.
It has been highly recommended by Dr Elliotson in spasmodic asthma. He
commences with small doses, and gradually increases them unless headache
or nausea occurs. Others give a full dose at or before the commencement of
the fit. It has been also tried in croup, hooping-cough, and other
diseases of the respiratory organs, with variable effect.
Lobelia is the panacea of Dr Coffin, the author of the pretended system of
medicine irreverently called ‘Coffinism.’
=LOBEL′IC ACID.= The acid existing in decoction of lobelia. It closely
resembles gallic acid. It reddens litmus, and is precipitated by several
metallic salts.
=LOBEL′INE.= _Syn._ LOBELINA, L. A light yellowish-brown oily substance,
found by Calhoun, of Philadelphia, in _Lobelia inflata_. It is volatile,
soluble in alcohol, ether, and water; and in oil of turpentine, oil of
almonds, and some other fixed oils; with the acids it forms crystallisable
salts, which are soluble. It may be obtained from the seeds by the action
of alcohol acidulated with acetic acid, evaporating, treating with
magnesia and then with ether, and again evaporating. 1 oz. of the seeds
furnishes 2 gr. When perfectly pure, 1 gr. will kill a large dog.
=LOB′STERS.= See SHELL FISH.
=LOCK′SOY.= Rice boiled to a paste and drawn into threads. Used to thicken
soups. It is imported from China.
=LODGING-HOUSES.= The following sections of the Public Health Act of 1875
embody the regulations in force with regard to _common_ lodging-houses:
(S. 76.) Every local authority shall keep a register, in which shall be
entered the names and residences of the keepers of all common
lodging-houses within the district of such authority, and the situation of
every such house, and the number of lodgers authorised according to this
Act to be received therein.
A copy of any entry in such register certified by the person having charge
of the register to be a true copy shall be received in all courts and on
all occasions as evidence, and shall be sufficient proof of the matter
registered without production of the register, or of any document or thing
on which the entry is founded; and a certified copy of any such entry
shall be supplied gratis by the person having charge of the register to
any person applying at a reasonable time for the same.
(S. 77.) A person shall not keep a common lodging-house or receive a
lodger therein until the house has been registered in accordance with the
provisions of this Act, nor until his name as the keeper thereof has been
entered in the register kept under this Act; provided that when the person
so registered dies his widow or any member of his family may keep the
house as a common lodging-house for not more than four weeks after his
death without being registered as the keeper thereof.
(S. 78.) A house shall not be registered as a common lodging-house until
it has been inspected and approved for the purpose by some officer of the
local authority; and the local authority may refuse to register as the
keeper of a common lodging-house a person who does not produce to the
local authority a certificate of character in such form as the local
authority direct, signed by three inhabitant house-holders of the parish
respectively rated to the relief of the poor of the parish within which
the lodging-house is situated, for property of the yearly rateable value
of £6 or upwards.
(S. 79.) The keeper of every common lodging-house shall, if required in
writing by the local authority so to do, affix and keep undefaced and
legible a notice with the words, “Registered common lodging-house,” in
some conspicuous place on the outside of such house.
The keeper of any such house who, after requisition in writing from the
local authority, refuses or neglects to affix or renew such notice, shall
be liable to a penalty not exceeding £5, and to a further penalty of 10s.
for every day that such refusal or neglect continues after conviction.
(S. 80.) Every local authority shall from time to time make bye-laws:
1. For fixing from time to time, varying the number of lodgers who
may be received into a common lodging-house, and for the
separation of the sexes therein; and——
2. For promoting cleanliness and ventilation in such houses; and——
3. For the giving of notices and taking precautions in the case of any
infectious disease; and——
4. Generally for the well-ordering of such houses.
(S. 81.) Where it appears to any local authority that a common
lodging-house is without a proper supply of water for the use of the
lodgers, and that such a supply can be furnished thereto at a reasonable
rate, the local authority may by notice in writing require the owner or
keeper of such house, within a time specified therein, to obtain such
supply, and to do all works necessary for that purpose; and if the notice
be not complied with accordingly, the local authority may remove such
house from the register until it is complied with.
(S. 82.) The keeper of a common lodging-house shall, to the satisfaction
of the local authority, limewash the walls and ceilings thereof in the
first week of each of the months of April and October in every year.
Penalty for neglect, £2 or less.
(S. 83.) The keeper of a common lodging-house in which beggars or vagrants
are received to lodge shall from time to time, if required in writing by
the local authority so to do, report to the local authority or to such
person as the local authority direct, every person who resorted to such
house during the preceding day or night, and for that purpose schedules
shall be furnished by the local authority to the person so ordered to
report, which schedules he shall fill up with the information required,
and transmit to the local authority.
(S. 84.) The keeper of a common lodging-house shall, when a person in such
house is ill of fever or any infectious disease, give immediate notice
thereof to the medical officer of health of the local authority, and also
to the poor-law relieving officer of the union or parish in which the
common lodging-house is situated.
(S. 85.) The keeper of a common lodging-house, and every other person
having or acting in the care or management thereof, shall, at all times
when required by any officer of the local authority, give him free access
to such house or any part thereof. Penalty for refusing such access, £5 or
less.
(S. 86.) Any keeper of a common lodging-house, or other person having or
acting in the care or management thereof, who——
1. Receives any lodger in such house without the same being
registered under this Act; or——
2. Fails to make a report after he has been furnished by the local
authority with schedules for the purpose, in pursuance of this
Act, of the persons resorting to such house; or——
3. Fails to give the notices required by this Act, where any person
has been confined to his bed in such house by fever or other
infectious disease,——
Shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding £5, and in the case of a
continuing offence to a further penalty not exceeding £2 for every day
during which the offence continues.
(S. 87.) In any proceedings under the provisions of this Act relating to
common lodging-houses, if the inmates of any house or part of a house
allege that they are members of the same family, the burden of proving
such allegation shall lie on the persons making it.
(S. 88.) Where the keeper of a common lodging-house is convicted of a
third offence against the provisions of this Act relating to common
lodging-houses, the Court before whom the conviction for such third
offence takes place may, if it thinks fit, adjudge that he shall not at
any time within five years after the conviction, or within such shorter
period after the conviction as the court thinks fit, keep, or have, or act
in the care or management of a common lodging-house without the previous
licence in writing of the local authority, may withhold or grant on such
terms or conditions as they think fit.
(S. 89.) For the purposes of this Act the expression ‘common
lodging-house’ includes, in any case in which only part of a house is used
as a common lodging-house, the part so used of such house.
_Bye-laws as to Houses let as Lodgings._
(S. 90.) The Local Government Board may, if they think fit, by
notice published in the ‘London Gazette,’ declare the following
enactment to be in force within the district or any part of the
district of any local authority, and from and after the
publication of such notice such authority shall be empowered to
make bye-laws for the following matter (that is to say):
1. For fixing the number, and from time to time varying the number,
of persons who may occupy a house or part of a house which is let
in lodgings, or occupied by members of more than one family, and
for the separation of the sexes in a house so let or occupied.
2. For the registration of houses so let or occupied.
3. For the inspection of such houses.
4. For enforcing drainage and the provision of privy accommodation for
such houses, and for promoting cleanliness and ventilation in such
houses.
5. For the cleansing and limewashing at stated times of the premises,
and for the paving of the courts and courtyards thereof.
6. For the giving of notices and taking of precautions in case of any
infectious disease.
This section shall not apply to common lodging-houses within the
provisions of this Act, relating to such houses.
=LOG′WOOD.= _Syn._ CAMPEACHY WOOD; HÆMATOXYLUM (Ph. L. E. & D.),
HÆMATOXYLI LIGNUM (B. P.), LIGNUM CAMPECHENSE, L. CAMPECHIANUM, L. The
heart-wood of _Hæmatoxylon Campechianum_, a native of the coast of
Campeachy, but now common in the West Indies and India. It is a valuable
astringent, and its decoction, extract, and infusion are useful remedies
in chronic diarrhœa and dysentery, and in hæmorrhages, &c. The extract is
an efficient substitute for catechu and kino.
Logwood is extensively employed in dyeing and calico printing, for the
production of reds, violets, purples, blacks, drabs, &c. It readily yields
its colour both to spirit and boiling water. The colouring matter requires
a large quantity of water to dissolve it, but when dissolved can be
concentrated to any degree by boiling down. The infusion is of a fine red,
turning on the purple or violet; acids turn it on the yellow, and alkalies
deepen it. To stuffs mordanted with alum it gives various shades of
violet and purple, according to the proportions of the materials. By using
solution of tin as the mordant, various shades of red, lilac, and violet,
may be obtained. The addition of a little Brazil wood is commonly made to
brighten the red. With a mordant of sulphate or acetate of iron it dyes
black; and with the addition of a little sulphate of copper greys of
various shades. It is, however, chiefly employed, in conjunction with
gall-nuts, for blacks, to which it imparts a lustre and velvety
appearance. Silk is usually turned through the cold decoction, but for
wool the decoction is used either hot or boiling. Logwood is one of the
cheapest and most easily managed of the dye stuffs. It is also used to
make ink. See HEMATOXYLIN, INK, &c.
=LO′HOCH.= See LINCTUS.
=LOR′ICA.= A species of lute applied as a coating to chemical vessels
before exposing them to the fire. Its application is called LORICATION.
See LUTE.
=LO′TION.= _Syn._ LOTIO, L. An external application, or wash, consisting
of water holding in solution medicinal substances. Lotions may be prepared
of any soluble medicaments that are capable of exerting their action by
contact with the skin. Writers on pharmacology have arranged them in
classes, as sedative, anodyne, stimulant, &c., according to their effects.
Sedative and refrigerant lotions are commonly employed to allay
inflammation;——anodyne and narcotic lotions, to relieve pain;——stimulant
lotions, to induce the maturation of tumours, &c.;——detergent lotions, to
clean foul ulcers;——repellent and resolvent lotions, to discuss tumours,
remove eruptions, &c.;——counter-irritant lotions, to excite a secondary
morbid action, with the intention of relieving one already existing.
Lotions are usually applied by wetting a piece of linen with them and
keeping it on the part affected; or, in slight cases, by moistening the
part with the fingers previously dipped into them. Lotions are more
agreeable if made with rose water, but are not thereby rendered more
efficacious. In all cases, distilled water, or filtered soft water, is
alone admissible as the solvent.
As lotions are, in general, mere extemporaneous or magistral preparations,
it will, of course, be only necessary here to give the formulæ for a few
of those which are the most useful or the most frequently employed. These
will serve as examples from which others may be prepared. As a general
rule, the medium dose of any substance dissolved in a fluid ounce of
distilled water, forms a lotion of the proper strength, under all ordinary
circumstances; or, what is the same thing, the medium dose in grains,
taken in scruples, is sufficient for a pint of such a lotion. Thus, the
dose of sulphate of zinc is 1 to 3 gr., therefore—— (1 + 3)/2 = 2 gr.,
which is the proportion of sulphate of zinc to be taken for 1 fl. oz. of
water, or 40 gr. for 1 pint. Again, the dose of bichloride of mercury is
1/8 to 3/4 gr.; therefore—— (1/8+3/4)/2 = 7/16 gr.; or nearly 1/2 gr. per
fl. oz., and 8-1/2 gr. per pint. In this method extreme or unusual doses,
as, for instance, those of sulphate of zinc, as an emetic, in poisoning,
&c., are not taken into the calculation. In all cases in which lotions are
intended for extremely susceptible parts, it is proper to dilute them with
an equal bulk of water. When intended for eye-waters (COLLYRIA), they
should be diluted with at least 3 to 4 times their bulk of water. See
EMBROCATION, LINIMENT, &c.
=Lotion of Ac′etate of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ LOTIO AMMONIÆ ACETATIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. Solution of acetate of ammonia, 1 part; water, 2 parts.
2. (Hosp. F.) Solution of acetate of ammonia, rectified spirit, and water,
equal parts. Discutient and refrigerant. In ordinary inflammations.
=Lotion of Ac′etate of Lead.= _Syn._ LOTIO PLUMBI ACETATIS, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Collier.) Acetate of lead, 1 dr.; distilled water, 8 fl. oz. Sometimes a
little vinegar is added. In excoriations, burns, sprains, contusions, &c.
See SOLUTION OF DIACETATE OF LEAD.
2. Acetate of lead, 2 gr.; distilled water, 1 oz. (Ophthalmic Hospital.)
=Lotion of Ac′etate of Mercury.= _Syn._ LOTIO HYDRARGYRI ACETATIS, L.
_Prep._ Acetate of mercury, 1 scruple; distilled water, 1 pint. Mix.
=Lotion of Ac′etate of Zinc.= _Syn._ LOTIO ZINCI ACETATIS, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Béral.) Acetate of zinc, 1-1/2 dr.; water, 1 pint. Astringent; similar to
lotion of sulphate of zinc.
2. Acetate of zinc, 1 to 2 gr.; water, 1 oz. An astringent collyrium in
ophthalmia, and as injection in gonorrhœa after the acute stage has
passed. Neither tincture nor wine of opium gives a precipitate with this
lotion.
=Lotion, Acetic.= _Syn._ LOTIO ACETI, L. _Prep._ 1. Vinegar, 1 part;
water, 2 or 3 parts. For bruises, contusions, &c., and as a general
refrigerant application to sound parts.
2. Vinegar, 1 fl. oz.; cold water, 1/2 pint; as a wash in chronic
ophthalmia, &c.
=Lotion, Acid.= See LOTIONS OF ACETIC, =Nitric=, and PHOSPHORIC ACID, &c.
=Lotion of Acon′itine.= _Syn._ LOTIO ACONITINÆ, L. _Prep._ (Turnbull.)
Aconitine, 8 gr.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. oz. In neuralgia; applied by
means of a small piece of sponge mounted at the end of a stick. It must
never be employed when the skin is broken or abraded; and it would be
wise, in most cases, to dilute it with double its volume of proof spirit.
=Lotion, Al′kaline.= _Syn._ LOTIO ALKALINA, L. POTASSÆ CARBONATIS, L.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) From salt of tartar, 1 oz.; water, 1 pint. Stimulant and
detergent. Diluted with an equal bulk of water, it forms an excellent
cosmetic wash to remove scurf from the hair. Sometimes it is made with
almond milk instead of water.
=Lotion, Almond, Alkaline.= (Dr A. T. Thomson). _Syn._ Solution of potash,
4 fl. oz.; emulsion of bitter almonds, 5-1/2 fl. oz. To remove the scurf
in porrigo furfurans, applied twice a day diluted with warm water.
=Lotion of Al′um.= _Syn._ LOTIO ALUMINIS, L. _Prep._ From alum, 1-1/2 dr.;
distilled or rose water, 1 pint. Astringent. For sore gums, nipples,
excoriations, &c.
=Lotion, Ammonio-Camphorated.= _Syn._ AQUA SEDATIVA, L. EAU SEDATIVE DE
RASPAIL; EAU, OU LOTION AMMONIACALE CAMPHRÉE. No. 1. Liquor ammoniæ
(·923), 6 parts; camphorated spirit, 1 part; salt, 6 parts; water, 10
parts. No. 2 contains 8 parts, and No. 3 10 parts of ammonia.
=Lotion, Ammoni′acal.= _Syn._ LOTIO AMMONIÆ, L. AMMONIACALIS, L. _Prep._
1. Liquor of ammonia, 3 fl. dr.; cold water, 5 fl. oz. As a stimulant to
indolent ulcers, and in certain skin diseases.
2. (Swediaur.) Liquor of ammonia, spirit of thyme, and spirit of camphor,
equal parts. In headaches; applied to the forehead and temples, and in
other cases, as a counter-irritant. In most cases it should be used
diluted.
3. (Opiated——Dr Kirkland.) Sal volatile, 3-1/2 fl. oz.; tincture of opium,
1/2 fl. oz.; water, 4 fl. oz. Anodyne, stimulant, and resolvent.
=Lotion, Antiphlogis′tic.= _Syn._ LOTIO ANTIPHLOGISTICA, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Copland.) Solution of diacetate of lead, 3 fl. dr.; solution of acetate
of ammonia, 2 fl. oz.; distilled water, 1 pint. Refrigerant, sedative, and
repellant. Used to allay inflammation, &c.
2. (A. T. Thomson.) Opium, 2 dr., distilled vinegar, 1/2 pint. Anodyne and
refrigerant; in swelled joints, &c.
=Lotion of Ar′nica.= _Syn._ LOTIO ARNICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Tincture of
arnica, 1 fl. dr.; rose water, 2-1/2 fl. oz. In contusions, bruises,
extravasations, &c.
2. (Niemann.) Arnica flowers, 1/2 oz.; hot vinegar, 3 fl. oz.; boiling
water, 5 fl. oz., infuse until cold, and strain. In acute hydrocephalus;
or with water, q. s. to measure a pint, as a common lotion.
=Lotion, Arsenical.= _Syn._ LOTIO ARSENICALIS, L. ACIDI ARSENIOSI, L.
_Prep._ 1. Arsenious acid, 5 gr.; water, 1 pint. In psoriasis, &c.
2. (Compound——M. le Febre.) Arsenious acid, 8 gr.; boiling water, 16 fl.
oz.; dissolve, and add of extract of hemlock, 1 oz.; solution of diacetate
of lead, 3 fl. oz.; tincture of opium, 1 fl. dr. Every morning, in cancer.
=Lotion, Astrin′gent.= _Syn._ LOTIO ASTRINGENS, L. See LOTIONS OF ALUM,
SULPHATE OF ZINC, &c.
=Lotion, Barlow’s.= _Prep._ From sulphuret of potassium (in powder), 3
dr.; soap (sliced), 1-1/2 dr.; lime water, 7-1/2 fl. oz.; proof spirit, 2
fl. oz. In itch, ringworm, &c.
=Lotion, Bateman’s.= _Prep_. From bichloride of mercury, 2 gr.; compound
spirit of lavender, 1 fl. oz.; dissolve, and add of distilled water, 4 fl.
oz. In obstinate cutaneous eruptions, more especially those of a papular
character.
=Lotion of Belladon′na.= _Syn._ LOTIO BELLADONNÆ, L. _Prep._ (Graefe.)
Extract of belladonna, 1/2 dr.; dilute solution of diacetate of lead, 1/2
pint. Applied to tumours and glandular enlargements.
=Lotion of Benzoin.= LOTIO BENZOINI. Tincture of benzoin, 1; rose water,
40. A nice lotion to protect the face from the heat of the sun.
=Lotion of Bichlo′′ride of Mercury.= _Syn._ LOTIO HYDRARGYRI BICHLORIDI,
L. H. CHLORIDI CORROSIVI, L. _Prep._ 1. Corrosive sublimate, 5 to 10 gr.;
distilled water, 1 pint. The addition of 5 or 6 gr. of hydrochlorate of
ammonia, or as many drops of hydrochloric acid, increases the solvent
action of the water, and renders the preparation less liable to change.
Some persons dissolve the sublimate in 1 or 2 fl. dr. of rectified spirit
before adding it to the water; but this is unnecessary. In obstinate
eruptions, glandular swelling, obstinate sores, &c.; also as an injection.
2. (Good.) Corrosive sublimate, 1 dr.; sal ammoniac, 2 dr.; nitre, 4 dr.;
water, 6 fl. oz.; dissolve. In itch, &c. For use, it should be diluted
with about 3 times its bulk of water.
3. (LOTIO HYDRARGYRI AMYGDALINA——St B. Hosp.) Blanched bitter almonds, 1
oz.; water, 1 pint; make an emulsion, and add of bichloride of mercury
(dissolved in a little rectified spirit), 10 gr. This resembles GOWLAND’S
LOTION, and may be used for it.
=Lotion of Bismuth.= LOTIO BISMUTHI. Nitrate of bismuth, 6 gr.; corrosive
sublimate, 1/2 gr.; spirits of camphor, 1-1/2 minim; water, 1 oz. A
soothing lotion in chronic skin affections.
=Lotion, Black.= See LOTION, MERCURIAL.
=Lotion of Borax.= _Syn._ LOTIO BORACIS, L. BORACICA, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr
Abercrombie.) Borax, 2-1/2 dr.; distilled vinegar, 1/4 pint. In ringworm.
2. (Copland.) Borax (in powder), 1 dr.; rose water and orange-flower
water, of each 3 fl. oz.; dissolve. A fragrant and effective application
to sore gums, sore nipples, excoriations, &c.
3. (Dr Johnson.) Borax, 2 dr.; precipitated chalk, 1 oz.; rose water and
rectified spirit, of each 3 oz. For sore nipples.
4. (Dr Meigs.) Borax, 1/2 oz.; sulphate of morphia, 6 gr.; rose water, 8
fl. oz. To allay itching and irritation, especially pruritus vulvæ.
5. Borax, 1; rose water, 24. Cosmetic.
=Lotion, Bro′mine.= _Syn._ LOTIO BROMINII, L. _Prep._ (Dr Glover.)
Bromine, 1 dr.; water, 1 pint. As an application to scrofulous ulcers.
=Lotion for Burns.= See LINIMENT.
=Lotion, Camphora′ted.= See LOTION, EVAPORATING.
=Lotion of Cap′sicum.= _Syn._ LOTIO CAPSICI, L. _Prep._ (Griffith.)
Tinctures of capsicum and camphor, of each 4 fl. oz.; liquor of ammonia, 2
fl. oz. A powerful rubefacient and counter-irritant.
=Lotion of Carbolic Acid.= (Mr Lister.) _Syn._ LOTIO ACIDI CARBOLICI.
_Prep._ 1 part of acid in 20 of water is used to promote the healing of
wounds, abscesses, ulcers and burns. A weaker solution of 1 in 40 is in
common use in the London hospitals. 5 drops to 1 fl. oz. of glycerin forms
a good application to eruptions of the skin.
=Lotion of Car′bonate of So′da.= _Syn._ LOTIO SODÆ CARBONATIS, L. _Prep._
From carbonate of soda, 1/2 oz.; water, 1 pint. To allay itching and
irritation. See LOTION, ALKALINE.
=Lotion of Cher′ry Laurel.= _Syn._ LOTIO LAURO-CERASI, L. _Prep._ 1.
Cherry-laurel water (distilled), 1-1/2 fl. oz.; distilled water, 1/2 pint.
Anodyne; useful to allay irritation, &c. Some persons with delicate skin
employ it as a wash after shaving.
2. Cherry-laurel water (distilled), 4 oz.; rectified spirit and ether, of
each 1 fl. oz.; extract of belladonna, 2 dr.; agitate well together in the
cold. An excellent application in neuralgia, painful tumours, &c.
=Lotion for Chilblains.= See CHILBLAIN, LINIMENT, &c.
=Lotion of Chlo′′rate of Soda.= _Syn._ LOTIO SODÆ CHLORATIS, L. _Prep._
(Darling.) Chlorate of soda, 5 dr.; water, 1/2 pint. In pruritus, &c.
=Lotion of Chlo′′ride of Ammonium.= LOTIO AMMONII CHLORIDI. Chloride of
ammonium, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 oz.; water, 10 oz. To this vinegar is
sometimes added. Used as a dressing for bruises. See also LOTION OF
HYDROCHLORATE OF AMMONIA.
=Lotion of Chlo′′ride of Lead.= _Syn._ LOTIO PLUMBI CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._
(Tuson.) Chloride of lead, 1 dr.; hot distilled water, 1 pint; dissolve.
In cancerous ulcerations, painful neuralgic tumours, &c.
=Lotion of Chloride of Tin.= _Syn._ LOTIO STANNI CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._
(Nauche.) Chloride of tin, 1 gr.; distilled water, 2 to 3 fl. oz. In
cancerous ulcerations.
=Lotion of Chloride of Zinc.= _Syn._ LOTIO ZINCI CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._ 1.
Chloride of zinc, 10 gr. (or solution, 1/2 fl. dr.); water, 1 pint. As a
disinfectant and preventive lotion.
2. (Voght.) Chloride of zinc, 8 gr.; extract of aloes, 40 gr.; distilled
water, 4 fl. oz. In atonic and foul ulcers.
=Lotion, Chlorina′ted.= _Syn._ LOTIO CHLORINATA, L. _Prep._ 1. (LOTIO
CALCIS CHLORINATÆ.)——_a._ From chloride of lime, 3 dr.; water, 1 pint;
agitate together for some time, and strain through muslin.
_b._ (Derheims.) Chloride of lime, 1 oz.; water, 1 quart; triturate and
filter.
2. (LOTIO SODÆ CHLORINATÆ.) From chloride of soda, as the last. They are
both excellent washes for foul ulcers, the itch, &c.; and, when diluted
for the teeth, to sweeten the breath, remove the smell of tobacco smoke,
to prevent infection, and for various purposes. When intended for
application to very tender or abraded surfaces, they must be largely
diluted with water.
=Lotion of Chlo′′roform.= _Syn._ LOTIO CHLOROFORMI, L. _Prep._ Chloroform
(pure), 1-1/2 fl. oz.; rectified spirit and cold distilled water, of each
1/2 pint. Anodyne. A piece of oiled silk should be laid over the rag to
prevent evaporation. The lotion made with water, as commonly prescribed,
is inert.
=Lotion for Corns.= See CORN.
=Lotion of Crea′sote.= _Syn._ LOTIO CREASOTI, L. _Prep._ 1. Creasote, 2
fl. dr.; liquor of potassa, 3 fl. dr.; water, 1/2 pint.
2. Creasote, 3 fl. dr.; vinegar and water, of each 1/2 pint. In burns,
itch, phagedenic ulcerations, ringworm, chancre, &c.
=Lotion of Cy′anide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ LOTIO POTASSI CYANIDI, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Cazenave.) Cyanide of potassium, 10 gr.; emulsion of bitter
almonds, 6 fl. oz. In chronic eruptions and other cases attended with much
itching or irritation.
2. (Foy.) Cyanide of potassium, 8 gr.; distilled water, 1 fl. oz. In
neuralgia, acute rheumatism, &c.; applied by means of compresses of linen.
Both the above are poisonous if swallowed.
=Lotion of Delphin′ine.= _Syn._ LOTIO DELPHINIÆ, EMBROCATIO D., L. _Prep._
(Dr Turnbull.) Delphinine, 20 to 60 gr.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. oz. Used
as LOTION OF VERATRIA.
=Lotion of Diac′etate of Lead.= _Syn._ GOULARD’S LOTION; LOTIO PLUMBI
DIACETATIS, L. The dilute liquor of diacetate of lead (LIQ. PLUMBI
DIACETATIS DILUTUS——Ph. L.). See SOLUTION. Also Solution of subacetate of
lead (B. P.), 3 minims, with 7 minims to 1 oz. water.
=Lotion, Evap′orating.= _Syn._ LOTIO EVAPORANS, L. VAPORANS, L. SPIRITUS
DILUTI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Copland.) Sulphuric ether, rectified spirit, and
solution of acetate of ammonia, of each 1-1/2 fl. oz.; rose water, 3-1/2
fl. oz.
2. (Guy’s Hosp.) Rectified spirit, 1 part; water, 5 parts.
3. (Erasmus Wilson.) Rectified spirit, 1 part; water, 4 to 6 parts.
4. (CAMPHORATED——Ware.) Camphor, 1/2 dr.; elder flowers, 1/2 oz.;
rectified spirit, 4 oz.; digest 24 hours, and strain.
_Obs._ The above are soothing and refrigerant, if allowed to evaporate by
free exposure; stimulant, if the evaporation is prevented by covering the
part with the hand, or a piece of oiled silk. They are useful applications
in nervous headaches, restlessness, itching and irritability of the skin,
&c. “A little rose water added to the simple water makes an agreeable
addition, and sometimes camphor water (julep), or a little Goulard’s
extract, may be deemed advantageous, when a greater degree of calming
effect is required.” (Eras. Wilson.) Eau de Cologne, diluted with an equal
quantity of water, is often used as an evaporating lotion.
=Lotion of Gall-nuts.= _Syn._ LOTIO GALLÆ, L. _Prep._ From gall-nuts
(bruised), 1/2 oz.; boiling water, 1 pint; infuse until cold, and strain.
Astringent. An excellent application to sore nipples, or to strengthen
them before suckling; spirit of wine, 3 fl. oz., may be advantageously
added to the cold infusion, and a like portion of water omitted, See
DECOCTION.
=Lotion of Glyc′erin.= _Syn._ LOTIO GLYCERINI, L. GLYCERINIÆ, L. _Prep._
1. Glycerin, 1 oz.; water, 1 pint. To allay itching, and remove dryness,
&c., in various skin diseases; also in chaps of the nipples, lips, and
hands. For the latter purpose the addition of 2 to 3 dr. of borax is
recommended by some writers.
2. Glycerin, 1 oz.; thick mucilage, 2 oz.; lime water, 7 oz. In burns,
scalds, chaps, excoriations, &c.
3. (Startin.) Glycerin, 1 oz.; extract of belladonna, 1 dr.; soap
liniment, 3 oz.; triturate together. In bruises, sprains, and swelled
joints; gouty, neuralgic, and rheumatic pains, &c.
4. (Startin.) Trisnitrate of bismuth, 1/2 dr.; tincture of foxglove and
dilute nitric acid, of each 1 fl. dr.; glycerin, 4 dr.; rose water, 8-1/2
fl. oz. To allay the itching in prurigo, and some other skin diseases.
_Obs._ Various lotions may be prepared by dissolving active medicinal
substances in glycerin.
=Lotion, Goulard’s.= SEE LOTION OF DIACETATE OF LEAD.
=Lotion, Gout.= _Syn._ LOTIO ANTARTHRITICA, L. _Prep._ 1. Glycerin, 1 oz.;
extract of belladonna, 3 dr.; veratrine, 10 gr., dissolved in rectified
spirit, 2 fl. oz.; mix, and further add, of water, 17 fl. oz. It is
poisonous if swallowed.
2. (‘SCUDAMORE’S G. L.’) From camphor mixture, 9 fl. oz.; rectified
spirit, 3 fl. oz. The above are applied on rags or compresses, or are
poured on the surface of poultices.
=Lotion, Gowland’s.= This celebrated nostrum is prepared as follows:——Take
of Jordan almonds, 1 oz.; bitter almonds, 1/2 oz.; blanch them, and make
an emulsion in soft water, 1 pint; to this add of bichloride of mercury,
15 gr.; previously dissolved in rectified spirit, 2 fl. dr., together with
enough water to make the whole measure 1 pint, and put it into bottles.
_Obs._ This preparation is chiefly used as a cosmetic to improve the
complexion; and also as a wash for obstinate eruptions and minor
glandular swellings and indurations. As a beautifier of the complexion, it
is employed by simply wetting the skin with it, either by means of the
corner of a napkin or the fingers dipped into it, after which it is gently
wiped off with a dry cloth. Dr Paris represents this nostrum to contain
1/2 dr. of corrosive sublimate in every pint, which is not the case.
=Lotion, Granville’s Counter-irritant.= See LINIMENT OF AMMONIA
(Compound).
=Lotion, Hem′lock.= _Syn._ LOTII CONII, L. _Prep._ (Mid. Hosp.) Extract of
hemlock, 3 dr.; opium, 1 dr.; boiling water, 1 pint; digest until cold,
and strain. Anodyne and resolvent; in glandular enlargements, painful
ulcers, cancer, indurations, rheumatism, neuralgia, &c.
=Lotion, Hooping-cough.= (Struve’s.) LOTIO ANTIPERTUSSICA, L. _Prep._
(Paris.) Potassio-tartrate of antimony, 1 dr.; tincture of cantharides, 1
oz.; water, 2 oz. This is a powerful counter-irritant, and should be used
with caution; as it is apt to induce a troublesome eruption on the parts
to which it is frequently applied.
=Lotion of Hydrochlo′′rate of Ammonia.= _Syn._ LOTIO AMMONIÆ
HYDROCHLORATIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (WEAKER.) From sal ammoniac, 1 to 4 dr.;
water, 1 pint. As a wash in itch, ulcers, tender feet, swelled joints, &c.
2. (STRONGER.) From sal ammoniac, 1 to 2 oz.; water, 1 pint. In
contusions, chronic tumours, extravasations, chilblains, &c., when the
skin is not broken. Both are stimulant and resolvent or discutient.
Vinegar is often substituted for the whole or part of the water, and
sometimes a fifth or sixth part of rectified spirit is added. See also
LOTION OF CHLORIDE OF AMMONIUM.
=Lotion, Hydrochlo′′ric.= _Syn._ LOTIO ACIDI HYDROCHLORICI, L. _Prep._ 1.
Hydrochloric acid, 1 fl. oz.; water, 1 pint. In lepra, and several other
skin diseases.
2. (Foy.) Hydrochloric acid, 1 part; water, 16 parts. In chilblains, when
the skin is unbroken.
=Lotion, Hydrocyan′ic.= _Syn._ LOTIO HYDROCYANICI, L. ACIDI HYDROCYANICI,
L. _Prep._ 1. (Magendie.) Medicinal hydrocyanic acid, 1 to 2 fl. dr.;
lettuce water, 1 pint. In hepatic affections.
2. (Sneider.) Medicinal acid, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; rectified spirit and water,
of each 6 fl. oz.
3. (A. T. Thomson.) Medicinal acid and rectified spirit, of each 2 fl.
dr.; acetate of lead, 16 gr.; distilled water, 7-1/2 fl. oz. In impetigo,
&c.
_Obs._ Lotions of prussic acid are employed to allay pain and irritation
in various chronic skin diseases, especially the scaly and itchy
eruptions; and in cancer, &c., with variable success. See HYDROCYANIC
ACID.
=Lotion of Hyposul′phite of Soda.= _Syn._ LOTIO SODÆ HYPOSULPHITIS, L.
_Prep._ (Startin.) Hyposulphite of soda and alum, of each 1-1/2 dr.; eau
de Cologne, 1/2 fl. oz.; rose water, 7-1/2 fl. oz.; in the advanced stages
of acne.
=Lotion of I′odide of Ar′senic and Mer′cury.= _Syn._ LOTIO ARSENICI ET
HYDRARGYRI HYDRIODATIS, L. _Prep._ From Donovan’s solution, 1 part; water,
9 parts. In lepra, psoriasis, and other scaly skin diseases. See SOLUTION.
=Lotion of Iodide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ LOTIO POTASSII IODIDI, L. _Prep._
1. From iodide of potassium, 1 to 2 dr.; water, 1 pint. In the usual cases
in which ioduretted preparations are employed.
2. (Dr O. Ward.) Iodide of potassium, 1 dr.; water, 3/4 pint. In itch.
(See _below_.)
=Lotion of Iodide of Zinc.= _Syn._ LOTIO ZINCI IODIDI, L. _Prep._ (Ross.)
iodine, 1-1/2 dr.; zinc filings, 1 dr.; water, 8 fl. oz.; digest with heat
until the liquid becomes coloured, then filter. In enlarged tonsils.
=Lotion of I′odine.= _Syn._ LOTIO IODINII, L. _Prep._ From iodine, 2 gr.;
rectified spirit, 1 fl. dr.; dissolve, well agitate the solution with
distilled water, 1 pint, and filter. An excellent wash for scrofulous
ulcers, and in chronic ophthalmia, cutaneous scrofula, and several chronic
skin diseases, particularly in highly sensitive habits.
=Lotion of Iodine Compound.= _Syn._ LOTIO IODI COMP., L. _Prep._ 1. Iodide
of potassium, 80 gr.; iodine, 60 gr.; water, 1 oz.
2. (Cazenave.) Iodide of potassium and iodide of sulphur, of each 1 dr.;
water, 1 pint. In itch; either alone or diluted with an equal bulk of
water.
3. (Dauvergne.) Iodine, 3 dr.; iodide of potassium, 6 dr.; water, 3 fl.
oz.; dissolve, and label the bottle No. 1. Sulphuret of potassium, 4 oz.;
water, 8 fl. oz.; dissolve. For use, a teaspoonful of No. 1, and a
table-spoonful of No. 2, are to be added to about a pint of water. In
itch, and several other skin diseases.
4. (Lugol.) Iodine, 1 to 2 gr.; iodide of potassium, 3 to 6 gr.; water, 1
pint. In scrofulous ophthalmia, fistulas, &c.; and as a wash in numerous
skin diseases.
5. (Righini.) Chloride of lime, 4 dr.; water, 2-1/2 fl. oz.; triturate
together, filter into a stoppered bottle, and add of tincture of iodine, 1
dr. With a pint of water it forms an effective application in itch.
6. (Soubeiran.) Iodide of potassium, 1 oz.; iodine, 1/2 oz.; water, 6 oz.;
dissolve. Used as iodine paint; also as a caustic to touch the surfaces of
scrofulous ulcers, and the eyelids in scrofulous ophthalmia.
7. Iodide of potassium, 1/2 dr.; iodine, 16 gr.; water, 1 pint. This is
the common and best form of iodine lotion, but for certain purposes it is
used much stronger. (See _above_.)
=Lotion of Iron with Conium.= LOTIO FERRI CUM CONIO. Sulphate of iron, 8
gr.; extract of conium, 8 gr.; water, 1 oz.
=Lotion, Itch.= _Syn._ LOTIO ANTIPSORICA, L. _Prep._ (Cazenave.) Sulphuret
of potassium, 1 dr.; soft soap, 2 dr.; water, 8 fl. oz.; dissolve. An
excellent remedy for the itch. It leaves little smell behind, and does not
soil the linen. (See _above_.)
=Lotion, Kirkland’s.= See LOTION OF MYRRH.
=Lotion of Lemon Juice.= _Syn._ LOTIO SUCCI LIMONIS, L. _Prep._ From the
freshly expressed juice of lemon, diluted with 4 or 5 times its bulk of
water. To render it more agreeable, rose water may be employed, or a few
drops of eau de Cologne added. It is cooling and detergent, and forms an
excellent application to foul ulcers, and to allay the itching in numerous
cutaneous affections.
=Lotion of Lime Wa′ter.= _Syn._ LOTIO CALCIS SPIRITUOSA, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
Chirur.) Rectified spirit, 4 oz.; lime water, 8 fl. oz. See EVAPORATING
LOTION (_above_.)
=Lotion, Mammil′lary.= _Syn._ LOTIO BALSAMI PERUVIANI COMPOSITA, L.
_Prep._ (Iverg.) Balsam of Peru, 1 dr.; yolk of 1 egg; make an emulsion,
and add of spirit of wild thyme, 3 fl. oz. For sore nipples; to be
followed, whilst still wet, by a ‘dusting’ with a powder composed of
Peruvian bark, 1 dr.; gum Arabic, 2 dr.
=Lotion, Mercu′′rial.= _Prep._ 1. (BLACK WASH, BLACK LOTION, MILD
PHAGEDENIC L.; LOTIO NIGRA (B. P.), L. HYDRARGYRI CINEREA, L. H. NIGRA, L.
H. CHLORIDI CUM CALCE, L. MERCURIALIS N., AQUA PHAGEDÆNICA, MITIS, L.)
_a._ (B. P.) From calomel, 3 gr.; lime water, 1 oz.; well shaken together.
_b._ (Mid. Hosp.) To the last add of thick mucilage, 1 fl. oz.
_c._ (Guy’s Hospital.) From calomel, 1 dr., lime water, 8 fl. oz.
_Obs._ Black wash is a favourite application to all kinds of syphilitic
and scrofulous sores. The bottle should be well shaken before the lotion
is applied.
2. YELLOW WASH, Y. LOTION, PHAGEDENIC L.; (LOTIO FLAVA, L. PHAGEDÆNICA,
AQUA P., LOTIO HYDRARGYRI FLAVA, L. H. BICHLORIDI CUM CALCE, L.)——_a._ (B.
P.) Corrosive sublimate, 18 gr.; lime water, 10 oz.; well shaken together.
_b._ (St B. Hosp.) Corrosive sublimate, 20 gr.; lime water, 6 fl. oz. Used
as the last, but it is stronger and more active, from containing a little
undecomposed bichloride.
=Lotion of Myrrh.= _Syn._ KIRKLAND’S LOTION; LOTIO MYRRHÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Dr Kirkland.) Tincture of myrrh and lime water, equal parts. In scorbutic
ulcers and gums.
2. (Compound; LOTIO MYRRHÆ COMPOSITA, L.——Ph. Chirur.) Honey of roses and
tincture of myrrh, of each 2 fl. dr.; lime water, 2-1/2 fl. oz. As No. 1;
also used as a dentifrice.
=Lotion of Ni′trate of Bis′muth.= _Syn._ LOTIO BISMUTHI NITRATIS, L.
_Prep._ (Cutan. Hosp.) Subnitrate or trisnitrate of bismuth, 1/2 dr.;
corrosive sublimate, 12 gr.; spirit of camphor, 1/2 fl. dr.; water, 1
pint. In itch, and some other eruptions.
=Lotion of Nitrate of Sil′ver.= _Syn._ LOTIO ARGENTI NITRATIS, L. _Prep._
1. Nitrate of silver, 15 gr.; nitric acid, 10 drops; distilled water, 1/2
pint. As a wash for indolent ulcers, sore legs, &c.
2. (Jackson.) Nitrate of silver, 10 gr.; water, 1 fl. oz. For bed-sores;
applied, at first, twice or thrice a day.
3. (Schreider.) Nitrate of silver, 1/2 dr.; nitric acid, 10 drops; water,
1-1/2 fl. oz. In chilblains, soft corns, &c.
=Lotion of Nitrate of Silver (Strong).= LOTIO ARGENTI NITRATIS FORTIS.
Nitrate of silver, 60 gr.; distilled water, 1 oz.
=Lotion of Nitrate of Sil′ver, Etherial.= LOTIO ARGENTI NITRATIS ÆTHEREA.
Nitrate of silver, 20 gr.; distilled water, 1 dr.; spirit of nitrous
ether, 1 oz.
=Lotion of Ni′tre.= _Syn._ LOTIO POTASSÆ NITRATIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Nitre, 3
dr.; vinegar, 1/4 pint; water, 3/4 pint.
2. Nitre, 2 dr.; sal ammoniac, 1 dr.; vinegar and water, of each 1/2 pint.
In sprains, contusions, extravasations, tender feet, chilblains, &c.
Diluted with an equal bulk of water, it is a popular application to ‘black
eyes.’
=Lotion of Ni′tric Acid.= _Syn._ LOTIO ACIDI, L. ACIDI NITRICI, L. _Prep._
1. (Collier.) Nitric acid, 1/2 fl. oz.; water, 1 pint. In lepra, and other
scaly skin diseases.
2. (Phœbus.) Nitric acid, 1 fl. dr.; laudanum, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; rose water,
1/2 pint. For venereal ulcers.
=Lo′tion of Nitromuriat′ic Acid.= _Syn._ LOTION OF AQUA REGIA. _Prep._
(Copland.) Nitromuriatic acid, 1-1/4 dr.; water, 1 pint. In gangrene and
mortification.
=Lotion of Nux Vom′ica.= _Syn._ LOTIO NUCIS VOMICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
Alcoholic extract of nux vomica, 10 gr.; rectified spirit and water, of
each 2-1/2 fl. oz. In amaurosis.
2. (Radius.) Alcoholic extract of nux vomica, 8 gr.; liquor of ammonia
(stronger), 1/2 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. oz. In paralysed limbs.
=Lotion of O′pium.= _Syn._ LOTIO OPII, L. OPIATA, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Christison.) Opium, 40 gr.; water, 1/4 pint; infuse, add to the filtered
liquid a solution of sugar of lead, 40, in water, 1/4 pint, and filter.
2. (St B. Hosp.) Opium, 1-1/2 dr.; boiling water, 1 pint; triturate and
strain. Anodyne; the first is also refrigerant and discutient.
=Lotion of Ox′ide of Zinc.= _Syn._ LOTIO ZINCI OXYDI, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Augustin.) Oxide of zinc, 1 dr.; elder-flower water, 1-1/2 fl. oz. In
pustular erysipelas.
2. (Hosp. F.) Oxide of zinc, 1/2 dr.; mucilage, 2 fl. dr.; water, 6 fl.
dr. As an astringent and desiccant, in scrofulous eruptions, excoriations,
moist chaps, &c.
=Lotion, Phageden′ic.= See MERCURIAL LOTION (_above_).
=Lotion of Phos′phoric Acid.= _Syn._ LOTIO ACIDI PHOSPHORICI, L. _Prep._
(Pereira.) Dilute phosphoric acid (Ph. L.), 1 fl. oz.; water, 1/2 pint. In
caries and fistula.
=Lotion of Potas′sa.= See LOTIO POTASSÆ, L. _Prep._ From liquor of
potassa, 1 fl. oz.; water, 1 pint. Detergent; in scorbutic eruptions, and
foul ulcers, and to prevent infection.
=Lotion of Potas′sio-tar′trate of An′timony.= _Syn._ LOTIO ANTIMONIALIS,
L. ANTIMONII POTASSIO-TARTRATIS, L. RUBEFACIENS, L. _Prep._ 1. Tartar
emetic, 1 dr.; tincture of camphor, 2 fl. dr.; water, 1 pint. As a local
stimulant. Diluted with twice or thrice its weight of water, it is
employed as a collyrium in chronic ophthalmia, and in specks on the
cornea.
2. (Sir Wm. Blizard.) Tartar emetic, 20 gr.; boiling water, 1 fl. oz. Used
to cleanse foul ulcers, to repress fungous growths and warts, and in
ringworm, &c.
3. (Pereira.) Tartar emetic, 1 dr.; boiling water, 1-1/2 fl. oz.;
dissolve. Employed as a local irritant instead of the ointment. All the
above are rubefacient and counter-irritant. See ANTIMONY.
=Lotion of Quin′ine.= _Syn._ LOTIO QUINÆ, EMBROCATIO Q., L. _Prep._ From
disulphate of quinine, 1 dr.; rectified spirit, 5 fl. oz. Applied over the
spine in intermittents.
=Lotion, Sapona′ceous.= _Syn._ LOTIO SAPONIS, L. SAPONACEA (Ph. L. 1746),
L. _Prep._ From liquor of carbonate of potassa, 1/2 oz.; olive oil, 4 oz.;
rose water, 12 oz.; agitate together. Emollient; chiefly as a cosmetic.
=Lotion, Saviard’s.= _Prep._ (Foy.) Caustic potassa, 1 dr.; camphor, 20
gr.; sugar, 1 oz.; water, 1 pint. As a wash for indolent ulcers.
=Lotion, Struve’s.= See HOOPING-COUGH LOTION.
=Lotion of Sul′phate of Cop′per.= _Syn._ LOTIO CUPRI SULPHATIS, L. _Prep._
1. Blue vitriol, 1 dr.; camphor julep, 1 pint. For phagedenic ulcers, and
in itch, &c.
2. (Dr Graves.) Sulphate of copper, 10 gr.; water, 1 fl. oz. In
chilblains, ringworm, &c.
3. (Lloyd.) Sulphate of copper, 1 oz.; water, 1 pint. In itch; either
alone or diluted.
=Lotion of Sul′phate of Iron.= _Syn._ LOTIO FERRI SULPHATIS. Sulphate of
iron, 2 gr.; water, 1 oz.
=Lotion of Sul′phate of Zinc.= _Syn._ LOTIO ZINCI SULPHATIS, L. _Prep._ 1.
Sulphate of zinc, 3/4 dr.; water, 1 pint. Astringent; in some chronic skin
diseases, as a wash for loose, flabby granulations, and for ulcers that
discharge profusely, &c.
2. (Collier.) Sulphate of zinc, 2 dr.; water, 1 pint. As a
counter-irritant in pains of the joints, periosteum, old sprains, &c.
=Lotion of Sulphuret of Sodium.= (Dr Barlow.) _Syn._ LOTIO SODII
SULPHURETI. _Prep._ Sulphide of sodium, 2 dr.; white soap, 2-1/2 dr.;
rectified spirit, 2 dr.; lime water, 7 oz. For ringworm.
=Lotion of Tannin.= (Mr Druitt.) _Syn._ LOTIO TANNINI. _Prep._ Tannic
acid, 5 gr.; distilled water, 1 oz.; mix. On lint, covered with oil silk,
to sore nipples.
=Lotion of Tar.= _Syn._ LOTIO PICIS LIQUIDÆ, L. _Prep._ (Saunders.)
Quicklime, 6 oz.; water, 2-1/2 pints; slake, add of tar, 4 oz., and boil
to one half. This liquid may be advantageously employed in various chronic
skin diseases, especially those affecting the heads of children. See
INFUSION OF TAR.
=Lotion of Valer′ian.= _Syn._ LOTIO VALERIANÆ, EMBROCATIO ANTIHYSTERICA,
E. EMMENAGOGA, L. _Prep._ From tincture of valerian and proof spirit,
equal parts. In hysteria, suppressions, &c.
=Lotion of Vera′trine.= _Syn._ LOTIO VERATRIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr Turnbull.)
Veratrine, 20 to 60 gr.; rectified spirit, 2 oz. In gout, rheumatism, &c.
It is extremely poisonous, and must only be used where the skin is sound,
and then with great caution.
=Lotion of Ver′digris.= _Syn._ LOTIO ÆRUGINIS, L. CUPRI CITRATIS, L.
_Prep._ From verdigris, 3 dr.; vinegar, 1/4 pint; water, 3/4 pint. As a
wash for indolent, scrofulous, and venereal ulcers.
=Lotion of Vin′egar.= See ACETIC LOTION (_above_).
=Lotion, Yellow.= See MERCURIAL LOTION (_above_).
=LOUSE.= _Syn._ PEDICULUS. There are several species of this offensive
parasite infesting the bodies of man and domesticated animals. The three
varieties of lice found on the human skin are:——(1) The _Pediculus
corporis_, (2) the _P. capitis_, (3) the _P. pubis_.
(1.) The _P. corporis_, the body louse, is of a dirty white colour, and
varies from half to two lines in length. Its body is broad and elongated,
with the margins divided into lobes, and covered with minute hairs; but it
has a narrow thorax, furnished on each side with three legs, which
terminate in claws. This creature produces great irritation of the skin,
giving rise to a number of little pimples on it, which frequently
discharge a watery fluid. It multiplies with extraordinary rapidity.
(2.) The _P. capitis_, the head louse, is much smaller than the above. It
is devoid of hairs, with legs large in proportion to its body. It gives
rise to a very troublesome eruption, attended with a watery discharge. It
is propagated by means of the ova or nits, which are glued to the hairs of
the head.
(3.) The _P. pubis_, the crab louse, is a small, round variety, which
attaches itself with considerable tenacity to the hairs of the stomach and
lower part of the body more particularly, and, like the preceding
parasite, glues its eggs to the hairs.
Various applications have been recommended for the destruction of these
loathsome parasites; amongst which we may mention sulphur, stavesacre,
white precipitate, and cocculus indicus, in the form of ointments;
carbolic acid and perchloride of mercury lotions, and tobacco. Benzoic
acid has been found of service in allaying the irritation. Diligent
washing with soap and water should be had recourse to previous to applying
any of the above remedies, and should the head be infested, the hair
should be cut short, and frequently combed with a small toothcomb.
Pediculi are sometimes conveyed from filthy to cleanly persons by means of
dirty water-closets, chairs, sheets, brushes and combs, and in various
other ways.
School children frequently obtain them in consequence of their heads being
brought into too close contact with the heads of other children infested
by them.
=LOZ′ENGE.= _Syn._ TROCHE; TROCHISCUS, TABELLA, L.; TABLETTE, Fr. A small
cake, often medicated, consisting principally of powdered sugar, made into
a mass with some glutinous liquid, without the aid of heat, and dried. The
form given to lozenges (TROCHE, TABELLÆ, TROCHISCI, TABLETTES) is
generally that of a small round tablet or flattened cylinder; but
originally they were exclusively made in the shape of a lozenge or rhomb,
from which circumstance their familiar name is derived. LOZENGES are
distinguished from DROPS OR PASTILLES by the non-employment of heat in
their preparation; and from PASTES, by the latter being formed of
vegetable juice or pulp, and having a softer consistence.
In the preparation of lozenges the dry ingredients, separately reduced to
a very fine powder, are first perfectly mixed together, and then beaten
into a stiff paste with the glutinous liquid employed to give them form;
the mass is next rolled out to a desired thickness, and cut into pieces of
the proper shape by means of a small cylinder or punch of steel or
tin-plate, called a ‘lozenge-cutter.’ The newly formed lozenges are lastly
dried by placing them on an inverted sieve or frame covered with paper in
a dry, warm, and airy situation, and are frequently turned until they
become hard and brittle, due care being taken to preserve them from dust
and dirt. To prevent the mass adhering to the fingers and utensils during
the process of manufacture, a little finely powdered starch, or a very
little olive oil, scented with the same aromatic as that contained in the
lozenges, may be used. Mucilage of gum Arabic or of gum tragacanth, thin
isinglass size, or the strained white of egg, are the substances usually
employed to make the pulverulent materials adhere together. A strained
decoction of Irish moss is now frequently used for the same purpose, for
inferior qualities. The larger the proportion of gum which enters into the
composition of lozenges, the slower they dissolve in the mouth; hence
powdered gum is frequently added to the other materials to increase their
quality in this respect, as well as to give an additional solidity to
those which, like chalk, for instance, are of a peculiarly dry or crumbly
nature. Starch and potato flour are often added to lozenge-masses in lieu
of a portion of the sugar, and even plaster of Paris is not unfrequently
employed to give them weight; frauds which are readily detected in the
manner noticed under GUM and SUGAR.
As a general rule, MEDICATED LOZENGES should weigh from 8 to 10 gr. each,
and a medium dose of their active ingredient should be distributed through
the bulk of 6 to 8 of them, in which case 3 to 5 of them may be safely
taken as a dose, or sucked during the lapse of 3 or 4 hours. This will be
useful in the preparation of those for which no established proportions
are given. In ‘sending out’ compounds of this class containing active
medicaments, as morphia or opium, the retailer as well as the manufacturer
should be careful that the quantity contained in each lozenge is plainly
marked on the label.
In lozenges intended for MOUTH COSMETICS or to perfume the breath,
ambergris is generally regarded as the most appropriate perfume; but hard
smokers frequently prefer cloves and cinnamon, and some ladies give the
preference to roses, orange flowers, and orris or violets.
Lozenges are coloured with the same stains as are used for liqueurs and
sweetmeats.
Lozenges, as well as all other similar articles of confectionery, should
be preserved in well-closed glass bottles, or jars, or in tin canisters,
so as to be perfectly excluded from the air and damp.
=Lozenges, Absor′bent.= TROCHISCI ANTACIDI, L. _Prep._ 1. Take of
precipitated chalk, 1/4 lb.; gum Arabic, 2 oz.; double refined white
sugar, 14 oz.; all in impalpable powder; oil of nutmeg, 1/2 fl. dr.; pass
the mixture through a fine sieve, beat it up with mucilage q. s., roll the
mass into a thin sheet, and cut it into lozenges; lastly, dry them by
exposing them on a sheet of white paper to the air, out of contact with
dust.
2. As the last, but substituting heavy carbonate of magnesia, 1-1/2 oz.,
for an equal weight of chalk. In diarrhœa, heartburn, acidity, &c. See
LOZENGES, CHALK, MAGNESIA, L., SODA, &c.
=Lozenges, Aca′cia.= See LOZENGES, GUM.
=Lozenges, Acid′ulated.= _Syn._ ACIDULATED LEMON LOZENGES, TARTARIC ACID
L.; TROCHISCI ACIDI TARTARICI (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ From tartaric acid, 2
dr.; oil of lemon, 10 drops; white sugar, 8 oz.; mucilage, q. s. to make a
lozenge mass. The same ingredients mixed with heat form ACIDULATED or ACID
DROPS. Both are useful in coughs, hoarseness, sore throats, &c. See
LOZENGES, CAYENNE, CITRIC ACID, ROSE, &c.
=Lozenges, Al′kaline.= See LOZENGES, SODA, VICHY, &c.
=Lozenges, A′lum.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ALUMINIS, L. Each lozenge contains
1-1/2 gr. of alum. As an astringent. See LOZENGES, ASTRINGENT.
=Lozenges, An′iseed.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ANISI, L. _Prep._ From oil of
aniseed, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; finest white sugar, 1 lb.; mucilage, q. s.
Carminative and stomachic. In colic, griping, &c.; and as a pectoral.
=Lozenges, Anthelmin′tic.= See LOZENGES, WORM.
=Lozenges, Antimonial.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ANTIMONIALES, MORSULI STIBII
KUNKELII, L.; TABLETTES DE KUNKEL, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Levigated
sulphuret of antimony and cardamom seeds, of each 1 oz.; almonds
(blanched), 2 oz.; cinnamon, 1/2 oz.; sugar, 13 oz.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s.; to be divided into 15-gr. lozenges. As an alterative.
=Lozenges, Ape′′rient.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI APERIENTES, L. Each lozenge
contains 1 gr. each of calomel and scammony, and 2 gr. of jalap; or,
instead of the last, 1/4 gr. of jalapine. 2 to 3 for a dose.
=Lozenges, Astrin′gent.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ASTRINGENTES, L. Each lozenge
contains 1-1/2 gr. of alum and 2 gr. of catechu. In spitting of blood,
relaxed uvula, sore throat, &c. See LOZENGES, ALUM.
=Lozenges, Bark.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CINCHONÆ, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
Cinchona, 2 oz.; cinnamon, 2 dr.; white sugar, 14 oz.; mucilage of gum
tragacanth, q. s.; mix, and divide into 16-gr. lozenges. Tonic.
=Lozenges, Bath.= _Syn._ DAWSON’S LOZENGES. From extract of liquorice and
gum Arabic, of each 1-1/2 oz.; sugar, 17 oz. It is both rolled into
lozenges and formed into pipes. Demulcent; in tickling coughs, &c.
=Lozenges, Benzoic Acid.= (Th. Hosp.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI ACIDI BENZOICI.
_Prep._ Benzoic acid in powder, 175 gr.; tragacanth in powder, 70 gr.;
refined sugar in powder, 280 gr.; red currant paste, a sufficient quantity
to make 1 lb. Divide into 350 lozenges, and dry at a moderate heat in a
hot-air chamber. A valuable stimulant and voice lozenge in nervomuscular
weakness of the throat.
=Lozenges, Bicarbonate of Soda.= TROCHISCI SODÆ BICARBONATIS. Bicarbonate
of soda, in powder, 3600 gr. (8-1/4 oz.); refined sugar, 25 oz.; gum
acacia, in powder, 1 oz.; mucilage, 2 oz.; distilled water, 1 oz.; mix,
and form in 720 lozenges. Each lozenge contains 5 gr. of bicarbonate of
soda.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 lozenges.
=Lozenges, Bis′muth.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI BISMUTHI, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.)
Subnitrate of bismuth, 346 gr.; carbonate of magnesia, 4 oz.; precipitated
chalk, 6 oz.; sugar, 29 oz.; gum acacia, 1 oz.; mucilage, 2 oz.; rose
water, a sufficiency; make 720 lozenges. Each lozenge contains 2 gr. of
subnitrate of bismuth.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 lozenges.
2. (Trousseau.) Each lozenge contains 1 gr. of subnitrate of bismuth.
Tonic and antispasmodic; in chronic dyspepsia, gastrodynia, nausea, cramp
of the stomach, &c.
=Lozenges, Black Cur′rant.= TROCHISCI RIBIS NIGRI, L. _Prep._ From
inspissated juice of black currants and sugar, of each, in powder, 1 lb.;
tartaric acid, 1/4 oz.; mucilage, q. s. In hoarseness, &c.
=Lozenges, Bo′′rax.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI BORACIS, L. Each lozenge contains 3
gr. of borax. One occasionally in aphthous sore mouth, sore throat, &c.
=Lozenges, Bromide of Ammonium.= Each lozenge contains 2 gr. of bromide of
ammonium.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 lozenges. In hooping-cough.
=Lozenges, Burnt Sponge.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI SPONGIÆ, T. S. USTÆ, L. _Prep._
(P. Cod.) Burnt sponge, 4 oz.; sugar, 12 oz.; mucilage of tragacanth,
q. s.; divide into 12-gr. lozenges. In scrofula, glandular enlargements,
&c.
=Lozenges, Caca′o.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI BUTYRI CACAO, L. Each lozenge
contains 1-3rd of its weight of pure cacao butter. In habitual
constipation; and in phthisis, scrofula, &c., instead of cod-liver oil;
taken _ad libitum_. They are usually scented with roses.
=Lozenges, Caffe′ine.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CAFFEINÆ, L. Each lozenge contains
1/4 gr. of caffeine and 1/2 gr. of citric acid. In hemicrania,
hypochondriasis, &c.
=Lozenges, Cal′omel.= _Syn._ WORM LOZENGES; TROCHISCI CALOMELANOS, T.
HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Each lozenge contains 1 gr. of
calomel. Alterative, &c. They afford a simple way of introducing mercury
into the system. During their use salt food and acid liquors should be
avoided. When given for worms they should be followed, in a few hours, by
a purge.
=Lozenges, Cam′phor.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CAMPHORÆ, L. Each lozenge contains
3/4 gr. of (finely powdered) camphor. They must be kept in a well-corked
bottle.
=Lozenges of Carbolic Acid.= (Th. Hosp.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI ACIDI CARBOLICI.
_Prep._ Carbolic acid, 350 gr.; gum Arabic, 220 gr.; refined sugar, 12-1/2
oz.; mucilage, 1 oz.; distilled water q. s. to make 1 lb. Divide into 350
lozenges, and finish as with benzoic acid lozenges.
=Lozenges, Car′bonate of Lime.= See LOZENGES, CHALK.
=Lozenges, Cat′echu.= _Syn._ CACHOU LOZENGES; TROCHISCI CATECHU (B. P.),
T. DE TERRA JAPONICA, L.; TABLETTES DE CACHOU, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.
1744.) Catechu, 2 oz.; tragacanth, 1/2 oz.; white sugar, 12 oz.; rose
water, q. s.
2. (P. Cod.) Extract of catechu, 4 oz.; sugar, 16 oz.; mucilage of gum
tragacanth q. s.; for 10-gr. lozenges.
3. (TRO. CATECHU ET MAGNESIÆ——P. Cod.) Magnesia, 2 oz.; powdered catechu,
1 oz.; sugar, 13 oz.; mucilage of gum tragacanth (made with cinnamon
water), q. s. to mix.
4. (PERFUMED.) See CACHOU AROMATISÉ and PASTILS.
5. (B. P.) Pale catechu, in powder, 720 gr.; refined sugar, in powder, 25
oz.; gum Arabic, in powder, 1 oz.; mucilage, 2 oz.; distilled water, a
sufficiency; divide into 720 lozenges. Each lozenge contains 1 gr. of
catechu.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 lozenges.
_Obs._ All the above are taken in diarrhœa, in relaxation of the uvula, in
irritation of the larynx, and as cosmetics to fasten the teeth, and
disguise a fetid breath. The one containing magnesia (No. 3) is also
sucked in dyspepsia, acidity, and heartburn.
=Lozenges, Cayenne′.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CAPSICI, L. Flavoured with essence
or tincture of capsicum or cayenne, with a very concentrated Chili
vinegar, or a little pure soluble cayenne pepper.
2. (ACIDULATED.) To each lb. add of tartaric acid, 1/2 oz. Both are used
in dyspepsia, and to promote digestion and create an appetite. They have
also been recommended in temporary deafness arising from exposure to cold.
They are generally tinged of a light pink or red colour.
=Lozenges, Chalk.= _Syn._ HEARTBURN LOZENGES; TROCHISCI CRETÆ; (Ph. E.),
T. CARDIALGICI, TABELLÆ CARDIALGICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Prepared chalk, 4
oz.; gum Arabic, 1 oz.; nutmeg, 1 dr.; white sugar, 6 oz.; rose or
orange-flower water, q. s. Antacid and absorbent. 3 or 4 sucked _ad
libitum_; in heartburn, dyspepsia, diarrhœa, acidity of the stomach and
bowels, &c.
=Lozenges, Char′coal.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CARBONIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.)
Prepared charcoal, 4 oz.; white sugar, 12 oz., mucilage, q. s. to mix. In
diarrhœa, cholera, dyspepsia, &c.
2. (TRO. CARBONAS CUM CHOCOLAT——M. Chevallier.) Charcoal and white sugar,
of each 1 oz.; chocolate, 3 oz.; mucilage of gum tragacanth, q. s. to mix.
Nutritious; used as the last.
=Lozenges, Ching’s Worm.= _Prep._ 1. (YELLOW.) From saffron, 1/2 oz.;
boiling water, 1 pint; infuse, strain, add, of calomel, 1 lb.; powdered
white sugar, 28 lbs.; mix well, make a mass with mucilage of tragacanth,
and divide it into 7000 lozenges. Each lozenge contains 1 gr. of calomel.
2. (BROWN.) From calomel, 7 oz.; resinous extract of jalap, 3-1/2 lbs.;
white sugar, 10 lbs.; mucilage of tragacanth, q. s.; mix, and divide into
6125 lozenges. Each lozenge contains 1/2 gr. of calomel and 3-1/2 gr. of
resinous extract of jalap. 1 to 6 of the yellow lozenges over night, as a
vermifuge, followed by an equal number of the brown ones the next morning
fasting.
=Lozenges, Chlo′′rate of Potassa.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI POTASSÆ CHLORATIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. Each lozenge contains 1-1/2 gr. of chlorate of potassa. In
phthisis, sore throat, &c. 6 to 12 a day.
2. (B. P.) Chlorate of potash, in powder, 3600 gr. (8-1/4 oz.); refined
sugar, in powder, 25 oz.; gum acacia, in powder, 1 oz.; mucilage, 2 oz.,
distilled water, 1 oz., or a sufficiency; mix the powders, and add the
mucilage and water to form a proper mass; divide in 720 lozenges. Each
lozenge contains 5 gr. of chlorate of potash.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 lozenges.
=Lozenges, Chloride of Ammonium.= Each lozenge contains 2 to 3 gr. of
chloride of ammonium. Used in bronchitis.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 lozenges.
=Lozenges, Chlo′′ride of Gold.= 1. (TROCHISCI AURI CHLORIDI, L.) Each
lozenge contains 1/40 gr. of neutral chloride of gold. 2 to 4 daily; in
scrofula, cancer, &c.
2. (With SODA; TROCHISCI AURI ET SODII CHLORIDI, T. SODII AURO-CHLORIDI,
L.——Chrestien.) Each lozenge contains 1/16th gr. of soda-chloride of gold.
Two daily; as the last.
=Lozenges, Chloride of Lime.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CALCIS CHLORIDI, T. C.
CHLORINATÆ, L. Each lozenge contains 1/4 gr. of dry chloride of lime. They
are frequently tinged with a little carmine. Used to sweeten the breath
and whiten the teeth. They do not keep well.
=Lozenges of Chlorinated Soda.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI SODÆ CHLORINATÆ. _Prep._
Solution of chloride of soda, 1 fl. dr.; sugar, 10 dr.; gum Arabic, 2 dr.;
mucilage of tragacanth, q. s. (1/2 dr. of camphor may be added). To be
held in the mouth during infection.
=Lozenges, Choc′olate.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CHOCOLATÆ, L. From vanilla
chocolate pressed into sheets, and cut into pieces whilst hot.
=Lozenges, Cincho′na.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CINCHONÆ EXTRACTI, L. Each lozenge
contains 1-1/2 gr. of dry extract of bark. A little cinnamon or nutmeg is
often added. See BARK LOZENGES.
=Lozenges, Cin′namon.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CINNAMONI, L. From cinnamon (in
fine powder), 1 oz., or the essential oil, 1 fl. dr., to each lb. of
sugar. Carminative and stomachic. CASSIA LOZENGES are made in the same
way, and are frequently substituted for them.
=Lozenges, Ci′trate of Iron.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI FERRI CITRATIS, L. Each
lozenge contains 1-1/2 gr. of ammonio-citrate of iron. As a mild
chalybeate tonic. They are sometimes made with equal parts of sugar and
vanilla chocolate.
=Lozenges, Citrate of Magne′sia.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI MAGNESIÆ CITRATIS, L.
Each 15-gr. lozenge contains 5 gr. of pure citrate of magnesia. Laxative.
=Lozenges, Cit′ric Acid.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ACIDI CITRICI, L. _Prep._ (P.
Cod.) Citric acid, 3 dr.; sugar, 16 oz.; essence of lemon, 16 drops;
mucilage of tragacanth, q. s.; mix, and divide into 12-gr. lozenges. In
coughs, hoarseness, &c.
=Lozenges, Clove.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CARYOPHILLI, L. From cloves (powdered
along with sugar), 2 oz., or essential oil, 1 fl. dr., to each lb. of
sugar. They are frequently coloured. Carminative and stomachic; also used
as a restorative after fatigue, added to chocolate to improve its
flavour, and sucked to sweeten the breath.
=Lozenges, Cough.= _Syn._ PECTORAL LOZENGES, PULMONIC L.; TROCHISCI
ANTICATARRHALES, L. _Prep._ 1. Black-currant lozenge-mass, 1 lb.;
ipecacuanha (in very fine powder), 2 dr. For 12-gr. lozenges.
2. To the last add of powdered opium and camphor, 1-1/2 dr.
3. To either No. 1 or 2 add of oil of aniseed, 1-1/2 fl. dr.
4. (TABLETTES DE TRONCHIN.) From powdered gum Arabic, 8 oz.; oil of
aniseed, 16 drops; extract of opium, 12 gr.; kermes mineral, 1 dr.; pure
extract of liquorice, 2 oz.; white sugar, 32 oz.; water, q. s.; mix, and
divide into 10-gr. lozenges.
5. (TABLETTES DE VANDAMME.) From benzoic acid, 1 dr.; orris powder, 2 dr.;
gum Arabic (powdered), 1 oz.; starch, 2 oz.; sugar, 16 oz.; water, q. s.;
mix and divide into 15-gr. lozenges.
6. Each lozenge contains 1/2 gr. of lactucarium, 1/8 gr. of powdered
ipecacuanha, and 1/12 gr. of powdered squills, together with 1/3rd of
their weight of pure extract of liquorice.
_Obs._ To render the above serviceable in coughs, hoarseness, &c., the
bowels should be kept gently open with some mild aperient, and a light
diet adopted, with abstinence from stimulating liquors. See LOZENGES,
EMETINE, IPECACUANHA, &c.
=Lozenges, Cro′ton Oil.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CROTONIS, L. _Prep._
(Soubeiran.) Croton oil, 5 drops; powdered starch, 40 gr.; white sugar, 1
dr.; chocolate, 2 dr.; divide into 30 lozenges; 5 or 6 generally prove
cathartic.
=Lozenges, Cu′bebine.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CUBEBINI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Hamb.)
Copaiba and extract of cubebs, of each 6 oz.; yolks of 3 eggs; mix, add of
powdered marshmallow root, 6 oz.; make it into pipes of 12 gr. each, and
roll them in sugar. In gleet, &c., and in affections of the mucous
membranes of the throat and fauces. Lablonye orders them to be made of
sugar, and flavoured with oil of peppermint.
=Lozenges, Cu′bebs.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CUBEBÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Spitta.)
Cubebs, 2 dr.; balsam of tolu, 6 gr.; mix, and add of extract of
liquorice, 1 oz.; syrup of tolu, 1 dr.; powdered gum, q. s.; divide into
10-gr. lozenges. One of these, allowed to melt gradually in the mouth, is
said to alleviate the obstruction in the nose, in coryza.
2. (U. S.) _Prep._ Oleoresin of cubebs, 1/2 fl. oz. o. m.; oil of
sassafras, 1 fl. dr.; extract of liquorice in powder, 4 oz.; gum Arabic in
powder, 3 oz.; sugar in fine powder, 3 oz.; syrup of tolu, q. s. Divide
into 480 lozenges.
=Lozenges of Cyanide of Gold.= (Chrestien.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI AURI CYANIDI.
_Prep._ Cyanide of gold, 2 gr.; chocolate paste, 1 oz. Made into 24
lozenges. From 1 to 4 in the day.
=Lozenges, D′Arcet’s.= See LOZENGES, VICHY.
=Lozenges, Diges′tive.= See LOZENGES, RHUBARB, GINGER, CANDY, DIGESTIVE,
&c.
=Lozenges, Edinburgh.= _Prep._ From extract of poppies, 2 oz.; powdered
tragacanth, 4 oz.; sugar, 10 oz.; rose water, q. s. to form a
lozenge-mass.
=Lozenges, Emet′ine.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI EMETINÆ, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.)——1.
From impure or coloured emetine, 32 gr. (or pure emetine, 8 gr.); white
sugar, 2 oz.; mucilage, q. s. to mix; divide into 64 lozenges.
Emetic.——_Dose_, 1 for a child, and 4 for an adult. They are generally
tinged of a pink colour with carmine.
2. From impure or coloured emetine, 32 gr. (or pure emetine, 8 gr.);
sugar, 4 oz.; mucilage, q. s.; divide into 256 lozenges. Pectoral. One
every hour, or oftener, for an adult. The last are intended to take the
place of ipecacuanha lozenges, but are rather stronger.
=Lozenges, Escharot′ic.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ESCHAROTICI, L. _Prep._ (P.
Cod.) Corrosive sublimate, 2 dr.; starch, 4 dr.; mucilage of tragacanth,
q. s.; mix, and divide into 3-gr. oat-shaped granules. For external use
only. See CAUSTIC (Zinc).
=Lozenges, Ferrocy′anide of Iron.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI FERRI FERROCYANIDI, T.
CÆRULEI, L. Each lozenge contains 1-1/2 gr. of pure Prussian blue.
Alterative, febrifuge, and tonic; in epilepsy, intermittents, diseases of
the ganglionic system, &c.
=Lozenges, Fruit.= _Prep._ From juice of black currants (boiled to the
consistence of an extract), 1 lb.; juice of red currants (similarly
treated), 1/2 lb.; powdered gum tragacanth, 1/4 lb.; sugar, 3 lbs.;
raspberry syrup, q. s.; pear essence, a few drops. Resemble black currant
lozenges, but are more agreeable.
=Lozenges, Garana′.= See LOZENGES, PAULLINIA.
=Lozenges, Gin′ger.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ZINGIBERIS, L. _Prep._ From the best
unbleached Jamaica ginger and gum Arabic, of each, in very fine powder,
1-1/2 oz.; double refined lump sugar, 1 lb.; rose water (tinged with
saffron), q. s. A still finer quality may be made by using an equivalent
proportion of essence of ginger, instead of the powder. Inferior qualities
are prepared with coarser sugar to which some starch is often added.
Ginger lozenges are carminative and stomachic, and are useful in
flatulency, loss of appetite, &c.
=Lozenges, Gold.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI AURI, L. Each lozenge contains 1/16 gr.
of pulverulent gold.
=Lozenges, Gum.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ACACIÆ (Ph. E.), T. GUMMI ARABICI, T.
GUMMOSI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Gum Arabic, 4 oz.; starch, 1 oz.; white
sugar, 12 oz. (all in very fine powder); rose water, q. s.
2. (P. Cod.) Gum Arabic, 1 lb.; sugar, 3 lbs.; orange-flower water, 2 fl.
oz.
3. (Transparent.) From the same materials, but employing a gentle heat.
Demulcent; used to allay tickling coughs.
=Lozenges, Guaiacum.= (Th. Hosp.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI GUAIACI. _Prep._
Guaiacum resin in powder, 700 gr.; tragacanth, 70 gr.; sugar, 280 gr.;
black currant paste, q. s. Divide into 350 lozenges, and finish as benzoic
acid lozenges.
=Lozenges, Gum Tra′gacanth.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI TRAGACANTHÆ, T. GUMMI T., L.
_Prep._ (Ph. E. 1744.) Compound powder of tragacanth, 3 oz.; sugar, 12
oz.; rose water, 4 fl. oz. Resemble the last, but are more durable in the
mouth.
=Lozenges, Heart′burn.= See LOZENGES, CHALK, &c.
=Lozenges, Iceland Moss.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI LICHENIS, L. (P. Cod.) Contain
half their weight of dried and powdered lichen jelly. Resemble gum
lozenges.
=Lozenges, Indian Hemp.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CANNABIS, D. C. INDICI, L.
(Ebriard.) Each lozenge contains 1/12 gr. of extract of Indian hemp.
=Lozenges, I′odide of Iron.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI FERRI IODIDI, L. Each
lozenge contains 1/2 gr. of dry iodide of iron. 12 to 20 daily; in
amenorrhœa, chlorosis, scrofulous debility, &c. They are generally
flavoured with a little nutmeg or cinnamon.
=Lozenges, Iodide of Potassium.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI POTASSI IODIDI, L. Each
lozenge contains 1 gr. of iodide of potassium, flavoured with nutmeg or
cinnamon. 10 to 15 daily; in scrofula, indurations, &c. One of the best
ways of taking iodide of potassium.
=Lozenges, Ipecacuan′ha.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI IPECACUANHÆ;, L. _Prep._ 1. (B.
P.) Mix ipecacuanha in powder, 180 gr.; refined sugar in powder, 25 oz.;
gum acacia in powder, 1 oz.; add mucilage of acacia, 2 fl. oz., and
distilled water, 1 oz., or sufficient to form a proper mass. Divide into
720 lozenges, and dry in a hot-air chamber with a moderate heat. Each
lozenge contains 1/4 gr. of ipecacuanha.
2. (P. Cod., Hamb. do., and Ph. U. S.) Each lozenge contains 1/4 gr. of
ipecacuanha.
3. (TRO. IPECAC. CUM CAMPHORÂ.) Each lozenge contains 1/2 gr. of camphor,
and 1/4 gr. of ipecacuanha.
4. (TRO. IPECAC. CUM CHOCOLAT——P. Cod.) Each lozenge contains 1 gr. of
ipecacuanha, and 12 gr. of chocolate _à la vanilla_. The above are
pectoral and expectorant, and are very useful in tickling and chronic
coughs, hoarseness, &c.
=Lozenges, Ipecacuanha and Morphia.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI IPECACUANHÆ ET
MORPHIÆ (B. P.). Each lozenge contains 1/12 gr. ipecacuanha and 1/36 gr.
hydrochlorate morphia.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 lozenges. See LOZENGES, MORPHIA AND
IPECACUANHA.
=Lozenges, I′ron.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI FERRI, T. CHALYBEATI, L. 1. Each
lozenge contains 1 gr. of Quevenne’s iron. See LOZENGES, REDUCED IRON.
2. (TRO. FERRI CARBONATIS.) Each lozenge contains 1-1/2 gr. of saccharine
carbonate of iron. They are both mild and excellent chalybeates. See
LOZENGES, STEEL.
=Lozenges, Ju′jube.= See PASTE, JUJUBE.
=Lozenges, Ker′mes Mineral.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI KERMETIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (P.
Cod.) Each lozenge contains 1/6 gr. of kermes mineral, and about 3/4 gr.
of gum, made up with sugar and orange-flower water. Diaphoretic and
expectorant.
2. (Compound.) As the last, but with the addition of 1/6 gr. of opium, 1/4
gr. of squills, and 1/2 gr. of ipecacuanha. Anodyne and expectorant; both
are very useful in catarrhs.
=Lozenges, Lactate of Iron.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI FERRI LACTATIS, L. _Prep._
(Cap.) Each lozenge contains 1 gr. of lactate of iron. Tonic. Useful in
debility, accompanied with a diseased state of the organs of digestion.
=Lozenges, Lac′tic Ac′id.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ACIDI LACTICI, L. Each lozenge
contains 1 gr. of lactic acid to about 12 gr. of sugar. They are best
flavoured with vanilla or nutmeg. In dyspepsia, &c., especially in gouty
subjects. Those prepared by Magendie’s formulæ contain a larger proportion
of acid, but are much too sour for frequent use.
=Lozenges, Lactuca′′rium.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI LACTUCARII, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
E.) Prepared with lactucarium in the same manner as the opium lozenges,
Ph. E. Each of these lozenges contains from 1/6 to 1/7 gr. of lactucarium.
Anodyne and demulcent. Used to allay tickling coughs, &c.
=Lozenges, Lavender.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI LAVANDULÆ, L. From 3/4 fl. dr. of
Mitcham oil of lavender to each lb. of sugar, and tinged red with liquid
lake or carmine; or violet, with litmus or indigo. Used chiefly to scent
the breath. Those of the shops are generally deficient in odour.
=Lozenges, Lem′on.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI LIMONIS, T. LIMONUM, L. _Prep._ 1.
From 1-1/2 fl. dr. of oil of lemon to each lb. of double refined white
sugar.
2. (Acidulated.) See LOZENGES, CITRIC and TARTARIC.
_Obs._ Lemon lozenges and drops are agreeable sweetmeats, and those that
are acidulated are often very useful to promote expectoration in coughs,
&c. The last are also made into drops as well as lozenges, when they form
the ‘ACIDULATED LEMON DROPS’ of the shops. Those that are made of citric
acid are by far the most wholesome. Both lemon lozenges and drops are
generally coloured with infusion of saffron or turmeric.
=Lozenges, Lettuce.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI LACTUCÆ, L. _Prep._ From extract of
lettuce, extract of liquorice, gum, and sugar, equal parts. Anodyne and
demulcent; in obstinate cough without expectoration. See LOZENGES,
LACTUCARIUM.
=Lozenges, Lichen.= See LOZENGES, ICELAND MOSS.
=Lozenges, Liquorice.= _Syn._ BLACK LOZENGES; TROCHISCI GLYCYRRHIZÆ, T. G.
GLABRÆ, T. BECHICI NIGRI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Extract of liquorice and
gum acacia, of each 6 oz; white sugar, 12 oz.; dissolve in water, q. s.;
evaporate into a paste, and form into lozenges. Pectoral and demulcent.
Useful to allay tickling coughs and remove hoarseness.
2. (With OPIUM.) See LOZENGES, OPIUM.
=Lozenges, Magne′sia.= _Syn._ HEARTBURN LOZENGES; TROCHISCI MAGNESIÆ (Ph.
E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Carbonate of magnesia, 6 oz.; powdered white
sugar, 3 oz.; oil of nutmeg, 20 drops; mucilage of tragacanth, q. s. to
mix.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Calcined magnesia, 4 oz.; sugar, 12 oz.; nutmeg, 1 dr.;
mucilage of tragacanth, q. s.; for 10-gr. lozenges.
3. (Wholesale.) Calcined magnesia, 3 oz.; powdered gum tragacanth, 1 oz.;
double refined lump sugar, 3/4 lb.; rose or orange-flower water, q. s. to
make a lozenge mass.
_Obs._ Magnesia lozenges are very useful in heartburn, acidity, and
indigestion. The confectioners generally omit the nutmeg, and make their
mucilage with either rose or orange-flower water, or else add the dry gum
to the mass, and then mix up the powders with one or other of these
liquids. It is also an improvement to use calcined magnesia, which is
about twice as strong as the carbonate, and consequently less need be
employed.
=Lozenges, Manna.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI MANNÆ, L. _Prep._ (Van Mons.) Powdered
tragacanth, 1 dr.; white sugar, 12 oz.; manna, 3 oz.; orange-flower water,
q. s. to mix. Demulcent, and in large numbers slightly laxative.
=Lozenges, Marshmallow.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ALTHÆÆ, L.; TABLETTES DE
GUIMAUVE, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Marshmallow root (decorticated and finely
powdered), 2 oz.; sugar, 14 oz.; mucilage of tragacanth (made with
orange-flower water), q. s. Demulcent and expectorant. Useful to allay the
irritation in cough, &c. The preparations of marshmallow have always been
highly esteemed as pectorals by the vulgar.
=Lozenges, Min′ium.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI MINII (Ph. E. 1744), L. _Prep._ From
red lead, 1 dr.; corrosive sublimate, 2 dr.; crumb of bread, 1 oz.; rose
water, q. s.; to be made up into oat-like grains. For external use only.
=Lozenges, Morphia.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI MORPHIÆ (B. P., Ph. E.), T. M.
HYDROCHLORATIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Hydrochlorate of morphia, 20 gr.;
tincture of tolu, 1/2 fl. oz.; powdered white sugar, 25 oz.; dissolve the
hydrochlorate in a little warm water, mix it with the tincture and the
sugar, make a mass with mucilage of gum tragacanth, q. s., and divide it
into 15-gr. lozenges. Each lozenge contains about 1/40 gr. of
hydrochlorate of morphia. Used as opium lozenges, but are pleasanter. The
morphia lozenges of the shop generally contain 1/24 gr. of hydrochlorate
of morphia. (Pereira.)
2. (With IPECACUANHA, TROCHISCI MORPHIÆ ET IPECACUANHÆ——Ph. E.) As the
last, adding of ipecacuanha, 1 dr. Each lozenge contains about 1/40 gr. of
hydrochlorate of morphia, and 1/13 gr. of ipecacuanha. Anodyne and
expectorant; in tickling coughs, &c., and to allay pain.
3. Hydrochlorate of morphia, 20 gr.; tincture of tolu, 1/2 oz.; refined
sugar, in powder, 24 oz.; gum Arabic, in powder, 1 oz.; mucilage, 2 oz.,
or a sufficiency; boiling distilled water, 1/2 oz. Divide the mass into
720 lozenges. Each lozenge contains 1/36 gr. of hydrochlorate of
morphia.——_Dose_, 1 or 2 occasionally, for cough.
=Lozenges, Morphia and Ipecacuanha.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI MORPHIÆ ET
IPECACUANHÆ (B. P.) Hydrochlorate of morphia, 20 gr.; ipecacuanha, in fine
powder, 24 oz.; tincture of tolu, 1/2 oz.; refined sugar, in powder, 24
oz.; gum Arabic, in powder, 1 oz.; mucilage, 2 oz., or a sufficiency;
distilled water, 1/2 oz.; divide the mass into 720 lozenges. Each lozenge
contains 1/36 gr. of hydrochlorate of morphia and 1/12 gr. of
ipecacuanha.——_Dose_, 1 or 2 occasionally, for cough.
=Lozenges of Naphthalin.= (Dupasquier.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI NAPHTHALINI.
_Prep._ Naphthalin, 5 scruples; sugar, 20 oz.; oil of aniseed to flavour;
form a mass with mucilage of tragacanth, and divide into lozenges of 15
gr. each. Expectorant, and may be taken to the extent of 20 a day.
=Lozenges, Ni′tre.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI NITRICI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E. 1783.)
Nitre, 3 oz.; white sugar, 9 oz.; mucilage of tragacanth, q. s. to mix.
Diuretic; but chiefly sucked, without swallowing, to remove incipient sore
throat.
2. Camphorated; TROCHISCI NITRI CAMPHORATI, L.——Chaussier. Each lozenge
contains 1/8 gr. of opium, 1/2 gr. of camphor, and 1 gr. of nitre. In
hoarseness, sore throat, &c.
=Lozenges, Nut′meg.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI MYRISTICÆ, L. From oil of nutmeg, 1
fl. dr., to each lb. of sugar, and coloured with infusion of saffron.
Carminative and stomachic; in colic, &c.
=Lozenges, O′pium.= _Syn._ ANODYNE LOZENGES; TROCHISCI OPII (Ph. E.), T.
GLYCYRRHIZÆ CUM OPIO, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P., Ph. E.) Opium (strained), 2
dr.; tincture of tolu, 1/2 oz.; triturate together, add of powdered sugar,
6 oz.; extract of liquorice (soft) and powdered gum acacia, of each 5 oz.;
mix, and divide into 10-gr. lozenges. Each lozenge contains 1/6 to 1/7 gr.
of opium. Used to allay tickling cough and irritation of the fauces, and
as an anodyne and hypnotic.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Opium (in fine powder), 2 dr.; extract of liquorice, gum
Arabic, and sugar, of each 5 oz.; oil of aniseed, 1/2 fl. dr.; water,
q. s.; divide into 6-gr. lozenges. Each lozenge contains 1/10 gr. of
opium. As the last.
3. Extract of opium, 72 gr.; tincture of tolu, 1/2 oz.; refined sugar (in
powder), 2 oz.; extract of liquorice, 6 oz.; distilled water, a
sufficiency. Divide the mass into 720 lozenges. Each lozenge contains 1/10
gr. of extract of opium.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 lozenges.
=Lozenges, Or′ange.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI AURANTII, L. From oil of orange,
1-1/2 fl. dr. to each lb. of sugar, and infusion of saffron for colouring.
By adding nitric or tartaric acid, 3 dr. ‘ACIDULATED ORANGE LOZENGES’ will
be formed.
=Lozenges, Orange-flow′er.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI AURANTII FLORUM, L. _Prep._
(P. Cod.) Powdered sugar, 1 lb.; neroli, 1 dr.; orange-flower water,
q. s.; make it into drops (pastilli); or, omit the water, and make it into
lozenges with mucilage of tragacanth made with orange-flower water.
Delightfully fragrant.
=Lozenges, Or′ris-root.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI IRIDIS, L. _Prep._ From
orris-root (in very fine powder), 1 oz.; sugar, 1 lb.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s. to mix. Used to perfume the breath.
=Lozenges Ox′alate of Potassa.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI POTASSÆ OXALATIS, T. P.
SUPER-OXALATIS, L. As ACIDULATED LOZENGES, but using quadraoxalate of
potassa (salt of sorrel) instead of tartaric acid. (See _below_.)
=Lozenges, Oxal′ic Acid.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ACIDI OXALICI, L. As ACIDULATED
LOZENGES, but using oxalic acid instead of tartaric acid. The last two are
refrigerant, but their use is objectionable, especially for patients who
labour under the oxalic diathesis. In large quantities they are poisonous.
=Lozenges, Paregor′ic.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI PAREGORICI, L. Medicated with 2
fl. oz. of paregoric and 2 dr. of tartaric acid, to each lb. of sugar, and
tinged of a pink colour with lake or cochineal. As a pectoral in catarrhs,
&c.
=Lozenges, Paullin′ia.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI PAULLINIÆ, T. GUARANÆ, L. _Prep._
(Dr Gavrelle.) Each lozenge contains nearly 1/2 gr. of extract of garana
or paullinia, and is flavoured with vanilla. 12 to 20 daily, as an
alterative and tonic; in chlorosis, diarrhœa.
=Lozenges, Pec′toral.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI PECTORALES, T. BECHICI, L. _Prep._
1. (Dr Grunn.) Powdered squills, 4 parts; extract of lettuce, 8 parts;
ipecacuanha, 18 parts; manna, 125 parts; sugar, 250 parts; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s. to mix.
2. (Magendie.) See LOZENGES, EMETINE.
3. (BLACK; T. BECHICI NIGRI.) See LOZENGES, LIQUORICE.
4. (WHITE; T. BECHICI ALBI.) Orris root, 4 dr.; liquorice powder, 6 dr.;
starch, 1-1/2 oz.; sugar, 18 oz.; mucilage of tragacanth, q. s. to make a
lozenge-mass.
5. (YELLOW; T. BECHICI FLAVI.) Powdered orris root, 6 dr.; starch, 4 dr.;
liquorice powder, 3 dr.; saffron, 2 dr.; sugar, 8 oz.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s. to mix.
_Obs._ All the above are used as demulcents in coughs, colds, &c. Nos. 1
and 2 are anodyne as well as demulcent. For other formulæ see LOZENGES,
COUGH, LIQUORICE, OPIUM, &c.
=Lozenges, Pel′litory.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI PYRETHRI, L. _Prep._ From
pellitory, mastic, and tragacanth, of each in fine powder, equal parts;
orange-flower water, q. s. to mix. In toothache.
=Lozenges, Pep′permint.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
(P. Cod.) Oil of peppermint, 1 dr.; powdered sugar, 16 oz.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Oil of peppermint, 1 fl. dr.; sugar, 12 oz.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s.
3. (Wholesale.) 1 fl. dr. of the finest Mitcham oil of peppermint to each
lb. of the finest double refined white sugar, with mucilage of either gum
Arabic or tragacanth to mix.
_Obs._ The best peppermint lozenges are made of the very finest double
refined sugar and of English oil of peppermint only; carefully mixed up
with very clean mucilage. The commoner qualities are made by employing
inferior lump sugar and foreign oil of peppermint, or, what is better,
English oil of peppermint, but in a less proportion than for the better
sorts. The addition of starch, in quantity varying from 1/6 to 2/9 of the
whole mass, is also commonly made to them; and in the cheapest varieties
even plaster of Paris or chalk is occasionally introduced by unprincipled
makers. The addition of a very small quantity of blue smalts, reduced to
an impalpable powder, is commonly made to the sugar, to increase its
whiteness. ‘TRANSPARENT’ or ‘SEMI-TRANSPARENT PEPPERMINT LOZENGES’ are
made from the same materials as the opaque ones; but the sugar is not
reduced to quite so fine a powder, and the cake is rolled thinner before
cutting it. A little oil of almonds or of olives is also occasionally
mixed with the ingredients, to promote the transparency; but it tends to
render the lozenges less white.
Peppermint lozenges and drops are useful in flatulency, nausea, and
griping; and judging from the enormous and constantly increasing demand
for them, they are more highly esteemed by the public than all other
lozenges and confections.
=Lozenges, Pontefract.= These are made of the purest refined juice or
extract of liquorice, and have long been esteemed as a demulcent.
=Lozenges, Pop′py.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI PAPAVERIS, L. _Prep._ From extract of
poppies, 3 oz.; sugar, 15 oz.; powdered gum tragacanth, 2 oz.; rose water,
q. s. to mix. Used in coughs as an anodyne and demulcent, in lieu of opium
lozenges.
=Lozenges, Pulmon′ic.= See LOZENGES, COUGH, PECTORAL, WAFERS, &c.
=Lozenges, Quin′ine.= _Syn._ =Trochisci quininæ sulphatis=, L. _Prep._
(Soubeiran.) Each lozenge contains about 1/10 gr. of sulphate (disulphate)
of quinine. Tonic and stomachic in dyspepsia, &c.; but to render them
useful, the quantity of the alkaloid should be doubled.
=Lozenges, Reduced Iron.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI FERRI REDACTI. (B. P.) Reduced
iron, 720 gr.; refined sugar, in powder, 25 oz.; gum Arabic, in powder, 1
oz.; mucilage, 2 oz.; distilled water, 1 oz., or a sufficiency. Mix the
iron, sugar, and gum, and add the mucilage and water to form a proper
mass. Divide into 720 lozenges, and dry them in a hot-air chamber with a
moderate heat. Each lozenge contains 1 gr. of reduced iron.——_Dose_, 1 to
6 lozenges.
=Lozenges, Reduced Iron, with Chocolate.= (Bouchardat.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI
CHOCOLATÆ ET FERRI. _Prep._ Fine chocolate, 14 oz.; iron reduced by
hydrogen, 1 oz. Soften the chocolate by heat, mix with the iron, and
divide into lozenges of 15-1/2 gr. each. Levigated iron filings are
sometimes substituted for the reduced iron; others direct the peroxide.
=Lozenges of Rhatany.= (Th. Hosp.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI KRAMERIÆ. _Prep._
Extract of rhatany in powder, 1050 gr.; tragacanth, 70 gr.; sugar, 280
gr.; red currant paste, q. s. Mix, and divide into 350 lozenges, and
finish as in benzoic acid lozenges.
=Lozenges, Rhu′barb.= _Syn._ DIGESTIVE LOZENGES; TROCHISCI RHEI, L.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) Powdered rhubarb, 1 oz.; sugar, 11 oz.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s.; divide into 12-gr. lozenges. Stomachic and laxative.
Sucked before dinner, they excite the appetite, and, after it, promote
digestion. They are frequently aromatised with a little cinnamon or
vanilla. See CANDY (Digestive).
=Lozenges, Rose.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ROSÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (ACIDULATED; T. R.
ACIDÆ.) From otto, 5 to 10 drops; citric or tartaric acid, 3 dr.; sugar, 1
lb.; mucilage, q. s.
2. (Ph. E. 1746.) Red-rose leaves (powdered), 1 oz.; sugar, 12 oz.;
mucilage, q. s.
3. (PÂTE DE ROSE LOZENGES.) As No. 1, omitting one half of the acid.
4. (RED; T. R. RUBRI.) As No. 1; but coloured with liquid lake, or
infusion of cochineal.
_Obs._ Some makers add of starch, 4 oz., substitute oil of rhodium for
otto of roses, and use mucilage made with rose water; but the quality of
course suffers. They are chiefly used to perfume the breath.
=Lozenges, Saf′fron.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI CROCI, L. _Prep._ From hay saffron
(in fine powder), 1 oz.; white sugar, 1 lb.; mucilage of gum tragacanth,
q. s. to mix. Anodyne, pectoral, and emmenagogue; but chiefly used to
raise the spirits in hypochondriasis.
=Lozenges, San′tonine.= _Syn._ TASTELESS WORM LOZENGES; TROCHISCI
SANTONINI, L. Each lozenge contains 1/2 gr. (nearly) of santonine. 5 to 10
daily, as a vermifuge.
=Lozenges, Scammony.= (Bourières.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI SCAMMONII. _Prep._
Resin of scammony, 4 dr.; calomel, 4 dr.; sugar, 6 oz.; tragacanth, 1/2
dr.; tincture of vanilla, 40 minims. Make into 300 lozenges. 1 or 2 for a
child; 2 to 4 for an adult.
=Lozenges, So′da.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI SODÆ BICARBONATIS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. E.) Bicarbonate of soda, 1 oz.; powdered gum Arabic, 1/2 oz.;
sugar, 3 oz.; mucilage, q. s.
2. (Wholesale.) From bicarbonate of soda and powdered gum tragacanth, of
each 2 oz.; double refined lump sugar, 3/4 lb.; rose water, q. s. to mix.
In acidity, heartburn, &c. See LOZENGES, VICHY.
3. (With GINGER); TROCHISCI SODÆ ET ZINGIBERIS, L. To the last, add of
ginger (in very fine powder), 1-1/2 oz.; powdered gum, 1/2 oz.
=Lozenges of Soluble Tartar.= (Guibort.) _Syn._ TROCHISCI TARTARI
SOLUBILIS. _Prep._ Borotartrate of potash, 1 oz.; sugar, 7 oz.; mucilage
of tragacanth, q. s.; flavoured with lemon.
=Lozenges, Squills.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI SCILLÆ, L. 1. Each lozenge contains
1/8 gr. of powdered squills and 2 gr. of extract of liquorice.
2. (With IPECACUANHA); TROCHISCI SCILLÆ ET IPECACUANHÆ, L. As the last,
adding for each lozenge 1/4 gr. of powdered ipecacuanha. Both the above
are useful cough lozenges.
=Lozenges, Starch.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ALIMY, T. BECHICI ALBI. L. See
PECTORAL LOZENGES.
=Lozenges, Steel.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI FERRI, T. CHALYBEATI, L. _Prep._ (P.
Cod.) Levigated iron filings, 1 oz.; sugar, 10 oz.; cinnamon, 2 dr.;
mucilage of tragacanth, q. s.; mix, and divide into 480 lozenges. Tonic.
See LOZENGES, IRON.
=Lozenges, Sul′phur.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI SULPHURIS, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
From sulphur (pure precipitate), 2 oz.; sugar, 16 oz.; mucilage of
tragacanth (made with rose water), q. s. to mix. Useful in piles and some
skin diseases.
=Lozenges, Tannic Acid.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ACIDI TANNICI (B. P.) Tannic
acid, 360 gr.; tincture of tolu, 1/2 oz,; refined sugar, 25 oz.; gum
acacia, 1 oz.; mucilage, 2 oz.; distilled water, 1 oz. Dissolve the tannic
acid in the water; add first the tincture of tolu previously mixed with
the mucilage, then the gum and the sugar, also previously well mixed. Form
the whole into a proper mass, divide into 720 lozenges, and dry them in a
hot-air chamber with a moderate heat. Each lozenge contains 1/2 gr. of
tannic acid.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 lozenges.
=Lozenges, Tarta′ric Acid.= See LOZENGES, ACIDULATED.
=Lozenges, Tolu′.= _Syn._ BALSAMIC LOZENGES; TROCHISCI TOLUTANI, T.
BALSAMICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Balsam of tolu and rectified spirit, of
each 1 oz.; dissolve, add of water, 2 fl. oz., heat the mixture in a water
bath, and filter; make a mucilage with the filtered liquid, and gum
tragacanth (in powder), 80 gr.; add of sugar, 16 oz.; make a mass, and cut
it into lozenges.
2. (Wholesale.) As the last, but using only one half the weight of balsam
of tolu. Pectoral and balsamic.
=Lozenges, Tronchin’s.= _Syn._ TABLETTES DE TRONCHIN, Fr. See LOZENGES,
COUGH.
=Lozenges, Vanil′la.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI VANILLÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Essence of
vanilla, 3 fl. dr., to each lb. of sugar.
2. (Guibourt.) From vanilla triturated to a fine powder with 7 times its
weight of sugar. Antispasmodic, nervine, and stomachic. Used to sweeten
the breath, to flavour chocolate, &c.
=Lozenges, Vichy.= _Syn._ D’ARCET’S LOZENGES; TROCHISCI SODÆ, L.;
PASTILLES DE VICHY, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Bicarbonate of soda, 1 oz.;
powdered sugar, 19 oz.; mucilage of gum tragacanth, q. s.; mix, and divide
into 20-gr. lozenges.
2. (D’Arcet.) As the last, adding a little oil of peppermint to give a
slight flavour. Antacid or absorbent; in heartburn, &c.
=Lozenges, Vi′olet.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI VIOLÆ, T. VIOLARUM, L. _Prep._ Orris
lozenges coloured with the juice of violets.
=Lozenges, Wistar’s Cough.= _Prep._ Gum Arabic, extract of liquorice, and
sugar, of each 2-1/2 oz.; powdered opium, 1 dr.; oil of aniseed, 40 drops;
for 60 lozenges. One, three or four times a day.
=Lozenges Worm.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ANTHELMINTICI, MORSULI CONTRA VERMES, L.
Most of the advertised nostrums under this name have a basis of calomel
(about 1 gr. per lozenge), and require to be followed by a purge a few
hours afterwards.
1. (Ph. Austr. 1836.) Ethereal extract of wormseed, 1 dr.; jalap, starch,
and sugar, of each 2 dr.; mucilage of gum tragacanth, q. s.; divide into
60 lozenges.
2. (Ph. Dan. 1840.) Wormseed, 1 oz.; ethiops mineral and jalap, of each 3
dr.; cinnamon, 2 dr.; sugar, 7 oz.; rose water, q. s. See LOZENGES,
CALOMEL, CHING’S, SANTONIN, &c. (_above_).
=Lozenges, Zinc.= _Syn._ TROCHISCI ZINCI, T. Z. SULPHATIS, L. _Prep._ (Dr
Copland.) Each lozenge contains 1/2 gr. of sulphate of zinc.
Antispasmodic, expectorant, and tonic, and in quantity emetic.
=LUBRICATING COMPOUNDS.= See ANTI-ATTRITION.
=LU′CIFERS.= See MATCHES.
=LUMBA′GO.= Rheumatism of the loins. It is distinguished from nephritis,
or inflammation of the kidneys, by the pain being aggravated on stooping.
The treatment consists of strong stimulant embrocations or liniments, or
of blisters over the parts affected, with active aperients, warmth, and
diaphoretics (as Dover’s powder) at bedtime. The hot or vapour bath often
gives almost immediate relief. See LINIMENT OF BELLADONNA and CHLOROFORM.
See RHEUMATISM.
=LU′MINOUS PHIAL.= See PHOSPHORUS.
=LU′NA, CORNEA.= [L.] _Syn._ HORN SILVER. Fused chloride of silver.
=LU′NAR, CAUSTIC.= Fused nitrate of silver. See CAUSTIC and SILVER.
=LUNCHEONS, HOT, by the River Side.= We extract the following from ‘Land
and Water’:——“In cold weather, by river side or on mountain or moor, when
not too far from home, a hot lunch is often a _desideratum_, but one not
easily accomplished without a more or less complicated apparatus and the
trouble of lighting a fire——often an impossibility from the want of dry
wood. A hot, substantial meal at the end of a hard day’s work is often
difficult to get when the time of return home may depend entirely on the
humour of the fish; and for either purpose nothing will beat the homely
Hot Pot, or ‘Paté de Lancashire,’ as I have seen it pretentiously termed,
though the latter name does not convey any of the comforting, cheering
sensation to the inner man contained in the simpler denomination. I have
never seen a good recipe for it, so append my own. Take a strong glazed
earthenware jar of a cylindrical form, ten inches deep and twelve broad.
At the bottom of this place a layer, about an inch thick, of potatoes cut
into pieces, sprinkle with a little salt; on these place a layer of four
or five mutton chops, season with salt and pepper, and a teaspoonful of
Worcester sauce. Pour in enough broth, stock, or water to nearly cover the
chops; then add another layer of potatoes (rather thicker than the first),
on which place two or three chops, and two kidneys, cut into smallish
pieces for the sake of the gravy. If mushrooms are procurable, add a few
with each layer of meat, or, in place of these, a few oysters. Season, and
continue the meat and potatoes in alternate layers until within an inch of
the top, when cover with small potatoes whole, or large ones cut into
halves or quarters; bake slowly in the oven till the potatoes are quite
soft inside, and brown and well cooked at the top, when the dish is ready.
If it is not wanted at once, it may easily be kept hot, and the addition
of a little stock will prevent its getting dry. To serve out-of-doors,
wrap up in cloths, and carry in a small hamper lined with straw, when it
will keep steaming hot for an hour or more. One of the great excellences
of this dish lies in the fact that all the aroma of the meat is retained,
while the potatoes absorb any superfluous gravy. Sliced onions will
improve the flavour for those who like them, especially when mushrooms
cannot be got. I have tested the appreciation of this dish among a
grouse-driving party on the Yorkshire moors on a raw December day, and
there was no dissentient voice as to its merits when thankfully discussed
over the subsequent pipe. I have found it not ungrateful, after a long
day’s fishing, nearly up to my waist in water, when the dinner ordered for
six, with a view of taking an evening basket, would have been ruined
before my arrival at eleven, had it consisted of aught else; nay, I have
assisted at more than one bachelor supper in chambers, where it formed the
dish of the evening, and mid-day, evening, or night I have always found it
good.”
=LUNGS.= In _anatomy_, the organ of respiration occupying the thorax or
chest. See RESPIRATION.
=LU′PULIN.= _Syn._ LUPULINA, LUPULINE. Under this name two products are
known, namely, 1. (LUPULINIC GRAINS, L. GLANDS.) The yellow powder
obtained from the dried strobiles or catkins of the hops, by gently
rubbing and sifting them.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; as an anodyne, tonic, &c.
2. The aromatic bitter principle of hops.
_Prep._ The aqueous extract of the yellow powder or lupulinic grains of
the strobiles, along with a little lime, are treated with rectified
spirit; the filtered tincture is evaporated to dryness, redissolved in
water, and the solution is again filtered, and evaporated to dryness; the
residuum is, lastly, washed with ether, and allowed to dry.
_Prop., &c._ The latter product is a yellowish-white, bitter,
uncrystallisable substance, soluble in 20 parts of water, very soluble in
alcohol, and slightly so in ether. The yellow powder above alluded to (No.
1) is improperly called lupulin; a name which appears more appropriate to
the pure bitter principle than to the lupulinic grains.
_Adult._ The lupulin sold to brewers is largely adulterated with quassia.
In some samples, lately examined, the quassia amounted to 70 per cent.
=LU′PUS.= In _pathology_, a disease affecting the skin, remarkable for
eating away the parts which it attacks with extreme rapidity. It is
generally confined to the face, and commences with small, spreading
ulcerations, which become more or less concealed beneath bran-like scabs,
and end in ragged ulcers, which gradually destroy the skin and muscular
tissue to a considerable depth.
=LUS′TRE.= See PLUMBAGO.
=LUTE.= _Syn._ LUTING; LUTUM, CÆMENTUM, L. A composition employed to
secure the joints of chemical vessels, or as a covering to protect them
from the violence of the fire.
_Prep._ 1. Linseed meal, either alone or mixed with an equal weight of
whiting, and made into a stiff paste with water. It soon becomes very hard
and tough.
2. Ground almond cake, from which the oil has been pressed, mixed up as
the last. Both the above are much used for stills, retorts, and other
vessels that are not exposed to a heat higher than about 320° Fahr. They
are capable of resisting the action of the fumes of volatile oils,
spirits, weak acids, &c., for some time.
3. Fresh-slaked lime made into a paste with strained bullock’s blood or
size. As the last.
4. Plaster of Paris made into a paste with water, and at once applied. It
bears a nearly red heat, but becomes rather porous and friable.
5. Powdered clay or whiting made into putty with water and boiled linseed
oil. This is commonly known as ‘fat lute.’
6. A mixture of powdered clay and ground bricks, made up with water or a
solution of borax. For joining crucibles, &c., which are to be exposed to
a strong heat.
7. Pipe-clay and horse-dung, made into a paste with water. As a coating
for glass vessels, to preserve them from injury from exposure to the fire.
This composition is used by the pipe-makers, and will stand unharmed the
extremest heat of their kiln for 24 hours. It is applied by spreading it
on paper.
8. As the last, but employing shredded tow or plumbago for horse-dung.
_Obs._ For the joints of small vessels, as tubes, &c., especially those of
glass or earthenware, pieces of vulcanized Indian tubing, slipped over and
tied above and below the joint, are very convenient substitutes for lutes,
and have the advantage of lasting for a long time, and bearing uninjured
the heat at which oil of vitriol boils. Flat rings or “washers” of
vulcanised rubber are also excellent for still heads, &c., whenever the
parts can be pinched together by screws or clamps.
=LYCOPO′DIUM.= The fine powder known in commerce under this name consists
of the minute spores of the common club moss, or _Lycopodium clavatum_. It
is exceedingly combustible; thrown suddenly from a powder-puff or bellows
across the flame of a candle, it produces the imitation flashes of
lightning of our theatres. The powder is also employed as a ‘dusting
powder’ in excoriations, and to roll up boluses and pills.
According to M. Paul Cazeneuve, pine pollen is occasionally substituted
for lycopodium.
=MACARO′NI.= This only differs from VERMICELLI in the size of the pipes,
which are about as large as a goose-quill. When properly dressed it is
very wholesome and nutritious. A pleasant dish may be made by boiling
macaroni in water until soft, either with or without a little salt,
draining off the water, and then stewing it with a little butter, cream,
or milk, and grated cheese, adding spice to palate. It may be made into a
‘form’ and browned before the fire.
=MAC′AROONS (English).= _Prep._ Take of sweet almonds, 1 lb.; blanch and
beat them to a paste, add of lump sugar 1-1/4 lb.; whites of 6 eggs; the
grated yellow peel of 2 lemons; mix well, make it into ‘forms,’ cover with
wafer paper, and bake in a moderate oven.
=MACE.= _Syn._ MACIS, L. The tough membranous, lacerated covering
(ariliode) of the NUTMEG. It has a flavour and odour more agreeable than
that of nutmeg, which in its general properties it resembles. It is used
as a flavouring by cooks, confectioners, and liqueuristes; and in
medicine as a carminative. See OIL, &c.
=MACERA′TION.= _Syn._ MACERATIO, L. The steeping of a substance in cold
water, for the purpose of extracting the portion soluble in that
menstruum. The word is also frequently applied to the infusion of organic
substances in alcohol or ether, or in water, either alkalised or
acidulated.
=MACKEREL.= The _Scomber Scombrus_ (Linn.), a well-known spiny-finned
sea-fish, much esteemed at certain seasons for the table. Though
nutritious, it is very apt to disagree with delicate stomachs, and
occasionally induces symptoms resembling those of poisoning.
=MAD′DER.= _Syn._ RUBIA, RUBIÆ RADIX, L. The root of _Rubia tinctorum_
(Linn.), or dyer’s madder. The best madder has the size of a common
goose-quill, a reddish appearance, and a strong odour. As soon as the
roots are taken from the ground they are picked and dried; and before use
they are ground in a mill. Levant, Turkey, and Smyrna madder is imported
whole; French, Dutch, and Zealand madder, ground. The finest quality of
ground madder is called ‘crop’ or ‘grappe,’ ‘ombro’ and ‘gamene’ are
inferior sorts, and ‘mull’ the worst.
Madder contains several distinct principles as——madder red, or
alizarin;——madder purple, or purpurin;——madder orange, or rubiacin; madder
yellow, or xanthin, &c. The first of these (noticed _below_) is by far the
most important.
_Pur._ Madder is frequently adulterated with logwood, Brazil wood, and
other dye-stuffs of inferior value; and also, not unfrequently, with
brickdust, red ochre clay, sand, mahogany sawdust, bran, &c. These
admixtures may be detected as follows:——
1. When dried at 212° Fahr., and then incinerated, not more than 10% to
12% of ash should be left.
2. It should not lose more than 50% to 56% by exhaustion with cold water.
3. When assayed for alizarin (see _below_), the quantity of this substance
obtained should be equal to that from a sample of the same kind of madder
which is known to be pure, and which has been treated in precisely the
same manner. The operation may be conducted as follows:——500 gr. of the
sample are weighed, and, after being dried by the heat of boiling water or
steam, are gradually added to an equal weight of concentrated sulphuric
acid, contained in a glass vessel, and stirred with a glass rod; after a
few hours the charred mass is washed with cold water, collected on a
filter, and dried by the heat of boiling water; the carbonised mass
(‘garacine’) is next powdered, and treated with successive portions of
rectified spirit, to which a little ether has been added, at first in the
cold, and afterwards with heat, until the liquid is no longer coloured by
it, when the mixed tincture is filtered, and evaporated (distilled) to
dryness; the weight of the residuum, divided by 5, gives the percentage
of red colouring matter present. Or,——The dried carbonized matter is
exhausted by boiling it in a solution of 1 part of alum in 5 or 6 parts of
water, and the decoction, after being filtered whilst in the boiling
state, is treated with sulphuric acid as long as a precipitate falls,
which is washed, dried, and weighed as before.
_Uses, &c._ Madder has been given in jaundice and rickets, and as an
emmenagogue.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 2 dr., twice or thrice a day. It is
principally employed as a dye-stuff. See RED DYES, IVORY, PURPURIN, &c.,
also _below_.
=MADDER RED.= _Syn._ ALIZARIN. C_{14}H_{8}O_{4}. 2Aq. The red colouring
principle of madder, first obtained in a separate form by Robiquet.
_Prep._ 1. The aqueous decoction of madder is treated with dilute
sulphuric acid as long as a precipitate falls, which, after being washed,
is boiled in a solution of chloride of aluminum as long as it gives out
colour; the liquid is then filtered, precipitated with hydrochloric acid,
and the precipitate washed and dried. It may be purified from a little
adhering purpurin, by dissolving it in alcohol, again throwing it down
with hydrate of aluminum, boiling the precipitate with a strong solution
of soda, and separating the alizarin from its combination with alumina by
means of hydrochloric acid; it is lastly crystallised from alcohol.
2. (Meillet.) Alum, 3 parts, is dissolved in water at 140° Fahr., 30
parts, and madder, 13 parts, added to the solution; the whole is then
gently boiled for 30 or 40 minutes, after which it is thrown upon a
filter, and submitted to strong pressure; this treatment is repeated with
fresh solutions a second and a third time; the mixed filtrates are then
decanted, and when nearly cold, oil of vitriol, 1 part, diluted with twice
its bulk of water, is added, care being taken to stir the liquid all the
time; the supernatant fluid is next decanted, and the residuum well
washed, and, lastly, dried in the air. If required quite pure, it is
dissolved, whilst still moist, in a solution of 1-1/2 times its weight of
carbonate of potassa in 15 parts of water, and, after reprecipitation with
sulphuric acid, is washed and dried as before.
3. (Robiquet & Colin.) Powdered madder is exhausted with water of a
temperature not exceeding 68° Fahr., and, after being dried, 1 part of it
is boiled for 15 or 20 minutes in a solution of alum, 8 parts, in water,
40 parts; the liquid is filtered whilst boiling, the marc well washed with
a fresh solution of alum, the mixed liquids precipitated with sulphuric
acid, and the precipitate washed and dried, as before.
_Obs._ Alizarin has recently been produced artificially by Graebe and
Liebermann from anthracene (C_{14}H_{10}), a liquid hydrocarbon existing
in coal-tar. For a description of the process see ALIZARIN, ARTIFICIAL.
4. Madder exhausted by 2 or 3 macerations in 5 or 6 times its weight of
cold water, is submitted to strong pressure, to remove adhering water, and
the marc, whilst still moist, is mixed with half its weight of oil of
vitriol diluted with an equal quantity of water; the whole is kept at the
temperature of 212° for an hour, and after being mixed with cold water is
thrown on a linen strainer, well washed with cold water, and dried.
5. From powdered madder and oil of vitriol, equal parts, without heat, as
described under MADDER.
6. (F. Steiner.) The ‘used madder’ of the dye-works is run into filters,
and precipitated with sulphuric acid; the matter thus obtained is put into
bags and rendered as dry as possible by hydraulic pressure; the pressed
cake is next crumbled to pieces, placed in a leaden vessel, and treated
with 1-5th of its weight of oil of vitriol, afterwards assisting the
action of the acid by introducing steam to the mixture; the resulting dark
brown carbonized mass is, lastly, well washed, dried, powdered, and mixed
with about 5% of carbonate of soda, when it is ready for sale.
_Obs._ The last three formulæ produce the ‘GARANCE’ or ‘GARANCINE’ of
commerce, now so extensively used in dyeing.
_Prop., &c._ Pure anhydrous alizarin crystallises in magnificent
orange-red crystals, which may be fused and sublimed; it is freely soluble
in alkaline solutions, which it colours purple or violet; and, in oil of
vitriol, giving a rich red colour; water throws it down from the last
unchanged; it is also soluble in hot alcohol, a hot solution of alum, and,
less freely, in hot water. Hydrated alizarin occurs in small scales
resembling mosaic gold. When impure, it generally forms shining
reddish-brown scales. Commercial ‘garancine’ is a deep-brown or
puce-coloured powder, and will probably, ere long, entirely supersede
crude madder for dyeing. The properties of garancine as a dye-stuff are
precisely similar to those of madder. A solution of alum added to a
solution of alizarin, and precipitated by carbonate of potassa, furnishes
a rose lake; which, after being washed with water and dried, possesses a
most charming tint.
=MAGILP′.= _Syn._ MEGELLUP. A mixture of pale linseed oil and mastic
varnish, employed by artists as a ‘vehicle’ for their colours. The
proportions vary according to the work. It is thinned with turpentine.
=MAG′ISTERY.= _Syn._ MAGISTERIUM, L. The old name of precipitates. The
following are the principal substances to which this term has been
applied:——MAGISTERY OF ALUM, hydrate of alumina; M. OF BISMUTH,
sub-nitrate of bismuth; M. OF DIAPHORETIC ANTIMONY, washed diaphoretic
antimony; M. OF OPIUM (Ludolph’s), crude morphia; M. OF LAPIS CALAMINARIS
or M. OF ZINC, hydrated oxide of zinc.
=MAGNESIA.= See MAGNESIUM, OXIDE OF.
=Magnesia, Hydrate of.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ MAGNESIÆ HYDRAS. Obtained by
boiling magnesia in 20 or 30 times its weight of water for 20 minutes,
draining on a linen cloth and drying. It contains 31 per cent. of water.
=Magnesia, Lactate of= (Ph. Ger.) _Syn._ MAGNESIÆ LACTAS. _Prep._ Mix 1
oz. (by weight) of lactic acid in 10 oz. of distilled water, just made
slightly warm, and add light carbonate of magnesia enough to neutralise
it. Filter and evaporate till crystals form.
=MAGNE′SIAN APE′′RIENT (Effervescing).= _Prep._ 1. Heavy carbonate of
magnesia, 2 lbs.; tartaric acid and double refined lump sugar, of each
1-1/2 lb.; bicarbonate of soda (dried without heat), 1 lb.; each
separately dried and in very fine powder; essential oils of orange and
lemon, of each 1/2 fl. dr.; mix well in a warm, dry situation, pass the
whole through a sieve, put it into warm, dry bottles, and keep them well
corked.
2. As the last, but substituting calcined magnesia, 1 lb., for the heavy
carbonate, and adding sugar, 3/4 lb. The preceding furnish a very pleasant
effervescing saline draught.
3. (MOXON’S.)——_a._ Take of sulphate of magnesia, 2 lbs.; dry it by a
gradually increased heat, powder, add of tartaric acid (also dried and
powdered), 1-1/4 lb.; calcined magnesia, 1/2 lb.; finely powdered white
sugar, 3 lbs.; bicarbonate of soda (dried without heat), 1 lb.; essence of
lemon, 1 dr.; mix, and proceed as before.
_b._ (Durande.) Carbonate of magnesia, 1 part; bicarbonate of soda,
tartrate of soda and potassa (sel de Seignette), and tartaric acid, of
each 2 parts; mix as before.
_c._ (Pharm. Journ.) Sulphate of magnesia and bicarbonate of soda, of each
1 lb.; tartaric acid, 1/2 lb.; mix as before. The last two are much less
agreeable than the others.
4. Carbonate of magnesia, 2 parts; calcined magnesia, 4 parts; citric
acid, 13 parts; lump sugar, 25 parts; essence of lemon, q. s. to flavour.
Very agreeable. This is known as ‘ROGÉS PURGATIF,’
_Obs._ The above are very useful and popular medicines in indigestion,
heartburn, nausea, habitual costiveness, dyspepsia, &c.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2
dessert-spoonfuls, thrown into tumbler 3 parts filled with cold water,
rapidly stirred and drank whilst effervescing, early in the morning
fasting, or between breakfast and dinner.
=MAGNESIAN LEMONADE′.= See CITRATE OF MAGNESIA and LEMONADE (Aperient).
=MAGNESIUM.= Mg. _Syn._ MAGNIUM, TALCIUM. The metallic radical of
magnesia. The existence of this metal was demonstrated by Sir H. Davy in
1808; but it was first obtained in sufficient quantity to examine its
properties by Bussy in 1830.
_Prep._ 5 or 6 pieces of sodium, about the size of peas, are introduced
into a test-tube, and covered with small fragments of chloride of
magnesium; the latter is then heated to near its point of fusion, when the
flame of the lamp is applied to the sodium, so that its vapour may pass
through the stratum of heated chloride; when the vivid incandescence that
follows is over, and the whole has become cold, the mass is thrown into
water, and the insoluble metallic portion collected and dried.
Commercial magnesium is prepared by evaporating solution of the chlorides
of sodium and magnesium, in the proportion of 1 to 3, to dryness, mixing
with one quarter of its weight of fluor spar and a like amount of sodium,
and heating to bright redness in an iron crucible of proper construction.
On a larger scale it is prepared by heating to redness a mixture of
chloride of magnesium, 9 parts; fused chloride of sodium, 1-1/2 parts;
fluoride of calcium, 1-1/2 parts; and sodium in slices, 1-1/2 parts.
_Prop., &c._ In colour and lustre it resembles silver, but in chemical
properties is more like zinc; its sp. gr. is only 1·743; it is malleable;
fusible at a red heat, and can be distilled like zinc; unaffected by dry
air and by cold water; burns with brilliancy when heated to dull redness
in air or oxygen gas, yielding oxide of magnesium; inflames spontaneously
in chlorine, yielding chloride of magnesium; it dissolves in the acids
with the evolution of hydrogen gas, and pure salts of magnesium result.
It has been used somewhat extensively as an illuminating agent for
photographing at night, and also for the purpose of affording a brilliant
light for microscopic and magic lantern effects.
=Magnesium, Bromide.= _Syn._ MAGNESII BROMIDUM. To bromide of iron in
solution add calcined magnesia in excess, heat the mixture, filter, and
evaporate the clear solution to dryness.
=Magnesium, Carbonate of (Light).= _Syn._ LIGHT CARBONATE OF MAGNESIA;
CARBONATE OF MAGNESIA; MAGNESIA; MAGNESIÆ CARBONAS LEVIS (B. P.).
3MgCO_{3}.MgO.5H_{2}O. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Sulphate of magnesium, 4 lbs.,
and carbonate of sodium, 4 lbs. 9 oz.; boiling distilled water, 4 galls.;
dissolve the salts separately in one half the water, filter, mix the
solutions, and boil for 2 hours, constantly stirring with a spatula,
distilled water being frequently added to compensate for that lost by
evaporation; lastly, the solution being poured off, wash the precipitated
powder with boiling distilled water, and dry it. The formulæ of the Ph. E.
& D. are essentially the same, except that the ebullition is limited to
from 10 to 20 minutes.
2. (B. P.) Similar to the foregoing except that precipitation takes place
in the cold. The formula of this compound is (Mg.CO_{3})_{3}.
Mg(HO)_{2}.4(H_{2}O).
3. (HENRY’S.) Ordinary carbonate of magnesia, the washing of which has
been finished with a little rose water.
4. Add a solution of carbonate of potassium or sodium to the bittern or
residuary liquor of the sea-salt works, and well wash and dry the
precipitate as before. This is known in commerce as ‘Scotch magnesia.’
_Obs._ The carbonate of magnesia of commerce is usually made up into cakes
or dice while drying; or it is permitted to drain and dry in masses, which
are then cut into squares with a thin knife. It is powdered by simply
rubbing it through a wire sieve. The presence of iron in the solution of
the sulphate of magnesium, when the crude salt is employed, and which is
destructive to the beauty of the preparation may be got rid of by the
addition of lime water until the liquor acquires a slight alkaline
reaction, and subsequent decantation after repose.
=Magnesium, Carbonate of (Heavy).= _Syn._ HEAVY CARBONATE OF MAGNESIA;
MAGNESIÆ CARBONAS (B. P.). 3MgCO_{3}.MgO.5H_{2}O. _Prep._ 1. Apothecaries’
Hall. A saturated solution of sulphate of magnesium, 1 part, is diluted
with water, 3 parts, and the mixture heated to the boiling point; a cold
saturated solution of carbonate of sodium, 1 part (all by measure), is
then added, and the whole is boiled with constant agitation until
effervescence ceases; boiling water is next freely poured in, and after
assiduous stirring for a few minutes, and repose, the clear liquid is
decanted, and the precipitate thrown on a linen cloth and thoroughly
washed with hot water; it is, lastly, drained, and dried in an iron pot.
2. (Ph. D.) Dissolve sulphate of magnesium, 10 oz., in boiling distilled
water, 1/2 pint; and carbonate of sodium (cryst.), 12 oz., in boiling
distilled water, 1 pint; mix the two solutions, and evaporate the whole to
dryness by the heat of a sand bath; then add of boiling water 1 quart,
digest with agitation for half an hour, and wash the insoluble residuum as
before; lastly, drain it, and dry it at the temperature of boiling water.
3. (B. P.) White granular powder precipitated from a boiling solution of
sulphate of magnesium by a solution of carbonate of sodium, the whole
evaporated to dryness, and the dry residue digested in water, collected on
a filter, and washed.
_Prop._ The ordinary or light carbonate of magnesia is a white, inodorous,
tasteless powder, possessing similar properties to calcined magnesia,
except effervescing with acids, and having less saturating power. An ounce
measure is filled by 45 to 48 gr. of the powder lightly placed in it. The
heavy carbonate is sometimes fully thrice as dense (see _below_), but in
other respects is similar.
_Dose._ As an antacid, 1/2 to a whole teaspoonful, 3 or 4 times daily; as
a laxative 1/2 dr. to 2 dr. It is commonly taken in milk. It is apt to
produce flatulence, but in other respects is preferable to calcined
magnesia.
_General Remarks._ Although commonly called ‘carbonate of magnesia,’ the
above substance, whether in the light or heavy form, appears to be a
compound of carbonate with hydrate, in proportions which are not perfectly
constant. (For B. P. formula see preceding article.) On account of the
excess of base in its composition it was formerly regarded as a subsalt
(subcarbonate of magnesia). A great deal has been written uselessly
respecting the preparation of these carbonates, about which, however,
there is neither mystery nor difficulty, as some writers would lead their
readers to suppose. If the solutions are very dilute, the precipitate is
exceedingly light and bulky; if otherwise, it is denser. By employing
nearly saturated solutions, and then heating them and mixing them together
whilst very hot, a very heavy precipitate is obtained, but it is apt to be
gritty or crystalline. The same occurs when cold solutions are mixed, and
no heat is employed. The lightest precipitate is obtained from cold,
highly dilute solutions, and subsequent ebullition of the mixture.
Mr Pattinson, a chemist of Gateshead, prepares a very beautiful and pure
heavy carbonate from magnesian limestone. The latter is calcined at a dull
red heat (not hotter) for some time, by which the carbonic anhydride is
expelled from the carbonate of magnesium, but not from the carbonate of
calcium, which hence continues insoluble. The calcined mass is next
reduced to a milk with water in a suitable cistern, and the carbonic
anhydride resulting from its own calcination forced into it under powerful
pressure. The result is a saturated solution of carbonate of magnesia, the
lime remaining unacted on so long as the magnesium is in excess. The
solution by evaporation yields the heavy carbonate, whilst carbonic
anhydride is expelled, and may be again used in the same manufacture. 154
to 160 gr. of the heavy carbonate are required to fill an ounce measure
when lightly placed in it, by which it appears to be fully thrice as dense
as the light carbonate. The bicarbonate of magnesium (magnesiæ bicarbonas,
L.) exists only in solution. The so-called ‘fluid magnesias’ of Murray,
Dinneford, Husband, &c., are solutions of this salt. The small prismatic
crystals which are deposited when ‘fluid magnesia’ is exposed to the air
for some time consist of hydrated neutral carbonate, and not bicarbonate,
as is sometimes stated.
=Magnesium, Chloride of.= MgCl_{2}. _Syn._ MAGNESII CHLORIDUM, L. _Prep._
(Liebig.) By dissolving magnesia in hydrochloric acid, evaporating to
dryness, adding an equal weight of chloride of ammonium, projecting the
mixture into a red-hot platinum crucible, and continuing the heat till a
state of tranquil fusion is attained. On cooling, it forms a transparent,
colourless, and very deliquescent mass, which is anhydrous, and soluble in
alcohol.
_Obs._ Without the addition of the chloride of ammonium it is impossible
to expel the last portion of the water without at the same time driving
off the chlorine, in which case nothing but magnesia is left. The fused
mass should be poured out on a clean stone, and when solid broken into
pieces, and at once transferred to a warm, dry bottle. The P. Cod. orders
the solution to be evaporated to the sp. gr. 1·384, and to be put, whilst
still hot, into a wide-mouthed flask to crystallise.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 dr.;
as a laxative.
=Magnesium, Cit′rate of.= Mg_{3}(C_{6}H_{5}O_{7})_{2}. _Syn._ MAGNESIÆ
CITRAS. L. _Prep._ There is some difficulty in obtaining this salt in an
eligible form for medicinal purposes. When precipitated from a solution it
is insoluble. The following formulæ can be highly recommended.
1. (Parrish.) Dissolve crystallised citric acid, 100 gr., in water, 15
drops, and its own ‘water of crystallisation’ by the aid of heat; then
stir in calcined magnesia, 35 gr.; a pasty mass will result, which soon
hardens, and may be powdered for use.
_Obs._ The chief practical difficulty in this process results from the
great comparative bulk of the magnesia, and the very small quantity of the
fused mass with which it is to be incorporated. A part of the magnesia is
almost unavoidably left uncombined, and the salt is consequently not
neutral. The uncombined earth should be dusted off the mass before
powdering the latter. A high temperature must be avoided.
2. (Robiquet.) Citric acid, 35-1/4 parts, is powdered and dissolved in
boiling water, 10-5/8 parts; when the solution is cold, and before it
crystallises, it is poured in a wide earthen vessel, kept cold by
surrounding it with water; then, by means of a sieve, carbonate of
magnesium, 21-1/6 parts, is distributed evenly and rapidly over the
surface without stirring; when the reaction ceases the mixture is beaten
rapidly as long as it retains its pasty consistence. The salt should be
dried at a temperature not exceeding 70° Fahr.
3. (Effervescing; MAGNESIÆ CITRAS EFFERVESCENS, L.)——_a._ Citric acid
(dried and powdered), 7 parts; heavy carbonate of magnesium, 5 parts; mix,
and preserve in well-corked bottles.
_b._ (Ellis.) Mix powdered citric acid, 2-1/2 oz., with powdered sugar, 8
oz.; triturate to a fine powder, and drive off the water of
crystallisation by the heat of a water bath; add citrate of magnesium
(prepared by fusion), 4 oz., and oil of lemons, 10 drops, and mix
intimately; then add bicarbonate of sodium, 3 oz., and again triturate
until the whole forms a fine powder, which must be preserved in stoppered
bottles. From 1 to 3 tablespoonfuls, mixed in a tumbler of water,
furnishes an effervescing draught in which the undissolved portion is so
nicely suspended, that it can be taken without inconvenience.
_c._ (Ph. Germ.) Light carbonate of magnesia, 25 oz.; citric acid, 75 oz.;
distilled water, q. s.; mix into a thick paste and dry at 86° Fahr. With
14 oz. of the dried mass mix bicarbonate of soda, 13 oz.; citric acid, 6
oz.; sugar, 3 oz. Sprinkle over the mixture enough rectified spirit so as
to make it sufficiently moist to be granulated by rubbing through a tinned
iron sieve.
_d._ (Extemporaneous.) Citric acid (cryst.), 20 gr.; carbonate of
magnesium, 14 gr.; mix in a tumbler of cold water, and drink the mixture
whilst effervescing. A pleasant saline.
_Obs._ A dry white powder, sometimes sold as citrate of magnesia in the
shops, is quite a different preparation to the above, and does not contain
a particle of citric acid. The following formula is that of a wholesale
London drug-house that does largely in this article:——
Calcined magnesia, magnesium oxide, 1-1/4 lb. (or carbonate, 2 lbs.);
powdered tartaric acid, 1-1/2 lb.; bicarbonate of sodium, 1 lb.; dry each
article by a gentle heat, then mix them, pass the mixture through a fine
sieve in a warm dry room, and keep it in well-corked bottles. A few drops
of essence of lemon and 3 lbs. of finely powdered sugar are commonly added
to the above quantity. This addition renders it more agreeable.
_Prop., &c._ Citrate of magnesium is a mild and agreeable laxative; its
secondary effects resemble those of the carbonate.——_Dose._ As a
purgative, 1/2 to 1 oz. The dose of the effervescing citrate must depend
on the quantity of magnesia present. A solution of this salt in water,
sweetened and flavoured with lemon, forms magnesian lemonade.
=Magnesium, Boro-cit′rate of.= _Syn._ MAGNESIÆ BORO-CITRAS, L. _Prep._
(Cadet.) Boracic acid (in powder), 113 gr.; oxide of magnesium, 80 gr.;
mix in a porcelain capsule, and add enough of a solution of citric acid,
260 gr., in water, 3-1/2 pints, to form a thin paste; then add the
remainder of the citric solution, and gently evaporate, with constant
stirring, to dryness. A cooling saline, and, in small doses, emmenagogue
and lithontriptic.——_Dose._ As an aperient, 3 to 6 dr.
=Magnesium, Oxide of.= MgO. _Syn._ OXIDE OF MAGNESIUM, CALCINED MAGNESIA,
MAGNESIA (B. P., Ph. L.).
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Magnesium carbonate, heated in a crucible until all the
carbonic anhydride is driven off.
_Prop., &c._ White heavy powder, scarcely soluble in water, but readily
soluble in acids without effervescence. Its solution in hydrochloric acid,
neutralised by a mixed solution of ammonia and ammonium chloride, gives a
copious crystalline precipitate when sodium phosphate is added to it. See
next preparation.
=Magnesia levis= (B. P.) _Syn._ LIGHT MAGNESIA. _Prep._ (B. P.) 1. Light
carbonate of magnesium heated in a Cornish crucible until all the carbonic
anhydride is driven off.
A bulky white powder, differing from the magnesia (B. P.) only in its
density, the volume occupied by the same weight being 3-1/2 to 1.
The properties of the two varieties of magnesium oxide are identical, and
are used in medicine as antacids, laxatives, and antilithics, and much
used in dyspepsia, heartburn, &c.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr. as an antacid and
20 to 60 gr. as a purgative.
=Magnesium, Phos′phate of.= MgHPO_{4}.6Aq. _Syn._ MAGNESIÆ PHOSPHAS, L.
_Prep._ From the mixed solutions of phosphate of sodium and sulphate of
magnesium, allowed to stand for some time. Small, colourless, prismatic
crystals, which, according to Graham, are soluble in about 1000 parts of
cold water. Phosphate of magnesium exists in the grains of the cereals,
and in considerable quantity in beer. It is also found in guano.
=Magnesium and Ammo′′nium, Phosphate of.= MgNH_{4}.PO_{4}, 6 Aq. _Syn._
AMMONIO-PHOSPHATE OF MAGNESIA; MAGNESIÆ ET AMMONIÆ PHOSPHAS, L. This
compound falls as a white crystalline precipitate whenever ammonia or
carbonate of ammonium is added, in excess, to a solution of a salt of
magnesium which has been previously mixed with a soluble phosphate, as
that of soda. It subsides immediately from concentrated solutions, but
only after some time from very dilute ones.
_Prop., &c._ Ammonio-phosphate of magnesium is very slightly soluble in
pure water; when heated, it is resolved into pyrophosphate of magnesium,
and is vitrified at a strong red heat. It is found in wheaten bran, guano,
potatoes, &c., and occasionally forms one of the varieties of urinary
calculi.
=Magnesium, Sil′icates of.= There are several native silicates of
magnesia, more or less pure, of which, however, none is directly employed
in medicine. Meerschaum and steatite or soapstone are well-known
varieties. Serpentine is a compound of silicate and hydrate of magnesium.
The minerals augite and hornblende are double salts of silicic acid,
magnesium, and calcium with some ferrous oxide. The beautiful crystallised
mineral called chrysolite is a silicate of magnesium, coloured with
ferrous oxide. Jade is a double silicate of magnesium and aluminum,
coloured with chromic oxide.
=Magnesium, Sulphate of.= MgSO_{4}, 7 Aq. _Syn._ EPSOM SALT, MAGNESIÆ
SULPHAS (B. P. Ph. L. E. & D.), SAL EPSOMENSIS, L. This compound was
originally extracted from the saline springs of Epsom, Surrey, by Dr Grew,
in 1695. It is now exclusively prepared on the large scale, and from
either magnesian limestone or the residual liquor of the sea-salt works.
_Prep._ 1. From dolomite or magnesian limestone.——_a._ The mineral, broken
into fragments, is heated with a sufficient quantity of dilute sulphuric
acid to convert its carbonates into sulphates; the sulphate of magnesium
is washed out of the mass with hot water, and the solution, after
defecation, is evaporated and crystallised.
_b._ The ‘limestone,’ either simply broken into fragments or else calcined
(burnt), and its constituents quicklime and oxide magnesium converted into
hydrates by sprinkling (slaking) it with water, is treated with a
sufficient quantity of dilute hydrochloric acid to dissolve out all the
calcium hydrate without touching the magnesium hydrate; the residuum of
the latter, after being washed and drained, is dissolved in dilute
sulphuric acid, and crystallised as before.
2. From bittern.——_a._ The residual liquor or mother-water of sea-salt is
boiled for some hours in the pans which are used during the summer for the
concentration of brine; the saline solution is then skimmed and decanted
from some common salt which has been deposited, after which it is
concentrated by evaporation, and, finally, run into wooden coolers; in
about 36 hours, 1-8th part of Epsom salts usually crystallises out. This
is called ‘singles.’ By re-dissolving this in water, and
re-crystallisation, ‘doubles,’ or Epsom salts fit for the market, are
obtained. A second crop of crystals may be procured by adding sulphuric
acid to the mother-liquor, and re-concentrating the solution, but this is
seldom had recourse to in England. Bittern yields fully 5 parts of
sulphate of magnesia for every 100 parts of common salt that has been
previously obtained from it.
_b._ A concentrated solution of sulphate of sodium is added to bittern, in
equivalent proportion to that of the chloride of magnesium in it, and the
mixed solution is evaporated at the temperature of 122° Fahr. (Ure);
cubical crystals of common salt are deposited as the evaporation proceeds,
after which, by further concentration and repose, regular crystals of
sulphate of magnesia are obtained.
_c._ A sufficient quantity of calcined and slaked magnesian limestone is
boiled in bittern to decompose the magnesium salts, and the liquid is
evaporated, &c., as before. This is a very economical process.
_Prop._ Small acicular crystals, or (by careful crystallisation) large
four-sided rhombic prisms; colourless; odourless, transparent; slightly
efflorescent; extremely bitter and nauseous; when heated, it fuses in its
water of crystallisation, the larger portion of which readily passes off,
but one equivalent of water is energetically retained; at a high
temperature it runs into a species of white enamel; it dissolves in its
own weight of cold water, and in 3-4ths of that quantity of boiling water;
it is insoluble in both alcohol and ether. Sp. gr. 1·66.
_Pur._ Sulphate of magnesium is soluble in an equal weight of water at 60°
Fahr., by which it may be distinguished from sulphate of sodium, which is
much more soluble.
An aqueous solution in the cold is not precipitated by oxalate of
ammonium. The precipitate given by carbonate of sodium from a solution of
100 gr. should, after well washing and heating to redness, weigh 16·26 gr.
(B. P.)
Digested in alcohol, the filtered liquid does not yield a precipitate with
nitrate of silver nor burn with a yellow flame, and evaporates without
residue. “Not deliquescent in the air.” (Ph. L.) 100 gr. of the pure
crystallised sulphate yields 16-1/4 gr. of calcined magnesium oxide.
(Pereira.) 10 gr., dissolved in 1 fl. oz. of water, and treated with a
solution of carbonate of ammonium, are not entirely precipitated by 280
minims of solution of phosphate of sodium. (Ph. E.)
_Uses, &c._ Sulphate of magnesium is an excellent cooling purgative, and
sometimes proves diuretic and diaphoretic.——_Dose_, 1 dr. to 1 oz., as a
purgative, or an antidote in poisoning by lead. Large doses should be
avoided. Instances are on record of their having proved fatal. Dr
Christison mentions the case of a boy 10 years old who swallowed 2 oz. of
salts, and died within 10 minutes. The best antidote is an emetic. A small
quantity of Epsom salts, largely diluted with water (as a drachm to 1/2
pint or 3/4 pint), will usually purge as much as the common dose. This
increase of power has been shown by Liebig to result rather from the
quantity of water than the salt. Pure water is greedily taken up by the
absorbents; but water holding in solution saline matter is rejected by
those vessels, and consequently passes off by the intestines.
_Obs._ Oxalic acid has occasionally been mistaken for Epsom salt, with
fatal results. They may be readily distinguished from each other by the
following characteristics:——
EPSOM SALT. | OXALIC ACID.
Tastes extremely bitter | Tastes extremely sour.
and nauseous. |
| Volatilises when heated
Does not volatilise | on platinum foil.
when heated on platinum |
foil. Does not | Produces milkiness
produce milkiness | when dissolved in
when dissolved in | _hard_ water.
_hard_ water. |
=Magnesium, Tar′trate of.= _Syn._ MAGNESIÆ TARTRAS, MAGNESIA TARTARICA, L.
_Prep._ By saturating a solution of tartaric acid with carbonate of
magnesium, and gently evaporating to dryness. It is only very slightly
soluble in water.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 gr., or more; in painful chronic
maladies of the spleen. (Pereira, ex Radmacher.) The effervescing tartrate
of magnesium, commonly sold under the name citrate, has already been
noticed.
=Magnesium and Potas′sium, Tartrate of.= _Syn._ POTASSIO-TARTRATE OF
MAGNESIA; MAGNESIÆ POTASSIO-TARTRAS, M. ET POTASSÆ TARTRAS, L. _Prep._
From acid tartrate of potassium (in powder), 7 parts; carbonate of
magnesium, 2 parts; water, 165 parts; boiled until the solution is
complete, and then evaporated and crystallised. A mild aperient.——_Dose_,
1 to 5 dr.; in scurvy, &c.
=MAG′NET.= _Syn._ MAGNES, L. Besides its application to the loadstone,
this name was formerly given to several compounds used in
medicine.——ARSENICAL MAGNET (MAGNES ARSENICALIS), a substance once used as
a caustic, consisted of common antimony, sulphur, and arsenious acid,
fused together until they formed a sort of glass. MAGNES EPILEPSIÆ was
native cinnabar.
=MAHOG′ANY.= This is the wood of _Swietenia Mahogoni_ (Linn.), a native of
the hotter parts of the new world. It is chiefly imported from Honduras
and Cuba. The extract is astringent, and has been used in tanning, and as
a substitute for cinchona bark. The wood is chiefly employed for furniture
and ornamental purposes, and, occasionally, in ship-building.
Imitations of mahogany are made by staining the surface of the inferior
woods by one or other of the following methods:
1. Warm the wood by the fire, then wash it over with aquafortis, let it
stand 24 hours to dry, and polish it with linseed oil reddened by
digesting alkanet root in it; or, instead of the latter, give the wood a
coat of varnish, or French polish which has been tinged of a mahogany
colour with a little aloes and annotta.
2. Socotrine aloes, 1 oz.; dragon’s blood, 1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1
pint; dissolve, and apply 2 or 3 coats to the surface of the wood,
previously well smoothed and polished; lastly, finish it off with wax or
oil tinged with alkanet root.
3. Logwood, 2 oz.; madder, 8 oz.; fustic, 1 oz.; water, 1 gall.; boil 2
hours, and apply it several times to the wood boiling hot; when dry,
slightly brush it over with a solution of pearlash, 1 oz.; in water, 1
quart; dry, and polish as before.
4. As the last, but using a decoction of logwood, 1 lb., in water, 5
pints. The tint may be brightened by adding a little vinegar or oxalic
acid, and darkened by a few grains of copperas.
Stains and spots may be taken out of mahogany furniture with a little
aquafortis or oxalic acid and water, by rubbing the part with the liquid
by means of a cork till the colour is restored; observing afterwards to
well wash the wood with water, and to dry it and polish it as before.
=MAIZE.= _Syn._ INDIAN CORN. The seeds of _Zea Mays_ (Linn.). Like the
other corn plants, it belongs to the Grass family (_Graminaceæ_), and has
albuminous grains sufficiently large and farinaceous to be ground into
flour.
Maize is extremely nutritious, and although it is poorer in albumenoid
matters than wheat, it is, of all the cereal grains, the richest in fatty
oil, of which it contains about 9%. (Dumas and Payen.) It is remarkable
for its fattening quality on animals, but is apt to excite slight
diarrhœa in those unaccustomed to its use. Its meal is the ‘POLENTA’ of
the shops. The peculiar starch prepared from it is known as ‘CORN FLOUR,’
In America the young ears are roasted and boiled for food.
The centesimal composition of maize is as follows:——Flesh formers
(albumenoid bodies), 9·9; heat and fat formers (starch, dextrin, and fat),
71·2, fibre, 4·0; ash, 1·4; water, 13·5.
Letheby says of maize: “The grain is said to cause disease when eaten for
a long time, and without other meal——the symptoms being a scaly eruption
upon the hands, great prostration of the vital powers, and death after a
year or so, with extreme emaciation.
These effects have been frequently observed amongst the peasants of Italy,
who use the meal as their chief food, but I am not aware of any such
effects having been seen in Ireland, where it is often the only article of
diet for months together.”
Millions of bushels are grown every year in the United States of America,
and large quantities are continually imported into England, where it is
held in high esteem by cattle breeders, it being much cheaper than many of
our home-grown productions. It is occasionally given to horses as a
substitute for oats.
=MALAG′MA.= In _pharmacy_, a poultice or emollient application.
=MA′LIC ACID.= H_{3}C_{4}H_{3}O_{5}. _Syn._ ACIDUM MALICUM, L. This acid
exists in the juice of many fruits and plants, either alone or associated
with other acids, or with potassa or lime. In the juice of the garden
rhubarb it exists in great abundance, being associated with acid oxalate
of potassa.
_Prep._ (Everitt.) The stalks of common garden rhubarb are peeled, and
ground or grated to a pulp, which is subjected to pressure; the juice is
heated to the boiling point, neutralised with carbonate of potassa, mixed
with acetate of lime, and the insoluble oxalate of lime which falls is
removed by filtration; to the clear and nearly colourless liquid, solution
of acetate of lead is next added as long as a precipitate (‘malate of
lead’) continues to form; this is collected on a filter, washed, diffused
through water, and decomposed by sulphuric acid, avoiding excess, the last
portion of lead being thrown down by a stream of sulphuretted hydrogen;
the filtered liquid is, lastly, carefully evaporated to the consistence of
a syrup, and left in a dry atmosphere until it becomes converted into a
solid and somewhat crystalline mass of malic acid. If perfectly pure malic
acid is required, the malate of lead must be crystallised before
decomposing it with sulphuretted hydrogen. _Prod._ 20,000 gr. of the
peeled stalks yield 12,500 gr. of juice, of which one imperial gallon
contains 11,139-1/4 gr. of dry malic acid.
_Obs._ By a similar process malic acid may be prepared from the juice of
thee berries of the mountain ash (_Sorbus aucuparia_), just when they
commence to ripen, or from the juice of apples, pears, &c.
_Prop., &c._ Malic acid is slightly deliquescent, very soluble in water,
soluble in alcohol, and has a pleasant acidulous taste. The aqueous
infusion soon gets mouldy by keeping. When kept fused for some time at a
low heat, it is converted into fumaric acid; and when quickly distilled,
it yields maleic acid, while fumaric acid is left in the retort. With the
bases malic acid forms salts called malates. Of these the acid malate of
ammonia is in large, beautiful crystals; malate of lead is insoluble in
cold water, but dissolves in warm dilute acid, from which it separates on
cooling in brilliant silvery crystals; acid malate of lime also forms very
beautiful crystals, freely soluble in water; neutral malate of lime is
only sparingly soluble in water; the first is obtained by dissolving the
latter in hot dilute nitric acid, and allowing the solution to cool very
slowly.
=MALLEABIL′ITY.= The peculiar property of metals which renders them
capable of extension under the hammer.
=MALT.= _Syn._ BINA, BYNE, BRASIUM, MALTUM, L. The name given to different
kinds of grain, such as barley, bere or bigg, oats, rye, maize, &c., which
have become sweet, from the conversion of a portion of their starch into
sugar, in consequence of incipient germination artificially produced.
Barley is the grain usually employed for this purpose.
_Var._ Independently of variations of quality, or of the grain from which
it is formed, malt is distinguished into varieties depending on the heat
of the kiln employed for its desiccation. When dried at a temperature
ranging between 90° and 120° Fahr., it constitutes ‘PALE MALT,’ when all
the moisture has exhaled, and the heat is raised to from 125° to 135°,
‘YELLOW,’ or ‘PALE AMBER MALT,’ is formed; when the heat ranges between
140° and 160°, the product receives the name of ‘AMBER MALT,’ at 160° to
180°, ‘AMBER-BROWN,’ or ‘PALE BROWN MALT,’ is obtained. ROASTED, PATENT,
or BLACK MALT, and CRYSTALLISED MALT, are prepared by a process similar to
that of roasting coffee. The malt is placed in sheet-iron cylinders over a
strong fire, and the cylinders made to revolve at the rate of about 20
revolutions per minute if roasted malt is required, or 120 for
crystallised malt. In the former case the finished malt has a dark brown
colour; in the latter, the interior of the grain becomes dark brown,
whilst the husk assumes a pale amber hue. The temperature must never
exceed 420°, or the malt will become entirely carbonised.
_Qual._ Good malt has an agreeable smell and a sweet taste. It is friable,
and when broken discloses a floury kernel. Its husk is thin, clean, and
unshrivelled in appearance, and the acrospire is seen extending up the
back of the grain, beneath the skin. The admixture of unmalted with malted
grain may be discovered, and roughly estimated, by throwing a little into
water, malt floats on water, but barley sinks in it. The only certain
method, however, of determining the value of malt is to ascertain the
amount of soluble matter which it contains, by direct experiment. This
varies from 62 to 70%, and for good malt is never less than 66 to 67%. If
we assume the quarter of malt at 324 lbs., and the average quantity of
soluble matter at 66%, then the total weight of soluble matter will be
fully 213-3/4 lbs. per quarter; but as this, “in taking on the form of gum
and sugar” during the process of mashing, “chemically combines with the
elements of water, so the extract, if evaporated to dryness, would reach
very nearly 231 lbs.; and this reduced to the basis of a barrel of 36
gallons, becomes in the language of the brewer, 87 lbs. per barrel, which,
however, merely means that the wort from a quarter of malt, if evaporated
down to the bulk of a barrel of 36 gallons, would weigh 87 lbs. more than
a barrel of water.” (Ure.)
_Assay._ 1. A small quantity of the sample being ground in a coffee or
pepper mill, 100 gr. are accurately weighed, and dried by exposure for
about 1 hour at the temperature of boiling water. The loss in weight, in
grains, indicates the quantity of moisture per cent. This, in good malt,
should not exceed 6-1/2 gr.
2. A second 100 gr. is taken and stirred up with about 1/2 pint of cold
water; the mixture is then exposed to the heat of boiling water for about
40 minutes; after which it is thrown on a weighed filter, and the
undissolved portion washed with a little hot water; the undissolved
portion, with the filter, is then dried at 212° Fahr., and weighed. The
loss in weight, less the percentage of moisture last found, taken in
grains, gives the percentage of soluble matter. This should not be less
than 66 gr. The same result will be arrived at by evaporating the filtered
liquid and ‘washings’ to dryness, and weighing the residuum.
3. A third 100 gr. is taken and mashed with about 1/2 pint of water at
160° Fahr., for 2 or 3 hours; the liquid is then drained off, the residue
gently squeezed, and the strained liquid evaporated to dryness, as before,
and weighed. This gives the percentage of saccharine matter, and should
not be less than about 71 gr., taking the above average of malt as the
standard of calculation.
_Uses, &c._ Malt is chiefly employed in the arts of brewing and
distillation. Both roasted and crystallised malt are merely used to colour
the worts produced from pale malt. 1 lb. of roasted malt, mashed with 79
lbs. of pale malt, imparts to the liquor the colour and flavour of
‘porter.’ The paler varieties of malt contain the largest quantity of
saccharine matter. After the malt has been kiln-dried, the rootlets may be
removed by means of a sieve. Before malt is mashed for beer it must be
broken up, and the law requires that it be bruised or crushed by smooth
metal rollers, and not ground by millstones. It has also been proposed to
employ malt, instead of raw grain, for fattening domestic animals, and as
food for their young and those in a sickly state. Infusion of malt (sweet
wort, malt tea) is laxative, and has been recommended as an antiscorbutic
and tonic. It has been given with great advantage in scurvy; but for this
purpose good, well-hopped, mild beer is equally serviceable and more
agreeable. See BREWING, DISTILLATION, FERMENTATION, &c.
=MALT LIQ′UORS.= The qualities of ale, beer, and porter, as beverages, the
detection of their adulteration, and the methods of preparing them, are
described under their respective names and in the article upon ‘BREWING’;
the present article will, therefore, be confined to a short notice of the
cellar management, and the diseases of malt liquors generally.
AGE. The appearance and flavour to which this term is applied can, of
course, be only given to the liquor by properly storing it for a
sufficient time. Fraudulent brewers and publicans, however, frequently add
a little oil of vitriol (diluted with water) to new beer, by which it
assumes the character of an inferior liquor of the class 1 or 2 years old.
Copperas, alum, sliced onions, Seville oranges, and cucumbers, are also
frequently employed by brewers for the same purpose.
BOTTLING. Clean, sweet, and dry bottles, and sound and good corks, should
be had in readiness. The liquor to be bottled should be perfectly clear;
and if it be not so, it must be submitted to the operation of ‘fining.’
When quite fine, and in good condition, the bung of the cask should be
left out all night, and the next day the liquor should be put into
bottles, which, after remaining 12 or 24 hours, covered with sheets of
paper to keep out the flies and dust, must be securely corked down. Porter
is generally wired over. The wire for this purpose should be ‘annealed,’
and not resilient. If the liquor is intended for exportation to a hot
climate, the bottles should remain filled for 2 or 3 days, or more, before
corking them. The stock of bottled liquor should be stored in a cool
situation; and a small quantity, to meet present demands only, should be
set on their sides in a warmer place to ripen. October beer should not be
bottled before Midsummer, nor March beer till Christmas.
CLOUDINESS. Add a handful of hops boiled in a gallon of the beer, and in a
fortnight fine it down.
FINING. See CLARIFICATION and BREWING.
FLATNESS. When the liquor is new, or has still much undecomposed sugar
left in it, a sufficient remedy is to remove it into a warmer situation
for a few days. When this is not the case, 2 or 3 pounds of moist sugar
(foots) may be ‘rummaged’ into each hogshead. In this way a second
fermentation is set up, and in a few days the liquor becomes brisk, and
carries a head. This is the plan commonly adopted by publicans. On the
small scale the addition of a few grains of carbonate of soda, or of
prepared chalk, to each glass, is commonly made for the same purpose; but
in this case the liquor must be drunk within a few minutes, else it
becomes again flat and insipid. This may be adopted for home-brewed beer
which has become sour and vapid.
FOXING OR BUCKING. The spontaneous souring of worts or beer during their
fermentation or ripening, to which this name is applied, may generally be
remedied by adding to the liquor some fresh hops (scalded), along with
some black mustard seed (bruised). Some persons use a little made mustard,
or a solution of alum or of catechu, and in a week or 10 days afterwards
further add some treacle, or moist sugar.
Frosted beer is recovered by change of situation; by the addition of some
hops boiled in a little sweet wort; or by adding a little moist sugar or
treacle to induce a fresh fermentation.
HEADING. This is added to thin and vapid beer to make it bear a frothy
head. The most innocent, pleasant, and effective addition of this sort is
a mixture of pure ammonio-citrate of iron and salt of tartar, about equal
parts in the proportion of only a few grains to a quart.
IMPROVING. This is the trade synonym of ‘ADULTERATION’ and ‘DOCTORING,’
Nevertheless there are cases in which ‘improvement’ may be made without
affecting the wholesome character of the liquor. Of this kind is the
addition of hops, spices, &c., during the maturation of beer that exhibits
a tendency to deteriorate. For this purpose some persons cut a half
quartern loaf into slices, and after toasting them very high, place them
in a coarse linen bag along with 1/2 lb. of hops, and 2 oz. each of
bruised ginger, cloves, and mustard seed, and suspend the bag by means of
a string a few inches below the surface of the beer (a hogshead), which is
then bunged close. The addition of a little ground capsicum in the same
way is also a real improvement to beer, when judiciously made.
MUSTINESS. To each hogshead, racked into clean casks, add 1 lb. of new
hops boiled in a gallon of the liquor, along with 7 lbs. of newly-burnt
charcoal (coarsely bruised, and the fine dust sifted off), and a 4-lb.
loaf of bread cut into thin slices and toasted rather black; ‘rouse up’
well every day for a week, then stir in of moist sugar 3 or 4 lbs., and
bung down for a fortnight.
RECOVERING. This is said of unsaleable beer when rendered saleable, by
giving it ‘head’ or removing its ‘tartness.’
RIPENING. This term is applied to the regular maturation of beer. It is
also used to express the means by which liquors already mature are
rendered brisk, sparkling, or fit and agreeable for immediate use. In the
language of the cellar, malt liquors are said to be ‘up’ when they are
well charged with gaseous matter, and bear a frothy head. These qualities
depend on the undecomposed sugar undergoing fermentation, which, when
active, can only be of comparatively short duration, and should,
therefore, be repressed rather than excited in beers not required for
immediate consumption. When we desire to give ‘briskness’ to these
liquors, whether in cask or bottle, it is only necessary to expose them
for a few days to a slight elevation of temperature, by removing them, for
instance, to a warmer apartment. This is the plan successfully adopted by
bottlers. The addition of a small lump of white sugar to each bottle of
ale or beer, or a teaspoonful of moist sugar to each bottle of porter,
just before corking it, will render it fit for drinking in a few days in
ordinary weather, and in 2 or 3 days in the heat of summer. A raisin or a
lump of sugar candy is often added to each bottle with a like intention.
The Parisians bottle their beer one day and sell it the next. For this
purpose, in addition to the sugar as above, they add 2 or 3 drops of
yeast. Such bottled liquor must, however, be drunk within a week, or else
stored in a very cold place, as it will otherwise burst the bottles or
blow out the corks.
ROPINESS. A little infusion of catechu or of oak bark, and some fresh
hops, may be added to the beer, which in a fortnight should be rummaged
well, and the next day ‘fined’ down.
SOURNESS. Powdered chalk, carbonate of soda, salt of tartar, or pearlash,
is commonly added by the publicans to the beer, until the acidity is
nearly removed, when 4 or 5 lbs. of moist sugar or foots per hogshead are
‘rummaged’ in, together with sufficient water to disburse double the
amount of the outlay and trouble. Such beer must be soon put on draught,
as it is very apt to get flat by keeping. Oyster shells and egg shells are
also frequently used by brewers for the same purpose. To remove the
acidity of beer, on the small scale, a few grains of carbonate of soda per
glass may be added just before drinking it.
STORING. The situation of the beer-cellar should be such as to maintain
its contents at a permanently uniform temperature, ranging between 44° and
50° Fahr., a condition which can only be ensured by choosing for its
locality an underground apartment, or one in the centre of the basement
portion of a large building.
VAMPING. Half fill casks with the old liquor, fill them up with some newly
brewed, and bung close for 3 weeks or a month.
=MALTIN.= A nitrogenous ferment obtained from malt, which it is believed
by Dubrunfaut to be the active principle, and is more energetic than
diastase. The above chemist states it may be precipitated from extract of
malt, by the addition of two molecules of alcohol at 90 per cent.
According to Dubrunfaut maltin exists in all cereal grains, and in the
water of rivers and brooks; but not in the well water of Paris.
=MALTING.= The method of converting barley, wheat, oats, or any other
description of grain into malt. There are four successive stages in the
process of malting, viz., steeping, couching, flooring, and kiln-drying.
1. _Steeping or moistening._——The grain is placed in a large wooden or
stone cistern, and sufficient water run in to cover it. Here it remains
for a period of from 40 to 60 hours, depending on the temperature of the
weather, or until it becomes soft enough to be easily pierced with a
needle, or crushed between the thumb and finger without yielding a milky
juice. While in steep the grain swells, increasing nearly one fifth in
bulk, and about 50 per cent. in weight. The water is then drained off, and
the grain is ready for the next operation.
2. _Couching or germinating._——From the cistern the swollen barley is
thrown out into the couch frame to the depth of from 14 or 20 inches,
where heat is generated and germination induced. Here it is allowed to
remain for from 20 to 30 hours, according to the state of the weather,
until the acrospire or pumule shoots forth. Were the grain to remain long
in the couch, particularly in warm weather, it would be either unduly
forced or turn sour. Whilst in couch it rises in temperature about 15
degrees, and gives off some of its extra moisture. This is called
sweating, and as the rootlets now begin to shoot out, means must be taken
to check the germination.
3. _Flooring or regulating._——This consists in spreading the heated barley
on the floor at different depths, according as it is required to increase
or retard germination. During this stage of the operation the art of the
maltster may be more properly said to commence, as now all his judgment is
brought into requisition. The grain must be turned three or four times a
day, and at each turning the layer is spread out more and more, until it
is reduced to the depth of about three or four inches. The chief object to
be attained by this operation is a regular germination of the grain.
4. _Kiln-drying._——The sprouted barley is next spread in a thin layer on
the malt kiln, and heat applied. The temperature to which the kiln is
raised varies according to the purpose for which the malt is required, the
difference between pale, amber, and brown malt depending solely on the
degree of heat to which each has been subjected, and the manner in which
the heat has been applied (see MALT). If the malt were not kiln-dried it
would not keep, but would become mouldy. By the process of drying, the
vitality of the seed is destroyed, and it may then be preserved without
suffering further change.
_Product._——Good barley yields about 80% by weight and 109% by measure, of
dried and sifted malt. Of the loss by weight 12% must be referred to water
existing in the raw grain.
=MAN′′GANESE.= Mn. _Syn._ MANGANESIUM, L. A hard, brittle metal,
discovered by Gahn in the black oxide of manganese of commerce.
_Prep._ Reduce manganous carbonate to fine powder, make it into a paste
with oil, adding about 1-10th of its weight of calcined borax, place the
mixture in a Hessian crucible lined with charcoal, lute on the cover, and
expose it to the strongest heat of a smith’s forge for 2 hours; when cold,
break the crucible and preserve the metallic button in naphtha.
_Obs._ The product is probably a carbide of manganese, just as steel is a
carbide of iron. Deville has lately prepared pure manganese by reducing
the pure oxide by means of an insufficient quantity of sugar charcoal in a
crucible made of caustic lime.
_Prop._ As prepared by Deville, metallic manganese has a reddish lustre,
like bismuth; it is very hard and brittle; when powdered, it decomposes
water, even at the lowest temperature. Dilute sulphuric acid dissolves it
with great energy, evolving hydrogen. Sp. gr. 7·13. In an oxidised state
manganese is abundant in the mineral kingdom, and traces of it have been
found in the ashes of plants and in mineral waters.
The salts of manganese may be easily prepared in a state of purity by
dissolving the precipitated carbonate in the acids. Most of them are
soluble, and several are crystallisable.
_Tests._ Manganous salts are distinguished as follows:——The hydrates of
potassium and sodium give white precipitates insoluble in excess, and
rapidly turning brown. The presence of ammonium salts interferes with
these tests. Ammonia gives similar results.
Ferrocyanide of potassium gives a white precipitate. Sulphuretted hydrogen
gives no precipitate in acid solutions, and precipitates neutral solutions
only imperfectly; but in alkaline solutions it gives a bright,
flesh-coloured, insoluble precipitate, which becomes dark brown on
exposure to the air. Sulphide of ammonium, in neutral solutions, also
yields a similar precipitate, which is very characteristic. A compound of
manganese fused with borax in the outer flame of the blowpipe gives a
bead, which appears of a violet-red colour whilst hot, and upon cooling
acquires an amethystine tint; this colour is lost by fusion in the inner
flame. Heated upon platinum foil with a little carbonate of sodium, in the
outer flame, it yields a green mass whilst hot, which becomes bluish green
when cold.
=Manganous Ace′tate.= Mn(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ ACETATE OF PROTOXIDE
OF MANGANESE; MANGANII ACETAS, L. _Prep._ 1. By neutralising concentrated
acetic acid with manganous carbonate, and evaporating the solution so
that crystals may form.
_Prop., &c._ The crystals, when pure, are of a pale red colour; permanent
in the air; soluble in alcohol, and 3-1/2 parts of water, and possess an
astringent and metallic taste.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr., as an alterative,
hæmatinic, &c.
=Manganous Car′bonate.= MnCO_{3}. _Syn._ CARBONATE OF PROTOXIDE OF
MANGANESE; MANGANESII CARBONAS, L. _Prep._ Reduce the black oxide of
manganese of commerce to fine powder, and after washing it in water
acidulated with hydrochloric acid, dissolve it in strong hydrochloric
acid, and evaporate the resulting solution to dryness; dissolve the
residue in water, and add to the solution sufficient sodium carbonate to
precipitate all the iron present; digest the mixed precipitate in the
remainder of the liquid, filter, add ammonium sulphide until it begins to
produce a flesh-coloured precipitate, then filter, and add sodium
carbonate as long as a precipitate falls; lastly, well wash the
newly-formed carbonate in water, and dry it by a gentle heat.
2. By directly precipitating a solution of the chloride with sodium
carbonate, and washing and drying the powder as before.
_Prop., &c._ A pale buff or cream-coloured powder; insoluble in water;
freely soluble in acids; exposed to a strong heat, it loses its carbonic
acid, absorbs oxygen, and is converted into the red oxide. It is chiefly
employed in the preparation of the other salts of manganese.
=Manganous Chlo′′ride.= MnCl_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOCHLORIDE OF MANGANESE,
MURIATE OF M.; MANGANESII CHLORIDUM, L. _Prep._ 1. By saturating
hydrochloric acid with manganous carbonate; the solution is greatly
concentrated by evaporation, when crystals may be obtained, or it is at
once evaporated to dryness; in either case the product must be placed in
warm, dry, stoppered bottles, and preserved from the air.
2. From the dark brown residual liquid of the process of obtaining
chlorine from binoxide of manganese and hydrochloric acid; this liquid is
evaporated to dryness, and then slowly heated to dull redness in an
earthen vessel, with constant stirring, and kept at that temperature for a
short time; the greyish-looking powder thus obtained is treated with
water, and the solution separated from the ferric oxide and other
insoluble matter by filtration; if any iron still remains, a little
manganous carbonate is added, and the whole boiled for a few minutes; the
filtered solution is then treated as before. This is the least expensive
and most convenient source of this salt.
_Prop., &c._ Rose-coloured tabular crystals; inodorous; very soluble both
in water and alcohol; very deliquescent; when gradually heated to fusion
the whole of the water is expelled, and at a red heat it slowly suffers
decomposition. Astringent, tonic, hæmatinic, and alterative.——_Dose_, 3 to
10 gr.; in scorbutic, syphilitic, and certain chronic cutaneous
affections; anæmia, chlorosis, &c.
=Manganous Hydrate.= Mn(HO)_{2}. _Syn._ HYDRATED PROTOXIDE OF MANGANESE.
_Prep._ Formed by adding potassium hydrate to manganous sulphate, and
filtering and drying the precipitate in vacuo. White powder rapidly
absorbing oxygen and burning first green and then brown from formation of
higher oxides.
=Manganous I′odide.= MnI_{2}. _Syn._ MANGANESII IODIDUM, L. _Prep._ By
dissolving the carbonate in hydriodic acid and evaporating the filtered
liquid in vacuo or out of contact with air.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr.; in
anæmia, chlorosis, &c., occurring in scrofulous subjects.
=Manganous Oxide.= MnO. _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF MANGANESE. _Prep._ By passing
a current of hydrogen over manganous carbonate heated to whiteness in a
porcelain tube. Olive-green powder rapidly oxidising on exposure to air,
and soluble in acids forming manganous salts.
There are four other oxides and two oxyhydrates that may be treated of
here, but of which only the peroxide and the manganates and permanganates
are of practical importance.
=Manganous-manganic Oxide.= Mn_{3}O_{4}, or MnO.Mn_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ RED
OXIDE OF MANGANESE, PROTOSESQUIOXIDE OF MANGANESE. Found native as
“Hansmanite”. It is produced by igniting manganous carbonate, or manganic
oxide, or manganic peroxide. Reddish-brown, coloured crystals or powder,
and communicates an amethyst colour to glass when fused with it.
=Manganous-manganic Peroxide.= Mn_{4}O_{7} or MnO_{3}.Mn_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._
INTERMEDIATE, OXIDE OF MANGANESE. Found native as “Varvicile,” as a black
hard crystalline mass. Decomposed when heated into a lower oxide and
oxygen.
=Manganous Phosphate.= MnH.PO_{4} + 6Aq. _Syn._ PHOSPHATE OF PROTOXIDE OF
MANGANESE; MANGANESII PHOSPHAS, L. _Prep._ By precipitating a solution of
manganous sulphate with a solution of sodium phosphate. It must be
preserved from the air.——_Dose_, 3 to 12 gr.; in anæmia, rickets, &c.
=Manganous Sul′phate.= MnSO_{4}. _Syn._ SULPHATE OF PROTOXIDE OF
MANGANESE; MANGANESII SULPHAS, L. _Prep._ 1. By dissolving manganous
carbonate in dilute sulphuric acid, and evaporating the filtered solution
so that crystals may form, or at once gently evaporating it to dryness.
Pure.
2. (Commercial.) By igniting manganic peroxide (pyrolusite) mixed with
about 1-10th of its weight of powdered coal in an iron crucible or
gas-retort, and digesting the residuum of the calcination in sulphuric
acid, with the addition after a time of a little hydrochloric acid; the
solution of manganous sulphate thus obtained, after defecation, is
evaporated to dryness, and heated to redness as before; the mass, after
ignition, is crushed small, and treated with water; the solution is nearly
pure, the whole of the iron having been reduced into the state of
insoluble peroxide. Used by the calico printers. Cloth steeped in the
solution, and afterwards passed through a solution of chloride of lime, is
dyed of a permanent brown.
_Prop., &c._ Pale rose-coloured crystals of the formulæ MnSO_{4}, 7Aq.;
MnSO_{4}, 5Aq.; or MnSO_{4}, 4Aq.; according to the method of
crystallising, furnishing a solution of a rich amethystine colour. With
sulphate of potassa it forms a double salt (‘manganese alum’).——_Dose._ As
an alterative and tonic, 5 to 10 gr.; as a cholagogue cathartic, 1 to 2
dr., dissolved in water, either alone or combined with infusion of senna.
According to Ure, its action is prompt and soon over; 1 dr. of it
occasions, after the lapse of an hour or so, one or more liquid bilious
stools. In large doses it occasions vomiting, and in excessive doses it
destroys life by its caustic action on the stomach. (Dr G. C.
Mitscherlich.) It has been administered with manifest advantage in torpor
of the liver, gout, jaundice, syphilis, and certain skin diseases; and,
combined with iron, in anæmia, chlorosis, rickets, &c.
=Manganous Tar′trate.= MnC_{4}H_{4}O_{6}. _Syn._ MANGANESII TARTRAS, L.
_Prep._ By saturating a solution of tartaric acid with most manganous
carbonate. Alterative and tonic.——_Dose_, 4 to 12 gr.
=Manganate of Barium.= BaMnO_{4}. Green insoluble powder, obtained by
fusing barium hydrate, potassium chlorate, and manganic peroxide together,
and washing the product.
=Manganate of Potassium.= K_{2}MnO_{4}. Finely powdered manganic peroxide,
potassium chlorate, and potassium hydrate, made into a thick paste with
water, and heated to dull redness. The fused product is treated with a
small quantity of water, and crystallised by evaporation in vacuo.
Dark green, almost black crystals, readily soluble in water, but
decomposed by excess, or by acids into manganic peroxide, and potassium
permanganate.
=Manganate of Sodium.= Na_{2}MnO_{4}. Prepared on the large scale by
heating a mixture of manganic peroxide and sodium hydrate to redness in a
current of air. Used in strong solution as a disinfectant under the name
of “Condy’s green fluid.”
=Manganic Acid.= H_{2}MnO_{4}. This acid has not yet been obtained free,
but some of its salts are extensively employed as disinfectants, as “green
Condy’s fluid.” The chief compounds are the following:——
=Manganic Hydrate.= Mn_{2}(HO)_{6}. _Syn._ HYDRATED SESQUIOXIDE OF
MANGANESE. Found native as “manganite,” in reddish-brown crystals. _Prep._
By passing a current of air through recently precipitated and moist
manganous hydrate. Soft dark brown powder converted into the oxide by
heat.
=Manganic Oxide.= Mn_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ SESQUIOXIDE OF MANGANESE. Found
native as “Braumite,” and readily formed by exposing manganous hydrate to
the action of air, and drying, or by gently igniting the peroxide brown or
black powder decomposed by heat.
=Manganic Peroxide.= MnO_{2}. _Syn._ PERMANGANIC OXIDE, BINOXIDE OF
MANGANESE, PEROXIDE OF MANGANESE, BLACK OXIDE OF MANGANESE, OXIDE OF
MANGANESE, MANGANESII OXIDUM NIGRUM (B. P.), MANGANESII BINOXYDUM (Ph.
L.), MANGANESE OXYDUM (Ph. E.).
It is the only oxide of manganese that is directly employed in the arts.
It is a very plentiful mineral production, and is found in great abundance
in some parts of the West of England. The manganese of the shop is
prepared by washing, to remove the earthy matter, and grinding in mills.
The blackest samples are esteemed the best. It is chiefly used to supply
oxygen gas, and in the manufacture of glass and chlorine; in dyeing and to
form the salts of manganese. It has been occasionally employed in
medicine, chiefly externally in itch and porrigo, made into an ointment
with lard. It has been highly recommended by Dr Erigeler in scrofula.
Others have employed it as an alterative and tonic with variable success.
When slowly introduced into the system during a lengthened period, it is
said to produce paralysis of the motor nerves. (Dr Coupar.)——_Dose_, 3 to
12 gr., or more, thrice daily, made into pills.
_Pur._ Native binoxide of manganese (pyrolusite) is usually contaminated
with variable proportions of argillaceous matter, calcium carbonate,
ferric oxide, silica, and barium sulphate, all of which lower its value as
a source of oxygen, and for the preparation of chlorine. The richness of
this ore can, therefore, be only determined by an assay for its principal
ingredient.
_Assay._ There are several methods adopted for this purpose, among which
the following recommend themselves as being the most accurate and
convenient.
1. A portion of the mineral being reduced to very fine powder, 50 gr. of
it are put into the little apparatus employed for the analysis of
carbonates described at page 406, together with about 1/2 fl. oz. of cold
water, and 100 gr. of strong hydrochloric acid, the latter contained in
the little tube (_b_); 50 gr. of crystallised oxalic acid are then added,
the cork carrying the chloride of calcium tube fitted in, and the whole
quickly and accurately weighed or counterpoised; the apparatus is next
inclined so that the acid contained in the small tube may be mixed with
the other contents of the flask, and the reaction of the ingredients is
promoted by the application of a gentle heat; the disengaged chlorine
resulting from the mutual decomposition of the hydrochloric acid and the
manganic peroxide converts the oxalic acid into carbonic acid gas, which
is dried in its passage through the chloride of calcium tube before it
escapes into the air. As soon as the reaction is complete, and the
residual gas has been driven off by a momentary ebullition, the apparatus
is allowed to cool, when it is again carefully and accurately weighed. The
loss of weight in grains, if doubled, at once indicates the percentage
richness of the mineral examined in manganic peroxide; or, more correctly,
every grain of carbonic anhydride evolved represents 1·982 gr. of the
peroxide.
2. (Fresenius and Will.) The apparatus employed is the ‘alkalimeter’
figured at page 30. The operation is similar to that adopted for the assay
of alkalies, and is a modification of the oxalic acid and sulphuric acid
test for manganese, originally devised by M. Berthier. The standard weight
of manganic peroxide recommended to be taken by Fresenius and Will is 2·91
grammes, along with 6·5 to 7 grammes of neutral potassium oxalate. The
process, with quantities altered to adapt it for employment in the
laboratories of these countries, is as follows:——Manganic peroxide (in
very fine powder), 50 gr.; neutral potassium oxalate (in powder), 120 gr.;
these are put into the flask _A_ (see _engr._, p. 31), along with
sufficient water to about 1-4th fill it; the flask _A_ and _B_ (the latter
containing the sulphuric acid) are then corked air-tight, and thus
connected in one apparatus, the whole is accurately weighed. The opening
of the tube _b_ being closed by a small lump of wax, a little sulphuric
acid is sucked over from the flask _B_ into the flask _A_; the
disengagement of oxygen from the manganese immediately commences and this
reacting upon the oxalic acid present, converts it into carbonic anhydride
gas, which passing through the concentrated sulphuric acid in the flask
_B_, which robs it of moisture, finally escapes from the apparatus through
the tube _d_. As soon as the disengagement of carbonic acid ceases, the
operator sucks over a fresh portion of sulphuric acid, and this is
repeated at short intervals, until bubbles of gas are no longer
disengaged. The little wax stopper is now removed, and suction is applied
at _h_ until all the carbonic acid in the apparatus is replaced by common
air. When the whole has become cold it is again weighed. The loss of
weight, doubled, indicates the amount of pure manganic peroxide, in the
sample, as before.
3. (Otto.) 50 gr. of the sample reduced to very fine powder are mixed in a
glass flask, with hydrochloric acid 1-1/2 fl. oz., diluted with 1/2 oz. of
cold water, and portions of ferrous sulphate, from a weighed sample,
immediately added, at first in excess, but afterwards in smaller doses,
until the liquid ceases to give a blue precipitate with red prussiate of
potash, or to evolve the odour of chlorine; heat being employed towards
the end of the process. The quantity of ferrous sulphate consumed is now
ascertained by again weighing the sample. If the peroxide examined was
pure, the loss of weight will be 317 gr.; but if otherwise, the percentage
of the pure peroxide may be obtained by the rule of three. Thus: suppose
only 298 gr. of the sulphate were consumed, then
317 : 100 :: 298 : 94,
and the richness of the sample would be 94%. The percentage value of the
oxide for evolving chlorine may be obtained by multiplying the weight of
the consumed ferrous sulphate by ·2588, which, in the above case, would
give 76% of chlorine. For this purpose, as well as for chlorometry, the
ferrous sulphate is best prepared by precipitating it from its aqueous
solution with alcohol, and drying it out of contact with air until it
loses its alcoholic odour.
_Obs._ Before applying the above processes it is absolutely necessary that
we ascertain whether the peroxide examined contains any carbonates, as the
presence of these would vitiate the results. This is readily determined by
treating it with a little dilute nitric acid:——if effervescence ensues,
one or more carbonates are present, and the sample, after being weighed,
must be digested for some time in dilute nitric acid in excess, and then
carefully collected on a filter, washed, and dried. It may then be assayed
as before. The loss of weight indicates the quantity of carbonates
present, with sufficient accuracy for technical purposes. The
determination of this point is the more important, as these contaminations
not merely lessen the richness of the mineral in pure manganic peroxide,
but also cause a considerable waste of acid when it is employed in the
manufacture of chlorine.
=Permanganic Acid.= HMnO_{4}. Obtained by distilling cautiously potassium
permanganate and sulphuric acid. Dark violet-black liquid, green by
reflected light, and rapidly absorbing water forming a violet solution.
Oxidises organic matter with explosive violence.
=Permanganate of Barium.= Ba(MnO)_{45}. Black soluble prisms, formed by
decomposing silver permanganate by means of barium chloride, and
cautiously evaporating.
=Permanganate of Potassium.= KMnO_{4}. _Prep._ Potassium chlorate, or
nitrate, and potassium hydrate are made into a paste with water, and
manganic peroxide added; the mass is dried and heated to redness. The
residue is boiled with water, filtered through asbestos, and evaporated
down and recrystallised.
Dark purple, red, almost black anhydrous long prisms, readily soluble in
16 pints of water. Decomposed in presence of acids by most organic matter.
=Permanganate of Silver.= AgMnO_{4}. _Prep._ Precipitate a strong solution
of silver nitrate by means of a concentrated solution of potassium
permanganate. Small black prisms, soluble in 100 parts of water, with a
purple colour.
=Permanganate of Sodium.= NaMnO_{4}. Obtained as a dark purple liquid by
passing a current of carbonic anhydride through sodium manganate. Condy’s
red fluid is chiefly a sodium permanganate dissolved in water.
=MANGE.= An eruptive disease, corresponding to the itch in man, resulting
from the burrowing into the skin of minute animalcules (mites or _acari_),
and common to several domestic animals, more especially the dog and horse.
Like the itch, it is contagious. The causes are confinement, dirt, and bad
living. The treatment should consist in the immediate removal of the
cause, the frequent use of soft soap and water, followed by frictions with
sulphur ointment, solution of chloride of lime or sporokton, the
administration of purgatives, and a change to a restorative diet. Dun
states that in India a very efficient remedy for mange is employed by the
native farriers, which consists of castor oil seeds well bruised, steeped
for twelve hours in sour milk, and rubbed into the skin, previously
thoroughly cleansed with soap and water. “The itchiness disappears almost
immediately and the acari are speedily destroyed.” A dressing consisting
of 1 oz. of chloride of zinc (Burnett’s disinfectant fluid) and 1 quart of
water may also be applied with advantage.
=MAN′′GEL WUR′ZEL.= _Syn._ MANGOLD-WURZEL, HYBRID BEET, ROOT OF SCARCITY.
The _Beta vulgaris_, var. _campestris_, a variety of the common beet. The
root abounds in sugar, and has been used in Germany as a substitute for
bread in times of scarcity. In these countries it is chiefly cultivated as
food for cattle. The young leaves are eaten as spinach. The percentage
composition of mangold wurzel is as follows:——Flesh-formers (albumenoid
bodies), 1·54; heat and fat-formers (sugar, &c.) 8·60; indigestible fibre,
1·12; ash, 0·96; 87·78.
=MAN′HEIM GOLD.= A gold-coloured brass. See GOLD (Dutch).
=MAN′NA= _Syn._ MANNA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. A concrete exudation
from the stem of _Fraxinus ornus_ and _F. rotundifolia_, obtained by
incision. (B. P.) “The juice flowing from the incised bark” of “_Fraxinus
rotundifolia_ and _F. ornus_, hardened by the air.” (Ph. L.) The finest
variety of this drug is known as flake manna, and occurs in pieces varying
from 1 to 6 inches long, 1 or 2 inches wide, and 1/2 to 1 inch thick. It
has a yellowish-white or cream colour; an odour somewhat resembling honey,
but less pleasant, a sweet, mawkish taste; and is light, porous, and
friable. It is laxative in doses of 1 to 2 oz.
=Manna Factitious=, made of a mixture of sugar, starch, and honey, with a
very small quantity of scammony to give it odour and flavour, and to
render it purgative, has been lately very extensively offered in trade,
and met with a ready sale.
=MAN′NACROUP.= A granular preparation of wheat deprived of bran, used as
an article of food for children and invalids. (Brande.)
=MAN′NITE.= C_{6}H_{14}O_{6}. _Syn._ MANNA SUGAR, MUSHROOM S.; MANNITA, L.
A sweet, crystallisable substance, found in manna and in several other
vegetable productions. It has been formed artificially by the action of
sodium-amalgam upon an alkaline solution of cane sugar.
_Prep._ 1. Digest manna in boiling rectified spirit, and filter or decant
the solution whilst hot; the mannite crystallises as the liquid cools in
tufts of slender, colourless needles.
2. (Ruspini.) Manna, 6 lbs.; cold water (in which the white of an egg has
been beaten), 3 lbs.; mix, boil for a few minutes, and strain the syrup
through linen whilst hot; the strained liquid will form a semi-crystalline
mass on cooling; submit this to strong pressure in a cloth, mix the cake
with its own weight of cold water, and again press it; dissolve the cake
thus obtained in boiling water, add a little animal charcoal, and filter
the mixture into a porcelain dish set over the fire; lastly, evaporate the
filtrate to a pellicle, and set the syrup aside to crystallise. Large
quadrangular prisms; perfectly white and transparent.
_Prop., &c._ Mannite has a powerfully sweet and agreeable taste; dissolves
in 5 parts of cold water and about half that quantity of boiling water;
freely soluble in hot, and slightly so in cold alcohol; fuses by heat
without loss of weight; with sulphuric acid it combines to form a new acid
compound. It is distinguished from the true sugars by its aqueous solution
not being susceptible of the vinous fermentation, and not possessing the
property of rotary polarisation. When pure, it is perfectly destitute of
purgative properties. It is now extensively imported from Italy, and is
chiefly used to cover the taste of nauseous medicines, and as a sweetmeat.
=MANURES′.= Substances added to soils to increase their fertility. The
food of vegetables, as far as their organic structure is concerned,
consists entirely of inorganic compounds; and no organised body can serve
for the nutrition of vegetables until it has been, by the process of
decay, resolved into certain inorganic substances. These are carbonic
acid, water, and ammonia, which are well known to be the final products of
putrefaction. But even when these are applied to vegetables, their growth
will not proceed unless certain mineral substances are likewise furnished
in small quantities, either by the soil or the water used to moisten it.
Almost every plant, when burned, leaves ashes, which commonly contain
silica, potassa, and phosphate of lime; often, also, magnesia, soda,
sulphates, and oxide of iron. These mineral bodies appear to be essential
to the existence of the vegetable tissues; so that plants will not grow in
soils destitute of them, however abundantly supplied with carbonic acid,
ammonia, and water. The carbon of plants is wholly derived from carbonic
acid, which is either absorbed from the atmosphere, and from rain water,
by the leaves, or from the moisture and air in the soil, by the roots. Its
carbon is retained and assimilated with the body of the plant, while its
oxygen is given out in the gaseous form; this decomposition being always
effected under the influence of light at ordinary temperatures. The
hydrogen and oxygen of vegetables, which, when combined with carbon,
constitute the ligneous, starchy, gummy, saccharine, oily, and resinous
matters of plants, are derived from water chiefly absorbed by the roots
from the soil. The nitrogen of vegetables is derived chiefly, if not
exclusively, from ammonia, which is supplied to them in rain, and in
manures, and which remain in the soil till absorbed by the roots.
According to the celebrated ‘mineral theory’ of agriculture advanced by
Liebig a soil is fertile or barren for any given plant according as it
contains those mineral substances that enter into its composition. Thus,
“the ashes of wheat-straw contain much silica and potassa, whilst the
ashes of the seeds contain phosphate of magnesia. Hence, if a soil is
deficient in any one of these, it will not yield wheat. On the other hand,
a good crop of wheat will exhaust the soil of these substances, and it
will not yield a second crop till they have been restored, either by
manure or by the gradual action of the weather in disintegrating the
subsoil. Hence the benefit derived from fallows and from the rotation of
crops.
“When, by an extraordinary supply of any one mineral ingredient, or of
ammonia, a large crop has been obtained, it is not to be expected that a
repetition of the same individual manure next year will produce the same
effect. It must be remembered that the unusual crop has exhausted the soil
probably of all the other mineral ingredients, and that they also must be
restored before a second crop can be obtained.
“The salt most essential to the growth of the potato is the double
phosphate of ammonia and magnesia; that chiefly required for hay is
phosphate of lime; while for almost all plants potassa and ammonia are
highly beneficial.”
From these principles we “may deduce a few valuable conclusions in regard
to the chemistry of agriculture. First, by examining the ashes of a
thriving plant, we discover the mineral ingredients which must exist in a
soil to render it fertile for that plant. Secondly, by examining a soil,
we can say at once whether it is fertile in regard to any plants the ashes
of which have been examined. Thirdly, when we know the defects of a soil,
the deficient matters may be easily obtained and added to it, unmixed with
such as are not required. Fourthly, the straw, leaves, &c., of any plant,
are the best manure for that plant, since every vegetable extracts from
the soil such matters alone as are essential to it. This important
principle has been amply verified by the success attending the use of
wheat-straw, or its ashes, as manure for wheat, and of the chippings of
the vines as a manure for the vineyard. When these are used (in the proper
quantity) no other manure is required. Fifthly, in the rotation of crops,
those should be made to follow which require different materials; or a
crop which extracts little or no mineral matter, such as peas, should come
after one which exhausts the soil of its phosphates and potassa.”
(Liebig.)
The experiments of Messrs Lawes and Gilbert have forced upon them opinions
differing from those of Baron Liebig on some important points in relation
to his ‘mineral theory,’ which endeavours to prove that “the crops on a
field diminish or increase in exact proportion to the diminution or
increase of the mineral substances conveyed to it in manure.” The results
obtained by the English investigators appear to prove that it is
impossible to get good crops by using mineral manures alone, and that
nitrogenous manures (farm-yard manure, guano, ammoniacal salts, &c.) are
fertilising agents of the highest order.
Of the chemical manures now so much used bone-dust is, perhaps, the most
important, as it supplies the phosphates which have been extracted by
successive crops of grass and corn, the whole of the bones of the cattle
fed on these crops having been derived from the soil; its gelatin also
yields ammonia by putrefaction. Guano acts as a source of ammonia,
containing much oxalate and urate of ammonia, with some phosphates.
Nightsoil and urine, especially the latter, are most valuable for the
ammonia they yield, as well as for the phosphates and potassa; but are
very much neglected in this country, although their importance is fully
appreciated in Belgium, France, and China. Nitrate of soda is valued as a
source of nitrogen.
All organic substances may be employed as manures; preference being,
however, given to those abounding in nitrogen, and which readily decay
when mixed with the soil.
The analysis of manures, soils, and the ashes of plants, for the purpose
of ascertaining their composition and comparative value, is not easily
performed by the inexperienced; but a rough approximation to their
contents, sufficiently accurate for all practical purposes, may be
generally made by any intelligent person with proper care and attention.
See AGRICULTURE, BONE-DUST, GUANO, &c.
=Manures, Artificial.= Various formulæ belonging to this head will be
found dispersed, under their respective names, throughout this work. The
following are additional ones:——
1. (Anderson.) Sulphate of ammonia, common salt, and oil of vitriol, of
each 10 parts; chloride of potassium, 15 parts; gypsum and sulphate of
potassa, of each 17 parts; saltpetre, 20 parts; crude Epsom salts, 25
parts; sulphate of soda, 33 parts. For clover.
2. (Huxtable.) Crude potash, 28 lbs.; common salt, 1 cwt.; bone-dust and
gypsum, of each 2 cwt.; wood-ashes, 15 bushels. For either corn, turnips,
or grass.
3. (Johnstone.) Sulphate of soda (dry), 11 lbs.; wood-ashes, 28 lbs.;
common salt, 3/4 cwt.; crude sulphate of ammonia, 1 cwt.; bone-dust, 7
bushels. As a substitute for guano.
4. (Lawes’ ‘Superphosphate.’) See COPROLITE.
5. (Fertilising powder.) A mixture of very fine bone-dust, 18 parts;
calcined gypsum, and sulphate of ammonia, of each 1 part. The seed is
ordered to be steeped in the ‘drainings’ from a dunghill, and after being
drained, but whilst still wet, to be sprinkled with the powder, and then
dried. See FLOWERS, LIME (Superphosphate), &c.
=MANUSCRIPTS, Faded, to Restore.= One of the methods in use for the
restoration of old or faded writing is to expose it to the vapours of
hydrosulphate of ammonia (hydrosulphide of ammonium) until the ink becomes
darkened by the formation of sulphide of iron. Another consists in
carefully washing, or sponging, the faded manuscript over with a weak
solution of the ammonic sulphide, and as soon as the characters become
legible, soaking it in water so as to remove the remaining sulphide, and
then drying it between folds of blotting paper. A third plan, and one
attended with less risk to the paper, is to brush over the manuscript with
a moderately strong aqueous solution of gallo-tannic acid, to wash with
water, and afterwards to dry it at a temperature of about 150° Fahr.
The solution of gallo-tannic acid may be obtained by making a strong
infusion of bruised nutgalls in boiling water, and when cold, straining
it. Some old and mediæval manuscripts are written in inks made of carbon.
To such the above treatment is inapplicable; being suited only to those
traced in ordinary writing ink. For parchments the latter method is
preferable.
=MAPS.= These, as well as architect’s and engineer’s designs, plans,
sections, drawings, &c., may be tinted with any of the simple liquid
colours mentioned under ‘VELVET COLOURS,’ preference being given to the
most transparent ones, which will not obscure the lines beneath them. To
prevent the colours from sinking and spreading, which they usually do on
common paper, the latter should be wetted 2 or 3 times with a sponge
dipped in alum water (3 or 4 oz. to the pint), or with a solution of white
size, observing to dry it carefully after each coat. This tends to give
lustre and beauty to the colours. The colours for this purpose should also
be thickened with a little gum water. Before varnishing maps after
colouring them, 2 or 3 coats of clean size should be applied with a soft
brush——the first one to the back.
=MARASCHI′NO= (-kēno). _Syn._ MARASQUIN, Fr. A delicate liqueur spirit
distilled from a peculiar cherry growing in Dalmatia, and afterwards
sweetened with sugar. The best is from Zara, and is obtained from the
marasca cherry only. An inferior quality is distilled from a mixture of
cherries and the juice of liquorice root.
=MAR′BLE.= _Syn._ LIMESTONE, HARD CARBONATE OF LIME; MARMOR, CALCIS
CARBONAS DURUS, M. ALBUM (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), L. Marbles are merely purer
and more compact varieties of limestone, which admit of being sawn into
slabs, and are susceptible of a fine polish. White marble is employed for
the preparation of carbonic acid and some of the salts of lime. It
contains about 65% of lime. Sp. gr. 2·70 to 2·85. The tests of its purity
are the same as those already noticed under CHALK.
Marble is best cleaned with a little soap-and-water, to which some ox-gall
may be added. Acids should be avoided. Oil and grease may be generally
removed by spreading a paste made of soft soap, caustic potash lye, and
fullers earth over the part, and allowing it to remain there for a few
days; after which it must be washed off with clean water. Or, equal parts
of American potash (crude carbonate of potash) and whiting are made into a
moderately stiff paste with a sufficiency of boiling water, and applied to
the marble with a brush. At the end of two or three days the paste is
removed and the marble washed with soap-and-water. Any defect of polish
may be brought up with tripoli, followed by putty powder, both being used
along with water.
Marble is mended with one or other of the compounds noticed under CEMENTS.
Marble may be stained or dyed of various colours by applying coloured
solutions or tincture to the stone, made sufficiently hot to make the
liquid just simmer on the surface. The following are the substances
usually employed for this purpose:——
BLUE. Tincture or solution of litmus, or an alkaline solution of indigo.
BROWN. Tincture of logwood.
CRIMSON. A solution of alkanet root in oil of turpentine.
FLESH COLOUR. Wax tinged with alkanet root, and applied to the marble hot
enough to melt it freely.
GOLD COLOUR. A mixture of equal parts of white vitriol, sal ammoniac, and
verdigris, each in fine powder, and carefully applied.
GREEN. An alkaline solution or tincture of sap green, or wax strongly
coloured with verdigris; or the stone is first stained blue, and then the
materials for yellow stain are applied.
RED. Tincture of dragon’s blood, alkanet root, or cochineal.
YELLOW. Tincture of gamboge, turmeric, or saffron; or wax coloured with
annotta. Success in the application of these colours requires considerable
experience. By their skilful use, however, a very pleasing effect, both
of colour and grain, may be produced.
=MARBLING (of Books, &c.).= The edges and covers of books are ‘marbled’ by
laying the colour on them with a brush, or by means of a wooden trough
containing mucilage, as follows:——Provide a wooden trough, 2 inches deep,
6 inches wide, and the length of a super-royal sheet; boil in a brass or
copper pan any quantity of linseed and water until a thick mucilage is
formed; strain this into the trough, and let it cool; then grind on a
marble slab any of the following colours in table beer. For——blue,
Prussian blue or indigo;——red, rose-pink, vermilion, or drop
lake;——yellow, king’s yellow, yellow ochre, &c.;——white, flake
white;——black, ivory black, or burnt lampblack;——brown umber, burnt u.,
terra di sienna, burnt s.; black mixed with yellow or red also makes
brown;——green, blue and yellow mixed;——purple, red and blue mixed. For
each colour provide two cups——one for the ground colours, the other to mix
them with the ox-gall, which must be used to thin them at discretion. If
too much gall is used the colours spread; when they keep their place on
the surface of the trough, on being moved with a quill, they are fit for
use. All things being in readiness, the prepared colours are successively
sprinkled on the surface of the mucilage in the trough with a brush, and
are waved or drawn about with a quill or a stick according to taste. When
the design is thus formed, the book, tied tightly between cutting boards
of the same size, is lightly pressed with its edge on the surface of the
liquid pattern, and then withdrawn and dried. The covers may be marbled in
the same way, only the liquid colours must be allowed to run over them.
The film of colour in the trough may be as thin as possible; and if any
remains after the marbling, it may be taken off by applying paper to it
before you prepare for marbling again. This process has been called FRENCH
MARBLING.
To diversify the effect, a little sweet oil is often mixed with the
colours before sprinkling them on, by which means a light halo or circle
appears round each spot. In like manner spirit of turpentine, sprinkled on
the surface of the trough, produces white spots. By staining the covers
with any of the liquid dyes, and then dropping on them, or running over
them, drops of the ordinary liquid mordants, a very pleasing effect may be
produced. Vinegar black, or a solution of green copperas, thus applied to
common leather, produces black spots or streaks, and gives a similar
effect with most of the light dyes. A solution of alum or of tin in like
manner produces bright spots or streaks, and soda or potash water dark
ones. This style has been called EGYPTIAN MARBLE.——SOAP MARBLING is done
by throwing on the colours, ground with a little white soap to a proper
consistence, by means of a brush. It is much used for book-edges,
stationery, sheets of paper, ladies’ fancy work, &c.——THREAD MARBLE is
given by first covering the edge uniformly of one colour, then laying
pieces of thick thread irregularly on different parts of it, and giving it
a fine dark sprinkle. When well managed the effect is very pleasing.——RICE
MARBLE is given in a similar way to the last by using rice.——TREE MARBLE
is done on leather book-covers, &c., by bending the board a little in the
centre, and running the marbling liquid over it in the form of vegetation.
The knots are given by rubbing the end of a candle on those parts of the
cover.——WAX MARBLE is given in a similar way to thread marble, but using
melted wax, which is removed after the book is sprinkled and dried; or a
sponge charged with blue, green, or red may be passed over. This, also, is
much used for stationery work, especially for folios and quartos. The
‘vinegar black’ of the bookbinders is merely a solution of acetate of
iron, made by steeping a few rusty nails or some iron filings in vinegar.
All the ordinary liquid colours that do not contain strong acids or
alkalies may be used, either alone or thickened with a little gum, for
marbling or sprinkling books.
SPRINKLING is performed by simply dipping a stiff-haired painter’s brush
into the colour, and suddenly striking it against a small stick held in
the left hand over the work. By this means the colour is evenly scattered
without producing ‘blurs’ or ‘blots.’
PAPER, PASTEBOARD, &c., in sheets, are marbled and sprinkled in a similar
manner to that above described, but in this case the gum trough must, of
course, be longer.
=MARGAR′IC ACID.= This term was formerly applied to a mixture of palmitic
and stearic acids, produced by decomposing the alkaline soaps of solid
fats with an acid, but it is now given to a fatty acid which can only be
obtained artificially.
=MAR′GARIN.= _Syn._ MARGARATE OF GLYCERYL. A constituent formerly supposed
to exist in solid fats, but now regarded as a mixture of stearin and
palmitin.
=MARINE′ ACID.= See HYDROCHLORIC ACID.
=MARL.= A natural mixture of clay and chalk, with sand. It is
characterised by effervescing with acids. According to the predominance of
one or other of its component parts, it is called argillaceous,
calcareous, or sandy marl. It is very generally employed as a manure for
sandy soils, more particularly in Norfolk. See SOILS.
=MAR′MALADE.= Originally a conserve made of quinces and sugar; now
commonly applied to the conserves of other fruit, more especially to those
of oranges and lemons.
_Prep._ Marmalades are made either by pounding the pulped fruit in a
mortar with an equal or a rather larger quantity of powdered white sugar,
or by mixing them together by heat, passing them through a hair sieve
whilst hot, and then putting them into pots or glasses. The fruit-pulps
are obtained by rubbing the fruit through a fine hair sieve, either at
once or after it has been softened by simmering it for a short time along
with a little water. When heat is employed in mixing the ingredients, the
evaporation should be continued until the marmalade ‘jellies’ on cooling.
See CONSERVES, CONFECTIONS, ELECTUARIES, JAMS, JELLIES, and _below_.
=Marmalade, Apricot.= From equal parts of pulp and sugar.
=Marmalade, Mixed.= From plums, pears, and apples, variously flavoured to
palate.
=Marmalade, Orange.= _Prep._ 1. From oranges (either Seville or St
Michael’s, or a mixture of the two), by boiling the peels in syrup until
soft, then pulping them through a sieve, adding as much white sugar, and
boiling them with the former syrup and the juice of the fruit to a proper
consistence.
2. By melting the confection of orange peel (Ph. L.), either with or
without the addition of some orange or lemon juice, and then passing it
through a sieve.
3. (CANDIED ORANGE MARMALADE.) From candied orange peel, boiled in an
equal weight each of sugar and water, and then passed through a sieve.
4. (SCOTCH MARMALADE.)——_a._ Seville orange juice, 1 quart; yellow peel of
the fruit, grated; honey, 2 lbs.; boil to a proper consistence.
_b._ Seville oranges, 8 lbs.; peel them as thinly as possible, then
squeeze out the juice, boil it on the yellow peels for 1/4 of an hour,
strain, add white sugar, 7 lbs., and boil to a proper consistence.
=Marmalade, Quince.= _Syn._ DIACYDONIUM. From quince flesh or pulp and
sugar, equal parts; or from the juice (miva cydoniorum, gelatina c.), by
boiling it to half, adding an equal quantity of white wine and 2/3rds of
its weight of sugar, and gently evaporating the mixture.
=Marmalade, Tomato.= Like APRICOT MARMALADE, adding a few slices of onion
and a little parsley.
=MARMORA′TUM.= Finely powdered marble and quicklime, well beaten together;
used as a cement or mortar.
=MAR′ROW (Beef).= This is extensively employed by the perfumers in the
preparation of various pomades and other cosmetics, on account of its
furnishing an exceedingly bland fat, which is not so much disposed to
rancidity as the other fats. It is prepared for use by soaking and working
it for some time in lukewarm water, and afterwards melting it in a water
bath, and straining it through a piece of muslin whilst hot. When scented
it is esteemed equal to bear’s grease for promoting the growth of the
hair.
=MARSH GAS.= Light carbonetted hydrogen.
=MARSH’S TEST.= See ARSENIOUS ACID.
=MARSHMALLOW.= _Syn._ ALTHÆA (Ph. L. & E.), L. The root (leaves and
root——Ph. E.) of _Althæa officinalis_, Linn., or common marshmallow. (Ph.
L.) It is emollient and demulcent; the decoction is useful in irritation
of the respiratory and urinary organs, and of the alimentary canal. The
flowers as well as the root are reputed pectoral.
=MARTIN’S POWDER.= A mixture of white arsenic and the powdered stems of
_Orobanche virginiana_ (Linn.), a plant common in Virginia. An American
quack remedy for cancer.
=MASS.= _Syn._ MASSA, L. This term is commonly applied in pharmacy and
veterinary medicine to certain preparations which are not made up into
their ultimate form. Thus, we have ‘ball-masses,’ ‘pill-masses,’ &c.; of
which, for convenience, large quantities are prepared at a time, and are
kept in pots or jars, ready to be divided into balls or pills, as the
demands of business may require. (See _below_.)
=MASSES (Veterinary).=[24]
[Footnote 24: Reprinted from Tuson’s ‘Veterinary Pharmacopœia.’]
=Massa Aloes.= MASS OF ALOES. _Syn._ CATHARTIC MASS. _Prep._ Take of
Barbadoes aloes, in small pieces, 8 parts; glycerin, 2 parts; ginger, in
powder, 1 part; melt together in a water bath, and thoroughly incorporate
by frequent stirring.——_Use._ Cathartic for the horse.——_Dose._ From 6 to
8 dr.
=Massa Aloes Composita.= COMPOUND MASS OF ALOES. _Syn._ ALTERATIVE MASS.
_Prep._ Take of Barbadoes aloes, in powder, 1 oz.; soft soap, 1 oz.;
common mass, 6 oz.; thoroughly incorporate by beating in a mortar, so as
to form a mass.——_Use._ Alterative for the horse.——_Dose_, 1 oz.
=Massa Antimonii Tartarata Composita.= COMPOUND MASS OF TARTARATED
ANTIMONY. _Syn._ FEVER BALL. _Prep._ Take of tartrated antimony, in
powder, 1/2 dr.; camphor, in powder, 1/2 dr.; nitrate of potash, in
powder, 2 dr.; common mass, a sufficiency; mix so as to form a
bolus.——_Use._ Febrifuge for the horse.——_Dose._ The above mixture
constitutes 1 dose.
=Massa Belladonnæ Composita.= COMPOUND MASS OF BELLADONNA. _Syn._ COUGH
BALL. _Prep._ Take of extract of belladonna, 1/2 to 1 dr.; Barbadoes
aloes, in powder, 1 dr.; nitrate of potash, in powder, 2 dr.; common mass,
a sufficiency; mix so as to form a bolus.——_Use._ For the horse in chronic
cough.——_Dose._ The above mixture constitutes 1 dose.
=Massa Cathechu Composita.= COMPOUND MASS OF CATECHU. _Syn._ ASTRINGENT
MASS. _Prep._ Take of extract of catechu, in fine powder, 1 oz.; cinnamon
bark, in fine powder, 1 oz.; common mass, 6 oz.; mix.——_Use._ Astringent
for the horse.——_Dose_, 1 oz., in the form of a bolus.
=Massa Communis.= COMMON MASS. _Prep._ Take of linseed, finely ground, and
treacle, of each equal parts; mix together so as to form a mass.——_Use._
An excipient for medicinal agents when they are to be administered in the
form of bolus.
=Massa Cupri Sulphatis.= MASS OF SULPHATE OF COPPER. _Syn._ TONIC MASS.
_Prep._ Take of sulphate of copper, finely powdered, 1 oz.; ginger, in
powder, 1 oz.; common mass, 6 oz.; mix.——_Use._ Tonic for the
horse.——_Dose_, 6 to 8 dr.
=Massa Digitalis Composita.= COMPOUND MASS OF DIGITALIS. _Syn._ COUGH
BALL. _Prep._ Take of Barbadoes aloes, in powder, 2 oz.; digitalis, 1 oz.;
common mass, 13 oz.; mix.——_Use._ For the horse in chronic cough.——_Dose_,
1 oz. once or twice a day.
=Massa Ferri Sulphatis.= MASS OF SULPHATE OF IRON. _Syn._ TONIC MASS.
_Prep._ Take of sulphate of iron, in powder, 2 oz.; ginger, in powder, 1
oz.; common mass, 5 oz.; mix.——_Use._ Tonic for the horse.——_Dose_, 6 to 8
dr.
=Massa Resinæ Composita.= COMPOUND MASS OF RESIN. _Syn._ DIURETIC MASS.
_Prep._ Take of resin, in powder, nitrate of potash, in powder, hard soap,
of each equal parts; mix.——_Use._ Diuretic for the horse.——_Dose_, 1 oz.
=Massa Zingiberis Composita.= COMPOUND MASS OF GINGER. _Syn._ CORDIAL
MASS. _Prep._ Take of ginger, in powder, gentian root, in powder, treacle,
of each equal parts, a sufficiency; mix so as to form a mass.——_Use._
Stomachic for the horse.——_Dose_, 1 oz.
=MAS′SICOT.= _Syn._ MASTICOT, YELLOW PROTOXIDE OF LEAD; PLUMBI OXYDUM
FLAVUM, CERUSSA CITRINA, L. The dross that forms on melted lead exposed to
a current of air, roasted until it acquires a uniform yellow colour.
Artists often apply the same name to white lead roasted until it turns
yellow. Used as a pigment.
=MAS′TIC.= _Syn._ MASTICH, GUM MASTIC; MASTICHE, L. The “resin flowing
from the incised bark of _Pistacia Lentiscus_, var. _Chia_.” (Ph. L.) It
occurs in pale yellowish, transparent, rounded tears, which soften between
the teeth when chewed, and giving out a bitter, aromatic taste. Sp. gr.
1·07. It is soluble in both rectified spirit and oil of turpentine,
forming varnishes. It is chiefly used as a ‘masticatory,’ to strengthen
and preserve the teeth, and perfume the breath.
=Mastic.= Fine mortar or cement used for plastering walls, in which the
ingredients, in a pulverulent state, are mixed up, either entirely or with
a considerable portion of linseed oil. It sets very hard, and is ready to
receive paint in a few days. See CEMENTS.
=MASTICA′TION.= The act of chewing food, by which it not only becomes
comminuted, but mixed with the saliva, and reduced to a form fit for
swallowing. It has been justly regarded by the highest authorities as the
first process of digestion, and one without which the powers of the
stomach are overtasked, and often performed with difficulty. Hence the
prevalence of dyspepsia and bowel complaints among persons with bad teeth,
or who ‘bolt’ their food without chewing it.
=MAS′TICATORIES.= _Syn._ MASTICATORIA, L. Substances taken by chewing
them. They are employed as intoxicants, cosmetics, and medicinals;
generally with the first intention. The principal masticatory used in this
country is tobacco. In Turkey, and several other Eastern nations, opium is
taken in a similar manner. In India, a mixture of areca nut, betel leaf,
and lime, performs the same duties; whilst in some other parts of the
world preparations of the cacao are employed. As cosmetics, orris root,
cassia, cinnamon, and sandal wood are frequently chewed to scent the
breath. Among medicinals, mastic and myrrh are frequently chewed to
strengthen the teeth and gums; pellitory, to relieve the toothache; and
rhubarb, ginger, and gentian, to relieve dyspepsia and promote the
appetite.
_Prep._ 1. (Augustin.) Mastic, pellitory (both in powder), and white wax,
of each 1 dr.; mixed by heat and divided into 6 balls. In toothache, loose
teeth, &c.
2. (W. Cooley.) Mastic, myrrh, and white wax, of each 1 part; rhubarb,
ginger, and extract of gentian, of each 2 parts; beaten up with tincture
of tolu, q. s., and divided into boluses or lozenges of 10 gr. each. One
or two to be chewed an hour before dinner; in dyspepsia, defective
appetite, &c.
3. (Quincy.) Mastic, 3 oz.; pellitory and stavesacre seed, of each 2 dr.;
cubebs and nutmegs, of each 1 dr.; angelica root, 1/2 dr.; melted wax,
q. s. to make it into small balls. As a stimulant to the gums, and in
toothache.
4. Opium, ginger, rhubarb, mastic, pellitory of Spain, and orris root, of
each 1 dr.; melted spermaceti, q. s. to mix; for 6-gr. pills. As the last,
and in toothache and painful gums.
=MAS′TICOT.= See MASSICOT.
=MATCHES (Cooper’s).= _Syn._ SWEETENING MATCHES. These are made by dipping
strips of coarse linen or canvas into melted brimstone. For use, the
brimstone on one of them is set on fire, and the match is then at once
suspended in the cask, and the bung loosely set in its place. After the
lapse of 2 or 3 hours the match is removed and the cask filled with
liquor. Some persons pour a gallon or two of the liquor into the cask
before ‘matching’ it. The object is to allay excessive fermentation. The
operation is commonly adopted in the Western Counties for cider intended
for shipment, or other long exposure during transport. It is also
occasionally employed for inferior and ‘doctored’ wines.
=MATCHES (Instantaneous Light).= Of these there are several varieties, of
which the one best known, and most extensively used, is the common
phosphorus match, known as the ‘congreve’ or ‘lucifer.’[25] We need not
describe the ‘chemical matches,’ ‘phosphorus bottles,’ and ‘prometheans,’
in use during the early part of the present century, as these are quite
obsolete. We will simply sketch the general process of manufacture now in
use for phosphorus matches:
[Footnote 25: The original ‘LUCIFERS,’ or ‘LIGHT-BEARING MATCHES,’
invented in 1826, consisted of strips of pasteboard, or flat splints of
wood, tipped first with sulphur, and then with a mixture of sulphide of
antimony and chlorate of potassa, and were ignited by drawing them briskly
through folded glass-paper. They required a considerable effort to ignite
them, and the composition was apt to be torn off by the violence of the
friction. The term ‘lucifer’ having become familiar, was applied to the
simpler and more effective match afterwards introduced under the names of
‘CONGREVE’ and ‘CONGREVE LIGHT,’]
_Manuf._ The wooden splints are cut by steam machinery from the very best
quality of pine planks, perfectly dried at a temperature of 400° Fahr.
English splints are of two sizes——‘large’ and ‘minnikins,’ the former
2-1/4 inches longer, and the latter somewhat shorter. In the manufacture
double-lengths are used, so that each splint may be coated with the
igniting composition at both ends, and then cut asunder in the middle to
form two matches. In England the splints are usually cut square in form,
but in Germany they are cylindrical, being prepared by forcing the wood
through circular holes in a steel plate. The ends of the double splints
having been slightly charred by contact with a red-hot plate, are coated
with sulphur by dipping them to the requisite depth in the melted
material. In some cases the ends are saturated with melted wax or paraffin
instead of sulphur. The splints are then arranged in a frame between
grooved boards in such a manner that the prepared ends project on each
side of the frame. These projecting ends are then tipped with the
phosphorus composition, which is spread to a uniform depth of about 1/8
inch on a smooth slab of stone, kept warm by means of steam beneath. When
partially dry, the tipped splints are taken from the frames, cut through
the middle, and placed in heaps of 100, ready for ‘boxing.’
The different compositions for tipping the matches in use in different
countries and factories all consist essentially of emulsions of phosphorus
in a solution of glue or gum, with or without other matters for increasing
the combustibility, for colouring, &c. In England the composition contains
a considerable quantity of chlorate of potassa, which imparts a snapping
and flaming quality to the matches tipped with it, and but little
phosphorus, on account of the moisture of the climate. In Germany the
proportion of phosphorus used is much larger, and nitre, or some metallic
peroxide, replaces chlorate of potassa. The German matches light quietly
with a mild lambent flame, and are injured quickly by damp. The following
formulæ have been selected:
1. (ENGLISH.) Fine glue, 2 parts, broken into small pieces, and soaked in
water till quite soft, is added to water, 4 parts, and heated by means of
a water bath until it is quite fluid, and at a temperature of 200° to 212°
Fahr. The vessel is then removed from the fire, and phosphorus, 1-1/2 to 2
parts, is gradually added, the mixture being agitated briskly and
continually with a ‘stirrer’ having wooden pegs or bristles projecting at
its lower end. When a uniform emulsion is obtained, chlorate of potassa, 4
to 5 parts, powdered glass, 3 to 4 parts, and red lead, smalt, or other
colouring matter, a sufficient quantity (all in a state of very fine
powder) are added, one at a time, to prevent accidents, and the stirring
continued until the mixture is comparatively cool.
According to Mr G. Gore, the above proportions are those of the best
quality of English composition. The matches tipped with it deflagrate with
a snapping noise. (See _above_.)
2. (GERMAN.)——_a._ (Böttger.) Dissolve gum Arabic, 16 parts, in the least
possible quantity of water, add of phosphorus (in powder), 9 parts, and
mix by trituration; then add of nitre, 14 parts; vermillion or binoxide of
manganese, 16 parts, and form the whole into a paste, as directed above;
into this the matches are to be dipped, and then exposed to dry. As soon
as the matches are quite dry they are to be dipped into very dilute copal
varnish or lac varnish, and again exposed to dry, by which means they are
rendered waterproof, or at least less likely to suffer from exposure in
damp weather.
_b._ (Böttger.) Glue, 6 parts, is soaked in a little cold water for 24
hours, after which it is liquefied by trituration in a heated mortar;
phosphorus, 4 parts, is now added, and rubbed down at a heat not exceeding
150° Fahr.; nitre (in fine powder), 10 parts, is next mixed in, and
afterwards red ochre, 5 parts, and smalt, 2 parts, are further added, and
the whole formed into a uniform paste, into which the matches are dipped,
as before. Cheaper than the last.
_c._ (Diesel.) Phosphorus, 17 parts; glue, 21 parts; red lead, 24 parts;
nitre, 38 parts. Proceed as above.
_Obs._ Matches tipped with the above (_a_, _b_, and _c_) inflame without
fulmination when rubbed against a rough surface, and are hence termed
‘noiseless matches’ by the makers.
3. (SAFETY MATCHES.) The latest improvement of note in the manufacture of
matches is that of Landstrom, of Jonkoping, in Sweden, adopted by Messrs
Bryant and May (Patent). It consists in dividing the ingredient of the
match-mixture into two separate compositions, one being placed on the ends
of the splints, as usual, and the other, which contains the phosphorus,
being spread in a thin layer upon the end or lid of the box. The following
are the compositions used by the patentee:——_a._ (For the splints.)
Chlorate of potassa, 6 parts; sulphuret of antimony, 2 to 3 parts; glue, 1
part.——_b._ (For the friction surface.) Amorphous phosphorus, 10 parts;
sulphuret of antimony or peroxide of manganese, 8 parts; glue, 3 to 6
parts; spread thinly upon the surface, which has been previously made
rough by a coating of glue and sand.
By thus dividing the composition the danger of fire arising from ignition
of the matches by accidental friction is avoided, as neither the portion
on the splint nor that on the box can be ignited by rubbing against an
unprepared surface. Again, by using the innocuous red or amorphous
phosphorus, the danger of poisoning is entirely prevented.
=MATÉ.= _Syn._ PARAGUAY TEA. This is the dried leaf of a small shrub, the
_Ilex Paraguayenses_, or Brazilian holly, growing in Paraguay and Brazil;
by the inhabitants of which places, as well as South America generally, it
is largely employed in the form of a beverage as tea. Its active
ingredient, _Paraguaine_, formerly supposed to be a distinct principle,
has from further researches into its composition been discovered to be
identical with theine and caffeine——the alkaloids of tea and coffee.
Mr Wanklyn ascribes the following composition to maté:——
Moisture 6·72
Ash 5·86
Soluble organic matter 25·10
Insoluble organic matter 62·32
——————
100·00
=MATE′′RIA MED′ICA.= A collective name of the various substances, natural
and artificial, employed as medicines or in the cure of disease. In its
more extended sense it includes the science which treats of their sources,
properties, classification, and applications. The _materia medica of the
Pharmacopœia_ is a mere list, with occasional notes, “embracing the
animal, vegetable, and chemical substances, whether existing naturally,
prepared in officinal chemical preparations, or sold in wholesale trade,
which we (the College) direct to be used either in curing diseases or in
preparing medicines.” (Ph. L.)
=MAT′ICO.= _Syn._ SOLDIER’S HERB; MATECO (B. P., Ph. D.); MATICA, HERBA
MATICÆ, L. The dried leaves of a Peruvian plant, generally believed to be
the _Artanthe elongata_, one of the _Piperaceæ_. The leaves have been
employed with considerable success as a mechanical external styptic;
applied to leech-bites, slight cuts, and other wounds, &c., and pressed on
with the fingers, they seldom fail to arrest the bleeding. Matico has also
been much lauded as an internal astringent and styptic, in hæmorrhages
from the lungs, stomach, bowels, uterus, &c.; but as it is nearly
destitute of astringent properties, its virtues in these cases must have
been inferred from its external action. As an aromatic, bitter stimulant,
closely resembling the peppers, it has been proposed as a substitute for
cubebs and black pepper, in the treatment of diseases of the mucous
membranes, piles, &c.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.; in powder; or under the form
of infusion, tincture, or boluses.
=MATURA′TION.= Growing ripe. Amongst surgeons this term is applied to the
process of suppuration, or that which succeeds inflammation, and by which
pus or matter is collected in an abscess. Warmth, irritation, and a
liberal diet promote this change; cold, sedatives, and depletion, retard
it. The maturation of fermented liquor is noticed under BREWING, MALT
LIQUORS, WINES, &c.
=MEAD.= _Syn._ MELLINA, L. An old English liquor, made from the combs from
which the honey has been drained, by boiling them in water, and fermenting
the saccharine solution thus obtained. It is commonly confounded with
metheglin. Some persons add 1 oz. of hops to each gallon; and, after
fermentation, a little brandy. It is then called sack mead, See METHEGLIN.
=MEAL.= The substance of edible grain ground to powder, without being
bolted or sifted. Barley meal and oat meal are the common substances of
this class in England. In North America the term is commonly applied to
ground Indian corn, whether bolted or not. (Goodrich.) The four resolvent
meals of old pharmacy (_quatuor farinæ resolventes_) are those of barley,
beans, linseed, and rye.
=MEALS.= The “periods of taking food, usually adopted, in conformity with
convenience and the recurrences of hunger, are those which are best
adapted to the purposes of health; namely, the morning meal, the midday
meal, and the evening meal.” “That these are the proper periods for meals
is evident from the fact of their maintaining their place amid the changes
which fashion is constantly introducing.” “If we look at these periods in
another point of view, we shall find an interval of four hours left
between them for the act of digestion and subsequent rest of the stomach.
Digestion will claim between two and three hours of the interval; the
remaining hour is all that the stomach gets of rest, enough, perhaps, but
not too much, not to be justly infringed.” (Eras. Wilson.)
=MEA′SLES.= _Syn._ RUBEOLA, MORBILLI, L. This very common disease is
characterised by feverishness, chilliness, shivering, head-pains,
swelling and inflammation of the eyes, shedding of sharp tears, with
painful sensibility to light, oppressive cough, difficulty of breathing,
and sometimes vomiting or diarrhœa. These are followed about the fourth
day by a crimson rash upon the skin, in irregular crescents or circles,
and by small red points or spots, which are perceptible to the touch, and
which, after four or five days, go off with desquamation of the cuticle.
The fever, cough, &c., often continue for some time; and unless there have
been some considerable evacuations, either by perspiration or vomiting,
they frequently return with increased violence, and occasion great
distress and danger.
_Treat._ When there are no urgent local symptoms, mild aperients,
antimonial diaphoretics, and diluents, should be had recourse to; but when
the inflammatory symptoms are emergent, and the lungs are weak, especially
in plethoric habits, blood may be taken. The cough may be relieved by
expectorants, demulcents, and small doses of opium; and the diarrhœa by
the administration of the compound powder of chalk and opium; the
looseness of the bowels, however, had better not be interfered with,
unless it be extreme.
Measles are most prevalent in the middle of winter, and though common to
individuals of all ages, are most frequent amongst children. The
plethoric, and those of a scrofulous habit, or one which has a syphilitic
taint, suffer most from them.
Like the smallpox, the measles are contagious, and seldom attack the same
person more than once during life. See RASH.
=MEASURE.= _Syn._ MENSURA, L. The unit or standard by which we estimate
extension, whether of length, superficies, or volume. The following tables
represent the values and proportions of the principal measures employed in
commerce and the arts:——
TABLE I. _English Lineal Measures._
+---------+----------+----------+-----------+------------+--------------+
| Inches. | Feet. | Yards. | Poles. | Furlongs. | Miles. |
+---------+----------+----------+-----------+------------+--------------+
| 1· | ·083 | ·028 | ·00505 | ·00012626 | ·0000157828 |
| 12· | 1· | ·333 | ·06060 | ·00151515 | ·00018939 |
| 36· | 3· | 1· | ·1818 | ·004545 | ·00056818 |
| 198· | 16·5 | 5·5 | 1· | ·025 | ·003125 |
| 7920· | 660· | 220· | 40· | 1· | ·125 |
| 63360· | 5280· | 1760· | 320· | 8· | 1· |
+---------+----------+----------+-----------+------------+--------------+
⁂ The unit of the above table is the yard, of which no legal standard has
existed since that established by the statute of 1824 was destroyed by the
fire which consumed the two Houses of Parliament in 1834.
TABLE II. _English Measures of Superficies._
+----------+-----------+--------------+-------------+-------------+
| Square | Square | Poles. | Roods. | Acres. |
| Feet. | Yards. | | | |
+----------+-----------+--------------+-------------+-------------+
| | | | | |
| 1· | ·1111 | ·00367309 | ·000091827 | ·000022957 |
| 9· | 1· | ·0330579 | ·000826448 | ·000206612 |
| 272·25 | 30·25 | 1· | ·025 | ·00625 |
| 10890· | 1210· | 40· | 1· | ·25 |
| 43560· | 4840· | 160· | 4· | 1· |
+----------+-----------+--------------+-------------+-------------+
TABLE III. _English Measure of Volume.——The_ IMPERIAL
STANDARD, _and the relative value of its divisions,
including those used in Medicine, with their_
EQUIVALENTS _in avoirdupois and troy weight._
+------+-------------+------------+-------------+------------+-----------+-------+--------+-----------+-----------------------+
|[minims] fʒ | f℥ | O. | Oij. | C. | | | | |
|Minims| | | | | | | | | Equivalents in |
| or | Fluid | Fluid | | | | | | | _distilled water_, at |
|drops.| Drachms. | Ounces. | Pints. | Quarts. | Gallons. | Pecks.|Bushels.| Quarters. | 62° Fahr., in |
+------+-------------+------------+-------------+------------+-----------+-------+--------+-----------+/---------/\----------\|
| | | | | | | | | | Troy | Avoird. |
| | | | | | | | | | grains. | weight. |
| | | | | | | | | +-----------+-----------+
| 1·| ·01666666| ·00208333| ·00010416| ·00005208| ·00001302| —— | —— | —— | ·91146| |
| 60·| 1· | ·125 | ·00625 | ·003125 | ·00078125| —— | —— | —— | 54·6875 |_lb._ _oz._|
| 480·| 8· | 1· | ·05 | ·025 | ·00625 | —— | —— | —— | 437·5 | 1 |
| 9600·| 160· | 20· | 1· | ·5 | ·125 | ·0625| ·015625| ·001953125| 8750· | 1 4 |
|19200·| 320· | 40· | 2· | 1· | ·25 | ·125 | ·03125 | ·00390625 |17500· | 2 8 |
|76800·|1280· | 160· | 8· | 4· | 1· | ·5 | ·125 | ·015625 |70000· | 10 |
| |2560· | 320· | 16· | 8· | 2· | 1· | ·25 | ·03125 | —— | 20 |
| | |1280· | 64· | 32· | 8· | 4· |1· | ·125 | —— | 80 |
| | | | 512· |256· |64· |32· |8· |1· | —— | 640 |
+------+-------------+------------+-------------+------------+-----------+-------+--------+-----------+-----------+-----------+
⁂ The standard unit of the above table is the gallon, which is declared,
by statute, to be capable of “containing ten pounds avoirdupois weight of
distilled water, weighed in the air at the temperature of 62° Fahr., the
barometer being at 30 inches.” The pound avoirdupois contains 7000 grains,
and it is declared that a cubic inch of distilled water, under the above
conditions, weighs 252·458 grains; hence the capacity of the imperial
gallon and its divisions are as follows:——
Imperial gallon = 277·274 cubic inches.
” quart = 69·3185 ”
” pint = 34·65925 ”
Fluid ounce = 1·73296 ”
” drachm = ·21662 ”
‡‡‡ The imperial gallon is 1-5th larger than the old wine
gallon,——1-60th smaller than the old beer gallon, and——1-32nd larger than
the old dry-measure gallon.
TABLE IV. _French Metrical or Decimal Measures of
Length._
+----------+---------+------------------------------------------------+
| | | Equivalents in |
| | |/---------------------/\-----------------------\|
| Names. | Eq. in |English Inches,| English Long Measure, |
| | Mètres. |at 32° Fahr. | at 62° Fahr. |
+----------+---------+---------------+--------------------------------+
| | | |Miles. Fur. Yds. Feet. Inch.|
|Millimètre| ·001| ·03937 | |
|Centimètre| ·01 | ·39371 | |
|Décimètre | ·1 | 3·93708 | |
|Mètre | 1· | 39·37079 | 1 0 3·37 |
|Decamètre | 10· | 393·70790 | 10 2 9·7 |
|Hectomètre| 100· | 3937·07900 | 109 1 1·078|
|Kilomètre | 1000· | 39370·79000 | 4 213 1 10·3 |
|Myriamètre|10000· | 393707·90000 | 6 1 156 0 9·17 |
+----------+---------+---------------+--------------------------------+
⁂ The standard unit of the above table is the mètre, which has been
determined to be 39·37079 inches, at 32° Fahr. (Capt. Kater); the English
foot is taken at 62° Fahr. The true length of the mètre, reduced to the
latter temperature, is 39·370091 English inches; a number which varies
from that in the table only at the fourth decimal figure. It will be
perceived that the principle of nomenclature adopted in applying the
names, was to prefix the Greek numerals to the decimal multiples, and the
Latin numerals to the decimal subdivisions.
TABLE V. _French Metrical or Decimal Measures of
Volume._
+----------+---------+---------+--------------------------------------+
| Names. | Eq. in | Eq. in | |
| | Litres. |English | Equivalent in English Measures. |
| | | Cubic | |
| | | Inches | |
+----------+---------+---------+--------------------------------------+
| | | |_Gall._ _Pints._ _Oz._ _Dr._ _Minims._|
|Millilitre| ·001| ·0610| 16·9 |
|Centilitre| ·01 | ·6103| 2 49· |
|Decilitre | ·1 | 6·1028| 3 4 10·36 |
|Litre | 1· | 61·028 | 1 15 1 43·69 |
|Decalitre | 10· | 610·28 | 2 1 12 1 16·9 |
|Hectolitre| 100· |6102·8 | 22 0 1 4 49· |
|Kilolitre | 1000· |61028· | 220 0 16 6 40· |
|Myrialitre|10000· |610280· |2201 (=275-1/8 _bushels_). |
+----------+---------+---------+--------------------------------------+
⁂ The standard unit in the above table is the litre, or the cube of the
1/10 of a mètre. The French centiare contains 1 square mètre,——the are,
100 do.,——the hectare, 10,000 do. The old Paris pint is equal to 1·678
English imperial pint.
‡‡‡ The capacity of solids and aëriform fluids is taken in cubic
inches, or feet, in England. In France, the stere, or mètre cube, equal to
35·31658 English cubic feet, is the standard unit.
TABLE VI. _Miscellaneous Measures and their
Equivalents:_
Tea or coffee spoonful (average) = 1 fl. dr.
Dessert spoonful ” = 2 ”
Table spoonful ” = 4 ”
Wine-glassful ” = 2 fl. oz.
Tea-cupful ” = 5 ”
Breakfast-cupful ” = 8 ”
Tumblerful ” = 8 ”
Basinful ” = 12 ”
Thimbleful ” = 3/4 fl. dr.
Pinch (of leaves and flowers) ” = 1 dr.
Handful (of leaves and flowers) ” = 10 ”
Cubic inch of water, at 62° Fahr. = 252·458 gr.
Cubic foot of water, at 62° Fahr. = 62·32106 lb.
————
Line = 1/12 inch.
Barleycorn = 1/3 ”
Hand = 4 ”
Chain = 4 poles or 22 yards.
=MEAT.= The muscular tissue or flesh of the principal animals constituting
the food of man may be said to be composed of the same proximate
principles, and, given an equal digestibility and power of being
assimilated, may be also said to have an equally nutritive value.
Since meat, however, is generally eaten with a certain amount of fat,
which accompanies it in varying quantity, the capacity of the meat for
forming muscle will, of course, be in inverse proportion to the amount of
fat it contains; on the contrary, its power of raising the bodily
temperature will be in direct proportion. Moleschott (quoted by Parkes)
gives the following as the mean composition of fresh beef, as determined
by all the Continental chemists:——
Water 73·4
Soluble albumen and hæmatin 2·25
Insoluble albuminous substances 15·20
Gelatinous substances 3·30
Fat 2·87
Extractive matter 1·38
Creatin 0·068
Ash 1·6
Dr Parkes remarks of the amount of fat given in the above analysis “that
it is evidently too low.”
In the above table we recognise in the albuminous and gelatinous
substances the source of the muscular tissue of the human organism. The
ash contains the chlorides, carbonates, and phosphates of potassium,
sodium, and calcium. From these salts are derived the hydrochloric acid
of the gastric juice, the sodium of the bile, and the calcium phosphate
and carbonate of the skeleton. Iron is also present, and this finds its
way into the blood.
The flavour of meat is much influenced by the food of the animal. The
flesh of the Pampas pig is found to be rank and disagreeable when the
animal is killed in its wild state; if, however, the food be changed for
the better, the flesh becomes altogether different and quite eatable. The
pork of pigs fed on flesh is said to give off a strong odour, the fat at
the same time being unusually soft. Soft fat is also said to form in
animals that have been fed on oily foods.
When meat is roasted, the fire gradually coagulates the albumen of the
joint, the coagulation commencing at the surface, and spreading by degrees
to the interior. Unless the roasting be continued long enough, sufficient
heat will not reach the parts nearest the centre to effect their
coagulation; and if under these circumstances the meat be removed from the
fire, the uncoagulated or inner parts will present the well-known red and
juicy appearance known as ‘underdone.’ Although a certain quantity of the
gravy (which consists of the soluble and saline ingredients) escapes in
the process, the greater part is retained. The brown agreeably sapid
substance formed on the outside of the meat is known as _osmazome_, and
which is concentrated gravy. The melting fat which collects below forms
the dripping. The loss in the meat is principally water.
The chemical effects of boiling are explained under the article devoted to
that subject.
Meat generally loses from 30 to 40 per cent., and sometimes as much as 60
per cent. in weight, by cooking.
The amount of bone varies, being seldom less than 8 per cent. It amounts
in the neck and brisket to about 10 per cent. and from one third to
sometimes half the total weight in shins and legs of beef.
The most economical parts are the round and thick flank, next to these the
brisket and sticking-piece, and lastly, the leg.
In choosing mutton and pork, selection should be made of the leg, after
this of the shoulder.[26]
[Footnote 26: Letheby.]
“Oxen,” says M. Bizet, “yield of _best quality_ beef 57 per cent. of meat,
and 43 per cent. waste. The waste includes the internal viscera, &c.
_Second quality_ of beef, 54 per cent. meat and 46 per cent. waste; _third
quality_ beef, 51 per cent. meat and 49 per cent. waste. In milking-cows,
46 per cent. meat and 54 per cent. waste. Calves yield 60 per cent. meat,
and 40 per cent. loss; and sheep yield 50 per cent. meat, and 50 per cent.
loss.” Dr Parkes differs from Bizet as to the latter’s value of the meat
of the calf. He says the flesh of young animals loses from 40 to 50 per
cent. in cooking.
It seems to be agreed, however, that animals when slaughtered should be
neither too young nor too old. The flesh of young animals, although more
tender, is less digestible than that of older ones; it is also poorer in
salts, fat, and an albuminous substance called _syntonin_.
=Consumption of Meat.= Dr Letheby, writing in 1868, says that in London
“the indoor operatives eat it to the extent of 14·8 oz. per adult weekly;
70 per cent. of English farm labourers consume it, and to the extent of 16
oz. per man weekly; 60 per cent. of the Scotch, 30 of the Welsh, and 20 of
the Irish also eat it. The Scotch probably have a larger allowance than
the English, considering that braxy mutton[27] is the perquisite of the
Scotch labourer; but the Welsh have only an average amount of 2-1/2 oz.
per adult weekly; and the Irish allowance is still less. It is difficult
to obtain accurate returns of the quantity of meat consumed in London; but
if the computation of Dr Wynter is correct, it is not less than 30-3/4 oz.
per head weekly, or about 4-1/2 oz. per day for every man, woman, and
child. In Paris, according to M. Armand Husson, who has carefully
collected the _octroi_ returns, “it is rather more than 49 oz. per head
weekly, or just 7 oz. a day.” Bondin states that throughout France the
consumption is about 50 grammes daily, or under 1-3/4 oz.
[Footnote 27: See further on.]
Dr Letheby, in his work ‘On Food,’ gives the following as the
characteristics of good meat:——
“1st. It is neither of a pale pink colour nor of a deep purple tint, for
the former is a sign of disease, and the latter indicates that the animal
has not been slaughtered, but has died with the blood in it, or has
suffered from acute fever.
“2nd. It has a marked appearance from the ramifications of little veins of
fat among the muscles.
“3rd. It should be firm and elastic to the touch, and should scarcely
moisten the fingers——bad meat being wet, and sodden and flabby, with the
fat looking like jelly or wet parchment.
“4th. It should have little or no odour, and the odour should not be
disagreeable, for diseased meat has a sickly cadaverous smell, and
sometimes a smell of physic. This is very discoverable when the meat is
chopped up and drenched with warm water.
“5th. It should not shrink or waste much in cooking.
“6th. It should not run to water, or become very wet on standing for a day
or so, but should, on the contrary, dry upon the surface.
“7th. When dried at a temperature of 212° or thereabout, it should not
lose more than from 70 to 74 per cent. of its weight, whereas bad meat
will often lose as much as 80 per cent.
“Other properties of a more refined character will also serve for the
recognition of bad meat, as that the juice of the flesh is alkaline or
neutral to test-paper, instead of being distinctly acid, and the muscular
fibre, when examined under the microscope is found to be sodden and
ill-defined.”
_Unsound meat——diseased meat._ Dr Letheby, in his ‘Lectures on Food,’
published in 1868, states that the seizure and condemnation, in London, of
meat unfit for human food, during a period extending over seven years,
amounted to 700 tons per annum, or to about 1-750th of the whole quantity
consumed. These 700 tons he dissects into lbs. as follows:——“805,653 lbs.
were diseased, 568,375 lbs. were putrid, and 193,782 lbs. were from
animals that had not been slaughtered, but had died from accident or
disease. It consisted of 6640 sheep and lambs, 1025 calves, 2896 pigs,
9104 quarters of beef, and 21,976 joints of meat.”
He admits, however, that this amount, owing to the difficulties and
inefficiency of the mode of supervision, bears a very insignificant
proportion to the actual quantity which escaped detection, and which was,
therefore, partaken of as food. Professor Gamgee says that one fifth of
the meat eaten in the metropolis is diseased. In 1863 the bodies of an
enormous number of animals suffering from _rinderpest_, as well as from
_pleuro-pneumonia_, were consumed in London; and we know that thousands of
sheep die every year, in the country, of _rot_; the inference from which
latter fact is that, since the carcases are neither eaten there nor buried
on the spot, they are sent up to, and thrown upon, the London markets. The
worst specimens find their way to the poorer neighbourhoods, where, as
might be expected, their low price ensures a ready sale for them. These
sales, it is said, mostly take place at night.
The above statements, which, if we exclude Professor Gamgee’s figures, do
not solve the problem as to the quantity of unsound meat consumed in
London, not unreasonably justify the assumption that it is very
considerable; and this being admitted, we should be prepared to learn that
it was a fertile source of disease of a more or less dangerous character.
There is, however, such extensive divergence in the various data bearing
upon this point, that no satisfactory solution of it can be said to be
afforded. Thus, Livingstone states that, when in South Africa, he found
that neither Englishmen nor natives could partake of the flesh of animals
affected with _pleuro-pneumonia_ without its giving rise to malignant
carbuncle, and sometimes, in the case of the natives, to death, and Dr
Letheby attributes the increased number of carbuncles and phlegmons
amongst our population to the importation from Holland of cattle suffering
from the same disease. On the contrary, Dr Parkes says he was informed, on
excellent authority, that the Caffres invariably consume the flesh of
their cattle that die of the same epidemic, without the production of any
ill effects. Again, there are numerous well-attested cases in which the
flesh of sheep which have died from _braxy_ (a disease that makes great
ravages amongst the flocks in Scotland) is constantly eaten without
injurious results by the Scotch shepherd. The malady causes death in the
sheep from the blood coagulating in the vital organs, and the sheep that
so dies becomes the property of the shepherd, who, after removing the
offal, is careful to cut out the dark congealed blood before cooking
it.[28] Sometimes he salts down the carcase. In cases, however, where
thorough cooking or an observance of the above precautions have been
neglected, very dangerous and disastrous consequences have ensued. During
the late siege of Paris large quantities of the flesh of horses with
glanders appear to have been eaten with no evil consequences: and Mr
Blyth, in his ‘Dictionary of Hygiène,’ quotes a similar case from Tardieu,
who states that 300 army horses affected with glanders (_morve_) were led
to St Germain, near Paris, and killed. For several days they served to
feed the poor of the town without causing any injury to health.
[Footnote 28: Letheby.]
A similar exemption from any evil effect following the consumption of
diseased flesh is recorded by Professor Brucke, of Vienna.
Not many years since the cattle of a locality in Bohemia, being attacked
by _rinderpest_, were ordered by the Government to be slaughtered, after
which they were buried. The poor people dug up the diseased carcases,
cooked the meat, and ate it, with no injurious result.
Parent Duchâtelet cites a case where the flesh of seven cows attacked with
rabies was eaten without injury; and Letheby states that pigs with scarlet
fever and spotted typhus have been used for food with equally harmless
results. The flesh of sheep with smallpox had been found to produce
vomiting and diarrhœa, sometimes accompanied with fever.
One obvious suggestion of the immunity from disease recorded in part of
the cases above given is that the injurious properties of the flesh had
been destroyed by the heat to which it had been subjected in the process
of cooking, combined with the antiseptic and protective power of the
gastric juice. The subject, however, has not been sufficiently examined to
warrant the conclusion that every kind of unsound meat may be rendered
innocuous by culinary means.
But even were this so the idea of partaking of meat which had once been
unsound, from whatever cause, and, as in the instances above quoted, with
the pustules of smallpox, the spots generated by typhus, and the rash of
scarlet fever upon it, becomes unspeakably repulsive and revolting. But we
must not be misled because of the difficulty of reconciling the
contradictory statements above given, nor by the evidence some of them
appear to afford as to the innocuous character of diseased meat, since it
is just possible that closer and more prolonged observation of the facts
may have led to different conclusions. Thus, for example, pork, infested
with that formidable entozoon, the _Trichina spiralis_, had been partaken
of for years, under the impression that it was a perfectly healthy food,
until Dr Zencker, of Dresden, discovered that the parasite was the cause
of a frightful disease, which he called _Trichinosis_, and which had
hitherto baffled all attempts to find out its origin. Dr Letheby, writing
on this subject, says: “I have often had occasion to investigate cases of
mysterious disease, which had undoubtedly been caused by unsound meat. One
of these, of more than ordinary interest, occurred in the month of
November, 1860. The history of it is this:——A forequarter of cow-beef was
purchased in Newgate Market by a sausage-maker who lived in Kingsland, and
who immediately converted it into sausage-meat. Sixty-six persons were
known to have eaten of that meat, and sixty-four of them were attacked
with sickness, diarrhœa, and great prostration of vital powers. One of
them died; and at the request of the coroner I made a searching inquiry
into the matter, and I ascertained that the meat was diseased, and that
it, and it alone, had been the cause of all the mischief.”[29]
[Footnote 29: Letheby, ‘Lectures on Food,’ Longman and Co.]
Here are two instances in which but for subsequent investigation the evil
effects narrated would not have been debited to diseased meat, but to some
other cause.
“One of the principal and by far the most prolific sources of
food-poisoning is the sausage, the eating of which, in Germany more
particularly, has caused the death of a number of persons.
The sausages in which these poisonous qualities occasionally develop
themselves are the large kinds made in Wurtemburg, in which district alone
they have caused the deaths of more than 150 out of 400 persons during the
last fifty years. The poisonous character of the sausage is said to
develop itself generally in the spring, when it becomes musty, and also
soft in the interior. It is then found to be acid to test paper, and to
have a very disagreeable and tainted flavour.
Should it be eaten when in this state, after from about twelve to
twenty-four hours the patient is attacked with severe intestinal
irritation in the form of pains in the stomach and bowels by vomitings,
and diarrhœa.
To these symptoms succeed great depression, coldness in the limbs, weak
and irregular pulse, and frequent fainting fits. Should the sufferer be
attacked with convulsions, and difficult respiration, the seizure
generally ends in death. The nature of the poisonous substance that gives
rise to these effects in the sausage has not yet been determined. Liebig
believed them to be due to the presence in the meat of a particular animal
ferment, which he conceived acted on the blood by catalysis, and thus
rendered it diseased. Others have surmised that a poisonous organic
alkaloid may have been produced in the decaying meat; and others again
that the effects may have been caused by some deleterious substance of a
fatty nature. M. Van den Corput was of opinion that the mischief was due
to the presence in the meat of a poisonous fungus, which he calls a
_sarcina botulina_. This last theory receives support from the fact that a
peculiar mouldiness is always to be observed in these dangerous sausages,
and that this is coincident with the development of their poisonous
qualities.
Several effects have been produced by other kinds of animal food——as veal,
bacon, ham, salt-beef, salt-fish, cheese, &c., and the food has usually
been in a decayed and mouldy condition. It would be tedious if I were to
detail, or even to enumerate the cases recorded by medico-legal writers;
but I may perhaps refer to a few of them. In 1839 there was a popular fête
at Zurich, and about 600 persons partook of a repast of cold roast veal
and ham. In a few hours most of them were suffering from pain in the
stomach, with vomiting and diarrhœa; and before a week had elapsed nearly
all of them were seriously ill in bed. They complained of shiverings,
giddiness, headache and burning fever. In a few cases there was delirium,
and when they terminated fatally there was extreme prostration of the
vital powers. Careful inquiry was instituted into the matter, and the only
discoverable cause of the mischief was incipient putrefaction and slight
mouldiness of the meat.” A case is recorded by Dr Geisler of eight persons
who became ill from eating bacon which was mouldy; and another by M.
Ollivier of the death of four persons out of eight, all of whom had
partaken of partially decomposed mutton.
If some of the foregoing statements fail to demonstrate that the act of
partaking of diseased meat is a necessary source of danger to health,
there can be no such doubt as to the pernicious and perilous consequences
which ensue when meat is consumed containing in its tissues the ova and
larvæ of certain parasitic creatures. If the fleshy part of a piece of
measly pork be carefully examined, it will be found to be more or less
dotted about with a number of little bladder-like spots, in size about as
large as a hemp-seed.[30]
[Footnote 30: See article “Cysticerci.”]
If now we carefully rupture one of these little bodies or cysts, there
will be found in it a minute worm, which under the microscope will be seen
to have a head from which proceed a number of little hooks that perform a
very disagreeable office should the parasite be taken into the human
stomach by any one making a meal off measly and undercooked pork. For,
then, being liberated from its sac, or nidus, by the action of the gastric
juice of the stomach on this latter, the creature passes into the
intestines. To these it attaches itself by means of the hooklets on its
head, and instantly becomes a tapeworm, which grows by a succession of
jointed segments it is able to develop, and each one of which is capable
of becoming a separate and prolific tapeworm filled with countless eggs.
These eggs reach the land through the agency of manure (for they are found
in the intestines of the horse), and from this source they get into the
stomachs of pigs and oxen, where they hatch not into tapeworm, or _tenia_,
but, travelling through the animal’s stomach, burrow into its muscular
tissue. Here they establish and envelop themselves in the little cyst or
small bladder-like substance, whose presence, as explained, constitutes
the condition called “measly” pork, and here they remain dormant until
such time as, taken into the stomach, they may again become tapeworms, to
be again expelled and to perpetuate by their ova the round of
metamorphosis. From the circumstance of their being met with enclosed in
little sacs or cysts, these parasites have been termed _Cysticerci_. The
variety of them we have just been considering as occurring in pork is
called the _Cysticercus cellulosæ_, whilst the tapeworm to which it gives
rise is known as the _Tinea solium_.
Another variety of _Cysticercus_ is met with in the flesh of the ox, the
cow, and the calf. In the human body this also develops into a tapeworm
called the _Tinea mediocanellata_. Tapeworm is a very common disease in
Russia and Abyssinia, and its prevalence is no doubt due to the habit of
giving the children in those countries raw meat to suck, under the
impression that the child is strengthened in consequence. From experiments
made by Dr Lewis it was found that a temperature of 150° F., maintained
for five minutes, was sufficient to destroy these cysticerci.
Another and more formidable entozoon, communicable by unsound meat, is the
_Echinococcus hominis_,[31] which represents one of the metamorphoses of
the _Tinea echinococcus_, the tapeworm of the dog. In Iceland, where a
sixth of the population are said to suffer from the ravages of the
_Echinococcus hominis_, it is the custom to feed the dogs on the flesh of
slaughtered animals affected with this parasite, which in the body of the
dog develops into a tapeworm. The innumerable eggs which the worm produces
are, however, incapable of being hatched in the dog’s intestines. They
have to find another and more suitable habitat, and this is secured for
them as follows:——Segments of the tapeworm, with their countless ova,
being voided with dog’s excrement, fall into the running water, and on to
the fields and pastures, whence they gain their entrance into the stomachs
of human beings, oxen, and sheep. Here the eggs become hatched, not into
tapeworms, but into _Echinococci hominis_, or prospective tapeworms.
Burrowing through the membranes of the stomach, the echinococcus
establishes itself most commonly in the liver, but not unfrequently in the
spleen, heart, lungs, and even the bones of man. In the animal economy
they enclose themselves in little sacs or cysts, and give rise to the most
alarming and painful diseases, which hitherto have proved incurable. They
attack the brain in sheep, and are the cause of the disease known as
“staggers.” Sheep are also infested by another parasite known as the
_Distoma hepatica_, the ravages of which give rise in the sheep to that
devastating disease——“the rot.” The creature is also known by the name of
the “liver-fluke,” since it principally attacks this important organ in
the animal. The liver-fluke is of constant occurrence in the livers of
diseased sheep, and unless destroyed by thorough cooking will of course
pass into the human economy. The embryo fluke gains admission to the
sheep’s body through the instrumentality of small snails, to the shells of
which it attaches itself. In wet weather the snails crawl over the grass
of the meadow which forms the pastures of the sheep, and are swallowed by
it. Once in the sheep’s stomach the embryo becomes a fluke, and commences
its depredations on the animal’s liver. After this, the reason why the rot
attacks sheep after a continuance of wet weather will be evident.
[Footnote 31: See article “Echinococcus hominis.”]
The most terrible of all the meat parasites is a minute worm about 1/30th
of an inch long, found in the flesh of pork. This creature, which is named
the _Trichina spiralis_ (from the form it assumes when coiled up in the
little cyst or capsule which encloses it), when it gets conveyed into the
human stomach with improperly cooked or underdone pork, soon becomes
liberated from its confinement owing to the destruction of its envelope by
the gastric juice. Once in the stomach the parasite grows rapidly, giving
birth to innumerable young _trichinæ_, which, by first boring through the
membranes of the alimentary canal, pierce their way through the different
parts of the body into the muscular tissue, where they become encysted,
and where they remain until conditions favorable to their liberation again
occur.
Until such time, however, as they have become enclosed in the cyst, their
movements give rise to indescribable torture, and to a disease known as
_trichinosis_, of which it has been estimated more than 50 per cent. of
those attacked by it die. The symptoms of trichinosis commence with loss
of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhœa, succeeded after a few days by great
fever——resembling, according to Dr Aitken, that of typhoid or typhus. As
might be expected the pains in the limbs are extreme. Boils and dropsical
swellings are not unusual concomitants of the malady.
Hitherto this frightful disease has been mostly confined to Germany, where
there have been several outbreaks of it since its discovery in 1860 by Dr
Zencker. Feidler says that only free _trichinæ_ are killed by a
temperature of 155° F.; and that when they are in their cysts a greater
heat may be necessary. From what has been said the importance of efficient
cooking must become manifest. There must always be risk in underdone pork,
whether boiled or roasted. In the pig, the trichina, if present, may
always be found in the muscles of the eye. In Germany the makers of pork
sausages are now said to have these muscles subjected to a microscopic
examination previous to using the meat, which, of course, is rejected if
the examination has been unfavorable.
The trichinæ, if present in the flesh of pork, may be seen as small round
specks by the naked eye, the surrounding flesh itself being rather darker
than usual owing to the inflammation set up in it. All doubt, however, on
this point may be removed by having recourse to the microscope. Dr Parkes
says a power of 50 to 100 diameters is sufficient, and that “the best plan
is to take a thin slice of flesh, put it into liquor potassæ (1 part to 8
of water), and let it stand for a few minutes till the muscle becomes
clear; it must not be left too long, otherwise the trichinæ will be
destroyed. The white specks come out clearly and the worm will be seen
coiled up. If the capsule is too dense to allow the worm to be seen, a
drop or two of weak hydrochloric acid should be added. If the meat be very
fat a little ether or benzine may be put on it in the first place.”
_Legislation relative to meat inspection and seizure._——The law
recognising the importance of the supply of pure and wholesome meat gives
considerable powers to the different sanitary officers who are appointed
to inspect it. See FOOD, INSPECTION OF.
=MEAT, AUSTRALIAN.= See MEAT PRESERVING.
=MEAT BISCUITS.= _Prep._ 1. The flour is mixed up with a rich fluid
extract of meat, and the dough is cut into pieces and baked in the usual
manner.
2. Wheaten flour (or preferably the whole meal), 3 parts; fresh lean beef
or other flesh (minced and pulped), 2 parts; thoroughly incorporate the
two by hand-kneading or machinery, and bake the pieces in a moderately
heated oven. Both the above are very nutritious; the last more especially
so. 1 oz. makes a pint of good soup.
=MEAT, COLD, to Stew.= Let the cold meat be cut into slices about half an
inch thick. Take two large-sized onions, and fry them in a wineglass of
vinegar; when done, pour them on to the meat; then place the whole in a
stewpan, and pour over sufficient water to cover it. After stewing about
half an hour add sufficient flour and butter to thicken the gravy, and
also pepper, salt, and ketchup, to flavour; then let it simmer gently for
another half an hour. Serve up with a little boiled rice around it.
=MEAT EXTRACTS.= Some preparations of this nature have been already
noticed under the heads ESSENCE and EXTRACT; the following are additional
and highly valuable formulæ:——
_Prep._ 1. (Dr Breslau.) Young ox-flesh (free from fat) is minced small,
and well beaten in a marble mortar, at first alone, and afterwards with a
little cold or lukewarm water; the whole is then submitted to the action
of a press, and the solid residuum is treated in the same manner, with a
little more cold water; the juice (reddish in colour) is now heated to
coagulate the albumen, strained, and finally evaporated in a water bath to
the consistence of an extract. As ordinary flesh contains only 1% of
kreatine, while that of the heart, according to Dr Gregory, contains from
1·37% to 1·41%, this is the part employed by Dr Breslau. The product
possesses an agreeable odour and taste; and is easily soluble in water.
2. (Falkland.) Fresh lean beef (or other flesh), recently killed, is
minced very fine, and digested, with agitation, in cold water, 1 pint, to
which hydrochloric acid, 6 drops, and common salt, 1 dr., have been added;
after about an hour the whole is thrown upon a fine hair sieve, and the
liquid portion allowed to drain off without pressure, the first portions
that pass through being returned until the fluid, at first turbid, becomes
quite clear and transparent; when all the liquid has passed through, cold
water, 1/4 pint, is gently poured on, in small portions at a time, and
allowed to drain through into that previously collected. The product is
about 3/4 pint of cold extract of flesh, having a red colour, and a
pleasant, soup-like taste. It is administered cold to the invalid——a
teacupful at a time, and must on no account be warmed, as the application
of even a very slight heat causes its decomposition and the separation of
a solid mass of coagulated albumen. This cold extract of flesh is not only
much more nutritious than ordinary beef tea, but also contains a certain
quantity of the red colouring matter of blood, in which there is a much
larger proportion of the iron requisite for the formation of
blood-particles. The hydrochloric acid also greatly facilitates the
process of digestion. This formula is a modification of the one recently
recommended by Liebig for the preparation of a highly nutritive and
restorative food for invalids.
3. (EXTRACTUM SANGUINIS BOVIS——Dr Mauthner.) Pass fresh blood (caught from
the slaughtered animal) through a sieve, evaporate it to dryness in a
water bath, and when cold rub it to powder.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr., or
more, per diem, in a little water.
_Obs._ The above preparations are intended to supersede the inefficient
compounds——beef tea, meat soups, &c.——during sickness and convalescence.
MM. Breslau and Mauthner describe their extracts of flesh and blood as
being peculiarly advantageous in scrofulous exhaustion, exhaustion from
anæmia, diarrhœa, &c. The extract of Falkland or Liebig is represented as
having been employed both in the hospitals and in private practice at
Munich with the most extraordinary success. It is said to be capable of
assimilation with the least possible expenditure of the vital force.
=Meat, Fluid.= This preparation consists of lean meat, in which the
albumen has been changed so as to be non-coagulable by heat, and the
fibrin and gelatin from their normal insoluble condition to one admitting
of their being dissolved in water.
In this soluble condition, the first stage effected in stomach digestion,
the several bodies are known as peptones or albuminose, and the proportion
of their simple constituents remains the same as in ordinary fibrin,
albumen, and gelatin.
The alteration is effected by finely mincing meat and digesting it with
peptone, hydrochloric acid, and water, at a temperature of about 100°
Fahr., until dissolved.
The solution is then filtered, the bitter principle, formed during the
digestion, removed by the addition of a little pancreatic emulsion, and
the liquor, which has been neutralised by the addition of carbonate of
soda, evaporated to a thick syrup or extractive consistence.
Fluid meat is the only preparation which entirely represents, and yields
the amount of nourishment afforded by, lean meat; it differs altogether
from beef tea and extracts of meat, as all these contain only a small
portion of the different constituents of meat. A patent has been granted
to its inventor, Mr Darby.
=Meat, Liebig’s Extract of.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF FLESH, EXTRACTUM CARNO.
This preparation is an aqueous infusion evaporated to the consistence of a
thick paste, of those principles of meat which are soluble in water.[32]
[Footnote 32: “Altered as they be by the Application of Heat.” Deane and
Brady, ‘Pharmaceutical Journal,’ Oct. 1866.]
It is chiefly composed of alkaline phosphates and chlorides, a nitrogenous
crystalline base known as kreatine, various extractive matters, which it
has been surmised may have originated in the decomposition of certain
nitrogenous bodies, and possibly of a small quantity of lactic acid, as it
contains neither albumen nor fibrin, two of the most important and
nutritious ingredients of flesh; it must not, therefore, be regarded as a
concentrated form of meat. Liebig says that it requires 34 lbs. of meat to
yield 1 lb. of this extract——a statement which, as Dr Pavy justly remarks,
shows how completely the substance of the meat which constitutes its real
nutritive portion must be excluded. This absence of direct nutrient power,
now admitted by physiologists, whilst disqualifying the extract as a
substitute for meat, does not, however, preclude its use in certain cases
of indisposition requiring the administration of a stimulant or
restorative, in which circumstances it has been found a useful and
valuable remedy, and has been suggested as a partial substitute for
brandy where there is considerable exhaustion or weakness, accompanied
with cerebral depression and lowness of spirits. In this latter respect
its action seems analogous to strong tea.
In the vast pastures of Australia and the pampas of South America are
countless herds of oxen and sheep, whose numbers far exceed the food
requirements of the comparatively sparse population of those districts.
The fat, horns, hoofs, bones, skins, and wool of these cattle, which form
the chief part of the wealth of those countries, are exported principally
to Europe. Until within a few years, however, no means had been adopted
for the utilisation of the superfluous flesh of the animals, beyond
employing it as a manure. By manufacturing it, however, into “extract of
meat,” this waste has been remedied, and immense works for its preparation
are now erected both in South America and in Australia. The process
followed by the different makers, although varying in some particulars, is
essentially the same, and consists in extracting by water, either hot,
cold, or in the form of the steam, those portions of the meat which are
soluble in that fluid, and subsequently evaporating the solution so
obtained until it becomes of a proper consistence to be put into jars. The
extract so obtained keeps well (if all the fat and gelatin are removed),
and is most conveniently adapted for exportation. It is said that the
extract as being obtained from cattle that have had English progenitors
possesses a flavour superior to that which comes from South America, where
the animals are of a different and inferior breed.
The following interesting description of the manufacture of “Liebig’s
Extract of Meat” is taken from the Buenos Ayres ‘Standard’ of September,
1867. The establishment, of which it is a description, is at Fray Bentos,
on the Uruguay, South America. “The new factory is a building which covers
about 20,000 square feet, and is roofed in iron and glass. We first enter
a large flagged hall, kept dark, cool, and extremely clean, where the meat
is weighed, and passed through apertures to the meat-cutting machines. We
next come to the beef-cutting hall, where are four powerful meat-cutters,
especially designed by the company’s general manager, M. Geibert; each
machine can cut the meat of 200 bullocks per hour. The meat being cut is
passed to ‘digerators’ made of wrought iron; each one holds about 12,000
lbs. of beef; there are nine of these digerators, and three more have to
be put up. Here the meat is digerated by high-pressure steam of 75 lbs.
per square inch; from this the liquid which contains the extract and the
fat of the meat proceeds in tubes to a range of ‘fat separators’ of
peculiar construction. Here the fat is separated in the hot state from the
extract, as no time can be lost for cool operation, otherwise
decomposition would set in in a very short time.
“We proceed downstairs to an immense hall, sixty feet high, where the fat
separators are working; below them is a range of five cast-iron
clarifiers, 1000 gallons each, worked by high-pressure steam through
Hallet’s tube system.
“Each clarifier is provided with a very ingenious steam-tap. In the
monstrous clarifiers the albumen, fibrin, and phosphates are separated.
From hence the liquid extract is raised by means of air-pumps, driven by
two thirty horse-power engines, up to two vessels about twenty feet above
the clarifiers; thence the liquid runs to the other large evaporators. Now
we ascend the staircase reaching the hall, where two immense sets of four
vacuum apparatus are at work, evaporating the extract by a very low
temperature; here the liquid passes several filtering processes before
being evaporated in vacuo. We now ascend some steps and enter the
ready-making hall, separated by a wire gauze wall, and all the windows,
doors, &c., guarded by the same to exclude flies and dust. The ventilation
is maintained by patent fans, and the place is extremely clean. Here are
placed five ready-making pans constructed of steel plates, with a system
of steel discs revolving in the liquid extract.
“These five pans, by medium of discs, 100 in each pan, effect in one
minute more than two million square feet evaporating surface.
“Here concludes the manufacturing process. The extract is now withdrawn in
large cans and deposited for the following day.
“Ascending a few steps we enter the decrystallising and packing hall,
where two large cast-iron tanks are placed, provided with hot water baths
under their bottoms; in these tanks the extract is thrown in quantities of
10,000 lbs. at once, and here decrystallising is made a homogeneous mass
and of uniform quality. Now samples are taken and analysed by the chemist
of the establishment, Dr Seekamp, under whose charge the chemical and
technical operations are performed.
“It may be mentioned that the company’s butcher killed at the rate of 80
oxen per hour; separating by a small double-edged knife the vertebræ, the
animal drops down instantaneously on a waggon, and is conducted to a place
where 150 men are occupied dressing the meat for the factory, cutting each
ox into six pieces; 400 are being worked per day.”
Mr Tooth at a meeting before the “Food Committee” held at the Society of
Arts in January, 1868, said that he did not claim any difference in the
composition of his article (which was made in Australia) as compared with
that made by the South American Company.
In the annexed table the composition of some of the extracts of meat of
commerce is given:——
+--------------+-------------+-------+---------------+----------+----------+
| | Liebig’s | Tooth,|French Company,|Whitehead.|Twentyman.|
| | Company. |Sydney.|South America. | | |
+--------------+------+------+-------+---------------+----------+----------+
|Water | 18·56| 16·00| 17·06 | 16·50 | 24·49 | 20·81 |
|Extractive, | | | | | | |
| soluble in | | | | | | |
| alcohol | 45·43| 53·00| 51·28 | 28·00 | 22·08 | 13·37 |
|Extractive, | | | | | | |
| insoluble | 13·93| 13·00| 10·57 | 46·00 | 44·47 | 59·10 |
|Mineral matter| 22·08| 18·00| 21·09 | 9·50 | 8·96 | 6·72 |
| +------+------+-------+---------------+----------+----------+
| |100·00|100·00|100·00 | 100·00 | 100·00 | 100·00 |
+--------------+------+------+-------+---------------+----------+----------+
The following are the characteristics of extract of meat of good quality.
It should always have an acid reaction, its colour should be a pale
yellowish brown, and it should have an agreeable meat-like odour and
taste. It should be entirely soluble in cold water, and should be free
from albumen, fat, and gelatin.
=Meat Pie.= Stew 2 lbs. of beef steak with one small onion, the gravy from
which is to be thickened with flour, and flavoured with pepper and salt.
Put it into a baking dish, and cover with a lard crust. It should be baked
for one hour. The addition of two kidneys will greatly improve the pie.
=Meat (Australian) Pie.= Take 2 lbs. of Australian meat, or 1-1/2 lb. of
meat and 1/2 lb. of kidney. Season to taste, pour in a little water, cover
with a lard crust, and bake _not more_ than half an hour.
=MEAT PRESERVING.= “The Belgian _Musée de l’Industrie_ notes the following
methods of preserving meats as the most deserving of attention amongst
those communicated to the French Academy of Sciences, and published in the
_Comptes Rendus_. 1. M. Bundet’s method, by which the meat is kept in
water acidulated with carbolic acid in the proportion of 1 to 5 parts of
acid per 1000 of water. A series of experiments proved that all kinds of
meat could thus be kept fresh for lengthened periods, without acquiring an
ill taste or odour.
“The meat may be placed in barrels or air-tight tin cases, filled with
acidulated water of the strength above specified, and headed up; or the
pieces may be packed in barrels or cases in alternate layers with
charcoal, pounded small, and saturated with water containing 5/1000 of
carbolic acid. The charcoal serves as a vehicle for the antiseptic fluid,
and as an absorbent of any gaseous matters given off by the meat. The
latter should be wrapped in thin linen covers to prevent the charcoal
working its way into the tissues.
“This method, it is suggested, might be employed in curing pork in place
of ‘salting,’ or of the more lengthy and costly process of ‘smoking,’ and
also for the preservation of poultry, game, butter, eggs, &c.
“2. In the case of South American meat M. Baudet proposes the use of large
sacks of caoutchouc. The meat should be packed in them, with alternate
layers of charcoal as above described, and each sack, when filled, should
be hermetically closed by drawing another empty caoutchouc sack, cap-wise,
over it. The caoutchouc, it is supposed, would fetch enough in the
market——its low price notwithstanding——to cover expenses of packing and
freight, and so permit the meat to be sold in Europe at a very small
advance on cost price. If intended for use a second time, the empty bags
should be steeped in boiling water for a few minutes, to remove any
organic impurities adhering to them.
“3. M. Gorge’s method, which is in use in La Plata, consists in washing
and drying the meat, and afterwards steeping in successive waters
containing hydrochloric acid and sulphite of soda, and then packing it in
air-tight cases holding 1, 5, or 10 kilog. each. Meat thus treated
requires to be soaked in warm water for about half an hour before use.
“4. M. Leon Soubeiran has recommended braying and drying, in the fashion
adopted by the Chinese and Mongols, as described by M. Simon, French
consul in China, in a communication made by him to the Société
d’Acclimatation. The _pemmican_ of our Arctic voyagers and the _charqui_
of South America are familiar examples of meat preserved by analogous
processes. The late M. Payen, a distinguished member of the Academy,
insisted upon the great perfection to which this system might be carried
by the aid of hot-air stoves and suitable apparatus.”
Besides the foregoing, numerous patents have from time to time been taken
out, and processes proposed for the preservation of meat; so as to enable
it to be sent from those distant countries, such as South America,
Australia, Canada, &c., where it is greatly in excess of the wants of the
population, to other lands, in which the supply is as much below the
demand, and the meat at such a price as to preclude its being regularly
used as an article of food by the body of the people.
As the putrefactive changes set up in dead flesh are dependent upon the
combined influences of moisture, air, and a certain temperature, it
follows that most of the various methods of meat preservation resolve
themselves into so many different efforts to remove the meat from the
operation of one of the conditions above specified as necessary for its
decomposition.
The _charqui_ or jerked beef of South America affords an example of meat
preserved by means of being deprived of moisture. It occurs in thongs or
strips which have been prepared by placing freshly killed meat between
layers of salt and drying them in the sun. _Charqui_, although it retains
its soundness for a great length of time, and is rendered eatable by
soaking in water and prolonged cooking, is difficult of digestion and
wanting in flavour, and if any fat be associated with it, this is liable
to become rancid.
_Pemmican_ is meat which, after being dried and powdered, is mixed with
sugar and certain spices, both of which assist to preserve the meat as
well as to improve its flavour, and to remove the tendency to rancidity
caused by any fat that may be accidentally present.
Another process for the preservation of meat by means of desiccation is
that of MM. Blumenthal and Chollet, who, in 1854, obtained a patent for
preparing tablets composed of dried meat and vegetables, which, after
being several times dipped into rich soup, were dried in warm air after
each immersion.
At a meeting of the Food Committee, held at the Society of Arts, in May,
1868, specimens of dried beef and mutton in powder, from Brisbane, were
shown by Mr Orr, who said they had been dried on tinned plates by means of
steam. Dr A. S. Taylor, F.R.S., who examined the sample, found it
perfectly fresh and good. It had been prepared at least six months
previously.
At a subsequent meeting, the Committee reported that the soup prepared
from this desiccated meat, with the addition of a small quantity of
vegetables, was considered very successful, and the Committee were of
opinion that meat so preserved was likely to prove a valuable and cheap
addition to the food resources of the people.
The specimen from which the soup was made had been in the Society’s
possession, and formed part of the contents of a tin opened upwards of two
years ago. The preservation was perfect.
We have only space briefly to describe some of the more prominent of the
processes which have been devised for the preservation of meat by
excluding atmospheric air.
Mr Tallerman, a large importer of Australian meat, stated in evidence
before the Food Committee of the Society of Arts, in May, 1870, that in
the preservation of the meat he sent over to this country he had recourse
to a very old practice, which was that of packing the joints in fat, the
meat being previously salted or cured. Instead of the meat being packed in
brine, the casks with the meat are filled up with melted fat.
In Mr Warrington’s patent, which dates from 1846, it is proposed that
animal substances shall be preserved by enveloping them in a layer of
glue, gelatin, or concentrated meat gravy, or otherwise by dipping them in
warm solutions of such substances, or by wrapping them in waterproof
cloth, or by covering them with caoutchouc, gutta percha, or varnish, or
thin cream of plaster of Paris, which when set was saturated with melted
suet, wax, or stearin.
The patent of Prof. Redwood, which resembles Mr Warrington’s in seeking to
exclude atmospheric air by surrounding the meat with an impervious
substance, claimed the use of paraffin for this purpose, the paraffin
being afterwards coated with a mixture of gelatin and treacle, or gelatin
and glycerin. The paraffin is easily removed from the meat by plunging
this latter into boiling water, which dissolves the outer coating of
gelatin mixture, and at the same time melts the paraffin and liberates the
enclosed joint.
Messrs Jones and Trevethick’s patent consisted in exhausting of air the
vessel containing the meat, then forcing into it a mixture of nitrogen and
sulphurous acids, and subsequently soldering the apertures. Dr Letheby
says meat, fish, and poultry preserved in this manner have been found good
after seven or eight years; and specimens of them were exhibited in the
London Exhibition of 1862.
The removal, however, of atmospheric air from the vessels containing the
meat it is designed to preserve is now principally accomplished by means
of steam. The germ of this idea originated with M. Pierre Antonie
Angilbert more than half a century ago, but the modification of
Angilbert’s process, which in principle is that generally adopted by the
importers of Australian and South American _cooked_ meat, as well as by
the English preparers of the article, originated with Messrs Goldner and
Wertheimer, nearly forty years since, and, briefly, is as follows:——The
freshly killed meat is placed in tins, with a certain quantity of cold
water. The tins and their contents are then securely soldered down, with
the exception of a small opening not larger than a pin-hole, which is left
in the lid. The tins are next placed in a bath of chloride of calcium, the
effect of which is to heat the water in them up to the boiling point, and
after a certain time to more or less cook the meat contained in them. When
the meat is thought to be sufficiently cooked, and whilst the steam
arising from the boiling water is escaping from the aperture, this last is
carefully soldered down, the steam not only having driven out all the
atmospheric air from the vessel, but in the act of escaping having
prevented the ingress of any from without. To still further guard against
the entrance of air, the tins are covered over with a thick coating of
paint.
Previously to their being allowed to leave the preserving works they are
tested by being placed for some time in an apartment in which the
temperature is sufficiently high to set up putrefactive action in the meat
if any air has been left in the tins, the evidence of which would be the
bulging out of the tins, owing to the liberation of certain gaseous
products of decomposition. When no distension from inside takes place,
the result is considered satisfactory, and the vessels are regarded as
properly and hermetically sealed. In some cases the vessels, instead of
being heated in a bath of chloride of calcium, are exposed to the action
of steam. If the operation be successfully performed, the meat so prepared
will keep perfectly good avid sound for years.
Mr Richard Jones effects the removal of the air from the vessels
containing the meat as follows:——The meat is put into the tins and
entirely soldered up, with the exception of a small tube about the size of
a quill, which is soldered on the top of the tin. This tube is placed in
connection with a vacuum chamber, and the air exhausted from the tin by
means of it. In cooking the meat he also employs a chloride of calcium
bath.
Dr Letheby, in one of his Canton Lectures on Food, delivered in 1865,
speaking on this part of the subject, and on the above method of meat
preservation, says:——“To-night, through the kindness of Messrs Crosse and
Blackwell, I am able to show you a specimen of preserved mutton which has
been in the case forty-four years, and you will perceive that it is in
excellent condition. It formed part of the stores supplied by Messrs
Donkin and Gamble, in 1824, to His Majesty’s Exploring ship _Fury_, which
was wrecked in Prince Regent’s Inlet in 1825, when the cases were landed
with the other stores, and left upon the beach.
“Eight years afterwards, in August, 1833, they were found by Sir John Ross
in the same condition as they were left; and he wrote to Mr Gamble at the
end of that year, saying, ‘that the provisions were still in a perfect
state of preservation, although annually exposed to a temperature of 92°
below and 80° above zero.’ Some of the cases were left untouched by Sir
John Ross; and after a further interval of sixteen years the place was
visited by a party from Her Majesty’s ship _Investigator_, when, according
to a letter from the captain, Sir James Ross, ‘the provisions were in
excellent condition, after having lain upon the beach, exposed to the
action of the sun, and all kinds of weather, for a period of nearly a
quarter of a century.’ Messrs Crosse and Blackwell have placed the
original letters in my hands for perusal, and they show beyond all doubt
that meat preserved in this manner will keep good for nearly half a
century——in fact, the case of boiled mutton now before you has been
preserved for forty——four years.”
The generality of the samples of preserved meat from Australia are
excellent in quality and flavour,[33] except that in most cases the meat
has been overcooked, which has arisen from the too prolonged contact of
the meat with the steam, which it is judged necessary shall be generated
in such quantities as to ensure the certainty of the exclusion of the air.
Another inconvenience attending the process, viz. the liability of the
sides of the tin to collapse, owing to the vacuum formed in its interior,
has been remedied by the introduction into the vessel of some inert gas,
such as carbonic acid, or nitrogen.
[Footnote 33: The Food Committee of the Society of Arts, who have
carefully and impartially examined numerous samples of Australian and
South American preserved meat, say: “It is perfectly sweet and fresh, but
somewhat insipid from overcooking, and it seems likely the flavour could
be improved if the duration of exposure to heat could be shortened without
endangering the preservation.”]
Preserved meat at the present time forms a very considerable article of
export both from Australia and South America. In the former country there
are several establishments of a colossal character, where the work of
tinning the meat is carried on, in many of which establishments hundreds
of cattle are slaughtered daily. The largest establishments of the kind
are at Sydney and Melbourne, whence extensive shipments are being
constantly made. The following figures are taken from the Board of Trade
returns:——
_Value of Meat preserved otherwise than by Salting._
Imports from Total
Australia. Imports.
1871 £481,093 £610,228
1872 657,945 816,463
1873 557,552 733,331
1874 509,698 757,001
1875 249,611 592,196
Since 1876 tinned meat has been imported from North America.
Several methods have been proposed for the preservation of meat by
subjecting it to such conditions that the surrounding temperature should
be sufficiently low to arrest putrefaction. In Mr Harrison’s process the
reduction of temperature was effected by the application of melting ice
and salt, made to run down the outside of the iron chambers containing the
meat. It is affirmed that although the joints submitted to this treatment
were solidly frozen, no loss of either flavour or immediate decomposition
of the meat took place. Mr Harrison’s experiment was perfectly successful
in Australia, but broke down during the voyage of a large cargo of meat
shipped from Australia in 1873, owing to a defect in the construction of
the ice chamber of the vessel and the failure of the supply of ice.
Of other forms of refrigeration applied for this purpose we may mention
the process of M. Tellier, by which he proposes to place (on ship-board or
elsewhere) joints of meat in a chamber through which a current of air
charged with ether or other volatile substance may be passed, with a view
to reduce the temperature to 30° F. Also that of M. Poggiale, from whose
report to the Paris Academy of Medicine it appears that in chambers
contrived on principles similar to M. Tellier’s, all kinds of butcher’s
meat and poultry have been hung for ten weeks, at the end of which time
they were found perfectly fresh and wholesome. The agent used in the
latter case for the production of cold was methylic ether.
The process, however, of refrigeration which has proved not only the most,
but in every respect successful, was first satisfactorily carried out
since 1876, in which time large cargoes of dead meat have been constantly
sent to our metropolitan markets, as well as to Glasgow, from New York.
The following extract from the ‘Dundee Advertiser’ gives some interesting
details of this process:——
“As to dead meat, the first sale was held on the 5th of June, when 100
carcases of beef and 72 of mutton were disposed of. Since then there has
never been a smaller supply, and on the average about 150 carcases have
been sold weekly. Last week 210 carcases were sold, and on Wednesday
evening there were no fewer than 33 lorries, each laden with three tons of
butcher’s meat. The freight paid for carriage to Glasgow, Liverpool, and
London, last week amounted to £1900. Altogether, since the importation
began, a million and a quarter pounds of dead meat have been sold in
Glasgow. The result of this importation has been a reduction in retail
price of 1d. per lb., instead of an increase in price, which must have
taken place without the increased supply.
“The oxen are collected chiefly in the states of Illinois and Kentucky.
They are there reared in enormous numbers on the prairies. Before they
reach New York they are driven over railway for fully a thousand miles.
Those animals the carcases of which are to be sent to this country are
killed the day before the departure of the steamer. As soon as the
carcases are dressed they are put into a cooling room capable of
containing 500, and subject to a constant current of cold air, supplied by
means of a 25 horse-power engine. This sets the beef and extracts the
animal heat. Each carcase is next cut into quarters, and these are sewn up
in canvas, and during the night transferred on board the vessel. Six of
the Anchor Line mail steamers have been fitted up with refrigeration
compartments, constructed on a patented principle specially for the
conveyance of meat.
“After the quarters have been hung up in the room the door is hermetically
closed. Adjoining the compartment is a chamber filled with ice. Air tubes
are connected with the beef room, and through them the animal heat
ascends, and by means of a powerful engine it is blown across the ice, and
returned to the beef room in a cold state. A temperature of about 38° is
thus maintained in the beef-room. If it were to get so low as
32°——freezing-point——the meat would be seriously injured.[34] The heat is,
therefore, regulated by a thermometer, and when the temperature gets too
low, the speed of the engine is slackened, the normal degree of cold being
thus maintained almost without variation during the voyage. Cattle killed
on Thursday in New York are sold that day fortnight in Glasgow.”
[Footnote 34: Mr Harrison’s experiments make this statement doubtful.]
The first patent for the preservation of food by means of ice was granted
to Mr John Ling in 1845.
Lastly, mention must not be omitted of another method for the preservation
of meat, which consists in the application to it of certain antiseptic
substances, the action of which in preventing putrefaction is due to their
power of destroying minute parasitic organisms of low animal or vegetable
life, that would otherwise attack and set up decomposition in the meat.
Our ordinary salted meats owe their immunity from decay, as is well known,
to the presence in their tissues of common salt. Meat preserved, however,
by this means is tough, indigestible, and wanting in many of its most
important soluble constituents, which, dissolving part of the salt, run
off from the meat and are lost.
Amongst other agents which have been found serviceable as antiseptics, and
for which from time to time numerous patents have been taken out, are
nitrate of potash, acetate and hydrochlorate of ammonia, the sulphates of
soda and potash, and bisulphate of lime. The writer remembers partaking,
some years since, of some Canadian turkey, which had been preserved by
means of this latter substance, and the turkey having been killed some two
months before being eaten. It was perfectly sound and of excellent
flavour. In this instance the bird had been sent from Canada, with several
others, packed in waterproof casks, filled up with a weak solution of
bisulphite of lime.
In some cases the saline solution is merely brushed over the outside of
the meat; whilst in others it is injected into the substance of the flesh.
Thiebierge’s process consists in dipping the joints for five minutes into
dilute sulphuric acid, of the strength of about ten of water to one of
acid. The meat after being taken out is carefully wiped and dried, and is
then hung up for keeping.
Sulphurous acid also forms the subject of several patents for the
preservation of meat. In the process of Laury, for which a patent was
taken out in 1854, the gas was introduced into the vessels containing the
food. In that of Belford, for which a provisional specification was
granted the same year, the meat was soaked for 24 hours in a solution of
sulphurous and hydrochloric acids (the latter being in the proportion of a
hundredth of the volume of the former). The addition of the hydrochloric
acid was made with the intention of decomposing any alkaline sulphites
that might be formed by the combination of the alkaline salts of the meat
with the sulphurous acid.
Dr Dewar’s process, which is very similar to the foregoing, proposes,
instead of exposing the meat to sulphurous acid fumigation, to immerse it
in a solution of the acid of the same strength as that of the British
Pharmacopœia. On being taken out of the liquid the meat, or other article,
is, as speedily as possible, dried at a temperature not exceeding 140° F.,
so that the albumen may be preserved simply in a desiccated, and not in a
coagulated condition.
In the patent of Demait, which dates from 1855, the meat was directed to
be hung up in a properly constructed chamber, and exposed for some time to
the action of the gas. More recently, Professor Gamgee has taken out a
patent, which is a modification of Demait’s, and which consists in hanging
up the carcase of the animal, previously killed when under the influence
of carbonic oxide, in a chamber filled with this latter gas, to which a
little sulphurous acid has been added, the chamber having been first
exhausted of air. The carcase is allowed to remain in the chamber from 24
to 48 hours, after which it is hung in dry air. It is stated that meat
subjected to the above treatment has been found perfectly sound and
eatable after an interval of five months.
M. Lanjorrois proposes to preserve animal substances from decay by the
addition to them of 1 per cent. of magenta. He states the process had been
applied to slices of beef, which, after being kept for several months,
yielded, after being washed and boiled, very good soup. Commenting on this
suggestion for the preservation of meat, the ‘Chemical News’ very sensibly
and properly remarks: “It is to be hoped the magenta employed will be free
from arsenic.”
The patent of M. de la Peyrouse (which dates from 1873) also consists in
excluding the air by enveloping meat in fat. In this process, however, the
fat is mixed, when in a melting condition, with a certain quantity of the
carbonates of sodium, potassium, and ammonium, as well as with some
chlorides of magnesium and aluminium, with the object of preventing the
fat becoming rancid and decomposing, and thus imparting a disagreeable
flavour to the meat.
In M. George’s process the meat is partially dried, and then steeped in
successive waters containing hydrochloric acid and sulphate of soda.
=MECON′IC ACID.= H_{3}C_{7}HO_{7}. _Syn._ ACIDUM MECONICUM, L. A peculiar
acid, first obtained by Sertuerner from opium, in 1804.
_Prep._ Meconate of lime is suspended in warm water, and treated with
hydrochloric acid. Impure meconic acid crystallises on cooling, and may be
purified by repeated treatment in the same way with hydrochloric acid. Its
purity is ascertained by its leaving no residue when heated in a platinum
or glass capsule.
_Prop._ Meconic acid forms beautiful pearly scales; possesses a sour
astringent taste; is soluble in boiling water, and to a less extent in
cold; it is also soluble in alcohol. With the acids it forms salts called
‘meconates,’ most of which are crystallisable. Meconate of lime is
obtained by heating a solution of chloride of calcium with an infusion of
opium made with cold water, and neutralised by powdered marble, and
collecting the precipitate. Meconate of potassa is prepared by direct
solution of the base in the impure acid obtained from meconate of lime
till the liquor turns green, heat being applied, when the salt
crystallises out as the liquid cools; it may be purified by pressure and
recrystallisation.
_Tests._ Meconic acid is characterised by——1. Turning ferric salts red,
and the red colour not being destroyed by the action of corrosive
sublimate.——2. Precipitating a weak solution of ammonio-sulphate of copper
green.——3. With acetate of lead, nitrate of silver, and chloride of
barium, it gives white precipitates, which are soluble in nitric acid.——4.
It is not reddened by chloride of gold.
=MEC′ONIN.= C_{10}H_{10}O_{4}. A white, crystalline, odourless, neutral
substance, discovered by Couerbe in opium.
=MECO′NIUM.= See OPIUM.
=MED′ICINES.= However skilful the medical practitioner may be, and however
judicious his treatment, both are interfered with, and their value more or
less neutralised, if the remedies he orders are not administered precisely
according to his instructions. It is the duty of the attendant on the sick
to follow implicitly the directions of the physician, as well in exactly
complying with his orders as in doing nothing that she has not been
ordered to do. At the same time there are exceptions to this rule, in
which a suspension of the remedy, or a deviation from the order of the
physician, is not only allowable, but is absolutely required. Thus, from
idiosyncrasy or some other cause, the remedy in the doses ordered may have
no effect, or may produce one widely different from that intended or
expected. In such cases it is evident that a strict adherence to the
direction of the physician would be productive of evil; but he should be
immediately apprised of the circumstance. The common practice of
neglecting to administer the doses of medicine at the prescribed time, or
after prescribed intervals, and then, to compensate for the omission,
giving the medicine more frequently or in larger doses, cannot be too
severely censured, as destructive to the welfare of the patient and
injurious to the credit of the physician.
For the purpose of disguising the taste of medicine, or lessening their
nauseating properties, Dr Pollio has recommended a means founded on the
physiological fact that a strong impression on the nerves (whether of
vision, hearing, or taste) renders that which follows less perceptible
than under the usual circumstances. Instead, therefore, of applying to
the mouth agreeable substances after swallowing nauseous medicines, we
should prepare it beforehand, in order that the taste of the medicine may
not be perceived. Aromatic substances, as orange or lemon peel, &c.,
chewed just before taking medicine, effectually prevent castor oil, &c.,
being tasted. In preparing the mouth for bitters, liquorice is the only
sweet that should be used, the others creating a peculiarly disagreeable
compound taste. We have noticed already the effect of oil of orange peel
in correcting the nauseating qualities of copaiba. See DOSE and
PRESCRIBING.
=MEDICINES FOR PASSENGER SHIPS.= The annexed scale of medicines, medical
stores, and instruments for ships clearing under the Passengers Acts,
other than steamships engaged in the North Atlantic trade, has been issued
and caused to be published by the Board of Trade, and is intended to
supersede the scales hitherto in force.
The quantities mentioned in the scale are for every 100 passengers, when
the length of the passage, computed according to the Passengers Act, is
100 days and upwards. Half the quantity of medicines indicated, but the
same kind and quantity of medical stores should be taken when the passage
is less than 100 days.
_N.B.——There is a separate scale for North Atlantic steam passenger
ships._
The medicines are to be prepared according to the British Pharmacopœia, to
be plainly labelled in English, and the average doses for an adult stated,
according to the British Pharmacopœia.
All bottles are to be stoppered, and all medicines indicated thus (*) are
to be marked with a red poison label. All fluid quantities are to be
measured by _fluid_ lbs., oz., or dr.
Lbs. oz. dr.
Acid, Acetic 0 6 0
*Acid, Carbolic 0 1 0
*Acid, Carbolic (a powder containing
not less than 20 per
cent. of pure carbolic or
cresylic acid) 112 0 0
Acid, Citric 0 3 0
Acid, Gallic 0 1 0
Acid, Hydrocyanic Dil. 0 0 4
Acid, Nitric 0 1 0
Acid, Sulph. Dil. 0 6 0
Æther 0 1 0
Alumen 0 1 0
Ammon. Carb. 0 6 0
Amylum 1 0 0
Argent. Nit. (Stick) 0 0 2
Calx Chlorate 7 0 0
Camphor 0 6 0
Charta Epispatica, 4 sq. ft., in case
*Chlor. of Zinc (Burnett’s sol. of) 16 0 0
*Chloroform 0 8 0
Copaiba 0 8 0
Creosote 0 0 2
Cupri Sulph. 0 1 0
Emp. Cantharidis 0 1 0
Ferri et Quiniæ Cit. 0 1 0
Ferri Sulph. 0 0 4
Glycerin 0 6 0
Glycerin Acid. Tannic 0 4 0
*Hydrat. Chloral 0 1 6
Hydrarg. cum Cretâ 0 0 4
Hydrarg. Subchloridi 0 0 4
Lini Farina 6 0 0
Lin. Camph. 0 8 0
Lin. Opii 0 2 0
Lin. Saponis 1 0 0
*Liq. Atropiæ 0 0 1
Liq. Calcis 1 0 0
*Liq. Morphiæ Acetatis 0 1 0
*Liq. Plumbi Subacetatis 0 2 0
Liq. Potassæ 0 2 0
*Liq. Potassæ Permanganatis
(B. P. or Condy’s Crimson
Fluid) 3 0 0
Magnes. Sulph. 4 0 0
Mist. Sennæ Co. (omit Extract of
Liquorice and substitute Aromatic
Spirit of Ammonia, 1
oz. to 1 pint of the mixture) 3 0 0
Ol. Croton 0 0 1
Ol. Lini 0 8 0
Ol. Menthæ Pip. 0 0 2
Ol. Morrhuæ 3 0 0
Ol. Olivæ 1 0 0
Ol. Ricini 2 0 0
Ol. Terebinthinæ 1 0 0
*Opium 1 0 0
Plumbi Acetatis 0 1 0
Potassæ Bicarb. Pulv. 0 4 0
Potassii Iodid. 0 2 0
Pulv. Antimonialis 0 0 3
*Pulv. Astringens (double the
quantity indicated to be
taken to all tropical ports.
Pulv. Catechu Co., Pulv.
Cretæ Arom. cum Opiô——equal
parts) 1 0 0
Pulv. Cretæ Arom. cum Opiô. 0 2 0
Pulv. Ipecac. 0 2 0
Pulv. Ipecac. Co. 0 2 0
Pulv. Jalapæ Co. 0 3 0
Pulv. Potassæ Nitratis 0 4 0
Pulv. Rhei Co. 0 4 0
Pulv. Scammon. Co. 0 0 6
Quiniæ Sulph. (double the
quantity indicated to be taken
to all tropical ports) 0 1 0
Sodæ Bicarb. 1 0 0
Sp. Æther. Nitrosi 0 8 0
Sp. Ammon. Arom. 0 8 0
Sp. Rectif. 0 4 0
Sp. Sulphur Sublimatum 3 0 0
Syr. Ferri Iodidi 0 4 0
*Sol. Morphiæ Acetat. (a neutral
solution containing 4 grains
in a drachm, and so marked.
To be labelled——for hypodermic
injection) 0 0 4
Tr. Arnicæ 0 6 0
Tr. Camphoræ Co. 0 8 0
Tr. Digitalis 0 0 6
Tr. Ergotæ 0 6 0
Tr. Ferri Perchloridi 0 4 0
*Tr. Opii 0 6 0
Tr. Scillæ 0 2 0
Tr. Valerian. Ammon. 0 3 0
Ung. Cetacei 1 0 0
Ung. Hydrargyri 0 2 0
Ung. Hydrargyri Ox. Rub. 0 1 0
Ung. Sulph. 1 0 0
Ung. Zinci 0 2 0
Vin. Colchici 0 1 0
Vin. Ipecac. 0 1 0
Zinci Sulphatis 0 1 0
Desiccated Soup 4 0 0
_All pills to be made and marked +5+ grains._
Pil. Aloes cum Myrrhâ 2 doz.
Pil. Col. c. Hyoscy 4 doz.
Pil. Hydrarg. 3 doz.
Pil. Ipecac. cum Scillâ 5 doz.
Pil. Quiniæ 6 doz.
Pil. Sapon. Co. 6 doz.
_Medical Stores._
Lint 10 oz.
Tow 1 lb.
Adhesive Plaster 3 yds.
Male Syringe 1
Male Syringe Glass 1
Female Syringe 1
Phials (assorted) 2 doz.
Phial corks 6 doz.
Sponges 3
Bed-pan 1
Paper of Pins 1
Hernia Truss, 36 in., reversible 1
Paper of Pill Boxes 1
Gallipots 6
Leg and Arm Bandages 6
Calico 3 yds.
Flannel Bandages, 7 yds. long, 6
in. wide 2
Flannel 2 yds.
Triangular Bandages, base 48
in., sides 33 in. each 2
† Minim Measures 2
† 1 oz. Measures 1
† 2 oz. Measures 1
† Set of Splints 1
† Waterproof sheeting 4 yds.
† Oiled Silk 1 yd.
† Enema Syringe and Stomach Pump 1
† Box of Small Scales and Weights 1
† Wedgwood Mortar and Pestle 1
Wedgwood Funnel 1
† Spatulas 2
† Authorised Book of Directions for
Medicine Chests 1
† British Pharmacopœia 1
† One set only of these articles required, irrespective of number of
passengers.
N.B.——Only one set of instruments required, without regard to the number
of surgeons, passengers, or the length of the voyage.
_Instruments._
I { 1 Tenaculum.
n { 1 Artery Forceps.
{ 1 Operating ditto.
P { 1 Finger Knife.
o { 1 Curve Bistoury, Probe Point.
c { 1 Curve Bistoury, Spear Point.
k { 2 Probes.
e { 1 Silver Director.
t { 1 Caustic Case.
{ 1 Scissors.
C { 1 Spatula.
a { 12 Needles.
s { 1 Skein Ligature Silk.
e { 3 Lancets.
1 Amputating Saw.
2 Amputating Knives.
1 Bone Forceps.
3 Tooth Forceps.
1 Skull Forceps.
1 Trephine.
1 Elevator.
1 Hey’s Saw.
1 Trephine Brush.
2 Scalpels.
1 Hernia Knife.
2 Trocars and Canulas.
1 Aneurism Needle.
1 Hernia Director.
1 Tourniquet.
2 Silver Catheters (Nos. 4 and 8).
4 Elastic Gum Catheters (Nos. 3, 5, and 7).
1 Clinical Thermometer.
1 Hypodermic Syringe.
1 dozen charged Tubes for Vaccination.
1 Set of Midwifery Instruments.
=MEER′SCHAUM.= _Syn._ ECUME DE MER, L. A native silicate of magnesia. It
has a sp. gr. ranging between 2·6 to 3·4; is readily acted on by acids,
and fuses before a powerful blowpipe into a white enamel. The finest
qualities are found in Greece and Turkey. Its principal application is to
the manufacture of tobacco-pipes. The Germans prepare their pipes for sale
by soaking them in tallow, then in white wax, and, finally, by polishing
them with shavegrass. Genuine meerschaum pipes are distinguished from mock
ones by the beautiful brown colour which they assume after being smoked
for some time. Of late years some of the pipemakers have produced a
composition clay pipe, which closely resembles meerschaum in appearance,
and is “warranted to colour well.” The composition, which is comparatively
valueless, is made up into pipes of suitable patterns, which are
frequently sold to the ignorant for “meerschaums.” See CEMENTS, HYDRAULIC.
=ME′GRIM.= _Syn._ MEAGRIM, HEMICRANIA, L. A pain affecting one side of the
head only, often periodic, like an ague, and generally of a nervous,
hysterical, or bilious character. It is clavus when there is a strong
pulsation, conveying the sensation of a nail piercing the part. See
HEADACHE.
=MEG′RIMS.= _Syn._ MEAGRIMS, VERTIGO. In veterinary medicine this term is
applied to horses which when at work reel, then stand for a minute dull
and stupid, or fall to the ground, and lie partially insensible for a few
minutes. “Horses subject to this affection should be driven with a
breastplate or pipe collar, so as to prevent pressure on the veins
carrying the blood from the head; the bowels should be kept in good order;
an occasional laxative is advisable, and a course, either of arsenic or
quinine, or of arsenic and iron.” (Dun.)
=MEL′ANCHOLY.= See HYPOCHONDRIASIS and INSANITY.
=MELIS′SIC ALCOHOL.= A substance obtained by Brodie from beeswax. By
oxidation it yields ‘melissic acid.’
=MELLA′GO.= The old name for a medicine having the consistence of honey,
with a somewhat sweetish taste. Mellago taraxaci is fluid extract of
dandelion.
=MELTING-POINT.= The temperature at which solids assume the liquid form.
=MEN′STRUUM.= [L.] A solvent or dissolvent. The principal MENSTRUA
employed in chemistry and pharmacy to extract the active principles of
bodies by digestion, decoction, infusion, or maceration, are water,
alcohol, oils, and solutions of the acids and alkalies.
=MERCU′′RIAL BAL′SAM.= See OINTMENT OF NITRATE OF MERCURY.
=MERCU′′RIAL DISEASE′.= _Syn._ MORBUS MERCURIALIS, HYDRARGYRIASIS, L. This
results from the injudicious or excessive use of mercury, or exposure to
the fumes of this metal. The common and leading symptoms are a
disagreeable coppery taste; excessive salivation; sponginess, tumefaction,
and ulceration of the gums; swollen tongue; loosening of the teeth;
exfoliation of the jaws; remarkably offensive breath; debility;
emaciation; ending (when not arrested) in death from exhaustion. Fever,
cachexia, violent purging and griping, a species of eczema (ECZEMA
MERCURIALE, LEPRA MERCURIALIS), and other forms of skin disease, are also
phases of the same affection, the first of which occasionally proves fatal
under the influence of sudden and violent physical exertion.
The treatment, in ordinary cases, may consist in free exposure to the open
air, avoiding either heat or cold; the administration of saline aperients,
as Epsom salts, phosphate of soda, &c.; the free use of lemon juice and
water as a common drink; with weak gargles or washes of chloride of soda
or chloride of lime to the gums, mouth, and throat. Severe cases often
resist every variety of treatment, and instances are recorded in the
medical journals in which the use of even small doses of mercurials,
administered by the faculty, have, owing to the peculiar idiosyncrasy of
the patients, been followed by the most horrible sufferings, terminating
in death.
=MER′CURY.= Hg. _Syn._ QUICKSILVER, HYDRARGYRUM (B. P., Ph. L. E. and D.);
MERCURE, VIF ARGENT, Fr.; QUECKSILBER, Ger. A remarkable metal, which has
been known from a very early period. The Romans employed it as a medicine
externally, as did the Arabs; but the Hindoos were probably the first to
prescribe it internally.
_Sources._ The most important are the mines of Idria, in Carniola;
Almaden, in New Castile; and New Almaden, in California, where it exists
combined with sulphur, under the form of cinnabar. From this ore the pure
metal is obtained by distilling it with lime or iron filings, in iron
retorts, by which the sulphur it contains is seized and retained, while
the mercury rises in the state of vapour, and is condensed in suitable
receivers. Quicksilver is commonly imported in cylindrical iron bottles;
containing 1/2 cwt. to 1 cwt. each. It is also imported in small
quantities from China, contained in bamboo bottles holding about 20 lbs.
each.
_Prep._ Mercury, as imported, is usually sufficiently pure for medicinal
purposes without any further preparation. Mere mechanical impurities, as
floating dust, dirt, &c., may be got rid of by squeezing the metal through
chamois leather or flannel, or by filtering it through a small hole in the
apex of an inverted cone of paper. It can be further cleaned by shaking
well with a little strong nitric acid, washing with distilled water, and
drying by blotting paper, or filtering through warm chamois leather.
_Prop., &c._ Mercury, at all common temperatures, is a heavy liquid,
possessing a nearly silver-white colour, and a brilliant metallic lustre;
solidifies (freezes) at -40° Fahr., and is then ductile, malleable, and
tenacious; boils at 662° Fahr., and escapes in colourless transparent
vapour, of great density; it also volatilises slowly at the ordinary
temperature of the atmosphere. The presence of minute quantities of lead
and zinc greatly retard its evaporation at its boiling heat. It unites
with oxygen, chlorine, iodine, &c., forming numerous compounds. With the
metals it unites to form AMALGAMS. The only acids which act directly on
metallic mercury are the sulphuric and nitric, but for this purpose the
former must be heated and concentrated. Nitric acid, however, even when
dilute and in the cold, dissolves it freely. Pure mercury is unalterable
in the air at ordinary temperatures. Sp. gr. 13·59 at 60° Fahr.; about 14·
when in the solid state.
_Uses, &c._ Mercury is applied to various purposes in the arts; as the
amalgamation of gold and silver, ‘wash gilding,’ the silvering of
looking-glasses, the manufacture of barometers and thermometers, and the
preparation of several very valuable medicines. In its metallic state it
appears to be inert when swallowed, unless it meets with much acidity in
the alimentary canal, or is in a state of minute division; its compounds
are, however, all of them more or less poisonous.
Mercury has been employed in one or other of its forms in almost _all_
diseases; but each of its numerous preparations is supposed to have some
peculiarity of action of its own, combined with that common to all the
compounds of this metal. The mercurials form, indeed, one of the most
important classes of the materia medica.
_Tests._ 1. _Metallic mercury_ is detected by its liquid condition and
volatility; and, when in a finely divided or pulverulent state, by the
microscope, or by staining a piece of copper white when the two are rubbed
together.
Mercury, when present in combination, can be detected as under:
When intimately mixed with anhydrous sodium carbonate, and heated in a
small test-tube, under a layer of the carbonate, decomposition ensues, and
a crust of grey sublimate forms on the cooler portion of the tube. When
examined by a lens this crust is seen to consist of minute metallic
globules. By friction with a bright glass or iron rod these are united
into globules, which are visible to the naked eye.
A perfectly clean and bright piece of copper, immersed in a slightly acid
solution of mercury, becomes in a short time covered with a grey or
whitish stain, which assumes a silvery lustre when gently rubbed with a
piece of soft cork or leather, and is removed by the subsequent
application of heat. A single drop of liquid may be tested on a bright
copper coin in this way.
The plate of copper with the deposit of mercury, obtained as above, after
being washed with a weak solution of ammonia, and in distilled water, and
dried by pressure between the folds of bibulous paper, may be cut into
small pieces, and heated in a test-tube, in order to obtain metallic
globules. When the suspected solution contains organic matter, bright
copper filings may be employed, and the process modified so as nearly to
resemble Reinsch’s test for arsenious acid. According to Orfila, “scraped
copper plate” is capable of detecting the presence of 1/80000th part of
corrosive sublimate in a solution. MM. Trousseau and Reveil state that a
plate of yellow copper (brass) is even more susceptible than one of red
copper.
(Smithson’s electrolytic test.) This consists in the use of a polished
wire or plate of gold or copper round which a strip or thread of zinc or
tin is wound in a spiral direction. The suspected liquid is acidulated
with a few drops of hydrochloric acid, and after immersion for a longer or
a shorter period (as half an hour to an hour or two), the gold will have
become white if any mercury is present. The coil of zinc or tin is then
removed from the gold, and the latter, after being washed and dried
between the folds of bibulous paper, is heated in a test-tube, to obtain
metallic globules, as before.
An ingenious extemporaneous application of the electrolytic test may be
made as follows:——Place a drop or two of the suspected liquid on a clean
and bright gold or copper coin, and apply a bright key, so that it may at
once touch the edge of the coin and the solution. (See _engr._) An
electric current will then be established as before, and a white spot of
reduced mercury will appear on the surface of the metal, which may be
recognised in the manner already explained.
[Illustration:
_a._ A gold or copper coin.
_b._ Drop of suspected solution.
_c._ A bright key.]
The salts of mercury are divided into two classes——mercurous, where
mercury is a monad element, and unites with one atom of chlorine; and
mercuric salts, where it plays the part of a dyad element, or unites with
two atoms. The latter of these will be taken first.
=Mercury, Pure.= (Ph. B.) _Syn._ HYDRARGYRUM PURUM. Place commercial
mercury, 3 lbs., in a glass retort or iron bottle, and applying heat cause
2-1/2 lbs. of the metal to distil over into a flask employed as a
receiver. Boil on this for five minutes hydrochloric acid, 3 dr., diluted
with distilled water, 9 fl. dr., and having by repeated affusions of
distilled water, and decantations, removed every trace of acid, let the
mercury be transferred to a porcelain capsule, and dried first by
filtering paper, and finally on a water bath.
=Mercuric Salts.= _Tests._ Sulphuretted hydrogen and ammonium sulphide,
added in very small quantities, produce on agitation a perfectly white
precipitate, which acquires successively a yellow, orange, and
brownish-red colour, as more of the test is added; and, ultimately, when
the test is added in considerable excess, an intensely black colour. This
precipitate is insoluble in excess of the precipitant, potassium hydrate,
potassium cyanide, hydrochloric acid, or nitric acid, even when boiling;
but it dissolves readily and completely in potassium sulphide and in ‘aqua
regia’ with decomposition. These reactions are characteristic.
Ammonia gives a white precipitate.
Potassium hydrate gives a reddish precipitate, turning yellow when the
test is added in excess. The presence of ammonia causes the precipitate to
be white, and when the solution contains much acid both reactions are
imperfect.
Alkaline carbonates give a brick-red precipitate.
Potassium iodide gives a scarlet precipitate, which is soluble in excess,
and in alcohol, and solution of sodium chloride.
The alkaline bicarbonates either do not disturb the solution, or only
cause a slight degree of opalescence.
=Mercuric Acetate.= Hg(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ PROTACETATE OF
MERCURY. _Prep._ By dissolving mercuric oxide in warm acetic acid. It
crystallises in brilliant micaceous lamina, soluble in their own weight of
cold water, and somewhat more soluble in boiling water. According to
Robiquet, this is the basis of Keyser’s antivenereal pills, which do not
contain subacetate of mercury, as has been asserted.
=Mercuric Bromide.= HgBr_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOBROMIDE OF MERCURY, HYDRARGYRI
BIBROMIDUM. _Prep._ Two equal parts of bromine and mercury and sublime.
Soluble reddish mass; resembles the iodide in its action.——_Dose_, 1/20 to
1/8 gr.
=Mercuric Chloride.= HgCl_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOCHLORIDE OF MERCURY,
PERCHLORIDE OF MERCURY, BICHLORIDE OF MERCURY, CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE;
HYDRARGYRI PERCHLORIDUM (B. P.), HYDRARGYRI BICHLORIDUM (Ph. L.),
SUBLIMATUS CORROSIVUS (Ph. E.), SUBLIMATUM CORROSIVUM (Ph. D.), HYDRARGYRI
CHLORIDUM CORROSIVUM (Ph. U. S.), HYDRARGYRI MURIAS CORROSIVUS, L. This is
the ‘corrosive sublimate’ of the shops.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Mercury, 2 lbs.; sulphuric acid, 21-1/2 fl. oz.; boil
to dryness, and rub the residuum, when cold, with sodium chloride, 1-1/2
lb., in an earthenware mortar; lastly, sublime by a gradually increased
heat.
2. (Ph. E.) Mercury, 4 oz.; sulphuric acid, 2 fl. oz. 3 fl. dr.; pure
nitric acid, 1/2 fl. oz.; dissolve, add of sodium chloride, 3 oz., and
sublime as before.
3. (Ph. D.) ‘Persulphate of mercury’ (mercuric sulphate), 2 parts; dried
sodium chloride, 1 part; triturate, &c., as before.
4. (Ph. B.) Reduce sulphate of mercury, 20 oz., and chloride of sodium,
dried, 16 oz., each to fine powder, and having mixed them add black oxide
of manganese, in fine powder, 1 oz., thoroughly by trituration in a
mortar, place the mixture in an apparatus adapted for sublimation, and
apply sufficient heat to cause vapours of perchloride of mercury to rise
into the less heated part of the apparatus arranged for their
condensation.
_Obs._ In preparing corrosive sublimate, as well as calomel, by the common
process, the solution of the mercury is usually made in an iron pot, set
in a furnace under a chimney, to carry off the fumes; and the sublimation
is conducted in an earthen alembic placed in a sand bath, or in an iron
pot, covered with a semi-spherical earthen head. Corrosive sublimate may
also be made by the direct solution of mercuric oxide in hydrochloric
acid, or by bringing its constituents together in the state of vapour. The
latter plan was patented by the late Dr A. T. Thomson.
_Prop._ The mercuric chloride of commerce occurs in white,
semi-transparent, crystalline masses, of considerable density; it
possesses an intense coppery taste, is soluble in about 16 parts of cold,
and in 3 parts of boiling water; the boiling solution deposits its excess
of salt in long white prisms as it cools; soluble in alcohol and ether, in
the latter so much so that it has even the property of withdrawing it from
its aqueous solutions; the addition of hydrochloric acid, ammonious
chloride or camphor, increases its solubility in all these menstrua. It is
decomposed by contact with nearly all metallic bodies, and in solution by
various organic substances, and by exposure to light. Sp. gr. 5·2 (5·14 to
5·42——Liebig). It melts at about 509° Fahr., and boils and volatilises at
a higher temperature.
_Tests._ The presence of mercuric chloride may, under most circumstances,
be readily detected by the tests given. To distinguish it from other
salts, special tests for chlorine or hydrochloric acid must be applied. If
on filtering the solution, acidulating it with dilute nitric acid, and
testing it with silver nitrate, a cloudy white precipitate be formed,
which is insoluble in excess of the precipitant, and in nitric acid, but
soluble in ammonia water, and blackened by lengthened exposure to light,
corrosive sublimate is shown to be present in the substance examined.
Calomel, the only compound of mercury with chlorine besides corrosive
sublimate, is an insoluble powder, which could not, therefore, be found in
the filtered liquid. Calomel, or the white precipitate formed by the
mercurous salt, with hydrochloric acid and the soluble chlorides, is
soluble in excess of the precipitant, and is not only insoluble in liquor
of ammonia, but is immediately blackened by it.
For the purpose of demonstrating the presence of corrosive sublimate in a
highly coloured liquid, or one loaded with organic matter, it is necessary
to agitate it for some minutes with an equal volume of ether. After repose
for a short time, the ethereal solution is decanted, and allowed to
evaporate spontaneously. The residuum (if any) contains the corrosive
sublimate, which, after being dissolved in distilled water, is readily
recognised by the above characteristics.
When the substance under examination consists of food, or the contents of
the digestive canal, or of animal tissue, it is in general necessary to
destroy the organic matter in a nearly similar way to that described under
ARSENIOUS ACID. The process adopted by Devergie for this purpose consists
in dissolving the substance in concentrated hydrochloric acid, and passing
a stream of chlorine through the liquid.——Flandin first carbonises the
mass with 1/3 or 1/2 its weight of concentrated sulphuric acid, at 212°
Fahr., and then saturates the acid in the cold, with dry ‘chloride of
lime,’ added in fragments, assisting the action by stirring, and further
adding, by degrees, as the matter thickens and becomes white, a sufficient
quantity of distilled water.——Lassaigne boils the suspected mixture for
some time with a solution of sodium chloride; a method which, according to
Orfila, is not sufficiently delicate to withdraw minute portions of
mercury from flesh.——Millon agitates organic liquids (more especially
blood, milk, &c.) in large flasks containing gaseous chlorine, which is
frequently renewed.——Orfila either dissolves the matter in aqua regia, and
passes a stream of chlorine through the liquid, or he carbonises it by
means of concentrated sulphuric acid, in close vessels.——Personne proceeds
by a similar method, but avoids raising the temperature of the substances
operated on.——Reveil employs either the last method or that of Millon. In
all cases it is advisable to operate in close vessels, on account of the
volatility of the bichloride; Orfila’s apparatus consists of a matrass,
provided with a bent tube, the one end of which is plunged into a jar of
cold distilled water. The corrosive sublimate is found both in the
volatilised matter and in the carbonised residuum, and is extracted from
the latter by boiling it for 15 or 20 minutes in aqua regia.
When the organic matter has been destroyed by any of the above processes,
and a colourless and filtered solution in distilled water obtained, the
usual tests may be at once applied. But in this way we can only detect the
presence of mercury, but are unable to decide in what way it has entered
the system, although we may infer it from other circumstances. It is,
therefore, absolutely necessary, in all medico-legal investigations, to
previously employ ether (see _above_), in order that we may be enabled to
examine the deleterious matter in its original form, or that in which it
was swallowed.
_Uses, &c._ Mercuric chloride is employed as an alterative, diaphoretic,
and resolvent, in the chronic forms of secondary syphilis, rheumatism,
scrofula, cancer, old dropsies, numerous skin diseases, &c.; and
externally, as a caustic, in cancer, and made into an ointment, lotion, or
injection, in a vast number of skin diseases, ulcers, gleet, &c., and as a
preventive of contagion. It acts quicker than the other preparations of
mercury, and it is less apt to induce salivation; but it has been said
that its effects are less apparent.——_Dose_, 1/10 to 1/4 gr., either made
into a pill, or in solution. It is highly poisonous, and must be exhibited
and handled with the greatest caution. Its use is contra-indicated in
cases complicated with pulmonary affections or nervous derangement.
_Pois._——1. _Symptoms._ Strong coppery or metallic taste; intense pain in
the mouth, pharynx, œsophagus, stomach, and intestines; nausea, vomiting
(often bloody), diarrhœa, and (sometimes) violent dysentery (these
evacuations are generally more frequent than in poisoning by other
metallic compounds). After a certain time there is generally an abatement
of the severity of the symptoms; the circulation becomes slower, the pulse
small and thready, the respiration gentle, and the skin cold; syncope then
supervenes, and great general insensibility, always commencing at the
pelvic extremities; and sometimes convulsions occur; the secretion of
urine is generally diminished, sometimes even entirely suppressed; but the
patients always urinate if the sublimate has been employed in a very
diluted state, and if drinks have been administered. Death often appears
to result from the shock to the nervous system, from intense exhaustion,
or from mortification or intense inflammation of the primæ viæ. Poisoning
by corrosive sublimate is distinguished from that by arsenic, by the
countenance being flushed, and even swollen; whereas, in poisoning by
arsenic, it is wholly contracted and ghastly, and by the whitened
condition of the epithelium of the mouth.
2. _Antidotes._ White of egg, hydrated ferric sulphide or ferrous
sulphide, and gluten, are each of them powerful antidotes. White of egg
has proved efficacious in numerous cases. It requires the white of one egg
to decompose 4 gr. of corrosive sublimate. (Peschier.) The recently
precipitated protosulphuret of iron is, however, according to Mialhe, the
antidote par excellence, not only to corrosive sublimate, but to the salts
of lead and copper. The gluten of wheat has also been recommended
(Taddei); or, what is equally efficacious, wheat flour mixed up with
water. When any of the above are not at hand, copious draughts of milk may
be substituted. Iron filings have been occasionally used as an antidote.
All these substances should be taken in considerable quantities; the dose
should be frequently repeated, and the general treatment similar to that
in cases of poisoning by arsenic. Vomiting should be, in all cases,
immediately induced, to remove, if possible, the poisonous matter from the
stomach.
=Mercuric-ammonium Chloride.= HgNH_{2}Cl. _Syn._ AMMONIO-CHLORIDE OF
MERCURY, AMMONIATED CHLORIDE OF MERCURY, WHITE PRECIPITATE, LEMERY’S W.
P., COSMETIC MERCURY; HYDRARGYRI AMMONIATUM (B. P.), HYDRARGYRI
AMMONIO-CHLORIDUM (Ph. L.), HYDRARGYRUM PRECIPITATUM ALBUM (Ph. E.)
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Mercuric chloride, 6 oz.; distilled water, 3 quarts;
dissolve, with heat, and when the solution has cooled, add of liquor of
ammonia 8 fl. oz., frequently shaking it; lastly, wash the precipitate
with water, and dry it. The formulæ of the Ph. E. & D. are nearly similar.
2. Mercuric chloride and ammonium chloride, of each 1/2 lb.; water, 3
quarts; dissolve, and precipitate with solution of potassium hydrate,
q. s.
_Prop., &c._ A white, inodorous, light mass, or powder; insoluble in
alcohol, partially soluble in boiling water, and wholly dissolved by
sulphuric, nitric, and hydrochloric acids, without effervescence. It is
totally dissipated by heat. When heated with solution of potash, it
exhales ammonia, and assumes a yellow colour. Used to make an ointment,
which is employed in herpes, porrigo, itch, and other skin diseases, &c.;
and by the lower orders as a dusting powder to destroy pediculi, an
application which, from its liberal employment, is not always a safe one.
It is highly poisonous, and must not be swallowed.
=Mercuric and Ammonium Chloride.= NH_{4}Cl,HgCl_{2}. _Syn._ CHLORIDE OF
MERCURY AND AMMONIUM, SAL ALEMBROTH; HYDRARGYRI ET AMMONII CHLORIDIUM, L.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) From mercuric chloride and ammonium chloride, equal
parts, triturated together. “The object in adding the ammonium chloride
here is to render the corrosive sublimate more soluble in water. The
action of the latter is not otherwise altered.” (Redwood.) It is chiefly
used for lotions and injections.
=Mercuric and Quinine Chloride.= _Syn._ CHLORIDE OF MERCURY AND QUININE;
HYDRARGYRI ET QUINÆ CHLORIDUM, L. _Prep._ (M’Dermott.) From mercuric
chloride, 1 part; quinine chloride, 3 parts; separately formed into
saturated solutions with water and then mixed; the crystalline precipitate
is collected and dried by a gentle heat.——_Dose_, 1/8 to 1/2 gr., made
into a pill with crum of bread; daily, as an alterative in debilitated
habits; or combined with opium thrice daily, to produce salivation.
=Mercuric Cyanide.= HgCy_{2} or Hg(CN)_{2}. _Syn._ CYANIDE OF MERCURY;
HYDRARGYRI CYANIDUM, H. BICYANIDUM, H. CYANURETUM (Ph. U. S.), L. _Prep._
1. (Pb. L. 1836.) Ferric ferrocyanide (pure Prussian blue), 8 oz.;
mercuric oxide, 10 oz.; distilled water, 4 pints; boil for half an hour,
filter, evaporate, and crystallise; wash what remains frequently with
boiling distilled water, and again evaporate, that crystals may form. This
is Proust’s process. The formula of the Ph. U. S. is similar.
2. (Ph. D. 1826.) Prussian blue (pure), 6 parts; mercuric oxide, 5 parts;
distilled water, 40 parts; as the last.
3. (Desfosses.) Potassium ferrocyanide, 1 part, is boiled for 1/4 hour
with mercuric sulphate, 2 parts, and distilled water, 8 parts; the deposit
is separated by filtration, and the liquid evaporated to crystallising
point.
4. (Winckler.) Saturate dilute hydrocyanic acid with mercuric oxide;
evaporate and crystallise. Pure.
_Prop., &c._ Heavy, colourless, inodorous, square prisms; tasting strongly
metallic; soluble in 8 parts of cold water; slightly soluble in alcohol.
Those made by the first two formulæ are of a pale yellow colour. It is
transparent and totally soluble in water. The solution, on the addition of
hydrochloric acid, evolves hydrocyanic acid, known by its smell; and a
glass moistened with a solution of nitrate of silver, and held over it,
gives a deposit soluble in boiling nitric acid. When heated it evolves
cyanogen, and runs into globules of metallic mercury. It has been
administered in some hepatic and skin diseases, and has been proposed as a
substitute for corrosive sublimate. (Parent.) It has been said to act
directly on the skin and bones, and to have proved useful in allaying the
pain of nodes and in dispersing them. (Mendaga.) It is, however,
principally used as a source of cyanogen and hydrocyanic acid.——_Dose_,
1/16 to 1/4 gr. (beginning with the smaller quantity), made into pills
with crum of bread, or in alcoholic solution; as a gargle or lotion, 10
gr. to water, 1 pint; as an ointment, 10 or 12 gr., to lard, 1 oz.
=Mercuric Iodide.= HgI_{2}. _Syn._ PROTIODIDE OF MERCURY, RED IODIDE OF
MERCURY, IODIDE OF MERCURY, BINIODIDE OF MERCURY; HYDRARGYRI IODIDUM
RUBRUM (B. P.), HYDRARGYRI IODIDUM, H. BINIODIDUM (Ph. E.), H. IODIDUM
RUBRUM (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Mercuric chloride (corrosive
sublimate), 4; potassium iodide, 5; boiling distilled water, 80. Dissolve
the mercuric chloride in 60 of water, and the potassium iodide in the
remainder, and mix the two solutions. Allow to stand, decant the
supernatant liquor, and collect the precipitate on a filter, wash twice
with cold water, and dry at 212° F.
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Mercury, 1 oz.; iodine, 10 dr.; rectified spirit, q. s.
(2 or 3 fl. dr.); triturate until the globules of mercury disappear, and
the mixture assumes a scarlet colour, then dry it in the shade, and
preserve it in a well-stoppered vessel.
3. (Ph. E.) Mercury, 2 oz.; iodine, 2-1/2 oz.; spirit, q. s.; triturate
together as last, dissolve the product, by brisk ebullition, in
concentrated solution of sodium chloride, 1 gall., filter whilst boiling
hot, wash the crystals that are deposited as the solution cools, and dry
them.
4. (Ph. D.) Mercuric chloride, 1 oz.; hot distilled water, 25 fl. oz.;
dissolve potassium iodide, 1-1/2 oz.; water, 5 fl. oz.; dissolve; when the
solutions are cold, mix them, collect the precipitate on a paper filter,
drain it, wash it with distilled water, 10 fl. oz., and dry it at a heat
not above that of boiling water.
_Prop., &c._ A bright scarlet powder, insoluble in water, but soluble in
alcohol and ether, and in the solutions of several of the iodides and
chlorides. It is also soluble in cod-liver oil, and in several other fixed
oils. Readily sublimed.——_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/4 gr., dissolved in alcohol or
made into a pill; in the same cases as the subiodides, from which it
differs chiefly in its greater energy and poisonous qualities.
=Mercuric Oleate.= See OINTMENT OF OLEATE OF MERCURY.
=Mercuric and Potassium Iodide.= HgI_{2}.KI. _Syn._ IODIDE OF MERCURY AND
POTASSIUM, IODO-HYDRARGYRATE OF POTASSIUM; HYDRARGYRI ET POTASSII IODIDUM,
L. _Prep._ 1. (M. Boullay.) Mercuric iodide, potassium iodide, and water,
equal parts; dissolve by heat, and crystallise by evaporation or
refrigeration, or gently evaporate to dryness.
2. (Puche.) From mercuric iodide and potassium iodide, equal parts,
triturated together.——_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/8 gr., dissolved in water; in the
same cases as the biniodide, and in chronic bronchitis, hooping-cough,
inflammatory sore throat, &c.
=Mercuric and Potassium Iodo-cy′anide.= _Syn._ HYDRARGYRI ET POTASSII
IODO-CYANIDUM, L. _Prep._ To a concentrated solution of mercuric cyanide
add a rather strong solution of potassium iodide, and dry the precipitate
by a gentle heat.
_Prop., &c._ Small, white, pearly, crystalline plates or scales. It is
chiefly used as a test of the purity of hydrocyanic acid. When put into
this liquid it is instantly turned red if any mineral acid is present.
=Mercuric Nitrate.= Hg(NO_{3})_{2}. _Syn._ PROTONITRATE OF MERCURY,
PERNITRATE OF MERCURY. _Prep._ 1. (NEUTRAL.) This is obtained by solution
of mercuric oxide, in excess of nitric acid. The solution, evaporated in a
bell-jar over sulphuric acid, yields crystals which are neutral. The same
compound is obtained as a crystalline powder when the syrupy liquid is
dropped into strong nitric acid.
(Basic.) 1st. 2Hg(NO_{3})HO.H_{2}O. _Prep._ _a._ By saturating hot dilute
nitric acid with mercuric oxide. The salt, which is bibasic, crystallises
on cooling.
_b._ By dissolving mercury in excess of nitric acid, with heat, until the
solution, when diluted with distilled water, ceases to give a precipitate
with common salt. It is now a mixed solution of the neutral and bibasic
pernitrates; but by evaporation crystals of the latter salt only are
deposited. The acid solution (before evaporation) is used as a caustic in
cancerous, syphilitic, and other ulcerations; but it frequently produces
intense pain, and occasionally the usual constitutional effects of
mercury. It was formerly given in similar cases to those in which the
bichloride is now employed.——_Dose_ (of the dry salt), 1/20 to 1/12 gr.
This is the preparation ordinarily referred to under the name ‘pernitrate
of mercury.’
2nd. 2Hg(NO_{3})HO.HgO. _c._ By saturating strong nitric acid with
mercury, by heat, throwing the solution into cold water, and collecting
and drying the precipitate. This salt, which is tribasic, is also formed
when the preceding crystallised salts are put into hot water.
_Obs._ This last preparation is a heavy, yellow powder, but the shade
varies according to its basicity, which increases with the temperature of
the water employed to effect the precipitation, until, at the boiling
temperature, the colour is a dull red. It is extensively employed for the
extemporaneous preparation of the ointment of nitrate of mercury,
according to the formula on the following label which accompanies each
bottle:——“Hydrarg. subnitras.” “Two scruples, mixed with one ounce of
simple cerate, make the ung. hydrarg. nit. of the London Pharmacopœia.” We
need scarcely add that this statement, so unblushingly uttered, is a
dangerous falsehood. An ointment so made possesses neither the quantity of
mercury nor of nitric acid employed in the Pharmacopœia preparation,
besides wanting many of its most sensible and valuable properties.
=Mercuric Oxide.= HgO. _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF MERCURY, RED OXIDE OF MERCURY,
OXIDE OF M., BINOXIDE OF M., DEUTOXIDE OF M., PEROXIDE OF M.; HYDRARGYRI
OXYDUM, H. O. RUBRUM, B. & L. There are several methods by which this
substance may be prepared. The following are those which have been ordered
at different times in the Pharmacopœias:——
1. By precipitation (HYDRARGYRI BINOXYDUM——Ph. L. 1836.). Mercuric
chloride (corrosive sublimate), 4 oz.; distilled water, 6 pints; dissolve
and add of liquor of potass, 28 fl. oz.; drain the precipitate, wash it in
distilled water, and dry it by a gentle heat.
_Obs._ A bright orange-red powder. It usually contains a little combined
water; hence its readier solubility in acids than the oxide prepared by
heat. When heated sufficiently it yields oxygen, and the mercury either
runs into globules or is totally dissipated. It is entirely soluble in
hydrochloric acid. (Ph. L. 1836.) The preparation of the shops has
frequently a brick-red colour, and contains a little oxychloride, arising
from too little alkali being used.
2. By calcination of the nitrate (RED PRECIPITATE; HYDRARGYRI NITRICI
OXYDUM Ph. L. HYDRARGYRI OXIDUM RUBRUM, B. P., Ph. L., Ph. D.) _Prep._ B.
P. Mercury, by weight, 8; nitric acid, 4-1/2; water, 2. Dissolve half the
mercury in the water and acid, evaporate to dryness, and triturate with
the rest of the mercury until well blended. Heat in a porcelain capsule,
repeatedly stirring, until acid vapours cease to be evolved.
Mercury, 3 lbs.; nitric acid, 18 fl. oz. (1-1/2 lb., Ph. L. 1836); water,
2 quarts; dissolve by a gentle heat, evaporate to dryness, powder, and
calcine this in a shallow vessel, with a gradually increased heat, until
red vapours cease to arise. The process of the Ph. E. and D. are similar,
except that the Dublin College directs the evaporation and calcination to
be performed in the same vessel, without powdering or stirring the mass.
_Obs._ Bright red crystalline scales, which usually contain a little
undecomposed pernitrate of mercury; in other respects it resembles the
last two preparations. It is more generally used as an escharotic and in
ointments than the precipitated oxide. It is volatilised by heat without
the evolution of nitrous vapours.
According to Mr Brande it contains about 2-1/2 per cent. of nitric acid.
According to Mr Barker the process of the Ph. D. yields the finest
coloured product; but Mr Brande states that “the nitrate requires to be
constantly stirred during the process, which is usually performed in a
cast-iron pot.” On the large scale, the evaporation is generally conducted
in a shallow earthen dish, and as soon as the mass becomes dry a second
dish is inverted over it, and the calcination is continued, without
disturbance, until the process is concluded. The heat of a sand bath is
employed. 120 lbs. of mercury, and 48 lbs. of nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·48)
yields 112 lbs. of red precipitate. (Brande.)
_Uses, &c._ Red oxide of mercury, whether obtained by calcination or
precipitation, possesses the same general properties. It is very slightly
soluble in water, but sufficiently so to give that fluid an alkaline
reaction, and a metallic taste. It was formerly employed in medicine to
induce salivation; but is now chiefly used as an escharotic, either in the
form of powder or made into an ointment.——_Dose_, 1/8 to 1 gr., combined
with opium. It is very poisonous.
=Mercuric Sulphide.= HgSO_{4}. _Syn._ PROTOSULPHATE OF MERCURY; HYDRARGYRI
SULPHAS (Ph. B.), H. PERSULPHAS, H. BIPERSULPHAS, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Neutral.)——_a._ By boiling together sulphuric acid and metallic mercury
until the latter is wholly converted into a heavy, white, crystalline
powder; the excess of acid is removed by evaporation. Equal weights of
acid and metal may conveniently be employed.
_b._ (Ph. D. 1826.) Dissolve mercury, 6 parts, in a mixture of sulphuric
acid, 6 parts, and nitric acid, 1 part, by boiling them in a glass vessel,
and continue the heat until the mass becomes perfectly dry and white. Used
to make calomel.
_c._ (Ph. B.) Place 20 oz. of quicksilver in a porcelain capsule with 12
fl. oz. of sulphuric acid, and apply heat until nothing remains but a
white, dry, crystalline salt. Used to make perchloride and chloride of
mercury.
2. (Basic.) HgSO_{4,2}HgO. _Syn._ TRIBASIC SULPHATE OF MERCURY, TURPETH
MINERAL, TURBITH M., QUEEN’S YELLOW, SUBSULPHATE OF MERCURY†, TRIBASIC
PERSULPHATE OF M.; HYDRARGYRI SUBSULPHAS, H. S. FLAVUS, TERPETHUM
MINERALE, L.——_a._ Dissolve mercury in an equal weight of sulphuric acid
by boiling them to dryness, fling the mass into hot water, and wash and
dry the resulting yellow powder.
_b._ (Ph. D. 1826.) Mercuric sulphate, 1 part; warm water, 20 parts;
triturate together in an earthen mortar, wash well with distilled water,
drain, and dry it.
_Prop., &c._ A heavy, lemon-yellow powder, soluble in 2000 parts of cold,
and about 600 parts of boiling water. By long-continued washing with very
hot water it loses all its remaining acid, and is at length converted into
red oxide of mercury.——_Dose._ As an alterative, 1/8 to 1/2 gr.; as an
emetic, 3 to 5 gr.; as an errhine, 1 gr.; mixed up with a pinch of
liquorice powder or fine snuff. It is a powerful poison, and one of the
least useful of the mercurial preparations.
_Obs._ The temperature of the water employed to decompose the neutral
sulphate influences the shade of colour of the resulting salt in a similar
manner to that pointed out under the nitrate. It is now superseded as a
pigment by chrome yellow and orpiment, which are not only more beautiful,
but cheaper preparations.
=Mercuric Sulphide.= HgS. _Syn._ PROTOSULPHIDE OF MERCURY, RED SULPHURET
OF MERCURY, FACTITIOUS CINNABAR, VERMILION, SULPHURET OF MERCURY, SULPHIDE
OF M., BISULPHURET OF M.†; HYDRARGYRI BISULPHURETUM (Ph. B. & Ph. L.),
CINNABARIS (Ph. E.), H. SULPHURETUM RUBRUM. L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.)
Quicksilver, 24 oz.; sulphur, 5 oz.; melt together, and continue the heat
till the mixture swells up, then cover the vessel, remove it from the
heat, and when cold, powder and sublime it. (Ph. B.) Quicksilver, 2 lbs.;
sulphur, 5 oz.
_Prop., &c._ Mercuric sulphide has a dark-red semi-crystalline appearance
in the mass, but acquires a brilliant scarlet colour by powdering. It is
tasteless, odourless, and insoluble. It is chiefly used as a pigment; but
it is occasionally employed in medicine as a diaphoretic and vermifuge,
and in some cutaneous diseases and gout.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.; as a
fumigation, about 1/2 dr. is thrown on a plate of iron heated to dull
redness. For the last purpose it is inferior to mercurous oxide, owing to
the more irritating nature of its vapour.
_Tests._ MERCUROUS SALTS. Sulphuretted hydrogen and ammonium sulphide give
black precipitates, insoluble in dilute acids, ammonium sulphide,
potassium cyanide, and hot nitric acid, but slightly soluble in sodium
sulphide, and decomposed by nitro-hydrochloric acid.
Potassium hydrate and ammonia give black grey or black precipitates, which
are insoluble in excess of the precipitant.
Hydrochloric acid and the soluble metallic chlorides occasion a
precipitate, which assumes the form of a very fine powder of dazzling
whiteness, insoluble in excess, but soluble in aqua regia and liquid
chlorine. Potassium hydrate and ammonia turn it dark grey or black.
Potassium iodide gives a greenish-yellow precipitate, soluble in ether,
and subliming in red crystals when heated.
=Mercurous Acetate.= Hg(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2}). _Syn._ ACETATE OF MERCURY,
SUBACETATE. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Dissolve mercurous nitrate, 1 part, in water
(slightly acidulated with nitric acid), 4 parts, and precipitate the
liquid with a solution of sodium acetate, gradually added, until in slight
excess; carefully wash the precipitate with cold water, and dry it in the
shade.
_Prop., &c._ Small, white, micaceous, flexible scales; insoluble in
alcohol; soluble in about 300 parts of water; blackened by light; and
carbonised by a strong heat. It has been said to be one of the mildest of
the mercurials; but this cannot be the case, as it occasionally acts with
great violence on both the stomach and bowels, producing much pain and
prostration.——_Dose_, 1/6 to 1 gr., night and morning, gradually
increased.
=Mercurous Bromide.= HgBr. _Syn._ SUBBROMIDE OF MERCURY; HYDRARGYRUM
BROMIDUM, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.) By precipitating a solution of mercurous
nitrate by another of potassium bromide. It closely resembles calomel in
both its appearance and properties.——_Dose_, 1 to 5 gr.
=Mercurous Chloride.= HgCl or Hg_{2}Cl_{2}. _Syn._ CALOMEL, SUBCHLORIDE OF
MERCURY, MERCURY CHLORIDE; HYDRARGYRI SUBCHLORIDUM (B. P.), HYDRARGYRI
CHLORIDUM (Ph. L.), H. C. MITE (Ph. U. S.), CALOMELAS (Ph. E. & D.), L.
This substance is one of the best known, and probably the most valuable,
of all the mercurials.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Mercury, 2 lbs.; sulphuric acid, 21-1/2 fl. oz.; mix,
boil to dryness (in a cast-iron vessel), and when the resulting mass has
cooled, add of mercury, 2 lbs., and triturate the ingredients in an
earthenware mortar until they are well mixed; then add of sodium chloride,
1-1/2 lb., and again triturate until the globules are no longer visible;
next sublime the mixture, reduce the sublimate to the finest possible
powder, diligently wash it with boiling distilled water, and dry
it.——_Prod._ 117 or 118% of the weight of mercury employed.
2. (Ph. F.) Mercury, 4 oz., is dissolved in a mixture of sulphuric acid, 2
fl. oz. 3 fl. dr., and nitric acid, 1/2 fl. oz., by the aid of heat; when
cold, mercury, 4 oz., is added, and the remainder of the process is
conducted as before.
3. (CALOMELAS SUBLIMATUM.——Ph. D.) Sulphate of mercury, 10 parts; mercury,
7 parts; dry sodium chloride, 5 parts; triturate, &c., as before, and
afterwards resublime it into a large chamber or receiver.
4. (Ph. B.) Same as Dublin.
5. (Apothecaries’ Hall.) Quicksilver, 50 lbs., and sulphuric acid, 70
lbs., are boiled to dryness in a cast-iron vessel; of the dry salt, 62
lbs. are triturated with quicksilver, 40-1/2 lbs., until the globules are
extinguished, when sodium chloride, 34 lbs., is added, and after thorough
admixture the whole is sublimed, &c., as before.——_Prod._ 96 to 100 lbs.
6. (Jewel’s Patent.) The receiver, which is capacious, is filled with
steam, so that the calomel vapour is condensed in it in a state of
extremely minute division. The engr. represents the apparatus now usually
employed when this plan is adopted. The product is extremely white, and of
the finest quality. It is sometimes called ‘hydrosublimed calomel’ and
‘hydrosublimate of mercury.’ The ‘flowers of calomel,’ of old pharmacy,
were prepared in a nearly similar manner.
[Illustration: _a._ Furnace.
_b._ An earthenware retort, having a short and wide neck, containing the
ingredients for making calomel.
_c._ An earthen receiver, having three tubulatures.
_d._ A vessel containing water.
_e._ A steam-boiler.]
7. (Soubeiran.) The crude calomel mixture is heated in an earthen tube in
a furnace, and a current of air is directed uninterruptedly into the tube
by means of a small ventilator. This sweeps away, as it were, the vapours
of calomel, and in a straight tube will carry them a distance of 60 feet,
to avoid which the end of the recipient is immersed in water, by which
means the calomel is moistened and falls down. This plan, slightly
modified, is now extensively adopted in this country.
8. (PRECIPITATED CALOMEL; CALOMELAS PRÆCIPITATUM, L.) Digest pure
quicksilver, 9 parts, in nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·02 to 1·25), 8 parts,
until no more metal will dissolve, applying heat as the effervescence
ceases; then mix the hot liquid quickly with a boiling solution of sodium
chloride, 8 parts, dissolved in water (slightly acidulated with
hydrochloric acid), 64 parts; lastly, well wash the precipitate in boiling
distilled water, and dry it. The product, when the process is skilfully
managed, is perfectly white and pure.
_Prop._ A heavy, white, tasteless powder; insoluble in water, alcohol, and
cold dilute nitric acid; volatilises at a temperature below redness, and
yields a white or yellowish-white sublimate; hot nitric acid oxidises and
dissolves it; alkalies, the alkaline carbonates, and lime water, decompose
it, with the production of the black oxide; ammonia converts it into a
dark slate-grey coloured powder (BLACK PRECIPITATE——Kane). Sp. gr. 7·14
(Boullay; 7·156——Pelouze and Fremy; 7·176——Ure).
_Pur._ Calomel is frequently contaminated with small quantities of
corrosive sublimate, which may be detected by digesting a little in
alcohol, decanting the clear portion, and testing it with a drop or two of
potassium hydrate, when a reddish precipitate will be formed if any
mercuric chloride be present. It is pulverulent, whitish, and sublimes
entirely by heat. It becomes black on the addition of potassium hydrate,
then, heat being applied, it runs into globules of mercury. Neither silver
nitrate, lime water, nor sulphuretted hydrogen, being added to the water
in which it has been washed, or boiled throws down anything.
_Uses._ Calomel is one of the milder mercurials, and in this respect takes
its position immediately after blue pill, mercury with chalk, and the grey
oxide; but it probably ranks before all the other salts of mercury.
Universal experience appears to show it to be a most valuable alterative
when judiciously administered. With this intention it is given in doses of
1/4 to 1 gr., generally combined with antimonials, as in Plummer’s pill,
and repeated every night, or every other night, for some time, followed by
a mild saline aperient in the morning. As a purgative, 2 to 5 gr., either
combined with or followed by other purgatives, as jalap, rhubarb, senna,
colocynth, Epsom salts, &c. As a vermifuge, 2 to 5 gr., over-night,
followed by a sufficient dose of castor oil next morning. Combined with
opium it is frequently used in various complaints to produce salivation,
or bring the system under the influence of mercury. It is also employed as
a sedative and errhine, and in a vast number of other indications. It is,
indeed, more frequently used, and in a greater variety of complaints, than
probably any other medicine.
_Obs._ Of the two methods of preparing calomel, that by precipitation is
not only the best, but the most economical. That by sublimation is,
however, the one generally adopted in England. Mr Brande states that “a
small portion of sodium chloride is apt to remain combined with it, which
might affect its medical uses.” Such a contamination is not found in
carefully prepared precipitated calomel, although we doubt whether the
quantity of it which exists in any of the samples we have met with (being
merely a trace) would at all interfere with its therapeutical action; more
especially when it is recollected that alkaline chlorides are present in,
not merely the primæ viæ, but also in every part of the animal body. The
late Mr Fownes, a chemist who was unsurpassed in the accuracy of his
researches, and the caution and delicacy with which he expressed his
opinions, once assured us that calomel was more easily and cheaply
prepared of the best quality by precipitation than by sublimation, and
that if, from careless manipulation, it occasionally contained a minute
quantity of common salt, this was of much less importance than the
contamination of corrosive sublimate, which was frequently present in
samples of sublimed calomel.
To produce a superior article of calomel in the dry way is a somewhat
difficult task, and the process frequently fails in the hands of
inexperienced operators. The solution of the mercury is best made in an
iron vessel, and the sublimation should be conducted (preferably) in an
earthenware retort with a short but very wide neck, and fitted in a
spacious receiver, having a large flat bottom, also of earthenware, and
containing a little cold water. On the small scale the heat may be applied
by means of a sand bath. The form above given for calomel, by
precipitation, produces a large product, perfectly free from corrosive
sublimate and mercurous nitrate, and is consequently free from the
objections frequently raised against that mode of preparing it.
“The form in which calomel sublimes depends much upon the dimensions and
temperature of the subliming vessels. In small vessels it generally
condenses in a crystalline cake, the interior surface of which is often
covered with beautiful quadrangular prismatic crystals, transparent, and
of a texture somewhat elastic or horny. In this state it acquires, by the
necessary rubbing into powder, a decided yellow or buff colour, more or
less deep, according to the degree of trituration it has undergone. If, on
the contrary, the calomel be sublimed into a very capacious and cold
receiver, it falls in an impalpable and perfectly white powder, which
requires only one elutriation to fit it for use; it then remains perfectly
colourless.” (Brande.)
The long-continued action of steam on calomel in a state of minute
division is attended by the formation of a small quantity of corrosive
sublimate. (Righini.) Boiling water, hot air, and light, also produce a
like effect.
=Mercurous Iodide.= HgI. _Syn._ SUBIODIDE OF MERCURY, GREEN IODIDE OF
MERCURY, MERCUROUS IODIDE; HYDRARGYRI IODIDUM VIRIDE (B. P.), HYDRARGYRI
SUBIODUM, H. IODIDUM (Ph. L.), H. I. VIRIDE (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B.
P.) Mercury, 1 oz.; iodine, 278 gr.; rectified spirit, a sufficiency. Rub
the iodine and mercury in a porcelain mortar, moistening occasionally with
a few drops of spirit, and continue the trituration until the mass assumes
a uniform green colour, and no metallic globules are visible.
2. Precipitate a solution of mercurous nitrate by another of mercurous
potassium iodide; wash the precipitate, first in a solution of sodium
chloride, and then in pure water; lastly, dry it in the shade.
3. (Ph. L.) Mercury, 1 oz.; iodine, 5 dr.; triturate together, gradually
adding of rectified spirit, q. s. (about 1 to 2 fl. dr.), until globules
are no longer seen; dry the powder, by a gentle heat, in the shade, as
quickly as possible, and preserve it in a well-stoppered black glass
vessel. The formula of the Ph. D. is similar.
_Prop., &c._ A heavy, greenish-yellow powder; insoluble in water, alcohol,
and a solution of common salt; soluble in ether, and slightly so in an
aqueous solution of iodide of potassium. “Freshly prepared, it is
yellowish. Heat being cautiously applied, it sublimes in red crystals,
which quickly turn yellow, and, on access of light, blacken. It is
insoluble in a solution of chloride of sodium.” The process of the Ph. L.
and F. P. does not answer when larger quantities than 4 or 5 oz. are
prepared at once, owing to the great heat generated by the reaction of the
ingredients, and the consequent volatilisation of a portion of the iodine,
by which the colour of the product suffers.——_Dose_, 1/8 to 1 gr., made
into pills; “in syphilis and scrofula, especially where they occur in the
same individual.” It is also used externally, in the form of ointment. It
is very poisonous.
=Mercurous Nitrate.= HgNO_{3}. _Syn._ SUBNITRATE OF MERCURY; HYDRARGYRI
SUBNITRAS, H. NITRAS, H. PROTONITRAS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Neutral.) By
digesting mercury in excess of cold dilute nitric acid, observing to
remove the short prismatic crystals within a short time after they are
formed; these, when drained, and redissolved in water slightly acidulated
with nitric acid, furnish crystals of pure neutral mercurous nitrate by
cautious evaporation.
2. (Basic.) Deposited after some time, when excess of mercury has been
employed as above. A fine crystallised salt.
_Prop., &c._ Both the above are decomposed by water, but the former may be
dissolved in a very small quantity without decomposition. When the neutral
salt is triturated with an excess of sodium chloride, and water
subsequently added, the whole of the mercury is thrown down as calomel,
and the filtered supernatant liquid does not contain corrosive sublimate.
If this salt is detected, the salt examined contained mercuric nitrate,
and if any basic mercurous nitrate was present, the newly formed calomel
has a grey or black colour, due to presence of oxide.——_Dose._ Of the
neutral salts, 1/16 to 1/8 gr. It is seldom used internally. A solution is
sometimes employed as a mild caustic to ulcers; and, more dilute, as a
lotion in lepra, porrigo, psoriasis, etc.; or made into an ointment, in
the same diseases.
=Mercurous Oxide.= Hg_{2}O. _Syn._ SUBOXIDE OF MERCURY, GREY O. OF M.,
BLACK O. OF M., MERCUROUS O., DIOXIDE OF M., PROTOXIDE OF M.†; HYDRARGYRI
SUBOXYDUM, H. OXYDUM, H. O. CINEREUM, H. O. NIGRUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.
1836.) Calomel, 1 oz.; lime water, 1 gall.; mix, agitate well together,
decant the clear liquid after subsidence, and well wash the sediment with
distilled water; lastly, drain and dry it, wrapped in bibulous paper, in
the air.
2. (Ph. D. 1826.) Sublimed calomel, 1 part; solution of potassium hydrate
(warm), 4 parts; triturate together, &c., as last.
3. Briskly triturate calomel in a mortar with pure potassium hydrate, in
excess; wash it with water, and dry it in the shade.
_Prop., &c._ A very dark grey or black powder, suffering decomposition by
exposure to light and air, becoming olive coloured, from a portion being
resolved into metallic mercury and binoxide. Digested for a short time in
dilute hydrochloric acid, it remains undissolved, and the filtered liquid
is not affected by potassium hydrate, or by ammonium oxalate. It is
totally soluble in acetic acid, and entirely dissipated by heat. As a
medicine pure mercurous oxide is one of the mildest of the mercurials, and
is used both internally and externally; but chiefly as a fumigant, or made
into an ointment.——_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 3 gr. twice a day.
=Mercurous Phosphate=, _Syn._ HYDRARGYRI PHOSPHAS, L. _Prep._ Add a
solution of mercurous nitrate (slightly acidulated with nitric acid) to a
solution of sodium phosphate, and wash and dry the precipitate which
forms. In its physical characters it closely resembles calomel, than which
it is said to be more appropriate in certain cases, especially in
secondary syphilis. Alkalies turn it black.——_Dose_, 1/4 to 1 gr., made
into a pill with sugar and aromatics.
=Mercurous Sulphate.= Hg_{2}SO_{4}. _Syn._ SUBSULPHATE OF MERCURY,
SULPHATE OF THE SUBOXIDE OF M., PROTOSULPHATE OF M.†; HYDRARGYRI
SUBSULPHAS, L. _Prep._ By adding sulphuric acid to a solution of mercurous
nitrate. The salt falls as a white crystalline powder.
=Mercurous Sulphide.= Hg_{2}S. _Syn._ SUBSULPHATE OF MERCURY; HYDRARGYRI
SUBSULPHURETUM CUM SULPHURE, H. S. NIGRUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Pure.) This
falls as a black precipitate when a solution of mercurous nitrate is
treated with sulphuretted hydrogen or ammonium sulphide.
2. (Impure; ETHIOPS MINERAL; HYDRARGYRI SULPHURETUM CUM SULPHURE, H. S.
NIGRUM——Ph. L. 1824 & Ph. D. 1826); (ÆTHIOPS MINERALIS——Ph. L. 1836 & Ph.
D. 1826.) (Quicksilver and sulphur, equal parts, triturated together in a
stoneware mortar——Ph. D.) until globules are no longer visible.
_Prop., &c._ The last preparation of mercurous sulphide is alone employed
medicinally. It is a heavy, insoluble, black powder. It is frequently met
with imperfectly prepared, and sometimes adulterated. It is said to be a
mixture of mercurous sulphide and sulphur, in variable proportions
depending on the length of the trituration. On the large scale it is
generally made by melting the ingredients together, and afterwards
reducing the mass to a fine powder in a mill or mortar. It is said to be
vermifuge and alterative, and has been used in some cutaneous and
glandular diseases, but appears to be nearly inert.——_Dose_, 5 to 30 gr.
=Mercurous Tartrate.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PROTO-TARTRATE OF MERCURY,
HYDRARGYRI TARTRAS. Made by adding a solution of proto-nitrate of mercury
in water, slightly acidulated with nitric acid, to a solution of tartrate
of potash as long as a precipitate forms. Wash it with distilled water,
dry it in the shade, and keep it in bottles covered with black
paper.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 gr.
=MERCURY, Other Preparations of.=
=Mercury, Hahnemann’s.= _Syn._ HAHNEMANN’S SOLUBLE MERCURY, H.’S BLACK
OXIDE OF M., BLACK PRECIPITATE OF M.; HYDRARGYRI PRÆCIPITATUM NIGRUM,
MERCURIUS SOLUBILIS HAHNEMANNI, L.——_a._ By dropping weak ammonia into a
solution of mercurous nitrate as long as the precipitate formed is of a
black colour; the powder is washed, dried in the shade without artificial
heat, and then preserved from the light and air.
(Ph. Bor. 1847.) Solution of mercurous nitrate (recent; sp. gr. 1·1),
9-1/4 oz.; distilled water, 2 lbs.; mix, filter, and add to the solution
of ammonia (sp. gr. ·960), 1/2 oz., diluted with water, 4 fl. oz.; collect
the powder immediately on a filter, wash it with water, 3 fl. oz., and dry
it, &c., as before. A very black powder.——_Dose_, 1/4 to 1 gr.
=Mercury, Precipitates of.= 1. BLACK PRECIPITATE, Hahnemann’s soluble
mercury (basic mercurous and ammonium nitrate). 2. GREEN P. (MERCURIUS
PRÆCIPITATUS VIRIDIS, LACERTA VIRIDIS), from equal parts of mercury and
copper, separately dissolved in nitric acid, the solutions mixed,
evaporated to dryness, and then calcined until red fumes cease to arise.
Caustic. 3. RED P., mercuric oxide. 4. WHITE P., ammonio-chloride of
mercury.
=Mercury, Ward’s.= _Syn._ AMMONIO-NITRATE OF MERCURY; HYDRARGYRI AMMONIÆ
NITRAS, L. To nitric acid, 4 parts, contained in a spacious bolt-head or
matrass, add, gradually, ammonium sesquicarbonate, 2 parts; afterwards add
of mercury, 1 part, and digest in a gentle heat, until the solution is
complete.
=Mercury with Chalk.= _Syn._ HYDRARGYRUM CUM CRETÂ. GREY POWDER (B. P.)
_Prep._ Rub 1 oz. (by weight) of mercury, and prepared chalk, 2 oz., in a
porcelain mortar, until metallic globules cease to be visible to the naked
eye and the mixture acquires a uniform grey colour.——_Dose._ From 3 to 8
gr.
A little water is said to aid in the extinction of the mercury. Mr Bottle
suggests a slight departure from the Grey _modus operandi_ followed by the
British Pharmacopœia in the above preparation. He proposes to substitute
for the tedious process of trituration in a porcelain mortar the agitation
of the mercury with the chalk in a wide-mouthed glass bottle; by which
means the metal may be minutely subdivided, at a considerably less
expenditure of time and labour.
=Mercury with Magnesia.= (Ph. D.) _Syn._ HYDRARGYRUM CUM MAGNESIÂ. Pure
mercury, 1 oz., carbonate of magnesia, 2 oz. Rub together in a porcelain
mortar until the globules cease to be visible and the mixture acquires a
uniform, grey colour.——_Dose_, 3 to 8 grains.
=Mercury, Yellow Oxide of.= (Ph. B.) _Syn._ HYDRARGYRI OXYDUM FLAVUM.
_Prep._ Perchloride of mercury, 4 oz.; solution of soda (Ph. B.), 2 pints;
distilled water, q. s. Dissolve the perchloride in 4 pints of distilled
water, adding the solution by the application of heat, and add this to the
solution of soda. Stir them together, allow the yellow precipitate to
subside, remove the supernatant liquor by decantation, thoroughly wash the
precipitated oxide on a calico filter with distilled water, and finally
dry it by the heat of a water bath.
=MES′LIN.= A mixture of various kinds of grain. (Brande.)
=METAGAL′LIC ACID.= Obtained by heating dry gallic acid, by a quick fire,
to about 480° Fahr., or until it froths, melts, and becomes black and
solid, then dissolving the residuum in an alkali, filtering, and
precipitating by an acid. An insoluble, black powder.
=ME′TAL.= _Syn._ METALLUM, L. See METALS.
=METAL′LICA.= [L.] Preparations of the metals. One of the divisions of the
Ph. L.
=METAL′LIC TREES.= See VEGETATION (Metallic).
=METAL′LO-CHROMES.= A name given by Nobili to extremely thin films of
peroxide of lead deposited by electrolytic action upon plates or polished
steel, so as to produce an iridescent play of colours. The effect is often
very beautiful.
=MET′ALLOIDS.= A name sometimes applied to the NON-METALLIC ELEMENTS.
=METAL′LURGY.= “The art of extracting metals from their ores, and adapting
them to various processes of manufacture.” (Percy.)
“Notwithstanding the striking analogy which exists between common chemical
and metallurgic operations, since both are employed to isolate certain
bodies from each other, there are essential differences which should be
carefully noted. In the first place, the quantity of materials being
always very great in metallurgy, requires corresponding adaptations of
apparatus, and often produces peculiar phenomena; in the second place, the
agents to be employed for treating great masses must be selected with a
view to economy, as well as chemical action. In analytical chemistry, the
main object being exactness of result and purity of product, little
attention is bestowed upon the value of the reagents, on account of the
small quantity required for any particular process. But in smelting metals
upon the large scale, profit being the sole object, cheap materials and
easy operations are alone admissible.”[35]
[Footnote 35: ‘Ure’s Dict. of Arts, Manufactures, and Mines,’ 4th edit.]
The limits of this work do not permit of more than a general reference to
the leading operations of metallurgy under this head. These are——digging,
picking or sorting, stamping or crushing, and washing, included under the
general term, ‘dressing ore,’——roasting or calcination, which is either
performed with the fuel in contact with the ore, or in reverberatory
furnaces; and the liquation or reduction to the reguline form. The
application of these processes is noticed under the leading metals. Those
who desire to study the subject minutely are referred to the treatises of
Dr Percy, Robert Hunt, Karsten, and Le Play.
=MET′ALS.= _Syn._ METALLA, L. Metals are elementary bodies, which are
generally distinguished by their lustre and power of conducting heat and
electricity. When their solutions are electrolysed, the metals always
appear at the electro-negative surface, and are hence termed
electro-positive elements.
Formerly, when science was much less advanced than at present, the metals
constituted a well-defined class. The properties which were regarded as
specially characteristic were physical, and were not founded on chemical
relations; thus, lustre and high specific gravity were considered to be
essential characters of all metals. But we are now acquainted with metals
which have a lower specific gravity than water (lithium, sodium, &c.), and
with so-called non-metallic elements which present a strong metallic
lustre (carbon in the state of graphite, crystallised silicon). It will
therefore be seen that the term ‘metal’ is rather conventional than
strictly scientific. By far the greater number of elementary bodies at
present known are metals. Their physical characters and leading chemical
properties are noticed under each of them in its alphabetical place. The
following table exhibits some useful particulars:——
TABLE _of some of the properties of some of the
metals._
Names arranged in the order of their
/-----------------------/\----------------------\
Ductility. | Malleability.
|
Gold. | Gold.
Silver. | Silver.
Platinum. | Copper.
Iron. | Tin.
Nickel. | Platinum.
Copper. | Lead.
Zinc. | Zinc.
Tin. | Iron.
Lead. | Nickel.
Names arranged in the order of their
/-----------------------/\----------------------\
Power of conducting | Power of conducting
Heat. | Electricity.
|
Silver. | Silver.
Copper. | Copper.
Gold. | Gold.
Tin. | Zinc.
Iron. | Iron.
Lead. | Tin.
Bismuth. | Lead.
| Antimony.
| Bismuth.
=METANTIMON′IC ACID.= H_{4}Sb_{2}O_{7}. The name given by M. Fremy to that
variety of antimonic acid obtained by decomposing pentachloride of
antimony with excess of water. It differs from common antimonic acid in
being tetra, and forming two different classes of salts with the acids.
The acid metantimoniate of potassium is the only reagent which yields a
precipitate with the sodium salts, and is therefore of great value in
chemical analysis. It is prepared by fusing antimonic acid with excess of
potassa, in a silver crucible, dissolving the fused mass in a little cold
water, and allowing it to crystallise in vacuo. The resulting crystals
(metantimoniate of potassa), by solution in pure water, are resolved into
free potassa and the acid salt. See ANTIMONY.
=METAPEC′TIC ACID.= See PECTIN.
=METAPEC′TIN.= See PECTIN.
=METAPHOSPHOR′IC ACID.= See PHOSPHORIC ACID.
=METHEG′LIN.= _Syn._ HYDROMELI, H. VINOSUM, MELLIS VINUM, L. _Prep._ From
honey, 1 cwt.; warm water, 24 galls.; stir well until dissolved; the next
day add of yeast, 1 pint, and hops, 1 lb., previously boiled in water, 1
gall.; along with water q. s. to make the whole measure 1 barrel; mix
well, and ferment the whole with the usual precautions adopted for other
liquors. It contains on the average from 7% to 8% of alcohol. See MEAD.
=ME′THYL.= CH_{3}. The hypothetical radical of PYROXYLIC SPIRIT
(WOOD-SPIRIT, METHYLIC ALCOHOL) and the methyl series. It forms a number
of compounds analogous to those of ethyl.
=METHYLAMINE.= _Syn._ METHYLIA. CH_{3}H_{2}N. A colourless gas possessing
a very powerful odour of ammonia, and a strongly alkaline reaction. It
differs from ammonia, however, in being non-inflammable. In other respects
it bears a considerable resemblance to it. Water at 55° Fahr. dissolves
more than eleven hundred times its bulk of methylamine. It may be easily
condensed to a liquid by means of a freezing mixture.
To obtain it nascent hydrogen is made to react on prussic or formic acid.
Methylia exists in herring brine, and is a frequent product of the
destructive distillation of substances containing nitrogen. Most of its
salts are very soluble in water.
=METHYLATED SPIRIT.= A mixture of 1 part of methylic alcohol (wood spirit)
and 9 parts of ethylic alcohol (spirit of wine). See SPIRIT.
=METHYLENE CHLORIDE.= CH_{2}Cl_{2}. _Syn._ METHYLENE BICHLORIDE. There are
various methods of obtaining this compound:——1. By heating chloroform with
zinc filings and dilute sulphuric acid. 2. By acting on methylene iodide
with chlorine. In this process prolonged treatment with chlorine, at
ordinary temperatures, is required to remove the last traces of iodine.
(Buttlerow.) Chloride of methylene is a colourless mobile fluid, having a
smell like chloroform, and a burning taste. It is used as an anæsthetic in
place of chloroform. According to Dr Armstrong, the substance known as
METHYLENE ETHER is a mechanical mixture of bichloride of methylene and
ethylic ether. Dr Richardson says of this latter it is not so quick in its
action as the methylene chloride, but that it is safer. See ANÆSTHETICS.
=METHYLIC ALCOHOL.= See WOOD SPIRIT.
=MEZE′REON.= _Syn._ GAROU; MEZEREON BARK, MEZEREI CORTEX (B. P.);
MEZEREON——Ph. L., E., & D. The dried bark of the _Daphne Mezereum_,
mezereon; or _Daphne Laureola_, spurge, or wood-laurel. The “bark of the
root of _Daphne Mezereum_,” or spurge olive. (Ph. L.) A stimulant and
diuretic. It is employed as a sudorific and alterative, in syphilis,
rheumatism, scrofula, and chronic cutaneous diseases, usually in
conjunction with sarsaparilla. It has also been used as a masticatory in
toothache, paralysis of the tongue, &c. On the Continent it is used as a
vesicant. For this purpose it is softened by soaking it in hot vinegar,
and is then bound on the part, and renewed after intervals of some hours,
until vesication is produced.
=MICE.= See RATS.
=MI′CROSMIC SALT.= NaNH_{4}HPO_{4}, _Syn._ TRIBASIC PHOSPHATE OF SODIUM
AND AMMONIUM. _Prep._ 1. Phosphates of soda and ammonia, equal parts;
water, q. s.; dissolve separately, mix the solutions, evaporate, and
crystallise. A slight excess of phosphate of ammonia aids the
crystallisation.
2. (Fownes.) Phosphate of sodium, 6 parts; water, 2 parts; liquefy by
heat, and add of sal ammoniac (in powder), 1 part; common salt separates,
and after its removal the liquid is concentrated so that crystals may
form. Used as a flux in blowpipe assays.
=MI′CROSCOPE.= The value of the microscope in chemistry and the collateral
sciences is now so generally acknowledged that it would be folly to do
more than merely allude to the subject here.
In the COMPOUND MICROSCOPE, which has quite superseded the ‘simple
microscope’ as an instrument of research, the object is magnified in the
first instance by the object-glass, and then remagnified by the eye-piece.
It follows, therefore, that the magnifying power of the instrument may be
increased either by increasing the power of the object-glass or that of
the eye-piece. It must be borne in mind, however, that in increasing the
power of the eye-piece we do not magnify the object itself in a greater
degree, but simply increase the image of the object formed by the
object-glass. Any imperfections which may exist in the latter are thus
greatly increased. At first the great drawback to the use of the compound
microscope was its deficiency in achromatism; but the researches of Mr
Lester and Dr Goring led to the achromatising of the object-glass, which
was the first of the rapid strides towards perfection made by this
instrument during the last twenty years. The two most useful
object-glasses are the ‘quarter-inch,’ which should magnify from 200 to
220 diameters, and the ‘inch,’ which should magnify from 30 to 40
diameters. The definition of these glasses should be good, and they should
transmit plenty of light. Any lines in a structure examined by them should
appear sharp and distinct, and there should be no coloured fringes around
the object. It is of great importance that the object-glasses are kept
perfectly free from dust. A few shreds of wash-leather of the finest
quality should be kept in a pill-box for cleaning them. Before rubbing
them with the leather they may be breathed upon, but no whiting or liquid
of any kind should be used, as each object-glass, being achromatic, is a
very delicate piece of workmanship, consisting of two lenses of flint and
crown-glass cemented together by Canada balsam. Compound microscopes are
now sold by the best London makers at very low prices. A really good
instrument, adapted to most of the wants of the chemical, pharmaceutical,
or medical student, may be obtained for five guineas.
The following formulæ for the preparation of the chief substances,
together with the principal reagents required in the working of the
microscope, are from Dr Lionel Beale’s valuable book, ‘How to Work with
the Microscope,’[36]
[Footnote 36: Harrison, 59, Pall Mall.]
_Reagents_——
1. Alcohol, of various strengths.
2. Ether, to dissolve oil globules.
3. Nitric acid (1 part of strong acid to 5 of water)
4. Sulphuric acid (1 to 5).
5. Hydrochloric acid.
6. Acetic acid, glacial and dilute (1 to 5).
7. Chromic acid, very dilute, to harden tissues.
8. Solution of potash, saturated and dilute (1 to 10).
9. Solution of soda (25 gr. of fused soda to 1 oz.).
10. Ammonia (1 part of the strongest solution to 3 of water).
11. Nitrate of baryta, a cold saturated solution of.
12. Nitrate of silver (120 gr. to 2 oz.). These two are for the mineral
acids.
13. Oxalate of ammonia in solution. Test for lime.
14. Solution of iodine saturated, _i.e._ 1 to 7000 parts of water. Another
solution is——1 gr. of iodine and 3 of iodide of potassium in 1 oz. of
distilled water.
1. _Cements._——1. _Brunswick Black._ Boil together 1/4 lb. foreign
asphaltum and 4-1/4 oz. of linseed oil (previously thickened with
litharge), then mix to a proper consistence with oil of turpentine (about
1 pint).
2. _Gold Size._ Boil 25 parts of linseed oil with 1 of minium and 1/3rd
part of umber for 3 hours; pour off the clear fluid, and mix with equal
parts of powdered white lead, and yellow ochre, added in small successive
portions. Then boil well the whole again, and pour off the clear fluid. It
dries slowly, but firmly. Both this and the last are dissolved by
turpentine.
3. _Goadby’s Marine Glue._ Dissolve separately in coal naphtha equal parts
of shell-lac and india rubber. Mix thoroughly with heat.
4. _Sealing-wax Varnish._ Dissolve the best sealing-wax in enough strong
spirit of wine to reduce it to the proper consistence. This is brittle.
5. _Canada Balsam._ This dries spontaneously.
Solutions of shell-lac, gum, and various other cements and glues are
employed by microscopic manipulators.
_Preservative Fluids._ Canada balsam, spirit and water, glycerin, solution
of gelatin, saturated solution of alum, chloride of zinc, and chloride of
calcium, are all used to preserve microscopic objects.
The following formulæ will be found useful:——
1. _Goadby’s Solution._ Bay salt, 4 oz.; alum, 2 oz.; corrosive sublimate,
4 gr.; boiling water, 4 pints. Mix and filter. It may often be more
diluted.
2. _Thwaite’s Fluid._ Mix spirit of wine, 1 oz., with creosote sufficient
to saturate it; rub up with chalk to form a thin paste, and mix gradually
with 16 oz. of water. To this may be added an equal quantity of water,
saturated with camphor.
3. _Simple Creosote Solution._ Dissolve creosote, 1 dr., in pyroligneous
acid, 1 dr., and mix gradually with cold water, 1 pint.
4. _Passini’s Solution. For blood-globules, nerves, and white tissues
generally._ Perchloride of mercury, 1 part; chloride of sodium, 2 parts;
glycerin, 13 parts; distilled water, 113 parts.
=MIL′DEW.= _Syn._ RUST, BLIGHT. The mouldy appearance on the leaves of
plants produced by innumerable microscopic fungi. The hop, wheat, and the
choicest garden fruit trees, are those most commonly attacked. The causes
are said to be excess of moisture, and absence of the free circulation of
air and sunshine. On the small scale, finely powered sulphur is
occasionally dusted over the parts affected, as a remedy.
=MIL′IARY FEVER.= _Syn._ MILIARIA, L. Among the other symptoms
are——anxiety and frequent sighing, the perspiration has a strong and
peculiar smell, and there is a sensation of pricking on the neck and
breast, followed by an eruption of small red pimples, which in two or
three days become white vesicles, dry up, peel off, and are succeeded by
others. The moist weather of spring and autumn are the periods in which it
is most prevalent; and delicate females, particularly in child-bed, are
those most liable to its attacks. Sometimes it assumes a malignant
character. The _treatment_ of this affection consists chiefly in
combating the depression of the system by a supporting diet; but
everything that heats or stimulates the skin should be avoided. The
apartment should be kept cool and well ventilated, and cooling saline
laxatives and bitter tonics, with cooling drinks, should also be had
recourse to.
=MILK.= _Syn._ LAC, L. The value of milk as an article of food is clearly
shown by the fact of it being sufficient to support, and to increase the
growth of, the young of every species of the mammalia; at once supplying
materials for the formation of the osseous, fleshy, and liquid portions of
the body. “The substances present in milk are wonderfully adapted to its
office of producing materials for the rapid growth and development of the
animal frame. It contains an azotised matter, casein, nearly identical in
composition with muscular flesh, fatty principles, and a peculiar sugar,
and, lastly, various salts, among which may be mentioned phosphate of
lime, held in complete solution in a slightly alkaline liquid.
“The white and almost opaque, appearance of milk is an optical illusion.
Examined by a microscope of even moderate power, it is seen to consist of
a perfectly transparent fluid, in which float about numbers of minute
transparent globules; these consist of fat surrounded by an albuminous
envelope, which can be broken mechanically, as in the churning, or
dissolved by the chemical action of caustic potassa, after which, by
agitating the milk with ether, the fat can be dissolved.” (Fownes.)
_Comp._ COWS’ MILK, of average quality, contains from 10% to 12% of solid
matter when evaporated to dryness by steam heat, and has the mean sp. gr.
1·030; while that of the skimmed milk is about 1·035; and of the cream,
1·0244. (Ure.) The average CREAM of cows’ milk contains 4·5% of butter,
3·5% of curd, and 92% of whey. (Berzelius.) The SKIMMED MILK consists of
water, 92·9%; curd, 2·%; sugar of milk, 3·5%; lactic acid, lactate of
potassa, and a trace of lactate of iron, ·6%, chloride of potassium,
phosphate of potassa, and earthy phosphates (lime), ·2%. (Berzelius.)
The following analysis of fresh milk is by M. Haidlen:——
Water 873·00
Butter 30·00
Casein 48·20
Milk sugar 43·90
Phosphate of lime 2·31
Phosphate of magnesia ·42
Phosphate of iron ·07
Chloride of potassium 1·44
Chloride of sodium ·24
Soda in combination with casein ·42
————————
1000.
Professor Wanklyn has devised and published in his excellent little manual
‘Milk Analysis’[37] a process by which a very thorough chemical
examination of milk may be accomplished with great facility and
expedition.
[Footnote 37: Trubner and Co.]
In his preliminary remarks he condemns, as utterly unreliable and
misleading, the inferences to be drawn from those hydrometric instruments,
the lactometer or lactodensimeter, and creamometer. “A very little
consideration,” he says “will suffice to make intelligible the obliquity
of the indications of the lactometer and to show how untrustworthy it must
be. The lactometer, as of course will be understood, is simply the
hydrometer applied to milk; and readings of the instrument are neither
more nor less than specific gravities. The more milk-sugar, and casein,
and mineral matter there is in a given specimen of milk, the greater
(other things being equal) will be its density or specific gravity, and
the higher the lactometer reading.
“If, however, fat globules (as happens in the instance of milk) be
diffused through the fluid, then, because fat is lighter than water, the
effect of the other milk solids on the gravity of the liquid, will be more
or less neutralised. The density of milk-fat is about 0·9, water being
1·0. Now, if a solution of casein and milk-sugar, of specific gravity
1·030, be sufficiently charged with fat globules, its specific gravity may
be sent down even below the gravity of water. How much would be required
to bring about such a result is a matter of simple calculation.
“This being understood, it will be obvious that if the specimens of milk
differ in specific gravity, there must be two distinct and equally valid
ways of accounting for the difference.
“The milk with the lower gravity may be milk let down with water, or let
down with fat, _i. e._ milk let down by being enriched.”
In support of this last assertion Professor Wanklyn quotes corroborative
instances afforded by the examination of different specimens of milk known
as ‘strippings,’ these being the last portions of milk yielded by the cow
at the termination of the milking. All these ‘strippings’ had a lower
specific gravity than normal milk.
Further, Professor Wanklyn points out that the specific gravity of organic
fluids is a fallacious index of the amount of solids they may contain, as
is illustrated by the fact, that whilst a 10 per cent. solution of
chloride of potassium has a specific gravity of 1·065 at 15° C., and a 10
per cent. solution of casein and milk sugar, has a specific gravity of
only about 1·035.
The creamometer meets with equal condemnation in Professor Wanklyn’s
little book, since different specimens of milk vary considerably in their
yield of cream, and a perfectly pure sample of milk may yield less cream
than one which has been tampered with.
A complete analysis of milk involves the determination of the water, the
fat (the essential constituent of the cream), the casein, milk-sugar, and
ash.
The following is an outline of Professor Wanklyn’s neat and ingenious
method of analysis:——
By means of an accurately graduated pipette, he first places 5 cubic
centimetres of the milk in a small weighed platinum dish (about 14 grammes
in weight) just previously ensuring the sample from which the milk is
taken being thoroughly mixed.
The dish is then placed over a water-bath (the water in which must be kept
vigorously boiling the whole time) for three hours, at the end of which
time all the water having been driven off, there will remain in the dish a
completely dried up residue.
The increase in weight between the empty dish and the residue, will give
the weight of the ‘milk solids’ from 5 c.c. of milk. Of course, if this
weight be multiplied by 20, the yield from 100 c.c. of milk will be
obtained.
To reduce this to a percentage statement it is necessary to remember that
100 c.c. of average milk weigh 102·9 grammes. The next proceeding consists
in the determination of the fat. This is done by treating the dried milk
solids resulting from the 5 c.c. of milk with ether. There are several
important minutiæ necessary to be observed in connection with this part of
the process, for the particulars of which the reader is referred to
Professor Wanklyn’s book. Suffice it to say, that if properly performed,
the whole of the fat is dissolved by the ether, and being separated from
the non-fatty portion of the residue is weighed and calculated as ‘fat.’
If, then, the amount found as fat be deducted from the whole of the milk
solids previous to their treatment with ether, the ‘milk solids, not fat,’
will be arrived at. Professor Wanklyn estimates the casein[38] as
follows:——He treats the milk solids, not fat, with hot alcohol, by which
means he dissolves out from them, and removes the milk-sugar and the
soluble chlorides. The remaining residue, consisting of casein and
phosphate of sodium (chemically combined with the casein), is dried on a
water-bath until it ceases to lose weight. It is then weighed along with
the vessel containing it, and ignited. The combined weight of the vessel
and phosphate of sodium remaining after ignition being deducted from the
weight previous to ignition, the difference is the casein.
[Footnote 38: Under the head “Casein” Prof Wanklyn includes the entire
nitrogenous materials of milk.]
Another and quicker method, recommended by Professor Wanklyn, for the
determination of the casein, is to measure it by the amount of albuminoid
ammonia it is capable of yielding when subjected to the ‘albuminoid
ammonia process,’ invented by Messrs Wanklyn, Chapman, and Smith.
The alcoholic solution filtered off from the combined casein and phosphate
of sodium, contains the milk sugar and soluble chlorides. It is
evaporated to dryness on a water-bath, and the residue with the vessel
containing it, is weighed. It is then gently ignited, and the weight of
the remaining residue being deducted from the total weight before
ignition, gives the yield of milk sugar. Or the milk sugar may be
determined by titration with a standard copper solution.
For the determination of the ash it is only necessary to ignite the milk
solids from 5 c.c. of milk, in the small platinum dish, by which operation
all the organic matter being driven off, that which remains behind
constitutes the ‘ash’ and is weighed as such.
It will be obvious that in order to determine with anything like rigid
accuracy the quality of any sample of milk by analysis, not only must a
normal standard for the purpose of comparison be adopted, but such normal
standard must represent very closely and with but little variation the
definite composition of all sound and genuine milk.
Professor Wanklyn says that “the following, which is the result of several
concordant analyses of country-fed milk, may be taken as representing
normal milk. In 100 grammes of milk——
Solids (dry at 100° C) 12·5 grammes.
Water 87·5
——————
100·0
“The 12·5 grammes consist of 9·3 grammes of ‘solids which are not fat,’
and 3·2 grammes of fat.” The above data, which are founded on the
examination of a very large number of different samples of milk, are
confirmed by the researches of Müller and Eisenstuck, who were employed by
the Royal Agricultural Society of Sweden in a similar investigation. The
labours of these chemists extended over a twelvemonth, and the result of
them was to show that the milk yielded day by day, for a whole year, by a
herd of cows was remarkably constant in composition.
Professor Wanklyn gives the following formulæ for the calculation and
statement of the results of milk analysis. He says, treating the question
quite rigidly, which I believe is the proper way of dealing with it, we
arrive at the following:——
_Problem_ 1. Given the percentage of ‘solids, not fat’ (= _a_), in a
specimen of sophisticated milk (_i. e._ milk, either watered, or skimmed,
or both)——required the number of grammes of genuine milk which was
employed to form 100 grammes of it.
_Answer._ Multiply the percentage of ‘solids, not fat’ by 100, and divide
by 9·3.
Or—— (100 / 9·3)_a_.
_Problem_ II.——Given the percentage of ‘solids, not fat’ (= _a_), also the
percentage of fat (= _b_), in a specimen of sophisticated milk——required
the number of grammes of fat which have been removed by skimming from the
genuine milk which was employed to form 100 grammes of it.
_Answer._—— (3·2 / 9·3)(_a_ - _b_).
In translating fat into cream, the rule is that a removal of 0·2 gramme of
fat equals a removal of 1·0 gramme of cream. This rule is directly founded
on experiment. I do not, however, claim a high degree of accuracy for the
measurement of the cream.
Finally, a slight refinement may be noticed. If a specimen of
sophisticated milk has been produced by both skimming and watering, it
will be obvious, on consideration, that the extraneous waters employed in
manufacturing 100 grammes of it is equal to the difference between 100 and
the quantity of genuine milk employed to make 100 grammes of sophisticated
milk, together with a quantity of water equal to that of fat removed by
skimming.
Extraneous water = 100(100 / 9·3)_a_ + (3·2 / 9·3)(_a_ - _b_)
= 100[(100 + 3·2) / 9·3](_a_ - _b_)
Save for the purpose of finding out the presence of matters other than an
excess of water in the milk (a contingency regarded as very improbable),
the estimation of the casein and milk sugar is unnecessary. The
determination of the ash is for the object of learning if foreign mineral
matters, such as chalk or any other inorganic impurity, are present.
Professor Wanklyn says he believes that such like extraneous bodies are
never employed. The chief, if not the sole, form of dishonesty are
watering and skimming.
The amount of ash, however, is a good criterion as to the extent of
dilution that has been practised, a deficient amount being, of course,
confirmatory of a watered milk.
The determination of the amount of ‘solids, not fat,’ is, in almost every
instance, all that is necessary to enable an opinion to be arrived at as
to whether the sample of milk has had water added to it or not.
Out of fifty-six samples of milk supplied to the different London unions
in 1873, Professor Wanklyn reports that he found only fifteen unwatered,
or nearly unwatered. Of these fifteen samples nine had been skimmed,
leaving only six that were at once unwatered and unskimmed. These figures,
therefore, show that only about 10 per cent. of the milk supplied in the
above year to the Metropolitan unions was genuine. He adds——“It is curious
to compare the language of the contract under which (as it appears from Mr
Rowsell’s report) the dealer supplied the various unions with milk, with
the quality of the article as exhibited by the analysis. ‘New unskimmed
milk unadulterated,’ ‘genuine as from the cow,’ ‘best new unskimmed milk,
to produce 10 per cent. of cream,’ occur in these contracts.”
_Prop._ These are well known. Perfectly fresh milk is slightly alkaline,
but soon becomes acid on exposure to the air, and after a time white
coagula of casein (CURDS) separate from it. This change is immediately
effected by the addition of rennet or an acid. That from the first, when
dried and pressed, constitutes cheese.
_Pur., Tests, &c._ The common frauds practised by the milk-dealers are the
addition of water and the subtraction of part of the cream. Sometimes
potato starch is added to the milk, to give it a creamy or rich
appearance, and this addition is still more frequently made to cream, to
increase its consistence and quality.
The presence of potato starch may be determined by boiling some of the
milk with a little vinegar, and after separating the coagulum by a
strainer, and allowing the liquid to become cold, testing it with solution
or tincture of iodine. If it turns blue, starch, flour, or some other
amylaceous substance, has been used to adulterate it. In most cases it
will be sufficient to apply the test to the unprepared suspected milk.
It has frequently been stated that chalk, plaster of Paris, gum, gelatin,
sugar, flour, mucilage of hemp-seed, the brains of animals, and other
similar substances, are often added to London milk, but there is no reason
to suppose there is any truth in these assertions, as some of these
articles are too costly to be used, and the presence of others would so
alter the flavour or appearance of the milk, or would so soon exhibit
themselves by subsidence, as to lead to their detection.
_Pres._ Milk may be preserved in stout bottles, well corked, and wired
down, by heating them, in this state, to the boiling-point, in a water
bath, by which means the oxygen of the small quantity of enclosed air
becomes absorbed. It must be afterwards stored in a cool situation. By
this method, which is also extensively adopted for the preservation of
green gooseberries, green peas, &c., milk will retain its properties
unaltered for years. A few grains of carbonate of magnesia, or, still
better, of bicarbonate of potassa or soda, may be advantageously dissolved
in each bottle before corking it.
Under Bethel’s patent the milk or cream is scalded, and, when cold,
strongly charged with carbonic-acid gas, by means of a soda-water machine,
and the corks are wired down in the usual manner. The bottles should be
kept inverted, in a cool place.
An excellent method of preventing milk from turning sour, or coagulating,
is to add to every pint of it about 10 or 12 gr. of carbonate or
bicarbonate of soda. Milk thus prepared may be kept for eight or ten days
in temperate weather. This addition is harmless, and, indeed, is
advantageous to dyspeptic patients. According to D’Arcot, 1/2000th part
of the bicarbonate is sufficient for the purpose. An excess of alkali used
in this manner may be detected by the milk turning turmeric paper brown,
even after it has been kept some hours, and by the ash obtained by
evaporating a little to dryness, and then heating it to dull redness,
effervescing with an acid. (See _below_.)
⁂ Milk should not be kept in lead or zinc vessels, as it speedily
dissolves a portion of these metals, and becomes poisonous.
_Concluding Remarks._ The principal difference between cows’ milk and
human milk consists in the former containing more casein and less sugar of
milk than the latter. The remarkable indisposition to coagulate is another
character which distinguishes human milk from cows’ milk. Prof. Falkland,
who has practically investigated the subject has prepared a nutritive
fluid for infants from cows’ milk, closely resembling that of the healthy
adult woman. His process is, however, unnecessarily complicated, and,
therefore, unsuited to those who would have to employ it in the nursery.
To remove this objection we have adopted the following formula:——Sugar of
milk, 2 oz.; hot water, 1/4 pint; dissolve, and, when the liquor has
become quite cold, add it to fresh cows’ milk, 3/4 pint, and stir them
together. This quantity, prepared morning and evening, will constitute the
proper food for an infant of from 5 to 8 months old. More may be allowed
it if it ‘craves’ it; but there must be no ‘cramming.’ At first it will be
advisable to remove a little of the cream from the milk before adding to
it the saccharine solution; but after a few days this will be found to be
unnecessary, and, indeed, injurious. One very important particular to be
attended to is, the employment of pure cows’ milk, obtained from a healthy
grass-fed animal only. With this precaution, and the use of a good
FEEDING-BOTTLE, the infant will thrive nearly as well as on the breast of
any human female, excepting its mother’s. (See _below_.)
ASSES’ MILK closely resembles human milk in colour, smell, and
consistence, but it contains rather less cream. (See _below_.)
EWES’ MILK closely resembles cows’ milk, than which, however, it is
slightly richer in cream.
GOATS’ MILK, for the most part, resembles cows’ milk, but its consistence
is much greater, and it contains much more solid matter. (See _below_.)
MARES’ MILK, in consistence; is between that of cows’ and human milk. Its
cream is not converted into butter by agitation. See BUTTER, CHEESE,
LACTIC ACID, &c.
_Milk as a cause or carrier of disease._——Milk of a mother labouring under
strong mental emotion is, as is well known, capable of seriously
endangering the health of the suckling babe. Payne narrates the case of a
woman suffering under a nervous affection whose milk, two hours after an
attack of the disease, became viscid, like the white of an egg. Similarly,
a deterioration and consequent alteration in properties is induced in the
milk of the cow if she be over driven, exhausted, or harassed. The food of
the animal likewise exercises an influence on the quality of its milk;
thus when cows are fed on turnips, wormwood, decayed leaves, and plants of
the cabbage or onion families, the flavour of these substances is imparted
to their milk. The milk of animals that have fed on poisonous or
deleterious plants is capable of setting up toxic symptoms in human beings
partaking of it. In June, 1875, the inhabitants of a certain quarter of
Rome were attacked with an epidemic, distinguished by great
gastro-intestinal irritation. The cause of the outbreak was traced to the
use of goats’ milk, yielded by goats that had eaten of the meadow saffron,
the _Colchicum autumnale_. It also appears that in the Western States of
America the milk of cows that have fed on the poison-oak, the _Rhus
toxicodendron_, has on several occasions given rise to attacks of illness
in children, marked by extreme weakness, vomiting, fall in bodily
temperature, swollen and dry tongue, and constipation. Boiling seems to
remove the dangerous properties of the milk.
Milk, as has been shown by Fuchs, is sometimes infested by a fungus, the
_Oidium lactis_ or _Penicillium_, which is capable of giving rise to
gastric irritation, and sometimes to severe febrile gastritis.[39]
[Footnote 39: Parkes.]
Although the evidence as to the power of the milk of animals affected with
epizootic diseases to convey the particular affection to human beings is
contradictory, there is little reason to doubt that soured milk may become
a carrier of infection from the ailing or convalescent subject to the
healthy one.
Typhoid and scarlet fever have been known to have originated in this
manner.
The outbreak of the former malady in Marylebone in 1874 was traced to the
contamination of milk by the remains of the water which had been used in
rinsing the milk pans. This water had been obtained from a well into which
the excrete from a typhus patient had percolated from a privy.
At Leeds a similar outbreak was caused by the absorption by the milk of
the typhoid effluvium. In the case of scarlet fever the malady has been
conveyed by means of the throat-discharges and cuticle falling into the
milk from the persons of servants and others employed in dairies.
=Milk, Al′mond.= See EMULSION and MIXTURE.
=Milk, Arrowroot.= _Prep._ From arrowroot, 1 table-spoonful, first wetted
and stirred with a little cold water, afterwards adding, gradually, of
boiling water, 1/4 pint; and, lastly, of boiling milk, 1/2 pint; with
sugar, spice, wine, &c., to palate. Very nutritious, and excellent in
chronic diarrhœa. Some persons employ all milk.
=Milk, Choc′olate.= _Prep._ Dissolve chocolate (scraped), 1 oz., in
boiling new milk, 1 pint. Nutritious; but apt to offend delicate stomachs.
=Milk, Cof′fee.= _Prep._ 1. Coffee, 1 oz.; boiling water, 1/4 pint; infuse
for 10 or 15 minutes in a warm situation, and add the strained liquid to
boiling milk, 3/4 pint.
2. Coffee, 1 oz.; tie it loosely in a piece of muslin, and simmer it for
15 minutes in milk, 1 pint. Both the above have been recommended for
persons of spare habits, and for those disposed to affections of the
lungs, more especially for the asthmatic.
=Milk, Facti′′tious.= _Syn._ ARTIFICIAL MILK. Of the numerous compounds
which have been proposed as substitutes for natural milks, the following
are examples:——
1. (FACTITIOUS ASSES’ MILK; LAC ASININUM FACTITIUM, LAC A. ARTIFICIALE,
L.)——_a._ Cows’ milk, 1 quart; ground rice, 1 oz.; oringo root (bruised),
1 dr,; boil, strain, and add sugar candy (or white sugar), 1 oz.
_b._ Whites of 2 eggs; lump sugar, 1 oz.; cows’ milk (new), 3/4 pint; mix,
then add syrup of tolu, 3/4 oz.
_c._ Water, 1 pint; hartshorn shavings, 1 oz.; boil to a jelly; then add
lump sugar, 2 oz.; cool, add new milk, 1 pint; syrup of tolu, 1/2 oz. Used
as substitutes for asses’ milk, taken freely as a beverage. A cupful, with
or without a spoonful of rum, 3 or 4 times daily, is a popular remedy in
consumption and debility.
2. (F. GOATS’ MILK——A. T. Thomson.) Fresh mutton suet (minced), 1 oz.; tie
it in a muslin bag, and boil it in cows’ milk, 1 quart; lastly, add of
sugar candy, 2 gr. In scrofulous emaciation, and in the latter stages of
phthisis. The proportion of suet in the above may be advantageously
increased a little. The LAC CUM SERO of Guy’s Hospital is a similar
preparation.
3. (F. HUMAN MILK; LAC HUMANUM FACTITIUM, L.)——_a._ See _above_.
_b._ (Rosenstein.) Almonds (blanched), 2 in number; white sugar, 1 dr.;
water, 4 fl. oz.; make an emulsion, strain, and add of fresh cows’ milk, 6
fl. oz. As a substitute for the breast in nursing.
=Milk, Preserved′.= _Syn._ MILK POWDER; LACTIS PULVIS, LAC PULVERATUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. Fresh skimmed milk, 1 gall.; carbonate of soda (in very fine
powder), 1-1/2 dr.; mix, evaporate to 1/3rd by the heat of steam or a
water bath, with constant agitation, then add of powdered white sugar,
3-1/2 lbs., and complete the evaporation at a reduced temperature; reduce
the dry mass to powder, add the cream (well drained) which was taken from
the milk, and after thorough admixture put the whole into well-stoppered
bottles or tins, which must be at once hermetically sealed.
2. (Legrip.) Carbonate of soda, 1/2 dr.; water, 1 fl. oz.; dissolve, add
of fresh milk, 1 quart; sugar, 1 lb.; reduce it by heat to the
consistence of a syrup, and finish the evaporation on plates by exposure
in an oven.
_Obs._ About an ounce of the powder agitated with a pint of water, forms
an agreeable and nutritious drink, and a good substitute for milk at sea.
It may also be used for tea or coffee in a solid form. This process, which
is very old, has been recently patented. See MILK (_above_).
The condensed or preserved milk, now in such general use, and which is met
with in tins as milk which has been more or less deprived of water by
evaporation in _vacuo_. It occurs in the market in two forms——in one
simply as condensed milk, and in the other as condensed milk mixed with a
large quantity of sugar. Milk preserved as above without sugar will keep
only for two or three days; whereas with sugar it may be preserved for an
almost indefinite time. Either variety mixed with the proper quantity of
water becomes normal milk again, the sweetened kind being, of course, milk
with the addition of a considerable amount of cane sugar. Professor
Wanklyn says he has examined the principal brands of preserved and
condensed milk sent to the London market, and finds they contain their due
proportion of fat. He gives the following analyses of the produce of the
English Condensed Milk Company:
PRESERVED MILK.
In 100 parts by weight.
Water 20·5
Fat 10·4
Casein 11·0
Ash 2·0
Cane and milk sugar 56·1
——————
100·0
CONDENSED MILK.
Water 51·12
Fat 12·11
Casein 13·64
Milk sugar 20·36
Ash 2·77
——————
100·00
=Roses, Milk of.= _Syn._ LAC ROSÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (English.)——_a._ Almonds
(blanched), 1 oz.; oil of almonds and white soft soap, of each 1 dr.; rose
water, 1 pint; make an emulsion.
_b._ From liquor of potassa and oil of almonds, of each 1 fl. oz.; hot
water, 2 fl. oz,; agitate together until mixed, then add of rose water and
distilled or filtered soft water, of each 1/4 pint, and again agitate
well.
_c._ As the last, but using half a tea-spoonful of salt of tartar for the
liquor of potassa.
_d._ (Redwood.) Blanched almonds, 8 oz.; rose water, 3 pints; make an
emulsion, add of white Windsor soap, white wax, and oil of almonds, of
each 1/2 oz.; previously melted together by a gentle heat; triturate
until united, and strain; lastly, add a solution of oil of bergamot, 1/2
oz.; oil of lavender, 1 dr.; and attar of roses, 1/2 dr.; (dissolved in)
rectified spirit, 12 oz.
2. (FRENCH.)——_a._ From rose water, 1 quart; tinctures of benzoin and
styrax, of each 1 fl. oz.; spirit of roses, 1/2 fl. oz.; rectified spirit,
1/2 fl. oz.; mix.
_b._ (Augustin.) Tincture of benzoin, 1/2 fl. oz.; liquor of carbonate of
potassa, 2-1/2 fl. dr.; rose water, 1/2 pint; agitate well together. As a
lotion in acne.
_c._ (Gianinni.) Tincture of benzoin, 1 dr.; tincture of balsam of Peru,
20 drops; rose water, 1 pint; as the last.
_d._ (Schubarth.) Almond paste, 3 dr.; rose water, 1/2 pint; tincture of
benzoin, 1/2 fl. oz. As before. The addition to the last 3 of a little
rectified spirit is an improvement.
3. (GERMAN.) From dilute solution of diacetate of lead (Goulard water),
and spirit of lavender, of each 1 fl. oz.; rose water, 6 fl. oz.; soft
water, 1 pint.
_Obs._ All the above are used as cosmetic washes, and to remove scurf,
pimples, and eruptions, in slight cases.
=Milk, Sa′go.= _Syn._ LAC SAGO, L. _Prep._ (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Sago, 1
oz.; cold water, 1 pint; macerate half an hour, pour off the water, add of
milk, 1-1/2 pint, and boil slowly until the sago is dissolved. Very
nutritious; also in lieu of arrow-root milk.
=Milk of Sulphur.= _See_ SULPHUR (Precipitated).
=Milk, Thick.= Mix one table-spoonful of flour with a pint of milk, and
boil for ten minutes, stirring it well the whole time. It may be flavoured
either with a little salt, or sugar.
=Milk, Vanil′la.= _Syn._ LAC VANILLÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Essence of vanilla, 12
drops; lump sugar, 1 oz.; triturate, and add gradually, new milk, 1 pint.
2. (Bèral.) Vanilla sugar, 1/2 oz.; milk, 16 oz.; dissolve.
=MILK FEVER.= _Syn._ FEBRIS LACTEA, L. A febrile condition of the system
that sometimes occurs at the time the milk begins to be secreted after
parturition. It often assumes a malignant character. See PUERPERAL FEVER.
=MIL′LET.= _Syn._ MILIUM, L. Several varieties of grain are known by this
name. That commonly referred to under the name is the produce of _Panicum
miliaceum_ (‘Indian millet’). The husked seeds (MILIUM MUNDATUM) are used
to make gruel, and are ground for flour. ‘Turkish millet,’ or ‘Guinea
corn,’ is produced by _Sorgham vulgare_; and the ‘German’ and ‘Italian
millet’ by species of _Setaria_. In some parts of the world millet flour
is used for bread, but it is chiefly cultivated as food for domestic
animals.
Letheby says millets are a little more nutritious than rice.
In the subjoined table, is given the composition of three different
samples of millet meal, free from bran.
+--------------+-------------+---------------+------------
| | _Panicum_ | _Penicillaria_| _Sorghum_
| |_miliaceum_, | _spicata_ |_vulgare_,
| | common | a kind of | Dharra of
| | millet. | millet, | the Arabs,
| | | much used | Goar of
| | | in India | India.
| | | under the |
| | | name of |
| | | Bajia. |
+--------------+-------------+---------------+------------
| | | |
| Water | 12·22 | 11·8 | 11·95
| Nitrogenous | | |
| substances | 9·27 | 10·13 | 8·64
| Dextrin | 9·13 | ... | 3·82
| Sugar | 1·80 | ... | 1·46
| Fat | 7·43 | 4·62 | 3·90
| Starch | 59·04 | 71·75 | 70·23[40]
| Silicin | 0·11 | ... | ...
+--------------+-------------+---------------+------------
[Footnote 40: With husks.]
=MINCE MEAT.= _Prep._ From stoned raisins, currants, sugar, and suet, of
each 2 lbs.; sultana raisins and boiled beef (lean and tender), of each 1
lb.; apples 4 lbs.; juice of 2 lemons; the rind of 1 lemon, chopped very
fine; mixed spice, 1/4 lb.; candied citron and lemon peel, of each 2 oz.;
brandy, a glassful or two; the whole chopped very fine. It may be varied
by adding other spice or flavouring, and by the addition of eggs, or the
substitution of chopped fowl or veal for beef, according to the state of
the cuisinier.
=MINCE PIES.= Take 3 apples, 3 lemons, 1 lb. of raisins, 3/4 lb. of
currants, 1 lb. of suet, 1/4 lb. of raw beef, 2 lbs. of moist sugar, 1/4
lb. of mixed candied peel, 1/4 of a rind of a fresh orange, 1 teaspoonful
of powdered mixed spice, composed of equal parts of cloves, cinnamon, and
nutmeg, 1/2 pint of brandy, and 1 glass of port wine. Peel the apples and
cut out the cores very carefully, and then bake the pieces until they are
quite soft. The raisins must be carefully stoned, and the currants well
washed, dried, and picked. Chop the suet very finely, as well as the raw
meat and lemon-peel. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly together, add the
brandy last of all, and press the whole down into a stone jar, and place a
piece of paper soaked in brandy on the top. Remove the paper and stir up
the mixture thoroughly every three days, replacing the paper. If this is
done the mincemeat will keep a long time. To make the pies, roll out some
thin puff-paste, butter a small round tin, and line it with a piece of
paste, then put in a generous quantity of the mincemeat, cover it over
with a similar piece of puff paste, and bake it in a moderate oven. Mince
pies are none the worse for being warmed up, but pray take care they are
sent to table hot. (Cassell.)
=MINDERE′′RUS’ SPIRIT.= See AMMONIA (Acetate of), and SOLUTION.
=MINERAL CHAME′LEON.= _Prep._ From a mixture of binoxide of manganese and
potassa and nitre, equal parts, heated to redness. It must be preserved
in a well-corked bottle until required for use.
_Prop., &c._ When dissolved in water, its solution, at first green, passes
spontaneously through all the coloured rays to the red, when, if potassa
be added, the colour retrogrades until it reaches the original green. The
addition of oil of vitriol, or of chlorine, renders the solution
colourless. The addition of a weak acid, or even boiling or agitating the
liquid, turns it from green to red. See MANGANIC ACID.
=MIN′ÉRALISERS.= Substances which, by association with metallic bodies,
deprive them of their usual properties, and impart to them the character
of ores. Their removal belongs to metallurgy. The term ‘MINERALISED’ has
been applied to caoutchouc, gutta percha, bitumen, &c., which has been
combined with sulphur, silica, or metallic matter.
=MIN′IM.= _Syn._ MINIMUM, L. A measured drop, of which 60 are equal to a
fluid drachm. The size of drops vary so greatly with different liquids and
are also so much influenced by the size and shape of the vessels from
which they are poured, that they afford no reliable measure of quantity
for medicinal purposes. The poured drop has, in some cases, only 1/3rd the
volume of the measured drop, or minim; whilst, in others, it is nearly 3
times as large. According to Mr Durande, “liquids which contain a small
proportion of water, afford a small drop; while, on the contrary, liquids
containing a large quantity of water furnish a large drop.” “Among liquids
containing a large proportion of water, those which are not charged with
remedial substances, give a larger and heavier drop than the same liquids
when containing extraneous bodies in solution.” In all cases in which the
word ‘drop’ is mentioned in this work a minim is intended, and the
quantity should be determined by means of a graduated minim measure.
=MIN′IUM.= See RED PIGMENTS.
=MINT.= _Syn._ SPEARMINT, GREEN M.; MENTHA VIRIDIS (Ph. L.), L. “The
recent and the dried flowering herb” of _Mentha viridis_. It is aromatic
and carminative, but its flavour is less agreeable than that of
peppermint. It is employed in flatulence, colic, nausea, diarrhœa, &c.;
also to make sauce.
=MIR′RORS.= See AMALGAM (Silvering), SILVERING, SPECULUM METAL, &c.
=MITES.= See ACARI.
=MITH′RIDATE.= _Syn._ DAMOCRATE’S CONFECTION; MITHRIDATIUM, CONFECTIO
DAMOCRATIS, L. “This composition originally consisted of but few
ingredients; viz. 20 leaves of rue, 2 walnuts, 2 figs, and a little salt.
Of this we are informed that Mithridates took a dose every morning, to
guard himself against the effects of poison. It was afterwards altered,
and the number of the ingredients increased to sixty-one. In this more
complex form it contained opium, and was, in effect, an aromatic opiate,
of which the confection of opium of the present day may be considered as
a simplification. The ‘mithridate’ is still prepared in some shops, and is
occasionally, though very rarely, prescribed.” (Med. Lex.) “The formulæ
for CONFECTION or ELECTUARY OF CATECHU may be considered as the
representatives, in our modern Pharmacopœias, of the once celebrated
recipes for CONFECTIO DAMOCRATIS and THERIACA ANDROMACHI.” (Redwood.)
Mithridate was formerly conceived to be good for nearly every disease, and
an antidote for every known poison.
=MIXTURE.= _Syn._ MISTURA, L. A compound liquid medicine, taken in divided
doses. Mixtures are usually extemporaneous preparations, and in
prescribing them care should be taken not to bring together substances
that decompose each other, nor to order heavy powders, that speedily
separate from the body of the liquid by subsidence. EMULSIONS, JULEPS, and
MUCILAGES, are included in the ‘MISTURÆ’ of the London Pharmacopœia.
Mixtures are usually dispensed in flat octagonal 6-or 8-oz. bottles, with
long necks; or in regular ‘octagons’ with short necks, having the doses
marked on the glass, to which the strength of the medicine is made to
correspond.
Our remarks respecting ‘DRAUGHTS’ equally apply here. By putting the
active ingredients of six draughts into a 6-oz. mixture bottle, and
filling it up with distilled water, a mixture will be made of
corresponding properties, of which the dose will be 2 table-spoonfuls.
When the formula for the draughts includes a decoction or infusion as the
vehicle, instead of water, four of them only must be taken, which will
then fill the 6-oz. bottle, and the proper dose will be 3 table-spoonfuls,
or a small wine-glassful.
The following formulæ embraces the whole of the ‘MISTURÆ’ of the British
Pharmacopœia, as well as a few others in general use. These will serve as
examples for the like preparations of medicinals which are not included in
the list. (See also DRAUGHT, EMULSION, JULEP, WATER, &c.)
=Mixture, Absor′bent.= See MIXTURE, ANTACID.
=Mixture, Aca′cia.= See MIXTURE, GUM.
=Mixture, Ace′tate of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ MINDERERUS’S MIXTURE; MISTURA
AMMONIÆ ACETATIS, L. _Prep._ From solution of acetate of ammonia, 1-1/2
fl. oz.; nitre, 40 gr.; camphor mixture, 6 fl. oz.; rose syrup, 1/2 fl.
oz.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 table-spoonfuls, every third or fourth hour, as a
diaphoretic in inflammatory fevers, &c.
=Mixture of Acetic Acid.= _Syn._ MISTURA ACIDI ACETICI. _Prep._ Distilled
vinegar, 2 fl. dr.; syrup, 4 fl. dr.; water, 2 fl. oz. A fourth part every
three hours. For children with scarlatina.
=Mixture of Aconite.= (Mr Fleming.) _Syn._ MISTURA ACONITI. _Prep._
Tincture of aconite, 1 fl. dr.; carbonate of soda, 1-1/2 dr.; sulphate of
magnesia, 1-1/2 oz.; water, 6 oz. A table-spoonful when the pain is
urgent. In gastralgia this should only be administered under medical
supervision or advice.
=Mixture, Al′kaline.= See MIXTURE, ANTACID.
=Mixture, Al′mond.= _Syn._ EMULSION OF ALMONDS, MILK OF A.; MISTURA
AMYGDALÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), LAC AMYGDALÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Confection of almonds, 2-1/2 oz.; distilled water, 1 pint; gradually add
the water to the confection while triturating, until they are mixed; then
strain the liquid through linen.
2. (Ph. E.) From almond confection, 2 oz., and water, 1 quart; as the
last. Or, from sweet almonds (blanched), 10 dr.; white sugar, 5 dr.;
mucilage, 1/2 fl. oz. (or powdered gum, 3 dr.); made into an emulsion with
water, 1 quart.
3. (Ph. D.) Sweet almonds (blanched), 5 dr.; refined sugar, 2 dr.;
powdered gum, 1 dr.; distilled water, 8 fl. oz.; as the last.
4. (B. P.) Compound powder of almonds (sweet), 1; water, 8; triturate and
strain.
_Obs._ The last formula produces the article usually employed in
dispensing in the shops. The addition of a little more sugar renders it
more pleasant; and 2 or 3 bitter almonds, as in the formula of the Ph. D.
1826, or 1 or 2 fl. dr. of rose or orange-flower water, may occasionally
be added, to diversify the flavour.——_Dose_, 2 or 3 table-spoonfuls, _ad
libitum_; as a demulcent and emollient in coughs and colds, or as a
vehicle for more active medicines.
=Mixture of Ammonia, Muriate of.= (Sir G. Lefevre.) _Syn._ MISTURA AMMONIÆ
MURIATIS. _Prep._ Muriate of ammonia, 60 gr.; extract of liquorice, 3 dr.;
tartarised antimony, 2 gr.; distilled water, 8 oz. A tablespoonful every 2
hours in pleurisy, congestion of mucous membranes, &c.
=Mixture, Ammoni′acum.= _Syn._ EMULSION OF AMMONIACUM, MILK OF A.; MISTURA
AMMONIACI (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), LAC AMMONIACI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Prepared ammoniacum, 5 dr.; distilled water, 1 pint; rub the ammoniacum
with the water, gradually added, until they are perfectly mixed.
2. (Ph. D.) Ammoniacum, 1/4 oz.; water, 8 fl. oz.; as the last, but
straining through muslin.
3. (B. P.) Ammoniacum, 1/4 oz.; rubbed down with water, 8 oz., and
strain.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 gr.
_Obs._ The last formula produces the best and most effective mixture,
owing to the use of the raw instead of the strained drug.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
table-spoonfuls, either alone or combined with squills or ipecacuanha; as
an expectorant and demulcent in chronic coughs, humoral asthma, &c.
=Mixture, A′nodyne.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANODYNA, JULEPUM CALMANS, L. _Prep._
1. Prepared chalk, 2 dr.; syrup of poppies, 1 oz.; fetid spirit of
ammonia, 1-1/2 dr.; oils of dill and aniseed, of each 3 drops; water,
4-1/4 fl. oz.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful 3 or 4 times a day; in the diarrhœa
and colic of infancy.
2. (P. Cod.) Syrup of opium, 2 dr.; syrup of orange flowers, 6 dr.;
lettuce water, 4 fl. oz. To allay pain, induce sleep, &c. _Dose_, 1
table-spoonful.
3. (Vicat.) Ammoniated alcohol, 3/4 fl. oz.; powdered opium, 1 dr.;
powdered camphor, 1/2 dr.; proof spirit, 1-1/2 fl. oz.; digest, with
agitation, for 3 or 4 days, and filter. In toothache arising from caries,
and as a lotion to the temples in headache.
=Mixture, Antac′id.= _Syn._ ABSORBENT MIXTURE, ALKALINE M.; MISTURA
ALKALINA, M. ANTACIDA, L. _Prep._ 1. Liquor of potassa and spirit of
nutmeg, of each 2 fl. dr.; tincture of rhubarb, 3 fl. dr.; tincture of
opium, 1 fl. dr.; water, 5 fl. oz. In dyspepsia, heartburn, &c.,
accompanied with flatulence.
2. Spirit of sal volatile and orange-flower water, of each 1 fl. oz.;
simple syrup, 1-1/2 fl. oz; water, 2-1/2 fl. oz. In acidity, &c.,
accompanied with languor and low spirits.
3. Sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 2 dr.; syrup of orange peel and tincture of
gentian, of each 1 fl. oz.; water, 4 fl. oz. In dyspepsia, heartburn, &c.,
arising from excessive indulgence in spirituous or fermented liquors. It
also possesses considerable stimulating properties, and will partially
remove the fit of drunkenness.
4. (Collier.) Prepared chalk, 2 dr.; tincture of ginger, 2 fl. dr.;
compound tincture of cardamoms, 1-1/2 fl. oz.; pimento water, 6 fl. oz. In
diarrhœa accompanied with acidity.
5. (Collier.) Chalk mixture, 5 fl. oz.; tinctures of catechu and cinnamon,
of each 1/2 fl. oz. In chronic diarrhœa.
6. (Ryan.) Liquor of potassa, 2 fl. dr.; tincture of opium, 1 fl. dr.;
calcined magnesia, 1 dr.; oil of peppermint, 5 drops; lime water, 8 fl.
oz. In dyspepsia accompanied with acidity, flatulence, and constipation.
=Mixture, Anticroup′al.= _Syn._ MISTURA SENEGÆ, L. _Prep._ (Jadelot.)
Infusion of senega, 4 oz.; syrup of ipecacuanha, 1 oz.; oxymel of squills,
3 dr.; tartarised antimony, 1-1/2 gr.; mix. By spoonfuls, in croup.
=Mixture, Anti-eme′tic.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANTI-EMETICA, L. _Prep._ 1.
Creasote, 12 drops; acetate of morphia, 1-1/2 gr.; camphor, 10 gr.
rectified spirit, 1/2 fl. oz.; syrup of orange peel, 1-1/2 fl. oz.;
distilled vinegar, 4 fl. oz. In sea-sickness, &c.——_Dose_, 1
table-spoonful on the approach of vomiting, and repeated at intervals of
half an hour until the vomiting ceases.
2. (Dr. Barker.) Compound tincture of camphor, 1 fl. dr.; burnt brandy, 1
fl. oz.; sugar, 1/2 oz.; infusion of mint, 6 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1
table-spoonful, every 1/4 hour, until the vomiting ceases.
=Mixture, Anti-epilep′tic.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANTI-EPILEPTICA, L. _Prep._ (M.
Lemoine.) Liquor of ammonia, 12 drops; syrup of orange flowers, 1 oz.;
distilled water of linden flowers, 2 oz.; do. of cherry laurel, 1/2 oz.;
mix. According to M. Lemoine, this is a specific in epilepsy.——_Dose_, 1
table-spoonful, or more.
=Mixture, Antihyster′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANTIHYSTERICA, L.; POTION
ANTIHYSTERIQUE, Fr. _Prep._ (Dr Josat.) Cyanide of potassium, 1-3/4 gr.;
distilled lettuce water, 4-1/2 fl. oz.; syrup of orange flowers, 1-1/2 fl.
oz.——_Dose_, 1 or 2 teaspoonfuls every ten minutes, when the fit is
expected; during the fit it may be given in double doses. Dr Josat
declares its efficacy to have been indisputably proved in upwards of 55
cases.
2. (Magendie.) Cyanide of potassium, 2 gr.; lettuce water (distilled), 4
oz.; syrup of marshmallow, 2 oz. Resembles the last.
3. (Dr Paris.) Assafœtida, 1 dr.; peppermint water, 5 fl. oz.; make an
emulsion, and add of ammoniated tincture of valerian, 2 fl. dr.; tincture
of castor, 3 fl. dr.; sulphuric ether, 1-1/2 fl. dr.——_Dose_, 1
table-spoonful, 3 or 4 times a day, or oftener.
4. (P. Cod.) Syrup of wormwood, 1 oz.; tincture of castor, 1/2 dr.;
valerian water and orange-flower water, of each 2 oz.; ether, 1 dr. As the
last.
=Mixture, Antimo′′nial.= See MIXTURE, CONTRA-STIMULANT.
=Mixture, Antipertus′sic.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANTIPERTUSSIENS, L. _Prep._ 1.
COCHINEAL (powdered), 2 dr.; carbonate of potassa, 1 dr.; boiling water, 8
fl. oz.; infuse for 1 hour, strain, and add of lump sugar, 1-1/2 oz.
2. (Dr Bird.) Extract of hemlock, 12 gr.; alum, 25 gr.; syrup of red
poppies, 2 fl. dr.; dill water, 3 fl. oz.
3. (Dr Reece.) Tincture of assafœtida, 1 fl. dr.; tincture of opium, 10 or
12 drops; powdered ipecacuanha, 10 gr.; water, 2 fl. oz.——_Dose_. A
teaspoonful every 3 hours, in hooping cough, for a child 2 or 3 years old,
and other ages in proportion.
=Mixture, Antiscrof′ulous.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANTISCROFULOSA, L. _Prep._ From
tincture of bichloride of gold, 30 drops; tincture of iodine, 40 drops;
tincture of gentian, 1 fl. dr.; simple syrup, 7 fl. dr.; rose water, 5 fl.
oz.——_Dose._ A dessert-spoonful, 3 or 4 times daily, in a wine-glassful of
water; observing to shake the bottle before pouring out the liquid. Mr
Cooley states that he has seen repeated instances of the excellent effects
of this medicine in scrofula, syphilis, and various glandular diseases,
even under all the disadvantages of a salt-meat diet and confinement on
shipboard.
=Mixture, Antispasmod′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANTISPASMODICA, L. _Prep._ 1.
Tincture of castor, 6 fl. dr.; sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each 1 fl.
dr.; syrup of saffron, 1 fl. oz.; cinnamon water, 4 fl. oz.
2. (Dr Collier.) Assafœtida and camphor mixtures, of each 2-1/2 fl. oz.;
tincture of valerian, 1 fl. oz.
3 (P. Cod.) Lime or linden-flower water and orange-flower water, of each 2
oz.; syrup of orange flowers, 1 oz.; ether, 1/2 dr.——_Dose._ (Of each of
the above) 1 to 2 table-spoonfuls.
=Mixture, Ape′′rient.= _Syn._ MISTURA APERIENS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Abernethy.)
Sulphate of magnesia, 1 oz.; manna, 1/2 oz.; infusion of senna, 1-1/2 fl.
oz.; tincture of senna, 1/2 fl. oz.; mint water, 2 fl. oz.; distilled
water, 4 fl. oz.; mix. This is the true ‘ABERNETHY BLACK DRAUGHT,’
2. (Dr Christison.) Sulphate of magnesia, 1-1/2 oz.; water, 4 fl. oz.;
dissolve, and add, of tincture of senna, 1 fl. oz.; infusion of roses, 4
fl. oz.——_Dose._ A wine-glassful hourly, until it begins to operate.
3. (Dr Collier.) Sulphate of iron, 20 gr.; Epsom salts, 1 oz.; pennyroyal
water, 1 pint; dissolve.——_Dose._ A wine-glassful twice a day, in atonic
amenorrhœa.
=Mixture, Aromat′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA AROMATICA, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.)
Syrup of clove gilliflowers, 1 oz.; spirit of cinnamon, 1/2 oz.;
confection of hyacinth, 2 dr.; peppermint water and orange-flower water,
of each 2 oz.
2. (Guy’s Hosp.) Aromatic confection (Ph. L., in powder), 3 dr.;
peppermint water, 9 fl. oz. Sometimes a little tincture of calumba is
added.
3. (St Barth. Hosp.) Aromatic confection, 2-1/2 dr.; water, 5 fl. oz.;
pimento water, 3 fl. oz.; mix. The last two are excellent aromatic
absorbents in diarrhœa, heartburn, flatulence, acidity, &c.——_Dose_, 1 or
2 table-spoonfuls every 2 or 3 hours, or as required.
=Mixture, Aromatic Iron.= Pale bark, in powder, 4; calumba, in powder, 2;
cloves, bruised, 1; iron wire, 2; compound tincture of cardamoms, 12;
tincture of orange peel, 2; peppermint water, 50; macerate the first four
ingredients in the last one for three days, agitating occasionally,
filter, add the tinctures, and make up to 50. Used as a tonic.——_Dose_, 1
to 2 oz.
=Mixture, Arsen′ical.= _Syn._ MISTURA ARSENICALIS, L. _Prep._ From liquor
of arsenite of potassa——Ph. L., 2 fl. dr.; compound tincture of cardamoms,
4 fl. dr.; cinnamon water, 2 fl. oz.; pure water, 3 fl. oz.; mix.——_Dose._
A small table-spoonful, twice a day, after a full meal; in agues, periodic
headaches, lepra, psoriasis, chronic rheumatism, &c. It should be
exhibited with caution, and its effects watched; and after 5 or 6 days the
dose should be reduced to half the quantity.
=Mixture, Astrin′gent.= _Syn._ MISTURA ASTRINGENS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Pradel.)
Tannin, 12 gr.; tincture of rhatany, 1 dr.; simple syrup, 7 dr.; mucilage,
1 oz.; camphor mixture, 4 oz.
2. (A. T. Thomson.) Extract of catechu, 2 dr. (or tincture 1 oz.);
cinnamon water, 8 oz.; dissolve.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 table-spoonfuls, after
every liquid dejection, in diarrhœa and dysentery.
=Mixture, Atroph′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA ATROPHICA, L.; POTION ATROPHIQUE, Fr.
_Prep._ (Magendie.) Iodide of potassium, 4 dr.; lettuce water, 8 oz.;
peppermint water, 2 dr.; syrup of marshmallow, 1 oz.——_Dose_, 1
tablespoonful, twice a day; in hypertrophy (enlargement) of the heart.
Sometimes 1 to 2 dr. of tincture of foxglove is added to the mixture.
=Mixture, Balsamic.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ MISTURA BALSAMICA. _Prep._ Balsam
copaiba, 2 oz.; rectified spirit, 2 oz.; syrup of tolu, 2 oz.; peppermint
water, 4 oz.; nitric ether, 2 dr. Mix the alcohol and ether, add the
balsam, then the syrup and water.
=Mixture, Bar′ley.= _Syn._ MISTURA HORDEI, L. See DECOCTION.
=Mixture of Bismuth.= (St Th. Hosp.) _Syn._ MISTURA BISMUTHI. _Prep._
Subnitrate of bismuth, 10 gr.; compound powder of tragacanth, 5 gr.;
water, 1 oz. For 1 dose.
=Mixture of Bisulphide of Carbon.= (Clarus.) _Syn._ MISTURA BISULPHURETI
CARBONIS. _Prep._ Bisulphide of carbon, 20 minims; sugar, 2 dr.; milk, 6
oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 oz. 4 times a day.
=Mixture of Boracic Acid.= (Chaussier.) _Syn._ MISTURA ACIDI BORACICI.
_Prep._ Camphor mixture, 4 oz.; boracic acid, 60 gr.; syrup of orange
peel, 1 oz.
=Mixture of Burnt Hartshorn.= See DECOCTION, WHITE.
=Mixture, Brandy.= _Syn._ MIXTURE OF SPIRIT OF FRENCH WINE, EGG FLIP‡;
MISTURA SPIRITUS VINI GALLICI (B. P., Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Brandy and cinnamon water of each 4 fl. oz.; yolks of 2 eggs; white sugar,
1/2 oz.; oil of cinnamon, 2 drops; mix. A valuable stimulant and
restorative in low fevers, and in extreme exhaustion from hæmorrhages,
&c.; but scarcely a fitting subject for the labours of the College of
Physicians, since almost every cook and housewife could produce a better
compound than the product of the College formula.
2. (B. P.) Brandy, 4 gr.; cinnamon water, 4 oz.; the yolks of 2 eggs;
sugar, 1/2 oz.; mix.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1-1/2 oz., in prostration and last
stages of fever.
=Mixture of Caffein.= (Vanden-Corput.) _Syn._ MISTURA CAFFEINÆ. _Prep._
Caffein, 7 gr.; distilled water, 3 oz.; hydrochloric acid, 2 drops; syrup
of orange-flower water, 1/2 oz.; mix.——_Dose_, 1 tablespoonful.
=Mixture, Cam′phor.= _Syn._ CAMPHOR JULEP, CAMPHOR WATER; MISTURA CAMPHORÆ
(Ph. L. & D.), EMULSIO CAMPHORÆ (Ph. E.) MISTURA CAMPHORATA, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. L.) Camphor, 1/2 dr.; rectified spirit, 10 drops; triturate together,
gradually adding of water, 1 pint; and strain through linen.
2. (Ph. D.) Tincture of camphor, 1 fl. oz.; distilled water, 3 pints;
agitate well together, and after 24 hours filter through paper.
3. (Ph. E.) See EMULSION.
_Uses, &c._ Camphor julep is chiefly used as a vehicle for other
medicines.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 wine-glassful.
4. (With MAGNESIA: MISTURA CAMPHORÆ CUM MAGNESIA——Ph. E. & D., AQUA
CAMPHORÆ——Ph. U. S.)——_a._ (Ph. E.) Camphor, 10 gr., carbonate of
magnesia, 25 gr.; triturate together, then gradually add of water, 6 fl.
oz., still continuing the trituration.
_b._ (Ph. D.) Camphor, 12 gr.; carbonate of magnesia, 1/2 dr.; water, 6
fl. oz.; as last.
_c._ (Ph. U. S.) Camphor, 2 dr.; rectified spirit, 40 drops; triturate,
add of carbonate of magnesia, 4 dr., and again triturate, adding,
gradually, of water, 32 fl. oz. Antacid, antispasmodic, and
anodyne.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 table-spoonfuls. Used without straining. It is
stronger than the simple mixture.
_d._ CARBONATED CAMPHOR MIXTURE. _Syn._ MISTURA CAMPHOR CARBONICA. Water
strongly charged with carbonic acid gas, agitated with powdered camphor
and strained.
=Mixture, Carmin′ative.= _Syn._ MISTURA CARMINATIVA, L. _Prep._ (Dr
Paris.) Calcined magnesia, 1/2 dr.; peppermint water, 2-1/2 fl. dr.;
compound tincture of lavender, 1/2 fl. dr.; spirit of caraway, 4 fl. dr.;
syrup of ginger, 2 fl. dr.; mix. Antacid and carminative. For 1 or 2
doses.
=Mixture of Cassia.= (Fr. Hosp.) _Syn._ MISTURA CASSIÆ, L.; EAU DE CASSE,
F. Cassia pulp, 2 oz.; hot water, 1-1/2 pint. May be taken by the
wineglass. Laxative.
=Mixture of Cassia, Antimoniated.= (Foy.) _Syn._ MISTURA CASSIÆ
ANTIMONIATA, EAU DE CASSE. Emitisée. _Prep._ Pulp of cassia, 1 oz.;
boiling water, 1-1/2 pint. Macerate, strain, and add sulphate of magnesia,
1 oz.; emetic tartar, 3 gr. By cupfuls. In painters’ colic.
=Mixture, Cathar′tic.= See MIXTURE, APERIENT, M. SENNA, &c.
=Mixture, Chalk.= _Syn._ CRETACEOUS MIXTURE; MISTURA CRETÆ (B. P.),
MISTURA CRETA (Ph. L. E. & D.), M. CRETACEA, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Prepared chalk, 1/2 oz.; sugar, 3 dr.; mixture of acacia (mucilage), 1-1/2
fl. oz., triturate together, then add of cinnamon water, 18 fl. oz.
2. (Ph. E.) Prepared chalk, 10 dr.; white sugar, 5 dr.; mucilage, 3 fl.
oz; spirit of cinnamon, 2 fl. oz.; water, 1 quart; as the last.
3. (Ph. D.) Prepared chalk, 2 dr.; syrup and mucilage, of each, 1/2 oz.;
cinnamon water, 7 fl. oz.
4. (B. P.) Prepared chalk, 1; gum Arabic, in powder, 1; syrup, 2; cinnamon
water, 30; mix by trituration.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 gr., with astringent
tinctures and opium.
_Obs._ The above are antacid and absorbent.——_Dose_, 1 to 3
table-spoonfuls, either alone or combined with aromatic confection; in
heartburn, and in diarrhœa after every liquid motion. In the latter
affection, a little tincture of catechu or laudanum is often added; and
when there is vomiting or nausea, either peppermint or spearmint water is
generally substituted for the whole or a part of the simple water ordered
in the above formulæ.
=Mixture of Chlorine.= _Syn._ MISTURA CHLORINII. Dr Watson prescribes 2
fl. dr. of the solution to 1 pint of water. The dose of the mixture is 4
fl. dr. every 3 hours, according to age, in scarlatina.
=Mixture of Chloroform.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ MISTURA CHLOROFORMI. _Prep._
Chloroform, 1/2 oz. (by weight); camphor, 1 dr.; yolk of 1 egg; water, 6
oz. Rub the yolk first by itself, then with the camphor, previously
dissolved in the chloroform, and lastly, with the water gradually added.
=Mixture, Cincho′na.= _Syn._ BARK MIXTURE; MISTURA CINCHONÆ, L. _Prep._
(Copland.) Confection of roses, 1/2 oz.; boiling decoction of bark, 1 fl.
oz.; triturate, in 10 minutes strain, and add diluted sulphuric acid,
1-1/2 fl. dr.; spirit of nutmeg, 4 fl. dr. Febrifuge, tonic, and
stomachic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 table-spoonfuls, 2 or 3 times a day.
=Mixture of Citrate of Caffein.= _Syn._ MISTURA CAFFEINÆ CITRATIS, POTION
CONTRE MIGRAINÆ. Syrup of citrate of caffein, 1 fl. oz.; water (or any
agreeable diluent), 5 oz. A table-spoonful frequently.
=Mixture, Col′chicum.= _Syn._ GOUT MIXTURE; MISTURA ANTARTHRITICA, M.
COLCHICI, L. _Prep._ (Sir S. Scudamore.) Magnesia, 1-1/2 dr.; vinegar of
colchicum and syrup of orange peel, of each 4 fl. dr.; peppermint water, 3
fl. oz. A table-spoonful every 3 or 4 hours during the fit of gout.
=Mixture, Contra-stim′ulant.= _Syn._ MISTURA CONTRA-STIMULANS, JULEPUM C.,
M. ANTIMONII POTASSIO-TARTRATIS, L. _Prep._ (Laennec.) Tartar emetic, 3
gr.; infusion of orange leaves, 8 fl. oz.; syrup of do., 1 fl.
oz.——_Dose._ A wine-glassful, or more, every 2 hours; in inflammation of
the lungs, hooping-cough, &c.
=Mixture of Copaiba.= (Guy’s Hosp.) _Syn._ MISTURA COPAIBÆ. _Prep._ Balsam
of copaiba, 3 dr.; solution of carbonate of potash, 1-1/2 dr. Rub together
and gradually add decoction of barley, 8 oz.; spirit of nitric ether, 3
dr.——_Dose_, 1 oz. 3 times a day. See MIXTURES, BALSAMIC.
=Mixture, Cough.= _Syn._ MISTURA BECHICA, L. _Prep._ 1. Almond mixture, 4
fl. oz.; oxymel of squills, 1 fl. oz.; ipecacuanha wine and syrup of tolu,
of each 1/2 fl. oz.
2. Tincture of tolu, 1/8 fl. oz.; paregoric elixir and tincture of
squills, of each 1 fl. oz.; syrup of poppies, 3 fl. oz.; water, 3-1/2 fl.
oz.
3. Mixture of ammoniacum, 4 fl. oz.; syrup of squills, 2 fl. oz. In the
coughs of old persons.
4. Antimonial wine, 3 fl. dr.; syrup of poppies, 1-1/2 fl. oz.; water, 4
fl. oz. In dry, husky coughs.——_Dose_ (of each of the above), 1
table-spoonful, 2 or 3 times a day, or oftener.
5. (Dr Monro.) Paregoric, 1/2 fl. oz.; sulphuric ether and tincture of
tolu, of each 1/4 oz.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful in water, night and morning,
or when the cough is troublesome.
6. (Dr Radcliff.) Syrup of poppies, syrup of squills, and paregoric,
equal parts.——_Dose._ As the last. In all cases the bowels should be kept
gently moved by some mild aperient.
7. (Dr Wood’s Brown Mixture.) Extract of liquorice, 2 dr.; powdered gum
Arabic, 2 dr.; boiling water, 4 oz.; dissolve, and add antimonial wine, 2
dr.; laudanum, 20 minims.——_Dose._ A table-spoonful occasionally. A
popular American remedy.
=Mixture, Cre′asote.= _Syn._ MISTURA CREASOTI, M. CREAZOTI (B. P., Ph.
E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Creasote and acetic acid, of each 16 drops;
mix, then add of compound spirit of juniper and syrup, of each 1 fl. oz.;
water, 14 fl. oz.; and agitate well together.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1
wine-glassful, in nausea and vomiting, especially to prevent or relieve
sea-sickness.
2. (B. P.) Creasote, 16 minims; glacial acetic acid, 16 minims; spirit of
juniper, 1/2 dr.; syrup, 1 oz.; distilled water, 15 oz.; mix.——1 to 2 oz.
=Mixture of Cubebs.= _Syn._ MISTURA CUBEBÆ. Powder of cubebs, 1 oz.;
sugar, 2 dr.; mucilage, 2 oz.; cinnamon water, 6 oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 oz. to 1
oz.
=Mixture, Demul′cent.= Syn. MISTURA DEMULCENS, L. See ALMOND MIXTURE, GUM
M., &c.
=Mixture, Diaphoret′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA DIAPHORETICA, L. _Prep._ 1.
Solution of acetate of ammonia, 3 fl. oz.; antimonial wine, 2 fl. dr.;
tincture of henbane, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; camphor mixture, 3 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 1
table-spoonful every 3 or 4 hours; in fevers, &c.
2. To the last add of sweet spirit of nitre, 1/2 fl. oz. As above.
=Mixture for Diarrhœa.= (Board of Health.) _Syn._ MISTURA PRO DIARRHŒA.
Aromatic powder, 3 dr.; compound spirits of ammonia, 3 dr.; tincture of
catechu, 10 dr.; compound tincture of cardamoms, 6 dr.; tincture of opium,
1 dr.; chalk mixture to make 20 oz.——_Dose._ For an adult, 1 oz.; for a
child of 12 years of age, 1/2 oz.; for 7 years, 1/4 oz.; after each liquid
stool.
=Mixture, Diarrhœ′a.= See MIXTURE, CHALK, &c.
=Mixture, Diuret′ic= _Syn._ MISTURA DIURETICA, L. _Prep._ 1. Nitrate of
potassa, 2 dr.; sweet spirit of nitre, 3 fl. dr.; syrup of squills, 1-1/2
fl. oz.; peppermint water, 4 fl. oz.
2. (A. T. Thomson.) Infusion of foxglove, 5-1/2 fl. oz.; tincture of
foxglove, 1/2 fl. dr.; acetate of potassa, 2 dr.; spirit of juniper, 1/2
fl. oz.; tincture of opium, 1/2 fl. In dropsy.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
table-spoonfuls, every 2 or 3 hours. The last must be used with caution.
=Mixture, Effervescing.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ MISTURA EFFERVESCENS; POTION
GAZEUSE DE RIVIÈRE. _Prep._ Dissolve 1/2 dr. of bicarbonate of potash in 2
oz. of water, and add 4 dr. of syrup. Mix also 1/2 dr. of citric acid with
1/3 oz. of syrup of citric acid and 2 oz. of water. Mix an equal quantity
of each, and give it while effervescing.
=Mixture of Elaterium.= (Dr Ferriar.) _Syn._ MISTURA ELATERII. _Prep._
Elaterium, 1 gr.; spirit of nitric ether, 2 fl. oz.; tincture of squills,
1/2 oz.; oxymel of colchicum, 1/2 oz.; syrup of buckthorn, 1 fl.
oz.——_Dose_, 1 dr. 3 times a day in water.
=Mixture, Emet′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA EMETICA, L. _Prep._ 1. (Copland.)
Sulphate of zinc, 40 gr.; ipecacuanha wine and tincture of serpentary, of
each 4 fl. dr.; tincture of capsicum, 40 drops; oil of chamomile, 12
drops; peppermint water, 4-1/2 fl. oz. As an excitant emetic; in cases of
poisoning by narcotics, &c.
2. (Magendie.) Coloured emetine, 4 gr. (or white emetine, 1 gr.); acetic
acid, 8 drops; mix, and add of infusion of orange leaves or lime flowers,
3-1/2 fl. oz.; syrup of marshmallows, 1 fl. oz.
3. (A. T. Thomson.) Ipecacuanha, 1/2 dr.; tartar emetic, 1 gr.; tincture
of squills, 1 fl. dr.; water, 6 fl. oz. _Dose_, 1 to 2 table-spoonfuls,
followed by half the quantity every 10 or 15 minutes, until vomiting is
produced; at the same time assisting the action of the medicine by
drinking copiously of warm water.
=Mixture, Emmen′agogue.= See MIXTURE, STEEL, &c.
=Mixture, Expec′torant.= _Syn._ MISTURA EXPECTORANS, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Collier.) Oxymel of squills and mucilage, of each 1 oz.; syrup of
marshmallows, 2 oz.; camphor julep, 3 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
table-spoonfuls, 2 or 3 times a day; in coughs, hoarseness, asthma, &c.
2. (A. T. Thomson.) Almond mixture, 5 fl. oz.; ipecacuanha wine and
tincture of squills, of each 1 fl. dr.; syrup of tolu, 6 fl. dr.——_Dose_,
1 table-spoonful; in humoral asthma, catarrh, &c., when the cough is
urgent.
=Mixture, Feb′rifuge.= _Syn._ MISTURA FEBRIFUGA, L. See ACETATE OF AMMONIA
MIXTURE, DIAPHORETIC M., &c.
=Mixture of Gentian.= (Ph. B.) _Syn._ MISTURA GENTIANÆ. _Prep._ Macerate
gentian root, sliced, 1/4 oz.; bitter orange peel, cut small, and
coriander fruit, bruised, of each 30 gr., in proof spirit, 2 fl. oz., for
2 hours. Add distilled water, 8 fl. oz.; macerate again for 2 hours, and
strain through calico.——_Dose_, 1 oz.
=Mixture, Gentian (Compound).= Gentian, bruised, 1-1/2; bitter orange
peel, bruised, 3/4; cardamom seeds, bruised, 1/4; proof spirit, 20:
macerate for forty-eight hours with 15 of the spirit, agitating
occasionally, pack in a percolator, let it drain, and then pour on the
remaining spirit; when it ceases to drop, wash the marc with spirit to
make up 20.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 drachms.
=Mixture, Gregory’s.= See POWDERS.
=Mixture, Griffith’s.= See MIXTURE, STEEL.
=Mixture, Guai′acum.= _Syn._ EMULSION OF GUAIACUM, MILI OF G.; MISTURA
GUAIACI (B. P.), (Ph. L. & E.), LAC G., L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Gum guaiacum,
3 dr.; white sugar, 1/2 oz.; gum acacia, 2 dr. (all in powder); triturate
together, and to these, whilst rubbing, gradually add of cinnamon water, 1
pint.
2. (Ph. E.) Guaiacum, 3 dr.; sugar, 1/2 oz.; mucilage, 1/2 fl. oz.;
cinnamon water, 19-1/2 fl. oz.; as before.——_Dose_, 1 to 3
table-spoonfuls, 2 or 3 times a day; in chronic rheumatism, gout, &c.
3. (B. P.) Guaiac resin, in powder, 2; sugar, 2; gum Arabic, in powder, 1;
cinnamon water, 80; triturate, adding the cinnamon water
gradually.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 oz.
=Mixture, Gum.= _Syn._ MUCILAGE; MISTURA ACACIÆ (Ph. L.), MUCILAGO (Ph.
E.), MUCILAGO ACACIÆ (Ph. D.), MUCILAGO ARABICI GUMMI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
L.) Gum acacia (in powder), 13 oz.; boiling distilled water, 1 pint; rub
the gum with the water, gradually poured in, until solution is complete.
2. (Ph. E.) Gum, 9 oz.; cold water, 1 pint; macerate, with occasional
stirring, until dissolved, then strain through linen or calico.
3. (Ph. D.) Gum (coarsely powdered), 4 oz.; water (cold), 6 fl. oz.;
dissolve, and strain through flannel.
_Uses, &c._ Mucilage of gum acacia is chiefly employed to render oily and
resinous substances miscible with water. “Oils require about 3/4 their
weight; balsams and spermaceti, equal parts; resins, 2 parts; and musk, 5
times its weight,” for this purpose. (Montgomery.) The GUM MIXTURE, Ph.
E., will be found under ‘EMULSION,’
=Mixture of Hemidesmus.= (Mid. Hosp.) _Syn._ MISTURA HEMIDESMI. _Prep._
Bruised root of hemidesmus, 10 oz.; extract of liquorice, 10 gr.;
distilled water, 10 oz. Digest for 12 hours, heat the strained liquor to
180° F., and strain again.——_Dose_, 1/3 part 3 times a day.
=Mixture of Hemlock, Compound.= (Guy’s Hosp.) _Syn._ MISTURA CONII
COMPOSITA. _Prep._ Extract of hemlock, 1 dr.; carbonate of soda, 1-1/2
dr.; decoction of liquorice, 11 oz.; spirit of pimento, 6 dr.——_Dose_, 1
oz. to 2 oz. Myrrh mixture is sometimes substituted for decoction of
liquorice.
=Mixture of Horseradish, Compound.= (Dr Paris.) _Syn._ MISTURA ARMORACIÆ
COMPOSITA. _Prep._ Horseradish root, 1/2 oz.; mustard seed, 1/2 oz.;
boiling water, 1 pint. Macerate for an hour, and to 7 oz. of the strained
infusion add aromatic spirit of ammonia, 1 fl. dr.; spirit of pimento, 1/2
oz. In paralysis.
=Mixture, Hydrocyan′ic.= _Syn._ MIXTURE OF PRUSSIC ACID; MISTURA ACIDI
HYDROCYANICI, L. _Prep._ From medicinal prussic acid, 15 drops; simple
syrup (pure), 1 fl. oz.; distilled water, 5 fl. oz.;——_Dose_, 1
table-spoonful, 2 or 3 times daily. Each dose contains 1-1/4 drop of
medicinal prussic acid. The bottle should be shaken before pouring out the
dose. Magendie’s formulæ for this mixture are omitted, because the acid
which he orders is not kept in the shops in England.
=Mixture of Iodine with Sarsaparilla.= (Magendie.) _Syn._ MISTURA IODINII
CUM SARZA. _Prep._ Decoction of sarsaparilla, 1-1/2 pint; iodide of
potassium, 1 dr.; syrup of orange, 2 oz.
=Mixture, I′ron.= See MIXTURE, STEEL.
=Mixture, I′ron (Compound).= See MIXTURE, STEEL.
=Mixture, Marshmallow.= _Syn._ MISTURA ALTHÆÆ (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph.
E.) Marshmallow root (dried), 4 oz.; stoned raisins, 2 oz.; water, 5
pints; boil to 3 pints, strain through linen, and after the sediment has
subsided, decant the clear portion.
2. (Ph. D.) See DECOCTION. Demulcent.——_Dose._ A few spoonfuls _ad
libitum_, so as to take 1 to 3 pints in the 24 hours; in strangury,
calculus, coughs, fevers, &c.
=Mixture of Monesia.= (Neligan.) _Syn._ MISTURA MONESIÆ. _Prep._ Extract
of monesia, 2 scruples; water, 7-1/2 oz.; compound tincture of cardamoms,
1/2{?} oz.
=Mixture of Musk.= (Ph. L.) _Syn._ MISTURA MOSCHI. _Prep._ Musk, 3 dr.;
triturate it with white sugar, 3 dr.; gum acacia, 3 dr.; and gradually add
rose water, 1 pint.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 oz.
=Mixture of Musk-seed.= (Dr Reece.) _Syn._ MISTURA ABELMOSCHI. _Prep._
Tincture of musk-seeds, 1 oz.; aromatic spirit of ammonia, 3 fl. dr.;
compound spirit of lavender, 4 fl. dr.; camphor mixture, 6 oz.——_Dose_,
1/2 oz. to 1 oz.
=Mixture, Myrrh.= _Syn._ EMULSION OF MYRRH; MISTURA MYRRHÆ, L. _Prep._
(Copland.) Myrrh, 1-1/2 dr.; add to it gradually, triturating all the
time, decoction of liquorice, 6 fl. oz., and strain.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
table-spoonfuls, twice or thrice a day, combined with carbonate of soda,
dilute hydrochloric acid, or paregoric; in debility, and diseases of the
digestive organs.
=Mixture, Narcot′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA NARCOTICA, M. FEBRIFUGA, L. _Prep._
1. Tincture of henbane, 2 fl. dr.; solution of acetate of ammonia, 3 fl.
oz.; water, 2-3/4 fl. oz.; mix.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 table-spoonfuls, to
relieve pain, procure sleep in fevers, &c.
2. (W. Cooley.) Laudanum, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; syrup of poppies, sulphuric
ether, and spirit of cinnamon, of each 1 oz.; tincture of henbane, 2-1/2
fl. dr.; tincture of capsicum, 4 fl. dr.; water 2 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
table-spoonfuls, at the commencement of the hot fit of ague.
=Mixture, Oleo-balsam′ic.= _Syn._ MISTURA OLEO-BALSAMICA, L. _Prep._
(Hamb. Cod.) Oils of cedrat, cinnamon, cloves, lavender, mace, and
marjoram, of each 20 drops; oil of rue, 10 drops; balsam of Peru, 1/2 dr.;
rectified spirit, 10 oz.; digest and filter.
=Mixture of Oxalic Acid.= (Nardo.) _Syn._ MISTURA ACIDI OXALICI. _Prep._
Oxalic acid, 8 gr.; mucilage, 3 oz.; syrup, 1 oz. In inflammation, of the
fauces and digestive tube.
=Mixture of Phosphorus.= (Soubeiran.) _Syn._ MISTURA PHOSPHORICI. _Prep._
Phosphorated oil, 2 dr.; powdered gum acacia, 2 dr.; peppermint water, 3
oz.; syrup, 2 oz. Mix the gum with 10 dr. of water, and thin with the oil,
and gradually add the others. Contains 1 gr. of phosphorus.——_Dose_, 1/2
fl. oz.
=Mixture of Platinum Chloride.= (Hoeffer.) _Syn._ MISTURA PLATINI
CHLORIDI. _Prep._ Perchloride of platinum, 1-1/2 gr.; gum juleps, 6 oz.
=Mixture of Potassium Iodide.= (Cazenave.) _Syn._ MISTURA POTASSII IODIDI.
_Prep._ Iodide of potassium, 2 dr.; distilled water, 16 oz.; syrup, 2 fl.
oz. 2 or 3 table-spoonfuls per diem.
=Mixture, Pur′gative.= _Syn._ MISTURA CATHARTICA, M. LAXATIVA, M. PURGANS.
L. _Prep._ 1. From any of the purging salts (Epsom, Glauber, tasteless,
&c.), 2 oz.; infusion of senna, 5 fl. oz.; syrup of orange peel, 1 fl.
oz.; tincture of ginger, 1/2 fl. oz.; spirit of pimento, 2 fl. dr.;
mix.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 table-spoonfuls, early in the morning; as an aperient
in stomach complaints, &c.
2. (Dr Copland.) Manna, 1-1/2 oz.; cream of tartar, 1/2 oz.; whey, 1
quart. By wine-glassfuls, as an aperient drink, in fevers, &c.
3. (Corvisart.) Borotartrate of potassa (soluble tartar), 1 oz.; tartar
emetic, 1/2 gr.; sugar, 2 oz.; water, 1-1/2 pint; dissolve. By
wine-glassfuls, until it begins to operate. This has been called
‘NAPOLEON’S MEDICINE,’ from its having been frequently taken by Napoleon
I. See MIXTURES OF SCAMMONY, SENNA, &c.
=Mixture of Quinine and Coffee.= _Syn._ MISTURA QUINIÆ ET CAFFEÆ; CAFÉ
QUININE. Prepare 5 oz. of infusion from 4 dr. of ground coffee by
percolation, and add 24 gr. of neutral sulphate of quinine and 4 dr. of
sugar.——_Dose._ A tablespoonful. The coffee conceals the bitterness of the
quinine.
=Mixture of Quinine with Iron.= _Syn._ MISTURA QUINIÆ CUM FERRO. Sulphate
of quinine, 1 gr.; sulphate of iron, 2 gr.; dilute sulphuric acid, 5
minims; water, 1 oz. For 1 dose.
=Mixture of Rhubarb with Magnesia.= (St Thom. Hosp.) _Syn._ MISTURA RHEI
CUM MAGNESIA. _Prep._ Rhubarb, 7-1/2 gr.; carbonate of magnesia, 15 gr.;
peppermint water, 1-1/2 oz. For 1 dose.
=Mixture, Saline.= _Syn._ MISTURA SALINA, L. See DRAUGHT and LEMONADE.
=Mixture, Scam′mony.= _Syn._ SCAMMONY MILK; MISTURA SCAMMONII (B. P.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Resin of scammony, 7 gr.; unskimmed milk, 3 fl. oz.:
gradually mix, triturating all the time, so as to form an emulsion.
Purgative.——_Dose._ One half.
2. (Planche’s PURGATIVE POTION.) To the last add of white sugar, 1/4 oz.;
cherry-laurel (or bitter-almond) water, 4 or 5 drops. The above are the
most tasteless and pleasant purgatives of an active character known.
3. (B. P.) Resin of scammony, 4 gr.; fresh milk, 2 oz.; triturate and form
an emulsion.——_Dose._ The quantity of the formula for an adult, half for a
child.
=Mixture, Senega, with Ammonia.= (St Th. H.) _Syn._ MISTURA SENEGÆ CUM
AMMONIA. _Prep._ Infusion of senega, 1 oz.; carbonate of ammonia, 4 gr.
For 1 dose.
=Mixture, Sen′na (Compound).= _Syn._ BLACK DRAUGHT, ABERNETHY’S D.,
CATHARTIC MIXTURE; MISTURA SENNÆ COMPOSITA (B. P.), L. _Prep._ 1. Infusion
of senna, 3/4 pint; tincture of senna, 1-1/2 fl. oz.; Epsom salts, 4 oz.;
carbonate of ammonia, 1/2 dr.; sugar, 3 oz.; agitate until the solids are
dissolved.
2. Senna, 13 oz.; boiling water, 2 quarts; digest for 4 hours in a hot
place, then press out the liquor in a tincture press, and add, of compound
tincture of senna, 3/4 pint; Epsom salts, 1 lb.
3. East India senna, 2 lbs.; boiling water, 9 quarts; tincture of senna
and Epsom salts, of each 3-1/4 lbs.; as the last.
4. Senna, 8 lbs.; boiling water, 9 galls.; Epsom salts, 16 lbs.; tincture
of senna, 1-1/2 galls.; treacle and colouring, of each 1 quart.
5. (Guy’s Hosp.) Senna and mint, of each 1-1/4 oz. (say 1-1/2 oz.);
boiling water, 1 quart; Epsom salts, 7-1/2 oz. (say 1/2 lb.).
6. (Redwood.) Infusion of senna, 18 oz.; tincture of senna, 3 oz.;
sulphate of magnesia, 6 oz.; extract of liquorice and spirit of sal
volatile, of each 3/4 oz.; oil of cloves, 6 drops.
7. (B. P.) Infusion of senna, 14; sulphate of magnesia, 4; extract of
liquorice, 1/2; tincture of senna, 2-1/2; compound tincture of cardamoms,
1-1/4: dissolve and mix.——_Dose_, 1 to 1-1/2 oz.
_Obs._ As the above mixture contains very little spirit, and from its
great consumption being made in large quantities at a time, it frequently
spoils before the whole is sold especially in hot weather. To avoid this,
1-1/2 dr. of cloves, and 3 dr. of mustard seed, both bruised, may be added
to every gall. of the strained liquor at the same time with the salts,
spirit, and colouring, after which it must be shaken up repeatedly for a
few days, and then allowed to repose for a few days more when it will
become quite clear. It may be filtered through a flannel bag, but there is
much loss and delay, owing to the consistence of the liquid. It is
purgative in doses of 1 to 1-1/2 fl. oz.
It is a singular circumstance, that although an enormous quantity of this
preparation is consumed in these countries, there is no standard formula
for it in the British Pharmacopœias. See MIXTURE, APERIENT, &c.
=Mixture, Steel.= _Syn._ MISTURA FERRI COMPOSITA (B. P.), MISTURA
CHALYBEATA, L. Two compounds of this class are officinal:——
1. (GRIFFITH’S MIXTURE, COMPOUND IRON M.; MISTURA FERRI, M. F. PROTOXYDI,
M. F. COMPOSITA——Ph. L. E. & D.) _Prep._——_a._ (Ph. L. & E.) Carbonate of
potassa, 1 dr.; powdered myrrh, 2 dr.; spirit of nutmeg, 1 fl. oz.;
triturate together, and whilst rubbing, add gradually, of sugar, 2 dr.;
rose water, 18 fl. oz.; mix well; then add of sulphate of iron (powdered),
50 gr.; and place it at once in a bottle, which must be kept closely
corked.
_b._ (Ph. D.) Powdered myrrh and sugar, of each 1 dr.; carbonate of
potassa, 1/2 dr.; essence of nutmeg, 1 fl. dr.; rose water, 7 fl. oz.;
sulphate of iron, 1/2 dr.; (dissolved in) rose water, 1 fl. oz.;——_Dose_,
1 to 2 oz., 3 or 4 times a day, as a mild and genial chalybeate tonic and
stimulant; in amenorrhœa, chlorosis, debility, &c., when there is no
determination of blood to the head.
2. (HEBERDEN’S MIXTURE, H.’S INK; ATRAMENTUM HEBERDII; MISTURA FERRI
AROMATICA——Ph. D.) Pale cinchona bark, 1 oz.; calumba root, 3 dr. (both in
coarse powder;) cloves (bruised), 2 dr.; iron filings, 1/2 oz.; peppermint
water, 16 fl. oz.; digest in a close vessel for 3 days, agitating
frequently, then strain, and add of tincture of cardamoms (comp.), 3 fl.
oz.; tincture of orange peel, 3 fl. dr. Bitter, stomachic, and
aromatic.——_Dose_, 1 or 2 table-spoonfuls, or more, 3 or 4 times a day. It
is very slightly chalybeated. See also MIXTURE, AROMATIC IRON.
3. Sulphate of iron, 25 gr.; carbonate of potash, 30 gr.; myrrh, 60 gr.;
sugar, 60 gr.; spirit of nutmegs, 4 dr.; rose water, 9-1/2 oz. Reduce the
myrrh to powder, add the carbonate of potash of sugar, and triturate them
with a small quantity of rose water so as to form a thin paste, then
gradually add more rose water, and the spirit of nutmegs, continuing the
trituration and further addition of rose water until about eight fluid
ounces of milky liquid is formed, then add the sulphate of iron previously
dissolved in the remainder of the rose water and cork the bottle
immediately.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 oz. as a stimulating tonic.
=Mixture of Sulphuric Acid.= (Ph. G.) _Syn._ MISTURA ACIDI SULPHURICI;
HALLER’S ELIXIR. _Prep._ To 3 oz. (by weight) of rectified spirit add
gradually 1 oz. (by weight) of pure sulphuric acid.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 drops
diluted.
=Mixture, Ton′ic.= _Syn._ STRENGTHENING MIXTURE; MISTURA TONICA, L.
_Prep._ 1. Infusion of cascarilla, 5 fl. oz.; tincture of orange peel, 7
fl. dr.; aromatic sulphuric acid, 2 fl. dr.
2. (Collier.) Decoction of bark, 5-1/2 fl. oz.; tincture of do., 3 fl.
dr.; aromatic confection, 20 gr.; aromatic spirit of ammonia, 1 fl. dr.
3. (Thomson.) Infusion of calumba, 5-1/2 fl. oz.; compound tincture of
cinnamon and syrup of orange peel, of each 2 fl. dr.——_Dose_, 1 to 3
table-spoonfuls, 2 or 3 times a day; in debility of the digestive organs,
loss of appetite, to check nausea and vomiting, &c.
=Mixture of Wine.= (Guy’s Hosp.) _Syn._ MISTURA VINI. White wine, 6 fl.
oz.; yolks of 2 eggs; sugar, 1/2 oz.; oil of cinnamon, 3 drops.——_Dose_, 1
oz.
=Mixture, Worm.= _Syn._ MISTURA ANTHELMINTICA, M. VERMIFUGA, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Collier.) Sulphate of iron, 20 gr.; infusion of quassia, 8 fl.
oz.——_Dose._ Two table-spoonfuls every morning fasting.
2. (Copland.) Valerian, 2 dr.; worm-seed, 4 dr.; boiling water, 8 fl.
oz.; macerate 1 hour, strain, and add of assafœtida, 1 dr., previously
triturated with the yolk of one egg. As the last.
3. (Richard.) Root of male fern, 1 oz.; water, 9 fl. oz.; boil to 6 fl.
oz., strain, and add, of sulphuric ether, 1 dr.; syrup of tansy, 1 fl. oz.
In tapeworm; as above.
=Mixture, Zinc.= _Syn._ MISTURA ZINCI, M. Z. SULPHATIS, L. _Prep._
(Collier.) Sulphate of zinc, 5 gr.; sulphate of quinine, 10 gr.; compound
infusion of roses, 2 fl. oz. Tonic.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful 2 or 3 times a
day, in a glass of water. Said to be very efficacious in the cure of
coughs of a spasmodic character.
=MIXTURES (Arithmetic of).= The constantly recurring necessity in business
and chemical manipulations of determining the value of mixtures, and of
producing articles and preparations of different strengths or prices to
those already in stock, has rendered a ready means of making such
calculations an indispensable qualification in almost every department of
trade and industrial art. As we address ourselves to the intelligent
operative and busy tradesman, as well as to those more blessed by
education and leisure, we feel we are bestowing a boon on many of our
readers in giving a short, but sufficient, outline of this useful branch
of commercial arithmetic, which is most intimately connected with the
objects of the present work.
1. To determine the price of a mixture from the value and quantity of each
ingredient of which it is composed.——RULE. Divide the ‘gross value’ by the
‘gross saleable’ or ‘useful quantity,’ the quotient is the value or cost
per gallon, pound, &c., as the case may be.——_Example._ Required, the
value per gallon of a hogshead of wine containing——
_s._ _d._ £ _s._ _d._
30 gallons @ 10 6 = 15 15 0
20 ” ” 12 6 = 12 10 0
13 ” ” 14 6 = 9 8 6
—— ---------------
63 divide into 37 13 6
---------------
Cost per gallon 0 11 11-1/2
2. To determine the proportions of substances or articles of different
values or strengths which must be taken to prepare a mixture of any other
value or strength.——RULE. Arrange the ‘prices’ or ‘strengths of the
ingredients’ in a column, and link them together in pairs; each of those
above the required price being always connected with another below it.
Then set the difference between the required price and these numbers,
alternately against those they are linked to; when they will indicate the
quantities to be taken, as in the following examples:——_a._ Required the
proportions of tea at 3_s._, 4_s._, 6_s._, and 7_s._, that must be taken
to produce a mixture 5_s._ the pound. Here——
{ 3——+ 1, or 1 lb. @ 3_s._
{ 4——|——+ 2, ” 2 ” ” 4_s._
5 { 6——+ | 2, ” 2 ” ” 6_s._
{ 7-----+ 1, ” 1 ” ” 7_s._
_b._ (When the number of the ingredients or prices is odd.) Required the
proportions of teas at 3_s._, 5_s._, and 6_s._, the pound, to sell at
4_s._ Here the odd number must be taken a second time:——
{ 3——+——+ 1 + 2 or 3 lbs @ 3_s._
4 { 5——+ | 1, ” 1 ” ” 6_s._
{ 6-----+ 1, ” 1 ” ” 6_s._
_c._ (When the number of the ingredients is not merely odd, but the prices
are unequally distributed either above or below the required price.) A
dealer having wines of the same name at 7_s._, 9_s._, 11_s._, 12_s._, and
14_s._, per gallon, wishes to produce a mixture of them worth 10_s._ per
gallon:——
{ 7——+---+ 1 + 4, or 5 galls. @ 7_s._
{ 9——+-+ | 2, ” 2 ” ” 9_s._
10 { 11——+ | | 3, ” 3 ” ” 11_s._
{ 12----+ | 1, ” 1 ” ” 12_s._
{ 14------+ 3, ” 3 ” ” 14_s._
It will be seen that by varying the manner of linking the numbers,
different answers may often be obtained to the same question. It also
often happens that the dealer or operator desires to use a given quantity
of one particular article, or to produce a certain quantity only of the
mixture instead of those indicated by the above calculations. In these
instances he has simply to apply the common rule of ‘practice’ or the
‘rule of three,’ as the particular case may demand.
In the above manner the proportions of the constituents of a compound may
be determined from their specific gravity, when no change of volume has
arisen from their admixture; but when this is the case, as in alloys,
alcoholic mixtures, &c., it is either quite inapplicable or the results
obtained are mere approximations to the truth. It may, however, be
conveniently employed for calculations connected with the ‘mixing’ and
‘reduction’ of spirits and other liquids, by substituting their
per-centage value in ‘proof gallons’ or other corresponding denomination,
for the prices in the above examples; water, when introduced be reckoned,
=0. Thus:——A spirit merchant having two puncheons of rum of the strengths
of 17 and 21 o. p., wishes to know what proportions of each and of water
he must take to form a spirit 10 u. up. The proof value of 100 gallons of
these spirits are respectively equal to 121, 117, 90, and 0 (water).
Therefore——
| 0----+ 27 + 31, or 58 g. water.
90 | 117——| | 90, ” 90 ” rum @ 117 o.p.
| 121----+ 90, ” 90 ” rum ” 121 ”
Suppose the dealer required to use different proportions of the spirits
referred to, instead of equal measures, he has only to take such aliquot
parts of the quantities thus found referring to the smaller proportion; or
such multiples of those referring to the larger one, as he wishes them to
bear to each in the new mixture. Numerous other applications of this rule
will occur to the ingenious reader.
Questions in ‘alligation,’ as the department of arithmetic above referred
to is called, are very easily resolved by the ‘method of indeterminate
analysis,’ even by persons but slightly conversant with rudimentary
algebra; of which, indeed, they form a simple class of problems, often
admitting of an almost indefinite number of solutions.
=MO′HAIR.= The hair of a goat indigenous in Asia Minor. It is dyed and
manufactured by similar materials and in a similar manner to wool.
=MOIL.= See CIDER.
=MOIRÉE METALLIQUE.= [Fr.] A beautiful crystalline appearance produced on
the surface of tin plate by acids. The tin plate is submitted for a few
seconds, whilst gently heated, to the action of dilute aqua regia, by
which it acquires a variegated primrose appearance. It is afterwards
washed in hot water, dried, and lacquered. The degree of heat and dilution
of the acid modifies the beauty and character of the surface. The effect
is also varied by employing dilute sulphuric acid, either alone or mixed
with a portion of nitric or hydrochloric acid; or by using a solution of
citric acid or caustic potassa. According to Herberger, the best metal for
the purpose is plate iron, which has been coated by dipping it into a tin
bath composed of pure tin, 200 parts; copper, 3 parts; arsenic, 1 part.
The varnish should consist of copal in highly rectified spirit. Moirée
metallique is in much less demand now than formerly.
=MO′LASSES.= See TREACLE.
=MOLES.= The small, soft excrescences and discolorations of the skin which
are popularly known under this name may, when slight, be removed by
touching them every day with a little concentrated acetic acid, by means
of a hair pencil, observing due care to prevent the application from
spreading to the surrounding parts. This does not discolour the skin. The
application of lunar caustic is also very effective, but it turns the spot
temporarily black. In the pure mole there is always a considerable
production of hair. When other means fail, they may be easily and safely
removed by surgical means. The operation is trifling; and when judiciously
performed no trace of such a proceeding is left behind.
=MOLUC′CA BALM.= See LIQUEUR.
=MOLYBDATE OF AMMONIUM.= (NH_{4})_{2} MoO_{4}. _Syn._ MOLYBDENIC ACID,
PEROXIDE OF MOLYBDENUM; ACIDUM MOLYBDICUM, L. _Prep._ Native sulphide of
molybdenum, after being well roasted, is reduced to fine powder, digested
with ammonia, and the mixture filtered, and the filtrate evaporated to
dryness; the residue, molybdate of ammonium, is then dissolved in water,
purified by crystallisation; and, lastly, decomposed by heat.
_Prop., &c._ Small white scales, soluble in 570 parts of water; the
solution reddens litmus paper; dissolves in the alkalies, forming alkaline
molybdates, from which it is again precipitated by strong acids. It is
used in the preparation of molybdenum blue, and in calico-printing, but
its scarcity precludes its extensive employment in the arts. Molybdate of
ammonium is the salt principally used in dyeing. Silks and cottons passed
through a solution of this salt, then through a bath soured with
hydrochloric acid, and, lastly (without washing), through another of
protochloride of tin, are dyed of a rich and permanent blue colour. A
solution of molybdate of ammonia in excess of nitric acid forms a valuable
agent as a test for phosphates, with which it gives a beautiful yellow
precipitate (phospho-molybdate of ammonia). See PHOSPHORIC ACID.
=MOLYB′DENUM.= Mo. A very rare metal, having a white colour, discovered by
Hielm in 1782.
_Prep._ By exposing molybdic acid, mixed with charcoal and placed in a
covered crucible, to the strongest heat of a smith’s forge.
_Prop., &c._ It is brittle and very infusible; when heated in contact with
the air, it is converted into molybdic anhydride, MoO_{3}.
=MOMOR′DICINE.= See ELATERIN.
=MOMRAUGHAN FOR HARNESS, &c.= A correspondent of the ‘Field’ newspaper
gives the following formulæ for momraughan, a substance used in India for
preserving saddles and every description of leather. It is made as
follows:——1 lb. white wax, 3 lb. mutton fat, 1 pint spirits of turpentine;
melt, and mix well together while liquid. The saddle or leather should be
rubbed well with a lime in the sun, then scrubbed with a brush with soap
and water; when thoroughly dry, rub it well with the momraughan (letting
it soak in) in the sun. One tablespoonful will be enough for a saddle.
Another recipe is:——1 pint neats-foot oil, 2 oz. beeswax, 2 oz. spirits of
turpentine, other directions as above. This latter mixture, with the
addition of 1 oz. Burgundy pitch, makes a very good waterproof composition
for boots.
=MONE′SIA.= _Syn._ MONESIA BARK, BURANHEIM B.; CORTEX MONESIÆ, L. The bark
of _Chrysophyllum Buranheim_, a tree growing in the Brazils. The rough,
imported extract of this drug also commonly passes under the name of
MONESIA. It is astringent, and possesses no advantage over rhatany or
catechu.——_Dose_ (of the latter), 18 to 20 gr.
=MONE′SIN.= A peculiar acrid principle, analogous to saponin, found in
monesia bark, to the extent of 4·7%.
=MONOBROMATED CAMPHOR.= See CAMPHOR, MONOBROMATED.
=MONOMA′NIA.= See INSANITY.
=MOR′DANT.= In _dyeing_ and _calico printing_, any substance employed to
fix the colouring matter of dye-stuffs in the fibres of organic bodies,
and to give it brilliancy and permanency. This it effects either by
serving as a bond of union between the two, owing to its attraction for
each of them; or it acts by uniting with the colouring particles in the
minute pores of the fibres, and rendered them insoluble in the alkaline,
soapy, and other liquids, to the action of which they will subsequently be
exposed. When an infusion of some dye-stuff, as cochineal or madder, for
example, is mixed with alum or acetate of alumina, and a little alkali, a
precipitate immediately forms, consisting of alumina in combination with
colouring matter, constituting a LAKE. It is by a similar reaction
occurring within the fibres that the permanent dyeing of the cloth is
effected. Here the colouring matter of the dyeing materials not only
passes from the soluble to the insoluble form, but it enters into chemical
combination with other substances, and in the new compounds it assumes
greater brilliancy and permanency than it previously possessed. Annotta
and safflower afford instances of the second mode of action above referred
to, by which substances operate as mordants. The colouring matter of these
dye-stuffs is soluble in alkaline lyes, and into a solution of this kind
the cloth is dipped. It has now received an extremely fugitive colour
only; but by passing it through acidulated water the alkaline solvent is
abstracted, and the tinctorial matter is precipitated in an insoluble and
minutely divided state within its pores, and it becomes permanently dyed.
A similar reaction takes place in dyeing with the ‘indigo vat,’ in which
atmospheric oxygen performs the part of a mordant. It is believed that
even in these cases the colouring principle, during its transition from
the liquid to the solid form, enters into combination with the fibres of
the organic substance, and that, in proportion to the affinity existing
between the two, is the integrity and excellence of the dye. In wool and
silk the affinity between their filaments and the tinctorial particles of
the dye-bath is, in general, so considerable, that a permanent stain is
very easily communicated to them; but with cotton and flax, the materials
of which calico and linen goods are made, the reverse is the case, and the
intervention of a third material, in the shape of a mordant, is absolutely
necessary to dye them of a permanent colour.
“Experience has proved that, of all the bases, those which succeed best as
mordants are alumina, tin, and oxide of iron; the first two of which,
being naturally white, are the only ones which can be employed for
preserving to the colour its original tint, at least without much
variation. But whenever the mordant itself is coloured, it will cause the
dye to take a compound colour quite different from its own. If, as is
usually said, the mordant enters into a real chemical union with the
stuff to be dyed, the application of the mordant should obviously be made
in such circumstances as are known to be most favorable to the combination
taking place; and this is the principle of every day’s practice in the
dye-house.
“In order that a combination may result between two bodies, they must not
only be in contact, but they must be reduced to their ultimate molecules.
The mordants to be united with stuffs are, as we have seen, insoluble in
themselves, for which reason their particles must be divided by solution
in an appropriate vehicle. Now, this solvent or menstruum will exert in
its own favour an affinity for the mordant, which will prove to that
extent an obstacle to its attraction for the stuff. Hence we must select
such solvents as have a weaker affinity for the mordants than the mordants
have for the stuffs. Of all acids which can be employed to dissolve
alumina, for example, vinegar (acetic acid) is the one which will retain
it with the least energy, for which reason the acetate of alumina is now
generally substituted for alum, because the acetic acid gives up the
alumina with such readiness that mere elevation of temperature is
sufficient to effect the separation of these two substances. Before the
substitution of the acetate, alum alone was employed; but without knowing
the true reason, all the French dyers preferred the alum of Rome, simply
regarding it to be the purest; it is only within these few years that they
have understood the real grounds of this preference.
“The two principal conditions, namely, extreme tenuity of particles and
liberty of action, being found in a mordant, its operation is certain. But
as the combination to be effected is merely the result of the play of
affinity between the solvent and the stuff to be dyed, a sort of partition
must take place, proportioned to the mass of the solvent, as well as to
its attractive force. Hence the stuff will retain more of the mordant when
its solution is more concentrated, that is, when the base diffused through
it is not so much protected by a large mass of menstruum; a fact applied
to very valuable uses by the practical man. On impregnating, in calico
printing, for example, different spots of the same web with the same
mordant in different degrees of concentration, there is obtained in the
dye-bath a depth of colour upon these spots intense in proportion to the
strength of their various mordants. Thus, with solution of acetate of
alumina in different grades of density, and with madder, every shade can
be produced from the fullest red to the lightest pink, and with acetate of
iron and madder, every shade from black to pale violet.” (Ure.)
In the employment of mordants in the ordinary processes of dyeing the
goods are passed through the solution for a period varying, under
different circumstances, according to the object in view. The cloth is
subsequently aired, dried, and well rinsed, before immersing it in the
colouring bath. In _calico printing_ the mordant is applied partially or
topically to the cloth by means of wooden blocks, or some similar
contrivance; or certain parts of the cloth are stopped out by a suitable
preparation, or ‘resist,’ by which means a pattern is produced, as the
colouring matter of the dye-bath is removed from the other portions by the
washing or scouring to which it is subsequently subjected. The substances
used to thicken the mordant by the calico printers, to prevent them
spreading, are starch and British gum. The first is prepared for neutral
solutions; the last for acidulous ones. The removal of the undecomposed
particles of the mordant, so as to preserve the other portion of the cloth
from their action, is effected by the process of DUNGING (which _see_).
The process of GALLING or ROOTING, commonly employed as a preparation of
cotton and linen for fast dyes, consists in working the stuff for some
time, at a good hand heat, in a decoction of galls or an infusion of
sumach. In this case the astringent matter plays the part of a mordant.
About 2-1/2 oz. of galls, or 5 oz. of sumach, and 3 or 4 pints of water,
are commonly taken for every lb. of cotton. See CALICO PRINTING, DYEING,
and the respective dye-stuffs and mordants.
=Mordant.= In _gilding_, any sticky matter by which gold-leaf is made to
adhere. _Prep._ 1. Water or beer, rendered adhesive by the addition of a
little gum, sugar, or honey, and tinged with a little gamboge or carmine,
to mark the parts to which it is applied. Used to attach gold leaf to
paper, taffety, vellum, &c.
2. (Mixtion.) From asphaltum, 1 part; mastic, 4 parts; amber, 12 parts;
fused together, and then mixed with hot boiled oil, 1 pint. Used for
gilding wood, &c. See GOLD SIZE.
=MORPHIA.= C_{17}H_{19}NO_{3}. _Syn._ MORPHINE (Ph. D.), MORPHINA,
MORPHIUM, L. The chief active principle of opium. Morphia was discovered
by Ludwig in 1688, but it was first obtained pure, and its precise nature
pointed out by Sertuerner in 1804. It is peculiar to the _Papaveraceæ_, or
poppy family.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.) Turkey opium (cut into thin slices), 1 lb., is
macerated for 24 hours in water, 1 quart, and the liquid portion decanted;
the residuum is macerated for 12 hours with a second quart of water, and
the process is repeated with a third quart of water, after which the
insoluble portion is subjected to strong pressure; the mixed liquids are
evaporated by water or steam heat to a pint, and filtered through calico;
to the filtrate is added a solution formed of chloride of calcium, 6 dr.,
dissolved in distilled water, 4 fl. oz., and the liquid is further
evaporated until it is so far concentrated that nearly the whole of it
becomes solid on cooling; this is enveloped in a couple of folds of strong
calico, and subjected to powerful pressure, the dark liquid which exudes
being preserved for subsequent use; the squeezed cake is next treated with
about 1/2 pint of boiling water, and the undissolved portion is washed on
a paper filter; the filtered solution is again evaporated, and the solid
portion thus obtained submitted to pressure, as before; if the product is
not quite white, this process is repeated a third time; the squeezed cake
is now dissolved in boiling water, 6 fl. oz., and the solution filtered
through animal charcoal (if necessary); to the clear solution is added
ammonia, in slight excess; the crystalline precipitate which forms as the
liquid cools is collected on a paper filter, washed with cold distilled
water, and, lastly, the filter is transferred to a porous brick, in order
that the morphia which it contains may become dry. (From the liquids
reserved from the expressions more morphia may be obtained by dilution
with water, precipitation with ammonia, re-solution in boiling water, and
treatment with a little animal charcoal, &c., as before.)
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Hydrochlorate of morphia, 1 oz., is dissolved in
distilled water, 1 pint; and ammonia, 5 fl. dr. (or q. s.), previously
diluted with water, 1 fl. oz., is added, with agitation; the precipitate
is well washed in distilled water, and dried by a gentle heat. By a
similar process morphia may be obtained from its other salts.
3. (Merck.) A cold aqueous infusion of opium is precipitated with
carbonate of sodium, in excess; the precipitate washed, first with cold
water, and then with cold alcohol of sp. gr. 85; the residuum is dissolved
in weak acetic acid, the solution filtered through animal charcoal, and
precipitated with ammonia; the precipitate is again washed with cold
water, dissolved in alcohol, and crystallised. A good process where spirit
is cheap.
4. (Mohr.) Opium, 4 parts, is made into a strong infusion with water,
q. s.; lime, 1 part, reduced to a state of milk with water, is then added;
the mixture is next heated to boiling, at once filtered through linen, and
treated, whilst still hot, with chloride of ammonium, in fine powder, in
slight excess (about 1 oz. to each lb. of opium); the morphia is deposited
as the liquid cools, and may be purified by a second solution in lime and
precipitation by chloride of ammonium. This process is remarkably simple,
and in many points is preferable to any other, either on the small or
large scale.
5. (PURE.) A filtered solution of opium in tepid water is mixed with
acetate of lead in excess; the precipitate (meconate of lead) is separated
by a filter, and a stream of sulphuretted hydrogen is passed through the
nearly colourless filtrate; the latter is warmed, to expel excess of the
gas, once more filtered, and then mixed with a slight excess of ammonia,
which throws down narcotine and morphia; these are separated by boiling
ether, in which the former is soluble.
_Prop._ The morphia of commerce is a white crystalline powder; but when
crystallised from alcohol, it forms brilliant prismatic crystals of
adamantine lustre, and the formula C_{17}H_{19}NO_{3}.H_{2}O. It exerts an
alkaline reaction on test paper; imparts a perceptible bitter taste to
water; requires 1160 parts of cold water, and 94 parts of boiling water,
for its solution; insoluble in ether; dissolves in 90 parts of cold and
about 30 parts of boiling alcohol; it also dissolves in the fixed and
volatile oils, and in solutions of the alkalies; heated in close vessels,
it forms a yellow liquid, like melted sulphur, which becomes white and
crystalline on cooling; heated in the air, it melts, inflames like a
resin, and leaves a small quantity of charcoal behind. With the acids it
forms salts, which are mostly soluble and crystallisable. These may all be
made by the direct solution of the alkaloid in the dilute acid. The only
ones of importance are the acetate, hydrochlorate, and sulphate.
_Pur._ Commercial morphia and its preparations are often contaminated with
codeine, narcotine, and colouring matter. The proportion of the first two
may be estimated by the loss of weight which the sample suffers when
digested in ether; or by dissolving out the morphine by digestion in weak
liquor of potassa. Pure morphia “is scarcely soluble in cold water,
sparingly so in boiling water, and readily so in alcohol. This solution is
alkaline to test paper, and by evaporation leaves crystals, which are
wholly dissipated by heat. It is soluble in pure potassa.” (Ph. L. 1836.)
_Tests._ 1. Potassium hydrate and ammonia precipitate morphia from
solution of its salts, under the form of a white crystalline powder, which
is very soluble in excess of hydrate of potassium, and, with somewhat more
difficulty, in excess of ammonia. The solution formed by excess of the
first is precipitated on the addition of bicarbonate of potassium. The
precipitate in either case is soluble in a solution of chloride of
ammonium, and in dilute acetic acid, and is insoluble in ether. A careful
inspection of the precipitate through a lens of small power shows it to
consist of minute acicular crystals; and seen through a glass which
magnifies 100 times, these crystals present the form of right rhombic
prisms.——2. The carbonates of potassium and sodium produce the same
precipitate as hydrate of potassium, and which is insoluble in excess of
the precipitant.——3. The bicarbonates of potassium and sodium also give
similar precipitates from neutral solutions, insoluble in excess. In each
of the above cases stirring with a glass rod and friction on the sides of
the vessel promote the separation of the precipitate.——4. If to a mixture
of morphia and oil of vitriol a minute fragment of bichromate of potassium
be added, oxide of chromium is set free, and a fine green colour
developed.——5. A drop or two of solution of terchloride of gold added to a
weak solution of morphia gives a yellow precipitate, which is mostly
redissolved on agitating the liquid, which then assumes various hues
(green, blue, violet, purple) on the addition of a drop of liquor of
potassa.——6. A minute fragment of terchloride of gold and of hydrate of
potassium very gently dropped into the liquid, occasion purple clouds or
streaks in dilute solutions, followed by a precipitate, which is violet,
purple, or blue-black, according to the strength of the liquid.
Another test, given by Siebold,[41] is the following:——“Heat the substance
which is believed to be, or to contain, morphia, gently with a few drops
of sulphuric acid, add a very small quantity of pure perchlorate of
potassium. The liquid immediately surrounding the perchlorate will at once
assume a deep brown colour, which will soon spread and extend over the
greater part of the acid. Warming increases the delicacy of the test.
0·0001 gramme of morphia can be distinctly recognised in this way, and no
other alkaloid is acted upon in a similar way by the substances named. It
is indispensable, however, for the success of the experiment that the
perchlorate of potassium be absolutely free from chlorate.” See ALKALOIDS.
[Footnote 41: ‘Year Book of Pharmacy,’ 1873.]
The above are the most reliable precipitates for morphia; the first two
may, indeed, be regarded as characteristic, and the remainder as almost
so. The following are often referred to by medical writers, but are less
exclusive and trustworthy:——Morphia and its salts are——7. Reddened by
nitric acid, and form orange-red solutions, darkened by ammonia in excess,
and ultimately turning yellow, with the production of oxalic acid.——8.
They are turned blue by ferric chloride, either at once or on the addition
of an alkali, and this colour is destroyed by water and by alkalies, or
acids in excess.——9. Iodic acid added to their solutions turns them
yellowish brown, by setting iodine free, and the liquid forms a blue
compound with starch.
_Uses._ Morphia and its salts are exhibited either in substance, made into
pills, or in solution, generally the latter; or externally, in fine
powder, applied to the dermis denuded of the cuticle. They are principally
employed as anodynes and hypnotics in cases in which opium is
inadmissible, and are justly regarded as the most valuable medicines of
their class. “In cases wherein both opium and the morphine salts are
equally admissible, I prefer the former, its effects being better known
and regulated; moreover, opium is to be preferred as a stimulant and
sudorific, and for suppressing excessive mucous discharges.”
(Pereira.)——_Dose._ Of pure morphia, 1/12 to 1/6 gr.; of its salts, 1/8 to
1/4 gr.; externally, 1/2 to 1-1/2 gr. Morphine is chiefly used for the
preparation of the acetate, and some of its other salts.
Good opium yields from 10% to 13% of morphia. See OPIUM.
=Morphia, Ac′etate of.= C_{17}H_{20}NO_{3}C_{2}H_{3}O_{2}. _Syn._ MORPHIÆ
ACETAS (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1836.) Morphia, 6 dr.;
acetic acid (Ph. L.), 3 fl. dr.; distilled water, 4 fl. oz.; dissolve,
gently evaporate, and crystallise.
2. (Ph. E.) Hydrochlorate of morphia, 1 part, is dissolved in warm water,
14 parts; and the solution, when cold, is precipitated with ammonia, in
slight excess, the precipitate is washed in cold water, and dissolved by
means of acetic acid, in excess, in warm water, 12 parts; from the
solution crystals are obtained as before.
3. (Ph. D.) Morphia (in fine powder), 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 8 fl. oz.;
mix, apply a gentle heat, and add of acetic acid (sp. gr. 1·044), 4-1/2
fl. dr. or q. s., until a neutral or slightly acid solution is obtained;
evaporate this to the consistence of a syrup by steam or water heat, and
set aside the residuum for a few days until it solidifies.
4. (Ph. L.) Similar to the Edinburgh process.
_Pur._ “Soluble in water and in rectified spirit” (less so in the former
than the latter); “and when the spirit is distilled from the solution, it
yields crystals which are totally destroyed by heat.” (Ph. L.) “100
measures of a solution of 10 gr. in 1/2 fl. oz. of water, and 5 minims of
acetic acid, heated to 212° and decomposed by a very slight excess of
ammonia, yield by agitation a precipitate which, in 24 hours, occupies
15-1/2 measures of the liquid.” (Ph. E.)
_Obs._ The acetate of morphia of commerce is usually in the form of a
whitish powder, and is prepared by the mere evaporation of the solution to
dryness by a gentle heat. During the process a portion of the acetic acid
is dissipated, and hence this preparation is seldom perfectly soluble in
water, unless it has been slightly acidulated with acetic acid. In the Ph.
L. 1851 this salt (in crystals) is included in the materia medica. See
MORPHIA (_above_).
=Morphia, Hydri′odate of.= C_{17}H_{19}NO_{3},HI. _Syn._ MORPHIÆ
HYDRIODAS, L. _Prep._ (A. T. Thomson.) Hydrochlorate of morphia, 2 parts;
iodide of potassium, 1 part; dissolve each separately in a little water,
mix the solutions, wash the precipitate in a little very cold water, press
it in bibulous paper, redissolve it in hot water, and crystallise.
=Morphia, Hydriodate of, with Iodine.= _Syn._ MORPHIÆ HYDRIODAS CUM
IODINIO; BOUCHARDAT’S IODURE D’IODHYDRATE, &c.; MORPHINE. _Prep._ Mix an
acid solution of sulphate of morphia with an ioduretted solution of iodide
of potassium, keeping the liquid at the temperature of 140° for an hour.
Pour off the liquid, wash the scales, and dry them.——_Dose_, 3/4 gr. at
bedtime.
=Morphia and Hydriodate of Zinc with Iodine.= (Bouchardat.) _Syn._ MORPHIÆ
ET ZINCI HYDRIODAS CUM IODINIO. _Prep._ Boil 1 scruple of ioduretted
hydriodate of morphia with 2 fl. oz. of water and 10 scruples of zinc.
After some days’ action filter the boiling liquid, which deposits the
salt. Make 1-1/2 gr. into 8 pills, with powdered marshmallow root and
syrup.
=Morphia, Hydrochlo′′rate of.= C_{17}H_{19}NO_{3},HI. _Syn._ MURIATE OF
MORPHIA; MORPHIÆ HYDROCHLORAS (Ph. L. & Ph. B.), MORPHIÆ MURIAS (Ph. E.,
D. & U. S.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1836.) Macerate sliced opium, 1 lb., in
water, 4 pints, for 30 hours; then bruise it, digest it for 20 hours more,
and press it; macerate what remains a second and a third time in water
until exhausted, and as often bruise and press it; mix the liquors, and
evaporate at 140° Fahr. to the consistence of a syrup; add of water, 3
pints, and after defecation decant the clear portion; gradually add to
this liquid crystallised chloride of lead, 2 oz. (or q. s.), dissolved in
boiling water, 4 pints, until it ceases to produce a precipitate; decant
the clear liquid, wash the residuum with water, and evaporate the mixed
liquids, as before, that crystals may form; press these in a cloth, then
dissolve them in distilled water, 1 pint, add freshly burnt animal
charcoal, 1-1/2 oz., digest at 120°, and filter; finally, the charcoal
being washed, cautiously evaporate the mixed liquors, that pure crystals
of hydrochlorate of morphia may form. To the decanted liquor from which
the crystals were first separated, add of water, 1 pint, and drop in
liquor of ammonia, frequently shaking, until all the morphine is
precipitated; wash this precipitate with cold distilled water, saturate it
with hydrochloric acid, digest with animal charcoal, 2 oz.; filter, wash
the filtrate as before, and evaporate the mixed liquors, cautiously, as
above, that pure crystals may be obtained.
2. (Ph. E.) Opium, 20 oz., is exhausted with water, 1 gall., in the
quantity of a quart at a time, and the mixed liquors are evaporated to a
pint; chloride of calcium, 1 oz., dissolved in water, 4 fl. oz., is added,
and, after agitation, the liquid is placed aside to settle; the clear
decanted liquid, and the washings of the sediment, are next evaporated, so
that they may solidify on cooling; the cooled mass, after very strong
pressure in a cloth, is redissolved in warm water, a little powdered white
marble added, and the whole filtered; the filtrate is acidulated with
hydrochloric acid, the solution again concentrated for crystallisation,
and the crystals submitted to powerful pressure, as before; the process of
solution, clarification, with powdered marble and hydrochloric acid, and
crystallisation, is repeated until a snow-white mass is obtained. This is
the process of Gregory and Robertson, and is one of the easiest and most
productive on the large scale. To procure the salt quite white, 2 to 4
crystallisations are required, according to the power of the press
employed. The Edinburgh College recommends, on the small scale, the
solution, after two crystallisations, to be decoloured by means of animal
charcoal; but, on the large scale, to purify the salt by repeated
crystallisations alone.
3. (Ph. B.) Macerate opium, sliced, 1 lb., for 24 hours with distilled
water, 2 pints, and decant. Macerate the residue for 12 hours with
distilled water, 2 pints, decant, and repeat the process with the same
quantity of water, subjecting the insoluble residue to strong pressure.
Unite the liquors, evaporate on a water bath to the bulk of 1 pint, and
strain through calico. Pour in now chloride of calcium, 3/4 oz.,
previously dissolved in 4 fl. oz. of distilled water, and evaporate until
the solution is so far concentrated that upon cooling it becomes solid.
Envelope the mass in a double fold of strong calico, and subject it to
powerful pressure, preserving the dark fluid which exudes. Triturate the
squeezed cake with about 1/2 pint of boiling distilled water, and, the
whole being thrown upon a paper filter, wash the residue well with boiling
distilled water. The filtered fluids having been evaporated as before,
cooled, and solidified, again subject the mass to pressure, and if it be
still much coloured, repeat this process a third time, the expressed
liquids being always preserved. Dissolve the pressed cake in 6 fl. oz. of
boiling distilled water, add purified animal charcoal, 1/4 oz., and digest
for 20 minutes; filter; wash the filter and charcoal with boiling
distilled water, and to the solution thus obtained add solution of ammonia
in slight excess. Let the pure crystalline morphia which separates as the
liquid cools be collected on a paper filter, and washed with cold
distilled water until the washings cease to give a precipitate with
solution of nitrate of silver acidulated with nitric acid.
From the dark liquids expressed in the above process an additional product
may be obtained by diluting them with distilled water, precipitating with
solution of potash added in considerable excess, filtering, and
supersaturating the filtrate with hydrochloric acid. This acid liquid,
digested with a little animal charcoal, and again filtered, gives upon the
addition of ammonia a small quantity of pure morphia. Diffuse the pure
morphia obtained as above through 2 oz. of boiling distilled water placed
in a porcelain capsule, kept hot, and add, constantly stirring, dilute
hydrochloric acid, 2 fl. oz., or q. s., proceeding with caution, so that
the morphia may be entirely dissolved and a neutral solution obtained. Set
aside to cool and crystallise. Drain the crystals and dry them on
filtering paper. By further evaporating the mother liquor, and again
cooling, additional crystals are obtained.——_Dose._ From 1/8th to 1/2 gr.
4. (Mohr.) By dissolving the precipitate of morphia (see MORPHIA, _Prep._
4) in dilute hydrochloric acid, and by crystallisation, as before.
_Pur., &c._ It “is completely soluble in rectified spirit, and in water.
What is precipitated from the aqueous solution by nitrate of silver is not
entirely dissolved, either by ammonia, unless added in excess, or by
hydrochloric or nitric acid.” (Ph. L.) “Snowy white; entirely soluble;
solution colourless; loss of weight at 212° Fahr. not above 13%; 100
measures of a solution of 10 gr., in water, 1/2 fl. oz., heated to 212°,
and decomposed with agitation by a faint excess of ammonia, yield a
precipitate which, in 24 hours, occupies 12-1/2 measures of the liquid.”
(Ph. E.) It takes 20 parts of cold and about its own weight of boiling
water to dissolve it. The hydrochlorate of morphia of the shops is
usually, like the acetate, under the form of a white crystalline powder.
_Obs._ Of all the salts of morphia, this one appears to be that most
suitable for medical purposes, from its free solubility, and from its
solution not being liable to spontaneous decomposition, at least under
ordinary circumstances. “The opium which yields the largest quantity of
precipitate by carbonate of sodium yields muriate of morphia, not only in
the greatest proportion, but also with the fewest crystallisations.” (Ph.
E.) Smyrna opium contains the most morphine.
=Morphia and Codei′a (Hydrochlorate of).= _Syn._ GREGORY’S SALT; MORPHIÆ
ET CODEIÆ HYDROCHLORAS, L.; SEL DE GREGORY, Fr. This is commercial
HYDROCHLORATE OF MORPHINE prepared according to Dr Gregory’s process.
=Morphia Mec′onates of.= (C_{19}H_{20}NO_{3})_{2},C_{7}H_{2}O_{7}. _Prep._
1. (NEUTRAL MECONATE OF MORPHINE; MORPHIÆ MECONAS, L.) By saturating an
aqueous solution of meconic acid with morphia, and evaporating the
solution by a gentle heat, so that crystals may be obtained.
(2.) BIMECONATE OF MORPHINE; (MORPHIÆ BIMECONAS, L.)
C_{17}H_{19}NO_{3}HC_{7}H_{3}O_{7}. Meconic acid, 11 parts; morphia, 14
parts; dissolve each separately in hot water, q. s.; mix the solutions,
and either gently evaporate and crystallise, or at once evaporate to
dryness.
_Obs._ Morphia exists in opium under the form of bimeconate, and hence
this preparation of that drug has been preferred by some practitioners. A
solution of this salt for medical purposes may be directly prepared from
opium, by treating its solution in cold water with a little animal
charcoal, filtering, gently evaporating to dryness, redissolving the
residuum, in cold water, filtering, and repeating the treatment with
animal charcoal. The dose of the dry bimeconate is 1/4 gr., or more; and
of the meconate rather less. “A powder is also sold, called ‘bimeconate of
morphia,’ which is of the same strength as powdered opium, and is given in
similar doses. It is obviously incorrect to apply this name to a powder
which consists principally of foreign matter. It is to be hoped that
physicians will not prescribe this powder under the above name, as such a
practice might lead to fatal results, if the prescription should be
prepared with the substance which the name strictly indicates.” (REDWOOD.)
=Morphia, Nitrate of.= (A. T. Thomson.) _Syn._ MORPHIÆ NITRAS. Add morphia
in slight excess to very dilute nitric acid, filter, concentrate by gentle
evaporation, and set aside that crystals may form.
=Morphia, Phosphate of.= _Syn._ MORPHIÆ PHOSPHAS. As the nitrate,
substituting dilute phosphoric by nitric acid.
=Morphia, Sul′phate of.= _Syn._ MORPHIÆ SULPHAS, L. _Prep._ Saturate very
dilute sulphuric acid with morphia, evaporate to one half, add a little
animal charcoal, continue the evaporation for a short time longer at a
gentle heat, filter whilst hot, and abandon it to spontaneous evaporation.
It is decomposed by driving off the water of crystallisation. Sulphate of
morphia is included in the Ph. U. S. According to Magendie, this salt
sometimes agrees with patients who cannot bear the acetate.
=Morphia, Tartrate of.= (A. T. Thomson.) _Syn._ MORPHIÆ TARTRAS. _Prep._
Saturate a solution of tartaric acid with morphiæ, concentrate by
evaporation, and set aside that crystals may form. By using an excess of
acid an acid tartrate may be formed.
=MORPHIOM′ETRY.= A name given to the process of determining the richness
of opium in morphia. See OPIUM.
=MORISON’S PILLS.= See _Patent medicines_.
=MORSU′LI.= An old name applied to lozenges and masticatories. It is still
retained in some foreign Pharmacopœias.
=MOR′TAR= is the well-known cement, made of lime, sand, and water,
employed to bind bricks and stones together in the construction of walls,
buildings, &c.
In the composition of mortar stone lime is preferred to that obtained from
chalk, and river sand to pit or road sand. Sea sand is unfitted for mortar
until it has been well soaked and washed in fresh water. Sifted coal ashes
are frequently substituted for the whole or a part of the sand.
HYDRAULIC MORTARS or CEMENTS are those which, like Roman cement, are
employed for works which are either constantly submerged or are frequently
exposed to the action of water. The poorer sorts of limestone are chosen
for this purpose, or those which contain from 8% to 25% of alumina,
magnesia, and silica. Such limestones, though calcined, do not slake when
moistened; but if pulverised, they absorb water without swelling up or
heating, like fat lime, and afford a paste which hardens in a few days
under water, but in the air they never acquire much solidity.
“The essential constituents of every good hydraulic mortar are caustic
lime and silica; and the hardening of this composition under water
consists mainly in a chemical combination of these two ingredients through
the agency of the water, producing a hydrated silicate of lime. But such
mortars may contain other ingredients besides lime, as, for example, clay
and magnesia, when double silicates of great solidity are formed; on which
account dolomite is a good ingredient in these mortars. But the silica
must be in a peculiar state for these purposes, namely, capable of
affording a gelatinous paste with acids; and if not so already, it must be
brought into this condition, by calcining it along with an alkali or an
alkaline earth, at a bright red heat, when it will dissolve and gelatinise
in acids. Quartzose sand, however fine its powder may be, will form no
water mortar with lime; but if the powder be ignited with the lime, it
then becomes fit for hydraulic cement. Ground felspar or clay forms with
slaked lime, no water cement; but when they are previously calcined along
with the lime, the mixture becomes capable of hardening under water.
“All sorts of lime are made hydraulic, in the humid way, by mixing the
slaked lime with solutions of common alum or sulphate of alumina; but the
best method consists in employing a solution of the silicate of potash,
called liquor of flints or soluble glass, to mix in with the slaked lime
or lime and clay. An hydraulic cement may also be made which will serve
for the manufacture of architectural ornaments, by making a paste of
pulverised chalk, with a solution of the silicate of potash. The said
liquor of flints likewise gives chalk and plaster a stony hardness, by
merely soaking them in it after they are cut or moulded to a proper shape.
On exposure to the air they get progressively indurated. Superficial
hardness may be readily procured by washing over the surface of chalk,
&c., with liquor of flints, by means of a brush. This method affords an
easy and elegant method of giving a stony crust to the plastered walls and
ceilings of apartments; as also to statues and busts cast in gypsum mixed
with chalk.”
Under Prof. Kuhlman’s patent, dated April, 1841, “instead of calcining the
limestone with clay and sand alone, as has been hitherto commonly
practised, this inventor introduces a small quantity of soda, or,
preferably, potash, in the state of sulphate, carbonate, or muriate; salts
susceptible of forming silicates when the earthy mixture is calcined. The
alkaline salt, equal in weight to about 1-5th that of the lime, is
introduced in solution among the earths.” (Ure.)
The hardening of the common mortars and cements is in a great measure due
to the gradual absorption of carbonic acid; but even after a very great
length of time this conversion into carbonate is not complete. Good
mortar, under favorable circumstances, acquires extreme hardness by age.
Attempts have been made at various times to introduce the use of
bituminous cements into this country, and thus to restore both to land and
submarine architecture a valuable material which has now lain neglected
for a period of fully thirty centuries; but, unfortunately, owing to the
interest of our great building and engineering firms lying in another
direction, these attempts have been hitherto unsuccessful. See ASPHALTUM,
CEMENT, LIME, &c.
=MORTIFICA′TION= _Syn._ GANGRENE; GANGRENA, MORTIFICATION, L. Local death;
the loss of vitality in one part of the animal body, whilst the rest
continues living. “The terms gangrene and mortification are often used
synonymously; but gangrene properly signifies the state which immediately
precedes mortification, while the complete mortification, or absolute
death of a part, is called sphacelus. A part which has passed into the
state of sphacelus is called a slough.
=MOSA′IC GOLD.= See BRASS, GOLD, &c.
=MOS′SES.= _Syn._ MUSCI, L. Several vegetables of the natural orders
_Algæ_, _Fungi_, _Lichenes_, and _Musci_, commonly pass under this name
with the vulgar. Of these the following are the principal:——
BOG MOSS (_Sphagnum palustre_). Very retentive of moisture. Used to pack
up plants for exportation.
CEYLON MOSS (_Gracilaria candida_). Very nutritive; made into a decoction
or jelly, which is highly esteemed as an article of diet for invalids and
children, more especially for those suffering under affections of the
mucous membranes or phthisis.
CLUB MOSS (_Lycopodium clavatum_). See LYCOPODIUM.
CORSICAN MOSS, C. WORM M. (_Gracilaria Helminthocorton_).——_Dose_, 1/2 to
2 dr., in powder, mixed up with sugar; as a vermifuge.
CUP MOSS, C. LICHEN (_Cladonia pyxidata_). Astringent and febrifuge. A
cupful of the decoction, taken warm, generally proves gently emetic. Used
in hooping-cough, &c.
FIR CLUB MOSS (_Lycopodium Selago_). Violently emetic and purgative. It is
also irritant and narcotic.
ICELAND MOSS (_Cetraria Islandica_). Highly nutritious and easy of
digestion. The decoction is a favourite alimentary substance in affections
of the lungs and digestive organs. In Iceland, after the bitter has been
removed by soaking it in hot water, it is made into jelly, or dried,
ground to flour, and made into bread.
IRISH MOSS, PEARL M., CARRAGEEN M. (_Chondrus crispus_). Very nutritious.
The decoction or jelly is a useful and popular demulcent and emollient in
pulmonary affections, dysentery, scrofula, rickets, &c. It is often
employed by cooks and confectioners instead of isinglass, and by painters
to make their size.
REINDEER MOSS (_Cladonia rangiferina_). Esculent, very nutritious.
=MOTHER-OF-PEARL.= See PEARL.
=MOTH′ER WATER.= See CRYSTALLISATION.
=MOULDS.= Numerous materials and compositions are employed for the purpose
of taking moulds, among which are the following:
1. (COMPO’.)——_a_ From spermaceti, stearine or hard tallow, and white wax,
equal parts, melted together. For fine work, as medals, small casts, &c.
_b._ From black resin, 3/4 lb.; hard tallow, 1/2 lb.; beeswax, 6 oz.; as
the last. For coarse work, as architectural ornaments, &c. The above are
poured on the objects to be copied (previously oiled) whilst in the melted
state. Articles in plaster of Paris are first soaked in water, observing
that none of it remains on the surface so as to interfere with the design.
2. (ELASTIC.)——_a._ Flexible or elastic moulds may be made of gutta percha
softened in boiling water, and after being freed from moisture, pressed
strongly against the object to be copied by means of a screw press. A ring
or support should be employed to prevent undue lateral spreading.
_b._ By the use of gelatin or glue, elastic moulds are formed capable of
reproducing, with accuracy, and in a single piece, the most elaborately
sculptured objects, of exquisite finish and delicacy. Casts from these are
now common in the streets. The credit of the application of this substance
to this purpose is due to M. H. Vincent. The process of casting consists
in simply dissolving a certain quantity of gelatin in hot water until it
is reduced to the state of liquid paste, when it is run over the object,
previously oiled, intended to be reproduced. As it cools, the gelatin
assumes a consistency offering a considerable degree of resistance, and is
highly elastic, which latter quality enables it to be easily detached from
the work on which it has been fitted. In the hollow formed by the gelatin
the finest plaster, mixed to a thick cream with water, is next run; and
when the plaster has acquired the requisite hardness, the gelatin mould is
detached in the same manner as from the original. From this apparently
fragile mould as many as six copies may be taken, all reproducing the
original with unerring fidelity.
3. (METALLIC.)——_a._ From fusible metal.[42]
[Footnote 42: See FUSIBLE ALLOYS.]
_b._ (CLICHÉE MOULDS.) From a fusible alloy formed of bismuth, 8 parts;
lead, 5 parts; tin, 4 parts; antimony, 1 part; repeatedly melted together.
The above are poured out in the melted state on a plate or slab, and after
being stirred until in a pasty state, the object to be copied is strongly
pressed on the alloy at the moment it begins to solidify. They are chiefly
used for medals and other like objects.
_c._ (Chameroy’s Patent.) By melting together one part of some easily
fusible metal in a crucible, and then mixing with it four parts of a metal
far less readily fusible, steeped in ammonia and reduced to powder. Such a
compound is stated to be of great solidity, hardness, facility of
soldering, melts at a low temperature, and has great tractability in
moulding to any form; and in casting takes the sharpest impressions,
whilst in its nature it is peculiarly unchangeable. See ELECTROTYPE.
=MOUTH COSMET′ICS.= See BREATH, TEETH, LOZENGE, PASTE, POWDER, &c.
=MOX′AS.= Substances burnt upon the body, for the purpose of acting as
counter-irritants, and allaying deep-seated pains and inflammation. They
have been used in gout, rheumatism, &c. The small cone constituting the
moxa is placed upon a part, lighted, and allowed to burn to its base. The
CHINESE and JAPANESE moxas are made of the downy portion of the leaves of
a species of wormwood (_Artemisia sinensis_); but various other
substances, as the pith of the sunflower, cotton, or paper, soaked in a
weak solution of nitrate, chlorate, or chromate of potassium, answer as
well. Larrey’s moxas consist of lycopodium, 4 oz.; nitre, 2 oz.; formed
into small cones, with alcohol, and dried for some days. Dr Osborne used
quicklime enclosed in a hoop of card, and moistened with water. The actual
cautery is said to be preferable to any of them.
=MU′CILAGE.= _Syn._ MUCILAGO, L. An aqueous solution of gum, or other like
substance, that gives a considerable consistency to water. See DECOCTION,
MIXTURE, &c.
=Mucilage, Acacia.= (Ph. B.) _Syn._ MUCILAGO ACACIÆ. Put gum acacia, in
small pieces, 4 oz., and distilled water, 6 oz., into a covered earthen
jar, and stir frequently until the gum is dissolved. If necessary, strain
through muslin.
=Mucilage, Fenugreek.= _Syn._ MUCILAGO FENUGRECI. Digest 1 oz. of
fenugreek seed with 1/2 pint of water for 12 hours, boil, and strain with
pressure.
=Mucilage, Linseed.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ MUCILAGO LINI. Linseed, 1 oz.; warm
water, 6 oz. Digest for 6 hours, stirring now and then, and strain.
=Mucilage, Liquorice.= _Syn._ MUCILAGO GLYCYRRHIZÆ. From liquorice root,
as MARSHMALLOW MUCILAGE.
=Mucilage, Marshmallow.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ MUCILAGO ALTHÆÆ. Marshmallow
root, 1 oz.; boiling water, 6 oz.; digest for 6 hours, and strain.
=Mucilage, Quicksilver.= _Syn._ MUCILAGO MERCURIALIS PLENKII. Quicksilver,
1 dr.; gum Arabic, 3 dr.; syrup of poppies, 4 oz. Mix.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr.
=Mucilage, Sassafras.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ MUCILAGO SASSAFRAS. Infuse 2 dr.
of pith of sassafras in 16 oz. (old measure) of boiling water for 3 hours,
and strain.
=Mucilage, Slippery-Elm Bark.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ MUCILAGO ULMI.
Slippery-elm bark, sliced and bruised, 1 oz.; boiling water, 16 oz. Infuse
for 2 hours.
=Mucilage, Starch.= (Ph. B.) Same as DECOCTION OF STARCH (Ph. L.), which
_see_.
=Mucilage, Tra′gacanth.= _Syn._ MUCILAGO TRAGACANTHÆ (B. P., Ph. E., and
Ph. D 1826), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Tragacanth, 2 dr.; boiling water, 9
fl. oz. (8 fl. oz.——Ph. D.); macerate for 24 hours, triturate, and press
through linen.
2. (B. P.) Tragacanth, in powder, 60 gr.; distilled water, 10 oz. To the
water contained in a pint bottle add the tragacanth, agitate briskly for a
few minutes, and again at short intervals, until the tragacanth is
perfectly diffused, and has finally formed a mucilage.——_Dose_, 1 oz.
(Should be made as required. One part of tragacanth gives more viscosity
to water than twenty-five parts of gum Arabic——Squire.) Used in medicine
as a demulcent, and as an application to burns, &c., and in pharmacy in
making up pills, and to suspend heavy powders in liquids.
=MUDAR′IN.= _Syn._ MADARINE. A peculiar substance, possessing powerful
emetic properties, extracted from the root bark of _Calotropis gigantea_,
in which it exists to the extent of 11%. (Duncan.) It is soluble in water
and in alcohol, and its aqueous solution, unlike that of most other
substances, gelatinises by heat, and becomes fluid again on cooling.
=MUF′FINS.= _Prep._ Take of fine flour, 1/4 peck; warm milk-and-water, 1
quart; yeast, a wine-glassful; salt, 2 oz.; mix for 15 minutes, then
further add of flour, 1/4 peck, make a dough, let it rise 1 hour, roll it
up, pull it into pieces, make them into balls, put them in a warm place,
and when the whole dough is made into balls, shape them into muffins, and
bake them on tins; turn them when half done, dip them into warm milk, and
bake them to a pale brown.
=MUF′FLE.= See ASSAYING.
=MUL′BERRY.= _Syn._ MORUM, L. Mulberries (MORA, MORI BACCÆ) are the fruit
of _Morus nigra_, or black mulberry tree. They are cooling and laxative;
but when eaten too freely are apt to disorder the stomach and bowels.
Mulberry juice (_mori succus_) is officinal in the Ph. L. A syrup (SYRUPUS
MORI) is made of it. It is also, occasionally, made into wine.
=MUL′TUM.= A mixture of extract of quassia and liquorice, used by
fraudulent brewers instead of malt and hops.
=MUM.= A beverage prepared from wheat malt, in a similar way to ordinary
beer from barley malt. A little oat and bean meal is frequently added. It
was formerly much drunk in England; but its use at the present day is
chiefly confined to Germany, and to Brunswick more particularly.
=MUMPS.= _Syn._ PAROTITIS, L. Inflammation of the parotid gland, which is
situated under the ear. There is little constitutional derangement, but
the cheeks become swollen and painful, and there is some difficulty in
opening the mouth, and in swallowing. The treatment consists in simply
keeping the part warm with flannel, and the use of warm fomentations, at
the same time that the bowels are kept freely open with some mild
laxative.
The mumps are said to be contagious, as, when the affection appears in a
school, it generally attacks every member of it. Low, damp situations are
those most favorable to this affection.
=MUREX′ID.= C_{8}N_{6}H_{8}O_{6}. _Syn._ PURPURATE OF AMMONIUM.
_Prep._ (Gregory.) Alloxan, 7 parts; alloxantin, 4 parts; boiling water,
240 parts; dissolve, and add the solution to a cold and strong solution of
carbonate of ammonia, 80 parts; crystals of murexid will separate as the
liquid cools.
_Obs._ Murexid can be obtained directly from uric acid by the action of
nitric acid and subsequent treatment with ammonia. This process is,
however, very precarious, and often fails altogether.
_Prop., &c._ It is only very slightly soluble in cold water; freely
soluble in solutions of ammonia and the fixed alkalies; the first, by
exposure to the air, becomes purple, and deposits brilliant crystals of
murexid. These compounds are the purpurates of Dr Prout. It forms
iridescent crystals, having a metallic lustre, of a magnificent green
colour by reflected light, and an equally beautiful reddish purple by
transmitted light. It is soluble in boiling water, only very slightly
soluble in cold water, and insoluble in alcohol and ether. A few years ago
murexid was extensively used in dyeing; it is now almost superseded by
rosaniline or magenta. An analogous substance, formed as above, by
treating amalic acid with ammonia, is called ‘caffein-murexid.’
=MU′′RIATE.= An old name for hydrochlorate and chloride.
=MURIATIC ACID.= _Syn._ HYDROCHLORIC ACID, which _see_.
=MURIDE.= The name originally given to bromine by M. Balard.
=MUR′RAIN.= _Syn._ BLACK-LEG, BLACK-QUARTER. A disease affecting meat
cattle, more especially young animals, in the spring and autumn. The
common symptoms are swelling and discoloration of one of the hind quarters
of the animal, with consequent lameness and inability to move; a peculiar
emphysema and intumescence of various parts of the body, particularly over
the region of the spine, accompanied with all the common indications of
putrid fever. In severe cases gangrene soon follows, and death frequently
ensues in from 12 to 24 hours.
The rapid progress of this disease admits of little being done in the way
of cure. Extensive scarifications of the affected part, charcoal or hot
yeast poultices, or fomentations, and active purgatives, appear to
constitute the most useful treatment. The following drenches have been
recommended for this affection:——
1. (Blaine.) Sweet spirit of nitre, 1/2 fl. oz.; powdered cascarilla, 2
oz.; solution of acetate of ammonia, 4 fl. oz.; yeast, 8 fl. oz.; given
every 3 or 4 hours.
2 (Clater.) Laudanum and sweet spirit of nitre, of each 1/2 fl. oz.;
solution of chloride of lime, 1/4 fl. oz.; prepared chalk, 1 oz.; warm
gruel, 1 pint.
The apparent incurability of this disease renders it of the utmost
importance to the farmer to adopt preventive measures. These should
consist of the supply of wholesome food and pure water, the adoption of
extreme cleanliness, and the free access of pure air to all the stalls,
sheds, and other buildings in which the cattle may be sheltered. As the
disease is regarded as contagious by many persons, it is prudent to
separate, as speedily as possible, the healthy animals from those
affected. The free use of sulphurous acid, chloride of lime, &c., as
disinfectants, is also advisable.
Other and more immediate preventives consist of the occasional exhibition
of a saline aperient, and the introduction of a seton into the dewlap.
=MUSCULAR POWER.= Fick and Wislicenus proved, in 1865, that muscular power
is to a great extent produced by the oxidation of such non-nitrogenous
substance as fat. Frankland has put the matter beyond dispute by a series
of experiments determining the amount of potential energy locked up in
muscle. Some of the conclusions at which he has arrived are extremely
interesting. He considers that a muscle is a machine for the conversion of
potential energy into mechanical force; that the mechanical force of the
muscles is derived chiefly, if not entirely, from the oxidation of matters
either contained in the blood or deposited around the muscular fibres, and
not from the oxidation of the muscles themselves; that in man the chief
materials used for the production of muscular power are non-nitrogenous;
but nitrogenous matters can also be employed for the same purpose, and
hence the greatly increased evolution of nitrogen, under the influence of
a flesh diet, even with no increase of muscular exertion; that like every
other part of the body, the muscles are constantly being renewed, but this
renewal is scarcely perceptibly more rapid during great muscular activity
than during comparative quiescence; that after the supply of sufficient
albuminoid matters in the food of man to provide for the necessary renewal
of the tissues, the best materials for the production both of internal and
external work are non-nitrogenous matters, such as oil, fat, sugars,
starch, and gum; that the non-nitrogenous matters of food which find their
way into the blood yield up all their potential energy as actual energy;
the nitrogenous matters, on the other hand, leave the body with a portion
(at least one seventh) of their potential energy unexpended; and, lastly,
that the transformation of potential energy into muscular power is
necessarily accompanied by the production of heat within the body, even
when the muscular power is exerted externally. This is doubtless the
chief, and probably the only, source of natural heat. See ENERGY,
EXERCISE.
=MUSH′ROOMS.= Edible fungi. The species commonly eaten in England are the
_Agaricus campestris_, or common field or garden mushroom, used to make
ketchup, and eaten either raw, stewed, or broiled;——the _Morchella
esculenta_, or morel, used to flavour soups and gravies;——and the _Tuber
cibarium_, or common truffle, also used as a seasoning.
Several fungi, which to the inexperienced closely resemble the common
edible mushroom, possess poisonous narcotic properties, and their use has
not unfrequently been productive of serious, and, in some cases, even
fatal results. Unfortunately, no simple tests exist by which the edible
and poisonous varieties can be distinguished from each other. So strongly
was the late Professor L. C. Richards, the eminent botanist, impressed
with this feeling, that though no one was better acquainted with the
distinctions of fungi than he was, yet he would never eat any except such
as had been raised in gardens, in mushroom beds.
“This difficulty of distinguishing edible from poisonous and noxious fungi
must not be ignored. If only one out of a hundred, or for the matter of
that a thousand, species were poisonous or noxious, it would not be sound
advice to say that we should eat all that come to hand, and stand the
chance of baneful results. Unfortunately it is the case that some of the
most poisonous fungi are the most common, and there is scarcely a field,
and perhaps not a single wood, which does not abound with varieties of
_Coprinus_, the _Agaricus fascicularis_, and the beautifully coloured
_Thussula emetica_, and several other very undesirable species. Some
writers, and among them, if we remember rightly, the learned and
enthusiastic mycologist, Dr Badham, deny the existence of any poisonous
fungi in our islands, and they account for the effects which are often
produced by eating varieties different from our common mushroom by stating
that some people, through idiosyncrasy of constitution, are injuriously
affected by all fungi; and in support of this statement they instance the
well-known fact that some people experience the most unpleasant effects
after eating the common edible mushroom, which chemically contains noxious
ingredients. We all know that idiosyncrasy of constitution may account for
much and for very strange phenomena; for instance, oysters are almost
poison to some persons, while roast beef will cause hysterics in other
cases; and to not a few certain odours, harmless in themselves, are causes
of serious attacks of illness; but the fact remains that persons who can
eat with impunity and greatly enjoy the common mushroom are unpleasantly
affected by other species of fungi. Not a year passes but deaths are
recorded of persons——sometimes of whole families——after eating noxious
fungi, though they had no idiosyncrasy of constitution; and shortly prior
to the writing of this article a learned botanist and enthusiastic
mycologist, and a friend, in experimenting on some specimens of fungi sent
to him, narrowly escaped death, while another person who partook of the
dish prepared actually succumbed. A thousand and one tests have been given
in writing from time to time whereby our ordinary mushroom is to be
distinguished from species which resemble it——and one species is to be
distinguished from another; but we fear that practically they are not to
be depended upon. Fungi differ in appearance according to the localities
in which they grow, and according to their age. The common belief that the
edible species never change colour when cut or bruised is untenable, for
three varieties at least are perfectly edible, and yet assume different
tints when injured in any way. The test of taste, too, which is applied
under the idea that those with a pleasant savour and an inoffensive smell
are always wholesome, is fallacious, for a raw mushroom is quite a
different thing from the stewed or grilled one, and often what has an
acrid taste when raw becomes perfectly savoury when cooked; and, _vice
versâ_, a tasteless fungus may be poisonous, but only develop its latent
flavour when submitted to the cook. Dr Christison declares that a sure
test of poisonous fungus is an astringent, styptic taste, and a
disagreeable pungent odour; but this, again, cannot always be depended on.
Nor, again, is the popular idea that a mushroom which will skin easily is
wholesome altogether based on fact. What, then, is to be done to enlarge
the field of our mushroom gatherers and to bring about the utilisation of
food now suffered to run to waste, or, in other words, how is a knowledge
of our fungi to be obtained? The only answer is that knowledge on this
matter is to be got, generally speaking, as knowledge on other
matters——partly from books, but more especially from oral instruction and
demonstration. Such eminent authorities as Dr Badham, the Rev. M.
Berkeley, Mr Cooke, and Mr Worthington Smith may be consulted with profit,
and works such as that on ‘Domestic Economy,’ in which coloured plates
bring accurately before the eye the different species of our fungi. And
here we may mention that the plates prepared by Mr Worthington Smith,
which were once at the South Kensington Museum, but now, we believe, at
Bethnal Green, have done much to help the Londoner when in search for
mushrooms in the country to distinguish between the good and bad species
of fungi. It might be well that in our schools, where so many practically
useless branches of knowledge are crammed into children both in town and
country, practical lessons on fungi should be given. Those, too, who wish
to learn what is to be learned on this subject should avail themselves of
opportunities now often given at exhibitions and botanical meetings. At
Paris, in 1876, there was an exhibition of edible and poisonous fungi, in
a fresh and dry state, together with books and drawings; and a similar
exhibition took place in Aberdeen two years before; and, as most of our
readers are probably aware, there exists a Fungus Club, or, rather, a
botanical society which makes fungi a special study. This is the Woolhope
Club, which has its head quarters at Hereford, and embraces in its
scientific investigations all the district between Shropshire and the
Bristol Channel. One day in each autumn is devoted to a fungus hunt, and
the numbers that are gathered by this enthusiastic band are something
enormous. The labours of the day are closed by a dinner, at which the main
dishes are composed of the spoils of the chase, dressed in the most
epicurean fashion, and of other good things flavoured with the most
appetising (fungus) sauces. In the annual volume published of the
transactions of the club there is a description of the fungi of the
district, and the best modes of cooking them. It would be a great gain to
the public if at least that part dealing with fungi were generally
obtainable.
“Gastronomically the ordinary mushroom, and a large number of our British
fungi, are most estimable, and ketchup produced from them——not the
ordinary ketchup ‘of commerce,’ which is often innocent of any fungi
whatever——is to the cultivated taste of the gourmet the best of sauces.
Many an epicurean has been heard to aver that after that of an oyster that
of a mushroom is the finest in the whole world of gastronomy. Bacon, in
his ‘Naturall Historie,’ says of mushrooms, ‘they yield a delicious meat,’
and to these commendations it may be added that they can be cooked in
almost as many ways as the French can cook eggs. Their alimentary value is
also great, for chemistry has revealed in them the presence of the leading
principles which exist in the flesh of animals. Dr Letheby says that ‘the
edible varieties are highly nutritious,’ and that well-known dietist, the
late Dr Edward Smith, who was very chary of commending anything, also has
a good word for them.
“Our word ‘mushroom’ is evidently an adaptation of the French _mousseron_,
which, of course, is from _mousse_ ‘_moss_’ (Latin, _muscus_); but the
suggestion of the learned Salmasius, that the French gave this name to the
edible fungus ‘because it grows only where the grass is the shortest and
there is little else but moss,’ strikes one as rather weak. The mushroom,
like the moss, is a cryptogamous plant; but there is little connection in
any way between the two. Perhaps, then, we must look to the Greek word
_mucos_, though only used by the grammarians, for the origin of the French
word and so of our own. This was one of the terms which signified a
‘sponge,’ and was probably applied to the ‘fungi’ because of their
sponge-like growth. It is evident that some of our more exact botanists,
or etymologists who compounded the word for them, consider the Greek word
and not the Latin as the origin of the _mu_ in the English word and the
_mou_ in the French, though, according to analogy, the _u_ should have
been changed into a _y_, for the study of ‘fungi’ is termed by them
_mycology_. It is hardly necessary to add that the words ‘fungology’ and
‘fungologist’ are hybrid compounds of Greek and Latin, which are simply
intolerable to ears correct, as are many other words similarly compounded,
and recently introduced into our language. The Latin _fungus_ is plainly a
weakened form of the Greek _spongos_, and goes to show that the idea of a
‘sponge’ was from the first associated with the _fungi_, and that the
Greek _mucos_ must be taken as the origin of the French _mousseron_ and
the English ‘mushroom.’ It is curious that the Greek, Latin, and English
‘fungous’ terms have all been used in a sense reflecting on some of our
species. The Greek _mucos_ represented a silly, stupid fellow, and the
Plautus couples the fungi——‘soft-pated’——with the ‘fools,’ ‘stolid’ and
‘fatuous.’ In like manner in our own language, Bacon speaks of certain
persons as ‘mushrooms and upstart weeds’ because of their sudden growth
from a lowly origin. South, in one of his sermons, reflects on “mushroom
divines who start up of a sudden,” and whose success is ‘not so good as to
recommend their practice.’ Carrying out the same analogy, the late Albert
Smith, if we recollect rightly, spoke of ‘stuck-up people’ as springing
like mushrooms suddenly into notice, and, like them, from very
questionable soil.
“One word as to the connection between fungi and what are called ‘fairy
rings’ in our meadows. These fairy rings unfortunately lose all their
poetry when it is known that they are simply produced by the growth of
various kinds of fungi. The fungi start from a centre, owing to some
peculiarity of the soil and decaying vegetable matter in it, and when they
have exhausted the spot on which they originally sprang up, they enlarge
their borders, as it were, and thus form circles, giving a darker tinge to
the herbage affected by them. These rings increase in size annually, and
thus they vary considerably in circumference. This is a prosaic but
truthful explanation of the phenomenon which so often attracts the
attention of children and puzzles the heads of older persons.”[43]
[Footnote 43: ‘Daily Telegraph.’]
In cases of poisoning by fungi, vomiting should be immediately induced by
an emetic and tickling the fauces with the finger or a feather; after
which a purgative clyster or a strong cathartic should be administered,
with 1/2 to 1 fl. dr. of ether in a glassful of water or weak brandy. As
an antidote, a solution of tannin, 1/2 dr., in water, 1-1/2 pint, or a
decoction of 1/2 oz. of powdered galls, or of 1 oz. of powdered cinchona
bark, in a like quantity of water, has been strongly recommended by M.
Chansarel.
Alexis Soyer recommended the excellent method of cooking mushrooms by
baking them under a glass or basin on toast, along with scalded or clotted
cream, or a little melted butter, with one clove, and salt, pepper, &c.,
to taste. They take about 1/4 of an hour in a gentle oven or before the
fire. When they are taken up, do not remove the glass for a few minutes,
by which time the vapour will have become condensed and gone into the
bread; but when it is, the aroma, which is the essence of the mushroom, is
so powerful as to pervade the whole apartment.
=MUSK.= _Syn._ MOSCHUS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “A secretion
deposited in a follicle of the prepuce of _Moschus moschiferus_, Linn.”
(Ph. L.), an animal inhabiting the mountains of Eastern Asia. It is
imported from Bengal, China, and Russia; and, latterly, from the United
States of America. That known as TONQUIN MUSK is the most esteemed for its
odour; but that from Russia is the only kind which reaches us in perfect
bags, or which has not been tampered with. POD MUSK (MOSCHUS IN VESICIS)
is the bag in its natural state, containing the musk. The average weight
of one of the pods is about 6 dr.; that of the grain musk which it
contains, about 2-1/2 dr.
_Pur_, _&c._ The musk of the shops is generally adulterated. Dried
bullock’s blood or chocolate is commonly employed for this purpose, along
with a little bone-black. The extent of these additions varies from 25% to
75% of the gross weight of the mixture. The blood is dried by the heat of
steam or a water bath, then reduced to coarse powder, and triturated with
the genuine musk in a mortar along with a few drops of liquid of ammonia.
It is then either replaced in the empty pods, or it is put into bottles,
and sold as grain musk. There are only three certain ways of detecting
this fraud, viz.——by the inferiority of the odour, by an assay for the
iron contained in the blood, or——by the microscope. Genuine musk often
becomes nearly inodorous by keeping, but recovers its smell on being
exposed to the vapour of ammonia, or by being moistened with ammonia
water. The perfumers sometimes expose it to the fetid ammoniacal effluvia
of privies for the same purpose.
Pure musk, by trituration or digestion with boiling water, loses about 75%
of its weight, and the boiling solution, after precipitation with nitric
acid, is nearly colourless. A solution of acetate of lead, and a cold
decoction of galls, also precipitate the solution; but one of corrosive
sublimate does not disturb it. The ashes left after the incineration of
pure musk are neither red nor yellow, but grey, and should not exceed 5 to
6%. The Chinese appear to be the most skilful and successful adulterators
of musk. One of the best solvents for musk is ether.
_Uses_, _&c._ Musk is chiefly employed for its odour. As a _medicine_ it
is a powerful stimulant and antispasmodic, and is a valuable remedy in
various diseases of a spasmodic or hysterical character, or attended with
low fever.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 grains made into an emulsion.
=Musk, Factitious.= _Syn._ RESIN OF AMBER; RESINA SUCCINI, MOSCHUS
ARTIFICIALIS, M. FACTITIUS, L. _Prep._ 1. Oil of amber, 1 fl. dr.; nitric
acid, 3-1/2 fl. dr.; digest in a cold tumbler, and after 24 hours, wash in
cold water the orange-yellow resinous matter which has formed, and
carefully dry it.
2. (Elsner.) From oil of amber, 1 part; fuming nitric acid, 3 parts; as
the last, but employing artificial cold to prevent any portion of the oil
being carbonised.
_Obs._ Resin of amber smells strongly of musk, and is said to be
antispasmodic and nervine. A tincture (TINCTURA RESINÆ SUCCINI) is made by
dissolving 1 dr. of it in rectified spirit, 10 fl. dr., of which the dose
is 1 fl. dr.; in hooping-cough, low fevers, &c.
Dr Collier mentions an artificial musk, prepared by digesting for 10 days
nitric acid, 1/2 oz., on fetid animal oil, obtained by distillation, 1
oz.; then adding of rectified spirit, 1 pint, and digesting the whole for
a month.
=MUSK SEED.= _Syn._ GRAINS D’AMBRETTE. The seed of _Abelmoschus
moschatus_, or musk mallow. They are chiefly used for their odour, in
perfumery, hair powder, coffee, &c.
=MUS′SEL.= See SHELL-FISH.
=MUST.= _Syn._ MUSTUM, L. The expressed juice of ripe grapes, before
fermentation. When boiled to 2-3 dr. it is called CARENUM; when boiled to
1/2, it is called SAPA. On further concentration, it yields a species of
granular sugar (grape sugar.)
=Must, Facti′′tious.= _Syn._ MUSTUM FACTITIUM, L. _Prep._ Dissolve cream
of tartar, 3/4 oz., in boiling water, 7 pints; when cold, add of lump
sugar, 2-1/2 lbs.; raisins (chopped small), 1/2 lb.; digest for 3 or 4
hours, strain through flannel as quickly as possible, and add of lemon
juice, 1/2 pint.
=MUS′TARD.= _Syn._ SINAPIS, L. “The seed of _Sinapis nigra_ and _S.
alba_.” (Ph. L.) “Flour of the seeds of _Sinapis nigra_, generally mixed
with those of _Sinapis alba_, and deprived of fixed oil by expression.”
(Ph. E.) “The flour of the seeds.” (Ph. D.) “The seeds of the _Sinapis
nigra_ and _S. alba_ reduced to powder and mixed.” (B. P.) That of the
shops is very frequently adulterated with wheat flour. When this is the
case it does not readily make a smooth paste with water, but exhibits
considerable toughness, and somewhat of a stringy appearance, especially
when little water and much heat is employed. The common proportions taken
by some grocers are——dried common salt, wheat flour, and superfine
mustard, equal parts; with turmeric, to colour, and cayenne, q. s. to give
it piquancy and fire.
_Uses_, _&c._ Pure flour of mustard is used in medicine, to make
stimulating poultices, pediluvia, &c. As a condiment it is useful in
torpor and coldness of the digestive organs. A few years since the use of
mustard seed, by spoonfuls, _ad libitum_, was a common and fashionable
remedy in torpor or atony of the digestive organs. The practice was a
revival of that recommended by Dr Cullen; but it has now again sunk into
disuse. Sir John Sinclair also approved of the use of mustard seed in this
way, especially for the preservation of the health of the aged. (‘Lancet,’
Jan., 1834.) See POULTICES, &c.
=Mustard for the Table.= The common practice of preparing mustard for the
table with vinegar, or still more, with boiling water, materially checks
the development of those peculiar principles on which its pungency or
strength almost entirely depends. To economise this substance, we should
use lukewarm water only; and when flavouring matter is to be added to it,
this is better deferred until after the paste is made. The following forms
for ‘made mustard’ are much esteemed for their flavour:——
_Prep._ 1. Mustard (ground), 3-1/2 lbs.; water, q. s. to form a stiff
paste; in 1/2 hour add of common salt (rubbed very fine), 1 lb.; with
vinegar, grape juice, lemon juice, or white wine, q. s. to reduce it to a
proper consistence.
2. To the last add a little soluble cayenne pepper or essence of cayenne.
3. (Lenormand.) Best flour of mustard, 2 lbs.; fresh parsley, chervil,
celery, and tarragon, of each 1/2 oz.; garlic, 1 clove; 12 salt anchovies;
(all well chopped); grind well together, add of salt, 1 oz.; grape juice
or sugar q. s. to sweeten; with sufficient water to form the mass into a
thinnish paste by trituration in a mortar. When put into pots, a red-hot
poker is to be thrust into each, and a little vinegar afterwards poured
upon the surface.
4. (MOUTARDE A L’ESTRAGON.) From black mustard seed (gently dried until
friable, and then finely powdered), 1 lb.; salt, 2 oz.; tarragon vinegar,
q. s. to mix. In a similar way the French prepare several other
‘mustards,’ by employing vinegars flavoured with the respective
substances, or walnut or mushroom ketchup, or the liquors of the richer
pickles.
5. (MOUTARDE SUPERBE.) Salt, 1-1/2 lb.; scraped horseradish, 1 lb.;
garlic, 2 cloves; boiling vinegar, 2 galls.; macerate in a covered vessel
for 24 hours, strain, and add of flour of mustard, q. s.
6. (Patent.) Black ginger (bruised), 12 lbs.; common salt, 18 lbs.; water,
15 galls.; boil, strain, and add to each gallon flour of mustard, 5 lbs.
=Mustard Leaves= (Rigollot’s) are made by spreading moistened mustard on
paper, and drying.
=MUS′TINESS.= See MALT LIQUORS and WINES.
=MU′TAGE.= The term applied to the ‘matching’ of grape must to arrest the
progress of fermentation. See ANTIFERMENT, MATCHES, &c.
=MUT′TON.= The flesh of sheep. That of the first quality is “between four
and five years old; but at present it is rarely got above three, and often
under two. The flesh ought to be of a darkish, clear, red colour, the fat
firm and white, the meat short and tender when pinched, and it ought not
to be too fat.” The flesh of the ‘Southdown wether’ is esteemed the finest
flavoured. Mutton is one of the most wholesome of the ‘red meats,’ and in
commercial importance is second only to beef. See MEAT.
=MY′COSE.= A peculiar variety of sugar, extracted by alcohol from ergot of
rye. It crystallises in colourless prisms, and is distinguished from cane
sugar by not reducing the acetate of copper, when boiled with a solution
of that salt.
=MYLABRIS.= _Syn._ MYLABRIS CICHORII; CHINESE BLISTERING FLY. An insect
found on the flowers of the succory plant in India and China. It is about
an inch and a quarter in length; sheath-wings black, each presenting
anteriorly two almost quadrate, brownish-yellow spots; behind these two
brownish-yellow bands, each of which equals about one sixth of the length
of the sheath-wings. Its vesicant properties are due to the presence of
cantharidin.
Its physiological actions are the same as those of cantharides, except
that it is said not to affect the kidneys when topically applied.
=MYRICIN.= The portion of beeswax which is least soluble in alcohol, and
saponified with difficulty.
=MYRISTIC ACID.= HC_{14}H_{27}O_{2}. A monobasic fatty acid, obtained by
the saponification of myristin. It melts at 120° Fahr.
=MYRIS′TIN.= C_{45}H_{86}O_{6}. _Syn._ SERICINE. The white, solid portion
of the expressed oil of nutmegs, which is insoluble in cold alcohol. See
MYRISTIC ACID.
=MYROLES.= In French _pharmacy_, solutions of oleaginous or resinous
substances in the volatile oils.
=MYRON′IC ACID.= HC_{10}H_{18}NS_{2}O_{10}. Bussy has given this name to
an inodorous, bitter, non-crystallisable acid, obtained by him from black
mustard, in which it exists as myronate of potassium. It is soluble in
water and alcohol.
=MYROSIN.= _Syn._ EMULSIN OR BLACK MUSTARD. A name given by Bussy to a
peculiar substance, soluble in water, and which possesses the power of
converting myronic acid, in the presence of water, into the volatile oil
of mustard seed.
=MYROSPERMIN.= The name given by Richter to the portion of the oil of
balsam of Peru, which is soluble in alcohol.
=MYROX′ILIN.= The name given by Richter to the portion of the oil of
balsam of Peru which is insoluble in alcohol. By oxygenation it forms
myroxilic acid.
=MYRRH.= _Syn._ MYRRHA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “Gum resin exuded
from the bark of _Balsamodendron myrrha_.” (B. P., Ph. L.)
_Pur._——1. Triturate a small quantity of the powder of the suspected myrrh
with an equal amount of chloride of ammonium, adding water, gradually; if
the whole is readily dissolved, the myrrh is genuine; otherwise it is
sophisticated with some inferior substance. (Righini.)——2. When
incinerated it should not leave more than 3-1/2 to 4% of ashes.
_Uses, &c._ Myrrh is a stimulating aromatic bitter and tonic, and is given
in several diseases accompanied by relaxation and debility; especially in
excessive secretions from the mucous membranes, and in disorders of the
digestive organs. _Externally_, as an ingredient in dentifrices and
rashes, in caries of the teeth, spongy and ulcerated gums, &c.——_Dose_, 10
to 30 gr.; either alone or combined with aloes or chalybeates.
=NAILS (The)= should be kept clean by the daily use of the nail-brush and
soap-and-water. After wiping the hands, but whilst they are still soft
from the action of the water, the skin, which is apt to grow over the
nails, should be gently loosened and pressed back, which will not only
preserve them neatly rounded, but will prevent the skin cracking around
their roots (agnails, nail-springs), and becoming sore. The free ends or
points of the nails should be pared about once a week; and biting them
should be particularly avoided, as being at once destructive to their
beauty and usefulness. “The (free) edge of the scarf-skin should never be
pared, the surface of the nail never scraped, or the nails cleaned with
any instrument whatever saving the nail-brush.” (Eras. Wilson.)
The consequences of wearing a shoe that is obviously too short for the
foot are thus described by the above authority:——“In this case Nature
gives us warning, by means of her agent, pain, that such a proceeding is
contrary to her laws. We stop our ears, and get accustomed to the pain,
which, perhaps, is not severe, and soon goes off; the shoes get a scolding
for their malice, and we forget all about it for a time. But does Nature
check her course to suit the convenience of thoughtless men? No, no. In a
short time we find that the nail, intercepted in its forward course, has
become unusually thick and hard, and has spread out so much upon the
sides, that it is now growing into the flesh, and so makes a case for the
doctor. Or, perhaps, the continuance of pressure may have inflamed the
sensitive skin at the root, and caused a sore and painful place there. And
instances are by no means infrequent in which the power of production of
the nail at the root becomes entirely abrogated, and then it grows in
thickness only.”
When the nails are stained or discoloured, a little lemon juice, or
vinegar-and-water, is the best application. Occasionally, a little
pumice-stone, in impalpable powder, or a little ‘putty powder,’ may be
used along with water and a piece of soft leather or flannel for the same
purpose. The frequent employment of these substances is, however,
injurious to the healthy growth of the nail.
=NANKEEN′.= The coloured cotton cloth which bears this name was originally
brought from Nankin, the ancient capital of China, and was prepared from a
native cotton, of a brownish-yellow hue. It is now successfully imitated
in England, and at the present time the English manufacturers supply the
Canton market. In this country the colour is generally given to the cloth
by successive baths of sulphate of iron and crude carbonate of soda or
lime water.
=NANKEEN DYE.= The liquid sold under this name in the shops is a solution
of annotta. It is employed to dye white calicoes of a nankeen colour; but
chiefly to restore the colour of faded nankeen clothing.
=NAPH′THA.= _Syn._ MINERAL NAPHTHA; NAPHTHA, L. A name given to the limpid
and purer varieties of PETROLEUM (which _see_), or ROCK OIL, which exudes
from the surface of the earth in various parts of the world.
_Prop._ Naphtha possesses a penetrating odour and a yellow colour, but may
be rendered colourless by distillation; it usually begins to boil at a
temperature of about 180° Fahr., but, being a mixture of several different
hydrocarbons, it has no fixed boiling-point; it is very inflammable; it
does not mix with water, but imparts to that fluid its peculiar taste and
smell; mixes with alcohol and oils, and dissolves sulphur, phosphorus,
camphor, iodine, most of the resins, wax, fats, and spermaceti; and forms
with caoutchouc a gelatinous varnish, which dries with very great
difficulty.
_Pur._ Mineral naphtha is very frequently adulterated with oil of
turpentine, a fraud which may be detected by——1. The addition of some oil
of vitriol, which will, in that case, thicken and darken it.——2.
Hydrochloric acid gas passed through the liquid for an hour, will occasion
the formation of hydrochlorate of camphine, either at once or after a few
hours’ repose, even if only 5% of oil of turpentine is present. (Dr
Bolley.)——3. If a few grains of iodide of potassium and a little water are
rubbed with the suspected sample, the colour of the water should continue
unchanged; the presence of 1/300th part of oil turpentine will cause it to
assume a red or orange colour. (Saladin.)
_Uses._ Naphtha is chiefly employed for the purposes of illumination, as a
solvent for india rubber, and in the preparation of a very superior black
pigment. It has been highly spoken of as a remedy for cholera, by Dr
Andreosky, a Russian physician. See PETROLEUM, and _below_.
=Naphtha, Coal-tar.= _Syn._ NAPHTHA, COAL N. A mixture of volatile
hydrocarbons, obtained by distilling coal-tar. It is one of the first
products which comes over, and flows from the still as crude coal naphtha.
To obtain rectified coal naphtha, this crude liquid is distilled, and the
product agitated with 10% of concentrated sulphuric acid; when cold, the
mixture is treated with 5% of peroxide of manganese, and the upper portion
is submitted to further distillation. The specific gravity of this
purified product is ·850. It is extensively used as a solvent of
caoutchouc, and other allied substances, also of resins for the
preparation of varnishes. By repeated purification and fractional
distillation, benzol, the chief and most important constituent of coal
naphtha, is obtained. See BENZOL.
=Naphtha, Wood.= See PYROXYLIC SPIRIT.
=NAPH′THALIN.= C_{10}H_{9}. _Syn._ NAPHTHALINE, NAPHTHALENE. A white
crystallisable, odorous, volatile substance, obtained from coal-tar.
_Prep._ The last portion of the volatile oily product is collected
separately, and allowed to repose, when crude naphthalin separates in the
solid state. By pushing the distillation until the residuum in the still
begins to char, a further portion of dark-coloured naphthalin may be
obtained. It is purified by resublimation a second, or even a third time.
_Prop., &c._ Soluble in alcohol and ether; slightly soluble in boiling
water; melts at 176° Fahr.; boils at 412°; highly inflammable, burning
with a red and smoky flame; with sulphuric acid, it unites to form
sulpho-naphthalic acid. By the action of nitric acid upon naphthalin,
numerous substances may be formed, the most interesting being
nitro-naphthalin. Naphthalin has lately been extensively employed as a
stimulating expectorant.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.; or, preferably, 1/2 gr.,
frequently. _Externally_, made into an ointment, in dry tetters,
psoriasis, &c. 30 gr. may be mixed with 1 oz. of lard.
=NA′PLES YEL′LOW.= See YELLOW PIGMENTS.
=NAR′CEIA.= C_{23}H_{20}G_{9}. _Syn._ NARCEINA, NARCEIA. A peculiar
substance discovered by Pelletier in opium. It is obtained from the
aqueous solution of opium, after it has been freed from morphia, and
narcotina, by ammonia, by adding to it hydrate of lime, or preferably,
baryta. On boiling the filtered solution, to expel the ammonia, and
evaporating the liquid, crystals of narceine are gradually deposited. It
may be purified by solution in hot alcohol and recrystallisation.
_Prop., &c._ White, silky, acicular prisms; neutral; inodorous; bitter;
pungent; soluble in 375 parts of water at 60°, and in 330 parts at 212°
Fahr.; insoluble in ether; does not neutralise the acids, and is destitute
of basic properties. It is distinguished from morphia by its easier
fusibility (190°), and by forming a blue liquid with the dilute mineral
acids, which on gradual dilution changes to violet and rose red, and
ultimately becomes colourless. It does not strike a blue colour with
ferric chloride, like morphia, but forms a blue compound with iodine,
which is decomposed by boiling water. It appears to be inert, and has not
been applied to any useful purpose.
=NAR′COTICS.= _Syn._ STUPEFACIENTS; NARCOTICA, STUPEFACIENTIA, L.
Medicines which produce drowsiness, sleep, and stupor. In small doses,
narcotics mostly act as stimulants, but in larger ones they produce
calmness of mind, drowsiness, and torpor; and in poisonous doses,
delirium, coma, and death. The general objects in the administration of
these agents are the production of sleep and the alleviation of pain.
Their action is modified to a greater degree by idiosyncrasy and habit
than that of, perhaps, any other class of medicines. Hence the care
necessary in their administration. Alcohol, camphor, chloroform, chloral
hydrate, ether, foxglove, hemlock, henbane, morphia, opium, and tobacco,
are narcotics.
=NAR′COTINA.= C_{22}H_{23}NO_{7}. _Syn._ NARCOTINE, L.; SEL D’OPIUM,
MATIÈRE DE DEROSNE, Fr. A peculiar crystalline substance, found by Derosne
in opium, and on which its stimulant property was at first supposed to
depend.
_Prep._ 1. From opium exhausted of soluble matter by cold water, by
treating it with water acidulated with acetic or hydrochloric acid,
filtering, neutralising, with ammonia, and dissolving the washed
precipitate in boiling alcohol; the narcotine is deposited as the liquid
cools, and may be purified by solution in ether.
2. By acting on opium, previously exhausted by cold water, with ether.
_Prop., &c._ White, inodorous, fluted, or striated prisms; neutral to test
paper; insoluble in cold water; sparingly soluble in boiling water; freely
soluble in boiling alcohol and in ether. It is only feebly basic.
Narcotine is distinguished from morphia by its insipidity, solubility in
ether, insolubility in alkalies, giving an orange tint to nitric acid, and
a greasy stain to paper when heated on it over a candle. Another test for
narcotina, said by Orfila to be characteristic, is to add to a little of
the suspected substance a drop or two of oil of vitriol, and then to add a
very small fragment of nitrate of potassium; the liquid speedily acquires
a deep blood-red colour if narcotina is present. Morphia treated in the
same way strikes a brown or olive-green colour.
_Obs._ The physiological action of narcotina is differently stated by
different authorities. 1 gr. of it, dissolved in olive oil, killed a dog
in 24 hours: but 24 gr. dissolved in acetic acid were given with impunity.
(Magendie.) In the solid state it is inert; 120 gr. at a dose scarcely
produce any obvious effects. (Bally.) Scruple doses have been given
without injury. (Dr Roots.) It has been recently proposed as a substitute
for quinine in the cure of agues. For this purpose the sulphate or
hydrochlorate is preferable. 200 cases of intermittent and remittent
fevers have been thus successfully treated in India. (Dr
O’Shaughnessy.)——_Dose_, 3 to 10 gr., as an antiperiodic sedative, &c.
Turkey opium contains about 1%, and East Indian opium about 3%, of
narcotine.
=NA′TRIUM.= See SODIUM.
=NA′TRON.= Native carbonate of soda.
=NAU′SEA.= See SICKNESS.
=NAU′SEANTS.= _Syn._ NAUSEANTIA, L. Substances which induce an inclination
to vomit, without effecting it. See EMETICS.
=NAVEL, Starting of.= To remedy this, take a slice of cork about the
circumference of a shilling, and a little thicker; and having covered the
projecting navel with a small circular piece of clean, soft linen, place
the cork on the linen, strapping it into position by means of cross strips
of _white_ sticking plaster (simple lead plaster) over which the usual
roller is to be adjusted. Be careful to have the plaster of sufficient
length, and to see that it adheres tightly to the skin.
=NEC′TAR.= The fabled drink of the mythological deities. The name was
formerly given to wine dulcified with honey; it is now occasionally
applied to other sweet and pleasant beverages of a stimulating character.
The following LIQUEURS are so called:——
_Prep._ 1. Chopped raisins, 2 lbs.; loaf sugar, 4 lbs.; boiling water, 2
galls.; mix, and stir frequently until cold, then add 2 lemons, sliced;
proof spirit (brandy or rum), 3 pints; macerate in a covered vessel for 6
or 7 days, occasionally shaking, next strain with pressure, and let the
strained liquid stand in a cold place for a week to clear; lastly, decant
the clear portion, and bottle it.
2. Red ratafia, 3 gall.; oils of cassia and caraway, of each 25 drops
(dissolved in); brandy, 1/2 pint; orange wine, 1 gall.; sliced oranges, 6
in no.; lump sugar, 2 lbs.; macerate for a week, decant and bottle. See
ARRACK (Factitious.)
=NE′GUS.= A well-known beverage, so named after its originator and patron,
Colonel Negus. It is made of either port or sherry wine, mixed with about
twice its bulk of hot water, sweetened with lump sugar, and flavoured with
a little lemon juice and grated nutmeg, and a small fragment only of the
yellow peel of the lemon. The addition of about 1 drop of essence of
ambergris, or 8 or 10 drops of essence of vanilla, distributed between
about a dozen glasses, improves it.
=NEPEN′THE.= A drink calculated to banish the remembrance of grief. In the
“Odyssey” Homer describes Helen as administering it to Telemachus. Nothing
is known respecting the composition of the ancient nepenthe. The name is
applied to a preparation of opium by many old writers, and is now employed
by a Bristol firm to designate a preparation resembling in all essential
points Battley’s ‘LIQUOR OPII SEDATIVUS,’
=NER′VOUSNESS.= The indescribable derangement of health, and the
complication of disagreeable sensations which are popularly described
under this name, quite as much deserve the serious attention of both
patient and physician as any other affection to which the human frame is
liable. Although, in itself, not a definite disease, it is indicative of
the vital system being out of order, that its energies are failing or
overtasked, and that the functions of some of its organs are languidly or
imperfectly performed. This condition, if not removed, may gradually lead
to the development of actual disease, and imperil life if the conditions
whereon it is dependent be not detected and subdued.
The _treatment_ of nervousness consists mainly in restoring the healthy
action of the stomach and bowels, and in the use of proper exercise,
especially in the open air. The stomach should not be overloaded with
indigestible food, and the bowels should be occasionally relieved by the
use of some mild aperient. Mental as well as bodily relaxation should be
sought, and the pleasures without the vices of society should be indulged
in as discretion and inclination may direct. Abernethy’s injunction to a
nervous and dyspeptic lady, “Dismiss your servants, madam, and make your
own beds,” should be recollected by all, and may be taken as a proof of
the importance that eminent surgeon attached to exercise; his advice to
the indolent and nervous dyspeptic should not be forgotten, “Live on
sixpence a day——and earn it.” See EXERCISE, FLATULENCE, HYPOCHONDRIASIS,
HYSTERIA, INDIGESTION, &c.
=NESSLER’S TEST for ammonia, &c.= This, the most delicate test for
ammonia, was devised by Nessler. It is prepared by saturating a solution
of iodide of potassium with the biniodide of mercury, and then adding a
weak solution of hydrate of sodium. The addition of a few drops of this
solution, to one containing ammonia, produces a yellowish tint when only a
trace of ammonia is present, but a dark brown precipitate when the ammonia
is present in larger quantity. The composition of the precipitate may be
represented thus:——NHg_{2}I. A modification of this test is applied to the
detection of wood spirit in common alcohol. A dilute solution of the
iodides in question in pure alcohol is formed, in the proportion of 2 or 3
gr. of the salts to 100 c.c. of alcohol. About 4 c.c. of the suspected
alcohol are taken, to which are added 2 or 3 drops of the test solution, a
few drops of alcoholic ammonia, and, lastly, a little alcoholic potash; if
wood spirit be present, the solution will remain clear, but if the alcohol
be pure, the characteristic reddish brown precipitate will appear. The
precipitate is soluble in acetone, which is always present in wood spirit.
Professor Wanklyn gives the following formulæ for the preparation of the
Nessler test:——Mercuric chloride in powder, 35 grammes; iodide of
potassium, 90 grammes; water, 1-3/4 litres; heat gently till dissolved
(say 20 minutes) in a large basin. Then add of stick caustic potash, 320
grammes, and 50 c.c. of saturated solution of mercuric chloride. The above
will be ready for use in 2 hours, and gives maximum colour in 3 minutes.
=NESTS, EDIBLE.= These dietetic curiosities, which are esteemed as great
gastronomic luxuries by the Chinese, are formed by several species of
swallows frequenting the Indian Seas. The so-called nests chiefly abound
in Java, Borneo, and the Celebes, being found in the caverns both inland
and on the sea-shores of those islands.
They are not in reality birds’ nests, but merely supports, by which the
bird is enabled to sustain and also to attach its nest to the rock. The
nests themselves consist of grass, leaves, and seaweed; the latter of
which substances it was for a long time erroneously considered formed the
esculent; whereas it is the support which exclusively constitutes this
Eastern table luxury.
This, in great part, consists of a peculiar mucus, of a gelatinous nature,
which it has been ascertained the bird secretes and discharges from its
mouth in large quantities. The Chinese mostly use it in the form of soup,
and believe it to be possessed of considerable nutrient power. As many as
8,400,000 of edible nests are said to be annually imported into Canton.
“The finest and whitest kind sells for £5 or £6 the lb.; but it requires
about fifty nests to make up one pound. The brackets or supports are moved
three times, the best being obtained in July and August.”[44]
[Footnote 44: Church.]
=NET′TLE RASH.= See RASH.
=NEURAL′GIA.= Literally, pain in a nerve. “Various parts of the body are
liable to be affected with excruciating pain, which is quite independent
of any inflammation of the part, and which may often be traced in the
course of the nerves.” These affections constitute neuralgia. One of the
most distressing forms of this disease is FACIAL NEURALGIA or TIC
DOULOUREUX (NEURALGIA FACIALIS), which, when it assumes a marked
intermittent character, is popularly known as ‘FACE AGUE,’ Sometimes it
attacks the nerves of the female breast; or those of the hand, feet, hip,
or loins, in which cases it is often confounded with acute rheumatism of
those parts, occurring towards the inner extremity of the eyebrow and
extending over the forehead, it is known as “Brow-ague.”
The treatment, when neuralgia is symptomatic of any other affection, must
be directed to the primary disease. When it is idiopathic, or an
independent affection, powerful tonic medicines and powerful local
counter-irritation are generally found the most successful remedies. Of
tonics, carbonates of iron and bark (both in very large doses) are
generally preferred; the last more particularly when the affection is of
an intermittent kind. As a counter-irritant, caustic ammonia has been much
relied on. When all other means fail, a current of mild streaming
electricity through the part will often give immediate relief. In the
present day quinine in large doses is much depended on, although the
affection should not present the intermittent type.
_Plain Advice to the Neuralgic by a Family Doctor._[45]——Here, reader, are
two facts, which are patent to every thinking medical man: first, this
agonising complaint, called neuralgia, is very much more common or
prevalent in our day than it was in the days of our forefathers; and
secondly, those among us who are most apt to suffer from it are they who
live in luxury, or who live too fast, and neglect to keep their bodies up
to the proper health-pitch. The poor, too, are often afflicted in the same
way, and those who are much confined in workshops, and badly ventilated
factories. From this it is not difficult to perceive a lesson may be
learned.
[Footnote 45: The article entitled “Plain Advice to the Neuralgic,” which
appeared in ‘Cassell’s Family Magazine,’ is so good that we reprint it
verbatim.]
Little need is there to describe the symptoms of neuralgia, whether it
takes the form of tic douloureux or faceache, hemicrania or half headache
(sometimes, but wrongly, called sun-pain), or sciatica, in which the pain
follows the course of a nerve running down the back of the leg, even at
times as far as the toes. The pain when fully established is of a terribly
acute kind, and indescribable burning and shooting——torture, in fact. It
generally comes on without any warning at all, in one sharp twinge, which
soon recurs and keeps on increasing, till the poor patient is half
distracted, and his pale anxious face is beaded with perspiration.
Of the three kinds of neuralgia, the most common by far is tic, or
faceache. This pain seems to ‘come out,’ as I have heard patients describe
it, from a spot between the ear and temple, and spread itself over one
side of the face, adown the jaws along one side of the nose, and into the
eye itself. The fits of pain seem at times induced by the most trifling
causes, such as a sudden start, a loud, quick sound, as the slamming of a
door, or the slightest draught of cold air, a mouthful of hot tea or cold
water. Sometimes the patient will get ease if he keeps in bed, with the
face entirely buried in warm soft flannel, but contact with the pillow
will at once induce a paroxysm. Sleep banishes the pain entirely for the
time, or perhaps altogether, if the slumber has been natural, and not
induced by weakening, enervating narcotics.
Now let us see for a moment what are the usual causes of neuralgia. If we
know these, it will assist us materially in laying down rules for the
general treatment of the complaint. And here let me premise that some
cases are incurable, because they depend upon pressure by tumours of some
kind at the root of the nerve, maybe a bit of bone growing into it. For
remember the nerves are extremely sensitive if pressed upon directly. A
kinder-hearted man than Professor L——, of Aberdeen, or ‘Sandie’ as he was
familiarly termed, never lived; but he used to tell us students,
“Gentlemen, in cutting down upon an artery, in one of the extremities, you
will often find the artery, the vein, and the corresponding nerve lying in
juxtaposition. You can easily tell the vein, but you may be puzzled to
know which is nerve and which artery; give one of them, then, a slight
pinch with the forceps——if it is the former, oh! won’t the patient holloa!
but if he doesn’t holloa, go on, tie away.”
And I have often seen this put in practice with the very happiest results,
so far as the operator was concerned. I merely mention this to prove to
you that pressure on the root of a nerve may cause an incurable form of
neuralgia. But do not think that I wish to frighten you! I therefore
hasten to tell the perhaps afflicted reader, that these cases are very
rare indeed, and that the large majority of those who suffer from the
malady may be cured for the time, and the disease even prevented from
returning.
I said that very often neuralgia gave no warning, but came on suddenly,
but it more often comes on gradually, and is preceded by some derangement
of the general health, such as indigestion. From this fact, again, the
wise may take a hint.
I do not say that strong men with robust constitutions never take
neuralgia, but all my experience, and that I believe of nearly all medical
men, go to prove that it is more frequently an accompaniment of a weakened
frame of body, with a nervous system below par. This may have been
occasioned by bodily fatigue combined with want of sleep, anxiety of mind,
worry, &c., or from debility from whatever cause. But I must not forget to
say that indigestion is a frequent cause, and excess in eating and
drinking combined with late hours in hot rooms. Another hint, please,
reader. Foul air, especially living in malarious districts, will also
bring on neuralgia, and in this case the attacks are generally of a
periodical kind. The great majority, however, of the cases of neuralgia
which come under the notice of the practitioner, are caused by decayed
teeth. And this fact gives us hint number three.
Sciatica cases are at times exceedingly distressing. I shall just mention
one, which I cured not long since; and we may learn something from it
because the cure was so simple. A gentleman, thirty-two years of age he
was, spare but wiry; from errors in diet, I elicited, he had become
troubled with indigestion and heartburn, which lasted for months; and,
moreover, he had quite his own share of that heart-eating canker, care.
For the heartburn he was in the habit of swallowing large quantities of
the bicarbonate of soda. Now it is well known that antacids, although they
may palliate fits of indigestion, cannot cure them; and, moreover, the
constant use of an antacid like soda never fails to bring on a state of
debility and poverty of blood. In the present case the pains in the limb
were almost constant, combined with stiffness of the muscles, which
necessitated the use of a staff in walking. At about three or four o’clock
every morning there were paroxysms of the most terrible agony, during
which the patient would leave his bed because, he said, “it wasn’t level,”
and, rolled in a rug, lie at full length on the floor, bathed in
pain-induced perspiration. It was no wonder he was glad to take that
dangerous narcotic, hydrate of chloral, to give him quiet nights. But this
only reduced his system more and more, and gave the enemy a stronger hold
thereon. When I saw him he had been suffering thus for two months, and was
indeed in a pitiable plight. But giving up both the chloral and the soda,
going for change of air, using some simple tonic, and being careful in his
diet, worked wonders for him. The sciatica left him in one week, and in
six weeks he was well and hearty.
One of the most distressing things in connection with neuralgia is the
length of time it sometimes lasts, and its habit of returning
periodically, without giving, perhaps, any warning of its approach. The
depression, too, of the nervous system which it effects is very great;
even the mind to some extent suffers; the patient becomes timid and
irritable, while at times even the muscles waste. The sufferer, if the
complaint continues long, seems positively to age under it. That he soon
recovers strength and spirits when the enemy has been driven from his
stronghold, is only a proof of the recuperative power of nature in our
systems, so long as youth or middle age is on our side.
Some ancient physician has said that no one thinks of taking care of his
health until death stares him in the face. There is one exception,
however: people very rarely die directly from neuralgia, unless it be that
dreadful form of it called angina pectoris, or heart-cramp; but so great
is the pain and torture from tic douloureux or sciatica, that sufferers
therefrom are glad and willing to do anything that may present some hopes
of relief.
The patient, then, who wishes to recover from this disease must first try
to find out the cause of it, in his or her particular case. Is the
digestion good? are the teeth good? is the health below par? are the
spirits buoyant or the reverse? is the kind of life led that which seems
to conduce to health and longevity?——these are questions which he had
better put to himself and think well over before commencing any treatment
except the simple means of local relief which I shall presently mention;
for, depend upon it, whatsoever tends to place the system below par opens
the door for the cruel foe’s entrance. And the converse is likewise true.
If you, then, suffer from tic douloureux, see, first and foremost, that it
does not arise from caries of the teeth. Only a dentist can find this out
for you, for a tooth may be sound enough to appearance, and yet decayed
within. Often the removal of one or two teeth will effect, in an hour, the
complete cure of a case that has been going on for months.
The treatment for neuralgia may be fitly divided into the topical, or that
which gives relief at once, without reference to permanent cure, and the
constitutional, or that which tends to remove the cause and prevent any
recurrence. I shall mention the former of these first. Probably that which
gives the greatest relief is the subcutaneous injection of morphia; but as
this tiny but comforting operation can only be performed by some one with
skill, I pass it by, and tell you of the great good that may be done by
twice a day smearing the track of the nerve with the aconitine ointment;
only remember, it must not be applied to an abraded surface. When it can
be borne, alternate douches of hot and cold water sometimes give relief,
and rubbing or shampooing the parts for some length of time may result in
good.
But if the pain is at its worst, and immediate relief is needed, the
inhalation of or smelling at a vial of chloroform will act like a charm.
Take first a little good Scotch whiskey, with from 20 to 40 drops of the
spirit of ether in it; then have, not one sniff, but two or three good
sniffs at the vial of chloroform. It will not make you insensible, but it
will scare away the pain. I often do good by administering one large dose
of quinine. I am rather chary of advising you, however, to try it, because
ten or fifteen grains of this invaluable medicine may work injury if
either head or heart is easily affected.
People often complain of what they call rheumatism in the jaw, where
probably the whole of the teeth in one side, not one more than another,
are affected. Now the drug called sal ammoniac (chloride of ammonium) is
almost a specific for this kind of faceache. It strikes me I have
recommended this before——probably in my paper on the teeth——however, it
will bear repeating. The dose is half a dram three or four times a day,
but if it doesn’t do good after the fourth or fifth dose, it may be
stopped. It is well worth a trial, and is safe.
Neuralgia and rheumatism are at times mysteriously allied, and, did space
permit, I could tell you of some very strange cures effected by the use of
the dumb-bells——first, I think, recommended by Dr Arnott. When the pain
comes on, the patient has recourse to these; and whether it is the
indomitable power of will or the effect on the circulation I know not——all
I know is, it often scares the tic away, and that is something.
Nothing probably gives more certain relief in cases of sciatica than a
small blister, not bigger than a penny-piece, just over the spot where the
nerve seems to come out, _i. e._ where the pain begins, and afterwards
dusting not more than half a grain of morphia on the raw surface. And now
for constitutional remedies. I will not allow any patient of mine to
cuddle and fondle himself and his neuralgia over the fire or in bed one
hour longer than is necessary. The mind has a wonderful effect on nervous
ailments, and by letting it dwell on them you assuredly increase them;
besides, the body is under par, exercise is needed, and pure air and many
things besides; and therefore I prescribe activity, to begin with, not
senseless walk-taking, but healthy exercise-with-a-purpose.
Medicine must not be neglected; but I assure you, unless you not only take
plenty of exercise, regulate your diet, and in some way alter for the
better your usual mode of life, it will just be as well, if not better, to
pour the medicine down the nearest rat’s hole. That may be a plain way of
putting it, but it is very true notwithstanding. Now, I think in most
cases an occasional mild purgative will do good, for tonics should never
be taken unless the bowels are regular; and as the liver is at times just
a _little_ to blame, a claret-glassful of Friedrichshall water may be
taken twice a week with benefit. Your tonic, unless there be great fulness
of blood, had better be an iron one, combined with quinine, which any
chemist will compound you. Tell him you want the tincture of iron, and a
little dilute hydrochloric acid, in a quinine mixture. Probably he will
say the citrate of iron and quinine is better (it is more easily
compounded), and then it will be for you to consider whether you will be
advised by him or by your ‘Family Doctor.’ Here is a beautiful wee
mixture, which you can compound for yourself, and the dose of which is a
teaspoonful in a little water 3 times a day:——Take 2 oz. of tincture of
quinine, 1/2 oz. of tincture of ginger, and the same quantity of pure
glycerin, and mix. The following is a capital tonic to be taken after an
attack of neuralgia and continued some weeks:——Liquor arsenicalis
hydrochlorici, 100 drops; quinine, 30 gr.; elixir of vitriol, 2 dr.;
ginger syrup, 3 oz.; mix. And the dose is a teaspoonful after every meal
in a drop of water. When mentioning sal ammoniac, I ought to have said
that in those cases where good is done——and they are very many——whenever
the pain is gone, you should reduce the dose to 10 or 15 gr. thrice a day
for a week. In some cases of sciatica, where the subject is a gouty or
rheumatic one, good is done by a course of iodide of potassium in
combination with tonics.
As for food, the more nourishing it is the better——good meat, plenty of
eggs and milk, &c., and perhaps a little brandy and Apollinaris water.
Give up tea and coffee for a time, and use cocoa; the less oily kind is
the best. My advice for the prevention of the return of neuralgia may be
summed up in a few substantives——air, exercise, regularity, temperance,
tonics, cocoa, and cod-liver oil.
=NEUTRALISA′TION.= The admixtures of an alkali or base with an acid in
such proportions that neither shall predominate. A neutral compound
neither turns red litmus paper blue, nor blue litmus paper red.
=NEUTRALISING PROPORTIONS, Table of.=
_Table of the Neutralising Proportions of some of the
Acids and Alkaline Carbonates omitting minute
fractions. The best commercial preparations must be
used._
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| | || |Bicarb. of| |Carbonate| Sesqui- | Bi-
Tartaric|Citric |Lemon ||Cr. Carb.| Soda and |Bicarb. of| of |carbonate | carbonate
Acid. | Acid. |Juice.||of Soda. | Carb. of | Potash. |Magnesia.| of | of
| | || | Potash. | | | Ammonia. | Ammonia.
--------+-------+------++---------+----------+----------+---------+----------+---------
Grs. | Grs. | ʒ || Grs. | Grs. | Grs. | Grs. | Grs. | Grs.
10 | 9-1/4| 2-1/6|| 19 | 11 | 13-1/2 | 6-1/2 | 8-1/4 | 10-1/2
10-3/4| 10 | 2-1/3|| 20-1/2| 12 | 14-1/2 | 7 | 8-1/2 | 11-1/2
13 | 12 | 2-4/5|| 25 | 14-1/2 | 17-1/2 | 8-1/4 | 10 | 13-1/2
15 | 14 | 3-1/4|| 29 | 17 | 20-1/3 | 9-1/2 | 12 | 16
15-1/2| 14-1/2| 3-1/3|| 30 | 17-1/4 | 21 | 10 | 12-1/4 | 16-1/2
18 | 17 | 4 || 34-1/2| 20 | 24-1/4 | 11-1/2 | 14 | 19
20 | 18-1/2| 4-1/3|| 38-1/2| 22-1/3 | 27 | 12-3/4 | 15-1/2 | 21
20-1/2| 19 | 4-1/2|| 40 | 23 | 27-1/2 | 13 | 16 | 21-1/2
26 | 24 | 5-1/2|| 50 | 29 | 35 | 16-1/2 | 18-1/4 | 27
27 | 25 | 5-5/6|| 52 | 30 | 36 | 17 | 21 | 28-1/2
32 | 30 | 7 || 61 | 36 | 43 | 20-1/2 | 25 | 33-1/2
36 | 33-1/2| 7-5/6|| 69 | 40 | 48-1/2 | 23 | 28 | 38
47 | 44 |10-1/4|| 90 | 52-1/2 | 63 | 30 | 37 | 49-1/2
52 | 48-1/2|11-1/3|| 100 | 58 | 70 | 33 | 41 | 55
62 | 58 |13-1/2|| 120 | 69 | 84 | 40 | 49 | 65-1/2
73 | 68 |15-5/6|| 140 | 82 | 98 | 46-1/2 | 57 | 77
75 | 70 |16-1/4|| 144 | 84 | 101 | 48-1/2 | 59 | 79
90 | 84 |19-1/2|| 172 | 101 | 121 | 57-1/2 | 71 | 94-1/2
92 | 86 |20 || 177 | 103 | 124 | 59 | 72 | 97
100 | 93 |21-2/3|| 192 | 112 | 134 | 64 | 78 | 105-1/2
108 |100 |23-1/3|| 206 | 120 | 145 | 69 | 84 | 113
180 |168 |39-1/5|| 344 | 202 | 242 | 115 | 141 | 190
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
=NEW BERLIN SANITARY LIQUEUR——Gesundheits-Liqueur, neuer Berliner=
(Apotheker Emil Trotz). An unpleasantly-tasting bitter spicey schnapps,
containing 18 per cent. of sugar. Leaves an after-taste of aloes. (Hager.)
=NICK′EL.= Ni. _Syn._ NICKELIUM, L. A metal obtained from kupfernickel, a
native arsenide of nickel found in Westphalia; also from nickel speiss, an
impure arsenio-sulphide of nickel left after the manufacture of cobalt
blue from its ores.
_Prep._ The powdered ore is roasted first by itself, and next with
charcoal powder, until all the arsenic is expelled, and a garlic odour
ceases to be evolved; the residuum is mixed with sulphur 3 parts, and
potassium hydrate, 1 part, and the compound is melted in a crucible with a
gentle heat; the fused mass when cold, is reduced to powder, edulcorated
with water, dissolved in sulphuric acid mixed with a little nitric acid,
and precipitated with potassium carbonate; the precipitate (nickelous
carbonate) is washed, dried, mixed with powdered charcoal, and, lastly,
reduced by the heat of a powerful furnace.
When nickel predominates in the ore, after the arsenic, iron, and copper
have been separated, ammonia is digested in the mixed nickelous and
cobaltous oxides, and the resulting blue solution, after dilution with
boiled pure water, is treated with potassium hydrate until the colour
disappears, when the whole is put into an air-tight vessel, and set it
aside for some time. The powder (nickelous hydrate) which subsides, after
edulcoration, is mixed with charcoal, and reduced by fusion in a crucible
containing some crown glass.
On the small scale, for chemical purposes, pure nickel is best obtained by
moderately heating nickelous oxalate in a covered crucible lined with
charcoal.
_Prop._ White; hard; malleable; magnetic; capable of receiving the lustre
of silver; sp. gr., when hammered, about 8·82; fusibility between that of
manganese and iron; it is not oxidised in the air; and is little attacked
by dilute acids unless when nitric acid is present; this last acid
dissolves it freely. With the acids, &c., it forms numerous compounds,
most of which may be prepared by the direct solution of the carbonate. A
specimen of the metal reduced from the pure oxide in a current of hydrogen
was beautifully white and silvery; its sp. gr. was 8·575, and it was
almost as soft as copper.
_Tests._ The salts of nickel in the anhydrous state are for the most part
yellow; when hydrated, green,——and furnish solutions possessing a pale
green colour. Solutions of its salts exhibit the following
reactions:——Alkaline hydrates give a pale apple-green precipitate,
insoluble in excess, but soluble in a solution of carbonate of ammonium,
yielding a greenish-blue liquid. Ammonia gives a similar precipitate,
soluble in excess, yielding a deep purplish-blue solution. The presence of
ammonium salts or free acids interferes with this reaction. Cyanide of
potassium produces a green precipitate, soluble in excess, forming an
amber-coloured liquid, which is reprecipitated by hydrochloric acid. This
last precipitate is scarcely soluble in excess of the acid in the cold,
but readily so upon boiling the liquid. Ferrocyanide of potassium gives a
greenish-white precipitate. Sulphuretted hydrogen occasions no change in
solutions of nickel containing free mineral acid; but in alkaline
solutions gives a black precipitate. Sulphide of ammonium in neutral
solutions gives a black precipitate, soluble with difficulty in
hydrochloric acid; but freely soluble in aqua regia.
_Estim._ Nickel may be thrown down from its ore in the form of either
carbonate or hydrate, and after ignition may be weighed as oxide, each
grain of which is equal to 7/8 gr. of pure nickel; or, more accurately,
·7871 gr.
According to Rose, nickel may be separated from cobalt as follows:——The
mixed metals are dissolved in considerable excess of hydrochloric acids,
and the solution is diluted with a very large quantity of water; a current
of chlorine is then passed through the liquor for several hours, and the
upper part of the flask is left filled with the gas after the current has
ceased; barium carbonate is next added, in excess, the whole digested
together, with frequent agitation for 15 or 18 hours, and then thrown on a
filter. The filtrate yields pure nickelous oxide by precipitation with
hydrate of potassium; whilst the residuum on the filter, after being
washed in water, dissolved in hot hydrochloric acid, and the barium
precipitated with sulphuric acid, furnishes, with hydrate of potassium, a
precipitate of cobaltous hydrate, free from nickel, which, when washed and
dried, is reduced in a platinum or porcelain crucible by hydrogen gas.
_Uses._ Nickel is chiefly employed in the manufacture of German silver.
Some of its salts have been recently introduced into medical practice, and
appear likely to prove most valuable additions to the materia medica. It
has also been recently used for deposition by electrolysis on other
metals, forming a hard, brilliant, non-tarnishing coating.
=Nickelic Oxide.= Ni_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ SESQUIOXIDE OF NICKEL, PEROXIDE OF
NICKEL. _Prep._ By passing chlorine through water holding the hydrate in
suspension; or by mixing a salt of nickel with bleaching powder. An
insoluble, black powder, which is decomposed by heat.
=Nick′elous Ace′tate.= Ni(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ NICKELII ACETAS, L.
_Prep._ By neutralising acetic acid with nickelous carbonate, and gently
concentrating by evaporation, so that crystals may form. Small green
crystals, soluble in 6 parts of water.
=Nickelous Car′bonate.= NiCO_{3} _Syn._ NICKELII CARBONAS, L. _Prep._ This
salt may be obtained in the manner described above in connection with the
preparation of metallic nickel, or by simply adding carbonate of sodium to
a solution of nickelous chloride of sulphate, but in this case some
hydrate is precipitated along with it. The following is another formula
which produces a nearly pure carbonate, but one which may still contain a
little cobalt, the entire separation of which is a matter of extreme
difficulty, and can best be effected in the manner recommended by Rose,
described above:——
The mineral (crude speiss or kupfernickel) is broken into small fragments,
mixed with from one fourth to one half its weight of iron filings, and the
whole dissolved in aqua regia; the solution is gently evaporated to
dryness, the residue treated with boiling water, and the insoluble ferrous
arseniate removed by filtration; the liquid is next acidulated with
hydrochloric acid, treated with sulphuretted hydrogen, in excess, to
precipitate the copper, and, after filtration, is boiled with a little
nitric acid, to bring back the iron into ferric salts; to the cold and
largely diluted liquid a solution of bicarbonate of sodium is gradually
added, and the ferric oxide separated by filtration; lastly, the filtered
solution is boiled with carbonate of sodium in excess, and the pale green
precipitate of carbonate collected, washed, and dried.
_Uses, &c._ It is freely soluble in the acids, and is chiefly employed to
prepare the salts and other compounds of nickel.
=Nickelous Chlo′′ride.= NiCl_{2}. _Syn._ NICKELII CHLORIDUM, L. _Prep._
From nickelous carbonate and hydrochloric acid, as the acetate. Small
green crystals, of the formula NiCl_{2},9Aq., which are rendered yellow
and anhydrous by heat, unless they contain cobalt, when the salt retains a
tint of green.
DOUBLE CHLORIDES. Nickelous chloride unites with the chlorides of
ammonium, potassium, and sodium, to form pale green crystallisable salts,
which have been used for depositing nickel in iron, lead, copper, &c.
=Nickelous Hy′drate.= Ni(HO)_{2}. By precipitating a soluble salt of
nickel with caustic potassa. Hydrated. An ash-gray powder, freely soluble
in acids, forming the ordinary salts of nickel.
=Nickelous Ox′alate.= NiC_{2}O_{4}. _Syn._ NICKELII OXALAS, L. _Prep._ By
adding a strong solution of oxalic acid to a like solution of nickelous
sulphate, and collecting the pale bluish-green precipitate which forms
after a time. Used to prepare both metallic nickel and its oxide.
=Nickelous Oxide.= NiO. _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF NICKEL. _Prep._ 1. By heating
the nitrate, carbonate, or oxalate, to redness in open vessels. Anhydrous.
=Nickelous Sulphate.= NiSO_{4}. _Syn._ SULPHATE OF NICKEL. _Prep._
Dissolve nickelous carbonate or oxide in dilute sulphuric acid, evaporate
down, and crystallise. Pale green prismatic crystals, and of the formula
NiSO_{4},7Aq., or small pale green octahedrons, when crystallised at a
higher temperature, containing NiSO_{4},6Aq.
=Nickelous and Potassium Sulphate.= NiSO_{4} K_{2}SO_{4},6Aq. _Syn._
DOUBLE SULPHATE OF NICKEL AND POTASSIUM. _Prep._ By crystallising a
mixture of nickelous and potassium sulphates. Pale green crystals, readily
soluble in water. Sodium and ammonium sulphates form similar compounds
with nickelous sulphate.
=NICK′EL SIL′VER.= See GERMAN SILVER.
=NIC′OTINE.= C_{10}H_{14}N_{2}. _Syn._ NICOTINA, NICOTIA, L. A volatile
base, discovered by Reiman and Posselt in tobacco.
_Prep._ (Ortigosa.) Infuse tobacco leaves for 24 hours in water acidulated
with sulphuric acid, strain, evaporate to a syrup, add 1/6 of its volume
of a strong solution of potassa, and distil in an oil bath at 288°,
occasionally adding a little water to assist the process, and prevent the
too great concentration of the solution of potassa in the retort; next
saturate the distilled product with oxalic acid, evaporate to dryness,
digest in boiling absolute alcohol, evaporate the resulting tincture to a
syrup, and decompose the oxalate of nicotine thus obtained by adding
potassa to it in a close vessel, and agitate the mass with ether,
repeating the process with more ether until all the nicotine is dissolved
out; lastly, distil the mixed ethereal solution in an oil bath. At first
ether comes over, then water, and, lastly, nicotina, which, towards the
end of the process, assumes a yellowish tint.
2. (Schloesing.) This chiefly differs from the preceding by directing the
concluding distillation to be conducted in a retort, by the heat of an oil
bath, at the temperature of 284° Fahr., in a current of hydrogen, for 12
hours; after which, by raising the heat to 356° Fahr., the nicotine
distils over pure, drop by drop.
3. (Kirchmann). A tin vessel provided with two tubulures, is filled with
tobacco, which is previously damped with sodium carbonate. One of the
tubulures admits a glass tube reaching nearly to the bottom of the vessel;
the other is provided with a glass tube merely penetrating the cork.
The vessel is made air-tight, placed into a boiling hot steam bath, and a
rapid stream of carbonic acid gas passed through it, entering the vessel
by the longer and leaving it by the shorter tube; the latter dips into a
mixture of alcohol and dilute sulphuric acid.
In this manner a large yield of perfectly colourless nicotine is obtained.
In order to obtain the pure alkaloid, caustic baryta is added to the
solution, the latter evaporated to dryness, and the pure nicotine
extracted with ether.
To estimate nicotine, weigh out 15 gr. of tobacco, digest for twenty-four
hours with alcohol of 85 per cent. acidified with 15 drops of sulphuric
acid, so as to make 150 cubic centimètres. Evaporate 50 cubic centimètres
of the filtered liquid, and add iododydrargyrate of potassium to the
residue. The number of cubic centimètres employed, multiplied by 0·00405
(0·001 of the equivalent of nicotine), gives the quantity of alkaloid
contained in 5 grams of tobacco. (Linoffsky.)
_Prop., &c._ Nicotina is a colourless, volatile liquid; highly acrid and
pungent; smelling strongly of tobacco; boiling at 375° Fahr.
(482°——Pereira); soluble in water, ether, alcohol, and oils; and combining
with the acids, forming salts, many of which are crystallisable. It is a
frightful poison; 1/4 of a drop will kill a rabbit; a single drop will
kill a large dog. Nicotina is the substance which was employed by the
Count Bocarmé for the purpose of poisoning his brother-in-law, Gustave
Fougnies, the particulars of which were developed in the celebrated trial,
in Belgium, of that nobleman, in 1851. Good Virginia and Kentucky tobacco,
dried at 212° Fahr., contain from 6% to 7% of nicotina; Havannah tobacco
(_cigars_) less than 2%. (Schloesing.)
=NIGHT′MARE.= _Syn._ INCUBUS, EPHIALTES, L. The common causes of nightmare
are indigestion and the use of narcotic and intoxicating substances. Its
prevention consists in the selection of proper food, and in duly attending
to the state of the stomach and bowels. Heavy and late suppers should be
particularly avoided, as well as all articles of diet that are of
difficult digestion, or apt to induce flatulency. When it arises from
strong drink, tobacco, or opium, these should be abandoned, or employed in
smaller quantities. A teaspoonful of aromatic spirits of ammonia,
magnesia, or bicarbonate of soda, taken in a glass of cold water on going
to bed, is a good and simple preventive. In cases accompanied by
restlessness, a few drops of laudanum or tincture of henbane may be added.
An occasional aperient is also excellent. See CHAMOMILE.
=NIGHT′SHADE (Deadly).= _Syn._ BELLADONNA (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.). “The
leaf, fresh and dried (leaves and root——Ph. D.), of _Atropa belladonna_,
Linn.” “The fresh leaves and branches to which they are attached; also the
leaves separate from the branches, carefully dried, of _Atropa
belladonna_, gathered, when the fruit has begun to form, from wild or
cultivated plants in Britain” (B. P.). “Oval, acute, very perfect,
glabrous, when bruised, exhaling a disagreeable odour. The herb which
grows spontaneously in hedges and uncultivated places is to be preferred
to that which is cultivated in gardens.” (Ph. L.)
Belladonna is a powerful narcotic, and is used as an anodyne,
antispasmodic, and discutient, in a variety of diseases,——neuralgia,
arthritic pains, migratory rheumatic pains, spasmodic rigidity and
strictures, angina pectoris, hooping-cough, fevers, phthisis, &c.; also as
a prophylactic of scarlet fever, as a resolvent in enlarged and indurated
glands, to produce dilatation of the pupil, &c., &c.——_Dose._ Of the
powder, commencing with 1 gr., gradually and cautiously increased until
dryness of the throat or dilation of the pupil occurs, or the head is
affected. See ATROPIA.
=NIGHTSHADE (Woody).= _Syn._ BITTERSWEET; DULCAMARA (B. P., Ph. L. E. &
D.), L. The “new shoots (caules) of _Solanum Dulcamara_, Linn.” “The dried
young branches of the _Solanum Dulcamara_ (Bittersweet) from indigenous
plants which have shed their leaves” (B. P.). “It is to be collected in
autumn, after the leaves have fallen.” (Ph. L.) Diaphoretic, diuretic, and
(in large doses) narcotic. See INFUSION OF DULCAMARA.
=NIO′BIUM.= See TANTALUM.
=NIP′PLES (Sore).= The most common form of this affection is that termed
“chapped nipples” by nurses. As a preventive measure, the part may be
moistened morning and evening, for some weeks before the period of
lactation, with a little rum or brandy, which is more effective if
slightly acidulated with a few drops of dilute sulphuric acid. Some
persons employ tincture of tolu, or compound tincture of benzoin (Friar’s
balsam) for this purpose.
When chaps, cracks, or like sores, arising from lactation, are once
developed, one of the safest and most effective remedies is tincture of
catechu, applied 3 or 4 times a day, by means of a camel-hair pencil.
The celebrated nostrum of Liebert for cracked nipples, “_Cosmétique
infaillible et prompt contre les gerçures ou crevasses aux seins et
autres_,” is a lotion formed of 10 gr. of nitrate of lead dissolved in 4
fl. oz. of rose water, and tinged with a little cochineal. The parts are
moistened with the liquid, and are then covered with fine leaden
nipple-shields, two of which are provided for the purpose. This is
repeated soon after each time the child leaves the breast; and the nipple
is carefully washed with a soft sponge and lukewarm water, and gently
dabbed dry with a very soft towel, before the infant is again applied to
it. This remedy is very successful, and has acquired great popularity and
patronage in Brussels, Paris, Frankfort, and other parts. It must be
recollected, however, that all applications of an active or poisonous
nature should be employed with the greatest possible caution, as, unless
unusual care is taken, a portion of the remedy may remain concealed
within the delicate pores of the skin, and be sucked off by the infant, to
the serious disturbance of its health.
=NITRAN′ILINE.= This substance is obtained by acting on nitrobenzol with a
mixture of fuming nitric acid and oil of vitriol; Dinitro-benzol is
formed, which is dissolved in alcohol, and the resulting solution
subjected to the reducing action of ammonia and sulphuretted hydrogen, as
described under aniline. Nitraniline forms yellow, acicular crystals,
little soluble in cold water, but freely soluble in alcohol and ether. Its
salts are crystallisable.
=NI′TRATE.= _Syn._ NITRAS, L. A salt of nitric acid (_e.g._ AgNO_{3},
nitrate of silver). The nitrates are very easily prepared by the direct
solution of the metal, or its oxide, or carbonate, in nitric acid, which,
in most cases, should be previously diluted with water. By evaporation,
with the usual precautions, they may be obtained either in the pulverulent
or crystalline form.
The nitrates are characterised by deflagrating when thrown on red-hot
charcoal; also by their aqueous solutions, after being mixed with half
their bulk of strong sulphuric acid and thoroughly cooled, yielding a
brown cloud with a crystal or concentrated solution of ferrous sulphate.
See NITRIC ACID, and the respective metals.
=NI′TRE.= Nitrate of Potassa. See POTASSIUM.
=NI′TRIC ACID. HNO_{3}.= _Syn._ AZOTIC ACID; ACIDUM NITRICUM (B. P., Ph.
L., E., & D.); AQUAFORTIS.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. E. and Ph. L. 1836.) Purified nitre (dried) and sulphuric
acid, equal parts; mix in a glass retort, and distil with a moderate heat,
from a sand bath (or naked gas flame——Ph. E.) into a cool receiver, as
long as the fused materials continue to evolve vapours. “The pale yellow
acid thus obtained may be rendered nearly colourless (if desired) by
gently heating it in a retort.” (Ph. E.) Sp. gr. 1·500. In the present Ph.
L. this acid is included in the materia medica. (See _below_.)
2. (Ph. D.) The nitrate of potassa is dissolved in water, the solution
treated with a little nitrate of silver, filtered, evaporated to dryness,
weighed, and then treated as above.
3. Nitrate of soda (cubic nitre, Chili saltpetre) is introduced, in
quantities varying between 4 and 10 lbs., into a cylindrical iron retort,
which it will only half fill, and after the lid is luted on and the
connection made with the condensers, an equivalent of oil of vitriol is
poured in through an aperture provided for the purpose, and the charge is
worked off with a gradually increased heat. The condensing apparatus
consists of a series of 5 or 6 salt-glazed stoneware receivers, about
1/6th part filled with cold water. The product of this process is the
strongest brown and fuming ‘NITROUS ACID’ of commerce (AQUAFORTIS, FUMING
NITRIC ACID; ACIDUM NITROSUM; ACIDUM NITRICUM FUMANS), and has usually
the sp. gr. 1·45. It is rendered colourless by gently heating it in a
glass retort, when it forms COMMERCIAL NITRIC ACID (sp. gr. 1·37 to 1·4.)
4. (PURE MONOHYDRATED NITRIC ACID.) By mixing the strongest commercial
acid with about an equal quantity of oil of vitriol; redistilling;
collecting apart the first portion which comes over, and exposing it, in a
vessel slightly warmed and sheltered from the light, to a current of dry
air made to bubble through it until the nitrous acid is completely
removed.
_Prop._ Pure liquid nitric acid is colourless, highly corrosive, and
possesses powerful acid and oxygenising properties. The sp. gr. of the
strongest liquid acid (monohydrated nitric acid) has the sp. gr. 1·517 at
60° Fahr. “On boiling nitric acid of different degrees of concentration at
the ordinary atmospheric pressure, a residue is left boiling at 249°
Fahr., and 29 in. barometer, having a sp. gr. 1·414 at 60° Fahr.”
(Fownes.) Acid of less density than 1·414 parts with water, and gradually
becomes stronger by boiling; but acid of less sp. gr. than 1·414 is
weakened by exposure to heat. When exposed to intense cold, liquid nitric
acid freezes. It is rapidly decomposed, with loss of oxygen, by contact
with most organic and many metallic and non-metallic bodies. In many cases
these reactions occur with considerable violence, and the production of
light and heat.
_Pur._ The nitric acid of commerce is generally contaminated by
hydrochloric acid, nitrous acid, sulphuric acid, or chlorine, or by their
soda or potassa salts, and, occasionally, iodine, together with an excess
of water. The last is readily detected by the sp. gr., and the others by
the appropriate tests. “Colourless. Contains 70% of HNO_{3}. Sp. gr. 1·42.
90 gr. by weight, mixed with 1/2 oz. of distilled water, require for
neutralisation 1000 grain measures of the volumetric solution of soda.
Evaporated, it leaves no residue. Diluted with six volumes of distilled
water, it gives no precipitate with chloride of barium or nitrate of
silver——indicating absence of sulphuric and hydrochloric acids.” (B. P.) 5
measures of acid, sp. gr. 1·5, mixed with 2 of water, condensed into 6-1/2
measures, and makes the sp. gr. 1·42. “Free from colour. Sp. gr. 1·42.
Exposed to the air, it emits very acrid vapours. Totally volatilised by
heat. Diluted with 3 times its volume of water, it gives no precipitate
with either nitrate of silver or chloride of barium. 100 gr. of this acid
(sp. gr. 1·42) are saturated by 161 gr. of crystallised carbonate of
soda.” (Ph. L.) The Ph. E. states the density of commercial nitric acid is
1·380 to 1·390. “If diluted with distilled water it precipitates but
slightly, or not at all, with solution of nitrate of baryta or nitrate of
silver.” The best ‘double aquafortis’ of the shops (aquafortis duplex) has
usually the sp. gr. 1·36; and the single aquafortis (aquafortis simplex),
the sp. gr. 1·22; but both are commonly sold at much lower strengths.
_Tests._——1. It stains the skin yellow.——2. When mixed with a little
hydrochloric acid or chloride of ammonium, it acquires the power of
dissolving gold leaf.——3. Morphia, brucia, and strychnia, give it a red
colour, which is heightened by ammonia in excess.——4. When placed in a
tube, and a solution of protosulphate of iron is cautiously added, a dark
colour is developed at the line of junction, which is distinctly visible
when only 1/24,000th part of nitric acid is present. This test may be
often conveniently modified by dropping into the liquid a crystal of
protosulphate of iron; the fluid immediately surrounding this crystal then
acquires a dark brown colour, which disappears upon simple agitation of
the fluid, or by heating it.——5. When mixed with a weak solution of
sulphate of indigo, and heated, the colour of the latter is destroyed.——6.
When saturated with carbonate of potassium or sodium, and evaporated to
dryness, the residuum deflagrates when thrown on burning coals.——7. When
the mixture of a nitrate with cyanide of potassium, in powder, is heated
on a piece of platinum, a vivid deflagration follows, attended with
distinct ignition and detonation. (Fresenius.) It is stated that sulphate
of aniline is an extremely delicate test for nitric acid. The following is
the method of its application:——About a cubic centimètre of pure
concentrated sulphuric acid (sp. gr. 1·84) is placed in a watch-glass;
half a cubic centimètre of a solution of sulphate of aniline (formed by
adding ten drops of commercial aniline to 50 c.c. of diluted sulphuric
acid in the proportion of 1 to 6) is poured on, drop by drop; a glass tube
is moistened with the liquid to be tested, and moved circularly in the
watch-glass. By blowing on the mixture during the circular agitation, when
a trace of nitric acid is present, circular striæ are developed of a very
intense red colour, tinting the liquid rose. With more than a trace of
nitric acid the colour becomes carmine, passing to a brownish red. This
process serves to detect the presence of nitric acid in the sulphuric acid
of commerce. It will also reveal the presence of nitrates in
water.[46]——8. Take a quantity of diphenylamine, about the size of a
mustard seed, put it into a test-tube, and pour a little sulphuric acid
over it, then add a drop or two of water, so as to increase the
temperature sufficiently to effect the solution of the diphenylamine, and
the test is ready for use. Now add very gently the solution to be tested,
and if only a trace of nitric or nitrous acid be present, a beautiful and
very permanent blue colouration is produced at the junction of the two
liquids, but if there be any quantity of the nitrogen compound, the colour
becomes almost black. This reaction is so delicate and certain that, in
the case of a solution of nitric acid containing about 1 part B. P. acid
in 10,000 of water, the reaction is most distinct; one part of nitrite of
potassium in 30,000 of water gives also almost unmistakable evidence of
the presence of the nitrogen acid.
[Footnote 46: ‘Pharmaceutical Year Book.’]
The following process for the quantitative estimation of nitric acid is by
Fischer:[47]——Indigotin prepared by reduction of indigo by means of grape
sugar, alcohol, and caustic soda, oxidation in the air, and solution in
sulphuric acid, may be kept unchanged for years. Five c.c. of such a
solution, diluted with water and mixed with 30 c.c. of pure sulphuric
acid, is titrated by adding a standard nitric acid solution until the blue
colour gives place to a light green; the indigo solution is then diluted,
so that 1 c.c. shall be equal to 0·0025 milligramme equivalents of nitric
acid, or 0·2525 milligramme of potassium nitrate. If a water is being
examined it is run into 4 c.c. of the titrated indigo solution, mixed with
20 c.c. of sulphuric acid, until the blue colour changes to light green.
Ten, divided by the number of c.c. of water used, expresses the
milligramme equivalents of nitric acid per litre; thus, if 4 c.c. of water
are used, there are 2·5 milligramme equivalents of nitric acid, equal to
252·5 milligrammes of potassium nitrate per litre. If a preliminary test
with brucine has shown that the water contains very little nitric acid, 2
c.c. only of the indigo solution must be used, or sometimes as little as 1
c.c. If more than 8 c.c. of water is required to destroy the blue colour,
100 c.c. must be evaporated down to the volume of 8 c.c. and then
titrated. The volume of sulphuric acid must be at least double the sum of
the volumes of indigo and water; the temperature must not sink under 110°.
[Footnote 47: Dingl., ‘Polyt. Journ.’ ccxiii, 423-427; ‘Journ. Chem.
Soc.,’ 2nd series, xiii, 481.]
The nitrates may all be tested as above by first adding a small quantity
of pure sulphuric acid, which will liberate the nitric acid of the salt.
_Estim._——The strength of nitric acid may be roughly estimated by its sp.
gr.; but more accurately by ascertaining the amount of carbonate of
sodium, or other salt of known composition, which is required to
neutralise it. To render this assay trustworthy, it must be, in all cases,
also tested to detect the presence of impurities. See ACIDIMETRY.
_Ant., &c._ See ACIDS.
_Uses._ Nitric acid is employed in assaying, in dyeing, in etching on
copper, in the preparation of gun-cotton, oxalic and sulphuric acids, &c.
In medicine it is used as a caustic to corns and warts; and in doses of 1
to 10 drops, in a tumbler of water, in liver complaints, fevers,
dyspepsia, syphilis, to remove the effects of mercury, or as a substitute
for that drug, &c. Externally, it is employed in the form of baths,
lotions, and ointment. Dr Collier states that a strong lotion of nitric
acid is almost a specific in lepra, and several other kindred skin
diseases.
_Concluding Remarks._——The common source of nitric acid is nitrate of
potassium, but it may also be obtained from other nitrates by a similar
process. Nitrate of sodium is frequently used instead of nitrate of
potassium, and is more convenient in some respects, as the residuum is
more easily dissolved out of the retort or cylinder. The residuum of the
common process with nitre (‘sal enixum’) is chiefly employed as a flux by
the glass-houses, and as a source of potash in the manufacture of alum.
By proper management nitre yields more than 2/3 of its weight of pure
nitric acid, sp. gr. 1·500; and nitrate of soda, its own weight of acid,
sp. gr. 1·4.
By the patent process of M. Mallet, dried nitrate of soda is decomposed by
dried or monohydrated boracic acid, by heating the two together. The
products are liquid nitric acid, which distils over, and biborate of soda
(borax), which remains in the retort.
The crude coloured nitric acid of commerce (aquafortis) was originally
prepared by distilling a mixture of nitre and copperas, and is still
sometimes obtained in this way.
The nitric acid of commerce may be freed from the impurities alluded to
above by one or other of the following methods:——
1. By the addition of a little nitrate of silver, as long as it produces
any cloudiness, and, after repose, decanting the clear acid, and
rectifying it at a heat under 212°. To ensure a perfectly colourless
product, a small portion of pure black oxide of manganese should be put
into the retort. (Murray.)
2. By agitating the acid with a little red oxide of lead, and then
rectifying it, as before.
3. By adding 1% of bichromate of potassa to the acid before rectifying it.
This answers well for acid not stronger than sp. gr. 1·48.
4. By rectification at a gentle heat, rejecting the first portion that
comes over, receiving the middle portion as genuine acid, and leaving a
residuum in the retort. (Ure.)
According to Apjohn and others, the strongest liquid nitric acid, sp. gr.
1·520, is a monohydrate; that of the sp. gr. 1·500, a sesquihydrate; that
of 1·486, a binhydrate; and that of 1·244, a quadrihydrate; or containing
respectively 1, 1-1/2, 2, and 4 atoms of water. (See _below_.)
=Nitric Acid, Anhy′drous.= N_{2}O_{5}. _Syn._ NITRIC ANHYDRIDE. This
interesting substance was first obtained in a separate form by M. Deville,
in 1849.
_Prep._ (M. Deville.) Nitrate of silver is dried by exposure to a current
of dry carbonic acid at a temperature of 356° Fahr., and the tube
containing it is then immersed in a water bath heated to 203° Fahr.; pure
dry chlorine gas is next passed through the apparatus, and, as soon as the
reaction commences, the temperature is retraced to 154° or even 136°, but
not lower; the production of crystals in the receiver, which must be
cooled by a powerful freezing mixture, soon commences; lastly, the liquid
portion of the product is removed by a current of dry carbonic-acid gas.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless prismatic crystals, which melt at 86° Fahr., boil
at about 115°, and at 122° begin to suffer decomposition; added to water,
much heat is generated; it rapidly attacks organic bodies, even
caoutchouc; sometimes it explodes spontaneously. The process for its
preparation is tedious and difficult.
=Nitric Acid, Dilute.= ACIDUM NITRICUM DILUTUM (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·42), 3 fl. oz.; distilled
water, 17 fl. oz.; mix. Sp. gr. 1·082. “1 fl. oz. is saturated by 154 gr.
of the crystals of carbonate of soda.” It contains about 12% of pure
anhydrous acid.
2. (Ph. E.) Nitric acid (1·500), 1 fl. oz.; distilled water, 9 fl. oz. Or,
commercial nitric acid (1·390), 1 fl. oz. 5-1/2 dr.; water, 9-1/2 fl. oz.
Sp. gr. 1·077. It contains 11·16% of pure dry nitric acid.
3. (Ph. D.) Nitric acid (1·500), 4 fl. oz.; water, 29 fl. oz. Contains
about 9·7% of pure acid. The above are used for convenience in
dispensing.——_Dose_, 15 drops to 1/2 fl. dr., or more. The above must not
be confounded with the acidum nitricum dilutum, Ph. D. 1826, which had the
sp. gr. 1·280, nor with the following:——
4. (Henry’s.) Sp. gr. 1·143; equal in saturating power to hydrochloric
acid sp. gr. 1·074, and sulphuric acid 1·135. Used in assaying.
5. (B. P.) Nitric acid, 6; distilled water sufficient to make the mixture
when cooled to 60° Fahr., measure 31. Contains 15 per cent. of anhydrous
nitric acid. _Test._ Sp. gr. 1·101. Six fluid drachms (361·3 grains) by
weight require for neutralisation 1000 grain measures of the volumetric
solution of soda, and, therefore, contain exactly one equivalent in grains
of anhydrous acid, namely, 54 gr.——_Use._ Tonic, astringent,
lithonlytic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.
=Nitric Acid, Fuming.= _Syn._ NITROUS ACID‡; ACIDUM NITRICUM FUMANS, L.
The red fuming nitrous or nitric acid of commerce is simply nitric acid
loaded with nitric peroxide (which _see_). That of the Ph. Bor. is
distilled from nitre, 2 parts; oil of vitriol, 1 part.
=NI′TRIC ANHY′DRIDE.= See NITRIC ACID, ANHYDROUS.
=NI′TRIC OXIDE.= See NITROGEN, OXIDES OF.
=NI′TRITE.= A salt of nitrous acid; _e.g._ KNO_{2}, nitrite of potassium.
=NITRO-BEN′ZOL.= C_{2}H_{5}NO_{2}. _Prep._ By treating benzol with strong
fuming nitric acid, with heat; after the violence of the reaction is over,
the liquid is diluted with water, and the heavy oily fluid which separates
is collected, washed, and dried.
_Prop., &c._ Yellowish, very sweet; smells of bitter almonds; insoluble in
water; little affected by reagents; boils at 415° Fahr.; sp. gr. 1·209.
Heated with an alcoholic solution of caustic potassa, and the mixture
submitted to distillation, it yields a red, oily liquid, from which large
red crystals of azobenzol separate. These are nearly insoluble in water,
freely soluble in alcohol and ether, melt at 149° Fahr., and boil at
559·4° Fahr. BINITROBENZOL is made by dissolving benzol in a mixture of
equal volumes of the strongest nitric and sulphuric acids, and boiling the
liquid for a few minutes; the crystals (dinitrobenzol) which form as it
cools are insoluble in water, but are freely soluble in alcohol.
Nitro-benzol is extensively used as a substitute for the essential oil of
bitter almonds, in perfumery. It is very poisonous, a quality, which
Letheby asserts, it acquires owing to its conversion in the animal economy
into aniline. M. Ferrand states that the presence of nitro-benzol in
essence of bitter almonds may be detected as follows:——Heat to ebullition,
in a test tube, three or four c.c. of a 20 per cent. alcoholic solution of
potash, together with ten drops of the suspected essence. If nitro-benzol
be present, the mixture takes a red colour; if the essence of bitter
almonds be pure, it becomes a pale straw colour.
=NI′TROGEN.= N. _Syn._ AZOTE; NITROGENIUM, AZOTUM, L. A gaseous elementary
substance, discovered by Rutherford, in 1722, and found to be a
constituent of the atmosphere by Lavoisier, 1755. It is found both in the
organic and inorganic kingdoms of nature; it forms about 4/5, or 78% of
the bulk of the atmosphere, enters largely into the composition of most
animal substances, and is a constituent of gluten, the alkaloids, and
other vegetable principles.
_Prep._ 1. A small piece of phosphorus is placed in a capsule floating on
the surface of the water of the pneumatic trough, and after setting it on
fire a gas or bell-jar is inverted over it; as soon as the combustion is
over, and the fumes of phosphoric anhydride have subsided, the residual
gas is washed by agitation with recently boiled distilled water, or with a
solution of pure potassa. It may be dried by either letting it stand over
fused chloride of calcium, or, what is better, by passing it through
concentrated oil of vitriol.
2. A porcelain tube is filled with copper turnings, or, preferably, with
spongy copper (obtained by reducing the oxide with hydrogen), and is then
heated to redness, a stream of dry atmospheric air being at the same time
directed through it. By repeating the process with the same air, and
finally passing it over fragments of pumice moistened with strong solution
of potassa to absorb carbonic anhydride, the product is rendered quite
pure.
3. Chlorine gas is passed into a solution of pure ammonia, care being
taken to employ a considerable excess of the latter; the evolved gas,
after being dried, is pure nitrogen. There is some danger of producing
the explosive compound, chloride of nitrogen, with this process.
4. (Corenwinder.) From solution of nitrate of potassium, 1 volume;
concentrated solution of chloride of ammonium, 3 vols.; gently heated
together in a flask, and the evolved gas passed through sulphuric acid.
Pure.
5. By boiling a solution of nitrite of ammonium, or, which amounts to the
same thing, a mixture of one measure of a solution of nitrite of potassium
and three measures of a solution of chloride of ammonium. Both solutions
must be concentrated. This is the easiest method of preparing nitrogen and
of obtaining the gas in a pure state.
_Note._——The nitrite of potassium to be employed in this process is best
prepared by passing nitrous anhydride, evolved from starch and nitric
acid, into a solution of potassa (sp. gr. 1·38) till it imparts an acid
reaction to test-paper, and then neutralising by the addition of potassa.
6. From lean flesh digested in nitric acid, at a gentle heat.
_Prop., &c._ Pure nitrogen is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas,
neither combustible nor capable of supporting combustion or respiration.
It is neutral to test-paper, does not affect lime water, and is only
slightly absorbed by pure water. Its sp. gr. is ·9713. It is recognised by
its purely negative qualities.
=Nitrogen, Chlo′′ride of.= NCl_{3}. _Syn._ NITROGEN TRICHLORIDE,
TERCHLORIDE OF NITROGEN. This compound was discovered by Dulong in 1811,
but its nature was first accurately determined by Sir H. Davy.
_Prep._ (Liebig.) Dissolve chloride of ammonium, 1 oz., in hot water, 12
or 14 oz., and as soon as the temperature has fallen to 90° Fahr., invert
a wide-mouthed glass bottle full of chlorine over it. The gas is gradually
absorbed, the solution acquires a yellowish colour, and in the course of
15 to 20 minutes yellow, oil-like globules of chloride of nitrogen form
upon the surface of the liquid, and ultimately sink to the bottom. The
globules, as they descend, should be received in a small leaden saucer,
placed under the mouth of the bottle for the purpose.
_Prop., &c._ Chloride of nitrogen should consequently be only prepared in
very small quantities at a time. Both its discoverer and Sir H. Davy met
with severe injuries while experimenting on it. Its sp. gr. is 1·653; it
volatilises at 160° Fahr., and between 200° and 212° fulminates violently.
Contact with combustible bodies at ordinary temperatures immediately
causes detonation. _The explosive power of this compound seems to exceed
that of every known substance, not even excepting fulminating silver:_ A
minute globule, no larger than a grain of mustard seed, placed on a
platina spoon, and touched with a piece of phosphorus stuck on the point
of a penknife, immediately explodes, and shivers the blade into
fragments, at the same time that the vessel that contains it is broken to
pieces. Olive oil, naphtha, and oil of turpentine, have a similar effect.
See NITROGEN, IODIDE OF (_below_).
=Nitrogen, I′odide of.= NI_{2}. _Syn._ NITROGEN TRI-IODIDE, TERIODIDE OF
NITROGEN. A dark brown or black insoluble powder, which is most safely and
conveniently prepared by saturating alcohol (sp. gr. ·852) with iodine,
adding a large quantity of the strongest pure solution of ammonia, and
agitating the mixture; water must now be added, when iodide of nitrogen
will be precipitated, and must be carefully washed with cold distilled
water. The filter containing the precipitate should be spread out on a
sheet of glass and torn into small pieces while the iodide is still moist.
The precipitate should be simply exposed to air only.
_Prop., &c._ It detonates violently as soon as it becomes dry, by the
slightest pressure or friction, even that of a feather, and often
spontaneously; but this explosion is scarcely so powerful as that of the
chloride of nitrogen. It also explodes whilst moist, though less readily.
It should only be prepared in very small quantities at a time. Recent
researches induce the belief that both the above compounds contain
hydrogen.
=Nitrogen, Ox′ides of.= Nitrogen forms 5 distinct compounds with oxygen.
1. =Nitrous ox′ide.= _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF NITROGEN; LAUGING GAS; NITROGENII
PROTOXYDUM, L. _Prep._ From fused nitrate of ammonium, introduced into a
glass retort, or a flask furnished with a bent tube, and then exposed,
over a spirit-lamp, or charcoal-chauffer, to a temperature of about 389°
Fahr.; the evolved gas may be collected in bladders, gas-bags, a
gasometer, or in the pneumatic trough over warm water. The gas may be
purified by pouring it through three wash-bottles, one containing water,
one a solution of sulphate of iron, and the other a solution of potassa.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless; possesses an agreeable odour, and a sweetish
taste; at 32°, under a pressure of 30 atmospheres, it is liquid; this,
when exposed under the receiver of a powerful air-pump, changes into a
snow-like solid; at -180° Fahr., it is a transparent, colourless,
crystalline body; it supports combustion, and is absorbed by cold water.
Sp. gr. 1·520. Its most remarkable property is its action on the system
when inspired. A few deep inspirations are usually succeeded by a pleasing
state of excitement, and a strong propensity to laughter and muscular
exertion, which soon subside, without being followed by languor or
depression. Its effects, however, vary with different constitutions. From
4 to 12 quarts may be breathed with safety. It produces temporary
insensibility to pain, like chloroform or ether; but its use is dangerous
when affections of the heart, lungs, or brain are present. This gas is
now successfully and extensively employed as an anæsthetic in dental
surgery.
_Obs._ No particular caution is required in preparing the above compound,
except the use of too much heat. The temperature should be so arranged as
to keep the melted mass in a state of gentle ebullition, and should not be
allowed, under any circumstances, to exceed about 500° Fahr. Should white
fumes appear within the retort after the evolution of the gas has
commenced, the heat should be at once lowered, as, when heated to about
600°, nitrate of ammonia explodes with violence.
Nitrous oxide may also be made in the same way, from crystallised nitrate
of ammonia, or by exposing nitric oxide for some days over iron filings
moistened with water, but, without great care, the product is not always
fit for respiration. When pure, it is colourless, has an agreeable odour,
and does not affect solution of nitrate of silver. See ANÆSTHETICS.
2. =Nitric oxide.= NO. _Syn._ DEUTOXIDE OF NITROGEN, NITROUS GAS, BINOXIDE
OF NITROGEN; NITROGENEE BINOXYDUM, L. _Prep._ By pouring nitric acid, sp.
gr. 1·2, on metallic copper, in the form of turnings, clippings, or wire.
Effervescence ensues, and nitric oxide is evolved, and may be collected
over water or mercury in the pneumatic trough. The residual liquid yields
crystals of nitrate of copper on evaporation.
_Prop., &c._ A colourless, tasteless, inodorous, irrespirable, and
incombustible gas. In contact with free oxygen, it produces dense orange
or red vapours of nitric peroxide (NO_{2}), which are freely absorbed by
water. Nitric oxide is absorbed by a solution of ferrous sulphate, which
it turns of a deep brown or nearly black colour, which is removed by
boiling. Sp. gr. 1·039.
=Nitrous Anhydride.= N_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ NITROGEN TRIOXIDE, ANHYDROUS
NITROUS ACID. The easiest method of obtaining this compound consists in
heating 1 part of powdered starch with 8 parts of nitric acid of sp. gr.
1·25, and passing the evolved gases, first through a drying tube two feet
long containing fused chloride of calcium, and then into a dry and empty
U-tube cooled to 20° Fahr. by surrounding it with a mixture of pounded ice
and crystallised chloride of calcium. Nitrous anhydride thus produced is
a blue liquid which emits red fumes, and which on admixture with water at
ordinary temperatures is decomposed, producing nitric acid and nitric
oxide. If nitrous anhydride be mixed with water at temperatures below 0°
Fahr. the two combine, and a blue solution is formed which (probably)
contains nitrous acid (HNO_{2}). See NITROUS ACID.
=Nitrogen Pentoxide.= N_{2}O_{5}. _Syn._ NITRIC PENTOXIDE, NITRIC
ANHYDRIDE, ANHYDROUS NITRIC ACID. See NITRIC ACID (ANHYDROUS).
=Nitrogen Peroxide.= NO_{2}. _Syn._ NITRIC PEROXIDE, PEROXIDE OF NITROGEN,
NITROGEN TETROXIDE, HYPONITRIC ANHYDRIDE. This compound forms the chief
constituent of the red fumes which develop on mixing nitric oxide with air
or oxygen. It is most readily prepared by heating thoroughly dried nitrate
of lead in a retort, and conducting the evolved gases into a U-tube
surrounded with a freezing mixture of ice and salt for the purpose of
condensing the nitric peroxide. If the U-tube be perfectly dry, and the
cold intense, the nitric peroxide obtained assumes the form of transparent
crystals, but the presence of the slightest trace of moisture prevents
their formation and produces instead a colourless liquid which, as the
temperature rises, acquires a yellow and ultimately a red colour. Nitric
peroxide dissolves in nitric acid and turns it of a yellow or red hue. The
so-called ‘_nitrous acid_’ or ‘_fuming nitric acid_’ of commerce owes its
deep red colour to the presence of this compound. At very low temperatures
water converts nitric peroxide into nitric and nitrous acids; at ordinary
temperatures it transforms it into nitric acid, nitrous acid, and nitric
oxide.
=NITRO-GLYCERIN.= _Syn._ GLONOIN, NITRATE OF GLYCERYL, TRINITRITE,
NITROLEUM, FULMINATING OIL, TRI-NITROGLYCERIN. This dangerously explosive
compound, from the use of which in mining, quarrying, and such like
operations so many fatal accidents have occurred, is glycerin in which 3
atoms of hydrogen have been replaced by 3 molecules of nitroxyl (NO_{2}),
as illustrated by the following formulæ:
Glycerin. Nitro-glycerin.
C_{3}H_{5} } (H } ) = C_{3}H_{5} } (H } )
}O_{3} + 3 ( }O ) } O_{3} + 3 ( } O)
H_{3} } (NO_{2} } ) (NO_{2})_{3} } (H } )
It was discovered in 1847 by Dr. Sobrero, a pupil of Pelouze.
Kopp prepares nitro glycerin by mixing 3 parts of sulphuric acid, of sp.
gr. of 1·767, with 1 part of fuming nitric acid. 2800 grammes of the mixed
acids are added to 350 grammes of glycerin, great care being necessary to
avoid any elevation of temperature, which would lead to a violent
reaction, resulting in the conversion of the glycerin into oxalic acid.
After standing 5 or 10 minutes, the mixture is poured into four or six
times its bulk of very cold water to which a rotatory motion has been
imparted. The nitro-glycerin falls to the bottom of the vessel as an
oily-looking liquid, which is washed by decantation. The manufacture of
nitro-glycerin is attended with considerable danger, since very slight
friction or pressure is sufficient to determine its explosion. Hence many
methods have been suggested for guarding against accidents from it during
storage. One of these consists in mixing it with finely powdered glass.
Wurtz advises the nitro-glycerin to be mixed with solutions of nitrate of
lime, zinc, or magnesia, the solutions to have a sp. gr. equal to the
nitro-glycerin. By this means a harmless emulsion would be formed, and the
nitro-glycerin would be recoverable when required for use by simply adding
water. Nobel’s plan consists in dissolving it in wood spirit.
_Prop._ Nitro-glycerin is a fluid of a yellow or brownish colour, having a
sp. gr. of 1·6. It dissolves in alcohol, ether, and wood naphtha, from all
of which it may be recovered by the addition of water. Dissolved in either
of these solutions it becomes converted into a crystalline mass when
exposed to a low temperature. If subjected to a blow it explodes with
fearful violence, a single drop placed upon paper, and struck upon an
anvil, giving rise to a report that is almost deafening. Neither a spark
nor the application of a lighted body is said to cause its ignition, which
takes place with difficulty even if it be applied to a thin layer of the
substance. 100 parts of nitro-glycerin yield on combustion:
Water 20 parts.
Carbonic acid 58 ”
Oxygen 3·5 ”
Nitrogen 18·5 ”
——————
100·0[48]
[Footnote 48: Wagner.]
As the specific gravity of nitro-glycerin is 1·6, one part by bulk will
yield by combustion:——
Aqueous vapour 554 volumes.
Carbonic acid 469 ”
Oxygen 39 ”
Nitrogen 236 ”
——————
1298[48] ”
Other experimenters affirm that, instead of free oxygen, nitrous oxide is
one of the products of the combustion of nitro-glycerin. According to
Nobel the heat liberated when nitro-glycerin is exploded, causes the
expansion of the gases to be eight times their original bulk; therefore,
one volume of the substance will yield 10,384 volumes of gas, whilst one
part by bulk of gunpowder only yields 800 volumes of gas. If these data be
correct the explosive force of nitro-glycerin is thirteen times greater
than that of powder, bulk for bulk, and eight times greater weight for
weight.
Böttger has devised a process for the preparation of nitro-glycerin, which
being, as he affirms, entirely free from danger, adapts it for lecture
experiments:——A few grains of pure glycerin, free from water, is poured
into a test-tube, which is surrounded by a freezing mixture, and
containing a mixture of one volume of the most concentrated nitric acid
(1·52 sp. gr.), and two volumes of the strongest sulphuric acid (1·83 sp.
gr.). Then, as quickly as possible, the whole is poured into a larger
quantity of cold water. The nitro-glycerin, which has formed like oil
drops, sinks rapidly to the bottom, being specifically the heavier liquid.
It is then washed several times by decantation with fresh water, and,
lastly, with a weak solution of soda.
Remove the water with a few pieces of fused chloride of calcium. Then the
nitro-glycerin is in such purity that it may, without danger, be kept any
length of time for lecture experiments.
=NITRO-HYDROCHLO′RIC ACID.= _Syn._ NITRO-MURIATIC ACID; AQUA REGIA, ACIDUM
NITRO-HYDROCHLORICUM (B. P.), A NITRO-MURIATICUM, L.; EAU RÉGALE, Fr.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Nitric acid, 3; hydrochloric acid, 4; water, 25. Mix
the acids twenty-four hours before adding the water. (This precaution is
necessary to allow of the development of the chlorine, and the
chloronitrous and chloronitric gases which result from the mutual
decomposition of the two acids, and upon which the therapeutic activity of
the agent depends). Colourless. Keep the mixture in a cool and dark place.
2. (Ph. D. 1826). Nitric acid, 1 part; hydrochloric acid, 2 parts (both by
measure); mix in a refrigerated bottle, and keep the mixture in a cold and
dark place. Used to dissolve gold and platinum; and in medicine, in liver
complaints, syphilis, the exanthemata, &c., either externally, in doses of
5 to 15 drops in water, or externally, as a foot- or knee-bath. It is also
occasionally employed as a caustic.
3. (AQUA REGIA WITH SAL AMMONIAC.) Nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·2), 16 fl. oz.;
sal ammoniac, 4 oz.; dissolve. Occasionally used by dyers; does not keep
well.
4. (DYERS’ AQUAFORTIS.) Colourless nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·17), 10 lbs.;
hydrochloric acid (sp. gr. 1·19), 1 lb.; mix. Used by dyers.
=NITRO-PRUS′SIDES.= A series of salts discovered by Dr Playfair, and
obtained by the action of nitric acid on the ferrocyanides and
ferridcyanides. The most important of these salts is the nitroprusside of
sodium (NA_{2} (NO) FeCy_{5}. 2Aq.). _Prep._ Dissolve 2 parts of powdered
ferrocyanide of sodium in 5 parts of common nitric acid, previously
diluted with its own volume of water. When the evolution of gas has
ceased, digest the solution on a water bath until it no longer yields a
blue but slate-coloured precipitate with ferrous sulphate. Cool the
liquid, filter, neutralise the filtrate with carbonate of sodium, and
again filter. This filtrate, on evaporation, yields crystals consisting of
a mixture of nitro-prusside of sodium and nitrate of potassium; the
former, which may be recognised by their rhombic shape and their fine
ruling colour, should be picked out and preserved.——_Use._ As a test for
soluble sulphides, with which nitro-prusside of sodium strikes a beautiful
violet tint. According to Playfair this is the most delicate test for
alkaline sulphides.
=NI′TROUS ACID.= HNO_{2} See NITROUS ANHYDRIDE, under NITROGEN, OXIDES OF.
=NITROUS OXIDE.= See NITROGEN, OXIDES OF.
=NODE.= _Syn._ NODUS, L. A hard tumour proceeding from a bone, and caused
by the swelling of its external membrane. The bones of the leg, forehead,
and forearm, are those most commonly attacked. Nodes are generally
accompanied with considerable pain, and often with caries and loss of
vitality.
=NOLI ME TANGERE.= See LUPUS.
=NOMENCLATURE (Chemical).= The following information will doubtless prove
useful to many of our readers, as serving to explain terms which are
necessarily of frequent occurrence in this work:
ACIDS.——_a._ When a substance produces only one acid compound, the name of
this acid is formed by adding the termination -IC to that of the radical,
or to the leading or characteristic portion of it; as sulphuric acid, an
acid of sulphur. This is Latinised by changing -IC into -ICUM; as,
_acidum, sulphur_ICUM.——_b._ When a body forms two acid compounds
containing oxygen, the name of the one containing the smaller proportion
of that substance ends in -OUS; as _nitr_OUS acid, which contains 1 atom
of nitrogen and 2 of oxygen; _nitr_IC acid, containing 1 atom of nitrogen
and 3 of oxygen. In this case the Latin name ends in -OSUM; as, _acidum
nitr_OSUM.——_c._ When a substance forms more than two acids with oxygen,
the Greek preposition HYPO- (below or under) is prefixed to the name of
the acid in -OUS or -IC next above it; as, HYPO_chlorous acid_.——_d._ When
a new acid compound of a substance is discovered, containing more oxygen
than another acid of the same substances already known, the name of which
ends in -IC, the prefix PER- or HYPER- is added; as, PER_iodic acid_. This
may be illustrated by the oxygen acids of chlorine:——
Hypochlorous acid (_acidum hypochlorosum_) HClO
Chlorous ” ( ” _chlorosum_) HClO_{2}
Chloric ” ( ” _chloricum_) HClO_{3}
Perchloric or}
Hyperchloric } ” ( ” _perchloricum_) HClO_{4}
=OXIDES.= The names of these have, in general, reference to the number of
atoms of oxygen which they contain. When a metal forms only one basic
compound with oxygen, this compound is simply called the oxide of such
base; but as most substances form more than one compound with oxygen,
certain prefixes are introduced to express the proportions. In such cases
it is generally found that one out of the number has a strongly marked
basic character, and contains 1 atom of each of its constituents. This is
called the oxide, protoxide, or monoxide, and forms the standard to which
those both above and below it are preferred. Thus, supposing M to be the
metal, we may have:——
Suboxide or dioxide (_suboxydum_, _dioxydum_) M_{2}O
Oxide, protoxide, or monoxide (_oxydum_, _protoxydum_) MO
Sesquioxide (_sesquioxydum_) M_{2}O_{3}
Binoxide, dioxide, or deutoxide (_binoxydum_,
_deutoxydum_) MO_{2}
Teroxide or trioxide (_teroxydum_, _tritoxydum_) MO_{3}
{That containing
{the _largest_
Peroxide (_peroxydum_) {proportion of
{oxygen.
SALTS.——_a._ Acids having names ending in -IC give rise to salts whose
names end in ATE; thus _nitr_IC acid yields _nitr_ATES, e.g. _nitrate of
silver_. -ATE is Latinised by -AS, e.g. _nitrate of silver_ becomes
_argenti nitr_AS.
_b._ Acids possessing names ending in -OUS form salts having names ending
in -ITE; thus _sulphur_OUS _acid_ produces _sulph_ITES, e.g. _sulphite of
sodium_. -ITE is Latinised by -IS; e.g. _sulphite of sodium_ becomes
_sulph_IS.
_c._ The preceding names are presumed to refer to neutral compounds. In
_acid_ salts the prefixes noticed above are added to express the
preponderance of the acid radical over the metal. KHSO_{4} is called _acid
sulphate of potassium_, BI_sulphate of potassium_, or BI_sulphate of
potash_, the neutral sulphate being K_{2}SO_{4}.
_d._ In _basic_ salts, or those in which the metal is in excess of the
acid radical, the prefixes -SUB and -DI are employed; _e.g._ the formula
of _neutral_ acetate of lead is PbĀ_{2}. This salt, when boiled with oxide
of lead (a base), furnishes [PbĀ_{2}PbO] and [PbĀ_{2}2PbO]. They are both,
therefore, _basic_ acetates; and to distinguish one from the other the
former is called DI_acetate_ and the latter TRI_acetate_ of lead; _-di_
referring to the presence of two atoms of lead and _-tri_ to three.
Formerly the salts of the metals of the alkalies and alkaline earths
received names which indicated the existence in them of the oxides of such
metals. Thus, the terms carbonate of soda, nitrate of potash, carbonate of
lime, sulphate of magnesia, names by which these fluids are still
designated by some chemists are now substituted by the more systematic and
less speculative names of carbonate of sodium, nitrate of potassium,
carbonate of calcium, and sulphate of magnesium. Another, and in the
opinion of the editor, a still better system of nomenclature is that in
which the metallic or basic radical is mentioned first; _e.g._ calcium
sulphate instead of sulphate of calcium, ammonium chloride for chloride of
ammonium. When the _same_ radicals form more than one series of salts,
each series is distinguished by appending the terminations -IC and -OUS to
that part of the name which refer to the basic radical; _e.g._ _mercur_OUS
_chloride_ (HgCl), _mercur_IC _chloride_(HgCl_{2}); _ferr_OUS _sulphate_
(FeSO_{4}), _ferr_IC _sulphate_(Fe_{2}(SO_{4})_{3}).
NON-METALLIC BODIES, &c. The names of the compounds formed by the union of
the non-metallic elements, and certain other bodies, with the metals and
with each other, either terminate in -IDE, Latinised by -IDUM, or in
-URET, Latinised by -URETUM; as, _arsen_IDE or _arseni_URET (_arsen_IDUM,
_arseni_URETUM), _brom_IDE, _carb_IDE or _carb_URET, _chlor_IDE, _cyan_IDE
_fluor_IDE, _hydr_IDE, _iod_IDE, _sulph_IDE or _sulph_URET, &c. The first
of these terminations now prevails among English scientific chemists. The
prefixes already noticed are also employed here.
METALS. The names of the metals (those of them, at least, that have been
given during the present century) end in -IUM or (less frequently) in -UM;
as _potass_IUM, _sod_IUM, _platin_UM. The Latin names of several of the
non-metallic elementary bodies also end in -IUM; as, _iodin_IUM,
_nitrogen_IUM, &c.
ALKALOIDS. The names of the organic bases which resemble the alkalies in
their properties end either in -IA, -NA, or -INE; as, _morph_IA, _qui_NA,
_strychn_INE. These terminations are now limited, as much as possible, to
substances exhibiting basic properties, but were formerly very loosely
applied.
Many chemists reject the first two terminations, and apply -INE to every
substance of this class; as, _morph_INE, _quin_INE, _anil_INE, &c.
OTHER ORGANIC SUBSTANCES. The names of organic radicles generally
terminate in -YL; as, _eth_YL, _meth_YL, _benz_OYL, &c.; they mostly
contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Compounds corresponding to the
electro-negative elements have the termination -OGEN, as _cyan_OGEN,
_amid_OGEN. Neutral compounds of carbon and hydrogen, mostly liquid, have
the termination -OL, or -OLE; as, _benz_OL, _pyr_OLE. Other neutral
substances, generally solid, have the termination -IN; as, _paraff_IN,
_naphthal_IN. Compounds resembling ammonia, and generally considered as
‘substitution compounds’ of that body, terminate in -AMINE; as,
_ethyl_AMINE, _propyl_AMINE.
The Latin genitive or possessive of the above compounds in——
-as is -atis
-is ” -itis
-icum ” -ici
-osum ” -osi
-idum ” -idi
-etum ” -eti
-ium ” -ii
-um ” -i
-ia }
-a } ” -æ
-na }
_Ex._ Acetas (acetate), acetatis of acetate; arsenis, arsenitis; citricum,
citrici; arseniosum, arseniosi; iodidum, iodidi; sulphuretum, sulphureti;
sodium, sodii; platinum, platini; morphia, morphiæ; quina, quinæ;
narcotina, narcotinæ. The genitives of common names vary with the
termination. Most of those ending in -a make æ, and most of those in -us
and -um make -i; but there are many exceptions, among which cornu (a horn)
and spiritus (spirit) which are unaltered in the genitive singular, may be
mentioned as examples.
=NORFOLK FLUID.= _Prep._ Take of linseed oil, 3 pints; black resin, 1/2
lb.; yellow wax, 12 oz.; melt, and add, of neat’s-foot oil, 1 quart; oil
of turpentine, 1 pint. Used to preserve and soften leather.
=NOR′IUM.= An unexamined metal, the oxide of which, according to Svanberg,
exists in certain varieties of ZIRCON.
=NOS′TRUMS.= See PATENT MEDICINES, &c.
=NOTICES.= The following sections of the Public Health Act refer to
serving and delivery of notices under that Statute:
(S. 266.) Notices, orders, and other such documents under the Public
Health Act may be in writing or print, or partly in writing and partly in
print; and if the same require authentication by the local authority, the
signature thereof by the clerk to the local authority or their surveyor or
inspector of nuisances shall be sufficient authentication.
(S. 267.) Notices, orders, or any other documents required or authorised
to be served under the said Act may be served by delivering the same to or
at the residence of the person to whom they are respectively addressed, or
where addressed to the owner or occupier of premises, by delivering the
same or a true copy thereof to some person on the premises, or if there is
no person on the premises who can be so served, by fixing the same on some
conspicuous part of the premises; they may also be served by post by a
prepaid letter, and if served by post shall be deemed to have been served
at the time when the letter containing the same would have been delivered
in the ordinary course of post, and in proving such service it shall be
sufficient to prove that the notice, order, or other document was properly
addressed and put into the post.
Any notice required to be given to the owner or occupier of any premises
may be addressed by the description of the ‘owner’ or ‘occupier’ of the
premises (naming them) in respect of which the notice is given, without
further name or description.
_Enforcing the Drainage of Houses._
(S. 23.) Notice is to be given to the owner or occupier, but in case of
the failure of either to comply, and the authority having to do the work,
the expenses fall on the owner.
_Insufficient Privy Accommodation._
(SS. 36 and 37.) The same procedure as under the above section.
_The Cleansing and Whitewashing of Houses._
(S. 46.) Notice to the owner or occupier.——
The person on whom the notice is served is liable to a penalty if it is
not complied with.
_The Removal of Manure or Filth, &c., in an
Urban District._
(S. 49.) Notice to be served on the person to whom the manure
belongs, or to the occupier of the premises whereon it exists.
If the urban authority have to remove it themselves, the expense
of removal falls upon the owner of the manure, &c., or the
occupier of the premises, or where there is no occupier, the
owner of the premises.
_In the case of Nuisances._
(S. 94.) Notice is to be served upon the person causing or
permitting the nuisance to remain, or, if he cannot be found, on
the owner or occupier of the premises on which the nuisance
arises; but if the nuisance arises from the want or defective
construction of any structural convenience, or where there is no
occupier, notice is to be served on the owner.
_In the case of Houses, &c., requiring Disinfection._
(S. 120.) Notice is to be given to the owner or occupier, and in
case of non-compliance, the person on whom the notice is served
is liable to penalties, and the expenses of the authority doing
the necessary works falls upon that person (with certain
exceptions, in case of poverty).
=NOVAR′GENT.= _Prep._ From recently precipitated chloride of silver by
dissolving it in a solution of either hyposulphite of sodium or of cyanide
of potassium. Used chiefly to restore old plated goods. The liquid is
rubbed over the metal to be coated with a little prepared chalk, and the
part is afterwards polished off with a piece of soft leather. A powder
recently sold under the same name is formed by mixing the preceding
article with chalk, and drying the mass. It is made into a paste with a
little water, spirit of wine, or gin, before applying it.
=NOVAUR′UM.= From a solution of neutral trichloride of gold, as the last.
=NOYAU.= _Syn._ CRÈME DE NOYAU. This is a pleasant nutty-tasted liqueur;
but from the large proportion of prussic acid which it contains, a small
quantity only should be taken at a time.
_Prep._ 1. Bitter almonds (bruised), 3 oz.; spirit (22 u. p.), 1 quart;
sugar, 1 lb.; (dissolved in) water, 3/4 pint; macerate for 10 days,
frequently shaking the vessel; then allow it to repose for a few days, and
decant the clear portion.
2. As the last, but substituting apricot or peach kernels (with the
shells, bruised), for the almonds.
3. To either of the above, add of coriander seed and ginger, of each,
bruised, 1 dr.; mace and cinnamon, of each 1/2 dr.
4. (Wholesale.) To plain cordial, at 54 to 60 u. p., containing 3 lbs. of
sugar per gallon, add, gradually, essence of bitter almonds, q. s. to
flavour.
5. (CRÊME DE NOYAU DE MARTINIQUE.) Loaf sugar, 24 lbs.; water, 2-1/2
galls.; dissolve, add, of proof spirit, 5 galls.; orange-flower water, 3
pints; bitter almonds (bruised), 1 lb.; essence of lemons, 2 dr.; as
above. See LIQUEURS.
=NUISANCE.= The following are the chief clauses of the Public Health Act
respecting nuisances:
_Definition of Nuisances._
1. Any premises in such a state as to be a nuisance or injurious to
health.
2. Any pool, ditch, gutter, water-course, privy, urinal, cesspool, drain,
or ashpit, so foul as to be a nuisance or injurious to health.
3. Any animal so kept as to be a nuisance or injurious to health.
4. Any accumulation or deposit which is a nuisance or injurious to health.
5. Any house, or part of a house, so overcrowded as to be dangerous or
injurious to the health of the inmates, whether or not members of the same
family.
6. Any factory, workshop, or workplace (not already under the operation of
any general Act for the regulation of factories or bakehouses) not kept in
a cleanly state, or not ventilated in such a manner as to render harmless
as far as practicable any gases, vapours, dust, or other impurities
generated in the course of the work carried on therein that are a nuisance
or injurious to health, or so overcrowded while work is carried on as to
be dangerous and injurious to the health of those employed therein.
7. Any fireplace or furnace which does not, as far as practicable, consume
the smoke arising from the combustible used in such fireplace or furnace,
and is used for working engines by steam, or in any mill, factory,
dye-house, brewery, bakehouse, or gaswork, or in any manufacturing or
trade process whatsoever; and——
Any chimney (not being the chimney of a private dwelling-house) sending
forth black smoke in such quantity as to be a nuisance;
Shall be deemed to be nuisances liable to be dealt with summarily under
the Public Health Act: Provided——
First. That a penalty shall not be imposed on any person in respect of any
accumulation or deposit necessary for the effectual carrying on any
business or manufacture, if it be proved to the satisfaction of the court
that the accumulation or deposit has not been kept longer than is
necessary for the purposes of the business or manufacture, and that the
best available means have been taken for preventing injury thereby to the
public health.
Secondly. That where a person is summoned before any court in respect of a
nuisance arising from a fireplace or furnace which does not consume the
smoke arising from the combustible used in such fireplace or furnace, the
court may hold that no nuisance is created within the meaning of this Act,
and dismiss the complaint, if it is satisfied that such fireplace or
furnace is constructed in such a manner as to consume as far as
practicable, having regard to the nature of the manufacture or trade, all
smoke arising therefrom, and that such fireplace or furnace has been
carefully attended to by the person having the charge thereof. (P. H., s.
91.)
The Act also defines and specifies:——1. The duty and powers of a local
authority to inspect a district with the view to an abatement of any
nuisance. 2. The process of information to be pursued in representing a
nuisance to any local authority. 3. Procedure on failing to comply with
notice. 4. The power of the court to make an order dealing with such
nuisance. 5. The penalty for neglecting to obey such order. 6. The power
of complaint by private individuals. 7. The power of the police to proceed
in certain cases. 8. The cost and expense of executing the provisions
relating to nuisances. 9. The power of sale of manure, &c. 10. The
supervision of nuisances caused by drains, privies &c. 11. The proceedings
to be taken in certain cases against nuisances in ships, &c.
=NUR′SING.= Milk is the natural food of the mammalia during the earlier
period of their existence. It contains all that is necessary for the
nourishment of their bodies, and on it they thrive and grow. Its secretion
only actively commences at the time when it is required for the sustenance
of the offspring, and it either materially lessens in quantity, or wholly
disappears, as soon as the necessity of its existence has passed away, and
the little being who depended on it has acquired sufficient age and
strength to exist on cruder aliment. The nursing mother, when in a state
of perfect health, and properly supplied with a sufficiency, without
excess, of nutritious food, elaborates this secretion in the fittest
condition to ensure the health and vigour of her offspring. Her bosom is
the fountain whence flows the beauty and stamina of the future adult, and
whilst giving strength and life to another, she increases and prolongs her
own.
The milk of woman varies with the food, health, age, &c., of the nurse.
That produced from a mixed animal and vegetable diet, neither acesces nor
coagulates spontaneously, like cows’ milk; and when gently evaporated in
an open vessel, “the last drop continues thin, sweet, and bland.” Acids
and rennet, however, coagulate it readily, and so does the gastric juice
of the infant, as shown by the condition in which it is often ejected by
the latter. The milk of a woman who lives wholly on vegetable food acesces
and coagulates with equal readiness and in a precisely similar manner to
cows’ milk. The quality of the milk also varies with the progress of the
digestion. Within the first hour or two after a meal it is thin and
serous, and then gradually improves in richness and flavour, until at
about the fourth or fifth hour it possesses these qualities in the highest
degree. This, then, is the period at which the infant should be applied to
the breast, which, according to the present habits of society, would be
during the hour immediately preceding each meal, except the breakfast.
After about the fifth or sixth hour the milk gradually loses its peculiar
colour and odour, until towards the tenth or twelfth hour after eating
food it becomes yellowish, bitter, and often nauseous; and in this
condition is frequently refused by the infant. This points out the
impropriety of a nurse fasting longer than 4 to 5 hours, except during the
night, when the period may be extended to 7 or 8 hours, but never longer.
The time after accouchement is another matter that influences the
character of human milk in respect of its wholesomeness for the infant.
The milk secreted soon after delivery is very thin and serous, but in the
course of a few days it becomes thicker, richer, and more nutritious; and
a gradual change in the same direction proceeds during the usual period of
suckling. When the mother suckles her own infant, or the “age of the
milk,” as the nurses say, corresponds to that of the child, all goes on
well; but when the former much exceeds the latter, the reverse is the
case. Thus, it is found that an infant is incapable of completely
digesting the milk of a nurse whose own child is much older than itself;
and that an infant of a few weeks old will often starve on the milk
intended by nature for one several times its age. It is, therefore,
necessary, in selecting a wet-nurse, to be certain that her condition, in
this respect, closely corresponds to that of the mother of the infant, or
that it does not differ, on this point, more than 3 or 4 weeks. In respect
of the use of high-flavoured or improper food and beverages, medicine,
&c., it appears that all these substances immediately affect the milk, and
impart to it more or less of their peculiar flavour and properties; and,
except with remedies administered under medical advice, in nearly all
cases prove injurious to the infant. The diet of a nurse should be
nutritious and succulent, and its healthy digestion should be promoted by
exercise and pure air. Strong liquors, more especially spirits, act like
slow poisons on the infant, and their habitual use by a nurse should,
therefore, be considered as a positive disqualification for the duties of
her office. The care of the mother or wet-nurse should be particularly
directed to the maintenance of her own health and equanimity, by which
both the health and good temper of the infant will be, as far as possible,
ensured. A grieving, irritable, or angry mother forces her bad qualities
on her offspring, in the shape of fits, convulsions, or hopeless marasmus.
See INFANCY, MILK, INFANTS, FOOD FOR, &c.
=NUT′MEG.= _Syn._ MYRISTICÆ NUCLEUS, NUCISTA, NUX MOSCHATA, N. MYRISTICA,
N. AROMATICA, MYRISTICA (B. P., Ph. L.), L. “The shelled seed of
_Myristica officinalis_ (Linn.; _M. moschata_——Thunberg),or nutmeg-tree.”
It is chiefly used as a spice and condiment, but it is also esteemed as an
aromatic in flatulency and diarrhœa.——_Dose_. Half a teaspoonful, or more,
grated. The distilled and expressed oils (OLEUM MYRISTICÆ) are also
officinal.
Of the different varieties of nutmegs met with in commerce, those known as
Penang are the most valuable. Next to these rank the Dutch or Batavian
kind, and after these the Singapore nutmegs. In the Dutch or Batavian
variety the exterior is composed of a number of white furrows, with brown
projections, which aspect is caused by their having been dusted over with
lime previous to their exportation. Besides the above, there is also a
very inferior description, known as the long or wild nutmeg, which are met
with either in the shell, out of the shell, or in the shell with the mace
attached.
Nutmegs are subject to the ravages of a worm which would seem to devour or
destroy their aromatic principle, since when attacked by this parasite
they lose both their odour and taste.
In 100 parts sound nutmegs contain——
Volatile oil 6·0
Liquid fat 7·6
Solid fat 24·0
Acid 0·8
Starch 2·4
Gum 1·2
Ligneous fibre 54·0
Loss 4·0
——————
100·0
(BONASTRE.)
=NUTRI′′TION.= The phenomena of life are accompanied by the constant and
unceasing waste of the materials of which the animal body is composed.
Every act of volition, every exertion of muscular power, every functional
action of the organism, whether perceptible or imperceptible and
involuntary, every play of chemical affinity and decomposition, even
thought itself, occasions the disorganisation and destruction, as living
matter, of a portion of ourselves. But the process of respiration, and the
various important changes with which it is connected, tends, more than all
the other vital functions, to waste the substance of the body, the
temperature of which it is its special office to support. This loss, this
change, which commences with life and terminates only with death, is
compensated for by the constant renewal of the whole frame by the
deposition and assimilation, or organisation, of matter from the blood,
which thus becomes gradually thinner and impoverished, unless, in its
turn, it receives a corresponding supply of its vital elements. This it
does from the food, which, by the functions of digestion, is converted
into a ‘chyle,’ and after being taken up by the ‘lacteals,’ passes into
the blood, of which it then becomes a part, and after being animalised and
rendered similar to the being it is destined to nourish, by the peculiar
action of the vital affinities, it attaches itself to those organs or
tissues, the loss of which it is intended to supply. This constitutes
nutrition.
The food of animals, or, rather, the nutritious portion of that food on
which we live, is wholly organic matter, and is either directly or
indirectly produced by the powers of vegetation from the inorganic world.
The plant elaborates food for the herbivora, and these, in their turn,
serve as food for the flesh-eating animals. In both cases the leading
alimentary principles are the same; the difference is in their
proportions. Flesh is identical in composition with blood, and with the
body of the animal that blood is destined to nourish. It abounds in
albumen, casein, and fibrin. The vegetable substances used as food also
contain nitrogenised principles of a precisely similar character and
chemical constitution to those found in flesh, and which we are,
therefore, bound to believe are absolutely the same. The gluten of wheat,
when purified from gliadin, presents all the characteristics of pure
fibrin. The albumen extracted from vegetable juices, when coagulated by
heat, cannot be distinguished from the boiled white of egg in a divided
condition. The legumen or vegetable casein of almonds, peas, beans, and
many of the oily seeds, bears the most striking resemblance to the casein
of milk. These facts clearly show that the leading nitrogenised principles
of animal bodies pre-exist in vegetables, and that the substances employed
as food must have the same, or nearly the same, chemical composition as
the body itself. The striking contrast of animal and vegetable food, as
far as this point is concerned, is more apparent than real. The actual
difference between the two is to be found in the existence of a large
quantity of non-nitrogenised matter (sugar, starch, &c.) in the last,
which is not contained in the other——matter which abounds in carbon, and
which, by its combustion in the system, serves to support the animal heat
at a less sacrifice of the organic fabric. In the flesh-eating animal the
waste of the organic tissues is very rapid, and the tax upon the vital
energies proportionate; for the temperature of its body is kept up, for
the most part, by the burning of the nitrogenised matter of which these
tissues are composed.
The process of digestion is that by which the available portions of the
food are reduced to a form adapted for absorption by the vessels by which
it is introduced into the system. In the flesh-eating animal this process
is extremely simple, and consists in the mere comminution of the food by
the teeth, and its reduction to the liquid state in the stomach, after
which, from the nature of its composition, it is nearly all taken up, and
at once conveyed into the blood. In the herbivora, however, the process of
digestion is much more complicated, and occupies a longer period. Besides
the ordinary principles of flesh, their food contains starch, sugar, gum,
&c., mixed with much inert vegetable fibre and other useless substances,
from which it must be separated. The first of these supply materials for
the waste and growth of the body, the second meet the requirements of
respiration, and the last pass unaltered through the alimentary canal.
The nature of the digestive process is not clearly established. The
principal objects effected appear to be the conversion of starch,
coagulated albumen, fibrin, casein, &c., into a liquid form. It is known
that the saliva contains a peculiar principle (ptyalin) resembling
diastase, capable of transmuting starch into sugar, and that when a little
starch is held in the mouth for a short time this change actually occurs.
It is also known that the gastric juice contains a peculiar organic
principle named ‘pepsin,’ and that this substance, in conjunction with
dilute hydrochloric acid, which is likewise present in the stomach,
possesses the property of dissolving the albuminous principles of food.
(See PEPSIN.) These changes occur whenever these conditions are
established out of the body, and hence it is inferred that the process of
digestion is effected by similar means. Of this, however, there is no
direct evidence.
The use of food, as already noticed, is twofold. It supplies the materials
of nutrition to balance the waste of the tissues continually taking place
in the body, and it conveys into the system those elements which, by their
chemical combinations, produce heat. To effect this purpose in the most
beneficial manner, the food should not only be sufficient in quantity, but
the proportions of its nitrogenised and carbonaceous principles should
bear such relations to each other as to amply meet the demands of the
system for each, without the existence, however, of an undue excess of
either.
When the muscular movements of a healthy animal are restrained, a genial
temperature kept up, and an ample supply of food containing much
amylaceous or oily matter given, an accumulation of fat in the system
rapidly takes place; this is well seen in the case of stall-fed cattle. On
the other hand, when food is deficient, and much exercise is taken,
emaciation results. These effects are ascribed to differences in the
activity of the respiratory function. In the first instance, the heat-food
is supplied faster than it is consumed, and hence accumulates in the form
of fat; in the second, the conditions are reversed, and the creature is
kept in a state of leanness by its rapid consumption. The fat of an
animal appears to be the provision of nature for the maintenance of life
during a certain period under circumstances of privation. Hence it is that
a lean animal suffers more from cold than a fat one, and is also sooner
starved.
“The origin of fat in the animal body has recently been made the subject
of much animated discussion; on the one hand, it was contended that
satisfactory evidence exists of the conversion of starch and saccharine
substances into fat, by separation of carbon and oxygen, the change
somewhat resembling that of the vinous fermentation; it was argued, on the
other side, that oily or fatty matter is invariably present in the food
supplied to the domestic animals, and that this fat is merely absorbed and
deposited in the body in a slightly modified state. The question has now
been decided in favour of the first of these views, which was enunciated
by Professor Liebig, by the very chemist who formerly advocated the second
opinion. By a series of very beautiful experiments, MM. Dumas and
Milne-Edwards proved that bees exclusively feeding upon sugar were still
capable of producing wax, which was pointed out as a veritable fact.”
Professor Liebig divided the principles found in food into two
classes:——plastic elements of nutrition, or flesh-and-blood-making
principles; and elements of respiration, or those which, by their
decomposition or combustion in the system, generate heat. They are as
follows:——
_Elements of Nutrition._ | _Elements of Respiration._
|
(Plastic or Nitrogenous.) | (Heat-producing.)
———————— | ————————
Animal flesh | Fat
Blood | Starch
Vegetable albumen | Gum
Vegetable casein | Cane sugar
Vegetable fibrin | Grape sugar
| Milk sugar
| Pectin sugar
| Alcohol
This division is in the main warranted by fact, but, no doubt, the
nitrogenous elements of food produce heat as well as the non-nitrogenous.
=NUX VOMICA.= _Syn._ KOOCHLA NUT, POISON N., VOMIT N.; NUCES VOMICÆ, NUX
VOMICA (B. P., Ph., L., E., & D.), L. “The seed of _Strychnos Nux vomica_,
Linn.” (Ph. L.), imported from the East Indies (B. P.). This drug is
chiefly known as a violent excitant of the cerebro-spinal system. In small
doses, frequently repeated, it is tonic, diuretic, and, occasionally,
laxative; in slightly larger ones, it is emetic; and, in large doses, it
is an energetic and fearful poison.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr.; in paralysis,
nervous affections, impotence, chronic dysentery, chronic diarrhœa, &c.
Its frequent use is said to render the system proof against the poison of
serpents. See STRYCHNINE, its active principle.
=OAK.= The British oak is the _Quercus Robur_ of Linnæus, of which there
are two varieties, _Q. peduncata_ and _Q. sessiflora_. The wood of the oak
is more durable than that of any other tree, and “for at once supporting a
weight, resisting a strain, and not splintering by a cannon shot, it is
superior to every other kind.” It, nevertheless, “warps and twists much in
drying; and, in seasoning, shrinks about 1-32nd of its width.” Foreign oak
is less durable, but more brittle and workable. The bark (OAK BARK;
QUERCÛS CORTEX, QUERCUS——B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.) is used as an astringent
and febrifuge, in doses of 30 to 120 gr., frequently; an astringent
decoction is also made of it, but its chief employment is in tanning
leather. The peculiar appearance of old oak or ‘wainscoting’ is given to
the new wood by exposing it, whilst very slightly damp, to the fumes of
ammonia.
=OAT.= _Syn._ AVENA, L. The common cultivated oat is the _Avena sativa_
(Linn.), a graminaceous plant, of which there are several varieties, as
the _Avena sativa alba_, or white oat; _A. s. nigra_, or black oat; the
potato oat, &c. Other species are also cultivated, as _Avena nuda_
(Linn.), pilcorn, or naked oat; _A. strigosa_, or Spanish oat, &c. The
seed (OATS; CARYOPSIDES, SEMINA AVENÆ CRUDA) form the common horse-corn of
this country, but in the northern parts of the country it is extensively
used as food for man. The husked grain constitutes GROATS, and its meal
OATMEAL. The latter does not form a dough with water, as wheaten meal or
flour does.
Oats consist of from 24% to 28% of husk, and 74% to 78% of grain.
According to M. Payen, they contain of starch, 60·59%; azotised matter,
14·39%; saccharine and gummy matter, 9·25%; fatty matter, 5·50%;
cellulose, 7·60%; silica and saline matter, 3·25%. The husks contain
between 6 and 7% of saline matter. (Prof. Norton.) The ash amounts to
2·18%, and consists of potassa and soda, 26·18%; lime, 5·95%; magnesia,
9·95%; oxide of iron, ·40%; phosphoric acid, 43·84%; sulphuric acid,
10·45%; chlorine,·26%; silica, 2·67%; alumina, ·06%. (Johnston.)
The yield of oats is from 20 bushels per acre in poor soils, up to 60, 70,
and even 80 bushels per acre in rich soils. The weight per bushel varies
from 35 to 45 lbs., and the product in meal is about one half the weight
of the oats.
[Illustration: White oat——Long, sect., 2nd and 3rd coats not separable.
_a._ Compound grains x 100; _b._ One do. x 500.]
A large proportion of the oats given to horses passes off undigested. It
has hence been proposed to prevent this loss, by either coarsely bruising
them in a mill, or by pouring boiling water over them, and allowing them
to macerate till cold, when they are to be given to the horses without
straining off the water. It is stated on good authority that oats thus
treated will not only fatten quicker, but go twice as far as without
preparation. Oat bruisers are now manufactured by most agricultural
implement makers.
Under the microscope the oat is seen to consist of two or three envelopes;
the outer being composed of longitudinal cells; the second obliquely
transverse and not very clearly seen; in this, the cells are wanting in
part or pass into the cells of the third coat; the third envelope consists
of a layer, usually single, of cells, like wheat. Before the envelopes are
searched for the husks must be removed. The starch-cells are small, many
sided, and cohere into round composite bodies, which are very
characteristic, and which, by pressure, may be divided into separate
grains. A high power is necessary for the examination of these latter. The
starch of the oat does not polarise light.
=OAT′MEAL.= _Syn._ AVENÆ FARINA, F. EX SEMINIBUS AVENÆ (Ph. D), L.
Oatmeal is the grain of the oat deprived of the skin, kiln-dried, and
afterwards ground. It is regarded as one of the most nutritious of our
cereals, being rich in nitrogenous matter, fat, starch, and sugar.
According to Letheby it contains in 100 parts:——
Nitrogenous matter 12·6
Carbo-hydrates 63·8
Fatty matter 5·6
Saline matter 3·0
Water 15·0
——————
100·0
Kreusler has shown that the nitrogenous principle of oatmeal contains
gluten-casein, a substance very similar to the legumin of peas and beans.
Letheby points out that, although it contains more nutrient material than
wheat, its higher price renders it less economical as an article of diet.
Oatmeal forms the staple of the food of the farm labourer both in Scotland
and in England, being consumed more largely by the Scotch than the English
peasant. Scotch oatmeal is superior to English in nutritive value.
Oatmeal, when mixed with water, does not possess sufficient tenacity to
enable it to be made into bread. It can, however, be baked into excellent
cakes, which, when made in Yorkshire, are leavened, and when in Scotland,
unleavened.
The qualities of indigestibility and a tendency to produce irritability of
the bowels and skin, have been ascribed to oatmeal; before it was so
prepared as to effectually remove from it the husk and hairs by efficient
screening, it was in Scotland a frequent source of intestinal concretion.
These concretions, the nature of which was unravelled by Dr Wollaston,
consisted principally of phosphate of lime mixed with the hairs and husks
of the oat.
Of thirty samples of oatmeal examined by the ‘Lancet Sanitary
Commissioner,’ no fewer than sixteen samples, or more than one half, were
adulterated. The substance generally used for this purpose is barley meal,
which is only half the price of oatmeal. Husks of barley, wheat, and of
the oat itself, are also frequently used. Rice and maize are also
sometimes added. That supplied to the army, navy, and the workhouses, was
very commonly adulterated with whiting, plaster of Paris, or ground bones.
The mineral sophisticant may be detected by the excess of ash, which
should not exceed 2·36 per cent. These frauds are readily detected by the
microscope.
_Grits_ or _Groats_ are the decorticated grain of the oat, which when
bruised or crushed constitute Embden groats. Flummery (known in Scotland
as _sowans_) is made by steeping the husks of the grain in water, until
they become slightly sour, the strained liquid being boiled down to the
consistence of gruel. Oatmeal soon becomes sour and rancid. It should be
purchased at such shops as have a quick sale for it. See ACARI,
STIR-ABOUT.
=OBE′′SITY.= _Syn._ OBESITAS, POLYSARCA, L. Unhealthy or troublesome
fatness or corpulency. Sometimes the secretion of fat, and its
accumulation in the adipose membrane, is almost as rapid as that of water
in anasarca; on which account some of the old writers have called obesity
a dropsy of fat. Persons in easy circumstances, of indolent habits, who
live freely, and who are of a cheerful and contented deposition, are those
most liable to obesity. The treatment consists in the very gradual
reduction of the diet, until it falls rather below the average quantity
required by a healthy adult; the very gradual disuse of fermented liquors,
more especially beer; the gradual abridgment of the time devoted to
repose, until it does not exceed 5 or 6 hours; the employment of several
hours daily in exercise in the open air, at first moderate, but increased
day by day in energy, until it becomes laborious; and, lastly, arousing
the mind from a state of lethargy to one of active or even harassing
employment.
In some cases the accumulation of fat has been enormous. Bright, of
Maldon, weighed 728 lbs.; Daniel Lambert, of Leicester, 739 lbs.; a girl,
4 years old, noticed in the ‘Phil. Trans.,’ 1813, weighed 256 lbs.
Persons affected with obesity are generally short-lived.
=OBSTRUCTION OF LOCAL AUTHORITY.= Various penalties are mentioned in
different sections of the Public Health Act for the offence of obstructing
officers, &c., representing the local authority, in carrying out the Act.
The following section, which we select, deals with the subject
generally:——
Sec. 306. “Any person who wilfully obstructs any member of the local
authority, or any person duly employed in the execution of this Act, or
who destroys, pulls down, injures, or defaces any board on which any
bye-law, notice, or other matter is inscribed, shall, if the same was put
up by authority of the Local Government Board or of the local authority,
be liable for every such offence to a penalty not exceeding £5.
“Where the occupier of any premises prevents the owner thereof from
obeying or carrying into effect any of the provisions of this Act, any
justice, to whom application is made in this behalf, shall by order in
writing require such occupier to permit the execution of any works
required to be executed, provided that the same appear to such justice to
be necessary for the purpose of obeying or carrying into effect the
provisions of this Act; and if within 24 hours after the making of the
order such occupier fails to comply therewith, he shall be liable to a
penalty not exceeding £5 for every day during the continuance of such
non-compliance.
“If the occupier of any premises, when requested by or on behalf of the
local authority to state the name of the owner of the premises occupied by
him, refuses or wilfully omits to disclose, or wilfully misstates the
same, he shall (unless he shows cause to the satisfaction of the court for
his refusal) be liable to a penalty not exceeding £5.”
=O′CHRES.= These are native earthy compounds of clay, coloured with oxide
of iron, with frequently a little chalk, or magnesia. The differences in
the colour arise partly from the quantity of iron present, and partly from
the state of oxidation in which the iron is found. Several varieties are
known in commerce——BROWN OCHRE, FRENCH O., OXFORD O., RED O., ROMAN O.,
YELLOW O. All these, with the exception of the first and fourth, have a
yellow colour. ARMENIAN BOLE, INDIAN RED, VENETIAN R., and SPANISH BROWN,
are also ochres.
All the ochres are darkened by calcination. The yellow ochres acquire a
red or reddish-brown colour by this treatment. The pigment called ‘light
red’ is thus prepared from yellow ochre.
=ODONTAL′GIA.= See TOOTHACHE.
=O′DORAMENTS.= _Syn._ ODORAMENTA, L. Substances employed in medicine on
account of their odour. They differ from disinfectants, in only
disguising, but not destroying, noxious vapours, &c. AMMONIA, STRONG
VINEGAR, and PASTILLES, furnish the most familiar examples of this class
of substances. See DISINFECTANTS, PERFUMES, &c.
=O′DOUR.= The emanation of an odoriferous or scent-giving body. See
PERFUMES.
=ŒNAN′THIC ETHER.= See ETHER (Œnanthic).
=OFFIC′INAL.= _Syn._ OFFICINALIS, L. A term applied to substances or
medicines ordered in the Pharmacopœia.
=OIL.= _Syn._ OLEUM, L.; HUILE, Fr. This name is given to numerous liquid
or semi-liquid substances, expressed or drawn from animal or vegetable
bodies; to various products of the distillation of bituminous minerals;
and to several unctuous mixtures in perfumery and pharmacy. To facilitate
reference, we have grouped the principal substances generally called
‘oils’ into classes, under the following heads:——OILS (Drying); OILS
(Empyreumatic): OILS (Fixed); OILS (Medicated); OILS (Mineral); OILS
(Mixed); OILS (Perfumed); OILS (Volatile). See these articles also
_below_:——
=Oil, Consol′idated.= _Syn._ CAMPTICON, FACTITIOUS CAOUTCHOUC. A substance
having most of the properties of india rubber, prepared by oxidising
boiled linseed oil, or any other oil that hardens on exposure to the
atmosphere. To obtain the solid oil, plates of glass are dipped into
linseed oil, the films are then allowed to dry, and the process is
repeated again and again until the plates are coated with many layers of
perfectly oxidised oil. Instead of plates of glass, extensive surfaces of
prepared cloth are employed when the manufacture is carried out on a large
scale. The solid oil, having been scraped or peeled off the surfaces, is
worked with a small proportion of shell-lac, by means of a mixing machine
with hot rollers, until a material singularly like caoutchouc is produced.
The consolidated oil can be rolled on to fabrics, so as to form a
waterproof cloth, having the finish and flexibility of rubber-cloth. By
the action of heat the consolidated oil may be converted into a hard
substance resembling vulcanite and ebonite. Its useful applications appear
to be very numerous, but its manufacture has not as yet made much
progress.
=OIL-GAS.= A mixture of several gaseous hydrocarbons, obtained by passing
common whale fat, resin, the heavy petroleum or shale oil, or the tarry
residues left after the distillation of these two latter substances, or
other cheap animal oil, through red-hot tubes, or by allowing it to fall
in drops on red-hot stones or bricks arranged in an iron retort, or other
suitable apparatus. The gas has great illuminating power, requires no
purification, and is quite free from the ammoniacal and sulphur compounds
which vitiate coal-gas. The sp. gr. of oil-gas varies with the heat
employed in its production. It averages from 0·76 to 0·90, but it may rise
as high as 1·1.
The composition of coal gas, as given by Payen, is as follows:——
+----------------------------+--------+-----------+
| | | Gas from |
| |Oil Gas.| Petroleum |
| | | residues. |
+----------------------------+--------+-----------|
| Olefiant gas and homologues| 22·5 | 17·4 |
| Marsh gas | 50·3 | 58·3 |
| Hydrogen | 7·7 | 24·3 |
| Carbonic oxide | 15·5 | —— |
| Nitrogen | 4·0 | —— |
+----------------------------+--------+-----------+
=OILS (Drying).= All the fixed oils have an attraction more or less
powerful for oxygen, and, by exposure to the air, they either become hard
and resinous, or they only thicken slightly, and become sour and rancid.
Those which exhibit the first property in a marked degree, as the oils of
linseed, poppy, rape, and walnut, are called ‘drying oils,’ and are used
as vehicles for colours in painting. The others are frequently termed
‘glutinous’ or ‘non-drying oils.’
The resinifying or drying property of oils is greatly increased by boiling
them, either alone or along with some litharge, sugar of lead, or white
vitriol, when the product forms the ‘boiled oil’ or ‘drying oil’ (oleum
desiccativum) of commerce. The efficacy of the process, according to
Liebig, depends on the elimination of substances which impede the
oxidation of the oil. The following formulæ are adopted for this
purpose:——
1. Linseed oil, 1 gall.; powdered litharge, 3/4 lb.; simmer, with frequent
stirring, until a pellicle begins to form; remove the scum, and when it
has become cold and has settled decant the clear portion. Dark coloured;
used by house-painters.
2. Linseed oil and water, of each 1 quart; white vitriol, in powder, 2
oz.; boil to dryness. Paler than the last.
3. Pale linseed or nut oil, 1 pint; litharge or dry sulphate of lead, in
fine powder, 2 oz.; mix, agitate frequently for 10 days, then set the
bottle in the sun or a warm place to settle, and decant the clear portion.
Very pale.
4. Linseed oil, 100 galls.; calcined white vitriol (‘sulphate of zinc’),
in fine powder, 7 lbs.; mix in a clean copper boiler, heat the whole to
285° Fahr., and keep it at that temperature, with constant stirring, for
at least one hour; then allow it to cool, in 24 hours decant the clear
portion, and in 3 or 4 weeks more rack it for use. Used for varnishes.
5. (Liebig.) Sugar of lead, 1 lb., is dissolved in rain water, 1/2 gall.;
litharge, in fine powder, 1 lb., is then added, and the mixture is gently
simmered until only a whitish sediment remains; levigated litharge, 1 lb.,
is next diffused through linseed oil, 2-1/2 galls., and the mixture is
gradually added to the lead solution, previously diluted with an equal
bulk of water; the whole is now stirred together for some hours, with
heat, and is, lastly, left to clear itself by exposure in a warm place.
The lead solution which subsides from the oil may be used again for the
same purpose, by dissolving in it another lb. of litharge, as before.
6. (Wilks.) Into linseed oil, 236 galls., pour oil of vitriol, 6 or 7
lbs., and stir the two together for 3 hours; then add a mixture of
fuller’s earth, 6 lbs., and hot lime, 14 lbs., and again stir for 3 hours;
next put the whole into a copper, with an equal quantity of water, and
boil for about 3 hours, lastly, withdraw the fire, and when the whole is
cold, draw off the water, run the oil into any suitable vessel, and let it
stand for a few weeks before using it. Patent.
7. (‘Allg. Polytech. Zeitung.’) Binoxide of manganese (in coarse powder,
but not dusty), 1 part; nut or linseed oil, 10 parts; mix, and keep the
whole gently heated and frequently stirred for 24 to 36 hours, or until
the oil begins to turn reddish. Recommended for zinc paint, but is equally
adapted for other purposes for which boiled oil is employed.
_Obs._ There is often a difficulty in obtaining the oils ‘bright’ after
boiling or heating them with the lead solutions; the best way, on the
small scale, is either to filter them through coarse woollen filtering
paper, or to expose the bottle for some time to the sun or in a warm
place. On the large scale, the finer oils of this kind are often filtered
through Canton-flannel bags. The litharge and sulphate of lead used in the
above processes may be again rendered available for the same purpose, by
washing them in hot water, to remove adhering mucilage.
=OILS (Empyreumat′ic.)= _Syn._ OLEA EMPYREUMATICA, L. The ’empyreumatic
oils’ of the old pharmaceutical writers were oily fluids obtained by the
dry distillation of various substances, animal, vegetable, and mineral.
But few of them are in use at the present day, though formulæ are given
for them in some of the foreign pharmacopœias. Two or three have useful
applications in the arts, and it is therefore necessary that we should
briefly describe their preparation. When the ingredients are of a liquid
or pasty nature, or become so when heated, they are usually mixed with
about twice their weight of sand, powdered glass, or other like substance,
to divide them, and thus expose them more effectually to the action of the
fire. Care must also be taken to provide a well-cooled receiver, which
must be furnished with a tube to carry off the non-condensable gases
liberated at the same time as the oil. The products of the first
distillation are generally purified by rectification, either alone or
along with water. In general, they require to be preserved from the light
and air.
The following are the principal substances belonging to this class:——
=Oil of Al′oes.= _Syn._ ALOETIC OIL; OLEUM ALOETICUM, L. 1. From Socotrine
or hepatic aloes distilled along with sand.
2. (Batavian——Cadet de Gassincourt.) Olive oil, 1 lb.; hepatic aloes and
myrrh, of each in powder, 2 oz.; olibanum, 1/2 oz.; distil in a sand bath,
from a stoneware retort. Used as an external vermifuge for children; a
portion is rubbed 2 or 3 times a day over the umbilical regions.
=Oil of Am′ber.= _Syn._ OLEUM SUCCINI, L. From coarse pieces of amber,
distilled in an iron retort, either alone or reduced to powder and mixed
with sand. The oil is separated from the fetid liquor and succinic acid
which passes over, and rectified along with about 6 times its volume of
water, by a gentle heat. It then forms ‘RECTIFIED OIL OF AMBER’ (OLEUM
SUCCINI——Ph. L. 1836, O. S. RECTIFICATUM——Ph. D. 1826, O. S.
PURISSIMUM——Ph. E. 1841). _Prod._ 20%.
_Prop., &c._ It has a pale yellow colour, a strong, ungrateful odour, and
a hot, acrid taste; heat and air blacken and thicken it; it boils at 186°
Fahr. Sp. gr. ·758 at 75° Fahr. It is antispasmodic, rubefacient, and
stimulant.——_Dose_, 5 to 12 drops, made into an emulsion with mucilage; in
hysteria, epilepsy, and convulsive affections. Externally, as a friction,
either alone or combined with laudanum or sweet oil, in rheumatism, tic
douloureux, hooping-cough, &c.
=Oil of Amber, Oxydated= (_Artificial Musk_). Pat into a cup 1 dr. of oil
of amber, and add to it, drop by drop, 3-1/2 fl. dr. of strong nitric
acid; let it stand for 36 hours, then separate and wash the resinous
matter. Antispasmodic and nervine.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr. For children, 1/2
gr. to 1 gr.
=Oil, An′imal.= 1. (Empyreumatic or Fetid; OIL OF HARTSHORN, DIPPEL’S O.;
OLEUM ANIMALE EMPYREUMATICUM, O. CORNU CERVI, O. DIPPELII, L.) Chiefly
obtained as a secondary product in the manufacture of bone-black. Fetid
and dark coloured. Used chiefly to make lampblack.
2. (Ethereal; RECTIFIED OIL OF HARTSHORN; OLEUM ANIMALE ÆSTHERIUM, O.
CORNU CERVI RECTIFICATUM, LOCO OLEI ANIMALIS DIPPELII, L.)——_a._ A finer
kind of animal oil, made by slowly distilling oil of hartshorn, and
collecting only the first portion that comes over. Pale and limpid.
Exposure to light discolours it.
_b._ (Ph. Bor.) Fetid animal oil distilled in a sand bath, and the product
rectified with four times its volume of water. White, limpid, fragrant.
Light discolours it.
_Prop._ The refined product is said to be antispasmodic, anodyne, and
diaphoretic.——_Dose_, 5 to 30 drops, in water; in large doses it acts as
an irritant poison.
=Oil of Birch.= _Syn._ OLEUM BETULÆ, L. From the inner bark of the birch,
by heating it in an earthen pot with a hole in the bottom, to allow the
oil to flow through into another jar sunk in the ground and luted to it.
Thick, balsamic, fragrant. Used chiefly to dress russia leather.
=Oil of Box-wood.= _Syn._ OLEUM BUXI, O. B. EMPYREUMATICUM (Ph. L. 1746),
L. From box-wood sawdust. Reputed resolvent; anodyne, antispasmodic, and
diaphoretic.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 drops; in convulsions, epilepsy, gonorrhœa,
&c. Externally, in toothache, &c.
=Oil of Bricks.= _Syn._ OLEUM LATERITIUM (Ph. L. 1746), L. From olive oil,
mixed with brickdust, and distilled; or, from hot bricks steeped in olive
oil, then broken to pieces, and distilled.
=Oil of Bricks (Factitious).= _Syn._ OLEUM LATERITIUM FACTITIUM, L. From
linseed oil, 1 lb.; oil of turpentine, 1/2 lb.; oil of bones or of
hartshorn and Barbadoes tar, of each 1 oz.; simply stirred well together.
This is generally substituted for the preceding in the shops.
=Oil of Cade.= _Syn._ OLEUM CADINUM, L.; HUILE DE CADE, Fr. From the
_Juniperus oxycedrus_ or Languedoc juniper. Used as oil of tar, which is
commonly sold for it.
=Oil of Coal.= _Syn._ COAL OIL. From the gas-works. See NAPHTHA.
=Oil of Gua′iacum.= _Syn._ OLEUM GUAIACI, O. G. EMPYREUMATICUM, L. From
guaiacum shavings or raspings. Reputed balsamic, pectoral, and resolvent.
=Oil of Harts′horn.= Bone oil and rectified bone oil are commonly sold for
it, but are inferior to it. See OIL, ANIMAL (_above_).
=Oil, Paper.= _Syn._ RAG OIL, PYROTHONIDÆ; OLEUM CHARTÆ, L. On the small
scale, by burning paper on a cold tin plate, and collecting the oil; on
the large scale, by the destructive distillation of paper or linen rags.
In baldness, toothache, ear-ache, &c.
=Oil, Par′affin.= See OILS, MINERAL.
=Oil, Petro′′leum.= See OILS, MINERAL, PETROLEUM.
=Oil, Rag.= See OIL, PAPER, _above_.
=Oil, Rock.= See NAPHTHA, OILS, MINERAL, PETROLEUM.
=Oil, Shale.= See OILS, MINERAL.
=Oil of Soot.= _Syn._ OLEUM FULIGINIS (Ph. L. 1746), L. From wood-soot.
Fetid; reputed antispasmodic and nervine.
=Oil of Tar.= _Syn._ SPIRIT OF T.; OLEUM PINI, O. P. RUBRUM, O. TÆDÆ, O.
PICIS LIQUIDÆ, L. By simple distillation from wood-tar. Reddish and strong
scented. By one or more rectifications it becomes colourless and limpid.
It soon gets thick. Used in ringworm and several other skin diseases, made
into an ointment with lard. It is poisonous if swallowed in large doses.
=Oil of Tobac′co (Empyreumatic).= _Syn._ OLEUM TABACI EMPYREUMATICUM (Ph.
U. S.), L. From tobacco, in coarse powder, gradually heated in a
green-glass retort to dull redness, and kept at that temperature as long
as any oil passes over; the oily portion is then separated from the water
in the receiver, and kept for use. Highly narcotic and poisonous.
=Oil of Wax.= _Syn._ OLEUM CERÆ, L. From beeswax and sand distilled
together; the product is rectified once or oftener. Reputed
diuretic.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 drops.
=OILS (Fixed).= _Syn._ FAT OILS, UNCTUOUS O.; OLEA FIXA, O. EXPRESSA, L.;
HUILES GRASSES, Fr. The fixed oils are compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and
oxygen (oxyhydro-carbons), obtained from the organic kingdom, and
characterised by their insipidity, unctuosity, insolubility in water, and
being lighter than that fluid. Olive oil, which is obtained from the
vegetable kingdom, and spermaceti oil, which is obtained from the animal
kingdom, may be taken as types of the rest.
The fixed oils are chiefly found in the fruit and seeds of plants, and in
thin membranous cells, forming what is called the adipose tissue, in the
bodies of animals. According to their consistence, they may be classed
into ‘OILS,’ ‘BUTTERS,’ and ‘TALLOWS,’
_Prop., &c._ Among the best-known properties of the fixed oils are——the
permanent stain they give to paper, which they render translucid; their
non-volatility at the ordinary temperature of the atmosphere, or at that
of boiling water, or, indeed, at any temperature insufficient for their
decomposition; their constantly floating on the surface of water when
added to it; and, lastly, their inability to mix with that fluid. Some of
them, as palm oil and cocoa-nut oil, are solid at ordinary temperatures;
but the majority are fluid, unless they have been considerably cooled,
when they separate into two portions——the one solid, consisting chiefly of
stearin, or some analogous substance, and the other liquid, consisting
chiefly of olein or elain. Nearly all of them, when exposed to the air,
absorb oxygen rapidly, and either gradually harden or become rancid and
nauseous. From the first are selected the ‘drying oil’ used by painters;
the last are used as food, in cookery, and for machinery, lamps, &c. The
whole of these oils, when heated to their boiling points (500° to 600°
Fahr.), suffer decomposition, yielding various hydrocarbons; and when
suddenly exposed to a red heat, they furnish a gaseous product (oil-gas),
which was formerly employed for illumination. It is owing to this property
of oil and liquid fats that candles and lamps give their light. The wick
is a gas-producing apparatus in miniature. With the caustic alkalies and
water the fixed oils unite to form soap. When some of these oils are
absorbed by porous bodies, and thus expose a vastly increased surface to
the air, they absorb oxygen with such rapidity as to generate a
considerable degree of heat. Paper, tow, cotton, wool, straw, shavings,
&c., slightly embued with oil, and left in a heap, freely exposed to the
air or sun, often spontaneously inflame. In this way many extensive fires
have arisen. The above is more particularly the case with linseed, rape,
nut, and olive oil. The first, made into a paste with manganese, rapidly
becomes hot, and ultimately inflames spontaneously.
The specific gravities of the fixed oils range between ·865 and ·970,
water being 1·000.
_Prep._ The fixed oils, except where otherwise directed, are obtained from
the bruised or ground fruit or seed, by means of powerful pressure, in
screw or hydraulic presses, and are then either allowed to clarify
themselves by subsidence or are filtered. Both methods are frequently
applied to the same oil. In some cases the impurities are removed by
ebullition with water, and subsequent separation of the pure oil. Heat is
frequently employed to increase the liquidity of the oil, and thus lessen
the difficulty of its expulsion from the mass. With this object the
bruised mass, placed in bags, is commonly exposed to the heat of steam,
and then pressed between heated plates of metal. This is always necessary
with the ‘butyraceous oils.’
Another method is by boiling the bruised seed in water, and skimming off
the oil as it rises to the surface. This is the plan adopted for castor
oil in the West Indies.
In a few cases, for medicinal purposes, the bruised mass is mixed with 1/2
its weight, or an equal weight, of alcohol or ether, and after 24 hours’
digestion the whole is submitted to pressure, and the alcohol or ether
removed by distillation at a gentle heat. The first menstruum is commonly
employed for croton oil on the Continent; the second, for that of ergot of
rye.
_Purif._ Several methods are adopted for refining or purifying the fixed
oils, among which are the following:——
1. The oil is violently agitated along with 1-1/2 to 2% of concentrated
sulphuric acid, when it assumes a greenish colour, and, after about a
fortnight’s repose, deposits much colouring matter, becomes paler, and
burns with greater brilliancy, particularly if well washed with steam or
hot water, and clarified by subsequent repose or by filtration. This
answers well for most of the recently expressed vegetable oils. It also
greatly improves most of the fish oils.
2. A modification of the last method is to well mix the acid with the oil,
then to blow steam through the mixture for some time, and afterwards to
otherwise proceed as before.
3. FISH OIL (WHALE, SEAL, &c.) is purified by——
_a._ Violently agitating it with boiling water or steam, by placing it in
a deep vessel with perforated bottom, through which high pressure steam is
forced for some time; it is afterwards clarified by repose, and filtered
through coarse charcoal.
_b._ The oil is violently agitated with a boiling hot and strong solution
of oak bark, to remove albumen and gelatin, and next with high-pressure
steam and hot water; it is, lastly, dried and filtered.
_c._ The oil, gently heated, is stirred for some time with about 1% of
good chloride of lime, previously made into a milk by trituration with
water; about 1-1/2% of oil of vitriol, diluted with 20 times its weight of
water, is then added, and the agitation renewed and maintained for at
least 2 hours; it is, lastly, well washed with steam or hot water.
_d._ Mr Davidson treats the oil first with a strong solution of tan, next
with water and chloride of lime, then with dilute sulphuric acid, and
lastly, with hot water.
_e._ Mr Dunn’s method, which is very effective, and admirable on account
of its simplicity, is to heat the oil by steam to from 180° to 200° Fahr.,
and then to force a current of air of corresponding temperature through
it, under a flue or chimney, until it is sufficiently bleached and
deodorised; it is, lastly, either at once filtered or is previously washed
with steam or hot water.
_f._ Another method, formerly very generally adopted and still in use, is
to violently agitate the oil for some time with very strong brine, or with
a mixed solution of blue vitriol and common salt, and then either to allow
it to clarify by repose or to filter it through freshly burnt charcoal.
4. ALMOND, CASTOR, LINSEED, NUT, OLIVE, RAPE, and some other vegetable
oils, are readily bleached by either of the following processes:——
_a._ Exposure in glass bottles to the sun’s rays, on the leads or roofs of
houses, or in any other suitable position, open to the south-east and
south. This is the method employed by druggists and oilmen to whiten their
castor and linseed oils. 14 to 21 days’ exposure to the sun in clear
weather during summer is usually sufficient for castor oil when contained
in 2 to 4-quart pale green glass bottles (preferably the former), and
covered with white gallipots inverted over them. The oil is filtered
before exposing it to the light, as, if only in a slight degree opaque, it
does not bleach well. Almond and olive oil are, when thus treated, apt to
acquire a slight sulphurous smell; but this may be removed by filtration
through a little animal charcoal, or, still better, by washing the oil
with hot water.
_b._ Another method employed to decolour these oils is to heat them in a
wooden, tinned, or well-glazed earthen vessel along with some dry
‘filtering powder’ (1 to 2 lbs. per gall.), with agitation for some time,
and lastly, to filter them in the usual manner through an oil-bag. In this
way the West-end perfumers prepare their ‘WHITE ALMOND OIL’ (OLEUM
AMYGDALÆ ALBUM), and their ‘WHITE OLIVE OIL’ (OLEUM OLIVÆ ALBUM).
Formerly, freshly burnt animal charcoal was used for this purpose, and is
still so employed by some houses.
5. Mr Bancroft refines OILS FOR MACHINERY AND LUBRICATING PURPOSES
generally, by agitating them with a lye of caustic soda of the sp. gr.
1·2. A sufficient quantity is known to have been added when, after repose,
a portion begins to settle down clear at the bottom. About 4% to 8% is
commonly required for lard oil and olive oil. After 24 hours’ repose the
clear supernatant oil is decanted from the soapy sediment, and filtered.
6. Not only the oils above referred to, but all other oils and fats, may
be rendered perfectly colourless by the use of a little chromic acid; or,
what is the same, by a mixture of a solution of bichromate of potassa and
sufficient sulphuric, hydrochloric, or nitric acid, to seize on all the
alkali, and thus liberate the chromic acid.
7. PALM OIL and COCOA-NUT OIL are generally refined and bleached by
either chromic acid or chlorine, or by heat:——
_a._ The ‘butyraceous oil’ is liquefied by heat in a wooden vessel, and 7%
to 9% of good chloride of lime, previously made into a smooth cream with
water, is added, and the whole assiduously stirred until the ingredients
appear united; the mixture is then allowed to cool, and is next cut up
into small lumps, which are exposed to a free current of air for 2, 3, or
even 4 weeks; these are melted in a wooden vessel heated by high-pressure
steam circulating through leaden pipes, or in a cast-iron boiler lined
with lead, and an equal weight of oil of vitriol (diluted with about 20
times its weight of water) is poured in, and the whole gently boiled until
the oil is discoloured and runs clear; the fire is then moderated, and the
whole allowed to settle; lastly, the fire is removed, and the oil is left
to cool very slowly.
_b._ The process with chromic acid has been already noticed, but is more
fully explained _below_.
_c._ The oil, heated to the temperature of about 250° Fahr., is exposed to
the action of high-pressure steam, which is continuously ‘blown’ through
it for 10 or 12 hours, or even longer. The process is greatly facilitated
by the introduction of some chromic acid.
8. Mr Watt’s methods of purifying fats and oils are very effective, more
especially for those intended for illumination. They are as follows:——
_a._ (For FISH OILS.) Each ton is boiled for 1/2 an hour with caustic
soda, 1/2 lb., previously made into a weak lye with water; or steam is
blown through the mixture for a like period; oil of vitriol, 1/2 lb.,
diluted with 6 times its weight of water, is next added, the whole again
boiled for 15 minutes, and allowed to settle for an hour or longer, when
the clear oil is run off from the water and sediment into the bleaching
tubs; here solution of bichromate of potash, 4 lbs., in oil of vitriol, 2
lbs., previously diluted with water, q. s., together with a little nitric
acid and some oxalic acid, are added, and after thorough admixture of the
whole, by blowing steam through it, strong nitric acid, 1 lb., diluted
with water, 1 quart, is poured in, and the boiling continued for 1/2 an
hour longer; a small quantity of naphtha or rectified spirit of turpentine
is then mixed in, and the oil is, finally, well washed with hot water, and
left to settle.
_b._ (For PALM OIL.) The oil is melted by the heat of steam, and, after it
has settled and cooled down to about 130° Fahr., is carefully decanted
from the water and sediment into the steaming tubs; here a mixture of a
saturated solution of bichromate of potash, 25 lbs., and oil of vitriol, 8
or 9 lbs., is added, and after thorough admixture, hydrochloric acid, 50
lbs., is poured in; the whole is then constantly stirred until it acquires
a uniform greenish colour, or is sufficiently decoloured, a little more
of the bleaching materials being added if the latter is not the case,
after which it is allowed to repose for half an hour to settle; it is next
run into a wooden vat, where it is washed, &c., as before.
_c._ (For VEGETABLE OILS.) These are treated with a solution of chromic
acid, or with a solution of bichromate of potassa, or some mineral acid,
as noticed at No. 6. For COLZA, LINSEED, MUSTARD, NUT, and RAPE OIL, a
little hydrochloric acid is added; but for ALMOND, CASTOR, OLIVE OIL, and
POPPY OIL, no such addition (at least in excess) is required.
9. RANCID OILS and FATS are recovered by boiling them for about 15 minutes
with a little water and calcined magnesia; or, by filtering them through
freshly burnt charcoal.
In reference to the above processes, it may be useful to remark, that
chlorine, the common bleacher and deodoriser of other substances, cannot
be well employed directly in the purification of oils, as certain chemical
reactions occur when these substances are brought together, which increase
the colour instead of removing it, and are often otherwise injurious. The
same remarks apply to the use of the ‘chlorides,’ which frequently fails
in unskilful hands, and is, indeed, of questionable utility, except,
perhaps, in the case of palm oil. Even charcoal exerts little of its usual
energy on the oils, and whilst it removes or lessens their offensive
odour, sometimes increases their colour. The addition of 1% or 2% of very
pure and recently rectified naphtha or oil of turpentine (camphine) to
lamp oil is a real improvement, since it increases its combustibility and
its illuminative power.
OILS FOR MEDICAL PURPOSES, as CASTOR OIL, COD-LIVER OIL &c., must not be
subjected to any process beyond mere clarification by subsidence,
filtration through Canton flannel or porous paper, or, at the utmost,
washing with warm water, as otherwise their active and valuable
properties, if not wholly removed, will be considerably lessened. See
FILTRATION.
_Purity._ The fixed oils vary greatly in their value, and hence the
constant inducement which leads the unprincipled dealer to adulterate the
more expensive ones with those of a similar character, but of an inferior
kind of grade. Various methods are adopted to detect these frauds, among
which the following are the most valuable of those capable of general
application. Others referring to individual oils will be found under the
respective heads.
1. (From the odour.) The method of applying this test is to heat a few
drops of the oil under examination in a small porcelain, platinum, or
silver spoon or capsule (a watch-glass answers well), and to carefully
compare the odour evolved with that arising from a known pure sample of
the same kind and quality of the oil similarly treated. The odour of the
two, when each is pure, is precisely alike, and immediately suggests the
plant or animal from which it has been obtained. The presence of LINSEED,
NUT, RAPE, SEAL, TRAIN, or WHALE OIL, is thus readily detected, and the
imperfections of the sample, even if pure, rendered much more perceptible.
2. (From the density.)——_a._ According to M. Penot, every oil supposed to
come from the same plant, or the same animal, has its own particular
density, which, at the same temperature, never deviates more than a few
thousandths. To apply this test, the relative density or specific gravity
of the sample must be determined. This may be done by means of a
thousand-grain bottle or an ordinary ‘AREOMETER,’ or, more conveniently,
by an ‘ELAÏOMETER’ or ‘OLEOMETER,’ constructed and graduated for the
purpose. ‘Fischer’s ELAÏOMETER’ or ‘OIL-BALANCE’ is much employed on the
Continent for this purpose, and is a very useful instrument. On the large
scale, the weight of an accurately measured imperial gallon of the oil may
be taken.
_b._ M. Lauret, an eminent Parisian chemist, a short time since observed
that the variations of the density of an oil from adulteration are
rendered much more apparent when it is examined in a heated state. To
render this discovery practically available, he plunges an ‘elaïometer,’
graduated for the given temperature, into a small tin cylinder nearly
filled with the oil, and then places this in a vessel containing boiling
water; as soon as the whole has acquired a uniform temperature, he
observes the point on the scale of the instrument at which it floats. This
point for——
Colza oil is 0°
Fish oil 83°
Poppy oil 124°
Hemp-seed oil 136°
Linseed oil 210°
_c._ By employing a specific gravity bottle or small glass globe, fitted
with a stopper in which is hermetically fixed a capillary tube of about 8
or 9 inches in length, we may apply the above principle of M. Lauret with
the greatest accuracy. This little apparatus is filled with the oil, and
then immersed in boiling water for a sufficient length of time for it to
acquire that temperature; it is then removed and weighed. The smallest
adulteration is, it is said, in this way immediately detected.
When the density of the given sample has been taken, and the name of the
oil used to adulterate it is known, the quantity of the latter present may
be approximately determined from the specific gravities by the common
method of alligation.[49]
[Footnote 49: See MIXTURES, Arithmetic of.]
3. (Sulphuric-acid test.)——_a._ Heidenreich was the first person who gave
a useful and general application to the reactions which occur when oil of
vitriol is mixed with the fatty oils. As soon as these substances are
placed together, very intense chemical action commences, the temperature
of the mixture rises, and the mass becomes coloured. These changes are
sufficiently varied in the case of the different oils to furnish us with
the means of identifying many of them, and of determining their purity.
The method of M. Heidenreich is to lay a plate of white glass over a sheet
of white paper; on the glass he places 10 or 15 drops of oil, and then
adds to it a small drop of concentrated sulphuric acid (‘oil of vitriol’).
The appearances which follow differ with the character of the fatty oil
examined, and whether the acid is allowed to act on the oil undisturbed
(without stirring) or the two are stirred together with a glass rod. In
many cases, as with tallow oil, a peculiar odour as well as a change of
colour is developed, and a further means of detection supplied. M.
Heidenreich has minutely described these reactions, which, for the most
part, closely resemble those given in the table, p. 1129. It is necessary,
however, in order to ensure great accuracy, to compare the effect of the
reagent on the sample with those which it produces on pure oil of the same
kind and character under precisely similar circumstances.
_b._ M. Penot, who has followed up the researches of M. Heidenreich with
considerable success, recommends the employment of 20 drops of oil,
instead of only 10 or 15; and the use of a small capsule of white
porcelain, instead of a plate of glass. He also employs a saturated
solution of bichromate of potash in sulphuric acid, which he uses in the
same proportion as before; but in this case the oil and the reagent are
always stirred together.
The observations of M. Penot have been repeated in many cases by Mr
Cooley, and the results, with additions, and rearranged, are given in the
table, p. 1129.
“By perusing this table,” writes M. Penot, “it will be observed that the
same oil does not, under all circumstances, yield precisely similar
results with the same reagent. This depends on the place of growth, the
age, and the manner of pressing. If, however, any oil be examined
comparatively with a perfectly pure one, the proof of adulteration may be
rendered, if not certain, at least probable, by noting the difference.
Thus I obtained, by adding 1 part of either whale-train, or linseed oil,
or oleic acid, or 10 parts of rapeseed oil, the following results:——
+-------------------+---------------------------------------------------------+
| | REAGENTS. |
| +-----------------------------------+---------------------+
| NAME OF OIL. | Sulphuric Acid. | Solution of |
| | |Bichromate of Potash.|
| +--------------------+--------------+---------------------+
| | _Not stirred._ | _Stirred._ | _Stirred._ |
+-------------------+--------------------+--------------+---------------------+
|Rape oil with |More red ground |Brownish-olive|Small reddish lumps |
| whale-train oil | than with rape oil| coloured | on a grey ground. |
| | | | |
|Rape oil with |No perceptible |Olive coloured|Small and more |
| linseed oil | difference from | | numerous red lumps |
| | the rape oil | | on a very |
| | | | dark-green ground. |
| | | | |
|Rape oil with olein|No perceptible |Greenish brown|Small brownish |
| or oleic acid | difference from | | lumps on an |
| | the rape oil | | olive-coloured |
| | | | ground. |
+-------------------+--------------------+--------------+---------------------+
“The adulteration being ascertained as far as is possible, the oil is then
tested by endeavouring to discover the adulterating oil, either by
reagents or by its odour when gently heated, as before described. This
having been found out, small quantities of the suspected oil are added to
a perfectly pure oil of the kind under examination. Every mixture is then
tested by the reagents, until precisely similar results are obtained as
those yielded by the oil under examination. Thus, the proportions of the
two mixed oils will be discovered by approximation.” (M. Penot.) A simpler
method of finding the proportions of the so mixed oils is referred to
above.
4. (From increase of temperature.) M. Maumené proposed the increase of
temperature arising from the admixture of monohydrated sulphuric acid (oil
of vitriol, sp. gr. 1·845) with the fatty oils as a test of their purity,
but a sufficient number of observations have not yet been made to furnish
data for a general application of this method. According to MM. Faisst and
Knauss, who have re-examined the subject, the following are the results
when 15 grammes of oil are mixed with 5 grammes of the acid:
_Rise of Temperature._
Almond oil 72·5°
Olive oil 68·0°
Poppy oil 127·0°
Rape or colza oil 100·0°
Linseed oil (with Nordhausen
or fuming acid only) 133·0°
The above method is less liable to error when a larger quantity of the
substances are thrown together.
5. The presence of FISH OIL in the vegetable oils may be readily detected
by passing a stream of chlorine through them; the pure vegetable oils are
not materially altered, but a mixture of the two turns dark brown or
black.
6. Mr Coleman states that the presence of mineral oils in animal or
vegetable oils can be easily detected by two characteristic tests——(1) the
fluorescent properties they impart to all animal or vegetable oils. (2)
The strongly marked aromatic burning flavour they communicate to mixtures
containing them. The first-mentioned property is brought out by smearing a
metallic surface, such as tin plate or steel, with the oil, and then
viewing it at different angles in the open air or sunlight. Mr Coleman
suggests that, in examining a dark-coloured oil, it may first be necessary
to refine the sample by successive treatments with concentrated sulphuric
acid and weak soda solution or lime water, so small a quantity as 2-1/2
per cent. may then be detected by the bluish colour noticed on viewing the
oil at certain angles and by tasting it.
The absence of resin oil must also be proved. Nitric acid is said to be a
good test, as the colour developed is much greater than in pure oils.
Sometimes it may be detected by the smell. The presence of 10 per cent. of
resin or mineral oil in non-drying oils delays their solidification with
the nitrate of mercury test.[50]
[Footnote 50: ‘Journal of Applied Chemistry,’ Dec., 1874.]
7. Miss Kate Crane[51] states that the cohesion figures of oils may be
usefully employed as tests of the identity and purity of the oils. She
says, “A number of experiments on this subject have led her to the
conclusion that a little patient practice will teach the eye of the
observer in a short time to detect the characteristic differences of the
figures. To make these perfect it is necessary to observe the time in
forming, for _at different periods_ some varieties form figures very like;
but with this precaution each is entirely characteristic.
[Footnote 51: ‘American Journal of Pharmacy,’ iv, 406.]
“It is essential that the dish used, &c., be perfectly clean, so that when
filled with water no dust or lint floats upon the surface, as this
materially interferes with the perfect formation of the figure.
“A single drop is let fall from a burette or glass rod held steadily above
the water, upon the centre of the surface. The experiments made with fixed
oils are as follows:——_Poppy-seed oil_ spreads instantly to a large
figure, retaining an entire outline, and for a few seconds the surface is
unbroken, except the bare intimation of a beaded edge.
“In a few moments little holes appear round the edge, and soon the whole
surface is broken in like manner; these increase in size very slowly. In
fifteen minutes the edge begins to open, forming indentations, which
gradually work their way across the figure. As they increase in length
these begin to curve, and in three quarters of an hour have doubled
themselves two or three times.
“_Cod-liver oil_ spreads in a large film; a little way from the edge a row
of small holes appears, and in a minute or two the surface is covered with
them; these gradually enlarge, assuming irregular shapes, soon separated
by branching lines.
“_Cod-liver oil_ with _lard oil_ spreads very like the former, but in a
few moments the edge opens, and the film separates partly across; in a
moment one of the projecting points begins to curve itself towards the
centre, bending more and more until it forms a coil; meanwhile a few holes
have appeared, which spread irregularly, throwing out projecting points.
“_Castor oil_ spreads instantly, the edge remaining entire; openings
appear quickly in thirty seconds, and increase gradually, but unevenly,
those nearer the edge being larger, and lengthening out irregularly as
they spread. The figure lasts some time.
“_Castor_ with a little _lard oil_ makes a smaller figure, and not nearly
so much broken; in five minutes the holes open into each other, and the
figure breaks up from the edge.
“A mixture of _castor_ and _poppy-seed oils_ spreads to form a lacework
border, but smooths out to an entire edge soon, and within a few seconds
openings appear. The figure, in size and general appearance, is more like
castor oil alone, but the holes spread less uniformly in a given time, a
few being larger, but the greater portion much smaller. In fifteen minutes
there is a general tendency to break up.
“_Castor_ with a little _croton oil_ throws out a spray, which in a few
moments unites into a thin film. The spray, as it spreads, draws out the
inner portion into radiate points, which open into a beautiful network,
the centre cohering closely.
“_Croton oil_ throws out, in spreading, a fine spray in advance of the
more closely cohering portion, which follows quickly. The outer edge
breaks up unevenly into little indentations, the border of the inside
portion being quite broken, but gradually becomes nearly entire. The
surface, too, has openings, which increase quite rapidly in size, the
outer ones being much the larger. In the final breaking up, before the
holes open one into another, the outlines are beautifully fringed.
8. “Spontaneous combustion ensues when a handful of cotton waste is embued
with oil and placed in an air bath at 130° to 200° F. Boiled linseed oil
required 1-1/4 hour; raw linseed oil, 4 hours; lard oil, 4 hours; refined
rape about 9 hours.”[52]
[Footnote 52: J. J. Coleman, ‘Journal of Applied Chemistry,’ Dec., 1874.]
Mr Gellatly found that an admixture of 20 per cent. of mineral oil
retarded combustion, and 50 per cent. prevented it completely.
M. Burstyn,[53] believing that the value of a fatty oil as a lubricant
depends on the amount of acid it contains, has invented a method for
volumetrically determining the acidity. The process is as follows:——A tall
cylindrical vessel, provided with a ground-glass stopper, and having two
marks on it to indicate respectively 100 cubic centimètres, and 200 cubic
centimètres, is filled to the first mark with the oil to be tested, and to
the second mark with 88 to 90 per cent. alcohol. The cylinder is then
closed and well shaken. Equal quantities other than 100 cubic centimètres
can be employed without any other change in the process. After standing
two or three hours the oil settles, and the clear alcohol, which contains
in solution the free acids and a little of the oil, rises to the top
perfectly clear; 25 cubic centimètres of the clear alcohol is taken from
the top by means of a pipette. A few drops of alcohol extract of turmeric
is added, and the acid determined by means of a standard solution of
potash, as in acetometry. The change from yellow to brownish red takes
place with great sharpness when neutralisation is reached.
[Footnote 53: Ure’s ‘Dictionary of Arts,’ &c.]
The number of cubic centimètres of potash employed, multiplied by four,
gives the quantity of normal solution requisite to neutralise the free
acid in 100 cubic centimètres of oil. As it is not an individual acid, but
a variable mixture of acids, it is not possible to calculate the
percentage of acids present. These numbers, however, may be taken as
degrees of acidity. For instance, an oil of 3° of acidity is one which
contains enough free acid to neutralise 3 cubic centimètres of normal
alkali.
If we assume that oleic acid predominates, which in most cases is the
fact, 1° of acidity correspond to 0·28 per cent. by weight of oleic acid.
The olive oil of commerce has an acidity ranging from 0·4° to 12°. The
first passes as very fine, and is called free from acid or salad oil,
while the latter is known by smell and taste as very rancid. Oil that has
4° to 6° of acidity has been found to answer very well as a lubricator.
What relation there exists between the degree of acidity and any injurious
effect upon metals is shown by the following experiments:——Four shallow
vessels of sheet brass, having a surface of 40 square centimètres each, at
the bottom, were filled to the depth of 2 millimètres, with oils of
different acidity, and exposed to the air at the ordinary temperature. The
vessels were soon more or less covered with green fatty salts, and the oil
too acquired a green colour. Oil and vessel No. 1 were the only ones in
which no change could be perceived. At the end of 3 days the vessels were
cleaned with ether and weighed. The following table shows the amounts of
action:
Vessel No. 1, filled with oil of 0·8° lost 0·03 gr.
” No. 2, ” 4·6° ” 0·22 ”
” No. 3, ” 7·8° ” 0·36 ”
” No. 4, ” 8·8° ” 0·04 ”
The quantity of metal destroyed, in equal times and under equal
conditions, increases with the acidity of the oil.
The table on page 1128, by Mr Bottome, describes the most striking
physical properties of some of the principal fixed oils.
⁂ The following are the principal fixed oils met with in commerce, or
which are objects of interest or utility:
=Oil of Al′monds.= _Syn._ OLEUM AMYGDALÆ (B. P., Ph. L), O. AMYGDALARUM
(Ph. D.), O. AMYGDALI COMMUNIS (Ph. E.), L. “The oil expressed from the
kernels.” (Ph. L.) “Bruise the fresh almonds in a stone mortar, then put
them into a hempen sack, and express the oil, without heat.” (Ph. E.) The
oil of almonds B. P. and of commerce is obtained from either the bitter or
sweet almond, but chiefly from the first, on account of their less value,
and the marc being employed in the manufacture of essential oil.
_Prop., &c._ Oil of almonds is black, demulcent, emollient, and
nutritious; possesses a purely oleaginous taste, and is one of the most
agreeable of the fixed oils; when taken in quantity it is mildly laxative;
it is little affected by cold, and congeals with difficulty; is soluble in
35 parts of cold and 6 parts of boiling alcohol; ether dissolves it
freely. Sp. gr. ·915 to ·918. _Av. prod._ Sweet almonds, 46%; bitter a.,
41%.
_Pur._ It is extensively adulterated with poppy, nut, and teel oil, and
not unfrequently with refined rape or colza oil. (See _above_.)
=Oil of Bay.= 1. (EXPRESSED O. OF B.; OLEUM LAURI, O. LAURINUM, L.) By
expression from either fresh or dried bayberries, as castor oil. Limpid;
insipid.
2. (By decoction; BUTTER OF B.; OLEUM LAURI NOBILIS, O. L. VERUM, L.) From
the berries, by boiling them in water, and skimming off the oil. Green,
buttery; chiefly imported from Italy. Used by the vulgar in bruises,
sprains, rheumatism, deafness, &c. _Prod._ 20%.
=Oil of Beech.= _Syn._ OLEUM FAGI, L. From the nuts of _Fagus sylvatica_
(Linn.) or beech mast. Clear; keeps well; when washed with hot water, it
is used for salads, and burnt in lamps. Sp. gr. ·9225. _Prod._ 16%.
=Oil of Belladon′na.= _Syn._ OLEUM BELLADONNÆ SEMINUM, O. B. BACCÆ, L.
From the seeds or berries of _Atropa belladonna_ or deadly nightshade.
Yellow; insipid. Used for lamps in Swabia and Wurtemberg, and as an
application to bruises. The marc is poisonous. It freezes at 34° Fahr. Sp.
gr. ·9250.
=Oil of Ben.= _Syn._ OIL OF BEHEN; OLEUM BALATINUM. From the seeds of
_Moringa pterygosperma_ (ben nuts). Scentless, colourless; keeps long
without growing rank; by standing, it separates into two parts, one of
which freezes with difficulty, and is hence much used in perfumery.
=Oil of Benne Seed.= See OIL OF GINGELLY.
=Oil of Brazil-nuts.= _Syn._ OLEUM BERTHOLLETIÆ. From the kernels of the
fruit of _Bertholletia excelsa_, or Brazil-nuts. An oil of a bright amber
colour, congealing at 24° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·917. It has been used as a
substitute for olive oil in plasters and ointments.
=Oil of Caca′o.= _Syn._ BUTTER OF C.; OLEUM CACAO CONCRETUM, BUTYRUM
CACAO, L. From the seeds of _Theobroma Cacao_, or chocolate
nuts, gently heated over the fire, and then decorticated, and pressed
between hot iron plates. Sp. gr. ·892.
Column headings:
A. Name of Oil.
B. Specific Gravity at 15°C., Water = 1,000.
C. Combustibility. Grms. consumed per hour in a Lamp with Wick.
D. Freezing Point in degrees Centigrade.
E. Colour.
F. Taste.
G. Smell.
H. Limpidity. Time (in seconds) required to trickle a given distance.
I. Drying Power.
+-------------+------+----+------+-------------+-------------+------------+------+-------------+
| A. | B. | C. | D. | E. | F. | G. | H. | I. |
+-------------+------+----+------+-------------+-------------+------------+------+-------------+
|Plum kernel |0·9127|68 | -9 |Brownish |Amygdalaceous|Very slight | 93 |Non-drying. |
| | | | | yellow | | | | |
|Rape seed |0·9128|30 | -4 |Yellow |Nauseous |Nauseous | 159 |Non-drying. |
|Colza |0·9136|40 | -9·25|Yellow |Nauseous |Nauseous | 162 |Non-drying. |
|Cabbage seed |0·9139|48·5| -8 |Yellow |Nauseous |Nauseous | 148 |Non-drying. |
|White mustard|0·9142|29·8|-16·25|Light |Pleasant |Very slight | 157 |Non-drying. |
| | | | | yellow | | | | |
|Ground nut |0·9163| ? | -3 |Pale greenish|Like peas |Like peas |Not |Non-drying. |
| | | | | yellow | | |tested| |
|Black mustard|0·9170|25 |-17·5 |Yellow |Pleasant |Very slight | 141 |Non-drying. |
|Olive |0·9176|62 | -6[54]|Yellow |Sweet |Peculiar | 195 |Non-drying. |
|Sweet almond |0·9180|52·8|-21·5 |Amber |Agreeable |None | 150 |Non-drying. |
|Horse-radish | | | | | | | | |
| seed |0·9187|43 |-16·25|Yellowish |Pleasant |None | 143 |Non-drying. |
| | | | | brown | | | | |
|Grape seed |0·9202|37 |-16·25|Gold yellow |Sweet |None | 99 |Dries slowly.|
|Beech nut |0·9225|50 |-17·5 |Amber |Very sweet |None | 158 |Non-drying. |
|Pumpkin |0·9231|43 |-15 |Pale brown |Sweet |None | 185 |Dries slowly.|
| | | | | yellow | | | | |
|Land-cress |0·9240|42 |-15 |Brownish |Acrid |Disagreeable| 103 |Dries slowly.|
| | | | | yellow | | | | |
|Hazel nut |0·9242|53·4|-10 |Amber |Sweet |None | 166 |Non-drying. |
|Poppy |0·9243|31 |-18[55]|Pale yellow |Flat |None | 123 |Drying. |
|Camelina |0·9252|34 |-18 |Yellowish |Peculiar |Peculiar | 119 |Drying. |
|Walnut |0·9260|45 |-27·5 |Light yellow |Flat |None | 88 |Drying. |
|Sunflower |0·9262|51·8|-16 |Colourless |Sweet |None | 114 |Dries slowly.|
|Hemp seed |0·9276|46 |-27·5 |Dark greenish|Disagreeable |Disagreeable| 87 |Drying. |
| | | | | yellow | | | | |
|Cotton seed |0·9316| ? | -2·5 |Reddish brown|Strong |None |Not | |
| | | | | | | |tested|Drying. |
|Sesame |0·9320| ? | -5 |Bright yellow|Pleasant, |None |Not |Non-drying. |
| | | | | | slightly | |tested| |
| | | | | | piquant | | | |
|Linseed |0·9347|38 |-27 |Dark greenish|Strong |Disagreeable| 88 |Drying. |
| | | | | yellow | | | | |
|Wood |0·9358|44 |Not |Green |Unpleasant |None | 73 |Drying. |
| | | |noted | | | | | |
|Spindle |0·9360|61 |-20 |Reddish brown|Acrid |Slight | 143 |Non-drying. |
|Castor |0·9611|47 |-18 |Colourless |Sickly |Very slight |1,830 |Dries slowly.|
+-------------+------+----+------+-------------+-------------+------------+------+-------------+
[Footnote 54: Though these oils do not become quite solid till the point
indicated is reached, yet they begin to become grainy at +4° C.]
[Footnote 55: Once solidified, this oil does not liquify until the
temperature reaches 2°C.]
TABLE _giving the reactions of various_ OILS _with_
SULPHURIC ACID _and with a saturated solution of_
BICHROMATE OF POTASH _in sulphuric acid_.
Re-arranged from M. PENOT’s table, with additions,
by Mr COOLEY.
⁂ _The result indicated is obtained in each case by the action of_ one
drop _of the_ REAGENT _on_ twenty drops of OIL.
---------------------+--------------------------------------------------------+
| REAGENTS |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| | Saturated Solution of |
NAME OF OIL | Sulphuric Acid | Bichromate of Potassa |
| | in Sulphuric Acid |
+------------------+-------------+-----------------------+
| _Not stirred_ | _Stirred_ | _Stirred_ |
---------------------+------------------+-------------+-----------------------+
Almond oil |Greenfinch yellow,| Dirty green |Yellowish, small lumps |
|with orange spots | | |
| | | |
Castor oil |Yellow, with |Little |Slightly green |
|slight spots |reaction | |
| | | |
Cod-liver oil |Deep purple in |Deep purple, |Reddish-brown clots, |
(_fine sample |the centre, |passing into |changing to a clear |
of pale oil_) |rapidly turning |purple brown,|bright green |
|brown, whilst |reddish | |
|violet or purple |brown, and | |
|clouds or streaks |gradually | |
|spread out towards|deepening to | |
|the circumference,|an intense | |
|the colour of |brown, | |
|which remains |approaching | |
|minutes after the |black | |
|central portion | | |
|turned nearly | | |
|black | | |
| | | |
Hemp-seed oil |Small brown lumps |Greenish |Small yellow lumps or |
|or clots on a |brown |clots on a green |
|yellow ground | |ground |
| | | |
Linseed oil | | | |
(_from the | | | |
Upper Rhine_) |Dark reddish brown|Brown small |Brown small lumps on |
| |lumps on a |an almost colourless |
| |grey ground |ground |
| | | |
| | | |
(_from Paris_) |Reddish brown, |Brown clots |Brown small lumps on a |
|less dark coloured|on a green |green ground |
| |ground | |
| | | |
(_English_) |Chestnut brown |Brown clots |Brown lumps on a |
| |on a |greenish-grey ground |
| |greenish-grey| |
| |ground | |
| | | |
Liver-train oil |Dark red |Dark red |Dark red |
| | | |
Madia-sativa oil |Slightly reddish |Olive green |Light brown small lumps|
|brown underneath | |on an olive-coloured |
|a thin greyish | |ground |
|film | | |
| | | |
Black-mustard oil |Bluish green |Olive green |Olive brown |
| | | |
Neat’s-foot oil |Yellow slight |Dirty brown |Brown spots on a |
|spots | |brownish ground |
| | | |
Nut oil | | | |
(_recent_) |Yellowish brown |Clotted, dark|Small brown lumps or |
| |brown |clots |
| | | |
(_one year old_) | Yellow |Dirty brown, |Small brown lumps |
| |less dark | |
| |coloured | |
| | | |
(_still older_) |Orange yellow |Dirty brown |Small brownish lumps |
| | | |
Olein, oleic acid, | | | |
lard, or tallow oil |Reddish spots, |Reddish brown|Bright chestnut colour |
|with reddish | | |
|circles | | |
| | | |
Olive oil |Yellow |Dirty brown |Olive brown |
| | | |
(_another | | | |
sample_) |Orange yellow |Brownish grey|Brown |
| | | |
(_from fermented | | | |
olives_) |Orange yellow |Brownish grey|Brown |
| | | |
Poppy oil | | | |
(_recent cold | | | |
drawn_) |Yellow spots |Olive brown |Small yellow lumps on a|
| | |white ground |
| | | |
(_recent_ | | | |
expressed with slight| | | |
heat) |Greenish-yellow |Olive brown, |Small yellow lumps on a|
|spots |turning more |greenish-grey ground |
| |on the green | |
(_one year old, | | | |
expressed with | | | |
heat_) |Greenish spots |Olive green |Small yellow lumps on a|
| | |green ground |
| | | |
Rape or colza oil | | | |
(_trade_) |Yellowish-brown |Brownish, |Yellow small lumps on a|
|streaks surrounded|turning on |green ground |
|by a bluish-green |the olive | |
|ring |green | |
| | | |
(_recent_) |Green |Bluish green |Yellow small lumps on a|
| | |green ground |
| | | |
(_one year old_) |Green |Bluish green |Yellow lumps on a |
| | |brighter green ground |
| | | |
(_one year old, | | | |
rough | | | |
hot-pressed_) |Green |Olive green |Small yellow lumps, |
| | |more numerous, on an |
| | |olive-green ground |
| | | |
Whale-train oil |Small reddish |Resembles |Small, bright, |
|lumps on a |wine lees |chestnut-coloured lumps|
|brownish ground | |on a brown ground |
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
=Oil, Cas′tor.= _Syn._ RICINI OLEUM (B. P.), OLEUM CASTOREI, O. RICINI
(Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “The oil prepared by heat, or by pressure, from the
seed” of “_Ricinis communis_, Linn.” (Ph. L.), the _Palma Christi_, or
Mexican oil-bush.
The best castor oil (COLD-DRAWN CASTOR OIL; OLEUM RICINI SINE IGNE)is
prepared by pressing the shelled and crushed fruit (seed) in hemp bags, in
an hydraulic press, and heating the oil thus obtained along with water in
well tinned vessels, until the water boils and the albumen and gum
separate as a scum; this is carefully removed, and the oil as soon as it
has become cold is filtered through Canton flannel, and put into
canisters. The commoner kinds are prepared by gently heating the crushed
seeds, and pressing them whilst hot. Another method, sometimes adopted, is
to put the crushed seed into loose bags, to boil these in water, and to
skim off the floating oil.
_Prop._ It is the most viscid of all the fixed oils; when pure it mixes in
all proportions with alcohol and ether, and also dissolves, to a certain
extent, in rectified spirit, but a portion of the oil separates on
standing. Camphor and benzoic acid increase its solubility in spirit. By
long exposure to the air it becomes rancid, thick, and is ultimately
transformed into a transparent yellow mass; light hastens these changes.
Exposed to cold, a solid, white crystalline fat separates from the liquid
portion, and when cooled to 0° it congeals into a yellow transparent mass,
which does not again liquefy until the temperature rises to about 18°
Fahr. Sp. gr. ·9611 to ·9612, at 60°; ·9690, at 55° (Saussure); ·9575, at
77° (Saussure). _Prod._ 38% to 40% (62%——Ure).
_Pur._ Castor oil is sometimes adulterated with rape oil or with lard oil,
a fraud which may be detected by its diminished density; and, when the
added oil exceeds 33%, by its insolubility in its own weight of alcohol of
·820. In many cases croton oil is added to increase the purgative quality
of the mixture. A compound of this kind is vended in gelatine capsules
under the name of ‘CONCENTRATED CASTOR OIL,’ the use of which is fraught
with danger. “I have heard of several cases in which very violent and
dangerous effects were produced by these capsules.” (Pereira.) The best is
imported from the East Indies in tin canisters. The oil obtained from the
seeds of _Ricinus viridis_ (Willd.), or lamp-oil seeds, is often mixed
with or sold for castor oil.
_Uses, &c._ Castor oil is an exceedingly useful mild purgative,
particularly when abdominal irritation should be avoided, as in
inflammations of the stomach and bowels, pregnancy, surgical operations,
&c.——_Dose_, 2 fl. dr. to 1 fl. oz.
=Oil, Cocoa-nut.= _Syn._ COCOA-NUT BUTTER; OLEUM COCOIS NUCIFERÆ, L. By
expression from the kernels of the cocoa nut, or fruit of the _Cocos
nucifera_.
=Oil, Cod-liver.= _Syn._ MORRHUÆ OLEUM (B. P.), COD-FISH OIL; OLEUM
JECORIS ASELLI, O. GADI, O. G. MORRHUÆ, OLEUM MORRHUÆ (Ph. L.), L. “The
oil extracted from the fresh liver of the _Gadus morrhua_ by a steam heat
or water bath not exceeding 180° Fahr. Yellow.” “The oil prepared from the
liver of _Gadus morrhua_, Linn.” (Ph. L.)
The common cod-liver oil of commerce drains from the livers of the
cod-fish when freely exposed to the sun, and just beginning to putrefy. It
is dark coloured, strong, and nauseous, and is now chiefly employed in
this country by the curriers, for dressing leather. It is the ‘OLEUM
JECORIS ASELLI FUSCUM’ of Continental writers. Formerly, the less fetid
varieties of this crude oil, after the impurities were removed, either by
subsidence or filtration, constituted the only cod-liver oil used in
medicine. As its employment as a remedy increased, its revolting flavour,
and its great tendency to permanently disorder the stomach and bowels, was
found, however, to be a serious obstacle to its general use. It was
observed that the oil as it exists in the liver of the cod is bland and
nearly colourless, and has only a slight fishy, but not a disagreeable
flavour. The attention of persons interested was therefore immediately
directed to the subject, and improved methods of obtaining the oil were
suggested, and ere long adopted on the large scale.
The methods of preparing cod-liver oil are noticed in another part of this
work, but we think it advisable to add to these a description of the plan
adopted by Messrs Charles Fox and Co., of Newfoundland, Scarborough, and
London, the well-known manufacturers and importers of cod-liver oil:——
“The Newfoundland fisheries are entirely carried on in small boats,
principally by the hand-line system, and quite close to the shore. The
boats go out early in the morning, and return about four o’clock in the
afternoon. The fish, on landing, are handed over to a ‘fish-room keeper,’
whose duty it is to split and open the fish, and to deposit the livers in
small tubs holding 17 or 18 gallons each. The tubs are soon afterwards
collected from the different ‘fish-rooms,’ and conveyed to the
manufactory. The livers are here thrown into tubs filled with clean cold
water, and, after being well washed and jerked over, are placed on
galvanised iron-wire sieves to drain. They are next put into covered
steam-jacket-pans, and submitted to a gentle heat for about three quarters
of an hour, after which the steam is turned off, cold air again admitted,
and the whole allowed to repose for a short time, during which the livers
subside, and the oil separates and floats on the top. The oil is then
skimmed off into tin vessels, and passed through flannel strainers into
tubs, where it is left to subside for about 24 hours. From these the purer
upper portion of oil is run into a very deep, galvanized-iron cistern, and
again left to clarify itself by defecation for a few days. It is now
further refined by carefully passing it through clean and very stout
mole-skin filters, under pressure. The transparent filtered oil is
received in a clean, galvanised-iron cistern containing a pump, from which
the casks are filled for exportation. The latter, before being filled, are
carefully seasoned and cleaned, to prevent their imparting either flavour
or colour to the pure oil.”
The superiority of the oil prepared as above consists essentially in every
part of the process of extraction being performed whilst the livers are
fresh, and in no chemical means being adopted to give the oil a factitious
appearance. Its natural pale colour is thus preserved from contamination,
and its medicinal virtues maintained intact.
Much of the light brown oil of commerce is obtained from _Gadus callarius_
(the dorse). _G. carbonarius_ (the coal-fish), and _G. pollachius_ (the
pollack).
_Pur., &c._ “The finest oil,” remarks Dr Pereira, “is that which is most
devoid of colour, odour, and flavour. The oil, as contained in the cells
of the fresh liver, is nearly colourless, and the brownish colour
possessed by ordinary cod-liver oil is due to colouring matters derived
from the decomposition (putrefying) of hepatic tissues and fluids, or from
the action of the air on the oil (age). Chemical analysis lends no support
to the opinion, at one time entertained, that the brown oil was superior,
as a therapeutic agent, to the pale oil. Chemistry has not discovered any
substance in the brown oil that would confer on it superior activity as a
medicine. On the other hand, the disgusting odour and flavour and
nauseating qualities of the brown oil preclude its repeated use. Moreover,
there is reason to suspect that, if patients could conquer their aversion
to it, its free use, like that of other rancid and empyreumatic fats,
would disturb the digestive functions, and be attended with injurious
effects.”[56]
[Footnote 56: ‘Elem. Mat. Med.,’ &c., 3rd edit., iii, 2339.]
Among the tests of purity, that generally relied on is known as the
‘sulphuric acid test.’ See OILS (Fixed): _Purity_.
DORSE OIL, and other FISH OIL, sold as ‘LIGHT-BROWN COD-LIVER OIL,’
exhibit with this test much lighter reactions, which closely resemble
those of LIVER-TRAIN and WHALE-TRAIN OIL.
To detect the presence of combined iodine, upon which, by some, the
therapeutic value of cod-liver oil is thought to depend, the sample is
saponified by trituration with a little caustic potassa and hot water, the
resulting soap cautiously incinerated, the ashes digested with water, and
the whole thrown on a filter. The usual tests for iodine may be then
applied to the filtered liquid.
The presence of iodine artificially added is best detected by agitating
the oil with a little rectified spirit, and then testing this last for
iodine. Or, a little solution of starch and a few drops of sulphuric or
nitric acid may be at once added to the oil, when a blue colour will be
developed if iodine, or an iodide, has been mixed with the sample.
The sp. gr. of the pale oil is ·9230 to ·9238; of the light-brown oil,
·9240 to ·9245; of the dark-brown oil, ·9290 to ·9315. The density is,
however, apt to vary a little with the quantity of moisture present.
_Uses, &c._ Cod-liver oil is a most valuable medicine in a great variety
of diseases, more especially in glandular indurations and enlargements,
scrofula, phthisis, rheumatism, gout, certain cutaneous diseases,
amenorrhœa, chlorosis, caries, rickets, &c. To be of service, however, its
use must be continued for several weeks, and the oil must be
recent.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 table-spoonfuls, 3 or 4 times daily, or oftener.
=Oil, Col′za.= From the seeds of _Brassica campestris_, var. _oleifera_,
or _colza de printemps_, a variety of _Brassica campestris_ (Linn.). It
may be regarded as a superior sort of rape oil. Burns well in lamps,
especially after being refined. Sp. gr. ·9136. _Prod._ 39%. The term
‘colza oil’ is commonly applied to ordinary refined rape.
=Oil, Cottonseed.= _Syn._ OLEUM GOSSIPII SEMINUM, L. From the seeds of
_Gossypium Barbadense_. Drying.
=Oil, Croton.= _Syn._ CROTONIS OLEUM (B. P.), OLEUM CROTONIS (Ph. E.), O.
TIGLII (Ph. L.), L. From the shelled seeds of _Croton tiglium_ or Molucca
grains. Imported chiefly from the East Indies. It is one of the most
powerful cathartics known, and acts when either swallowed or merely placed
in the mouth. Externally, it is a rubefacient and counter-irritant, often
causing a crop of painful pustules, like tartar emetic.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
drops, on sugar; in apoplexy, &c. It is poisonous in larger doses. Sp. gr.
·947 to ·953. _Prod._ Unshelled seeds, 22% to 25%; shelled do., 32% to
35%.
Pure croton oil is soluble in an equal volume of alcohol of ·796, but in 2
or 3 days about 96% of the oil separates. In France the marc is exhausted
with alcohol, and the oil thus obtained is added to that previously
obtained from the same seeds by expression. The East Indian oil (OLEUM
CROTONIS EXOTICUM) is usually of a pale yellow; that pressed in England
(O. CROTONIS ANGLICANUM) is much darker.
=Oil of Cu′cumber.= _Syn._ OLEUM CUCURBITÆ, L. From the seeds of
_Cucurbita pepo_ or squash, and the _C. melopepo_ or pumpkin. Pale; used
in lamps; and, sometimes, as a soothing application to piles. Sp. gr.
·9231. _Prod._ 24%.
=Oil of Eggs.= _Syn._ OLEUM OVI, O. O. VITELLI, O. OVORUM, L. From the
yolks of eggs, gently heated until they coagulate and the moisture has
evaporated, and then pressed or broken up, digested in boiling rectified
spirit, the tincture filtered whilst hot, and the spirit distilled off.
Bland; emollient. The common plan is to fry the yolks hard; but the oil is
then darker coloured and stronger. The P. Cod. orders them to be exhausted
with ether, by displacement. Formerly commonly used to ‘kill’ quicksilver,
and still held in great esteem in some parts of England for sore nipples
and excoriations. _Prod._ 10 to 12 eggs yield 1 oz. See MIXED OILS.
=Oil of Garden Cress.= _Syn._ OLEUM LEPIDII SATIVI, L. From the seed.
Drying. Sp. gr. ·9240. _Prod._ 54%.
=Oil of Gar′den Spurge.= _Syn._ OLEUM LATHYRIS, O. EUPHORBIÆ L., L. From
the seeds of _Euphorbia lathyris_ or garden spurge. Cathartic.——_Dose_, 3
to 8 drops. Sp. gr. ·9281. _Prod._ 30% to 41%. Croton oil mixed with 6
times its weight of nut or rape oil is usually sold for it.
=Oil of Gingel′ly.= _Syn._ OIL OF SESAMUM, BENNE OIL, TEEL O., TEL O.;
OLEUM SESAMI, L. From the seeds of _Sesamum orientale_ (Willd.), or
gingelly. Pale; bland. Used in salads, paints, &c.; also to adulterate oil
of almonds. _Prod._ 46%.
=Oil, Gourd.= See OIL OF CUCUMBER.
=Oil of Ground Nuts.= From the nuts of _Arachis hypogæa_. Glutinous.
=Oil of Gurgun.= See BALSAM, GURGUN.
=Oil of Hemp.= _Syn._ OLEUM CANNABIS, L. From the seed of _Cannabis
sativa_ (Linn.), or common hemp. Mawkish. Sometimes used for frying, but
chiefly for paints, soaps, &c. Freely soluble in boiling alcohol; does not
thicken until cooled to 5° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·9276. _Prod._ 18% to 24%.
=Oil of Jatro′pha.= _Syn._ OIL OF WILD CASTOR SEEDS; OLEUM JATROPHÆ, L.
From the seeds of _Jatropha purgans_. Somewhat resembles CROTON OIL. Used
for lamps in the East Indies.
=Oil, Kundah.= _Syn._ TALLICOONAH O.; OLEUM TOULOUCOUNÆ, L. From the fruit
of _Carapa Touloucouna_. Rancid, nauseous, vermifuge, rubefacient, emetic,
and purgative. Chiefly used in lamps.
=Oil, Lard.= _Syn._ TALLOW O., CRUDE OLEIN, C. OLEIC ACID; OLEUM ADIPIS,
L. By separating the olein of lard from the stearin by means of boiling
alcohol. Only applicable where spirit is cheap. The product is, however,
excellent. The crude oleic acid, or lard oil of commerce, is chiefly
obtained as a secondary product in the manufacture of stearin. It is
purified by agitation with sulphuric acid, and subsequently by steaming
it, or washing it with hot water. Burns well in lamps, if the wick-tube is
kept cool. Sp. gr. ·9003.
=Oil, Linseed.= _Syn._ OLEUM LINI (B. P., Ph. L., E. & D.), L. 1.
(COLD-DRAWN LINSEED OIL; OLEUM LINI SINE IGNE.) From the seed of _Linum
usitatissimum_ (Linn.), or common flax, bruised or crushed, and then
ground and expressed without heat. Pale, insipid, viscous; does not keep
so well as the next. _Prod._ 17% to 20%.
2. As the last, but employing a steam heat of about 200° Fahr. Amber
coloured; less viscous than the last; congeals at 2°; soluble in 5 parts
of boiling and 40 parts of cold alcohol. Both are drying and
cathartic.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 oz.; in piles, &c. Chiefly used in paints,
varnishes, &c. Sp. gr. ·9347. _Prod._ 22% to 27%.
3. (BOILED LINSEED OIL.) See OILS (Drying).
=Oil of Mace (Expressed).= See OIL OF NUTMEG (Expressed).
=Oil of Male Fern.= See EXTRACT OF MALE FERN.
=Oil of Mustard.= _Syn._ OLEUM SINAPIS, L. 1. (OIL OF WHITE MUSTARD.) From
_Sinapis alba_, or white mustard, but chiefly from _Sinapis arvensis_, _S.
chinensis_, _S. dichotoma_, _S. glauca_, _S. ramosa_, and _S. tori_.
Sweet. Used for the table. Sp. gr. ·9142 (·2160——Ure). _Prod._ 36%.
2. (OIL OF BLACK MUSTARD; OLEUM SINAPIS NIGRI, L.) From the ‘hulls’ of
black-mustard seed. Viscid, stimulant. Used in rheumatism, Sp. gr. ·9168
to ·9170. See OILS (Volatile).
3. (OIL OF WHITE MUSTARD; OLEUM RAPHANI, L.) From the seed of _Raphanus
raphanistrum_ (Linn.), or jointed charlock or wild mustard. _Prod._ 30%.
=Oil, Neat’s-foot.= _Syn._ NERVE OIL, TROTTER O.; OLEUM BUBULUM, O.
NERVINUM, AXUNGIA PEDUM TAURI, L. From neat’s-feet and tripe, by boiling
them in water, and skimming off the oil. Does not thicken by age. Used to
soften leather, to clean fire-arms, and for other purposes.
OIL, NUT. _Syn._ HAZEL-NUT O.; OLEUM NUCIS, O. CORYLI, L. From the kernels
of _Corylus Avellana_ (Linn.), or hazel-nut tree. Pale, mild tasted,
drying; superior to linseed oil for paints and varnishes. It is commonly
sold for oil of almonds and oil of ben, and is extensively employed to
adulterate both. Walnut oil is also frequently sold for nut oil. Sp. gr.
·9260. _Prod._ 63%(Ure).
=Oil of Nut′meg (Expressed).= _Syn._ EXPRESSED OIL OF MACE, BUTTER OF M.;
OLEUM MYRISTICÆ (CONCRETUM) (Ph. L.), MYRISTICÆ ADEPS (Ph. E.), M.
BUTYRUM, O. MYRISTICÆ EXPRESSUM (B. P.), O. MOSCHATÆ, O. NUCISTÆ, L. “The
concrete oil expressed from the seed of _Myristica officinalis_,” Linn.
(Ph. L.), or common nutmeg. The nutmegs are beaten to a paste, enclosed in
a bag, exposed to the vapour of hot water, and then pressed between heated
iron plates. Orange coloured, fragrant, spicy; butyraceous, or solid. It
is a mixture of the fixed and volatile oils of the nutmeg. When
discoloured and hardened by age, it is called ‘BANDA SOAP’ (OL. MACIS IN
MASSIS). When pure, it is soluble in 4 parts of boiling alcohol and in 2
parts of ether. It has been used in rheumatism and palsy, but is now
chiefly employed for its odour and aromatic qualities. From the East
Indies. _Prod._ 17% to 20%.
=Oil, Ol′ive.= _Syn._ SALAD OIL, SWEET O.; OLIVÆ OLEUM (B. P.), OLEUM
OLIVARUM, O. OLIVÆ (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. The “oil expressed from the
fruit” of “_Olea europœa_, Linn.” (Ph. L.), or common olive. Five
different methods are employed to obtain the oil, from the fruit:
1. (VIRGIN OIL; O. O. VIRGINEUM, L.); (HUILE VIERGE, Fr.) From olives,
carefully garbled, either spontaneously or only by slight pressure, in the
cold. That yielded by the pericarp of the fruit is the finest.
2. (Ordinary ‘FINE OIL,’) This is obtained by either pressing the olives,
previously crushed and mixed with boiling water, or by pressing, at a
gentle heat, the olives from which the virgin oil has been obtained. The
above processes furnish the finer salad oils of commerce. The cake which
is left is called ‘GRIGNON,’
3. (SECOND QUALITY.) By allowing the bruised fruit to ferment before
pressing it. Yellow; darker than the preceding; but mild and sweet tasted.
Much used for the table.
4. (‘GORGON.’) By fermenting and boiling the pressed cake or marc in
water, and skimming off the oil. Inferior.
5. (OIL OF THE INFERNAL REGIONS; OLEUM OMPHACINUM) is a very inferior
quality of oil, which is skimmed off the surface of the water in the
reservoirs into which the waste water which has been used in the above
operations is received, and allowed to settle. The last two are chiefly
used for lamps, and in soap-making, &c.
Of the principal varieties of olive oil known in commerce, and
distinguished by the place of their production, ‘PROVENCE OIL’ is the most
esteemed; ‘FLORENCE OIL’ and ‘LUCCA OIL’ are also of very fine quality;
‘GENOA OIL’ comes next, and then ‘GALLIPOLI OIL,’ which forms the mass of
what is used in England; ‘SICILY OIL,’ which has a slightly resinous
flavour, is very inferior; and ‘SPANISH OIL’ is the worst imported.
_Prop., &c._ Olive oil is a nearly inodorous, pale greenish-yellow,
unctuous fluid, with a purely oleaginous taste, peculiarly grateful to the
palate of those who relish oil. It does not suffer active decomposition at
a heat not exceeding 600° Fahr.; and when cooled to 36°it congeals into a
granular solid mass. It is very slightly soluble in alcohol, but its
solubility is increased by admixture with castor oil. It is soluble in
1-1/2 part of ether. When pure it has little tendency to become rancid.
Sp. gr. ·9170 to ·9173; ·9192, at 53-1/2° (Saussure); ·9176, at 59°
(Heidenreich); and ·9109, at 77° Fahr. (Saussure). _Prod._ 32%, of which
21% is furnished by the pericarp, and the remainder, which is inferior,
by the seed and woody matter of the fruit.
_Pur._ Olive oil, with the exception of that of almonds, being the most
costly of the ordinary fixed oils of commerce, is, consequently, the one
most subject to adulteration. Nut, poppy, rape, and lard oil, are those
most commonly used for this purpose. Refined tallow olein, including that
obtained from the ‘knackers’ yards’ of Paris, is said to have been used in
the same way. The addition of any other oil to olive oil renders it far
less agreeable to the palate, and, by increasing its tendency to
rancidity, much more likely to offend and derange the stomach and bowels
of those who consume it. Parties who indulge themselves in the use of this
luxury would, therefore, do well to ascertain that what they purchase is
pure. When pure, and also fresh, olive oil is most wholesome as an article
of food or us a condiment.
The detection of the sophistication of salad oil is a matter of no great
difficulty. The palate of the connoisseur will readily perceive the
slightest variation in the quality of his favourite condiment. Other
methods, however, of a more accurate and certain description, and of more
general application, are adopted. Amongst these, in addition to those
mentioned above, are the following:——
_a._ When pure olive oil is shaken in a phial, only half filled, the
‘bead’ or bubbles rapidly disappear; but if the sample has been mixed with
poppy or other oil, the bubbles continue longer before they burst.
_b._ Olive oil congeals at 36° Fahr., and is completely solidified when a
small bottle containing it is surrounded by ice, or a freezing mixture;
but when mixed with poppy oil, it remains partly liquid, even when the
latter forms only 1-4th of the mass; if more than 1-3rd of poppy oil is
present, it does not solidify at all, unless cooled much below the
freezing point of water.
_c._ (Ph. E.) When olive oil is “carefully mixed with 1/12th part of its
volume of a solution of 4 oz. of mercury in 8 fl. oz. 6 dr. of nitric acid
(sp. gr. 1·500), it becomes in 3 or 4 hours like a firm fat, without any
separation of liquid oil.”
_d._ M. Pontet recommends the mercurial solution to be made by dissolving
6 parts of mercury in 7-1/2 parts of nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·35), without
heat; of this solution he adds 1 part to every 48 parts of the oil, and
well shakes the mixture every 30 minutes, until it begins to solidify.
This it does after about 7 hours in summer and 4 or 5 hours in winter, and
when the oil is pure it will have formed, in 24 hours, a mass so hard that
some little force must be employed to thrust a glass rod into it. The
other edible oils do not furnish a hard mass with nitrate of mercury. The
solidity of the mass is exactly in proportion to the quantity of foreign
oil present. When the sophistication is equal to 1-8th of the whole, a
distinct liquid layer separates; when the mixture contains half its volume
of an inferior oil, one half only of the mixture becomes solid, and the
other half continues liquid. A temperature of about 90° Fahr. is the best
to cause the oil and coagulum to separate perfectly from each other. When
the oil has been adulterated with animal oil, the mixture solidifies in
about five hours; but in this case the coagulum consists of the animal
oil, whilst the olive oil floats on the surface, and may be decanted for
further examination. This coagulum, on being heated, exhales the
well-known odour of rancid fat or melted tallow.
_e._ Dr Ramon Cordina Langlies states that the best reagent for the
examination of olive oil is that of Hauchecorne.
This reagent is composed of three parts of pure nitric acid at 40° with
one part of distilled water. The following is Dr Langlies’ process for
proving that olive oil does not contain seed oil, and more especially
cotton oil:——
He mixes three grammes of the oil to be tested with one gramme of the
reagent in a test tube, or a small stoppered flask, and heats the liquid
in a water bath. If the oil is pure the mixture becomes clearer, and takes
a yellow colour, like purified oil; if it is adulterated with seed oil, it
acquires the same transparency as the pure oil, but becomes red. With 5
per cent. of seed oil the reddish colouring is characteristic; with 10 per
cent. it is decided. The reaction does not require more than from 15 to 20
minutes.
The colouring of the oils lasts for three days.
_Uses, &c._ The dietetical uses of olive oil are well known. In Spain and
Italy it is commonly employed as a substitute for butter. It is highly
nutritious, but is digested with difficulty by some persons, and hence
should be avoided by the dyspeptic. Like almond oil, it is occasionally
employed as a laxative and vermifuge, and is, perhaps, one of the mildest
known. In _pharmacy_ it is extensively employed in the preparation of
cerates, liniments, ointments, and plasters.——_Dose._ For an adult, 1/2 to
1 wine-glassful as a mild aperient; for an infant, 1/2 to 1 teaspoonful,
mixed up with an equal quantity of honey, syrup of roses, or syrup of
violets. The white fibrous sediment which forms in the recently expressed
oil is the ‘AMURCA’ of Pliny, and was formerly highly esteemed in
medicine.
=Oil, Olive, Droppings.= _Syn._ SWEET-OIL D. The ‘foots’ or ‘deposits,’
and the ‘drippings’ of the casks, cisterns, and utensils. Used for
machinery, making soap, &c.
=Oil, Olive (Oxygenated).= _Syn._ OLEUM OLIVÆ OXYGENATUM (Ph. Batav.), L.
Olive oil, 16 oz., is placed in a receiver surrounded with ice or very
cold water, and chlorine is slowly transmitted through it for several
days, or until it becomes thick and viscid, after which it is well washed
with warm warm.
=Oil, Palm.= _Syn._ PALM BUTTER; OLEUM PALMÆ;, L. From the fruit of _Elais
Guineensis_, and _E. melanococca_, the Guinea oil palms. Orange or red
coloured; butyraceous or solid; smells of violets; unchanged by alkalies;
bleached by sunlight, age, exposure, chlorine, chromic acid, and oil of
vitriol; melts at 117-1/2° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·968. Demulcent. Used to colour
and scent ointments, pomades, &c.; but chiefly to make soap and candles.
From Africa.
=Oil, Pi′′ney.= _Syn._ PINEY TALLOW, P. DAMMAR, P. RESIN. From _Vateria
Indica_ (Linn.) or pænoe tree. Resinous flavoured, fragrant, made into
candles. Sp. gr. ·926.
=Oil, Pop′py.= _Syn._ OLEUM PAPAVERIS, L.; OLIETE, HUILE BLANCHE, Fr. From
the seeds of _Papaver somniferum_ (Linn.), or white poppy. Sweet; pale;
dries and keeps well. Used for salads, paints, and soaps; also
(extensively) to adulterate almond oil, for the inferior qualities of
which it is frequently sold. It does not freeze until cooled to 0° Fahr.
Sp. gr. ·9243 to ·9245. _Prod._ 48% to 54%.
=Oil of Pumpkin.= _Syn._ OLEUM CUCURBITÆ. Expressed from the seeds of the
pumpkin; a soothing application to piles.
=Oil, Rape.= _Syn._ COLZA OIL, BROWN O.; OLEUM RAPÆ, L. From the seed of
_Brassica napus_ (Linn.; cole or rape), and from _Brassica campestris_
(Linn.; wild navew or rape). Glutinous; buttery at 25° Fahr. Dries slowly;
makes soft soaps and good ointments, but bad plasters; smokes much in
burning, unless well refined. Sp. gr. ·9135 to ·9136. _Prod._ 32%.
OIL, REFINED or PALE RAPE (OLEUM RAPÆ REFINUM, OL. R. ALBUM) is prepared
from crude rape oil, by agitating it with about 2% of oil of vitriol,
previously diluted with about twice its weight of water, and, after 10 or
12 days’ repose, decanting the clear oil, and filtering it through Canton
flannel or felt. The quality is improved by washing it with hot water or
steam before filtration. Used for lamps, blacking, and machinery; also
extensively employed to adulterate both almond and olive oil. It forms the
common ‘SWEET OIL’ of the oilmen and druggists. Sp. gr. ·9136 to ·9140.
=Oil, Seal.= _Syn._ OLEUM PHOCÆ, L. From the hood seal, and harp seal, and
other species of _Phocidæ_. PALE SEAL OIL is that which drains from the
blubber before putrefaction commences, and forms about 60% of the whole
quantity of oil obtained. It is very clear, free from smell, and, when
recently prepared, not unpleasant in its taste. REFINED SEAL OIL is the
last, washed and filtered. Ranks close after sperm oil. BROWN or DARK SEAL
OIL is that which subsequently drains from the putrid mass. It is very
strong-scented and nauseous, and smokes in burning. Both are used for
lamps and dressing leather. A full-grown seal yields 8 to 12 galls. of
oil; a small one, 4 to 5 galls.
=Oil of Ses′amum.= _Syn._ OIL OF GINGELLY (_above_).
=Oil, Shark-liver.= The lightest of the fixed oils. Sp. gr. ·865 to ·867.
=Oil, Skate.= _Syn._ OLEUM RALÆ, L. From the livers of _Raia batis_
(Linn.), or common skate, as cod-liver oil; also from _Raia rhinobatus_,
or white skate, and _Raia clavata_, or thornback. Often sold and mixed
with cod-liver oil.
=Oil, Spermace′ti.= _Syn._ SPERM OIL; OLEUM CETACEI, L. From the ‘head
matter’ of _Physeter macrocephalus_, or spermaceti whale; a species once
common in all the principal seas, but now chiefly confined to the Southern
Ocean. It is very limpid, smells little, and burns well; and has long been
reputed the best oil for lamps and machinery, as it does not thicken by
age or friction. It is frequently adulterated with refined seal oil. Sp.
gr. ·875.
=Oil, Sun′flower.= _Syn._ OLEUM HELIANTHI, L. From the seeds of
_Helianthus annuus_ and _H. perennis_. Clear, pale yellow, tasteless;
thickens at 60° Fahr. Used for salads and lamps. Sp. gr. ·9261. _Prod._
15%.
=Oil, Teel.= See OIL, GINGELLY.
=Oil, Tobac′co-seed.= _Syn._ OLEUM TABACI (EXPRESSUM), L. From the seeds
of _Nicotiana tabacum_ (Linn.), or true tobacco plant. Pale; dries well;
equal to nut oil. Its production has recently been carried on with
considerable success in some parts of Russia. Sp. gr. ·9232.
=Oil of Touloucou′na.= See OIL, KUNDAH.
=Oil, Train.= See OIL, WHALE.
=Oil, Wal′nut.= _Syn._ OLEUM JUGLANDIS, O. NUCIS J., L. From the kernels
of the nuts of _Juglans regia_ (Linn.), or common walnut tree. Soon gets
rank; dries well. Used in paints, and occasionally in plasters. When ‘cold
drawn’ and washed it is sometimes eaten with salad. Sp. gr. ·9260 to
·9262. _Prod._ 48% to 52%.
=Oil of Wax.= _Syn._ BUTTER OF WAX; OLEUM CERÆ, L. From beeswax, by quick
distillation in a close vessel. Butyraceous. By rectification along with
quicklime it yields a liquid oil.
=Oil, Whale.= _Syn._ TRAIN OIL, WHALE-TRAIN O.; OLEUM BALÆNÆ, O. CETI, L.
From the blubber of the _Balæna mysticetus_ (Linn.), or the common or
Greenland whale, by heat. Coarse; stinking. SOUTHERN WHALE OIL is the
best. Used for lamps, machinery, &c. Sp. gr. ·9231. _Prod._ per fish,
about 1-1/2 ton for each foot of bone.
=Oil of Wheat.= _Syn._ OLEUM TRITICI, L. From bruised Colne wheat, with
heat. In chilblains, ringworm, and several other skin diseases.
=Oil of Wine-stones.= _Syn._ GRAPE-STONE OIL; OLEUM VITIS VINIFERÆ
LAPIDUM, L. From the seeds of grapes, separated from the marc. Pale
yellow, bland, emollient. Used for salads and lamps. Sp. gr. ·9202.
_Prod._ 14% to 18%.
⁂ The numbers given above, under ‘products,’ unless when otherwise stated,
refer to the respective fruits, kernels, nuts, seeds, &c., deprived of
their husks, pods, shells, and every other portion destitute of oil.
=OILS (Medicated).= _Syn._ OLEA COCTA, O. INFUSA, O. MEDICATA, L. These
are prepared by infusion or decoction. The bruised ingredients are either
simply digested in 2 to 4 times their weight of olive oil for some days,
or they are gently boiled in it until they become dry and crisp, great
care being taken that the heat towards the end of the process is not
greater than that of boiling water. As soon as the process is complete,
the oil is allowed to drain from the ingredients, which are then (if
necessary) submitted to the action of the press. The product is commonly
run through flannel or a hair sieve whilst still warm, after which it is
allowed to repose for a week or ten days, when the clear portion is
decanted from the dregs. The green or recent plants are usually employed
for this purpose, but, in many cases, the dried plants, reduced to powder,
and digested for 6 or 8 hours in the oil, at the heat of hot water, with
frequent agitation, yield a much more valuable product. They are nearly
all employed as external applications only.
⁂ The following are the most important preparations of this class:——
=Oil of Adder’s Tongue.= _Syn._ OLEUM OPHIO GLOSSI, L. From the herb, as
OIL OF BELLADONNA. A popular vulnerary.
=Oil of Ants.= _Syn._ OLEUM FORMICARUM. Digest 4 oz. of ants in 16 oz. (by
weight) of olive oil with a gentle heat, and strain.
=Oil of Bal′sam Apple.= _Syn._ OLEUM BALSAMINÆ. _Prep._ Balsam apple
(deprived of seeds), 1 oz.; oil of almonds, 4 oz.; digest and strain.
=Oil of Belladon′na.= _Syn._ OLEUM BELLADONNÆ (P. Cod.), L. _Prep._ From
the fresh leaves, bruised, 1 part; olive oil, 4 parts; digested together
at a gentle heat until the moisture is evaporated; the oil is then
strained off with pressure, and filtered.
=Oil of Cantha′rides.= _Syn._ OLEUM CANTHARIDIS, O. CANTHARIDIBUS, L.
_Prep._ (P. Cod. 1839). From Spanish flies (powdered), 1 part; olive oil,
8 parts; as OIL OF BELLADONNA. Stimulant and rubefacient. Used as a
dressing to indolent sores, blisters, &c.; and in dropsy, rheumatism,
gout, &c., OIL OF THE OIL-BEETLE (_Meloe proscarabæus_——Linn.) is prepared
in a similar manner.
=Oil of Cap′sicum.= _Syn._ OLEUM CAPSICI, L. _Prep._ (Dr Turnbull.) From
powdered capsicum or Cayenne pepper, 4 oz., olive oil, 1 pint; digested
together for 6 hours, with heat, and strained. Stimulant; rubefacient in
colic, cholera, &c.
=Oil of Cham′omile.= _Syn._ OLEUM ANTHEMIDIS, OL. CHAMÆMELI, L. From the
dried flowers (rubbed to pieces), 1 part, olive oil, 8 parts; digested
together, with heat, for 6 hours. Stimulant, emollient, and vermifuge.
=Oil of Col′ocynth.= _Syn._ OLEUM COLOCYNTHIDIS, L. From the pulp, as OIL
OF CHAMOMILE. Diuretic. In dropsy, neuralgia, rheumatism, worms, &c.
=Oil of Earth′worms.= _Syn._ OLEUM LUMBRICORUM. (E. Ph. 1744.) Washed
earthworms, 1/2 lb.; olive oil, 1-1/2 pint; white wine, 1/2 pint. Boil
gently till the wine is consumed, and press and strain.
=Oil of Elder-flowers.= _Syn._ WHITE OIL OF ELDER; OLEUM SAMBUCI ALBUM, O.
SAMBUCINUM (P. Cod.), L. _Prep._ From the flowers, as OIL OF CHAMOMILE.
Emollient and discussive.
=Oil of Elder-leaves.= _Syn._ GREEN OIL, GREEN OIL OF ELDER, OIL OF
SWALLOWS; OLEUM VIRIDE, O. SAMBUCI VIRIDE, L. _Prep._ 1. Green elder
leaves, 1 lb.; olive oil, 1 quart; boil gently until the leaves are crisp,
press out the oil, and again heat it till it turns green.
2. As before, but by maceration, at a heat under 212° Fahr. More odorous
than the last.
3. Elder leaves, 1 cwt.; linseed oil, 3 cwt.; as No. 1.
_Obs._ The last form is the one usually employed on the large scale. It is
generally coloured with verdigris, 1/2 lb. to the cwt., just before
putting it into the casks, and whilst still warm; as, without great skill
and a very large quantity of leaves, the deep-green colour so much admired
by the ignorant cannot be given to it. The oil is got from the leaves by
allowing them to drain in the pan or boiler (with a cock at the bottom),
kept well heated. Emollient; in great repute among the vulgar as a
liniment, in a variety of affections.
=Oil of Fen′ugreek.= _Syn._ OLEUM FŒNUGRÆCI, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From the
seeds, as OIL OF CANTHARIDES or of CHAMOMILE. Emollient and resolvent.
=Oil of Fox′glove.= _Syn._ OLEUM DIGITALIS, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From the
fresh leaves, as OIL OF BELLADONNA. Used as an application to chronic
ulcers and indurations, painful swellings &c. As usually met with, it is
nearly inert.
=Oil of Garden Night′shade.= _Syn._ OLEUM SOLANI, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
From the leaves, as OIL OF BELLADONNA. Anodyne and discussive.
=Oil of Gar′lic.= _Syn._ OLEUM ALLII INFUSUM, L. From garlic, as OIL OF
BELLADONNA. Used as a liniment in deafness, diarrhœa, infantile
convulsions, palsy, rheumatism, &c.
=Oil, Green.= _Syn._ OLEUM VIRIDI, L. From bay leaves, origanum, rue, sea
wormwood, and elder leaves, of each 2-1/2 oz.; olive oil, 1 quart; as OIL
OF ELDER. Detergent, stimulant, and resolvent. Green oil of elder is now
usually sold for it.
=Oil of Hem′lock.= _Syn._ OLEUM CONII, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) As OIL OF
BELLADONNA. Anodyne and emollient; in painful ulcers, glandular tumours,
&c.
=Oil of Hen′bane.= _Syn._ OLEUM HYOSCYAMI, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) As OIL OF
BELLADONNA. Used as the last, in various painful local affections.
=Oil Iodizeo, Marshall’s.= _Syn._ OLEUM IODATUM. _Prep._ Oil of almonds,
15 parts; iodine, 1 part. Triturate and digest till dissolved.
=Oil of Ju′′niper (by Infusion).= _Syn._ OLEUM JUNIPERI INFUSUM, L. From
the crushed berries, as OIL OF BELLADONNA. Diuretic and vulnerary; in
frictions, &c.
=Oil of Lil′ies.= _Syn._ OLEUM LILIORUM, L. From white lilies, 1 lb.;
olive oil, 3 lbs.; as OIL OF BELLADONNA. Emollient; used to soften and
ripen tumours, indurations, &c.
=Oil of Mel′ilot.= _Syn._ OLEUM MELILOTI, L. As the last, avoiding much
heat. Emollient and resolvent.
=Oil of Mu′cilages.= _Syn._ OLEUM MUCILAGINUM, O. CUM MUCILAGINIBUS, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1746.) Marshmallow root, 1/2 lb.; linseed and fenugreek
seed, of each, bruised, 3 oz.; water, 1 quart; boil 1 hour, add of olive
oil, 2 quarts, and boil until the water is consumed.
2. Fenugreek seeds, 8 oz.; linseed oil, 1 quart; infuse a week, and
strain. Once a highly popular emollient application in various local
affections.
=Oil of Mu′dar.= _Syn._ OLEUM MUDARIS, L. From mudar bark (in coarse
powder), 1 dr.; warm olive oil, 1/4 pint; digest 24 hours and strain. Used
as an application to cutaneous ulcers, the bites of venomous animals, &c.,
and as a friction in worms.
=Oil of O′′pium.= _Syn._ ANODYNE OIL, OPIATED O.; OLEUM OPIATUM, L.
_Prep._ From opium (in powder), 1 dr.; olive oil, 2-1/2 fl. oz.; digest at
a gentle heat, with frequent agitation, for 5 or 6 hours. The powder
should be rubbed in a mortar with a few drops of the oil before adding the
remainder. As a local anodyne. The above is the only reliable formula for
this preparation. Others are extant, but whilst the products of several
are much stronger, those from others have only 1-5th or 1-6th the
strength.
=Oils, Ozonised.= (Dr Thompson.) _Syn._ OLEO OZONATA. _Prep._ Pass oxygen
gas into the oil (cocoa nut, sunflower, cod-liver oil, &c.) until it will
dissolve no more. Then expose for a considerable time in the direct rays
of the sun. Used in phthisis.
=Oil of Pel′litory.= _Syn._ OLEUM PYRETHRI, L. From bruised pellitory
root, as OIL OF BELLADONNA. Used as the last.
=Oil of Black Pep′per (by Infusion).= _Syn._ OLEUM PIPERIS INFUSUM, L.
From black pepper, in coarse powder, as OIL OF CAPSICUM. Stimulant and
rubefacient; in frictions.
=Oil of Poison Oak.= _Syn._ OLEUM RHOIS TOXICODENDRI, L. From the leaves,
as OIL OF BELLADONNA Externally; in paralysis, &c.
=Oil of Rhu′barb.= _Syn._ OLEUM RHEI, L. From rhubarb (in powder), 1 part;
oil of almonds, 8 parts; digested together in a gentle heat for 4 hours,
and strained, with expression. As an application to indolent ulcers, and
as a friction over the abdomen in diarrhœa, English cholera, &c., or as a
laxative when the stomach will not bear medicine.
=Oil of Ro′′ses.= _Syn._ OLEUM ROSÆ, O. ROSACEUM, O. R. INFUSUM, O.
ROSATUM, L. _Prep._ From the fresh petals, pulled to pieces, crushed, and
digested for 2 or 3 days in the sun, or a warm situation, in 4 times their
weight of olive oil, and then pressed; the process being repeated with
fresh roses. Ph. E. 1744 and P. Cod. are nearly similar. ALMOND, BEN, or
OLIVE OIL, coloured with ALKANET, and scented with attar of roses, is now
almost universally sold for it. Used for the hair.
=Oil of Rue.= _Syn._ OLEUM RUTÆ (INFUSUM), L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From fresh
rue, bruised, as OIL OF CHAMOMILE. Reputed antispasmodic, emmenagogue,
stimulant, and vermifuge. In frictions.
=Oil of St John’s Wort.= _Syn._ OLEUM HYPERICI (Ph. L. 1746), O. H.
SIMPLEX, BALSAMUM H., L. From the flowers, 1 part; olive oil, 6 parts;
digested together until the oil is well coloured. Antispasmodic,
stimulant, and resolvent. A mixture of equal parts of RAPE OIL and GREEN
ELDER OIL is usually sold for it.
=Oil of Scam′mony.= _Syn._ OLEUM SCAMMONII, O. PURGANS, L. _Prep._ (Van
Mons.) From scammony (in powder), 1 dr.; hot oil of almonds, 3 fl. oz.;
triturate together until cold, and the next day decant the clear
portion.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 table-spoonful.
=Oil of Stramo′′nium.= _Syn._ OLEUM STRAMONII, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From
the leaves of thorn apple or stramonium, as OIL OF BELLADONNA. Anodyne and
discussive; as an application to painful tumours, joints, &c.
=Oil of Tobac′co (by Infusion).= _Syn._ OLEUM TABACI, O. T. INFUSUM, L.
From fresh tobacco leaves (bruised), like OIL OF CHAMOMILE. As an
application in ringworm, irritable ulcers, pediculi, &c.; and as a
friction in itch, neuralgia, painful indurations, &c. It must be used with
extreme caution, as it is poisonous.
=Oil of Tooth′wort.= _Syn._ OLEUM SQUAMARIÆ, L. From the herb of _Lathræa
squamaria_ (Linn.), as OIL OF ST JOHN’S WORT. Astringent and vulnerary.
This must not be confounded with another preparation sometimes called ‘OIL
OF TOOTHWORT’ (OLEUM PLUMBAGINIS EUROPÆÆ),and which has been occasionally
used in itch, as the latter is acrid and apt to cause much irritation.
=Oil of Worm′wood.= _Syn._ OLEUM ABSINTHII, L. From the fresh herb, as
OIL OF LILIES. The P. Cod. and Ph. Wurtem. order only part of the herb to
8 parts of oil. Applied to the abdomen in dyspepsia, diarrhœa, heartburn,
worms, &c. It is seldom used in this country.
=OILS (Mineral).= _Syn._ HYDROCARBON OILS. An important class of liquids,
consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen——the elements of ordinary
coal-gas, and obtained by the distillation of coal, lignite, petroleum,
and other bituminous substances. For the purposes of illumination, many of
these oils are in most respects superior to the fixed or fat oils
containing oxygen. They give a whiter and more brilliant light, and are
produced at a much lower cost. The lamps in which they are burnt, when
properly constructed, are less liable to get out of order than those
adapted for the combustion of fat oils, and require less attention when in
use. The experiments of Dr Frankland on the relative value of the ordinary
illuminating agents[57] prove that the mineral oils are cheaper than all
other portable illuminating agents in common use, and that they give,
while burning, the largest amount of light with the least development of
heat, and the smallest production of carbonic acid. With the oils adapted
for burning in lamps other oils are produced. Some are very volatile and
highly inflammable, and the safety of the burning oils depends on their
proper extraction. These volatile liquids, when isolated, are used in the
arts as substitutes for spirits of turpentine, as solvents for various
substances, and to increase the illuminating power of coal-gas. Others are
of a greasy nature, and are too heavy to be conveniently used in lamps.
These, however, are well adapted for lubricating fine machinery, and are
extensively employed instead of sperm oil by the cotton manufacturers of
Lancashire. When the more volatile ingredients are separated from the
burning oils, the latter are perfectly safe. Most of the mineral burning
oils now in use are, we believe, free from danger in this respect. (See
_Tests_, _below_.)
[Footnote 57: See article ILLUMINATION.]
_Hist._ For many years the manufacture of burning oils by the distillation
of bituminous schists has been extensively carried out on the Continent,
but the discovery which formed the foundation of the modern manufacture
was made nearly thirty years ago by our countryman, Mr James Young. This
gentleman took the lease of a spring of petroleum in 1847, and after
numerous experiments succeeded in obtaining two useful oils from the crude
liquid; the one being adapted for lubricating machinery, and the other for
burning in lamps. The almost total cessation of the flow of petroleum
terminated the business after two years’ working, and led Mr Young to
institute a series of experiments to try if petroleum could be produced
artificially by the destructive distillation of coal. These experiments
resulted in the discovery of an oil which Mr Young named ‘Paraffin oil,’
as it had many of the chemical properties of the solid body of paraffin,
discovered twenty years before by Reichenbach in beech-wood tar. Young’s
patent (dated Oct. 7, 1850) involved the slower distillation of coals, at
a lower temperature than had hitherto been employed for the purpose, and
this novelty in practice was followed by the novel result of a copious
production of liquid hydrocarbons. The gas or cannel coals were found to
yield the liquids in largest quantities, that variety known as Boghead
coal or Torbane Hill[58] mineral being specially adapted for the patented
process. (See PARAFFIN OIL, _below_.) Soon after Young’s discovery native
petroleum was brought from Rangoon, and purified by distillation, so as to
produce oils very similar to the coal products. During the last few years,
however, rich sources of petroleum have been discovered in North America,
and from whence are imported the greater part of the vast quantities of
petroleum oil (both for burning and lubricating purposes), together with
the paraffin spirit, or naphtha, which are consumed in this country.
[Footnote 58: This species of coal is now exhausted.——ED.]
In the following table are given the quantities of these substances sent
into England and Scotland during the year 1875:——
+---------+---------------+----------------+---------+-----------------+
| |Refined burning|Lubricating Oil.|Residuum.|Petroleum Spirit.|
| | Oil. | | | |
+---------+--------+------+----------------+---------+-------+---------+
| |Barrels.|Cases.|Barls. & Casks. |Barrels. |Cases. |Barrels. |
|London | 169,762| 3,250| 2,511 | 1,000 | ... | 53,173 |
|Liverpool| 95,853| 2,830| 300 | 29,358 | ... | 30,913 |
|Hull | 20,226| 8| ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Bristol | 36,889| 1,392| ... | ... | ... | 17,203 |
|Clyde and| | | | | | |
| Leith | 4,233| 4| 535 | 9,387 | ... | ... |
+---------+--------+------+----------------+---------+-------+---------+
| Total | 326,963| 7,484| 3,346 | 39,745 | ... |101,289 |
+---------+--------+------+----------------+---------+-------+---------+
This amounts to about 17 millions of gallons. In 1874 it exceeded 20
millions of gallons, but the stock in hand at the end of 1874 was about 5
millions of gallons, and the end of 1875 was only 1-1/2 million. The
difference was mainly due to overtrading in 1874, which brought refined
petroleum to the lowest price yet known in England, viz. 7-3/4d. per
gallon in December, 1874, and checked its subsequent importation.[59]
[Footnote 59: W. Matthieu Williams.]
_Tests, Precautions._ The Sanitary Commission of the ‘Lancet’ took as the
limit of safety an oil that gave off inflammable vapour when heated to
130° Fahr., and this has been generally accepted by dealers. If an oil
gives off inflammable vapours before being heated up to 130°, it is
considered unsafe for domestic use.
1. The plan for testing this, recommended in the ‘Lancet,’ is to heat a
portion of the suspected oil in a gallipot placed in boiling water,
ascertaining by a thermometer suspended in the oil the temperature at
which it will take fire on the surface when a lighted wax vesta is applied
to it. This is a troublesome and dangerous process, and has little
practical value.
2. A rough-and-ready method of testing the inflammability of a sample is
to pour a little out on a dry flat board, and try whether it can be
ignited readily by a lighted paper. If it catches fire like turpentine or
brandy, the oil is dangerous.
3. The following plan, proposed by Mr Tegetmeier, requires no scientific
knowledge and no apparatus but what is to be found in every house, while
it is sufficiently accurate for all practical purposes:——
“Take an earthenware dish, holding about half a pint (a breakfast cup will
do), fill the cup full from a kettle of boiling water, pour this into an
earthenware quart jug, then fill the same cup again with boiling water
from the kettle, and pour it also into the quart jug, then fill the cup
with cold water, put it into the jug, shake the jug to mix the hot and
cold water, then pour the tepid water from the jug into the cup till the
cup is half full, then pour about a table-spoonful of the oil to be tested
on the tepid water in the cup, take the oil-can with the oil out of the
room, then touch the surface of the oil in the cup with a lighted splinter
of wood, or a match without sulphur. If the match causes a flash of flame
to appear on the surface of the oil, the oil is below the standard of
safety, and should not be used; if no flame appears, the oil is up to the
standard. We may mention that in this trial no time should be lost after
pouring the boiling water from the kettle, as the water may get too cold,
but the whole may be gone through in from two to three minutes. It is well
to have a saucer at hand, and if the oil should be a bad oil, and ignite
with the match, place the saucer on the mouth of the cup, and the flame is
extinguished. This trial should be done by daylight, and at a distance
from a fire, and the directions must be followed exactly in the order as
given above.”
4. Provided that the oils to be examined have been produced by careful
fractional distillation, their relative volatility, as indicated by their
specific gravity, shows to a great extent the facility with which they
ignite. The lightest oils are more volatile and more easily inflamed than
those which are heavier. Oils much under ·800 inflame directly a lighted
match is thrown into them, whereas oils at about ·815 to ·823 (if unmixed
products) cannot be set on fire in this manner. The specific gravity test
cannot, however, be depended on to determine the inflaming point of any
commercial oil. A heavy oil, badly rectified, may contain a proportion of
very volatile vapour, and have a low inflaming point; whereas a much
lighter oil may be perfectly safe, from its having the more volatile
portions carefully removed.
5. (Van der Weyde.) The oil to be tested is placed in a graduated tube
closed at one end; the open end is then closed with the finger, and is
then placed mouth downwards in a vessel of water that is heated from
43°——44° C. The vapour from the portion volatilised at this temperature
then collects in the upper part of this tube, and expels a corresponding
quantity of oil. See PETROLEUM.
In Great Britain petroleum is defined by Act of Parliament as being any
oil which gives off all inflammable vapour at a temperature less than 100°
F.
To prevent accidents with paraffin or petroleum lamps, the following
precautions ought to be observed:——
The lamps should be filled and trimmed by daylight.
They should never be overfilled; the oil should not be allowed to come
into contact with the metal work of the burner.
Any portion of oil spilled on the outside of the lamp should be carefully
wiped away.
When not in use the wick should be turned down into the wick-holder.
⁂ The principal products noticed below rank high among the numerous
varieties of mineral oil now in the market, but there are doubtless many
others equally good and safe. Their properties are described in accordance
with the results obtained by Mr W. B. Tegetmeier, who has devoted much
time to the examination of the mineral oils:——
=Oil, Al′bertite.= From ‘Albertite,’ a lustrous black mineral found in New
Brunswick. A sample was shown in the Colonial Department of the
International Exhibition of 1862, but the oil has not yet appeared in the
English market.
_Prop._ Odour very slight; illuminating power high; boiling point 338°
Fahr., or 126° above that of water.
=Oil, American.= See PETROLEUM OIL (_below_).
=Oil, Apyroec′tic.= _Syn._ NON-EXPLOSIVE OIL. A burning oil, introduced by
F. Tall, of Hull, and prepared, we believe, from American petroleum.
_Prop._ Slightly coloured; perfectly limpid; odour slight, but not
perceivable during combustion. The most remarkable property of this oil is
that, in spite of its limpidity, the point at which it gives off
inflammable vapour is 180° Fahr., or 80° above the requirements of the
Petroleum Act.
=Oil, Bel′montine.= From Rangoon tar, or Burmese petroleum, by
distillation; superheated steam being employed as the heating agent.
_Prop._ Colourless; odour not unpleasant; sp. gr. ·847; but although so
heavy, the oil is altogether free from viscosity, and will rise rapidly in
a comparatively long wick; inflaming point 134° Fahr.; burns with an
exceedingly white light, and possesses a very high illuminating power.
_Obs._ The distillation of the Rangoon tar is carried on by Price’s Patent
Candle Company under a patent. Besides the above lamp oil, several
beautiful and useful products are obtained. At first there comes over a
very volatile liquid, termed SHERWOOD OIL, used as a detergent for
removing grease from fabrics, cleaning gloves, &c.; then comes the
BELMONTINE OIL, already noticed; then two lubricating oils, the one light
and the other heavy; and, last of all, when the temperature is
considerably elevated, the beautiful white, translucent solid known as
BELMONTINE, distils over. This last is a kind of paraffin, and is used for
making ornamental candles.
=Oil, Caz′eline.= An excellent burning oil, probably prepared from
American petroleum, introduced by Cassell, Smith, and Co., of London.
_Prop._ Bright, limpid, with scarcely a trace of colour; odour very
slight, and quite free from any objectionable character; sp. gr. ·805;
lowest point of ignition 144° Fahr.; burns with a pure white light, free
from smoke and smell.
=Oil, Col′zarine.= A heavy hydrocarbon oil, adapted for burning in lamps
constructed from the old ‘Moderators’ and ‘Carcels,’ formerly so much used
for the fat oils.
_Prop._ Limpid; quite inodorous; of a pale amber colour; sp. gr. about
·838; temperature at which the vapour can be permanently ignited, 250°
Fahr. Tested in the altered moderator, it gives an intense white light,
without smoke or smell. Compared with vegetable colza oil, its
illuminating power is in the proportion of 3 to 2.
_Obs._ This oil is manufactured by Cassell, Smith, and Co., under Martin’s
patent for the modification of mineral oils, to fit them for burning in
lamps where ‘colza’ and other vegetable and animal oils have been usually
consumed. Similar oils are prepared by other firms.
=Oil, Machin′ery.= _Syn._ LUBRICATING OIL, SHAFTING O., SPINDLE O. The
heavier hydrocarbon, oils obtained in distilling coal, shale, and
petroleum, have almost superseded the fat oils for lubricating purposes.
They have no chemical action on the ordinary metals, and are not affected
by cold. The lightest of these comparatively heavy oils are used for
spindles, or other kinds of rapid machinery; the heaviest for the bearing
parts of heavy machinery; and those of an intermediate character for such
things as printing-presses, agricultural steam-engines, &c. In America and
on the Continent this oil is also used for making gas. The firm of
Whitmore and Craddock is favorably known for the manufacture and
purification of these machinery oils. See OIL, BELMONTINE (_above_), and
OIL, PARAFFIN (_below_).
=Oil, Pa′raffin.= _Syn._ PARAFFINE OIL. This name was given by Mr Young to
the oil produced by the distillation of cannel coal, Boghead coal, &c., at
a temperature considerably lower than that employed in the manufacture of
illuminating gas. The following is a brief outline of Mr Young’s
process:——
_Manuf._ (Young’s patent.) Boghead coal, broken into small fragments, is
introduced into perpendicular tubes or retorts, about eleven feet in
height, by conical hoppers at their upper extremities. Four of these tubes
constitute a set, being built into one furnace, and charged by a single
workman. They pass completely through the furnace, and are closed below by
dipping into shallow pools of water, while the openings into the hoppers
above may be shut by spherical valves. The coal in each tube is gradually
heated as it descends to that part which passes through the furnace, and
when it reaches the bottom of the tube it has parted with its volatile
constituents, and is raked away as refuse, the coal from above descending
as it is removed. Thus, the action of these perpendicular retorts is
continuous, and the distillation goes on uninterruptedly both day and
night. The vapours produced are conducted by iron tubes to the main
condensers, which consist of a series of syphon pipes freely exposed to
the air. The quantity of incondensible gas formed is inconsiderable; and
it is this result, so different from that obtained in the ordinary
gasworks, that marks the great value of Young’s process. The crude oil, a
dark-coloured, thick liquid, is then distilled to dryness in large iron
cylindrical stills, and is thus freed from the excess of carbon which is
left behind as coke. The oil, after distillation, is further purified by
being acted upon by strong sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol), which chars
the principal impurities, and causes them to subside in the form of a
dense black, heavy acid tar. To separate the remaining impurities, and
that portion of the sulphuric acid which remains in the oil, it is next
subjected to the action of caustic soda. As thus purified, the paraffin
oil contains four distinct commercial products. To effect their
separation, the process of fractional distillation is first employed. The
first elevation of temperature drives over the lighter and more volatile
portions, which, when purified by a subsequent distillation, yields the
fluid known as ‘paraffin naphtha,’ ‘petroleum spirit,’ ‘benzoline.’ This
product is used as a substitute for ‘turps,’ as a solvent for india rubber
for cleaning gloves, and for burning in those naphtha lamps so much
employed by costermongers, and workmen in railway tunnels and similar
situations. On the perfect separation of this naphtha the safety of the
burning oil depends. This burning oil, the ‘paraffin oil’ of commerce,
comes over at a much higher temperature than the naphtha. It is a
perfectly safe lamp oil, and has a greater illuminating value than any
other oil in the market. Its properties are noticed _below_. The third
product in point of volatility is a comparatively heavy liquid (machinery
oil), largely used for lubricating purposes in the Lancashire factories.
From this oil, and others which come over at a very high temperature, the
fourth commercial product is separated by the action of artificial cold.
This last product is the beautiful translucent solid, paraffin, now much
used as a candle material.[60] (See OIL, PARAFFIN, PETROLEUM.)
[Footnote 60: For a detailed account of the processes carried on
at the Bathgate works, see Mr Tegetmeier’s paper in ‘England’s
Workshops,’——Groombridge and Sons.]
In the preparation of paraffin oil, from native petroleum, the oil is
obtained by direct distillation from the petroleum, and subsequently
separated from the more or less volatile hydrocarbons (the paraffin
naphtha, the lubricating oils and the solid paraffin) that are associated
with it by fractional distillation as in Young’s process; whereas, when
procured from bituminous minerals, it is derived from the _tar_ or _crude
oil_, which has to be previously extracted from the bituminous matters by
destructive distillation. There are various methods for obtaining this tar
or crude oil, which, although differing in detail, are in general
principles very similar to that described in Young’s patent. Thus, whilst
in many works _closed_ horizontal retorts are employed, in other
establishments vertical ones, to the bottoms of which are attached
receptacles for the receipt of the exhausted coal or other material as it
falls from the retort, the same as in Young’s apparatus, are extensively
adopted. When horizontal retorts are employed they are made of cast iron,
and vary in length from 8 to 10 feet, being from 28 to 34 inches wide and
from 9 to 14 inches deep. The charge is introduced by an opening in the
end of the retort, by which aperture the exhausted residue is removed when
necessary. This aperture is closed by a tightly fitting cast iron cover
while the distillation is going on. At the other end of the retort is a
pipe for carrying off the products of distillation. This communicates with
a larger pipe, and this latter with the condensing apparatus. A number of
these retorts are set together in a row, with a furnace at one end, and
flues extending beneath the retorts, while the upper parts of the retorts
are covered with brickwork, to prevent the oil vapours from being
decomposed by the heat of the waste furnace gas passing to the chimney
through the flues above the retorts.
The gaseous products of the distillation of the tar, leaving the retort by
the exit tube already described, are cooled by being made to pass through
a number of iron pipes exposed to the air, or surrounded by water, and
thus becoming condensed pass into a reservoir in the form of the oil,
which forms the material from which the various hydrocarbons are separated
by fractional distillation. Accompanying the oil vapours are certain
uncondensable gases; these escape through a properly contrived outlet
which is made in the condensing pipes; in some works these escaping gases
are utilised as fuel, and in others for purposes of illumination.
In other works superheated steam is driven into the retorts during the
process of distillation; but although this has the effect of sweeping the
oil vapour more quickly out of the retort into the condenser, it is
questionable whether this advantage covers the extra cost of the
production of the steam.[61]
[Footnote 61: Payne’s ‘Industrial Chemistry.’ Edited by Dr Paul.]
In many parts of Germany the extraction of the crude oil or tar from
bituminous substances is effected in ovens. In these ovens the bituminous
body is thrown upon a layer of burning fuel which covers the bottom of the
oven, the result being that the bituminous matter is resolved into gaseous
bodies which are lost, and tar which flows downwards toward the burning
fuel, which being covered with a layer of clay is prevented from entering
into violent combustion. This method, however, is only had recourse to on
a small scale, since it is found that in most cases the tar obtained by
means of it is not of a kind suited for yielding paraffin and paraffin
oils.
The preparation of the tar or crude oil from fossil fuel, of the character
already specified, constitutes one of the most delicate and difficult
branches in the manufacture of paraffin oils, and paraffin, &c. The chief
sources of failure to be avoided are the overheating of the oil vapour,
and its consequent decomposition (varying in amount) into useless gaseous
products; and its inefficient condensation.
It has been shown by Vohl that even when the construction of the retorts
is not of the best, an average yield of tar may be obtained by the proper
condensation of the vapours. “The complete condensation of the vapours of
the tar is one of the most difficult problems the mineral oil and paraffin
manufacturer has to deal with, while the means usually adopted for
condensation, such as large condensing surfaces, injection of cold water,
and the like, have proved ineffectual. It has often been attempted to
condense the vapours of tar in the same manner as those of alcohol, but
there exist essential differences between the distillation of fluids and
dry distillation. In the former case the vapours soon expel all the air
completely from the still and from the condenser, and provided, therefore,
that, in reference to the size of the still and bulk of the boiling
liquid, the latter be large and cool enough, every part of the vapour must
come into contact with the condensing surfaces. In the process of dry
distillation the process is entirely different, because with the vapours,
say of tar, permanent gases are always generated. On coming into contact
with the condensing surfaces a portion of the vapours is liquefied,
leaving a layer of gas as a coating, as it were, on the condensing
surface. The gas being a bad conductor of heat prevents to such an extent
the further action of the condensing apparatus, that a large proportion of
the vapours are carried on, and may be altogether lost. A sufficient
condensation of the vapours of tar can be obtained only by bringing all
the particles of matter which are carried off from the retorts into
contact with the condensing surface, which need neither be very large nor
exceedingly cold, because the latent heat of the vapours of tar is small,
and consequently a moderately low temperature will be sufficient to
condense those vapours to the liquid state. The mixture of gases and
vapours maybe compared to an emulsion such as milk, and as the particles
of butter may be separated from milk by churning, so the separation of the
vapours of tar from the gases can be greatly assisted by the use of
exhausters acting in the manner of blowing fans. It is of the utmost
importance in condensing the vapours of tar that the molecules of the
vapours be kept in continuous motion, and thus made to touch the sides of
the condenser. The condenser should not be constructed so that the vapours
and gases can flow uninterruptedly in one and the same direction.”[62]
[Footnote 62: B. Wagner.]
An important condition for the safe and quiet distillation of the tar or
crude oil when obtained is that it should be free from water. Unless the
removal of the water is effectually accomplished, during its distillation,
the tar may boil over, and coming into contact with the fire under the
still may give rise to an alarming conflagration. The dehydration of the
tar is effected in an apparatus constructed for the purpose, consisting of
an iron tank placed within a larger tank, a space of about two inches
intervening between the two tanks is filled with water, which is heated
to, and kept at a temperature of between 60° and 80° C., for 10 hours, by
the end of which time the ammoniacal water having separated from the
lighter tar is drawn off by a stop-cock placed at the bottom of the tank,
whilst the tar is decanted through a valve at the top.
In America the distillation of the natural petroleum oils is carried out
in cylindrical stills capable of holding as much as 1600 gallons each. The
retorts employed in the distillation of the tar or crude oils obtained
from shale and other bituminous compounds are often constructed of large
cast-iron flanged pans, each capable of containing from 1-1/2 to 3 tons of
the oil, “and forming the body of the retort. The pan is set in brickwork
with flues running round the upper portion, and beneath it is a perforated
dome of brickwork, through which the flame and hot gas from the furnace
pass up round the bottom of the pan before entering the flues by which the
upper portion of the pan is heated. To the flange of the pan is fitted a
flanged cover having on one side a discharge pipe through which the vapour
is passed to the worm of the condenser. In the centre of the cover is a
manhole. The oil condensed in the worm is discharged through a pipe into a
receiver, and the uncondensable gas escapes through an ascending
pipe.”[63]
[Footnote 63: Palen.]
The processes to which the crude oil or tar and the natural petroleum are
next submitted differ only in the degree of treatment with certain agents
to which these products are subjected when, after similar methods of
fractional distillation, they have been isolated from each other. The
benzoline and paraffin oils (both for burning and lubricating purposes)
separately yielded by the natural oils seldom require purification, or if
so in a minor degree only, whilst the same bodies as obtained from the
crude shale oil or tar must be submitted to various processes of
depuration before they are fit for the market. Thus, the crude petroleum
or burning oil derived from tar is characterised by a more or less dark
colour and disagreeable smell——properties which are partly due to the
presence of carbolic acid and its homologues. By agitating the paraffin
oil with a solution of caustic soda these objectionable substances are
removed.
The oil, being next separated from the alkali by subsidence, and any
remains of the soda being removed from it by washing with water, is next
mixed with an aqueous solution of sulphuric acid in the proportion of 5
per cent. of acid of sp. gr. 1·70. The acid removes from the oil certain
basic substances derived from the tar, which, like the carbolic acid, give
to it a bad odour and a dark colour. In this operation thorough admixture
of the acid with the oil is important, and this is generally effected by
mixing the two in vessels furnished with puddles. After a time, and when
the mixture has separated into two layers, the upper one or the paraffin
oil is drawn off from the lower or acid one, and well washed with water;
in some instances lime water is used for the washing, in others the water
is impregnated with caustic alkali. With some samples of crude paraffin
oil the above operations have to be repeated two or three times, and even
redistilled before the oil becomes sufficiently pure and colourless for
sale. When redistilled, the last portions which come over are often found
to yield some solid paraffin in addition to that furnished by the first
fractional distillation. The ‘paraffin,’ ‘naphtha,’ ‘petroleum,’ ‘spirit,’
or ‘benzoline’ (by all of which names it is known), which forms the more
volatile portion of the tar, and which is the first to pass over from the
retort, is subjected to the same treatment as that used for burning oil;
as for the denser lubricating oil, which passes over after the burning
portion, this being freed from any of the latter, is set aside in a cool
place, in order that any solid paraffin it contains may crystallise out,
and be separated from it.
The waste carbolate of soda resulting from the treatment of the oil with
the caustic alkali, being decomposed by sulphuric acid, the liberated
carbolic acid is utilised either as a disinfectant, or for saturating
railway sleepers; and sometimes as a source of certain tar colours; or it
may be used in the manufacture of gas, the soda which remains in the coke
being extracted by lixiviation. The waste sulphuric acid combined with the
ammoniacal liquors that always accompany the first stages of the
distillation of the tar is made into sulphate of ammonia.
_Prop._ The paraffin oil of commerce is of a very pale amber colour; is
bright, perfectly transparent, and remarkably limpid. Its sp. gr. is ·823.
Its point of temporary ignition is 150° Fahr., that of permanent ignition
being a few degrees higher. Its odour is very slight. Its rate of
combustion is slow, as may be inferred from the absence of the lighter
oils, as indicated by its high sp. gr. and inflaming point. At the same
time its limpidity proves the absence of the heavier oils, and accounts
for its rising through a long wick with freedom, and burning without
charring the cotton.
=Oil, Petro′leum.= _Syn._ KEROSENE OIL, REFINED PETROLEUM, PARAFFIN OIL.
Most of the burning oils now in the market are derived from American
petroleum. That obtained from natural petroleum is now manufactured solely
in America. The native petroleums vary greatly in properties, and numerous
methods of refining are employed by the manufacturers. The Canadian
petroleum contains sulphuretted hydrogen, which imparts to it a very
disagreeable smell, and is difficult of removal. Some make use of both
acids and alkalies, others employ alkalies alone, and steam is applied at
various degrees of heat. Some of the oils produced are of excellent
quality, but others are inferior, and do not ascend the wick in sufficient
quantity to afford a constant light. None of the native petroleums contain
carbolic acid and other impurities which exist in the oils distilled from
coals and shales; hence their purification is simple and comparatively
cheap. “The oil prepared from petroleum is almost colourless; it has a
specific gravity of about ·810, and when of good quality only a slight and
rather aromatic odour.” (Payen.) See PETROLEUM, and _above_.
=Oil, Shale.= As we have stated, products analogous to those derived from
cannel coal are obtained by the destructive distillation of bituminous
shales and schists, and lignites or brown coals. On the Continent the
production of shale oils has of late years declined considerably, owing to
their unsuccessful competition, in point of price, with the American
petroleum oils. The oil obtained from bituminous shale or from coal is
generally of higher specific gravity than that procured from petroleum; it
is deeper in colour, and not so pleasant in smell.
=OILS (Mixed).= _Syn._ COMPOUND OILS; OLEA COMPOSITA, OLEA MIXTA, L. Under
these names are commonly included various mixtures of oils and other
substances that possess an unctuous appearance. When not otherwise stated,
they are prepared by simply agitating the ingredients together, and, after
a sufficient time, decanting the clear portion, which, in some cases, is
then filtered. A few of them only possess any importance. Some of them are
highly esteemed as remedies among the vulgar, and the use of others is
confined to veterinary medicine.
The following include the principal mixed oils of the shops, to which the
names of a few other compounds, which are frequently called ‘_oils_’ by
the ignorant, are added, for the purpose of facilitating a reference to
them:——
=Oil of Turpentine, Sulphurated.= _Syn._ OLEUM TEREBINTHINÆ SULPHURATUM.
_Prep._ Sulphurated linseed oil, 1 part; oil of turpentine, 3 parts.
=Oil of Turpentine (for acoustic use).= _Syn._ OLEUM TEREBINTHINÆ
ACOUSTICUM. (Mr Manle.) Oil of almonds, 4 drams; oil of turpentine, 40
minims.
=Oil, Acou′stic.= _Syn._ EAR OIL; OLEUM ACOUSTICUM, O. TEREBINTHINÆ
ACOUSTICUM, L. _Prep._ From oil of turpentine, 1 part; oil of almonds, 6
parts; mix. In atonic deafness, accompanied with induration of the wax. 1
or 2 drops are poured into the ear, or on a piece of cotton wool, which is
then gently placed in it.
=Oil, Black.= _Syn._ OLEUM NIGRUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Oil of turpentine, 1
pint; rape oil, 3 pints; oil of vitriol, 1/4 lb.; agitate well together
with care; then add of Barbadoes tar, 3 oz.; again agitate well, and in 10
days decant the clear portion. Linseed oil is preferred for the above by
many persons.
2. (Percivall.) Sweet oil, 1 pint; oil of turpentine, 2 oz.; mix, add
gradually of oil of vitriol; 1-1/4 oz.; again mix, and leave the bottle
open until the next day. Detersive, stimulant. Used by farriers for mange,
&c.
=Oil, British.= _Syn._ COMMON OIL OF PETRE; OLEUM BRITANNICUM, O. PETRÆ
VULGARE, L. _Prep._ From oil of turpentine, 1 quart; Barbadoes tar, 1
lb.; oils of rosemary and origanum, of each 1 oz. Stimulant. Formerly
reputed to possess the most astonishing virtues.
=Oil, Camphora′ted.= Liniment of camphor.
=Oil, Car′ron.= Liniment of lime.
=Oil, Chabert’s.= _Syn._ CHABERT’S EMPYREUMATIC OIL; OLEUM CHABERTI, O.
CONTRA TÆNIAM CHABERTI, L. Oil of turpentine, 3 parts; Dippel’s animal
oil, 1 part; mix, and distil 3 parts. It must be preserved from the air
and light. Used in tapeworm.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls, in water, night
and morning, until 5 or 6 fl. oz., or more, have been taken; a cathartic
being given every third day.
=Oil, Exeter.= _Syn._ OLEUM EXCESTRENSE. (Gray.) Green oil, 16 lbs.;
euphorbium, mustard seed, castor, pellitory, of each 1 oz.; digest and
strain. The original form is more complex. The following is also
used:——Rape oil, 1-1/2 pint; green oil, 1/2 pint; oils of wormwood,
rosemary, and origanum, of each half a dram.
=Oil, Fur′niture.= _Syn._ MAHOGANY OIL, OIL STAIN. _Prep._ 1. From refined
linseed oil, 1 pint; alkanet root, 1/4 oz.; digested together in a warm
place until the former is sufficiently coloured, when it is poured off and
strained.
2. Pale boiled oil, 1 pint; beeswax, 1/4 lb.; melted together, and
coloured as before. Gives a superior polish, which becomes very tough by
age.
3. Linseed or boiled oil, 1 pint; Venice turpentine (pure), 6 oz.; as
before. The above are used for mahogany and other dark-coloured woods.
4. Linseed oil, 8 oz.; vinegar, 4 oz.; oil of turpentine, mucilage,
rectified spirit, of each 1/2 oz.; butter of antimony, 1/4 oz.;
hydrochloric acid, 1 oz. Mix.
5. Linseed oil, 16 oz.; black resin, 4 oz.; vinegar, 4 oz.; rectified
spirit, 3 oz.; butter of antimony, 1 oz.; spirit of salts, 2 oz.; melt the
resin, add the oil, take it off the fire, and stir in the vinegar; let it
boil for a few minutes, stirring it; when cool put it into a bottle, and
add the other ingredients, shaking all together. The last two are
specially used for reviving French polish.
6. (Pale.)——_a._ As the preceding, omitting the alkanet.
_b._ From nut oil, 3/4 pint; beeswax (finest), 3 oz.; melted together.
_c._ To the last add of copal varnish, 3 or 4 oz.
The last three are employed for pale woods. They are all applied by means
of a rag, and are ‘polished off’ with a ‘woollen rubber’ or ‘furniture
brush.’ A little strong vinegar, or a few drops of hydrochloric acid, are
sometimes added. See POLISH.
=Oil, Hair.= See OIL (Perfumed).
=Oil and Hartshorn.= Liniment of ammonia.
=Oil, I′ron.= _Syn._ OLEUM FERRI, O. MARTIS, L. The old name for the
liquid formed when perchloride of iron is allowed to deliquesce by free
exposure to the air. It is excessively caustic and corrosive.
=Oil, Lime.= See CALCIUM (Chloride).
=Oil, Macas′sar.= See OILS (Perfumed).
=Oil, Mar′row.= _Prep._ From clarified beef marrow, 1 part; oil of
almonds, 3 parts; melted together, and strained through muslin. It is
usually scented with ambergris, cassia, or mace, and slightly tinged with
palm oil or annotta. Used for the hair.
=Oils, Marshall’s.= _Prep._ From linseed oil and rape oil, of each 1 lb.;
green oil and oil of turpentine, of each 1/2 lb.; oil of origanum, 1/2 fl.
oz.; oil of vitriol, 1/4 oz.; well shaken together.
=Oils, Mixed.= _Syn._ OLEUM MIXTUM COMMUNE, L. _Prep._ From linseed oil
and green oil, of each 1 lb.; oil of turpentine, 1/2 lb.; Barbadoes tar
and balsam of sulphur, of each 2 oz.; oils of spike and origanum, of each
1 oz. Stimulant and rubefacient. Used by farriers for sprains, &c. See
OILS, STAMFORD’S (_below_).
=Oils, Newmarket.= _Prep._ From oils of linseed, turpentine, and St John’s
wort, of each 3 lbs.; oil of vitriol, 1-1/2 oz.; well shaken together, and
the clear portion decanted in a few days. A favourite remedy for sprains
in horses.
=Oils, Nine.= _Syn._ OLD MIXED OILS; OLEUM EX OMNIBUS, L. _Prep._ From
train oil, 1 gall.; oil of turpentine, 1 quart; oil of amber and oil of
bricks, of each 5 oz.; oil of spike and oil of origanum, of each 2 oz.;
Barbadoes tar, 2-1/2 lbs.; oil of vitriol, 2 oz.; camphorated spirit, 1/2
pint, mixed together as the last. A favourite remedy with provincial
farriers.
=Oil of Petre.= See OIL, BRITISH (_above_).
=Oil, Phos′phorated.= _Syn._ OLEUM PHOSPHORATUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. Bor.)
Phosphorus (dried and sliced small), 6 gr.; oil of almonds, 1 oz.; mix,
place the phial in hot water, agitate for some time, and, when cold,
decant the clear oil from the undissolved phosphorus.
2. (Magendie.) Phosphorus (sliced), 1/2 dr.; almond oil, 1 oz.; macerate
in the dark, with frequent agitation, for 14 days, then, after repose,
decant the clear portion, and aromatise it with a little essence of
bergamotte.
3. (B. Ph.) _Prep._ Take of phosphorus and oil of almonds, of each q. s.
Heat the oil in a porcelain dish to 300° F., and keep it at this
temperature for about 15 minutes, then let it cool and filter it through
paper. Put 4 fluid ounces of this oil into a stoppered bottle capable of
holding four and a half fluid ounces; then add to it 12 grains of
phosphorus. Immerse the bottle in hot water until the oil has acquired the
temperature of 180° F., removing the stopper two or three times to allow
the escape of expanded air, then shake the oil and phosphorus together,
until the latter is entirely dissolved.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 minims.
_Obs._ A fl. oz. of oil dissolves rather less than 5 gr. of pure
phosphorus. The large excess ordered in the second formula must be merely
for the purpose of increasing the extent of surface acted on. It is,
however, with the other precautions given, quite unnecessary. The products
of both formulæ have the same strength.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 or 12 drops, in
milk, barley water, or gruel, or made into an emulsion; in chronic
rheumatism, gout, &c., and as a powerful, diffusible stimulant in various
diseases with debility and general prostration of the vital powers, &c.
Externally, as a friction. It is chiefly to the presence of phosphorus
that cod-liver owes its wonderful remedial power in these affections.
=Oil, Quit′ter.= _Prep._ 1. Red precipitate, 2 dr.; aquafortis, 1 oz.;
dissolve, add of olive oil, oil of turpentine, and rectified spirit, of
each 2 oz.; and agitate well and frequently for 3 or 4 hours.
2. Ointment of nitrate of mercury (Ph. L.), 1 part; nut oil, 3 parts; melt
together, and stir until the mixture is cold. Used by farriers for
quitters, &c.
=Oils, Radley’s.= From Barbadoes tar, 1/2 lb.; linseed oil and oil of
turpentine, of each 1/4 pint; gently warmed, and shaken together.
=Oil, Shav′ing.= See ESSENCE OF SOAP.
=Oil, Sheldrake’s.= _Prep._ From pale boiled nut oil and copal varnish,
equal parts, melted together by the heat of hot water, and, when perfectly
mixed, placed aside in a bottle for a week to settle, after which the
clear portion is decanted. Used by artists to grind their colours in to
brighten them.
=Oil of Spike.= 1. (FARRIER’S). From oil of turpentine, 1 quart; Barbadoes
tar, 1-1/2 oz.; alkanet root, 1/2 oz.; digested together for a week. Used
as a stimulating liniment by farriers.
2. (PAINTER’S.)——_a._ From rectified oil of turpentine, 3 pints; oil of
lavender, 1 pint; mix.
_b._ Oil of turpentine (warm), 5 parts; lavender oil bottoms (genuine), 3
parts; agitate well together, and in a fortnight decant the clear away.
Used by artists and enamellers.
=Oils, Stamford’s.= _Syn._ LORD STAMFORD’S MIXED OILS. _Prep._ Dissolve
camphor, 1 oz., in rectified spirit of wine, 1/4 pint; add oil of
origanum, 2 oz.; oil of turpentine, 1/2 pint; green elder oil, 2 lbs.; and
agitate until mixed. The rectified spirit is now generally omitted, the
camphor being dissolved in the green oil by aid of heat before adding the
other ingredients. Stimulant. Used by farriers.
=Oil, Sul′phurated.= _Syn._ BALSAM OF SULPHUR; OLEUM SULPHURATUM, BALSAMUM
SULPHURIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1746.) Flowers of sulphur, 1 part; olive
oil, 4 parts; boil together in a vessel lightly covered, until they assume
the consistence of a thick balsam.
2. (Ph. L. 1824.) Olive oil, 16 fl. oz.; heat it in a sand bath, and
gradually add of washed sulphur, 2 oz.; stirring until they combine.
_Prop., &c._ Balsam of sulphur is a dark, reddish-brown, viscid fluid,
having an extremely disagreeable and penetrating odour, and a strong,
nauseous taste. The local action of balsam of sulphur is that of an acrid
and irritant; its remote effects those of a stimulant, expectorant, and
diaphoretic. Externally, it is occasionally used as an application to foul
ulcers; and was formerly commonly employed internally in chronic pulmonary
affections, in doses of 20 to 50 drops. It is now seldom given internally
except in veterinary practice.
=Oils, Three.= _Syn._ OLEUM DE TRIBUS (Van Mons), L. Oils of brick,
lavender, and turpentine, equal parts. As a stimulant liniment.
=Oil of Vit′riol.= Sulphuric acid.
=Oils, Ward’s.= _Syn._ WARD’S WHITE OILS. From powdered camphor, rape oil,
oil of turpentine, rectified spirit, and liquor of potassa, equal parts,
agitated together for some time, and again before use. Beef brine was
formerly used instead of liquor of potassa.
=Oil, Watchmaker’s.= Prepared by placing a clean strip or coil of lead in
a small white-glass bottle filled with pure almond or olive oil, and
exposing it to the sun’s rays at a window for some time till a curdy
matter ceases to be deposited, and the oil has become quite limpid and
colourless. Used for fine work; does not become thick by age.
=Oil, Wedell’s.= _Syn._ BEZOAR OIL; OLEUM BEZOARDICUM, L. From nut oil,
1/4 pint; camphor, 1/2 oz.; dissolve by a gentle heat, and, when cold, add
of essence of bergamot, 1 dr., and let it stand over a little alkanet root
until sufficiently coloured.
=Oils, White.= _Syn._ WHITE EGG-OILS. _Prep._ 1. Yolks of eggs, 4 in
number; oil of turpentine, 1/4 pint; mix, add of liquor of ammonia, 3 fl.
oz.; oil of origanum, 1/2 oz.; soaper’s lye, 1/4 pint; water, 3/4 pint;
agitate well, and strain through a coarse hair sieve.
2. Rape oil, 3/4 pint; liquor of ammonia and oil of turpentine, of each 3
oz.; agitate until they form a milk.
3. (Redwood.) Whites and yolks of 2 eggs; oil of turpentine, 1-1/2 oz.;
triturate together, add of Goulard’s extract, 1/2 oz; mix, next add of
distilled vinegar, 1-1/2 pint, and, lastly, of rectified spirit, 1-1/2 fl.
oz. Stimulant and detergent. Used by farriers.
=Oil, Worm (Canine).= _Syn._ OLEUM VERMIFUGUM CANINUM. _Prep._ From oil of
turpentine and castor oil, equal parts; tinged yellow with a little palm
oil or annotta.——_Dose._ For a middle-sized dog, 1/2 oz., repeated in 2 or
3 hours if it does not operate.
=OILS (in Perfumery).= _Syn._ SCENTED OILS; OLEA FIXA ODORATA, L. The oils
which usually form the basis of these articles are those of almonds, ben,
or olives; but others are occasionally used. The methods adopted for their
preparation vary with the nature of the substances whose fragrance it is
intended to convey to the oil. The Continental perfumers employ three
different processes for this purpose, which they technically distinguish
by terms indicative of their nature. These are as under:——
1. A sufficient quantity of the essential oil of the plant, or of the
concentrated essence of the substance, if it does not furnish an oil, is
added to the fixed oil which it is desired to perfume, until the latter
becomes agreeably fragrant; the whole is then allowed to repose for a few
days, and, if any sediment falls (which should not be the case when the
ingredients are pure), the clear portion is decanted into another bottle.
When alcoholic essences are thus employed, the fixed oil should be gently
warmed, and the admixture made in a strong bottle, so as to permit of it
being corked and well agitated with safety; and in this case the agitation
should be prolonged until the whole has become quite cold. In this way all
the ordinary aromatised and perfumed oils of the English druggists and
perfumers, as those of bergamotte, cassia, cloves, lavender, lemon,
mille-fleurs, neroli, nutmeg, oranges, roses, &c., are made, but those of
a few of the more delicate flowers, and of certain other substances, can
only be prepared of the first quality by one or other of the processes
described below.
In general, 1 to 1-1/2 dr. of the pure essential oil, or 3 to 4 fl. dr. of
the alcoholic essences, are found sufficient to render 1 pint of oil
agreeably fragrant, 1/2 dr. of pure attar of roses is, however, enough for
this purpose, owing to the very powerful character of its perfume; but
even a less quantity than this is commonly employed, on account of its
costliness, the deficiency being made up by a mixture of the oils of
rhodium, rosemary, and bergamotte. Most of the oils of this class are
intended for hair cosmetics.
2. (By INFUSION.) Dry substances, after being reduced to powder, or sliced
very small——flowers or petals, after being carefully selected, and picked
from the stems and other scentless portions——and soft or unctuous matters,
as ambergris, civet, or musk, after being rubbed to a paste with a little
oil, either with or without the addition of about twice their weight of
clean sand or powdered glass, to facilitate the reduction, are digested in
the fixed oil for about 1 hour, at a gentle heat obtained by means of a
water bath, continual stirring being employed all the time; the mixture is
then removed from the heat, covered up, and left to settle until the next
day, when the clear portion is decanted into clean bottles. When flowers
are employed, the free oil is drained off, and the remainder obtained by
the action of a press. The process is then repeated with fresh flowers, 5
or 6 times, or even oftener, until the oil is sufficiently perfumed. For
ambergris, musk, or civet, the digestion is generally continued for 15 to
20 days, during which time the vessel is either freely exposed to the
sunshine, or kept in an equally warm situation.
The first quality of the oils of ambergris, balsam of Peru, benzoin,
cassia, cinnamon, civet, orange flowers, orris, roses, styrax, and
vanilla, are made by infusion.
3. (BY THE FLOWERS.)——_a._ Upon an iron frame a piece of white, spongy,
cotton cloth is stretched, and then moistened with almond or olive oil,
usually the latter; on the cloth is placed a thin layer of the
fresh-plucked flowers; another frame is similarly treated, and in this way
a pile of them is made. In 24 or 30 hours the flowers are replaced by
fresh ones, and this is repeated every day or every other day, until 7 or
8 different lots of flowers have been consumed, or the oil is sufficiently
loaded with their odour. The oil is then obtained from the cotton cloth by
powerful pressure, and is placed aside in bottles to settle, ready to be
decanted into others for sale. Sometimes thin layers of cotton wool,
slightly moistened with oil, are employed instead of cotton cloth.
The oils of honeysuckle, jasmin, or jessamine, jonquil, may-blossom,
myrtle-blossom, narcissus, tuberose, violet, and, in general, of all the
more delicate flowers, are prepared in the above manner.
_b._ The native perfumers of India prepare their scented oils of bela,
chumbul, jasmin, &c., in the following manner:——A layer of the scented
flowers, about 4 inches thick and 2 feet square, is formed on the ground;
over this is placed a layer of moistened tel or sesamum seeds, 2 inches
thick, and on this another 4-inch layer of flowers. Over the whole a sheet
is thrown, which is kept pressed down by weights attached round the edges.
The flowers are replaced with fresh ones after the lapse of 24 hours, and
the process is repeated a third and even a fourth time, when a very highly
scented oil is desired. The swollen sesamum seeds, rendered fragrant by
contact with the flowers, are then submitted to the action of the press,
by which their bland oil is obtained strongly impregnated with the aroma
of the flowers. The expressed oil is then set aside in dubbers (bottles
made of untanned hides) to settle. We have employed poppy seed in this
country, in a similar manner, with great success.
_c._ The flowers are crushed in a mortar or mill, with one half their
weight of blanched sweet almonds, and the next day the mass is gently
heated and submitted to the action of a powerful press; the liquid thus
obtained is allowed to repose for a week, when the upper portion of oil is
decanted and filtered. This plan is occasionally adopted in this country
for the oils of roses and of a few other flowers. (See _below_.)
The solution of a few grains of benzoic acid, or of gum benzoin
(preferably the first), in any of the above oils, will materially retard
the accession of rancidity, if it does not prevent it altogether.
The oils of the last two classes (2 and 3) are chiefly used to impart
their respective odours to the simple oils, pomades, &c.; and in the
manufacture of scented spirits or esprits. The following formulæ are given
as examples of both classes of preparations:——
=Oil of Am′bergris.= From ambergris, 2 dr.; oil, 1 pint; by infusion.
=Oil of Ben′zoin.= From gum benzoin, 7 dr.; oil, 1 pint; by infusion.
=Oils for the Hair.= _Syn._ HUILES ANTIQUES, Fr. These are numerous. All
those scented with the simple perfumes are prepared in the way explained
under class 1 (_above_). The selection depends entirely upon the judgment
of the operator or the fancy of the purchaser. In general, a mixture of
two or three perfumes is preferred in these countries to the pure
fragrance of any single flower, and a grossness of taste is exhibited in
these matters which surprises our Continental neighbours, and the
inhabitants of Italy more particularly. Some of these oils are coloured. A
red tinge is given to them by allowing the oil to stand for a few hours
over a little alkanet root (2 dr. to the pint) before scenting it. The
application of a gentle heat facilitates the process. Yellow and orange
are given by a little annotta or palm oil; and green, by steeping a little
green parsley or lavender in them for a few days; or by dissolving 2 or 3
dr. of gum guaiacum in each pint by the aid of heat, and, when cold,
decanting the clear portion. Huile antique au jasmin, Huile antique à la
fleurs d’oranges, Huile antique à la rose, Huile antique à la tuberose,
Huile antique à la violette, &c., are simple oils flavoured with the
respective perfumes or their preparations.——Huile antique rouge à la rose
is the ordinary oil of roses coloured with alkanet root.——Huile antique
verte is simple oil coloured green, as above, and scented.——Huile antique
aux millefleurs is so scented with several perfumes that none predominate.
A mixture of bergamotte, lemons, lavender, neroli, pimento, and ambergris
or musk, is commonly employed for the purpose.
=Oil, Macas′sar.= _Syn._ HUILE DE MACASSAR. _Prep._ 1. (Rowland’s.) Oil of
ben or almonds (reddened by alkanet root), 1 pint; oils of rosemary and
origanum (white), of each 1 dr.; oil of nutmeg and attar of roses, of each
15 drops; neroli, 6 drops; essence of musk, 3 or 4 drops.
2. (De Naquet.) Oil of ben, 1 quart; nut oil, 1 pint; rectified spirit,
1/4 pint; essence of bergamotte, 3-1/2 dr.; tincture of musk and esprit de
Portugal, of each 2 dr.; attar of roses, 1/2 dr.; alkanet root, q. s. to
colour.
=Oil, Mar′row (Perfumed).= 1. Simple marrow oil, scented at will.
2. (FLUIDE DE JAVA.) Marrow oil, coloured with a little palm oil and
scented.
3. (HUILE COMOGENE.) Marrow oil, 4 oz.; spirit of rosemary, 1-1/2 oz.; oil
of nutmeg, 12 drops.
4. (HUILE PHILOCOME D’AUBRIL.) Cold-drawn nut oil and marrow oil, equal
parts; scent at will, q. s.
5. (HUILE DE PHÉNIX.) Clarified beef marrow, lard, pale nut oil, and
expressed oil of mace, of each 4 oz.; melt together by the heat of hot
water, strain through linen into a warm stone mortar, add, of oils of
cloves, lavender, mint, rosemary, sage, and thyme, of each 1/2 dr.;
rectified spirit, 1 oz., in which has been dissolved by a gentle heat
balsam of tolu, 4 dr.; camphor, 1 dr.; triturate until the whole is cold,
and then put it into bottles. All the above are used to make the hair
grow, and to prevent it falling off.
=Oil of Musk.= From grain musk, 1 dr.; ambergris, 1/2 dr.; oil of
lavender, 20 drops; oil, 1 pint, by infusion. A second quality is made by
working the same ingredients, after the oil is poured from them, with 3/4
pint of fresh oil. This also applies to OIL OF AMBERGRIS and HUILE ROYALE.
=Oil of Musk and Am′bergris.= _Syn._ HUILE ROYALE. From ambergris, 2 dr.;
grain musk, 1/2 dr.; oils of cassia, lavender, neroli, and nutmeg, of each
10 drops; oil, 1 pint; by infusion. (See _above_.)
=Oil of Sty′rax.= From liquid styrax (pure), 5 dr.; oil of nutmeg, 10
drops; ambergris, 6 gr.; oil, 1 pint; by infusion.
=Oil of Vanil′la.= _Syn._ HUILE À LA VANILLE. From purest olive or almond
oil, 1-1/2 pint; vanilla (finest, in powder), 2 oz.; oil of bergamotte, 1
dr.; attar of roses (finest), 15 drops; by infusion.
=OILS (Volatile).=[64] _Syn._ OLEA DESTILLATA, OLEA DISTILLATA, OLEA
ESSENTIALIA, OLEA VOLATILIA, L.; HUILES VOLATILES, Fr. The volatile oils
are an extensive and important class of bodies, derived from the vegetable
kingdom, and found in almost every part of the majority of the plants
which produce them, except the cotyledons of the seeds, in which, in
general, the fixed oils are exclusively stored up. Their presence confers
upon flowers, leaves, fruit, seeds, roots, bark, and woods their peculiar
and characteristic odours; but among these they are not equally
distributed in the same individual, and are often altogether absent from
some of them. To them we are indebted for our most delightful perfumes,
and our choicest spices and aromatics. Some of them are found to possess
valuable medicinal properties, and others are invested with the highest
possible interest on account of their peculiar chemical constitution, and
the reactions which occur when they are brought into contact with other
bodies.
[Footnote 64: Although essential oils are volatile oils, volatile oils are
not always essential ones as the term is understood. This is the case with
the petroleum and paraffin oils obtained by the distillation of native
petroleum and bituminous bodies. To describe the two as synonymous is
therefore incorrect.——ED.]
The volatile oils are often called ‘essences,’ and the same loose and
unmeaning term is also commonly applied to their alcoholic solutions.
_Prop._ The volatile or essential oils are usually more limpid and less
unctuous than the fixed oils; but some of them are butyraceous or
crystalline. Nearly all of them consist of two or more oils, differing in
their sp. gr. and boiling points, one of which is generally liquid, the
other, in some cases, crystalline. All of them, when perfectly pure, are
colourless, though before rectification nearly the whole of them have a
pale yellow tint, and some of them are brown, blue, or green. Their odour
is that of the plants which yield them, and is usually powerful; their
taste is pungent and burning. They mix in all proportions with the fixed
oils, dissolve freely in both alcohol and ether, and are sparingly soluble
in water, forming ‘perfumed’ or ‘medicated waters.’ Their boiling point
usually ranges between 310° and 325° Fahr., and is always considerably
higher than that of water. They resist saponification, and (excepting oil
of cloves) do not combine with the salifiable bases. Their density
fluctuates a little on either side of water. The lightest oil is that of
citrons (sp. gr. ·847), and the heaviest that of sassafras (sp. gr.
1·096). When cooled sufficiently, they all solidify. The common
temperature of the atmosphere is sufficient for this with some of them, as
the oils of roses and aniseed; whilst others require to be cooled below
the freezing point of water before they assume the solid form. In this
state they appear to consist of a crystalline or semi-crystalline
substance (stearopten, stearessence), and a fluid portion (eleopten,
oleiessence). The two may be separated by pressing the concrete oil
between the folds of bibulous paper, in the cold. By exposure to the air
the volatile oils rapidly absorb oxygen, and become partially converted
into resin. This is the cause of the deposit that usually forms in them
(especially in the expressed oil of orange) when kept in an ill-corked
vessel. The solid crystalline matter which separates from them when kept
in closed vessels is stearoptene.
_Class._ Chemically considered, the essential oils may be divided into
three great classes:——
1. Oils composed of carbon and hydrogen only (binary volatile oils,
carbo-hydrogens, hydro-carbons, terebenes, camphenes), of which oil of
turpentine may be regarded as the type. These are characterised by being,
as a class, less soluble in rectified spirit and in water than the other
essential oils. The oils of bergamot, capivi, cubebs, elemi, hops,
juniper, lemons, orange peel, pepper, the grass oil of India, the laurel
oil of Guiana, and some others, belong to this class.
2. Oils containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (oxygenated oils),
including most of those used in medicine and perfumery. These, as a class,
are more soluble in rectified spirit and in water than those containing
carbon and hydrogen only. To this class belong the oils of almonds,
aniseed, cassia, cedar-wood, cinnamon, cumin, jasmin, lavender,
meadow-sweet (_Spirœa ulmaria_), orange flowers, pennyroyal, peppermint,
spearmint, rosemary, rose-petals, valerian, winter green (_Gaultheria
procumbens_), and others too numerous to mention. A few of these
oxygenated oils contain nitrogen.
3. Oils containing sulphur (sulphuretted oils). These are characterised by
their extreme pungency, suffocating odour, vesicating power, property of
blacking silver, and being decomposed by contact with most other metallic
bodies. The oils of assafœtida, black mustard seed, garlic, horseradish,
and onions, are of this kind. Some sulphuretted oils contain nitrogen.
_Prep._ The volatile oils are generally procured by distilling the
odoriferous substances along with water; but in a few instances they are
obtained by expression, and still more rarely by the action of alcohol.
According to the common method of proceeding, substances which part freely
with their oil are put into the still along with about an equal weight of
water, and are at once submitted to distillation. Those substances which
give out their oil with difficulty are first soaked for 24 hours, or
longer, in about twice their weight of water, to each gallon of which 1
lb. of common salt has been added, in order to raise its boiling point.
The distillation is conducted as quickly as possible, and, when one half
the water has come over, it is returned into the still, and this
cohobation is repeated, when necessary, until the distilled water ceases
to be mixed with oil. The heat of steam or a salt-water bath should be
preferably employed. When a naked fire is used, the still should be deep
and narrow, by which means the bottom will be better protected by the
gradually decreasing quantity of water towards the end of the process, and
empyreuma prevented. When the distilled water is to be repeatedly
cohobated on the ingredients, a convenient and economical plan is to so
arrange the apparatus that, after the water has separated from the oil in
the receiver, it shall flow back again into the still. An ordinary
worm-tub, or other like condensing apparatus, may be employed; but in the
case of those oils which readily solidify, the temperature of the water in
the condenser must not fall below about 55° Fahr.
The mixed vapours which pass over condense and fall as a milky-looking
liquid into the receiver. This separates after a time into two portions,
one of which is a solution of a part of the newly eliminated oil in water,
and the other is the oil itself. The latter either occupies the upper or
the lower portion of the receiver, according as its specific gravity is
less or greater than that of distilled water. The separation of the oil
and water is effected by allowing the mixed liquids to drop into a
‘Florentine receiver’ (see _engr._) when the oil is the lighter of the
two, by which means the latter accumulates at _a_, and the water flows
over by the spout _b_.
[Illustration]
The same receiver may be employed for oils heavier than water, by
reversing the arrangement; but a glass ‘separator’ (see _engr._) is, in
general, found more convenient. In this case the oil accumulates at the
bottom of the vessel, and may be drawn off by the stop-cock provided for
the purpose.
[Illustration]
The essential oils of lemons and oranges of commerce, and of some other
fruits, are chiefly obtained by submitting the yellow rind to powerful
pressure; but in this way they are not so white, nor do they keep so well,
as when distilled, although in the case of the fruits referred to the oils
are more fragrant than when prepared by any other method.
The London College excluded the usual directions for the preparation of
the essential oils from their Pharmacopœia of 1851, on the ground that
these substances are seldom prepared by the druggist or apothecary, or at
all on the small scale.
“The fruit of anise, caraway, and juniper, the flowers of chamomile,
lavender, and elder, the berries of allspice, the tops of rosemary, and
the entire recent plants of the other herbs, are to be employed.” “Put any
one of these into an alembic, then pour in as much water as will cover it,
and distil the oil into a large vessel, kept cool.” (Ph. L. 1836.)
The Edinburgh College directs——“As much water only is to be employed as
will prevent empyreuma during the distillation. The distillation may be
immediately commenced after a proper maceration, and the oil afterwards
separated from the water,” in the manner already noticed.
“It is also necessary to observe, in preparing these oils, as well as the
distilled waters, that the quality of the substances, their texture, the
season of the year, and similar circumstances, must occasion so many
differences, that it is scarcely possible to give any certain and general
rules which shall strictly apply to every example. Many things, therefore,
must be regulated by the judgment of the operator.”
The Dublin College directs the vegetable substances to be macerated in the
still with about 5 times their weight of water, for 24 hours, when one
half of the water is to be drawn over. The oil having been separated from
this in the usual manner, it is to be returned to the still, and the same
quantity drawn over, as before, from which the oil must again be
separated.
Chevallier gives the following rules for the distillation of essential
oils:——
1. Operate upon as large quantities as possible, in order to obtain a
greater product, and one of finer quality.
2. Conduct the distillation rapidly.
3. Divide the substances minutely, in order to facilitate the extrication
of the oil.
4. Employ only sufficient water to prevent the matter operated on from
burning, and the product from being contaminated with empyreuma.
5. For substances whose oil is heavier than water, saturate or nearly
saturate the water in the still with common salt, to raise the boiling
point, and thus to enable the vapour to carry over more oil.
6. Employ, when possible, water which has been already distilled from off
the same substances, and has thus become saturated with oil.
7. For oils naturally fluid, keep the water in the refrigerator cool; but
for those oils which easily become solid, preserve it at 80° to 90°
Fahr.(?)
To the above may be added——
8. Collect the oil as soon as possible after it separates from the water
with which it passes over, and in its subsequent treatment keep it, as
much as possible, from free contact with the air.
Dr Ure remarks, “The narrower and taller the alembic is, within certain
limits, the greater will be the proportion of oil, relative to that of the
aromatic water, from like proportions of aqueous and vegetable matter
employed.” “Some place the plants in baskets, and suspend these
immediately over the bottom of the still, under the water, or above its
surface in the steam; but the best mode, in my opinion, is to stuff an
upright cylinder full of the plants and drive down through them steam of
any desired force, its tension and its temperature being further regulated
by the size of the outlet-orifice leading to the condenser. The cylinder
should be made of strong copper, tinned inside, and encased in the worst
conducting species of wood, such as soft deal or sycamore.”
The newly distilled oils may be separated from adhering water, which
frequently renders them partially opaque or ‘cloudy,’ by repose in a
temperature between 60° and 70° Fahr., and subsequent decantation; but to
render them quite dry (anhydrous), it is necessary to let them stand over
some fragments of fused chloride of calcium. This is not, however,
required with the commercial oils.
The rectification of the volatile oils is commonly performed without
water, by the careful application of a heat just sufficient to make them
flow over pretty rapidly, so that they may be kept heated for as short a
time as possible. One half, or at most two thirds only, is drawn off, that
left in the retort being usually mixed with raw oil intended to be sold in
that state. This method often leads to much loss and disappointment, and
we have known more than one rather dangerous explosion result from its
use. A better plan is to rectify the oil from strong brine, and then to
separate any adhering water, either by repose or chloride of calcium.
_Pres._ Volatile oils should be preserved in well-closed and nearly full
bottles, in the shade, and should be opened as seldom as possible. By age
they darken, lose much of their odour, increase in density, and become
thick and clammy. It is then necessary to distil them, by which the
undecomposed portion is separated from the resin. Agitation along with
animal charcoal will restore their clearness and original colour, but
nothing more.
_Pur., Tests._ The essential or volatile oils of commerce are very
frequently adulterated with the fatty oils, resins, spermaceti, or
alcohol, or with other essential oils of a cheaper kind or lower grade.
The presence of the first three of these may be readily detected by
placing a drop of the suspected oil on a piece of white paper, and
exposing it for a short time to heat. If the oil is pure, it will entirely
evaporate; but if adulterated with one of these substances, a greasy or
translucent stain will be left on the paper. These substances also remain
undissolved when the oil is agitated with thrice its volume of rectified
spirit.
The presence of alcohol may be detected by agitating the oil with a few
small pieces of dried chloride of calcium. These remain unaltered in a
pure essential oil, but dissolve in one containing alcohol, and the
resulting solution separates, forming a distinct stratum at the bottom of
the vessel. When only a very little alcohol is present, the pieces merely
change their form, and exhibit the action of the solvent on their angles
or edges, which become more or less obtuse or rounded.
Another test for alcohol in the essential oils is the milkiness occasioned
by agitating them with a little water, as well as the loss of volume of
the oil when it separates after repose for a short time.
A more delicate test of alcohol in the essential oils than either of the
preceding is potassium, as employed by M. Beral:——12 drops of the oil are
placed on a perfectly dry watch-glass, and a piece of potassium, about the
size of an ordinary pin’s head, set in the middle of it. If the small
fragment of metal retains its integrity for 12 or 15 minutes, no alcohol
is present; but if it disappears after the lapse of 5 minutes, the oil
contains at least 4% of alcohol; and if it disappears in less than 1
minute, it contains not less than 25% of alcohol.
Boettger states that anhydrous glycerin possesses the property of
dissolving in alcohol, without mixing with the volatile oils. The mode of
applying the glycerin is as follows:——The oil to be examined is well
shaken in a graduated tube, with its own volume of glycerin (sp. gr.
1·25). Upon being allowed to settle, the mixture separates into two
layers. The denser glycerin separates rapidly, and if the essence has been
mixed with alcohol, this is dissolved in the glycerin, the augmentation in
the volume of glycerin showing the proportion of alcohol present.
This species of adulteration is very common, as it is a general practice
of the druggists to add a little of the strongest rectified spirit to
their oils, to render them transparent, especially in cold weather. Oil of
cassia is nearly always treated in this way.
The admixture of an inferior essential oil with one more costly may be
best detected by pouring a drop or two on a piece of porous paper or
cloth, and shaking it in the air, when, if occasionally smelled, the
difference of the odour at the beginning and the end of the evaporation
will show the adulteration, especially if the added substance is
turpentine. The presence of the latter may also be detected by agitating
the oil with rectified spirit, when it will remain undissolved.
The following method, which may also be used as a test for the presence of
turpentine, is based upon its power of dissolving fats:——Take about 50 gr.
of oil of poppy in a graduated glass tube, and add an equal quantity of
the sample of essential oil. Shake the mixture up thoroughly and then
allow it to stand; if the essential oil be pure, the mixture becomes
milky, and does not clear until after several days have passed, whereas it
will remain transparent if even so little as 5 per cent. of essence of
turpentine be present.
The purity of essential oils may likewise, in many cases, be determined by
taking their sp. gr.; or, with still greater accuracy and convenience, by
measuring their index of refraction, as suggested by Dr Wollaston. A
single drop of oil is sufficient for the application of the last method.
The adulteration of a heavy oil with a light one, or the reverse, may be
detected by agitating the suspected oil with water, when, in most cases,
the two will separate and form distinct strata.
Miss Crane believes that the cohesion figures afforded by the volatile
oils, like those of the fixed ones, will be found useful indications of
their purity. The application of her method is precisely similar to that
followed in her examination of the fixed oils as already described. She
finds that——
_Oil of Turpentine_, by itself, spreads instantly to the whole size of the
plate (a common soup plate), and almost immediately the edge begins to
break into irregular shapes, when a rapid motion takes place over the
surface of the film, and there seems to be a contest between the cohesion
of the oil particles and the adhesion between them and the water. The oil
makes repeated efforts to gather itself closer together, when the water
instantly reacts, giving a wavy appearance to the whole figure.
The play of colours at this point is beautiful, and serves to bring out
the lines more perfectly. In a few seconds innumerable little holes appear
over the surface, which soon are separated only by threaded lines, and the
figure is like the most exquisitely fine lace.
_Oil of Cinnamon_ forms a figure not more than half the size of the
last-named. In a few seconds small portions are detached, and shortly
separate into distinct drops, four or five larger, and a number of smaller
ones, scattered about. With mixtures in different proportions of _oil of
turpentine_, the figures formed differently, taking more of the
characteristics of the adulterant as it predominated.
_Oil of Nutmeg_ forms a large figure instantly, the edge showing a beaded
line. It gathers itself together and spreads again, very like oil of
turpentine, but the surface presents more the appearance of watered silk.
Within sixty seconds some holes appear, and in eighty more the surface is
covered with them; these scarcely spread to more than a sixteenth of an
inch in diameter, but from the first each is bordered with a dotted edge.
The figure lasts some time without changing materially, except the
openings lengthen out into an oblong shape, remaining entirely distinct.
The play of colours is very fine. With the addition of one third of the
_oil of turpentine_, the first spreading is little different, but openings
appear in half the time, and the dotted border does not come as soon; in
about four minutes the figure is most characteristically marked, and soon
breaks up entirely, this being the distinctive difference between the pure
oil and the mixture.
_Oil of Peppermint_ spreads instantly to a large figure, and in ten or
fifteen seconds openings appear, which increase rapidly in size. At first
they look somewhat like the last-named, but are not nearly so numerous,
and the border soon is more like tiny drops. In one and a half or two
minutes they begin to run together, and the figure breaks up.
With the addition of _turpentine oil_ the figure forms more slowly, and
the breaking up is less rapid, but in five minutes the outlines only
remain.
_Oil of Bergamot_ spreads instantly; in thirty seconds tiny openings
appear, not very abundant, and increase in size slowly; in five minutes
they are not larger than _oil of nutmeg_ at one and a half minute. At
first they have a dotted border, but as they increase in size this changes
to a scalloped film, which spreads, until, in eight or ten minutes, they
are joined together over the whole surface. This, with the _turpentine
oil_, gives a watered surface in spreading, much more marked, and with a
fine play of colours.
_Uses, &c._ The volatile oils are chiefly used by perfumers and
rectifiers, and in medicine. Some of the cheaper kinds are largely
employed as vehicles for colours, and in the manufacture of varnishes. The
dose of the aromatic and carminative oils is from 1 to 10 drops, on sugar,
or dissolved in a little weak spirit. This does not apply to oil of bitter
almonds, the dose of which is 1/4 to 1/2 a drop.
⁂ The following list includes short notices of nearly all the volatile
oils which have been examined, as well as of some other substances of a
similar character, which commonly pass under the name.
=Oil of Allia′ria.= From the roots of _Alliaria officinalis_, or
sauce-alone. Identical with the oil of black mustard.
=Oil of All′spice.= See OIL OF PIMENTO.
=Oil of Al′monds.= See OIL OF BITTER ALMONDS.
=Oil of American Arbor Vitæ.= _Syn._ HUILE CEDRE BLANC, Fr. From the fresh
tops of _Thuja occidentalis_, or American arbor-vitæ tree. Yellow;
fragrant; stimulant. Used in frictions for rheumatism. _Prod._ 1-1/2 to 2%
(nearly).
=Oil of Angel′ica.= From the dried root of _Angelica Archangelica_.
_Prod._ 25% (fully).
=Oil of An′iseed.= _Syn._ OLEUM ANISI (Ph. L., E., & D.), O. ESSENTIALE
ANISI, L. From the fruit (seeds) of _Pimpinella anisum_, or anise. Nearly
colourless. It is very frequently adulterated with one or other of the
cheaper oils, in which case spermaceti or camphor is added to it, to make
it ‘candy.’
_Prop., &c._ When pure it congeals into a solid crystalline mass on being
cooled to 50° Fahr., and does not melt again until heated to about 63°.
Treated with iodine, it quickly congeals into a solid hard mass, with a
perceptible increase of temperature, and the development of
orange-coloured and grey fumes. Sulphuric acid, with heat, turns it of a
rich purple-red colour, and the compound soon afterwards becomes
inspissated and hard (resinified). In alcohol of ·806 it is soluble in
all proportions, but rectified spirit (·838) dissolves only 42% of this
oil. Sp. gr. (recent) ·9768; (one year old) ·9853 to ·9855; (old) ·9856 to
·9900. The foreign oil is generally the heaviest.
Oil of aniseed is carminative and pectoral; and both itself and
preparations have long been in favour with the masses in coughs, colds,
&c. In preparing it care must be taken that the temperature of the water
in the receiver and refrigerator does not fall lower than about 68° Fahr.
_Prod._ (From the dried fruit of commerce) avoir. 2% (nearly). See OIL OF
STAR-ANISE.
=Oil, Ap′ple.= See AMYL (Valerianate of), and ESSENCE OF APPLE.
=Oil of Ar′nica.= _Syn._ OLEUM ARNICÆ, O. A. RADICUM, L. From the roots of
_Arnica montana_. Yellowish brown. Sp gr. ·940. Prod. 16 lbs. yielded 1
oz. of oil. The oil from the flowers of arnica is blue.
=Oil of Asarabac′ca.= _Syn._ OLEUM ASABI, O. ASARI LIQUIDUM, L. From the
roots of _Asarum Europæum_. Yellow; glutinous. Two butyraceous oils pass
over at the same time.
=Oil of Assafœt′ida.= _Syn._ OLEUM ASAFŒTIDA, L. From the gum resin.
Contains sulphur. Very fetid and volatile.
=Oil of Balm.= _Syn._ OLEUM MELISSÆ, L. From the herb (_Melissa
officinalis_). Pale yellow; fragrant. Sp. gr. ·970 to ·975. _Prod._ 100
lbs. of the fresh flowering herb yielding 1/4 oz. of oil (M. Raybaud). A
mixture of oil of lemons and rosemary is commonly sold for it.
=Oil of Balsam of Peru.= See CINNAMEINE.
=Oil of Ber′gamot.= _Syn._ BERGAMOT, ESSENCE OF B.; OLEUM BERGAMII, O.
BERGAMOTÆ, L. By expression from the yellow portion of the rind of the
fruit of _Citrus Bergamia_, or bergamot orange. Pale greenish yellow;
highly fragrant. It is obtained purer by distillation, but its perfume is
then slightly less delicate. Sp. gr. ·875 to ·885. _Prod._ The rind of 100
bergamot oranges yielded by distillation nearly 3 oz. of oil. (M.
Raybaud.)
Oil of bergamot is frequently adulterated with rectified spirit, or with
the oils of lemons, oranges, or turpentine. The presence of these
substances may be detected in the manner explained under OILS (Volatile),
_Purity and Tests_ (_anté_), as well as by the altered density of the oil.
Pure bergamot oil is much more soluble in rectified spirit than either of
the others, and is further distinguished from them by its free solubility
in solution of potassa, forming a clear solution.
=Oil of Bit′ter Almonds.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF B. A.; OLEUM AMYGDALÆ AMARÆ,
O. A. ESSENTIALE, L. From the ground cake of bitter almonds from which the
fixed oil has been expressed. The common plan is to soak the cake
(crumbled to fragments) for about 24 hours in twice its weight of water,
to which 1/3rd or 1/4th of its weight of common salt has been added, and
then to submit the whole to distillation, allowing the first half of the
water that passes over to deposit its oil, and to run back again into the
still. Pale golden yellow; colourless when rectified; tastes and smells
strongly nutty, like peach-kernels. It consists of 85% to 90% of hydride
of benzoyl and 8% to 12% of hydrocyanic acid, with a variable quantity of
benzoic acid and benzoin. The density varies a little with the age of the
oil, and the temperature and rapidity with which it has been distilled.
Sp. gr. (recent) 1·0525; (trade crude oil) 1·079 (G. Wippel); (old) 1·081
(1·0836——Pereira). “Essential oil of almonds, free from adulteration,
should have a sp. gr. at most of 1·052.” (Ure.) According to Prof.
Redwood, the density may vary from 1·0524 to 1·0822. The light oil
contains the most hydride of benzoyl, and the heavy oil the most benzoin.
_Prod._ From less than ·2 to ·5%.
_Pur._ This oil is generally adulterated with cheaper oils, and in nearly
every case with alcohol. When it is pure——Mixed with oil of vitriol, it
strikes a clear crimson-red colour, without visible decomposition,——Mixed
with an alcoholic solution of potassa, crystals are eliminated.——Iodine
dissolves only partially and slowly in it, without further visible
results.——Chromate of potassa does not affect it.——Nitric acid (sp. gr.
1·42) causes no immediate reaction, and in the course of 3 or 4 days
crystals of benzoic acid begin to appear; but if only 8% or 10% of alcohol
or rectified spirit is present, a violent effervescence speedily
commences, and nitrous fumes are evolved. By using nitric acid, sp. gr.
1·5, the smallest quantity of alcohol may be detected.
_Obs._ This oil does not pre-exist in the almond, but is formed by the
action of water on a peculiar crystallisable substance, called amygdalin.
It is essentially the hydride of benzoyl, but it always contains a portion
of hydrocyanic or prussic acid, to which it owes its very poisonous
properties. It is occasionally employed as a substitute for hydrocyanic
acid in medicine; but its principal consumption is as a flavouring
ingredient and a perfume by cooks, confectioners, liquoristes, and
perfumers. For this purpose it is dissolved in rectified spirits. See
ESSENCE.——_Dose_, 1/4 to 1 drop.
An oil closely resembling that from bitter almonds is obtained by
distillation from the leaves of the peach and cherry-laurel, the bark of
the plum-tree, the bruised kernels of cherries, plums, and peaches, the
pips of apples, and from several other vegetable substances that possess a
nutty odour and flavour.
A NON-POISONOUS OIL OF ALMONDS has been introduced. This is simply the
ordinary oil of commerce freed from hydrocyanic acid, and is intended to
be substituted for the crude, poisonous oil for domestic purposes.
Unfortunately, the purified essence does not keep well, and is often
converted after a few months into little else than a solution of benzoic
acid, almost devoid of the usual odour and flavour of the bitter almond.
“No wonder, then, under such circumstances, that the public preferred the
preparations they had been accustomed to, which were not so liable to
change.” (Redwood.) The following methods have been adopted for this
purpose:——
1. (Liebig.) Agitate the crude distilled oil with red oxide of mercury, in
slight excess, and after a few days’ contact, rectify the oil from a
little fresh oxide of mercury. The product is quite pure, when the process
is properly managed. The cyanide of mercury thus formed may be either
employed as such, or reconverted into mercury and hydrocyanic acid.
2. (Mackay.) Commercial oil of almonds, 1 lb.; fresh-slaked lime, q. s. to
form a milk-like liquid; afterwards add, of solution of potassa, 1-1/2
lb.; water, 3 pints; agitate occasionally for 48 hours, then distil over
the oil, and rectify it from a fresh mixture of lime and potassa.
3. (Redwood.) The oil is mixed with an equal quantity of water, and the
mixture is digested in a water bath with red oxide of mercury, and small
quantities of fresh-slaked lime and protochloride of iron, with as little
access of air as possible; as soon as decomposition of the acid has taken
place, the whole is introduced into a copper retort, and submitted to
distillation. The product is perfectly free from hydrocyanic acid. The
first process is, however, the simplest, cheapest, and best.
The sp. gr. of this non-poisonous oil is 1·051. (G. Whippell.) That of
pure colourless hydride of benzoyl is 1·043; it boils at 356° Fahr., is
soluble in 35 parts of water, and in all proportions in alcohol and ether.
Exposed to the air, it greedily absorbs oxygen, and becomes converted into
a mass of crystallised benzoic acid. The purified oil of almonds does the
same, only less rapidly.
=Oil of Almonds (Facti′′tious).= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF MIRBANE, NITROBENZOL.
The preparation of this article on the small scale is explained under
NITROBENZOL. It is now extensively prepared as a substitute for the oil of
almonds obtained by distillation. The following is Mansfield’s
process:——The apparatus consists of a large glass worm, the upper end of
which is divided into two branches, gradually dilating so as to form two
funnel-shaped tubes. Into one of these concentrated nitric acid is poured,
and into the other benzol, which need not, for this purpose, be chemically
pure. These bodies meet at the point of junction of the two tubes, and the
rate of their flow is regulated by any appropriate means. Chemical
reaction instantly takes place, and the new compound is cooled by its
passage through the worm, which is refrigerated for the purpose. It has
then only to be washed with water or a very weak solution of carbonate of
soda for the process to be complete. The product has the sp. gr. 1·209,
boils at 415° Fahr., has an intensely sweet taste, and an odour closely
resembling, but not actually identical with, that of oil of bitter
almonds. Unlike genuine oil of almonds or hydride of benzoyl, it is
insoluble in water, and does not distil without suffering partial
decomposition. It is chiefly used to scent soaps, and to adulterate the
genuine oil. The benzol for this purpose is obtained from coal-tar. See
BENZOL and NITROBENZOL.
=Oil of Boxwood.= (Ph. L. 1746.) _Syn._ OLEUM BUXI EMPYREUMATICUM.
Distilled from fragments of boxwood in a retort, with a sand bath
gradually increased in heat. Anodyne, antispasmodic, and
diaphoretic.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 drops. (Jourdan says 4 to 5 drops in
gonorrhœa.) It relieves toothache.
=Oil, Brandy.= See OIL OF GRAPE.
=Oil of Bu′chu.= _Syn._ OLEUM BAROSMÆ, O. DIOSMÆ, L. From the leaves of
_Diosma crenata_. Yellow; lighter than water; smells of the leaves.
=Oil of Caj′eput.= _Syn._ CAJEPUTI OIL, KYAPOOTIE O.; CAJEPUTI OLEUM (B.
P.), OLEUM CAJEPUTI (Ph. L. E. & D.), L. From the dried leaves of the
_Melaleuca Cajeputi_ (_Melaleuca minor_, B. P.). Colourless, when pure
(that of commerce is usually green); odorous; aromatic; taste hot and
penetrating. Its odour has been compared to a mixture of those of camphor
and cardamoms. It boils at 343° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·925 to ·927. When
rectified, about 3/4ths of the quantity passes over colourless, and has
the density ·897; the remaining portion is green, and has the density ·920
to ·925. Its green colour is derived from chloride of copper, the presence
of which may be recognised by the red precipitate occasioned by agitating
the oil with a solution of ferrocyanide of potassium. (Guibourt.) From the
East Indies.
Pure oil of cajeput is slightly soluble in water; entirely and freely
soluble in alcohol; dissolves iodine; and when dropped on water, rapidly
diffuses itself over the surface, and soon completely evaporates. A
spurious kind (FACTITIOUS OIL OF CAJEPUT), made of oil of rosemary,
flavoured with camphor and the oils of peppermint and cardamoms, and
coloured with verdigris, is occasionally met with in the shops.
Oil of cajeput is a powerful antispasmodic and diffusible
stimulant.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 drops, on sugar; in cholera, colic, epilepsy,
hysteria, rheumatism, spasms, toothache, &c.
=Oil of Cam′phor.= _Syn._ LIQUID CAMPHOR; OLEUM CAMPHORÆ, O. C. VOLATILE,
L. Obtained from incisions in the wood of the camphor tree of Borneo and
Sumatra (_Dryobalanops aromatica_), in which it exists in cavities in the
trunk; also by distillation from the branches of the _Camphora
officinarum_, or laurel camphor tree. Colourless when rectified. Sp. gr.
·910. _Prod._ 60 lbs. of the crude brown oil yields 40 lbs. of pure white
oil and 20 lbs. of camphor. It rapidly oxidises in the air. Used to scent
soap. See CAMPHOR (Liquid).
=Oil of Car′away.= _Syn._ OLEUM CARUI (B. P. Ph. L. E. & D.), O. C.
ESSENTIALE, L. From the fruit of _Carum Carui_ (caraway seeds). Nearly
colourless; aromatic; carminative. Sp. gr. ·940; (old) ·946 to ·950.
_Prod._ Av. 5% (nearly). It is frequently adulterated with oil of cumin.
Added to purgative medicines to prevent griping.
=Oil of Car′damoms.= _Syn._ OLEUM CARDAMOMI, O. C. ESSENTIALE, L. From the
seed of _Elettaria cardamomum_, or true cardamom. Colourless; fragrant;
carminative. Sp. gr. ·943. _Prod._ 5% (nearly). The capsules (‘lesser
cardamoms’) yield only about 1% of oil. (M. Raybaud.)
=Oil of Cascaril′la.= _Syn._ OLEUM CASCARILLÆ, L. From the bark of _Croton
eleuteria_ (Swartz.), or cascarilla tree. Very fragrant. _Prod._ ·4% to
·75%.
=Oil of Cas′sia.= _Syn._ OIL OF CHINA CINNAMON; OLEUM CASSIÆ (Ph. E.), L.
From cassia buds, or from cassia bark, Golden yellow; aromatic; fragrant.
It is generally adulterated with rectified spirit. Nitric acid converts
the pure oil into a crystalline mass. Sp. gr. 1·071 to 1·073; (old) 1·078
to 1·090 _Prod._ From the buds of 1% (barely); from the bark of commerce,
·75%. It is frequently sold for oil of cinnamon.
=Oil of Cebadil′la.= _Syn._ OIL OF SABADILLA; OLEUM CEBADILLÆ, L. A green
butyraceous matter, obtained from _Asagræa officinalis_.
=Oil of Ce′dar-wood.= From the wood of a species of _Cedrus_. It consists
of two hydrocarbons. One, a volatile liquid (cedrene), and the other a
solid, crystalline compound containing oxygen. _Prod._ ·2% to 25%.
=Oil of Ce′drat.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF CEDRA; OLEUM CEDRI, O. CITRI FINUM, L.
From the exterior yellow rind of the fruit of _Citrus medica_ (Risso), or
citrons, either by expression or distillation, as oil of bergamot. The
first portion of oil that comes over is colourless; the latter portion
greenish. Very fragrant. Sp. gr. ·847. _Prod._ 100 citrons yield nearly 1
fl. oz. of pale, and 1/2 fl. oz. of green oil. See OIL OF CITRON
(_below_).
=Oil of Cel′ery Seed.= _Syn._ OLEUM APII. L. From the fruit (seed) of
_Apium graveolens_. Diuretic; stimulant. _Prod._ 3/4% to 1% (nearly).
=Oil of Cham′omile.= _Syn._ OIL OF ROMAN CHAMOMILE; OLEUM ANTHEMIDIS (Ph.
L. E. & D.), O. CHAMÆMELI, O. C. FLORUM, O. ESSENTIALE EX FLORIBUS C., L.
From the flowers of _Anthemis nobilis_. In the Ph. L., English oil of
chamomile (ANTHEMIDIS OLEUM ANGLICUM) is ordered. Blue; turns yellow and
brown by exposure and age; odour characteristic. Sp. gr., English (from
the flowers), ·9083; foreign, ·9289. _Prod._ Fresh flowers, ·1% (barely);
recently dried (finest commercial), 5%; av. of 6 dried samples, ·25%
(nearly). If much water is employed, even the above small quantities of
oil will not be obtained.
Oil of chamomile is reputed antispasmodic, tonic, and stomachic. 1 to 3
drops on a lump of sugar, taken just before retiring to rest, is an
excellent preventive of nightmare, and will frequently induce quiet sleep
where more active substances have failed. Unfortunately, the oil of the
shops is generally either adulterated or old, and commonly both, in which
case the oil acts as an irritant. A common plan is to mix it with old oil
of lemons, a fraud which may be detected by the lessened density of the
oil, and by its diminished solubility in rectified spirit.
=Oil of Cher′ry-laurel.= _Syn._ OLEUM LAURO-CERASI, L. From the leaves of
_Cerasus Laurocerasus_, or common laurel. Closely resembles oil of
almonds, but is said to be weaker. Like that substance, it is powerfully
poisonous. _Prod._ 100 lbs. fresh leaves (undeveloped, June), 10·13 oz.;
do. (half grown, June), 7·2 oz.; do. (full-grown, 8 weeks on tree, July),
4·96 oz.; do. (do., 3 months on tree, Sept.), 7·04 oz.; do. (15 months on
tree), 2·24. (Christison.)
=Oil of Cher′vil.= _Syn._ OLEUM CHÆROPHYLLI, L. From the bruised fresh
herb, macerated for 2 or 3 days in salt and water, and then distilled.
=Oil of Cincho′na.= _Syn._ OLEUM CINCHONÆ, L. From cinchona bark.
Butyraceous; smells of the bark. 20 lbs. yield only 2 gr. (Trommsdorff.)
The odour of bark is imitated by a solution of turmeric in potash, and by
chloride of iron.
=Oil of Cin′namon.= _Syn._ HYDRIDE OF CINNAMYL; OLEUM CINNAMOMI (B. P.,
Ph. L. E. & D.), O. C. VERI, L. From the bark of _Cinnamomum zeylanicum_,
macerated for several days in salt and water, and then distilled.
Yellowish or red; very aromatic; both odour and taste resemble that of the
bark. Sp. gr. 1·035. _Prod._ 11 lbs. yielded 1 oz.; 100 lbs. yielded 1·56
oz. (M. Raybaud.)
_Pur._ Oil of cinnamon, owing to its high price, and the consequent
premium for its adulteration, can scarcely be obtained pure from the shops
of this country. Oil of cassia and highly rectified spirit are the
substances usually employed for this purpose. The increased sp. gr.
resulting from the first, and the diminished sp. gr. from the second,
afford ready means of detecting these frauds. The presence of oil of
cassia may also be detected by an experienced person by the odour, which
differs a little from that of pure oil of cinnamon. Oil of cassia is less
limpid than oil of cinnamon, and it stands a greater degree of cold
without becoming turbid or congealing. “Wine-yellow, when recent;
cherry-red, when old; odour purely cinnamonic; nitric acid converts it
nearly into a uniform crystalline mass.” (Ph. E.) During this reaction the
odour of bitter almonds is perceptible. Both oil of cassia and oil of
cinnamon are thus converted into a brown balsam; with oil of cassia,
however, a brisk decomposition occurs sooner, and at a slighter heat. It
also forms a crystalline compound with ammonia. These reactions,
unfortunately, are not characteristic. “The most distinguishing
characteristic of the cinnamon oils is, perhaps, their relation to the
alcoholic solution of caustic potash. Both dissolve in it readily and
clear, with a reddish, yellowish-brown colour; after some time, however,
the solution becomes very turbid, and a rather heavy undissolved oil
precipitates, when the solution gradually becomes clear again. (Ure.) The
palest oil is considered the best.
_Obs._ Oil of cinnamon is chiefly imported from Ceylon, where it is
distilled from bark that is unfit for exportation. The dark coloured oil
is usually rectified, when two pale oils are obtained, one lighter, and
the other heavier, than water; but 10% of oil is lost by the process. The
oil distilled from the root of the tree (O. CINNAMOMI RADICIS) is much
weaker than that from the bark. The oil from the leaves (O. C. FOLIORUM),
also imported from Ceylon, smells of cloves, but has a less density than
oil of cloves.
Oil of cinnamon consists essentially of hydride of cinnamyl, but, unless
when very recently prepared, it also contains a variable proportion of
cinnamic acid formed by the oxidation of the hydride.
=Oil of Cit′ron.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF CITRON; OLEUM CITRI, L. From the lees
of citron juice; or, from the peels, as oil of lemons or bergamot. The
last generally goes by the name of oil of cedrat. Both are fragrant. (See
_above_.)
=Oil of Citron-flowers.= _Syn._ OLEUM CITRI FLORUM, L. Amber-coloured;
highly fragrant. _Prod._ 60 lbs. yield 1 oz.
=Oil of Cloves.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF CLOVES; OLEUM CARYOPHYLLORUM, O.
CARYOPHYLLI (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.), O. EUGENIÆ C. (Ph. D. 1826), L. From
the unexpanded flowers (cloves) of the _Caryophylus aromaticus_, or
Molucca clove-tree, soaked for some time in salt and water, and then
submitted to distillation; the distilled water, after having deposited its
oil, being returned 3 or 4 times into the still, and again ‘worked off’
from the same materials. Nearly colourless, when recent, gradually
becoming pale yellow and ultimately light brown, by age; highly aromatic,
with the characteristic odour and flavour of cloves. It is the least
volatile of all the essential oils. Sp. gr. 1·055 to 1·061 (1·034 to
1·061, B. P.). _Prod._ 16% to 22%.
_Pur._ Oil of cloves is frequently adulterated with inferior essential
oils, especially with those of pimento, pinks, and clove-gilly flowers,
and, occasionally, with castor oil.——1. Pure oil of cloves forms a
butyraceous coagulum when shaken with pure liquor of ammonia, which
crystallises after fusion by a gentle heat.——2. Treated with an alcoholic
solution of potassa, it entirely congeals into a crystalline mass, with
total loss of its characteristic odour.——3. Shaken with an equal volume of
strong caustic soda lye, it forms, on repose a mass of delicate lamellar
crystals——4. Solution of chromate of potassa converts it into brown
flakes, whilst the salt loses its yellow colour.——5. Chlorine turns it
first green, and then brown and resinous.——6. Nitric acid turns it red,
and a reddish-brown solid mass is formed; with heat, it converts it into
oxalic acid.——7. It dissolves freely in sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol),
yielding a transparent, deep reddish-brown solution, without any visible
decomposition.——8. Mixed, gradually, with about 1/3rd of its weight of oil
of vitriol, an acid liquor is formed, together with a resin of a rich
purple colour, which, after being washed, is hard and brittle, and forms a
red tincture with rectified spirit, which is precipitated of a blood-red
colour by water.——9. It dissolves iodine freely, without any marked
reaction.——10. It dissolves santaline freely.——11. Mix one drop of the oil
with a small trace of solution of aniline by means of a glass rod, and
then shake with 5 or 6 c.c. of distilled water. By the addition of a few
drops of sodium hypochlorite to the mixture the characteristic blue
coloration due to phenol will be developed in a few minutes, if the
adulterant be present; whereas with the pure oil nothing but the
purplish-violet colour of aniline will be perceived. Stirring or shaking
must be avoided after the addition of the hypochlorite. The presence of 1
per cent. of phenol can thus be demonstrated in one drop of the oil.
_Obs._ Clove oil contains a heavy oil, sp. gr. 1·079 (caryophyllic acid),
and a light oil, sp. gr. ·918 (clove hydrocarbon); by rectification, much
of the light oil is lost, and the product becomes denser.
(1·361——Bonastre.)
=Oil, Cog′nac.= See OIL, GRAPE (_below_).
=Oil of Copai′ba.= _Syn._ OIL OF CAPIVI; OLEUM COPAIBÆ (B. P., Ph., L. &
E.), L. 1. (Ph. E.) Balsam of capivi, 1 oz.; water, 1-1/2 pint; distil,
returning the water into the still, until oil ceases to pass over.
2. (Wholesale.) From the crude oil which separates during the manufacture
of ‘specific solution of copaiba’ and ‘soluble capivi,’ by distillation
along with a little salt and water.
_Pur., &c._ Colourless when pure; that of commerce has frequently a
greenish tinge, derived from the copper utensils; odour, not disagreeable
when recent. Sp. gr. ·876 to ·878. _Prod._ 50% to 55%. When adulterated
with oil of turpentine, its solubility in rectified spirit is greatly
diminished, and the solution is turbid.——_Dose_, 10 to 15 drops, in sugar;
in the usual cases in which copaiba is ordered. 20 to 60 minims, three
times a day (B. P.).
=Oil of Corian′der.= _Syn._ OLEUM CORIANDRI, L. From the fruit (seeds) of
_Coriandrum sativum_. Yellowish; aromatic; carminative. _Prod._ (Dried
fruit) 5-1/2 to 6%.
=Oil, Corn.= The name given by Mulder to a peculiar fatty compound found
in the fusel oil of the distilleries of Holland. It has a very powerful
odour, resembling that of some of the umbelliferous plants, and is
unaffected by caustic potassa. See OIL, FUSEL (page 772).
=Oil of Cu′bebs.= _Syn._ OLEUM CUBEBARAM, O. CUBEBÆ (B. P., Ph. E. & D.),
L. From the fruit of _Cubeba officinalis_, or cubebs, coarsely ground.
Aromatic, hot, and bitter tasted; odour, that of the fruit; faintly green,
colourless when pure. Sp. gr. ·129. _Prod._ 9% to 11%.
_Pur., &c._ When pure, iodine has little action on this oil, and
immediately gives it a violet colour, without any very marked reaction;
nitric acid turns it opaque, and the mixture changes to a pale red when
heated; sulphuric acid turns it of a crimson red. When adulterated with
oil of turpentine, both its viscidity, solubility in rectified spirit, and
its density, are lessened; when mixed with castor oil it leaves a greasy
stain on paper.——_Dose_, 10 to 15 drops, in the usual cases in which
cubebs in substance is given. 5 to 20 minims (B. P.), suspended in water
by mucilage and sugar.
=Oil of Cumin.= _Syn._ OLEUM CUMINI, O. CYMINI, L. From the fresh fruit
(seed) of _Cuminum Cyminum_, or cumin. Pale yellow; smells and tastes
strongly of the seeds. Sp. gr. ·975. _Prod._ 2-1/2% to 3%.
_Obs._ Oil of cumin is a mixture of two oils differing in volatility, and
which may be separated by careful distillation. The more volatile one has
been named cymol; the other, cuminol.
=Oil of Dill.= _Syn._ OLEUM ANETHI (Ph. L. & E.), L. From the bruised
fruit (seed) of _Antheum graveolens_. Pale yellow; odour, that of the
fruit; taste, hot and pungent; carminative. Sp. gr. ·188 to ·882. _Prod._
4% (nearly).
=Oil of El′der.= _Syn._ ATTAR OF ELDER FLOWERS; OLEUM SAMBUCI, L. From
elder flowers (_Sambucus nigra_). Butyraceous; odour not very marked.
=Oil of El′emi.= _Syn._ OLEUM ELEMI, L. From the resin. Isomeric with oil
of turpentine.
=Oil of Er′got.= _Syn._ ETHEREAL O. OF E.; OLEUM ERGOTÆ, O. E. ÆTHEREUM,
O. SECALIS CORNUTI, L. Prepared by evaporating the ethereal tincture at a
very gentle heat, and, preferably, allowing the last portion of the ether
to escape by spontaneous evaporation. Brownish-yellow; lighter than water;
soluble in ether and solution of potassa; only partly soluble in alcohol.
It appears to be a mixture of volatile and fixed oil, with some resinous
matter.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 drops, in hæmorrhages; 10 or 12 drops every 3 or
4 hours, in diarrhœa; 20 to 50 drops, as a parturifacient, &c. Externally,
in rheumatism, toothache, &c.
_Obs._ The above is the oil of ergot now employed in medicine. It must not
be confounded with other preparations occasionally called by the same
name, but which differ from it in character. Among the latter are the
following:
_a._ A fixed oil obtained by distilling off the spirit from the alcoholic
tincture. It has the odour of rancid fish oil, and the distilled spirit
has also a putrid odour.
_b._ A fixed oil, obtained from coarsely powdered ergot by strong pressure
between iron plates, at a heat of about 212° Fahr. It is fluid, coloured,
smells strongly of the drug, but is nearly destitute of its leading
qualities. Both the preceding contain some volatile oil and resinous
matter.
_c._ An empyreumatic oil obtained by distilling ergot _per se_. It is
light brown, viscid, acrid, and nauseous.
_d._ A volatile oil obtained by digesting powdered ergot in solution of
potassa at 125° Fahr., diluting the saponaceous mass thus formed with one
half to an equal weight of water, neutralising the alkali with dilute
sulphuric acid, and then submitting the whole to distillation in a
chloride of sodium or oil bath. It is white, adhesive, butyraceous, and
tasteless. It appears a product, rather than a simple educt.
_e._ This is the ethereal oil, first described, in its purest form. It is
colourless, translucent, oily, and acrid-tasted, with the odour of ergot;
it has a high boiling-point, at which it suffers partial decomposition,
but may be volatilised at a lower temperature, like the other oils. By
long exposure to heat, it thickens and partly solidifies; light and air
darken it; it is lighter than water, very slightly soluble in water, but
sufficiently so to impart to it its peculiar odour; it is soluble in pure
alcohol, in ether, the volatile and fixed oils, alkaline lyes, liquor of
ammonia, creasote, and naphtha. The dilute mineral acids clear it but do
not produce any marked reaction.
=Oil, Ethe′′real.= See OIL OF WINE (_below_).
=Oil of Eucalyptus.= _Syn._ OLEUM EUCALYPTI GLOBULI. See EUCALYPTUS.
=Oil of Fen′nel.= _Syn._ OLEUM FŒNICULI (Ph. L.), O. F. OFFICINALIS (Ph.
E. & D.), O. F. DULCIS, L. From the fruit or seed of _Fœniculum dulce_, or
sweet fennel (Ph. L.), Colourless; odour that of the plant; tastes hot and
sweetish; congeals at 50° Fahr.; carminative and stomachic. It consists of
two oils; the one solid and identical with that of oil of aniseed. When
treated with nitric acid, it affords benzoin, Sp. gr. ·997. _Prod._ Dried
fruit (of commerce), 3% to 3·5%. The flowering herb yields ·35% of a
similar oil.
_Obs._ The oil of fennel of the shops is the product of the fruit of
_Fœniculum vulgare_, or common, wild, or bitter fennel. It closely
resembles that of sweet fennel, but is scarcely so agreeable either in
taste or smell. It is chiefly used to scent soaps.
=Oil of Firwood.= _Syn._ OLEUM PINI SYLVESTRIS. An essential oil,
distilled from the leaves of _Pinus sylvestris_.
=Oil of Fleabane.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ OLEUM ERIGERONIS CANADENSIS. An
essential oil, distilled from _Canada erigeron_.——_Dose_, 5 minims in
hæmorrhage.
=Oil, Fu′sel.= Noticed at page 772.
=Oil of Gal′banum.= _Syn._ OLEUM GALBANI (Ph. Bor.), L. From galbanum, 2
lb.; water, 16 fl. oz.; distilled together. Yellow; resembles oil of
asafœtida, but milder.
=Oil of Gar′lic.= _Syn._ SULPHIDE OF ALLYL. From the bruised bulbs or
‘cloves’ of _Allium sativum_, or garlic. It possesses the peculiar odour,
taste, and other properties of the bulbs, in a highly exalted degree.
_Obs._ When a mixture of oil of black mustard and sulphide of potassium is
exposed in a sealed glass tube to a temperature above that of 212° Fahr.,
sulphocyanide of potassium and garlic oil are formed. On the other hand,
when the compound of garlic oil and chloride of mercury (formed by adding
to an alcoholic solution of the oil a like solution of the chloride) is
gently heated with sulpho-cyanide of potassium, mustard oil, with all its
characteristic properties, is called into existence.
=Oil of Gaulthe′′ria.= See OIL OF PARTRIDGE BERRY (_below_).
=Oil of Gen′tian.= _Syn._ OLEUM GENTIANÆ, L. From the root. Butyraceous;
smells strongly of gentian. 3 cwt. yield 1 dr. (barely).
=Oil of Gera′′nium.= _Syn._ OIL OF GINGER GRASS, O. OF SPIKENARD. The oil
of commerce which passes under this name and which was formerly imported
from the East Indies, was not obtained from any species of _Geranium_ or
_Pelargonium_, but probably from a species of _Andropogon_. Of recent
years, however, genuine geranium oil, obtained from the rose geranium
(_Pelargonium roseum_) has been and continues to be met with in our
markets. This essential oil is manufactured in immense quantities, at La
Trappe de Staonelli not far from the Bay of Sidi Ferruch, in Algiers,
where about forty acres of the plant are in cultivation. “Three harvests
are gathered every year, and each yields from 170 to 200 kilograms of oil,
or equal to 500 to 600 kilograms per annum. The value of this product
never falls below forty francs the kilogram, the average gross value being
therefore from 20,000 to 25,000 francs or at least £20 per acre. Seven
distillatory apparatus are employed in this manufactory.”[65] A finer oil
is yielded by the rose geranium, when grown in France, but it is much
dearer. It is often employed to adulterate otto of roses. See OIL, GRASS
(_below_).
[Footnote 65: “The Paris Exhibition,” ‘Pharmaceutical Journal,’ 3rd
series, No. 433.]
=Oil of Gin′ger.= _Syn._ OLEUM ZINGIBERIS, L. From the dried root
(rhizome) of _Zingiber officinale_, or ginger of commerce. Bluish-green;
possesses a less agreeable odour than that of good ginger, without any
pungency. _Prod._ 11/16 of 1% (M. Raybaud).
=Oil of Goosefoot.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ OLEUM CHENOPODII. Distilled from
the seeds of _Chenopodium anthelminticum_.——_Dose._ From 4 to 8 drops,
with treacle or milk, for 3 nights in succession, for children. For adult,
1/2 dr. Vermifuge.
=Oil of Grain-spirit.= _Syn._ GRAIN OIL. Two distinct substances are found
in spirit distilled from fermented grain; one of which is butyraceous and
highly offensive (corn oil of Mulder————?), the other liquid (crude fusel
oil). The relative proportions of these substances to each other, and to
the spirits which they contaminate, vary with the materials and the
management of the process. The ‘GRAIN OIL’ of the London rectifiers
consists chiefly of fusel or potato oil, mixed with alcohol and water, and
with small and variable proportions of solid ethyl and amyl-compounds of
certain fatty acids (œnanthic and margaric). The latter are said to be
similar to the butyraceous matter before referred to, as well as the solid
fat of the whisky distilleries conducted on the old plan. According to Mr.
Rowney, the fusel oil of the Scotch distilleries contains capric acid. See
OIL OF CORN (_above_), and FUSEL OIL.
=Oil, Grape.= _Syn._ BRANDY OIL, COGNAC O. This is essentially the
sulphate of amyl. It is prepared by dissolving the fusel oil of
marc-brandy in strong rectified spirit, and then adding concentrated
sulphuric acid; alcohol and excess of acid is removed by washing the newly
formed compound with water. Dissolved in rectified spirit, it forms
‘BRANDY ESSENCE,’ which is used to impart the Cognac flavour to plain
spirit. See SULPHATE OF AMYL and AMYL-ETHER, also OIL OF MARC-BRANDY
(_below_).
=Oil, Grass.= Several of the grasses (_Graminaceæ_) yield fragrant
volatile oils. See OIL OF GERANIUM, GRASS OIL (of Namur), OIL OF
LEMON-GRASS, OIL OF SPRING-GRASS, &c.
=Oil, Grass (of Namur).= _Syn._ INDIA GRASS OIL. From _Andropogon Calamus
aromaticus_ (Royle), supposed to have been the “sweet cane” and “rich
aromatic reed from a far country” of Scripture; formerly supposed to be
obtained from _Andropogon Iwarancusa_. Stimulant and highly fragrant. See
OIL OF SPIKENARD.
=Oil of Hops.= _Syn._ OLEUM LUPULI, L. From commercial hops, by
distillation along with water. It may also be collected during the brewing
of beer. Odorous; acrid; narcotic; soluble in water; becomes resinous by
exposure and age. Sp. gr. ·910. Chiefly used to increase the aroma and
flavour of old or damaged hops.
=Oil of Horse-mint.= _Syn._ OLEUM MONARDÆ (Ph. U. S.), L. From the fresh
herb of _Monarda punctata_, a plant indigenous in the U.S. of America.
Dark amber-coloured; fragrant; pungent; carminative; rubefacient; and
vesicant.
=Oil of Horse-rad′ish.= _Syn._ OLEUM ARMORACIÆ, L. From the fresh roots of
_Cochlearia armoracia_ (Linn.), or common horse-radish. Pale yellow;
heavier than water; acrid; vesicant; identical with that from black
mustard. _Prod._ ·5% (nearly).
=Oil of Hyssop.= _Syn._ OLEUM HYSSOPI, L. From the flowering herb of
_Hyssopus officinalis_. Aromatic; stimulant. _Prod._ ·25% to ·33%.
=Oil of Jargonelle Pear.= See AMYL (Acetate).
=Oil of Jas′min.= _Syn._ OIL OF JESSAMINE; OLEUM JASMINI, O. J. VOLATILE,
L. From the flowers of _Jasminum grandiflorum_ and _J. Fragrans_,
carefully picked, by placing them in alternate layers with cotton wadding
imbued with olive oil, in any suitable vessel, and renewing the flowers
till the fixed oil becomes strongly odorous, and then distilling the
wadding along with a little water. The volatile oils of hyacinths,
jonquil, tuberose, violets, and most of the more delicate flowers, are
obtained in the same way. Used in perfumery. From the East Indies.
=Oil of Ju′niper.= _Syn._ JUNIPERI OLEUM (B. P.), OLEUM JUNIPERI (Ph. L.
E. & D.), O. È. BACCIS J., O. ESSENTIALE È. B. J., L. From either the
wood, tops, or berries, preferably the last. The berries should be chosen
fully grown, but still slightly green, and should be bruised before being
placed in the still. In the Ph. L., English oil of juniper (O. JUNIPERI
ANGLICUM) is ordered. Colourless, or very pale greenish-yellow; odour and
taste, sweet and terebinthinate; rather viscid; soluble in rectified
spirit; rendered opaque and resinous by exposure and age. It is reputed
carminative and diaphoretic, and possesses powerful diuretic properties,
Sp. gr. ·911 (English, ·8688; foreign, ·8834——Brande). _Prod._ Green
berries, ·25%; ripe do. (one year old), 3/4 to 1% (fully).
_Pur._ It is frequently adulterated with oil of turpentine, a fraud
readily discovered by the lessened density, viscidity, and solubility, in
rectified spirit, of the oil.
_Obs._ Oil of juniper consists of two oils——one, white and most volatile,
sp. gr. ·8393; the other, dark-coloured and less volatile, sp. gr. ·8784;
together with some resin left in the retort.
=Oil, Krumholz.= _Syn._ OLEUM TEMPLINUM, L. From Hungarian balsam, a
terebinthinate exudation from the _Pinus pumilio_, or mountain pine of
Southern Europe. Fragrant; golden yellow; tastes oily, acidulous, and
resinous.
=Oil of Lau′rel.= _Syn._ OIL OF SWEET BAY; OLEUM LAURI VOLATILE, O. L.
ESSENTIALE L. From either the berries or leaves of _Laurus nobilis_
(Linn.), or sweet bay-tree. Pale yellow, clear, odorous, aromatic,
stimulant, and narcotic. Sp. gr. ·871. _Prod._ From the leaves, 3/4 to 1%
(fully).
=Oil of Lavender.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF L.; LAVANDULÆ OLEUM (B. P.), OLEUM
LAVANDULÆ (Ph. L.), O. L. VERÆ (Ph. E. & D.), O. L. SPICÆ, O. L.
ESSENTIALE, O. L. FLORUM, L. The oil (OLEUM LAVANDULÆ ANGLICUM) distilled
from the flowers of ‘_Lavandula vera_’ (Ph. L.). Very pale lemon-yellow;
highly fragrant; taste, warm and not disagreeable; carminative,
antispasmodic, and stimulant. Sp. gr. ·877 to ·905. According to Brande,
the sp. gr. of the oil obtained from the flowers only is ·8960; that from
the whole plant, ·9206. The lightest is esteemed the best. _Prod._
Flowers, 1-1/2 to 2% (nearly). The whole of the flowering herb is commonly
distilled. According to Raybaud, the herb, after flowering (Sept.), yields
the most oil.
_Pur._ Alcohol is the substance commonly used to adulterate this oil; but,
occasionally, oil of bergamot is used for the same purpose. If the density
is below ·87, there is reason to suspect adulteration. When pure——1.
Sulphuric acid turns it reddish-brown, and the reaction is accompanied by
strong inspissation.——2. It fulminates quickly and violently with iodine,
and the thick syrupy residue possesses a pungent, acid, balsamic odour.
The oils of the other labiate plants fulminate much less powerfully with
iodine. The presence of alcohol weakens, but does not destroy, the action
of this test, unless it is added in an equal volume, when only a lively
effervescence and a disengagement of orange-coloured vapours are produced
by the iodine, without fulmination.——3. Santaline is nearly insoluble in
pure oil of lavender, and exerts no marked action on it, but is freely
soluble in oil of lavender adulterated with alcohol or rectified spirit.
_Obs._ English oil of lavender possesses the purest fragrance; and of
this, the variety known as “MITCHAM OIL OF LAVENDER,” from the place of
its preparation, is esteemed the best. The foreign oil of lavender is
inferior. This last is improved by rectification. See OIL OF SPIKE.
=Oil of Lem′ons.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF L.; OLEUM LIMONIS (B. P.), OLEUM
LIMONIS, O. LIMONUM (Ph. L. E. & D.). From the yellow portion of the rind,
grated, placed in hair bags, and exposed to powerful pressure; also by
distillation, but the product is then less agreeably fragrant and sweet,
but keeps better. Nearly colourless; odour that of the fruit. Sp. gr.
·8752 to ·8785. Expressed oil, ·8517, distilled do., ·845, at 72° Fahr.
(Ure.) _Prod._ 100 lemons yield, by expression, 1-3/4 to 2 oz. (nearly);
by distillation 1-1/4 to 1-1/2.
_Pur._ Commonly adulterated with oil of turpentine, and occasionally with
nut or poppy oil. These may be detected in the manner already explained.
When pure, it is soluble in all proportions in absolute alcohol, but
rectified spirit only dissolves 16% of it. It also boils at 148° Fahr.,
whereas oil of turpentine boils at 312°, and mixtures of the two at
intermediate temperatures, depending on the proportions.
=Oil of Le′mon Grass.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF L. G., INDIAN GRASS-OIL, OIL OF
VERBENA. Probably from _Andropogon citratum_, the Indian lemon-grass. Pale
yellow; powerfully fragrant. CITRONELLE OIL is also the product of this or
of an allied species of _Andropogon_.
=Oil of Lemon Thyme.= _Syn._ OLEUM SERPYLLI, L.; HUILE DE TAIN, Fr. From
the fresh flowering herb of _Thymus serpyllum_, the lemon or wild thyme of
our hills and pastures. Very fragrant, used to scent soaps &c. Sp. gr.
·867. _Prod._ 100 lbs. yield 2-1/2 to 5-1/2 oz. of oil. When pure, it is
scarcely affected by iodine, but solution of chromate of potassa acts on
it with energy.
=Oil of Let′tuce.= _Syn._ OLEUM LACTUCÆ VIROSÆ, L. From _Lactusa virosa_
(Linn.), or strong-scented wild lettuce. Closely resembles the odorous
matter of opium.
=Oil of Limes.= _Syn._ OLEUM LIMETTÆ, L. From the rind of the fruit of
_Citrus limetta_, or lime, as oil of lemons, which it somewhat resembles.
_Prod._ 100 limes yield 2-1/4 to 2-1/2 oz. of oil.
=Oil of Lov′age.= _Syn._ OLEUM LEVISTICI, L. From the leaves of fruit of
_Levisticum officinale_, Lovage. Pale yellow, aromatic, carminative.
_Prod._ Fresh herb, ·1% to ·15%.
=Oil of Mace.= _Syn._ OLEUM MACIDIS, O. M. ESSENTIALE, O. M. STILLATITIUM,
L. From the arillus of _Myristica officinale_ (commercial mace). Nearly
colourless; fragrant; lighter than water; closely resembles oil of nutmeg.
Sp. gr. ·945. _Prod._ 4-1/2 to 9%.
=Oil of Marc-brandy.= _Syn._ FUSEL OIL OF M.-B., O. OF GRAPE SPIRIT.
Obtained after the spirit (marc-brandy) has passed over during the
distillation of the fermented residuum of expressed grapes. Limpid;
odorous; acrid; offensive; soon turns yellow in the air; soluble in 1000
parts of water, and in all proportions in rectified spirit; 6 or 7 drops
will spoil a hogshead of brandy. According to M. Balard, this oil is a
mixture of potato oil and œnanthic ether.
=Oil of Mar′joram.= _Syn._ OIL OF SWEET M.; OLEUM MARJORANÆ, O. ORIQANI M.
(Ph. E.), L. From the fresh flowering herb of _Origanum marjorana_, or
sweet or knotted marjoram. Pale yellow; odorous; tonic; stimulant. Sp. gr.
·925 (·940——Baumé). _Prod._ ·33 to ·35%. See OIL OF ORIGANUM.
=Oil of Mea′dow-sweet.= _Syn._ OLEUM SPIRÆÆ ULMARIÆ, L. From the flowers
or flowering tops of _Spiræa ulmaria_ (Linn.), or common meadow-sweet.
This oil is a native hydride of salicyl. It is yellow, sweet-scented, and
slightly soluble in water, which then strikes a deep violet colour with
the persalts of iron. It boils at 385° Fahr. Sp. gr. 1·172. (See _below_.)
=Oil of Mea′dow-sweet (Facti′′tious).= This is prepared as
follows:——Salicin, 1 part, is dissolved in distilled water, 10 parts, and
being placed in a glass retort, bichromate of potassa (in powder), 1 part,
is added, followed by oil of vitriol, 2-1/2 parts, previously diluted
with 4 times its weight of water; a gentle heat is next applied to the
retort, and after the first effervescence resulting from the mutual
reaction of the ingredients is over, the heat is increased, and the
mixture is distilled for the oil in the usual manner. The product is
absolutely identical with the natural oil of meadow-sweet. (See _above_.)
=Oil of Mil′foil.= _Syn._ OLEUM MILLEFOLII, L. From the flowers of
_Achillæa millefolium_ (Linn.), or yarrow. Blue. Sp. gr. ·852. _Prod._ 14
lbs. of the dried flowers yield 3 dr. of oil.
=Oils, Mixed (Essential).= _Syn._ OLEA MIXTA ESSENTIALIA. From the oils of
bergamot and lemons, of each 1 oz.; oils of lavender and pimento, of each
1/2 oz. Used to scent ‘sal volatile drops,’ smelling-bottles, &c.
=Oil of Mus′tard (Volatile).= _Syn._ SULPHO-CYANIDE OF ALLYL; OLEUM
SINAPIS NIGRÆ, O. S. ESSENTIALE, L. From the seeds of _Sinapis
nigra_(Linn.), or black mustard, as oil of bitter almonds. Nearly
colourless; intensely acrid, pungent, rubefacient, and vesicant; slightly
soluble in water; boils at 289° Fahr. It contains sulphur. Sp. gr. 1·035
to 1·038; 1·015, at 68° Fahr. _Prod._ Av. ·6% (fully).
_Obs._ This oil, like that of bitter almonds, does not pre-exist in the
seed, but is the result of the action of myronic acid on a peculiar
substance, myrosin, in the presence of water. Oil of black mustard has
been used as a stimulant or counter-irritant in palsy, &c.; and the
distilled water, or a solution of the oil in water, is said to be an
excellent and cleanly remedy for the itch.
=Oil of Myrrh.= _Syn._ OLEUM MYRRHÆ, O. M. ESSENTIALE, L. Colourless;
thin; heavier than water; stimulant; smells strongly of the drug.
=Oil of Myr′tle (Volatile).= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF M.; OLEUM MYRTÆ ESSENTIALE,
L. From the flowers and leaves of _Myrtus communis_. 100 lbs. of the fresh
leaves yield 2-1/2 to 5 oz.
=Oil of Namur Grass.= See OIL OF GRASS (NAMUR).
=Oil of Narcis′sus.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF JONQUIL; OLEUM NARCISSI, L. As OIL
OF JASMINE. Delightfully odorous.
=Oil of Nero′li.= See OIL OF ORANGE FLOWERS.
=Oil of Nut′meg (Volatile).= _Syn._ OLEUM MYRISTICÆ (B. P., Ph. E.), O. M.
MOSCHATÆ (Ph. D.), L. From the officinal nutmeg or kernel of the fruit of
_Myristica moschata_. Nearly colourless; odour and flavour that of the
fruit, but more powerful. By agitation with water, it is separated into
two oils——one lighter, the other heavier, than water; the last is
butyraceous. Sp. gr. ·948. _Prod._ 4-1/2 to 7%. It is reputed to make the
hair grow, and to prevent baldness.
OIL OF ON’IONS. From the bulbs of _Allium cepa_, or common onion.
Contains sulphur, and smells strongly of the herb.
=Oil of Or′ange.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF O.; OLEUM AURANTII, O. AURANTIORUM, O.
A. CORTICIS, L. From the yellow portion of the rind of either the Seville
or sweet orange, preferably of the last; as oil of bergamot or lemons.
Closely resembles oil of lemons, but is more agreeably fragrant. The
expressed oil is very apt to become opaque, and deposit a stearopten,
especially in cold weather, unless well kept from the air. Sp. gr. ·875.
_Prod._ 100 fruits yield 4 to 5 oz. (See _below_.)
=Oil of Orange Berries.= _Syn._ OLEUM AURANTII BACCÆ, L. From the small
unripe fruit of the orange-tree. Does not keep well. (See _below_.)
=Oil of Orange Flowers.= _Syn._ NEROLI, OIL OF N., ESSENCE OF N.; OLEUM
NAPHÆ, O. AURANTII FLORUM, AURANTII OLEUM (Ph. E. and D.), L. From the
flowers of either the bitter (Seville)or sweet orange (_Citrus vulgaris_
or _C. aurantium_), by distillation with water. That from the fruit is
said to be preferred, but there does not appear any actual difference
between the two. Very fluid; lighter than water, in which it is slightly
soluble; it is delightfully aromatic and fragrant, but the odour differs
slightly from that of the flowers. _Prod._ 100 lbs. of flowers gathered in
May or December yield 3 to 6 oz. of oil; 6 cwt. of the fresh flowers yield
1 lb. of oil.
_Pur._ Neroli is commonly adulterated with alcohol or essence de petit
grain, and generally with both of them. The presence of the first is
easily determined (see _above_): that of the second can only be discovered
by comparing the odour evolved during the evaporation of a drop of the
suspected oil, placed on a piece of white paper, with a like drop of pure
neroli similarly treated. (See _above_ and _below_.)
=Oil of Orange-leaf.= _Syn._ OLEUM AURANTII FOLII, L.; ESSENCE DE PETIT
GRAIN, Fr. From the leaves of either the bitter or sweet orange; that from
the first being preferred. Delightfully fragrant. Extensively used to
adulterate oil of neroli, and is itself commonly sophisticated with both
alcohol and oil of orange-berries. (See _above_.)
=Oil of Orig′anum.= _Syn._ OLEUM ORIGANI, O. O. ESSENTIALE, L. From the
flowering herb of _Origanum vulgare_, or common or winter marjoram. Pale
yellow colour; fragrant; acrid, pungent, and rubefacient. Sp. gr. ·927
(·940——Baumé). _Prod._ ·5% to ·75%. The dark-coloured oil of origanum of
the shops is obtained from _Thymus vulgare_. The oil of origanum (Ph. E.)
is oil of _Origanum marjorana_. See OILS OF MARJORAM, THYME, and LEMON
THYME.
=Oil of Or′ris.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF VIOLET; OLEUM IRIDIS, L. From the dried
rhizomes of _Iris Florentina_, or Florentine orris-root. Fragrant. Sold
for oil and essence of violets.
=Oil of Par′sley.= _Syn._ OLEUM PETROSELINI, L. From the fresh herb or
dried fruit (seed) of _Apium petroselinum_, or garden parsley. Yellowish;
smells strongly of the plant. It consists of two oils, separable by
agitation with water, one of which is concrete, and melts at 80° Fahr.;
the other, liquid. _Prod._ Herb, ·50 to 1% (nearly).
=Oil of Par′tridge-berry.= _Syn._ OIL OF WINTER-GREEN, METHYLO-SALYCILIC
ETHER, SALICYLATE OF OXIDE OF METHYL; OLEUM GAUL-THERIÆ (Ph. U. S.), L.
From the leaves or the whole plant of _Gaultheria procumbens_, a herb
common in North America, and otherwise known by the names——Box-berry,
chequer-berry, partridge-berry, mountain tea, winter-green, &c. Pale
yellow, growing brown by exposure and age; aromatic; sweet; highly
pungent; when diluted, agreeably fragrant; mixed with a dilute solution of
potassa, it solidifies to a crystalline mass (salicylate of methyl and
potassa), from which the oil may be again separated by the addition of an
acid. It is the heaviest of all the essential oils. Sp. gr. 1·173. Boils
at 412°, and, when purified, at 435° Fahr.
Oil of partridge-berry, dissolved in rectified spirit, is in common use in
the United States of America as an antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic,
emmenagogue, and stimulant; chiefly as an adjunct to mixtures, &c.; and
also with the view of increasing the flow of milk during lactation. It is
likewise extensively used in perfumery, and is an object of great interest
to the organic chemist, on account of its peculiar constitution and
reaction.
=Oil of Partridge-berry (Facti′′tious).= See SALICYLIC ACID.
=Oil, Pearl.= See AMYLE (Acetate of), and ESSENCE OF JARGONELLE PEAR.
=Oil of Pennyroy′al.= _Syn._ OLEUM PULEGII (Ph. L.), O. MENTHÆ P. (B. P.,
Ph. E. & D.), O. P. ESSENTIALE, L. From the flowering herb of _Mentha
Pulegium_, or the common pennyroyal of our gardens. Pale yellow, growing
reddish yellow by age and exposure; antispasmodic, carminative, and
emmenagogue. Boils at 395° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·925 to ·931. _Prod._ 3/4 to 1%.
(See _below_.)
=Oil of Pennyroyal (American).= _Syn._ OLEUM HEDEOMÆ (Ph. U. S.), L. From
_Hedeoma pulegioides_, as the last. Light yellow; closely resembles oil of
pennyroyal, for which it passes in the U. S. Sp. gr. ·945 to ·948.
=Oil of Pepper.= _Syn._ OIL OF BLACK P.; OLEUM PIPERIS, O. P. NIGRI, L.
From bruised black pepper (_Piper nigrum_). Colourless, turning yellow;
odorous; pungent; not so hot as the spice. Sp. gr. ·9932. _Prod._ 1·25% to
1·5%. White pepper (of commerce), 1% (barely).
=Oil of Pep′permint.= _Syn._ OLEUM MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.), O. ESSENTIALÆ M. PIPERITIDIS, L. From the fresh flowering herb of
_Mentha piperita_, or garden peppermint. Nearly colourless, or at most a
very pale greenish yellow; powerfully odorous; tastes pungent, at the
same time imparting a sensation of coldness to the tongue and palate.
Boils at 365° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·902 to ·905. _Prod._ Fresh flowering herb,
·25% to ·4%; dried do., 1% to 1·25% (fully). In a warm dry season, 5 lbs.
of the fresh flowering herb yield 1 oz. of oil; in a wet and unfavorable
one, 11 lb. yield barely the same quality.
_Pur._ The oil of commerce usually contains fully a third part of
rectified spirit, and is also frequently adulterated with the oils of
rosemary, spearmint, and turpentine. When pure——1. It is soluble in its
own weight of rectified spirit.——2. Mixed with 1-4th its volume of nitric
acid, a rich purple-red colour is developed.——3. Chromate of potash, in
solution, turns it of a deep reddish-brown colour, and converts it into a
soft coagulum, which assumes a flaky form when divided with a glass rod,
whilst the solution of the salt loses its yellow colour or becomes
greenish yellow.——4. With iodine it forms a homogeneous mass, without
fulmination. If it explodes with iodine, it contains turpentine. The
yellowish, resinous oil, sold under the name of ‘American’ or ‘crude oil
of peppermint,’ consists chiefly of oil of turpentine, and on evaporation
leaves a residuum of pine resin.
_Obs._ English oil of peppermint is the best, a fact clearly shown by its
price in the market being so greatly above that of the imported oil. The
oil distilled at Mitcham, in Surrey (Mitcham oil of peppermint), is the
most esteemed. It has usually a very pale greenish colour, which is often
imitated by steeping a leaf or two of green mint or parsley in the oil.
Old dark-coloured oils are commonly bleached by exposure to the light, to
the destruction of a portion of their other properties.
According to a recent and valuable report upon those articles in the Paris
Exhibition of 1878, more particularly interesting to the pharmacist, the
chemical manufacturer, the perfumer, &c., which lately appeared in the
‘Pharmaceutical Journal,’ the above statement is open to question. Of late
years it seems that a considerable industry has sprung up at Arzin in the
Department du Nord, in France, where large quantities of libiate plants
are cultivated, and subsequently submitted to distillation.
An acre of land generally yields every year from 3 to 4 tons of the
peppermint plant; and from 500 parts of this, one part of essential oil is
usually obtained, which it is alleged by M. Hanart, the distiller of the
oil in question, after being carefully bottled and kept for some years,
successfully rivals the English oil both in quality and price.
Of late years an essential oil of peppermint manufactured by Messrs
Holchkiss, of New York, has lately come into considerable demand.
This, which is said to be a very pure article, differs from the other
peppermint oils in becoming thick when first mixed with spirit of wine.
After a short time, however, the mixture clears and becomes perfectly
bright.
Oil of peppermint is stimulant, antispasmodic, and carminative, and has
always been a favourite remedy in flatulence, nausea, vomiting, loss of
appetite, cramp of the stomach, colic, griping pains, diarrhœa, the early
stage of cholera, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 drops, on sugar.
=Oil of Petro′leum.= See NAPHTHA, OILS (Mineral), PETROLEUM, &c.
=Oil of Pim′ento.= _Syn._ OIL OF ALLSPICE; OLEUM PIMENTÆ (B. P., Ph. L.,
E., & D.), L. From the bruised fruit of _Eugenia pimenta_, allspice, or
Jamaica pepper. Pale yellow, growing reddish brown by age; odour, a
combination of cloves and cassia; taste pungent. Sp. gr. 1·021. _Prod._ 5%
to 8%.
_Obs._ Oil of pimento contains two oils similar to those found in clove
oil. When pure, nitric acid turns it red, with active effervescence and
the assumption of a rusty brown colour. It combines with the salifiable
bases in a nearly similar manner to oil of cloves. It is much used in
perfumery, especially in hair cosmetics.
=Oil of Pim′pernel.= _Syn._ OLEUM PIMPINELLÆ, L. From the root of
_Sanguisorba officinalis_, or pimpernel. Blue; carminative.
=Oil, Pine-ap′ple.= This artificial essential oil dates its commercial
importance from the Great Exhibition of 1851. It is essentially butyric
ether, and may be regarded as simply the crude form of that substance. On
the large scale it is prepared by saponifying butter or crude butyric acid
with a strong lye of caustic potassa, and dissolving the resulting soap in
the smallest possible quantity of hot alcohol; to the solution is added a
mixture of alcohol and oil of vitriol in excess, and the whole is then
submitted to distillation as long as the product has an aromatic fruity
odour; the product is rectified from dried chloride of calcium and a
little litharge. Dissolved in rectified spirit it is much used as a
flavouring substance by confectioners and liquoristes. See ETHER (Butyric)
and ESSENCE OF PINE-APPLE, &c.
=Oil of Pota′to Spirit.= See FUSEL OIL.
=Oil of Ravensa′ra.= _Syn._ OLEUM RAVENSARÆ, L. From the roots of
_Ravensara aromatica_. Chiefly used to adulterate oil of cloves, which it
somewhat resembles.
=Oil of Rho′dium.= _Syn._ OLEUM RHODII, L. Said to be derived from the
wood of a species of _Rhodoriza_. Very fluid and limpid; pale yellow; soon
darkens by age and exposure; tastes bitter and aromatic; has a modified
odour of roses. Chiefly used as a substitute for otto of roses in cheap
perfumery, and to adulterate it. Oil of sandal-wood is frequently sold for
it. _Prod._ 1% to 16%. See OIL OF ROSES (_below_).
=Oil of Ro′′ses.= _Syn._ OLEUM ROSÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. From the petals of
_Rosa sempervirens_ (Linn.), or the musk rose, as oil of cloves, observing
to keep the water in the worm-tub at 85° Fahr., and afterwards subjecting
the water in the receiver to refrigeration. Resembles otto of roses, of
which it is merely a variety. _Prod._ 1/20 to 1/16 of 1%.
2. (ATTAR OF ROSES, OTTO OF R.; OLEUM ROSÆ——Ph. E.) From the petals of
_Rosa centifolia_ and _Rosa sempervirens_ (damask and musk rose),
principally the first, by saturating the water, by returning it repeatedly
on fresh flowers, and then exposing it to a low temperature. In the East
Indies it is obtained by stratifying gingelly seeds in alternate layers
with rose petals, for some days, and repeating the arrangement with fresh
roses till the seeds are saturated, when the oil is expressed and
distilled along with water. In the neighbourhood of Mecca the rose leaves
are macerated in salt-and-water for 2 or 3 days, and then distilled, the
water being received in separate receivers at different parts of the
process. The water is afterwards exposed in porous earthenware vessels,
tied over with linen, in trenches dug in the earth, and over which
moistened straw is thrown, when in a short time the otto separates and
floats on the surface.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless, or nearly so; odour intense, penetrating, and
diffusive, and in a concentrated state far from pleasant, but when dilute
very agreeable; taste, bland and sweetish; when pure, it congeals at 80°,
and does not remelt until heated to fully 85° Fahr.; 1000 parts of alcohol
of ·806 dissolve only 7 parts of otto at 57° Fahr., and only 33 parts at
72°. Sp. gr. ·832 at 90°, to water 1·000 at 60° Fahr. _Prod._ 100 lbs. of
roses yield 2 to 3 dr.
_Pur._ Otto of roses is frequently adulterated with the oils of rhodium,
sandal-wood, and geranium, and with camphor; and occasionally with
spermaceti, to give the spurious compound the usual crystalline
appearance. The following are reliable tests:——1. Pure otto has a bland,
sweet taste; if it is bitter, it contains oil of rhodium or sandal-wood;
if it is pungent, or ‘bites,’ the palate, it contains either oil of
geranium or camphor, and probably both; if it imparts an unctuous
sensation, it contains spermaceti.——2. Exposed for some hours to the fumes
of a small quantity of iodide under a bell-glass in the cold, pure otto
remains white, and continues so when exposed to the air; an adulterated
sample, on the contrary, becomes yellow or brown, and afterwards, on
exposure to the air, continues to darken in colour, until it becomes of a
deep brown, or even perfectly black, according to the quantity of foreign
oil present. A single drop may be thus tested.——3. (Guibourt.) One or two
drops of the suspected oil are put into a watch-glass; the same number of
drops of concentrated sulphuric acid are added, and the two fluids are
mixed with a glass-rod. All the oils are rendered more or less brown by
this proceeding; but, otto of roses retains the purity of its odour——oil
of geranium acquires a strong and disagreeable odour, which is perfectly
characteristic——the odour of the oil of rhodium is increased, and becomes
somewhat unctuous, and, in general, it acquires an odour distinctly like
that of cubebs.
=Oil of Rose′mary.= _Syn._ ROSMARINI OLEUM (B. P.), OLEUM ANTHOS, O.
RORISMARINI, O. ROSMARINI (Ph. L. E. & D.), O. RORISMARINI ESSENTIALÆ, L.
From the flowering tops of _Rosmarinus officinalis_. In the Ph. L. English
oil of rosemary (O. ROSMARINI, ANGLICUM) is ordered, as it is superior to
that from abroad. Colourless; strongly fragrant, but scarcely agreeable
unless compounded; carminative and stimulant. Boils at 365° Fahr. Sp. gr.
·910; recent,·897; rectified, ·8887. _Prod._ 3/4 to 1% (nearly).
_Pur., &c._ It is frequently adulterated with oil of turpentine. When pure
it dissolves in all proportions in spirit of ·830. By age it deposits a
crystalline stearoptene, and acquires a terebinthinate odour. It is
chiefly used as a stimulant in liniments, hair oil, pomatums, &c.
=Oil of Rose′wort.= _Syn._ OIL OF ROSE-ROOT; OLEUM RHODIOLÆ, L. From the
roots of _Rhodiola rosea_. Yellowish; odour resembles that of oil of
rhodium, for which it is often sold, as well as the distilled water for
rose water. 1-1/2 lb. yields about 1 dr.
=Oil of Rue.= _Syn._ RUTÆ OLEUM (B. P.), OLEUM RUTÆ (Ph. L. & E.), L. The
“oil distilled from the fresh herb of _Ruta graveolens_” (B. P.), or
common rue. Pale yellow, turning brown by age, and depositing a brownish,
resinous sediment; congeals at about 40° Fahr.; acrid, bitter; odour that
of the plant; stimulant, antispasmodic, and emmenagogue. Sp. gr. ·909 to
·911. _Prod._ 1/4 to 1%(nearly). According to Raybaud, the recent dried
seeds yield fully four times as much oil as the flowering herb.
_Pur._ Nearly always adulterated. When pure——1. It forms a clear solution
with rectified spirit.——2. It does not form a camphor with gaseous
hydrochloric acid.——3. Iodine dissolves in it slowly, without any apparent
reaction, beyond a darkening and a slight increase of viscidity.——4. It is
unaffected by a solution of chromate of potassa.——5. Nitric acid very
slowly changes it into a greenish-yellow liquid balsam.——6. If it forms a
reddish-brown solution with liquor of potassa and a still darker one with
oil of vitriol, or if it fulminates with iodine, it is adulterated with
the oil of some labiate plant.——7. It is more soluble in both rectified
spirit and water than any of the oils used to adulterate it.
=Oil of Saf′fron.= _Syn._ OLEUM CROCI, L. From the pistils of _Crocus
sativus_ (saffron). Yellow; heavier than water; acrid, pungent, and
narcotic; decomposed by exposure to light and age, with the formation of a
white solid matter, which is lighter than water.
=Oil of Sage.= _Syn._ OLEUM SALVIÆ, L. From the herbaceous portion of
_Salvia officinalis_, or common sage.
=Oil of San′dal-wood.= _Syn._ OLEUM SANTALI, O. S. ALBI, L. From the wood
of _Santalum album_, or sandal-tree, and preferably from that of Malabar.
It has an odour somewhat resembling that of oil of rhodium, for which it
is commonly used; also used to adulterate otto of roses. _Prod._ 9 lbs.
yield 1 oz.; 100 lbs. yield 5 oz. (Raybaud).
=Oil of Sarsaparil′la.= _Syn._ OLEUM SARZÆ, L. From the root bark,
distilled along with salt-and-water. Acrid; odour and flavour same as the
root.
=Oil of Sas′safras.= _Syn._ VOLATILE OIL OF S.; OLEUM SASSAFRAS (Ph. E.),
O. LAURI S., O. S. OFFICINALIS, L. From bruised sassafras chips, the
sliced root of _Sassafras officinale_, as oil of cloves. Pale yellow;
highly odorous; hot, pungent, rubefacient, and stimulant; reputed
alterative, sudorific, and diuretic, and, as such, occasionally given in
rheumatism, cutaneous affections, &c. Sp. gr. 1·094 to 1·096. _Prod._
1-1/2 to 2% (fully).
_Pur., &c._——1. If the density is lower than 1·094, it is adulterated.——2.
Nitric acid acts on this oil, at first slowly, merely turning it of an
orange-red, but afterwards with violence, and a reddish-brown resin is
formed.——3. Mixed with about one half its weight of sulphuric acid, a
green colour is at first developed, which, by heat, is changed to a blood
red. A large quantity of sulphuric acid acts at once violently, white
fumes are given off, and mere charcoal is left.——4. With iodine it forms a
permanently clear solution, or at least one that remains so for some
time.——5. By agitation with water, it separates into two oils——one
lighter, the other heavier, than that fluid.
=Oil of Sav′ine.= _Syn._ OLEUM SABINÆ (B. P.), OLEUM JUNIPERI SABINÆ, O.
SABINÆ (Ph. E. & D.), L. From the fresh tops or leaves of _Juniperus
sabina_, or common savin. Pale yellow; limpid; acrid, pungent, and
stimulant. It possesses the general properties of the plant in a highly
exalted degree. Sp. gr. ·915. _Prod._ Fresh herb, 1·25% to 1·5%; dried do.
(recent), 2-1/2% to 3%. _Dose_, 2 to 6 drops; as an anthelmintic,
diaphoretic, and emmenagogue. Its use must be carefully avoided during
pregnancy or disease of the abdominal viscera.
_Pur., &c._ It is less frequently adulterated than the other volatile
oils. Its high sp. gr. and free solubility in rectified spirit offer the
means of detecting the presence of either oil of turpentine or alcohol,
the substances occasionally added to it. A mixture of equal parts of oil
of savin and oil of vitriol, by distillation from milk of lime, furnishes
an oil apparently identical with oil of thyme. (Winckler.)
=Oil of Sen′na.= _Syn._ OLEUM SENNÆ VOLATILE, L. Possesses the nauseous
odour and flavour of the leaves, and, as well as the distilled water, is
purgative.
=Oil of Spear′mint.= _Syn._ ENGLISH OIL OF SPEARMINT (B. P.), OIL OF MINT,
OIL OF GREEN M.; MENTHÆ VIRIDIS OLEUM (B. P.); OLEUM MENTHÆ VIRIDIS (Ph.
L., E., & D.), O. M. SATIVÆ, O. ESSENTIALE MENTHÆ S., L. From the fresh
flowering herb of _Mentha viridis_ (Linn.) or garden spearmint. Pale
yellow; reddened by age; odour and general properties resemble those of
oil of peppermint, but it is less grateful. It boils at 320° Fahr. Sp. gr.
·915 (·9394, Brande). _Prod._ ·2% to ·25%. Its common adulterants are
alcohol and oil of turpentine.
=Oil of Spike (True).= _Syn._ FOREIGN OIL OF LAVENDER; OLEUM SPICÆ, O. S.
VERUM, O. STÆCHADIS, O. LAVANDULÆ S., L.: HUILE D’ASPIC, Fr. Chiefly from
_Lavandula spica_ and _L. stæchas_, or French and Alpine lavenders. It
differs from English oil of lavender by its darker green colour and
inferior odour. From France. Used by artists to mix their colours in, and
to make varnishes. Oil of turpentine scented with lavender is commonly
sold for it. _Prod._ From _L. spica_ (fresh), 3/4 to 1-1/2%; _L. stæchas_
(dried), 3/4 to 1% (fully).
=Oil of Spike′nard.= _Syn._ OLEUM NARDI, L. The precious oil mentioned
under this name in Scripture is supposed to have been derived from
_Andropogon Iwaracusa_. The commercial oil of geranium (see _above_) is
also called by this name.
=Oil of Spring Grass.= _Syn._ OLEUM ANTHOXANTHI ODORATI, L. From
_Anthoxanthum odoratum_, or sweet-scented vernal grass. It is this oil
that gives the very agreeable odour to new hay.
=Oil of Star-an′ise.= _Syn._ BADIAN OIL; OLEUM BADIANI, O. ANISI STELLATI,
L. From the capsules of _Illicium anisatum_, or star-anise. It continues
liquid at 35-1/2° Fahr. This, and its weaker reaction with iodine,
distinguish it from the preceding compound, which it is commonly used to
adulterate. _Prod._ 2% (fully).
=Oil of Sweet Fen′nel.= See OIL OF FENNEL.
=Oil of Sweet Flag.= _Syn._ OLEUM ACORI, O. A. AROMATICA, L. From the
rhizomes or roots of _Acorus calamus_ (Linn.), or sweet flag. Yellow;
agreeably fragrant. Used to scent snuff, aromatic vinegar, &c. _Prod._
Fresh rhizomes, 3/4 to 1%; dried (recent), 1 to 1·25%.
=Oil of Tan′sy.= _Syn._ OLEUM TANACETI, L. From the flowering herb of
_Tanacetum vulgare_ (Linn.), or tansy. Pale greenish yellow; very odorous;
bitter; aromatic. Sp. gr. ·946 to ·950. _Prod._ Fresh, ·25% to ·5%; dried
(recent), 3/4 to 1%(fully).
=Oil of Thyme.= _Syn._ OLEUM THYMI; OIL OF ORIGANUM; OLEUM ORIGANI (of the
shops). From the flowering herb of _Thymus vulgaris_ (Linn.), or garden
thyme. Nearly colourless; the imparted oil has a reddish colour, which it
loses by rectification; very fragrant; acrid; hot tasted, stimulant, and
rubefacient; boils at 354° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·867 to ·875. _Prod._ ·5% to
·75%.
_Obs._ This is the dark-coloured ‘OIL OF ORIGANUM’ of the shops. It is
frequently adulterated with oil of turpentine. It is occasionally used in
toothache and in stimulating liniments; but its chief consumption is in
perfumery, more particularly for hair oils, pomatums, and hair-washes, as
it is reputed to make the hair grow and to prevent baldness.
=Oil of Tobac′co (Volatile).= From the leaves of _Nicotiana tabacum_
(Linn.), or the tobacco plant. Concrete.
=Oil of Turpentine.= _Syn._ SPIRIT OF T., ESSENCE OF T., TURPS, CAMPHENE,
CAMPHINE; TEREBINTHINÆ OLEUM (B. P.), SPIRITUS TEREBINTHINÆ, ESSENTIA T.,
OLEUM TEREBINTHINÆ (Ph. L. & D.), O. T. PURIFICATUM (Ph. E.), L. The oil
of turpentine of commerce is obtained by distilling strained American
turpentine along with water. The residuum in the still is ‘resin’ or
‘rosin.’ The product in oil varies from 14% to 16%. The colleges order it
to be rectified before being employed for medicinal purposes. This is
effected by redistilling it along with 3 or 4 times its volume of water,
observing not to draw over quite the whole. The portion remaining in the
retort (balsam of turpentine) is viscid and resinous. A better plan is to
well agitate it with an equal measure of solution of potassa or milk of
lime before rectifying it. This is the plan adopted for the camphine used
for lamps. By agitating crude oil of turpentine with about 5% of sulphuric
acid, diluted with twice its weight of water, and after repose and
decantation rectifying it from 5 or 6 times its volume of the strongest
lime water, a very pure and nearly scentless oil may be obtained. Dr Nimmo
recommends oil of turpentine to be purified by agitation with 1/8th part
of rectified spirit, after repose to decant the spirit, and to repeat the
process 3 or 4 times. The product retains, however, fully 1/5th part of
spirit in solution, and hence this method is objectionable, except for
medicinal purposes, for which, according to Dr Garrod, it is better than
the oil purified by rectification. The sweet spirits of turpentine
(SPIRITUS TEREBINTHINÆ DULCIS), vended of late years in the shops, is
simply the common oil which has been agitated with, and rectified from,
somewhat dilute sulphuric acid.
_Prop._ Pure oil of turpentine is colourless; limpid; very mobile; neutral
to test-paper; has an odour neither powerful nor disagreeable when
recently prepared, but becoming so by exposure to the air; dissolves 1/5th
part of alcohol of ·830; is soluble in 6 parts of ether and in 7-1/2 parts
of rectified spirit; hot strong alcohol dissolves it freely, but the
greater part separates in globules as the liquid cools. Oil of vitriol
chars it, and strong nitric acid attacks it violently, even with flame. It
congeals at 14°, and boils at 312° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·867; that of the oil of
the shops varies from ·872 to ·878. It possesses a very high refractive
power. At 72° it absorbs 163 times its volume of hydrochloric-acid gas (if
kept cool), and in 24 hours from 26% to 47% of crystals (KIND’S CAMPHOR)
separate. These have a camphoraceous odour, and, after being washed with
water, and sublimed along with some dry chalk, lime, or charcoal, assume
the form of a white, translucent, flexible, crystalline mass, which is
volatile, soluble in alcohol, and possesses a considerable resemblance to
camphor. A nearly similar substance is produced by the action of oxygen
gas on oil of turpentine.
_Uses, &c._ Oil of turpentine is extensively used in the manufacture of
varnishes and paints. Under the name of ‘camphine’ it is occasionally
employed for burning in lamps. For the last purpose it must be newly
rectified and preserved from the air. By exposure it rapidly absorbs
oxygen, resin is formed, its density increases, and it gives a dull
fuliginous flame. In medicine it is employed as a diaphoretic, stimulant,
vermifuge, &c.——_Dose_, 6 to 30 or 40 drops; in rheumatism, hemicrania,
&c., 1 fl. dr. every four hours, in combination with bark or capsicum; in
tapeworm, 3 fl. dr. to 1 fl. oz., either alone or combined with a little
syrup of orange peel, every 8 hours, until the worm is expelled. The
common symptoms of large doses of this oil are dizziness and a species of
temporary intoxication, and occasionally nausea and sickness, which
subside after two or three alvine evacuations, leaving no other effect,
when the oil is pure, than a certain degree of languor for a few hours. In
tapeworm a little castor-oil may be advantageously combined with the
second and subsequent doses. Oil of turpentine imparts a violent odour to
the urine. To prevent loss by evaporation and resinification, this oil
should be kept in tin cans or glass bottles. For store vessels, closely
covered tin cisterns are the best. To _prevent accidents_ it is proper to
caution the operator of the extremely penetrating and inflammable nature
of the vapour of this oil, even in the cold. During the process of its
distillation, without the greatest precautions are taken, an explosion is
almost inevitable.
=Oil of Vale′′rian.= _Syn._ OLEUM VALERIANÆ (Ph. Bor.), L. From the root
of _Valeriana officinalis_ (Linn.), or wild valerian. Yellowish; viscid;
lighter than water; smells strongly of the plant. By exposure to the air
it is partly converted into valerianic acid, and more readily so under the
influence of an alkali. In its usual form it consists of valerol, a
neutral oily body; borneene, a volatile liquid hydrocarbon; and valerianic
acid. It is powerfully antispasmodic, emmenagogue, tonic, and stimulant,
and, in large doses, narcotic.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 drops; in epilepsy,
hysteria, hemicrania, hypochondriasis, low fevers, &c. _Prod._ 1-1/4% to
2% (nearly).
=Oil of Ver′bena.= _Syn_. OLEUM VERBENÆ, L. From the fresh flowering herb
of _Verbena odorata_. _Prod._ 2% to 5%. The ‘OIL OF VERBENA’ of the shops
is imported from India, and is obtained from _Andropogon citratum_. See
OIL OF LEMON GRASS.
=Oil of Wine.= SYN. HEAVY OIL OF WINE, ETHEREAL OIL, OILY ETHEREAL
LIQUOR, SULPHATE OF ETHER AND ETHEROLE; OLEUM ÆTHEREUM (Ph. L.), OLEUM
VINI, LIQUOR ÆTHEREUS OLEOSUS, L. This is an artificial production which,
for convenience, may be included under this head.
1. (Ph. L.) Rectified spirit, 2 pints, and sulphuric acid, 36 fl. oz., are
cautiously mixed together in a glass retort, and submitted to distillation
until a black froth appears, when the retort is immediately removed from
the fire (sand heat); the lighter, supernatant, liquor is next separated
from the fluid in the receiver, and exposed to the air for 24 hours; it is
then agitated with a mixture of solution of potassa and water, of each 1
fl. oz., or q. s., and, when, sufficiently washed, is, lastly, separated
from the aqueous liquid from which it has subsided. The formula of the Ph.
L. 1836 is nearly similar.
2. (Ph. D.) Rectified spirit and oil of vitriol (commercial), of each
1-1/2 pint; as the last, employing a Liebig’s condenser, and a capsule for
the exposure to the air; the oil is then transferred to a moistened paper
filter, and washed with a little cold water, to remove any adhering acid.
3. (Ph. D. 1826.) From the residuum in the retort after the process of
preparing ether, distilled to one half, by a moderate heat, and the oil
treated as before.
4. From rectified spirit (sp. gr. ·833), 2 parts; oil of vitriol, 5 parts;
mix and distil, as before; wash the product with distilled water, and free
it from adhering water and undecomposed alcohol by exposure in the vacuum
of an air-pump, between two open capsules, the one containing fragments of
solid potassa, and the other concentrated sulphuric acid. Pure.
5. By distilling a mixture of ether and oil of vitriol, and treating the
product as before.
6. By the destructive distillation of dry sulphovinate of calcium; the
product is freed from alcohol, &c., by washing it. This process yields the
largest product.
_Prop., &c._ An oily liquid, nearly colourless, neutral, with an aromatic
taste, and an odour resembling that of oil of peppermint. It is insoluble
in water, but freely soluble in both alcohol and ether; boiling water
converts it into sulphovinic acid, and a volatile liquid called light or
sweet oil of wine; with an alkaline solution, this effect is produced with
even greater facility. Sp. gr. 1·05 (Hennel & Ph. L.); 1·13 (Serullas).
Boils at 540° Fahr. “Dropped into water, it sinks, the form of the globule
being preserved.” (Ph. L.) _Prod._ 1·25 to 1·5%; 33 lbs. of rectified
spirit, and 64 lbs. of oil of vitriol, yield 17 oz. of this oil (Hennel).
_Uses._ Oil of wine is reputed anodyne, but is only used in the
preparation of other compounds. See SPIRIT OF ETHER (Compound), &c.
=Oil of Wine (Light).= _Syn._ SWEET OIL OF WINE. See ETHERIN, ETHEROLE,
and _above_.
=Oil, Wood (of India).= From the _Chloroxylon Swietenia_ (De Cand.), the
tree which yields the satin-wood of the cabinet-makers. Another wood oil
(GŪRJUN BALSAM) is obtained by incision from various species of
_Dipterocarpus_. This balsam yields about 38% of a volatile oil by
distillation, which in its general properties closely resembles OIL OF
COPAIBA. (O’Shaughnessey.)
=Oil of Worm′seed.= _Syn._ OLEUM CHENOPODII (Ph. U. S.), L. From the seeds
of _Chenopodium anthelminticum_, or Jerusalem oak (American wormseed).
Light yellow, or greenish; powerfully anthelmintic. Sp. gr. ·908.——_Dose._
For an adult, 25 to 30 drops, in sugar, honey, or milk, night and morning,
for 3 or 4 days, followed by a good dose of castor oil, or some other
suitable purgative.
=Oil of Worm′wood.= _Syn._ OLEUM ABSINTHII, L. From the herbaceous portion
of _Artemisia absinthium_, or common wormwood; green or brownish-green;
odorous; acrid; bitter; stomachic. Sp. gr. ·9703 (Brisson); ·9720
(Pereira); ·9725 (Brande). _Prod._ Fresh herb (picked), 1/4 to 1/3%, dry
herb (a year old), 1/2% (fully); do. (recent), 3/4 to 1% (fully).
_Pur._ That of the shops is nearly always either adulterated or partly
spoiled by age; hence the discrepancies in the densities given for this
oil by different authorities. A specimen of this oil distilled by Mr
Cooley from the green plant had the sp. gr. ·9712; but after being kept
for 12 months, it had increased to ·9718. Nitric acid of 1·25 colours the
pure oil first green, then blue, and, lastly, brown. The positive
character of these reactions is in direct proportion to the purity and
freshness of the sample.
=OILY EMUL′SION.= See LINCTUS (Emollient).
=OILY ETHE′′REAL LIQ′UOR.= See OIL OF WINE (_above_).
=OINT′MENT.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM, L. Any soft, fatty substance applied to the
skin by inunction. The term is now commonly restricted to those which are
employed in medicine.
Ointments (unguenta) differ from ‘cerates’ chiefly in their consistence,
and in wax not being a constant or essential constituent; and they are
made and used in a nearly similar manner to that class of preparations.
Their proper degree of solidity is that of good butter, at the ordinary
temperature of the atmosphere. When the active ingredients are pulverulent
substances, nothing can be more suitable to form the body of the ointment
than good fresh lard, free from salt; but when they are fluid or
semi-fluid, prepared suet, or a mixture of suet and lard, will be
necessary to give a due consistence to the compound. In some instances wax
is ordered for this purpose. Another excellent ‘vehicle’ for the more
active ingredients is a simple ointment, formed by melting together 1 part
of pure white wax with about 4 parts of olive oil. The use of the last
excludes the possibility of the irritation sometimes occasioned by the
accession of rancidity, when inferior lard is employed. In a few cases
butter is employed to form the body of the ointment.
Some ointments are made from recent vegetable substances by infusion or
coction, in the manner adopted for medicated oils. See OILS, MEDICATED.
The precautions to be used in the choice of lard are noticed in the
article devoted to this substance. Lard is included in the Materia Medica
of the London College. In the last Ph. D. lard for medicinal use (ADEPS
SUILLUS PRÆPARATUS——Ph. D.) is ordered to be prepared by melting it in
twice its weight of boiling water, stirring it constantly for some time,
then setting the mixture aside to cool; and, lastly, separating the fat
when it has solidified.
Ointments are best preserved by keeping them in salt-glazed earthen or
stoneware jars, covered with tin foil, in a cool situation.
The accession of rancidity in ointments and other unctuous preparations
may be greatly retarded, if not wholly prevented, by previously dissolving
in the fat about 2% of gum-benzoin, in fine powder, or rather less
quantity of benzoic acid by the aid of heat. This addition renders the
ointment peculiarly soothing to irritable or highly sensitive skins.
Poplar buds act in a similar manner.
⁂ The formulæ for all the more useful and generally employed ointments are
given below. Those not included in the list may be prepared of the proper
strength for all ordinary purposes, by combining about 12 to 15 times the
medium dose of the particular medicinal with 1 oz. of lard or simple
ointment. For substances which possess little activity, 1/2 to 1 dr. per
oz., or even more, may be taken. See CERATE, FAT, &c.
=Ointment of Ac′etate of Lead.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PLUMBI ACETATIS (B. P.,
Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Acetate of lead, in fine powder, 1
oz.; simple ointment, 20 oz.; mix them thoroughly (by trituration).
2. (Ph. D.) Ointment of white wax, 1 lb.; melt by a gentle heat, then add,
gradually, of acetate of lead, in very fine powder, 1 oz., and stir the
mixture until it concretes.
3. (B. P.) Acetate of lead, in fine powder, 12 gr.; benzoated lard, 1 oz.;
mix.
_Obs._ A useful, cooling, astringent, and desiccative ointment. For the
formula of Ph. L., see CERATE.
=Ointment, Ace′tic.= See OINTMENT, VINEGAR.
=Ointment of Ac′onite.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ACONITI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr
Turnbull.) Alcoholic extract of aconite, 1 part; lard, 2 parts; carefully
triturated together. In neuralgia, &c.
2. (Ammoniated; UNGUENTUM ACONITI AMMONIATUM——Turnbull.) Ammoniated
extract of aconite, 1 part; lard, 3 parts. In neuralgia, paralysis, old
rheumatic affections, &c. The use of the above preparations of aconite
requires the greatest caution. They are intended as substitutes for
OINTMENT OF ACONITINE, a still more dangerous preparation.
=Ointment of Acon′itine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ACONITINÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr
Garrod.) Pure aconitine, 1 gr.; lard, 1 dr.; mix by careful trituration.
2. (Dr Turnbull.) Aconitine, 2 gr.; rectified spirit, 6 or 7 drops;
triturate together, then add of lard, 1 dr., and mix well.
3. (B. P.) Aconitia (aconitine), 8 gr.; rectified spirit, 1/2 dr.;
dissolve and add lard, 1 oz.; mix.
_Use, &c._ As a topical benumber in neuralgic affections, rheumatic pains,
&c. Its application generally occasions considerable tingling, and
sometimes redness of the part to which it is applied, followed by
temporary loss of sensation in the skin and the cessation of the pain. For
slight cases Dr Paris formerly employed only 1 gr. to the oz. Owing to the
intensely poisonous nature of aconitine, this ointment must be both
prepared and used with great caution, and must never be applied to an
abraded surface. It is seldom employed, owing to its extreme costliness.
See ACONITIA, and _above_.
=Ointment, Ague.= See OINTMENT, ANTIPERIODIC.
=Ointment, Albinolo’s.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=Ointment, Alkaline.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ALKALINUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Biett.)
Carbonate of soda, 2 dr.; fresh-slaked lime, 1 dr.; powdered opium, 2 gr.;
lard, 2 oz.; mix by trituration. In prurigo, ringworm, and some other
cutaneous affections.
2. (Cazenave.) Carbonate of potassa, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. In psoriasis,
lepra, and scorbutic eruptions.
3. (Devergie.)——_a._ From carbonate (not sesquicarbonate) of soda, 10 to
15 gr.; lard, 1 oz. In lichen.
_b._ From carbonate of soda, 20 to 30 gr.; lard, 1 oz. In ichthyosis,
lepra, psoriasis, and some other scaly skin diseases.
_c._ From carbonate of soda, 1/2 to 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. In porrigo favosa,
especially when occurring in adults.
4. (Soubeiran.) Carbonate of soda, 1 to 2 dr.; wine of opium, 1 fl. dr.;
lard, 1 oz. In any of the above affections, when there is much pain or
irritation.
_Obs._ Carbonate of potassa is thought to be preferable to carbonate of
soda, when the above affections occur in scorbutic habits. A little
camphor is also occasionally added.
=Ointment of Aloes.= See OINTMENT FOR WORMS.
=Ointment of Aloes, Compound.= See OINTMENT FOR WORMS.
=Ointment of Al′um.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ALUMINIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Alum, in
very fine powder, 1 dr.; lard, 1-1/2 oz. In piles.
2. To the last add of powdered opium, 7 gr. In piles, when there is much
pain. See OINTMENT, BANYER’S.
=Ointment, Ammoni′acal.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM AMMONIACALE, U. AMMONIÆ, L.;
LIPAROLE D’AMMONIAQUE, POMMADE DE GONDRET, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Suet
and lard, of each 1 oz.; melt in a strong wide-mouthed bottle, add of
liquor of ammonia (sp. gr. ·923), 2 oz., at once close the bottle, and
agitate it until its contents concrete. As little heat as possible should
be employed, to prevent unnecessary loss of ammonia.
2. (Gondret.) Lard, 3 parts; suet, 2 parts; almond oil, 1 part; strong
solution of ammonia, 6 parts; mix, as before. Rubefacient, vesicant, and
counter-irritant. Smeared over the skin and covered so as to prevent
evaporation, it raises a blister in 5 or 6 minutes. Its general effects
and uses are similar to those of compound liniment of ammonia.
=Ointment of Car′bonate of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM AMMONIÆ
CARBONATIS, U. A. SESQUICARBONATIS, L. _Prep._ From carbonate of ammonia,
1 dr.; lard, 9 dr. An excellent application to painful joints, indolent
tumours, scrofulous sores, &c.
=Ointment of Ammo′niated Mercury.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI AMMONIATI
(B. P.). Ammoniated mercury, 62 gr.; simple ointment, 1 oz.; mix. See next
preparation.
=Ointment of Ammo′′nio-chloride of Mercury.= _Syn._ WHITE PRECIPITATE
OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI AMMONIO-CHLORIDI (Ph. L.), U. H.
PRECIPITATI ALBI, U. PRECIP. A. (Ph. E.), U. H SUBMURIATIS AMMONIATI (Ph.
D. 1826), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Ammonio-chloride of mercury, 2 dr.; lard,
3 oz.; triturate together.
2. (Ph. E.) As the last, but employing heat.
_Uses, &c._ Alterative; detergent; stimulant. In itch, scald-head, and
various other skin diseases; in inflammation of the eyes; as an
application to scrofulous and cancerous tumours; to destroy vermin on the
body, &c. It “may be safely used” (in small quantities) “on infants.” (A.
T. Thomson.)
=Ointment, An′′glo-Saxon.= _Prep._ Heat olive oil, 1 pint, and beeswax,
1/4 lb., until the mixture acquires a reddish-brown colour; then add red
lead (levigated), 1/4 lb., and continue the heat, with constant stirring;
when the union appears complete, add of amber and burnt alum, of each, in
fine powder, 1/2 oz.; lastly, when considerably cooled, add of powdered
camphor, 3 dr. As a dressing to foul ulcers.
=Ointment, An′odyne.= See OINTMENT OF OPIUM, HEMLOCK, &c.
=Ointment of An′thracoka′li.= _Syn._ POMADE DE ANTHRACOKALI, Fr. _Prep._
(Dr Polya.) Anthracokali, in very fine powder, 1 part; lard, 30 parts. See
ANTHRACOKALI.
=Ointment, Antiherpet′ic.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ANTIHERPETICUM, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Alibert.) Red sulphide of mercury, 3 dr.; powdered camphor, 1 dr.; lard,
3 oz.
2. (Chevallier.) ‘Subsulphate of mercury’ (Turpeth mineral), 2 dr.;
chloride of lime, 3 dr.; almond oil, 6 dr.; lard, 2 oz. In herpes or
tetters.
=Ointment, Antimo′nial.= See OINTMENT OF POTASSIO TARTRATE OF ANTIMONY.
=Ointment, Antiperiod′ic.= _Syn._ AGUE OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM ANTIPERIODICUM,
U. FEBRIFUGUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Disulphate of quinine, 1-1/2 dr.; saccharine
carbonate of iron, 1 dr.; oil of cajeput, 30 drops; fresh butter, 1 oz.
2. (Antonini.) Sulphate of quinine, 1 oz.; rectified spirit and sulphuric
acid, of each q. s.; lard, 1 oz.
_Uses, &c._ About 1/4 oz. of either of the above to be rubbed on the
vertebral regions once every 2 or 3 hours for 3 or 4 days, in intermittent
fevers, more especially in those accompanied by vomiting; or, into the
epigastrium, in cholera, diarrhœa, or dysentery.
=Ointment of Araroba.= See ARAROBA.
=Ointment, Aromat′ic.= _Syn._ BALSAMUM STOMACHALE WACKERI, UNGUENTUM
AROMATICUM, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Austr. 1836.) Simple ointment, 2-1/2 lbs.;
yellow wax and oil of laurel, of each 3 oz.; melt together, and, when
considerably cooled, add of oils of juniper, mint, lavender, and rosemary,
of each 2 dr. Anodyne, balsamic, and stimulant.
=Ointment, Arsen′ical.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF WHITE ARSENIC; UNGUENTUM
ARSENICALE, U. ARSENICI, U. ACIDI ARSENIOSI, L. _Prep._ 1. Arsenious acid
(levigated), 3 gr.; lard or simple ointment, 1 oz. In lepra, psoriasis,
malignant whitlows, &c.
2. (Hosp. F.) Levigated white arsenic, 15 to 20 gr.; lard, 1 oz. As a
dressing for cancerous sores.
2. (Soubeiran.) White arsenic, 1 dr.; lard, and spermaceti ointment, of
each 6 dr. In malignant cancer. The above must be carefully prepared, and
used with great caution. See CERATE.
=Ointment of Arse′′niate of I′ron.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM FERRI ARSENIATIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Carmichael.) Arseniate of iron, 1/2 dr.; phosphate of iron, 2
dr.; spermaceti ointment, 6 dr.
2. (Dr Pereira.) Arseniate of iron, 1/2 dr.; lard, 1-1/2 oz. In cancer.
=Ointment of Arseniate of Soda.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SODÆ ARSENIATIS. _Prep._
Arseniate of soda, 1 dr.; lard, 2 oz. Mix.
=Ointment, Astrin′gent.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ASTRINGENS, L. _Prep._ Triturate
powdered catechu, 1-1/2 dr., with boiling water, 2 fl. dr., add,
gradually, of spermaceti ointment (melted), 1-1/4 oz., and continue the
trituration until the mass concretes. An excellent dressing for
ill-disposed sores and ulcers, especially during hot weather. See the
several LEAD OINTMENTS, OINTMENT OF GALLS, &c.
=Ointment of Atro′′pia.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ATROPIÆ (B. P.), L. _Prep._ 1.
Atropia, 1-1/2 gr; simple ointment, 1 dr.; mix by careful trituration.
2. (Dr Brookes.) Atropia, 5 gr.; lard, 3 dr.; otto of roses, 1 drop. In
neuralgia, rheumatic pains, &c., when the affection is not deeply seated.
3. (B. P.) Atropia, 8 gr.; rectified spirit, 1/2 dr.; lard, 1 oz.;
dissolve the atropia in the spirit and mix with the lard.
=Ointment, Bailey’s.= See OINTMENT, ITCH.
=Ointment of Bal′sam of Peru.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM BALSAMI PERUVIANI, L.
_Prep._ 1. Lard or spermaceti ointment, 1 oz.; balsam of Peru, 1 dr.; melt
together by the heat of boiling water, stir for 5 or 6 minutes, allow it
to settle, and pour off the clear portion. In chaps and abrasions.
2. (Compound; UNG. B. P. COMPOSITUM——Copland.) Lard, 1 oz.; white wax, 1/4
oz.; balsam of Peru, 1 dr,; melt as before, and when nearly cold, add of
oil of lavender, 10 or 12 drops. As the last, and to restore the hair.
=Ointment, Banyer’s.= _Syn._ COMPOUND ALUM OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM ALUMINIS
COMPOSITUM, U. CALOMELANOS, U. BANYERI, L. _Prep._ From burnt alum and
calomel, of each 1-1/2 oz.; carbonate of lead, or litharge (levigated), 2
oz.; Venice turpentine, 1/2 lb.; lard, 2 lbs.; carefully triturated
together. In milk-scald, porrigo, &c.
=Ointment of Bark.= See OINTMENT OF CINCHONA.
=Ointment, Basil′icon.= _Syn._ BASILICON, YELLOW B.; UNGUENTUM BASILICUM;
U. B. FLAVUM, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746.) Olive oil, 16 fl. oz.; yellow wax,
yellow resin, and Burgundy pitch, of each 1 lb.; melt, remove the vessel
from the fire, and stir in of common turpentine, 3 oz. This form is still
occasionally employed in some shops, but is generally superseded by the
resin cerate and resin ointment of the Pharmacopœias. A nearly similar
preparation under the name of ‘basilicon ointment,’ is contained in the
Ph. Bor. 1847. (See _below_.)
=Ointment, Basilicon (Black).= See OINTMENT OF PITCH.
=Ointment, Basilicon (Green).= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM BASILICUM VIRIDE, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746). Prepared verdigris, 1 oz.; yellow basilicon, 8 oz.;
olive oil, 3 fl. oz. Detergent. Used to keep down fungous growths, to
dress syphilitic ulcers, &c. See CERATE and OINTMENT OF VERDIGRIS.
=Ointment, Bateman’s.= See OINTMENT, ITCH.
=Ointment of Bay-leaves.= See OINTMENT, LAUREL.
=Ointment of Belladon′na.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM BELLADONNÆ (B. P., Ph. L.).
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Extract of belladonna (deadly nightshade), 1 dr.;
lard, 1 oz.; mix by trituration.
2. (Soubeiran.) Fresh belladonna leaves (bruised), 1 part; lard, 2 parts;
simmer together until the leaves become crisp, and, after digestion, for
a short time longer, drain with pressure.
3. (B. P.) Extract of belladonna, 1; rubbed with a few drops of water and
mix with lard, 5-1/2.
_Uses, &c._ As a local anodyne, in painful and indolent tumours, nervous
irritations, &c. Also as an application to the neck of the uterus in cases
of rigidity. (Chaussier.)
4. Compound; UNGUENTUM BELLADONNÆ COMPOSITUM, L.——_a._ (W. Cooley.)
Compound iodine ointment, 7 dr.; extract of belladonna, 1 dr. Powerfully
discutient. A most excellent application to all glandular tumours and
indurations, buboes, &c., which it is desirable to disperse instead of
mature, more especially where there is much pain. It is particularly
suitable to cases occurring on shipboard, and when its application (at
least twice a day) is accompanied with the internal use of the mixture of
iodine and gold (See ANTISCROFULOUS MIXTURE), this treatment has seldom
failed, even when the parties were dieted chiefly on salt food.
_b._ (Debreyne.) Extract of belladonna and lard, of each 3 dr.; powdered
opium, 1/2 dr. As an external anodyne and benumber, more especially in
neuralgia, painful cancerous tumours, &c. A small piece is to be applied
to the part, and the friction continued for 6 or 8 minutes. The above
preparations are useless unless the extract employed is recent, and of
good quality.
=Ointment of Benzoin.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ OINTMENT OF BENZOIN. _Prep._
Tincture of benzoin, 2 oz.; lard, 16 oz.; melt the lard over a water bath
and add the tincture, stirring constantly, and when the spirit has
evaporated, remove from the water bath, and stir whilst cooling.
=Ointment of Bismuth.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM BISMUTHI, L. _Prep._ 1. Nitrate of
bismuth (‘white bismuth’), 1 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz.
2. (Fuller.) Nitrate of bismuth, 1 dr.; spermaceti ointment, 19 dr. In
itch, and some chronic cutaneous diseases.
=Ointment, Blist′ering.= See OINTMENT OF CANTHARIDES, and VESICANTS.
=Ointment, Blue.= This is the vulgar name in England of mercurial
ointment. On the Continent, an ointment made of smalts and Goulard water
is commonly so called.
=Ointment of Bo′′rax.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM BORACIS, L. _Prep._ From borax (in
very fine powder), 1 dr.; simple ointment or lard, 7 dr. In excoriations,
chaps, &c.
=Ointment of Bromide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM POTASSII BROMIDI, U.
POTASSÆ HYDROBROMATIS, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.) Bromide of potassium, 1/2
dr.; lard, 1 oz. Resolvent; in bronchocele, scrofula, &c.
=Ointment of Bro′mine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM BROMINII, U. B. COMPOSITUM, L.
_Prep._ (Magendie.) Bromide of potassium, 20 gr.; bromine, 6 to 12 drops;
lard, 1 oz. As the last, but more active.
=Ointment, Brown.= _Syn._ FRENCH POOR-MAN’S FRIEND; UNGUENTUM FUSCUM, U.
HYDRARGYRI, F., L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Nitric oxide of mercury (levigated),
1/2 dr.; resin ointment, 1 oz. In ophthalmia (cautiously), after the
inflammatory stage is over; as an application to sore legs, &c.
=Ointment of Cad′mium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CADMII, U. C. SULPHATIS, L.
_Prep._ (Radius.) Sulphate of cadmium, 1 to 2 gr.; pure lard, 1 dr.;
carefully triturated together. In specks on the cornea.
=Ointment of Cadmium, Iodide of.= (B. Ph.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CADMII IODIDI.
_Prep._ Mix thoroughly iodide of cadmium in fine powder, 62 gr., with
simple ointment, 1 oz.
=Ointment of Caffeine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CAFFEINÆ. _Prep._ Citrate of
caffeine, 8 gr.; lard, 10 oz. Mix.
=Ointment of Cala′mine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CALAMINÆ, U. LAPIS CALAMINARIS,
U. ZINCI CARBONATIS IMPURI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. D. 1826.) Prepared calamine, 1
lb.; ointment of yellow wax, 5 lbs. Desiccative and healing. This is the
old Dublin form for Turner’s cerate.
=Ointment of Cal′omel.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI SUBCHLORIDI (B. P.),
UNGUENTUM CALOMELANOS, U. HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._ 1. From calomel,
1 dr.; lard, or simple ointment, 1 oz.
_Obs._ “Were I required to name a local agent pre-eminently useful in skin
diseases generally, I should fix on this. It is well deserving a place in
the Pharmacopœia.” (Pereira.) Dr Underwood uses elder-flower ointment as
the vehicle.
2. (Compound; UNGUENTUM CALOMELANOS COMPOSITUM——Dr A. T. Thomson.)
Calomel, 1 dr.; tar ointment, 4 dr.; spermaceti ointment, 1 oz.
3. (B. P.) Calomel, 1; prepared lard, 5-1/2; mix. In lepra.
=Ointment of Cam′phor.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CAMPHORÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Camphor,
1 to 2 dr.; lard, 1 oz.; dissolve by a gentle heat and stir until the mass
is nearly cold. Stimulant and anodyne; in prurigo, psoriasis, &c.
2. (Compound.) From powdered opium, 1/2 dr.; powdered camphor, 1-1/2 dr.;
lard, 1-1/4 oz.; mix by trituration. As an anodyne friction in rheumatic
pains, swelled joints, colic, &c.
=Ointment of Canthar′ides.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CANTHARIDIS (B. P., Ph. L.,
D., & U. S.), U. LYTTÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Cantharides (in very fine
powder), 3 oz.; distilled water, 12 fl. oz.; mix, boil to one half, to the
strained liquid add of resin cerate, 1 lb., and evaporate to a proper
consistence.
2. (Ph. D.) Liniment of Spanish flies, 8 fl. oz.; white wax, 3 oz.;
spermaceti, 1 oz.; melt together with a gentle heat, and stir until it
concretes.
3. (Ph. E.)——_a._ UNGUENTUM INFUSUI CANTHARIDIS——Ph. E. Powdered
Cantharides 1 oz.; boiling water, 1/4 pint; infuse one night (12 hours),
strain with expression, add of lard 2 oz., and boil until the water is
expelled; then add beeswax and resin, of each 1 oz., and when these are
liquefied, remove the vessel from the fire, and further add of Venice
turpentine, 2 oz.
_b._ (UNGUENTUM PULVERIS CANTHARIDIS——Ph. E.) Resin ointment, 7 oz.; melt,
add of cantharides (in fine powder), 1 oz., and stir until the whole is
nearly cold.
4. (B. P.) Cantharides, in fine powder, 1; olive oil, 6; yellow wax, 1;
digest the cantharides in the oil for 12 hours, and for 1/4 hour at 212°;
strain, add the melted wax, and stir till cold.
_Obs._ The above preparations are frequently called ‘blister ointment’ or
‘epispastic ointment.’ They are used to keep blisters open after they have
been produced by stronger compounds. The first three compounds are
regarded as milder than the last (3, _b_), which contains the flies in
substance. The P. Cod. contains an ointment (UNG. EPISPASTICUM FLAVUM)
which is weaker than the above, prepared by digesting the bruised flies in
lard, for 3 hours, over a warm bath; about 1/6th part of wax is next added
to the strained fat, which is then coloured with turmeric, and scented
with oil of lemon. See CERATE, POMMADE, VESICANTS, and _below_.
=Ointment of Cantharides, Extract of.= (M. Cap.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CUM
EXTRACTO CANTHARIDIS. _Prep._ Alcoholic extract of cantharides, 8 gr.; oil
of roses, 1 dr.; beef marrow, 2 oz.; oil of lemon, 40 minims. To promote
the growth of the hair.
=Ointment of Cantharides with Mercury.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CANTHARIDIS CUM
HYDRARGYRO. _Prep._ Lard, 65 parts; Spanish flies, 29 parts; strong
mercurial ointment, 6 parts. Mix. Used in Normandy to indolent tumours.
=Ointment of Canthar′idine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CANTHARIDINÆ, L. _Prep._
(Soubeiran.) Cantharidine, 1 gr.; white wax, 1 dr.; lard, 7 dr.; mix
thoroughly. (See _above_.)
=Ointment of Cap′sicum.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CAPSICI, L. _Prep._ (Dr
Turnbull.) Tincture of capsicum (pure), q. s.; gently evaporate it until
it begins to gelatinise, then mix the extract with twice its weight of
lard. As a powerful stimulant and rubefacient. When very freely used, it
vesicates.
=Ointment of Car′bonate of Am′′monia.= See OINTMENT, AMMONIACAL.
=Ointment of Carbolic Acid.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ACIDI CARBOLICI.
_Prep._ Carbolic acid, 60 gr.; simple ointment, 480 gr.
=Ointment of Car′bonate of Lead.= _Syn._ WHITE LEAD OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM
PLUMBI CARBONATIS (P. B., Ph. E. & D.), U. CERUSSÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.)
Carbonate of lead, 1 oz.; simple ointment, 5 oz.; mix thoroughly.
2. (Ph. D.) Carbonate of lead, 3 oz.; ointment of white wax, 1 lb.; mix
with heat.
3. (B. P.) Carbonate of lead, in fine powder, 1; simple ointment, 7. Mix.
4. UNGUENTUM PLUMBI CAMPHORATUM——(E., 1744). Add to the last 2 scruples of
camphor ground with a little oil.
_Uses, &c._ Cooling; desiccative. Useful to promote the healing of
excoriated parts and slight ulcerations. The camphorated white ointment of
old pharmacy (UNG. ALBUM CAMPHORATUM——Ph. L. 1744) was made by adding 40
gr. of camphor to the first of the above.
=Ointment of Cat′echu.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CATECHU, L. _Prep._ From alum, 1
oz.; catechu, 3 oz.; (both in very fine powder;) added to olive oil, 1/2
pint, and yellow resin, 4 oz., previously melted together. Used to dress
ulcers in hot climates, where the ordinary fat ointments are
objectionable; also in this country during hot weather. See OINTMENT,
ASTRINGENT.
=Ointment of Chalk.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CRETÆ. _Prep._ Prepared chalk, 1
oz.; lard, 4 oz. Mix.
=Ointment of Chamomile.= (M. Bazin.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ANTHEMIDIS. _Prep._
Freshly powdered chamomile flowers, olive oil, and lard, in equal
quantities. For the cure of itch.
=Ointment of Char′coal.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CARBONIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Resin
ointment, 10 dr.; recently burnt charcoal (levigated), 3 dr. As a dressing
to foul ulcers, especially those of the legs.
2. (Caspar.) Lime tree charcoal and dried carbonate of soda, of each 2
dr,; rose ointment, 1 oz., or q. s. In scald-head.
3. (Radius.) Animal charcoal (recent), 1 part; mallow ointment, 2 parts.
As a friction in glandular enlargements and indurations, as a dressing to
fetid ulcers, &c.
=Ointment of Cher′ry-Laurel.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM LAURO-CERASI, L. _Prep._
(Soubeiran.) Essential oil of cherry-laurel, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. To
alleviate the pain in cancer, neuralgia, and other local affections.
=Ointment, Chil′blain.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM AD PERNIONES, L. _Prep._ 1. From
made mustard (very thick), 2 parts; almond oil and glycerine, of each 1
part; triturated together. To be applied night and morning.
2. (Cottereau.) Acetate of lead, camphor, and cherry-laurel water, of each
1 dr.; tar, 1-1/2 dr.; lard, 1 oz.
3. (Devergie.) Creasote and Goulard’s extract, of each 12 drops; extract
of opium, 1-1/2 gr.; lard, 1 oz. Twice or thrice daily.
4. (Giacomini.) Sugar of lead, 2 dr.; cherry-laurel water (distilled), 2
fl. dr.; lard, 1 oz.
5. (Linnæus.) Balsam of Peru, 1 dr.; hydrochloric acid, 2 dr.; spermaceti
ointment, 2-1/2 oz.
_Obs._ For Swediaur’s, Vance’s, and Wahler’s ointments, see article
CHILBLAIN.
=Ointment of Chloral Hydrate.= (Dowault.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CHLORALIS
HYDRAS. _Prep._ Chloral hydrate, 2 parts; lard, 20 parts. Stimulant;
stronger if required as a rubefacient.
=Ointment of Chlo′′ride of Cal′cium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CALCII CHLORIDI, U.
CALCIS MURIATIS†, L. _Prep._ (Sundelin.) Chloride of calcium (dry), 1 dr.;
strong vinegar, 40 gr.; foxglove (recent, in fine powder), 2 dr.; lard, 1
oz. In bronchocele, scrofulous tumours, &c.
=Ointment of Chloride of Lead.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PLUMBI CHLORIDI, L.
_Prep._ (Tuson). Chloride of lead, 1 part; simple cerate, 8 parts;
carefully triturated together. In painful cancerous ulcerations and
neuralgic tumours. See LEAD (Chloride).
=Ointment of Chloride of Lime.= See OINTMENT OF HYPOCHLORITE OF LIME.
=Ointment of Chloride of Mercury.= See OINTMENTS OF CALOMEL and CORROSIVE
SUBLIMATE.
=Ointment of Chlo′′rine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CHLORINII, L. _Prep._
(Augustin.) Chlorine water, 1 part; lard, 8 parts; well triturated
together. In itch, lepra, ringworm, fetid ulcers, &c.
=Ointment of Chlor-i′odide of Mercury.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI
CHLORIODIDI, L. _Prep._ (M. Recamier.) Chloriodide (iodo-chloride) of
mercury, 3 gr.; lard, 5 dr. Recommended as a powerful discutient or
resolvent. See OINTMENT OF IODO-CHLORIDE OF MERCURY.
=Ointment of Chlo′′roform.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CHLOROFORMI, L. _Prep._ (M.
Louis.) Chloroform, 1 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz. In neuralgia and
rheumatic pains, &c. It must be kept in a stoppered, wide-mouthed phial.
=Ointment of Cin′chona.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF BARK; UNGUENTUM CINCHONÆ, L.
_Prep._ (Biett.) Red cinchona bark (in very fine powder) and almond oil,
of each 1 part; beef marrow (prepared), 3 parts. In the variety of
scald-head termed porrigo decalvans. A little oil of mace or tar is a
useful addition.
=Ointment, Cit′rine.= See OINTMENT OF NITRATE OF MERCURY.
=Ointment of Cobalt, Oxide of.= (Amst. Ph.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM OXIDI
COBALTI. _Prep._ Simple cerate, 16 oz.; liquid subacetate of lead, 4 oz.;
powdered smalt, 4 oz.
=Ointment of Coc′culus In′dicus.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM COCCULI (Ph. E.), L.
_Prep._ (Ph. E.) Kernels of _Cocculus indicus_, 1 part; beat them to a
smooth paste in a mortar, first alone, and next with a little lard; then
further add of lard, q. s., so that it may be equal to 5 times the weight
of the kernels. Used to destroy pediculi, and in scald-head, &c.
=Ointment of Cod-liver Oil.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM OLEI MORRHUÆ, U. O. JECORIS
ASELLI, L. _Prep._ Cod-liver oil (pale and recent), 7 parts; white wax and
spermaceti, of each 1 part; melted together. In ophthalmia and opacity of
the cornea, either alone or combined with a little citrine ointment; as a
friction or dressing for scrofulous indurations and sores; in rheumatism,
stiff joints, and in several skin diseases. It often succeeds in porrigo
or scald-head when all other remedies have failed. Scented with oil of
nutmeg and balsam of Peru, it forms an excellent pomade for strengthening
and restoring the hair.
=Ointment of Col′ocynth.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM COLOCYNTHIDIS, L. _Prep._
(Chrestien.) Colocynth pulp (in very fine powder), 1 part; lard, 8 parts.
Used in frictions on the abdomen as a hydragogue purgative, in mania,
dropsy, &c.
=Ointment of Corrosive Sub′limate.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF CHLORIDE OF
MERCURY; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._ 1. From corrosive
sublimate, 2 to 5 gr.; rub it to powder in a glass or wedgwood-ware
mortar; add of rectified spirit, 6 or 7 drops, or q. s.; again triturate;
lastly add, gradually, of spermaceti ointment (reduced to a cream-like
state by heat), 1 oz., and continue the trituration until the whole
concretes. Used as a stimulant, detergent, and discutient application in
various local affections; in lepra, porrigo, acne, &c., and as a dressing
to syphilitic and some other ulcers.
2. (Ph. Chirur.) Corrosive sublimate, 10 gr.; yolk of 1 egg; lard, 1 oz.
As a dressing.
3. (POMMADE DE CIRILLO——P. Cod.) Corrosive sublimate, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz.
Caustic; must not be confounded with the preceding.
=Ointment, Cosmet′ic.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM COSMETICUM, L.; POMMADE DE LA
JEUNESSE, Fr. _Prep._ (Quincey.) Spermaceti, 3 dr. (better, 4-1/2 dr.);
oil of almonds, 2 oz.; melt together, and, when cooled a little, stir in
of nitrate of bismuth (‘white bismuth’), 1 dr.; and, lastly, of oil of
rhodium, 6 drops. In itch and some other cutaneous eruptions; but chiefly
as a pomade for the hair. Its frequent use is said to turn the latter
black.
=Ointment of Cre′asote.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CREASOTI (B. P., Ph. L. E. D. &
U. S.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Creasote, 1/2 fl. dr.; lard, 1 oz.;
triturate together.
2. (Ph. E.) Lard, 3 oz.; melt it by a gentle heat; add of creasote, 1 dr.,
and stir the mixture until it is nearly cold.
3. (Ph. D.) Creasote, 1 fl. dr.; ointment of white wax, 7 dr.; as the
last.
4. (B. P.) Creasote, 1; simple ointment, 8. Mix.
_Uses, &c._ In several skin diseases, especially ringworm; as a friction
in tic-douloureux; a dressing for scalds and burns; an application to
chilblains, &c.
=Ointment of Cro′ton Oil.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CROTONIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Croton
oil, 15 to 30 drops; lard (softened by heat), 1 oz.; mix well. This is the
usual and most useful strength to prepare the ointment. Rubefacient and
counter-irritant; in rheumatism and various other diseases. When rubbed
repeatedly on the skin, it produces redness and a pustular eruption. It
also often affects the bowels by absorption. The only advantage it
possesses over other preparations of the class is the rapidity of its
action.
2. (RUBEFACIENT POMADE——Caventou.) White wax, 1 part; lard, 5 parts; melt
together, and, when quite cold, mince it small, add of croton oil, 2
parts, and mix by trituration. Stronger than the last.
=Ointment of Cy′anide of Mer′cury.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI CYANIDI,
L. _Prep._ 1. (Cazenave.) Cyanide of mercury, 8 gr.; lard, 1 oz.;
carefully triturated together.
2. (Pereira.) Cyanide of mercury, 10 to 12 gr.; lard, 1 oz. As a dressing
for scrofulous and syphilitic ulcers, &c.; as an application in psoriasis,
moist tetters, and some other skin diseases, &c. Biett orders the addition
of a few drops of essence of lemon.
=Ointment of Cyanide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM POTASSII CYANIDI, L.
_Prep._ (Cazenave.) Cyanide of potassium, 12 gr.; oil of almonds, 2 dr.;
triturate, add of cold cream (dry), 2 oz., and mix by careful trituration.
As an anodyne in neuralgia, rheumatism, swelled joints, &c.; also as a
friction over the spine in hysteria, and over the epigastrium in
gastrodynia, &c.
=Ointment of Delphin′ine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM DELPHINIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr
Turnbull.) Delphinine or delphinia, 10 to 30 gr.; olive oil, 1 dr.; lard,
1 oz.; mix as the last. Used as a friction in rheumatism, and the other
cases in which veratrine is employed.
=Ointment, Depil′atory.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM DEPILATORIUM, L. See DEPILATORY
(Cazenave’s).
=Ointment, Desic′cative.= _Syn._ DRYING OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM DESICCATIVUM,
U. EXSICCANS, L. See the OINTMENTS OF CALAMINE, LEAD, ZINC, &c.
=Ointment, Deter′gent.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM DETERGENS, L. The OINTMENTS OF
NITRATE OF MERCURY, NITRIC OXIDE OF MERCURY, TAR, VERDIGRIS, &c., when not
too strong, come under this head.
=Ointment, Diges′tive.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM DIGESTIVUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (P.
Cod.) Venice turpentine, 2 oz.; yolks of 2 eggs; mix, and add of oil of St
John’s wort, 1/2 oz.
2. (DIGESTIF ANIMÉ——P. Cod.) As the last, with an equal weight of liquid
styrax.
3. (DIGESTIF MERCURIEL——P. Cod.) As No. 1, with an equal weight of
mercurial ointment.
4. (UNG. D. VIRIDE——Dr Kirkland.) Beeswax, gum elemi, and yellow resin, of
each 1 oz.; green oil, 6 oz.; melt them together, and, when considerably
cooled, add of oil of turpentine 2 dr.
=Ointment, Edinburgh.= Two compounds are known under this name:——1.
(BROWN.) From black basilicon, 6 parts; milk of sulphur, 2 parts; sal
ammoniac, 1 part.
2. (WHITE.) From white hellebore, 3 oz.; sal ammoniac, 2 oz.; lard, 1 lb.
Both are used in itch.
=Ointment of Eggs.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM OVORUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Yolk of 1 egg;
honey and fresh linseed oil, of each 1 oz.; balsam of Peru, 1/2 dr.; mix
well.
2. (Soubeiran.) Beeswax, 4 dr.; oil of almonds, 1-1/2 oz.; yolk of 1 egg.
As an emollient and soothing dressing to excoriations, irritable ulcers,
&c.
=Ointment, Egyp′tian.= _Prep._ (Giordano.) Burnt alum, 1 part; verdigris,
10 parts; strong vinegar, 14 parts; purified honey (thick), 32 parts; mix
by heat and agitation. As a detergent application to foul ulcers. It is a
modification of the ‘UNGUENTUM ÆGYPTIACUM’ of old pharmacy.
=Ointment of Elder-flowers.= _Syn._ WHITE ELDER-OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM
SAMBUCI FLORUM, U. SAMBUCI (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Elder flowers
and lard, of each 1 lb.; boil them together until the flowers become
crisp, then strain, with pressure, through a linen cloth. The same
precautions must be observed as are necessary in the preparation of the
medicated oils, by infusion. Emollient; less white and odorous than the
following:——
2. (Wholesale.) Take of lard (hard, white, and sweet), 25 lbs.; prepared
mutton suet, 5 lbs.; melt them in a well-tinned copper or earthen vessel,
add of elder-flower water 3 galls., agitate briskly for about 1/2 an hour,
and set it aside; the next day gently pour off the water, remelt the
ointment, and add of benzoic acid, 5 dr.; otto of roses, 20 drops; oil of
bergamot and oil of rosemary, of each 1 dr.; again agitate well, let it
settle for 10 minutes, and then pour off the clear portion into pots for
sale. Very agreeable, and keeps well.
_Obs._ The last formula is the one now generally adopted by the large
wholesale houses.
=Ointment of Elder-leaf.= _Syn._ ELDER OINTMENT, GREEN E. O.; UNGUENTUM
VIRIDE, U. SAMBUCI VIRIDE, U. SAMBUCI (Ph. D. 1826), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.
1826.) Fresh elder leaves (bruised), 3 lbs.; suet, 4 lbs.; lard, 2 lbs.;
boil together, as above.
2. (Wholesale.) Good fresh lard, 1 cwt.; fresh elder leaves, 56 lbs.; boil
till crisp, strain off the oil, put it over a slow fire, add hard prepared
mutton suet, 14 lbs., and gently stir it until it acquires a bright green
colour.
_Obs._ The above ointment is reputed to be emollient and cooling, and has
always been a great favourite with the common people. Both elder-flower
and elder-leaf ointment are, however, unnecessary preparations. “They are
vestiges of the redundant practice of former times.” (A. T. Thomson.) The
above formulæ are those now almost exclusively employed in trade. The
ointment should be allowed to cool very slowly, and after its temperature
has fallen a little, and it begins to thicken, it should not be stirred,
in order that it may ‘grain’ well, as a granular appearance is much
admired. It is a common practice to add powdered verdigris to deepen the
colour, but then the ointment does not keep well. This dangerous fraud may
be detected in the manner noticed under CERATE, SAVINE.
=Ointment of Elecampane.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM INULÆ. _Prep._ Fresh elecampane
root (boiled till soft and pulped), 1-1/2 oz.; lard, 1 oz. Mix.
=Ointment of El′emi.= _Syn._ BALSAM OF ARCÆUS†, UNGUENTUM ELEMI (B. P.,
Ph. L. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Elemi, 3 oz.; suet, 6 oz.; melt them
together, remove the vessel from the fire, and stir in of common
turpentine, 2-1/2 oz.; olive oil, 1/2 fl. oz.; lastly, strain the whole
through a linen cloth.
2. (Ph. D.) Resin of elemi, 4 oz.; ointment of white wax, 1 lb; melt them
together, strain through flannel, and stir the mixture constantly until it
concretes.
3. (B. P.) Elemi, 1; simple ointment, 4; melt and strain.
_Uses, &c._ Stimulant and digestive. It is frequently employed to keep
open issues and setons, and as a dressing for old and ill-conditioned
sores. The ‘UNG. ELEMI CUM ÆRURINE’ of St George’s Hospital is made by
adding 1 dr. of finely powdered verdigris to every 6 oz. of the ointment.
=Ointment of Emetina.= (Dr Turnbull.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM EMETINÆ. _Prep._
Emetine, 15 gr.; rectified spirit, q. s.; lard, 1/2 oz. Used as a
rubefacient.
=Ointment Escharot′ic.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ESCHAROTICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Sir
B. Brodie.) Corrosive sublimate, 1 dr.; nitric oxide of mercury, sulphate
of copper, and verdigris, of each 2 dr. (all in very fine powder); lard,
q. s. See OINTMENT, and CERATE, ARSENICAL.
=Ointment of Euphorbium.= (Dr Neligan.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM EUPHORBII.
_Prep._ Powdered euphorbium, 25 to 30 gr.; lard, 1 oz.; mix. To keep up a
discharge from issues.
=Ointment of Glycerin.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM GLYCERINI. _Prep._ Glycerin, 4
fl. oz.; oil of almonds, 8 fl. oz.; wax and spermaceti, of each 1/2 oz.
=Ointment, Eye.= _Syn._ EYE SALVE; UNGUENTUM OPHTHALMICUM, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Dr Collier.) Burnt alum, 1/2 dr.; powdered opium, 20 gr.; olive oil, 1
fl. dr.; spermaceti ointment, 2 dr. In inflammation of the eyelids,
purulent ophthalmia, &c.
2. (W. Cooley.) Chloride of barium, 6 gr.; calomel, 10 gr.; simple
ointment, 1 oz.; otto of roses, 1 or 2 drops. In scrofulous ophthalmia.
3. (Dessault.) Nitric oxide of mercury, carbonate of zinc, acetate of
lead, and dried alum, of each 1 dr.; corrosive sublimate, 10 gr.; rose
ointment, 1 oz. In chronic ophthalmia, profuse discharges, &c.; in
general, diluted.
4. (Dupuytren.) Red oxide of mercury, 10 gr.; sulphate of zinc, 20 gr.;
lard, 2 oz. For chronic inflammation of the eyelids, chronic ulcers, &c.
5. (Fricke). Nitrate of silver, 10 gr.; zinc ointment, 2 dr.; balsam of
Peru, 1/2 dr. In ulceration of the cornea, and in acute, purulent, and
chronic ophthalmia, &c., employing great caution in its use.
6. (Guthrie.) Spermaceti ointment, 1 dr.; solution of diacetate of lead,
15 drops; nitrate of silver, 2 to 10 gr. As the last, and in cases wherein
a direct caustic action is desired. The stronger ointment often occasions
intense pain.
7. (Hufeland.) Black oxide of mercury, 2 gr.; spermaceti cerate and walnut
oil, of each 1 dr. In chronic affections of the eyes or eyelids,
particularly in those of a syphilitic character.
8. (Janin.) Ammonio-chloride of mercury, 1 dr.; tutty and bole, of each 2
dr.; lard, 1 oz. In debility of the conjunctiva, in chronic inflammation
with excessive secretion, &c.
9. (Marshall.) See CERATE (Marshall’s).
10. (Parker.) Iodine, 1 gr.; iodide of potassium, 5 gr.; simple ointment,
3 dr. In scrofulous ophthalmia, thickening of the conjunctiva, opacity of
the cornea, &c.
11. (Pellier.) Nitric oxide of mercury and carbonate of zinc, of each
1-1/2 dr.; tutty, 1/2 dr.; red sulphuret of mercury, 20 gr.; lard, 2 oz;
balsam of Peru, 15 drops. In specks in the eye arising from small ulcers
which have healed up; in excessive defluxions, &c.
12. (Ratier.) Liquor of diacetate of lead, 1/2 dr.; wine of opium, 1 dr.;
lard, ·5 dr. In excoriations, and the variety of chronic ophthalmia
popularly termed ‘blear eye.’
13. (Regent). Acetate of lead and red precipitate, of each 1 dr.; camphor,
6 gr.; washed fresh butter, 2-1/2 oz. As the last, and in chronic
ulcerations.
14. (Singleton’s GOLDEN OINTMENT.) According to Dr Paris, this compound
consists of lard medicated with orpiment (native yellow sulphuret of
arsenic). There appears, however, to be some mistake in this, as that sold
us under the name had nearly the same composition as the OINTMENT OF
NITRIC OXIDE OF MERCURY of the Pharmacopœia. It did not contain even a
trace of either arsenic or sulphur. The action of this nostrum, and the
reputation which it has acquired, fully justify this conclusion.
15. (Smellome.) From verdigris (levigated), 1/2 dr.; olive oil, 1 fl. dr.;
triturate together; add of yellow basilicon, 1 oz, and again triturate
until it begins to concrete. A popular nostrum, sometimes useful in
chronic inflammation and ulcerations of the eyelids, &c., especially in
those of a scrofulous character.
16. (Spielmann.) Acetate of lead, 20 gr.; spermaceti cerate, 5 dr.;
compound tincture of benzoin, 40 gr. Cooling; desiccative. In inflamed
eyelids, excoriations, &c.
17. (St Yve.) Fresh butter (washed), 1 oz.; white wax, 1 dr.; camphor, 15
gr.; melt by a gentle heat, and, when cooled a little, add of red
precipitate (levigated), 1/2 dr.; oxide of zinc, 20 gr. In chronic
inflammation of the coats of the eye, or of the eyelids, specks on the
cornea, &c.
18. (Thomson.) Levigated oxide of zinc, 1 dr.; lard, 9 dr.; wine of opium,
20 drops. In chronic ophthalmia depending on want of tone in the vessels
and integuments of the eye.
19. (Velpeau.) Precipitated sesquioxide of iron (recent, but dry), 1/2
dr.; lard, 5 dr.; oil of almonds, 1 fl. dr.; balsam of Peru, 15 drops. As
the last, especially in ‘blear eye.’
20. (Ware.) Wine of opium, 1 fl. dr.; simple ointment, 3 dr. In
ophthalmia, after the inflammatory symptoms have subsided, and the vessels
remain red and turgid.
_Obs._ The ingredients entering into the composition of all the above
ointments must be reduced to the state of impalpable powder before mixing
them; and the incorporation should be made by long trituration in a
wedgwood-ware mortar, or, preferably, for those that contain substances
that are very gritty, by levigation on a porphyry slab, with a muller. The
most serious consequences, even blindness, have resulted from the neglect
of these precautions. They should all be employed in exceedingly small
quantities at a time, and they should be very carefully applied by means
of a camel-hair pencil or a feather; and, in general, not until acute
inflammation has subsided. The stronger ones, in most cases, require
dilution with an equal weight to twice their weight of lard or simple
ointment, and should only be used of their full strength under proper
medical advice. Various other formulæ for OPHTHALMIC OINTMENTS will be
found under the names of their leading ingredients.
=Ointment of Fig′wort.= See OINTMENT OF SCROPHULARIA.
=Ointment of Fox′glove.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM DIGITALIS, L. _Prep._ 1. From
fresh foxglove as ointment of hemlock——Ph. L. As an application to chronic
ulcers, glandular swellings, &c.
2. (Rademacher.) Extract of foxglove, 2 dr.; lard, 1 oz. In croup; spread
on lint, and applied as a plaster to the throat.
=Ointment of Fu′ligokali.= See FULIGOKALI.
=Ointment of Galls.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM GALLÆ (B. P., Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. D.). Gall-nuts (in very fine powder), 1 dr.; ointment of white wax, 7
dr.; rub them together until a uniform mixture is obtained.
2. (B. P.) Galls, in very fine powder, 80 gr.; benzoated lard, 1 oz. Mix.
An excellent application to piles, either alone or mixed with an equal
quantity of zinc ointment; also highly useful in ringworm of the scalp.
=Ointment of Galls and Opium.= UNGUENTUM GALLÆ CUM OPIO (B. P.); UNGUENTUM
GALLÆ OPIATUM, U. GALLÆ COMPOSITUM——Ph. L., U. GALLÆ ET OPII——(Ph.
E.)——_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Gall-nuts (very finely powdered), 6 dr.;
powdered opium, 1-1/4 dr.; lard, 6 oz.; rub them together.
2. (Ph. E.) Galls, 2 dr.; opium, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz.; as the last.
3. (B. P.) Ointment of galls, 1 oz.; opium (in powder), 32 gr. Mix.
_Uses, &c._ A most valuable astringent and anodyne in blind piles, slight
cases of prolapsus ani, &c. Some practitioners add 1 dr. of camphor. The
ointment of the Ph. E. is much the strongest.
OINTMENT OF GALLS WITH MORPHIA. UNGUENTUM GALLÆ ET MORPHIÆ——(Dr Paris.)
Morphia, 2 gr.; olive oil (hot), 2 fl. dr.; triturate, add of zinc
ointment (Ph. L.), 1 oz.; powdered galls, 1 dr.; and mix thoroughly. In
piles. The quantity of galls should be doubled.
=Ointment of Galls with Camphor.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM GALLÆ CUM CAMPHORÂ.
_Prep._ Galls, 2 dr.; camphor, 1/2 dr.; lard, 1 oz. Mix them.
=Ointment of Garlic.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ALLII, L. _Prep._ 1. Fresh garlic
(bruised), 2 parts; lard, 3 parts; simmer together for 1/2 an hour, and
then strain with expression. Rubbed on the abdomen in chronic diarrhœa and
colic, and over the chest and spine in hooping-cough.
2. (Beasley.) Fresh garlic and lard, equal parts; beaten together. Applied
to the feet in hooping-cough.
=Ointment, Giacomini’s.= See OINTMENT, CHILBLAIN.
=Ointment of Gold.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM AURI, L.; POMMADE D’OR, Fr. _Prep._
1. (Legrand.) Gold (in powder), 12 gr.; lard, 1 oz. As a dressing for
syphilitic ulcers; and as a friction in glandular indurations, &c.; also
endermically.
2. (Magendie.) Amalgam of gold, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. For endermic use,
chiefly. When the surface becomes dry, the ointment of terchloride of gold
is to be substituted as a dressing. In rheumatic pains, neuralgia, &c.
=Ointment, Gold′en.= See OINTMENT, EYE, CITRINE O., &c.
=Ointment, Gondret’s.= See OINTMENT, AMMONIACAL.
=Ointment, Goulard’s.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM GOULARDI, U. LITHARGYRI ACETATIS,
L. _Prep._ (Ph. Chirur.) Goulard’s extract, 1 dr.; simple ointment, 2 oz.
See CERATE (Lead).
=Ointment, Green.= See OINTMENT, ELDER.
=Ointment of Guarana.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM GUARANÆ. _Prep._ One part of
extract of guarana to eight parts of lard.
=Ointment of Hel′lebore.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF WHITE HELLEBORE; UNGUENTUM
VERATRI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1836.) White hellebore (in very fine
powder), 2 oz.; lard, 8 oz.; oil of lemons, 20 drops. In itch, lepra,
ringworm, &c.; and to destroy insects in the hair of children. It should
be used with caution, and, preferably, diluted with an equal weight of
lard.
2. (Compound; UNGUENTUM VERATRI COMPOSITUM.)——_a._ (Rayer.) White
hellebore, 1 oz.; sal ammoniac, 1/2 oz.; lard, 8 oz. Used as the last.
_b._ See SULFUR OINTMENT (Compound)——Ph. L.
=Ointment of Hem′lock.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CONII (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. L.) Fresh hemlock leaves and lard, of each 1 lb.; boil them together
(very gently) until the leaves become crisp, then strain through linen,
with pressure. See OILS (Medicated).
2. Extract of hemlock, 1 dr.; lard, 9 dr.; triturate together.
_Uses, &c._ As a local anodyne in neuralgic and rheumatic pains, glandular
enlargements, painful piles, &c.; and as a dressing to painful and
irritable ulcers, cancerous sores, &c.
=Ointment of Hen′bane.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYOSCYAMI, L. _Prep._ 1. Fresh
henbane leaves, 1 lb.; lard, 2 lbs.; boil until nearly crisp.
2. (Taddei.) Extract of henbane, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. Anodyne; in painful
piles, sores, &c., as the last.
=Ointment, Holloway’s.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=Ointment of Hops.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM LUPULI, L. _Prep._ (Swediaur.) Hops
(commercial), 2 oz.; lard, 10 oz.; as extract of hemlock, Ph. L. In
painful piles and cancerous sores.
=Ointment of Hydri′odate of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM AMMONIÆ
HYDRIODATIS, L. _Prep._ From hydriodate of ammonia (iodide of ammonium),
1/2 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz. Used chiefly as an application to
scrofulous tumour and ulcers, in irritable subjects.
=Ointment of Hydrochlo′′ric Acid.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ACIDI HYDROCHLORICI,
L. _Prep._ (Dr Corrigan.) Hydrochloric acid, 1 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz.
As a dressing for scald-head, after the scabs have been removed by
emollient liniments or poultices.
=Ointment of Hypochlo′′rite of Lime.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF CHLORIDE OF LIME;
UNGUENTUM CALCIS HYPOCHLORITIS, U. C. CHLORINATÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. From
chlorinated lime (chloride of lime), 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz.; carefully
triturated together. In scrofulous swellings, goitre, chilblains, indolent
glandular tumours, &c.
2. Chlorinated lime, 1 dr.; powdered foxglove, 2 dr.; simple ointment, 2
oz. As an application to fetid and malignant ulcers, &c.
=Ointment of Hypochlo′′rite of Sul′phur.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SULPHURIS
HYPOCHLORITIS, L. _Prep._ (Dr Copland.) Hypochlorite of sulphur, 1 dr.;
simple ointment, 1 oz. It is generally scented with oil of almonds. Used
in psoriasis inveterata, and some other skin diseases.
=Ointment of I′odide of Ar′senic.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ARSENICI IODIDI, L.
_Prep._ (Biett.) Iodide of arsenic, 2 to 3 gr.; lard, 1 oz.; carefully
triturated together. In lepra, psoriasis, &c.; and in corroding
tubercular diseases. It should be used with caution, and not more than 1/2
dr. applied at once.
=Ointment of Iodide of Ba′′rium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM BARII IODIDE, L.
_Prep._ (Magendie.) Iodide of barium, 3 to 4 gr.; lard, 1 oz. As a
friction to scrofulous swellings and indurations. The usual proportions
are now 5 gr. to the oz.
=Ointment of Iodide of Iron.= (Pierquin.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM FERRI IODIDI.
_Prep._ Iodide of iron, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. Mix them.
=Ointment of Iodide of Lead.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PLUMBI IODIDI (B. P., Ph.
L., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Iodide of lead, 1 oz.; lard, 8 oz.; rub
them together.
2. (Ph. D.) Iodide of lead (in fine powder), 1 dr.; ointment of white wax,
7 dr.
3. (B. P.) Iodide of lead, in fine powder, 62 gr.; simple ointment, 1 oz.
Mix. An excellent application to scrofulous tumours and swelled glands,
especially when accompanied with pain.
=Ointment of Green Iodide of Mer′cury.= _Prep._ 1. (OINTMENT OF SUBIODIDE
OF MERCURY, O. OF PROTIODIDE OF M.*; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI IODIDI——Ph. L.)
_a._ (Ph. L.) White wax, 2 oz.; lard, 6 oz.; melt them together, add of
iodide (green iodide) of mercury, 1 oz., and rub them well together.
2. (Magendie.) Green iodide of mercury, 23 gr.; lard, 1-1/2 oz.
_Uses, &c._ In tubercular skin diseases, as a friction in scrofulous
swellings and indolent granular tumours, and as a dressing for
ill-conditioned ulcers, especially those of a scrofulous character.
=Ointment of Red Iodide of Mercury.= UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI IODIDI RUBRI, B.
P., O. OF BINIODIDE OF M.*; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI BINIODIDI,* U. H. IODIDI
RUBRI——(Ph. D.)——1. (Ph. D.) Red iodide of mercury, 1 dr.; ointment of
white wax, 7 dr.; mix by careful trituration.
2. (Soubeiran.) Red iodide of mercury, 20 gr.; lard, 1-1/2 oz.
3. (B. P.) Red iodide of mercury (in very fine powder), 16 gr.; simple
ointment, 1 oz. Mix.
_Uses, &c._ Similar to those of the preceding, but it is much more
stimulant, and is regarded as better adapted for obstinate syphilitic
sores. Largely diluted with lard or almond oil, it is applied to the eyes
in like cases.
=Ointment of Iodide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM POTASSII IODIDI (B.
P., Ph. L. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Iodide of potassium, 2 dr.,
dissolved in boiling distilled water, 2 fl. dr.; lard (softened by heat),
2 oz.; triturate together until united.
2. (Ph. D.) Iodide of potassium, 1 dr.; distilled water, 1/2 fl. dr.;
ointment of white wax, 7 dr.; as before.
3. (Magendie.) Iodide of potassium, 1 dr.; lard, 12 dr.
4. (Le Gros.) Iodide, 1-1/2 dr.; lard, 1 oz.
5. (B. P.) Iodide of potassium, 64 gr.; carbonate of potash, 4 gr.;
distilled water, 1 dr.; prepared lard, 1 oz.; dissolve the carbonate and
the iodide in the water, and mix thoroughly with the lard.
_Uses, &c._ As a friction in scrofula, bronchocele, glandular
enlargements, indurations, &c.; as a dressing to scrofulous ulcers, as an
application in scrofulous ophthalmia, and in most of the other
applications in which the employment of iodine is indicated. The last
formula has been successfully employed by M. Le Gros in itch.
_Obs._ The strength of this ointment, as prescribed by different parties
varies greatly, the proportions of the iodide ranging from 1/32 to 1/8 of
the whole, to adapt it to particular cases. When other ingredients are
added, the iodide must be used in a perfectly dry state, and in fine
powder, instead of being dissolved in water. This is particularly
necessary when it is to be mixed with mercurial ointment.
=Ointment of Iodide of Sulphur.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SULPHURIS IODIDI (B. P.,
Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Iodide of sulphur (in fine powder), 1/2
dr.; lard, 1 oz.; mix by trituration.
2. (Cazenave.) Iodide of sulphur, 12 to 15 gr.; lard, 1 oz.
3. (B. P.) Iodide of sulphur, 1; lard, 16. Mix.
_Uses, &c._ As a local stimulant and alterative in the chronic forms of
lepra, lupus, porrigo, psoriasis, itch, &c.; also a remedy for acne
punctata. A few drops of oil of cloves or nutmeg are commonly added.
=Ointment of Iodide of Zinc.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ZINCI IODIDI, L. _Prep._ 1.
From iodide of zinc, 12 gr.; simple ointment, 1 oz. In scrofulous
excoriations, and in the chronic ophthalmia of scrofulous subjects,
arising from a relaxed state of the tissues and vessels.
2. (Dr Ure.) Iodide of zinc, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. As a friction to glandular
tumours and indurations, and as a dressing to flabby and obstinate
scrofulous ulcers.
=Ointment of I′odine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM IODI (B. P.), UNGUENTUM IODINII
(Ph. U. S.). _Prep._ 1.——(B. P.) Iodine, 32 gr.; iodide of potassium, 32
gr.; proof spirit, 1 dr.; rub together and add prepared lard, 2 oz. See
OINTMENT OF IODINE (Compound).
2. (Ph. U. S.) Iodine, 20 gr.; rectified spirit, 20 drops; rub them
together, then add of lard, 1 oz.
=Ointment of Iodine (Compound).= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF IODURETTED IODIDE OF
POTASSIUM; UNGUENTUM POTASSI IODIDI IODURETUM U. IODINII COMPOSITUM——Ph.
L. & D., U. IODINII——Ph. E.——_a._ (Ph. L.) Iodine of potassium (in very
fine powder), 1 dr.; lard, 2 oz.; mix, then add of iodine, 1/2 dr.,
dissolved in rectified spirit, 1 fl. dr., and mix all together. See
OINTMENT OF IODINE (B. P.)
_b._ (Ph. E.) Iodine, 1 dr.; iodide of potassium, 2 dr.; rub them
together, then gradually add of lard, 4 oz.
_c._ (Ph. D.) Pure iodine, 1/2 dr.; iodide of potassium, 1 dr.; rub them
well together in a glass or porcelain mortar, then gradually add of
ointment of white wax, 14-1/2 dr., and continue the trituration until a
uniform ointment is obtained.
_Uses, &c._ The compound ointment is an excellent friction in goitre, and
in enlarged or indurated glands or tumours, more especially those of a
scrofulous character; in the quantity of 1/2 to 1 dr., night and morning.
It may be advantageously combined with extract of belladonna in the
incipient bubo of scrofulous subjects, and in the early stages of cancer;
and, with an equal weight of mercurial ointment, as a friction in cases of
enlarged liver and spleen, and ovarian dropsy. The simple ointment of the
Ph. U. S. is generally regarded as weaker and less efficacious than the
compound.
=Ointment of Iodo-chlo′′ride of Mercury.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI
IODO-BICHLORIDI*, L. _Prep._ From iodo-chloride of Mercury, 16 gr.; simple
ointment, 1 oz. Discutient; probably one of the most powerful known in
syphilitic cases complicated with scrofula. See OINTMENT OF CHLORIODIDE OF
MERCURY.
=Ointment of Iodoform= (Dr Glover). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM IODOFORMI. _Prep._
Iodoform 1/2 to 1 dram, simple cerate 8 drams. Mix.
=Ointment, Iodo-hydrar′gyrate of Potassa.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM POTASSE
IODO-HYDRARGYRATIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Lamothe.) Iodo-hydrargyrate of potassa,
20 gr.; lard, 1 oz.
2. (Puche.) Red iodide of mercury and iodide of potassium, of each 8 gr.;
lard, 1 oz. As a powerful stimulant discutient; in tumours, inflammatory
sore throat, &c.
=Ointment, Iodo-narcot′ic.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM IODO-NARCOTICUM, L. _Prep._
(Purvis.) Iodine, 20 gr.; iodide of potassium, 2 dr.; oil of tobacco (by
infusion), 1-1/2 dr.; lard, 3 dr. To relax rigid muscles.
=Ointment of Ipecacuan′ha.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM IPECACUANHÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr.
Turnbull.) Ipecacuanha (in fine powder), 2 dr.; olive oil, 2 fl. dr.; lard
or simple ointment, 4 dr. Counter-irritant; when frequently employed as a
friction, it occasions an eruption, but one of a milder character than
that from either croton oil or tartar emetic.
=Ointment, Is′sue.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ADFONTICULOS, L. _Prep._ (Golding
Bird.) Ointment of cantharides (Ph. L.), 1-1/2 oz.; tartar emetic (in
impalpaple powder), 8 gr.; spermaceti ointment, 2 oz. As a stimulating
application to issues, to promote the discharge. See ELEMI OINTMENT,
CERATE, PLASTER, &c.
=Ointment, Itch.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ANTIPSORICUM, L. Several excellent
formulæ for itch ointments will be found under the names of their leading
ingredients. The following are additional ones, including some nostrums:——
1. (Bailey.) From alum, nitre, and sulphate of zinc, of each, in very
fine powder, 1-1/4 oz.; vermilion, 1/2 oz.; mix, add gradually of sweet
oil, 1/4 pint; triturate together until perfectly mixed, then further add
of lard (softened by heat), 1 lb., with oils of aniseed, lavender, and
origanum, q. s. to perfume.
2. (Bateman.) Carbonate of potassa, 1/2 oz.; rose water, 1 fl. oz.; red
sulphuret of mercury, 1 dr.; oil of bergamot, 1/2 fl. dr.; sublimed
sulphur, and hog’s lard, of each 11 oz.; mix them. (Bateman, ‘Cutaneous
Diseases.’) The nostrum vended under the name is made as
follows:——Carbonate of potash, 1 oz.; vermilion, 3 dr.; sulphur, 1 lb.;
lard, 1-1/2 lb.; rose water, 3 fl. oz.; oil of bergamot, 1-1/2 dr.
3. (French Hosp.) Chloride of lime, 1 dr.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. dr.;
sweet oil, 1/2 fl. oz.; common salt and sulphur, of each 1 oz.; soft soap,
2 oz.; oil of lemon, 20 drops. Cheap, effectual, and inoffensive.
4. (De la Harpe.) Sulphur, 2 oz.; powdered white hellebore, 1/2 oz.;
sulphate of zinc, 1/4 do.; soft soap, 4 oz.; lard, 8 oz.
5. (Jackson.) From palm oil, flowers of sulphur, and white hellebore of
each 1 part; lard, 2 parts.
6. (Nugent.) From white lead, 2 oz.; orris root, 1 oz.; corrosive
sublimate, in very fine powder, 1/2 oz.; palm oil, 4 oz.; lard, 1-1/2 lb.
7. (Ph. E., 1744.) Elecampane root and sharp-pointed dock (_Rumex
acutus_——Linn.), of each bruised, 3 oz.; water, 1 quart; vinegar, 3/4
pint; boil to one half, add of water-cress, 10 oz.; lard, 4 lb.; boil to
dryness, and stain with expression; to the strained liquid add of beeswax
and oil of bays, of each 4 oz.; and stir the mixture until nearly cold.
8. (UNG. A. COMP.——Ph. E. 1744.) To each lb. of the last add of strong
mercurial ointment, 2 oz.
9. (Robertson.) Soft soap, 1 oz.; rum, 1 table-spoonful; chloride of lime
(dry and good), 1/4 oz.; mix, and add of lard, 2 oz.
10. (Swediaur.) Stavesacre (in powder), 1 oz.; lard, 3 oz.; digest with
heat for 3 hours, and then strain. The formula of the Ph. Bruns. is nearly
similar. Very useful in itch; also to destroy pediculi.
11. (Thomson.) Chloride of lime and common salt, of each, in fine powder,
1 dr.; soft soap, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. dr.; mix, add of lard, 1
oz.; and, lastly, of strong vinegar, 3 fl. dr. Very cleanly and effective;
but should not be made in quantity, as it does not keep well.
12. (Vogt.) Chloride of lime (dry), 2 dr.; burnt alum, 3 dr.; lard, 9 dr.
To be mixed with an equal quantity of soft soap at the time of fusing it.
_Obs._ The products of the preceding formulæ are used by well rubbing them
into the part affected, night and morning, as long as necessary, the
number of applications required depending greatly on the manner in which
this is done.
=Ointment of I′vy.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HEDERÆ, L. _Prep._ From the leaves of
common ivy, by infusion, as ointment of henbane. Used as an application to
soft corns, in itch, and as a dressing to indolent ulcers and tissues.
=Ointment of Jatropha= (PHYSIC-NUT). The milky juice of the English Physic
nut (_Jatropha curcas_) mixed with half its weight of lard. In piles.
=Ointment of Juniper.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM JUNIPERI. _Prep._ Juniper leaves,
1 part, resin ointment, 6 parts; boil gently and strain.
=Ointment of Ju′′niper-tar.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM OLEI PYROLIGNI JUNIPERI, U.
CADINUM, L. _Prep._ (Eras. Wilson.) Lard and suet, of each 6 parts;
beeswax, 4 parts; liquefy by heat, and add of pyroligneous oil of juniper
(‘huile de cade’) 16 parts; with a few drops of any fragrant essential
oil, to conceal the smell. In ringworm, and as a stimulant ointment in
some other skin diseases.
=Ointment, Kirkland’s.= See LEAD OINTMENT (Compound).
=Ointment of Labdanum.= (Quincy.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CRINISCUM. _Prep._
Labdanum, 6 dr.; bears’ grease, 2 oz.; powdered southernwood, 3 dr.; oil
of mace, 1 dr.; balsam of Peru, 2 dr.
=Ointment of Lard.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ADIPIS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1788.)
Prepared lard, 2 lbs.; melt, add of rose water, 3 fl. oz.; beat the two
well together, then set the vessel aside, and when the whole is cold,
separate the congealed fat. A simple emollient. See OINTMENT, ELDER.
=Ointment of Lau′rel.= _Syn._ LAURINE OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM LAURINUM, U.
LAURI NOBILIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. Lusit.) Suet (softened by heat), 8 oz.;
laurel oil (expressed oil of bay), 1 lb.; oil of turpentine, 1-1/2 oz.
This is the ‘nervine balsam’ and ‘nervine ointment’ of the shops in the
Peninsula, and in some other parts of Southern Europe. The Ph. Bat. 1805
added 1/2 oz. of rectified oil of amber.
2. (P. Cod.) Fresh bay leaves and berries (bruised), of each 1 lb.; lard,
2 lbs.; as hemlock ointment——Ph. L. Highly esteemed on the Continent as a
stimulating friction, in bruises, strains, stiff joints, &c.; and in
deafness.
3. (Trade.) From fresh bay leaves, 2 lbs.; bay berries, 1 lb.; neat’s-foot
oil, 5 pints; boil as last; to the strained oil add, of lard suet, 3 lbs.,
true oil of bay, 1/4 lb., and allow it to cool very slowly, in order that
it may ‘grain’ well. Sold for laurel ointment and common oil of bay.
=Ointment of Lavender= (Baume). _Syn._ OLEUM LAVANDULÆ. _Prep._ Lard,
2-1/2 lbs.; lavender flowers, 10 lbs.; white wax, 3 oz. Melt the lard,
digest with 2 lbs. of the flowers for two hours, and strain; repeat this
with fresh flowers till all are used; melt the ointment and leave it at
rest to cool; separate the moisture and dregs, and melt the ointment with
the wax.
=Ointment of Lead.= _Syn._ (UNGUENTUM PLUMBI, U. LITHARGYRI——P. Cod.)
_Prep._ 1. Litharge, 3 oz.; distilled vinegar, 4 oz.; olive oil, 9 oz.;
mix with heat, and stir until they combine. Camphor, morphia, and opium
are common additions to lead ointment, when an anodyne effect is
desirable.
2. (Compound; NEUTRAL OINTMENT, HIGGIN’S O., KIRKLANDS’ O.; UNGUENTUM
NEUTRALE, U. PLUMBI COMPOSITUM——Ph. L.) Lead plaster, 2 lbs.; olive oil,
18 fl. oz.; mix by a gentle heat, and add of prepared chalk, 6 oz.;
lastly, add of dilute acetic acid, 6 fl. oz., and stir well until the mass
has cooled. As a dressing in indolent ulcers, “but its utility is
doubtful.” (Dr Garrod.)
_Obs._ It will be observed that the College has already modified the old
formula of this ointment. The vinegar is now the last ingredient added to
the mass. “Gradually add the chalk, separately mixed with the vinegar, the
effervescence being finished, and stir,” &c. (Ph. L. 1836.) See ACETATE OF
LEAD, CARBONATE OF L., CHLORIDE OF L., IODIDE OF L.; EYE, GOULARD’S, LE
MORT’S, and other OINTMENTS containing lead.
=Ointment, Le Mort’s.= Carbonate of lead, corrosive sublimate, litharge,
and Venice turpentine, of each 1 oz.; alum, 1/2 oz.; lard, 1/2 lb.;
vermilion, q. s. to colour.
=Ointment of Lu′puline.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM LUPULINÆ, L. _Prep._
(Soubeiran.) Lupuline, 1 part; lard, 3 parts; digest by the heat of a
water bath for 5 or 6 hours, and strain. As an anodyne dressing to
cancerous ulcers, and as a friction to swollen and painful joints.
=Ointment of Lycopo′dium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM LYCOPODII, L. _Prep._
Lycopodium, 1 dr.; balsam of Peru, 1/2 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz. In
chaps and excoriations.
=Ointment of Mace.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM MACIDIS, L. _Prep._ From mace (beaten
to a paste) and palm oil, of each 1 lb.; purified beef marrow, 3 lbs.;
gently melted together, and strained. Emollient and stimulant; chiefly
used as a pomade for the hair. Sold for ‘common oil of mace.’
=Ointment of Marshmal′low.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ALTHÆÆ, DIALTHÆÆ, L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. L. 1746.) Oil of mucilages, 2 lbs.; beeswax, 1/2 lb.; yellow
resin, 3 oz.; melt them together, then add of Venice turpentine, 1/2 oz.;
and stir the mixture until it concretes.
2. (Wholesale.) From palm oil, 1/2 lb.; yellow resin, 1-1/4 lb.; beeswax,
2-1/4 lbs.; pale linseed oil, 9 lbs. (say 1 gall.); melt together and stir
until it is nearly cold.
_Uses, &c._ Emollient and stimulant; seldom used in regular practice, but
in great repute amongst the common people. Linseed oil is now almost
universally substituted for the oil of mucilages.
=Ointment of Master-wort.= _Syn._ POMMADE ANTI-CANCÉREUSE DE MILIUS;
UNGUENTUM IMPERITORIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Beasley.) Powdered master-wort
(_Imperatoria Ostruthium_), 1-1/2 oz.; tincture of master-wort, 1 oz.;
lard, 2 oz.
=Ointment of Matico= (Mr Young). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM MATICO. _Prep._ Powdered
matico, 3 drams; opium, 3 gr.; lard, 1 oz.
=Ointment, Mercu′′rial.= _Syn._ (Strong MERCURIAL OINTMENT, BLUE O.,
NEAPOLITAN O.; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI——B. P., Ph. L. E. & D., U. H. FORTIUS,
U. CÆRULEUM.) _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Mercury, 16; prepared lard, 16; prepared
suet, 1; rub together until metallic globules cease to be visible. See
also OINTMENT, MERCURIAL (Compound).
2 (Ph. L. & E.) Mercury; 1 lb.; lard, 11-1/2 oz.; suet, 1/2 oz.; rub the
mercury with the suet and a little of the lard, until globules are no
longer visible; then add the remaining lard, and triturate altogether.
3. (Ph. D.) Pure mercury and lard, of each 1 lb.; as before.
_Pur., &c._ The ‘stronger mercurial ointment’ of the shops is usually made
with a less quantity of mercury than that ordered by the Colleges, and the
colour is brought up with finely ground blue black or wood charcoal. This
fraud may be detected by its inferior sp. gr., and by a portion being left
undissolved when a little of the ointment is treated first with ether or
oil of turpentine, to remove the fat, and then with dilute nitric acid, to
remove the mercury. When made according to the instructions of the Ph.,
its sp. gr. is not less than 1·781 at 60° Fahr. It “is not well prepared
so long as metallic globules may be seen in it with a magnifier of 4
powers.” (Ph. E.) When rubbed on a piece of bright copper or gold, it
should immediately give it a coating of metallic mercury, and a silvery
appearance.
The _Ung. hyd. fort._ of the wholesale houses is generally made of
mercury, 12 lbs., suet, 1-1/2 lb., and lard, 16-1/2 lbs. It thus contains
only 1/3 instead of 1/2 its weight of mercury. That of the same houses
labelled ‘_Ung. hyd. partes æquales_’ is prepared with mercury, 12 lbs.;
suet, 1-1/2 lb.; lard, 13-1/2 lbs.
_Uses._ This ointment is chiefly used to introduce mercury into the system
when the stomach is too irritable to bear it; in syphilis, hepatic
affections, hydrocephalus, &c. For this purpose, 1/2 to 1 dr. is commonly
rubbed into the inside of one of the thighs until every particle of the
ointment disappears. This operation is repeated night and morning until
the desired effect is produced, and should be, if possible, performed by
the patient himself. During its administration the patient should avoid
exposure to cold, and the use of fermented or acidulous liquors, and his
diet should consist chiefly of toast, broth, gruel, milk-and-water, and
other inoffensive matters. This ointment has been employed to prevent the
‘pitting’ in smallpox; and, diluted with 3 or 4 times its weight of lard,
in several skin diseases, as a dressing for ulcers, to destroy pediculi,
&c. Camphor is often added to this ointment to increase its activity. With
the addition of a little extract of belladonna, or hydrochlorate of
ammonia, it forms an excellent anodyne and resolvent friction in painful
syphilitic tumours and glandular enlargements.
_Obs._ The preparation of mercurial ointment according to the common plan
is a process of much labour and difficulty, and usually occupies several
days. The instructions in the Pharmacopœias are very meagre and
unsatisfactory, and, so far as details go, are seldom precisely carried
out. Employers grumble, and operatives become impatient, when they find
the most assiduous trituration apparently fails to hasten the extinction
of the globules. To facilitate matters, various tricks are resorted to,
and various contraband additions are often clandestinely made. Among the
articles referred to, sulphur and turpentine are those which have been
longest known, and, perhaps, most frequently employed for the purpose; but
the first spoils the colour, and the other the consistence, of the
ointment; whilst both impart to it more or less of their peculiar and
respective odours. On the Continent, oil of eggs was formerly very
generally used for the purpose, and is even now occasionally so employed.
Nearly half a century ago Mr W. Cooley clearly showed that the difficulty
might be satisfactorily overcome by simply triturating the quicksilver
with 1/8 to 1/4 of its weight of old mercurial ointment, before adding the
lard; and that the effective power of this substance was in direct
proportion to its age, or the length of time it had been exposed to the
air. His plan was to employ the ‘bottom’ and ‘scraping’ of the store pots
for the purpose. At a later period (1814-15) Mr Higginbottom, of
Northampton, repeated this recommendation, and at length the plan has been
imported into the Pharmacopœia Borussica. About twenty years since, “we
reopened an investigation of the subject, which extended over several
months, during which we satisfied ourselves of the accuracy of the
assertion of M. Roux, that the mercury in mercurial ointment exists
entirely, or nearly so, in the metallic state, and not in the form of
oxide, as was generally assumed. We succeeded in preparing an excellent
sample of mercurial ointment by agitating washed suet and quicksilver
together _in vacuo_. The quantity of oxide present at any time in this
ointment is variable and accidental, and is largest in that which has been
long prepared; but in no case is it sufficient to materially discolour the
fat after the metallic mercury is separated from it. We were led to
conclude that the property alluded to, possessed by old ointment, depends
solely on the peculiar degree of consistence or viscidity of the fat
present in it, and on the loss of much of the thoroughly greasy,
‘anti-attritive’ character, possessed by the latter in a recent state. In
practically working out this idea we obtained pure fats (MAGNETIC ADEPS;
SEVUM PRÆPARATUM), which, without any addition, were capable of reducing,
in a few minutes, 8, 16, 32, and even 48 times their weight of mercury. We
also found that the formula of the Pharmacopœia might be adopted, and that
a perfect ointment might be readily obtained by skilful management in from
half an hour to an hour, even without these resources. All that was
necessary was to employ a very gentle degree of heat by either performing
the operation in a warm apartment or by allowing the mortar to remain
filled with warm water for a short time before using it. Suet or lard,
reduced either by gentle warmth or by the addition of a little almond oil
to the consistence of a thick cream, so that it will hang to the pestle
without running from it, will readily extinguish 7 or 8 times its weight
of running mercury by simple trituration. The exact temperature must,
however, be hit upon, or the operation fails. This fact was afterwards
noticed in the ‘Ann. de Chim.,’ and some other journals.” (A. J. Cooley.)
M. Pomonti has proposed a method of preparing strong mercurial ointment,
which, modified to suit the English operator, is as follows:——Fresh lard,
8 parts; solution of nitre (see _below_), 1 part; mix by trituration, add
of mercury, 32 parts, and again triturate. The globules disappear after a
few turns of the pestle, but reappear in a few minutes, and then again
disappear to return no more. When this happens, the trituration is to be
continued for a few minutes longer, when lard, 24 parts, is to be rubbed
in, and the ointment at once put into pots. It is said that the globules
are so completely extinguished as to escape detection, even when the
ointment is examined by a microscope of low power. The SOLUTION.——Nitre,
100 gr.; water, 1 fl. oz.; dissolve. This quantity is sufficient for a
kilogramme of mercury.
M. Lahens strongly recommends for the rapid preparation of mercurial
ointment the application of oil of almonds in the following
proportions:——Mercury, 1000 parts; oil of almonds, 20 parts; lard, 980
parts. The mercury is first triturated with the oil for about fifteen
minutes, after which its globules are said to be no longer discernible by
the naked eye; 200 parts of the melted lard are now added, and the
trituration continued to the complete extinction of the metal, which is
generally accomplished within an hour. The ointment is then mixed with the
remainder of the lard. SEE OINTMENT OF OXIDE OF MERCURY.
=Ointment, Mercurial= (Milder). MILDER BLUE OINTMENT, TROOPER’S O.,
UNCTION; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI MITIUS, U. CÆRULEUM MITIUS. _Prep._ 1.
Stronger mercurial ointment, 1 lb.; lard, 2 lbs.
_Dose, &c._ In the itch and several other cutaneous diseases, as a
dressing to syphilitic ulcers, to destroy pediculi on the body, &c. Each
drachm contains 10 gr. of mercury. That of the shops generally contains
considerably less.
2. (With SOAP; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI SAPONACEUM; SAVON MERCURIEL).——_a._
(Draper.) Mercurial ointment (softened by a gentle heat), 1 oz.; hydrate
of potassa, 1 dr., dissolved in water, 1/2 fl. oz.; triturate them
together until the mass solidifies.
_b._ (Swediaur.) Milder mercurial ointment, 8 parts; soft soap, 2 parts;
camphor, 1 part. In periostitis, engorgements of the testicles, soft
corns, &c. See OINTMENT OF NITRATE OF MERCURY, &c.
=Ointment, Mercurial (Compound).= (B. P.) Mercurial ointment, 6; yellow
wax, 3; olive oil, 3; camphor, 1-1/2. Melt the wax and oil, and when the
mixture is nearly cold, add the camphor in powder and the mercurial
ointment, and mix.
=Ointment, Mercurial, with Hydrochlorate of Ammonia.= (Dupuytren.) _Syn._
UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI CUM AMMONIÆ MURIATE. _Prep._ Stronger mercurial
ointment, 2 oz.; hydrochlorate of ammonia, 1 dr.
=Ointment, Mercurial, with Soda.= (F. H.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI CUM
SODA, SAVON MERCURIEL. _Prep._ Mercurial ointment, 3-1/2 oz.; solution of
soda, 3 oz.; triturate until they combine.
=Ointment of Mercury, Oleate of.= (U. C. Hosp.) _Syn._ LINIMENTUM
HYDRARGYRI OLEATIS, UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI OLEATIS. (10 per cent.) _Prep._
Yellow peroxide of mercury, 1 dr.; pure oleic acid, 10 dr. To the oleic
acid kept agitated in a mortar, sprinkle in the peroxide gradually, and
triturate frequently during 24 hours, until the peroxide is dissolved, and
a gelatinous solution is formed, 20 per cent. as above, using double the
quantity of yellow oxide. To be applied with a brush, or spread lightly
over the part with the finger. In persistent inflammation of the joints,
Professor Marshall adds to ʒj of the above preparation, 1 gr. of
morphia——the pure alkaloid——not one of its salts, which are insoluble in
oleic acid.
In the preparation of ointment of oleate of mercury it is of the utmost
importance that the mercuric oxide should be thoroughly dry, and further
that it should be sifted in small portions at a time upon the surface of
the oleic acid, each fresh portion being well incorporated before another
is added. Solution should be promoted by frequent stirring, at ordinary
temperatures, since experience has shown that all heating is positively
injurious.[66]
[Footnote 66: C. Rice.]
=Ointment of Mercury, Yellow Oxide of.= (U. S. Ph.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM
HYDRARGYRI, =Oxydi flavi=. _Prep._ Yellow oxide of mercury, 1 dr.; simple
ointment, 420 gr.
=Ointment of Meze′reon.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM MEZEREI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Hamb.
Cod.) Alcoholic extract of mezereon, 2 dr.; dissolve in rectified spirit,
q. s.; add it to white wax, 1 oz.; lard, 8 oz., and mix by a gentle heat.
2. (P. Cod.) Mezereon (dried root-bark), 4 oz.; moisten it with rectified
spirit, bruise it well, and digest it for 12 hours, at the heat of boiling
water, in lard, 14-1/2 oz.; then strain with pressure, and allow it to
cool slowly; lastly, separate it from the dregs, remelt it, and add of
white wax, 1-1/2 oz. Used as a stimulating application to blistered
surfaces and indolent ulcers.
3. (P. Cod.) Ethereal extract of mezereon, 176 gr.; lard, 9 oz.; white
wax, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 oz.; dissolve the extract in the alcohol,
add the lard and wax, heat moderately, stir until the spirit is driven
off, strain and stir till cold.
=Ointment of Monesia.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM MONESIÆ. _Prep._ Oil of almonds, 4
parts; white wax, 2 parts; extract of monesia, 1 part; water, 1 part.
=Ointment of Mustard.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SINAPIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Flour of
mustard, 3/4 oz.; water, 1 fl. oz.; mix, and add, of resin cerate, 2 oz;
oil of turpentine, 1/2 oz. Rubefacient and stimulant. As a friction in
rheumatism, &c.
2. (Frank.) Flour of mustard, 3 oz.; oil of almonds, 1/2 fl. oz.; lemon
juice, q. s. In sunburn, freckles, &c.
=Ointment of Naph′thalin.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM NAPHTHALINÆ, L. _Prep._
(Emery.) Naphthalin, 1/2 dr.; lard, 7-1/2 dr. In dry tetters, lepra,
psoriasis, &c.
=Ointment, Neapolitan.= See OINTMENT, MERCURIAL.
=Ointment, Nervine.= _Syn._ BALSAMUM NERVINUM, UNGUENTUM N., L.; BAUME
NERVAL, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Expressed oil of mace and ox marrow, of each
4 oz.; melt by a gentle heat, and add, of oil of rosemary, 2 dr.; oil of
cloves, 1 dr.; camphor, 1 dr.; balsam of tolu, 2 dr.; (the last two
dissolved in) rectified spirit, 4 dr. In rheumatism, &c. A somewhat
similar preparation was included in the Ph. E. 1744.
=Ointment, Narcotic and Balsamic= (G. Ph.). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM
NARCOTICO-BALSAMICUM HELLMUNDI. _Prep._ Acetate of lead, 10 drams; extract
of hemlock, 30 drams; wax ointment, 33 oz.; balsam of Peru, 30 drams; wine
of opium, 5 drams.
=Ointment, Neu′tral.= See OINTMENT OF LEAD (Compound).
=Ointment of Ni′trate of Mercury.= _Syn._ CITRINE OINTMENT, YELLOW O.,
MERCURIAL BALSAM; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI NITRATIS (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), U.
H. N., or U. CITRINUM (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Mercury, 2 oz.;
nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·42), 4 fl. oz.; dissolve and mix the solution,
whilst still hot, with lard, 1 lb., and olive oil, 8 fl. oz., melted
together. (For the MILDER OINTMENT, see _below_.)
2. (Ph. E.) Mercury, 4 oz.; nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·500), 8 fl. oz. 6 fl.
dr.; dissolve by a gentle heat, add the liquid to lard, 15 oz,; olive oil,
32 fl. oz.; melted together, and whilst the whole are still hot, and mix
them thoroughly. “If the mixture does not froth up, increase the heat a
little until this takes place. Keep the ointment in earthenware vessels,
or glass vessels, secluded from the air.” This admirable formula is a
modification of that originally introduced into Pharmacy by the late Dr
Duncan, of Edinburgh. (For the milder ointment, see _below_.)
3. (Ph. D.) Mercury 1 oz.; nitric acid, (1·500), 1 fl. oz.; (diluted with)
water, 1/2 fl. oz.; dissolve by a gentle heat, and add the liquid to lard,
4 oz.; olive oil, 8 fl. oz.; melted together, and still hot; next “let the
temperature of the mixture be raised so as to cause effervescence, and
then, withdrawing the heat, stir the mixture with a porcelain spoon until
it concretes on cooling.”
4. (P. Cod.) Mercury, 3 parts; nitric acid (1·321), 6 parts; lard and oil,
of each 24 parts; as above.
5. (Ph. U. S.) Mercury, 1 oz.; nitric acid (1·42), 14 fl. oz.; lard, 3
oz.; fresh neat’s-foot oil, 9 fl. oz.; mix the mercurial solution with the
melted fat and oil at 200° Fahr.
6. (B. P.) Mercury, 4; nitric acid, 12; prepared lard, 15; olive oil, 32;
dissolve the mercury in the nitric acid with the aid of a gentle heat;
melt the lard in the oil by a steam or water bath in a porcelain vessel
capable of holding six times the quantity, and while the mixture is hot
add the solution of mercury, also hot, and mix them together thoroughly.
If the mixture does not froth up, increase the heat till this occurs. (The
heat required for this is from 170° to 180° Fahr.)
_Uses, &c._ Detergent and stimulant. In ringworm, herpes, itch, porrigo,
psoriasis, and some other chronic skin diseases; in various chronic
affections of the eyes, especially chronic inflammation and ulceration of
the eyelids, ‘blear eye,’ &c. It “may almost be regarded as specific in
psorophthalmia, in the purulent ophthalmia of infants producing ectropium
(eversion of the eyelids), and in ulcerations of the tarsi (edges of the
eyelids).” (A. T. Thomson.) As a dressing to old ulcers, more especially
those of a syphilitic character, it is superior to all the other ointments
containing mercury; in sore legs, assisted by the internal use of the pill
of soap with opium (PIL SAPONIS CUM OPIO), it often acts like a charm when
all other modes of treatment have failed. For most of these purposes it
should be diluted with from twice to seven times its weight of some simple
fatty matter. One of the principal reasons why this ointment is in less
general use than its merits deserve, is the very inferior quality of that
vended in the shops under the name, arising from almost every druggist
preparing some mess of his own, instead of adhering to the College
formulæ.
_Obs._ Ointment of nitrate of mercury, faithfully prepared according to
the instructions in the Pharmacopœia, possesses a rich golden-yellow
colour, and a buttery consistence, and keeps well. Unfortunately, clumsy
and careless operators, who regard the Pharmacopœia as a foolish book,
which it is quite unnecessary to look into, often fail in their attempts
to produce an article of good quality. The difficulty is immediately
surmounted by employing pure ingredients, in the proportions ordered, and
mixing them at the proper temperature. The acid should be of the full
strength, or, if somewhat weaker than that directed, an equivalent
quantity should be employed. A slight excess of acid is not injurious,
rather the contrary; but a deficiency of acid, in all cases, more or less
damages the quality of the product. If, on stirring the mercurial solution
with the melted lard and oil, the mixture does not froth up, the heat
should be increased a little, as, unless a violent frothing and reaction
take place, the ointment will not turn out of good quality, and will
rapidly harden and lose its colour. The most favorable temperature for the
union of the ingredients is from 185° to 200° Fahr., and in no case should
it exceed 212°; whilst below 180° Fahr., the reactions are feeble and
imperfect.
Stoneware or glass vessels must alone be employed in the preparation of
this ointment, and the stirrers or spatulas should be either of glass or
white deal. The best plan is to keep the whole exclusively for the
purpose, and when out of use to preserve them from dust and dirt. (See
_below_.)
=Ointment of Ni′trate of Mercury.= (Milder.) _Syn._ MILDER CITRINE
OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI NITRATIS MITIUS (Ph. L.), U. H. N. M., Or
U. CITRINUM M. (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Ointment of nitrate of
mercury, 1 oz.; lard, 7 oz.; rub them together. “This ointment is to be
used recently prepared.”
2. (Ph. E.) As the stronger ointment, Ph. E., but using a triple
proportion of oil and lard. _Uses, &c._ See the STRONGER OINTMENT
(_above_).
=Ointment of Ni′trate of Sil′ver.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ARGENTI NITRATIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. (M. Jobert.) Nitrate of silver, 2, 4, or 6 parts; lard, 20
parts. These ointments are respectively numbered 1, 2, and 3, and are used
in white-swelling.
2. (Macdonald.) Nitrate of silver, 1 part; lard, 7 to 8 parts. To smear
bougies, in gonorrhœa, &c.
3. (Mackenzie.) Nitrate of silver, 5 gr.; lard, 1 oz. In purulent and
chronic ophthalmia, ulcers on the cornea, &c.
4. (Velpeau.) Nitrate of silver, 1 gr.; lard, 1 dr. In acute ophthalmia,
&c. The above compounds require to be used with caution.
=Ointment of Ni′tric Acid.= _Syn._ OXYGENISED FAT†; UNGUENTUM OXYGENATUM,
U. A. NITRICI, L.; POMMADE D’ALYON, Fr. _Prep._ (Ph. D. 1826.) Olive oil,
1 lb.; lard, 4 oz.; melt them together, add, gradually, of nitric acid
(sp. gr. 1·500), 5-1/2 fl. dr., and stir the mixture constantly with a
glass rod until it concretes.
_Uses, &c._ In itch, porrigo, and some other chronic skin diseases; and as
a dressing for syphilitic and herpetic ulcers, old sores, &c. It is
frequently employed as a substitute for the ointment of nitrate of
mercury, which it somewhat resembles in appearance; but it is less active
and useful.
=Ointment of Ni′tric Ox′ide of Mer′cury.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF RED OXIDE OF
MERCURY (B. P.), RED PRECIPITATE OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI
NITRICO-OXYDI (Ph. L.), U. H. OXYDI (Ph. E.), U. H. O. RUBRI (B. P., Ph.
D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) White wax, 2 oz.; lard, 6 oz.; mix, by heat,
add of nitric oxide of mercury, in very fine powder, 1 oz., and rub them
together.
2. (Ph. E.) Nitric oxide of mercury, 1 oz.; lard, 8 oz.; mix by
trituration.
3. (Ph. D.) Red oxide of mercury (nitric oxide), 1 dr.; ointment of white
wax, 7 dr.; as the last.
4. (B. P.) Red oxide of mercury, in very fine powder, 62 gr.; yellow wax,
1/4 oz.; oil of almonds, 3/4 oz.; melt the wax, add the oil, and mix.
_Uses, &c._ An excellent stimulant application to indolent and foul sores,
ulcers, &c.; and, when diluted, as an eye ointment in chronic inflammation
and ulceration of the eyes and eyelids, and especially in psorophthalmia;
also in specks on the cornea, and the other affections noticed under
OINTMENT OF NITRATE OF MERCURY. It forms the basis of numerous quack
medicines. See also OINTMENT OF OXIDE OF MERCURY (_below_).
=Ointment, Obstet′ric.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM OBSTETRICUM, L.; POMMADE
OBSTETRICALE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (Chaussier.) Extract of belladonna, 1 dr.;
water, 2 dr.; lard, 1 oz. To promote the dilatation of the os uteri.
2. (POMMADE POUR LE TOUCHER.) From yellow wax and spermaceti, of each 1
oz.; olive oil, 16 oz.; melt them together, strain, add of solution of
caustic soda, 1 fl. oz., and stir until the whole is nearly cold.
=Ointment of O′pium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM OPIATUM, U. OPII (Ph. L.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Powdered opium, 20 gr.; lard, 1 oz.; mix by
trituration. As a simple anodyne friction or dressing.
2. (Augustin.) Opium, 2 dr.; ox-gall, 2 oz.; digest 2 days, strain, and
add, of melted lard, 2 oz.; oil of bergamot, 10 drops.
3. (Brera.) Opium, 1 dr.; gastric juice of a calf, 1/2 oz.; digest 24
hours, and add of melted lard, 1 oz.
=Ointment of Oxide of Lead.= See OINTMENT, LEAD.
=Ointment of Oxide of Man′′ganese.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM MANGANESII OXYDI, U.
M. BINOXYDI, L. _Prep._ 1. Black oxide of manganese (levigated), 1 dr.;
lard, 1 oz.; mix by patient trituration. As a friction in scrofulous
swellings and indurations; and in itch, scald-head, chilblains, &c.
2. (W. Cooley.) Binoxide of manganese, 1 dr.; sulphur, 2 dr.; lard, 9 dr.;
cajeput oil, 15 drops. As the last; also as a friction in rheumatism,
swelled joints, &c., and in porrigo, and some other skin diseases.
=Ointment of Oxide of Mer′cury.= Under this name the two ointments noticed
below are often confounded, owing to the different opinions held
respecting the atomic weight of mercury:——
1. =Ointment of Grey Oxide of Mer′cury.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF SUBOXIDE OF
MERCURY, O. OF PROTOXIDE OF M.†; UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI OXYDI, U. H.
SUBOXYDI, U. H. O. CINEREI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E. 1817.) Grey oxide of
mercury, 1 oz.; lard, 3 oz.; triturate together. Formerly proposed as a
substitute for mercurial ointment, but in practice it has been found
useless as a friction, owing to the unctuous matter only being absorbed,
whilst the oxide is left on the surface. This objection does not apply to
the following preparations:——
2. (Donovan.) Grey oxide of mercury, 20 gr.; lard, 1 oz.; mix, and expose
them to the temperature of 320° Fahr. for 2 hours, constantly stirring.
Grey coloured. It may also be made from the nitric- or red-oxide in the
same way, by keeping the ointment heated to about 300° for some hours.
Cleaner and stronger than Ung. hyd. fort.——Ph. L.
3. (Tyson.) Black oxide of mercury (prepared by decomposing precipitated
calomel with liquors of potassa and ammonia), 2 oz.; lard, 1 lb.;
triturate together. Inferior in activity to the last. It closely resembles
in appearance a fine sample of mercurial ointment.
2. =Ointment of Red Oxide of Mercury.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI
BINOXIDI†, U. H. OXYDI RUBRI, L. _Prep._ (Cazenave.) Red oxide of mercury,
30 gr.; camphor, 5 gr.; lard, 1 oz. Closely resembles ointment of nitric
oxide of mercury, over which it, perhaps, possesses some advantage from
the oxide being in a more minutely divided state.
=Ointment of Oxide of Sil′ver.= UNGUENTUM ARGENTI OXYDI, L. _Prep._
(Serre.) OXIDE OF SILVER, 16 to 20 gr.; lard, 1 oz. As a dressing for
scrofulous and syphilitic sores, &c.
=Ointment of Oxide of Zinc.= _Syn._ ZINC OINTMENT; NIHIL ALBUM OINTMENT†;
UNGUENTUM ZINCI (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), U. OXYDI ZINCI, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. L.) Oxide of zinc, 1 oz.; lard, 6 oz.; mix them together.
2. (Ph. E.) Oxide of zinc, 1 oz.; simple liniment (Ph. E.), 6 oz.
3. (Ph. D.) Ointment of white wax, 12 oz.; melt it by a gentle heat, add
of oxide of zinc, 2 oz.; and stir constantly until the mixture concretes.
4. (B. P.) Oxide of zinc, in very fine powder, 1; benzoated lard, 5-1/2;
mix.
_Uses, &c._ Astringent, desiccative, and stimulant; in excoriations,
burns, various skin diseases attended by profuse discharges, in chronic
inflammation of the eyes depending on relaxation of the vessels, in sore
nipples, indolent sores, ringworm of the scalp, &c. It is an excellent and
very useful preparation. See OINTMENT, TUTTY (_below_).
=Ointment of Pep′per.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PIPERIS NIGRI, L. _Prep._ 1. Black
pepper (bruised), 1 oz.; lard, 2 oz.; suet, 1 oz.; digest together in a
covered vessel, by the heat of a water bath, for six hours, then strain,
with pressure, add of expressed oil of mace, 2 dr., and stir until the
mixture concretes. In piles, itch, as a friction in rheumatism, &c.
2. (Ph. D. 1826.) Black pepper (in fine powder), 4 oz.; lard, 1 lb.; mix.
In scald-head, &c.
=Ointment of Phosphor′ic Acid.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ACIDI PHOSPHORICI, L.
_Prep._ (Soubeiran.) Phosphoric acid, 1 dr.; lard (softened by heat), 1
oz; triturate carefully together. As a friction in caries, osseous
tumours, &c.
=Ointment of Phos′phorus.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PHOSPHORI, U. PHOSPHORATUM, L.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) Phosphorus, 1 dr.; lard, 6 oz. 3 dr.; melt together (in
a wide-mouthed bottle) by the heat of a water bath, remove the vessel from
the heat, and shake it briskly until the ointment concretes. As a friction
in gout, chronic rheumatism, and several skin diseases.
=Ointment of Picrotox′in.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PICROTOXINÆ, L. _Prep._
(Jäjer.) Picrotoxin, 10 gr.; lard, 1 oz. In ringworm of the scalp, and to
destroy pediculi. It should be used with care.
=Ointment for Piles.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HÆMORRHOIDALE, U.
ANTI-HÆMORRHOIDALE, L. _Prep._ 1. Burnt alum and oxide of zinc, of each
1/2 dr.; lard, 7 dr.
2. (Bories.) Acetate of lead, 15 gr.; freshly burnt cork, 1/2 oz.; washed
fresh butter, 2 oz.; triturate well together.
3. (W. Cooley.) Morphia, 8 gr.; melted spermaceti ointment, 1 oz.;
triturate together until solution is complete, then add, of galls (in
impalpable powder), 1-1/2 dr., essential oil of almonds (genuine crude),
12 to 15 drops, and stir until the mass concretes. In painful piles,
prolapsus, &c. It is not only very effective, but does not soil the linen
so much as most other ointments.
4. (Dr Gedding.) Carbonate of lead, 4 dr.; sulphate of morphia, 15 gr.;
stramonium ointment, 1 oz.; olive oil, q. s. When there is much pain and
inflammation.
5. (Sir H. Halford.) Ointment of nitrate of mercury and oil of almonds,
equal parts, triturated together.
6. (Mazzini.) Nitrate of morphia, 15 gr.; citrine ointment, 1 dr.; fresh
butter, 1 oz. As the last.
7. (Vallez.) Extract of elder leaves, 1/2 dr.; burnt alum, 16 gr.; poplar
ointment, 1 oz. For other formulæ, see the respective names of their
leading ingredients.
8. (Ware.) Camphor, 1 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz.; dissolve by heat, add
of powdered galls, 2 dr.; mix well, further add of tincture of opium, 2
fl. dr., and stir until the whole is cold. In flabby mucous and painful
piles.
9. (Zanin.) Spermaceti ointment, 1 oz.; powdered galls, 1 dr.; powdered
opium, 18 gr.; solution of diacetate of lead, 1 fl. dr. When there is both
pain and inflammation.
10. (From New Remedies.) Yellow wax, 8 parts; resin, 4 parts; lard, 12
parts; oil of sassafras, 2 parts. Melt the wax, resin, and lard, remove
from the fire, add the oil of sassafras, and stir until the mass is solid.
This is said to be a most excellent application for painful or itching
piles.
=Ointment of Pitch.= _Syn._ BLACK BASILICON, OINTMENT OF BLACK PITCH; UNG.
PICIS (B. P., Ph. L.), U. PICIS NIGRÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Black pitch,
resin, and beeswax, of each 11 oz.; olive oil, 1 pint; melt together,
strain through a linen cloth (and stir until the mass concretes).
2. (B. P.) Tar, 5; yellow wax, 2; melt together, and stir till cold.
_Uses, &c._ Stimulant and detergent; very useful in indolent ulcerations,
scald-head, and various foul eruptions. In itch and psoriasis, and other
scaly skin diseases, a little sulphur is commonly added to it.
=Ointment of Plat′inum.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PLANTINI, L. _Prep._ (Hœfer.)
Bichloride of platinum, 15 gr.; extract of belladonna, 1/2 dr.; lard, 1
oz. As a dressing for painful indolent ulcers.
=Ointment of Plumbago.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF GRAPHITE; UNGUENTUM GRAPHITIS,
U. PLUMBAGINIS, L. _Prep._ From pure plumbago (‘black-lead’), 1-1/2 dr.;
lard, 1 oz. As a dressing to ulcers, and in certain skin diseases.
=Ointment, Plunket’s.= _Prep._ (Original formula.) Crowsfoot, 1 handful;
dog’s fennel, 3 sprigs; pound well, add of flowers of sulphur and white
arsenic, of each 3 thimblefuls; beat them well together, form the mass
into boluses, and dry them in the sun. For use, powder them; and mix the
powder with yolk of egg, spread a little on a small piece of pig’s bladder
(size of half a crown), and apply it to the sore, where it must remain
until it falls off by itself. Poisonous; in cancer; with great caution.
=Ointment, Poma′tum.= See OINTMENT, LARD.
=Ointment of Pop′lar Buds.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM POPULEUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Fresh
poplar buds (bruised), 1 part; lard, 4 parts; boil until crisp, and
strain. It never gets rancid. Emollient and stimulant.
2. (Compound——P. Cod.) Poplar buds, 12 oz.; fresh leaves of belladonna,
common nightshade (_Solanum nigrum_), henbane, and poppies, of each 8 oz.;
lard, 4-1/2 lbs.; as the last. Emollient, stimulant, and anodyne.
=Ointment of Potas′sio-tar′trate of An′timony.= _Syn._ ANTIMONIAL
OINTMENT, TARTAR EMETIC O.; UNGUENTUM ANTIMONII TARTARATI (B. P.),
UNGUENTUM ANTIMONII POTASSIO-TARTATRIS (Ph. L.), U. A. TARTARIZATI (Ph.
D.), U. ANTIMONIALE (Ph. E.), U. TARTARI EMETICI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. &
E.) Potassic tartrate of antimony, rubbed to a very fine powder, 1 oz.;
lard, 4 oz.; mix by trituration.
2. (Ph. D.) Tartar emetic, in very fine powder, 1 dr.; ointment of white
wax, 7 dr.
3. (B. P.) Tartrated antimony (in fine powder), 1; simple ointment, 4.
Mix.
_Uses, &c._ Counter-irritant; in phthisis, chronic rheumatism, certain
liver affections, and other deep-seated pains and diseases. A portion
about the size of a nut is rubbed on the skin night and morning, until a
crop of pustules is produced. The part should be well rubbed with a coarse
towel, so as to be reddened, before applying the ointment. The product of
the Dublin formula is of only half the strength of those of the other
Colleges.
_Obs._ Before adding the tartar emetic to the lard it should be reduced to
the state of an impalpable powder. The precipitated salt is the best for
this purpose. As the pustules formed by this ointment permanently mark the
skin, it should only be applied to those parts of the person which are
covered by the dress.
=Ointment, Pur′gative.= See OINTMENT OF COLOCYNTH, WORM O., &c.
=Ointment of Quinine′.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM QUINIÆ, U. QUINIÆ SULPHATIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. Sulphate of quinine, 1 dr.; lard, 3 dr. In the agues of
children.
2. (Beasley _ex_ Antonini.) Sulphate of quinine, 1 dr.; alcohol (rectified
spirit), 2 dr.; sulphuric acid, 10 drops; dissolve, and mix it with lard,
1/2 oz. In malignant intermittents; 2 to 4 dr. at a time, rubbed into the
groin or axilla.
=Ointment of Red Sul′phuret of Mer′cury.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI
BISULPHURETI, U. H. SULPHURETI RUBRI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Alibert.) Red
sulphuret of mercury, 1 dr.; camphor, 20 gr.; simple ointment, 1 oz. In
herpes, applied twice a day.
2. (Collier.) Bisulphuret of mercury, 1-1/2 dr.; sal ammoniac, 1/2 dr.;
lard, 1 oz.; rose water, 1 fl. dr. In several skin diseases, to diminish
the itching, destroy pediculi, &c.
3. (Radius.) As the last, with 1 oz. more lard.
=Ointment of Res′in.= _Syn._ YELLOW BASILICON; UNGUENTUM RESINÆ (Ph. D.),
U. RESINOSUM (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.) Yellow wax, 1/4 lb.; yellow
resin, in coarse powder, 1/2 lb.; prepared lard, 1 lb.; melt them together
by a gentle heat, strain the mixture, whilst hot, through flannel, and
stir it constantly until it concretes.
2. (Ph. E.) Beeswax, 2 oz.; resin, 5 oz.; lard, 8 oz.
_Obs._ A useful stimulant dressing to foul and indolent ulcers. For the
corresponding preparation of the Ph. L., see CERATE, RESIN.
=Ointment, Resol′vent.= See OINTMENT, DISCUTIENT.
=Ointment of Rhatany= (Trousseau). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM RHATTINIÆ. _Prep._
Extract of rhatany, 1-1/2 dr.; cacao butter, 5 dr. Mix.
=Ointment, Ring′worm.= UNGUENTUM CONTRA-TINEAM, L. _Prep._ 1. Carbonate of
soda, 1 part; fresh-slaked lime, 4 parts; lard, 120 parts.
2. Ointment of nitrate of mercury, 1 dr.; tar ointment and lard, of each
1/2 oz.
3. (Henke.) Hydrochloric acid, 1 fl. dr.; juniper-tar ointment, 1/2 oz.;
marshmallow do., 1 oz.
4. (Pereira.) Tar, 3 dr.; lard, 1-1/2 oz.; melt them together, and stir in
of acetic acid (Ph. L.), 2 fl. dr.
5. (Thompson.) Carbonate of soda and sulphuret of potassium, of each 1
dr.; creasote, 1/2 dr.; lard, 1-1/4 oz.
_Obs._ The hair must be cut off close, and the part washed clean before
each application. For other forms, see _above_.
=Ointment of Rose.= _Syn._ ROSE POMMADE, ROSE LIP-SALVE; UNGUENTUM ROSÆ,
U. ROSATUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Washed lard (melted), and roses
(centif.), of each 2 lbs.; mix, and in 2 days remelt the mass, and press
out the fat; to this last add of fresh roses, 2 lbs., and repeat the
process; lastly, colour it with alkanet root if required red.
2. (UNG. AQUÆ ROSÆ——Ph. U. S.) This is spermaceti ointment melted and
beaten up with about 2/3rds of its weight of rose water until they
congeal. Both the above are simple emollients. The last is an officinal
‘cold cream.’
=Ointment of Rosemary= (Compound). (Ph. G.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ROSMARINI
COMPOSITUM. _Prep._ Lard, 16 oz.; suet, 8 oz.; yellow wax, 2 oz.; oil of
mace, 2 oz.; liquefy in a vapour bath, and when nearly cold, add oil of
rosemary and oil of juniper, of each 1 oz., by weight.
=Ointment of Rue= (Span. Hosp.) _Syn._ UNGUENTUM RUTÆ. _Prep._ Fresh rue,
2 oz.; wormwood, 2 oz.; nitre, 2 oz.; lard, 16 oz.; boil till the moisture
is expelled.
=Ointment, Rust’s.= _Prep._ Calcined alum, 1-1/2 dr.; camphor, 1/2 dr.;
powdered opium, 20 gr. balsam of Peru, 1 dr.; lead ointment, 5 dr.;
triturate together. In chilblains, frostbites, frosted limbs, &c.
=Ointment of Sabadil′line.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SABADILLINÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr
Turnbull.) Sabadilline, 15 to 20 gr.; lard, 1 oz. Intended as a substitute
for ointment of veratrine.
=Ointment of Sav′ine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SABINÆ (B. P., Ph. L. & D.),
CERATUM SABINÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) White wax, 3 oz.; lard, 1 lb.; melt
them together, mix in of fresh savine (bruised), 1/2 lb., and press
through a linen cloth.
2. (Ph. D.) Savine tops, dried and in fine powder, 1 dr.; ointment of
white wax, 7 dr.; mix by trituration. For the formula of the Ph. E., the
uses, &c., see CERATE.
=Ointment of Scrophula′′ria.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SCROPHULARIÆ, L. _Prep._
(Ph. D. 1826.) Green leaves of knotted rooted figwort and lard, of each 2
lbs.; prepared suet, 1 lb.; boil till crisp, and strain with pressure. In
ringworm, ‘burnt holes’ (_pemphigus gangrenosus_ of children), impetigo,
and some other cutaneous diseases; also as an application to piles,
painful swellings, &c. In the second it is said to be almost specific.
=Ointment, Simple.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF WHITE WAX, SIMPLE DRESSING;
UNGUENTUM SIMPLEX (B. P., Ph. E.), U. CERÆ ALBÆ (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. E.) Olive oil, 5-1/2 fl. oz.; white wax, 2 oz.; melted together, and
stirred whilst cooling.
2. (Ph. D.) Prepared lard, 4 lbs.; white wax, 1 lb.; as the last.
3. (B. P.) White wax, 2; prepared lard, 3; almond oil, 8; melt together,
and stir till it becomes solid.
_Obs._ The above are mild emollients, useful in healthy ulcers,
excoriations, &c.; but chiefly as forming the basis for other ointments.
The corresponding preparation of the Ph. L. is spermaceti ointment. See
_below_, also OINTMENT, LARD, &c.
=Ointment, Singleton’s.= See OINTMENTS, EYE.
=Ointment, Smallpox.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ECTROTICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Mercurial
ointment, 1-1/2 oz.; beeswax and black pitch, of each 1/2 oz.; expressed
oil of mace, 2 dr.; mixed together by a very gentle heat.
2. (Briquet.) Mercurial ointment, 4 parts; powdered starch, 1 part.
3. (Tourriere.) Iodide of potassium (dry and in fine powder), 1 part;
expressed oil of mace, 2 parts; black resin, 4 parts; mercurial ointment,
8 parts. Used to prevent the ‘pitting of the pustules.’ See SMALLPOX.
=Ointment, Smellome’s.= See OINTMENTS, EYE.
=Ointment of Soap.= 1. See CERATE.
2. (Camphorated; UNGUENTUM SAPONIS CAMPHORATUM——Hamb. Cod.) White soap
(scraped), 1 lb.; water, 1/2 lb.; dissolve by heat; add of olive oil, 5
oz.; and when the mixture has partly cooled, further add of camphor, 1
oz., previously dissolved by heat in olive oil, 1 oz.; lastly, stir until
the mass concretes. As an anodyne and stimulating friction in various
local affections, as chaps, chilblains, rheumatism, &c.
=Ointment of So′dio-Chlo′′ride of Gold.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM AURI
SODIO-CHLORIDI, L.; POMMADE DE MURIATE D’OR ET DE SOUDE, Fr. _Prep._
(Magendie.) Sodio-chloride of gold, 10 gr.; lard, 4 dr. In scrofulous and
syphilitic swellings, indurations, ulcers, &c.
=Ointment of Spermace′ti.= _Syn._ EMOLLIENT DRESSING, SIMPLE OINTMENT,
WHITE O.; UNGUENTUM CETACEI (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), U. SPERMATIS CETI, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Spermaceti, 5 oz.; white wax, 14 dr.; olive oil, 1
pint, or q. s.; melt them together by a gentle heat, and stir the mixture
until cold.
2. (Ph. D.) White wax, 1/2 lb.; spermaceti, 1 lb.; prepared lard, 3 lbs.;
as the last.
3. (B. P.) Spermaceti, 5; white wax, 2; almond oil, 20, or a sufficiency;
stir constantly, until it cools.
_Uses, &c._ As an emollient and healing application or dressing to
abrasions, excoriations, blistered surfaces, healthy ulcers, chilblains,
chaps, &c. In trade, the Dublin formula, with double the amount of lard,
is commonly employed. See OINTMENT, LARD, SIMPLE O., &c.
=Ointment of Squills.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SCILLÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Brera.)
Squills (in very fine powder), 1 dr.; mercurial ointment, 2 dr.
2. (Hufeland.) Squills, 1 oz.; liquor of potassia, 2 fl. oz.; reduce to a
mucilage by boiling, then add of lard, 2 oz., or q. s. As a resolvent
friction to indolent tumours and indurations.
=Ointment of Stavesa′cre.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM STAPHISAGRIÆ, L. _Prep._
(Swediaur.) Powdered stavesacre, 1 oz.; lard, 3 oz.; melt together, digest
3 or 4 hours, and strain. A very cleanly remedy for itch, and to destroy
pediculi on the person. A similar ointment is much used by farriers.
=Ointment of Stramo′′nium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM STRAMONII, L. _Prep._ 1.
Fresh thorn-apple leaves, 1 part; lard, 4 parts; as ointment of hemlock.
2. (Pereira.) Powdered leaves, 1 oz,; lard, 4 oz.; mix by trituration.
3. (Ph. U. S.) Extract of stramonium, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz.; as the last.
_Uses, &c._ To dress irritable ulcers, and as an application to painful
piles.
=Ointment of Strych′nine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM STRYCHNIÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Bouchardat.) Strychnine, 16 gr.; lard, 1 oz.; carefully triturated
together.
2. (Wendt.) Nitrate of strychnine, 6 dr.; lard, 1 oz.; as last. Both are
used as a friction in paralysed parts, &c. From the extremely poisonous
character of strychnine it should be used with caution.
=Ointment of Subac′etate of Cop′per.= See OINTMENT OF VERDIGRIS.
=Ointment of Subacetate of Lead (Compound).= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PLUMBI
SUBACETATIS COMPOSITUM (B. P.). _Prep._ Solution of subacetate of lead, 6;
camphor 1/8; white wax, 8; almond oil, 20; melt the wax with 16 of the oil
on a steam or water bath; remove the vessel, and as soon as the mixture
begins to thicken, gradually add the solution of subacetate of lead, and
stir the mixture constantly until it cools; then add the camphor, dissolve
in the rest of the oil, and mix thoroughly.
=Ointment of Subchloride of Mercury.= See OINTMENT OF CALOMEL.
=Ointment of Subsul′phate of Mercury†.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI
SUBSULPHATUS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Alibert.) Turpeth mineral, 1/2 dr.; lard, 1
oz.
2. (Biett.) Turpeth mineral, 1 dr.; sulphur, 2 dr.; lard, 2 oz.; oil of
lemons, 15 drops. In herpes, porrigo, and the scaly diseases.
=Ointment of Sulphate of I′ron.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM FERRI SULPHATIS, L.
_Prep._ (Velpeau.) Sulphate of iron, 1-1/2 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz. In
erysipelas.
=Ointment of Sulphate of Man′′ganese.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM MANGANESI
SULPHATIS, L. _Prep._ From sulphate of manganese, 1 fl. dr.; lard or
simple ointment, 1 oz. Alterative and discutient; in similar cases to
those in which MECURIAL OINTMENT is employed.
=Ointment of Sulphate of Zinc.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ZINCI SULPHATIS, L.
_Prep._ (Scarpa.) Sulphate of zinc (in very fine powder), 1 dr.; lard, 1
oz. In some chronic skin diseases attended with a lax state of the
tissues, and as a dressing to scrofulous tumours after they have separated
and the abscess has been discharged.
=Ointment of Sulphur.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SULPHURIS (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.) _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Sulphur, 1/2 lb.; lard, 1 lb. In the Ph. L. 1836
oil of bergamot, 40 drops, were added. (See 5, Compound.)
2. (Ph. E.) Sulphur, 1 oz.; lard, 4 oz.
3. (Ph. D.) Sulphur, 1 lb.; lard, 4 lbs.
4. (B. P.) Sublimed sulphur, 1; benzoated lard, 4; mix.
_Uses, &c._ In itch, scald-head, &c., in the first of which it is
specific. It should be well rubbed in every night until the disease is
cured; “but not more than one fourth part of the body should be covered
with it at a time.” (A. T. Thomson.)
5. (Compound; ITCH OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM SULPHURIS COMPOSITUM——Ph. L.)——_a._
(Ph. L.) Nitrate of potassa (powdered), 40 gr.; white hellebore
(powdered), 10 dr.; sulphur and soft soap, of each 4 oz.; lard, 1 lb.; rub
them together.
_b._ (P. Cod.) Alum and sal ammoniac, of each, 1/2 oz.; sulphur, 8 oz.;
lard, 16 oz.
_Uses, &c._ In itch, as the simple ointment (1, 2, and 3.) They are more
efficacious, but, owing to the presence of white hellebore, the Ph. L.
preparation is apt to cause irritation in persons with delicate skins. See
OINTMENT, ITCH.
=Ointment of Sulphuret of Mercury.= See OINTMENT OF RED SULPHURET OF
MERCURY.
=Ointment of Sulphurated Potash.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM POTASSÆ SULPHURATE (B.
P.) Sulphurated potash, 30 gr.; triturate, and add prepared lard, 1 oz.;
mix. See also next preparation.
=Ointment of Sulphuret of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM POTASSI
SULPHURETI, L. _Prep._ 1. Sulphuret of potassium (dry and in fine powder),
1 dr.; lard, 9 dr. Alibert adds 1 dr. of carbonate of soda.
2. Sulphuret of potassium, 2-1/2 dr.; lard and soft soap, of each 1 oz.;
olive oil, 1/2 oz. In several chronic skin diseases, as itch, psoriasis,
ringworm, lepra, eczema, &c.
=Ointment of Sulphuret of So′dium.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM SODII SULPHURETI, L.
_Prep._ (Swediaur.) Sulphuret of sodium, 3 dr.; lard, 1-1/2 oz. In itch,
for which it is very cleanly and effective. The last two ointments are
most powerful when recently prepared.
=Ointment of Sulphuric Ac′id.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ACIDI SULPHURICI, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Dr Duncan.) Sulphuric acid, 1 dr.; lard, 2 oz.
2. (Ph. D. 1826.) Sulphuric acid, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz.; mix.
_Uses, &c._ Black, fetid; in itch. It is now seldom used. With oil of
turpentine it has been used as a stimulating liniment in rheumatism. An
ointment made of 1-1/2 dr. of dilute sulphuric acid to 1 oz. of lard is a
good application in prurigo.
=Ointment, Sulta′na.= Spermaceti and white wax, of each 1/4 oz.; oil of
almonds and butter of cacao, of each 1/4 lb.; melt together, add of balsam
of Peru, 1 dr., stir constantly for a few minutes, and after it has
settled pour off the clear portion; to this add of orange-flower water, 2
fl. dr., and stir the mixture constantly until it concretes. A very
agreeable species of cold cream.
=Ointment of Tan′nate of Lead.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PLUMBI TANNATIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. Tannate of lead, 1-1/2 dr.; powdered camphor, 20 gr.;
spermaceti ointment, 7 dr. In inflamed piles, &c.
2. (Sundelin.) Decoction of oak bark, 6 fl. oz.; solution of diacetate of
lead, 1-1/2 oz.; mix, collect and drain the precipitate, and mix it,
whilst still moist, with lard, 1 oz.; camphor, 10 gr. In bedsores.
=Ointment of Tan′nin.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM TANNINI, U. ACIDI TANNICI, L.
_Prep._ (Richard.) Tannin, 2 dr.; water, 2 fl. dr.; triturate them
together, then add of lard, 1-1/2 oz. Astringent and hæmostatic. In piles,
prolapsus, &c. It is a very cleanly and effective application.
=Ointment of Tar.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM PICIS LIQUIDÆ (Ph. L. E. & D.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Tar and suet, of each 1 lb.; melt them together, and
press the mixture through a linen cloth.
2. (Ph. E.) Tar, 5 oz.; beeswax, 2 oz.; melt together, and stir the
mixture briskly until it concretes.
3. (Ph. D.) Tar, 1/2 pint; yellow wax, 4 oz.; as the last.
_Uses, &c._ As a detergent application in ringworm, scald-head, scabby
eruptions, foul ulcers, &c. It should be, in general, at first diluted
with half of its weight of lard or oil. See also OINTMENT OF PITCH.
=Ointment of Tartar Emet′ic.= See OINTMENT OF POTASSIO-TARTRATE OF
ANTIMONY.
=Ointment of Tin, Chloride= (Nanche). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM STANNI CHLORIDI.
_Prep._ Perchloride of tin, 1-1/2 grain; lard, 1 oz. Mix.
=Ointment of Tin, Oxide= (Bate). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM STANNI OXIDI. Oxide of
tin rubbed with oil of St John’s wort was formerly applied for the cure of
blindness; with Localette’s balsam and honey, for the cure of indolent
ulcers.
=Ointment of Tobac′co.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM TABACI, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Chippendale.) Extract of tobacco, 1 dr.; lard, 1 oz. As a friction in
neuralgia.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Fresh tobacco leaves, 1 oz.; lard, 12 oz.; as ointment of
hemlock. As an anodyne application in irritable ulcers, ringworm, prurigo,
and some other skin diseases.
=Ointment, Tripharm′ic.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF THREE THINGS; UNGUENTUM
TRIPHARMACUM, L. _Prep._ From lead plaster, 4 oz.; olive oil, 2 fl. oz.;
distilled vinegar, 1 fl. oz.; melt together, and stir until they combine,
and a proper consistence is obtained. Cooling and desiccative; formerly
greatly esteemed as a dressing.
=Ointment, Trooper’s.= See OINTMENT, MERCURIAL.
=Ointment of Turpentine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM TEREBINTHINÆ (B. P.) _Prep._ 1.
(Guy’s Hosp.) Camphor, 1 dr.; oil of turpentine, 1 to 2 fl. dr.; dissolve,
and add of resin of cerate, 1 oz. As a stimulant and anodyne friction in
nephritic and rheumatic pains, engorgements, &c.
2. (Ph. Austr.) Turpentine, 2 lbs.; simple ointment, 1 lb.; mix by a
gentle heat. As a stimulant dressing.
3. (B. P.) Oil of turpentine, 16; camphor, 1; soft soap, 2; dissolve the
camphor in the turpentine, add the soap, and rub till thoroughly mixed.
=Ointment of Tut′ty.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ZINCI OXYDI IMPURI, U. TUTIÆ, L.
_Prep._ From prepared tutty, 1 part; simple ointment, 5 parts; mix by
trituration. Formerly in great repute in ophthalmic practice, more
particularly in inflammation, &c., of the eyelids. See OINTMENT OF OXIDE
OF ZINC.
=Ointment of Vera′trine.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM VERATRIÆ (B. P.); POMMADE DE
VERATRINE; Fr. _Prep._ 1. (Magendie.) Veratrine, 4 gr.; lard, 1 oz.; mixed
by careful trituration.
2. (Pereira.) Veratrine, 30 gr.; lard, 1 oz.
3. (Turnbull.) Veratrine, 10 to 20 gr.; olive oil, 1 dr.; triturate, and
add of spermaceti ointment, 1 oz.
4. Veratria, 8 gr.; prepared lard, 1 oz.; olive oil, 1/2 dr.; rub the
veratria and the oil together, then mix thoroughly with the lard.
_Uses, &c._ As a friction in neuralgia, neuralgic rheumatism, gout,
dropsy, &c. A piece about the size of a hazel nut is to be rubbed for 10
or 15 minutes over the seat of pain, twice a day. It must not be applied
where the skin is unsound, nor to a large surface at a time, and the
greatest caution must be used, on account of the extremely poisonous
character of veratrine.
=Ointment of Ver′digris.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF SUBACETATE OF COPPER;
UNGUENTUM ÆRUGINIS (Ph. E.), U. CUPRI SUBACETATIS (Ph. D.). L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. E.) Resinous ointment, 15 oz.; melt by a gentle heat, sprinkle into
it of verdigris (in very fine powder), 1 oz., and stir the mixture briskly
until it concretes.
2. (Ph. D.) Prepared subacetate of copper, 1/2 dr.; ointment of white wax,
7-1/2 dr.; mix by trituration.
_Uses, &c._ Detergent and escharotic; as an occasional dressing to foul
and flabby ulcers, to keep down fungous-flesh, and, diluted with oil or
lard, in scrofulous ulceration and inflammation of the eyelids.
=Ointment of Vin′egar.= _Syn._ ACETIC OINTMENT; UNGUENTUM ACETI, U. ACIDI
ACETICI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr Cheston.) Olive oil, 1 lb.; white wax, 4 oz.;
melt them together by a gentle heat, add of strong vinegar, 2 fl. oz., and
stir until the mixture concretes. As a cooling astringent dressing, and as
an application in chronic ophthalmia.
2. (W. Cooley.) Acetate of morphia, 6 gr.; acetic acid (Ph. L.) and water,
of each 1-1/2 fl. dr.; dissolve, add the solution to simple ointment
(melted), 1-1/2 oz., and stir the mixture briskly until nearly cold. In
chronic ophthalmia, painful inflamed piles, &c.; also to remove freckles,
and to allay itching and irritation in several skin diseases.
=Ointment of Walnut Leaves= (_Negrier_). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM JUGLANDIS.
_Prep._ Extract of walnut leaves, 3 drams; lard, 4 drams; oil of bergamot,
1 drop. Mix.
=Ointment, White.= Both SPERMACETI OINTMENT and OINTMENT OF CARBONATE OF
LEAD were formerly so called, but the name is now obsolete. The
CAMPHORATED WHITE OINTMENT of the Ph. L. of 1746 (UNG. ALBUM CAMPHORATUM)
was spermaceti ointment to which a little camphor had been added.
=Ointment of White Precipitate.= _Syn._ OINTMENT OF AMMONIATED MERCURY;
UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI AMMONIATI. (B. P.) Ammoniated mercury, 62 gr.; simple
ointment, 1 oz. Mix. See OINTMENT OF AMMONIO-CHLORIDE OF MERCURY.
=Ointment of White Wax.= See OINTMENT, SIMPLE.
=Ointment of Wolfsbane.= See OINTMENT OF ACONITE.
=Ointment of Wood Soot.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM FULIGINIS. _Prep._ Wood soot and
lard, of each equal parts. Mix.
=Ointment of Wood Soot (Compound).= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM FULIGINIS COMPOSITUM.
Acetic extract of wood soot, 4 dr.; dried salt, 10 dr.; lard, 14 oz. For
ringworm.
=Ointment for Worms.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ANTHELMINTICUM, U. VERMIFUGUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Boerhaave.) Aloes and ox-gall, of each 1 part; marshmallow
ointment, 8 parts.
2. (Fr. Hosp.) Aloes and oil of tansy, of each 1 part; dried ox-gall, 2
parts (both in fine powder); lard, 8 parts.
3. (Ph. Bat.) Aloes, 1 dr.; dried ox-gall and petroleum, of each 1-1/2
dr.; lard, 1-1/2 oz.
4. (Soubeiran.) Powdered aloes, 2 dr.; lard, 1 oz.
_Uses, &c._ The above are purgative and vermifuge, applied as frictions to
the abdomen. They are chiefly employed for children and delicate females.
See OINTMENT, COLOCYNTH.
=Ointment of Yel′low Wax.= _Syn._ UNGUENTUM CERÆ FLAVÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.
1826.) Beeswax, 1 lb.; lard, 4 lbs.; melt them together. A mild emollient
dressing. Some parties regard it as more ‘healing’ than the OINTMENT OF
WHITE WAX.
=Ointment of Zinc.= 1. See OINTMENT OF OXIDE OF ZINC.
2. (Compound); UNGUENTUM ZINCI COMPOSITUM, L.——_a._ (Hufeland.) Oxide of
zinc and lycopodium, of each 1 dr.; simple ointment, 1 oz. In excoriations
and simple ulcerations, especially those of the eyelids, nipples, &c.
_b._ (Thomson.) Oxide of zinc, 1/2 dr.; powdered opium, 5 gr.; lard, 1 oz.
As the last, when there is much pain.
=Ointment of Zinc, Cyanide= (Cunier). _Syn._ UNGUENTUM ZINCI CYANIDI.
_Prep._ Cyanide of zinc, 12 grains; lard, 5 drams; butter of cacao, 5
drams. Mix.
=OINTMENTS (Flower of).= _Syn._ FLOS UNGUENTORUM, L. _Prep._ From resin,
thus, wax, and suet, of each 1/2 lb.; olibanum and Venice turpentine, of
each 2-1/2 oz.; myrrh, 1 oz.; wine, 1/2 pint; boil them together, and,
lastly, add of camphor, 2 dr. Suppurative; warming.
=O′LEFIANT GAS.= C_{3}H_{4}. _Syn._ ETHYLENE, HEAVY CARBONETTED HYDROGEN,
HEAVY CARBURETTED H., ELAYL, ETHENE. A substance discovered by some
associated Dutch chemists, in 1795, and composed of carbon and hydrogen in
the proportions expressed by C_{2}H_{2} or C_{4}H_{4}.
_Prep._ 1. A mixture of alcohol (rectified spirit), 1 part, and oil of
vitriol, 6 parts, is heated in a retort until it blackens, and sulphurous
acid begins to be evolved; the product is then passed first through a
wash-bottle containing a solution of caustic potassa or milk of lime, and
next through a bottle containing concentrated sulphuric acid, the last
being furnished with a tube dipping into the water of the pneumatic
trough.
2. The vapour of boiling alcohol is passed into a mixture of oil of
vitriol diluted with rather less than one half its weight of water, and so
heated as to be in a state of tranquil ebullition (320° to 330° Fahr.);
the gaseous product is chiefly olefiant gas, and the vapour of water, from
which it may be separated as above. No sulphurous acid is formed, nor does
the acid blacken as in the last process.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless; neutral; nearly odourless; nearly insoluble in
water; alcohol, ether, and the volatile and fixed oils, absorb a portion
of it; burns with a brilliant white flame; at a full red heat it suffers
decomposition, with deposit of carbon and liberation of light carburetted
hydrogen gas; mixed with twice its volume of chlorine and inflamed,
hydrochloric acid is formed, and the carbon of the gas is precipitated in
the form of dense black soot; if the mixture (best in equal volumes),
instead of being kindled, be left standing over water, it soon condenses
into a heavy oily liquid (chloride of olefiant gas, Dutch liquid). Sp. gr.
·981; 100 cubic inches weigh 30·57 gr.
=Olefiant Gas, Bromide of.= _Syn._ BROMIDE OF ETHYLENE. From bromine and
olefiant gas as Dutch liquid. A colourless liquid, with an ethereal odour,
boiling at 265°, and solidifying at 0° Fahr. Sp. gr. 2·16.
=Olefiant Gas, Chlo′′ride of.= _Syn._ DUTCH LIQUID, CHLORIDE OF ETHYLENE.
This substance, referred to above, may be easily prepared in any quantity
by the following process:——Chlorine and olefiant gas (the latter a little
in excess) are conveyed by separate tubes (passing through the same cork)
into a glass globe, having a narrow funnel-shaped neck at its lower part,
dipping into a small bottle destined to receive the product of their
mutual reaction: the newly formed liquid trickles down the sides of the
globe into the receiver, and when a sufficient quantity is collected, it
is purified by agitating it first with water, and then with sulphuric
acid, and, lastly, submitting it to distillation.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless; sweet-tasted; agreeably fragrant, the odour
approaching that of oil of caraway; slightly soluble in water; freely so
in alcohol and ether; it sinks in water; boils at 180° Fahr.; burns with a
smoky greenish flame; is unaffected by oil of vitriol; but decomposed by
solution of caustic potassa. It combines with chlorine, forming new
compounds. See CHLORIDES OF CARBON (page 403).
=OLEIC ACID.= HC_{18}H_{33}O_{2}. _Syn._ ELAIC ACID. One of the fatty
acids discovered by Chevreul, and produced by saponifying oils, and then
separating the base from the resulting soap by means of a dilute acid. It
now forms an important secondary product in the manufacture of stearic
acid. Perfectly pure oleic acid may be obtained as follows:——
1. By saponifying olein, as just noticed.
2. Pure almond or olive-oil soap is decomposed by a dilute acid, and the
resulting oily acid is digested in a water bath with half its weight of
litharge (in very fine powder) for some hours, constantly stirring; the
mixture is then agitated with twice its volume of ether in a close vessel,
and in 24 hours the clear ethereal solution is decanted, and decomposed
with dilute hydrochloric acid; the oleic acid separates, and the ether
mixed with it is expelled by evaporation. To render it colourless, the
acid is again saponified with caustic soda, and the soap thus retained is
repeatedly dissolved in a solution of soda, and as often separated by
adding common salt; this soap is, lastly, decomposed by dilute
hydrochloric acid, as before.
3. (H. N. Fraser, pharmacist.) Oil of cotton seeds (‘winter oil’),
deprived of most of its stearin by chilling and pressure, is first
saponified with potassa, using a slight excess of the base. The soap is
then treated with tartaric acid, or any other acid which will make a
soluble salt with potassa, until the base is completely neutralised; the
residue is washed until a mass is left about the consistence and colour of
cerate, free from any of the salt; this is heated for several hours with
nearly its weight of litharge, and three or four times its bulk of water;
the resulting compound is shaken up while yet warm with ether, and allowed
to stand until all the soluble matter separates.
This separates the stearate, and leaves a nearly pure oleate of lead. The
clear liquor is decanted and briskly shaken with dilute muriatic acid for
a few minutes to precipitate all the chloride of lead, the lighter liquid
washed to remove traces of muriatic acid and filtered; the filtrate heated
slowly in a water bath, and the ether distilled until the residue ceases
to have an ethereal odour. The product is about 60 per cent. of the bulk
of the oil.
Crude oleic acid may be purified as follows:——Expose it repeatedly to a
temperature of about 45° F., and express the liquid portion. With this mix
an equal bulk of solution of sulphurous acid, place the mixture in the
light, and shake it frequently until no more colour is discharged. After
separation the oleic acid is to be washed repeatedly with cold distilled
water, and put into bottles, which should be kept filled up and in a cool
place.
_Prop., &c._ A colourless oily acid, insoluble in water, soluble in
alcohol, ether, and oil; with the bases it forms salts called oleates. The
best kind of oleic acid is known as “pale cloth oil.”
O’LEIN. C_{57}H_{104}O_{6}. _Syn._ ELAIN; HUILE ABSOLUE, Fr. The liquid
portion of the fixed oils and fats. By saponification it yields oleic
acid.
_Prep._ 1. Olive oil or almond oil is digested for 24 hours with a
quantity of caustic soda lye, only sufficient to saponify one half of the
oil, and the undecomposed oily portion (olein) is then separated from the
alkaline solution and newly formed stearine soap.
2. The saponified mixture of oil and alkali (see No. 1) is digested with
proof spirit until all the soap is dissolved out, and the olein separates
and floats on the surface; the latter, after repose, is decanted.
3. Almond or olive oil is agitated in a stout bottle with 7 or 8 times its
weight of strong alcohol (sp. gr. ·798), at nearly the boiling point,
until the whole is dissolved; the solution is next allowed to cool, after
which the clear upper stratum is decanted from the stearin which has been
deposited, and, after filtration, the spirit is removed by distillation at
a gentle heat; by exposure at a very low temperature it deposits any
remaining stearin, and then becomes pure.
_Prop., &c._ The products of the last two formulæ have only a very slight
yellow colour, but may be rendered quite limpid and colourless by
digestion for 24 hours with a little pure, freshly burnt animal charcoal,
and subsequent filtration. In this state the olein is perfectly neutral to
test paper, does not in the slightest degree affect metallic bodies
immersed in it, and does not thicken by exposure to the greatest cold.
Olein is used by watchmakers for their fine work. Some years ago the
product of the last formula was sold, by a certain metropolitan house, as
‘watchmakers’ oil,’ at 1s. 6d. a drachm. Commercial olein is generally
lard oil. The refined oleic acid of the stearin works also commonly passes
under the name. Olein burns well in lamps; but oleic acid does not do so
unless when well refined, and when the wick-tube is so formed as to remain
cool. See LARD OIL and OLEIC ACID.
OLEOM’ETER. _Syn._ ELAÏOMETER, ELÆOMETER, OIL-BALANCE. A delicate
areometer or hydrometer, so weighted and graduated as to adapt itself to
the densities of the leading fixed oils. As the differences of the
specific gravities of these substances are inconsiderable, to render it
more susceptible the bulb of the instrument is proportionately large, and
the tube or stem very narrow. The scale of the oleometer in general use
(Gobby’s) is divided into 50 degrees, and it floats at 0 or zero in pure
poppy oil, at 38 or 38-1/2 in pure almond oil, and at 50 in pure olive
oil. The standard temperature of the instruments made in this country is
now 60°; those made on the Continent, 54·5° Fahr. The oil must therefore
be brought to this normal temperature before testing it, by plunging the
glass cylinder containing it into either hot or cold water, as the case
may be; or a correction of the observed density must be made. The last is
done by deducting 2 from the indication of the instrument for each degree
of the thermometer above the normal temperature of the instrument, and
adding 2 for every degree below it. Thus: suppose the temperature of the
oil at the time of the experiment is 60° Fahr., and the oleometer
indicates 61°; then——
60·0° Actual temperature.
54·5° Normal temperature.
————
5·5° Difference.
Indication of the oleometer 61·0
The difference 5·5 × 2 = 11·0
————
Real density 50·0
Suppose the temperature observed at the time of the experiment is 52°, and
the oleometer indicates 45°; then——
54·5 Normal temperature.
52·0 Actual temperature.
————
2·5 Difference.
————
Indication of the oleometer 45·0
The difference 2·5 × 2 = 5·0
————
Real density 50·0
————
The oil is, therefore, presumed to be pure. See HYDROMETER, OILS (Fixed),
and SPECIFIC GRAVITY.
=O′LEO-PHOSPHOR′IC ACID.= An acid compound found by Fremy in the brain and
nervous matter.
=OLEO-RES′INS.= The natural compounds of resin and essential oil forming
the vegetable balsams and turpentines. Copaiba, Canada balsam, and Venice
turpentine are examples. Certain extracts prepared with ether, as the
fluid extracts of cubebs and pepper in the Ph. U. S., may be regarded as
oleo-resins. See EXTRACT.
=OLEO-SAC′CHARUM.= _Syn._ ELÆOSACCHARUM. Sugar aromatised or medicated by
being rubbed up with an essential oil. The oleosacchara of aniseed,
caraway, cinnamon, peppermint, pennyroyal, and the other like essential
oils, are made by rubbing 15 to 20 drops of the respective oils with white
sugar, 1 oz.——The Ph. Græca 1837 prescribes 1 part of oil to 20 parts of
sugar.——The Ph. Austr. 1836 and Ph. Bor. order the same proportions, or 3
drops of oil to the dr., and 24 drops to the oz., of powdered sugar. When
intended for making extemporaneous distilled waters, 1 dr. of magnesia is
a common addition. The oleosacchara of citrons, lemons, oranges, &c., are
made from the peels, as follows:——After cleaning off any specks in the
outer rind of the fruit, rub a large piece of loaf sugar on it until the
yellow rind is completely removed. Those parts of the sugar which are
impregnated with the essence are, from time to time, to be cut away with a
knife, and put into an earthen pot. The whole being thus taken off, the
sugared essence (oleosaccharum) is to be closely pressed down in the pot,
tied over with bladder, and preserved in a cool place for use.
=OLIB′ANUM.= _Syn._ OLIBAN, INDIAN OLIBANUM, FRANKINCENSE. A gum resin
obtained from _Boswellia thurifera_ or _serrata_. It is stimulant,
astringent, and diaphoretic. It is burnt as incense in the temples of
India and in Roman Catholic churches. African or Arabian olibanum is
produced by _Boswellia floribunda_. (Royle.) This substance must not be
confounded with the resin noticed at page 761.
=Olibanum.= This gum resin is yielded by two varieties of the plant known
as _Boswellia_——one the _B. floribunda_, being a native of Africa, the
other, the _B. serrata_, growing in Asia. Olibanum occurs in the form of
fragments, which are sometimes pale yellow, and at others of a reddish
colour; these fragments have a splintery fracture, a mealy surface, a
faintly balsamic odour and a bitter taste. “It consists of about 4 or 5
per cent. of a volatile oil, 56 per cent. of a resinous acid, 30 to 36 per
cent. of gum, and 6 per cent. of bassorin.”[67] Incense, of which olibanum
forms one of the ingredients, owes much of its pleasant balsamic odour
when burning to its presence. It is also used in pharmacy.
[Footnote 67: Payen.]
=OL′IVE.= _Syn._ OLEA, OLIVA, L. The _Olea Europæa_ (Linn.), a native of
the South of Europe. The unripe fruit is preserved in brine (SPANISH
OLIVES, FRENCH OLIVES); the ripe fruit furnishes olive oil; the bark is
bitter, astringent, and febrifuge, and has been used as a substitute for
cinchona bark; it yields a gum-like substance (OLIVE GUM), which was
formerly reported vulnerary, and contains olivine. The olive tree has in
all ages been held in peculiar estimation as the bounteous gift of Heaven
to man. Some authors have styled it “a mine on earth.” It is remarkable
for yielding a fixed oil from the pericarp instead of from the seed.
=OLLIVIER’S BISCUITS.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=OLIVINE.= _Syn._ CHRYSOLITE. A crystallised double silicate of magnesia
and iron, found in basaltic and volcanic rocks, and very frequently in
masses of meteoric iron. It is sometimes yellow in colour, but mostly
green.
=Olivine.= (Dr Landerer.) _Syn._ OLIVINA. _Prep._ Treat olive leaves with
acidulated water, concentrate, precipitate with ammonia, re-dissolve the
washed precipitate in a diluted acid, purify with animal charcoal, filter,
and reprecipitate with ammonia.
=OM′ELET.= _Syn._ OMELETTE, Fr. A variety of pancake or fritter made of
eggs and other ingredients. Omelets may contain bacon, ham, herbs, fish,
shell-fish, cold meat, cold game, fruit, or anything else at hand at the
pleasure of the cook. ‘Spirit omelets’ are made by pouring a little
brandy, rum, or whisky over them on serving them up, and setting it on
fire for a moment just before placing the dish on the table. “Where is the
man or woman cook but says they know how to make an omelette, and that to
perfection? But this is rarely the case. It is related of Sarah, the
Duchess of Marlborough, that no one could cook a ‘fraise,’ as it was then
called, for the great duke but herself. The great point is, if in an iron
pan, it should be very clean and free from damp which sometimes comes out
of the iron when placed on the fire. The best plan is to put it on the
fire, with a little fat, and let it get quite hot, or until the fat
burns; remove it, and wipe it clean with a dry cloth, and then you will
be able to make the omelette to perfection.” (Soyer.)
The following formula for a plain omelet is by the above culinary
authority:——“Break four eggs into a basin, add 1/2 teaspoonful of salt,
and 1/4 do. of pepper, and beat them up well with a fork; put into the
frying-pan 1-1/2 oz. of butter, lard, or oil, place it on the fire, and,
when hot, pour in the eggs, and keep on mixing them quickly with a spoon
until they are delicately set; then let them slip to the edge of the pan,
laying hold by the handle, and raising it slantways, which will give an
elongated form to the omelette; turn in the edges, let it rest a moment to
set, turn it over on to a dish, and serve.” “It ought to be of a
rich-yellow colour, done to a nicety, and as light and delicate as
possible.” “2 table-spoonfuls of milk and 1 oz. of the crum of bread, cut
into thin slices, may be added.”
MIXED and FANCY OMELETS are made by simply dropping the ingredients, cut
into dice or fragments, into the above. ANCHOVY, OYSTER, and SHRIMP
OMELETS are generally prepared by placing a few spoonfuls of the
respective sauces in the centre of each when nearly dressed,
=ONGUENT (de la Mère).= A stimulant and digestive ointment, very popular
in French pharmacy.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) Black pitch, 1 part; butter, lard, litharge, suet and
yellow wax, 4 parts; olive oil, 8 parts.
=ON′ION.= _Syn._ CEPA, L. The bulb of _Allium cepa_. The onion is
diuretic, expectorant, rubefacient, and stimulant. The juice, made into a
syrup with sugar (SYRUPUS CEPÆ), has been given in chronic catarrh,
diarrhœa, croup, dropsy, and calculus. Roasted and split open, onions have
been applied as poultices to suppurating tumours, and applied to the pubes
to relieve suppression of urine in children. According to Dr Cullen,
“onions are acrid and stimulating, and possess little nutrient power. In
bilious constitutions they generally produce flatulence, thirst, headache,
and febrile symptoms; but where the temperament is phlegmatic they are of
infinite service, by stimulating the system, and promoting the excretions,
particularly expectoration and urine.” They also possess antiscorbutic and
soporific properties.
=Onions, To Chop.= “Few persons know how to chop onions properly. In the
first place all the dry skin must be removed, then a thin slice off the
top and bottom, or they will be bitter, then cut them into thin slices,
dividing the onion, and cut crossways to form dice. If a very slight
flavour is required and the onion is strong, like in the North of England,
for it must be remembered that the further north you go the stronger the
flavour of the root, and if French receipt books are exactly copied, it is
no wonder complaints are made of the preponderance of the flavour of the
onion; in which case, when chopped, put them in the corner of a napkin or
cloth, wash them in water, squeeze them dry, then put them back on the
board, and chop finer, or sometimes only rubbing the pan or the meat with
the onion is quite sufficient.” (Soyer.)
=O′NYX.= A sub-species of quartz often wrought into small ornamental
articles. Among jewellers, any stone exhibiting layers of two or more
colours, strongly contrasted, is called an ‘onyx.’ A regularly and richly
banded agate of this class is much prized for cameos. The _Sardonyx_ of
the ancients is a variety of onyx. It is so called from _Sard_ or _Sarda_,
a rich dark-red variety of carnelian, stripes of which in the stone
alternate with white stripes. See GEMS.
=O′PAL.= A mineral allied to agate and chalcedony, but distinguished by
its peculiar resinous lustre. The variety most admired as a gem is the
precious or noble opal, which is remarkable for its beautiful play of
colours. The finest opals come from Hungary, and although usually very
small, will, if of good quality, realise as much as £5 each. Their value
increases in a much greater ratio than their increase in size. They are
also found in Saxony and in North America. The largest known specimen of
an opal is that in the Imperial Cabinet at Vienna, the dimensions of which
are five inches by two and a half. _Girasol_, _Cacholong_, _Hyalite_, and
_Menilite_ are varieties of opal. See GEMS and PASTES.
=O′OLITE.= A variety of limestone composed of a number of collections of
small round particles, bound together by a calcareous cement. The
resemblance the mass is supposed to bear to the roe of a fish has caused
oolite to be called _roestone_. When the grains are of larger dimensions
it is called _peastone_. The little spherical bodies of which the stone is
composed are mostly formed of concentric layers of carbonate of lime
arranged round a grain of sand, a fragment of shell or some other nucleus.
The building stones of Caen, Portland, and Bath are all oolitic
limestones. When first quarried they are mostly soft, a circumstance which
admits of their being easily sawn and carved. They harden by exposure to
the air.
In _geology_ the term “oolite” has a wider signification, and is applied
to an important division of the middle secondary rocks of England,
underlying the chalk formation and rich in the interesting fossil remains.
=OPHTHAL′MIA.= _Syn._ OPHTHALMITIS, L. Inflammation of the eye. In
ordinary cases this disease is confined to the external membrane of the
globe of the eye or to the eyelids; but it occasionally attacks the
sclerotica, cornea, choroid coat, and retina.
The common causes of ordinary or conjunctival ophthalmia are the sudden
exposure of the organ to a cold easterly wind, to dust, gritty particles,
or to any external irritation or injury.
The symptoms are, in part, those common to local inflammation. The eye or
eyelids become more or less bloodshot, swollen, and tender, and a
sensation resembling that induced by the presence of particles of sand or
some gritty substance, accompanied by much heat and a pricking pain, is
almost constantly experienced. The secretion becomes yellowish and
glutinous, and during the night frequently glues, as it were, the lids
together. Sometimes only one eye is attacked, but after two or three days
the disease extends to the other.
The treatment of mild cases of conjunctival ophthalmia is extremely
simple. In general, it may be relieved by fomentations of warm water or
decoction of poppy-heads and the use of aperient medicines, to which
leeches and cupping may often be added with advantage.
“To apply a lotion to the eyes,” writes Dr Gardner, “the best way is to
use a large camel’s-hair pencil or brush. Fill it with the lotion, draw
down the lower lid, and apply the brush; the fluid will now come out of it
into the eye.
“In order to get it well within the upper lid, move the latter up and
down, and the whole surface will be wetted. This is important, because the
usual way of applying lotions to the inside of the eye is very
inefficient, if not entirely useless. The brush should be washed in warm
water after using it.”[68]
[Footnote 68: ‘Household Medicine.’ Smith, Elder, & Co.]
In cases where the inflammation is very severe, the pain very acute, or
the vision in the slightest degree impaired, as well as in those
accompanied by a discharge of matter or pus, no time should be lost in
seeking the services of the oculist.
_Animals._——All animals are liable to attacks of catarrhal or common
ophthalmia, which may originate from various causes, such as exposure to
cold, influenza, or the presence of foreign substances, such as bits of
chaff, the husks of oat, small seeds, &c.
In horses, in addition to the above, it may be caused by a blow from the
whip. In animals affected by it the eye becomes watery and half closed,
the membrane looks thickened, and the eye is frequently bloodshot. If due
to the presence of any foreign body this must be removed, either by means
of the fingers, a handkerchief, or a camel’s-hair brush, or, if necessary,
by the forceps.
The treatment consists in bathing the eyes with tepid milk and water,
after which an alum or zinc lotion may be applied. A mild physic ball
should also be administered.
=Ophthalmia, Purulent.= This dreadful disease, which, like the above, is a
form of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye, differs from
ordinary ophthalmia in being accompanied with a discharge of pus, too
frequently terminating in total and irrecoverable blindness of one or both
eyes, and in being very contagious.
Purulent ophthalmia is very prevalent in India, Persia, and Egypt, and
from the circumstance that large numbers of our troops were affected with
it on their return from the campaign in Egypt, in the beginning of the
present century, before which time it was unknown in England, it acquired
the name of “Egyptian ophthalmia.”
Although of late years its ravages amongst the soldiers of our own as well
as of other European nations have considerably abated, the disease is
still more or less prevalent in the British, French, Prussian, Austrian,
Bavarian, Italian, Spanish, Belgian, Swedish, and Russian armies. Purulent
ophthalmia is also by no means uncommon amongst the non-military
population, such as the poorer classes and their children, and the
children in workhouses, asylums, and pauper schools. Dr Parkes says it has
evidently been propagated amongst the civil inhabitants by the soldiery.
The following narrative of an outbreak of purulent ophthalmia that
occurred on board a vessel freighted with slaves for the West Indies
forcibly illustrates the character and infectious nature of this disease.
In the year 1819 the “Le Roideur,” a French vessel, sailed with a cargo of
160 negroes from Bonny, on the coast of Africa, to Guadaloupe. The “Le
Roideur’s” crew consisted of 22 men, so that the number of human beings on
board, including officers, was 182. No epidemic had been observed amongst
the natives from whom the slaves had been taken, and further, at the time
of sailing the crew were in perfect health, and the slaves were said to be
free from disease of any kind.
The wretched Africans were closely packed in the hold of the vessel, the
air of which, as may be imagined, soon became frightfully foul; and after
about the thirtieth or fortieth day, the drinking water running scarce,
their daily allowance was reduced from 8 oz. to half a wineglassful. Then
it was that ophthalmia first showed itself amongst the wretched occupants
of the hold, the lids of their eyes becoming red and inflamed. The surgeon
of the vessel advised that they should breathe in succession the purer air
of the deck. But this course had to be relinquished, since it was found
that many of the negroes on leaving the hold jumped over the side of the
vessel, and purposely drowned themselves. The disease, which was of a most
virulent kind, spread rapidly amongst the negroes, and from these to the
crew.
A notable fact demonstrating the propagation of purulent ophthalmia by
material particles was the circumstance that the first amongst the crew
who was seized was a sailor who guarded the hatch communicating with the
hold. The day after another of the crew was attacked, and in three days
after this the disease had assailed the captain, and almost the whole of
the crew. The disease continued to spread daily, until at last there
remained one only of the whole crew unaffected and with sight intact, and
to him was deputed the important task of steering the vessel. Great fear
was manifested lest he too might eventually be overtaken with the total or
partial blindness that had come to the remainder of the crew.
The “Le Roideur” reached Guadaloupe on the 21st of June, when it was found
that thirty more of the negroes had entirely lost their sight (thirty-six
of whom had been thrown into the sea, since they were unsaleable), twelve
had lost the sight of an eye, and fourteen were more or less blind.
Of the crew, twelve including the surgeon were entirely blind, five were
blind of one eye, and four partially so.
Three days after the arrival of the vessel in port the steerer of the
vessel was seized with the disease.[69]
[Footnote 69: Blythe.]
About thirty years ago a curious discovery in connection with purulent
ophthalmia was made by Dr Loffler, a Prussian army surgeon. Many of the
soldiers of his regiment being disabled by this disease, he submitted the
eyes of all the men to a rigorous daily inspection, and he discovered in
the lining membrane of the eyelids of some of them certain small granular
bodies resembling boiled sago grains. Furthermore he noticed that,
although those soldiers whose eyelids presented this peculiarity showed
then no indications of the disease, they were subsequently invariably
attacked by it; whilst those from whose eyelids the sago grains were
absent as invariably escaped.
Subsequent investigators, amongst whom may be mentioned Drs Welch and
Marston, have confirmed the accuracy of Dr Loffler’s observations and the
soundness of his conclusions——that the occurrence of the sago grains is
always an antecedent condition to an attack of purulent ophthalmia.
As to the nature of the little granular bodies known to pathologists as
‘sago grains,’ it seems to be generally admitted that they are follicles
situated directly beneath the epithelium, which, in a healthy condition of
the lining membrane, are not apparent, but which become swollen and
enlarged when the membrane itself is in an unhealthy and irritable
condition. In this respect they resemble the enlarged glands met with in
scrofulous and weakly children.
“In a regiment the proneness to the development of sago grains is found to
decrease as life advances; that is, to be much greater in young soldiers
than in old ones, and by a parity of reasoning it is assumed to be greater
in a community of children than in a community of adults. In any
individual, and therefore in any community, the sago grains may disappear
without producing mischief; but, as a matter of fact, sources of
irritation to the eyes abound in the world, and when these sources of
irritation act upon eyelids in which sago grains are already present,
they often excite the contagious form of ophthalmia.”[70]
[Footnote 70: Brudenell Carter.]
The diffusion into the atmosphere of the purulent discharge accompanying
this form of ophthalmia is undoubtedly the means by which the disease is
spread.
Hence it is that if one eye be affected the other may be saved from an
attack by being hermetically sealed up——a method of prevention sometimes
adopted by the ophthalmic surgeon.
Mr Brudenell Carter says “that the secretion passes along the
tear-passages into the nostrils, and is driven out with the expired air at
every breath; besides the chances of direct contact that must exist when a
child with ophthalmia is perpetually sending into the atmosphere what I
may describe as a spray of contagious particles.”
Medical opinion is in some measure divided as to the origin of this
disease; for whilst there are authorities who believe that its propagation
is due to contagion assisted by insanitary environments, there are others
who incline to the supposition that these latter conditions alone are
sufficient to produce it. Whether this is so or not there can be no
question that impure air, overcrowding, filth, and deficient water supply,
which implies insufficient ablution, serve to intensify and perpetuate it.
So strongly and confidently impressed are Messrs Welch and Marston of the
connection between unhealthy surroundings and prevalent ophthalmia, that
they regard the two as cause and effect, and state their belief “that the
presence or absence of ‘sago grains’ affords a delicate test of the
sanitary state of a school, a regiment, or any similar community.”
Ample and painful confirmation of these views is afforded by the
prevalence of the disease amongst the children, more particularly those
who live in very poor and crowded districts. The pitiable, blear-eyed
little creatures that one meets with in these localities are very
frequently the victims of purulent ophthalmia, and as such bear unfailing
testimony to the insalubrity and squalor of the homes in which they dwell.
Stromeyer states that he has met with the ‘sago grains’ in the eyelids of
many domestic animals, more particularly pigs, the granules being always
in proportion to the more or less dirty condition in which the animals
were kept.
The above statements plainly indicate the means by which the disease is to
be combated. Of these, thorough ventilation and pure air are the most
important. Stromeyer records how, by simply ventilating some barracks, he
reduced to an amazing extent a number of cases of the disease, which had
broken out in the Hanoverian army. Possibly this result was due to the
removal, by the current of air from the apartment of the dried particles
of contagious matter.
Ablution, which, carefully performed, is, in addition to ventilation, an
important curative agent, may, through the neglect of certain precautions,
assist to spread the disease.
This it will assuredly do if the basins employed by the patients for
washing their eyes are not thoroughly cleansed and disinfected after being
used. Furthermore, the towels may be made to spread the infection, unless
they too are thrown into some disinfecting solution after use, and unless
a separate towel is appropriated to each patient. The danger of
reinoculation may ensue if each towel is not changed sufficiently often.
The bed-clothes of the affected persons, as well as the pillowcases,
should be frequently renewed, the latter every day, since they collect and
disseminate the discharges falling on them from the patient.
Medical authorities also strongly recommend the isolation of the patient,
and then consequent separation from healthy persons as soon as ever the
disease shows itself in a regiment, a school, or amongst any body of
persons congregated together; a daily inspection of the eyes of each is
recommended, so that whenever the “sago grains” develop themselves, the
individuals so attacked may be removed, and placed under proper treatment.
The after effects of the various forms of contagious ophthalmia are
thickening and distortion of the eyelids, more or less serious defect of
vision, and not unfrequently total blindness.
During the course of the disease relapses from the most trifling causes
frequently occur, and Warmolow states that a person who has once been
affected with it is not safe against a recurrence, and should be
assiduously watched.
=Ophthalmia, Infantile, Purulent.= This disease very frequently attacks
infants of 3 or 4 days old. It is distinguished by redness of the edges of
the eyes, the lids of which are often glued together. Upon looking into
the eye the lining membrane is seen to be swollen and red. Infantile
purulent ophthalmia, although yielding much more readily to proper
treatment than that which attacks adults, makes rapid progress if
neglected, and may jeopardise the sight of the babe; hence the great
importance of calling in efficient medical aid as soon as ever it makes
its appearance.
=Ophthalmia, Strumous, or Scrofulous.= This form of ophthalmia is
generally met with in children of scrofulous habit of from 4 to 10 or 11
years of age. Its most distinctive characteristic is the inability of the
sufferer to bear the light, the effect of which is that the eyes are kept
spasmodically partially closed. If the eyes are examined, a slight fulness
of the vessels usually stopping at the edge of the cornea is observable,
and about the line dividing the cornea and sclerotic coat small opaque
pimples or pustules are visible. This variety of ophthalmia, being the
outcome of a constitutional taint, is frequently very obstinate, and
yields with difficulty to medical treatment, besides being very liable to
reappear. It is not unfrequently accompanied with a troublesome cutaneous
affection known as _Crusta lactea_, which occurs on the cheeks, and arises
from the irritation caused by the flow down the cheeks of the acrid
lachrymal secretion. The usual treatment consists in improving the general
health and strength of the patient by means of tonics, such as quinine,
quinine and iron, cod-liver oil, or syrup of iodide of iron. The diet
should be nutritious and easy of digestion, and there should be no stint
of fresh air.
=O′′PIATES.= _Syn._ OPIATA, L. Preparations containing opium. The word is
often applied in a general sense to anodynes and soporifics. In French
pharmacy the name is commonly used synonymously with confections, as in
the following preparations:——
ANTI-DYSENTERIC OPIATE——Quarin. Purified opium, 4 gr.; ipecacuanha, 1/2
dr.; tormentilla, 1 dr.; syrup of whortleberries and conserve of red
roses, of each 6 dr.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful every hour.
ANTI-HYSTERICAL OPIATE——Trousseau and Reveil. Powdered indigo, 1 oz.;
white honey, 3 oz.——_Dose_, 1 tablespoonful daily, gradually increased
until the whole is taken in a day. In hysteria, epilepsy, and nervous
affections of an epileptic character.
BALSAMIC OPIATE——Trousseau and Reveil. Oleo-resin (balsam) of copaiba, 1
oz.; cubebs (in powder), 3 oz.; potassio-tartrate of iron, 2-1/2 dr.;
syrup of quince, q. s. In gleet.——_Dose_, 3 boluses the size of a nut,
thrice daily.
CHARCOAL OPIATE——Ratier. Willow charcoal (recent), 1 oz.; prepared chalk,
1 dr.; powdered white sugar, 2 oz.: rose water, q. s. to form an
electuary. In diarrhœa and incipient cholera, in dysentery with fetid
stools, and in gastralgia, flatulence, &c. By substituting calcined
magnesia for chalk it becomes an excellent remedy for habitual
constipation.
CUBEB OPIATE——Deyeaux. Powdered cubebs, 4 dr.; powdered camphor, 1 dr.;
mix, and divide it into 18 powders.——_Dose._ One, 3 or 4 times daily, in
gleet, painful and scalding micturition. &c.
=O′′PIUM.= _Syn._ OPIUM (B. P., Ph. L., E, & D.), L. The juice inspissated
by spontaneous evaporation, obtained by incision from the unripe capsules
of the _Papaver somniferum_, grown in Asia Minor.
_Hist._——“It is uncertain at what period opium was first known and
introduced into medicine. Hippocrates recommends the _meconion_ or _poppy
juice_, in a disease of the uterus; and Dioscorides, on the authority of
Erasistratus, tells us that Diagoras (who was contemporary, it is
supposed, with Hippocrates) condemned the use of opium. These are, I
believe, the most ancient Greek authorities who speak of this substance;
and it is impossible, I think, to arrive at any accurate conclusion from
their remarks whether opium had, or had not, been known long before their
time, though Alston infers, from the little use made of it by Hippocrates,
as well as from Diagoras condemning its use in diseases of the eyes, that
its virtues were not known long before him. Dioscorides and Pliny mention
that the expressed juice of the heads and leaves is termed _meconium_, and
that it is much weaker than opium. Theodore Zwinger, Sprengel, and others
have supposed that the _nepenthes_ of Homer was opium. It would appear
that opium was not much employed until the time of the Arabs, except in
the form of the confections known as Theriaca, Mithridatica, &c. The word
opium is derived from _otos, the juice_.”[71]
[Footnote 71: Pereira.]
_Var._——1. EGYPTIAN; in roundish flattened lumps; inferior to Turkish
opium.——2. ENGLISH; often equal to the best Smyrna.——3. FRENCH; resembles
the last.——4. GERMAN; similar to English opium,——5. INDIAN;——_a._ BENARES;
in large balls;——_b._ MALWA; in roundish flattened cakes, of 9 or 10 oz.
in weight each;——_c._ PATNA, in balls or square cakes; inferior to Turkey
opium.——6. LEVANT; same as Smyrna opium.——7. PERSIAN; in rolls or sticks,
6 × 1/2 inch; inferior; resembles hepatic aloes in appearance.——8. SMYRNA;
in irregular, rounded, flattened pieces, varying in weight from 2 or 3
lbs. to only as many oz. It forms the best variety of Turkey opium, and is
particularly rich in morphia. It is the only one adapted for the
manufacture of the salts of morphia, as it contains on the average from 7
to 9% of that alkaloid, and usually yields about 12 to 12·5% of
hydrochlorate of morphia, which is more than can be obtained from any
other variety of opium.[72]——9. TURKEY; of which two varieties are known
in commerce, viz. Constantinople opium and Levant or Smyrna opium, noticed
above. Constantinople opium is generally in small, flattened, roundish
cakes, 2 to 2-1/2 inches in diameter, and covered with poppy leaves. It is
more mucilaginous and less esteemed than Smyrna opium, from which it may
be distinguished by the last being always covered with the reddish
capsules of a species of Rumex.
[Footnote 72: Of five kinds of Smyrna opium examined by Merk, the worst
were found to yield 3 to 4 per cent. of morphia, and the best from 13 to
13·5 per cent.]
The following account of the method of opium collection, adopted in Asia
Minor, is extracted from a paper in the ‘Pharmaceutical Journal,’
contributed by Messrs Maltass and Wilkin.[73] About the end of May the
plants arrive at maturity, and the flowers expand. A few days after the
petals have fallen the capsule is ready for incision.
[Footnote 73: First series, 14th volume.]
This operation is performed in the afternoon of the day and in the
following manner:——A transverse incision is made with a knife in the lower
part of the capsule, the incision being carried round until it arrives
nearly at the part where it commenced; sometimes it is continued spirally
to half way down its starting point. The greatest nicety is required to
avoid cutting too deep, and penetrating the interior coating of the
capsule, as this would cause the exuding milky juice to flow into the
inside.
The following morning those engaged in collecting the opium lay a large
poppy leaf on the palm of the left hand, and having a knife in the right
hand, they scrape the opium which has exuded from the incision in each
capsule, and then transfer it from the knife to the leaf, until a mass of
sufficient size has been formed, when a second poppy leaf is placed over
the top of the mass. If the dew has been heavy during the night the yield
is greater, but the opium is dark in colour; if, on the contrary, there
has been no dew, the yield is less, but the opium is of a lighter colour.
A high wind is prejudicial, as the dust raised from the pulverised soil
adheres to the exudation, and cannot be separated. The poppy capsules are
cut but once, but as each plant will from one stem produce several
branches, and each branch produce a flower, it is usual to pass over the
field a second or a third time, to cut such capsules as were not ready at
the first cutting. After the opium is collected it is dried in the shade.
The proceeds arising from the sale of the opium crop in British India form
a considerable item in the revenues of our Eastern Empire; hence the poppy
as the source of this valuable export, almost the whole of which goes to
China, is very extensively cultivated in India.
In the year ending March 31st, 1872, 93,364 chests, valued at £13,365,228,
were exported from British India. Of this quantity 49,455 chests were from
Bengal, and Bombay 43,909. They were distributed thus:——
To China 85,470 chests.
” the Straits Settlements 7,845 ”
” Ceylon, Java, Mauritius,
and Bourbon 38 ”
” the United Kingdom 4 ”
” other countries 7 ”
——————
93,364
——————
The net revenue to the Indian Government from this source in the year
1871-72 was £7,657,213.[74]
[Footnote 74: Flückiger and Hanbury.]
A large track of country in Bengal, some 600 miles in length and 200 in
breadth, watered by the Ganges, embraces the chief opium district of
India. A comparatively small quantity of opium is obtained from the
mountain parts of the North of India. This latter is yielded by the
_Papaver somniferum_, whilst that from the plains is the produce of the
_Papaver officinale_.
In India the plant is reared in a rich and well-manured soil, and thrives
best in mild moist localities. It requires careful weeding and thinning
whilst growing, and when necessary the ground is irrigated. As in Asia
Minor, when the time comes for making incisions in the capsules for the
purpose of collecting the exuding juice, this latter is always found to be
less in quantity if it be rainy weather. In India the poppy begins to
flower at the end of January, or the commencement of February and about
three or four weeks after its effervescence the capsule, which is about as
large as a hen’s egg, is in a condition to be tapped. This operation is
always performed at early morn, before sunrise, by means of a little iron
instrument notched at the smaller end like a saw.
The treatment to which the milky exudation, which subsequently hardens
into opium, is subjected differs only in details from that followed in
Asia Minor, and in being more carefully and elaborately carried out. For
instance, it is first allowed to stand for some time in a shallow brass
dish tilted on one side, by which means there drains away a thin watery
fluid, the presence of which seriously impairs the quality of the opium.
After this it is dried equably by three or four weeks’ exposure to the
air, and in this condition is packed in earthen jars and taken by the
native cultivators to the factory. Here, after being tested and weighed,
it is thrown into immense vats, which contain the accumulated produce of
whole districts; and when the several samples have been kneaded together
it is removed, and formed into balls or cakes. The soft opium is made into
balls by being pressed into brass cup-shaped moulds, lined throughout with
petals of the poppy, which are made to adhere to each other as well as to
the ball of opium by means of an adhesive fluid obtained from an inferior
kind of opium; other petals are then by the same means stuck on to the
upper part of the ball so that the whole of this is covered with a thin
layer of them. The balls are next removed to the drying-room of the
factory, where they are arranged in tiers on lattice-work shelves. During
the process of drying they are carefully watched and examined by boys, to
keep them from the ravages of insects. When sufficiently desiccated the
cakes of opium are packed in casks, and are ready for the market.
The yield of morphia from East Indian opium is usually very small, a
circumstance which Messrs Flückiger and Hanbury conceived to be partly due
to the climate and partly to the defective method of cultivation.
He believed that the period, three or four weeks, during which the juice
was allowed to remain in the wet state was much too long, and exercised a
destructive influence on its constituents.
Opium from England, France, and Germany is occasionally met with, but
never in considerable quantity. The cultivation of the opium poppy,
however, in these three countries is chiefly carried on for the sake of
the capsules which are largely employed in medicine; and the oil extracted
from the seed, which is highly valued and extensively employed by artists.
_Pur._ The opium of commerce is not unfrequently adulterated with extract
of poppies, extract of lettuce, lactucarium, mucilage of gum tragacanth,
dried leaves, starch, water, clay, sand, gravel, and other substances, in
order to increase its weight. This fraud is readily detected by
inspection, by chemical analysis, and the microscope; and indirectly, with
the greatest certainty, by a simple assay of the sample for its morphia
(morphiometry). This may be effected by one or other of the following
methods:——
1. (Couerbe.) Opium, 4 parts, and quicklime, 1 part, made into a milk with
water, q. s., are boiled together, and the solution filtered whilst hot;
the filtrate is then saturated with dilute hydrochloric acid and the
morphia precipitated by the addition of ammonia, any excess of the latter
being expelled by heat; the precipitate is then collected, dried, and
weighed. If 100 gr. have been operated on, the given weight will represent
(nearly) the per-centage richness of the sample in morphia.
2. (Guilliermond.) 100 gr. of opium are triturated for some time in a
mortar along with 4 times its weight of rectified spirit, and the tincture
strained through linen, with expression, into a wide-mouthed bottle; the
marc is triturated a second time with about 3 times its weight of alcohol,
and the tincture strained into the bottle as before; to the mixed tincture
is added a fl. dr. of liquor of ammonia, and the whole is agitated for a
short time. In about 12 hours the morphia spontaneously separates,
accompanied with some narcotina and meconate of ammonium; the morphia
covering the interior of the vessel with large, coloured, and gritty
crystals, feeling like sand, and the narcotina crystallising in very
light, small, white, and pearly needles. These crystals are washed with
water, either through a paper filter or linen, to free them from the
meconate of ammonia which they contain; after which the narcotina is
separated from the morphia by decantation in water, which removes the
narcotina, which is the lighter of the two. According to M. Mialhe,
however, the morphia is more effectually removed by washing the crystals
with 1 to 1-1/2 fl. dr. of ether, by triturating the two together, when
the morphia is left in an insoluble state, and may then be dried and
weighed.
3. (B. Ph.) Take of opium, 100 gr., slaked lime, 100 gr., distilled
water, 4 oz. Break down the opium and steep it in an ounce of the water
for 24 hours, stirring the mixture frequently. Transfer it to a
displacement apparatus, and pour on the remainder of the water in
successive portions, so as to exhaust the opium by percolation. To the
infusion thus obtained, placed in a flask, add the lime, boil for ten
minutes, place the undissolved matter on a filter, and wash it with an
ounce of boiling water. Acidulate the filtered fluid slightly with
hydrochloric acid, evaporate it to the bulk of 1/2 an ounce, and let it
cool. Neutralise it cautiously with solution of ammonia, carefully
avoiding an excess; remove by filtration the brown matter which separates,
wash it with an ounce of hot water, mix the washings with the filtrate,
concentrate the whole to the bulk of 1/2 an ounce, and add now solution of
ammonia in slight excess. After 24 hours collect the precipitated morphia
on a weighed filter, wash it with cold water, and dry it at 212°. It ought
to weigh at least from 6 to 8 grains.
4. (Cleaver.) Commenting on the above method of opium assay, Mr
Cleaver[75] remarks:——“This process, if properly and carefully carried
out, is one of the best, as, by the use of lime, the resin and meconate of
calcium, also meconic acid, are removed from solution. The objections to
it are——
[Footnote 75: ‘Pharmaceutical Year Book,’ 1876.]
“_a._ That the large quantity of water used, and the subsequent
evaporation, cause loss of morphia.
“_b._ That no account is taken of the loss of morphia by
non-precipitation.
“The modifications I would introduce are as follows:——
“_a._ The opium should be first treated with bisulphide of carbon or
benzine.
“_b._ The dried residue should then be mixed with its own weight of lime
and two or three times its bulk of some inert powder, such as pumice or
glass. It is then to be percolated with water, the first part of the
percolate being returned as fast as it runs through. By this means much
less water will be required to exhaust the opium than would otherwise be
the case.
“After the opium has been exhausted, which will be known by the liquid
dropping through devoid of taste, the solution should be exactly
neutralised with dilute sulphuric acid and filtered and the precipitate
washed. The clear solution is then to be evaporated over a water bath
until its bulk is about 1/2 an ounce, and again filtered if requisite,
then ammonia is to be added in slight excess, and the liquid allowed to
stand for 24 hours.
“The precipitate can then be collected, washed with ether and dried, and
to the amount formed must be added the amount corresponding to the
quantity of water used in precipitating and washing.
“The morphia obtained by this process is of a dull white colour,
crystalline, perfectly soluble in alcohol, acids, and alkalies.”
5. (Prollius.) This is a very simple process and is said to give very
exact results. It is as follows:——The opium is exhausted with 9 or 10
times its weight of spirit of 34 per cent. strength. Of the resulting
tincture, 100 parts are well shaken with 5 parts of ether and 2 parts of
solution of ammonia in a stoppered bottle, and then allowed to stand from
12 to 24 hours. The liquids separate slowly, and retain, partly in the
ether, partly in the alcoholic liquid, the colouring matter, narcotine,
and other crystallisable constituents of opium; while the morphia
separates in crystals between the two layers, and finally sinks to the
bottom. The fluid portion is decanted, the crystals are washed with
diluted alcohol, dried and weighed.
6.[76] (Teschemacher.) In employing the following method the use of
alcohol to extract the morphia is avoided, and meconic acid is separated
at an early stage, which prevents the formation of a basic meconate on
precipitation of the morphia. Two special reagents are required for this
process; the one prepared by mixing 1 part of ammonia, sp. gr. 0·880, with
20 parts of methylated alcohol, and digesting in this mixture a large
excess of morphine; this, when filtered, is termed “_morphiated spirit_;”
the other, _morphiated water_, is water saturated with excess of morphine,
and contains 0·04 per cent. of this alkaloid. 1000 gr. of opium are
macerated for 12 to 24 hours in about 4000 grains of cold distilled water,
together with 300 gr. of lead acetate, stirring the mixture from time to
time. This separates the meconic acid as lead meconate, whilst the morphia
is dissolved in the acetic acid set free.
[Footnote 76: ‘Chemical News,’ xxxv, 47.]
After this maceration the opium may be readily ground in a mortar to a
paste, and so much more cold distilled water added, raising the pestle and
mortar with successive portions of it as to fill with the mixture a
measure = 20,250 grains of distilled water; experience has shown that the
space occupied by the insoluble matters measures from 200 to 300 gr., so
that the limit of possible error, by averaging and allowing 250 gr. for
the insoluble portion, amounts to 0·05% in opium containing 10% of
morphia. The mixture is to be filtered and 15,000 measured gr. = 750
grains of opium, of the clear solution, are to be evaporated to an extract
on a water bath, and this residue to be drenched with 3090 gr. of boiling
alcohol or methylated spirit, and the whole digested, with frequent
stirring, for about 10 minutes.
This separates the gum, &c., of the opium which is insoluble in alcohol,
and so far frees the solution of morphia from impurity.
At this stage of the process it is well to get rid of the excess of
lead-salts, and to accomplish this, sulphuric acid is preferable to
sulphuretted hydrogen. So much diluted sulphuric acid as may be equal to
30 gr. of oil of vitriol will almost always be sufficient for this
purpose, any excess of acid being converted into sulphate of ammonia by
the subsequent addition of so much solution of ammonia as shall be
equivalent to the 30 gr. of oil of vitriol, thus forming a salt but
slightly soluble in the alcoholic solution. This mixture may now be
transferred to a beaker and allowed to settle for 12 hours, after which it
is to be filtered, and the filter and insoluble residue thoroughly washed
with alcohol or methylated spirits. This alcoholic filtrate is then
distilled, or evaporated on a water bath, to about 1000 gr.; and mixed,
while still hot, with 400 gr. of solution of ammonia, sp. gr. 0·880,
stirring rapidly and continuously for at least 20 minutes, whilst the
beaker or evaporating dish should be cooled as rapidly as possible by
immersion in an external vessel filled with cold water. The rapid and
continuous stirring is most important, as the precipitation of the whole
of the morphia _in fine powder_ is thereby effected, instead of the
granular or mamillated condition so frequently met with, and it thus
permits of the easy and thorough separation of all the narcotine which may
be mixed with the morphine. When the cooling of the mixture and
precipitation of the morphia is thus attained, transfer it quickly and
completely to a filter of sufficient capacity to hold the whole, and when
the liquid portion has passed through, wash the remainder of the
precipitated morphia adhering to the dish or beaker on to the filter,
using for this purpose the morphiated spirit already described, and
continuing the washing of the precipitate until it is completely freed
from the mother-liquor. To do this effectually requires some little care:
thus the morphia on the filter must be kept in a spongy condition and
never allowed to cohere, which is easily effected by pouring the
morphiated spirit round the edges of the filter, so as not to disturb the
precipitate, which must not be permitted to drain or solidify until this
washing is completed.
The precipitate is now to be washed from off the filter-paper with the
morphiated water previously described, and digested therein for a few
minutes, which removes some more colouring matter, together with any salts
soluble in water, but insoluble in alcohol, which may have adhered to the
precipitated morphia; then once more collect the precipitate on a filter,
washing it with morphiated spirit, after this once with ether, and finally
thrice, or more with benzine; this completely frees it from narcotina,
which is very soluble in benzine; morphia, on the contrary, being
insoluble in this liquid. It now remains to drain and dry at a low
temperature, say 100° F., the resulting pure and white morphia, the weight
of which will indicate the amount of this alkaloid present in 750 gr. of
the opium under examination.
7. (Ph. E.) Macerate 100 gr. of opium for 24 hours in 2 fl. oz. of water,
filter, and strongly squeeze the residue; then precipitate the infusion
with carbonate of sodium, 1/2 oz., dissolved in cold water, 2 fl. oz.;
gently heat the precipitate until it shrinks and fuses, then cool and
weigh it. It should weigh at least 10 gr., and, when powdered, be entirely
soluble in a solution of oxalic acid. See also Watts’ ‘Dic. of Chemistry,’
article OPIUM.
_Tests._ These depend chiefly on the chemical and physical characters of
morphia and meconic acid, the tests for which have been already noticed.
In operating upon the contents of the stomach, or upon solid organs, in
cases of suspected poisoning, the best method or proceeding is that
already described under ALKALOID.
Another method is to boil the substances in water slightly acidulated with
acetic acid, next to evaporate the solution to the consistence of a thick
syrup, and then to treat it twice with boiling rectified spirit; the
tincture thus obtained is to be filtered when cold, and again evaporated
to the consistence of a syrup; it is now re-dissolved in distilled water,
the filtrate treated with solution of subacetate of lead, and the
precipitate of meconate of lead, separated by filtration, and carefully
preserved. A current of sulphuretted hydrogen is then passed through the
solution to precipitate excess of lead, and after again filtering it the
liquid is evaporated, at first in a water bath, and afterwards under the
receiver of an air-pump. The shapeless mass of crystals thus obtained
present all the characters of morphia, if the substance examined contained
opium. In the meantime the precipitate of meconate of lead is to be boiled
with water acidulated with sulphuric acid, and the insoluble sulphate of
lead separated by filtration; the filtered liquid, by evaporation,
furnishes meconic acid, either under the form of crystals or an amorphous
powder, the solution of which precipitates ferric salts of a deep
blood-red.
The following are additional tests to those already noticed:——
1. From the peculiar odour of opium, often perceptible when the drug has
been taken only in very small quantities.
2. A solution containing crude opium is turned of a deep red colour, or if
coloured, it is turned of a reddish brown, and is darkened by tincture of
ferric chloride.
3. (Hare.) A portion of the suspected liquid is poured into a beaker
glass, and a few drops of solution of acetate of lead are added to it; the
whole is stirred frequently for 10 or 12 hours, and then allowed to
settle, after which the supernatant liquid is decanted; 20 or 30 drops
each of dilute sulphuric acid and solution of ferric sulphate are next
poured on the precipitate (meconate of lead), when a deep and beautiful
red colour will be developed if the original liquid contained opium.
4. (Dr Rieget.) The suspected substance is mixed with some potassa, and is
then agitated with ether; a strip of white unsized paper is next several
times moistened with the solution, and when dry it is re-moistened with
hydrochloric acid, and exposed to the steam of hot water. The paper
assumes a red colour, more or less deep, if opium is present.
_Uses, &c._ Opium is one of the most valuable substances employed in
medicine. In small doses it acts as a powerful and diffusible stimulant,
in somewhat larger ones it is narcotic, and in excessive doses it proves
an active narcotic poison. It is also anodyne, antispasmodic, diaphoretic,
soporific, and sedative, its peculiar action being greatly modified by the
dose and the condition of the patient. Its action as a stimulant is
followed by sedative effects, which are, in general, much more marked than
could be expected from the degree of previous excitement it induces. It is
employed to fulfil a variety of indications——to procure sleep, to lull
pain, allay irritation, check morbid discharges, alleviate cough and
spasm, &c. &c. It also, when judiciously administered, renders the body
less susceptible of external impressions, as those of cold, contagion,
&c.; but it is injurious when the pulse is high, the heat of the body
above the natural standard, and the skin dry, or when there is a
disposition to local inflammation or congestion. When applied externally,
in the form of frictions, liniments, ointments, &c., it is absorbed, and
produces similar effects to those produced by swallowing it, but in this
way it requires to be used in larger quantities.——_Dose._ As a stimulant,
1/4 gr., every 2 or 3 hours; as an anodyne and antispasmodic, 1/2 to 1
gr.; as a soporific, 1/2 to 2 gr.; in violent spasms, neuralgia, acute
rheumatism, &c., 2 to 4 gr., increased in delirium tremens, hydrophobia,
mania, tetanus, &c., to several times that quantity, according to
circumstances.
The use of opium as a stimulant and intoxicant is common among the nations
of the East. The Turks chew it, and the Chinese smoke a watery extract of
it, under the name of ‘chundoo,’ the preparation of which from the crude
article constitutes a special business. Messrs Flückiger and Hanbury, in
their ‘Pharmacographia,’ published in 1874, say this particular business
is not confined to the celestials, since, in 1870, a British firm at Amoy
opened an establishment for preparing chundoo for the consumption of the
Chinese in California and Australia.
The qualities most valued by the Chinese in opium are its fulness and
peculiarity of aroma, and its degree of solubility. The amount of morphine
it contains is a secondary consideration.
The practice of opium smoking yearly increases in China. It appears to be
openly followed, and no odium attaches to it, provided it is not carried
so far as to intoxicate or incapacitate the smoker.
In the larger cities and towns adjacent to Amoy the proportion of opium
smokers, according to Mr Hughes, Commissioner of Customs at Amoy, is
estimated at from 15 to 20 per cent. of the adult population.
In the country districts 5 to 10 per cent. of the population are believed
to be opium smokers.
In many of the Western States of America the practice has become so
notoriously common that in 1872 the legislature of Kentucky passed a bill
by which any person who, through the excessive use of opium, is
incapacitated from managing himself or his affairs, may, upon the
affidavit of two citizens, be confined in an asylum, and subjected to the
same restraint as lunatics or habitual drunkards.[77]
[Footnote 77: Blythe.]
Of late years opium-eating and laudanum-taking have, unfortunately, been
greatly on the increase in this country, and the employment of this drug
as a soporific for infants and young children has become so general
amongst the poor and dissipated as to call for the interference of the
legislature.
Of the 250,000 lbs. of opium which, as shown by the recent returns made by
the Custom House, are imported into this country, it has been computed
that not more than a third of this quantity is used for medicinal
purposes.
According to Dr Chevers the practices of opium-eating and opium-smoking
are very common among the natives of India. The same authority also states
that in that country a large number of female infants are purposely
poisoned by it, by introducing the drug into the child’s mouth, and in
various other ways.
The first effect of opium as a stimulant is to excite the mental powers
and to elevate those faculties proper to man; but its habitual use impairs
the digestive organs, induces constipation, and gradually lessens the
energy of both the mind and body. In excessive quantities it destroys the
memory, induces fatuity and a state of wretchedness and misery, which
after a few years is mostly cut short by a premature death. In this
respect the effects of the excessive use of opium closely resemble those
of fermented liquors.
Opium is somewhat uncertain in its action; some persons being able,
sometimes from idiosyncrasy, but more frequently from previous indulgence
in it, to take a much larger dose than others. The smallest quantity which
is said to have proved fatal with an adult is 4 grains of the crude opium.
In contrast with this may be quoted the statement of Dr Garrod, of a young
man who not only swallowed 60 gr. of Smyrna opium night and morning, but
very frequently, in addition to this, 1 oz. to 1-1/2 oz. of laudanum
during the day.
Dr Chapman also cites the case of a patient to whom a wineglass of
laudanum had to be administered several times in 24 hours.
_Pois._——_Symptoms._ Headache; drowsiness; stupor; frightful reveries;
vertigo; contracted pupil (generally); scanty urine; pruritus or dry
itching of the skin, often accompanied by a papular eruption; thirst;
dryness of mouth and throat; weak and low pulse; vomiting; respiration,
generally, natural. Sometimes the drowsiness or sleep is calm and
peaceful.——_Ant., &c._ Vomiting must be induced as soon as possible, by
means of a strong emetic and tickling the fauces. If this does not
succeed, the stomach-pump should be applied. The emetic may consist of a
1/2 dr. of sulphate of zinc dissolved in 1/2 pint of warm water, of which
one third should be taken at once, and the remainder at the rate of a
wine-glassful every 5 or 10 minutes, until vomiting commences. When there
is much drowsiness or stupor, 1 or 2 fl. dr. of tincture of capsicum will
be found a useful addition; or one of the formulæ for emetic draughts
given at page 588 (especially No. 7) may be taken instead. Infusion of
galls, cinchona, or oak-bark, should be freely administered before the
emetic, and water soured with vinegar and lemon-juice, after the stomach
has been well cleared out. To rouse the system, spirit-and-water or strong
coffee may be given. To keep the sufferer awake, rough friction should be
applied to the skin, an upright posture preserved, and walking exercise
enforced, if necessary. When this is ineffectual, cold water may be dashed
over the chest, head, and spine, or mild shocks of electricity may be had
recourse to. To allow the sufferer to sleep is to abandon him to
destruction. Bleeding may be subsequently necessary in plethoric habits,
or in threatened congestion. The costiveness that accompanies
convalescence may be best met by aromatic aperients; and the general tone
of the habit restored by stimulating tonics and the shower bath. The
smallest fatal dose of opium in the case of an adult within our
recollection was 4-1/2 gr. Children are much more susceptible of the
action of opium than of other medicines, and hence the dose of it for them
must be diminished considerably below that indicated by the common method
of calculation depending on the age. See DOSES, &c.
_Concluding Remarks._ Opium is a very complicated substance, and contains
a number of alkaloids and other proximate vegetable principles, besides a
certain portion of saline matter. The substances already detected in it
are caoutchouc, codein, fatty matter, lignin, meconic acid, meconia,
morphia, narceia, narcotia, odorous matter, opiania, papaveria,
pseudomorphia (?), porphyroxin, resin, saline matter, &c. It is doubtful,
however, whether some of these substances are not generated from other
principles existing in opium during the processes adopted to obtain them.
According to Mulder, 100 parts of ordinary Smyrna opium contain——
Morphia 10·842
Codeia ·678
Narcotia 6·808
Narceia 0·662
Meconia ·804
Meconic acid 5·154
Resin 3·582
Gummy matter 26·242
Mucus 19·086
Fatty matter 2·166
Caoutchouc 6·012
Water 9·846
Matter undetermined and
loss 2·118
————————
100·
The sp. gr. of Smyrna opium is 1·336.
The following chart, showing the natural alkaloids of opium and a few of
their artificial derivatives, is taken from the ‘Pharmacographia’ of
Messrs Flückiger and Hanbury:——
+----------------+----------------------------------------------------+——+——+——+——+
| | |C.|H.|N.|O.|
|Discovered by | COTARNINE |12|13| 1| 3|
| Wöhler, 1844 |Formed by oxidising narcotine, soluble in water. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1871 | 1. Hydrocotarnine |12|15| 1| 3|
| | Crystallisable, alkaline, volatile at 100°. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Matthiesen and | APORMORPHINE |17|17| 1| 2|
| Wright, 1869 |From morphine by hydrochloric acid, colourless, | | | | |
| | amorphous, turning green by exposure to air, | | | | |
| | emetic. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Wright, 1871 | DESOXYMORPHINE |17|19| 1| 2|
| | | | | | |
|Sertürner, 1816 | 2. Morphine |17|19| 1| 3|
| | Crystallisable, alkaline, levogyre. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Pelletier and | 3. Pseudomorphine |17|19| 1| 4|
| Thibouméry, |Crystallises with H_{2}O, does not unite even with | | | | |
| 1835 | acetic acid. | | | | |
+----------------+----------------------------------------------------+——+——+——+——+
| Discovered by | |C.|H.|N.|O.|
|Matthiesen and | APOCODEINE |18|19| 1| 2|
|Burnside, 1871 |From codeine by chloride of zinc; amorphous, | | | | |
| | emetic. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Wright, 1871 | DESOXYCODEINE |18|21| 1| 2|
| | | | | | |
|Robiquet, 1832 | 4. Codeine |18|21| 1| 3|
| | Crystallisable, alkaline, soluble in water. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Matthiesen and | NORNARCOTINE |19|17| 1| 7|
|Foster, 1868 | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Thibouméry, 1835| 5. Thebaine |19|21| 1| 3|
| |Crystallisable, alkaline, isomeric with buxine. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1870 | THEBENINE |19|21| 1| 3|
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1870 | THEBARCINE |19|21| 1| 3|
| |From Thebaine or Thebenine by hydrochloric acid. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1871 | 6. Protopine |20|19| 1| 5|
| | Crystallisable, alkaline. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Matthiesen and | METHYLNORNARCOTINE |20|19| 1| 7|
|Foster, 1868 | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1871 | DEUTEROPINE |20|21| 1| 5|
| | Not yet isolated. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1870 | 7. Laudanine |20|25| 1| 4|
| |An alkaloid, which, as well as its salts, forms | | | | |
| | large crystals; turns orange by hydrochloric acid.| | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1870 | 8. Codamine |20|25| 1| 4|
| |Crystallisable, alkaline, can be sublimed; becomes | | | | |
| | green by nitric acid. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Merck, 1848 | 9. Papaverine |21|21| 1| 4|
| |Crystallisable, also its hydrochlorate; sulphate in | | | | |
| | sulphuric acid precipitated by water. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1865 | 10. Rhœadine |21|21| 1| 6|
| |Crystallisable, not distinctly alkaline, can be | | | | |
| | sublimed; occurs also in Papaver Rhœas. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1865 | RHŒAGENINE |21|21| 1| 6|
| |From rhœadine, crystallisable, alkaline. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Armstrong, 1871 | DIMETHYLNORNARCOTINE |21|21| 1| 7|
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1870 | 11. Meconidine |21|23| 1| 4|
| |Amorphous, alkaline, melts at 58°, not stable, the | | | | |
| | salts also easily altered. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|T. and H. Smith,| 12. Cryptopine |21|23| 1| 5|
|1864 |Crystallisable, alkaline, salts tend to gelatinise, | | | | |
| | hydrochlorate crystallises in tufts. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1871 | 13. Laudanosine |21|27| 1| 4|
| | Crystallisable, alkaline. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Derosne, 1803 | 14. Narcotine |22|23| 1| 7|
| |Crystallisable, not alkaline, salts not stable. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Hesse, 1870 | 15. Lanthopine |23|25| 1| 4|
| |Microscopic crystals, not alkaline, sparingly | | | | |
| | soluble in hot or cold spirit of wine, ether or | | | | |
| | benzol. | | | | |
| | | | | | |
|Pelletier, 1832 | 16. Narceine |23|29| 1| 9|
| |Crystallisable (as a hydrate), readily soluble in | | | | |
| | boiling water, or in alkalies, levogyre. | | | | |
+----------------+----------------------------------------------------+——+——+——+——+
⁂ The following preparations, once famous, are now nearly obsolete in this
country. Those that are made with cold water or by fermentation are
supposed to be milder than crude opium, and in this respect to be similar
to ‘BLACK DROP,’
=Opium, Homberg’s.= Opium exhausted by repeated coction in 10 or 12 times
its weight of water, and the mixed liquors evaporated to one third, and
kept boiling for 2 or 3 days, adding water from time to time, then
straining and evaporating to a pilular consistence. BAUMÉ’S PURIFIED OPIUM
is similar.
=Opium, Launcelotte’s.= Opium, 1 lb.; quince juice, 1 gall.; pure potassa,
1 oz.; sugar, 4 oz.; ferment for some time, evaporate to a syrup, digest
in rectified spirit, filter, and evaporate the tincture.
=Opium, Let′tuce.= Lactucarium.
=Opium, Newmann’s.= Infusion of opium, strained, mixed with a little
sugar, and fermented for some months in a warm place; and, lastly,
strained and evaporated to an extract, or preserved in the liquid form.
=Opium, Powell’s.= Opium, exhausted by coction with water, the residuum
treated with spirit of wine, and the mixed tincture and decoction
evaporated to an extract.
=Opium, Pu′′rified.= _Syn._ OPIUM PURIFICATUM, L. The purified opium of
old pharmacy is now represented by the aqueous extract of the
Pharmacopœias. (See page 703.) Formerly, picked opium, beaten to a pilular
consistence, with the addition of a little water or proof spirit, was
called ‘SOFT PURIFIED OPIUM’ (OPIUM PURIFICATUM MOLLE); and picked opium,
dried in a water bath until brittle enough for powdering, was called ‘HARD
PURIFIED OPIUM’ (O. P. DURUM). CORNETTE’S and JOSSE’S PURIFIED OPIUM are
similar to the extract of Ph. L.
=Opium, Quercetan’s.= Vinegar of opium evaporated to an extract.
=Opium, Strained.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM THEBAICUM, OPIUM COLATUM, OPIUM
PURIFICATUM, L. Opium dissolved or softened in an equal weight of water,
passed through canvas, and evaporated to the consistence of an extract. It
is now superseded by the aqueous extract.
=Opium, Tor′refied.= _Syn._ ROASTED OPIUM; OPIUM TORREFACTUM, L. Opium,
dried, cut into thin slices, and roasted on an iron plate, at a low heat,
as long as it emits vapours, care being taken not to burn it.
=OPODEL′DOC.= 1. See LINIMENT OF SOAP.
2. (STEER’S OPODELDOC.) This, which differs from common opodeldoc chiefly
in containing more soap, is prepared as follows:——
_a._ White Castile soap (cut very small), 2 lbs.; camphor, 5 oz.; oil of
rosemary, 1 oz.; oil of origanum, 2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; mix,
and digest in a strong bottle (closely corked), by the heat of a water
bath, until solution is complete; when the liquid has considerably cooled,
add of liquor of ammonia, 11 oz., and immediately put it into
wide-mouthed bottles (Steer’s), cork them close, and tie them over with
bladder. Very fine, solid and transparent when cold.
_b._ Soap, 4 oz.; camphor, 1 oz.; oil of rosemary and origanum, of each 1
dr.; rectified spirit, 1 pint; liquor of ammonia, 1-1/2 fl. oz. Mix.
_c._ (Phil. Coll. of Phar.) White soap, 28 oz.; camphor, 8 oz.; rectified
spirit, 6-1/2 pints; dissolve, suffer the impurities to subside, add of
liquor of ammonia, 4 fl. oz.; oils of rosemary and horsemint, of each 1
fl. oz.; and pour it into phials, as before.
=OPOPONAX.= A resinous substance obtained from the roots of the _Opoponax
chironium_. It occurs in lumps of a reddish-yellow or brown colour, and
has a waxy fracture. It has a powerful odour, which somewhat resembles
garlic, and a bitter taste.
Opoponax is only partially soluble in alcohol, According to Payen it
consists of a little volatile oil, a resin that melts it at 100° C., gum,
inorganic and organic salts, and mechanical admixtures. It is used in
French pharmacy; and was held in great esteem by Hippocrates,
Theophrastus, and Dioscorides, all of whom employed it therapeutically.
=ORANGE.= _Syn._ AURANTIUM, L. The common SWEET ORANGE is the fruit of
_Citrus Aurantium_. The SEVILLE or BITTER ORANGE is produced by _Citrus
vulgaris_ or _Bigaradia_.
Oranges are probably about the most wholesome and useful of all the
subacid fruits. Their juice differs from that of lemons chiefly in
containing less citric acid and more sugar. In their general properties
the two are nearly similar.
FACTITIOUS ORANGE JUICE is made by dissolving citric acid, 1 oz., and
carbonate of potassa, 1 dr., in water, 1 quart, and digesting the solution
on the peel of half an orange until sufficiently flavoured; Narbonne honey
or white sugar is then added to impart the necessary sweetness. Instead of
orange peel, 5 or 6 drops of oil of orange peel, with 1/2 fl. oz. of
tincture of orange peel, may be used.
ORANGE PEEL (CORTEX AURANTII) is an agreeable, stomachic, bitter tonic,
especially useful as an adjunct to more active medicines. That ordered to
be used in medicine is the exterior (yellow) rind of the _Citrus
Bigaradia_, or bitter orange, dried in the months of February, March, or
April. See CANDYING, INFUSION, ISSUE PEAS, OILS (volatile), &c.
=ORANGEADE′.= _Syn._ ORANGE SHERBET. 1. Juice of 4 oranges, thin peel of 1
orange, lump sugar, 4 oz.; boiling water, 3 pints.
2. Juice and peel of 1 large orange, citric acid, 15 gr.; sugar, 3 oz.;
boiling water, 1 quart.
=Orangeade, Effervescing or Aerated.= 1. Mix 1 lb. of syrup of orange
peel, a gallon of water, and 1 oz. of citric acid, and charge it strongly
with carbonic acid gas with a machine.
2. Syrup of orange juice, 3/4 fl. oz.; aerated water, 1/2 pint.
3. Simple syrup, 1/2 fl. oz.; tincture of orange peel, 1/2 dr.; citric
acid, 1 scruple; fill the bottle with aerated water.
4. Put into a soda-water bottle 1/2 oz. to 1 oz. of syrup of orange peel,
30 gr. of bicarbonate of potash, 8 oz. of water, and, lastly, 40 gr. of
citric acid, in crystals, and cork immediately.
5. Put into each bottle 2 or 3 dr. of sugar, 2 drops of oil of orange
peel, 30 gr. of bicarbonate of potash, or 25 gr. of bicarbonate of soda
water to fill the bottle, and 40 gr. of citric acid, as before.
=OR′ANGE CHROME.= _Prep._ 1. From a solution of chromate of potash and
diacetate of lead, as chrome yellow.
2. From chrome yellow or chromate of lead, by acting on it with a weak
alkaline lye, until sufficiently darkened. Used as a pigment.
=ORANGE DYES.= These are produced from mixtures of red and yellow dyes in
various proportions; or by passing the cloth, previously dyed yellow,
through a weak red bath.
1. A very good fugitive orange may be given with annotta, by passing the
goods through a solution made with equal parts of annotta and pearlash,
or, still better, through a bath made of 1 part of annotta, dissolved in a
lye of 1 part each of lime and pearlash and 2 parts of soda. The shade may
be reddened by passing the dyed goods through water acidulated with
vinegar, lemon juice, or citric acid, or through a solution of alum. The
goods are sometimes passed through a weak alum mordant before immersion in
the dye bath.
2. (For COTTON.) For 40 lbs. 2-1/2 lbs. annotta, 24 lbs. of bark, 3 quarts
of chloride of tin. Boil the annotta, put off the boil, enter and wince
until it has a good body. Then wring out, wash well, wring again, and
shake out. Next, in a clean boiler, boil the bark in a bag for a quarter
of an hour, add the chloride of tin, and enter, wince at the spring till
the required shade is got.
3. (For SILK.) For 10 yards. Annotta, 1-3/4 oz.; bark, 1-1/4 oz.; chloride
of tin, 1-1/2 oz. Give a good body of annotta at 212° Fahr.; wash in one
water, then top with the bark and chloride of tin.
4. (For WOOL.) For 50 lbs. Boil 10 lbs. of bark and 1-1/2 lbs. of
cochineal; add 2 lbs. of tartar, 2-1/2 quarts of yellow spirits. Enter at
200° Fahr.; boil 30 minutes. See ANNOTTA, DYEING, &c.
=ORANGE RED.= _Syn._ SANDIX. From white lead, by calcination, in a nearly
similar manner to that by which red lead is prepared from the protoxide.
Brighter than red lead. Used wholly as a pigment.
=OR′ANGERY.= The gallery, building, or enclosure in a garden, in which
orange trees are preserved or cultivated, to shield them from the effects
of the external winter, or to assist their growth by artificial heat.
=OR′CHARD.= See CIDER.
=OR′CEIN.= C_{7}H_{7}NO_{2}. _Syn._ LICHEN LAKE. A brownish-red powder,
obtained by dissolving orcin in ammonia, exposing the solution to the air,
and then precipitating with dilute acetic acid. It is nearly insoluble in
water, but dissolves freely in solutions of ammonia and the fixed
alkalies, with the production of a rich purple or violet colour. It
probably constitutes the leading tinctorial ingredient in ARCHIL, CUDBEAR,
and LITMUS. (See _below_.)
=OR′CHIL.= See ARCHIL.
=OR′CIN.= C_{7}H_{8}O_{2}. The general product of the decomposition of the
acids obtained from the tinctorial lichens under the influence of heat or
the alkaline earths.
_Prep._ 1. The powdered lichen is treated with boiling alcohol, the
tincture filtered whilst hot, and again after it has become cold; the
alcohol is then removed by distillation, and the remainder evaporated to
the consistence of a syrup; this is redissolved in water, and the solution
is again filtered and evaporated to a syrup; it is then set aside some
days in a cool place, and the crystals of orcin which form are collected,
and dried by pressure in bibulous paper. Impure.
2. Lecanoric or orsenillic acid (impure will do) is boiled in baryta
water, and the excess of baryta is precipitated by carbonic acid; the
filtered liquid is then evaporated to a small bulk, and set aside to
crystallise, as before.
_Prop., &c._ Large, square, prismatic crystals; slightly yellowish;
intensely sweet; very soluble in both water and alcohol; melt to a syrupy
liquid, and then distil unchanged. Alkalies decompose it; when exposed to
the air, it gradually reddens. (See _above_.)
=OREIDE.= A variety of brass, in appearance very much like gold. The
following, according to MM. Menrier and Valient, its inventors, is the
composition of this alloy:——Copper, 100 parts; zinc, 17 parts; magnesia, 6
parts; sal ammoniac, 3·6 parts; quicksilver, 1·80 parts; tartar of
commerce, 9 parts. The copper being first melted, the other ingredients
are added by small portions at a time, the whole being kept in fusion for
about half an hour, and during which time they are kept skimmed. The
oreide has a fine grain, is malleable, is capable of being brilliantly
polished, and has its lustre restored by the use of acidulated water.
=OR′ELLIN.= A yellow colouring matter contained together with bixin in
annotta. It is soluble in water and in alcohol, slightly soluble in ether,
and dyes alumed goods yellow. Also the name sometimes given to purified
annotta. The commercial annotta is dissolved in an alkaline solution,
either caustic or carbonated, and then precipitated by an acid. See
ANNOTTA.
=ORES.= The mineral bodies from which metals are obtained. The processes
adopted for this purpose constitute OPERATIVE METALLURGY; those by which
their value is determined, MINERAL ASSAYING.
A very small proportion only of the metals are met with in nature in the
free or elementary condition, by far the greater number found being
united with some non-metallic element or elements, in definite atomic
proportions, and as such forming true chemical compounds, in which in
almost every instance the physical and chemical properties of the metal
are obliterated. In these bodies, which, when they are used as sources of
the metals commonly employed by man, are called ORES, the metal is mostly
combined with oxygen or sulphur, sometimes with carbonic acid, and less
frequently with chlorine, and other negative elements. Thus we have the
native combinations of iron and oxygen constituting the minerals known as
hæmatite iron ore (Fe_{2}O_{3}), bog iron ore (Fe_{2}O_{3},3H_{2}O), and
magnetic iron ore (Fe_{2}O_{3},FeO), of tin and oxygen in tin stone
(SnO_{2}), and of copper and oxygen known as red copper ore (Cu_{2}O). Of
the principal ores into which sulphur enters as a chemical ingredient, we
may mention native sulphide of antimony (Sb_{2}S_{3}); the two native
sulphides of arsenic, realgar (As_{2}S_{2}) and orpiment (As_{2}S_{3});
galena, or native sulphide of lead (PbS), blende, or native sulphide of
zinc (ZnS), and cinnabar, or native sulphide of mercury (HgS). Besides the
above, there are also certain double native sulphides, such as the double
sulphide of iron and copper, known as Peacock ore, and having the
composition Fe_{2}S_{3},3Cu_{2}S; iron and copper pyrites
(Fe_{2}S_{3},Cu_{2}S); and red silver ore (Sb_{2}S_{3},3AgS).
In the state of carbonate, ores occur——as malachite native carbonate of
copper (CuCO_{3}.Cu(HO)_{2}), as calamine, or native carbonate of zinc
(ZnCO_{3}), and as spathose iron ore, or native carbonate of iron
(FeCO_{3}). Horn silver and horn lead, the former having the composition
AgCl, and the latter PbCO_{3} + PbCl_{2} are illustrations of ores
containing chlorine.
The process of obtaining the metal from the ore of course varies with the
nature and character of the latter. Before, however, this operation can be
undertaken, the ore itself is subjected to certain mechanical operations,
in order to remove the gangue or the adhering earthy, rocky, stony, and
other matters with which it is always more or less mixed up. The amount of
attention which is given to this preparatory treatment of the ores greatly
depends upon their value; those, for instance, of copper and lead as
commanding a higher market price than those of zinc and iron being
submitted to commensurate treatment. This process of freeing the ores from
the gangue, which is termed dressing, is generally conducted as follows,
mostly near the pit entrance of the mine whence the ores have been
extracted.
If the material brought up to the pit’s mouth is a lead or a copper ore,
it mostly contains a number of lumps, which are considered sufficiently
pure for the smelting oven, and these are set aside without being dressed.
Generally, however, the ore is first broken by hammers into pieces about
as large as a walnut, and the best pieces are then selected for smelting.
The remaining or inferior portions are then crushed under the large and
horizontal cylinders of a grinding mill, to which they are supplied by
hoppers. After being ground the ore is separated by being made to pass
through coarse sieves, the coarser portions being set aside for the
stampers, whilst the finer ones are subjected to the operation of jigging.
This consists in a workman separating the contents of the sieve under
water by imparting to them such a movement that the bits of ore
(particularly if they are of a friable nature like galena) become broken,
and thus pass through the meshes of the sieve to the bottom of the water,
whilst the less friable and specifically lighter matter, mostly consisting
of gangue, remains behind on the sieve. This residue, being mixed with the
coarser portions resulting from the first sifting, and which have not been
subjected to the jigging process, is transferred to the stamping mill,
whilst those portions of ore found at the bottom of the well are reserved
for smelting. If the ore be one containing tin, it does not undergo the
above processes, but passes at once to the stamping apparatus.
This stamping apparatus consists of five or six large wooden beams, each
weighing 1/8th of a ton. Each beam is covered at the bottom with iron, and
is made to rise and fall in succession by means of projections from a
horizontal axle, made to revolve either by water or steam power. Behind
the stampers is an inclined board, upon which are placed the residue and
coarser portions of the ore already described, and when the stampers are
in motion the ore slides down the inclined plane under them, and thus gets
crushed. When it is thought the ore has been sufficiently crushed, it is,
by means of a current of water running through the mill, carried away
through a grating in front of the mill into a channel in which there are
two pits, with the result that the more valuable and heavier portion of
the ore becomes deposited in the first pit, whilst the inferior portion is
carried on, and falls into the second one.
The crushed ore has, however, to undergo other operations before it is
considered sufficiently pure for the furnace. That part (the purer
portion, called the crop by the Cornish miner) which has deposited in the
first pit after removal therefrom, is subjected to a series of further
washings, the different apparatus by which these are effected being known
in Cornish language as a buddle and a kieve.
“The crop is first subjected to washing in the buddle; this is a wooden
trough about 8 feet long, 3 wide, and 2 deep, fixed in the ground with one
end somewhat elevated. At the upper end a small stream of water enters,
and is reduced to a uniform thin sheet by means of a distributing board,
on which a number of small pieces of wood are fastened to break the
stream. The ore to be washed is placed in small quantities at a time on a
board just below the distributing board, and somewhat more inclined than
the body of the buddle, and as the ore is spread out into a thin layer the
water carries it forward.
“The richer portions subside near the head of the trough, and the light
ores are carried further down. ‘The heads’ are then tossed into the kieve,
a covered wooden tub, which is filled with water and ore added by a
workman, who keeps the contents of the kieve in continual agitation by
turning an agitator, the handle of which projects through the lid of the
tub. When the vessel is nearly full the agitation is stopped; the kieve is
struck sharply upon the side several times, and its contents are allowed
to subside; the upper half of the sediment is again passed through the
buddle. Various modifications of the washing process are resorted to, but
they are all the same in principle.”[78]
[Footnote 78: Miller.]
The water which has been used in washing the ore on the buddle, as well as
that in the kieve, contains in addition to the débris of the gangue more
or less of small pieces of the ore itself. Hence this water is not allowed
to escape, but conveyed into a narrow channel cut at the end of the
buddle, where it deposits the solid materials. These being then removed
undergo a second washing on an inclined stage, a process by which any
remaining mineral is recovered, followed in Cornwall.
The above is the method of dressing the ores of lead and tin, and, with
some modifications, those of copper.
Some metals, as, for example, certain iron and zinc ores, previous to
being dressed, require a preliminary exposure for some time to the
atmosphere. This operation, which is called ‘weathering,’ has the effect
of aiding the subsequent removal by water of certain materials of a
clayey, slatey, or marly nature, which sometimes adhere very tenaciously
to the ores in question.
Again, in some cases weathering is had recourse to for obtaining a
metallic compound in a soluble form. It is by this means that iron pyrites
if exposed to the air after a time becomes converted into a sulphate of
the metal.
Large quantities of commercial sulphate of iron or green vitriol are
manufactured from this natural sulphate after it has been dissolved by the
rain, and then crystallised. Sometimes the ores after dressing, and
previous to roasting or smelting, are subjected to a process of
calcination without access of air, with the object of depriving them of
water, carbonic acid and bituminous matters, and also of rendering the ore
softer and in a favorable condition to be acted upon by the subsequent
metallurgic operations.
The ores having been by these various processes sufficiently freed from
extraneous matters, are next, according to their composition, either
submitted to the operations of roasting or smelting, and in many cases to
both.
_Roasting._ This operation is mostly carried out in a reverbatory furnace.
The result of the process upon the ores containing sulphur, which are
those chiefly subjected to it, varies with the nature of the ore. Thus,
when the sulphides of antimony, arsenic, or zinc are roasted, the sulphur
escapes as sulphurous anhydride with the formation of the volatile oxides
of arsenic, antimony, or zinc, which sublime, and are afterwards collected
and purified with cinnabar or native sulphide of mercury.
Sulphurous anhydride is evolved with the vapours of metallic mercury,
these being at the same time condensed by cooling. When copper pyrites
(the double sulphide of copper and iron) is placed in the reverbatory
furnace, the copper and iron become converted into oxides.
When galena or lead sulphide is exposed to the roasting process, lead
oxide and sulphate, with the copious escape of sulphurous acid, are at
first formed. The oxide and sulphate become eventually decomposed, leaving
behind metallic lead, with a small portion of a subsulphide of the metal.
In most cases, however, the effect of roasting on an ore is to convert it
into an oxide.
Clay ironstone, which is that from which the greater part of the iron is
manufactured in Great Britain, and that known as the black band of the
Scotch coal fields, are impure carbonates of iron, and these when roasted
yield ferric oxide. The roasting in the case of these minerals is
sometimes effected in kilns, but more frequently in the open air; in the
latter case by the firing of stacks composed of alternate layers of the
ore and of small coal. Calamine or native carbonate of zinc is converted
into oxide sometimes by being roasted in kilns, but more frequently in a
reverbatory furnace.
_Smelting._ Except in those cases in which the ore is directly reduced
from the state of a sulphide to that of a metal, it is, as has been shown,
converted into an oxide. If, therefore, it be required to procure the
metal _per se_, some method must be adopted for the removal of the oxygen
from its oxide.
This process, which is called smelting, and is applied to most metallic
oxides, whether of natural or artificial origin, consists in heating the
oxide with a substance which has a stronger attraction for oxygen than the
metal has. Such bodies are coal, coke, or charcoal, which when raised to
very high temperatures in contact with certain metallic oxides, rob them
of their oxygen, and thus reduce them to the state of metals, carbonic
oxide or carbonic anhydride being at the same time formed and carried
off. A mechanical impediment, however, to the reducing action of the fuel
upon the ore exists in the rocky, earthy, and other impurities mostly
present in large quantities, even after the dressing, which envelop the
mineral, and afford it a protective covering. To remove these it is not
only necessary that some substance should be added which has the power of
combining with them, but of one which is capable of forming a compound
which shall become fusible by the heat of the furnace, so that the molten
metal as it sinks through it by reason of its greater specific gravity,
and falls to the bottom of the furnace, shall be protected in doing so
from contact with the air. Many substances, varying with the nature of the
gangue accompanying them, are thus employed as fluxes, such as limestone,
fluor spar, gypsum, heavy spar, &c., and they act by combining with the
silicious compounds contained in the gangue attached to the ore, and
forming a fusible silicate known as slag, which is from time to time run
off by an aperture at the side of the furnace. Considerable knowledge and
experience are required in the selection of suitable fluxes.
The smelting furnaces in which the deoxidation of iron is accomplished are
of considerable size. The following description of one, together with the
engraving, are from Professor Bloxam’s able work, ‘Chemistry: Inorganic
and Organic,’
[Illustration]
“Great care is necessary in first lighting the blast furnace, lest the new
masonry should be cracked by too sudden a rise of temperature, and when
once lighted, the furnace is kept in constant work for years, until in
want of repair.
“When the fire has been lighted the furnace is filled up with coke, and as
soon as this has burnt down to some distance below the chimney, a layer of
the mixture of calcined ore with the requisite quantity of limestone is
thrown upon it; over this there is placed another layer of coke, then a
second layer of the mixture of ore and flux, and so on in alternate
layers, until the furnace has been filled up; when the layers sink down
fresh quantities of fuel, ore, and flux are added, so that the furnace is
kept constantly full.
“As the air passes from the tuyères pipes into the bottom of the furnace,
it parts with its oxygen to the carbon of the fuel, which it converts into
carbonic acid, the latter passing the red-hot fuel as it ascends in the
furnace is converted into carbonic oxide by combining with an additional
quantity of carbon. It is this carbonic oxide which reduces the calcined
ore to the metallic state when it comes in contact with it at a red heat,
in the upper part of the furnace, for carbonic oxide removes the oxygen at
a high temperature from the oxides of iron, and becomes carbonic acid, the
iron being left in the metallic state.
“But the iron so reduced remains disseminated through the mass of ore
until it has passed down to a part of the furnace which is more strongly
heated, where the iron enters into combination with a small proportion of
carbon to form cast-iron, which fuses or runs down into the crucible or
cavity for its reception at the bottom of the furnace.
“At the same time the clay contained in the ore is acted upon by the lime
of the flux, producing a double silicate of alumina and lime, which also
falls in the liquid state into the crucible, where it forms a layer of
slag above the heavier metal. This slag, which has five or six times the
bulk of the iron, is allowed to accumulate in the crucible and to run over
its edge down the incline upon which the blast furnace is built; but when
a sufficient quantity of cast iron is collected at the bottom of the
crucible, it is run out through a hole provided for the purpose, either
into channels made in a bed of sand, or into iron moulds, where it is cast
into rough semi-cylindrical masses, called pigs, where cast-iron is also
spoken of as pig-iron.
“The temperature of the furnace is, of course, highest in the immediate
neighbourhood of the tuyères; the reduction of the iron to the metallic
state appears to commence at about two thirds of the way down the furnace,
the volatile matters of the ore, fuel, and flux being driven off before
this point is reached.
“Some idea may be formed of the immense scale upon which the smelting of
iron ores is carried out, when it is stated that each furnace consumes in
the course of 24 hours about 50 tons of coal, 30 tons of ore, 6 tons of
limestone, and 100 tons of air.
“The cast-iron is run off from the crucible once or twice in 12 hours, in
quantities of 5 or 6 tons at a time. The average yield of calcined
clay-iron stone is 35% of iron.
“The gases escaping from the chimney of the blast furnace are highly
inflammable, for they contain, beside the nitrogen of the air blown into
the furnace, a considerable quantity of carbonic oxide and some hydrogen,
together with the carbonic acid formed by the action of the carbonic oxide
upon the ore. Since the carbonic oxide and hydrogen confer considerable
heating power upon these gases, they are employed in some iron-works for
heating steam-boilers, or for calcining the ore, or for raising the
temperature of the blast.
“The composition of the gas issuing from a hot blast furnace (fed with
uncoked coal) may be judged of from the following table:——
“_Gas from Blast Furnace._
Nitrogen 55·35 vols.
Carbonic oxide 25·97 ”
Hydrogen 6·73 ”
Carbonic acid 7·77 ”
Marsh gas 3·75 ”
Olefiant gas 0·43 ”
————————
100·00 ”
“The carbonic oxide of course renders these gases highly poisonous, and
fatal accidents occasionally happen from this cause. Although the bulk of
the nitrogen present in the air escapes unchanged from the furnace, it is
not improbable that a portion of it contributes to the formation of the
cyanide of potassium which is produced in the lower part of the furnace,
the potassium being furnished by the ashes of the fuel.” See METALLURGY.
_Assay._ Three general methods are adopted for this purpose:——
1. (MECHANICAL.) This consists in pulverising the ore by any convenient
method, and expertly washing a given weight of it (say 1000 gr.) in a
wooden bowl or capsule with water, so as to remove the earthy gangues from
the denser and valuable metallic matter in such a way that none of the
latter may be lost. This is the common plan adopted with auriferous sands,
the ores of tin after they have passed the stamping-mill, galena, grey
antimony, &c., and may either be employed as an independent process or
merely as preparatory to more exact investigations. When galena is thus
tested, the product is a nearly pure sulphide of lead, of which every
grain is equivalent to ·8666 of metallic lead, the rest being sulphur. The
results with grey antimony ore are still more direct, since the product is
only melted into pigs before being sent to market. In this state it
contains 73% (nearly) of metallic antimony.
2. (HUMID.) Assays in the ‘humid way’ are true chemical analyses, and are
described under the head ‘_Estim._’ attached to most of the more important
minerals noticed in this work. This plan offers greater facilities and
gives more accurate results than either of the other methods.
3. (DRY.) Of the methods of assay in the ‘dry way’ the following are the
most accurate, generally useful, and easily applied:——
_a._ (Dr Abiche.) The mineral is reduced to powder, and mixed with 5 or 6
times its weight of carbonate of barium, also in powder; this mixture is
fused at a white heat in a platinum crucible, and the resulting slag,
after being powdered, is exhausted with hydrochloric acid. This process
answers well with both stony and metallic minerals, the most refractory of
which give way under this treatment.
_b._ (Liebig.) Into a crucible containing commercial cyanide of potassium,
a weighed quantity of the ore, in the state of fine powder, is sprinkled,
when the metallic oxides and sulphides which it contains are almost
immediately reduced to the metallic state, and may be separated from the
scoria by edulcoration with water. With the oxides and sulphides of
antimony and tin this reduction occurs at a dull red heat; with the
compounds of copper it occurs with the disengagement of light and heat;
but an ore of iron requires to be mixed with a little carbonate of
potassium or of sodium before throwing it into the fused cyanide, and to
be then submitted to a full red heat for a short time, before it is
reduced to the reguline state. In this case any manganese present in the
ore of iron is left under the form of protoxide. A mixture of about equal
parts of dry carbonate of sodium and cyanide of potassium answers better
for the crucible than the cyanide alone. See ALLOYS, METALLURGY, &c.; also
PERCY’S METALLURGY.
=ORGAN′IC BA′SES.= These interesting bodies may be divided into two
classes: the first comprising those which occur ready formed in nature
(ALKALOIDS); and the second those produced by artificial processes in the
laboratory (ARTIFICIAL ALKALOIDS, ARTIFICIAL ORGANIC BASES). They all
contain the element NITROGEN. The natural bases have already been
described under ALKALOID. Hitherto they have none of them been produced by
artificial means. The bases of artificial origin are mostly volatile, and
their constitution is much simpler than that of the native bases. Of the
vast number which have been formed the following are, perhaps, the most
interesting:——ETHYLAMINE, METHYLAMINE, AMYLAMINE, ANILINE, NAPHTHYLAMINE,
CHINOLINE, and PICOLINE. These and other bodies of the class are noticed
under their respective heads.
By Berzelius the natural organic bases (owing to the invariable presence
in them of hydrogen and nitrogen) were regarded as compound ammonias, or
combinators of ammonia with a variety of neutral principles.
He conceived the greater part of these neutral bodies were incapable
of isolation, and further more that the closest union existed
between them and the ammonia. Thus it was his opinion that quinine
C_{20}H_{12}NO_{2}, 3HO (halving the modern formula) was a compound of
the group C_{20}H_{9}O_{2} with oxide of ammonium and water of
crystallisation thus (C_{20}H_{9}O_{2}H_{4}NO)_{2}HO. He believed the
organic base owed its basicity to the ammonia. Berzelius’ opinion carried
weight at the time, from the circumstance that certain neutral substances
when directly combined with ammonia were capable of forming a number of
artificial bases very similar in qualities and also in composition to the
natural ones, or those obtained from living plants. Thus, the artificial
base _thiosinamine_ having the formula C_{4}H_{5}NS is produced by the
combination of oil of mustard and ammonia; and another base may be
artificially obtained from the union of oil of bitter almonds with
ammonia.
Liebig, who was one of the first chemists to dispute the correctness of
Berzelius’ hypothesis, by showing that the natural organic bases never
gave any indication of the presence in them of ready formed ammonia,
replaced it by the suggestion that they might be bodies into the
composition of which amidogen (H_{2}N) entered, and that these, instead of
being compounds of ammonia and an organic group, might be derivatives from
ammonia; or ammonia in which an atom of hydrogen had been displaced by an
equivalent organic radicle.
The labours of subsequent chemists, notably those of Messrs Wurtz and
Hofman, have developed Liebig’s theory, and have proved the analogy in
structural arrangement between ammonia and the greater number of organic
bases; whilst they have further shown, not only in one, as supposed by
Liebig, but for all three of the hydrogen atoms in ammonia, may be
substituted certain compound radicles.
=ORGAN′IC SUBSTANCES.= We have reserved a notice of the method of
estimating the quantity of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, in
organic compounds, until now, in order to present them to the reader in a
more useful and connected form. The operation essentially consists, in
respect of the first three, in causing the complete combustion of a known
quantity of the substance under examination, in such a manner that the
carbonic acid and water thus produced shall be collected, and their
quantity determined. From these the proportions of their elements are
easily calculated. The estimation of the quantity of nitrogen (as is also
the case with chlorine, phosphorus, sulphur, &c.) requires a separate
operation. The two great classes of organic bodies (azotised and
non-azotised) are readily distinguished from each other by heating a small
portion with some solid hydrate of potassium, in a test tube. If nitrogen
is present, it is converted into ammonia, which may be recognised by its
characteristic odour and its alkaline reaction.
1. _Estimation of the_ CARBON, HYDROGEN, _and_ OXYGEN.——_a._ The method of
Prof. Liebig, now almost exclusively adapted for this purpose, is as
follows:——The substance under examination, reduced to powder, is rendered
as dry as possible, either by the heat of a water bath or by exposure over
concentrated sulphuric acid, _in vacuo_; 5 or 6 gr. of it are then weighed
in a narrow open test tube, 2 or 3 inches long, and to ensure accuracy
this tube and any little adhering matter is again weighed after its
contents have been removed——the difference between the two weights being
regarded as the true quantity of the substance employed in the experiment.
A ‘combustion tube,’ of hard white Bohemian glass (·4 to ·5 inch diam.; 14
to 18 inches long), is next taken, and about 2-3rds filled with black
oxide of copper, prepared by the ignition of the nitrate, and which has
been just re-heated to expel hygrometric moisture. Nearly the whole of
this oxide, whilst still warm, is then gradually poured from the tube and
triturated with the organic sample in a dry and warm mortar, after which
the mixture is transferred to the combustion tube, and the mortar being
rinsed out with a little fresh oxide, which is added to the rest, the tube
is, lastly, nearly filled with some warm oxide fresh from the crucible.
The contents of the tube are next arranged in a proper position by a few
gentle blows, so as to leave a small passage for the evolved gases from
the one end of the tube to the other. (See _engr_.)
[Illustration]
[Illustration]
[Illustration]
[Illustration]
The ‘combustion tube’ with its ‘charge’ is next placed in a ‘furnace’ or
‘chauffer’ of thin sheet iron (see middle figure _above_). Its open end is
then connected with a ‘drying tube’ filled with fragments of fused
chloride of calcium, and carefully weighed. This tube is, in its turn,
connected with a small glass (‘Liebig’s potash bulbs’) containing solution
of pure potassa of sp. gr. 1·27, also carefully weighed. The junction with
the first is made by means of a perforated cork; that with the second by
means of a small tube of india rubber tied with silk, the whole being made
quite air-tight. The apparatus is then tested by sucking a few bubbles
through the liquid with the dry lips, when, if the level of the solution
of potassa in the two legs continues unequal for some minutes, the joints
are regarded as perfect. The whole arrangement being complete (see
_engr._), burning charcoal is now placed in the furnace around the front
part of the combustion tube, and when this has become red-hot the screen
is slowly moved back, and more burning charcoal is added, until the
furthest extremity of the tube has been exposed to its action. (Gas,
burned in furnaces specially contrived for the purpose, is now usually
employed instead of charcoal.) The firing is so regulated that the gas
enters the potassa apparatus in bubbles easily counted, without any
violence or inconvenience, and it is kept up as long as gas is extricated.
As soon as the apparatus is complete, and the slightest retrograde action
is observed, the charcoal is removed from the combustion tube, and the
extreme point of this last is broken off. A little air is then sucked
through the apparatus in order to seize on any remaining carbonic-acid gas
and moisture. The potash apparatus and the chloride of calcium tube are,
lastly, detached, and again accurately weighed. The increase in the weight
of the first gives the weight of the carbonic acid formed during the
combustion; that of the second the weight of the water. The numbers
equivalent to any given number of grains, found as above, are converted
into the proportions per cent. by simply dividing them by the weight of
the organic substance which has been employed in the experiment, and
moving the decimal point of the result two figures to the right.
Gr. Gr.
1 gr. of _Carbonic acid_ = 0·27273 of _Carbon_ + 0·72727 of _Oxygen_,
1 ” _Water_ = 0·11112 ” _Hydrogen_ + 0·88888 ”
—— ———————— ————————
2 less 0·38385 equal to 1·61615 ”
—— ———————— ————————
_b._ In applying the preceding method to volatile liquids, it is necessary
to enclose them in a small bulb with a narrow neck, instead of mixing them
directly with the protoxide of copper. The bulb with its contents is
introduced into the combustion tube, and after some 6 or 8 inches of the
protoxide is heated to redness, a hot coal is applied near where the bulb
is situated, so that the liquid which it contains may be slowly
volatilised and passed through the heated mass in the state of vapour, and
be thus completely burned. For further information, consult Fresenius’
‘Chemical Analysis.’
2. _Estimation of the_ NITROGEN——_a._ Several methods are employed for
this purpose, but the only one of general application, and adapted to the
non-scientific operator, is that of MM. Varrentrap and Will, described
under GUANO. To ensure correct results, the caustic soda must be pure, and
the lime of good quality and well burnt. The last, having been properly
slaked with a little water, holding the former in solution, the mixture is
thoroughly dried in an iron vessel, and then heated to full redness in an
earthen crucible. The ignited mass is rubbed to powder in a warm dry
mortar, and either used at once or carefully preserved from the air. The
best quantity of the organic substance to operate on is, in this case,
about 10 gr., which must be dried, and accurately weighed with the usual
precautions. Bodies very rich in either nitrogen or hydrogen are best
mixed with about an equal weight of pure sugar before triturating them
with the soda-lime. MM. Varrentrap and Will weigh the nitrogen under the
form of double chloride of platinum and ammonium, dried at 212° Fahr. This
salt contains 6·272% of nitrogen.
_b._ M. Péligot has modified the preceding plan by conducting the gaseous
matter extricated during the operation into a three-bulb tube charged with
a standard solution of sulphuric acid. This he subsequently pours into a
beaker-glass, and after tinging it with a single drop of tincture of
litmus, he tests it with either a standard aqueous solution of soda or one
of lime in sweetened water, after the common method of alkalimetry. The
difference between the saturating power of the acid in its normal
condition and after its exposure in the condenser indicates the amount of
ammonia formed. (See GUANO.) Each grain of ammonia contains ·82353 gr. of
nitrogen.
_Concluding Remarks._ The successful application of the above processes
requires considerable care and some aptitude in manipulating, as well as
the employment of a very delicate balance for determining the weights. A
greater error in the weighings than the 1/250 gr. cannot be tolerated when
exact results are desired. The method of MM. Varrentrap and Will for the
determination of nitrogen answers admirably for all organic compounds
containing it, except those in which it exists under the form of
hyponitrous, nitrous, and nitric acids; for which, however, it is not
required. When extreme accuracy is aimed at, the atmospheric air in the
apparatus, and that absorbed during the preliminary operations by the
substances employed, must be expelled before the application of heat to
the combustion tube. (See WATER, ANALYSIS OF.)
=OR-MOLU′.= [Fr.] This name is given to gold-coloured brass or bronze, so
finished off as to have the appearance of gold, or of being gilt; but it
is often applied in a more general sense. The French more particularly
excel in working in or-molu, and the products of this branch of their
industry hold an important position in the art manufactures of France.
To give or-molu its richest appearance, “it is not unfrequently brightened
up after ‘dipping’ (that is, cleaning in acid) by means of a scratch-brush
(a brush made of very fine brass wire), the action of which helps to
produce a very brilliant gold-like surface. It is protected from tarnish
by the application of lacquer.” (Ure.)
Ure says or-molu contains more copper and less zinc than ordinary brass,
and that although, in many of its applications, the colour is heightened
by means of a gold lacquer, in some cases the true colour of the alloy is
best preserved after it has been properly developed by means of dilute
sulphuric acid.
=ORMSKIRK MEDICINE.= A nostrum supposed to prevent hydrophobia, so named
after the residence of its inventor, Mr Hill, of Ormskirk. It is said to
have consisted of the ingredients named below, but nothing certain is
known on the subject, as the inventor died without revealing its
secret:——Chalk, 1/2 oz.; Armenian bole, 3 dr.; elecampane root, 1 dr.;
alum, 10 gr.; oil of aniseed, 5 or 6 drops; all in fine powder. For a
dose, to be taken for 6 successive mornings, in a glass of weak milk and
water.
=OR′PIMENT.= Native yellow sulphide of arsenic. The finest samples used by
artists (golden orpiment) come from Persia. See ARSENIC (Tersulphuret).
=OR′RIS.= _Syn_. ORRIS ROOT, FLORENTINE R.; RADIX IRIDIS, L. The dried
rhizome of _Iris Florentina_, _pallida_, and _Germanica_. Sialogogue,
irritant, subacrid, and errhine. Chiefly employed to impart a violet odour
to oils, tooth powder, snuffs, spirits, &c.; and when cut into peas to
keep open issues.
=ORSE′DEW.= Dutch leaf-gold.
=ORSEL′LIC ACID.= Two compounds pass under this name——ALPHA-ORSELLIC ACID
and BETA-ORSELLIC ACID. They closely resemble each other, and are obtained
in a similar manner; the first from the South American variety of _Rocella
tinctoria_, the last from that grown at the Cape.
=ORSELLIN′IC ACID.= _Syn_. LECANORIC ACID. A compound formed along with
picroerythrine, by boiling erythric acid for some time with water. It is
also formed by boiling alpha-orsellic acid with water. In both cases, if
the ebullition is too long continued, the new acid is wholly or in part
converted into orcin.
_Prop., &c._ Crystallisable; bitter-tasted; soluble in water; its aqueous
solution, by exposure to the air, assumes a beautiful purple colour.
=ORTHOCLASE.= _Syn._ POTASSIUM FELSPAR. This material, which is a double
silicate of potassium and aluminium, enters into the composition of many
rocks, and is a common ingredient in granite. It has the following
composition:——Silica, 64·8 parts; alumina, 18·4 parts; and potash, 16·8
parts. Part of the potassium is frequently replaced by small quantities of
calcium, magnesium, and sodium.
Orthoclase is used for glazing the finest varieties of porcelain, a very
intense heat being necessary to effect its fusion in the porcelain
furnace. By the Chinese potters it is called _petuntze_. “The name
‘orthoclase’ is generally restricted to the subtranslucent varieties,
there being many subvarieties (founded on variations of lustre, colour,
and other differences), of which the following are some of the principal,
viz. _adularia_, a transparent or translucent felspar, met with in
granitic rocks (frequently in large crystals); _moonstone_; _sunstone_;
_Murchisonite_, _erythrite_; glassy felspar or _lanadine_, a transparent
variety found in volcanic rocks, containing 4 per cent. of soda or
upwards.”[79]
[Footnote 79: Ure.]
=ORTHOPÆ′DIA.= In _surgery_, the straightening, correcting, or curing
deformities of children. See SURGERY.
=OSIER.= The osier, which is a species of willow (_salix_), and is largely
used in the construction of baskets and other wickerwork, is extensively
cultivated at Nottingham and on the level lands of Cambridgeshire and
Huntingdonshire, as well as on the banks of the Thames, Severn, and other
rivers. The small islands in these rivers, when planted with osiers, are
known as osier HOLTS. But large as is the supply of shoots afforded by the
English osier beds, it is insufficient for home consumption; hence great
quantities of ozier rods are imported into this country from Holland,
Belgium, and France. There are a great variety of oziers, and it is found
that those which have been the most highly cultivated yield the toughest
and finest wood, and those best adapted for the superior kinds of basket
work. The branches of the wilder and less domesticated kind, which are
more liable to break, are used for making hoops and coarse baskets. This
last variety, which is known as the COMMON OSIER (_Salix viminalis_),
grows on the alluvial grounds of Britain, and in other European countries,
and is often planted on the banks of rivers to prevent their being washed
away.
The following are the principal varieties of osier indigenous to this
country, and which yield the most valuable wood:——1. THE FINE BASKET OSIER
(_Salix Forbyana_). 2. THE GREEN-LEAVED OSIER, or ORNARD (_Salix rubra_).
3. THE SPANISH ROD (_Salix triandra_). 4. THE GOLDEN OSIER, or GOLDEN
WILLOW (_Salix vitellina_).
The osier requires plenty of water, and hence it thrives best in those
localities and low grounds which are washed by a river. The soil best
adapted for it is a rich but not clayey one. In planting an osier bed an
important condition is that the trees should be placed sufficiently
closely together, since it is found that, with too much space, the shoots
do not develop into long and slender branches, which are so much sought
after. The shoots are cut once a year, at any time between the fall of the
leaf and the rising of the sap in spring. After being cut they are divided
into those destined for brown, and those for white baskets. In the latter
ease the rods have to be peeled, but as this operation cannot be performed
at once, and the rimous of the bark would be difficult were they allowed
to dry, the shoots are placed upright and sustained in that position in
wide shallow trenches in about four inches of water, where they are kept
until they begin to bud and blossom in the spring, which they do as if
they were attached to the parent plant. The peeling is easily done by
passing them through an instrument known as a _break_. If the spring has
been a cold one, they have, previous to peeling, to be laid for some time
under a layer of litter.
When they have been peeled they are stacked, preparatory to being sold.
With the rods intended for brown baskets, no peeling is of course
necessary. They are therefore carefully stacked in some place protected
from the rain, and diligently watched to see that no heat is set up in
them, as is sometimes the case with freshly stacked hay, and which, if not
stacked, would cause the rods to rot and render them useless.
In England, besides the native produce, 5000 tons of osiers are annually
imported, valued at about £40,000. Of late years the Australian colonists
have turned their attention to the cultivation of the osier, in the hopes
of supplying the demand for it in Great Britain.
=OS′MAZOME.= The substance on which the peculiar odour and flavour of
boiled meat and broth were formerly supposed to depend.
_Prep._ From lean meat, minced, and digested in cold water, with
occasional pressure; the filtered infusion is gently evaporated nearly to
dryness, and then treated with alcohol; the alcoholic tincture is, lastly,
evaporated. The product has a brownish-yellow colour, is soluble in water,
and its aqueous solution is precipitated by infusion of galls and the
mineral astringent salts.
=OS′MIUM.= Os. A rare metal found associated with the ores of platinum by
M. Tennant, in 1803.
These ores mostly consist of a mixture of platinum, palladium, rhodium,
osmium, ruthenium and iridium. When they are treated with aqua regia, the
insoluble residue which remains, chiefly consists of an alloy and osmium,
iridium, ruthenium and rhodium. To separate the osmium from the other
metals, Fremy takes advantage of its easy oxidability, and of the
volatility of its tetroxide.
In the first part of this process (which is a great improvement upon the
methods previously followed) the above residue or alloy is heated to
redness in a platinum or porcelain tube. In that part of the tube which
projects from the furnace, some fragments of porcelain are placed, and the
tube is connected with a series of glass flasks, in which the tetroxide of
osmium is condensed as it distils over, any tetroxide that may have
escaped condensation is retained by a solution of caustic potash, placed
in the last flask of the series. This last flask is connected with an
aspirator, by means of which a current of air is drawn through the
apparatus.
Before being allowed to enter the heated tube the air is dried by being
made to pass through tubes filled with pumice-stone, moistened with
sulphuric acid. During the operation the osmium and ruthenium become
oxidised, the tetroxide of osmium condenses in needles in the flasks, and
mechanically carries forward the deoxide of ruthenium, which is deposited
upon the pieces of porcelain.
There are several processes for obtaining osmium in the metallic
condition. We give two of the most simple of these. 1. By treating the
volatile tetroxide of osmium obtained by Fremy’s method, as above
described, with hydrochloric acid and metallic mercury in a closed vessel
at 140° C.
The mercurous oxide which is first formed at the expense of the oxygen
contained in the tetroxide of osmium is decomposed by the hydrochloric
acid, and calomel is produced, together with metallic osmium.
The water and excess of acid are removed by evaporation to dryness, and on
heating the residue in a small porcelain retort, the excess of mercury and
calomel is drawn off, pure osmium being left behind in the form of a fine
powder.
2. Deville and Debray procure it in the metallic form by passing the
tetroxide of osmium, in a current of nitrogen, over carbon which has been
obtained by passing the vapour of benzine through a porcelain tube at a
high temperature. The metal procured by this process is of a fine blue
colour, with a tinge of grey.
The specific gravity of osmium in the pulverulent form is about 10; but
after having been heated to the fusing point of rhodium in the oxyhydrogen
jet, it acquires a density of 21·4, and in the crystalline state it has a
sp. gr. of 22·477. Osmium appears to be the least fusible of all the
metals.
There are five known oxides of osmium:
=1. Osmium protoxide.= (OsO). The anhydrous protoxide is of a
greyish-black colour. It is insoluble in acids. Its bluish-black hydrate,
which dissolves in hydrochloric acid, forms a solution of osmium
dichloride of a deep indigo blue colour. The solution absorbs oxygen
readily, and becomes converted into the tetrachloride (OsCl_{4}).
=2. Osmium sesquioxide.= (Os_{2}O_{3}.) This has never been isolated. Its
salts, which are uncrystallisable, are of a rose-red colour.
=3. Osmium dioxide.= (OsO_{2}.) This is black.
=4. Osmium trioxide.= (OsO_{3}.) This possesses feebly acid properties. It
has never been obtained in a separate form; with potassium it forms a
crystalline, sparingly soluble compound, having the composition
K_{2}OsO_{4}, 2H_{2}O, a dipotassic osmite.
=5. Osmium tetroxide.= _Syn._ OSMIC ACID (OsO_{4}). This oxide may be
obtained by operating, according to Fremy’s process, on the ores of
platinum, as already described. It is also formed when metallic osmium is
heated with potassic nitrate, or roasted in air. It crystallises in
colourless, transparent, flexible needles, which fuse easily, and dissolve
readily in water. Its aqueous solution, however, does not redden litmus.
Tetroxide of osmium is converted into vapour at about 100°C. The fumes are
excessively irritating and deleterious, and have an odour somewhat like
that of chlorine. This oxide unites with alkalies, but not with acids. It
is given off as tetroxide when the alkaline solution which contains it is
boiled. If applied to the skin, this oxide becomes partially reduced, and
imparts a permanent black colour to the skin, due to the deposition of
metallic osmium. With tincture of galls its solutions give a distinctive
blue precipitate.
There are four chlorides of osmium, the best known of which are the
dichloride and the tetrachloride.
1. =Osmium dichloride.= (OsCl_{2}). _Syn._ OSMIOUS DICHLORIDE, OSMIUM
PROTOCHLORIDE. This is green, and sublimes in green needles. It may be
obtained by heating metallic osmium in a current of dry chlorine gas. It
forms double salts, which are of a green colour.
2. =Osmium tetrachloride.= (OsCl_{4}). _Syn._ OSMIC TETRACHLORIDE, OSMIUM
BICHLORIDE. This may be procured in the same manner as the dichloride,
using, however, an excess of chlorine. It occurs as a red, crystalline,
fusible, deliquescent powder. It is more volatile than the dichloride.
Both the dry chloride and the tetrachloride of osmium are dissolved by
water, which decomposes them into tetroxide of osmium, hydrochloric acid
and the metal.
=OSTEOCOL′LA.= A rough sort of glue or gelatin obtained from bones by
digestion in dilute hydrochloric acid, to remove their earthy matter, and
afterwards acting on the residuum with water at a high temperature, until
it is wholly dissolved.
=OTAL′GIA.= Pain in the ear. See EARACHE.
=O′′THYL.= In chemistry, a radicle having the formula C_{2}H_{3}O, assumed
by Professor Williamson to exist in acetic acid.
=OT′TO OF ROSES.= See OILS (Volatile).
=OVALBU′MEN.= White of egg; to distinguish it from seralbumen, or the
albumen of the serum of the blood.
=O′VENS.= A very ingenious and useful improvement in the apparatus for
baking was introduced some years ago by Mr Sclater, of Carlisle. It
consists in causing the articles to be baked to traverse a heated
earthenware tube. This tube forms the oven. It is of considerable length,
and the biscuits or other articles are slowly traversed through it, from
end to end, at such a rate as will allow of the baking being completed
during the passage. The biscuits are carried on trays, set on travelling
chains; or the trays are made into an endless web or chain. The oven is
thus entirely self-acting, and the articles demand no attention whatever
from the attendants, whilst the system combines superior economy with the
best results. A ‘pyrometer,’ or heat indicator, is attached externally, so
that the attendant can regulate the heat with great facility. The object
of these improvements is to reduce the cost of baking, and to improve the
appearance of the baked articles. The apparatus is applicable as well to
the baking of articles of clay or earthenware as to bread or biscuits.
Of the ovens now in common use by the bakers, that known as the ‘hot-water
oven’ is perhaps the best; not merely in reference to economy, but also
with reference to its superior cleanliness, and the ease with which the
articles operated on may be turned out of that delicate yellowish-brown
tint for which the bread of the Viennese and Parisian bakers is so
celebrated. See BAKING, BREAD, &c.
=OWNER.= For the purposes of the Public Health Act this term is thus
defined:——“‘Owner’ means the person for the time being receiving the
rack-rent of the lands or premises in connection with which the word is
used, whether on his own account, or as agent or trustee for any other
person, or who would so receive the same if such lands or premises were
let at a rack-rent.”
=OX.= The _Bos Taurus_ (Linn.), one of the ruminantia. In its more limited
sense the word is restricted to the emasculated animal. The flesh, milk,
skin, horns, bones, and blood of this animal are all serviceable to man.
Goldbeater’s skin is prepared from the peritoneal membrane of its cæcum.
Its blood, fat, horns, and excrement were among the simples of the Ph. L.
1618. See BEEF, GALL, MILK, and _below_.
=Ox-Gall.= Syn. OX-BILE; FEL BOVINUM, F. BOVIS, F. TAURI, L. Crude ox-gall
is noticed at page 774. Refined ox-gall (_Fel bovinum purificatum_) is
prepared as under:——
1. Fresh ox-gall is allowed to repose for 12 or 15 hours, after which the
clear portion is decanted, and evaporated to the consistence of a thick
syrup by the heat of a water bath; it is then spread thinly on a dish, and
exposed in a warm situation near the fire, or to a current of dry air,
until nearly dry; it is, lastly, put into wide-mouthed bottles or pots,
and carefully tied over with bladder. In this state it will keep for years
in a cool situation. For use a little is dissolved in water.
2. Fresh gall, 1 pint; boil, skim, add powdered alum, 1 oz.; boil again
till the alum is dissolved, and when sufficiently cool pour it into a
bottle, and loosely cork it down. In a similar manner boil and skim
another pint of gall, add to it 1 oz. of common salt, and again boil,
cool, and bottle it, as above. In three months decant the clear from both
bottles, and mix them in equal quantities; the clear portion must then be
separated from the coagulum by subsidence or filtration.
_Uses, &c._ Both the above are employed by artists to fix chalk and pencil
drawings before tinting them, and to remove the greasiness from ivory,
tracing paper, &c. The first is also used in medicine.
=OX′ALATE.= _Syn._ OXALAS, L. A salt of oxalic acid. The soluble oxalates
are easily formed by directly neutralising a solution of oxalic acid with
a metallic hydrate, carbonate, or oxide; and the insoluble oxalates, by
double decomposition. See OXALIC ACID and the respective bases.
=OXAL′IC ACID.= H_{2}C_{2}O_{4}. _Syn._ ACIDUM OXALICUM, L. This substance
was discovered by Bergman in 1776. It occurs both in the mineral and
organic kingdoms, and is produced artificially by the action of nitric
acid on sugar, starch, woody fibre, &c. It abounds in wood-sorrel, in
which it exists in combination with a little potassa. With the exception
of gum and sugar of milk all starchy and saccharine substances yield
oxalic acid when treated with nitric acid at a somewhat elevated
temperature.
_Prep._ 1. From sugar:——
_a._ Nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·42), 5 parts, diluted with water, 10 parts, is
poured on sugar, 1 part, and the mixture is digested at a gentle heat as
long as gaseous products are evolved; the liquid is then concentrated by
evaporation until it deposits crystals on cooling; the crystals, after
being drained and freed from superfluous moisture, are redissolved in the
smallest possible quantity of boiling water, and the solution is set aside
to crystallise. The residuary ‘mother-water’ is treated with a little
fresh nitric acid (say 1-1/2 part) at a gentle heat, after which it is
evaporated, as before, for a second crop of crystals. This process is
repeated until the solution is exhausted. The brownish-coloured crystals
thus obtained are allowed to effloresce by exposure to dry air, and are
then redissolved and recrystallised. By repeating this treatment they
yield pure colourless oxalic acid at the third crystallisation.
_b._ (Schlesinger.) Sugar (dried at 257° Fahr.), 4 parts, and nitric acid
(sp. gr. 1·38), 33 parts, are digested together, as before, and as soon as
the evolution of gas ceases the liquid is boiled down to one sixth of its
original volume, and set aside to crystallise. The whole process may be
completed in about 2 hours, and in 1 vessel, and yields of beautifully
crystallised oxalic acid, at the first crystallisation, a quantity equal
to 56 to 60% of the weight of the sugar employed.
_c._ (Ure.) Nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·4), 4 parts, and sugar 1 part, are
digested together by the heat of a water bath, and as soon as gas ceases
to be extricated the vessel is removed from the heat, and set aside to
cool and crystallise. The use of a little sulphuric acid along with the
nitric acid contributes to increase the product.
2. From POTATO- or DEXTRIN-SUGAR:——(Nyren.) From the washed pulp of
potatoes, boiled for some hours with water, q. s., in a leaden vessel,
with about 2% of oil of vitriol, until the fecula of the pulp is converted
into saccharine matter, shown by the liquid being no longer turned blue by
iodine; the whole is then filtered through horse-hair bags or strainers,
and the filtrate is evaporated until its density is such that a gallon of
it weighs 14 to 14-1/2 lbs.; in this state it is converted into oxalic
acid by treatment with nitric acid in the way already described. A similar
process was patented some years ago by Messrs Davy, Macmurdo, and Co.
3. From SAWDUST:——(Roberts, Dale, & Co. Patent.) This process is the one
now usually employed for the manufacture of oxalic acid on the large
scale. It is based on Gay-Lussac’s discovery, that wood and similar
substances are converted into oxalic acid by fusion with caustic alkali.
The practical details of the process are thus given by Dr Murray Thomson,
of Edinburgh:——(1) Hydrate of sodium and hydrate of potassium, mixed in
the proportion of 2 equivalents of the former to 1 equivalent of the
latter, are dissolved, and solution evaporated until of specific gravity
1·35; sawdust is now stirred in until a thick paste results. (2) This
paste is then heated on iron plates, during which it is constantly
stirred; water is first given off; the mass then swells; inflammable
gases, hydrogen and carburetted hydrogen, are evolved, along with a
peculiar aromatic odour. When the temperature has been maintained at 400°
for one or two hours, this stage of the process is complete; the mass has
now a dark colour, and contains only 1 to 4 per cent. of oxalic acid, and
about ·5 per cent. of formic acid. The bulk, therefore, of the mass at
this stage consists of a substance whose nature is not yet known, but
which is intermediate between the cellulose and oxalic acid. (3) The next
stage consists in a simple extension of the last, in which the mass is
heated till quite dry, care being taken that no charring takes place. It
now contains the maximum quantity of oxalic acid, 28 to 30 per cent. (4.)
This oxalic acid now exists as oxalate of potassium and sodium in the grey
powder resulting from stage 3. This powder is now washed on a filter with
solution of carbonate of sodium, which seems to have the singular and
unexpected power of decomposing the oxalate of potassium and converting it
into oxalate of sodium. At all events, it is quite true that all traces of
potassa are washed out with the solution of carbonate of sodium. The only
explanation that occurs to account for this unusual decomposition is that
oxalate of sodium is a more insoluble salt than oxalate of potassium, and
therefore may be formed by preference. (5) This oxalate of sodium is now
decomposed by boiling milk of lime. Oxalate of calcium falls as a
precipitate, and soda remains in solution. This soda is boiled down, and
again made use of with fresh sawdust. This recovery of alkali is also
practised with the potassium salt which filters through in the last stage.
(6) The oxalate of calcium is now decomposed in leaden vessels with
sulphuric acid. Sulphate of calcium is precipitated, and oxalic acid is in
solution, which is now evaporated, and the acid separates in crystals,
which now need only to be recrystallised to make them quite pure, and fit
the acid for all the purposes for which it is employed. _Prod._ By this
ingenious process 2 lbs. of sawdust are made to yield 1 lb. of oxalic
acid.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless, transparent, prismatic crystals, possessing a
powerful sour taste and acid reaction; these effloresce in warm dry air,
with loss of 28% (2 eq.) of water, and then form a white powder, which may
be sublimed in part, without decomposition; the crystals are soluble in 8
parts of water (9 parts, “and form a solution of sp. gr. 1·045,”——Ure) at
60° Fahr., in their own weight or less of boiling water, and in about 4
parts of alcohol; with the acids, it forms salts called oxalates.
_Tests._——1. Solution of chloride of barium occasions a white precipitate
in neutral solutions of oxalic acid (oxalates), which is soluble in both
nitric and hydrochloric acid.——2. Solution of nitrate of silver, under
like circumstances, gives a white precipitate, which is soluble in nitric
acid, and in ammonia, and which, when heated to redness, yields pure
silver.——3. Lime water and solutions of all the soluble salts of calcium
produce white precipitates, even in highly dilute solutions of oxalic acid
or of the oxalates, which is freely soluble in both nitric and
hydrochloric acid, but is nearly insoluble in either acetic or oxalic
acid, and is converted into carbonate of calcium upon ignition.——4. Oxalic
acid (or an oxalate), when heated, in the dry state, with oil of vitriol
in excess, is converted into carbonate anhydride and carbonic oxide; the
former produces a white precipitate with lime water, and the latter, when
kindled, burns with a faint blue flame. Of the above tests, solution of
sulphate of calcium (_vide_ No. 3) is the most delicate and
characteristic.——5. It is distinguished from Epsom salt by its acid
reaction, its solubility in rectified spirit, its complete dissipation by
heat, and by emitting a slight crackling noise during its solution in
water. See MAGNESIA (Sulphate).
_Uses, Pois., &c._ Oxalic acid is chiefly used in the arts of calico
printing and bleaching; to remove ink-spots and iron moulds from linen,
and to clean boot-tops. It is extremely poisonous. The treatment, in cases
of its having been swallowed, is to promote vomiting, and to administer
chalk, whiting, or magnesia, mixed up with water, in considerable
quantities. The use of the alkalies or their carbonates must be avoided,
as the compounds which these form with oxalic acid are nearly as poisonous
as the acid itself. The remaining treatment is noticed under ACIDS. In
poisoning by oxalic acid the nervous system is almost always affected, and
the patients experience numbness, formication of the extremities, and
sometimes convulsions, so that the symptoms somewhat approach those
produced by strychnia, from which it is distinguished by its corrosive
action on the tissues, and its effect upon the heart and circulatory
system.
_Concluding Remarks._ The manufacture of oxalic acid is an important one.
The process of Roberts, Dale, and Co. has so much cheapened the price of
oxalic acid, that in 1851 it sold for 16d. per lb., and in 1864 it only
cost from 8d. to 9d. per lb. More than half the amount of oxalic acid used
all over the world is now made from sawdust. In manufacturing the acid
from sugar, on the large scale, the first part of the process is either
conducted in salt-glazed stoneware pipkins of the capacity of 3 to 5
quarts each (which are about two thirds filled and set in a water bath),
or in wooden troughs lined with lead, and heated by means of a coil of
steam-pipe. On the small scale, a glass retort or capsule is commonly
employed. The most appropriate temperature appears to be about 125° Fahr.
and the best evidence of the satisfactory progress of the decomposition is
the free but not violent evolution of gas, without the appearance of dense
red fumes, or, at all events, any marked quantity of them. When these are
disengaged with violence and rapidity, a greater quantity of the newly
formed acid suffers decomposition, and flies off in a gaseous form. The
sp. gr. of the nitric acid commonly used on the large scale ranges from
1·22 to 1·27 equivalent quantities being taken. The evaporation is
preferably conducted by the heat of steam. The evolved nitrous vapours are
usually allowed to escape, but this loss may be in part avoided by
conveying them into a chamber filled with cold damp air, and containing a
little water, when they will absorb oxygen, and be recondensed into fuming
nitric acid. Various modifications of this plan have been patented. That
of Messrs McDougall and Rawson, which is one of the simplest and best,
consists in passing the mixed nitrous fumes through a series of vessels
containing water, and connected together by tubes, so that the fumes which
collect at the top of one vessel are conveyed to nearly the bottom of the
next one, and then, bubbling up through the water, mix with the air, a
supply of which is provided for the purpose. The nitrous fumes are thus
brought alternately into contact with air and water, and by the time they
reach the last vessel are reconverted into nitric acid. Another plan is to
pass the mixed nitrous vapours through a vessel stuffed with some porous
substance, as pumice-stone or pounded glass, conjointly with a supply of
steam from a boiler and a supply of oxygen by a blowing machine.
The product obtained by skilful manipulation are——from good dry sugar,
128%; from good treacle, 107%.——“One cwt. of good treacle will yield
about 116 lbs. of marketable oxalic acid, and the same weight of good
brown sugar may be calculated to produce about 140 lbs. of acid.” “As a
general rule, 5 cwt. of saltpetre, or an equivalent of nitrate of soda,
with 2-1/2 cwt. of sulphuric acid, will generate sufficient nitric acid to
decompose 1 cwt. of good sugar, and yield, as above, 140 lbs. of fair
marketable oxalic acid, free from superfluous moisture.” (Ure.) On the
small scale, 5 parts of sugar yield nearly 6 parts of crystallised acid.
Chemically pure oxalic acid is best prepared by precipitating a solution
of binoxalate of potassium with a solution of acetate of lead, washing the
precipitate with water, decomposing it, whilst still moist, with dilute
sulphuric acid or sulphuretted hydrogen, and gently evaporating the
filtrate so that crystals may form as it cools.
=OXALURIA.= Also known as the oxalic-acid diathesis; is an abnormal
condition of the system, marked by the presence in the urine of crystals
of oxalate of lime. The crystals occur as minute transparent octahedra,
and sometimes in the form of dumb-bells. They can be easily recognised
under a microscope with a power of from 200 to 250 diameters, when they
present a very beautiful appearance. They differ from phosphatic deposits
in being insoluble in acetic acid. Their presence is mostly indicated by
the appearance in the urine of a cloud of mucus, which forms after the
urine has stood some little time.
Oxaluria most generally affects persons of dyspeptic and sedentary habits
and of nervous temperament; those suffering from skin affections and
neuralgia are also occasionally attacked by it. In ordinary cases the
treatment consists in the administration of the nitro-hydrochloric acid,
in infusion of gentian two or three times a day, or of a course of quinine
and iron, aided by plenty of exercise in the open air, care being taken to
avoid fatigue. If it can be borne the shower bath should also be had
recourse to. Rhubarb tarts and tomatoes, which contain oxalic acid, must
be excluded from the diet; so also should aerated water and too much
sugar.
If after a short time the oxalates should not disappear from the urine
under this treatment, the patient should seek proper medical advice; since
the persistent presence of this deposit is of very serious significance,
as indicating the existence in the bladder of that dangerous form of
urinary concretion known as ‘mulberry calculus.’
=OXIDA′TION.= _Syn._ OXYDATION. The combination of bodies with oxygen,
forming oxides; the operation or process adopted to induce or facilitate
such conversion.
=OX′IDE.= _Syn._ OXYD; OXYDUM, L. A compound formed by the union of oxygen
with another body.
=OXYCHLO′′RIDE.= _Syn._ OXICHLORIDE; OXYCHLORIDUM, L. A term often
loosely applied to compounds of an oxide and chloride, whether in definite
or variable proportions. See ANTIMONY (Oxychloride), &c.
=OX′YCRATE.= _Syn._ OXYCRATUM, L. The old name of a mixture of vinegar and
water, dulcified with honey.
=OXYCRO′CEUM.= See PLASTERS.
=OX′YGEN.= O. _Syn._ OXYGEN GAS, DEPHLOGISTICATED AIR†, EMPYREAL A., VITAL
A.†; OXYGENIUM, L. An elementary body discovered by Scheele and Priestly
in 1774. It is remarkable that, although this substance forms a large
proportion of our atmosphere (nearly one fourth), and confers upon it the
power of supporting respiration and combustion, and also constitutes the
principal portion of the water of our rivers and seas (eight ninths), and
enters largely into the composition of the majority of the various mineral
bodies that form the bulk of our globe, its existence should have remained
unsuspected, or at least undetermined, until a comparatively recent date.
Oxygen is an essential constituent of all living organisms. It is absorbed
by animals during respiration, and evolved in a free state by growing
vegetables when exposed to sunlight. The oxygen gas of the atmosphere is
mechanically mixed, not chemically combined, with the nitrogen.
_Prep._ 1. From red oxide of mercury, heated over a spirit lamp or a few
pieces of ignited charcoal. The operation is usually performed in a small
green-glass retort, or in a short tube of hard Bohemian glass, closed with
a perforated cork furnished with a piece of bent glass tube of small bore,
to convey the liberated gas to the vessel arranged to receive it. Pure. 1
oz. yields about 100 cubic inches.
2. From chlorate of potassium, as the last. Pure. 100 gr. yield nearly 100
cubic inches (Brande; 115——Ure). This is the plan adopted in the P. Cod.
The decomposition occurs with both the above substances at a heat below
that of redness.
3. From a mixture of chlorate of potassium (in coarse powder), 3 parts;
powdered binoxide of manganese, 1 part; both by volume. Pure. 100 gr. of
the mixture yield about 110 cubic inches as oxygen. This method, which has
received the approval of Faraday, is exceedingly convenient. The gas is
evolved with a rapidity which is entirely at the command of the operator
by simply increasing or lessening the heat. The residuum in the retort may
be kept for another operation, if not exhausted; or it may be at once
washed out with a little warm water, and the manganese, which is uninjured
by the process, reserved for future use. Red lead, black oxide of copper,
red oxide of iron, and several other substances, answers nearly as well as
binoxide of manganese.
4. From a mixture of bichromate of potassium, 3 parts; oil of vitriol, 4
parts; gently heated, as before. Yields pure oxygen very freely, and with
a rapidity entirely at the will of the operator. (Balmain.)
5. From binoxide of manganese and oil of vitriol, equal parts; as the
last. 44 gr. of pure binoxide of manganese yield 8 gr., or 24 cubic
inches, of oxygen; 1 oz. yields 88 gr., or 256 cubic inches. (Liebig.)
6. (On the large scale.)——_a._ From nitre exposed to a dull red heat in an
iron retort, or gun-barrel. 1 lb. yields about 1200 cubic inches of gas,
contaminated, more or less, with nitrogen. (Ure.)
_b._ From binoxide of manganese, as the last. 1 oz. of the pure binoxide
yields 44 gr., or 128 cubic inches, of oxygen (Liebig); 1 lb. of good
commercial binoxide yields from 1500 to 1600 cubic inches, or from 5 to 6
galls.
_c._ M. Boussingault has reinvestigated a process, long known, although
not usefully applied, by which pure oxygen gas may be obtained from the
atmosphere at a trifling cost, so as to enable it to be collected in
unlimited quantities and preserved in gasometers, like coal-gas, for
application in the arts, manufactures, and sanitation. This process
depends upon a peculiar property possessed by the earth baryta, of
absorbing atmospheric oxygen at one temperature and evolving it at
another; or rather, the ready conversion of hydrate of barium into
peroxide of barium by a current of atmospheric air at a dull red heat, and
the decomposition of this peroxide, by steam, at a lower temperature, even
at 212° Fahr., with reproduction of hydrate of barium, the process being
in reality a continuous one. The baryta is mixed with a portion of hydrate
of calcium or of magnesium, and the mixture being placed in an appropriate
earthen tube heated to dull redness, is oxidised by passing a current of
dry atmospheric air over it. As soon as the oxidation is complete, the
tube is connected with the gas-holder, and a jet of steam allowed to act
upon it; this reconverts the peroxide of barium into hydrate of barium,
the excess of oxygen being given off and collected in the gas-holder. The
baryta is then again oxidised by a fresh current of air and deoxidized by
steam, and the whole process is repeated as frequently as required. One
ton of baryta, thus treated, is capable of yielding 2500 cubic feet of
pure oxygen every 24 hours; and this, as it does not waste or lose its
properties, at the mere cost of the fuel and labour required in the
process.
_d._ From ferrate of potassium, prepared on the large scale. When exposed
to moisture or thrown into water, pure oxygen is evolved. This method has
been successfully adopted to maintain the air of diving-bells, and of
other confined spaces, in a state fit for respiration.
_e._ The decomposition of sulphuric acid has been recommended by MM.
Deville and Debray as a means whereby large quantities of oxygen gas may
be obtained at a low price. Into a tubulated retort are put fragments of
fire brick, and upon these, when raised to a full red heat, sulphuric acid
is made to fall drop by drop, by passing through an iron tube, which
passes through and is luted to the tubulure. The tube reaches to the
bottom of the retort, and the acid is poured into it through a bent
funnel. The sulphuric acid becomes decomposed into sulphurous anhydride,
oxygen, and water. The volatilised products are sent through a spiral
condenser, by which the water and any undecomposed acid become liquefied;
whilst the sulphurous acid is removed by subsequent washing with water,
and oxygen is collected in the usual manner.
_f._ A process for obtaining oxygen on a large scale, and which has been
made the subject of a patent in this country, has been devised by MM.
Marechal and Tessié du Mothay. It consists in heating in a current of
steam the manganates, permanganates, chromates and ferrates of the
alkalies and alkaline earths, and regenerating the residue by passing air
over it at a red heat.
_g._ Mallet procures oxygen in large quantities as follows:——He puts into
retorts revolving on horizontal axes, a mixture of cuprous chloride, and
kaolin or sand. He moistens this with water, heats it to 100° C., and
passes air through the retorts for some hours. His oxygen he obtains from
heating the resulting cupric oxychloride to about 400° C.; the aqua
residual cuprous chloride becomes converted into oxychloride on cooling
100 kilograms of cuprous chloride, after conversion into oxychloride,
about 3 cubic mètres of oxygen.
7. OXYGEN GAS AT THE ORDINARY TEMPERATURE. Boettger states that when a
mixture is made of equal weights of the peroxides of lead and barium, and
dilute HNO_{3} of a strength of 9° Baumé is poured thereon, a current of
pure O, free from ozone and antozone, is given off abundantly. This
mixture of the two peroxides may be kept dry in a stoppered bottle for any
length of time. Boettger also prepares pure oxygen, free from ozone, by
submitting permanganate of potassium to a gentle heat.
8. Fleitman[80] has found that when chloride of lime in solution is heated
with a small quantity of freshly prepared peroxide of cobalt, it is
completely resolved into chloride of calcium and oxygen. A concentrated
solution consisting of 35 per cent. of chloride of lime, which must be
previously filtered to prevent frothing, yields when heated with 1/10th to
1 per cent. of peroxide of cobalt, a volume of oxygen from 25 to 30 times
as great as that of the liquid, and always rather more than the calculated
quantity, probably in consequence of the absorption of oxygen from the
air. The remaining peroxide may always be employed again. A like result
follows if, instead of the peroxide, an ordinary salt of cobalt in small
quantity be used. Fleitman seeks to explain the reaction on the
supposition that there are several peroxides of cobalt, and that the
effects produced depend upon the alternate formation and partial reduction
of a higher oxide; or on the formation of a cobaltic and a percobaltic
hypochlorite, which is subsequently decomposed into cobaltous chloride and
oxygen.
[Footnote 80: Watts.]
_Prop._ Oxygen gas is colourless, tasteless, inodorous, and incombustible;
the sp. gr. is 1·057 (Dumas; 1·1026——Berzelius & Dulong; 1·111——Thomson);
100 cubic inches at 60° Fahr., and 36 inches of the barometer, weigh 34·29
gr. (Dumas; 34·109 gr.——Berz.; 34·6 gr.——Brande; 33·85 gr.——Ure). Its
density to that of atmospheric air is, therefore, as about 11 to 10. It is
a powerful supporter of combustion, and its presence is essential to the
existence of both animal and vegetable life. It forms 21% (20·81%) by
volume, and 23% by weight, of the atmosphere. (M. Dumas.) Water dissolves
about 5 per cent. by volume of oxygen, and by pressure a much larger
quantity, forming oxygenated water (AQUA OXYGENII). Oxygen has recently
been liquified.
_Tests._ 1. It is distinguished from other gases by yielding nothing but
pure water when mixed with twice its volume of hydrogen and exploded, or
when a jet of hydrogen is burnt in it.——2. A recently extinguished taper,
with the wick still red hot, instantly inflames when plunged into this
gas.——3. A small spiral piece of iron wire ignited at the point, and
suddenly plunged into a jar of oxygen, burns with great brilliancy and
rapidity. Charcoal does the same.
_Estim._ The estimation of the quantity of oxygen in an organic compound
has already been described. For determining the quantity present in
atmospheric air, and other like gaseous mixtures, Dobereiner has proposed
the use of pyrogallic acid. The air under examination (freed from
moisture) is measured into an accurately graduated tube over mercury,
capable of holding about 30 cubic centimètres, and which it should 2/3rds
fill. A solution formed of 1 part of dry hydrate of potassium and 2 parts
of water, and in volume about 1/35th that of the air, is next introduced
by means of a pipette with a curved point, and is gently agitated
therewith in the gas for a short time; the decrease of volume gives the
proportion of carbonic anhydride present. A solution of pyrogallic acid (1
gramme in 5 or 6 centimètres of water), equal in volume to one half that
of the solution of potassa already used, is then introduced by means of
another pipette, and the mixed liquids are cautiously shaken together over
the inner surface of the tube. When absorption ceases (which it does in a
few minutes), the quantity of residual gas (nitrogen) is read off from the
graduations; the difference in volume before and after the introduction of
the pyrogallic acid indicates the proportion of oxygen. This is a mere
modification of Prof. Liebig’s method. 1 gramme of pyrogallic acid in
combination with hydrate of potassium is capable of absorbing about 189
cubic centimètres of oxygen. (Dobereiner.) Other methods employed for the
analysis of air, depending on the increase or loss of weight when the air
is passed over finely divided copper heated to redness, the loss of volume
when the air is exploded in a eudiometer with half its bulk of hydrogen,
or when a stick of phosphorus is left in it for some hours, are well
known, and described at length in every elementary work on chemical
analysis. The last method, although less accurate than the others, has the
advantage of extreme simplicity.
_Uses._ Oxygen has been employed to increase the illuminative and heating
power of lamps, and to render vitiated air respirable, &c.; and when
largely diluted with atmospheric air, or condensed in water, as a remedial
agent in asphyxia arising from the inhalation of carbonic acid and
carbonic oxide.
Dr Ringer says that if oxygen be administered as a gaseous bath for an
hour or two at a time, and the bath repeated six or eight times a day, it
is of great service in senile gangrene.
_Concluding Remarks._ Oxygen gas may be collected in the usual way, either
over water, mercury, or in bags; or, on the large scale, in gasometers.
The purity of the products of the several processes given above depends on
the substances from which the gas is obtained being themselves pure. For
particular experiments the first portion of gas should be allowed to
escape, or be received apart, as with this, as with the other gases, it is
contaminated with the atmospheric air of the apparatus. The gas procured
from manganese or nitre may be purified by passing it through milk of lime
or a solution of caustic potash; it will still, however, retain some
traces of nitrogen. M. Limousin[81] has devised an apparatus for the
preparation of oxygen by the attendants of hospitals, which obviates the
risk of bursting of the retorts, attending its preparation by the old
method. The apparatus consists of two cast-iron hemispheres, whose edges,
which are well polished and about two centimètres thick, can be fitted
hermetically upon each other, and fastened by three screws. The mixture of
chlorate of potash and peroxide of manganese is placed in the lower
hemisphere, which rests upon a tripod; the upper hemisphere, from which
projects an iron tube, is now screwed on, and the iron tube connected with
india-rubber and glass tubing with a Wolf’s wash-bottle, from which the
gas after being washed passes through a second glass tube, and is thus
ready for use. It may be conducted into an air-tight bag, in which it will
keep for several weeks. Such a bag when supplied with a tube and stop-cock
will afford a ready means for inhalations. Oxygen in a condensed or
compressed state is prepared by Mr Orchard, High Street, Kensington. See
ORGANIC SUBSTANCES, OZONE, GASES, LIQUEFACTION OF, &c.
[Footnote 81: ‘Pharm. Centralhalle,’ xiv, 318.]
=OXYGENA′TION.= _Syn._ The act or process of combining with oxygen.
Formerly it was of more general application than the word ‘oxidation,’
with which it has been regarded as synonymous. ‘Oxygenation’ is, however,
at the present day practically obsolete.
=OXYGENI′SED LARD.= _Syn._ OXYGENATED AXUNGE; AXUNGIA OXYGENATA, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. Bat. 1805.) From prepared lard, 16 parts, melted over a slow
fire, and then mixed with nitric acid, 1 part; the combination being
promoted by constant stirring with a glass rod, until it ceases to affect
litmus paper. It should be extremely white, and should be kept in the
dark. See OINTMENT OF NITRIC ACID.
=OXYHYDROGEN BLOWPIPE.= See BLOWPIPE. Deville and Debray (‘Ann. Ch. Phys.’
[3], lvi, 385) employ the oxyhydrogen blowpipe in the following manner for
effecting the fusion of platinum and the refractory metals which accompany
it. The apparatus consists of the blowpipe _C_ (see _below_), a furnace
_ABD_, and a crucible _GHI_. The blowpipe is composed of a copper tube
about half an inch in diameter, terminating below in a slightly conical
platinum jet about 1-1/2 inch long. Within this tube, which is supplied
with hydrogen or coal-gas through the stop-cock _H_, is a second copper
tube _C′_ for supplying oxygen, terminated also by a platinum nozzle with
an aperture of about a twelfth of an inch in diameter.
[Illustration]
The furnace _ABD_ consists of three pieces of well-burnt lime of slightly
hydraulic quality, which may be turned at a lathe with ease. The cylinder
_A_ is about 2-1/2 inches thick, and is perforated by a slightly conical
hole into which the blowpipe fits accurately, passing about half-way
through the thickness of the mass. A second somewhat deeper cylinder of
lime, _B_, is hollowed into a chamber wide enough to admit the crucible,
and leave an interval of not more than a sixth of an inch clear around it.
_KK_ are four apertures for the escape of the products of combustion.
The outer crucible _HH_ is also made of lime, but it contains a smaller
crucible _I_ of gas coke, provided with a cover of the same material; and
in this the substance to be used is placed, the crucible resting on the
lime support _D′_. The conical cover _G_ is made of lime, and its apex
should be placed exactly under the blowpipe jet, at a distance from it of
3/4 to 1-1/2 inch.
The different pieces of the furnace must be bound round with iron wire to
support them when they crack. The oxygen is admitted under a pressure of a
column of 16 inches of water. The temperature is gradually raised to the
maximum, and in about eight minutes from this time the operation is
complete.
[Illustration]
By employing a jet of mixed coal-gas and oxygen (_EQ_, see _engr._) in a
furnace of lime, Deville and Debray succeeded, at an expense of about 43
cubic feet of oxygen, in melting and refining, in 42 minutes, 25·4 lbs.
avoirdupois of platinum, and casting it into an ingot in a mould of gas
coke; and much larger masses have since been melted by this method. Lime
is so bad a conductor of heat that if a cup of lime not more than 0·8 inch
thick be filled with melted platinum the exterior scarcely rises beyond
300° Fahr. (Miller’s ‘Elements of Chemistry,’ 3rd. ed., pt. ii, p. 825.)
=OX′YMEL.= _Syn._ OXYMEL, L. An acidulous syrup made of honey and vinegar.
There are only two oxymels in the last Ph. L. The ingredients in an oxymel
should be of such a character, and in such proportions, as to produce a
mixture of the proper consistence without evaporation.
=Oxymel of Col′chicum.= _Syn._ OXYMEL COLCHICI CORMI, OXYMEL COLCHICI, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. D. 1826.) Fresh corms (roots) of meadow saffron, 1 oz.;
distilled vinegar, 1 pint (wine measure); macerate for 2 days, press out
the liquor, filter, add of clarified honey, 2 lbs., and boil down the
mixture to the consistence of a syrup, frequently stirring.——_Dose_, 1 to
3 dr., twice or thrice a day; in gout, rheumatism, dropsy, &c.
=Oxymel of Gar′lic.= _Syn._ OXYMEL ALII, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746.) Sliced
garlic, 1-1/2 oz.; caraway seed and sweet fennel seed, of each 2 dr.;
boiling vinegar, 8 fl. oz.; infuse, strain, and add of clarified honey, 10
oz. In hooping-cough, chronic diarrhœa, rheumatism, &c.
=Oxymel of Narcissus.= (Van Mons.) _Syn._ OXYMEL NARCISSI. _Prep._ Vinegar
of Narcissus (made with 1 part of fresh flowers of daffodil to 8 of
vinegar), 1 part; honey, 4 parts. Dissolve.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful. In
hooping-cough and spasmodic asthma.
=Oxymel, Pec′toral.= _Syn._ OXYMEL PECTORALE, O. INULÆ COMPOSITUM, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. Br.) Elecampane, 1 oz.; orris root, 1/2 oz.; water, 1-1/2
pint; boil to 1/2 pint, strain, add of honey, 16 oz.; ammoniacum, 1 oz.;
(dissolved in) vinegar, 3 fl. oz.; lastly, boil to an oxymel.——_Dose_, 1
spoonful, occasionally; in coughs, humid asthma, &c.
=Oxymel, Sim′ple.= _Syn._ VINEGAR SYRUP, ACETATED HONEY; OXYMEL (Ph. L. &
D.), OXYMEL SIMPLEX, MEL ACETATUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Acetic acid (sp.
gr. 1·048) 7 fl. oz.; distilled water, 8 fl. oz.; mix, and add them to
honey, 5 lbs., previously made hot. This contains only one half the acid
ordered in the Ph. L. 1836.
2. (Ph. D.) Clarified honey, 1 lb.; acetic acid (sp. gr. 1·044), 3 oz.; as
before. Stronger than the last.
3. (Ph. L. 1836.) Honey, 10 lbs.; acetic acid (1·048), 1-1/2 pint; as
before. This contains too much vinegar. (See No. 1.)
4. (Wholesale.) From honey (thick and good), 12 lbs.; melt it by a gentle
heat, add of distilled vinegar (of fully 5%), 2 quarts, and strain the
mixture through flannel. No evaporation is required.
_Uses, &c._ Demulcent and refrigerant.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr., either
gradually sucked from the spoon or dissolved through some simple liquid.
Dissolved in water, it forms a useful and pleasant cooling drink or gargle
in fevers, sore throats, hoarseness, &c.; but in some individuals it
occasions griping. It is commonly used as an adjunct, in mixtures, &c.
=Oxymel of Squills.= _Syn._ HONEY OF SQUILLS; OXYMEL SCILLÆ (B. P.), MEL
SCILLÆ (Ph. L.), O. SCILLITICUM (L.) _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Mix and evaporate
on a water bath vinegar of squills, 1 pint, and clarified honey, 2 lbs.,
till the product when cold has a specific gravity of 1·32.
2. Vinegar of squills, 2-1/2 pints; gently evaporate it to 12 fl. oz., and
add of honey (previously made hot), 5 lbs.
3. (Ph. L. 1836.) Strained honey, 3 lbs.; vinegar of squills, 1-1/2 pint;
boil to a proper consistence. The formula of the Ph. D. 1826 was similar.
_Uses, &c._ Expectorant, and in large doses nauseant.——_Dose_, 1/2 to fl.
2 dr.; in chronic coughs, hoarseness, humeral asthma, &c.
=Oxymel of Ver′digris.= See LINIMENT OF VERDIGRIS.
=OXYR′RHODYNE.= _Syn._ OXYRRHODINON. An old compound formed of 1 part of
vinegar of roses and 2 parts of oil of roses.
=OXYSAC′CHARUM.= A syrup acidulated with vinegar. See SYRUP.
=OXYSUL′PHIDE.= A name given to certain compounds or mixtures of metallic
oxides and sulphides. See ANTIMONY, OXYSULPHIDE, &c.
=OYS′TER.= _Syn._ OSTREA, L. This well-known shell-fish is the _Ostrea
edulis_ (Linn.)
“The oyster is a genus of lamellibranchiate molluscs of the section with a
single adductor muscle. The shell consists of two unequal and somewhat
irregularly-shaped valves of laminated and closely foliated structure, and
the hinge is without tooth or ridge, the valves being held together by a
ligament lodged in a little cavity in each. The animal is in its
organisation among the lowest and simplest of lamellibranchiate molluscs.
It has no foot, and, except when very young, no power of locomotion, or
organ of any kind adapted to that purpose. Its food consists of
animalcules, and also of minute vegetable particles, brought to it by the
water, a continual current of which is directed towards the mouth by the
action of the gills. The gills are seen in four rows when the valves of
the shell are separated, a little within the fringed edge of the mantle.
In the most central part is the adductor muscle; and between the adductor
muscle and the liver is the heart, which may be recognised by the brown
colour of its auricle. The mouth——for, as in the other lamellibranchiata,
there is no head——is situated beneath a kind of hood formed by the union
of the two edges of the mantle near the hinge. It is jawless and
toothless. The ovaries are very large during the season of reproduction,
which extends over certain months when oysters are out of season for the
table. Oysters are hermaphrodite.”[82]
[Footnote 82: Chambers’ ‘Encyclopædia.’]
The fecundity of the oyster is amazing. Leeuwenhoek estimated that an
oyster, when full of spawn, contained from 3000 to 4000 of its offspring,
and it has also been computed that one oyster alone produces nearly a
million and a quarter of eggs. The eggs are hatched and the young produced
within the shell and mantle of the parent, where they continue floating or
swimming about in the vicinity of the gills in a creamy-looking kind of
mucus or fluid until expelled. Their expulsion is preceded by a change of
appearance in the fluid to a brownish or muddy colour; a circumstance that
may possibly indicate an alteration of composition in the liquid
unfavorable to the infant oyster, and thus lead to its departure. Their
departure or expulsion from all the parent molluscs of the oyster-bank or
bed takes place at the same time.
When they leave the parent shell the young oysters, which in this
condition are called _spat_, are not more than 1/120th of an inch in
length; and two millions of them when closely packed do not occupy a space
of more than a cubic inch. Thus cast adrift they are carried away by
currents, their multitudinous numbers being considerably diminished by
their falling a prey to numerous fish, as well as from their frequent
inability to find a suitable resting-place. This obtained, the young
oyster or spat attaches itself to it, and makes it the permanent home on
which it eats, grows, and breeds, and, debarred of locomotion, passes its
existence unless, of course, removed by external causes. Pending its
obtaining a suitable locality the young oyster is provided with a powerful
swimming apparatus which, it has been surmised, becomes absorbed or
otherwise disappears when its function is rendered unnecessary by the
stationary life of the oyster after it has secured a habitat.
The objects to which it attaches itself are numerous. The _Ostrea
parasitica_, a species of oyster found in warm climates, fixes itself to
the roots and branches of trees growing within reach of and washed by the
tide. Again, in some of the southern states of North America, large
oyster-beds, which are sometimes of such magnitude as to form buttresses
against the force of the tides and winds, originate from the habit of
young oysters attaching themselves to the shells of old ones. Similarly
the banks of some of the rivers of Georgia, which run up some few miles
inland from the sea, are composed of masses of living oysters attached to
each other. These banks, which are so massive as to make a channel for the
river, are known as _racoon banks_, because this animal is one amongst
others which frequents them for the sake of devouring the oysters.... In
some of the French _parcs_, or artificial oyster-beds, the young oysters
attach themselves to large unglazed tiles, or to faggots or other solid
bodies which are placed in suitable situations for the purpose; in the
English artificial beds hurdles are frequently employed, upon which the
spat become deposited. It appears the young oysters select dark objects,
such as slate or black stones, in preference to bodies of a lighter colour
to fix themselves to, and that they choose, where practicable, the inner
side of the object, or that portion of it away from the light. After a
time the young oysters are removed from the breeding beds, placed in the
fattening beds, from whence they are removed when they have attained a
sufficient size, and sent upon the market. In England oysters are not
regarded as fit to be eaten until they are at least three years old;
whereas in France they are served up to table about a year earlier. The
chief enemy of the young oyster is a species of whelk, known in France as
the _bigourneau_, _dog whelk_, or _piercer_. These creatures, which are
found in immense quantities in the celebrated oyster-beds at Arcachon,
near Bordeaux, cause great destruction amongst the bivalves. Part of their
anatomy consists of a boring apparatus, with which they pierce the shell
of the oyster; whatever of the dead oyster is left by the whelk is
devoured by the crabs, which creep into the aperture in the shell made by
the former.
We have already alluded to the abundance of oysters in parts of Georgia,
where, we may add, they are not only confined to the alluvial shores of
the rivers, but are also found in large numbers amongst the long grass of
the adjoining low lands.
In these districts it is by no means an uncommon practice for the
inhabitants to improvise a meal by picking up a bunch of oysters and
roasting them over a fire kindled on the spot. In many of these localities
the oysters occur in quantities so immense that a vessel of 100 tons might
be loaded within three times her own length.[83]
[Footnote 83: Chambers’ ‘Encyclopædia.’]
There are also many other parts of America in which the yield of the
oyster-beds is enormous. In the State of Maryland 6000 persons are said to
be employed dredging, and nearly 11,000,000 bushels of oysters were taken
in 1870-71.
In Baltimore as many as 10,000 persons are employed in tinning this
bivalve. Comparing the plenteousness of the oyster in America with its
great scarcity of late years in our country, and the consequent much lower
price of the foreign bivalve, we should be prepared to learn that
considerable supplies of oysters, both alive and preserved in tins, come
to us from America. The bulk of those consumed in Britain are a small
variety, and come from Maryland and Virginia.
In 1872, owing to the diminished yield of the English oyster-beds, an
attempt was made to introduce the American oyster into British waters; and
we believe the depôt for this purpose still exists at Cleesethorpes, at
the mouth of the Humber, where operations in this branch of oyster culture
are being carried on by the Conway Company. If, however, the opinion of an
eminent pisciculturist be correct, viz. that the American oyster will not
breed in our waters, we should conceive the experiment will be abandoned,
since nothing will be gained by relaying them, that cannot be attained by
simply importing them and sending them to the market, since it is asserted
they are kept alive out of water for a month.
A few years back a Select Committee appointed by Parliament to inquire
into the causes of the scarcity of oysters issued in 1876 a report in
which, endorsing the opinion of previous authorities on oyster culture,
they attributed the diminished yield of our oyster-beds to continual
over-dredging for them in open waters, without allowing sufficient ‘close
time.’ The Committee found that, in France, where the stringent
observances of the ‘close season’ was enforced, the supply of oysters had
increased concurrently. The Committee, therefore, recommended the
establishment ‘of a general close time,’ extending from May 1st to
September 1st, subject to certain exceptions under the supervision of the
Board of Trade; the levying of penalties for buying or selling oysters for
consumption during the ‘close season’ being also recommended. The
Committee further recommended that no oysters should be sold from the
deep-sea fisheries under 2-1/2 or 3 inches in diameter. Commenting upon
the above report, ‘Nature’ very sensibly remarks:——“What is really wanted
for the protection of the oyster is the assurance that these animals shall
not be sold before they have a chance of reproducing their kind. Since the
introduction of the railway system, the demand for oysters in distant
places has become so great and the price has risen so high, that oyster
culturists are tempted to send immature animals to market, and it is this
fact, more than any failure of spat, that is leading to the scarcity.
There are not, in consequence of the unceasing demand and consequent high
price, so many full-grown oysters left to spat as there ought to be; hence
the scarcity. Any Act of Parliament that decrees two oysters to grow where
only one grew before will be greedily welcomed both by oyster culturists
and by the public, and we hope that the issue of the present Report will
lead to some effective measures being taken for the preservation of this
delicious creature ere it be too late.” Previous to 1846 the wholesale
price of best English natives was £2 2s. a bushel; since then the price
has risen rapidly to £4 4s. in 1865, in 1866 to £5, and in 1869 it had
advanced to £8; that is, they had risen nearly 300 per cent. in 8 years,
which is equivalent to an advance of from 1/2d. to 2d. each. At the
present time they are, we believe, sold at from 3s. to 3s. 6d. a dozen by
the retail dealer.
Oysters are nutritious and easy of digestion when fresh, but are apt to
prove laxative to those unaccustomed to their use. It is generally
believed that they are in season each month of the year the name of which
contains the letter R. Whitstable in Kent, and Colchester and other places
in Essex, are the great nurseries or feeding-grounds for supplying the
metropolis, and, indeed, the whole of England, with the most esteemed
variety (NATIVES) of this shell-fish. The shells (TESTÆ PREPARATÆ, T.
OSTREARIÆ) were formerly used in medicine as an absorbent.
Of the various species of oysters, that which holds the foremost place in
the estimation of the _gourmet_ is the ‘English native,’ now, alas! owing
to the unwise rapacity of the collector, nearly dredged out of existence.
The native has a historic reputation too, since it appears it was eagerly
sought after by the old Romans, and was a frequent dish at their tables.
The enthusiasm of the celebrated Dr Kitchener for this particular oyster
was very intense. He is very particular in directing its shell to be
opened with the greatest care so that it may be eaten alive and “_tickled
to death by the teeth_.”
The green oyster of Ostend is also prized by epicures; it acquires its
colour from its food, which consists chiefly of green monads and
confervaæ. Some of the American oysters are excellent in flavour, and are
said to be without the copper taste occasionally to be met with in English
oysters. They smack a little of the mussel.
Payen gives the following as the composition of the oyster:——
Mean of two
Analyses.
Nitrogenous matter 14·010
Fatty matter 1·515
Saline matter 2·695
Non-nitrogenous matter and loss 1·395
Water 80·385
——————
100·00
See SHELL FISH, SAUCES, &c.
=Oyster, Scalloped.= Put them with crums of bread, pepper, salt, nutmeg,
and a bit of butter, into scallop shells or saucers, and bake them before
the fire in a Dutch oven.
=Oysters, Fried= (to garnish boiled fish). Make a batter of flour, milk
and eggs, add a little seasoning to it; dip the oysters into it, and fry
them a fine yellow brown. A little nutmeg should be put into the
seasoning, and a few crumbs of bread into the flour.
=Oysters, Stewed.= Open them, and separate the liquor from them, then free
them from grit by washing, strain the liquor, and add it to the oysters
with a small piece of mace and lemon peel, and a few white peppercorns.
Simmer very gently, and add some cream and a little flour and butter. Let
them be served with sippets.
=Oysters, To Feed.= Pat them into water, and wash them with a birch broom
till quite clean. Then place them bottom downwards in an earthenware pan;
sprinkle them with flour, oatmeal, and salt, and then cover with water.
Repeat this treatment every day, taking care to make the water pretty
salt.
=OZOKERIT.= _Syn._ FOSSIL WAX, MINERAL WAX. This substance, which has
within the last few years been utilised as a source of paraffin and the
mineral hydrocarbon oils, is found in various localities in the tertiary
strata, mostly occurring in, or in close proximity to, the coal measures.
But although extensive deposits of it are to be met with in Gallicia and
on the slopes of the Carpathian mountains, it is by no means an abundant
body. In the Austrian empire there are many large manufactories for its
conversion into paraffin and the mineral oils. In our country there is we
believe only one, that of Messrs Field. Ozokerit is usually met with as a
brown and compact substance, occasionally yellow; however, it is sometimes
black. It melts at a temperature varying from 60° to 80° C.
NEFT-GIL is a substance very similar to ozokerit, and is formed on the
island of Swätoi-Ostrow in the Caspian Sea. According to Rossmässler,
neft-gil is treated in the following manner:——15 cwt. of the crude
material is put into iron stills provided with a leaden worm, and
submitted to fractional distillation, yielding 68 per cent. of distillate,
consisting of 8 per cent. of oil, and 60 per cent. of crude paraffin. The
oil thus obtained is yellow, opalescent, possesses an ethereal odour, and
a sp. gr. of 0·75 to 0·81. Each distillation yields a quantity of a light
oil boiling below 100° C., which is used for the purpose of purifying the
paraffin. The crude paraffin obtained by the first distillation is
tolerably pure, has a yellow colour, and can at once be treated by the
hydraulic press and centrifugal machine; the oil from these operations is
again submitted to fractional distillation in order to obtain more
paraffin. The pressed paraffin is melted and treated at 170° to 180° C.
with sulphuric acid, which is next neutralised by means of lime, and the
paraffin again rapidly distilled, then again submitted to strong pressure,
and the material obtained treated with 25 per cent. of the light oil; then
again melted, again pressed, and finally treated with steam for the
purpose of eliminating the last trace of essential oil. The material
obtained by this treatment is a perfectly pure, colourless material, free
from smell, transparent, and so hard as to exhibit in large blocks almost
a metallic sound. The fusing point is 63° C.
=OZONE= (Greek, όζωh, I smell) is a peculiar variety of oxygen,
characterised by its greater weight, its peculiar chlorous smell, its
intensely active oxidising powers, and, finally, by the ease with which it
passes into common oxygen. The history of ozone may be summed up as
follows:——In 1785 Van Marum observed the production of a peculiar smell
when electric sparks were passed through oxygen. This smell, which every
one who has worked with an electric machine must have noticed, Van Marum
regarded as the “smell of electricity,” thinking that electricity was a
substance. In 1840 Schönbein, of Basle, proved the existence of a definite
substance, to which he assigned the name of ozone, and discovered several
modes of producing it, a delicate test for it, and several of its most
striking properties. He subsequently added many new facts, but to the time
of his death he never held a correct theory in regard to its nature. Later
researches by Marignac and Dedalline, Becquerel and Fremy, Andrews and
Tait, Soret, Brodie, and others, have established the true nature of this
remarkable body. It is now generally admitted that it only differs from
common oxygen in containing three atoms of oxygen in each molecule instead
of two. In fact, as the formula for oxygen is O_{2}, that of ozone is
O_{3}. It follows that ozone is half as heavy again as oxygen, and it has
accordingly been demonstrated that its specific gravity is 24 (H = 1),
that of oxygen being 16. All the known reactions of ozone are easily
explained in accordance with this view.
Ozone may be generated in several ways. 1. By the action of electricity on
oxygen or air, sparks are far less efficacious than the silent or ‘slow’
discharge; but the best apparatus is the induction-tube of Siemens. This
consists of two tubes, one inside the other. The inner side of the inner
and the outer side of the outer tube are coated with tinfoil, and these
coatings are connected with the terminals of a powerful induction-coil.
Dry air or oxygen streams between the tubes and passes out, strongly
charged with ozone.
2. M. Boillot has proposed a modification of Siemens’ apparatus, which
consists of two glass tubes, one fitting within the other, and each coated
externally with powdered coke made to adhere by means of gelatin. The
coatings of the two tubes are connected with the poles of an induction
coil, and a stream of oxygen is made to pass between the tubes, and
becomes thus exposed to the influence of the silent discharge, as in
Siemens’ contrivance.
3. Hozeau has invented an apparatus which he calls an ‘ozoniser,’ by means
of which ozone is produced in considerable quantities. In an ordinary
straight gas-delivery tube is placed a wire of copper, lead, or, better,
platinum, 4 to 6 décimètres long, with one of its extremities passing
through the side of the upper portion of the tube. On the exterior of the
tube is coiled a similar wire over the path of the preceding. When the two
are placed in communication with a Ruhmkorff’s coil, giving a 2 or 3
centimètre spark, a slow stream of oxygen passing through the tube will be
strongly charged with ozone. By this apparatus Hozeau has prepared oxygen
containing 60 to 120 (once 188) milligrams of ozone per litre.
Electrolysis of water furnished only 3 to 5 milligrams, barium peroxide
and sulphuric acid 10 milligrams per litre.[84]
[Footnote 84: ‘Comptes Rendus’ (‘Watt’s Dictionary,’ second supplement),
lxx, 1286.]
4. During certain processes of oxidation a piece of phosphorus, half
covered with water in a bottle of air, absorbs a portion of the oxygen,
while another portion becomes partially ozonised.
5. By plunging a clean glass rod heated to about 260° C. into a jar
containing a few drops of ether.
6. By mixing very gradually 3 parts of strong sulphuric acid and 2 of
permanganate of potash.
7. It has been shown that ozone is formed in small quantity during the
burning of hydrogen at a jet, and in several analogous reactions.
8. During the liberation of oxygen at low temperatures, when barium
dioxide is moistened with sulphuric acid, the odour of ozone is at once
apparent, and the evolution proceeds for a considerable time.
9. In the electrolysis of water the oxygen evolved consists partly of
ozone, especially if the poles are small.
10. Linder has suggested an easy method for the production of ozone for
hygienic purposes, which is as follows:——Make a mixture of manganese
peroxide, potassium permanganate, and oxalic acid. Two spoonfuls of this
powder, if placed on a dish and gradually mixed with water, will generate
ozone sufficient for a room of medium size; more water is added in small
portions from time to time as the evolution ceases; the powder may be kept
in a bottle ready for use.
Ozone has never been isolated. By the use of Siemens’ apparatus, oxygen
containing, as a maximum, twenty volumes per cent. of ozone may be
obtained. This represents a contraction of about 1-11th during formation.
But it is at present impossible to separate the one from the other. Ozone
is entirely converted into oxygen by a temperature of 270° C. The
conversion is effected more slowly at lower temperatures. Silver, iron,
copper, when moistened, are oxidised on the surface immediately at
ordinary temperatures by ozone.
Silver even becomes converted into a peroxide, although it will not
combine with ordinary oxygen, either when moist or dry. Little or no
absorption of ozone takes place when the metals are perfectly dry, except
with dry mercury and dry iodine, both of which remove it immediately. It
was conclusively shown by Andrews and Tait that little or no contraction
followed the absorption of ozone by these or any other agents. Hence, as
suggested by these observers, it seems probable that the ozone is resolved
into a quantity of ordinary oxygen equal in bulk to itself, which is
liberated at the moment when another portion of its oxygen enters into
combination with the metal or the iodine.
Ozonised air becomes deozonised when passed over cold manganese dioxide,
silver dioxide, or lead dioxide. When ozone is mixed with peroxide of
hydrogen, water and oxygen are formed. In these cases the ozone is
converted into ordinary oxygen, and the peroxides into monoxides.
=Antozone=, which Schönbein surmised to be oxygen in an oppositely
electrified condition to ozone, has been shown with great probability by
Van Babo to be peroxide of hydrogen.
From the ease with which it gives up its third atom of oxygen, ozone has
been proposed when mixed with air, as a means of decolorising wax,
stearin, and other organic substances which cannot be subjected to the
fumes of sulphurous acid or chlorine, or at any rate only partially so.
Ozone does not appear, however, to have been much, if at all adopted, for
bleaching the above products, which are still, we believe, mostly whitened
by the old method of exposure to the air.
Being one of the most energetic oxidising agents known, it is not
surprising that the claims of ozone as a disinfectant should have found
many supporters. One of its strongest advocates for this purpose is Dr
Cornelius Fox, who says,——“Ozone should be diffused through fever-wards,
sick rooms, the crowded localities of the poor, or wherever the active
power of the air is reduced and poisons are generated. Its employment is
especially demanded in our hospitals, situated as they mostly are in
densely populated districts, where the atmosphere is almost always
polluted by rebreathed air, decomposing substances and their products, and
where no mere ventilation can be fully effective. If practicable, it would
be highly advantageous to direct streams of sea-air, or air artificially
ozonised into the fever and cholera nests of our towns. Ozone may be
easily disseminated through public buildings, theatres, and other confined
atmospheres, where numbers of people are accustomed to assemble in order
to maintain the purity of the air.”
Another ardent believer in the hygienic value of ozone is Linder, who is
also a strong advocate for its medical application, and recommends it both
in the form of ozonised air and water in tuberculosis, rheumatism, asthma,
and many other diseases. Linder, it is said, has set up an ozone
manufactory, and vends ozone inhalations by the cubic foot.
To the contention of those who assert that it is impossible to convey such
an unstable body as ozone into the blood without the ozone becoming
decomposed into ordinary oxygen, this instability is denied upon the
authority of Lehone and Hozeau, who state that it is less liable to change
than is generally supposed, for they found, after working with it, that
its peculiar odour remained on their hands and garments for some time.
These views, largely shared by many others, as to the beneficial effects
of ozone have, however, not been allowed to pass unchallenged. M. P.
Thénard considered it important that both the public and medical men
should be apprised of the erroneous character of the opinions generally
entertained respecting the action of ozone on the organism. Ozone, he
says, so far from exerting a beneficial effect, is one of the most
energetic of poisons; and the serious accidents which have occurred in his
own laboratory do not leave the slightest room for doubt in the matter.
Writing to the ‘Comptes Rendus,’[85] M. P. Thénard narrates the case of a
guinea-pig, in which the beats of the pulse, normally 148 per minute, fell
to 1/30th after the exposure of the animal for a quarter of an hour to an
atmosphere charged with ozone. He states that under the influence of
ozone, even when very largely diluted, the blood-corpuscles rapidly cohere
and change their form. Other instances are recorded in which the blood,
contrary to anticipation, has been found in the venous condition.
[Footnote 85: Lxxxii p. 1857.]
Drs Dewar and M’Kendrick found that ozone acted as a very powerful
irritant upon the mucous membranes. Further, an experiment was made by
placing some small birds in a mixture of oxygen and ozone, containing 10
per cent. of the latter. In two minutes the birds were dead.
Ozone is frequently present in the atmosphere, formed by electricity and
perhaps by other means. Payen states that it does not amount to more than
1/450,000th weight, and 1/70000 by volume of atmospheric air. Other
observers state that it varies in amount, according to height, locality,
temperature, electricity, &c. Dr Buchanan says it is more abundant “on the
sea-coast than inland, in the west than in the east of Great Britain, in
elevated than in low situations, with south-west than with north-east
winds, in the country than in towns, and on the windward than on the
leeward side of towns.” According to the Scottish Meteorological Society,
ozone is most prevalent in the atmosphere from February to June, when the
average amount is 6, and lasts from July to January, when the average is
5·7. The maximum 6·2 is reached in May, and the minimum 5·3 in November.
These results are said to be in accordance with the conclusions arrived at
by Dr Berigny and M. Hozeau.
Although there appears no ground for doubting that artificially prepared
ozone, by reason of its actively disinfectant properties, may prove a
valuable auxiliary in checking the spread of certain diseases; it seems
far from satisfactorily established that the same quality is possessed by
the ozone in the atmosphere, or on the contrary, as has been asserted,
that certain ailments are caused by it. During an outbreak of influenza at
Berlin, Schönbein states that the air contained a large quantity of ozone;
a circumstance confirmed by Dr Pietra-Santa during the prevalence in
another locality of the same epidemic, which it was imagined might be
caused by the irritating effect of the ozone on the organs of respiration.
Billard, Wolf, Bœckel, and Strambis all state that, during the prevalence
of cholera at Strasbourg, Berlin, and Milan ozone was absent from the
atmosphere, and that the decline of the malady was marked by its
reappearance. Uhle ascribes the accumulation of malaria at night to the
non-formation of ozone by solar heat.
The above facts have, however, been disputed by some observers, whilst
others have refused to regard them as anything more than coincidences, and
have indeed cited evidence of a totally opposite character; thus Grellois
has stated that he found more ozone in a marsh than elsewhere.
Mr Kingzett has shown the incorrectness of Schönbein’s statement that,
when oil of turpentine and other essential oils are oxidised by exposure
to the air, ozone is formed. Schönbein was misled because from the
oxidised oil and the air in its vicinity he obtained the ozone reaction
with potassium iodide.
Mr Kingzett has demonstrated that the compound can be neither ozone nor
hydrogen dioxide, because it is destroyed at the boiling point of oil of
turpentine, viz. 160°, at which temperature ozone and hydrogen dioxide are
permanent; besides which it resists to a certain extent the action of
sodium thiosulphate, and its solution in water retains its properties
after long-continued boiling. Mr Kingzett believes the active properties
of the oxidised turpentine oil are due to the formation of monohydrated
terpene oxide (C_{10}H_{16}O.H_{2}O).
One of the most delicate tests for ozone is potassium iodide, either alone
or mixed with starch. A brown colour in the former case, a blue in the
latter, indicates the liberation of iodine. In the ozometer, strips of
paper saturated with starch and potassium iodide are exposed to the action
of a definite volume of air in a dark chamber. The comparative quantities
of ozone in different samples of air are judged of by the intensity of the
colour compared with a fixed scale on which 1 is the lightest and 10
generally the darkest shade. See OZONOMETER.
Ozone acts as a reducing agent in certain curious cases. Thus, hydrogen
peroxide and ozone reduce one another, water and oxygen being the sole
products; and some substances, such as platinum black and manganese
peroxide, convert it into oxygen without suffering change themselves,
being probably oxidised and reduced alternately.
=OZONOM′ETER.= This name has been given to paper prepared with a mixed
solution of starch and iodide of potassium. It is white, but is turned
blue by ozonised air when exposed to it in a slightly moistened state.
The following are the proportions given by Schönbein for the preparation
of the paper:——1 part of _pure_ iodide of potassium, 10 parts of starch
and 200 of water. Lowe gives 1 part of iodide to 5 of starch; Moffatt, 1
to 2-1/2. The best arrowroot must be used for the starch. It must be
dissolved in warm water and filtered, so that a clear solution is
obtained.
The iodide is dissolved in another portion of water, and gradually added.
The paper, cut in slips and previously soaked in distilled water, is
placed in the mixed iodide and starch for several hours; and lastly,
slowly dried in a cool dark place, the slips being hung horizontally.
Schönbein’s papers require moistening with water after exposure before the
trial is taken.
Payen’s ozonometer, which is an improvement on the above, is made of red
litmus paper with half its surface impregnated with a 1% solution of
potassium iodide. The portion of the paper becomes blue by contact with
air containing ozone, in consequence of oxidation and the formation of
potash. The unimpregnated portion of the paper undergoes no change unless
the air contains ammoniacal vapours, and then the paper becomes blue over
its entire surface.
M. Davy states that he has obtained very satisfactory results in the
estimation of ozone in the atmosphere, by employing a mixture of iodide of
potassium and arsenite of potassium.
The value of the ozonometer as an indicator of atmospheric ozone must be
looked upon as uncertain, when it is borne in mind that there are other
bodies besides ozone frequently present in the air, such as nitrous acid,
chlorine, &c., which give similar reactions with the above reagents.
=PACK′FONG.= _Syn._ PAKFONG, CHINESE WHITE COPPER. An alloy formed by
fusing together, in a covered crucible, arsenic, 2 parts, and copper
clippings, 4-1/2 to 5 parts, arranged in alternate layers, and covered
with a capping of common salt. The product contains about 10% of arsenic.
_Prop., &c._ White, slightly ductile, and permanent at ordinary
temperatures; at a temperature below that of redness it suffers
decomposition, with the extrication of fumes of arsenious acid. Formerly
much used for the scales of thermometers and other instruments, dial
plates, candlesticks, &c. It is now almost superseded by the alloy of
nickel and copper called German silver, to which the name is also applied
by some recent writers.
=PACK′ING.= As there is considerable art in packing brittle hollow-ware,
as glass, china, &c., in such a way that it will stand exposure to the
jolting, blows, and agitation of land carriage, it is better, when it is
of much value, or in quantity, to employ a person qualified for the job. A
man accustomed to packing such articles may be readily procured at any
glassworks or china warehouse for a trifling consideration. When this
cannot be done, it must be recollected that the great secret of safe
packing consists in the articles being carefully preserved from undue
pressure or contact with each other, yet so firmly arranged, and so
surrounded with some material as hay, straw, sawdust, &c., that they
cannot be shaken into such a condition by the ordinary contingencies of
transport. Loose packing must always be avoided.
=PAD′DING.= Among calico printers this term is applied to the operation of
impregnating the pores of their cloth with a mordant. It is now almost
exclusively performed by means of a simple piece of machinery (padding
machine), which essentially consists of——a ‘large reel,’ around which the
unprepared cloth is wound——a ‘guide roller,’ over which it passes to
smooth and adjust it before entering the liquor——a copper cylinder, or
‘dip-roller,’ nearly at the bottom of the ‘mordant-trough,’ under which it
is carried from the guide-roller——a half-round polished ‘stretched-bar,’
to give it equal tension——a pair of ‘padded cylinders,’ to remove
superfluous moisture——and, lastly, a ‘reel’ to receive the mordanted
(‘padded’) cloth. The degree of tension is regulated by a weight suspended
on a lever, and motion is given to the whole by an endless band from the
driving shaft. This machine is also applicable to many of the operations
of dyeing, bleaching, and starching textile fabrics.
=PAINT′ER’S CREAM.= _Prep._ Take of pale nut oil, 6 oz.; mastic, 1 oz.;
dissolve, add of sugar of lead, 1/4 oz., previously ground in the least
possible quantity of oil; then further add of water, q. s., gradually,
until it acquires the consistence of cream, working it well all the time.
Used by painters to cover their work when they are obliged to leave it for
some time. It may be washed off with a sponge and water.
=PAINT′ING.= The art or employment of laying on colour. In the fine arts,
the production of a picture or a resemblance in colours on a flat surface.
The artistic and mechanical consideration of this subject does not come
within the province of our volume; but notices of the leading materials
employed by both artists and house painters are given under the respective
names. See the various pigments, COLOURS, OILS, VARNISHES, &c., and
_below_.
=Painting, Distem′per.= A method of painting generally adopted by the
ancients. Water was the principal medium, but various gelatinous and
albuminous ‘binders’ were added to fix the pigments. Of these the most
important were glue, size, and white of egg. In modern distemper, as
executed by the painters of theatrical scenery, panoramas, &c., spirit of
turpentine is largely employed as a medium.
=Painting, Elydor′ic.= A method of painting invented by M. Vincent, of
Montpelier, having for its object to combine the fresh appearance and
finish of water colours with the mellowness of oil painting. The liquid
employed as a vehicle for the pigments is an emulsion formed of oil and
water by the intervention of certain portion of gum or mucilage.
=Painting, Enam′el.= In this variety of painting, vitrifiable colours are
laid on thin plates of metals, and fused into it. The outline is first
burnt in, after which the parts are filled up gradually, with repeated
fusions at an enameller’s lamp, to the most minute finishing touches. “The
enamel painter has to work, not with actual colours, but with mixtures
which he only knows from experience will produce certain colours after the
operation of the fire.” (Aikin.)
=Painting, Encaus′tic.= This method is very ancient, but is now seldom
practised. According to Pliny, the colours were made up into crayons with
wax, and the subject being traced on the ground with a metal point, they
were melted on the picture as they were used. A coating of melted wax was
then evenly spread over all, and when it had become quite cold was finally
polished.
The art of encaustic painting, after lying dormant for about 15 centuries,
was revived by Count Caylus, in 1753. In its new form, the wood or canvas
to be painted on is first well rubbed over with wax, and then held before
the fire, so that the wax may penetrate and fill up all the interstices,
and form a perfectly even surface. The coloured pigments are next mixed
with the powder noticed below, which is then rubbed smooth with some thick
gum water, and applied with brushes in the same manner as ordinary water
colours. When the painting is finished, and quite dry, it is brushed over
with pure white wax in a melted state, the surface being equalised by the
skilful application of heat; it is, lastly, polished off; as before.
_The powder._——To white wax, melted in an earthen pipkin, add, in small
portions at a time, an equal weight of powdered mastic, stirring
continuously until the whole is incorporated; then pour it into cold
water, and afterwards reduce it to powder in a wedgwood-ware mortar. A
small quantity only of this powder is used with light colours; but more is
required with the darker ones, until, on approaching black, the two may be
mixed in almost equal proportions.
=Painting, Fres′co.= This method of painting was known to the ancient
Egyptians, and was commonly practised by the Greeks and Romans. It is
confined to the decoration of the walls of buildings, and is executed by
incorporating the colours with the still moist plaster, or gesso. The
pigments employed are entirely mineral or vitreous. As it is extremely
difficult to alter the work after the colours are once absorbed, or after
the ground has hardened, the whole must be carefully designed before
commencing the picture, and no more commenced at once than can be executed
during the day.
Of all the varieties of painting, fresco is “undoubtedly the most virile,
most sure, most resolute, and most durable” (Vasari), and the one most
adapted for the purposes of historical painting in its grandest and most
exalted forms. In comparison with it, it has been said that even oil
painting is “employment fit only for women and children.” (Michael
Angelo.)
=Painting, Glass.= See STAINED GLASS.
=Painting, Oil.= This well known and much practised method of painting
takes its name from the vehicle employed for the colours. The last may be
any of those of a permanent character, and whose natural tint is not
altered by admixture with oil. Linseed, nut, and poppy oil, are those
which are principally employed. The first requires the addition of
‘driers,’ and hence is generally used under the form of ‘boiled oil.’
Spirit of turpentine is commonly used to thin down the prepared colours,
and the finished picture is frequently covered with a coat of varnish.
=Painting, Por′celain.= See POTTERY, STAINED GLASS, &c.
=Painting, Vel′vet.= Any of the ordinary non-corrosive pigments or liquid
colours, thickened with a little gum, may be employed in this art;
preference being, however, given to those that possess the greatest
brilliancy, and which dry without spreading. See STAINS, &c.
=Painting, Water-colour.= In its strictest and modern sense, ‘water-colour
painting’ means the painting on paper with colours diluted with water. The
English school of water-colour painting has produced works which bear
comparison with the great masterpieces in oil, and even surpass them in
the delicacy of atmospheric effects. The old practice of making the entire
drawing in light and shade by washes of Indian ink or neutral tints, and
then adding the various local colours in transparent washes, has given
place to the more healthy system of painting every object in its
appropriate local colour at the outset.
=PAINTINGS.= Many valuable paintings suffer premature decay from the
attacks of a microscopic insect, a species of acarus or mite. The best
method of preventing this variety of decay, is to add a little creasote
(dissolved in brandy or vinegar), or a few grains each of corrosive
sublimate and sal ammoniac (dissolved in a little water), to the paste and
glue used to line the picture, as well as to add a few drops of pure
creasote or of an alcoholic or ethereal solution of corrosive sublimate to
the varnish, when any is to be applied. If the destruction alluded to has
already commenced, the painting should be at once carefully cleaned and
re-lined, observing to employ one or other of the remedies just mentioned.
The most appropriate and only safe situation in which to keep paintings,
is where there is a pure and moderately dry atmosphere. To protect
pictures from the effects of damp, it has been suggested to dip the canvas
into a solution of silicate of potash, and afterwards dried, previous to
its being used. Impure air abounds in carbonic acid and sulphuretted
hydrogen. It is the presence of the last in the air that blackens the
‘lights,’ and causes most of the ‘middle tints’ and ‘shades’ to fade; and
it is exposure to damp that produces mouldiness and decay of the canvas.
For this reason valuable paintings should not be kept in churches, nor
suspended against heavy walls of masonry, especially in badly ventilated
buildings. Excess of light, particularly the direct rays of the sun, also
acts injuriously on paintings, since it bleaches some colours and darkens
others.
The blackened lights of old pictures may be instantly restored to their
original hue by touching them with peroxide of hydrogen, diluted with 6
or 8 times its weight of pure water. The part must be afterwards washed
with a clean sponge and water. The most astonishing results have been
produced in this way. See PEROXIDE OF HYDROGEN.
Pettenkofer observing the colours of many of the oil paintings in the
Munich galleries apparently fading, discovered that the dim and grey
appearance they then presented, was not really due to any decay of colour,
but to a discontinuity of the molecules of the vehicle, and the resinous
substances mixed with the pigments; the effect of which was to break up
and lessen the mass of transparent colour and to diminish its intensity.
This separation from each other, of the alternate particles, he conceived
was owing to the shrinking and contraction they underwent after long years
of exposure to a moist atmosphere. To remedy it Pettenkofer subjected the
affected picture to two simple processes, which he is said to have found
absolutely successful. The first, which he terms the ‘regeneration’
process, consists in enclosing the picture in a flat box, where it is
exposed to the vapours of alcohol, part of which being absorbed by the
resinous molecules, restore them to their original volume. Hence it
follows that the gaps between the molecules being thus filled up, there is
presented to the eye a continuous mass of transparent colour, as when the
picture was freshly painted.
In the previous operation the resinous constituents only of the picture
have been acted upon and restored to their normal condition. The hardened
molecules of the oil which have been employed as a vehicle have likewise
diminished in bulk, from the same causes, and in so doing have contributed
to the lessening of the brightness of the picture. In cases where it is
found the increased volume of resinous particles has failed to fill up the
intervals between the shrunken oil molecules, Pettenkofer subjects the
picture to a further process. In this, which he terms ‘nourishing it,’ the
picture is simply rubbed over with balsam of copaiba.
Oil, which was formerly employed for this purpose, is very strongly
condemned by Pettenkofer.
Oil paintings, as probably most of our readers are aware, are mostly
executed either on wood (‘panel’) or canvas, now principally on the
latter. Both these substances have to undergo a preliminary operation
known as ‘priming,’ the priming being, in short, the ground on which the
paint is placed. This priming may consist either of a number of layers
composed of a mixture of chalk or plaster, with paste or glue, or else of
a series of coats of oil colour. When a canvas or panel is prepared with
the former, it is called ‘distemper priming,’ when with the latter, ‘oil
priming.’ The distemper is the more quickly prepared, but is open to the
objection of being easily broken, and of a liability to absorb moisture,
by which it becomes liable to separate from the canvas.
If the priming be of oil colour it is desirable that the chief pigment
used in making it should be white lead, and that if any other colours are
added, they should be in comparatively small quantities. Dr R. Liebreich
cites an example in which a departure from this precaution, persevered in
from the middle of the 16th to that of the 17th century, by a celebrated
school of Italian painters (the Bologna), has resulted in the destruction
in their works of all the glazing of the picture, “so that those colours
only can be recognised which either contain white, or are glazed on
white.” Furthermore, that the dark priming used by these artists has
caused the dark parts of their pictures to become still darker.
This priming which was of a reddish-brown colour, was composed of a
mixture of bole Armenian and umber; and it is conjectured it was employed
with the object of modifying or softening too violent contrasts of light
and dark colours, and thus of easily securing effective chiaroscuro, and
of aiding rapid execution.
The Dutch and Flemish painters mostly employed a light coloured priming;
sometimes it was of a light oak colour. Vandyke is said to have used grey
grounds for his pictures, and in some few instances dull red ones; and
since his pictures are free from the objectionable qualities met with in
the works of the Bologna artists, it has been surmised that in this method
of working, he had recourse to impasto colouring.
In the selection of wood, which is subsequently to be used for the
picture, considerable judgment and experience are required, that from the
toughest and soundest oaks, nut trees, or cedar, being sought after. The
cutting it into boards, and seasoning it, are also points exacting a great
amount of time and care.
The backs of pictures, if made of wood, in addition to their liability to
attacks from insects, not unfrequently warp, or fissures form in them, or
they may become hopelessly rotten.
When the picture warps, it should be moistened with water at the back, on
which it should be lain for 24 hours, at the end of which time, or
sometimes less, it becomes perfectly straight. Fissures may be filled up
by pieces of wood cut to the required size. Small pieces of rotten wood,
if not too near the painting, may be cut out and the gaps filled up with
wedge-shaped pieces of wood. Where the loss is insignificant it may be
stopped up with cement. When the panel is very rotten and decayed, it may
be necessary to remove the picture from it altogether, and to place it
either on a new panel, or upon what Dr Liebreich regards as better still,
a piece of canvas.
This is by no means so formidable and astonishing an operation as it may
at first sight appear; in short, as will be directly shown, the picture
may, if necessary, be freed from its priming even, without any difficulty.
Hacquin, of Paris, was one of the first to remove an oil painting from its
base, and to place it upon a new one. He did this with one of Raphael’s
Madonnas, in the gallery of the Louvre; and the same treatment has since
been extended to the ‘Resurrection of Lazarus,’ by Sebastian del Piombo,
one of the pictures in our National Gallery. This process is generally
accomplished as follows:——
“First of all the surface of the picture is pasted over with gauze and
paper; after that the wood is made straight by moistening, or, if
necessary, by making incisions with the saw, into which cuneiform pieces
of wood are driven. By means of a tenon-saw the panel is to be sawn into
little squares, which must be removed by a chisel, and in this way the
thickness of the wood is reduced to half an inch; it is then planed until
it becomes no thicker than paper, and the rest is removed by means of a
knife and with the fingers.
“The painting being thus severed from its basis, it can be fixed on canvas
if the priming is sufficiently preserved. In the opposite case a mixture
made of chalk and glue, or something of the kind, must be put on first,
and very evenly smoothed after being dry. This done the new canvas has to
be fixed upon it by means of a mixture of glue, varnish, and turpentine,
and the substance of the picture pressed tightly and evenly against it by
means of warm irons.”[86]
[Footnote 86: Liebreich.]
Defects in the priming of an oil painting, when they are confined to a
slight separation of the priming of a canvas, may be remedied by pouring
into the gap caused by the severance a little solution of size, and then
pressing the separated surfaces gently together. Slight cracks must be
filled up with fresh priming.
For paintings in which the whole of the priming seems insecure, or has
extensively separated from the canvas, it is recommended to remove them
entirely from the old basis and to transfer them to new panels or canvas.
The property of unchangeableness, or indisposition to fade, as exemplified
in the retention of its freshness of colour by a picture, is one which, it
is asserted, is very much more generally met with in the pictures of the
Italian,[87] and Dutch painters of the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries,
than in those of the French and English schools of the last hundred years.
Opinions have been advanced in explanation of this circumstance. One is,
that the older masters used pigments and vehicles of much greater purity
and freedom from adulteration than the latter generations of painters;
another, that they worked by a method and prepared their colours by a
process unknown since their time, in fact, that they were possessed of a
technical secret, which, as they never divulged it, has died with them; a
third, that they had choice of many colours unknown in the present day.
[Footnote 87: From the Italian school must be excepted that of Bologna.]
One of the later and most valuable contributions to our knowledge of
these points has been made by Dr R. Liebreich, in his lecture “On the
Deterioration of Oil Paintings,” delivered at the Royal Institution, March
1st, 1878, which also embraces the practical deductions to be drawn from
the results of his investigations. The plan adopted by Dr Liebreich for
unravelling the so-called secret by which the old masters so generally
contrived to secure permanency for their colours was ingenious and
logical; it consisted in dissecting the structure and chemically analysing
the pigments, vehicles, &c., of the pictures of the pupils of the great
masters, for “fortunately they painted with the same material and by the
same methods as the masters, and thousands of pictures by the pupils, well
preserved and in different stages of decay, may be easily secured.”
The third explanation previously given as a reason for the superior
durability of the colouring of the old over the later oil paintings is
thus disposed of by him. He says:——
“We meet very often with the idea that the old masters had been in
possession of colours, that is, pigments, the knowledge of which has been
lost, and that this accounts principally for the difference between the
oil paintings of the 15th and 16th centuries, on the one hand, and that of
the 18th and 19th on the other. But this is a great mistake. We know
perfectly well the pigments used by the old masters; we possess the same
and a considerable number of new ones, good as well as bad, in addition.”
He adds, “In using the expression of good and bad, I am thinking
principally of their durability. From this point of view the pigments can
be placed under three headings:——
“1. Those that are durable in themselves and also agree well with the
other pigments with which they have to be mixed.
“2. Such as when sufficiently isolated remain unaltered, but when in
contact with certain other pigments change colour, or alter the others, or
produce a reciprocal modification.
“3. Those which are so little durable that, even when isolated from other
pigments, the mere contact of the vehicle, the air, or the light, makes
them in time fade, darken, or disappear altogether.
“_The old masters used without reserve only those belonging to the first
of these three categories. For those belonging to the second they imposed
on themselves certain limits and precautions. Those belonging to the third
they did not use at all._
“That some of the modern masters have not followed these principles is not
owing to a lost secret, but to the fact they disregarded those well known
principles, and even consciously acted against them. In Sir Joshua
Reynolds’ diary, for instance, we read that in order to produce certain
tints of flesh, he mixed orpiment, carmine lake, and blue black together.
“Now, orpiment is one of the colours of the second category, carmine lake
one of the third. That is to say, orpiment, as long as it remains
isolated, keeps its brilliant yellow or reddish orange colour; but when
mixed with white lead it decomposes, because it consists of sulphur and
arsenic, and it moreover blackens the white lead, because the sulphur
combines with it. Carmine lake, even if left isolated, does not stand as
an oil colour, and, therefore, has been superseded by madder lake.
Unfortunately some of the most brilliant colours are perishable to such a
degree that they ought never to be used; yet it seems to me that just in
one branch of art, in which of late remarkable progress has been made, I
mean landscape painting, the artists, in order to obtain certain effects
of colour not easy to be realised, do not always resist the temptation to
make use of a number of pigments, the non-durability of which is proved
beyond doubt.”
Another point which Dr Liebreich regards as of much more importance even
than the selection and treatment of their pigments, and in which he says
the old masters exercised great discretion, was the more sparing use of
the vehicles and liquids they mixed with their colours.
He points out that there are certain pigments which when mixed with the
oil impede its drying, whilst others there are which hasten it. “Supposing
now,” he says, “we should add to each of the different pigments the same
quantity of oil, the drying of it would progress at different rates. But
in reality this difference is very greatly increased by the fact that the
different pigments require very different quantities of oil, in order to
be ground to the consistency requisite for painting.”
Pettenkofer quotes the following figures given to him by one of the colour
manufacturers:——
100 parts (weight) White lead require 12 parts of oil.
” ” Zinc white ” 14 ”
” ” Green chrome ” 15 ”
” ” Chrome yellow ” 19 ”
” ” Vermilion ” 25 ”
” ” Light red ” 31 ”
” ” Madder lake ” 62 ”
” ” Yellow ochre ” 66 ”
” ” Light ochre ” 72 ”
” ” Camel’s brown ” 75 ”
” ” Brown manganese ” 87 ”
” ” Terre verte ” 100 ”
” ” Parisian blue ” 106 ”
” ” Burnt terre verte ” 112 ”
” ” Berlin blue ” 112 ”
” ” Ivory black ” 112 ”
” ” Cobalt ” 125 ”
” ” Florentine brown ” 150 ”
” ” Burnt terra sienna ” 181 ”
” ” Raw terra sienna ” 140 ”
According to this table, a hundred parts of the quick drying white lead
are ground with twelve parts of oil, and on the other hand, slow-drying
ivory black requires one hundred and twelve parts of oil.
It is very important that artists should have an exact knowledge of these
matters. But it seems to me that they are insufficiently known to most of
them. All, of course, know perfectly how different the drying quality of
different colours is. But that these different colours introduce into the
picture so different a quantity of the oil, and how large the quantity is
in the colours they buy, and, further, that the oil as well as the mediums
or siccatives they add to dry the colours are gradually transformed into a
caoutchouc-like opaque substance, which envelopes and darkens the
pigments, and, moreover, that the oil undergoes, not in the beginning, but
much later on, when it is already completely dry, changes of volume, and
so impairs the continuity of the picture——all this is not sufficiently
known. Otherwise, the custom of painting with the ordinary oil colours, to
be bought at any colourman’s, would not have been going on for nearly a
hundred years, in spite of all the clearly shown evil results——results due
chiefly to the principal enemy of oil painting, that is to say, the oil.
A close optical examination and accurate study of the pictures of the
French and English masters of the last hundred years have revealed to Dr
Liebreich their principal defects, which he says are:——
1. Darkening of the opaque bright colours.
2. Fading of the transparent brilliant colours.
3. Darkening, and above all, cracking of the transparent dark colours. He
states that these cracks are so characteristic and distinctive of the
pictures of this period that they might be used as a test as to whether or
not a picture really belonged to this school, or was only a copy.
This peculiar cracking in the paint is, according to Dr Liebreich,
particularly observable in Guericault’s ‘Wreck of the Medusa’ in the
Louvre, and also in Ingres’ ‘Portrait of Cherubini,’ and as the same
defect is not to be seen in the works of the Dutch and Italian artists,
the very rational inference to be drawn is that the methods followed by
these schools were sounder than those adopted by their English and French
successors. Dr Liebreich believes the cracks were owing to the practice of
painting over one colour with another before the first was perfectly dry.
“The study of the alterations,” says Dr Liebreich “already fully developed
within the last hundred years only, and their comparison with the works of
the old masters would suggest the following rules for the process of
painting:——
“1. That the oil should in all colours be reduced to a minimum, and under
no form should more of it than absolutely necessary be introduced into a
picture.
“2. All transparent colours which dry very slowly should be ground, not
with oil at all, but with a resinous vehicle.
“3. No colour should be put on any part of a picture which is not yet
perfectly dry, and above all, never a quick-drying colour upon a
slowly-drying one which is not yet perfectly dry.
“4. White and other quick-drying opaque colours may be put on thickly. On
the contrary, transparent and slowly-drying colours should always be put
on in thin layers. If the effect of a thick layer of these latter is
required, it must be produced by laying one thin layer over another,
taking care to have one completely dry before the next is laid on. If
transparent colours are mixed with sufficient quantity of white lead they
may be treated like opaque ones.”
Dr Liebreich concludes his interesting lecture with some judicious advice
on the subject of picture cleaning, and points out that, since different
pictures require to be differently operated upon, all universal agents and
methods suggested for the purpose are open to suspicion and should be
discarded.
For pictures the varnish of which has become cracked or dim he recommends
Pettenkofer’s treatment with alcoholised vapour, already described. For
those in which the varnish may have become dark yellow, brown, or dirty,
he advises its removal altogether, being very careful to specify the
conditions under which this should be accomplished, and the risk the
picture may run of being spoiled if entrusted to an unintelligent and
ignorant manufacturer. “If a picture,” he says, “is throughout painted in
oil, if its substance has remained sound and even, and it has been
varnished with an easily soluble mastich or dammar varnish, there will be
neither difficulty nor danger in removing the varnish. This can, in such a
case, be done either by a dry process, that is by rubbing the surface with
the tips of the fingers and thus reducing the varnish by degrees to a fine
dust, or by dissolving the varnish by application of liquids which, when
brought only for a short time into contact with the oil painting, will not
endanger it. We have, however, seen that the works of the old masters are
not painted with oil colours like those used by modern painters, but, on
the contrary, that certain pigments, and especially the transparent
colours used for glazing, were ground only with resinous substances. These
latter have in the course of time been so thoroughly united with the layer
of varnish spread over the surface of the picture that there no longer
exists any decided limit between the picture and the varnish. It is in
such pictures that a great amount of experience and knowledge of the
process used for the picture, as well as precaution, are required, in
order to take away from the varnish as much only as is indispensable, and
without interfering with the picture itself.
“Numberless works of art have been irreparably injured by restorers, who,
in their eagerness to remove dirt and varnish, attacked the painting
itself. They then destroyed just that last finishing touch of the painting
without which it is no longer a masterpiece.”
“The cleaner is, then, reminded that if the removal from the pictures of
their varnish, when this is known to consist of a spirituous solution of
the gums mastich or dammar, requires the amount of discretion and judgment
before specified, still greater care and prudence are necessary when
dealing with pictures whose surfaces have been covered with oil, oil
varnish, or oleo-resinous varnish. All these substances, which in time
more or less obscure the picture, form on its face a dark and opaque film,
and this frequently requires for its removal the application of some
agent, which, in dissolving the layer of varnish, is very liable at the
same time to dissolve the substance of the picture also.”
As a recent instance of the injurious effects of injudicious picture
cleaning, Dr. Liebreich mentions the case of a valuable picture in the
Pitti Palace, at Florence, the ‘St John of Andrea del Sarto.’ The softness
of the outline of the face of the figure, which he remembers previous to
its attempted restoration, had been entirely destroyed, which disastrous
result Dr Liebreich conceived had been caused by the entire removal of the
glazing.
A new method for cleaning pictures is described by E. Von Bibra in the
‘Journal für Praktische Chemie.’ A very indistinct oil-painting was freed
from dust with a feather, washed with a sponge and water, and then covered
for eight minutes with a layer of shaving soap. The soap was then washed
off with a brush and then left to dry. It was next thoroughly cleaned with
linen cloth soaked in nitro-benzol. The picture was now distinct, but the
colours dull. Finally, it was treated with olive oil, and a coating of
quick-drying varnish laid on. (Academy, May 6th, 1878.)[88]
[Footnote 88: In giving insertion to the above, we do not venture to give
an opinion as to its value or the reverse. We would recommend it to be
read side by side with Dr Liebreich’s advice on picture cleaning, given
above.——ED.]
=PAINTS.= In trade, this term is commonly applied to pigments ground with
oil to a thick paste, ready to be ‘thinned down’ with oil or turpentine to
a consistence adapted for application with a brush.
Paints are prepared on the small scale by grinding the dry pigments with
the oil by means of a stone-and-muller; on the large scale they are ground
in a colour mill. There are several pigments, as King’s yellow, Scheele’s
green, verdigris, white lead, &c., which from their poisonous character
cannot be safely ground by hand, except in very small quantities at a
time, and then only by the exercise of extreme caution.
In mixing or thinning down paints for use it may be useful to mention
that——for outdoor work, boiled oil is principally or wholly employed,
unless it be for the decorative parts of houses, when a portion of
turpentine and pale linseed oil is often added.——For in-door work, linseed
oil, turpentine, and a little ‘driers,’ are generally used in the same
way. The smaller the proportion of oil employed for the purpose, the less
will be the gloss, and the greater the ultimate hardness of the coating.
For ‘flatted white,’ &c., the colour being ground in oil, requires
scarcely any further addition of that article, as the object is to have it
‘dead’ or dull. The best driers are ground litharge, and ground sugar of
lead; the first for dark and middle tints, and the last for light ones.
To preserve mixed paints in pots from ‘skinning over’ or drying up, they
should be kept constantly covered with water; or, what is better, with a
thin film of linseed oil.
Brushes, when out of use, may be preserved in a similar manner to mixed
paints. When dirty, or required for a paint of another colour, they may be
cleaned with a little oil of turpentine, which may be either preserved for
the same purpose another time, or may be allowed to deposit its colour,
and then used to thin down paints as usual. In no case, however, should it
be thrown back into the cistern or pan with the pure ‘turps.’
=Paints, Flex′ible.= _Prep._ Take of good yellow soap (cut into slices),
2-1/2 lbs.; boiling water, 1-1/2 gall.; dissolve, and grind the solution
whilst hot with good oil paint, 1-1/4 cwt. Used to paint canvas.
=Paints, Vitrifi′able.= See ENAMEL, GLAZE, STAINED GLASS, &c.
=PALLA′DIUM.= Pd. A rare metal discovered by Dr Wollaston in the ore of
platinum, in 1803.
_Prep._ 1. A solution of the ore of platinum in _aqua regia_, from which
most of the metal has been precipitated by chloride of ammonium, is
neutralised by carbonate of sodium, and then treated with a solution of
cyanide of mercury; the white insoluble precipitate (cyanide of palladium)
is next washed, dried, and heated to redness; the residuum of the ignition
(spongy palladium) is then submitted to a gradually increased pressure,
and welding at a white heat, so as to form a button, in a similar manner
to that adopted with platinum. _Prod._ Columbian ore of platinum, 1%;
Uralian do., ·25% to ·75%.
2. The native alloy of gold and palladium (from the Brazils) is submitted
to the operations of quartation and parting, the nitric acid employed
being of the density of 1·3; the silver is next precipitated from the
solution by means of a solution of common salt or dilute hydrochloric
acid, and the decanted supernatant liquid, after evaporation to one half,
is neutralised with ammonia, and concentrated so that crystals may form;
these (chloride of palladium and ammonium) are cautiously washed in a
little very cold water, dried, mixed with borax, and exposed in a crucible
to the strongest heat of a powerful blast furnace, when a solid button of
pure palladium is formed.
_Prop., &c._ Palladium closely resembles platinum in appearance,
fusibility, malleability, and ductility; but it is less dense, and has a
rather more silvery colour than that metal; it is freely soluble in aqua
regia, and is slowly attacked by nitric acid, but the other acids exert
little or no action on it; heated to redness in the air, a very
superficial blue or purple film of oxide forms on the surface, which is
again reduced at a white heat. It melts at 156°——Wedgwood. Sp. gr. 11·3 to
12·1 (11·8——Wollaston; 12·14——Vauquelin). It readily unites with copper,
silver, and some other metals, by fusion.
_Tests._ 1. The neutral solutions of palladium are precipitated in the
metallic state by ferrous sulphate, dark brown by sulphuretted hydrogen,
olive by ferrocyanide of potassium, and yellowish white by cyanide of
mercury.——2. A drop of tincture of iodine placed on the surface of
metallic palladium, and then evaporated by the heat of a spirit lamp,
leaves a black spot. By the last two tests palladium is readily
distinguished from platinum.
_Uses._ It has been employed to form the scales of mathematical and
astronomical instruments, and is used in dentistry. Its alloy with silver
is a very valuable white metal. It is also used for making the smaller
divisions of grain and gramme weights. Palladium is not tarnished by
sulphuretted hydrogen. An alloy of 1 part of palladium and 100 parts of
steel is well adapted for cutting instruments which require to be
perfectly smooth on the edge.
=PALMIT′IC ACID.= HC_{16}H_{31}O_{2}. Prepared from palmitin (_see_ next
article), by saponification, as stearic acid is prepared from stearin. It
forms pearly scales, and melts at 140° Fahr., like margaric acid, which it
closely resembles.
=PAL′MITIN.= _Syn._ TRIPALMITIN. C_{3}H_{5} (C_{16}H_{31}O_{2})_{3}. The
solid portion of palm oil, purified by crystallisation from hot ether.
White; soluble in ether and slightly so in hot alcohol; melts at 118°
Fahr.; by saponification it is converted into palmitic acid. (See
_above_.)
=PALPITA′TION.= _Syn._ PALPUS, PALPITATIO CORDIS, L. A violent and
irregular beating or action of the heart, either temporary or occasional.
When it does not arise from sudden or violent agitation or distress of
mind, it may be regarded as a symptom of a disturbance of the nervous
functions by disease, in which case attention should be directed to the
removal of the primary affection.
=PAL′SY.= See PARALYSIS.
=PANACE′A.= A term formerly applied to chose remedies which were supposed
to be capable of curing all diseases, and still applied to some quack
medicines.
=PANA′DA.= See BREAD JELLY (under JELLY).
=PAN′ARY FERMENTA′TION.= The vinous fermentation as developed in the dough
of bread.
=PAN′CAKES.= These are essentially fried batter, variously enriched and
flavoured, according to the taste of the cook. When they contain fruit,
fish, meat, or poultry, or are highly seasoned or ornamented, they are
commonly called FRITTERS.
_Prep._ (M. Soyer.) Break 2 to 4 eggs into a basin, add 4 small
table-spoonfuls of flour, 2 teaspoonfuls of sugar, and a little salt; beat
the whole well together, adding, by degrees, 1/2 pint of milk, or a little
more or less, depending on the size of the eggs and the quality of the
flour, so as to form a rather thick batter; next add a little ginger,
cinnamon, or any other flavour at will; lastly, put them into the pan, and
when set, and one side brownish, lay hold of the frying-pan at the
extremity of the handle, give it a sudden but slight jerk upwards, and the
cake will turn over on the other side; when this is brown, dish up with
sifted sugar, and serve with lemon. See FRITTERS.
=PANCREAS.= This gland, popularly known as the sweet-bread, secretes a
colourless and slightly viscid fluid, which possesses the properties
of——1. Converting starch into sugar; 2. Of emulsifying fats and oils. And
since it is necessary that the starchy and the fatty ingredients of the
food should undergo this preparatory change before they are in a condition
to become assimilated by the animal economy, it will be seen that
_pancreatin_ (as the secretion from the pancreas is called) performs an
important function in bodily nutrition.
With a knowledge of these facts before them, it is not surprising that the
employment of pancreatin in disease should have been recommended by
therapeutists. Dr Harley, we believe, first brought this remedy to the
notice of medical men in 1858, since which time its principal advocate has
been Dr Horace Dobell, whose method of preparing an emulsion from it, as
well as for procuring the pancreatin pure and simple, are given below.
Bernard, correctly divining that the pancreatic fluid was concerned in the
process of digestion, conceived that it aided the assimilation of the
fatty and oily portions of the food, by saponifying them. Subsequent
physiologists have, however, shown, “that the action of the pancreatic
secretion is evidently to break up the large granules, crystals, and
globules of oil and fat into myriads of minute particles of from 1/3000th
to 1/15000th of an inch in diameter. In this way the fat is emulsified and
converted into a milky liquid, which mixes freely with water, and passes
through the tissues of the intestines into the lacteals.”[89]
[Footnote 89: Letheby.]
Pancreatin has an alkaline reaction, and putrefies very quickly. It seems
to contain a nitrogenous organic principle, resembling ptyalin or diastase
in properties. It is coagulated both by heat and nitric acid, and is one
of the few secretions in which albumen is present in a soluble condition.
Even when rendered acid, pancreatin does not lose its power of emulsifying
fatty bodies. At the moment of food being introduced into the stomach the
pancreas gives out this secretion, which is not very abundant at first,
but gradually continues to increase for about four hours, when it as
gradually diminishes for three hours more, and then ceases altogether.
Bidder and Schmidt give the following as the composition of the pancreatic
fluid or pancreatin:——
Water 900·76
Organic matter (pancreatin) 90·38
Chloride of sodium 7·36
Free soda 0·32
Phosphate of soda 0·45
Sulphate of soda 0·10
Sulphate of potassa 0·02
{Lime 0·54
Combinations {Magnesia 0·05
{Oxide of iron 0·02
————————
1000·00
=PANCREATIN.= _Syn._ PANCREATINUM. 1. (Pereira.) Cut the fresh pancreas of
the pig, freed from fat and all foreign matters, into small pieces, and
digest with ether. If the ether be afterwards distilled off from the
filtered liquid, the pancreatin will be left as an oily product.
2. (Griffith.) It is obtained from the pancreas of recently killed animals
by treating the colourless, viscous juice with alcohol, and drying the
precipitate _in vacuo_. Pancreatin is given for stimulating the digestion
of fatty compounds.
The ordinary dose is 10 grains, taken in a glass of wine or water after a
meal.
Dr Dobell’s “Crude Pancreatic Emulsion” is prepared as follows:——After
freeing from fat and all foreign matters the pancreas of a freshly-killed
pig, 2-1/2 lbs. of purified pancreas are bruised in a marble mortar, and
to it are added 2-1/2 lbs. of lard; these are well beaten together, and
then to the mixture 3 lbs. of water are added, very gradually, so as to
ensure the perfect absorption of the latter.
The pancreatised fat is prepared by shaking up one part of the ‘crude
emulsion’ with three parts of ether, allowing the mixture to stand,
drawing off the ethereal solution, and carefully distilling off the ether.
The pancreatised fat remains. Dr Dobell says that pancreatised fat, unlike
the crude fat, has no tendency to putrefy. His ‘purified pancreatic
emulsion’ is made by mixing very carefully together 5 parts of
pancreatised fat, 7-1/2 parts of distilled water, and 2-1/2 parts of
rectified spirit, and flavouring with oil of cloves.
3. SACCHARATED PANCREATIN. Mr Mattison[90] adopts the following process
for the preparation of this substance:——The pancreas is dissected and
macerated in water acidulated with hydrochloric acid for about forty-eight
hours, then separated, and the acidulated solution of pancreas passed
through a pulp filter until it is perfectly clear. To this clear solution
is then added a saturated solution of chloride of sodium, and allowed to
stand until the pancreatin is separated. This is carefully skimmed off and
placed upon a muslin filter, and allowed to drain, after which it should
be washed with a less concentrated solution of sodium chloride, and then
put under the press. When all the salt solution has been removed, and the
mass is nearly dry, it is rubbed with a quantity of sugar of milk, and
dried thoroughly without heat, after which it is diluted until ten grains
emulsify two drachms of cod-liver oil.
[Footnote 90: ‘American Journal of Pharmacy.’]
=PANIFICA′TION.= The changes which occur in flour-dough under the
influence of the fermentative process and heat, by which it is converted
into bread.
=PAPA′VERINE.= _Syn._ PAPAVERINA. An alkaloid discovered by Merck in
opium. It crystallises in needles; is insoluble in water; is slightly
soluble in cold alcohol and in ether; and forms crystallisable salts with
the acids which possess little solubility. The hydrochlorate, one of the
most characteristic of these compounds, crystallises in beautiful
colourless prisms, which possess a high refractive power, and are only
very slightly soluble in dilute hydrochloric acid. Flückiger states that
papaverine is much less active than thebaine, that it is not soporific
either with men or animals, that it does not arrest diarrhœa, and is but
slightly analgesic.
=PALAMOND.= Chocolate 1 oz.; rice flour, 4 oz.; potato arrowroot, 4 oz.;
red sanders, in fine powder, 1 dr. Mix. (In the above, by chocolate is
meant the cacao beans roasted and pulverised without addition. Indian
arrowroot, or Tous les mois, may be substituted for the potato arrowroot.)
=PAPER.= _Syn._ CHARTA, PAPYRUS, L.; PAPIER, Fr. The limits of this work
preclude the introduction of a description of the manufacture of this
well-known and most useful article, which is now almost exclusively made
by machinery of an elaborate and most ingenious description. We must,
therefore, content ourselves with a short notice of a few of the
preparations of the manufactured article. (See _below_.)
Good white paper should be perfectly devoid of odour, and when burnt it
should leave a mere nominal amount of ash; digested in hot water, the
liquid should be neutral to test paper, and not affected by sulphuretted
hydrogen or the alkaline sulphurets, or by tincture of iodine. Coloured
papers should not contain any deleterious matter.
=Paper, Antirheumatic.= _Syn._ CHARTA ANTIRHEUMATICA. (M. Berg.)
Euphorbium 30 parts; cantharides, 15 parts; alcohol, 150 parts. Digest
eight days, filter, and add resin, 60 parts; and turpentine, 50 parts.
Thin paper is to be brushed over two or three times with this varnish.
=Paper, Atropine.= _Syn._ CHARTA ATROPIÆ. Paper is impregnated by steeping
in solution of sulphate of atropia in such a manner that a piece 1/5th of
an inch square shall contain 1/250th of a grain of the salt; a square of
1/10th of an inch the 1/1000th of a grain. This square inserted between
the eyelid will dilate the pupil.
=Paper, Atropine, Gelatinised.= Tablets of gelatin are impregnated with
sulphate of atropia, as above.
=Paper, Anti-asthmatic.= (P. Codex). _Syn._ CHARTA FUMIFERA, L. CARTON
ANTI-ASTHMATIQUE, Fr. Unsized grey filtering paper, 12 oz.; nitre, 6 oz.;
belladonna, stramonium, digitalis, lobelia inflata, phellandrium, all in
powder, 1/2 oz. of each; myrrh and olibanum, in powder, 1 oz. each. Tear
the paper in pieces and soak it in water till quite soft; drain off the
greater part of the water, and beat it into a paste; incorporate with it
the powders previously mixed. Then put into tinned iron moulds, and dry by
a stove.
=Paper, Blistering.= See VESICANTS.
=Paper, Cloth.= This is prepared by covering gauze, calico, canvas, &c.,
with a surface of paper pulp in a ‘Foudrinier machine,’ and then finishing
the compound sheet in a nearly similar manner to that adopted for ordinary
paper.
=Paper, Co′loured.= For those papers which are merely coloured on one side
the pigments, ground up with gum water or size, or the stains thickened
with a little of the same, are applied with a brush, after which the
sheets are suspended on a line to dry.
For paper coloured throughout its substance the tinctorial matter is
usually mixed with the pulp in the process of manufacture; or the
manufactured paper is dipped into a bath of the colouring substance, and
then hung up to dry.
=Paper, Cop′ying.= _Prep._ Make a stiff ointment with butter or lard and
black lead or lamp black, and smear it thinly and evenly over soft writing
paper by means of a piece of flannel; the next day wipe off the
superfluous portion with a piece of soft rag.
_Use, &c._ Placed on white paper and written on with a style or solid pen,
a copy of the writing is left on the former. By repeating the arrangement,
2, 3, or more copies of a letter may be obtained at once. This paper, set
up in a case, forms the ordinary ‘manifold writer’ of the stationers. The
copying or transfer paper used for obtaining fac-similes of letters
written with ‘copying-ink’ is merely a superior quality of bank-post
paper.
=Paper, Em′ery.= See EMERY.
=Paper, Glass.= _Prep._ From powdered glass, as emery paper. Used to
polish wood, &c. See GLASS (Powdered).
=Paper, Gout.= _Syn._ CHARTA ANTI-ARTHRITICA, L.; PAPIER FAYARD, Fr.
_Prep._ 1. Euphorbium, 1 part; cantharides, 2 parts (both in powder);
rectified spirit, 8 parts; ether, 3 parts; digest in a stoppered bottle,
with frequent agitation, for a week; to the strained tincture add of
Venice turpentine, 1 part; lastly, dip thin white paper into it, and dry
the sheets in the air.
2. (Mohr.) Euphorbium, 1 dr.; cantharides, 4 dr.; rectified spirit
(strongest), 5 oz.; make a tincture, to which add of Venice turpentine,
1-1/2 oz., previously liquefied with resin, 2 oz.; and spread the mixture,
whilst warm, very thinly on paper. Used as a counter-irritant in gout,
rheumatism, &c.
=Paper, Hydrograph′ic.= An absurd name given to paper which may be written
on with simple water or with some colourless liquid having the appearance
of water.
_Prep._ 1. A mixture of nut-galls, 4 parts, and calcined sulphate of iron,
1 part (both perfectly dry and reduced to very fine powder), is rubbed
over the surface of the paper, and is then forced into its pores by
powerful pressure, after which the loose portion is brushed off. Writes
black with a pen dipped in water.
2. From persulphate of iron and ferrocyanide of potassium, as the last.
Writes blue with water.
3. As the last, but using sulphate of copper instead of sulphate of iron.
Writes reddish brown with water.
4. The paper is wetted with a colourless solution of ferrocyanide of
potassium, and after being dried is written on with a colourless solution
of persulphate of iron. Writes blue.
_Obs._ The above applications, we need scarcely say, are more amusing than
useful. See SYMPATHETIC INK.
=Paper, Incombus′tible.= See INCOMBUSTIBLE FABRICS.
=Paper, Irides′cent.= _Prep._ (Beasley.) Sal ammoniac and sulphate of
indigo, of each 1 part; sulphate of iron, 5 parts; nut-galls, 8 parts; gum
Arabic, 1/8th part; boil them in water, and expose the paper washed with
the liquid to (the fumes of) ammonia.
=Paper, Issue.= _Syn._ CHARTA AD FONTICULOS, L. _Prep._ (Soubeiran.)
Elemi, spermaceti, and Venice turpentine, of each 1 part; white wax, 2
parts; melt them together by a gentle heat, and spread the mixture on
paper. Used to keep issues open.
=Paper, Lithograph′ic.= _Prep._ 1. Starch, 6 oz.; gum Arabic, 2 oz.; alum,
1 oz.; make a strong solution of each separately, in hot water, mix,
strain through gauze, and apply it whilst still warm to one side of leaves
of paper, with a clean painting-brush or sponge; a second and a third coat
must be given as the preceding one becomes dry; the paper must be, lastly,
pressed, to make it smooth.
2. Give the paper 3 coats of thin size, 1 coat of good white starch, and 1
coat of a solution of gamboge in water; the whole to be applied cold, with
a sponge, and each coat to be allowed to dry before the other is applied.
The solutions should be freshly made.
_Use, &c._ Lithographic paper is written on with lithographic ink. The
writing is transferred by simply moistening the back of the paper, placing
it evenly on the stone, and then applying pressure a reversed copy is
obtained, which, when printed from, yields corrected copies resembling the
original writing or drawing. In this way the necessity of executing the
writing or drawing in a reversed direction is obviated. See LITHOGRAPHY,
INK, &c.
=Paper, Paste.= Boil white paper in water for five hours; then pour off
the water, and pound the pulp in a mortar; pass it through a sieve and mix
with some gum water or isinglass glue. It is used in modelling by artists
and architects.
=Paper, Oiled.= _Prep._ Brush sheets of paper over with ‘boiled oil,’ and
suspend them on a line till dry. Waterproof. Extensively employed as a
cheap substitute for bladder and gut skin to tie over pots and jars, and
to wrap up paste blacking, ground white lead, &c.
=Paper Parch′ment.= _Syn._ PAPYRIN, VEGETABLE PARCHMENT. _Prep._ 1.
(Poumarède and Figuier.) Dip white unsized paper for half a minute in
strong sulphuric acid, sp. gr. 1·842, and afterwards in water containing a
little ammonia.
2. (W. E. Gaine, Patent 1857.) Plunge unsized paper for a few seconds into
sulphuric acid diluted with half to a quarter its bulk of water (this
solution being of the same temperature as the air), and afterwards wash
with weak ammonia. This process, now extensively worked by Messrs De la
Rue and Co., produces a much better material than does that of Poumarède
and Figuier.
_Prop._ A tough substance, resembling animal parchment, and applicable to
the same purposes. It is largely used for covering pots of pickles and
preserves, and by the chemist for the intervening membrane in experiments
in diffusion. See DIALYSER, DIALYSIS, &c.
=Paper, Protective.= Various attempts have from time to time been made to
prepare paper which might make the fraudulent alteration of cheques and
other documents difficult or impossible. These attempts have taken two
different directions, which may be briefly described.
The first and best known method consists in printing, in some delicate and
easily destroyed colour, a complicated pattern on the face of the paper.
Any reagent which will remove the writing will, of course, destroy the
pattern below, and so render the alteration evident. The cheques used by
Messrs Coutts and Co. are fine examples of this kind of protection, the
whole of the paper being printed over with the name of the firm in
characters so delicate, that they can scarcely be read without the
assistance of a lens.
The obvious objection to this method is, that it is possible for a skilful
forger to replace the printed design before the completion of the
alteration.
The other method consists in the introduction into the paper during its
manufacture of some substance or mixture of substances which shall strike
a characteristic colour when chemical agents are applied to the ink.
One of the earliest attempts of this kind was that of Stephenson, who
introduced ferrocyanide of potassium into the pulp. When any acid was
applied to the writing, Prussian blue was formed with the aid of the iron
of the ink. In another process iodide of potassium and starch were
introduced into the paper, the application of chlorine then producing a
blue stain (iodide of starch), while in a third (Robson’s) the pulp was
stained with the ingredients of common writing ink.
None of these methods gave, however, any very efficient protection against
fraud, for in each case it was tolerably easy to restore the paper to its
original condition. But another process which followed upon the others has
proved more successful, and, when properly applied, gives a paper which is
practically secure. This process was patented by Barclay, and consists in
the introduction into the pulp of ferrocyanide of manganese. When any acid
is applied to the writing on this paper the blue stain of Prussian blue
appears. This can, it is true, be removed by alkalies, but in that case
the manganese is precipitated as the brown peroxide, an effect also
produced by bleaching powder. This brown stain can be removed by
sulphurous acid, but in that case Prussian blue appears simultaneously, so
that the forger has merely a choice between a brown and a blue stain.
When such paper is printed with a delicate design in some fugitive ink
(common writing ink would be best), the greatest attainable safety is
obtained.
Ferrocyanide of manganese is easily formed by adding to the pulp pure
crystallised chloride of manganese, and rather more than an equal weight
of ferrocyanide of potassium, both in solution. (Heaton.)
=Paper, Ra′′zor.= Smooth unsized paper, one of the surfaces of which,
whilst in a slightly damp state, has been rubbed over with a mixture of
calcined peroxide of iron and emery, both in impalpable powder. It is cut
up into pieces (about 5 × 3 inches), and sold in packets. Used to wipe the
razor on, which thus does not require stropping.
=Paper, Razor-strop.= From emery and quartz (both in impalpable powder),
and paper pulp (estimated in the dry state), equal parts, made into sheets
of the thickness of drawing paper, by the ordinary process. For use, a
piece is pasted on the strop and moistened with a little oil.
=Paper, Re′sin.= _Syn._ POOR-MAN’S PLASTER; CHARTA RESINOSA, L. _Prep._ 1.
Beeswax, 1 oz.; tar and resin, of each, 3 oz.; melted together and spread
on paper.
2. (Ph. Bor.) Paper thinly spread over with black pitch. Calefacient,
stimulant, and counter-irritant; in rheumatism, chest affections, &c.
=Paper, Rheu′matism.= See PAPERS, GOUT, and RESIN.
=Paper, Safe′ty.= _Syn._ PAPIER DE SURETÉ, Fr. White paper pulp mixed with
an equal quantity of pulp tinged with any stain easily affected by
chlorine, acids, alkalies, &c., and made into sheets as usual.
=Paper, Test.= _Syn._ CHARTA EXPLORATORIA, L. Under this head may be
conveniently included all the varieties of prepared paper employed in
testing. For this purpose sheets of unsized paper or of good ordinary
writing paper (preferably the first), are uniformly wetted with a solution
of the salt, or with a cold infusion or decoction of the tinctorial
substance in distilled water, and are then hung up to dry in a current of
pure air; they are, lastly, cut into pieces of a convenient size, and
preserved in closed bottles or jars. For use, a small strip of the
prepared paper is either dipped into or moistened with the liquid under
examination, or it is moistened with distilled water and then exposed to
the fumes. A single drop, or even less, of any liquid may be thus tested.
The following are the principal test papers and their applications:——
PAPER, BRAZIL-WOOD. From the decoction. Alkalies turn it purple or violet;
strong acids, red.
PAPER, BUCKTHORN. From the juice of the berries. Reddened by acids.
PAPER, CHERRY-JUICE. As the last.
PAPER, DAHLIA, GEORGINA P. From an infusion of the petals of the violet
dahlia (_Georgina purpurea_). Alkalies turn it green; acids red; strong
caustic alkalies turn it yellow. Very delicate.
PAPER, ELDERBERRY. From the juice of the berries. As the last.
PAPER, INDIGO. From a solution of indigo. Decoloured by chlorine.
PAPER, IODINE OF POTASSIUM. _a._ From the solution in distilled water.
Turned blue by an acidulated solution of starch.
_b._ From a mixture of a solution of iodide of potassium and starch paste.
Turned blue by chlorine, ozone, and the mineral acids, and by air
containing them.
PAPER, LEAD. From a solution of either acetate or diacetate of lead.
Sulphuretted hydrogen and hydrosulphuret of ammonia turn it black.
PAPER, LITMUS. In general, this is prepared from infusion of litmus,
without any precaution, but the following plan may be adopted when a
superior test paper is desired;——
_a._ (Blue.) Triturate commercial litmus, 1 oz., in a wedgwood-ware
mortar, with boiling water, 3 or 4 fl. oz.; put the mixture into a flask,
and add more boiling water until the liquid measures fully 1/2 pint;
agitate the mixture frequently until it is cold, then filter it, and
divide the filtrate into two equal portions; stir one of these with a
glass rod previously dipped into very dilute sulphuric acid, and repeat
the operation until the litmus infusion begins to look very slightly red,
then add the other half of the filtrate, and the two being mixed together,
dip strips of unsized paper into the liquid, in the usual manner, and dry
them. Acids turn it red; alkalies blue. The neutral salts of most of the
heavy metals also redden this, as well as the other blue test papers that
are affected by acids.
_b._ (Red.) The treatment of the whole quantity of the infusion (see
_above_) with the rod dipped in dilute sulphuric acid is repeated until
the fluid begins to look distinctly red, when the paper is dipped into it
as before. The alkalies and alkaline earths, and their sulphides, restore
its blue colour; the alkaline carbonates and the soluble borates also
possess the same property. Very sensitive. An extemporaneous red litmus
paper may be prepared by holding a strip of the blue variety over a pot or
jar into which 2 or 3 drops of hydrochloric acid have been thrown.
PAPER, MALLOW. From an infusion of the purple flowers of the common
mallow. Affected like ‘dahlia paper.’
PAPER, MANGANESE. From a solution of sulphate of manganese. Ozonised air
blackens it.
PAPER, RHUBARB. From a strong infusion of the powdered root. Alkalies turn
it brown; but boracic acid and its salts do not affect it. Very sensitive.
PAPER, ROSE. From the petals of the red rose, as the last. Alkalies turn
it bright green. Dr A. S. Taylor recommends the infusion to be very
slightly acidulated with an acid before dipping the paper into it. More
sensitive than turmeric paper.
PAPER, STARCH. From a cold decoction of starch. Free iodine turns it blue.
PAPER, SULPHATE OF IRON. From a solution of ferrous sulphate. As a test
for hydrocyanic acid and the soluble cyanides.
PAPER, TURMERIC. From decoction of turmeric (2 oz. to the pint). It is
turned brown by alkalies, and by boracic acid and the soluble borates. It
is not quite so susceptible as some other tests, but the change of colour
is very marked and characteristic.
=Paper, Tra′′cing.= _Prep._ Open a quire of smooth unsized white paper,
and place it flat upon a table, then apply, with a clean ‘sash tool,’ to
the upper surface of the first sheet, a coat of varnish made of equal
parts of Canada balsam and oil of turpentine, and hang the prepared sheet
across the line to dry; repeat the operation on fresh sheets until the
proper quantity is finished. If not sufficiently transparent, a second
coat of varnish may be applied as soon as the first has become quite dry.
2. Rub the paper with a mixture of equal parts of nut oil and oil of
turpentine, and dry it immediately by rubbing it with wheaten flour; then
hang it on a line for 24 hours to dry.
_Obs._ Both the above are used to copy drawings, writing, &c. If washed
over with ox-gall and dried, they may be written on with ink or water
colours. The first is the whitest and clearest, but the second is the
toughest and most flexible. The paper prepared from the refuse of the
flax-mills, and of which banknotes are made, is also called ‘tracing
paper,’ and sometimes ‘vegetable paper.’ This requires no preparation; but
though very flexible, it has little strength.
=Paper, Var′nished.= Before proceeding to varnish paper, card-work,
pasteboard, &c., it is necessary to give it 2 or 3 coats of size, to
prevent the absorption of the varnish, and any injury to the colour or
design. The size may be made by dissolving a little isinglass in boiling
water, or by boiling some clean parchment cuttings until they form a clear
solution. This, after being strained through a piece of clean muslin, or,
for very nice purposes, clarified with a little white of egg, is applied
by means of a small clean brush called by painters a sash tool. A light,
delicate touch must be adopted, especially for the first coat, lest the
ink or colours be started, or smothered. When the prepared surface is
perfectly dry, it may be varnished in the usual manner. See MAPS, VARNISH,
&c.
=Paper, Wa′′fer.= See WAFERS.
=Paper, Waxed.= _Prep._ Place cartridge paper, or strong writing paper, on
a hot iron plate, and rub it well with a lump of beeswax. Used to form
extemporaneous steam or gas pipes, to cover the joints of vessels, and to
tie over pots, &c.
=PAPER HANG′INGS.= The ornamental paper used to cover the walls of rooms,
&c. Under the old system, the paper, after being sized and prepared with a
ground colour, had the pattern produced on it by the common process of
‘stencilling,’ a separate plate being employed for each colour that formed
the pattern. To this succeeded the use of wooden blocks, the surface of
which bearing the design in relief, and being covered with colour, was
applied by simple hand pressure on the paper, in a precisely similar
manner to that adopted in the block-printing of calicoes. The cylinder
calico-printing machine has now been successfully applied to the
manufacture of paper hangings.
The colours employed for paper hangings are——
BLACKS.——Frankfort, ivory, and blue black.
BLUES. Prussian blue, verditer, and factitious ultramarine.
BROWNS. Umber (raw and burnt), and mixtures.
GRAYS. Prussian blue and blue black, with Spanish white.
GREENS. Brunswick green, Scheele’s g., Schweinfurt g., and green verditer;
also mixtures of blues and yellows.
REDS. Decoctions of Brazil wood (chiefly), brightened with alum or
solution of tin; the red ochres; and, sometimes, red lake.
VIOLETS. Decoction of logwood and alum; also blues tempered with bright
red.
YELLOWS. Chrome yellow, decoction of French berries or of weld, terra di
sienna, and the ochres.
WHITES. White lead, sulphate of baryta, plaster of Paris, and whiting, and
mixtures of them.
The vehicle employed to give adhesiveness and body to the colours is a
solution of gelatin or glue, sufficiently strong to gelatinise on cooling.
The satiny lustre observable in some paper hangings (SATIN PAPERS) is
produced by dusting finely powdered French chalk over the surface, and
rubbing it strongly with a brush or burnisher. The ground for this purpose
is prepared with plaster.
FLOCK and VELVET PAPERS are produced by covering the surface of the
pattern with a mordant formed with boiled oil thickened with white lead or
ochre, and then sprinkling powdered woollen flocks on it. These are
previously dyed, and ground to the required fineness in a mill.
=PAPIER-MÂCHÉ.= Pulped paper moulded into forms. It possesses great
strength and lightness. It may be rendered partially waterproof by the
addition of sulphate of iron, quicklime, and glue or white of egg to the
pulp; and incombustible by the addition of borax and phosphate of soda.
The papier-mâché tea-trays, waiters, snuff-boxes, &c., are prepared by
pasting or glueing sheets of paper together, and then submitting them to
powerful pressure, by which the composition acquires the hardness of board
when dry. Such articles are afterwards japanned, and are then perfectly
waterproof.
The refuse of the cotton and flax mills, and numerous other substances of
a like character, are now worked up as papier-mâché, and the manufactured
articles formed of them are indistinguishable from those prepared directly
from paper.
=PAPIN’S DIGESTER= is a strong, closed, iron vessel, in which water can be
heated above 212° F., thereby acquiring a temperature that adds
considerably to its solvent powers. This apparatus is put to many useful
applications in the arts, of which one is the speedy extraction of gelatin
from the earthy matter of bones. The bones may be boiled for hours at 212°
without any such effect being produced. The high temperature acquired by
the water is effected by the confinement of the steam, the internal
pressure of which can be regulated by means of a safety valve attached to
the vessel. By this arrangement the water may be kept at any uniform
temperature above 212° at pleasure. Professor Junichen[91] recommends the
use of the digester for the purpose of boiling meat and other food. It
appears from the author’s experiments that the time for cooking various
articles of daily consumption is much shorter when effected under strong
pressure, while a great saving of fuel is also effected.
[Footnote 91: ‘Chemical News.’]
=PAPY′RIN.= See PAPER (Parchment).
=PAR′ACHUTE.= In aërostation, an instrument or apparatus having for its
object to retard the descent of heavy bodies through the air. The only
form of parachute which has been hitherto adopted with success is that of
the common umbrella when extended. The materials of which the apparatus is
made are canvas and cord, both light but strong, and carefully put
together. The car to contain the adventurer resembles that of the balloon,
only smaller.
It is estimated that a circular parachute, to descend in safety with an
adult, weighing, with the apparatus, 225 lbs., must have a diameter of at
least 30 feet. Its terminal velocity would then be at the rate of 12 to 13
feet per second, or about 6-1/2 miles per hour; and the shock experienced
on contact with the earth would be equal to that which the aëronaut would
receive if he dropped freely from a height about 2-1/2 feet.
Several descents from balloons, after they have acquired a great
elevation, have been effected without accident by means of parachutes.
Unfortunately, however, any want of integrity in the machine, or any
accident which may happen to it after its detachment from the balloon, is
irreparable and fatal.
=PARACYAN′OGEN.= The brown solid matter left in the retort when cyanide of
mercury is decomposed by heat. It is isomeric with cyanogen.
=PARAFFIN.= _Syn._ TAR-OIL STEARIN. This remarkable hydrocarbon is one of
the several substances discovered by Reichenbach in WOOD-TAR.
_Prep._ 1. (From WOOD-TAR. Reichenbach.) Distil beech-tar to dryness,
rectify the oily portion of the product which is heavier than water until
a thick matter begins to rise, then change the receiver, and moderately
urge the heat as long as anything passes over; next digest the product in
the second receiver, in an equal measure of alcohol of ·833, gradually add
6 or 7 parts more of alcohol, and expose the whole to a low temperature;
crystals of paraffin will gradually fall down, which, after being washed
in cold alcohol, must be dissolved in boiling alcohol, when crystals of
pure paraffin will be deposited as the solution cools.
2. (From COAL——James Young, Patent 1850.) The details of this process for
obtaining paraffin and its congeners by the slow distillation of coal
(preferably ‘Boghead’) are given in our article on PARAFFIN OIL. The solid
paraffin is separated from the last products, or ‘heavy oils,’ by
artificial cold; it is then melted and run into moulds.
3. (From RANGOON PETROLEUM——Patent.) In this process, which is worked by
Price’s Candle Company, superheated steam is employed as the heating
agent. The paraffin, or ‘BELMONTINE,’ as it is called, is the last product
which distils over.
4. (From PEAT.) The various processes which have been suggested for
obtaining paraffin from peat, turf, &c., are similar in principle to
Young’s. The great point is to conduct the distillation at as low a
temperature as possible.
_Prop._ A white, hard, translucent body, melting at 110° Fahr. and
upwards, according to its source, and burning with a bright white flame.
It has great stability——sulphuric acid, chlorine, and nitric acid below
212° exerting no action upon it. Dr Anderson states that its composition
and properties vary with the source from which it is derived. With respect
to the melting point, this variation is very remarkable. Thus, Young’s
paraffin, from Boghead coal, melts, according to the observations of Dr
Anderson, at 114°, while that from Rangoon petroleum (‘belmontine’) melts
at 140°, and that from turf at 116°.
_Uses._ Paraffin is now largely used for making candles, for which purpose
it is specially adapted, being a most elegant substance, and surpassing
all other candle materials, even spermaceti, in illuminating power. Its
property of not being acted upon by acids or alkalies renders it suitable
for stoppers for vessels holding chemical liquids; also for electrotype
moulds. It is not acted upon by ozone, so that it has been employed with
great advantages in experiments on this body for rendering air-tight the
joints formed by the union of glass tubes. As it contains no oxygen, it
might be employed to protect oxydisable metals like sodium and potassium
from contact with the air. One use of paraffin candle-ends will commend
them to the ladies of the household——a small piece of paraffin added to
starch will be found to give a gloss and brilliancy of surface to the
starched linen that can be obtained by no other addition.
=PARAFFIN OIL.= See OILS.
=PARAL′YSIS.= _Syn._ PALSY. A loss or considerable diminution of power of
voluntary motion, or functional action, of any part of the body. In its
most usual form one side only of the body is affected. It not uncommonly
seizes the lower extremities, or all parts below the pelvis; sometimes the
arms only; and occasionally a part, as one side of the face, one eyelid,
the tongue, or the muscles of deglutition. In these cases the speech
frequently becomes indistinct and incoherent, and the memory and judgment
impaired, whilst the distorted features assume a more or less revolting
aspect.
The causes of paralysis are various. It may be occasioned by pressure on
particular parts of the brain, the spinal marrow, or the nerves; by
poisons, the long-continued use of sedatives, local injuries, the sudden
suppression of profuse and habitual evacuations, and by whatever tends to
greatly relax or enervate the system. It may also be a consequence of an
attack of apoplexy, or it may be symptomatic of other diseases, as
scrofula, syphilis, and worms. When it is of a distinctly local character
it may arise from excessive use or undue employment of the part or organ.
That of old age is, probably, a mere consequence of the failing nervous
energy of the system being unequally distributed.
Palsy usually comes on with a sudden and immediate loss of the motion and
sensibility of the parts; but in a few instances it is preceded by a
numbness, coldness, and paleness; and sometimes by slight convulsive
twitches. If the disease affects the extremities, and has been of long
duration, it not only produces a loss of motion and sensibility, but
likewise a considerable flaccidity and wasting away of the muscles of the
parts affected.
When palsy attacks any vital part, such as the brain, heart, or lungs, it
soon terminates in death.
The treatment of paralysis depends upon a careful consideration of its
cause. The first object should be, as far as possible, to remove any
compressing force, and to gradually arouse the torpid portion of the
nervous system. In general, more or less depletion will be found
beneficial, together with rather active purgation, and nervous stimulants,
as ammonia, musk, &c. Blisters to the head and neck are also appropriate.
With the debilitated and aged, venesection must be avoided. Stimulant and
rubefacient frictions and liniments, the vapour bath, and other like
remedies, also frequently prove useful. In local attacks of the disease,
as the loss of use of one of the hands, arms, legs, &c., no agent has
proved so generally successful as voltaic electricity. For this purpose
the current should be in one direction only, and continued uninterruptedly
for some time daily. When the direction of the current is alternate, with
slight shocks, as in the common coil machine, this agent is of doubtful
utility, except for occasional use. In all cases medical aid should be
sought as early as possible.
=PARANAPH′THALIN.= _Syn._ ANTHRACEN. See ANTHRACEN.
=PARAPEC′′TIN.= See PECTIN.
=PAR′ASITES.= The parasitical animals that infest the human body are
referred to under the heads ACARI and PEDICULI.
=Parasites, Human.= The following is a list of the principal parasites
infesting man. It is extracted from the ‘Dictionary of Hygiène,’ of Wynter
Blyth, who states that he has arranged it, with some slight alterations,
from a table in Dr Aitken’s ‘Science and Practice of Medicine.’ The two
first divisions include animal parasites, the third vegetable ones. No. 1,
or _Entozoa_, are animal parasites found inside the human body; No. 2,
those found outside; No. 3, consisting of vegetable parasites, comprises
_Entophyta_ and _Epiphyta_, the former existing in the interior, and the
latter on the exterior of the human body. Some of the principal parasites
have already been described and figured in these pages.
I. _Entozoa._
Acephalocystis endogena, _liver_.
” multifida, _brain_.
Anchylostomum, seu Sclerostoma duodenale,
_intestines_.
Anthomia canicularis, _intestines_.
Ascaris alata ”
” lumbricoides ”
” mystax ”
Bilharzia seu Distoma hæmatobia, _portal and
venous system_.
Bothriocephalus cordatus, _intestines_.
” latus ”
Cysticercus cellulosæ, seu telæ cellulosæ (C. of
Tenia solium), _muscles_.
Cysticercus of Tæniæ marginata (C. tenuicollis),
_intestines_.
Dactylius aculeatus, _urinary bladder_.
Diplosoma crenatus.
Distoma seu Distomum crassum, _duodenum_.
” hepaticum seu Fasciola hepatica, _gallbladder_.
” heterophryes, _intestines_.
” lanceolatum, _hepatic duct_
” oculi humani seu ophthalmobium,
_capsule of crystalline_.
Ditrachycerus rudus, _intestines_.
Echinococcus hominis (hydatid of Tænia echinococcus),
_liver, spleen, and omentum_.
Filaria bronchialis seu trachealis, _bronchial
glands_.
” seu dracunculus medinensis, _skin and
areolar tissue_.
” sanguinis hominis, _blood_.
” oculi seu lentis, _eye_.
Hexathrydium pinguicola, _ovary_.
” venarum, _venous system_.
Monostoma lentis, _crystalline_.
Œstrus hominis, _intestines_.
Oxyuris vermicularis, ”
Pentastoma constrictum, _intestines and liver_.
” denticulatum, _intestines_.
Polystroma pinguicola, _ovary_.
” sanguicola seu verarum, _venous
system_.
Spiroptera hominis, _urinary bladder_.
Strongylus seu Eustrongylus bronchialus, _bronchial
tubes_.
” seu Eustrongylus gigas (Acarus
renalis), _kidney and intestines_.
Tænia acanthotrias, _intestines_.
” elliptica, ”
” flavopuncta, ”
” lophosoma, ”
” mediocanellata, ”
” nana, _intestines and liver_.
” solium, _intestines_.
Tetrastoma renale, _kidney_.
Trichina spiralis, _muscles_.
Tricocephalus dispar, _intestines_.
II. _Ectozoa._
Demodex seu Acarus folliculorum, _sebaceous
substance of cutaneous follicles_.
Pediculus capitas (head louse).
” corporis seu vestimenti (body louse).
” palpebrarum (brow louse).
” pubis, Phthirius inguinalis (crab-louse).
” tubescetium, _phthiriasis_ (_lousy disease_).
Pulex penetrans (chigoë), _skin, cellular tissue_.
Sarcoptes seu Acarus scabiei (itch insect),
_scabies_.
III. _Entophyta and Epiphyta._
Achorion Lebertii (Tricophyton tonsurans),
_Tinea tonsurans_.
” Schönleinii, _Tinea favosa_.
Chionyphe Carteri (fungus of Mycetoma), _deep
tissues, bones of hands and feet_.
Leptothrix buccalis (alga of the mouth).
Microsporon Audouini, _Tinea decalvans_.
” Furfur, _Tinea versicolor_.
” mentagrophytes, _follicles of hair
in sycosis or mentagra_.
Oïdium albicans (thrush fungus), _mouth,
mucous, and cutaneous surfaces_.
Puccinia favi, _Tinea favosa_.
Sarcina ventriculi, _stomach_.
Torula cerevisiæ (Cryptococcus cerevisiæ, yeast
plant), _stomach, bladder, &c._
Tricophyton sporuloïdes, _Tinea polornia_.
=PARATARTAR′IC ACID.= See RACEMIC ACID.
=PARCH′MENT.= See VELLUM, and PAPER (Parchment).
=PARCHMENT PAPER.= See PAPER.
=PAREGOR′IC.= See TINCTURE OF CAMPHOR (Compound).
=Paregoric Scotch.= See TINCTURE OF OPIUM (Ammoniated).
=PAREI′RA BRA′VA.= See VELVET LEAF.
=PARR.= A name applied to the salmon until near the end of its second
year, when it loses its dark lateral bars by the superaddition of a
silvery pigment. It was formerly regarded as a distinct species.
=PARS′LEY.= _Syn._ PETROSELINUM, L. This well-known herb is the _Apium
petroselinum_. The root is diuretic; the fruit (seed) carminative; the
leaves are a pleasant stimulating salad and condiment, and are much used
to flavour broth and soup. “The fruit is a deadly poison to parrots.”
(Lind. _ex_ Burnett.)
=PARS′NIP.= The root of _Pastinacea sativa_. The parsnip is native to
England and Ireland, but does not grow in Scotland. It is likewise met
with in many parts of Europe and in northern Asia. In the wild state the
root is somewhat acrid, and injurious effects have been known to have
followed its use as a food. By cultivation, however, it loses both its
acridity and dangerous properties, and forms a table vegetable, not in
universal favour.
In the Channel Islands parsnips constitute the winter food of cows; and
these animals when fed upon them are said to yield butter of a better
quality than can be obtained from them when partaking of any other fodder.
The flesh of cattle fed on the parsnip is also highly commended. In the
North of Ireland the juice of the root, mixed with hops and yeast, is made
into a fermented liquor. Parsnip wine is an agreeable alcoholic beverage.
_Composition of the Parsnip._
Nitrogenous matter 1·1
Starch 9·6
Sugar 5·8
Fat 0·5
Salts 1·0
Water 82·0
——————
100·0
=PASTE.= _Syn._ PASTA, L.; PÂTE, Fr. This word is very loosely applied to
substances and preparations differing so widely from each other, that it
would be scarcely possible to class them together. We shall, therefore,
refer the reader to the individual articles. The pastes (pâtes) of French
pharmacy are compound medicines of the consistence of hard dough, and
which do not stick to the fingers. They are formed of sugar and gum,
dissolved in water or in some medicated liquid. They are evaporated so as
to unite these principles by degrees, and give them the pliancy and the
firmness of paste. They are employed internally in doses more or less
variable in a similar manner to lozenges. “Pâtes, properly so called, are
divided into transparent, or such as are made without agitation, like
jujubes of brown liquorice; and opaque, or such as are made with
agitation, like the pâtes of marshmallow, lichen, &c.” (Trousseau and
Reveil.) See PASTES (Artificial Gems), PASTRY, and _below_.
=Paste, Adhesive.= Let 4 parts, by weight, of glue soften in 15 parts of
cold water for fifteen hours, after which the mixture must be moderately
heated until it becomes quite clear. To this mixture 65 parts of boiling
water are to be added without stirring. In another vessel 30 parts of
starch paste are stirred up with 20 parts of cold water, so that a thin
milky fluid is obtained without lumps. Into this the boiling glue solution
is poured, with constant stirring, and the whole is kept at the boiling
temperature. When cooled the 10 drops of carbolic acid are to be added to
the paste. This paste possesses great adhesive power, and may be used for
leather, paper, or cardboard with great success. It must be preserved in
closed bottles to prevent evaporation of the water, and will, in this
way, keep good for years. (‘Dingler’s Journal.’)
=Paste, Al′mond.= _Syn._ PASTA AMYGDALINA, P. AMYGDALARUM, P. REGIA, L.;
PÂTE ROYALE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (MOIST.)——_a._ Take of blanched Valentia
almonds, 4 oz.; reduce them to a very smooth paste by patient pounding in
a clean mortar, adding, towards the last, a little rose water, with some
eau de Cologne, or 3 or 4 drops of otto of roses or neroli, or an
equivalent quantity of any other perfume, according to the fancy of the
artiste.
_b._ From bitter and sweet almonds (blanched), equal parts; rose water,
q. s. It requires no other perfume.
_c._ To either of the preceding add of spermaceti, 1/2 oz. The white of an
egg, or 1/4 oz. of white soap, is added by some makers. With about 1/2 dr.
of powdered camphor to each oz. of the above it forms the ‘camphorated
almond paste’ of the shops.
_d._ Take fine Narbonne honey and white bitter paste (see _below_), of
each 1 lb.; beat them to a smooth paste, then add, in alternate portions,
of oil of almonds, 2 lbs.; yolks of 5 eggs; and reduce the whole to a
perfectly homogeneous pasty mass. Much esteemed. It is commonly sold under
the name of ‘honey paste,’ ‘pâte royale,’ &c. In a similar manner are made
nosegay, orange, rose, vanilla, and other like pastes having almonds for a
basis, by merely adding the respective perfumes.
2. (PULVERULENT.)——_a._ (Gray.) Prepared from the cake of bitter almonds
from which the oil has been thoroughly expressed by drying, grinding, and
sifting it.
_b._ (Bitter white.) As the last, but the almonds are blanched before
being pressed.
_c._ (Sweet white.) As the last, but using sweet almonds.
_Obs._ All the above are used as cosmetics, to soften and whiten the skin,
prevent chaps, abrasions, chilblains, &c. The honey paste, and the sweet
and bitter white pastes, are those most esteemed. (See _below_.)
=Paste, Almond.= (In confectionery.) _Prep._ 1. Take of Valentia almonds,
3 lbs.; bitter do., 1/4 lb.; blanch them, and reduce them to a very smooth
paste by pounding, then put them into a clean copper pan along with white
sugar and good gum Arabic, of each 1 lb. (the last previously dissolved in
about a pint of water;) apply a gentle heat, and stir until the whole is
mixed and has acquired a proper consistence, then pour it out on a smooth,
oiled, marble slab, and when cold cut it into squares.
2. As the last, but when the mixture has acquired the consistence of thick
honey, setting it aside to cool; when nearly cold, the whites of 6 eggs
are to be added, and heat being again gradually applied, the whole is to
be stirred until it acquires the proper consistence, as before.
3. Blanched sweet almonds and white sugar, of each 1 lb.; blanched bitter
almonds and powdered gum, of each 3 oz.; beat them, in the cold, to a
perfectly smooth paste, with orange-flower water or rose water, q. s., so
that it may be sufficiently stiff not to stick to the fingers, and then
cut the mass into squares, as before. The above are eaten as confections.
=Paste, Ancho′vy.= _Prep._ Remove the larger bones from the fish, and then
pound them to a smooth paste in a marble mortar, adding a little bay-salt
and cayenne pepper at will; next rub the pulp through a fine hair sieve,
and about 3-4ths fill the pots with it; lastly, cover the surface of each
to the depth of about 1/8 inch with good butter in a melted state. It
should be kept in a cool situation. Other fish pastes, as those of
bloaters, lobsters, shrimps, caviare, &c., are made in a similar manner.
=Paste, Arsen′ical.= See CAUSTICS, PATENT MEDICINES, and POWDERS.
=Paste, Baudry’s.= See PASTE, PECTORAL (_below_).
=Paste, Bird.= See GERMAN PASTE.
=Paste, Black Currant.= As black currant lozenges, but simply cutting the
mass into dice or square.
=Paste, Car′rageen.= _Prep._ From Irish moss, as the lichen paste of the
P. Cod. (see _below_).
=Paste, Chinese′.= _Prep._ From bullock’s blood, 10 lbs., reduced to
dryness by a gentle heat, then powdered, and mixed with quicklime, also in
fine powder, 1 lb. It is used as a cement, made into a paste with water,
and at once applied.
=Paste of Chlo′′ride of Zinc.= See CAUSTICS.
=Paste of Dates.= _Syn._ PASTA DACTYLIFERÆ, P. DACTYLORUM, L.; PÂTES DE
DATTES, Fr. From dates (stoned), as jujube paste. Pectoral, and slightly
astringent. Paste of gum Senegal is usually sold for it.
=Paste, De Handel’s.= _Prep._ From opium, 1/2 dr.; camphor, 1 dr. (both in
powder); extracts of belladonna and henbane, of each 1 dr.; oil of cajeput
and tincture of cantharides, of each 10 or 12 drops; distilled water of
opium (or of lettuce), q. s. In toothache.
=Paste, Depil′atory.= _Syn._ PASTA EPILATORIA, L. Several preparations of
this character are noticed at pages 552-3. 1. A mixture of slacked lime, 2
parts, and water, 3 parts, saturated with sulphuretted hydrogen, is said
to be so powerful, that “a layer a line in thickness denudes the scalp in
three minutes.” (Beasley.)
2. (Payan.) Powdered sulphate of copper made into a soft paste with yolk
of egg.
=Paste of Figs.= _Syn._ PASTA CARICARUM, P. FICARIA, L. _Prep._ 1. From
figs, as jujube paste.
2. (Soubeiran.) Pulp of figs, 1 part; press it through a sieve, mix it
with powdered sugar, 4 parts, concentrated by a gentle heat (if
necessary), roll the mass out, and cut it into squares or lozenges.
=Paste, Flour.= _Syn._ COLLE DE PÂTE, Fr. From wheaten flour.
Paper-hangers, shoemakers, &c., usually add to the flour 1/6 to 1/4 of its
weight of finely powdered resin. It is then sometimes called ‘hard paste.’
The addition of a few drops of creasote or oil of cloves, or a little
powered camphor, colocynth, or corrosive sublimate (especially the first
two and the last), will prevent insects from attacking it, and preserve it
in covered vessels for years. Should it get too hard, it may be softened
with water. See CEMENTS.
=Paste, Fruit.= _Prep._ 1. To each pint of the strained juice add of gum
Arabic, 1 oz., gently evaporate to the consistence of a syrup, and add an
equal weight of bruised white sugar; as soon as the whole is united, pour
it out on an oiled slab, and, when cold enough, cut it into pieces.
2. Citric acid, 3/4 oz.; gum Arabic, 6 oz.; white sugar, 3/4 lb.; water,
q. s.; dissolve, and flavour with any of the fruit essences. It may be
coloured with any pf the stains used for confectionery or liqueurs.
3. As fruit lozenges.
=Paste, Fur′niture.= See POLISH.
=Paste, Glove.= See GANTEINE.
=Paste of Gum Arabic.= _Syn._ PASTA GUMMI, L.; PÂTE DE GOMME, P. DE G.
ARABIQUE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. As marshmallow paste, omitting the mallow roots.
2. Gum Arabic (picked), 1 lb.; water, 1 pint; dissolve, add of white
sugar, 1 lb.; evaporate by a gentle heat to a very thick syrup, then add
the whites of 3 eggs, previously beaten up with orange-flower water, 1 fl.
oz., and strained through muslin, and continue the heat with constant
stirring, until of a proper consistence on being cooled. The last two are
commonly sold for marshmallow paste (pâte de guimauve).
3. (Transparent.) From gum Arabic (picked), 1 lb.; cold water, 1 pint;
white sugar, 1-1/4 lb.; proceed as the last, adding orange-flower water 1
fl. oz., towards the end. Often sold under the name of ‘white jujubes.’
=Paste of Gum Senegal.= _Syn._ PÂTE DE GOMME SENEGAL, Fr. As jujube paste,
without the fruit.
=Paste, Hon′ey.= See PASTE, ALMOND.
=Paste, Ju′jube.= _Syn._ JUJUBES, JUJUBE LOZENGES; PASTA JUJUBÆ, L.; PÂTE
DE JUJUBES, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Jujubes (the fruit), 1 lb.; water, 4
lbs.; boil 1/2 hour, strain with expression, settle, decant the clear
portion, and clarify it with white of egg; add a strained solution of gum
Arabic, 6 lbs., in water, 8 lbs., and to the mixture add of white sugar, 5
lbs.; gently evaporate, at first constantly stirring, and afterwards
without stirring, to the consistence of a soft extract, then add of
orange-flower water, 6 fl. oz., and place the pan in a vessel of boiling
water. In 12 hours carefully remove the scum, pour the matter into
slightly oiled tin moulds, and finish the evaporation (hardening) in a
stove heated to 104°, Fahr. It is commonly coloured with beet-root,
cochineal, or saffron. Expectorant; in coughs, &c. Paste of gum Arabic is
usually sold for it.
=Paste, Li′chen.= _Syn._ PASTA LICHENIS, L.; PÂTE DE LICHEN, Fr. _Prep._
(P. Cod.) Iceland moss, 1 lb.; water, q. s.; heat them to nearly the
boiling-point, strain with pressure, reject the liquor, and boil the moss
in fresh water, q. s., for 1 hour; strain, press, add of gum Arabic, 5
lbs.; white sugar, 4 lbs., and evaporate to a proper consistence, as
above. Pectoral. With the addition of 1/2 gr. of extract of opium to each
oz., it forms the opiated lichen paste. (P. Cod.)
=Paste, liquorice.= _Syn._ LIQUORICE JUJUBES; PASTA GLYCIRRHIZÆ, L.; PÂTE
DE RÉGLISSE, P. DE R. NOIRE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Refined juice and
white sugar, of each 1 lb.; gum Arabic, 2 lbs.; water, 3 quarts; dissolve,
strain, evaporate considerably, and, of finely powdered orris root, 1/2
oz.; oil of aniseed or essence of cedrat, a few drops, and pour the paste
upon an oiled slab, or into moulds, as before.
2. (Brown; PÂSTA G. FUSCA; PÂTE DE R. BRUNE.) Refined juice, 4 oz.; white
sugar, 2 lbs.; gum Arabic, 3 lbs.; water, 4 pints; proceed as last.
3. (Opiated; PÂTE DE R. OPIACE.——P Cod.) To the last add of extract of
opium, 15 gr.
4. (White; PÂTE DE RÉGLISSE BLANCHE.) As No. 2, substituting the powder of
the decorticated root for the extract. All the above are pectoral; the
second is also slightly anodyne. They are useful in tickling coughs,
hoarseness, &c.
=Paste, London.= _Syn._ PASTA LONDINENSIS. Equal parts of caustic soda and
unslaked lime. Reduce to a fine powder in a warm mortar, and mix
intimately. Keep it in well closed bottles, and when required for use take
as much as is sufficient, and make it into a paste with water.
=Paste, Marsh-mallow.= _Syn._ PASTA ALTHÆÆ, L.; PÂTE DE GUIMAUVE, Fr.
_Prep._ (P. Cod. 1816.) Decorticated marshmallow root (French), 4 oz.;
water, 1/2 gall.; macerate for 12 hours, strain, add white sugar and gum
Arabic, of each 2-1/2 lbs.; dissolve, strain, evaporate without boiling to
the thickness of honey, constantly stirring, and add, gradually, the
whites of 12 eggs, well beaten with orange-flower water, 4 fl. oz., and
strained; continue the evaporation and constant stirring until the mass is
so firm as not to adhere to the fingers, then proceed as before.
_Obs._ It should be very white, light, and spongy. In the P. Codex of 1839
the marshmallow root is omitted, and the name is changed to that of ‘pâte
de gomme,’ a compound long sold for it in the shops. Both are agreeable
pectorals. See PASTE OF GUM ARABIC.
=Paste, Odontal′gic.= _Syn._ PASTA ODONTALGICA, L. _Prep._ 1. Pellitory
(in powder), 1 dr.; hydrochlorate of morphia, 3 gr.; triturate; add, of
honey, 2 dr.; and oil of cloves, 6 drops.
2. Powdered mastic, pellitory, and white sugar, of each 1 dr.; chloroform,
q. s. to form a paste. It must be kept in a stoppered bottle. See
TOOTHACHE, and _below_.
=Paste, Or′ange.= _Prep._ From orange flowers, 2 lbs.; bitter and sweet
almonds, of each blanched, 2-1/2 lbs.; beaten to a perfectly smooth paste.
An agreeable cosmetic. See PASTE, ALMOND.
=Paste, Or′geat.= _Prep._ From blanched Jordan almonds, 1 lb.; blanched
bitter a. and white sugar and honey, of each 1/4 lb.; beaten to a paste,
with orange-flower water, q. s. (or neroli, a few drops), and put into
pots. As a cosmetic or to make orgeat milk. For use, rub 1 oz. with 1/2
pint of water, and strain through muslin.
=Paste, Pec′toral.= _Syn._ PASTA PECTORALIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (PÂTE PECTORALE
DE BAUDRY.) Take of gum Arabic and white sugar of each 7 lbs.; water,
q. s.; dissolve, add of extract of liquorice, 3 oz.; evaporate, add of
extract of lettuce, 2 dr.; balsam of tolu, 1-1/4 oz.; orange-flower water,
4-1/2 fl. oz.; white of 4 eggs; oil of citrons, 5 or 6 drops.
2. (PÂTE PECTORALE BALSAMIQUE DE REGNAULT.) From the flowers of coltsfoot,
cudweed, marrow, and red poppy, of each, 1 oz.; water, 1 quart; boil,
strain; add, of gum Arabic, 30 oz.; white sugar, 20 oz.; dissolve,
concentrate, add of tincture of tolu, 3 fl. dr., and pour the mixture on
an oiled slab.
3. (ANISATED COLTSFOOT PASTE; PÂTE DE TUSSILAGE À L’ANIS.) From a strong
decoction of coltsfoot flowers, 1 quart; Spanish juice, 1/2 lb.; dissolve,
strain, evaporate as before, and towards the end add of oil of aniseed, 1
dr. All the above are useful in hoarseness, coughs, &c.
=Paste, Pho′sphor.= See RATS.
=Paste, Pol′ishing.= _Prep._ 1. (For copper and brass.) See BRASS PASTE.
2. (For iron and steel.) From emery (in fine powder) and lard, equal
parts.
3. (For pewter.) From powdered Bath brick, 2 parts; soft soap, 1 part;
water, q. s. to make a paste. Used with a little water, and afterwards
well rinsed off.
4. (For furniture.) See POLISH.
=Paste, Ra′′zor.= _Prep._ 1. From jeweller’s rouge, plumbago, and suet,
equal parts, melted together and stirred until cold.
2. From prepared putty powder (levigated oxide of tin), 3 parts; lard, 2
parts; crocus martis, 1 part; triturated together.
3. Prepared putty powder, 1 oz.; powdered oxalic acid, 1/4 oz.; powdered
gum, 20 grs.; make a stiff paste with water, q. s., and evenly and thinly
spread it over the strop, the other side of which should be covered with
any of the common greasy mixtures. With very little friction this paste
gives a fine edge to the razor, and its action is still further increased
by slightly moistening it, or even breathing on it. Immediately after its
use, the razor should receive a few turns on the other side of the strop.
4. Diamond dust, jeweller’s rouge, and plumbago, of each 1 part; suet, 2
parts. Powdered quartz is generally substituted for diamond dust, but is
much less effective.
5. (Mechi’s.) Emery (reduced to an impalpable powder), 4 parts; deer suet,
1 part; well mixed together.
6. (Pradier’s.) From powdered Turkey stone, 4 oz.; jeweller’s rouge and
prepared putty powder, of each 1 oz.; hard suet, 2 oz.
_Obs._ The above (generally made up into square cakes) are rubbed over the
razor strop, and the surface being smoothed off with the flat part of a
knife or a phial bottle, the strop is set aside for a few hours to harden
before being used.
=Paste, Regnault’s.= See PASTE, PECTORAL.
=Paste, Rubefa′′cient.= _Syn._ PASTA RUBEFACIENS, L. _Prep._ (Clarus.)
From acetate of lead, 1 oz.; bisulphite of potassa, 3 oz.; water, q. s. It
acts powerfully and quickly on the skin.
=Paste, Rust’s.= _Prep._ From powdered opium and extract of henbane, of
each 10 gr.; powdered pellitory and extract of belladonna, of each 20 gr.;
oil of cloves, 10 drops. In toothache.
=Paste, Sha′′ving.= _Prep._ 1. Naples soap (genuine), 4 oz.; powdered
Castile soap, 2 oz.; honey, 1 oz.; essence of ambergris and oils of cassia
and nutmegs, of each 5 or 6 drops.
2. White wax, spermaceti, and almond oil, of each 1/4 oz.; melt, and,
whilst warm, beat in 2 squares of Windsor soap previously reduced to a
paste with a little rose water.
3. White soft soap, 4 oz.; spermaceti and salad oil, of each 1/2 oz.; melt
them together, and stir until nearly cold. It may be scented at will. When
properly prepared, these pastes produce a good lather with either hot or
cold water, which does not dry on the face. The proper method of using
them is to smear a minute quantity over the beard, and then to apply the
wetted shaving-brush, and not to pour water on them, as is the common
practice.
=Paste, Styptic, of Gutta Percha.= _Syn._ PASTA GUTTÆ PERCHÆ STYPTICA. (Mr
Beardsley.) Gutta percha, 1 oz.; Stockholm tar, 1-1/2 or 2 oz.; creosote,
1 dr.; shellac, 1 oz., or q. s. to render it sufficiently hard. To be
boiled together with constant stirring, till it forms a homogeneous mass.
For alveolar hæmorrhage, and as a stopping for teeth in toothache. To be
softened by moulding with the fingers.
=Paste, Swediaur.= See CHILBLAIN.
=Paste, Tooth.= _Syn._ PASTA DENTIFRICIA, ELECTUARIUM DENTIFRICUM, L.
Various preparations are known under this name. They consist, for the most
part, of the ordinary substances used as dentifrices, reduced to the state
of a very fine powder, and mixed with sufficient honey, sugar, or
capillaire, to give them the required consistence. Honey of roses is often
used for this purpose, with some agreeable perfume at will. A little eau
de Cologne or rectified spirit is a useful addition. The following are a
few examples:——
1. (CARBON PASTE; OPIAT CARBONIQUE.) The chippings of Turkey stone,
cylinder charcoal, and prepared chalk, of each 2 oz.; cochineal and
cloves, of each 1 dr.; honey, 5 oz.; eau de Cologne, q. s. It should not
be put into the pots until the next day, and should be afterwards well
preserved from the air. Much prized by smokers, and by persons troubled
with a fetid breath from rotten teeth.
2. (CORAL PASTE; OPIAT DENTIFRICE ROUGE.) From prepared coral, 8 oz.;
cuttle-fish bone, 4 oz.; mastic, 2 oz.; cochineal, 1/4 oz.; honey, 3/4
lb.; essence of ambergris, 1 fl dr.; oil of cloves, 1/2 fl. dr., dissolved
in rectified spirit, 1 fl. oz. As the last. Cleanse the teeth rapidly.
3. (Dyon’s CHARCOAL PASTE.) From chlorate of potassa, 1 dr.; mint water, 1
fl. oz.; triturate until dissolved, then add, of powdered charcoal, 2 oz.;
honey, 1 oz.
4. (MAGIC PASTE.) From white marble dust 4 oz.; pumice stone (in
impalpable powder), 3 oz.; rose pink, 1 oz.; honey, 1/2 lb.; otto of
roses, 15 drops. Rapidly whitens the teeth, but it should not be used too
freely, nor too frequently.
5. (P. Cod.) Prepared coral, 4 oz.; bitartrate of potassa, 2 oz.;
cuttle-fish bone and cochineal, of each 1 oz.; alum, 1/2 dr.; Narbonne
honey, 10 oz.; with essential oil, q. s. to aromatise the mixture.
6. (Pelletier’s ODONTINE.) This is stated to be a mixture of pulverised
sepia-bone, butter of cacao, and honey, with essential oil.
7. (ROSE PASTE.) Coral paste scented with roses, or the
following:——Cuttle-fish bone, 1 oz.; prepared chalk, 2 oz.; cochineal, 1/2
dr.; honey of roses, 3 oz.; otto of roses, 6 drops.
8. (SOLUBLE PASTE, SALINE DENTIFRICE.) From bitartrate of potassa or
sulphate of potassa (in fine powder), 3 oz.; honey of roses, 2 oz.
9. (SPANISH DENTIFRICE, CASTILIAN TOOTH CREAM.) From Castile soap (in fine
powder) and cuttle-fish bone, of each 2 oz.; honey of roses, 5 oz. An
excellent preparation. It is superior to all the other pastes for removing
tartar and animalculæ from the teeth.
10. (VANILLA PASTE.) From red cinchona bark, 2 dr.; vanilla, 1 dr.;
cloves, 1/2 dr. (the last two reduced to powder by trituration with);
white sugar, 1 oz.; cuttle-fish bone and marble dust, of each 1/2 oz.;
syrup of saffron, q. s.
11. (VIOLET PASTE.) From prepared chalk and cuttle-fish bone of each 3
oz.; powdered white sugar, 2 oz.; orris root 1 oz.; smalts, 1/4 oz.; syrup
of violets, q. s. to mix.
12. (Winckler’s ROSEATE DENTIFRICE.) From cuttle-fish bone, 1 part;
conserve of roses (Ph. L.), 3 parts; white otto of roses, 2 drops to the
oz.
13. Chalk, 8 oz.; myrrh and rhatany root, of each 2 oz.; orris root, 1
oz.; honey of roses, q. s. to mix. In foul and spongy gums.
=Paste, Tooth′ache.= See PASTE, ODONTALGIA.
=Paste, Tor′mentil.= _Syn._ PASTA TORMENTILLÆ, L. _Prep._ (Morin.)
Powdered tormentil root made into a paste with white of egg. In whitlow;
applied on linen. Mixed with an equal weight of simple syrup, it has also
been recommended in dysentery and diarrhœa.
=Paste, Vienna.= See CAUSTIC POTASSA WITH LIME.
=Paste, Vohler’s.= _Prep._ From dragon’s blood, 1 dr.; powdered opium, 2
dr.; powdered gums of mastic and sandarach, of each 4 dr.; oil of
rosemary, 20 drops; tincture of opium, q. s. to form a paste. In
toothache.
=Paste, Ward’s.= See CONFECTION OF PEPPER.
=PASTES.= _Syn._ ARTIFICIAL GEMS, FACTITIOUS G.; PIERRES PRÉCIEUSES
ARTIFICIELLES, Fr. Vitreous compounds made in imitation of the gems and
precious stones. The substances which enter into their composition, and
the principles on which their successful production depends, have been
already briefly noticed. The present article will, therefore, be confined
to giving the reader a few original formulæ, together with several others
carefully selected from the most reliable English and Continental
authorities. Like enamels the artificial gems have for their basis a very
fusible, highly transparent and brilliant, dense glass, which is known
under the name of ‘frit,’ ‘paste,’ ‘strass,’ ‘flux,’ ‘fondant,’ or
‘Mayence base,’ and which in its state of greatest excellence constitutes
the ‘artificial diamond.’ For convenience, this will be noticed here under
its last synonym. (See _below_, also Ure’s ‘Dictionary of Arts,’ &c.)
=Amethyst.= 1. Paste or strass, 500 gr.; oxide of manganese, 3 gr.; oxide
of cobalt, 24 gr.
2. (Douault-Wiéland.) Strass, 4608 gr.; oxide of manganese, 36 gr.; oxide
of cobalt, 2 gr.
3. (Lançon.) Strass, 9216 gr.; oxide of manganese, 15 to 24 gr.; oxide of
cobalt, 1 gr.
=Aqua Marina.= From strass, 4800 gr.; glass of antimony, 30 gr.; oxide of
cobalt, 1-1/2 gr. See BERYL, of which this is merely a variety.
=Aventurine.= 1. From strass, 500 gr.; scales of iron, 100 gr.; black
oxide of copper, 50 gr.; fuse until the black oxide of copper is reduced
to the reguline form, then allow the mass to cool very slowly, so that the
minute crystals of metal may be equally diffused through it. Has a rich
golden iridescence.
2. As the last, but submitting oxide of chromium for the protoxide of
copper. Appears brown, filled with countless gold spangles; or, when mixed
with more paste, of a greenish grey, filled with green spangles.
=Beryl.= (Douault-Wiéland.) Strass, 3456 gr.; glass of antimony, 24 gr.;
oxide of cobalt, 1-1/2 gr. See AQUA MARINA.
=Carbuncle.= See GARNET.
=Chrysolite.= From strass 7000 gr.; pure calcined sesquioxide of iron
(‘trocus martis’), 65 gr.
=Cornelian.= 1. (RED.) From strass, 7000 gr.; glass of antimony, 3500 gr.;
calcined peroxide of iron, 875 gr.; binoxide of manganese, 75 gr.
2. (WHITE.) From strass, 7200 gr.; calcined bones, 250 gr.; washed yellow
ochre, 65 gr.
=Diamond.= 1. From rock crystal (purest), 1600 gr.; borax, 560 gr.;
carbonate of lead (pure), 3200 gr.; oxide of manganese, 1/2 to 1 gr.;
powder each separately, mix them together, fuse the mixture in a clean
crucible, pour the melted mass into water, separate any reduced lead, and
again powder and remelt the mass.
2. Pure silica, 150 gr.; pure litharge, 250 gr.; borax and nitre, of each
50 gr.; arsenious acid, 21 gr.
3. (Douault-Wiéland.)——_a._ From rock crystal, 4056 gr.; minium, 6300 gr.;
potash, 2154 gr.; borax, 276 gr.; arsenic, 12 gr.
_b._ From rock crystal, 3600 gr.; ceruse of Clichy (pure carbonate of
lead), 8508 gr.; potash, 1260 gr.; borax, 360 gr.
4. (Fontanier.) Pure silica, 8 oz.; salt of tartar, 24 oz.; mix, bake,
cool, treat the fused mixture with dilute nitric acid until effervescence
ceases, and afterwards with water as long as the washings affect litmus
paper; next dry the powder, add to it of pure carbonate of lead, 12 oz.
and to every 12 oz. of the mixture add of borax, 1 oz.; triturate in a
porcelain mortar, melt in a clean crucible, and pour the fused mass into
cold water; dry, powder, and repeat the process a second and a third time
in a clean crucible, observing to separate any revived lead. To the third
frit add of nitre, 5 dr., and again melt. The product is perfectly limpid
and extremely brilliant.
5. (Lançon.) Litharge, 100 gr.; pure silica, 75 gr.; white tartar or
potash, 10 gr.
6. (Loysel.) Pure silica, 100 parts; red oxide of lead (minium), 150
parts; calcined potash, 30 to 35 parts; calcined borax, 10 parts;
arsenious acid, 1 part. This produces a paste which has great brilliancy
and refractive and dispersive powers, and also a similar specific gravity
to the oriental diamond. It fuses at a moderate heat, and acquires the
greatest brilliancy when remelted, and kept for 2 or 3 days in a fused
state, in order to expel the superabundant alkali, and perfect the
refining (‘Polytech. Journ.’). The products of the above formulæ are not
only employed to imitate the diamond, but they also form the basis of the
other factitious gems. (See _above_.)
7. (YELLOW DIAMOND.) Strass, 500 gr.; glass of antimony, 10 gr.
=Eagle Marine.= From strass, 3840 gr.; copper stain, 72 gr.; pure zaffre,
1 gr.
=Emerald.= 1. From strass, 7000 gr.; carbonate of copper, 65 gr.; glass of
antimony, 7 gr.
2. Paste, 960 gr.; glass of antimony, 42 gr.; oxide of cobalt, 3-1/2 gr.
3. (Douault-Wiéland) Paste, 4608 gr.; green oxide of copper, 42 gr.; oxide
of chrome, 2 gr.
4. (Lançon.) Paste, 9612 gr.; acetate of copper, 72 gr.; peroxide of iron,
1-1/2 gr.
=Garnet.= 1. Paste or strass, 1200 gr.; glass of antimony, 580 gr.; purple
of cassius and binoxide of manganese, of each 3 gr.
2. (Douault-Wiéland.) Paste, 513 gr.; glass of antimony, 256 gr.; purple
of cassius and oxide of manganese, of each 2 gr.
3. (VINEGAR GARNET.) From paste, 7000 gr.; glass of antimony, 3460 gr.;
calcined peroxide of iron, 56 gr.
=Lapis Lazuli.= From paste, 7000 gr.; calcined horn or bones, 570 gr.;
oxides of cobalt and manganese, of each 24 gr. The golden veins are
produced by painting them on the pieces with a mixture of gold powder,
borax, and gum water, and then gently heating them until the borax fluxes.
=Opal.= 1. From strass, 960 gr.; calcined bones, 48 gr.
2. (Fontanier.) Paste, 1 oz.; horn silver, 10 gr.; calcined magnetic ore,
2 gr.; absorbent earth (calcined bones), 26 gr.
=Ruby.= 1. Paste, 45 parts; binoxide of manganese, 1 part.
2. Paste, 1 lb.; purple of cassius, 3 dr.
3. (Douault-Wiéland.)——_a._ From paste, 2880 parts; oxide of manganese, 72
parts.
_b._ Topaz-paste that has turned out opaque, 1 part; strass, 8 parts; fuse
them together for 30 hours, cool, and again fuse it in small pieces before
the blowpipe. Very fine.
4. (Fontanier.) Strass, 16 oz.; precipitate of cassius, peroxide of iron,
golden sulphide of antimony, and manganese calcined with nitre, of each
168 gr.; rock crystal, 2 oz., or more.
5. Paste and glass of antimony, of each 8 oz.; rock crystal, 1 oz.; purple
of cassius, 1-1/2 dr. Turns on the orange.
=Sapphire.= 1. From strass, 3600 gr.; oxide of cobalt, 50 gr.; oxide of
manganese, 11 gr.
2. (Douault-Wiéland.) Paste, 4608 gr.; oxide of cobalt, 68 gr.; fuse in a
little Hessian crucible for 30 hours.
3. (Fontanier.) Paste, 8 oz.; oxide of cobalt, 49 gr.
=Topaz.= 1. From strass, 1050 gr.; glass of antimony, 44 gr.; purple of
cassius, 1 gr.
2. (Douault-Wiéland.) Paste, 3456 gr.; calcined peroxide of iron, 36 gr.
=Turquoise.= From blue paste, 20 to 24 parts; calcined bones, 1 part.
_Concluding remarks._ It is absolutely necessary for the successful
application of the preceding formulæ that the substances employed should
be perfectly free from impurities, more particularly those of a mineral
kind. The litharge, oxide of lead, and carbonate of lead, above all
things, must be entirely free from oxide of tin, as the smallest particle
of that substance may impart a ‘milkiness’ to the paste. All the
ingredients must be separately reduced to powder, and, after being mixed,
sifted through lawn. The fusion must be carefully conducted and
continuous, and the melted mass should be allowed to cool very slowly,
after having been left in the fire from 24 to 30 hours, at the least.
Hessian crucibles are preferred for this purpose, and the heat of an
ordinary pottery or porcelain kiln is sufficient in most cases; but a
small wind-furnace, devoted exclusively to the purpose, is, in general,
more convenient. It is found that the more tranquil, continuous, and
uniform the fusion, the denser and clearer is the paste, and the greater
its refractive power and beauty.
All the coloured vitreous compounds noticed under GLASS may be worked up
as ornamental stones, in the same way as those just referred to.
The following method of obtaining artificial rubies and emeralds, first
pointed out by Boëttger, is exceedingly simple and inexpensive, and
deserves the serious attention of those interested in this ingenious
art:——Recently precipitated and well-washed hydrate of aluminum is
moistened with a few drops of neutral chromate of potassium, and kneaded
so that the mass assumes a tinge scarcely perceptible; it is then rolled
up into small sticks, about the thickness of a finger, and slowly dried,
taking the precaution to fill the fissures (if any) that form during
desiccation with fresh hydrate of aluminum. When perfectly dry, and after
having been submitted to a gentle heat, one end of these sticks is brought
into the termination of the flame of an oxyhydrogen blowpipe, until a
portion of the mass is fused into a small globule. After the lapse of a
few minutes, several minute balls form, having a diameter of some
millimètres, and of such intense hardness that quartz, glass, topaz and
granite, may be easily and perceptibly scratched with them. These, when
cut and polished, appear, however, slightly opaque. By employing nitrate
of nickel in lieu of chromate of potassium, green-coloured globules,
closely resembling the emerald, are obtained.
By the substitution of oxide of chromium for chromate of potassium, Mr
Cooley produced factitious gems of considerable hardness and beauty,
though slightly opaque in some portion of the mass. The addition of a very
little silica prevented, in a great measure, this tendency to opacity.
It may be observed that the beauty of pastes of factitious gems, and
especially the brilliancy of mock diamonds, is greatly depending upon the
cutting, setting up, and the skilful arrangement of the foil or tinsel
behind them. See ENAMEL, FOILS, GEMS, GLASS, &c.
=PAS′TELS.= [Fr.] Coloured crayons.
=PAS′TIL.= _Syn._ PASTILLE; PASTILLUS, PASTILLUM, L. A lozenge or
confection. The pastilles (PASTILLI) of French pharmacy, are merely
‘confectionery drops’ aromatised or medicated. The name is also given to
mixtures or odorous substances made up into small cones and burnt as
incense. (See _below_).
=Pastils, Explo′sive.= Fumigating pastilles, containing a little
gunpowder. Used to produce diversion, but they often prove far from
harmless.
=Pastils, Fumiga′ting.= _Syn._ AROMATIC PASTILLES, INCENSE P.; PASTILLI
FUMANTES, P. ODORATI, L. _Prep._ 1. Benzoin, 4 oz.; cascarilla, 1/2 oz.;
nitre and gum Arabic, of each 3 dr.; myrrh, 1 dr.; oils of nutmeg and
cloves, of each 25 drops; charcoal, 7 oz.; all in fine powder; beat them
to a smooth ductile mass with cold water, q. s.; form it into small cones
with a tripod base, and dry them in the air.
2. (Henry and Guibourt.) Powdered gum benzoin, 16 parts; balsam of tolu
and powdered sandal wood, of each 4 parts; a light charcoal (Linden), 48
parts; powdered tragacanth and true labdanum, of each 1 part; powdered
nitre and gum Arabic, of each 2 parts; cinnamon water, 12 parts; as above.
3. (P. Cod.) Benzoin, 2 oz.; balsam of tolu and yellow sandal wood, of
each 4 dr.; nitre, 2 dr.; labdanum, 1 dr.; charcoal, 6 oz.; mix with a
solution of gum tragacanth, and divide the mass into pastilles, as before.
4. (PASTILLES À LA FLEUR D’ORANGE.) For powdered roses in the next formula
substitute pure orange powder, and for the essence of roses use pure
neroli.
5. (PASTILLES À LA ROSE.) Gum benzoin, olibanum (in tears) and styrax (in
tears), of each 12 oz.; nitre, 9 oz.; charcoal, 4 lbs.; powder of pale
roses, 1 lb.; essence of roses, 1 oz.; mix with 2 oz. of gum tragacanth,
dissolved in rose water, 1 quart.
6. (PASTILLES À LA VANILLE.) Gum benzoin, styrax, and olibanum (as last),
of each 12 oz.; nitre, 10 oz.; cloves, 8 oz.; powdered vanilla, 1 lb.;
charcoal, 4-1/2 lbs.; oil of cloves, 1/2 oz.; essence of vanilla, 7 or 8
fl. oz.; as before.
_Obs._ The products of the above formula are all of excellent quality.
They may be varied to please the fancy of the artiste, by the addition or
substitution of other perfumes or aromatics. Cheaper pastilles may be made
by simply increasing the quantity of the charcoal and saltpetre. The whole
of the ingredients should be reduced to fine powder before mixing them.
The use of musk and civet, so often ordered in pastilles, should be
avoided, as they yield a disagreeable odour when burned. The addition of a
little camphor renders them more suitable for a sick chamber. The simplest
and most convenient way of forming the mass into cones is by pressing it
into a mould of lead or porcelain.
Pastilles are burned either to diffuse a pleasant odour, or to cover a
disagreeable one. For this purpose they are kindled at the apex and set on
an inverted saucer or a penny piece to burn. Persons who use them
frequently employ a small china or porcelain toy (‘pastile house’) sold
for the purpose.
=Pastils, Mouth.= _Syn._ BREATH PILL, CACHOU LOZENGES; PASTILLI COSMETICI,
L.; CACHOU AROMATISÉ, C. AROMATIQUE, C. DE BOLOGNA, GRAINS DE CACHOU, Fr.
_Prep._ 1. Soft extract of liquorice, 3 oz.; gum catechu and white sugar,
of each 1 oz.; gum tragacanth (powdered), 1/2 oz.; oil of cloves, 1 dr.;
oil of cassia, 1/2 dr.; essence of ambergris and oil of nutmeg, of each 12
drops; make a firm mass with rose or orange-flower water, q. s., and
divide it into one-grain pills; when these are dry, cover them with gold
or silver leaf.
2. Solazzi juice (dried by a gentle heat and powdered), 4 oz.; lump sugar,
3 oz.; powdered catechu, 2 oz.; powdered tragacanth, 1 oz.; oil of cloves,
2 fl. dr.; oil of cassia, 1 fl. dr.; white of egg or rose water, q. s. to
form a pill-mass; as before.
3. Powdered catechu, 1 oz.; Solazzi juice, 4 oz.; lump sugar, 12 oz.; oils
of cloves, cassia, and peppermint, of each 1 fl. dr.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s. to mix; as before.
4. Extract of liquorice (soft), 2 oz.; white sugar, 3 oz.; powdered
tragacanth and cascarilla (or orris root), of each 1/2 oz.; oil of cloves,
1/2 fl. dr.; oil of cassia, 12 drops, water, q. s.; as before.
5. (Chevallier.) Powdered coffee, chocolate and sugar, of each 1-1/2 oz.;
powdered vanilla, and freshly burnt charcoal, of each 1 oz.; mucilage of
tragacanth, q. s.
6. Chloride of lime (dry and good), 1 dr.; white sugar, 3 oz.; powdered
tragacanth, 1 oz.; oil of cloves, 30 drops; rose water, q. s. To disinfect
the breath.
_Obs._ Almost every maker employs his own forms for these articles. The
objects to be aimed at are the possession of rather powerful and
persistent odour, and a toughness to prevent their too rapid solution in
the mouth. The original Italian formula included liquorice, mastic,
cascarilla, charcoal orris root, oil of peppermint, and the tinctures of
ambergris and musk, but is now seldom employed in this country. The
flavour of peppermint does not, indeed, appear to be approved of by
English smokers. Sometimes, instead of being made perfectly spherical,
they are flattened a little.
CACHOU À L’AMBRE GRIS, CACHOU À LA CANELLE, CACHOU À LA FLEUR D’ORANGE,
CACHOU MUSQUÉ, CACHOU À LA ROSE, CACHOU À LA VANILLE, CACHOU À LA
VIOLETTE, &c., are merely flavoured and scented respectively with the
essences or oils of ambergris, cinnamon, neroli, musk, rose vanilla,
violets, &c. See BREATH, CACHOU AROMATISÉ, LOZENGES, PILLS, &c.
=PA′′STRY.= Articles of food made of ‘paste’ or dough, or of which ‘paste’
forms a principal and characteristic ingredient. The word is popularly
restricted to those which contain puff paste, or such as form the staple
production of the modern pastrycook; but it is, in reality, of much more
general signification.
Several varieties of paste are prepared for different purposes, of which
the following are the principal:——
PUFF PASTE. The production of a first class puff paste is commonly
regarded as a matter of considerable difficulty, but by the exercise of
the proper precautions it is, on the contrary, an extremely simple affair.
This paste, before being placed in the oven, consists of alternate laminæ
of butter or fat and ordinary flour dough, the latter being, of course,
the thicker of the two. During the process of baking, the elastic vapour
disengaged, being in part restrained from flying off by the buttered
surfaces of the dough, diffuses itself between these laminæ, and causes
the mass to swell up, and to form an assemblage of thin membranes or
flakes, each of which is more or less separated from the other.
Individually, these flakes resemble those of an ordinary rich unleavened
dough when baked; but, collectively, they form a very light crust,
possessing an extremely inviting appearance and an agreeable flavour.
The precautions above referred to are——the use of perfectly dry flour, and
its conversion into dough with a light hand, avoiding unnecessarily
working it,——the use of butter free from water or buttermilk, and which
has been reduced to precisely the same degree of plasticity as the dough
between which it is to be rolled,——conducting the operation in a cool
apartment, and, after the second or third folding of the dough, exposing
it to a rather low temperature before proceeding further with the process;
and, lastly,——baking the paste in a moderately smart but not too hot an
oven. The following are examples:——
1. (Rich.) Take of flour, 1 lb.; butter, 1/4 lb.; cold spring water,
q. s.; make a moderately soft flexible dough, then roll in (as described
above) of dry fresh butter, 1/2 lb.
2. (Ordinary.) Take of flour, 1 lb.; cold water, q. s.; make a dough, and
roll in, as before, of butter, 6 oz.
3. (Rundell.) Take 1/4 peck of flour, rub into it 1 lb. of butter, and
make a ‘light paste’ with cold water, just stiff enough to work well; next
lay it out about as thick as a crown-piece; put a layer of butter all over
it, sprinkle on a little flour, double it up, and roll it out again; by
repeating this with fresh layers of butter three or four times, or
oftener, a very light paste will be formed. Bake it in a moderately quick
oven.
4. (Soyer.) Put 1 lb. of flour upon your pastry slab, make a hole in the
centre, into which put a teaspoonful of salt, mix it with cold water into
a softish flexible paste with the right hand, dry it off a little with
flour until you have well cleared the paste from the slab, but do not work
it more than you can possibly help; let it remain for 2 or 3 minutes upon
the slab, then take 1 lb. of fresh butter from which you have squeezed all
the buttermilk in a cloth, and brought to the same consistency as the
paste, upon which place it; press it out flat with the hand, then fold
over the edges of the paste so as to hide the butter, and reduce it with
the rolling-pin to the thickness of about 1/2 an inch, when it will be
about two feet in length; fold over one third, over which again pass the
rolling-pin; then fold over the other third, thus forming a square; place
it with the ends top and bottom before you, shaking a little flour both
under and over, and repeat the rolls and turns twice again as before;
flour a ‘baking-sheet,’ upon which lay it, on ice, if handy, or otherwise,
in some cool place, for about half an hour; then roll it twice more,
turning it as before, and again place it upon ice or in the cold for 1/4
of an hour; next give it two more rolls, making seven in all, and it is
ready for use. “You must continually add enough flour while rolling to
prevent your paste sticking to the slab.”
HALF-PUFF PASTE. As the preceding, using only one half the quantity of
butter, and giving the paste only 3 or 4 folds.
SHORT PASTE, SHORT CRUST.——1. Flour (dry and warm), 1 lb.; sugar, 3 oz.;
butter, 1/4 lb.; 2 eggs; water, 1/2 pint; make a light dough. If one half
of ‘Jones’s patent flour’ be used, no eggs will be required.
2. (Soyer.) Put on the ‘paste slab’ or ‘pie board’ 1 lb. of flour, 2 oz.
of pounded sugar, 6 oz. of butter, 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoonful of salt, and 1/2
pint of water; mix the sugar and water well together, add them with the
water by degrees to the flour, and form a paste, but firmer than puff
paste.
PIE PASTE. That commonly used is ‘short paste,’ varied at will; but at
good tables the upper crust of the pie is generally made of ‘puff paste,’
and the remainder of ‘short paste.’
PUDDING PASTE. This for baked puddings may resemble the last. For boiled
puddings (or indeed for any), the paste may be either ordinary ‘short
paste,’ or one made with 2 to 6 oz. of butter or lard, or 3 to 8 oz. of
chopped beef suet, to each lb. of flour, with or without an egg, and a
little sugar, according to the means of the parties. The first is most
appropriate for those containing fresh fruit, and that with suet for meat
puddings, and those containing dried fruit, as grocers currants, plums,
&c. Milk or milk-and-water is often used instead of simple water to make
the dough. Ginger, spices, savory herbs, &c., are common additions to the
crusts of puddings. Where economy is an object, and especially among the
lower classes, kitchen fat is frequently substituted for suet, and lard
for butter. When ‘Jones’s patent flour’ is employed, an excellent plain
pudding paste may be made by simply mixing it up with very cold water, and
immediately putting it into the water, which should be boiling, and kept
in that state until the pudding is dressed.
=PA′TENT MED′ICINES.= _Syn._ MEDICAMENTA ARCANA, L. The majority of the
preparations noticed under this head are the nostrums popularly termed
‘quack medicines,’ and which are sold with a Government stamp attached to
them. A few other secret or proprietary remedies are also, for
convenience, included in the list. An alphabetical arrangement, based on
the names of the reputed inventors or proprietors of the articles, has
been adopted, as being the one best suited for easy reference. The
composition of a number of them is given from careful personal inspection
and analysis (by Mr Cooley), and that of the remainder on the authority of
Gray, Griffith, Paris, Redwood, the members of the Philadelphia College of
pharmacy, and other respectable writers. A variety of articles, not
included in the following list, is noticed along with other preparations
for the class to which they belong, or under the names of their
proprietors. See BALSAM, CERATE, DROPS, ESSENCE, TINCTURE, OINTMENT,
PILLS, &c.
=Abernethy’s Pills.= See ABERNETHY MEDICINES.
=Albinolo’s Ointment.= See HOLLOWAY’S OINTMENT (_below_).
=Ali Ahmed’s Treasures of the Desert.= There are three preparations
included under this name:——
_a._ (ANTISEPTIC MALAGMA.) From lead plaster, 3 parts; gum, thus and salad
oil, of each 2 parts; beeswax, 1 part; melted together by a gentle heat,
and spread upon calico.
_b._ (PECTORAL, ANTIPHTHISIS, or COUGH PILLS.) From myrrh, 3-1/2 lbs.;
squills and ipecacuanha, of each 1 lb. (all in powder); white soft soap,
10 oz.; oil of aniseed, 1-1/4 oz; treacle, q. s. to form a pill mass.
_c._ (SPHAIROPEPTIC or ANTIBILIOUS PILLS.) From aloes, 28 lbs.; colocynth
pulp, 12 lbs.; rhubarb, 7 lbs.; myrrh and scammony, of each 3-1/2 lbs.;
ipecacuanha, 3 lbs.; cardamom seeds, 2 lbs. (all in powder); soft soap, 9
lbs.; oil of juniper, 7 fl. oz.; treacle, q. s. This, as well as the last,
is divided into 3-1/2 gr. pills, which are then covered with tin foil or
silver leaf. An excellent aperient pill, no doubt, and one likely to prove
useful in all those cases in which the administration of a mild
diaphoretic and stomachic purge is indicated. Unlike many of the
advertised nostrums of the day, there is nothing in their composition that
can by any possibility, prove injurious; but beyond this they are
destitute of virtue.
=Anderson’s Scot’s Pills.= See PILLS.
=Atkinson’s Infant Preservative.= From carbonate of magnesia, 6 dr.; white
sugar, 2 oz.; oil of aniseed, 20 drops; spirit of sal volatile, 2-1/2 dr.;
laudanum, 1 dr.; syrup of saffron, 1 oz.; caraway water to make up 1 pint.
=Balm of Rackasiri.= See BALSAM.
=Balsam of Life.= _Syn._ BAUME DE VIE, Fr. Several compound medicines of
this name are noticed on page 261. The following are well-known
nostrums:——
1. (Hoffman’s)——_a._ Of the oils of cinnamon, cloves, lemon, lavender, and
nutmegs, and balsam of Peru, of each 2 dr.; essence of ambergris, oil of
amber, and oil of rue, of each 1 dr.; cochineal, 12 gr.; strongest
rectified spirit, 3-1/2 pints; mix.
_b._ (Ph. Dan. 1840.) Oils of cinnamon, cloves, lavender, and nutmegs, of
each 20 gr.; purified oil of amber, 10 drops; balsam of Peru, 30 gr.;
rectified spirit (tinged with alkanet root), 10 oz.
2. (Gabius’s.) Nearly similar to Hoffmann’s.
3. (Turlington’s.) Benzoin and liquid styrax, of each 12 oz.; balsam of
tolu and extract of liquorice, of each 4 oz.; balsam of Peru, 2 oz.;
aloes, myrrh, and angelica root, of each 1 oz.; highly rectified spirit of
wine, 7 pints; digest, with frequent agitation for 10 days, and filter.
Externally, the above are rubefacient and corroborant; internally,
stimulant, cordial, and pectoral.
=Betton’s British Oil.= From oil of turpentine, 1 pint; Barbadoes tar, 1/2
lb.; oil of rosemary, 1 fl. oz.
=Blake’s Green-mountain Ointment.= We are told that the active ingredient
in this compound is _Arnica montana_, with a basis of soap cerate. It is
very useful as an external applications in several affections. The chief
objection to its use is that it is a secret preparation.
=Blake’s Toothache Essence.= From alum, in fine powder, 1 dr.; sweet
spirit of nitre, 5 dr.
=Boerhaave’s Odontalgic Essence.= From opium, 1/2 dr.; oil of cloves, 5
dr.; powdered camphor, 5 dr.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 fl. oz.
=Bouchardat’s Tasteless Aperient.= From phosphate of soda, 3/4 oz., placed
in a soda-water bottle, which is then filled up with carbonated water, at
the bottling machine. For a dose.
=Brand’s Tooth Tincture.= From pellitory of Spain (bruised), 1 oz.;
camphor, 3/4 oz.; opium, 1/4 oz.; oil of cloves, 1 dr.; digested for 10
days in rectified spirit, 1/2 pint.
=Brodum’s Nervous Cordial.= _Prep._ 1. “Originally it consisted simply of
an infusion of gentian root in English gin, coloured and flavoured with a
little red lavender (compound spirit of lavender.). After a time the
doctor added a little bark to the nostrum, and subsequently made other
additions.” (‘Anat. of Quackery,’)
2. (Paris.) Tinctures of gentian, calumba, cardamoms, and cinchona,
compound spirits of lavender, and steel wine, of each equal parts. “It is
tonic, stomachic, and stimulant; but, beyond these, possesses no curative
properties.” ‘Anat. of Quackery.’
=Chlorodyne.= This nostrum, which was first introduced as “a combination
of perchloric acid with a new alkaloid,” has become a popular anodyne and
sedative. Several preparations are sold under this name, and the claims of
the rival makers have occasioned some expensive lawsuits. The name was
undoubtedly invented by Dr J. Collis Browne, but Mr Freeman,
pharmaceutical chemist, claims to be the inventor of the preparation.
Whether Browne’s and Freeman’s ‘chlorodynes’ are essentially the same, we
are not able to determine, but we know that there is not the slightest
foundation for the statements made by each manufacturer respecting the new
vegetable principle contained in his medicine. Chlorodyne, in every one of
its forms, is simply a mixture of certain well-known materials, some of
which are rather dangerous ingredients for a popular nostrum. According to
the analysis of Dr Odgen, Browne’s chlorodyne is composed as follows:——
Chloroform, 6 dr.; chloric ether, 1 dr.; tincture of capsicum, 1/2 dr.;
oil of peppermint, 2 drops; hydrochlorate of morphine, 8 gr.; Scheele’s
hydrocyanic acid, 12 drops; perchloric acid, 20 drops; tincture of Indian
hemp, 1 dr.; treacle, 1 dr. ‘Towle’s chlorodyne’ is prepared according to
this formula, the ingredients being named on the label.
=Clarke’s Conglutinum.= See CONGLUTINUM.
=Cochrane’s Cough Remedy.= Acidulated syrup of poppies.
=Corn Nostrums.= See CORN.
=Cottereau’s Odontalgic Essence.= A nearly saturated ethereal solution of
camphor, mixed with about 1/12th of its volume of strong liquor of
ammonia.
=Curtis’s Anti-venereal Lotion.= A mixture of Beaufoy’s solution of
chloride of lime, 2 fl. oz., with cold soft water, 8 fl. oz. For use, 1 to
2 table-spoonfuls are put into a wine-glassful of water.
=Dalby’s Carminative.= 1. (Dr Paris.) Carbonate of magnesia, 40 gr.;
tincture of castor and compound tincture of cardamoms, of each 30 drops;
tincture of assafœtida, and spirit of pennyroyal, of each 15 drops;
laudanum, 5 drops; oil of aniseed, 3 drops; oil of nutmeg, 2 drops; oil of
peppermint, 1 drop; peppermint water, 2 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1
teaspoonful. The bottle should be well shaken before pouring it out.
2. (Wholesale.) Carbonate of magnesia, 1 oz.; tincture of castor, 5 fl.
dr.; tincture of assafœtida, 3 fl. dr.; oils of aniseed and pennyroyal, of
each 1/4 fl. dr.; oil of nutmeg, 15 drops; syrup of poppies, 7 oz.;
rectified spirit. 3-1/2 fl. oz.; peppermint water, 1/2 pint; as before.
=Davidson’s Cancer Remedy.= A mixture of arsenious acid and hemlock, both
in powder. (Dr Paris.)
=Davis’s Calorific.= The ‘LIQUID’ is commercial acetic acid (sp. gr.
1·048), dilated with about an equal volume of water, and coloured with
burnt sugar or spirit colouring. The ‘SHIELD’ consists of a piece of red
flannel backed with oil skin, to prevent evaporation. A few drops of
calorific are sprinkled on the flannel, which is then bound over the
affected part. The heat of the body gradually volatilises the acetic acid,
and the escape of the vapour being prevented by the oil skin, a strongly
counter-irritant action is set up.
=Derbyshire’s Embrocation.= From opium and mottled soap, of each 2 oz.;
extract of henbane, 2 dr.; and mace, 1/2 dr.; boiled for 30 minutes, in
water, 3 pints; to the cold liquor, rectified spirit, 1 quart, and liquor
of ammonia, 1 fl. oz., are added, and, after repose, the clear portion is
decanted. A preventive of sea-sickness.
=Deshler’s Cerate.= Yellow basilicon.
=Duncan’s Gout Medicine.= See GOUT.
=Dutch Ague Remedy.= A mixture formed of Peruvian bark and cream of
tartar, of each 1 oz.; cloves, 1/2 dr.; reduced to fine powder.——_Dose_,
1-1/2 dr., every 3 hours. (Dr Paris.)
=Godfrey’s Cordial.= 1. (Original formula.) Opium (sliced), 1/4 oz.;
sassafras chips 1 oz.; English brandy, 1 quart; macerate for 4 or 5 days,
then add, of water, 1 quart, treacle, 3-1/2 lbs., and simmer the whole
gently for a few minutes; the next day decant the clear portion.
2. (Dr Paris.) Aniseed, caraways, and corianders, of each, bruised, 1 oz.;
sassafras chips, 9 oz.; water, 6 pints; simmer gently until reduced to 4
pints, then add of treacle, 6 lbs.; and when nearly cold, further add of
tincture of opium, 3 fl. oz.
3. (Phil. Coll. of Phar.) Carbonate of potassa, 2-1/2 oz.; water, 26 pints
(old wine measure); dissolve, add of sugar-house molasses (treacle), 16
pints (o. w. m.); simmer the mixture, remove the scum, and when it has
considerably cooled, add of tincture of opium, 24 fl. oz.; oil of
sassafras, 1/2 fl. oz.; (dissolved in) rectified spirit, 1 quart (o. w.
m.) It contains about 16 drops of laudanum (= 1-1/8 gr. of opium) in each
fl. oz.
The following forms are also current in the wholesale trade:——
4. From molasses, 16 lbs.; distilled water, 2-3/4 galls.; oil of
sassafras, 1 fl. oz.; (dissolved in) rectified spirit, 1/2 gall.; bruised
ginger, 3/4 oz.; cloves, 1/2 oz.; laudanum, 8 fl. oz.; macerate for 14
days, and strain through flannel.
5. Sassafras chips, 1 lb.; ginger (bruised), 4 oz.; water, 3 galls.;
simmer until reduced to 2 galls.; then add of treacle, 16 lbs.; rectified
spirit, 7 lbs.; laudanum, 1 pint.
6. Opium, 1/2 oz.; treacle, 7 lbs.; boiling water, 1 gall.; dissolve, and
add, of rectified spirit, 1 quart; oil of sassafrass, 1/2 dr.; cloves and
mustard seed, of each 1/4 oz.; coriander and caraway seeds, of each 1 dr.;
digest for a week.
7. Caraways, corianders, and aniseed, of each 1 lb.; water, 6 galls.;
distil 5 galls., and add, of treacle, 23 lbs.; laudanum, 1 quart; and oil
of sassafras, 1 fl. oz., previously dissolved in rectified spirit, 1 gall.
_Obs._ This preparation is anodyne and narcotic, and, amongst the lower
classes, is commonly given to children troubled with wind or colic. Its
frequent and excessive use has sent many infants prematurely to the grave.
Gray says, “It is chiefly used to prevent the crying of children in pain
or starving.” The dose is 1/3 teaspoonful and upwards, according to the
age and susceptibility of the child.
=Grave’s Gout Preventive.= A tincture prepared by steeping, for a week,
dried orange peel and hiera picra, of each 1 oz., and rhubarb, 1/2 oz., in
brandy, 1 pint.
=Grinrod’s Remedy for Spasms.= From acetate of morphia, 1 gr.; spirit of
sal volatile and sulphuric ether, of each 1 fl. oz.; camphor julep, 4 fl.
oz.; for a mixture. It should be kept closely corked, in a cool place, and
should be well shaken before use.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful in a glass of
cold water or wine, as required. It is a really valuable preparation.
=Herrenschwand’s Specific.= A mixture of gamboge, 10 gr., with carbonate
of potassa, 20 gr. (Dr Paris.)
=Holloway’s Ointment.= The original formula of ALBINOLO’S OINTMENT, of
which this pretends to be a reproduction, contained the “graisses der
serpent et de vipère,” and other pharmaceutical curiosities. The principal
ingredients, however, in the HOLLOWAY’S OINTMENT of the present day are
very homely substances. In the case of Sillen _v._ Holloway, tried at the
Court of Common Pleas in January, 1863, the plaintiff’s counsel asserted
that, on the ointment being received by the agent in Paris, it was
submitted to the authorised government chemists to be analysed, in
accordance with the laws of France prohibiting the sale of secret
remedies, and was found by them to contain butter, lard, Venice
turpentine, white wax, yellow wax, and nothing else. In a letter to the
‘Times’ Mr Holloway stated that the French analysis was incorrect, for
three of the ingredients named were not in the ointment, while there were
other components which the analysts had not discovered. The formula
adopted by those who prepare an imitation ointment on the large scale, and
which closely resembles, if it be not actually identical with, that
employed by Mr Holloway, is as follows:——Fresh butter (free from water),
3/4 lb.; beeswax (good), 4 oz.; yellow resin, 3 oz.; melt them together,
add of vinegar of cantharides, 1 fl. oz., and simmer the whole, with
constant agitation, for 10 or 12 minutes, or until the moisture is nearly
evaporated; then add of Canada balsam, 1 oz.; expressed oil of mace, 1/2
dr.; balsam of Peru or liquid styrax, 10 or 12 drops; again stir well,
allow the mixture to settle, and when it is about half cold (not before)
pour it into the pots, previously slightly warmed, and allow it to cool
very slowly. The label will do the rest. No two samples of Holloway’s
ointment are precisely of the same colour or consistence.
=Holloway’s Pills.= From aloes, 4 parts; jalap, ginger, and myrrh, of each
2 parts; made into a mass with mucilage, and divided into 2-grain pills,
of which about 4 dozen are put into each 1s. 1-1/2d. box.
=Jackson’s Bathing Spirit.= A species of soap liniment, made of soft soap,
1 lb.; camphor, 6 oz.; oils of rosemary and thyme, of each 3/4 fl. oz.;
rectified spirit, 1 gall.
=Kaye’s Infant’s Preservative.= A preparation partaking of the joint
properties of Atkinson’s nostrum and Godfrey’s cordial, but more powerful
than either, as indicated by the doses in which it is directed to be given
during early infancy, viz. “two, three, or more drops.”
=Keating’s Cough Lozenges.= These are said to be composed of——Lactucarium,
2 dr.; ipecacuanha, 1 dr.; squills, 3/4 dr.; extract of liquorice, 2 oz.;
sugar, 6 oz.; made into a mass with mucilage of tragacanth, and divided
into 20-gr. lozenges.
=King’s Sarsaparilla Pills.= From the compound extract. “Instead of two
pills being equivalent to 1/2 fl. oz. of the concentrated decoction or
essence of sarsaparilla, as asserted, it takes about 32 of them to
represent the given quantity, and about 4 of them to be equal in strength
to the common decoction of the Pharmacopœia.” “Instead of one 2s. 9d. box
of these pills being equal to a pint of the costly concentrated fluid
preparation, it would take nearly 1-1/2 lb. of them for that purpose.”
(‘Med. Circ.,’ ii, 493.)
=Kitchener’s Peristaltic Persuaders.= See PILLS.
=Lambert’s Asthmatic Balsam.= The active ingredients in this compound are
said to be squills and aqueous extract of opium.
=Lemazurier’s Odontalgic Essence.= From acetate of morphia, 1 gr.;
dissolved in cherry-laurel water, 1 oz. For use, a teaspoonful is added to
half a wine-glassful of warm water, and the mouth well rinsed out with the
mixture.
=Leroy’s Purgative.=——_a._ (No. 1.) Vegetable turbith, 6 dr.; scammony,
1-1/2 oz.; jalap, 6 oz.; brandy, 10 pints; digest for 24 hours, and add a
syrup made of senna, 6 oz.; water, 1-1/4 pint; sugar, 32 oz.
_b._ (No. 2.) As the last, only one third stronger.
_c._ (No. 3.) Twice as strong as No. 1.
=Lewis’s Electuarium.= A liquid nostrum, said to be alterative and to
contain a small quantity of both antimony and mercury.
=Lewis’s Balsamic Ointment.= This preparation, which is declared by its
proprietor to be “utterly unsurpassable,” for the most part resemble
Holloway’s ointment. (‘Med. Circ.’ ii, 493.)
=Lewis’s Silver Cream.= This nostrum is said to depend for its efficacy on
white precipitate and a salt of lead.
=Locock’s Pulmonic Lozenges.= See WAFERS.
=Mahomed’s Paste.= See ELECTUARY.
=Mardant’s Norton’s Drops.= A mixture of the tinctures of gentian and
ginger, holding in solution a little bichloride of mercury, and coloured
with cochineal.
=Marriott’s Dry Vomit.= A mixture of equal parts of tartar emetic and
sulphate of copper.
=Marsden’s Drops.= A coloured solution of corrosive sublimate. (Dr Paris.)
=Matthieu’s Vermifuge.=——_a._ (To destroy the worms.) Tin filings, 1 oz.;
male fern root, 6 dr.; worm seed, 4 dr.; resinous extract of jalap and
sulphate of potassa, of each 1 dr.; honey, q. s. to form an
electuary.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful, repeated every third or fourth hour for
2 or 3 days, when the following is to be substituted, and continued until
the bowels are well acted on.
_b._ (To expel the worms.) Jalap and sulphate of potassa, of each 40 gr.;
scammony, 20 gr.; gamboge, 10 gr.; honey, q. s. as before.
=McKinsey’s Golden Cerate.= This appears to resemble Poor Man’s Friend.
=McKinsey’s Katapotia.= This notorious nostrum is compounded of aloes, 5
oz.; soap, 1-1/2 oz. (both in powder); beaten up with syrup of saffron and
a little essential oil, and divided into pills varying in weight from 2 to
2-1/2 gr. each. (‘Med. Circ.,’ iv, 86).
=McKinsey’s Medicinal Powder.= _Syn._ REV. T. SMITH’S M. P. From dried
lavender flowers and rosemary tops, of each 2-1/2 oz.; asarabacca, 1 oz.;
reduced to powder, and further disguised with a little perfume. A very
small quantity of subsulphate of mercury is also most probably added. Two
or three pinches of this powder, taken 3 or 4 times a day as snuff, is
said by the proprietor to be sufficient to cure almost every known
disease. See ASARABACCA.
=Morison’s Aperient Powder.= A mixture of cream of tartar and lump sugar,
in nearly equal proportions, with sufficient powdered cassia to give it an
aromatic flavour. See PILLS.
=Morison’s Adhesive Paste.= See PLASTER.
=Ollivier’s Biscuits.= Take of the white of 2 eggs; water, 3/4 pint; beat
them together, strain the mixture, and add to it a solution of bichloride
of mercury, 76 gr.; collect the precipitate, wash, dry, powder, and
carefully weigh it; next add to it such a quantity of flour, &c., that
each 2-dr. biscuit may contain exactly 1/7 gr.
=Papier Fayard.= See PAPER (Gout).
=Pate Arsenicale.= A powder composed of arsenious acid, 8 gr.; dragon’s
blood, 22 gr.; cinnabar, 70 gr. It is to be made into a paste with the
saliva at the time of applying it. A favourite remedy in cancer on the
Continent. (Dr Paris).
=Perry’s Balm of Syriacum.= From English gin, 1 pint; moist sugar, 1/2
lb.; (dissolved in) water, 4 oz.; mix, and add of paregoric (Tinct. Camph.
Co.——Ph. L. 1836), 1 oz.; tincture of tolu, 1/2 oz.; tincture of
cantharides, q. s.; together with a few drops each of the oils of aniseed
and spearmint; agitate well together, and the next day filter, or decant
the clear portion.
=Perry’s Preventive Lotion.= This is said to be a solution of sal
alembroth, 2 dr., in water, 1 pint. For use, it is diluted with 4 or 5
times its bulk of water.
=Pieste’s Toothache Essence.= From liquor of ammonia, 2 parts; laudanum, 1
part. It is applied on lint.
=Pilules Angéliques.= _Syn._ GRAINS DE SANTÉ. Take of aloes and juice of
roses, of each 4 oz.; juices of borage and chicory, of each 2 oz.; beat
them together, and when they are reduced to the consistence of a soft
pill-mass, add of powdered rhubarb, 2 dr., powdered agaric, 1 dr., and
divide the mixture into 1-1/2-gr. pills. A good purgative.——_Dose_, 4 to
12.
=Poor Man’s Friend.= (French.) See OINTMENT (Brown).
=Poor Man’s Friend.= (Dr Roberts’.) This consists chiefly of ointment of
nitric-oxide of mercury.
=Pringle’s Remedy for Typhus.= (Dr Paris.) Pale cinchona (bruised), 1/2
oz.; water, 12 fl. oz.; boil them together for 10 minutes, adding, towards
the end, Virginian snake-root (bruised), 2 dr.; macerate for an hour in a
covered vessel, and to the strained liquid add of dilute sulphuric acid, 2
fl. dr., and when the mixture is cold, further add of spirit of cinnamon,
1 fl. oz. The dose is 2 table-spoonfuls every six hours.
=Reynolds’ Gout Specific.= Wine of colchicum disguised by some unimportant
additions.
=Righini’s Odontalgic Drops.= A solution of creasote in an equal weight of
the strongest rectified spirit, coloured with cochineal, and disguised by
the addition of a few drops of oil of peppermint.
=Ruspini’s Styptic.= A strong solution of gallic acid in spirit of roses.
Dr A. T. Thomson says that it also contains sulphate of zinc.
=Rust’s Toothache Paste.= See PASTE.
=Scott’s Drops.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF SOOT. From wood-soot, 2 oz.;
assafœtida, 1 oz.; brandy or proof spirit, 1 pint.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
table-spoonfuls; in hysteria, &c.
=Smith’s Powder.= See MCKINSEY’S POWDER.
=Solomon’s Anti-impetigines.= A solution of bichloride of mercury
disguised by the addition of a little flavouring and tinctorial matter.
(‘Med. Circ.,’ ii, 69, 70).
=Standert’s Red Mixture.= Take of carbonate of magnesia, 1 oz.; powdered
Turkey rhubarb, 1/3 oz.; tincture of rhubarb, 3 fl. oz.; tincture of
opium, 2 fl. dr.; oils of aniseed and peppermint of each 1/2 dr.;
(dissolved in) gin or proof spirit, 5 fl. oz.; agitate the whole together,
then further add of soft water, 1-1/4 pint. In colic and
diarrhœa.——_Dose._ A wine-glassful. The spirit is frequently omitted, but
then the mixture soon spoils.
=Standert’s Stomachic Candy.= Take of lump sugar, 1 lb.; water, 3 fl. oz.;
dissolve by heat; add cardamom seeds, ginger, and rhubarb, of each 1 oz.;
and when the mixture is complete, pour it out on an oiled slab or into
moulds.
=Storey’s Worm Cakes.= Take of calomel and cinnabar, of each 24 gr.;
powdered jalap, 72 gr.; ginger, 1 dr.; white sugar, 1-1/4 oz.; syrup,
q. s.; mix and divide into a dozen cakes. Resemble ‘Ching’s lozenges’ in
their action. (See page 1007).
=Struve’s Lotion.= See LOTION, HOOPING-COUGH.
=Succession Powder.= A mixture of powdered quartz and diamond dust,
chiefly the first. Used as an escharotic.
=Tasteless Ague Drops.= A solution of arsenite of potassa. It is the
common ague medicine in the fen counties of England.
=Turlington’s Balsam.= See BALSAM OF LIFE (_above_).
=Valangin’s Solution of Solvent Mineral.= From arsenious acid, 1/2 dr.,
dissolved in hydrochloric acid, 1-1/2 dr., and the solution diluted with
distilled water, 1-1/2 pint. In ague, &c. It has rather less than half the
strength of the solution of arsenite of potassa, Ph. L.
=Vance’s Cream.= See CHILBLAIN.
=Wahler’s Ointment.= See CHILBLAIN.
=Ward’s Purging Powder.= A mixture of jalap and cream of tartar, equal
parts, coloured with a little red bole.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful, or more,
in broth or beer, twice or thrice daily; in dropsy.
=Webster’s Diet Drink.= A sweetened decoction of betony, dulcamara,
guaiacum wood, liquorice root, sarsaparilla, sassafras, thyme, and
turmeric.
=Wilson’s Gout Tincture.= This is said to be wine of colchicum.
=Wright’s Pearl Ointment.= Take of white precipitate, 8 oz.; Goulard’s
extract, 1 pint; rub them to a cream, and add the mixture to white wax, 7
lbs., and olive oil, 10 lbs., previously melted together by a gentle heat;
lastly, stir the whole until it is nearly cold. (‘Pharm. Journ.’)
=Young’s Aperient Drink.= From carbonate of soda, 2-1/2 dr.; bitartrate of
potassa, 3 dr. (both in crystals); throw them into a soda-water bottle
containing cold water, 8 fl. oz., and immediately cork it down securely,
and keep it inverted, in a cool place, until required for use.
=Zanhetti’s Bohemian Restorative Tincture.= From crushed raisins, 3/4 lb.;
hay saffron, 2 oz.; aqueous extract of opium, 3 dr.; powdered cochineal, 2
dr.; capillaire and orange-flower water, of each 1/2 pint; proof spirit,
3 pints; digested together for a week, and then strained, with expression.
=PAULLIN′IA.= See GUARANA.
=PAYAN′IZING.= The name given to Mr Payne’s process for preserving and
mineralising wood. See DRY-ROT.
=PEACH.= _Syn._ PERSICUM, L. The fruit of _Amygdalus Persica_. Two
varieties are known in our gardens——CLINGSTONE PEACH and FREESTONE PEACH,
terms which explain themselves. The fruit is wholesome; but the flowers
and kernels contain prussic acid, and are poisonous.
The peach, the original habitats of which were Persia and the North of
India, is now very generally grown in the South of Europe, in many parts
of the East, and very largely in the more temperate portions of North and
South America; more particularly in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and
Maryland, where there are extensive orchards of peach trees. This fruit is
also extensively cultivated by the Mormon community at Utah. The fruit of
the NECTARINE, which is a variety of the peach, differs from that of the
latter in having a smooth skin. When stewed, the fruit of the peach is
said to be useful in habitual constipation.
Dr Fresenius has analysed this fruit, and found its composition to be:——
_Soluble matter_——
Large Dutch.
Sugar 1·580
Free acid (reduced to equivalent
in malic acid) 0·612
Albuminous substances 0·463
Pectous substances 6·313
Ash 0·422
_Insoluble matter_——
Seeds 4·629
Skins } 0·991
Pectose }
[Ash from soluble matter included
in weights given] 0·042]
Water 84·990
————————
100·000
————————
It will be seen from the above that the peach contains a very small amount
of sugar.
=PEACH′WOOD.= The produce of a species of _Cæsalpinia_, now extensively
used in calico-printing.
=PEAR.= _Syn._ PYRUS, L. The fruit of _Pyrus communis_ (Linn.), one of the
rosaceæ. Its general qualities resemble those of the apple.
COMPOSITION OF THE PEAR.
_Soluble matter_——
Sugar 7·000
Free acid (reduced to equivalent
in malic acid) 0·074
Albuminous substances 0·260
Pectous substances, &c. 3·281
Ash 0·285
_Insoluble matter_——
Seeds 0·390
Skins 3·420
Pectose 1·340
[Ash from insoluble matter
included in weights given] 0·050]
Water 83·950
————————
100·000
(FRESENIUS.)
=PEARL.= _Syn._ MARGARITA, MARGARITUM PERLA, UNIO, L. The most beautiful
and costly pearls are obtained exclusively from the pearl oyster
(_Meleagrina margaritifera_) of the Indian Seas. The principal fisheries
are on the coast of Ceylon, and at Olmutz, in the Persian Gulf. An
inferior description of pearl is procured from a fresh-water shell-fish
(_Unio margaritifera_) in the neighbourhood of Omagh, county of Tyrone. A
similar quality is also procured from the river Ythan, Aberdeenshire. It
is probable that pearls from this source collected by the ancient Britons
may have given rise to the statement by Tacitus, in his ‘Life of
Agricola,’ of pearls “not very orient, but pale and wan,” being among the
indigenous products of Great Britain.
Pearls are composed of membrane and carbonate of calcium; or, in other
words, of substances similar to bladder and chalk, in alternate layers.
The cause of the production of pearls is highly curious and interesting.
When any foreign body gains a permanent lodgment within the shells of any
of the mollusca which are lined with pearly matter, or nacre, the pearly
secretion of the animal, instead of being spread in layers on the inside
of its habitation, is accumulated around the offending particles in
concentric films of extreme tenuity, and more or less spherical, forming a
pearl.
Pearls were formerly used in medicine as absorbents or antacids; and among
the ancients they were occasionally taken, dissolved in acid, both as a
remedy and for the purpose of displaying the careless opulence and luxury
of their possessors. A perfect pearl, large, truly spherical, highly
iridescent, and reflecting and decomposing the rays of light with
vivacity, claims to rank with the most costly of the gems, and in some
parts of the East is, with justice, more highly prized than even the
diamond. In Europe, however, the present estimation of their value is
somewhat different, “A handsome necklace of Ceylon pearls, smaller than a
large pea, costs from £170 to £300; but one of pearls about the size of
peppercorns may be had for £15. The pearls in the former sell at a guinea
each, and those in the latter at about 1s. 6d.” (Milburn.) Seed pearls are
of little value, however beautiful.
=Pearl, Artificial.= These are hollow spheres or beads of glass,
perforated with two holes at opposite sides to permit of their being
strung into necklaces. A small portion of essence d’orient is introduced
into each, by suction, and is then spread over the inner surface of the
glass. When this has become dry and hard, the globe is filled up with
white wax, spermaceti, or gum Arabic. The glass of which the beads are
formed is slightly bluish and opalescent, and very thin. The latest
improvement consists in removing the glassy appearance of the surface of
the prepared bead by exposure to the fumes of hydrofluoric acid, highly
diluted.
=Pearl, Mother of.= _Syn._ UNIONUM CONCHÆ, L.; NACRE DE PERLE, Fr. This is
the internal or nacreous layer of those shells which produce the pearls
for ornamenting the person; hence the term ‘mother of pearl’ is by no
means inappropriate. It is also derived from several other species known
in trade as ear-shells, green snail-shells, Bombay-shells, &c.
The brilliant hues of mother of pearl do not depend so much upon the
nature of the substance as on its structure. Its surface is covered by
minute corrugations or furrows, which give a chromatic appearance to the
reflected light. Sir David Brewster was the first to show that this
substance is capable of imparting its iridescent appearance to fusible
metal or fine black wax.
Mother of pearl is cut and wrought with nearly similar tools to those used
for ivory, but its treatment, owing to its more fragile nature and
delicate structure, requires considerably greater care. It is polished
with colcothar or putty powder.
The numerous applications of mother of pearl, for buttons and
knife-handles, boxes, inlaying work, &c., are well known.
=PEARL′ASH.= This is prepared by calcining crude potashes on a
reverberatory hearth, dissolving the calcined mass in water, and, after
repose, decanting the clear solution, and evaporating it to dryness in
flat iron pans, the product being constantly stirred towards the end to
reduce it to a semi-granular state. Although purer, its richness in
absolute alkali is less than that of the potashes from which it is
prepared, being only from 47% to 51%. This exists almost entirely under
the form of carbonate. The commercial value of this substance is
determined by the ordinary processes of ALKALIMETRY.
=PEARL BARLEY.= See BARLEY.
=PEARL FLAVOUR.= See ESSENCE.
=PEARL WHITE.= This is a subchloride of bismuth; but the name is now
commonly applied to trisnitrate of bismuth, which is sold for it.
=PEARLS (Rose).= _Syn._ ROSE BEADS. The petals of red roses beaten in an
iron mortar for some hours, until they form a smooth, black paste, then
rolled into beads and dried. Hard; very fragrant; take a fine polish.
=Pearls, to Polish.= Take very finely pulverised rotten stone, and make it
into a thick paste by adding olive oil; then add sulphuric acid, a
sufficient quantity to make into a thin paste.
This is to be applied on a velvet cork, rub quickly, and as soon as the
pearl takes the polish wash it. This mixture when properly applied will
give to pearl a brilliant polish.
=PEAS.= _Syn._ GARDEN PEAS, MOTOR P.; PISA, L. The seed of _Pisum sativum_
(Linn.). Poggiale found in 100 parts of common green peas, dried and
shelled, 57 of starch, 21·7 of a nitrogenous substance (legumin), 1·9 of
fatty matter, 3·2 of cellulose, 2·8 of ash, and 12·7 of water. In the
fresh state (GREEN PEAS) they are nutritive, and, with the pods which
contain them, are highly serviceable in scurvy. The last have been used
for making beer. The dried seeds are still more nutritious, but are heavy
and flatulent unless well cooked. For kitchen use ‘SPLIT PEAS’ should be
chosen, and after having washed them in a little clean soft water, and
allowed them to drain, they should be left to soak in cold soft water for
at least 12 hours before applying heat to them, and should then be dressed
in the same water in which they have been soaked, and be only gently
simmered until they are reduced to a pulp. Additions of meat, vegetables,
&c., should not be made until they have nearly arrived at this condition.
‘WHOLE PEAS’ require soaking for at least 18 or 20 hours.
A substitute for green peas in winter may be obtained by placing the dried
seed on a flat dish, sprinkling them with water, and keeping them in a
warm situation. In a few days germination commences, and, after it has
proceeded sufficiently far, the whole is dressed in the usual manner. An
easier and simpler plan is to preserve the green peas, when they are in
season, by the common method adopted for gooseberries and other like
fruit.
[Illustration]
Pea flour is sometimes used to adulterate ordinary flour. It is never
added to this latter to a greater extent than 4 per cent., as, if this
quantity be exceeded, it makes the bread heavy and dark.
It is also used as a sophisticant for other substances, particularly for
butter.
=Peas, Is′sue.= _Syn._ PISA PRO FONTICULIS, L. Orange berries, or the
small unripe fruit of the orange tree, dried, and smoothed in a lathe. See
ISSUE.
=PEB′BLE.= The trade name for the transparent colourless variety of rock
crystal or quartz used for the lenses of spectacles instead of glass, over
which, from its extreme hardness, it has the advantage of being little apt
to be scratched.
=PEC′TIC ACID.= The name given by Braconnot to an acid which is found very
generally diffused throughout the vegetable kingdom.
_Prep._ From carrot roots, from which the juice has been pressed out, by
boiling them with 1/25th part of their weight of carbonate of potassium,
and about 6 times their weight of water, until the liquid becomes
gelatinous when neutralised with an acid. A pectate of potassium is
formed, from which the acid may be obtained by neutralising the alkali
with a stronger acid, or by carefully adding a solution of chloride of
calcium as long as a gelatinous precipitate (pectate of calcium) falls,
and, after washing this with water, decomposing it with dilute
hydrochloric acid.
_Prop., &c._ A colourless jelly, having an acid reaction; scarcely soluble
in cold water, more so in hot water; and precipitated by acids, alkalies,
alcohol, salts, and even sugar. Its compounds with the bases are called
pectates. By long boiling with solution of caustic alkali it is converted
into metapectic acid, which does not gelatinise. (See _below_.)
=PEC′TIN.= _Syn._ VEGETABLE JELLY. Obtained by adding alcohol to the juice
of ripe currants or other fruit, until a gelatinous precipitate forms,
which must be drained, washed with a little weak alcohol, and dried.
_Prop., &c._ In the moist state it forms a neutral, tasteless, soluble,
transparent jelly; when dried, a translucent mass, closely resembling
isinglass; boiled with water, or with dilute acids, it is converted into
parapectin and metapectin; in the presence of alkalies, these, as well as
pectin, are changed into pectic acid, and by continuing the ebullition for
some time longer, into metapectic acid, which is not gelatinous. See
PECTIC ACID.
=PECTORAL BALSAM.= The same as BALSAM OF HONEY, which see. The reference
to ‘Pectoral balsam,’ which occurs at the end of the article ‘Balsam of
Honey,’ conveys the impression that it is a different medicine. This is an
error.
=PEC′TORALS.= Under this head are popularly included all the various
remedies employed in breath or chest diseases.
=PEDIC′ULI.= See LOUSE.
=PEL′LICLE.= See CRYSTALLISATION.
=PEL′LITORY.= _Syn._ PELLITORY OF SPAIN; (PELLITORY ROOT; PYRETHRI RADIX,
B. P.); PYRETHRUM (Ph. L. & E.), L. The root of _Anacyclus Pyrethrum_. It
is a powerful topical excitant. It is chiefly employed as a masticatory in
headache, toothache, palsy of the tongue, and facial neuralgia and
rheumatism; and made into a tincture with rectified spirit, it is a common
remedy among dentists for the toothache. Internally, it has been given as
a gastric stimulant, and in intermittents, &c. Half to 1 dr. may be chewed
at a time.
=PEL′TRY.= The name applied to fur skins in the state in which they are
received from the hunters. To prepare them as furs, the inside of them is
generally first ‘tawed’ by the application of a solution of alum. They are
next well dusted over and rubbed with hot plaster of Paris or whiting, and
are, lastly, thoroughly dried and brushed clean. When it is desired to
change or modify their colour, the grease being removed by lime water or a
weak soda lye, they are stretched out on a table or board, and the
ordinary liquid mordants and dyes are applied to them hot by means of a
painter’s brush.
The furs of the rabbit and hare are rendered fit for the purposes of the
felt and hat manufacturers by a process called by the French
‘_sécretage_,’ This consists in thoroughly moistening the hair with a
solution of quicksilver, 1 part, in aquafortis, 16 parts, diluted with
half to an equal bulk of water. This is applied with a brush, and the
moistened skins being laid together, face to face, are dried as rapidly as
possible in a stove room. See FURS.
=PEMPHIGUS.= A disease of the skin, in which large vesicles or blisters
filled with a serous fluid, develop themselves. In the mild form of the
disorder the blisters vary in size from a pea to a chestnut. They chiefly
attack the extremities, and break after three or four days, when they then
give rise to a thin scab, which soon heals and disappears without causing
any bodily derangement.
In the acute form, however, there is a considerable constitutional
disturbance, which shows itself in the shape of more or less fever and
inflammation; the blisters too are larger, and the scabs very irritable
and obstinate. Children during teething, or owing to injudicious diet, are
frequently subject to this kind of pemphigus. There is also a chronic
variety of the disease, which varies but slightly from the acute form,
except that it continues longer. Old people are those who principally
suffer from this chronic pemphigus.
A mild attack seldom calls for any treatment; the best course to pursue in
the case of an acute one is to administer some saline aperient, to adopt a
moderately low diet, and to protect the exposed parts caused by the
breaking of the blister by applying to them some simple dressing, such as
spermaceti ointment.
When the case becomes chronic it will be advisable to consult the medical
practitioner.
=PENALTIES.= The following sections of the Public Health Act of 1875 refer
to various offences for which penalties may be inflicted under the
statute:——
BUILDING or re-erecting a house in an urban district without proper
drains, &c., £50 (s. 25). For building or re-erecting a house in any
district without proper sanitary conveniences (privies, &c.), £20, or less
(s. 35).
Unauthorised building over sewers or under streets in an urban district,
£5 penalty, and 40s. per day during continuance of offence (s. 26).
BURIAL. For obstructing a justice’s order with regard to the burial of a
person who has died from an infectious disease, &c., £5, or less (s. 142).
BYE-LAWS. Penalties may be imposed by local authorities for the
contravention of bye-laws; such penalties are not to exceed £5, and for
continuing offences further penalties of sums not exceeding 40s. a day (s.
183). Penalty for injury or defacement of any board, &c., on which a
notice or bye-law of any authority is inscribed by the authority of the
Government Local Board, or of the local authority, £5, or less (s. 306).
CELLARS, Unauthorised occupation of, 20s. per day (s. 73).
CLEANSING AND WHITEWASHING, &c., Failure to comply with notice to cleanse
and whitewash a house, 10s. per day (s. 46).
CONTRACTS. All contracts are to specify some pecuniary penalty (s. 174).
Officers or servants being concerned or interested in contracts, accepting
fees, are liable to a penalty of £50, recoverable with full costs of suit.
DISINFECTION. Failure to comply with notice to disinfect and cleanse
articles and premises, not less than 1s. and not more than 10s. per day.
Expenses of local authority doing the work may also be recovered (s. 120).
Failure to disinfect public conveyances after conveying infected persons,
£5, or less (s. 127). For letting infected houses without proper
disinfection, £20, or less (s. 128).
DRAINS, &c. Unauthorised connection of a drain with a sewer, £20, or less
(s. 21). For neglecting to comply with notice for the construction of
privies, &c., for factories, £20, or less, and 40s. per day. For
non-compliance with notice for the construction of drains, privies, &c.,
10s. per day (s. 41).
EPIDEMIC DISEASES. For violation or obstruction of the regulations of the
Local Government Board with regard to epidemic diseases, £5, or less (s.
140).
EXPOSURE of infected persons or things, £5, or less (s. 126).
HOUSES OR ROOMS. Making false statements with regard to infectious
diseases for the purpose of letting, £20, or less, or imprisonment for
one month with or without hard labour (s. 129).
LODGING-HOUSES. Receiving lodgers in unregistered houses, failure to make
a report, failure to give notice of infectious diseases, £5, or less, and
40s. per day during continuance of offence. Refusal or neglect to affix or
renew notice of regulation in common lodging-houses, £5, or less, and 10s.
a day during continuance of offence after conviction (s. 79). For
neglecting the limewashing and cleansing of lodging-houses according to
the Act 40s., or less (s. 82).
MANURE. Failure to comply with a notice of urban authority to periodically
remove manure, &c., 20s. a day (s. 50).
MEAT. For exposing for sale or having in possession unsound meat and other
articles of food specified in the Act, £20, or less, for each carcase or
piece of meat, or fish, &c., or three months imprisonment with or without
the option of a fine (s. 117). For obstruction of officer inspecting the
food, £5, or less (s. 118).
MORTGAGE OF RATE. Refusal of custodian of register to permit inspection,
£50, or less. Neglect or refusal of clerk to register transfer of
mortgage, £20, or less.
NUISANCE. The court may impose a penalty of £5, or less, with regard to
nuisances generally (s. 98). For want of diligence in carrying out the
order to abate nuisance, 10s. per day; for contravention of order, if
wilful, 20s. per day during such contrary action, besides the expenses of
the local authority in abating the nuisance (s. 98).
For nuisance of pigs, pigsties, and the contents of cesspools, &c.,
overflowing, 40s., or less, and 5s. per day during continuance of offences
(s. 47).
OBSTRUCTION. For wilful obstruction of member of, or person authorised by
local authority, £5, or less (s. 306).
Obstruction of owner by occupier in carrying out any of the provisions of
the Act, £5 per day, commencing twenty-four hours after non-compliance
with the justice’s order (s. 306).
OFFICES. Certain offices are not to be held by the same person. Penalty
for offence, £100, recoverable with full costs of suit (s. 192).
ORDER OF JUSTICES. Refusal to obey order for admission of local authority,
£5, or less (s. 103).
RATES. Refusal of officers in custody of rate-books, valuation lists for
the relief of the poor, &c., to permit inspection, £5, or less (s. 212).
Refusal of person to permit inspection of rate, £5, or less (s. 219).
SCAVENGING. Obstruction of the contractor or local authority in scavenging
the streets or in removal of refuse, £5, or less (s. 42). Neglect of local
authority to scavenge after undertaking to do so, 5s. per day (s. 43).
STREETS. Wilful unauthorised displacement or injury of pavement stones,
injury to fences, &c., of streets vested in urban authority, £5, or less,
and a further penalty of 5s. or less for every square foot of pavement
injured, &c. Compensation may also be awarded by the court for injury to
trees (s. 149).
For building or bringing forward buildings beyond the general line of the
houses in the street in an urban district, 40s. per day after written
notice (s. 156).
TRADE, OFFENSIVE. Unauthorised establishment of in an urban district, £50,
and 40s. per day during continuance of offence (s. 112). Nuisance arising
from offensive trade is punishable by penalty——for first offence not less
than 40s., and not exceeding £5; for second or any subsequent offence,
double the amount of the last penalty which has been imposed, but in no
case to exceed £200 (s. 114).
WATER. Pollution of by gas, £280; and when offence is continued at the end
of twenty-four hours’ notice, £20 per day (s. 68).
For injuring water-meters, 40s., or less, and the damage sustained may
also be recovered (s. 60).
WORKS. For wilful damage of works or property belonging to a local
authority, in cases where no other penalty is provided, £5, or less (s.
307).
⁂ All penalties, forfeitures, costs, and expenses, directed to be
recovered in a summary manner, or not otherwise provided for, may be
prosecuted and recovered under the “Summary Jurisdiction Acts” before a
court of summary jurisdiction (P. H. S. 251); but proceedings for the
recovery of penalties are only to be taken by the person aggrieved, or by
the local authority of the district, except the consent in writing of the
Attorney-General be obtained. But this restriction does not apply to the
proceedings of a local authority with regard to nuisances, offensive
trades, houses, &c., without their district, in cases in which the local
authority are authorised to take proceedings with respect to any act or
default (s. 253).
Unless otherwise provided for the penalty is thus applied: One half goes
to the informer, and the remainder to the local authority of the district
in which the offence was committed; but if the local authority be the
informer, they are entitled to the whole of the penalty recovered.
All penalties and sums recovered by a local authority are paid to the
treasurer, and carried to the account of the fund applicable to the
general purposes of the Public Health Act.
(The justices or court have power to reduce penalties imposed by 6 Geo.
IV, c. 78. P. H. Part III.)
=PEN′CILS.= This name is applied to the small brushes made of camel’s hair
used by artists, as well as to the plumbago crayons familiarly known as
black-lead pencils. The last are prepared by one or other of the following
methods:——
1. The blocks of plumbago are exposed to a bright-red heat in a closely
covered crucible, and are afterwards sawn into minute sticks, and mounted
in cases of cedar or satin wood.
2. The plumbago, in powder, is calcined as before, and then mixed with an
equal, or any other desired proportion of pure washed clay, also in
powder, after which the mixture is reduced to a plastic state with water,
and pressed into grooves cut on the face of a smooth board, or into
well-greased wooden moulds, in which state it is left to dry. When dry,
the pieces are tempered to any degree of hardness by exposing them,
surrounded by sand or powdered charcoal, in a closely covered crucible to
various degrees of heat. The crucible is not opened until the whole has
become cold, when the prepared ‘slips’ are removed and mounted as before.
This method was invented by M. Conté in 1795.
3. The dough or paste, prepared as last, is reduced to the required form
by forcing it through a perforated plate (in a similar manner to that
adopted for coloured crayons), or into minute metallic cylinders, from
which it may be readily shaken after it has become partially dry.
_Obs._ The _leads_ for some varieties of drawing-pencils are immersed for
a minute in very hot melted wax or suet before mounting them. To the
composition for others a little lampblack is added, to increase and vary
the degree of blackness. The pencils for asses’ skin books and prepared
paper are tipped with ‘fusible metal.’ Numerous improvements in pencil
cases and pencil mounts have been patented of late years by Stevens and
others.
=PENNYROY′AL.= _Syn._ PULEGIUM (Ph. L. & E.), MENTHA P. (Ph. D.), L. “The
recent and dried flowering herb of _Mentha pulegium_, Linn.” (Ph. L.)
PENNYROYAL TEA is a popular emmenagogue, expectorant, and diaphoretic, and
is in common use in asthma, bronchitis, hooping-cough, hysteria,
suppressions, &c. Water, essence, oil, and spirit of pennyroyal are
officinal. They are now chiefly used as mere adjuncts or vehicles.
=PENTASTOMATA.= There are two varieties of this entozoon——the _Pentastoma
denticulatum_, which Leuckart has shown to be the larvæ of the _Pentastoma
tænoides_, and the _Pentastoma constrictum_. The _P. denticulatum_ infests
the human liver and small intestines. The _P. constrictum_ does not appear
to be known in this country. The latter appears to have caused death by
setting up peritonitis. According to Dr Aitken these parasites are
provided with two pairs of hooks or claws, placed on each side of a pit or
mouth, on a flattened head. He says: “These claws appear to be implanted
in socket-like hollows or depressions, surrounded by much loose
integument. These socket-like hollows appear to be elevated on the summit
of the mass of tissues which lies underneath the folds of integuments
surrounding the base of the hooks. These parts are regarded as the feet of
the parasite, and the hooks are the fore claws. The pit or mouth is of an
oval shape, the long axis of the oval lying in the direction of the length
of the worm.
“The less or outer margin of the pit is marked by a well-defined, thin
line. There are no spines nor hooks on the integument of the elongated
body.”
=PEPPER (Black).= _Syn._ PEPPER; PIPER, B. P.; NIGRI BACCÆ, PIPER NIGRUM
(Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “The immature fruit (berry) of _Piper nigrum_,
Linn., or the black pepper vine.” (Ph. L.)
_Pur._ The ground black pepper of the shops is universally adulterated; in
fact, the public taste and judgment are so vitiated that the pure spice is
unsaleable. A most respectable London firm, on commencing business,
supplied their customers with unadulterated ground pepper, but in 3 cases
out of every 4 it was returned on their hands and objected to, on account
of its dark colour and rich pungency, which had induced the belief that it
was sophisticated. The house alluded to was therefore compelled by the
customers to supply them with an inferior, but milder and paler, article.
The substances employed to lower black pepper are known in the trade
as——‘P. D.,’ ‘H. P. D.,’ and ‘W. P. D,’——abbreviations of pepper dust, hot
pepper dust, white pepper dust. The first is composed of the faded leaves
of autumn, dried and powdered; the second, the ground husks (hulls) of
black mustard, obtained from the mustard mills; and the third is common
rice, finely powdered. Equal parts of black peppercorns, H. P. D., and W.
P. D., form the very best ground pepper sold. The ordinary pepper of the
shops does not contain more than 1/8th to 1/6th of genuine pepper, or 2 to
2-1/2 oz. in the lb. Very recently, ground oil-cake or linseed meal has
been chiefly employed as the adulterant, instead of the old ‘P. D,’
[Illustration]
Dr Parkes[92] says: “The microscopic characters of pepper are rather
complicated. There is a husk composed of four or five layers of cells and
a central part. The cortex has externally elongated cells, placed
vertically, and provided with a central cavity, from which lines radiate
towards the circumference; then come some strata of angular cells, which,
towards the interior, are larger and filled with oil. The third layer is
composed of woody fibre and spiral cells. The fourth layer is made up of
large cells, which towards the interior become smaller and of a deep red
colour; they contain most of the essential oil of the pepper. The central
part of the berry is composed of large angular cells, about twice as long
as broad. Steeped in water, some of these cells become yellow; others
remain colourless. It has been supposed that these yellow cells contain
piperine, as they give the same reaction as piperine does; namely, the
tint is deepened by alcohol and nitric acid, and sulphuric acid applied to
a dry section causes a reddish hue.” (Hassal.)
[Footnote 92: ‘Practical Hygiene.’]
_Uses, &c._ Black pepper is a powerful stimulant, carminative, and
rubefacient. Its use in moderation, as a condiment, is peculiarly
serviceable to persons who are of cold habit, or who suffer from weak
digestion; but in inflammatory habits, and in affections of the mucous
membranes, it is generally highly injurious. As a medicine it is often
serviceable in nausea, vomiting, chronic diarrhœa, and agues. In North
America a common remedy for the last is 1/2 oz. of ground pepper stirred
up with a glassful of warm beer; or a like quantity made into a tincture
by steeping it in 5 or 6 times its weight of gin, rum, or whisky, for a
few days.
Prepared black pepper is made by steeping the berries for 3 days in 3
times their weight of vinegar, and then drying and grinding them. It is
milder than common pepper. See CONFECTIONS, PIPERINE, &c.
=Pepper, Cayenne.= _Syn._ BIRD PEPPER, CHILI P., GUINEA P., INDIAN P., RED
P.; PIPER CAPSICI, P. CAYENNE, L. This is prepared from chillies, or the
pods of _Capsicum frutescens_, or from _Capsicum baccatum_, or bird
pepper, but generally from the first, on account of its greater pungency
and acrimony; and, occasionally, from _Capsicum annuum_ or medicinal
capsicum.
_Prep._ 1. From the dried pods (powdered), 1 lb.; and wheaten bread or
captain’s biscuits (heated until they are perfectly dry and brittle, and
begin to acquire a yellow colour throughout, and then powdered), 7 lbs.;
mixed and ground together. Colouring matter and common salt are frequently
added, but are unnecessary.
2. As the last, but making the mixture into a dough with water, then
forming it into small cakes, drying these as rapidly as possible at a
gentle heat, and then grinding them.
3. (Loudon.) The ripe pods, dried in the sun, are stratified with wheaten
flour in a dish or tray, and exposed in a stove-room or a half-cold oven
until they are quite dry; they are then removed from the flour, and ground
to fine powder; to every oz. of this powder 1 lb. (say 15 oz.) of wheaten
flour (including that already used) are added, and the mixture is made
into a dough with a little tepid water and a teaspoonful of yeast; after
fermentation is well set up, the dough is cut into small pieces, and baked
in a slow oven until it is perfectly hard and brittle; it is then beaten
or ground to powder, and forms ‘cayenne pepper.’
Pure cayenne pepper, when burnt, leaves a scarcely perceptible quantity of
white ash; a red-coloured ash indicates the presence of red ochre,
brick-dust, Armenian bole, or other earthy colouring matter. If red lead
is present, it will be left behind under the form of a dark-coloured
powder, or a small metallic globule.
_Pur._ The ‘cayenne pepper’ of the shops is often a spurious article, made
by grinding a mixture of any of the reddish woods or sawdust with enough
red pods or chillies to render the mixture sufficiently acrid and pungent.
Common salt, colcothar, red bole, brick-dust, vermilion, and even red
lead, are also common additions.
_Uses, &c._ The capsicums resemble the peppers, except in their greater
energy and their pungency being unmodified by the presence of essential
oil. As a condiment, under the form of cayenne pepper, and in all diseases
in which the employment of a powerful stimulant or rubefacient is
indicated, their uses are well known. In medicine the fruit of _Capsicum
annuum_ (Linn.——Ph. E. & D.; _C. fastigiatum_, Blume——B. P., Ph. L.), or
annual capsicum is ordered (CAPSICUM——Ph. L., E., & D.). The London
College directs the fruit to be that of ‘Guinea,’ less than one inch long,
oblong, cylindrical, and straight. See ESSENCE OF CAYENNE.
=Pepper, Prepared Cayenne=, is the residuum of cayenne——vinegar, essence,
or tincture, dried and ground (see _below_).
=Pepper (Soluble) Cayenne.= _Syn._ CRYSTALLISED SOLUBLE CAYENNE. _Prep._
1. Capsicum pods (recent, ground in a pepper mill), 1 lb.; rectified
spirit, 2-1/2 pints; proceed by percolation so as to obtain 2-1/2 pints;
from this distil one half of the spirit by the heat of a water bath; to
the residuum add of fine dry salt, 5 lbs.; mix them well together, and dry
the mixture at a very gentle heat, frequently stirring; lastly rub it
through a sieve, and put it into warm dry bottles. It is usually coloured
with a little vermilion or rouge (sesquioxide of iron), but it possesses
an agreeable colour without it,
2. Essence of cayenne (No. 1, page 652), 6 pints; distil off 3 pints, add
to the residual liquor of dry salt 12 lbs.; mix well, dry by a gentle
heat, and otherwise proceed as before.
3. Capsicums (ground), 3 lbs.; red sanders or Brazil wood (sliced or
rasped), 10 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; macerate for 14 days, then
express the tincture, filter, distil off one half, add of dry salt, 15
lbs., and proceed as before.
4. As the first formula, with the addition of a strong decoction of
saffron, q. s. It gives a beautiful colour to soups, &c.
_Obs._ The above formulæ are those actually employed by the houses most
celebrated for their ‘soluble cayenne.’ The products are of the very
finest quality, and are perfectly wholesome. We speak from an extensive
experience in the manufacture. The spirit distilled from the essence forms
a most suitable menstruum for making fresh essence or tincture of cayenne.
=Pepper, Cu′beb.= See CUBEBS.
=Pepper, Jamai′ca.= See PIMENTO.
=Pepper, Kit′chen.= See SPICE.
=Pepper, Long.= _Syn._ PIPERIS LONGI FRUCTUS, PIPER LONGUM (Ph. L. & E.),
L. “The immature fruit (dried female spikes) of _Piper longum_, Linn.”
(Ph. L.), or long-pepper vine. The spikes are about 1-1/2 inch in length,
with an indented surface, and are of a dark-grey colour. In its general
properties it resembles black pepper, but it is less aromatic, though
equally pungent. Elephant pepper is merely a larger variety of this
species. (Gray.) The root and stems, sliced and dried, form the ‘pippula
moola’ of the East Indies. (Roxburgh.)
=Pepper, Red.= See CAYENNE.
=Pepper, White.= _Syn._ PIPER ALBUM, L. This is made by either soaking
ordinary black pepper in a solution of common salt, until the outside
skins are soft, and then rubbing them off in the hands, or by merely
rubbing off the skins of the over-ripe berries that fall from the vines.
An inferior quality is made by bleaching black pepper with chlorine.
_Obs._ The use of white pepper instead of black is an instance of the
sacrifices made to please the eye. Pure white pepper has only about 1-4th
of the strength of pure black pepper, whilst it is nearly destitute of the
fine aroma of the latter. It also contains a mere trace of piperina or
piperine, one of the most valuable constituents of black pepper.
=PEP′PER PODS.= Capsicums. See CAYENNE PEPPER.
=PEP′PERMINT.= _Syn._ MENTHA PIPERITA (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “The recent
and dried flowering herb of _Mentha piperita_” (Ph. L.), or garden
peppermint. The flavour and odour of this herb are well known. It is the
most pleasant and powerful of all the mints. Peppermint water and the
essential oil have long been employed in nausea, griping, flatulent colic,
hysteric, diarrhœa, &c.; but in regular practice chiefly to cover the
taste of nauseous medicines, or as an adjunct or vehicle for more active
remedies. See OILS (Volatile), WATERS, &c.
=PEP′SIN.= _Syn._ GASTERACE, CHYMOSIN. A peculiar principle found in the
gastric juice, and which, in conjunction with hydrochloric acid, also
present in the stomach, confers upon it the power of digesting certain
portions of the food, and of dissolving, as Tuson has shown, calomel and
other mineral substances.
_Prep._ 1. (Beale, ‘Med. Times & Gaz.,’ February 10th, 1872, p. 152.) “The
mucous membrane of a perfectly fresh pig’s stomach is carefully dissected
from the muscular coat, and placed on a flat board. It is then lightly
cleansed with a sponge and a little water, and much of the mucus, remains
of food, &c. carefully removed. With the back of a knife, or with an ivory
paper-knife, the surface is scraped very hard, in order that the glands
may be squeezed and their contents pressed out. The viscid mucus thus
obtained contains the pure gastric juice with much epithelium from the
glands and surface of the mucous membrane. It is to be spread out upon a
piece of glass, so as to form a very thin layer, which is to be dried at a
temperature of 100° over hot water, or _in vacuo_ over sulphuric acid.
Care must be taken that the temperature does not rise much above 100 F°.,
because the action of the solvent would be completely destroyed. When dry
the mucus is scraped from the glass, powdered in a mortar, and transferred
to a well-stoppered bottle. With this powder a good digestive fluid may be
made as follows:
Of the powder 5 grains.
Strong hydrochloric acid 18 drops.
Water 6 ounces.
Macerate it at a temperature of 100° for an hour. The mixture may be
filtered easily, and forms a perfectly clear solution very convenient for
experiment.
“If the powder is to be taken as a medicine, from two to five grains may
be given for a dose, a little diluted hydrochloric acid in water being
taken at the same time. The pepsin powder may be mixed with the salt at a
meal. It is devoid of smell, and has only a slightly salt taste. It
undergoes no change if kept perfectly dry, and contains the active
principle of the gastric juice almost unaltered.
“The method of preparing this pepsin was communicated to Mr Bullock, of
the firm of Messrs Bullock and Company, 3, Hanover Street, Hanover Square,
who at once adopted it for the preparation of medicinal pepsin, and soon
improved upon it in some particulars. The dose is from 2 to 4 or 5
grains.——_Test._ 4/5ths of a grain of this pepsin, with 10 drops dilute
hydrochloric acid and an ounce of distilled water, dissolve 100 grains of
hard-boiled white of egg in from twelve to twenty-four hours. In the body
probably twice this quantity of white of egg or even more would be
dissolved in a comparatively short space of time. The digestive powder
prepared from the pig’s stomach retains its activity for any length of
time if kept dry. I had some which had been kept in a bottle for upwards
of five years, and still retained its active power unimpaired. The
solution made with this pepsin and hydrochloric acid was nearly tasteless
and inodorous. One pig’s stomach, which costs sixpence, will yield about
45 grains of the powder prepared as above described.
“Gradually the usefulness of this preparation of pepsin of the pig was
found out, and it had to be prepared in increasing quantities. I should
be afraid to say how many pigs’ stomachs have been used of late years
during the winter season.
“In 1857 Dr. Pavy carefully examined the pepsin prepared and sold by many
different firms, and found that this dried mucus of the pig’s stomach was
the most active of them all (‘Medical Times and Gazette,’ 1857, vol. i, p.
336). In 1870 Professor Tuson instituted a still more careful comparative
examination, and with a similar result (‘Lancet,’ August 13th, 1870); for
he found that this preparation was _twenty-five times stronger than some
others that he obtained for examination_.”
2. (Scheffer, ‘Pharm. Journ.,’ March 23rd, 1872, p. 761.) “Of the
well-cleaned fresh hog stomach the mucous membrane is dissected off,
chopped finely and macerated in water acidulated with muriatic acid for
several days, during which time the mass is frequently well stirred. The
resulting liquid, after being strained, is, if not clear, set aside for at
least twenty-four hours in order to allow the mucus to settle. To the
clarified liquid the same bulk of a saturated solution of sodium chloride
is added, and the whole thoroughly mixed. After several hours the pepsin,
which, by the addition of chloride of sodium, has separated from its
solution, is found floating on the surface, from whence it is removed with
a spoon and put upon cotton cloth to drain; finally it is submitted to
strong pressure, to free it as much as possible from the salt solution.
“The pepsin, when taken from the press and allowed to become air-dry, is a
very tough substance, and presents, according to thickness, a different
appearance, resembling in thin sheets parchment paper, and in thick layers
sole leather; its colour varies from a dim straw yellow to a brownish
yellow. Besides a little mucus, it contains small quantities of phosphate
of lime and chloride of sodium, which, however, do not interfere with its
digestive properties, as they are found also in normal gastric juice.
“In order to get a purer article I redissolve the pepsin, as obtained
after expression, in acidulated water, filter the solution through paper
and precipitate again with a solution of sodium chloride; the precipitate,
after draining and pressing, is now free of phosphate of lime and mucus,
but still contains salt. In the freshly precipitated state the pepsin is
very readily soluble in water, and cannot therefore be freed from adhering
salt by washing.
“By allowing the pressed sheet of pepsin to get perfectly air-dry——whereby
it becomes coated with a white film and small crystals of chloride of
sodium——and by immersing it then in pure water for a short time, the
greater part of sodium chloride can be extracted, but it has to be done
very rapidly, as the pepsin swells up considerably and loses its
tenacity. By operating in this matter I have obtained a pepsin which
dissolves in acidulated water to quite a clear colourless liquid, but as
it still contains traces of salt, I prefer to call it purified pepsin.”
3. (B. Ph.) A preparation of the mucous lining of a fresh and healthy
stomach of the pig, sheep, or calf. The stomach of one of these animals,
recently killed, having been cut open and laid on a board with the inner
surface upwards, any adhering portions of food, dirt, and other impurity,
are to be removed and the exposed surface slightly washed with cold water;
the cleansed mucous membrane is then to be scraped with a blunt knife or
other suitable instrument, and the viscid parts thus obtained is to be
immediately spread over the surface of glass or glazed earthenware, and
quickly dried at a temperature not exceeding 100° F. the dried residue is
to be reduced to powder, and preserved in a stoppered bottle.——_Dose_, 2
to 5 grains.
=Pepsin, Saccharated.= To work it into saccharated pepsin (‘American
Journal of Pharmacy,’ January, 1871) the damp pepsin, as it is taken from
the press, is triturated with a weighed quantity of sugar of milk to a
fine powder, which, when it has become air-dry, is weighed again, the
quantity of milk sugar subtracted, and so the amount of pepsin found. The
strength of this dry pepsin is now ascertained by finding how much
coagulated albumen it will dissolve at a temperature of 100° F. in five or
six hours, and after this sufficient milk sugar is added to result in a
preparation of which ten grains will dissolve one hundred and twenty
grains of coagulated albumen, and this preparation I have called
saccharated pepsin.
=Pepsin with Starch.= Pepsin mixed with starch is the _medicinal Pepsine_
of M. Boudault; the _Poudre nutrimentive_ of M. Corvisart.
=PERCENTAGE.= Literally, “by the hundred.” In commerce the term is applied
to an allowance duty or commission on a hundred. (WEBSTER.)
=PERCHLO′′RATE=, _Syn._ PERCHLORAS, L. A salt of perchloric acid.
The perchlorates are distinguished from the chlorates by their great
stability, and by not turning yellow when treated with hydrochloric acid.
Like the chlorates, they give off oxygen when heated to redness. They may
be prepared by directly neutralising a solution of the acid with a
solution of the base. See POTASSIUM (Perchlorate of), and CHLORINE.
=PERCHLO′′RIC ACID.= See CHLORINE.
=PERCOLA′TION= _Syn._ METHOD OF DISPLACEMENT. A method of extracting the
soluble portion of any substance in a divided state, by causing the
menstruum to filter or strain through it. The ‘sparging’ of the Scotch
brewers is an example of the application of this principle on the large
scale. In _pharmacy_, the ‘method of displacement’ is frequently adopted
for the preparation of tinctures, infusions, &c., and is, in some
respects, superior to digestion or maceration. “The solid materials,
usually in coarse or moderately fine powder, are moistened with a
sufficiency of the solvent to form a thick pulp. In twelve hours, or
frequently without delay, the mass is put into a cylinder of glass,
porcelain, or tinned iron, open at both ends, but obstructed at the lower
end by a piece of calico or linen, tied lightly over it as a filter; and
the pulp being backed by pressure, ranging as to degree with different
articles, the remainder of the solvent is poured into the upper portion of
the cylinder, and allowed gradually to percolate. In order to obtain the
portion of the fluid which is absorbed by the residuum, an additional
quantity of the solvent is poured into the cylinder, until the tincture
which has passed through equals in amount the spirit originally
prescribed. The spirit employed for this purpose is then recovered, for
the most part, by pouring over the residuum as much water as there is
spirit retained in it, which may be easily known by an obvious calculation
in each case. The method of percolation is now preferred by all who have
made sufficient trial of it to apply it correctly.” (Ph. E.)
The first portion of liquid obtained by the method of displacement is
always in a state of high concentration. In general it is a simple
solution of the soluble ingredients of the crude drug in the fluid
employed. But sometimes the solvent, if compound, is resolved into its
component parts, and the fluid which passes through at any given time is
only one of these, holding the soluble parts of the drug in solution. Thus
if diluted alcohol be poured over powder of myrrh, in the cylinder of the
percolator, the fluid which first drops into the receiver is a solution of
an oily consistence, chiefly composed of resin and volatile oil, dissolved
in alcohol. In like manner, when the powder of gall-nuts is treated in the
same way by hydrated sulphuric ether, two layers of fluid are obtained,
one of which is a highly concentrated solution of tannin in the water of
the ether, and the other a weak solution of the same principle in pure
ether. In all cases, therefore, in which it is not otherwise directed it
is absolutely necessary to agitate the several portions of the liquid
obtained by percolation together, in order to ensure a product of uniform
strength or activity.
Several forms of displacement apparatus are employed by different
operators. A simple and useful one is that figured in the margin. It has
also the advantage of being inexpensive, and may be made by any worker in
tin plate.
In operating on some substances it is found advantageous to hasten the
process by pressure. This may be effected by any of the methods adopted
for that purpose, and already described under FILTRATION. An ingenious
little apparatus, which is well adapted for small quantities, is shown in
the _engr._ By pouring mercury or water through (_e_), into the bottle
(_c_), the air in the latter suffers compression, and acts in a
corresponding manner on the percolating liquor in (_a_). The whole of the
joints must be made air-tight.
[Illustration: _a._ Percolator.
_b._ Stand.
_c._ Receiver.
_d._ Menstruum.
_e._ Substance operated on.
_f._ Calico strainer.]
[Illustration: _a._ Percolator.
_b._ Tube connecting; it with——
_c._ A double-necked bottle containing——
_d._ Mercury.
_e._ Feeding-tube.
_f._ Receiver.
_g._ Stop-cock to regulate or arrest the pressure of air on the contents
of the cylinder (_a_).]
The method of displacement, although apparently simple, requires for its
successful application no inconsiderable amount of experience and skill in
manipulation. The principal points to be attended to are——the reduction of
the substance to the proper state of comminution (neither too coarse nor
too fine),——the due regulation of the period of maceration according to
the hardness, density, and texture of the substance; and, more important
still,——the proper packing of the ingredients in the cylinder. On the
correct performance of the last the success of the process mainly depends.
Some substances require considerable pressure to be used, whilst others,
when even lightly packed, scarcely permit the fluid to pass through them.
When the material is too loosely packed, the menstruum passes through
quickly, but without exerting its proper solvent action; when too great
pressure is employed, percolation either progresses very slowly or not at
all. On the whole, the firmness of the packing should be inversely as the
solvent and softening power of the menstruum upon the solids exposed to
its action; but to this rule there are many exceptions, and each substance
may be said to require special treatment. An excellent plan, applicable to
all substances, and especially to those of a glutinous or mucilaginous
nature, is to mix the powder with an equal bulk of well-washed siliceous
sand before rubbing it up with the menstruum. In reference to the
coarseness of the powder it must be observed that substances which readily
become soft and pappy when wetted by the menstruum, should not be used so
fine as those that are more woody and fibrous, and not of a glutinous or
resinous nature.
The ‘method of displacement’ has the advantage of expedition, economy, and
yielding products possessing considerable uniformity of strength; but the
difficulties attending its application by the inexperienced are serious
obstacles to its general adoption in the laboratory. It answers admirably
for the preparation of all tinctures that are not of a resinous nature,
and for most infusions of a woody and fibrous substances, as roots, woods,
barks, leaves, seeds, insects, &c., and particularly when cold or tepid
water is taken as the solvent. It is also especially adapted for the
preparation of concentrated infusions and essences, as they may thus be
obtained of any required strength without loss, or requiring concentration
by heat, which is so destructive to their virtues.
“When (ordinary) tinctures are made in large quantities, displacement is
never likely to supersede maceration, on account of any practical
advantages it may possess. If the prescribed directions be duly attended
to, the process of maceration is unexceptionable. The process is more
simple than the other; the mode of operating is more uniform, it is, in
fact, always the same; it requires less of skill and dexterity in
conducting it; it requires less constant attention during its progress
which, in operating on large quantities is a consideration; and, finally,
the apparatus required is less complicated. When, however, only small
quantities of tincture are made at a time, and kept in stock, the adoption
of the process of displacement will often be found convenient and
advantageous. It offers the means of making a tincture in two or three
hours, which, by the other process, would require as many weeks.” (Mohr
and Redwood.)
Another useful application of the method of displacement is to the
manufacture of extracts on the large scale. Here it is superior to any
other plan. By the simple and inexpensive forms of apparatus in block-tin,
stoneware, or glass, which have recently been designed for the purpose,
not merely a first-class product is ensured, but a great saving in fuel
and labour is at the same time effected. The reader is referred to the
last edition of the ‘United States Pharmacopœia,’ and to papers by Messrs
Saunders and Schweitzer in the ‘Pharmaceutical Year Book for 1873,’ and by
Mr Campbell in the same publication for 1874, for additional information
in the subject of “Percolation.” See BREWING, EXTRACT, TINCTURE, &c.
=PERCUS′SION.= _Syn._ PERCUSSIO, L. In _medicine_, the act of striking any
part of the body with the fingers, or any instrument, to ascertain its
condition.
=PERCUS′SION CAPS.= The composition employed to prime these articles is
noticed under FULMINATING MERCURY.
=PER′FECT LOVE.= See LIQUEUR (Parfait amour).
=PER′FUME.= A substance that emits or casts off volatile particles which,
when diffused through the atmosphere, agreeably affect the organs of
smelling. The term is also applied to the volatile effluvia so perceived.
The principal source of perfumes is the Vegetable Kingdom. Its flowers,
seeds, woods, and barks furnish a rich variety, from which the most
fastidious connoisseur may select his favourite bouquet. A few perfumes,
as musk, ambergris, and civet, are derived from the Animal Kingdom; but
none of these evolve an aroma comparable in freshness to that of the rose,
or in delicacy to that of the orange-blossom, or even the unpretending
jasmine. The Inorganic Kingdom yields not a single perfume, so called; nor
has the science of chemistry yet been able to produce a single odoriferous
compound from matter absolutely inorganic.
=PERFU′′MERY.= Perfumes in general; also the art of perfuming them. In its
commercial application, this word embraces not merely perfumes, but also
cosmetics, and other articles of a closely allied character employed at
the toilet, the manufacture and sale of which constitute the trade of the
modern perfumer. Formulæ for the preparation of all the more valuable
perfumes, as well as of others met with in trade, both simple and
compound, will be found under the heads COSMETICS, DEPILATORY, ESSENCE,
HAIR DYES, OILS, PASTES, PASTILS, POMADE, SPIRIT, WATERS, &c., to which we
refer the reader.
=PERFUMES, ACE′TIC.= See VINEGAR.
=Perfumes, Ammo′′niated.= These may be prepared by simply adding a
sufficient quantity of ammonia to the liquid perfumes. When the articles
are to be distilled, a cheaper plan is to add about 5 dr. of sal ammoniac
and 8 dr. of carbonate of potassa to each pint of the article just before
distillation. Ammoniated Cologne water is now a fashionable substance for
spirit of sal volatile.
=PERIODIC ACID.= _Syn._ HYDRIC PERIODATE. (HIO_{4}.) 1. By passing a
current of chlorine gas through a solution of sodic iodate, containing
caustic soda, in the proportion of 3 atoms of the latter to one atom of
sodic iodate. The hydrated basic sodic periodate, which crystallises out,
is dissolved in diluted nitric acid, and precipitated by the addition of
argentic nitrate; a normal argentic periodate crystallises as the liquid
cools, and this salt being treated with water, is decomposed into a basic
argentic periodate, which is insoluble, and periodic acid, which is
dissolved. By evaporating the solution, the periodic acid may be obtained
in deliquescent, oblique, rhombic prisms, which are somewhat soluble in
alcohol and in ether.
2. From perchloric acid by the action of iodine. See IODINE.
=PERISTAL′TIC PERSUA′DERS.= See PILLS (Kitchener’s).
=PER′MANENT WHITE.= See BARIUM (Sulphate) and WHITE PIGMENTS.
=PERNAMBU′CO WOOD.= _Syn._ PEACH WOOD. The wood of _Cæsalpinia echinata_.
It constitutes the paler variety of Brazil wood used by the dyers.
=PER′RY.= _Syn._ PYRACEUM, L. A fermented liquor prepared from pears in
the same way as cider is from apples. The red rough-tasted sorts are
principally used for this purpose. The best perry contains about 9% of
absolute alcohol; ordinary perry from 5 to 7%.
Perry is a very pleasant-tasted and wholesome liquor. When bottled
‘champagne fashion,’ we have seen it frequently passed off for champagne
without the fraud being suspected.
=PER′SIAN BER′RIES.= See FRENCH BERRIES.
=PERSPIRA′TION.= The liquid or vapour secreted by the ramifications of the
cuticular arteries over the surface of the body. The perspiratory
apparatus consists of a gland deeply seated in the corium, communicating
by means of tubules (pores) with the surface of the scarf-skin.
The uses of the perspiratory functions appear to be to preserve the
suppleness and sensibility of the skin, to maintain the temperature of the
body at a uniform standard, and to remove from the system a number of
compounds noxious to animal life. The perspiration “is a fluid whose
regularity and continuance of exhalation are not merely conducive, but
absolutely necessary, to health; without such regularity the animal
temperature would run riot, and substances of an injurious quality would
be allowed to permeate the finest and most delicate of the tissues of the
body.” (Eras. Wilson.) “From the constriction or constipation of the
cutaneous pores by the ambient air, especially when the body, beforehand
put into a heat, is suddenly exposed thereunto, the serous particles which
used to fly off continually in vapour, being now pent in, excite an
intense and feverish effervescence; till, finding some other passage,
either by the kidneys or by the glandules of the nose and windpipe, they
are discharged by way of a catarrh; or, missing this separation, still
keep up the ebullition, very often to the hazard of life, by suffocating
the vital flame. And this is the natural consequence of obstructed
insensible perspiration, which, in the vulgar phrase, is the same with
what they mean by catching cold, and of which, give me leave to remark,
that as fevers make two thirds of diseases infesting mankind, according to
the computation of the judicious Sydenham, so two thirds of fevers very
probably may take their rise from perspiration hindered.” (Daniel Turner.)
Suppressed perspiration is also one of the commonest causes of diarrhœa.
=PERU′VIAN BALSAM.= See BALSAM OF PERU.
=PERU′VIAN BARK.= See CINCHONA.
=PES′SARY.= _Syn._ PESSUM, PESSARIUM, L. An instrument made of caoutchouc,
gutta percha, box-wood, or ivory, inserted into the vagina to support the
mouth and neck of the uterus. They are variously formed, to meet the
prejudices of the party or the necessities of the case. The cup, conical,
globe, and ring pessaries (pessi) are those best known.
Medicated pessaries are prepared by adding the active ingredients to a
hard cerate, and pressing the mixture into the desired form. Astringents
(various), belladonna, acetate of lead, mercury, &c., have been thus
applied by Dr Simpson and others.
The different formulæ are given below:——
=Pessary, Alum.= _Syn._ PESSUS ALUMINIS. Alum, catechu, wax, of each 1
dr.; lard, 5-1/2 dr.
=Pessary, Belladonna.= _Syn._ PESSUS BELLADONNÆ. Extract of belladonna, 10
gr.; wax, 22-1/2 gr.; lard, 1-1/2 dr.; in each pessary.
=Pessary, Mercurial.= _Syn._ PESSUS HYDRARGYRI. Strong mercurial ointment,
1/2 dr.; wax, 1/2 dr.; lard, 1 dr. Mix.
=Pessary, Lead.= _Syn._ PESSUS PLUMBI. Acetate of lead, 7-1/2 gr.; white
wax, 22-1/2 gr.; lard, 1-1/2 dr.
=Pessary, Iodide of Lead.= _Syn._ PESSUS PLUMBI IODIDI. Iodide of lead, 5
gr.; wax, 25 gr.; lard, 1-1/2 dr.
=Pessary, Tannin.= _Syn._ PESSUS TANNINI. Tannin, 10 gr.; wax, 25 gr.;
lard, 1-1/2 dr.
=Pessary, Zinc.= _Syn._ PESSUS ZINCI. Oxide of zinc, 15 gr.; white wax,
22-1/2 gr.; lard, 1-1/2 dr.
=PEST′ILENCE.= See PLAGUE.
=PESTILEN′TIAL DISEASES.= All those diseases which are epidemic and
malignant and assume the character of a plague. See CHOLERA, &c.
=PETONG′.= Same as _packfong_.
=PET′ROLENE.= The pure liquid portion of mineral tar. It has a pale yellow
colour, a penetrating odour, and a high boiling point; is lighter than
water, and is isomeric with the oils of turpentine and lemons. In its
general proportions it resembles rectified mineral naphtha.
=PETRO′LEUM.= _Syn._ ROCK OIL, LIQUID BITUMEN, OIL OF PETRE; OLEUM PETRÆ,
BITUMEN LIQUIDUM, L. PETROLEUM is an oil found oozing from the ground or
obtained on sinking wells in the soil. To a limited extent it is met with
in most countries of Europe and in the West India islands, but occurs in
abundance in Pennsylvania and other parts of the United States and in
Canada. It varies in colour from slight yellow to brownish black, in
consistence from a thin mobile liquid to a fluid as thick as treacle, in
specific gravity from 800 to 1100 (water being 1000) and is either clear
and transparent or turbid and opaque. Petroleum is essentially a volatile
oil, and when submitted to distillation yields gases homologous with light
carburetted hydrogen of marsh-gas (Ronalds obtained three), liquids of
similar constitution (Pelouze and Cahours isolated twelve), and solid
paraffin-like bodies. Commercially petroleum is distilled so as to yield
petroleum-spirit or mineral naphtha used as a substitute for turpentine
and for burning in sponge-lamps and costermongers’ barrow-lamps; petroleum
oil used all over the world as mineral lamp oil for illuminating purposes;
and a heavy oil employed for lubricating machinery. The value of a sample
of rock-oil is determined by thus distilling a weighed quantity in a small
glass retort and weighing the products. The petroleum or middle product
must be of such a character as to have a specific gravity not higher than
810 or 820 and to contain so little petroleum spirit that it only evolves
inflammable vapour when heated to 100° Fahr. in the manner prescribed in
the Petroleum Act, 1871 (see _below_). Any petroleum product or mineral
oil which will not stand this test, and which is kept in larger bottles
than one pint, and in larger total quantity than three gallons, cannot be
stored or sold except by licence of the local authorities.
_Directions for Testing Petroleum to ascertain the
temperature at which it gives off inflammable
vapour._
The vessel which is to hold the oil shall be of thin sheet iron; it shall
be two inches deep and two inches wide at the opening, tapering slightly
towards the bottom; it shall have a flat rim, with a raised edge one
quarter of an inch round the top; it shall be supported by this rim in a
tin vessel four inches and a half deep and four and a half inches in
diameter; it shall also have a thin wire stretched across the opening,
which wire shall be so fixed to the edge of the vessel that it shall be a
quarter of an inch above the surface of the flat rim. The thermometer to
be used shall have a round bulb about half an inch in diameter, and is to
be graduated upon the scale of Fahrenheit, every ten degrees occupying not
less than half an inch upon the scale.
The inner vessel shall be filled with the petroleum to be tested, but care
must be taken that the liquid does not cover the flat rim. The outer
vessel shall be filled with cold, or nearly cold water; a small flame
shall be applied to the bottom of the outer vessel, and the thermometer
shall be inserted into the oil so that the bulb shall be immersed about
one and a half inches beneath the surface. A screen of pasteboard or wood
shall be placed round the apparatus, and shall be of such dimensions as
to surround it about two thirds and to reach several inches above the
level of the vessels.
When heat has been applied to the water until the thermometer has risen to
about 90° Fahr., a very small flame shall be quickly passed across the
surface of the oil on a level with the wire. If no pale blue flicker or
flash is produced, the application of the flame is to be repeated for
every rise of two or three degrees in the thermometer. When the
flashing-point has been noted, the test shall be repeated with a fresh
sample of the oil, using cold, or nearly cold water as before; withdrawing
the source of heat from the outer vessel when the temperature approaches
that noted in the first experiment, and applying the flame test at every
rise of two degrees in the thermometer. See NAPHTHA, OILS (Mineral), &c.
=PEW′TER.= This is an alloy of tin and lead, or of tin with antimony and
copper. The first only is properly called pewter. Three varieties are
known in trade:——
_Prep._ 1. (PLATE PEWTER.) From tin, 79%; antimony, 7%; bismuth and
copper, of each 2%; fused together. Used to make plates, teapots, &c.
Takes a fine polish.
2. (TRIPLE PEWTER.) From tin, 79%; antimon, 15%; lead, 6%; as the last.
Used for minor articles, syringes, toys, &c.
3. (LEY PEWTER.) From tin, 80%; lead, 20%. Used for measures, inkstands,
&c.
_Obs._ According to the report of the French commission, pewter containing
more than 18 parts of lead to 82 parts of tin is unsafe for measures for
wine, and similar liquors and, indeed, for any other utensils exposed to
contact with our food or beverages. The legal sp. gr. of pewter in France
is 7·764; if it be greater, it contains an excess of lead, and is liable
to prove poisonous. The proportions of these metals may be approximately
determined from the sp. gr.; but correctly only by an assay for the
purpose. See BRASS, GERMAN SILVER, LEAD, and TIN.
=PHARAOH’S SERPENTS.= 1. The chemical toy sold under this name consists of
the powder of sulphocyanide of mercury made up in a capsule of tin foil in
a conical mass of about an inch in height.
Ignited at the apex an ash is protruded, long and serpentine in shape. The
fumes evolved are very poisonous.
2. (NON-POISONOUS.) Bichromate of potassium, 2 parts; nitrate of potassa,
1 part; and white sugar, 3 parts. Pulverise each of the ingredients
separately, and then mix them thoroughly. Make small paper cones of the
desired size, and press the mixture into them. They will then be ready for
use, but must be kept from light and moisture.
=PHARMACY ACT.= The following are the principal clauses of the Pharmacy
Act of 1860 (31 and 32 Victoria, cap. cxxi). We have separated and placed
last, those provisions of the Act which relate to the sale of poisons:——
Whereas it is expedient for the safety of the public that persons keeping
open shop for the retailing, dispensing, or compounding of poisons, and
persons known as chemists and druggists should possess a competent
practical knowledge of their business, and to that end, that from and
after the day herein named all persons not already engaged in such
business should, before commencing such business, be duly examined as to
their practical knowledge, and that a register should be kept as herein
provided, and also that the Act passed in the 15th and 16th years of the
reign of her present Majesty, intituled ‘An Act for Regulating the
Qualification of Pharmaceutical Chemists,’ hereinafter described as the
Pharmacy Act, should be amended: Be it enacted, by the Queen’s most
excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords
Spiritual and Temporal and Commons in this present Parliament assembled,
and by authority of the same, as follows:——
From and after the 31st day of December, 1868, it shall be unlawful for
any person to sell or keep open shop for retailing, dispensing, or
compounding poisons, or to assume or use the title ‘Chemist and Druggist,’
or chemist or druggist, or pharmacist, or dispensing chemist, or druggist,
in any part of Great Britain, unless such person shall be a pharmaceutical
chemist, or a chemist and druggist, within the meaning of this Act, and be
registered under this Act, and conform to such regulations as to the
keeping, dispensing, and selling of such poisons as may from time to time
be prescribed by the Pharmaceutical Society with the consent of the Privy
Council (Clause 1).
Chemists and druggists within the meaning of this Act shall consist of all
persons who at any time before the passing of this Act have carried on in
Great Britain the business of a chemist and druggist in the keeping of
open shop for the compounding of the prescriptions of duly qualified
medical practitioners, also of all assistants and associates, who before
the passing of the Act shall have been duly registered under or according
to the provisions of the Pharmacy Act, and also of all such persons as may
be duly registered under this Act (Clause 3).
All such persons as shall from time to time have been appointed to conduct
examinations under the Pharmacy Act shall be, and are hereby declared to
be, examiners for the purposes of this Act, and are hereby empowered and
required to examine all such persons as shall tender themselves for
examination under the provisions of this Act,[93] and every person who
shall have been examined by such examiners, and shall have obtained from
them a certificate of competent skill, and knowledge, and qualification,
shall be entitled to be registered as a chemist and druggist under this
Act, and the examination aforesaid shall be such as is provided under the
Pharmacy Act for the purposes of a qualification to be registered as
assistant under that Act, or as the same may be varied from time to time
by any bye-law to be made in accordance with the Pharmacy Act as amended
by this Act, provided that no person shall conduct any examination for the
purposes of this Act until his appointment has been approved by the Privy
Council (Clause 6).
[Footnote 93: See above.]
No name shall be entered in the register, except of persons authorised by
this Act to be registered, nor unless the registrar be satisfied by the
proper evidence that the person claiming is entitled to be registered; and
any appeal from the decision of the registrar may be decided by the
council of the Pharmaceutical Society; and any entry which shall be proved
to the satisfaction of such council to have been fraudulently or
incorrectly made may be erased from or amended in the register, by order
in writing of such council (Clause 12).
“The registrar shall, in the month of January in every year, cause to be
printed, published, and sold, a correct register of the names of all
pharmaceutical chemists, and a correct register of all persons registered
as chemists and druggists, and in such registers, respectively the names
shall be in alphabetical order, according to the surnames, with the
respective residences, in the form set forth in schedule (B) to this Act,
or to the like effect, of all persons appearing on the register of
pharmaceutical chemists, and on the register of chemists and druggists, on
the 31st day of December last preceding, and such printed registers shall
be called ‘The Registers of Pharmaceutical Chemists and Chemists and
Druggists,’ and a printed copy of such registers for the time being,
purporting to be so printed and published as aforesaid, or any certificate
under the hand of the said registrar, and countersigned by the president
or two members of the council of the Pharmaceutical Society, shall be
evidence in all courts and before all justices of the peace and others,
that the persons therein specified are registered according to the
provisions of the Pharmacy Act or of this Act, as the case may be, and the
absence of the name of any person from such printed register shall be
evidence, until the contrary shall be made to appear, that such person is
not registered according to the provisions of the Pharmacy Act or of this
Act (Clause 13).
From and after the 31st day of December, 1868, any person who shall sell
or keep an open shop for the retailing, dispensing, or compounding
poisons, or who shall take, use, or exhibit the name or title of chemist
and druggist, or chemist or druggist, not being a duly registered
pharmaceutical chemist, or chemist and druggist, or who shall take, use,
or exhibit the name or title pharmaceutical chemist, pharmaceutist, or
pharmacist, not being a pharmaceutical chemist, or shall fail to conform
with any regulation as to the keeping or selling of poisons, made in
pursuance of this Act, or who shall compound any medicines of the British
Pharmacopœia, except according to the formularies of the said
Pharmacopœia, shall for every such offence be liable to pay a penalty or
sum of £5, and the same may be sued for, recovered, and dealt with in the
manner provided by the Pharmacy Act for the recovery of penalties under
that Act; but nothing in this Act contained shall prevent any person from
being liable to any other penalty, damages, or punishment to which he
would have been subject if this Act had not been passed (Clause 15).
_Clauses of the Pharmacy Act relating to the sale of Poisons._
It shall be unlawful to sell any poison either by wholesale or retail,
unless the box, bottle, vessel, wrapper, or cover in which such poison is
contained be distinctly labelled with the name of the article and the word
poison, and with the name and address of the seller of the poison; and it
shall be unlawful to sell any poison of those which are in the first part
of schedule (A) to this Act, or may hereafter be added thereto under
section II of this Act, to any person unknown to the seller, unless
introduced by some person known to the seller; and on every sale of any
such article the seller shall, before delivery, make or cause to be made
an entry in a book to be kept for that purpose, stating, in the form set
forth in schedule (F) to this Act, the date of the sale, the name and
address of the purchaser, the name and quantity of the article sold, and
the purpose for which it is stated by the purchaser to be required, to
which entry the signature of the purchaser and of the person, if any, who
introduced him, shall be affixed; and any person selling poison otherwise
than is herein provided, shall, upon a summary conviction before two
justices of the peace in England or the sheriff in Scotland, be liable to
a penalty not exceeding £5 for the first offence, and to a penalty not
exceeding £10 for the second or any subsequent offence; and for the
purposes of this section the person on whose behalf any sale is made by
any apprentice or servant shall be deemed to be the seller, but the
provisions of this section, which are solely applicable to poisons in the
first part of the schedule (A) to this Act, or which require that the
label shall contain the name and address of the seller, shall not apply to
articles to be exported from Great Britain by wholesale dealers, nor to
sales by wholesale to retail dealers in the ordinary course of wholesale
dealing, nor shall any of the provisions of this section apply to any
medicine supplied by a legally qualified apothecary to his patient, nor
apply to any article when forming part of the ingredients of any medicine
dispensed by a person registered under this Act provided such medicine be
labelled in the manner aforesaid with the name and address of the seller,
and the ingredients thereof be entered, with the name of the person to
whom it is sold or delivered, in a book to be kept by the seller for that
purpose, and nothing in this Act contained shall repeal or affect any of
the provisions of an Act of the Session holden in the fourteenth and
fifteenth years in the reign of her present Majesty, intituled ‘An Act to
regulate the Sale of Arsenic’ (Clause 17).
SCHEDULE (A).
Part 1.
Arsenic and its preparations.
Prussic acid.
Cyanide of potassium and all metallic cyanides.
Strychnine and all poisonous vegetable alkaloids and their salts.
Aconite and its preparations.
Emetic tartar.
Corrosive sublimate.
Cantharides.
Savin and its oil.
Ergot of rye and its preparations.
Part 2.
Oxalic acid.
Chloroform.
Belladonna and its preparations.
Essential oil of almonds, unless deprived of its prussic acid.
Opium and all preparations of opium or of poppies.
By virtue and in exercise of the powers vested in the council of the
Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, the said council do hereby
resolve and declare that each of the following articles, viz.——
Preparations of prussic acid,
Preparations of cyanide of potassium and of all metallic cyanides,
Preparations of strychnine,
Preparations of atropine,
Preparations of corrosive sublimate,
Preparations of morphine,
Red oxide of mercury (commonly known as red precipitate of mercury),
Ammoniated mercury (commonly known as white precipitate of mercury),
Every compound containing any poison within the meaning of ‘The Pharmacy
Act, 1868,’ when prepared or sold for the destruction of vermin,
The tincture and all vesicating liquid preparations of cantharides,
——ought to be deemed a poison within the meaning of the ‘Pharmacy Act,
1868,’ and also that of the same each of the following articles, viz.——
Preparations of prussic acid,
Preparations of cyanide of potassium and of all metallic cyanides,
Preparations of strychnine,
Preparations of atropine,
——ought to be deemed a poison in the first part of the schedule (A) to the
said ‘Pharmacy Act, 1868,’
And notice is hereby also given, that the said Society have submitted the
said resolution for the approval of the Lords of Her Majesty’s Council,
and that such approval has been given.
By order,
ELIAS BREMRIDGE,
_Secretary and Registrar of the Pharmaceutical
Society of Great Britain._
And whereas the council of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain
did, on the 17th day of November, 1877, resolve and declare in the words
following:——
“That by virtue and in exercise of the powers vested in the council of the
Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, the said council does hereby
resolve and declare that _Chloral Hydrate and its preparations_ ought to
be deemed poisons within the meaning of the ‘Pharmacy Act, 1868,’ and
ought to be deemed poisons in the second part of the schedule (A) of the
said ‘Pharmacy Act, 1868.’”
And whereas the said Society have submitted the said resolution for the
approval of the Privy Council, and the Lords of the Privy Council are of
opinion that the said resolution should be approved.
Now, therefore, their Lordships are hereby pleased to signify their
approval of the said resolution.
C. L. PEEL.
Tardieu states that of late years the criminal administration of
phosphorus has increased considerably in France. For example, from 1851 to
1872, in 793 cases of poisoning, 287 or 36·2 per cent. were due to
arsenic, and 267 or 31·1 per cent. to phosphorus; whilst in the years 1872
and 1874, in 141 criminal poisonings by arsenic and phosphorus, only 74
were due to arsenic. The explanation of these facts may reasonably be
ascribed to the much greater facility with which phosphorus, in the form
of matches or vermin pastes, can be procured than arsenic.
=PHE′NOL.= C_{6}H_{6}O. See CARBOLIC ACID.
=PHE′NYL.= C_{6}H_{5}. The hypothetical compound radical of the
phenyl-series. Carbolic acid is said to be its hydrate.
=PHENYL′AMINE.= C_{6}H_{5}H_{2}N. Aniline is sometimes so named on account
of its relation to the phenyl series.
=PHIALS.= The ordinary green moulded phials used by the pharmaceutist are
made of a glass obtained from common river sand and soapboilers’ waste. In
the manufacture of the glass for the white phials purer materials (and
these as free from iron and alumina as possible) are used. Decolourising
agents are also employed. The following is given as the composition of a
white glass for apothecaries’ phials in ‘Chemistry: Theoretical,
Practical, and Analytical,’[94]
[Footnote 94: Mackenzie and Co.]
100 lbs. white sand.
30-26 ” potash, impure.
17 ” lime.
110-120 ” ashes.
·25 to ·5 lbs. binoxide of manganese-cullet.
=Phials, Bologna.= Small flasks or phials of unannealed glass, which fly
to pieces when their surface is scratched by a hard body. Thus, if a small
piece of flint be dropped into them they are shivered; whereas if a bullet
be used they remain uninjured.
=PHILO′NIUM.= The ancient name of an aromatic opiate, reputed to possess
many virtues, invented by Philo. See CONFECTION OF OPIUM.
=PHILOS′OPHER’S STONE.= _Syn._ LAPIS PHILOSOPHORUM, L. A wonderful
substance, the discovery of which formed the day dreams of the alchemists.
It was supposed to be capable of converting all the baser metals into
gold, and of curing all diseases. Some of the alchemists appear to have
laboured under the delusion that they had actually discovered it. The last
of these enthusiasts was the talented and unfortunate Dr Price, of
Guildford. Speaking of the age of alchemy, Liebig says:——“The idea of the
transmutability of metals stood in the most perfect harmony with all the
observations and all the knowledge of that age, and in contradiction to
none of these. In the first stage of the development of science, the
alchemists could not possibly have any other notions of the nature of
metals than those which they actually held.... We hear it said that the
idea of the philosopher’s stone was an error; but all our views have been
developed from errors, and that which today we regard as truth in
chemistry may, perhaps, before to-morrow, be regarded as a fallacy.”
=PHILOSOPH′IC CANDLE.= An inflamed jet of hydrogen gas.
=PHILOSOPHIC WOOL.= Flowers of zinc.
=PHIL′TRE.= _Syn._ PHILTRUM, L. A charm or potion to excite love. The
ancients had great faith in such remedies. Nothing certain is now known
respecting their composition; but there is sufficient evidence that
recourse was frequently had to them by the ancients, and that “their
operation was so violent that many persons lost their lives and their
reason by their means.” The Thessalian philtres were those most
celebrated. (Juv., vi, 610, &c.) At the present day the administration of
preparations of the kind is interdicted by law.
=PHLORE′TIN.= C_{15}H_{14}O_{5}. A crystallisable, sweet substance, formed
along with grape sugar, when phloridzin is acted on by dilute acids.
=PHLORID′ZIN.= C_{21}H_{24}O_{10}. _Syn._ PHLORIZINE; PHLORIDZINUM, L.
Prep. By acting on the fresh root-bark of the apple, pear, or plum tree,
with boiling rectified spirit; the spirit is distilled off, and the
phloridzin crystallises out of the residual liquor as it cools.
_Prop., &c._ Fine, colourless, silky needles, freely soluble in rectified
spirit and in hot water, but requiring 1000 parts of cold water for its
solution; its taste is bitter and astringent. When its solution is boiled
with a little dilute sulphuric acid or hydrochloric acid, it is changed
into grape sugar and phloretin.
Phloridzin bears a great likeness to salicin. It is said to be a powerful
febrifuge.——_Dose_, 3 to 15 gr.
=PHOCE′NIC ACID.= See DELPHINIC ACID.
=PHŒNIC′INE.= See INDIGO PURPLE.
=PHO′NOGRAPH.= Some years back Prof. Faber, of Vienna, constructed and
exhibited in the chief cities of Europe ‘a talking machine,’ which was
able to articulate simple words and sentences with considerable
distinctness. The complex mechanism by which this was effected was
contrived upon the principles of the human organs of speech, as the
machine possessed an india-rubber tongue and lips, and an artificial
larynx, made out of a thin vibrating tube of ivory. Faber’s automaton,
although of much greater scientific interest than the automatic flute and
flageolet players of Vancanson, the trumpeter of Droz, and similar
exhibitions of curious workmanship, was, like these, only a mechanical
curiosity, without any promise of a useful application.
Entirely distinct from Faber’s machine, not only structurally and in the
method by which it produces its effects, but also in the end designed for
it by its inventor being an essentially practical one, is the ‘speaking
machine or phonograph’ of Mr Edison.
The first impression that will occur to those who having heard Mr Edison’s
instrument speak have subsequently made themselves acquainted with its
construction, will probably be one of surprise that an effect so
apparently startling as that which it has been able to produce should be
accomplished by means so simple.
[Illustration]
B is a brass cylinder, through whose centre passes a metal shaft, the arms
of which rest on upright supports, one of which is shown in the engraving.
The arm of the shaft, obscured from view, corresponding in length with the
part of it which is visible, is screw-turned, and it works in a nut bored
out of the support. Attached to the screw-end of the shaft or axle is a
crank C, by turning which a double movement, viz. a rotatory and a
horizontal one, may be simultaneously imparted to the cylinder. Round the
surface of the cylinder is cut a spiral groove corresponding in dimensions
with the threads of the screw part of the shaft. Covering the whole of the
cylinder is a sheet of tin-foil, which is secured to its edges by means of
shell-lac varnish. In front of the cylinder, resting on a proper support,
is a mouth-piece, A, at the bottom of which (the end nearest the cylinder)
is a very thin plate or diaphragm of metal, and to this diaphragm is
attached a round steel point, which when not in use does not touch the
foil. Previously to using the apparatus this steel point has to be
accurately adjusted opposite to that part of the foil lying over the
spiral groove. If now the lips be applied to the mouth-piece, and any
sentence be spoken, the crank being at the same time turned, the
vibrations imparted to the metal plate by the voice will cause the steel
point to come into contact with that part of the foil overlying the groove
in the cylinder, and to make on the foil a number of indentations, as it
revolves, and is carried forward laterally before the mouth-piece.
Furthermore these indentations will be found to vary in depth and
sectional outline according to the nature of the vibrations which have
produced them; and as experiment proves, are the specific and infallible
caligraphy of those vibrations.
“It might be said that at this point the machine has already become a
complete phonograph or sound writer, but it yet remains to translate the
remarks made. Now, there is no doubt that by practice and the aid of a
magnifier it would be possible to read phonetically Mr Edison’s record of
dots and dashes,[95] but he saves us that trouble by literally making it
read itself. The distinction is the same, as if, instead of perusing a
book ourselves, we drop it into a machine, set the latter in motion, and
behold! the voice of the author is heard repeating his own composition.
The reading mechanism is nothing but another diaphragm, held in the tube
D, on the opposite side of the machine, and a point of metal, which is
held against the tin-foil on the cylinder by a delicate spring.
[Footnote 95: According to the ‘Polytechnic Review,’ Mr Edison does not
appear to have yet solved the problem of reading the phonograph record by
sight. He states that although a specific form exists for each articulated
sound, the chief difficulties arise from the varying indentations or marks
caused by the same sound. Amongst the circumstances giving rise to these
results are: the same sound uttered by different people, the manner in
which it is spoken, the distance of the mouth from the instrument, the
force with which it is spoken, or the speed with which the barrel is
rotated.]
“It makes no difference as to the vibrations produced, whether a nail
moves over a file or a file moves over a nail, and in the present instance
it is the foil or indented foil-strip which moves, and the metal point is
caused to vibrate as it is affected by the passage of the indentations.
The vibrations, however, of this point must be precisely the same as those
of the other points which made the indentations, and these vibrations
transmitted to a second membrane, must cause the latter to vibrate similar
to the first membrane, and the result is a synthesis of the sounds, which
in the beginning we saw, as it were, analysed.”[96]
[Footnote 96: ‘Scientific American,’ December, 1877.]
In some of the later instruments, that section of the apparatus shown at D
is dispensed with, and the reproduction of the spoken words or sentences
is effected by bringing the cylinder back to its original starting point,
opposite to the little steel projection attached to the metal disc at the
end of the mouth-piece A. The steel point is then brought by means of a
screw into contact with the foil, and as the cylinder moves onward in its
former track, the metal point retraces the indentations on the foil from
beginning to end, in doing which it communicates the vibrations it thus
receives to the metal diaphragm in precisely the same manner, and with the
same results as were shown with D. For the diaphragm, more particularly
when employed as a resonator or reproducer of the words which have been
spoken into the mouth-piece, other substances than metal have been tried,
with, it is said, more satisfactory results. One of these is paper, the
sounds given off by which are stated to be more distinct than those from
iron.
Dr Clarence Holt, of Boston, in a communication to Mr W. H. Preece, writes
that he has “constructed a diaphragm upon the principle of the membrane of
the human drum of the ear, to be used as a reproducing disc.” Dr Holt
continues “that his object was to employ a membrane which from its
structure and shape would reproduce the lighter over-tones representing
the quality of the voice, and at the same time cut off the sharper
exaggerated over-tones embossed as such by the metal disc upon the
tinfoil. He says the results of his experiments with such a membrane were
very gratifying, and that the material of which it may be made should be
either stout felted paper (to be varnished on the outer surface when used
for speaking) or drum head moistened and pressed into a concave form
before using.”[97]
[Footnote 97: Published in ‘Nature,’ February 4th, 1878.]
The crank (shown in the figure) by which the cylinder is turned is very
frequently supplanted by an apparatus consisting of weights and wheels, or
else by clockwork, whereby the cylinder is put in motion. The advantage of
the working of these arrangements over that of the crank are, that instead
of an inequality a regularity of movement of the cylinder is ensured, and
it is thus made to advance at the same rate whilst the words are being
reproduced as when they are being spoken.
One of the effects of this uniformity of the rotation of the cylinder
under its two modes of action is to reproduce the exact pitch or tone of
the voice of the speaker, although a departure from it would in no way
affect the delivery of the exact words.
Accordingly, therefore, to the difference in the rate of movement of the
cylinder during the reception and reproduction of speech, will be the
divergence in tone between the original and the reproduced voice. If the
cylinder were moved more quickly in redelivering the words the result
would be that they would be in a higher, and, in the opposite case, in a
lower key. Probably, as one writer has suggested, the curious effect might
be produced of a child’s voice being converted into a man’s deep base, or
_vice versâ_.
In view of the results of previous scientific discoveries, we should not
be justified in refusing to admit the possibility, at any rate, of the
realisation of some of the applications to which its inventor believes the
phonograph will, in the course of time, be put.
It must be admitted that these predictions as to its ultimate capabilities
are sufficiently wondrous. They are that——the phonograph will be able to
record and reproduce at a future time any air sung to it, so that the
vocal triumphs of some of our most accomplished singers may be preserved
and resung after their death; that by its means may also be conserved and
respoken, likewise after death, a speech delivered by a great statesman or
orator; that a dying testator by breathing into it his last wishes may
have these securely registered, to be expressed after his demise, if need
be, in a court of justice; and that the contents of a book or novel may be
read to us in the very accents of its author, long after he has passed
away.
Although we have no testimony that anything like an approach to the above
results has been obtained by this instrument, such statements as we
possess of its action are not a little surprising.
“Mr Thomas Edison,” says the ‘Scientific American,’ describing this
contrivance, “recently came into our office, placed a little machine on
our desk, turned a crank, and the machine inquired as to our health, asked
how we liked the phonograph, informed us that it was well, and bid us a
cordial good night. These remarks were not only perfectly audible to
ourselves, but to a dozen or more persons gathered round.”
At a meeting of the Physical Society of London, held on the 2nd of March,
1878, when the phonograph was exhibited, the sounds it gave out are said
to have been remarkably distinct; and when “God Save the Queen” was sung
as a duet through a double mouth-piece, the two voices could be clearly
distinguished on the air being reproduced.
The writer was at the Royal institution in Albemarle Street a short time
previous to the above date, and although sitting in the top gallery, heard
it emit very distinctly the line “Come into the garden, Maud,” spoken by
Professor Tyndall in compliment to the Laureate, who was present as well
as various other vocal reproductions. The secondary sound, however, was
less powerful than the original one. The difference between the two is
aptly described by a writer in ‘Nature,’ as causing a feeling like that of
looking upon a worn print and an early wood engraving.
“The main utility of the phonograph,” says Mr Edison, “being for the
purpose of letter-writing, and other forms of dictation, the design is
made, with a view to its utility for that purpose.
“The general principles of construction are a flat plate or disc, with
spiral groove on the face, operated by clockwork underneath the plate;
the grooves are cut very closely together, so as to give a great total
length to each inch of surface——a close calculation gives as the capacity
of each sheet of foil, upon which the record is had, in the neighbourhood
of 40,000 words. The sheets being but 10 inches square, the cost is so
trifling that but 100 words might be put upon a single sheet economically.
“The practical application of this form of phonograph for communications
is very simple. A sheet of foil is placed in the phonograph, the clockwork
set in motion, and the matter dictated in the mouth-piece, without other
effort than when dictating to a stenographer. It is then removed, placed
in a suitable form of envelope, and sent through the ordinary channels to
the correspondent for whom designed. He, placing it upon his phonograph,
starts his clockwork, and _listens_ to what his correspondent has to say.
Inasmuch as it gives the tone of voice of his correspondent it is
_identified_. As it may be filed away as other letters and at any
subsequent time reproduced, it is a perfect _record_. As two sheets of
foil have been indented with the same facility as a single sheet, ‘the
writer’ may thus keep a _duplicate_ of his communication.
“The phonograph letters maybe dictated at home or in the office of a
friend, the _presence_ of a stenographer _not being required_. The
dictation may be as rapid as the thoughts can be formed, or the lips utter
them. The recipient may listen to his letters being read at the rate of
150 to 200 words per minute, and at the same time busy himself about other
matters. Interjections, explanations, emphasis, exclamations, &c., may be
thrown into such letters _ad libitum_.
“The advantages of such an innovation upon the present slow, tedious, and
costly methods are too numerous, and too readily suggest themselves, to
warrant their enumeration; while there are no disadvantages which will not
disappear coincident with the general introduction of the new method.”[98]
[Footnote 98: ‘North American Review,’ May, 1878.]
=PHOS′GENE GAS.= See CHLOROCARBONIC ACID.
=PHOS′PHATE.= _Syn._ PHOSPHAS, L. A salt of phosphoric acid. See
PHOSPHORIC ACID and the respective metals.
=PHOS′PHIDE.= See PHOSPHURET.
=PHOS′PHITE.= _Syn._ PHOSPHIS, L. A salt of phosphorous acid. See
PHOSPHOROUS ACID.
=PHOS′PHORUS.= P.
_Prep._ This is now only conducted on the large scale:——Bone-ash (in
powder), 12 parts, and water 24 parts, are stirred together in a large tub
until the mixture is reduced to a perfectly smooth ‘pap,’ oil of vitriol,
8 parts, is then added in a slender stream, active stirring being employed
during the whole time, and afterwards until the combination appears
complete; the next day the mass is thinned with cold water, and, if
convenient, heated in a leaden pan or boiler until it has entirely lost
its granular character; it is now transferred to one or a series of tall
casks (according to the extent of the batch), and further diluted with a
large quantity of water; after repose, the clear liquid is decanted, the
sediment washed with water, and the ‘washings’ and ‘decanted liquor’
evaporated in a leaden or copper boiler until the white calcareous deposit
(gypsum) becomes considerable; the whole is then allowed to cool, the
clear portion decanted, and the sediment thoroughly drained on a filter;
the liquid thus obtained is evaporated in an iron pot to the consistence
of a thick syrup (say 4 parts), when dry charcoal (in powder), 1 part, is
added, and the desiccation continued until the bottom of the pot becomes
nearly red hot, after which it is covered over and allowed to cool; the
dry mixture, when cold, is put into one or more earthen retorts well
covered with ‘luting’ and properly dried, and heat is applied (sideways
rather than at the bottom) by means of a good air-furnace; after a short
time the beak of the retort is connected with a copper tube, the other end
of which is made to dip about one fourth of an inch beneath the surface of
some lukewarm water placed in a trough or wide-mouthed bottle.
The distilled product is purified by squeezing it through chamois leather
under warm water, and is then moulded for sale by melting it under water
heated to about 145° Fahr., and sucking it up to any desired height in
slightly tapering, but perfectly straight, glass tubes, previously warmed
and wetted. The bottom of the tube being now closed with the finger, it is
withdrawn, and transferred to a pan of cold water to congeal the
phosphorus, which will then commonly fall out, or may be easily expelled
by pressure with a piece of wire.
_Prop. &c._ Phosphorus in its normal condition is a pale yellow,
semi-transparent, and highly combustible solid; soft and flexible at
common temperatures; it becomes waxy at about 75° Fahr.; melts at about
111°, and boils at 550° Fahr.; it takes fire in the air at 165°, and
oxidates at all temperatures above 32°. Exposed to the air below 60°, its
surface is slowly converted into phosphorus acid. It is apparently
insoluble in water, but it conveys its peculiar flavour and odour to that
fluid when agitated with it; it is slightly soluble in ether, naphtha, and
the fixed and volatile oils, and more freely so in bisulphide of carbon.
It unites with oxygen, forming oxides, and with oxygen and hydrogen,
forming acids, and with the metals, forming phosphides.
Phosphorus is remarkable for assuming several allotropic forms. In one of
these forms (amorphous phosphorus) its properties are so altered that they
might be those of a distinct element.
_Uses._ The principal consumption of phosphorus is in the manufacture of
lucifer matches. When swallowed, it acts as a powerful corrosive poison;
but small doses of its ethereal and oily solutions are occasionally
administered in cases of chronic debility, extreme prostration of the
nervous powers, impotency, &c. Its action is that of a powerful diffusible
stimulant and diuretic; it is also aphrodisiac. Its use requires great
caution, and the effects must be narrowly watched. The treatment of
poisoning by phosphorus consists of the administration of a powerful
emetic and the copious use of mucilaginous drinks. The French
practitioners recommend oil of turpentine as the most effective antidote.
They administer about a teaspoonful of the turpentine every four hours.
_Concluding Remarks._ From the great inflammability of phosphorus it can
only be safely preserved under water. In commerce, it is always packed in
tin cylinders filled with water, and soldered up air-tight. The leading
points to be observed to ensure success in this manufacture are chiefly
connected with the firing. The heat of the furnace should be most slowly
raised at first, but afterwards equably maintained in a state of bright
ignition. After 3 or 4 hours of steady firing, carbonic and sulphurous
anhydride are evolved in considerable abundance, provided the materials
had not been well dried in the iron pot; then sulphuretted hydrogen makes
its appearance, and next phosphuretted hydrogen, which last should
continue during the whole of the distillation. The firing should be
regulated by the escape of this remarkable gas, which ought to be at the
rate of about two bubbles per second. If the discharge comes to be
intercepted, it is to be ascribed either to the temperature being too low,
or to the retort getting cracked; and if, upon raising the heat
sufficiently, no bubbles appear, it is a proof that the apparatus has
become defective, and that it is needless to continue the operation. We
may infer that the process approaches its conclusion by the increasing
slowness with which the gas is disengaged under a powerful heat; and when
it ceases to come over we may cease firing, taking care to prevent reflux
of water into the retort (and consequent explosion), from condensation of
its gaseous contents, by admitting air into it through a recurved glass
tube, or through the tube of the copper adapter. The usual period of the
operation, upon the great scale, is from 24 to 30 hours.
=Phosphorus, Amor′phous.= _Syn._ RED PHOSPHORUS, ALLOTROPIC PHOSPHORUS;
PHOSPHORUS FUSCUS, P. RUBER. L. This is phosphorus in that peculiar
condition to which Berzelius has applied the term “allotropic.” The honour
of its discovery is due to Dr Shrötter, of Vienna.
_Prep._ The ordinary phosphorus of commerce, rendered as dry as possible,
is placed in a shallow vessel of hard and well-annealed Bohemian glass,
fitted with a safety tube just dipping beneath the surface of a little
hot water contained in an adjacent vessel; heat is then applied by means
of a metallic bath (a mixture of lead and tin), the temperature of which
is gradually raised until it ranges between 464 and 482° Fahr., and
bubbles of gas escape from the end of the safety tube and catch fire as
they come in contact with the air; this temperature is maintained until
the amorphous condition is produced, the length of the exposure being
regulated by a miniature operation with tubes conducted in the same bath;
as soon as this point is reached, the apparatus is allowed to cool, and
the amorphous phosphorus, which still contains some unconverted
phosphorus, detached from the glass; it is then reduced to powder by
careful trituration under water, drained on a calico filter, and, whilst
still moist, spread thinly on shallow trays of iron or lead; in this state
it is exposed, with frequent stirring, to heat in a chloride of calcium
bath, at first gentle, and then gradually increased to its highest limit,
and the heat continued until no more luminous vapour escapes; the residuum
on the trays is then cooled, washed with water until this last ceases to
affect test paper, and is, lastly, drained and dried. To render it
absolutely free from unaltered phosphorus, it may be washed with
bisulphide of carbon.
On the small scale, common phosphorus may be converted into amorphous
phosphorus by simply exposing it for 50 or 60 hours to a temperature of
about 473° Fahr., in any suitable vessel from which the air is kept
excluded by a stream of carbonic acid, or any other gas which is unable to
act chemically on the phosphorus.
By keeping common phosphorus fused at a high temperature, under the above
conditions, for fully 8 days, compact masses of amorphous phosphorus may
be obtained.
_Prop., &c._ A reddish brown, infusible, inodorous, solid substance, which
is reconverted into ordinary phosphorus by simply exposing it to a heat a
little above 500° Fahr. It is unaltered by atmospheric air; is insoluble
in bisulphide of carbon, alcohol, ether, or naphtha; is non-luminous in
the dark below about 390° Fahr.; and does not take fire at a lower
temperature than that necessary for its reconversion into the common or
crystalline form. The sp. gr. ranges between 2·089 to 2·017, according to
the method of preparing it. Its properties render it an admirable
substitute for the common phosphorus in the composition for tipping
matches, both as regards security from spontaneous ignition and the health
of the manufacturers, who when exposed to the fumes of ordinary
phosphorus, were very liable to be attacked with caries of the lower jaw.
=Phosphorus, Trichloride of.= PCl_{3}. _Syn._ PHOSPHORUS TERCHLORIDE,
PHOSPHORUS CHLORIDE. By gently heating phosphorus, in excess, in dry
chlorine gas; or by passing the vapour of phosphorus through a stratum of
powdered mercuric chloride, strongly heated in a glass tube. It is limpid,
colourless, highly fetid, fumes in the air, and is slowly resolved by
water into phosphorus acid and hydrochloric acid. Sp. gr. 1·45.
=Phosphorus, Pentachloride of.= PCl_{5}. _Syn._ PHOSPHORIC CHLORIDE,
PERCHLORIDE OF PHOSPHORUS.
_Prep._ By the spontaneous combustion of phosphorus in an excess of dry
chlorine; or by passing a stream of dry chlorine into the liquid
terchloride. By the first method it is obtained as a white crystalline
sublimate; by the second, as a solid crystalline mass. It is volatile;
water resolves it into phosphoric acid and hydrochloric acid.
=Phosphorus, Oxychloride of.= PCl_{3}O. _Syn._ PHOSPHORIC OXYCHLORIDE,
PHOSPHORIC MONOXYCHLORIDE.
_Prep._ By heating pentachloride of phosphorus with a quantity of water
insufficient to convert it into phosphoric acid. It is a colourless,
fuming liquid, having the sp. gr. 1·7.
=Phosphorus, Hydride of.= PH_{3}. _Syn._ PHOSPHORETTED HYDROGEN,
PHOSPHURETTED HYDROGEN.
_Prep._ 1. Phosphorus acid is gently heated in a retort, and the first
portion of the gas collected.
2. From phosphorus (in small lumps) boiled in a solution of hydrate of
potassium or milk of lime, contained in a small retort, as before. Take a
very small thin retort, capable of holding not more than 1 oz. or 1-1/2
oz. of water; place in this 3 or 4 fragments of the sticks of fused
hydrate of potassium, each being about 1/2 inch in length; add as much
water as will barely cover them, and then drop in a small fragment of
phosphorus, about the size of a horse-bean; apply a very gentle heat with
the small flame of a spirit lamp, agitating the retort continually. A pale
lambent flame will first appear in the interior, and when this reaches the
orifice, and burns in the open air, the retort should be placed on the
stand with its beak about an inch under water. Care must be taken not to
withdraw the flame of the lamp. When the bubbles of the gas rise to the
surface they spontaneously inflame.
3. From phosphide of calcium and dilute hydrochloric acid, as above; or
simply from the phosphide thrown into the water.
_Obs._ The gas obtained by methods 2 and 3 is contaminated with the vapour
of a liquid phosphide of hydrogen, PH_{2}, which gives to it the property
of spontaneous inflammability.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless; very fetid; slightly soluble in water; burns with
a white flame; decomposed by light, heat, and strong acids; as commonly
prepared, inflames on contact with air, at ordinary temperatures, but when
pure, only at the heat of boiling water. Sp. gr. 1·24. It is rendered
quite dry by standing over fused chloride of calcium.
=Phosphorus, Suboxide of.= P_{4}O. (Odling.) A reddish-brown powder,
formed when a stream of oxygen is forced upon phosphorus, melted beneath
the surface of hot water. To purify it from phosphoric acid and free
phosphorus, it is washed on a filter with water, then dried by bibulous
paper, and finally digested with bisulphide of carbon.
=Hypophosphorous Acid.= H_{3}PO_{2}. By cautiously decomposing a solution
of hypophosphite of barium with sulphuric acid, filtering from the
precipitate (sulphate of baryta), and evaporating. Dissolve hypophosphite
of calcium, 480 gr. in distilled water, 6 fl. oz.; dissolve crystallised
oxalic acid, 350 gr., in another portion of distilled water, 3 fl. oz.;
mix the solutions and filter the mixture through white filtering paper.
Add distilled water carefully to the filtrate till it measures 10 fl. oz.,
and evaporate this to 8-1/2 fl. oz. The solution thus prepared contains
about 10% of terhydrated hypophosphorous acid.
_Prop._ A viscid, uncrystallisable liquid having a strongly acid reaction.
It is a powerful drying agent, and forms salts called hypophosphites.
=Ammonium, Hypophosphite of.= (NH_{4})_{3}PO_{2}. _Prep._ Dissolve
hypophosphite of calcium, 6 oz., in water, 4 pints; and dissolve
translucent sesquicarbonate of ammonium, 7·23 oz. (barely 7-1/4), in
water, 2 pints; mix the solutions; filter, washing out the solution
retained by the carbonate of lime with water, q. s.; evaporate the
filtrate to dryness with great care; dissolve it in alcohol, q. s.;
filter, evaporate, and crystallise. Very soluble in both alcohol and
water.
=Barium, Hyperphosphite of.= Ba_{3}(PO_{4})_{2}. _Prep._ Boil phosphorus
in a solution of hydrate of barium (baryta water) till all the phosphorus
disappears and the vapours have no longer a garlic odour. Filter,
evaporate, and set aside to crystallise.
=Calcium, Hypophosphite of.= Ca_{3}(PO_{2})_{2}.
_Prep._ Slack recently burnt lime, 4 lbs., with water, 1 gall., and mix it
with water, 4 galls., just brought to the boiling temperature in a deep
open boiler, stirring until a uniform milk of lime is formed; then add
phosphorus, 1 lb., and keep up the boiling constantly, adding hot water
from time to time, so as to preserve the measure as nearly as may be until
all the phosphorus is oxidised and combined, and the strong odour of the
gas has disappeared; then filter the solution through muslin, wash out
that portion retained by the calcareous residue with water, and evaporate
the filtrate till reduced to 6 pints; re-filter, to remove a portion of
carbonate of calcium resulting from the action of the air upon the
solution; evaporate again until a pellicle forms, and set aside to
crystallise——or continue the heat with constant stirring until the salt
granulates.
_Obs._ As spontaneously inflammable phosphuretted hydrogen is given off
during the boiling, the process must be conducted under a hood, with a
strong draught or in the open air. Smaller proportions than those given
may be used.
_Prop._ Hypophosphite of calcium is a white salt, with pearly lustre,
crystallising in flattened prisms; soluble in 6 parts of cold water, and
slightly soluble in dilute alcohol. It is the most important of these
compounds, and when introduced into the stomach it is supposed to be
converted into phosphate of calcium. It has been termed ‘chemical food.’
By decomposition it readily furnishes the other hypophosphites.
=Ferric, Hyperphosphite of.= FePO_{2}. _Prep._ By precipitating a solution
of hypophosphite of sodium or ammonium, with solution of ferric sulphate,
washing the gelatinous precipitate with care (it being somewhat soluble);
and, finally, drying it into an amorphous white powder. This is freely
soluble in hydrochloric and hypophosphorous acids.
=Potassium, Hypophosphite of.= K_{3}PO_{2}. _Prep._ From hypophosphite of
calcium, 6 oz., dissolved in water, 4 pints; and granulated carbonate of
potassium, 5-3/4 oz., dissolved in water, 1/2 pint. Mix, filter, and wash
the precipitate till the filtrate measures 5 pints. Evaporate till a
pellicle forms, then stir constantly, continuing the heat till the salt
granulates. A white, opaque, deliquescent body, very soluble in water and
alcohol.
=Quinine, Hypophosphite of.= Dissolve sulphate of quinine, 1 oz., in
water, by the aid of diluted sulphuric acid; precipitate the alkaloid with
ammonia; wash the precipitated quinine and digest it in hypophosphorous
acid with heat (the quinine being in excess); after filtering the
solution, allow it to evaporate spontaneously till the required salt
crystallises. It forms elegant tufts of soft, feathery crystals, which are
soluble in 60 parts of water.
=Sodium, Hypophosphite of.= Na_{3}PO_{2}. _Prep._ From hypophosphite of
calcium, 6 oz., dissolved in water, 4 pints; and crystallised carbonate of
sodium, 10 oz., dissolved in water, 1-1/2 pint. Proceed as in making
hypophosphite of potassium, but allowing 6 pints as the measure of the
filtrate. If required in crystals, the granulated salt may be dissolved in
alcohol sp. gr. ·835, evaporated till syrupy, and set by in a warm place.
Crystallises in rectangular tables, with a pearly lustre; is very soluble
in water and ordinary alcohol, and deliquesces when exposed to the air.
=Phosphorus, Trioxide of.= P_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ PHOSPHOROUS ANHYDRIDE;
ANHYDROUS PHOSPHORIC ACID.
_Prep._ By burning phosphorus in a limited supply of air. White flaky
powder, with an odour of garlic, and rapidly absorbing water to form
phosphorous acid.
=Phosphorous Acid.= H_{3}PO_{3}. _Syn._ HYDRATED PHOSPHOROUS ACID. Pure
phosphorus is volatilised through a layer of powdered mercuric chloride,
contained in a glass tube; terchloride of phosphorus comes over, which,
on being mixed with water, is resolved into hydrochloric acid and
phosphorous acid; by evaporating the mixed liquid to the consistence of a
syrup, the first is expelled, and the residuum forms a crystalline mass of
hydrated phosphorous acid on cooling.
_Prop., &c._ It is a powerful deoxidising agent. Heated in a closed
vessel, it is resolved into hydrated phosphoric acid and pure
phosphuretted hydrogen gas. With the bases it forms salts, called
phosphites, which possess little practical importance.
=Phosphorous Pentoxide Acid.= P_{2}O_{5}. _Syn._ ANHYDROUS PHOSPHORIC
ACID; PHOSPHORIC ANHYDRIDE; PHOSPHORIC OXIDE. By the vivid combustion of
phosphorus in a stream of dry atmospheric air, or under a bell-jar,
copiously supplied with dry air. The product is pure anhydrous phosphoric
acid under the form of snow-like flakes. It must be immediately collected
and put into a warm, dry, well-stoppered bottle. In this state it exhibits
an intense attraction for water, and when thrown into it combines with
explosive violence; exposed to moist air for only a few seconds, it
deliquesces to a syrupy-looking liquid.
=Phosphoric Acid.= There are three distinct acids usually grouped under
this head, namely, METAPHOSPHORIC ACID, HPO_{3}; PYROPHOSPHORIC ACID,
H_{4}P_{4}O_{7}; and ORTHOPHOSPHORIC ACID, H_{3}PO_{4}.
=Metaphosphoric Acid.= HPO_{3}. _Syn._ MONOBASIC PHOSPHORIC ACID; GLACIAL
PHOSPHORIC ACID.
_Prep._ Bones (calcined to whiteness and powdered), 3 parts, are digested
for several days in oil of vitriol, 2 parts, previously diluted with
water, 6 parts, the mixture being frequently stirred during the time; a
large quantity of water is next added, the whole thrown in a strainer, and
the residual matter washed with some hot water; the mixed liquors are then
precipitated with a solution of carbonate of ammonium, in slight excess,
filtered from the insoluble, finally ignited in a platinum crucible.
By acting upon the anhydride with cold water.
When phosphoric acid is added to a strong solution of phosphate of
zirconium, and the mixture, after concentration, is exposed to a low
temperature, prismatic crystals are deposited. These, after being strongly
heated to expel their basic water, are pure metaphosphate of sodium. From
the solution of this salt in cold water, a solution of pure metaphosphoric
acid may be obtained, as above, by means of nitrate or acetate of lead and
sulphuretted hydrogen.
_Obs._ This acid precipitates the salts of silver white, and is
distinguished from the other modifications of phosphoric acid by the
property which its solution possesses of coagulating albumen.
=Pyrophosphoric Acid.= H_{4}P_{2}O_{7}. _Syn._ DIBASIC PHOSPHORIC ACID. By
strongly heating common orthophosphate of sodium. The water of
crystallisation only is at first expelled, and the salt becomes anhydrous;
but as the temperature reaches that of redness the salt loses water and is
decomposed. By solution of the altered salt in water, crystals of
pyrophosphate of sodium may be obtained. A solution of this last compound,
treated with nitrate of lead, and the resulting precipitate, suspended in
cold water, and decomposed by sulphuretted hydrogen, yields a solution of
pure pyrophosphoric acid.
_Obs._ Heat resolves this into a solution of the ordinary acid.
Pyrophosphoric acid precipitates the salts of silver of a white colour.
The salts of this acid are called pyrophosphates.
=Orthophosphoric Acid.= H_{3}PO_{4}. _Syn._ TRIHYDRIC PHOSPHATE, TRIBASIC
PHOSPHORIC ACID. Ordinary nitric acid is heated in a tubulated retort
connected with a receiver, and small fragments of phosphorus are dropped
into it, singly and at intervals; as soon as the oxygenation of the
phosphorus is complete, the heat is increased, the undecomposed acid
distilled off, and the residuum evaporated to the consistence of a syrup.
In this state it forms the phosphoric acid of the shops. Commercial
phosphate of sodium is dissolved in water and the solution precipitated
with another of acetate of lead; an abundant white precipitate (phosphate
of lead) falls; this is collected on a filter, well washed, and, whilst
still moist, is suspended in distilled water, and sulphuretted hydrogen
gas passed into it, in excess; a black insoluble precipitate forms, while
pure tribasic phosphoric acid remains in solution, and is easily deprived
of the residual sulphuretted hydrogen by a gentle heat. By concentration
_in vacuo_ over sulphuric acid, it may be obtained in thin crystalline
plates.
The solution of this acid may be boiled without change, but when
concentrated and heated to about 400° Fahr. it is converted into
pyrophosphoric acid, and at a red heat into metaphosphoric acid. Its salts
are the ordinary phosphates, or orthophosphates, and they give a yellow
precipitate with nitrate of silver.
_Tests._ The following reactions characterise the ordinary or other
phosphates:——1. Chloride of barium produces in aqueous solutions of the
neutral and basic phosphates a white precipitate, which is insoluble in
either hydrochloric or nitric acid, and with difficulty soluble in a
solution of chloride of ammonium.——2. Solution of sulphate of calcium
produces in neutral and alkaline solutions of the phosphates a white
precipitate, freely soluble in acids, even the acetic.——3. Sulphate of
magnesium produces in solutions of the phosphates, to which some chloride
of ammonium and free ammonia has been added, a white, crystalline, and
quickly subsiding precipitate of the phosphate of ammonium and magnesium,
which is insoluble in a solution of either ammonia or chloride of
ammonium, but readily soluble in acids, even the acetic.——4. Nitrate of
silver, with neutral and basic alkaline phosphates, gives a light yellow
precipitate. If the fluid in which the precipitate is suspended contained
a basic phosphate, it does not affect test paper; if it contained a
neutral phosphate, the reaction will be acid. If the phosphate examined
has been heated to redness before solution, it then, as a metaphosphate,
gives a white precipitate with nitrate of silver.——5. Hydrochloric acid is
added to the solution to acid reaction, and afterwards 1 or 2 drops of a
concentrated solution of ferric chloride; a solution of acetate of
potassium is next added in excess, when a flocculent, gelatinous, white
precipitate will be formed if phosphoric acid or any phosphate was present
in any form or combination in the original liquor. This test is highly
characteristic, and of general applicability.
_Obs._ The insoluble phosphates must be first treated with diluted
hydrochloric or sulphuric acid, and the resulting solution filtered and
neutralised with an alkali, before applying the reagents. When the
substance under examination consists of a very small quantity of
phosphoric acid or phosphate, with a large quantity of sesquioxide of
iron, it should be fused with some carbonate of sodium, the residuum of
the ignition exhausted with water, and the tests applied to the filtered
solution. Arsenious acid, if present, should be removed by sulphuretted
hydrogen before applying the tests. When phosphate of aluminum, the
solution in hydrochloric acid is neutralised with carbonate of sodium;
carbonate of barium is next added in excess, followed by the addition of
hydrate potassium, also in excess, after which the whole is boiled. An
insoluble phosphate of barium is formed, which may be decomposed by
sulphuric acid, as before. See MOLYBDATE OF AMMONIUM.
_Estim._ Pure solutions of phosphoric acid may be tested by the common
methods of acidimetry. When in a state of combination, it may be separated
and weighed in either of the forms noticed under GUANO.
_Uses, &c._ This acid is the common form, and is the compound alluded to
when ‘phosphoric acid’ is spoken of. It is extensively employed by the
bleacher, dyer, calico-printer, and enameller. Unlike sulphuric acid and
the other strong acids, it does not coagulate albumen nor injure vegetable
fibre, and is not decomposed by contact with organic matter. In
combination with alumina and a large boracic acid, it is said to be
capable of producing a glaze for earthenware of extreme beauty and
durability, and perfectly innocuous. It is also used in medicine.
PHOSPHORIC ACID, DILUTED. (B. Ph.) Put 6 fl. oz. of nitric acid (sp. gr.
1·42), diluted with 8 oz. of distilled water, into a tubulated retort
connected with a Liebig’s condenser, and having added 413 gr. of
phosphorus, apply a very gentle heat until 5 fl. oz. of liquid have
distilled over. Return this to the retort, and renew and continue the
distillation until the phosphorus has entirely dissolved.
Transfer the contents of the retort to a porcelain capsule and evaporate
the liquid until it is reduced to 4 fl. oz. Transfer to a platinum vessel
and evaporate to about 2 fl. oz., and until orange vapours cease to form.
Mix when cool in such an amount of distilled water that the volume shall
become one pint. (It contains 10 per cent. by weight of anhydrous acid.
Sp. gr. 1·08.)——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims properly diluted.
=PHOSPHORUS, BALDWIN′S.= Recently fused nitrate of calcium. For this
purpose it must be broken into fragments whilst still warm, and at once
placed in dry and well-stopped phials. After exposure for some time to the
direct rays of the sun it emits sufficient light in the dark to render
visible the figures on the dial-plate of a watch.
=PHOSPHORUS, BOLOGNIAN.= _Syn._ KERCHER’S PHOSPHORUS, BOLOGNIAN STONE.
This substance was accidentally discovered by a shoemaker of Bologna, and
excited much interest about the middle of the 17th century. The following
is said to have been the formula employed by the Logani family, who were
particularly successful in its preparation, and acquired wealth by its
sale to the curious throughout Europe.
_Prep._ Reduce recently calcined native sulphate of barium to powder, make
it into a paste with mucilage of gum tragacanth, and roll the mass into
pieces about 1/4 inch thick and 1 to 2 inches long; dry these slowly by a
moderate heat, and then expose them to ignition in a wind furnace, by
placing them loosely among the charcoal; lastly, allow them to cool
slowly, and at once place the pieces in well-stopped phials. Like the
preceding substance, it phosphoresces in the dark after exposure to the
sun’s rays.
=PHOSPHORUS, CANTON′S.= _Prep._ From calcined oyster shells, 3 parts;
flowers of sulphur, 1 part; placed in alternate layers in a covered
crucible, and exposed to a strong heat for about an hour. It is preserved
and used like the above.
=PHOSPHORUS, HOMBERG′S.= Recently ignited chloride of calcium.
=PHOSPHORUS BOTTLES.= _Prep._ 1. Phosphorus, 12 gr.; olive oil, 1/2 oz.;
mix in an oz. phial, and place the latter, loosely corked, in a basin of
hot water; as soon as the phosphorus is melted, remove the phial, cork it
securely, and agitate it until nearly cold. On being uncorked it emits
sufficient light in the dark to see the time by a watch, and will retain
this property for some years if not too frequently employed. These are
frequently called ‘luminous phials.’
2. (BRIQUETS PHOSPHORIQUES.)——_a._ From phosphorus, 3 parts; white wax, 1
part; cautiously melted together by the heat of hot water; as the mixture
begins to cool, the bottles are turned round, so that it may adhere to the
sides.
_b._ (Bendix.) Cork (rasped small, and dry) and yellow wax, of each 1
part; phosphorus, 4 parts; petroleum, 8 parts; mixed, by fusion, as the
last.
Used as instantaneous-light bottles. A sulphur match rubbed against the
composition immediately inflames on exposure to the air. They should be
only unstoppered at the instant of introducing the match, and should be
handled with caution.
=PHOSPHORUS MATCHES.= See MATCHES, and _above_.
=PHOSPHORUS PASTE.= _Syn._ ANTI-ARSENICAL RAT-POISON, PHOSPHOR-PASTE.
_Prep._ 1. Phosphorus, 1 oz.; warm water, 1 pint; place them in a bottle,
cork it, and agitate them well together, until the phosphorus is reduced
to a minute state of division, adding towards the end moist sugar, 1/2
lb.; next add of lard (melted by a gentle heat), 1 lb., and repeat the
agitation until the whole is nearly cold; when cold, form it into a stiff
dough with oatmeal or barley meal, and make this into small balls or
cakes; lastly, dry these in the air, without artificial heat.
2. (Simon.) Phosphorus, 8 parts; water (lukewarm), 180 parts; mix in a
mortar, and add of rye meal, 180 parts; when cold, further add of butter
or lard, 180 parts; sugar, 125 parts; and mix the whole thoroughly
together. This is the formula authorised by an ordinance of the Prussian
Government, dated April 27th, 1843.
_Obs._ Rats, mice, &c., eat the above composition with avidity, after
which they soon die. It is said that the best method of using it is to
place small pieces of it in and about the holes, with some water in a
shallow vessel for them to drink. It has the advantage of retaining its
efficacy for many years, and is less dangerous to human beings than
compositions containing arsenic, whilst it is even more effective for the
purpose for which it is employed. Some persons recommend the addition of a
little oil of rhodium or oil of aniseed. See RATS, &c.
=PHOS′PHURET.= _Syn._ PHOSPHIDE; PHOSPHORETUM, PHOSPHIDUM, L. A compound
of phosphorus with a metal or other basic radical. See the respective
METALS, &c.
=PHOSPHURETTED HY′DROGEN.= _Syn._ PHOSPHORETTED HYDROGEN. See HYDROGEN.
=PHOSPHATIC DIATHESIS.= _Syn._ WHITE GRAVEL. A morbid condition of the
system, characterised by the deposition in the urine of certain salts of
phosphoric acid or phosphates. In this affection the urine, contrary to
its normal condition, is always alkaline, and the nature of the
phosphatic deposit is influenced by the source of the alkalinity. If, as
most frequently happens, this is owing to the presence of carbonate of
ammonia (formed by the decomposition of the urea by the bladder mucus),
the deposit will be found to consist of the triple phosphate, or phosphate
of magnesia and ammonia, almost always associated with a small quantity of
amorphous phosphate of lime. Under these circumstances the urine is pale
in colour, and upon standing soon decomposes, in doing which it gives off
a strong ammoniacal odour. Phosphatic diathesis is a frequent
accompaniment of spinal affections and of chronic inflammation of the
mucous lining of the bladder.
In mild attacks the best treatment consists in living rather generously,
and in the administration of vegetable tonics combined with proper doses
of the mineral acids.
=PHOTOG′RAPHY.= _Syn._ HELIOGRAPHY. The art of producing images on
prepared surfaces by means of the actinic or chemical rays of the sun’s
light. The principal photographic processes now in use are the positive-,
negative-, and dry-collodion processes, in each of which a thin film or
skin of iodised collodion forms the sensitive surface, a plate of glass
being generally used as the foundation of the film. In a positive picture
the ‘lights’ are silvery white by reflected light, and the ‘shades’ are
produced by a ‘backing’ of black varnish or velvet, showing through the
glass plate. In a negative picture the ‘lights’ are of a dirty yellow or
brown by reflection, and being formed by opaque deposits, appear dense
black by transmitted light. Negatives are used in the various
paper-printing processes; they are placed upon prepared paper and exposed
to direct light, which darkens those parts of the paper not protected by
the opaque ‘lights,’ and thus produces positive prints with natural lights
and shades. In this way the portrait ‘cartes de visite’ and other paper
photographs are formed.
Of late years there have been devised a great variety of new photographic
processes, some of which are given below, together with modern formulæ for
the principal solutions, &c., in general request by the photographer.
The Daguerreotype process, discovered by M. Daguerre in 1839, has been
entirely superseded by the easier, healthier, and less expensive collodion
processes described further on. It consists in submitting a plate of
silver or silvered copper to the vapour of iodine and bromine in the dark.
A sensitive film of iodide and bromide of silver is thus formed on the
plate, which is immediately exposed to the image of an object in the
camera obscura. The latent image impressed on the plate is brought out or
developed by exposing the plate to the action of the vapour of mercury.
It is to be noted that in all English photographic formulæ the solid and
fluid measures of apothecaries weight are used; but in buying or selling
chemical articles, the avoirdupois weight is employed.
_Nitrate of Silver Bath_ (_for Positives_). Recrystallised nitrate of
silver, 5 dr., dissolved in 10 oz. of distilled water. Filter the solution
until it is quite clear, then add 3 drops of nitric acid and 10 drops of
collodion. Shake well together and filter. Blue litmus paper should
slightly redden in this bath; should it turn very red, add a little
ammonia, or oxide of silver; should it not redden at all, add a little
acid carefully drop by drop. It is preferable to have a slight excess of
acid.
_Developing Solution_ (_for Positives_). Protosulphate of iron, 2 dr.,
dissolved in 8 oz. of distilled water; add 2-1/2 dr. of glacial acetic
acid, 2-1/2 dr. of alcohol, and 5 minims of nitric acid, filter, and pour
into a well-stoppered bottle; do not expose to the air.
_Fixing Solution_ (_for Positives_). 50 gr. of cyanide of potassium
dissolved in 5 oz. of distilled water; that is to say, for every fluid
ounce of solution required, mix 10 gr. of cyanide of potassium in 1 oz. of
distilled water. Filter and keep in a well-stoppered bottle, and label
“Poison.”
_Positive Paper._ Plain paper requires preparing or salting before it is
ready for use, or it may be purchased already salted.
Procure some sheets of plain Saxe paper, and immerse them for five minutes
(removing air-bubbles) in the following solution:——
Chloride of ammonium 100 gr.
Chloride of barium 100 gr.
Citrate of soda 20 gr.
Water 20 oz.
Hang the sheets up to dry. For portraits and most other uses the paper is
albuminised on one side. When photographs are printed to be afterwards
coloured, unalbuminised paper is used.
_Albuminised Paper._ There are several well-known papers sold; _Rive’s_,
which is a French paper, has a high glaze and fine surface; the _Saxe_,
which is more uniform in its texture, is made in Germany. Another maker is
_Towgood_. Positive paper is albuminised by placing it in a mixture
composed of white of eggs and salt. To the white of each moderate-sized
egg use 15 gr. of common salt reduced to a fine powder; whisk until the
albumen is all white froth. Leave this froth in a glazed earthen pan for
about 12 hours, by which time most of it has settled into clear albumen;
pour the clear portion into a flat porcelain tray. This tray should be
somewhat larger than the sheets of paper to be albuminised. Lift the paper
up by the ends and lay it carefully on the albumen, keeping the side
marked as “inferior” uppermost and dry.
The paper should be slightly damp before it is thus treated, as it then
takes the albumen more regularly, and is not so liable to air-bubbles. The
paper must be lifted at each end, and should any air-bubbles appear,
brush them off with a card or small brush, replacing the paper in the
bath. Wherever the albumen does not come into actual contact with the
paper, a white mark will appear in the print. Remove the paper from the
bath and place it to dry on a cardboard frame, or suspend it at the
corners by clips. Paper glazed with pure albumen acquires too brilliant a
glaze for portraits; the albumen may be diluted with from a 1/4 to 1/3 its
bulk of water. It should be kept in tin or zinc cases.
_Plain Paper._ Albuminised paper may be used as plain paper if, instead of
sensitising the glazed side, the plain side is placed in the sensitising
solution.
_Nitrate of Silver Bath_ (_for Negatives_). Recrystallised nitrate of
silver, 1/2 oz.; distilled water, 7 oz.; collodion, 7 drops. Shake well
together until the crystals have dissolved, then filter.
The purity of the negative bath is a matter of great importance, hence the
necessity of employing the very best nitrate of silver, and also of
excluding all foreign matters of every kind. When the bath gets out of
order, it should be diluted with an equal bulk of distilled water, and
exposed to the sun for a few days, in a white glass bottle, then filtered,
and sufficient nitrate of silver added to restore the strength to 35
grains an ounce, as indicated by the argentometer.
_The Argentometer._ This instrument is for ascertaining the strength of
the nitrate of silver solution, which becomes weakened to a certain
extent, after the immersion of every plate.
_Developing Solution_ (_for Negatives_). Protosulphate of iron, 75 gr.;
glacial acetic acid, 2 dr.; alcohol, 2 dr.; distilled water, 5 oz.
Dissolve the crystals in the water, then add the acid and alcohol, and
filter. In hot weather a little more acetic acid may be added, and if it
does not flow readily, the alcohol may be increased.
_Intensifying Solution_, No. 1 (_Negatives_). Pyrogallic acid, 10 gr.;
citric acid, 10 gr.; distilled water, 5 oz. When it becomes brown it is
useless. No. 2. Recrystallised nitrate of silver, 40 gr.; distilled water,
1 oz.; dissolve and filter. This latter will keep for any length of time
in the dark.
_Another Intensifying Bath_ (_Negatives_). A saturated solution of
bichloride of mercury in water. Place the negative plate in a bath of the
solution, remove when the film assumes a milky-white appearance, wash, and
then plunge into a solution of 1 oz. of liquid ammonia to 10 oz. of water.
Remove the plate, wash, and place to dry. This mode of intensifying may be
regulated by leaving the plate in the bichloride of mercury a shorter
time, when it will require a weaker ammonia bath than that above given.
_Fixing Solution_ (_for Negatives_). Hyposulphite of soda, 5 oz.;
distilled water, 5 oz.; dissolve and filter.
_Sensitising Solution_ (_for Paper_). Nitrate of silver, 5 dr.; distilled
water, 5 oz.; nitric acid, 2 drops; kaolin, 1 oz. Dissolve the nitrate of
silver in the water, and then add the acid and kaolin; the kaolin will not
dissolve, its use being to prevent the solution becoming discoloured after
using. This solution will not require filtering; it must be allowed to
become quite clear, and when required for use must be carefully decanted.
This solution should be occasionally tested with the argentometer, and
sufficient nitrate of silver added to restore it to its original strength.
_Another Negative Collodion._ Ether, 1/2 oz.; gun-cotton, 7 gr.; bromide
of cadmium, 1/2 gr.; bromide of ammonium, 1-1/2 gr.; iodide of calcium, 1
gr.; iodide of potassium, 1 gr.; iodide of ammonium, 1 gr. For
intensifying, flood with chloride of gold, 1 gr.; water, 15 oz.; then
wash, and flood with pyrogallic acid, 2 gr.; water, 3 oz.
_Toning Baths._ 1. Chloride of gold, 4 gr.; acetate of soda, 1/4 oz.;
distilled water, 10 oz.; dissolve and filter. 2. _To produce black to
bright sepia tones, according to length of immersion._ Take carbonate of
soda sufficient to cover a threepenny piece, dissolve it in a teaspoonful
of cold water in a cup, add 2 gr. of chloride of gold, then add 3 oz. of
boiling water; use in 15 minutes. This will suit Hart’s albuminised paper.
_Fixing Solution_ (_for Paper Prints_). Hyposulphite of soda, 8 oz.;
distilled water, 1 pint. This solution must only be used once.
_Stopping-out Negatives._ Small, round, transparent spots are frequently
found on glass negatives, which, if not stopped, occasion corresponding
black spots on the print. Lay the plate on a slab of glass, having either
direct or reflected light shining up through it. Then cover the spots with
a mixture composed of 10 parts of ivory black, 2 parts of saturated
solution of gum Arabic, 2 parts of white honey, 1 part of sugar-candy;
well mix and apply with a fine camel-hair brush. Should the spots on the
negative be black or opaque, white spots will be formed on the print;
these are easily tinted with a little water colour, to match the other
portions of the print; it is seldom necessary, therefore, to alter the
negative on this account.
_Ferrotypes._ In these, instead of a glass plate being used to receive the
picture, as in a positive glass photograph, a thin plate of black
varnished iron is employed. Of course no black backing is required; with
this exception the photograph is produced in every particular by the same
means and in the same manner as the glass positive is.
_To Clean Glass Plates._ (Mr Hughes.) The description of glass known as
“flatted crown” is well suited for positives, but before using it requires
careful cleaning. The sharp edges should be first removed with a
“corundum” file, or by drawing the sharp edge of one piece over the sharp
edge of another; then place the glass on a clean flat surface, or put it
in “a plate-cleaning holder,” and pour a few drops of the plate-cleaning
solution in the middle. Rub it carefully over every part with a bit of
clean soft rag; turn the glass over, and do the other side the same. Then
polish each side with a clean cloth, and finish with a soft chamois
leather kept expressly for this purpose. Now breathe on the glass, and if
the breath deposits evenly the plate is clean. If the plate, however,
shows patches and marks, it must be recleaned. Let the edges be carefully
wiped, and the plate is ready for use.
The following preparation makes a good plate-cleaning solution for glasses
that require mechanical friction to make them clean:——Ordinary water, 5
oz.; alcohol, 5 oz.; iodide of potassium, 15 gr.; iodine, 3 gr. When
dissolved, add tripoli, prepared chalk, whiting, or rotten-stone, in
sufficient quantity to make a creamy paste.
This thin pasty solution is to be rubbed on the plates on both surfaces
and polished off as already described. This amount of cleaning will
generally be sufficient for new glasses, but when they have been used they
require more labour.
They must then be well washed under the tap, to get rid of all collodion
and chemicals, and be wiped on cloths kept expressly for the purpose.
Should the plates have been varnished they must be soaked for some hours
in a saturated solution of washing soda till the varnish and film come
freely off. The glasses must then be immersed for a few minutes in a
solution composed of common nitric acid, 2 oz., water, 10 oz., and be well
washed and treated as already described. It is a good plan when working to
have a dish of water at hand, and to place the spoilt pictures in it at
once while they are wet, and at the end of the day to wash the glasses and
put them away clean. By thus not allowing the films to dry on the glasses
they are much easier cleaned, and fewer failures will arise from dirty
glasses.
Collodion is a good material for cleaning glasses when they are not very
dirty. Pour a few drops on the glass and well rub it with a clean cloth,
and you will entirely remove all grease; a hint may thus be taken how to
use up waste collodion.
_Various Solutions used in the Dry Process._ These are employed in cases
where bromo-iodised collodion and the nitrate bath are used.
In all processes in which the bromo-iodised collodion is employed 2 grains
of bromide of cadmium should be added to each ounce of the collodion.
Mr Bartholomew advises diluted alcohol to be poured over the plate
previous to developing.
_Acid Pyro Developer._ This developer is formed as follows:
Pyrogallic acid 1 gr.
Glacial acetic acid 30 minims.
Water 1 oz.
The plate, after being wetted with dilute alcohol and washed, has this
solution flowed over it, to which has been added 2 or 3 drops of a
10-grain nitrate of silver solution.
_Plain Pyro Developer._ The strength of this may vary from 1 to 5 gr. in
an ounce of water. Two grains may be taken as a medium. The dry plate
being flooded with alcohol and water, and washed so as to well wet the
film, this solution is floated over it.
_Alkaline Pyro Developer._
No. 1.——Pyrogallic acid 96 gr.
Absolute alcohol 1 oz.
No. 2.——Carbonate of ammonia 96 gr.
Water 1 oz.
No. 3.——Bromide of potassium 10 gr.
Water 1 oz.
At the time of using, make up the following solution:
Water 1 oz.
Solution No. 1 10 minims.
Solution No. 3 5 ”
Pour this over the wetted plate, allow it to remain on a few seconds only,
and then pour back into the developing cup, and add to it 5 minims of
solution No. 2, and apply again.
_The Collodio-Albumen Dry Process._ (Mr Mudd.) In this process the
ordinary bromo-iodised collodion is employed. The plate being sensitised
is washed well first with distilled, then with common water, and placed in
a dish half filled with solution of iodide of potassium (3 gr. to the
oz.), and allowed to remain while the next plate is being prepared. It is
then removed from the solution and well washed with clean water, after
which the following solution is poured over its surface:
Distilled water 2-1/2 oz.
White of eggs 10 oz.
Iodide of potassium 50 gr.
Bromide of ammonium 10 gr.
Strongest solution of ammonia 120 minims.
Introduce these materials with some pieces of broken glass into a bottle
capable of holding twice the quantity, and agitate till the whole forms a
froth, and then, when settled, it is ready. A piece of camphor placed in
the solution will help to preserve it. It must be filtered before using.
After the plate has been coated with the above it is finished by drying
before the fire.
In this process all the above operations may be performed in ordinary
white light. To render the plate sensitive, heat it as hot as the hand
will bear, and when cool immerse it again in the following aceto-nitrate
of silver bath for one minute, using only a yellow light, then wash
thoroughly in clean water, and dry in the dark.
Nitrate of silver 30 gr.
Distilled water 1 oz.
Glacial acetic acid 1/2 dram.
The development may be commenced by either plain or alkaline pyro; Mr Mudd
gives the preference to the plain, and intensifying after with acid
silver.
Dr RYLEY’S _Modified Collodio-albumen Dry Process_. In this method the
plate has to be sensitised as usual, and washed thoroughly. When the plate
has been well drained, and while still wet, it is coated with the
following solution:
Albumen 1 oz.
Water 2 oz.
Ammonia 30 minims.
The solution is beaten to a froth, allowed to settle, and filtered before
using. Pour sufficient over the plate to cover it, letting it flow
backwards and forwards so as to soak into the film. Pour the albuminous
solution away and thoroughly wash the plate, the last rinsing being with
distilled water. Let the plate dry; when perfectly dry, moisten the plate
with distilled water, and pour over the following solution:
Gallic acid 2 gr.
Water 1 oz.
Filter the solution before using. Pour it on and off the plate to well
permeate the film, then set the plate up to drain, and dry without washing
off the gallic acid solution. When the surface is dry finish by the heat
of a dull fire.
_Bromide of Silver, Wet Process._ To every ounce of good collodion add 8
gr. of bromide of cadmium. The nitrate bath must be made 80 gr. to the
oz., and slightly acidulated with nitric acid. The plate must remain in
the bath the full time it requires to form a dense opaque film. When the
plate is ready (it must not be removed from the bath until the film is
much denser than in the ordinary wet process) it must be washed thoroughly
to remove all silver. It must then have poured over it a 3-grain solution
of gelatin made slightly alkaline with carbonate of soda, or diluted
albumen (albumen, 1 oz.; water, 4 oz., well beaten together). When the
plate is in this condition it may be exposed wet, or it may be allowed to
dry. Prior to development it must be well washed, and the alkaline method
must always be adopted. If the plates are used dry, a preliminary coating
of dilute albumen is necessary, but if used wet, this is not necessary.
_Bromide of Silver, Emulsion Process._ By this method the nitrate bath is
not necessary, as the sensitive material is contained in the collodion.
The purchase of the material ready-made for working this process is
recommended in preference to its direct manufacture, as its preparation
demands the use of considerable technical skill, together with the
employment of a gun cotton not usually attainable. Mr Hughes says the
‘Liverpool Dry Plate Company’ supply an excellent emulsion. It is only
necessary to pour the emulsion on to a plate and to allow it to dry, when
the plate is ready for use. The development is by the alkaline process.
_Gelatino-bromide of Silver, Emulsion Process._ In this process the use
both of the nitrate bath and of collodion are abolished.
The material employed is very troublesome to prepare, and on this account,
as well as because of the risk of failure attending the use of home-made
articles, it is far preferable it should be purchased. It may be obtained
under the name of ‘Kennett’s Sensitised Pellicle.’
This pellicle consists of shreds of dry gelatin containing the sensitive
salts.
Fresh directions accompany each packet of the “Sensitised Pellicle.”
_The Honey Process._ Let the plate be cleaned, coated, and sensitised in
the usual manner; then place it in a bath of distilled water, washing it
more or less, as it may be required to be kept for a longer or shorter
time. Pour on the plate a solution made of equal parts of honey and
distilled water in the same manner as when using collodion; throw away the
first portion, and repeat the operation, letting the solution soak in for
one or two minutes; pour back the honey solution into its bottle; drain
the plate on blotting paper, and keep it in the dark free from dust. The
time required for exposure of the plate is about double as long as in the
ordinary wet process.
The plate should be soaked in distilled water previous to being developed,
in order to soften or remove the film of honey; the older the plate the
longer it will require to be soaked, afterwards dip the plate in the
silver bath, and develop in the usual manner.
_The Carbon Process._ In this process, the adoption of which is daily
increasing, the material employed consists of a layer of gelatin
containing carbon, or some other permanent pigment, spread on paper.
In this condition the paper is not sensitive to light, but if it be
treated with a solution of bichromate of potash, dried in the dark, and
afterwards exposed to sunlight under a negative, those portions of the
paper which have been acted upon by the light will become insoluble,
whilst those parts that have been protected from it will be soluble. When,
therefore, after sufficient exposure, the prepared paper is removed from
the negative, a picture the reverse of the negative will have been formed,
in which the pigmented gelatin alone remains, and performs the part of the
reduced silver in the ordinary photograph.
If the film, after exposure to light under a negative, is soaked in warm
water, all the parts which have been protected from the action of the
light can be dissolved, and a relief is formed which, when dry, is
sufficiently hard to transmit its shape to lead. From the mould or plate
thus obtained a comparatively large number of impressions can be taken,
either with coloured gelatin or with fatty colours, the well-known
Woodbury-type being the most successful of the several processes based on
the fact.
=Photographic Varnish.= See VARNISHES.
MISCELLANEOUS RECIPES:
_To Clean Glass Plates._ (Mr Mayall.) Shake up together alcohol, 30 parts;
strong liquid ammonia, 10; water, 40; and fine tripoli, 30 parts. The
plates are to be rubbed hard and evenly with balls of cotton wool dipped
in this mixture. Rub again, when dry, with a clean ball of cotton; lastly,
dust the back and edges with a clean hog-hair brush.
_To Clean off Collodion Pictures._ This may be done whether they have been
varnished or not, by means of a tuft of cotton wool dipped in wood spirit.
_To Colour Photographic Prints._ This may be done variously in water and
oils. A simple way is to rub in slowly with a small camel-hair brush a
minute piece of dry colour laid upon the part, as of flesh tint for the
face, &c. When properly distributed, the paper may be breathed upon, and
the tint will not easily be rubbed off. Or it may be carefully coated with
gelatin.
M. Minotto has described a plan of colouring on the back of the paper. The
picture, being held up to the light, is first faintly outlined, on the
reverse side; colours are then laid on, of water or oil, as preferred, on
this side. When dry the paper is rendered transparent by a varnish, and
the colours will then appear through it with all the delicacy and effect
of a miniature on ivory. Good strong writing paper is best for this
purpose; the colours must be vivid; and the varnish may consist of Canada
balsam dissolved in turpentine, or a mastic varnish may be used, or
turpentine and wax, or oil.
_To Remove Stains from the Hands._ The powerfully poisonous character of
cyanide of potassium renders its employment for the above purpose an
operation attended with considerable danger. Iodide of potassium and
iodine may both be substituted, but the first is expensive, and the second
requires considerable nicety in its application, lest a coloured stain be
left on the skin. Instead of the above substances, M. Fortin recommends to
wash the hands with a concentrated solution of either sulphate or chloride
of zinc, to which some acid is added at the same time. He advises the
deepest and blackest stains being touched with metallic zinc, whereby the
reduction of the oxide of silver or that of the gallate of iron is
promoted, and all metallic stains adhering to or penetrating into the skin
removed. Since most of the salts of zinc are colourless, and soluble in
water, the hands soon become quite clean. They should then be washed,
first with pure water, and next with soap and water.
The reader desirous of further information on the subject of photography
cannot do better than consult Mr Ernest Spon’s valuable manual, entitled
‘Workshop Receipts,’ and Mr Hughes’ ‘Principles and Practice of
Photography,’ to both of which we are largely indebted. Captain Abney’s
work on ‘Photography,’ cannot be too highly commended. See COLLODION,
PHOTOGRAPHIC.
=Photographic Waste Products, Recovery of.= We extract the following from
the ‘American Chemist’ for February, 1876. The contributor, Mr. C. A.
Pitkin, A. B., states that the methods given have been collected from the
‘Philadelphia Photographer,’ the ‘British Photographic Journal,’
Hardwick’s ‘Photograph Chemistry,’ &c., &c.; also that they include
suggestions by Professor Hill.
1. Nitrate bath, α, recovered; β, renovated.
2. Hyposulphite bath.
3. Reduction of silver chloride, oxide, or sulphide.
4. Gold waste, α, recovered; β, separated from silver,
5. Paper waste and washings from positive prints.
6. Cyanide solution.
7. Developer.
I. _Nitrate Bath_,
α, _Recovered_.
1. Add solution of caustic potash or lime, as long as there is a brown
precipitate. Allow to settle, pour off liquid, and collect silver oxide
for reduction; _vide_ III, below.
2. For 1 lb. of silver, add 1 oz. sulphuric acid and 1/2 lb. zinc, and
allow to stand two days. Precipitate as chloride, wash eight or ten times
by decantation, and dissolve gradually in nitric acid.
NOTES.——Test complete washing by hydrochloric acid. Wash with water till
zinc nitrate is removed. If zinc clings to silver wash with hydrochloric
acid.
3. Suspend sheet of copper in bath for two or three days.
4. Acidify as nitric acid, precipitate as silver chloride by sodium
chloride or hydrochloric acid, and reduce as _vide_ III, below.
5. Immerse in bath two strips of copper attached to the poles of a
Daniell’s or Smee’s cell. Silver deposited on the copper as in 3, above.
6. Add sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydrate. Reduce as 3 below, or if pure
enough, dissolve precipitate at once in nitric acid.
7. Concentrate bath, make alkaline by sodium carbonate, and add aqueous
solution of oxalic acid neutralised with sodium carbonate. Filter, dry,
and fuse with equal weight of sodium bicarbonate.
8. Deposit, either with or without battery, on iron. (Iron can be obtained
purer than zinc or copper, and possesses the additional advantage that the
iron salts, as iodides, &c., are all quite soluble). Fuse with potassium
nitrate and sodium carbonate.
β. _Renovated._
1. Dilute with three volumes of distilled water, expose to sunlight,
filter, add sodium carbonate till slightly turbid. Expose to sunlight six
hours more, filter, add sodium carbonate till silver all thrown down.
Wash, precipitate by decantation, and dissolve in nitric acid. Filter
again, make up to 35 grammes; neutralise, expose to sun a week, and bath
is ready for use.
2. Neutralise with ammonia till just alkaline; boil till black; let cool,
filter, acidify with pure nitric acid, and evaporate to crystallisation,
then fuse. When cool, add distilled water, shake and let stand exposed to
light. Filter and add drained crystals. Dissolve and make solution acid
with pure nitric acid. Expose again to sunlight, filter, and bath is ready
for use.
3. Add potassium permanganate, expose to sunlight, filter, acidify, put in
clean bottles four-fifths full, cork, and freeze in a tray; thaw gradually
till ball of ice one-eighth size of bottle remains. This contains
impurities to be reduced as III, below. Use rest for new bath at once.
II. _Hyposulphite Bath._
1. Precipitate as silver sulphide by potassium sulphide. Reduce as III,
below, or dissolve in nitric acid.
2. Precipitate by hydrosulphuric acid, and reduce as III.
3. Decompose hyposulphite by waste nitro-sulphuric acid from manufacture
of gun-cotton for collodion. Have silver sulphide and sulphur, with sodium
nitrate and sulphate in solution. Suspend zinc in solution, then boil two
or three hours; wash on filter, dry, fuse with borax and sodium carbonate.
4. Suspend sheet copper in bath.
5. Add hydrochloric acid, which sets free sulphur and precipitates silver
chloride. Oxidise sulphur by aqua regia, and reduce silver chloride as in
III.
6. Add sodium hypochlorite to the alkaline solution. Wash, precipitate,
and fuse with mixed carbonates. This gives sodium bisulphate and chloride
as by-products, no sulphur, no fumes.
III. _Reduction of Silver Chloride, Oxide, or
Sulphide._
1. Mix with one third weight of colophony. Heat moderately in crucible
till greenish-blue flame ceases, then suddenly increase heat, and obtain a
button of metal.
2. Melt with alkaline carbonates enough to cover surface from air; then
mix with 75 per cent. of chalk and 4 per cent. of charcoal, and heat.
3. Ignite with nitre on red-hot plate carefully, and in small quantities
to avoid explosion, run down to button with borax and sodic carbonate.
4. If chloride, reduce to oxide by boiling with strong potash, then reduce
by glucose; or boil the chloride with glucose and sodium carbonate.
5. Add silver chloride dissolved in ammonia to a boiling solution of one
part glucose and three parts sodium carbonate in 40 per cent. of water,
keeping up the boiling all the time.
6. Add to silver chloride sodium hydrate in solution and grape sugar, and
expose to sunlight in open dish with occasional stirring. Reduce to dark
brown oxide of silver, soluble in nitric acid.
7. Mix with five times weight of sodium carbonate. Fill hessian crucible
half full, and sprinkle sodium chloride over the top. Heat slowly in
anthracite fire. After half an hour increase heat till crucible is
white-hot. When complete fusion has taken place, allow to cool, and break
out button of silver.
8. Fuse with two parts mixed carbonates (sodium and potassium).
9. Add pure zinc and dilute sulphuric acid, and let stand two days. Wash
silver off with water acidulated with sulphuric acid, to remove all zinc;
finally fuse to a button.
10. Mix with half weight dry sodium carbonate and one-fourth weight of
clean dry sand, and ignite.
IV. _Gold Waste_, α, _Recovered_.
1. Make just acid with hydrochloric acid, add solution containing 2 oz.
pyrogallic acid, shake, let stand 24 hours; filter. Dissolve in aqua
regia, and product after evaporation will be found better for toning than
that precipitated by iron.
2. Acidify toning bath, and add sulphate of iron (2 grammes to 1 gramme
chloride of gold.)
β. _Separated from Silver._
1. Treat button obtained by fusing waste from hypo-toning and fixing baths
with dilute nitric acid. Wash insoluble part with ammonia to remove silver
chloride, if present, and dissolve in aqua regia.
2. Digest 20 grammes in flask with 1 fl. dr. hydrochloric acid, 15 m.m. of
nitric acid, and 2 dr. of water. After quarter of an hour boil, add 2 oz.
water; filter. Silver chloride with organic matter, &c. left undissolved.
Reduced as III, above.
3. Add excess of pure potassium hydrate, and then boil in flask with
excess of solid oxalic acid.
V. _Paper Waste._
1. Soak paper in strong solution of saltpetre, and burn.
2. Treat with nitric acid, precipitate with sodium chloride or potassium
hydrate, then put with III, above, for reduction.
_Washings from Positive Prints._
Precipitate by sodium chloride, potassium hydrate, or on copper plates,
&c., as above, and reduce, as in III.
VI. _Cyanide Solution._
1. Dilute with water, precipitate by (1) potassium sulphide, (2) sodium
chloride, and reduce as 3.
2. Decant bath into iron kettle, warm, add ferrous sulphate slowly till
slight precipitate of oxide. Make alkaline, and add solution of grape
sugar till brownish-yellow colour. Allow to settle, syphon off liquid.
Wash sediment on filter, and ignite to recover silver.
NOTE.——Ferrous sulphate forms ferrocyanide, therefore no free alkaline
cyanide should be present.
VII. _Developer._
1. _Vide_ II. (3, 4, 5, 6), with hypo bath; (1) and (2) not applicable,
for sulphide of iron would be formed.
2. Reduced by its own iron (if ferrous sulphate).
=PHOTOM′ETRY.= The art of determining the relative intensities of
different lights. Various methods have been adopted, at different times,
for this purpose, among which, however, a few only are sufficiently simple
for general application. The principle adopted by Bouguer and Lambert
depends on the fact that, though the eye cannot judge correctly of the
proportional force of different lights, it can generally distinguish with
great precision when two similar surfaces or objects presented together
are equally illuminated, or when the shadows of an opaque object produced
by different lights are equally dark. Now, as light travels in straight
lines, and is equally diffused, it is evident that its intensity will
progressively lessen as the distance of its source increases. This
diminution is found to be in the duplicate ratio of the distance. To apply
this principle to candles, lamps, gaslights, &c., we have only to arrange
two of them so that the light or shadow resulting from both shall be of
equal intensity, after which we must carefully measure the distance of
each of them from the surface on which the light or shadow falls. The
squares of these distances give their relative intensity. In general, some
known light, as that from a wax candle (4 to the lb.), is taken as the
standard of comparison.
Dr Ritchie’s ‘photometer’ consists of a rectangular box, about 2 inches
square, open at both ends, and blackened inside to absorb extraneous
light. In this, inclined at angles of 45° to its axis, are placed two
precisely similar rectangular plates of plain silvered glass, and fastened
so as to meet at the top, in the middle of a narrow slit about an inch
long and the eighth of an inch broad, and which is covered with a strip of
tissue or oiled paper. In employing this instrument, the “lights must be
placed at such a distance from each other, and from the instrument
between them, that the light from each shall fall on the reflector next
it, and be reflected to the corresponding portion of the oiled paper. The
photometer is then to be moved nearer to the one or the other, until the
two portions of the oiled paper corresponding to the two mirrors are
equally illuminated, of which the eye can judge with considerable
accuracy.”
In Prof Wheatstone’s ‘PHOTOMETER’ the relative intensity of the two lights
is determined by the relative brightness of the opposite sides of a
revolving silvered ball illuminated by them.
In the method of photometry usually, but erroneously, ascribed to Count
Rumford, the shadows of an opaque object formed by different lights, and
allowed to fall on a white wall or paper screen, are contrasted. A wire
about 3/16ths of an inch thick, and about a foot in length, with the one
end bent so as to form a handle, is commonly used to form the shadows. The
method of proceeding is similar to that first above noticed.
It is generally supposed that the equality of two shadows can be
appreciated with greater certainty than that of two lights.
=PHTHIS′IC.= A popular name for difficulty of breathing, from its supposed
resemblance to phthisis. See BRONCHITIS, and _below_.
=PHTHISIS.= (A wasting away.) This is the formidable disease ordinarily or
popularly known as “consumption,” although, strictly speaking, there are
points of difference between consumption and phthisis, as well as between
these and another variety of the malady known as tuberculosis. The
statistics which follow, however, apply to all those diseases of the lungs
accompanied by wasting, and as such include the mortality from phthisis,
tuberculosis, and consumption.
In the Registrar-General’s returns for many years past, under the heads
‘phthisis,’ or ‘tubercular disease,’ have been included chronic
bronchitis, emphysema, fibroid changes of the lungs and kindred
affections. ‘It is, however, probable that the figures representing the
mortality are fairly accurate, as the errors are to a certain extent
compensating; and, indeed, tubercles are often found even in the diseases
above mentioned.’[99]
[Footnote 99: Dr Wynter Blyth.]
The following table, taken from the Registrar-General’s returns for
1848-75, shows the annual number of deaths in England from phthisis,
during a period of 28 years:——
1848 51,663
1849 50,299
1850 46,618
1851 49,166
1852 50,594
1853 54,918
1854 51,284
1855 52,290
1856 48,950
1857 50,106
1858 50,442
1859 50,149
1860 51,024
1861 51,930
1862 50,962
1863 51,072
1864 53,046
1865 53,734
1866 55,714
1867 55,042
1868 51,423
1869 52,270
1870 54,231
1871 53,376
1872 52,589
1873 51,355
1874 49,379
1875 52,943
Dr Farr in his letter to the Registrar-General on the causes of death in
England in 1875, writes, “Phthisis is a most fatal disease, although it
has declined within the last twenty-five years.”
According to the same authority, the mean rate of mortality from this
disease was 2·811 per 1000 in the five years from 1850 to 1854, and 2·283
in the five years from 1870 to 1874.
One of the most prominent facts revealed even by a cursory study of the
statistics of phthisis, is the large share which the breathing of impure
or tainted air has in the origin and dissemination of the disease.
Hence it follows that thickly populated and overcrowded localities suffer
much more from its ravages than those which are less densely inhabited.
This is exemplified in the following table:——
-----------+-------+---------+-------------------------------------------
| | |Proximity| Average Annual Mortality |
| | | or | to 100,000 living. |
| |Density|nearness +--------------------+---------------------+
| | of |of Person| | Other diseases |
| |Persons| to | Phthisis. | of the |
| | to a | Person. | | Respiratory Organs.|
| | Sq. +---------+------+------+------+------+------+-------+
| | Mile. | |15 |25 |35 |15 |25 |35 |
| | | Yards. | to | to | to | to | to | to |
| | | | 25| 35| 45| 25| 35| 45 |
+----------+-------+---------+------+------+------+------+------+-------|
|Healthy | | | | | | | | |
| districts| 135 | 163 | 336 | 398 | 330 | 34 | 45 | 67 |
|London |19,470 | 14 | 264 | 395 | 493 | 45 | 69 | 148 |
|Lancashire| 1,008 | 60 | 419 | 475 | 484 | 46 | 86 | 195 |
|England | | | | | | | | |
| and Wales| 308 | 108 | 362 | 438 | 407 | 38 | 61 | 113 |
-----------+-------+---------+------+------+------+------+------+--------
In the very badly ventilated Leopoldstadt, in Vienna, 378 prisoners out of
4280 died between the years 1834 to 1847, or at the rate of 86 per 1000;
and out of these as many as 220, or 51·4 per 1000, died from phthisis.
Contrasting with this the rate of mortality from the same disease in the
well-ventilated House of Correction in the same city, we learn that out of
3037 there died in five years (from 1850-1854) 43, or 14 per 1000, and of
these 24, or only 7·9 per 1000, died from the same disease.
The great prevalence of phthisis that used to prevail, not only in our
army, but in the principal European ones, has been clearly shown to have
been referable to the overcrowding and defective ventilation of the
barracks. And this applied equally to the barracks of military stations
possessing such mild and genial climates as Gibraltar, Malta, Ionia,
Jamaica, Trinidad, Bermuda, &c.[100]
[Footnote 100: Dr Parkes.]
The sanitary Commissioners appointed some years back to inquire into the
prevalence of consumption amongst our soldiers, came to the conclusion
that the foul atmosphere of the barracks was the cause of it. The
correctness of our decision has been corroborated by the greatly
diminished number of deaths which have followed the improved ventilation
in our barracks, recommended by the Commissioners. At the present time,
owing to those hygienic improvements, the mortality from phthisis is not
more than half what it was in our army prior to 1867. The same
satisfactory results have been obtained by the introduction into the
French barracks of similar sanitary improvements.
Animals are affected in precisely the same manner as human beings. Thus,
it is that phthisis attacks monkeys when shut up in badly ventilated
buildings, and cows confined in close sheds.
After these statements we shall be prepared to find that indoor trades and
occupations swell the bills of mortality from phthisis much more than
those carried on in the open air. That this is the case is shown by the
following table:——
_Deaths from Phthisis at Victoria Park Hospital,
showing the influence of Occupation._
+------------------------+-----------------------------------------------+-------+
| | AGES UNDER | |
| Cause of Death. +---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+-------+Totals.|
| | | | | | | | | | | | Not | |
| |20.|25.|30.|35.|40.|45.|50.|55.|60.|65.|stated.| |
+------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+-------+-------+
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|Female lives | 45| 41| 25| 15| 12| 3| 1| 1|...|...| ... | 143 |
|Indoor occupation | 32| 31| 30| 24| 15| 9| 5|...|...|...| 4 | 150 |
| { Mixed occupation| 10| 7| 7| 5| 4| 3| 4|...|...|...| 1 | 41 |
|Males { Outdoor occup. | 9| 21| 21| 13| 12| 11| 8| 2| 1|...| 2 | 100 |
| +---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+-------+-------+
| | 96|100| 83| 57| 43| 26| 18| 3| 1|...| 7 | 434 |
| +---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+-------+-------+
| _The same reduced to | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| a per centage._ | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|Female lives | 32| 28| 18| 10| 8| 2| 1| 1|...|...| ... | 100 |
|Indoor occupation | 21| 21| 20| 16| 10| 7| 3|...|...|...| 2 | 100 |
| { Mixed occupation| 24| 17| 17| 12| 10| 7| 10|...|...|...| 3 | 100 |
|Males { Outdoor occup. | 9| 21| 21| 13| 12| 11| 8| 2| 1|...| 2 | 100 |
| +---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+-------+-------+
| | 86| 87| 76| 51| 40| 27| 22| 3| 1|...| 7 | 400 |
+------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+-------+-------+
The influence of occupation in developing phthisis is forcibly illustrated
in the following table:——
+-----------------+--------------------------+--------------------------+
| | |Death-rate by Phthisis and|
| | | other Lung Diseases at |
| District. | Nature of principal | between 15 and 25 years |
| | Industry in the District.| of age, per 100,000 of |
| | | each class referred to. |
+-----------------+--------------------------+-------------+------------+
| | | Male. | Female. |
| | | | |
|Berkhampstead |}Extensive female {| 219 | 578 |
|Leighton Buzzard |} employment in {| 319 | 554 |
| |} straw-plaiting {| | |
| | | | |
|Newport Pagnell |}Extensive female {| 301 | 615 |
|Towcester |} employment in {| 239 | 577 |
| |} lace-making {| | |
| | | | |
| |{Extensive female (with }| | |
|Yeovil |{ some males) employment}| 280 | 409 |
| |{ in glove-making }| | |
| | | | |
|Leek |}Extensive employment {| 437 | 856 |
|Congleton |} (more female than {| 566 | 790 |
|Macclesfield |} male) in silk work {| 593 | 890 |
| | | | |
|Standard Northern| | | |
| District | Agriculture | 531 | 333 |
+-----------------+--------------------------+-------------+------------+
The above figures may be supplemented by the others, which show the
difference between the deaths from phthisis and other lung diseases
occurring amongst the agricultural and the manufacturing populations, and
are another illustration of the nature of the toiler’s occupation upon his
liability to consumption. Thus, for every 100 deaths by phthisis and other
lung diseases that take place amongst the men in various agricultural
districts of England between the ages of fifteen to fifty-five, there are
in Coventry 163 deaths; in Blackburn and Skipton, 167; in Congleton and
Bradford, 168; in Leek, 182; in Macclesfield, 184; in Bolton, 190; in
Nottingham, 192; in Rochdale, 193; in Derby, 198; in Salford and
Ashton-under-Lyne, 203; in Leeds, 218; in Preston, 220; and in Manchester,
263.[101]
[Footnote 101: Quoted by Dr Wynter Blyth.]
As bearing directly upon the above portion of our subject, we may quote
the sixth report of the medical officer of the Privy Council, who therein
states——“In proportion as the people of a district are attracted to any
collective indoor occupation, in such proportion, other things being
equal, the district death-rate by lung diseases will be increased.”
The much larger number of cases of lung disease amongst those who pursue
indoor callings than amongst others whose occupations are carried on out
of doors, arises principally from the defective ventilation of the
workshops or rooms in which the labour is carried on.
When indoor occupations are practised in large and efficiently ventilated
apartments, or existence is passed in healthy houses, as in the dwellings
of the rich and upper classes, who have also the additional advantages of
good food and warm clothing, the liability to phthisis becomes immensely
diminished.
The much greater immunity from the disease which the richer enjoy over the
poorer classes has been carefully pointed out by Dr Guy, who, writing on
this subject in the ‘Journal of the Statistical Society,’ says——“The ratio
of deaths from consumption follows the same order as the average age at
death, being lowest where the average age is highest, and the reverse.
Thus the average age at death of the class of gentlemen is 58·61, and the
ratio of deaths from consumption 1 to 2·60; while in the class of artisans
the average age is 48·06, and the proportion from consumption is 1 to
2·29.
+----------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----+----+-----+-----+------+---------+---------+
| | | | | | | | | | | | |Number of|
| | | | | | | | | | | | | Deaths |
| | | | | | | | | | | | +----+----+
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | O |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | t |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | h |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | C | e |
| | | | | | | | | | | A | | o | r |
| | | | | | | | | | | v | | n | |
| | | | | | | | | | | e a | | s | D |
| | | | | | | | | | | r t | | u | i |
| | | | | | | | | | | a | | m | s |
| | | | | | | | | | | g D | | p | e |
| | 15 | 20 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 60 | 70 | | | e e | | t | a |
| | | | | | | | |Under|Under| a | Ratio. | i | s |
|Condition.| to | to | to | to | to | to | to | 30. | 40. | a t | | o | e |
| | | | | | | | | | | g h | | n | s |
| | 20. | 30. | 40. | 50. | 60. | 70.| 80.| | | e . | | . | . |
+----------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----+----+-----+-----+------+---------+----+----+
|Gentlemen,| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| &c. |10·84|18·67|27·11|19·27|15·06|6·03|3·01|29·51|56·62|39 |1 to 5·00| 166| 835|
|Tradesmen | 8·46|24·34|26·98|20·11|12·70|6·35|1·06|32·80|59·78|38 |1 to 2·60| 189| 491|
|Artisans | 7·25|23·69|26·24|22·79|13·34|6·26|0·43|30·94|57·18|38-1/2|1 to 2·29|2318|5308|
+----------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----+----+-----+-----+------+---------+----+----+
“Again, the class of gentry presents a smaller proportional number of
deaths under thirty and forty than either of the other classes. It is also
worthy of observation that the per-centage proportion of deaths from
consumption under thirty and forty is higher in the class of tradesmen
than in that of the artisan and labourer, although the ratio of cases of
consumption is greater in the latter class. This is doubtless accounted
for by the fact already established, that the strong exertion which a
considerable portion of the labouring class employed within doors use in
their occupations, and the large number employed out of doors, has the
effect of retarding the effect of pulmonary consumption. The tradesman, it
will be seen, occupies the intermediate place between the indoor and
outdoor labourer——between the artisan using little exertion and the
artisan using much exertion.
... Another point attracts attention, viz. the great proportion of deaths
from consumption occurring in the class of gentry from fifteen to twenty
years of age. Does not this show that the liability to the disease is
greater in this class than in the two others, and does it not tend to
strengthen the position that the excess of the deaths from consumption in
the other classes is due to the unfavorable circumstances in which they
are placed?
“The ratio of deaths from consumption in the class of gentry, low as it
is, would have been still lower if the medical men, who are included in
it, were omitted. The number of cases of pulmonary consumption occurring
in members of that profession is very remarkable, and it is a subject of
regret with the author that they were not made a separate class.”
Much less clearly and satisfactorily established is the question as to
whether consumption is or is not contagious. The instances which have
occurred of its extensive and rapid spread in overcrowded barracks,
prisons, men-of-war, merchant vessels, large workshops, &c., not
unreasonably seem to lend weight to the opinion that the germs of the
disease might have been conveyed by the atmosphere charged with them from
an unhealthy to a healthy subject, on whom they might develop the malady.
“But,” as Dr Blyth writes, “it must be remembered that, in all crowded
localities, there is direct vitiation of air, and it is difficult to say
whether the foul air or actual contagion have most to do with the
propagation of the malady.” He adds “that consumption, under ordinary
conditions, is certainly not contagious; but, under special insanitary
influences, certain forms of consumption may be contagious, although it is
still a matter not proven.” Dr Guy bases his objection to the doctrine of
the generally contagious nature of consumption upon the fact of the small
fluctuations in the annual number of deaths caused by it.
The lowest rate of mortality for phthisis for a million of inhabitants in
London was, he states, for any one of the fifteen years from 1840 to 1854
inclusive, 2645, and the fluctuation was very slight. The figures in three
consecutive years were——1849, 2777; 1850, 2645; 1851, 2970. “If, then,” Dr
Guy says, “any one were to assert that this disease is contagious, which
is tantamount to saying that it may be epidemic, the figures I have quoted
would in themselves furnish an answer in the negative. They are suggestive
of a domestic disease, influenced, as is bronchitis, by the seasons and
the weather.”
The statistics before quoted as to the correlation between the prevalence
of consumption and unhealthy surroundings, lead to the belief, that before
this connection between the two was so well defined, cases of phthisis
were often erroneously referred to hereditary taint, when they may simply
have arisen from the patient having been environed with the same
unfavorable hygienic conditions as his parents; these unfavorable
conditions, including not only polluted air, but bad food, deficient
apparel, and want of exercise. Hence it is that most of the later
pathologists, without denying the existence of the transmitted form of the
disease, believe the hereditary influence has been greatly over
estimated.
“As regards the origin of tubercle,” writes Dr Douglas Powell, “opinions
are extremely various, and indeed irreconcileable; but the tendency of
modern research——the experiments of inoculation in animals, and the very
powerful advocacy of Prof. Niemeyer, is certainly to show that tubercles
is much more commonly a secondary disease than has until lately been
suspected——that people are, in fact, only exceptionally, if ever, born to
die of tuberculosis.
“A due appreciation of this doctrine, so different from that even now
accepted by many, is of almost national importance in giving encouragement
to those hygienic and other measures of prevention, the neglect of which
has too often been sanctioned by a foregone conclusion.
“It would I think be extremely injudicious to deny hereditary
predisposition to tubercles altogether. Moreover, when we come to the
question of hereditary predisposition to the forms of consumption which
originate in catarrhal pneumonia, it is freely admitted that the offspring
of consumptive parents have a tendency to this form of pulmonary phthisis,
that the scrofulous have a like tendency (Niemeyer), and that scrofulosis
is sometimes hereditary.”
As allied to this portion of the question may be mentioned the opinion of
some pathologist, that phthisis may be either caused or promoted by
habitual drunkenness; and that a drunkard may transmit it to his
offspring.
The proneness to consumption is greatly modified by sex and age, the
influences of which upon the disease are very defined and unmistakable.
Thus, women are more liable to its attacks than men, and young and middle
aged persons of both sexes than old ones.
“In Edinburgh the ratio of deaths from phthisis was found to decline from
·285 at twenty years to ·052 above sixty years; at Nottingham, from ·416
to ·017 in the same period of time; at Chester, from ·245 to ·054; at
Carlisle, from ·290 to ·097; and in Paris, according to Louis, from ·325
to ·042; while the general average decline was from ·285, or 28·5 per
cent., at twenty to thirty, to ·078, or 7·80 per cent., above 60.”[102]
[Footnote 102: Blyth.]
Amongst other conditions unfavorable to the consumptive patient, in
addition to the breathing of a polluted atmosphere, may be named
insufficiency of nourishing food and apparel, variable weather, and a damp
soil. This latter is particularly inimical to phthisical sufferers. Indeed
so closely is dampness of soil associated with the spread of phthisis,
that the disease has been conclusively shown to have diminished in
localities in proportion as these have been properly drained. Dr Andrews,
of Chicago, says that consumption is most prevalent near the sea, and
that it diminishes in proportion to the distance of the inland locality
from the ocean. A damp atmosphere also provokes the disease.
Phthisis seems to be a malady peculiar to temperate climates. As to the
influence of the season upon the disease, Dr Haviland says, “In England we
learn from the statistical returns that the spring is the most fatal to
consumptive patients, whether male or female, but with regard to the other
seasons there is considerable variability. For instance, suppose we take
the seasons of 1838 in the order of their fatality to males, they would
stand thus——spring, 1137; winter, 1048; summer, 968; autumn, 904. To
females——spring, 972; summer, 937; winter, 896; autumn, 825. Then again,
although the spring invariably takes the lead, the other seasons change
places with each other from year to year; and what is remarkable, this
inconsistency does not seem to be dependent upon the temperature, as we
shall presently see. In the returns for 1853, the following statistics in
deaths from consumption appear:——Winter, 1872; spring, 1971; summer, 1745;
autumn, 1914. The order of fatality in the years above quoted would
therefore be:——
1838.——_Males._
1. Spring. 2. Winter. 3. Summer. 4. Autumn.
1838.——_Females._
1. Spring. 2. Summer. 3. Winter. 4. Autumn.
1840.——_Total._
1. Spring. 2. Winter. 3. Summer. 4. Autumn.
1853.——_Total._
1. Spring. 2. Autumn. 3. Winter. 4. Summer.
“So far, therefore, as seasons are concerned, the above table proves that
spring, _i.e._ April, May, June, is the most inimical quarter to
phthisical patients, and probably Autumn——October, November, December, the
least so. In London at least, if not throughout England generally, the
spring is undoubtedly the most obnoxious to consumptive cases; and this
statement is in accordance with the experience of those physicians who
have opportunities of seeing the rise, progress, and end of many hundreds
of phthisical patients during the year. Dr Richard Quain observes that the
cold easterly wind of spring completes the work, which the winter had left
undone.”[103]
[Footnote 103: ‘Climate, Weather, and Disease,’ by Dr Haviland.]
That greater or less destruction of the lungs, which is characteristic of
pulmonary phthisis, originates in the presence in them of a diseased
growth, consisting of very minute masses or grains, which are sometimes
grey, and at others yellow or cheeselike in appearance.
These little bodies are either diffused uniformly through the substance of
the lungs, or are collected together in them in larger or smaller masses.
In the latter case, each little mass generally sets up in the surrounding
tissue of the lungs, inflammation and suppuration, which, although only
processes by which nature endeavours to expel the alien substance from the
lung, may, by constant repetition, cause the destruction of the greater
part of the respiratory organs.
=PHYLLOXERA VASTATRIX.= In 1866 M. Delorme, of Arles, in the South of
France, was the first to suggest that a peculiar disease which had
manifested itself the previous year amongst the vines growing in the
plateau of Pujaut on the west bank of the river Rhone, in the Department
of the Gard, was of a new and specific character.
Shortly afterwards a commission appointed by the Herault Agricultural
Society visited one of the infested localities, and one of its members, M.
Planchon, confirmed M. Delorme’s conjectures, by discovering the cause of
the vine malady. This he conclusively showed was due to the presence of a
peculiar and hitherto unknown description of _Aphis_, belonging to the
genus _Phylloxera_, which, as illustrative of its devastating qualities,
he named _P. vastatrix_.
A full-grown _Phylloxera vastatrix_ does not exceed more than the 33rd or
40th of an inch in length. Examined under a microscope, in addition to
short pointed legs, it is seen to be furnished with a proboscis nearly
half as long as its body. Upon examination this proboscis seems to be
composed of three tongues, of which the centre one is the longest, and
these are united at their base into a kind of flat, sharp-pointed blade,
which is the boring or puncturing apparatus, by the aid of which the
insect pierces into the roots, from which it sucks the juices that
constitutes its food. About half the proboscis or sucker is inserted into
the bark of the root, and the creature can not only attach itself to the
root by means of it, but can also turn on it, as on a pivot, when engaged
in the depredations.
[Illustration: Male Phylloxera; dot in circle showing natural size.]
These are continued from April to October, by which month the insect has
lost the yellow colour that distinguishes it in the summer months, and
assumed a copper brown shade.
From October to April the Phylloxera hybernate, or rather, such of them do
as have laid no eggs during the period of their active existence, for the
egg-laying females die, and young phylloxeræ only are preserved during the
winter months.
With the return of April they awake from their winter sleep, and
recommence their devastating career. They then increase rapidly in size
and begin to lay unimpregnated eggs, for there are at that time no males.
“These bring forth females which in their turn develop and lay
unimpregnated eggs, and the virginal reproduction continues for five or
six generations, the development increasing in rapidity with the heat, but
the prolificacy or the number of the eggs decreases.
“In July some of the individuals show little wing-pads at the sides, and
begin to issue from the ground and acquire wings. These winged individuals
become very numerous in August, and continue to appear in diminishing
numbers thereafter till the leaves have all fallen. They are all females
and carry in their abdomen from three to eight eggs of two sizes, the
larger ones about 2/100ths of an inch long and half as wide; the smaller
3/4th as long. These eggs are also unimpregnated and are laid by
preference on the under side of the more tender leaves, attached by one
end, amid the natural down. They increase somewhat in size, and give birth
in about ten days to the true sexual individuals, the larger producing
females, the smaller, males.
“Anomalous as it may seem these creatures are born perfect, though without
mouth, and with no other than the reproductive function.
[Illustration: True female Phylloxera; _a_, ventral view, showing obsolete
mouth and solitary egg, occupying nearly the entire body; _b_, dorsal
view; _c_, tarsus; _d_, contracted anal joints after the egg is laid; dot
in circle showing natural size.]
“A most remarkable fact, discovered by Babiani, is that some of the
females never acquire wings, but always remain on the roots, also produce
the few different sized eggs from which these true, mouthless males and
females hatch. The sexes pair soon after hatching, and the female is
delivered on the 3rd or 4th day of a solitary egg, and then perishes. This
egg is never laid on the leaf, but always on the wood, either under the
bark, or in sheltered situations above ground, or on the roots
underground. The young hatching from it is the normal agamous mother,
which, with increased vigour and fertility, lays a large number of eggs,
and recommences the virginal reproduction and the cycle of the species’
curious life. The impregnated eggs laid early in the season doubtless
hatch the same year, though some of the later deposited ones may pass the
winter before hatching.”[104]
[Footnote 104: Riley.]
The parts of the vine attacked by the Phylloxera are the rootlets, which
in a diseased plant, may be seen more or less covered with what appears to
the naked eye, a yellowish powder, but upon a microscopic examination
reveals itself as a mixture of phylloxeræ of different sizes, and of their
eggs.
During August and September, the phylloxeræ invest the rootlets in
countless numbers, and are so abundant as to entirely obscure the colour
of the roots, and to cause them to appear yellow from the enormous number
of their minute organisms.
The effect of the attacks of the parasite upon the rootlets is to give
rise in it to the formation of a number of little tumefactions or
enlargements. These in course of time decay, and their destruction results
in the death of the plant.
Exposure to air and sunlight acts fatally to the Phylloxera, shrivelling
and drying it up. Hence its instinct of self-preservation, no less than
its search after its food, leads it to bury itself beneath the surface of
the soil. But, as the insect does not possess an organisation that fits it
for burrowing, the character of the soil has a great deal to do in
affording facilities or the reverse favorable to its existence.
If the soil be of such a nature, that it splits easily into fissures or
cracks, which better lead to or serve to expose the vine roots, it will of
course afford a much more easy means of access to the parasite than if it
be compact or close.
Hence it is that clayey and chalk soils, from their liability to split up
on the surface, afford much more congenial habitats for the Phylloxera
than sandy ones, which, being dry and closely-knit, afford a much more
impenetrable barrier to the entrance of the insect, or to its subterranean
movements.
[Illustration: _a_, healthy root; _b_, root on which the lice are working,
showing the knots and swellings caused by their punctures; _c_, root
deserted by them, on which the rootlets have begun to decay; _d_, _d_,
_d_, lice on the larger roots, natural size; _e_, female pupa, dorsal
view; _f_, winged female, dorsal view, greatly enlarged.]
These statements are borne out by the fact that where the disease has
shown itself it has been found to vary in extent and intensity in
proportion as the soil of the vineyard is more or less clayey; and many
instances are known in which patches of a vineyard have continued
unaffected amidst the surrounding devastation, owing to the absence in
those particular parts of the soil, of the argillaceous element.
A forcible illustration of this malign influence of clay in the soil is
afforded by the following analyses of two specimens of earth taken from
the same vineyard. The specimen marked “healthy” was from a small plot of
ground in which the vines were perfectly sound; that distinguished as
“unhealthy” formed by far the greater portion of the soil of the vineyard,
the plants growing in which were all suffering from the ravages of the
parasite:——
Healthy. Unhealthy.
Water 2·25 3·20
Nitrogen 0·11 0·12
Sulphate of calcium 0·62 0·42
Chloride of sodium 1·15 0·18
Carbonate of calcium 49·00 42·00
Siliceous sand 23·50 10·20
Clay 17·75 37·50
Organic substances }
and error of analysis.} 5·62 6·38
———————— ————————
100·00 100·00
From the locality already indicated, where it had first developed itself
in 1865, the vine disease gradually extended until, in the year 1873, it
was ravaging the vineyards of the Gard, Vaucluse, Isère, Herault, Drôme,
Bouches du Rhone, Ardèche, Basses-Alpes, Var, the Gironde, and the
Charentes, since which time it has gradually continued to spread into the
adjacent districts.
“We may gain a more precise idea than can be afforded by a mere
observation of the geographical extension of the disease, of the
disastrous nature of the ravages of the Phylloxera, by the examination of
some of the statistics of the grape-crop in successive years, in some of
the departments attacked. Thus, in the Department of Vaucluse, where the
disease showed itself in 1866, there were in 1866, according to the
results obtained by the departmental commission instituted at Avignon to
observe on the new vine-disease, 6000 hectares absolutely dead or dying,
and a much larger number already attacked, which have since succumbed to
the parasite. Out of the 30,000 hectares of vineyards comprised in this
department, 25,000, or five sixths of the total area, have been
destroyed. In the Gard, where the vine flourishes better than in the
above-mentioned department, the ravages of the disease are yet most
terrible; for in 1871, in the Arrondissement of Uzes, but one half of the
average crop was produced, and in the Arrondissement of Nismes a tenth
part of the crop was destroyed. These proportions, moreover, have
increased since that year.
“If we examine the mischief done in the less extended areas of the
communes, we shall obtain a still clearer idea of the rapid spread of the
disease:——
“COMMUNE OF GRAVESON.
1865-66-67 mean crop 10,000 hectolitres.
1868 ” 5,500 ”
1869 ” 2,200 ”
1870 ” 400 ”
1871 ” 205 ”
1872 ” 100 ”
1873 ” 50 ”
“In the Commune of Maillanne the crop in 1868 was only 40 per cent. of the
average of the three preceding years, while in 1869 it was only 10 per
cent. In the Commune of Eyragues the crop in 1868 was about 33 per cent.
of the average of the three preceding years, and in 1869 there was a
further falling off of about 10 per cent. In 1870 the crop in the three
above-named communes was almost entirely destroyed. From instances such as
these, fairly selected from many others equally tragic in their stern
figures, we may form some idea of the magnitude of the disaster. Indeed,
it is difficult to see, so rapid is the extension of the disease, how,
unless some potent and effective remedy can be soon applied, any
vine-bearing district in France can escape the visitation of the
Phylloxera.”[105]
[Footnote 105: ‘Nature,’ vol. x.]
The French Government, fully alive to the peril threatening the staple
product of their country, shortly after the appearance of the Phylloxera
in the vineyards of France, offered through their Minister of Commerce and
Agriculture a reward of 300,000 francs for the discovery of a means of
arresting and stopping its ravages; and in 1871 the Academy of Sciences,
at Paris appointed a commission, presided over by the celebrated chemist
M. Dumas, to investigate the biology, habits, &c., of the parasite,
together with the nature of the injuries it inflicted upon the vine, the
area of its depredations, &c. From amongst the members of this commission
three gentlemen were chosen to visit the infected districts, so as to be
afforded an opportunity of studying the Phylloxera at its destructive
work, and its environments of soil, situation, temperature, &c.
The delegates selected by the Commission were MM. Balbiani, Cornu, and
Duclaux, respectively amongst the most distinguished living
representatives of zoology, botany, and chemistry in France, and the
results of their labours was the issue, some few years back, of a most
exhaustive and valuable report to the Academy of Sciences on the subject
of the Phylloxera.
The vines of other countries besides those of France have also suffered
from the attacks of the Phylloxera. Thus it has made its appearance in the
vineyards of Algiers, Italy, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland,
Australia, and North America, on all of which it has been productive of
more or less serious injury to the vintage.
Amongst the numberless remedies that have been suggested and tried, with
varying but by no means uniform or satisfactory results, for the
destruction of the Phylloxera, may be mentioned sulphur, the sulphites,
tobacco, caustic soda, and potash, bisulphide of carbon, coal-tar, soft
soap, lime, the immersion of the vine in sulpho-carbonate of potassium,
and the application around the roots of sand.
A certain amount of success, it has been said, has attended the employment
of the sulpho-carbonate of potassium and sand.
An American botanist, Mr Riley, recommends the importation into French
vineyards of the American vines, which he suggests should be employed as
stocks on which to graft the French ones.
The American plant being of a hardy nature, he believes its incorporation
with the more susceptible French ones, would give rise to a vine
sufficiently vigorous to resist, or at any rate not to be injured by the
ravages of the parasite.
=PHYSIC BALLS.= See VETERINARY MEDICINES.
=PHYSOSTIGMATIS FABA.= See CALABAR BEAN.
=PI′CA.= Depraved appetite.
=PIC′AMAR.= One of the peculiar principles discovered by Reichenbach in
beech-tar, and described by him as a viscid, colourless, oily liquid, only
feebly odorous, but intensely bitter; insoluble in water; freely soluble
in alcohol, ether, and oils; boiling point 520° Fahr.; sp. gr. 1·095. See
KREASOTE.
=PICCALIL′LI.= See PICKLES.
=PICK′LE.= The liquor in which substances used as food are preserved. That
for flesh is commonly brine; that for vegetables, vinegar; both of which
are commonly flavoured with spices, &c.
_Prep._ 1. (FOR MEAT.)——_a._ From bay salt, 3 lbs.; saltpetre, 2-1/2 oz.;
moist sugar, 1 lb.; allspice and black pepper, of each (bruised) 1 oz.;
water, 9 pints; simmer them together in a clean covered iron or enamelled
vessel for 7 or 8 minutes; when the whole has cooled, remove the scum, and
pour it over the articles to be preserved. Used for hams, tongues, beef,
&c., to which it imparts a fine red colour and a superior flavour.
_b._ From bay salt and common salt, of each 2 lbs.; moist sugar, 1 lb.;
saltpetre, 1/2 lb.; allspice (bruised), 1/2 oz.; water, 1 gall,; as
before. Used chiefly for pork and hams. Common salt may be substituted
for bay salt, but it is less powerfully antiseptic, and the flavour is
less grateful.
2. (For VEGETABLES.)——_a._ Strong distilled vinegar, to each quart of
which 1-1/2 oz. of good salt has been added.
_b._ Good distilled vinegar, 4 pints; common salt, 2-1/2 oz.; black
pepper, 1/2 oz.; unbleached Jamaica ginger, 2-1/2 oz. (the last two
bruised, but not dusty); mace (shredded), 1/4 oz.; simmer in an enamelled
iron or stoneware vessel, as above, and strain through flannel. Sometimes
a little capsicum is added. Used either hot or cold, according to the
vegetable it is intended to preserve.
=Pickle, Lemon.= See SAUCES.
=PICKLES.= These well-known articles are easily prepared of the finest
quality. The vegetables and fruit, selected of the proper quality and at
the proper season, after being well cleansed with cold spring water, are
steeped for some time in strong brine; they are then drained and dried,
and transferred to bottles or jars; the spice (if any) is then added, the
bottles filled up with hot, strong, pickling vinegar, and at once securely
corked down and tied over with bladder. As soon as the bottles are cold
the corks are dipped into melted wax, the more surely to preserve them
air-tight. Good wood or distilled vinegar is commonly used for this
purpose; but the best malt or white wine vinegar of the strength known as
No. 22 or 24 is exclusively employed for the finer pickles which are not
spiced. In those for early use the ‘steep’ may be made in hot or boiling
brine, by which the product will be ready for the table in a much shorter
period; but with substances of a succulent and flabby nature, as cabbage,
cauliflower, some fruit, &c., or in which crispness is esteemed a mark of
excellence, this is inadmissible. To such articles the vinegar should also
be added cold, or, at furthest, should be only slightly warmed. As a
general rule, the softer and more delicate articles do not require so long
soaking in brine as the harder and coarser kinds; and they may be often
advantageously pickled by simply pouring very strong pickling vinegar over
them without applying heat. It must also be observed that beetroot, and
other like substances which are sliced, as well as certain delicate
fruits, must not be steeped at all. The spice is commonly added whole to
the bottles; but a more economical plan is to steep it (bruised) for some
time, or to simmer it in the vinegar before using the latter, as in the
forms given under PICKLE (_above_).
The spices and flavouring ingredients employed for pickles are——allspice,
black and white pepper, capsicums or red pods, cloves, garlic, ginger,
horseradish, lemon peel, mace, mustard, shallots, and turmeric. These are
chosen with reference to the particular variety of the pickle, or the
taste of the consumer.
A good SPICED VINEGAR for pickles generally is the following:——Bruise in a
mortar 2 oz. of black pepper, 1 oz. of ginger, 1/2 oz. of allspice, and 1
oz. of salt. If a hotter pickle is desired, add 1/2 dr. of cayenne, or a
few capsicums. For walnuts, add also 1 oz. of shallots. Put these into a
stone jar, with a quart of vinegar, and cover them with a bladder wetted
with the pickle, and over this place a piece of leather. Set the jar on a
trivet near the fire for 3 days, shaking it 3 times a day, then pour it on
the walnuts or other vegetables. For walnuts it is used hot, but for
cabbage, &c., cold. To save time it is usual to simmer the vinegar gently
with the spices; which is best done in an enamelled saucepan.
In the preparation of pickles it is highly necessary to avoid the use of
metallic vessels, as both vinegar and brine rapidly corrode brass, copper,
lead, &c., and thus become poisonous. These liquids may be best heated or
boiled in a stoneware jar by the heat of a water bath or a stove. Common
glazed earthenware should be avoided, either for making or keeping the
pickles in, as the glazing usually contains lead. Pickles should also be
kept from the air as much as possible, and should only be touched with
wooden or bone spoons. They are also better prepared in small jars, or
bottles, than in large ones, as the more frequent opening of the latter
exposes them too much. Copper or verdigris is frequently added to pickles
to impart a green colour, or the vinegar is boiled in a copper vessel
until sufficiently ‘greened’ before pouring it on the vegetables. This
poisonous addition may be readily detected by any of the tests mentioned
under COPPER. If a green colour be desired, it may be imparted to the
vinegar, and ultimately to the pickles, by steeping vine leaves, or the
leaves of parsley or spinach, in it. A teaspoonful of olive oil may be
advantageously added to each bottle to keep the pickles white, and to
promote their preservation.
⁂ The following list includes the leading pickles of the shops, and some
others:——
=Barberries.= From the ripe fruit, without heat.
=Beans.= From the young green pods of the scarlet bean, and the French or
kidney bean, with heat.
=Beetroot.= From the sliced root, without steeping in brine, and with cold
spiced vinegar. When wanted for immediate use the vinegar may be used
boiling hot.
=Broccoli.= As CAULIFLOWERS.
=Cabbage.= This, either red or white, is cut into thin slices, and steeped
in strong brine or sprinkled with common salt, and allowed to lie for 1 or
2 days; after which it is drained for 10 or 12 hours in a warm room, and
then put into jars or bottles, with or without a little mace and white
peppercorns, and at once covered with cold, strong, white
vinegar.——Another plan is to steep the sliced cabbage in alum water for
10 or 12 hours, and, after draining and drying it, to pour the vinegar
upon it as before. The product of the last formula eats very fresh and
crisp, but takes longer to mature than that of the other. Some persons add
a little salt with the vinegar; and others mix slices of red beet with the
cabbage.
=Capsicums.= As GHERKINS.
=Cauliflowers.= As CABBAGE (nearly). Or, they may be steeped in hot brine
for 1 or 2 hours before pouring the vinegar over them.
=Cherries.= From the scarcely ripe fruit, bottled, and covered with strong
and colourless pickling vinegar.
=Codlins.= As BEANS.
=Cucumbers.= As GHERKINS.
=Elderflowers.= From the clusters, just before they open, as RED CABBAGE.
A beautiful pickle.
=English Bamboo.= From the young shoots of elder, denuded of the outer
skin, pickled in brine for 12 or 14 hours; then bottled with a little
white pepper, ginger, mace, and allspice, and pickled with boiling
vinegar. Excellent with boiled mutton.
=Eschalots.= With boiling spiced vinegar, or spices added to each bottle.
=French Beans.= See _above_.
=Garlic.= As ESCHALOTS.
=Gherkins.= From small cucumbers (not too young), steeped for a week in
very strong brine; this last is then poured off, heated to the boiling
point, and again poured on the fruit; the next day the gherkins are
drained on a sieve, wiped dry, put into bottles or jars with some spice
(ginger, pepper, or cayenne), and at once covered with strong pickling
vinegar, boiling hot. Several other pickles may be prepared in the same
way.
=Gooseberries.= From the green fruit, as either CABBAGE or CAULIFLOWERS.
=Indian Mango.= From green peaches. (See _below_.)
=Indian Pickle.= _Syn._ PICCALILLI. This is a mixed pickle which is
characterised by being highly flavoured with curry-powder, or turmeric,
mustard, and garlic. The following form is commonly used:——Take 1 hard
white cabbage (sliced), 2 cauliflowers (pulled to pieces), some French
beans, 1 stick of horseradish (sliced), about 2 dozen small white onions,
and 1 dozen gherkins; cover them with boiling brine; the next day drain
the whole on a sieve, put into a jar, and add, of curry-powder or
turmeric, 2 oz.; garlic, ginger, and mustard seed, of each 1 oz.;
capsicums, 1/2 oz.; fill up the vessel with hot pickling vinegar, bung it
up close, and let it stand for a month, with occasional agitation. See
MIXED PICKLES (_below_).
=Lemons.= From the fruit, slit half way down into quarters, and cored, put
into a dish, and sprinkled with a little salt; in about a week the whole
is placed in jars or bottles with a little turmeric and capsicums, and
covered with hot vinegar.
=Limes.= As the last.
=Mangoes.= As LEMONS, adding mustard seed and a little garlic, with spices
at will. ENGLISH MANGOES are made from cucumbers or small melons, split
and deprived of their seeds.
=Melons.= As LEMONS (nearly).
=Mixed Pickles.= From white cabbage, cauliflowers, French beans,
cucumbers, onions, or any other of the ordinary pickling vegetables, at
will (except red cabbage or walnuts) treated as GHERKINS; with raw ginger,
capsicum, mustard seed, and long pepper, for spice, added to each bottle.
A little coarsely bruised turmeric improves both the colour and flavour.
=Mushrooms.= From the small button mushrooms, cleansed with cold spring
water, and gently wiped dry with a towel, then placed in bottles, with a
blade or two of mace, and covered with the strongest white pickling
vinegar, boiling hot.
=Myrobalans.= The yellow myrobalan preserved in strong brine. Gently
aperient.
=Nasturtiums.= From the unripe or scarcely ripe fruit, simply covered with
cold strong vinegar; or, as CABBAGE or GHERKINS.
=Onions.= From the small button or filbert onion, deprived of the outer
coloured skin, and either at once put into bottles and covered with strong
white pickling vinegar, or previously steeped for a day or two in strong
brine or alum water. When required for early use, the vinegar should be
poured on boiling hot.
=Peaches.= From the scarcely ripe fruit, as GHERKINS.
=Peas.= As BEANS or CAULIFLOWERS.
=Piccalilli.= See INDIAN PICKLE.
=Radish Pods.= As BEANS or GHERKINS.
=Samphire.= From the perennial samphire (_Erythmum maritimum_), covered
with strong vinegar, to each pint of which 3/4 oz. of salt has been added,
and poured on boiling hot. Said to excite the appetite.
=Tomatoes.= From the common tomato or love apple, as GHERKINS.
=Walnuts.= From the young fruit of _Juglans regia_, or common walnut:——1.
Steep them in strong brine for a week, then bottle them, add spice, and
pour on the vinegar boiling hot.
2. On each pint of the nuts, spread on a dish, sprinkle 1 oz. of common
salt; expose them to the sun or a full light for 10 or 12 days, frequently
basting them with their own liquor; lastly, bottle them, and pour on the
vinegar, boiling hot.
3. (Dr Kitchener.) Gently simmer the fruit in brine, then expose it on a
cloth for a day or two, or until it turns black; next put it into bottles
or jars, pour hot spiced vinegar over it, and cork down immediately. In
this way the pickle becomes sufficiently mature for the table in half the
time required for that prepared by the common method. Dr Kitchener also
recommends this parboiling process for several other pickles. Some persons
pierce the fruit with an awl or stocking-needle, in several places, in
order to induce early maturation. The spices usually employed are mustard
seed, allspice, and ginger, with a little mace and garlic.
=PIC′OLINE.= An oily substance, discovered by Dr Anderson, associated with
aniline, chinoline, and some other volatile bases, in certain varieties of
coal-tar naphtha.
=PIC′RIC ACID.= HC_{6}H_{2}(NO_{2})_{3}O. _Syn._ CARBAZOTIC ACID,
NITROPHENISIC ACID, TRINITROPHENISIC ACID. A peculiar compound formed by
the action of strong nitric acid on indigo, aloes, wool, and several other
substances.
_Prep._ 1. Add, cautiously and gradually, 1 part of powdered indigo to 10
or 12 parts of hot nitric acid of the sp. gr. 1·43; when the reaction has
moderated and the scum has fallen, add an additional quantity of nitric
acid, and boil the whole until red fumes are no longer evolved; redissolve
the crystals of impure picric acid deposited in boiling distilled water,
and remove any oily matter found floating on the surface of the solution
by means of bibulous paper; a second time redissolve in boiling water the
crystals which form as the liquid cools, saturate the new solution with
carbonate of potassa, and set it aside to crystallise; the crystals of
picrate of potassium thus obtained must be purified by several
re-solutions and re-crystallisations, and next decomposed by nitric acid;
the crystals deposited as the liquid cools yield pure picric acid by again
dissolving them in boiling water, and re-crystallisation.
2. Dissolve the yellow resin of _Xanthorrhœa hastilis_ (Botany Bay Gum) in
a sufficiency of strong nitric acid. Red vapours are evolved, accompanied
by violent frothing, and a deep red solution is produced, which turns
yellow after boiling. Evaporate this solution over a water bath. A yellow
crystalline mass is deposited, which consists of picric acid with small
quantities of oxalic and nitrobenzoic acids. The picric acid is purified
by neutralising the yellow mass with potassa, and crystallising twice out
of water. The pure picrate of potassium thus obtained is decomposed by
hydrochloric acid, and the liberated picric acid is purified by two
crystallisations. This process, devised by Stenhouse, is one of the best,
and yields a quantity of the acid amounting to 50% of the resin employed.
_Prop., &c._ Brilliant yellow scales, scarcely soluble in cold water, but
very soluble in boiling water, and in alcohol and ether; fusible;
volatile; taste insupportably bitter, and very permanent. It forms salts
with the bases (picrates, carbazotates), mostly possessing a yellow
colour, and exploding when heated. The picrate of lead has been proposed
as a fulminating powder for percussion caps. The picrate of potassium has
been given with advantage in intermittent fevers. A solution of picric
acid in alcohol is an excellent test for potassa, if there be not too much
water present, as it throws down a yellow crystalline precipitate with
that alkali, but forms a very soluble salt with soda. Most of the picrates
may be made by the direct solution of the carbonate, hydrate, or oxide of
the metal, in a solution of the acid in hot water. The picrate of silver
forms beautiful starry groups of acicular crystals, having the colour and
lustre of gold.
The principal use of crude picric acid is for dyeing yellow. It is said to
be largely employed for the adulteration of beer. It is, however, highly
poisonous. According to Prof. Rapp, it acts deleteriously both when
swallowed and applied to the unsound skin. Five grains seriously affected
a large dog, and killed it within twenty-four hours. It induces vomiting,
feebleness, and general loss of nervous tone. The tissues of animals
poisoned by it (even the white of the eye) were tinged of a yellow colour.
See PORTER, &c.
=PICROTOX′IN.= C_{12}H_{14}O_{5}. _Syn._ PICROTOXINE, PICTROTOXIA,
PICROTOXINA. A poisonous principle discovered by Boullay in the fruit of
_Anamirta paniculata_, or _Cocculus indicus_.
_Prep._ 1. Precipitate a decoction of _Cocculus indicus_ with a solution
of acetate of lead, gently evaporate to dryness, redissolve the residuum
in alcohol of ·817, and crystallise by evaporation; repeat the solution
and crystallisation a second and a third time. Any adhering colour may be
removed by agitating it with a very little water; or by animal charcoal,
in the usual manner.
2. (Kane.) Alcoholic extract of _Cocculus indicus_ is exhausted with the
smallest possible quantity of water, and the mixed liquors filtered; to
the filtrate hydrochloric acid is added, and the whole set aside to
crystallise. The product may be purified as before.
_Prop., &c._ It forms small, colourless, stellated needles; soluble in
alcohol, ether, and acetic acid, and feebly so in water; boiling water
dissolves it freely; taste of solutions inexpressibly bitter; reaction
neutral. It does not combine with acids, as formerly asserted, but it
forms feeble combinations with some of the bases. It is a powerful
intoxicant and narcotico-acrid poison. It acts powerfully on the spinal
cord and nervous system generally, occasioning an increase of the animal
temperature, and peculiar movements, similar to those described by
Flourens as resulting from sections of the cerebellum. It is frequently
present in malt liquors, owing to their common adulteration with _Cocculus
indicus_.
=PICTURES, Oil.= To clean. See PAINTINGS, OIL.
=PIERRE DIVINE.= _Syn._ CUPRUM ALUMINATUM. See LAPIS DIVINUS.
=PIES.= Alexis Soyer gives the following instructions for making pies:——
To make a pie to perfection,——when your paste (half-puff or short) is
carefully made, and your dish or form properly full, throw a little flour
on your paste-board, take about a 1/4 lb. of your paste, which roll with
your hand until (say) an inch in circumference; then moisten the rim of
your pie-dish, and fix the paste equally on it with your thumb. When you
have rolled your paste for the covering, or upper crust, of an equal
thickness throughout, and in proportion to the contents of your pie (1/2
inch is about the average), fold the cover in two, lay it over one half of
your pie, and turn the other half over the remaining part; next press it
slightly with your thumb round the rim, cut neatly the rim of the paste,
form rather a thick edge, and mark this with a knife about every quarter
of an inch apart; observing to hold your knife in a slanting direction,
which gives it a neat appearance; lastly, make two small holes on the top,
and egg-over the whole with a paste-brush, or else use a little milk or
water. Any small portion of paste remaining may be shaped to fanciful
designs, and placed as ornaments on the top.
“For meat pies, observe that, if your paste is either too thick or too
thin, the covering too narrow or too short, and requires pulling one way
or the other, to make it fit, your pie is sure to be imperfect, the
covering no longer protecting the contents. It is the same with fruit; and
if the paste happens to be rather rich, it pulls the rim of the pie to the
dish, soddens the paste, makes it heavy, and, therefore, indigestible as
well as unpalatable.”
Meat pies require the addition of either cayenne, or black pepper, or
allspice; and fruit pies, of enough sugar to sweeten, with mace, ginger,
cloves, or lemon peel, according to taste and the substance operated on.
See PASTRY, &c.
=PIG.= The pig or hog (_Sus scrofa_——Linn.), one of the common
pachydermata, is now domesticated in all the temperate climates of the
world. Its flesh constitutes pork, bacon, ham, &c.; its fat (lard) is
officinal in the Pharmacopœias. The skin, bristles, and even the blood and
intestines of this animal, are either eaten as food or turned to some
useful purpose in the arts. See PORK, LEATHER, &c.
=PIG′MENTS.= These are noticed under the _respective colours_.
=PIG-STYE.= In order that a pig-stye may not become a nuisance and a
danger to health it is essential that the liquid excrement of the pig
should be carried off by means of an effective and well-covered drain, and
that the solid matters should be frequently removed.
Should it come to the knowledge of the sanitary inspector of the district
that a pig-stye is deficient in this particular, the inspector has power
to compel the owner of the stye to construct proper drainage.
Urban authorities have full powers in the matter of pig-styes, since under
section 26 of the Public Health Act it is enacted “that the owner of any
swine or pig-stye kept in a dwelling-house, or so as to be a nuisance to
any person, is liable to a penalty of 40_s._ or less, and to a further
penalty (if the offence is continued) of 5_s._ a day. The authority can
also, if they choose, abate the nuisance themselves, and recover the
expenses of such action from the occupier of the premises in a summary
manner.
A rural authority has power to deal with the matter under provision 3,
section 91, of the Public Health Act, which defines as a nuisance “any
animal so kept as to be a nuisance or injurious to health.”
=PIKE.= The _Esox lucius_ (Linn.), a fresh-water fish. It is remarkable
for its voracity, but is highly esteemed by epicures. Various parts of it
were formerly used in medicine. The fat (OLEUM LUCII PISCIS) was one of
the simples of the Ph. L. of 1618, and was esteemed as a friction in
catarrhs. It is even now used in some parts of Europe to disperse
opacities of the cornea.
=PIL′CHARD.= The _Clupea pilchardus_, a fish closely resembling the common
herring, than which, however, it is smaller, but thicker and rounder and
more oily. It abounds on the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, where it is not
only consumed as food, but pressed for its oil.
=PILES.= _Syn._ HEMORRHOIDS; HÆMORRHOIDES, L. A painful disease occasioned
by the morbid dilatations of the veins at the lower part of the rectum and
surrounding the anus.
Piles are principally occasioned by costiveness and cold; and,
occasionally, by the use of acrid food. They have been distinguished
into——BLIND PILES, or a varicose state of the veins without
bleeding,——MUCOUS PILES, when the tumours are excoriated, and mucus or pus
is discharged,——BLEEDING PILES, when accompanied with loss of blood,
and——EXCRESCENTIAL PILES, when there are loose fleshy excrescences about
the verge of the anus and within the rectum.
The treatment of piles consists in the administration of mild aperients,
as castor oil, or an electuary of sulphur and cream of tartar. When there
is much inflammation or bleeding, cold and astringent lotions, as those of
sulphate of zinc or alum, should be applied; and when the pain is
considerable, fomentations of decoction of poppy heads may be used with
advantage. To arrest the bleeding, ice is also frequently applied, but
continued pressure is more certain. When the tumours are large and
flaccid, the compound ointment of galls is an excellent application; and
if there is a tendency to inflammation, a little liquor of diacetate of
lead may be added. In confirmed piles the internal use of copaiba, or,
still better, of the confection of black pepper, should be persevered in
for some time, together with local applications. In severe cases the
protruded tumours are removed by surgeons, by the knife or ligature. See
OINTMENTS, ELECTUARIES, &c.
=PILL COCHIA.= See COMPOUND COLOCYNTH PILLS (_below_).
=PILL RUFI.= See PILLS OF ALOES WITH MYRRH (_below_).
=PILLS.= _Syn._ PILULÆ (Ph. E. & D.), PILULA (Ph. L.), L.; PILULES,
SACCHAROLÉS SOLIDES, Fr. Pills are little balls, of a semi-solid
consistence, composed of various medicinal substances, and intended to be
taken whole. The facility with which they are made and administered, their
comparatively little taste, their power of preserving their properties for
a considerable length of time, and, lastly, their portability and
inexpensiveness, have long rendered them the most frequently employed and
the most popular form of medicine.
The rapid and skilful preparation of pills, from all the numerous
substances of which they are composed, is justly considered to demand the
highest qualifications in the practical dispenser. The medicinals employed
must be made into a consistent and moderately firm mass, sufficiently
plastic to be rolled or moulded into any shape, without adhering to the
fingers, knife, or slab, and yet sufficiently solid to retain the globular
form when divided into pills. A few substances, as certain extracts, &c.,
are already in this condition; but the others require the use of an
excipient to give them the requisite bulk or consistence. As a general
rule, all the constituents of a pill which can be pulverised should be
reduced to fine powder before mixing them with the soft ingredients which
enter into its composition; and these last, or the excipient, should next
be gradually added, and the mixture triturated and beaten until the whole
forms a perfectly homogeneous mass. It is then ready to be divided into
pills. This is effected by rolling it on a slab, with a pill or bolus
knife, into small pipes or cylinders, then dividing these into pieces of
the requisite weight; and, lastly, rolling them between the thumb and
finger to give them a globular form. A little powdered liquorice-root or
starch is commonly employed to prevent the pills adhering to the fingers,
or to each other, after they are made. Magnesia, so frequently used for
this purpose, is unsuited for pills containing metallic salts or the
alkaloids, or other remedies, which are exhibited in very small doses.
Instead of forming the mass into pills by hand, in the manner just
referred to, a convenient and simple instrument, called a ‘pill-machine,’
is now generally used by the druggists for the purpose. This consists of
two pieces. The first (see fig. 1) is divided into three
compartments:——_c_ is a vacant space to receive the divided mass, which is
to be rolled into pills:——_b_ is a grooved brass plate, which assists in
dividing the mass into pills; and _a_ is a box for containing the powder
for covering the pills, and to receive them as they are formed. The
second (see fig. 2) consists of a brass plate (_a_), grooved to match the
plate _b_ in fig. 1, and bounded at both ends by movable projecting plates
(_b_ _b_), containing each two wheels under the ledge of the plate (_b_);
and a wooden back (_c_), with two handles (_d_ _d_), to which this plate
is affixed. In using this machine, the pill-mass is rolled into a
cylindrical form on the front part of it, by means of fig. 2 inverted; the
small roll is then laid on the cutting part of the instrument (1, _b_),
and divided by passing fig. 2 over it, the little wheels enabling the
latter to run easily on the brass plate which forms the margin of the bed
of the machine. The pills, thus formed, are then drawn forward on to the
smooth bed on which the mass was first rolled, and receiving a finishing
turn or two with the smooth side of the ‘cutter,’ by which they are
rendered more nearly spherical. They are, lastly, thrown over into 1, _c_,
ready to be transferred to the pill-box.
[Illustration: FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.]
The nature of the excipient should be suited to that of the active
ingredients in pills, as well as in all other forms of medicine.
Furthermore, it should be of such a nature “that,” to quote Dr Redwood,
“it will modify as little as possible the action of the pills, either by
causing them to become hard, or in any other way, and will not
unnecessarily or inconveniently increase their size.” Soft extracts, and
other substances of a like character, may be rendered more consistent by
the addition of any simple powder, as that of liquorice or sugar.
Vegetable powders are generally beaten up with syrup or treacle, and heavy
powders with conserve of roses or extract of liquorice. Castile soap (made
of olive oil and soda) and medicinal soft soap (made of olive oil and
potash) are commonly employed for fatty and resinous matters, as well as
for many others which are not decomposed by alkalies. When the chief
ingredient of the mass is resin, rectified spirit is frequently used to
soften it, either with or without the addition of soap to increase its
solubility in the stomach. For many substances no excipient is required.
Thus, most of the gum-resins and stiff extracts may be at once made into
pills, or, at all events, after being slightly softened by heat. Mucilage,
formerly so much used in the preparation of pills, is now only employed
for those which are to be taken within a day or two after being made; as
pills containing it become so hard and insoluble when kept for some time
as to resist the action of the stomach, and frequently to pass through the
bowels without even losing their form. Glycerin, as well as a mixture of
glycerin and tragacanth made into a paste of proper consistence, are also
employed as pill-excipients.
The use of glycerin as a pill-excipient has been advocated on account of
its generally neutral properties, and also because its substitution for
syrup, the conserves of roses, treacle, and such like substances, results
in the production of a pill of smaller bulk. It seems to be suited for
pills containing chemical substances, such as quinine, tannic acid, &c. It
is said, however, to possess the disadvantage of making the pills moist on
their surfaces. To obviate as much as possible this inconvenience, and to
provide an absorbent for the superfluous moisture, Mr Martendale, an
experienced pharmacist, recommends the employment of a mixture of glycerin
and flour, of which he writes as follows:——“By stirring constantly and
heating together until a temperature of about 240° F. is reached, 5 parts
of glycerin by weight, and 1 part of flour, a firm adhesive paste is
formed, which I shall call glycerin mass. As an excipient for vegetable
powder it answers well, and for other substances on which it can exert a
partially solvent action it is eminently useful. Among these are such
salts as valerianate of zinc, 4 gr., which with 1 of the glycerin mass
forms a good pill.
Quinine, 3 parts, with 1 of the glycerin mass, P. B. strength, works well.
Compound powder of ipecacuanha, 5 gr., with 3/4 gr. of the mass, makes a
good pill. Oxide of zinc, too, 4 gr. with 1, makes a good mass.
But for most mineral and insoluble powders it is too moist, and will not
form with them a firm mass; some additional absorbent is necessary, and
for this purpose I found nothing better than flour; equal parts of the
glycerin mass and flour form a tolerably firm, solid, adhesive paste,
somewhat resembling dough, but it is not so elastic; this I call bread
mass. It possesses great capacity for the absorption of insoluble powders,
such, for example, as calomel (3 gr. with 1-1/2 gr. of this mass makes a
good pill), nitrate and carbonate of bismuth, arsenic, &c. Of reduced
iron, 3 parts with 2 of it, form a good mass, in which the iron is not
liable to oxidation. Carbolic acid, too, of which it is a good solvent, is
readily made into a pill with the bread mass, a little additional flour
being necessary for this substance. Then again, substances which are given
in minute doses, as the salts of morphia, resin of podophyllum, and other
active principles to partially dilute their action, or where an excipient
is needed to partially increase the bulk of the pill, it is well adapted
for use. And among the official pill masses an equal quantity of it can
with great advantage be used to supplant confection of roses in all these,
with the exception of pilula aloes cum ferro, for which the glycerin
masses is needed, and pilula ferri carbonatis. This, too, requires the
glycerin mass, with which it mixes well, but after a time the pills have a
tendency to become moist. Mercurial pill I have not tried with it. The
same quantity of this bread mass will replace the treacle in pilula scillæ
composita. Equal parts of it and powdered soap, in place of powdered soap
alone (if this might be permitted), form a much better mass than the
official one of pilula saponis composita.
This pill mass, made strictly according to the Pharmacopœia, soon becomes
set into a condition resembling a piece of soap, in which state much
beating is necessary to make it again plastic.
Of the glycerin mass to be added to the Pharmacopœia quantities of——
Pil. cambogiæ comp. (_vice_ syrup), 1 oz., makes a good mass.
Pil. colocynth comp. (_vice_ water), 3 dr., makes a good mass, and does
not get so hard.
Pil. hydrarg. subchlor. comp. (_vice_ castor oil), 1-1/2 oz., makes a good
mass, but becomes slightly moist.
Pil. ipecac. cum scilla (_vice_ treacle), 1 oz., makes a good mass, which
does not crumble.
Pil. rhei comp. (_vice_ 4 oz. of treacle), 2 oz., makes a good mass, and
keeps tolerably plastic.
Among the other official pill masses which I have not tried with these
excipients are pilula colocynthidis et hyoscyamic and pilula conii
composita. These I find do not generally require any excipient, and pilula
ferri iodidi, the starch contained in the flour, with that would not form
an elegant preparation.
_Nitrate of silver_ is generally recommended in works on materia medica to
be made into a pill with bread crumb, but this contains common salt, with
which it is incompatible. I recommend the following formula, which is a
modification of the bread mass:——
℞ Nitrate of silver 6 gr.
Distilled water 6 minims.
Dissolve, and add——
Glycerin mass 12 gr.
Flour 24 gr.
Mix to form a mass which may be divided into 2 gr. pills, each containing
1/4 gr. of nitrate of silver. The mass rolls out well. Keep them from
exposure to the air and light.
For _Perchloride of Mercury_ Pills:——
℞ Perchloride of mercury 6 gr.
Distilled water 48 minims.
Heat in a test-tube till dissolved, and add to it——
Glycerin mass 48 gr.
Flour 96 ”
Mix well, and divide into 96 2-gr. pills, each of which will contain a
sixteenth of a grain of perchloride of mercury.
Substances like nitrate of silver and perchloride of mercury may form
different combinations with the albuminoid principles contained in the
flour, but in such state they will probably be quite as readily
assimilated, and have a similar medicinal action, as physiologists affirm
that most metallic substances enter into the blood as albuminates. I have
had some fear lest the gluten contained in the flour might favour some
decomposition similar to fermentation, but such, from nearly two years’
use of them, I have never yet seen take place; the glycerin seems to check
anything of the kind.
The crude gluten obtained in the moist condition from flour I find is
nearly entirely soluble in glycerin, the solution does not appear to
undergo any change when kept.
A mixture of glycerin and tragacanth is often used, and produces very
similar results to those I have obtained from the glycerin mass. I have
not had much experience with such a mixture, but I find it makes a more
elastic paste, which is often a disadvantage, as it causes the pills to
have a certain amount of springiness, and renders them difficult to form
perfectly globular.
For dried sulphate of iron, of which a large quantity is sometimes ordered
in a pill, I find syrup the best excipient. By this means 5 grains of this
can be thus made into a pill.[106]
[Footnote 106: ‘Pharmaceutical Year Book.’]
It may be further remarked, that no deliquescent salt should enter into
the composition of pills not intended for immediate use; and that when
efflorescent salts are so employed they should be first freed from their
water of crystallisation.
When the mixed ingredients are made into a mass (pill-mass), which it is
not intended at once to divide into pills, it should be preserved in a
piece of bladder or gut-skin placed in a covered stoneware or earthenware
pot. In this state it may be occasionally moistened with a little weak
spirit to prevent its getting hard.
The weight (size) of pills varies from 1/2 gr. to 6 gr. If heavier than
this, they are called ‘boluses.’ Formerly, as a general rule, they were
made of 5 gr. each; but pills of this weight are, in general, so large
that some persons find a difficulty in swallowing them. Another
disadvantage of large pills is the trouble of nicely apportioning the
dose,——one pill being, perhaps, too small a quantity, and two pills the
reverse. Hence, 2 to 3-gr. pills are now the favourite size with both
pill-takers and dispensers, notwithstanding that 5-gr. pills are still
ordered in one of the authorised Pharmacopœias.
Pills are occasionally coated with gold, silver, and other substances, to
render them more agreeable to the eye, or to prevent the taste of nauseous
ingredients affecting the palate during deglutition. They are gilded and
silvered by placing them, in the moist state, on a leaf or two of the
metal in a small gallipot, and covering them in a similar manner with
another leaf of metal; over the mouth of the gallipot is laid a piece of
smooth writing paper, and on this the palm of the hand; a sudden and rapid
circular motion is then given to the whole. If the pills are not
sufficiently moist or sticky, they should be rendered so by rolling them
between the fingers very slightly moistened with mucilage, before
proceeding to silver them. Another method is to shake them in a similar
manner with a little gold or silver dust.
Mr Haselden recommends a varnish composed as follows:——Resin[107] of tolu,
3 parts; rectified spirit, 6 parts; methylated ether, 2 parts. Well shake
until all that will is dissolved. Use the clear solution. Mr Hasleden says
iodide of iron pills are well preserved by this coating, and also granules
of secale cornutum.
[Footnote 107: This is the substance which is left in the preparation of
syrup of tolu.]
When pills are to be covered with gelatin, each pill, being stuck on the
point of a very thin wire four or five inches in length, is dipped into a
solution of gelatin, so as to coat it completely, and the wire is then
inserted into a pin-cushion, or a vessel containing fine sand, and left
until the gelatin is firm, which occurs in about a quarter of an hour; the
pins may then be easily removed by simply warming them, by placing the
centre of each wire for a second or two in the flame of a spirit lamp or
candle. ‘Sugar-coated pills’ are prepared in nearly the same way, but
substituting hot and highly concentrated syrup, to which a little gelatin
has been added, for a simple solution of gelatin.
The following details for coating pills with sugar are taken from the
‘Chemist and Druggist,’[108]——“The pills are first varnished with the
following liquids——
[Footnote 108: Dec. 15th, 1871.]
Ether 100 parts.
Bals. tolu 10 ”
Colophonium 1 ”
Absolute alcohol 10 ”
“By first rolling them in a mortar with this ethereal solution, and then
transferring to a sheet of writing paper with the sides bent upwards,
shaking being continued till they are perfectly dry. Then to a small
quantity of the saccharated albumen (see next recipe) add a few drops of
water, at the same time beating for a short while, so that a thick paste
will be formed. Into this mass the pills are stirred, and when moistened
on all sides, quickly poured into a wooden pill-box, which has been
previously filled about one third with the finest powdered sugar
obtainable, and immediately shaken, or rather rolled in a lively way with
great force, separating from time to time those cohering. When no more
sugar will adhere they are dried over a gentle fire, taking care not to
bring them too near the stove lest they should crack. Shaking, of course,
must be continued till dryness is effected.”
=Albumen cum Saccharo.= Take the white of an egg, and in an evaporating
dish beat with it as much powdered sugar, passed through a very fine
sieve, as will make rather a thick fluid. Then place it in a water bath
and evaporate to dryness, stirring constantly, that no sugar may be
deposited. Pulverise and set aside for further use.
M. Durden covers pills with collodion. Others have recommended for this
purpose a solution of gutta percha in either chloroform or bisulphide of
carbon. The ready solubility in the stomach of pills thus covered has,
with justice, been questioned. Gelatin, or, still better, gelatin mixed
with a little sugar, is unexceptionable in this respect; whilst it
undoubtedly excludes the taste of nauseous medicines more effectually than
any other substance. Mr Furley employs a thin coating of albumen to render
pills tasteless.
As pill-masses are likely to get hard and brittle by keeping, an excellent
plan is to keep the dry ingredients powdered and mixed together in
well-corked bottles or jars, when a portion may at any time be beaten up
with syrup, conserve, soap, &c.; according to the formula, and as wanted
for use. The mixed ingredients in this state are technically known as
‘species’ or ‘powder’ for the respective pills.
“It is generally said that pills should be taken on an empty stomach, and
at a considerable distance from a meal; but for ourselves we think that it
is nearly always better to take them during a meal; first, because the
stomach does not then find itself immediately under the influence of
substances which, if not always dangerous, seldom fail to act more or less
disagreeably; secondly, because its absorbent action is more certain; and,
lastly, because they are then taken more easily.” (Trousseau and Reveil.)
The meal here referred to should be a light one, from which acidulous and
other substances likely to interfere with the action of the remedy should
be excluded. The dose should also be increased.
In the London Pharmacopœia the singular number (‘pilula’) is now very
properly employed to express the names of the officinal pill-masses; but
in the other Pharmacopœias the names are given in the plural form. As the
latter is almost universally adopted in speaking of magistral formulæ and
nostrums, we have used it in all cases, for the sake of uniformity and
for ease of reference. See BOLUS EXTRACT, PRESCRIBING, and _below_.
=Pills, Abernethy’s.= See ABERNETHY MEDICINES (page 6).
=Pills of Ac′etate of Lead.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PLUMBI ACETATIS, L. _Prep._ 1.
Acetate of lead, 20 gr.; powdered camphor, 15 gr.; conserve of roses,
q. s.; mix and divide into 12 pills.
2. (Radius.) Acetate of lead and powdered mallow or liquorice root, of
each 1/2 dr.; simple syrup, q. s.; divide into 18 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 5
daily, washed down with water soured with vinegar; as a powerful
astringent in hæmorrhages, diarrhœa, the night-sweats in phthisis, &c. See
OPIATED LEAD PILLS.
=Pills of Acetate of Mercury.= _Syn._ PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI ACETATIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. Subacetate of mercury, 18 gr.; sugar of milk (or manna), 1 dr.;
mucilage, q. s.; divide into 24 pills.——_Dose._ As an alterative, 1 daily;
as a sialogogue, 1 every four or five hours, or oftener; in syphilis, &c.
See KEYSER’S PILLS.
3. (Opiated——Carmichael.) Acetate of mercury, camphor, and opium, of each
30 gr.; syrup of poppies to mix. For 30 pills. Less apt to affect the
stomach and bowels than the last.
=Pills of Acetate of Mor′phia.= _Syn._ PILULÆ MORPHIÆ ACETATIS, L. _Prep._
1. Acetate of morphia, 2 gr.; sugar of milk, 15 gr.; conserve of roses, 20
gr.; for 12 pills. Anodyne, sedative, and soporific.——_Dose._ One, as
required.
2. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Acetate of morphia, 1 gr.; powdered foxglove, 6
gr.; powdered camphor, 10 gr.; powdered gum Arabic, 8 gr.; syrup of tolu,
q. s.; to be divided into 6 pills. Sedative and antispasmodic.——_Dose._
One, every 3 or 4 hours; in phthisis, palpitations, spasms, &c. The
hydrochlorate of morphia may be used instead of the acetate, with
advantage.
=Pills of Ac′onite.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ACONITI, P. EXTRACTI A., L. _Prep._ (Dr
Turnbull.) Alcoholic extract of aconite, 1 gr.; liquorice powder, 12 gr.;
simple syrup, q. s.; mix, and divide the mass into 6 pills.——_Dose._ One
pill, every 3 or 4 hours; as a powerful anodyne and sedative in excessive
action of the heart, acute rheumatism, gout, neuralgia, &c. The utmost
care should be taken both in their preparation and administration.
=Pills, Alibert’s.= See PILLS, APERIENT.
=Pills of Aloes.= _Syn._ PILULA ALOES SOCOTRINÆ (B. P.), PILULÆ ALOETICÆ,
PILULÆ ALOËS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Socotrine aloes (in powder)
and Castile soap, equal parts; conserve of red roses, q. s. to form a
pill-mass.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Powdered aloes and Castile soap, equal parts, beat into a
mass, and divided into 4-gr. pills.
3. (B. P.) PILULA ALOES BARBADENSIS. _Prep._ Barbadoes aloes, in powder, 2
oz.; hard soap, in powder, 1 oz.; oil of caraway, 1 fluid dr.; confection
of roses, 1 oz. Beat all together until thoroughly mixed.
_Obs._ “This pill may be also correctly made with the finer qualities of
East Indian aloes, as the (true) Socotrine variety is very scarce; and
many, not without reason, prefer (pure) Barbadoes aloes.” (Ph. E.) The
dose, as a laxative, is 5 to 10 gr.; as a purgative, 12 to 20 gr., or
more. See PILLS OF ALOES AND SOAP.
=Pills of Aloes and Assafœtida.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS ET ASSAFŒTIDA (B.
P.). _Prep._ Socotrine aloes, in powder, 1; assafœtida, 1; powdered hard
soap, 1; confection of roses, 1 (1/4 confection sufficient——Squire). Mix.
Cathartic and antispasmodic.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
=Pills of Aloes (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOETICÆ COMPOSITÆ, PILULA
ALOËS COMPOSITA (Ph. L.), PILULÆ A. COMPOSITÆ (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
L.) Socotrine aloes (in powder), 1 oz.; extract of gentian, 1/4 oz.; oil
of caraway, 40 drops; treacle, q. s.; the whole to be beaten together
until they form a mass proper for making pills.
2. (Ph. D.) Hepatic aloes (in powder), 2 oz.; extract of gentian and
treacle, of each 1 oz.; oil of caraway, 1 fl. dr.; as the last.
_Obs._ The above is a very valuable purgative in habitual costiveness and
indigestion, in all cases in which the use of aloes is not
contra-indicated. The dose is from 5 to 15 gr., or more.
=Pills of Aloes (Diluted).= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS DILUTÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr
Marshall Hall.) Barbadoes aloes, Castile soap, extract of liquorice, and
treacle, equal parts; water, q. s.; dissolve, with heat, strain, and
evaporate to the consistence of a pill-mass. Resembles the PILULA ALOËS
CUM SAPONE——Ph. L.
=Pills of Aloes and Assafœti′da.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS ET ASSAFŒTIDA (Ph.
E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Aloes (Socotrine or East Indian, powdered),
assafœtida, and Castile soap, equal parts; beat them with conserve of red
roses to a proper pill-mass.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr., once or twice daily, as
a stomachic tonic and laxative, in dyspepsia, flatulence, &c.; and 12 to
20 gr., as a purgative in similar cases. It is extremely useful in
costiveness, with flatulency, occurring in hysterical and hypochondriacal
subjects. The B. P. preparation is the same as this, except that hard soap
is used instead of Castile soap.
=Pills of Aloes and Gin′ger.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS ET ZINGIBERIS, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. D. 1826.) Aloes, 1 oz.; Castile soap, 1/2 oz.; ginger, 1 dr.;
oil of peppermint, 1/2 dr.; beaten to a mass. A useful laxative in cold
habits.——_Dose._ As the last.
=Pills of Aloes and Ipecac′uanha.= _Syn._ DR BAILLIE’S DINNER PILLS;
PILULÆ ALOËS ET IPECACUANHÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr Baillie.) Powdered aloes, 30
gr.; powdered ginger (finest), 45 gr.; ipecacuanha, 12 gr.; syrup of
orange peel, q. s. to mix. For 24 pills.——_Dose._ One, about an hour
before dinner.
=Pills of Aloes and I′ron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS ET FERRI (Ph. E.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Barbadoes aloes, 2; sulphate of iron, 1-1/2; compound
powder of cinnamon, 3; confection of roses, 4; mix (6 of confection
required——Squire).——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
2. (Ph. E.) Sulphate of iron, 3 parts; Barbadoes aloes, 2 parts; aromatic
powder, 6 parts; conserve of red roses, 8 parts; powder the aloes and
sulphate of iron separately, beat the whole to a mass, and divide this
into 5-gr. pills. An excellent medicine in chlorosis, hysteria, and atonic
amenorrhœa.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills daily.
=Pills of Aloes and Mas′tic.= See PILLS, DINNER.
=Pills of Aloes and Mer′cury.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS CUM HYDRARGYRO, L. See
PILLS, APERIENT (8).
=Pills of Aloes and Myrrh.= _Syn._ RUFUS’S PILLS; PILULA ALOËS CUM MYRRHÂ
(Ph. L. & D.), PILULÆ RUFI or COMMUNES (Ph. L. 1720), P. ALOËS ET MYRRHÆ
(B. P., Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Socotrine or hepatic aloes (in
powder, 1/2 oz.; saffron, myrrh powdered), and soft soap (Ph. L.), of each
2 dr.; treacle, q. s. to form a pill-mass.
2. (Ph. D.) Hepatic aloes, 2 oz.; myrrh, 1 oz.; dried saffron, 1/2 oz.;
all in powder; treacle, 2-1/2 oz.
3. (Ph. E.) Aloes (Socotrine or East Indian), 4 parts; myrrh, 2 parts;
saffron, 1 part; beat them to a pill-mass with conserve of red roses,
q. s.
4. (Ph. L. 1836 and Ph. D. 1826.) Aloes (in powder), 2 oz.; saffron and
powdered myrrh, of each 1 oz.; syrup, q. s. to form a pill-mass.
5. (B. P.) Socotrine aloes, 2; myrrh, 1; dried saffron, 1/2; confection of
roses, 2-1/2 (3 are required——_Squire_). Mix. Stimulant and
cathartic.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
_Obs._ This compound is a most excellent stomachic purgative and
emmenagogue, when there are no febrile symptoms present. It is said to
have been employed ever since the time of Rhazes, and is still in
extensive use.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr.
=Pills of Aloes and Rhu′barb.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS ET RHEI, P. R. CUM
RHEO, L. _Prep._ Powdered Socotrine or hepatic aloes, powdered rhubarb,
and soft soap (Ph. L.), of each 1/2 dr.; oil of chamomile, 10 drops; for
30 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 5, either as a stomach tonic or laxative;
especially in dyspepsia, with loss of appetite.
=Pills of Aloes and Rose-juice.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS ROSATÆ, L.; PILULES
ANGELIQUES, GRAINS DE SANTÉ, Fr. _Prep._ Take aloes and rose juice, of
each 4 oz.; juice of borage and chicory, of each 2 oz.; dissolve with
heat, evaporate to an extract; add, of rhubarb, 2 dr.; agaric, 1 dr.; and
divide the mass into 1-1/2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 4 to 12, as a purge.
=Pills of Aloes with Soap.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOËS CUM SAPONE (Ph. L.), L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L.) Powdered extract of Barbadoes aloes, soft soap, and
extract of liquorice, equal parts; treacle, q. s. to form a
pill-mass.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr.; in the usual cases in which aloes is
administered. It is more readily soluble in the juices of the primæ viæ,
and is milder than most of the aloetic pills without soap. See PILLS OF
ALOES (Diluted).
=Pills, Aloes and Turpentine.= (Bois.) _Syn._ PILULÆ ALOES ET
TEREBINTHINÆ. _Prep._ Boiled turpentine, 2 dr.; aloes, 1/2 dr. Divide into
40 pills.
=Pills, Al′terative.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALTERANTES, L. See PILLS, CALOMEL,
MERCURIAL, and PLUMMER’S, &c.
=Pills of Al′um.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALUMINIS, P. A. COMPOSITÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Augustin.) Alum, 20 gr.; benzoic acid, 6 gr.; powdered gum and white
sugar, of each 10 gr.; water, q. s. to form a mass. For 36 pills. In
phthisis and atonic mucous discharges. The whole to be taken in the course
of 2 or 3 days.
2. (Capuron.) Catechu, 1 dr.; alum, 1/2 dr.; opium, 10 gr.; syrup of red
roses, q. s.; divide into 5-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3; in chronic
diarrhœa and leucorrhœa.
3. (Radius.) Alum and catechu, equal parts; extract of gentian, q. s. to
mix; divide into 2 or 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, every four hours; in
passive hæmorrhages, mucous discharges, and chronic diarrhœa.
=Pills of Ammoni′acum.= _Syn._ PILULÆ AMMONIACI, L. _Prep._ 1. Gum
ammoniacum, 1 dr.; powdered sugar, 1/2 dr.; conserve of hips, q. s. In old
coughs and hysterical affections.
2. (Compound.)——_a._ (Ainslie.) Ammoniacum, 1 dr.; mercurial pill, 15 gr.;
powdered squills, 6 or 8 gr.; simple syrup, q. s. For 16 pills. In
asthmatic coughs, with deranged action of the liver.——_Dose._ One, 2 or 3
times a day.
_b._ (W. Cooley.) Ammoniacum and sagapenum, of each 1 dr.; dried sulphate
of iron, 1/2 dr.; conserve of hips, q. s. In obstructed menstruation, and
in the chronic diarrhœa of hysterical subjects.
=Pills of Ammo′′niated Cop′per.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CUPRI AMMONIATI (Ph. E.),
P. C. AMMONIURETI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Ammoniated copper (in fine powder),
1 part; bread-crum, 6 parts; solution of carbonate of ammonia, q. s. to
make a mass, which is to be divided so that each pill may contain 1/2 gr.
of ammoniated copper. In epilepsy, and in some other spasmodic
diseases.——_Dose_, 1 pill, night and morning, gradually increased to 5 or
6.
=Pills of Ammoniated I′ron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI AMMONIATI, P. F.
AMMONIO-CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr. Copland.) Ammoniated iron, 1 dr.;
aloes and extract of gentian, of each 1/2 dr.; for 30 pills. In scrofula,
chlorosis, amenorrhœa, &c.
2. (Radius.) Ammoniated iron and galbanum, of each 1 dr.; assafœtida, 2
dr.; castor, 20 gr.; tincture of valerian, q. s. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_,
2 pills, night and morning; in atonic nervous disorders, epilepsy, &c.
=Pills of Ammo′′nio-cit′rate of Iron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI
AMMONIO-CITRATATIS, L. _Prep._ (Beral.) Ammonio-citrate of iron, 1 dr.;
white sugar, 3 dr.; mucilage, q. s. to mix. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to
3, or more; as a mild chalybeate tonic.
=Pills, Analep′tic.= See PILLS, JAMES’, ANALEPTIC, &c.
=Pills, Anderson’s Scot’s.= Various formulæ for these pills are extant,
the products of which differ widely from the genuine article. Dr Paris,
some years since, declared that they consisted of Barbadoes aloes, jalap,
and oil of aniseed. “A careful examination of the proprietary article,
with other facts that have come to our knowledge, leads us to believe that
the first of the following formulæ is the one now employed in the
preparation of the ‘Grana Angelica,’ or ‘Anderson’s True Scot’s Pills,’ of
the present day.” (Cooley.)
_Prep._ 1. From Barbadoes aloes, 7 lbs.; jalap (in fine powder), 2-1/4
lbs.; treacle, 1/2 lb.; soap, 6 oz.; melted together by the heat of a warm
bath, and, when partly cold, aromatised by stirring in of oil of aniseed,
1 oz. The mass is divided into about 3-1/2-gr. pills, of which 26 or 27
are placed in each 1_s._ 1-1/2_d._ box. A mild and useful
aperient.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr., or more.
2. (Original formula.) Socotrine aloes, 1 oz.; best myrrh, 1/4 oz.;
saffron, 1 dr.; separately pounded very fine; mix them, in an earthen
pipkin, with a spoonful each of water and sweet oil, by the heat of a slow
fire, and form the mass into “common-sized pills.” From a copy of the
original document in the Chapel of the Rolls.
3. (P. Cod.) Aloes and gamboge, of each 6 dr.; oil of aniseed, 1 dr.;
syrup, q. s.; mix, and divide into 4-gr. pills. Much more powerful than
the preceding, and closely resembling Morison’s ‘No. 2 pills.’
4. (Phil. Coll. of Pharm.) Barbadoes aloes (in powder), 3 lbs., Castile
soap, 1/2 lb.; colocynth and gamboge (both in fine powder), 2 oz.; oil of
aniseed, 1 oz.; beat to a mass with water, q. s., and divide it into 3-gr.
pills. Less active than the last, but more so than the ‘True Scot’s
Pills.’
=Pills, An′odyne.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANODYNÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Hosp. F.) Opium
(in powder), 6 gr.; camphor, 15 gr.; conserve of roses, q. s.; divide into
12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, as required.
2. (A. T. Thomson.) Calomel, potassio-tartrate of antimony, and opium,
equal parts; syrup of saffron, q. s.; divided in 3-1/2-gr. pills. In acute
rheumatism and neuralgia.——_Dose_, 1 pill, at bedtime.
=Pills, Antibil′ious.= All the ordinary aperient and stomachic pills may
be classed under this head. See the names of their proprietors or reputed
inventors, or those of their leading ingredients.
=Pills Antichlorot′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTICHLOROTICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Radius.) Aloes and carbonate of iron, of each 1/2 dr.; gum ammoniacum, 1
dr.; extract of taraxacum, q. s. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 6, night
and morning; in chlorosis, amenorrhœa, &c.
2. (Trousseau & Reveil.) Porphyrised iron filings, 1 dr.; extract of
wormwood, q. s. For 36 pills.——_Dose_, 3 or 4; as the last.
=Pills, Antimonial (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTIMONIALIS COMPOSITÆ, P.
ANTIMONII CO., L. _Prep._ 1. Antimonial powder, 1/2 dr.; calomel, camphor,
and powdered opium, of each 6 gr.; conserve of roses, q. s.; divide into
4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2, at night; in acute rheumatism, neuralgia, chronic
coughs, &c.
2. (St B. Hosp.) Tartar emetic, 1 gr.; guaiacum and pill of aloes and
myrrh, of each 1/2 dr.; treacle, to mix. For 16 pills. As the last.
=Pills, Antispasmod′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTISPASMODICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr A.
T. Thomson.) Opium, 1 gr.; Russian castor, 13 gr.; powdered digitalis, 2
gr.; syrup, to mix; divide into 4 pills.——_Dose_, 1 or 2, two or three
times a day; in spasmodic asthma, difficulty of breathing, &c. Several
other formulæ for antispasmodic pills will be found both above and below.
2. (Trousseau & Reveil.) Musk, 15 gr.; extract of valerian, 1/2 dr.;
liquorice powder, q. s. For 20 pills.——_Dose_, 1 every two hours, until
there is a marked improvement in the symptoms; in pneumonia, accompanied
by delirium, especially in drunkards; in spasms of the uterus, and in
various other spasmodic affections.
=Pills, Ape′′rient.= _Syn._ PILULÆ APERIENTES, L. _Prep._ 1. Hepatic
aloes, 2 dr.; rhubarb and Castile soap, of each 1 dr.; scammony, 1/2 dr.
(all in powder); essential oil (at will), 10 or 12 drops; beaten to a
smooth mass, and divided into pills.
2. Compound extract of colocynth (Ph. L. 1836), 1-1/2 dr.; extract of
gentian, 1/2 dr.; powdered ipecacuanha, 20 gr.; oil of cloves, caraway, or
cassia, a few drops. In dyspepsia, loss of appetite, &c.
3. (Abernethy’s.) See page 6.
4. (Alibert’s.) From calomel, resin of jalap, and Castile soap, of each 1
dr.; oil of orange peel or citron, 6 or 8 drops. For 60 pills. As an
occasional mild purgative, especially in bilious habits and worms.
5. (Sir B. Brodie.) Compound extract of colocynth and mercurial pill, of
each 1/2 dr.; scammony and Castile soap, of each 15 gr.; oil of caraway, 6
or 7 drops. For 24 pills. As the last.
6. (W. Cooley.) Aloes, 1-1/2 dr.; jalap and Castile soap, of each 1 dr.;
rhubarb and cardamoms, of each 1/2 dr. (all in powder); oil of juniper,
12 drops. For 3-gr. pills. A useful mild aperient, for either frequent or
occasional use.
7. (Dr Copland.) Compound extract of colocynth (Ph. L. 1836), 40 gr.;
extract of henbane, 30 gr.; Castile soap, 12 gr.; ipecacuanha, 6 or 7 gr.
For two dozen pills.——_Dose_, 2, on retiring to rest. As an aperient in
nervous affections and irritable habits.
8. (Harvey.) Mercurial pill and powdered aloes, of each 1/2 dr.; ginger,
20 gr. For 24 pills. In constipation, attended with a deficiency of bile.
9. (Dr Neligan.) Compound colocynth pill and soap of jalap, equal parts;
either with or without a few drops of some aromatic essential oil. For 4
or 5-gr. pills. As an aperient for general use.
10. (Sir C. Scudamore.) Compound extract of colocynth, 40 gr.; extract of
rhubarb, 1/2 dr.; scammony and soap, of each 12 gr.; oil of caraway, 5 or
6 drops. For 20 or 24 pills.
11. (Stahl’s; PILULÆ APERIENTES STAHLII——Ph. Hannov.) Powdered aloes, 1
oz.; compound extract of colocynth, 1/2 oz.; iron filings, 2 dr.;
mucilage, q. s. In amenorrhœa, low habits, and worms.
12 (Vance.) Compound extract of colocynth, 80 gr.; extract of rhubarb, 12
gr.; Castile soap, 6 or 8 gr.; oil of cinnamon, 4 or 5 drops.
_Obs._ The products of the above formulæ may be divided into pills of any
size deemed most agreeable to the patient, and they may be aromatised by
the addition of any essential oil at will. The dose varies, according to
circumstances, from 5 to 10 or 12 gr., or more. Those containing aloes or
mercurials are best taken at bedtime. For other formulæ see the various
officinal and other pills containing aloes, colocynth, gamboge, rhubarb,
scammony, &c.
=Pills, Aromat′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ AROMATICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746.)
Compound powder of aloes, 3 oz.; balsam of Peru, 1/2 oz.; syrup of orange
peel, q. s. Aperient, sudorific, and nervine.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr.
=Pills of Arse′′niate of Iron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI ARSENIATIS, L. _Prep._
(Biett.) Arseniate of iron, 3 gr.; extract of hops, 2 dr.; powdered
mallow-root, 1/2 dr.; syrup, q. s. For 48 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, daily;
in cancerous, scrofulous, and herpetic affections. See PILLS, ARSENICAL.
=Pills of Arseniate of So′da.= _Syn._ PILULÆ SODÆ ARSENIATIS, L. _Prep._
(Erasmus Wilson.) Arseniate of soda, 2 gr.; distilled water, the smallest
possible quantity to dissolve it; powdered gum guaiacum, 1/2 dr.;
oxysulphuret of antimony, 20 gr.; mucilage, q. s. For 24 pills.——_Dose_, 1
pill, as the last; in herpes, &c. See PILLS, ARSENICAL.
=Pills, Arsen′ical.= _Syn._ ASIATIC PILLS, CARNATIC P., EAST INDIAN P.,
TANJORE P.; PILULÆ ARSENICI, P. ARSENICALIS, P. ASIATICÆ, P. ACIDI
ARSENIOSI, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Arsenious acid, 1 gr.; black pepper (in
fine powder), 12 gr.; rub them together for some (considerable) time in an
iron mortar, then add, of powdered gum, 2 gr.; water, q. s. to make a
mass; which is to be accurately divided into 12 pills. Each pill contains
1/12 gr. of white arsenic.
_Obs._ This compound is commonly employed in the East Indies in syphilis,
elephantiasis, intermittents, the bites of venomous snakes, &c.; and as a
preventive to hydrophobia. The common practice in England is to employ 16
gr. of pepper to 1 gr. of arsenious acid, and to divide the mass into 16
instead of 12 pills. The dose is one or two pills daily, taken _after_ a
meal. The use of all compounds containing arsenic demands great caution.
=Pills, Arsenical (Opiated).= _Syn._ PILULÆ ARSENICI CUM OPIO, L. _Prep._
(A. T. Thomson.) Arsenious acid, 2 gr.; powdered opium, 8 gr.; Castile
soap, 20 gr.; simple syrup, q. s. For 34 pills.——_Dose._ As the last; in
intermittents, herpes, lepra, psoriasis, periodical headaches, neuralgia,
&c. (See _above_.)
=Pills, Asiat′ic.= See PILLS, ARSENICAL.
=Pills of Assafœt′ida.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ASSAFŒTIDA (Ph. E. & U. S.), L.
_Prep._ 1 (Ph. E.) Assafœtida, galbanum, and myrrh, of each 3 parts;
conserve of red roses, 4 parts, or q. s.; mix, and beat them to a proper
pill-mass.
2. (Pb. U. S.) Assafœtida, 1-1/2 oz.; Castile soap, 1/2 oz.; water, q. s.;
divide into 240 pills.
_Obs._ The above (particularly the last) are stimulant and
antispasmodic——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; twice or thrice daily; in hysterical
affections, &c. (See _below._)
=Pills of Assafœtida (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ ASSAFŒTIDÆ COMPOSITÆ (B.
P., Ph. D.) _Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.) Assafœtida, 2 oz.; galbanum, myrrh, and
treacle, of each 1 oz.; mix in a capsule, by the heat of steam or a water
bath, and stir until it becomes a uniform mass.——_Dose, &c._ As the last.
The B. P. directs the quantity of galbanum to be double the above.
2. (Hosp. F.) Assafœtida, 1 dr.; soft soap (Ph. L.), 20 gr.; ipecacuanha
and squills, of each (in powder), 12 gr.; syrup, q. s.——_Dose_, 5 to 10
gr.; in chronic asthmas, coughs, &c.
=Pills of Assafœtida with I′ron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ASSAFŒTIDÆ CUM FERRO, L.
_Prep._ (W. Cooley.) Assafœtida, 1 dr.; extract of chamomile, 1/2 dr.; mix
with a slight heat; add, of dried protosulphate of iron, 15 gr.; oil of
cajeput, 10 drops; and divide into 36 pills. In hypochondriasis, hysteria,
amenorrhœa, chlorosis, &c., after an aperient.
=Pills, Asthma.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTASTHMATICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Expectorant.)
From compound squill pill, 20 gr.; calomel, 5 gr.; powdered opium, 3 gr.;
made into 6 pills.——_Dose_, 1 or 2, at bedtime. Expectorant, and sometimes
laxative.
2. (Tonic.) From compound iron pill, 2 dr.; extract of gentian, 1 dr.;
mix, and divide into 60 pills.——_Dose_, 2, night and morning, with an
occasional dose of laxative medicine.
=Pills, Astringent.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ASTRINGENTES, L. See PILLS OF ACETATE
OF LEAD, ALUM, GALLIC ACID, NITRATE OF SILVER, SULPHATE OF IRON, SULPHATE
OF COPPER, TANNIN, &c.
=Pills of Atropine.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PILULÆ ATROPIÆ. _Prep._ Atropia,
1-1/2 gr.; sugar of milk, 1 dr.; gum Arabic, 12 gr.; syrup of honey, q. s.
Triturate the atropia for a long time with the sugar of milk, and make
into 100 granules and silver them. Granules of arsenious acid, digitalin,
and strychnia, are prepared in the same way.
=Pills, Bacher’s Ton′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ TONICÆ BACHERI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr
Paris.) Extract of black hellebore and powdered myrrh, of each 1 oz.;
powdered blessed thistle, 3 dr.; mix, and divide into 1-dr.
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 6, three times a day.
2. (P. Cod.) Alkaline extract of hellebore and extract of myrrh, of each 2
dr.; powdered blessed thistle, 1 dr. For 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, as
the last. An alterative tonic, hydragogue, and emmenagogue; in debility,
dropsy, amenorrhœa, &c. A favourite remedy in some parts of Europe.
=Pills, Dr Baillie’s.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Aqueous extract of aloes and
compound extract of colocynth, of each 3 dr.; Castile soap, 1 dr.; oil of
cloves, 15 drops. For 4-gr. pills. A good occasional aperient.——_Dose_, 1
to 3, at bedtime, or early in the morning. See PILLS, DINNER.
=Pills, Balsamic.= (Morton.) _Syn._ PILULÆ BALSAMICA. _Prep._ Powdered
millipedes, 18 dr.; gum ammoniacum, 9 dr.; benzoic acid, 6 dr.; saffron, 1
dr.; balsam of tolu, 1 dr,; anisated balsam of saffron, 6 dr., or
sufficient.
=Pills, Barbarossa’s.= These are supposed to have been the first mercurial
preparation employed in medicine. They consisted of quicksilver, rhubarb,
musk, and amber.
=Pills, Rev. D. Barclay’s.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Resinous extract of jalap, 1
dr.; almond or Castile soap, 1-1/2 dr.; extract of colocynth, 2 dr. (or
powdered colocynth, 3 dr.); gum guaiacum, 3 dr.; potassio-tartrate of
antimony, 10 gr.; oil of juniper, 8 or 10 drops; oils of caraway and
rosemary, of each 4 drops; make a mass with syrup of buckthorn (the
smallest possible quantity), and divide into 4-gr. pills. A diaphoretic
aperient.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, at bedtime.
=Pills, Dr Baron’s.= _Prep._ From compound rhubarb pill, 30 gr.; compound
extract of colocynth, 20 gr.; powdered ipecacuanha, 6 gr. For 3-gr. pills.
An excellent stomachic aperient.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills, at bedtime; in
dyspepsia, loss of appetite, &c.
=Pills, Barthez’s.= _Prep._ From myrrh, 1 dr.; aloes, 1/2 dr.; musk, 15
gr.; camphor, 12 gr.; balsam of Peru, q. s. to form a mass. For 3-1/2-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 2, thrice daily; in hysteria, amenorrhœa, chlorosis, &c.
=Pills, Bath Digestive.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Rhubarb, 2 oz.; ipecacuanha and
Castile soap, of each 1/2 oz.; capsicum, ginger, and gamboge, of each 1/4
oz. (all in powder); syrup of buckthorn, q. s. For 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1
as a dinner pill; 2 or 3 as an aperient.
=Pills of Be′beerine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ BEBEERINÆ, L. _Prep._ From sulphate
of bebeerine, 1/2 dr.; aromatic confection, q. s.; oil of cajeput, 6 or 6
drops. For 18 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, every four hours; as an
antiperiodic, instead of bark or quinine.
=Pills, Be′chic.= PILULÆ BECHICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Trousseau and Reveil.)
Extract of digitalis, 15 gr.; white oxide of antimony, 30 gr.; extract of
liquorice, 40 gr.; mix carefully, and divide into 40 pills. Expectorant
and sedative.——_Dose_, 2 to 12, or more; in cases of irritating coughs,
catarrh of the pulmonary capillaries or bronchia, &c. See PILLS, COUGH.
=Pills, Beddoe’s.= _Prep._ From dried (effloresced) carbonate of soda, 1
dr.; soap, 1-1/2 dr.; oil of juniper, 12 drops; syrup of ginger, q. s.;
divide into 30 pills. In gravel, stone, &c.——_Dose_, 2 to 5.
=Pills of Belladon′na (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ BELLADONNÆ COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ainslie.) Extract of belladonna, mercurial pill, and powdered
ipecacuanha, equal parts. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 night and morning,
in cancerous and glandular affections.
2. (Debreyne.) Camphor and assafœtida, of each 1 dr.; extract of
belladonna, 20 gr.; extract of opium, 5 gr.; syrup, q. s. For 48
pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, gradually increased to 6, daily. In hysteria,
amenorrhœa, &c.
=Pills, Belloste’s.= See PILLS, MERCURIAL.
=Pills, Bennet’s.= See PILLS, FULLER’S.
=Pills, Benzoic.= (Dr Paris.) _Syn._ PILULÆ BENZOES. _Prep._ Benzoic acid,
12 gr.; extract of poppies, 18 gr. Mix, for 6 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill.
Expectorant.
=Pills of Bichlo′′ride of Mercury†.= Pills of corrosive sublimate.
=Pills of Bichlo′′ride of Plat′inum.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PLATINI BICHLORIDI, L.
_Prep._ (Dr Hoefer.) Bichloride of platinum, 7-1/2 gr.; extract of
guaiacum, 1 dr.; liquorice powder, q. s. For 24 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill,
twice or thrice daily; as an alterative, in syphilis, &c.
=Pills, Bicker’s.= _Prep._ From rust (carbonate) of iron, 2 dr.; aloes,
myrrh, and sulphur, of each 1 dr.; ox-gall, q. s. to mix. For 4-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 6, morning and evening; in debility, chlorosis, &c.
=Pills of Bit′tersweet.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DULCAMARÆ, L. _Prep._ (Radius.)
Extract of bittersweet (dulcamara), 1 dr.; crude antimony and bittersweet
(in powder), of each 1/2 dr. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 6 to 12, twice or
thrice a day; in obstinate skin diseases.
=Pills, Blaud’s.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTICHLOROTICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Trousseau and
Reveil.) Sulphate of protoxide of iron, 2 parts; reduce it to powder, and
dry it in a stove at 104° Fahr.; add to this dry carbonate of potassa, 2
parts; honey, 1 part; and form the mass into 50 pills. Tonic and
emmenagogue.——_Dose_, 1 to 10, daily; in debility, chlorosis, &c.
=Pills, Blue.= See PILLS, MERCURIAL.
=Pills, Bontius’s.= _Syn._ PILULÆ HYDROGOGÆ, P. H. BONTII, L. _Prep._ (B.
Cod.) Socotrine aloes, gamboge, and gum ammoniacum, of each 1 dr.;
white-wine vinegar, 6 dr.; dissolve by heat at twice, press out the
liquor, evaporate to a pilular consistence, and divide into 4-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3; as a strong cathartic, in dropsy.
=Pills, Brigg’s Gout and Rheumatic.= This nostrum closely resembles in
appearance, odour, and properties, the PLUMMER’S PILL of the Pharmacopœia;
the two are probably identical. (Cooley.)
=Pill of Bro′mide of I′ron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI BROMIDI, L. _Prep._
(Magendie.) Bromide of iron and powdered gum Arabic, of each 12 gr.;
conserve of roses, 20 gr.; mix, and divide into 20 pills. They should be
kept in a dry, corked phial. Tonic and alterative.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, night
and morning; in debility, especially that of scrofulous habits, in
chlorosis, &c.
=Pills of Bru′cine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ BRUCIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.) Brucine,
12 gr.; confection of roses, 1/2 dr.; carefully mixed and divided into 24
pills, which are recommended to be silvered. The quantity of the
confection may be advantageously doubled.——_Dose_, 1 pill, night and
morning; in the same affections as those for which strychnine is
administered. The acetate hydrochlorate, or sulphate of brucine may be
substituted for the alkaloid in the above formula, in a slightly larger
quantity.
=Pills of Calomel.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CALOMELANOS, P. E. CALOMELANE, P.
HYDRARGYRI SUBCHLORIDI, P. H. CLORIDI†, P. H. C. MITIS (Ph. U. S.), L.
_Prep._ 1. Calomel, 4 dr.; powdered gum Arabic, 1 dr.; simple syrup,
q. s.; mix and divide into 240 pills. Each pill contains 1 gr. of calomel.
A convenient form of exhibiting this drug when uncombined with other
remedies.——_Dose_, 1 to 5 pills, according to the indication.
2. (U. C. Hosp.) Calomel, 2 dr.; rhubarb, 1-1/2 dr.; confection of senna,
q. s. For 4 dozen pills. An excellent alterative aperient, especially in
hepatic affections.
=Pills of Calomel (Compound).= _Syn._ PLUMMER’S PILLS, RED P.; PILULA
HYDRARGYRI SUBCHLORIDI COMPOSITA, PILULÆ CALOMELANOS COMPOSITÆ (Ph. E. &
D.), PILULÆ PLUMMERI, PILULA HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDI COMPOSITA, L. (Ph. L.).
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.). Chloride of mercury (calomel) and oxysulphide of
antimony, of each 2 dr.; rub them together, add of guaiacum (in powder)
and treacle, of each 4 dr., and form the whole into a pill-mass.
2. (Ph. E.) Calomel and golden sulphide of antimony, of each 1 part;
guaiacum (in powder) and treacle, of each 2 parts; beat the whole to a
pill-mass, and divide it into 6-gr. pills.
3. (Ph. D.) Calomel and precipitated sulphide of antimony, of each 1 dr.;
triturate them together, then add, of guaiacum resin (in powder), 2 dr.;
castor oil, 1 fl. dr.; and beat the whole to a uniform mass.
4. (B. P.) Calomel, 1; sulphurated antimony, 1; guaiac resin (in powder),
2; castor oil, 1; mix.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
_Obs._ An excellent alterative pill; very useful in lepra, in secondary
syphilis affecting the skin, and in various other chronic cutaneous
diseases; also in dyspepsia and liver complaints.——_Dose_, 3 to 10 gr.,
night and morning.
=Pills of Calomel and Opium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CALOMELANOS ET OPII (Ph. E.),
L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Calomel, 3 parts; opium, 1 part; conserve of red
roses, q. s.; divide the mass so that each pill may contain 2 gr. of
calomel.——_Dose_, 1 or 2 pills, in rheumatism, facial neuralgia, and
various inflammatory affections. They offer a convenient form for
gradually introducing mercury into the system, and, if continued, induce
salivation.
=Pills of Cam′phor.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CAMPHORÆ, P. CAMPHORATÆ, L. _Prep._
Camphor and sugar, of each (in powder) 2 parts; conserve of hips, 1 part.
For 3-gr. pills. Anaphrodisiac, sedative, diaphoretic, and
nervine.——_Dose_, 1 to 5, twice or thrice a day.
=Pills of Camphor (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ CAMPHORÆ COMPOSITÆ, P.
CAMPHORATÆ C., L. _Prep._ 1. (Dupuytren.) Camphor, 24 gr.; pure musk, 8
gr.; opium, 2 gr.; syrup, q. s.; divide into 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4,
three or four times daily; in putrescent sores, hospital gangrene, &c.
2. (Fr. Hosp.) Gum ammoniacum, 40 gr.; camphor, 30 gr.; musk, 10 gr.;
opium, 5 gr.; tincture of valerian, q. s.; divide into 4-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 pills, daily; in nervous and hysterical affections,
&c.
3. (Ricord.) Camphor and lactucarium (or extract of lettuce), equal parts;
divide into 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 pills daily; as an anaphrodisiac.
4. (U. C. Hosp.) Camphor, 20 gr.; assafœtida, 1 dr.; extract of valerian,
2 dr. For 30 pills. As No. 2.
=Pills of Canthar′ides.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CANTHARIDIS, P. C. COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ 1. Cantharides (in very fine powder), 8 gr.; extract of gentian,
1/2 dr.; liquorice powder, 10 gr. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 daily; as
a diuretic, emmenagogue, &c.
2. (Ellis.) Cantharides (in very fine powder), 18 gr.; opium and camphor,
36 gr.; mix, and divide into 36 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, at bedtime; as an
aphrodisiac, in parties labouring under general debility. They should be
used with extreme caution, and but seldom.
=Pills of Caout′chouc.= _Syn._ PILULÆ GUMMI ELASTICI, L. _Prep._ (Bouis.)
India rubber, cut into small squares or spheres, then moistened with syrup
of tolu, and, lastly, shaken in a box with a mixture of powdered gum and
sugar. In phthisis.——_Dose_, 1 pill, three or four times a day. They pass
through the primæ viæ unaltered, and may therefore fairly be presumed to
be inert.
=Pills of Cap′sicum.= _Syn._ CAYENNE PEPPER PILLS; PILULÆ CAPSICI, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Guy’s Hosp.) Capsicum, 1 part; rhubarb, 2 parts (both in
powder); treacle, q. s.; mix, and divide into 3-1/2-gr. pills——_Dose_, 1
to 3, an hour before dinner, to create an appetite and promote digestion.
2. (Radius.) Powdered capsicum, 20 gr.; extract of gentian, 1 dr.;
powdered gentian, q. s. to form a mass. For 60 pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4
pills, thrice daily; in chronic dyspepsia, especially in the loss of tone
of the stomach arising from intemperance.
=Pills of Carbolic Acid.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ACIDI CARBOLICI. _Prep._ Carbolic
acid, 3 drops; soap powder, ·60 gram; lycopodium, ·06 gram; powdered
tragacanth, q. s. For six pills. The two first ingredients form a
semi-fluid mass, which the lycopodium does not absorb, but which is
solidified by means of the tragacanth.
=Pills of Car′bonate of I′ron.= _Syn._ VALLET’S PILLS; PILULÆ FERRI
CARBONATIS (Ph. E), L. _Prep._ (B. P., Ph. E.) Saccharated carbonate of
iron, 4 parts; conserve of red roses, 1 part; mix, and divide the mass
into 5-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, or more; as a mild chalybeate and
antichlorotic. 5 to 20 gr., B. P. For another formula, see PILLS, BLAUD’S
(_above_).
=Pills, Carbonic Acid.= (Mr Morson). _Syn._ PILULÆ ACIDI CARBONICI.
_Prep._ Mix 1/2 dr. of bicarbonate of soda and 25 gr. of tartaric acid,
coarsely powdered, with the smallest possible quantity of syrup and
mucilage to form a mass. Divide into 12 pills.
=Pills, Catarrh′.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTICATARRHALES, L. _Prep._ 1. (Trousseau
and Reveil.) Turpentine, 4 dr.; ammoniacum, 1 dr.; balsam of tolu, 1/2
dr.; aqueous extract of opium, 5 gr.; liquorice powder, q. s.; mix, and
divide into 80 pills.——_Dose_, 5 or 6 daily; in chronic catarrh of the
bronchi and bladder.
2. (Trousseau & Reveil.) Alcoholic extract of aconite, 30 gr.; sulphuret
of calcium, 16 gr.; powdered sugar, q. s. For 24 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill,
three or four times daily; in chronic pulmonary catarrh.
=Pills, Cathar′tic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CATHARTICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr Collier.)
Calomel, 10 gr.; powdered jalap and prepared chalk, of each 1/2 dr.; oil
of caraway, 10 drops; syrup of buckthorn, to mix; divide into 5-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4.
2. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Scammony, 4 gr.; extract of taraxacum, 16 gr.;
divide into 6 pills.——_Dose_, 3 pills, twice daily; in hypochondriasis and
chronic inflammation of the liver.
3. (A. T. Thomson.) Calomel, 15 gr.; powdered jalap, 45 gr.; mucilage,
q. s. to mix. For 18 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, at night, to empty the
bowels, in bilious affections. Other formulæ for cathartic pills will be
found both _above_ and _below_.
=Pills, Cathartic (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ CATHARTICÆ COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. U. S.) Compound extract of colocynth, 4 dr.; powdered extract
of jalap and calomel, of each 3 dr.; powdered gamboge, 40 gr.; water,
q. s.; mix, and divide into 180 pills. An excellent purgative, especially
in bilious affections, dyspepsia, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills.
=Pills of Cetrarine.= (Dr Neligan.) _Syn._ PILULÆ CETRARINÆ. Cetrarine, 24
gr.; extract of calumba, 1/2 dr.; make into 12 pills; one every four hours
as a febrifuge.
=Pills, Chamberlain’s Restor′ative.= A nostrum composed of cinnabar and
milk of sulphur, equal parts; beaten up with conserve of hips.
=Pills of Cham′omile.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTHEMIDIS, P. FLORUM CHAMÆMELI, L.
_Prep._ Extract of gentian, 1 dr.; powdered aloes, 1/2 dr.; powdered
rhubarb, 20 gr.; oil of chamomile, 10 drops. A tonic and stomachic
aperient.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr. This forms the ‘chamomile pills’ of the
shops. They should be kept in a corked phial. (See _below_.)
=Pills of Chamomile (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTHEMIDIS COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ainslie.) Extract of chamomile, 1 dr.; assafœtida, 1/2 dr.;
powdered rhubarb, 20 gr.; divided into 30 or, better, 36 pills.——_Dose_,
1, as a dinner pill; or 2 to 3, twice a day, in flatulent dyspepsia.
2. (Beasley.) Aqueous extract of aloes, 12 gr.; extract of chamomile, 36
gr.; oil of chamomile, 3 drops. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 2 at night, or
twice a day; in dyspepsia, loss of appetite, &c. See PILLS, NORTON’S
CHAMOMILE.
=Pills, Chapman’s.= _Prep._ Mastic, 12 gr.; aloes, 16 gr.; rhubarb, 24 gr.
For 12 pills. An excellent stomachic aperient.——_Dose_, 2 to 4.
=Pills of Chiray′ta.= _Syn._ Dr REECE’S PILLS; PILULÆ CHIRAYTÆ, L. _Prep._
From chirayta, 2 dr.; dried carbonate of soda, 20 gr.; powdered ginger
(best), 15 gr.; divided into 36 pills.——_Dose_, 2, twice a day. In
acidity, flatulence, and dyspepsia, especially when complicated with gout
or debility.
=Pills of Cho′′ride of Ba′′rium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ BARII CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._
1. (Pierquin.) Chloride of barium, 1 dr.; resin of guaiacum, 4 dr.;
conserves of fumitory, q. s.; divided into 188 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill,
morning and evening, afterwards increased to 2; in tapeworm, and in the
rheumatism of scrofulous subjects.
2. (Walsh.) Chloride of barium, 15 gr.; powdered marshmallow or liquorice
root and mucilage of tragacanth, of each q. s. to make 200 pills.——_Dose_,
3, gradually increased to 10 or 12, daily; in cancer, scrofula, goitre,
syphilis, &c.
_Obs._ The above are very poisonous, and their exhibition demands great
caution.
=Pills of Chloride of Cal′cium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CALCII CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._
1. As the last.
2. (Gräfe.) Chloride of calcium, 1 dr.; extract of opium, 10 gr.;
mucilage, q. s. For 54 pills.——_Dose_, 1, every two or three hours,
gradually increased until 10, or even 12, are taken every hour; in
gonorrhœa, more especially when occurring in scrofulous subjects.
=Pills of Chloride of Gold.= _Syn._ PILULÆ AURI CHLORIDI L. _Prep._ From
terchloride of gold, 3 gr.; powdered liquorice, 1 dr.; syrup, q. s. For 48
pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, twice or thrice daily.
=Pills of Chloride of Gold and So′dium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ AURI ET SODI
CHLORIDI, P. A. SODIO-CHLORIDI, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.) Soda-chloride of
gold, 1 gr.; extract of mezereon, 2 dr.; divide into 60 pills.
=Pills of Chloride of Lime.= _Syn._ PILLS OF CHLORINATED LIME; PILULÆ
CALCIS HYPOCHLORITIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Chloride of lime, 12 gr.; starch
powder, 24 gr.; conserve of hips, q. s.; divide into 36 pills.
2. (Dr Copland.) Chloride of lime, 15 gr.; compound powder of tragacanth,
90 gr.; syrup, q. s. For 24 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, twice or thrice daily;
in various putrid affections, fevers, &c.
=Pills of Chloride of Mercury†.= Pills of calomel.
=Pills, Chol′era.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTICHOLERICÆ, E. _Prep._ 1. Powdered
camphor, 15 gr.; powdered capsicum (pure), 1/2 dr.; bicarbonate of soda, 1
dr.; conserve of roses, q. s. For 36 pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, every 15
minutes, washed down with a wine-glassful of cold water containing half a
teaspoonful of ether; repeated every 15 or 20 minutes until reaction
ensues. They should be freshly made.
2. (PILULA ANTICHOLERICA ARABICA.) _Prep._ Assafœtida, asclepias gigantea,
and opium, of each 1-1/2 gr. in each pill. One every half or three
quarters of an hour, broken down in a spoonful of brandy and water, till
the symptoms yield. After vomiting and purging have ceased, if prostration
and spasms are urgent, give 1/2 or 1/4 doses. Black pepper is substituted
for asclepias in this country.
3. (PILULÆ CAMBOGIÆ COMPOSITÆ. B. P.) _Prep._ Gamboge, aloes pods, and
compound cinnamon powder, of each 1 part; soap, 2 parts; syrup,
q. s.——_Dose_, 5 gr. to 10 gr.
=Pills of Ci′trate of I′ron and Quinine′.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI CITRATIS
CUM QUINA, L. _Prep._ From citrate of iron and quinine, 1 dr.; powdered
citric acid, 20 gr.; conserve of hips, q. s. For 36 pills. An excellent
tonic in debility, chlorosis, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, twice or thrice daily.
=Pills, Sir C. Clark’s.= See DINNER PILLS.
=Pills, Coindet’s.= See PILLS OF IODIDE OF MERCURY.
=Pills of Col′chicum.= See PILLS, GOUT.
=Pills of Col′ocynth.= _Syn._ PILULÆ È DUOBUS, P. EX COLOCYNTHIDE
SIMPLICIORES, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746.) Colocynth and scammony, of each 2
oz.; oil of cloves, 2 dr.; syrup of buckthorn, q. s. An active hydragogue
cathartic.——_Dose_, 2 to 12 gr.
=Pills of Colocynth (Compound).= _Syn._ PILL OF COCHIA; PILULÆ COCCIÆ,
PILULÆ COCHIÆ, PILULA COLOCYNTHIDIS COMPOSITA (B. P.), P. COLOCYNTHIDIS
COMPOSITÆ (Ph. L. & D.), P. COLOCYNTHIDIS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Extract of colocynth (simple), 1 dr.; powdered extract of aloes, 6 dr.;
powdered scammony, 2 dr.; powdered cardamoms, 1/2 dr.; soft soap (Ph. L.),
1-1/2 dr.; mix, and beat them altogether, so that a mass may be formed.
This is intended as a substitute for the compound extract of colocynth of
the Ph. L. 1836.
2. (Ph. E.) Socotrine or East Indian aloes and scammony, of each 8 parts;
sulphate of potassa, 1 part; beat them together; add of colocynth, in fine
powder, 4 parts; next add of oil of cloves, 1 part; and, with the aid of a
little rectified spirit, beat the whole to a mass and divide this into
5-gr. pills.
3. (Ph. D.) Colocynth pulp, scammony, and Castile soap, of each (in
powder) 1 oz.; hepatic aloes, 2 oz.; treacle, 10 dr.; oil of cloves, 1 fl.
dr.; mix, and beat them into a mass of uniform consistence.
4. (Ph. L. 1746.) Socotrine aloes and scammony, of each 2 oz.; pulp of
colocynth, 1 oz.; oil of cloves, 2 dr.; syrup of buckthorn, q. s. to form
a pill-mass. This is the original formulæ published by Galen for ‘pilulæ
cochiæ minores,’ and, under various slight modifications, it has continued
in use ever since.
5. Aloes, 1-1/2 lb.; colocynth, 3/4 lb.; jalap, 6 oz. (all in powder); oil
of cloves, 1-1/2 oz.; syrup or treacle, q. s. to mix. _Prod._ About 4-3/4
lbs. This forms the common ‘pil. cochiæ’ of the druggists. A few, more
conscientious than the rest, add to the above, scammony, 6 oz. It is
greatly inferior to the Ph. pill.
6. (B. P.) Colocynth, in powder, 1; Barbadoes aloes, in powder, 2;
scammony, in powder, 2; sulphate of potash, in powder, 1/4; oil of cloves,
1/4; distilled water, a sufficiency (about 1/4); mix. Dr Gregory’s
favourite pill.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
_Obs._ Compound colocynth pill is a cheap and excellent cathartic, more
powerful than the other officinal aloetic pills, and well adapted to cases
of habitual costiveness. It has long been extensively used by the poorer
classes, and in domestic medicine generally.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr.
=Pills of Colocynth and Hen′bane.= _Syn._ PILULÆ COLOCYNTHIDIS ET
HYOSCYAMI (B. P., Ph. E.), _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Colocynth pill-mass, 2
parts; extract of henbane, 1 part; beat them up with a few drops of
rectified spirit (if necessary), and divide them into 5-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills; as an anodyne purgative, in irritable
bowels.
2. (B. P.) Colocynth, in powder, 2; Barbadoes aloes, in powder, 2;
scammony, in powder, 2; sulphate of potash, in powder, 1/4; oil of
cloves, 1/4; extract of hyoscyamus, 3; distilled water, a sufficiency;
mix.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
=Pills of Copai′ba.= _Syn._ PILULÆ COPAIBÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. U. S.) Pure
balsam of copaiba, 2 oz.; recently prepared calcined magnesia, 1 dr.; mix
thoroughly, then set the mixture aside until it acquires a pillular
consistence, and lastly, divide it into 200 pills.
_Obs._ Unless the magnesia has been very recently calcined, the copaiba
hardens very slowly or not at all. It is said that “lime produces the
effect more completely and uniformly than magnesia,” and that “specimens
of copaiba which are old and contain the most resin harden quickest.”
(Redwood.) For present use, the quantity of magnesia may be at least
doubled. Dr Pereira orders copaiba, 1 oz.; magnesia, 5 or 6 dr.——_Dose_,
10 to 30 gr., frequently; in diseases of the mucous membranes of the
urinary organs. Cubebs are often added.
=Pills, Dr Copland’s.= See PILLS, APERIENT and PECTORAL.
=Pills of Corro′sive Sub′limate.= _Syn._ PILLS OF CHLORIDE OF MERCURY; P.
OF BICHLORIDE OF M. †, HOFFMAN’S P.; PILULÆ SUBLIMATIS CORROSIVI, P.
HYDRARGYRI BICHLORIDI†, P. MAJORES HOFFMANNI, L. _Prep._ 1. Corrosive
sublimate, 3 gr.; white sugar, 1/2 dr.; triturate together in a glass
mortar for some time, then add of powdered gum Arabic, 20 gr., and beat
the whole to a mass with dilute hydrochloric acid, q. s. For 36 pills,
each containing 1/12 gr. of corrosive sublimate.
2. (Brera.) Corrosive sublimate, 3 gr.; rectified spirit, the smallest
possible quantity to dissolve it; bread-crum, q. s. to form a mass. For 24
pills, each containing 1/8 gr. of the corrosive sublimate.
3. (Dr Paris.) Corrosive sublimate and sal-ammoniac, of each 5 gr.; water,
1/2 fl. dr.; triturate together until solution is complete, then add of
honey, 1/2 dr.; liquorice powder, 1 dr. (or q. s.), and divide into 40
pills. Each pill contains 1/8 gr. of corrosive sublimate.
4. (Ph. Hannov.) Corrosive sublimate, 15 gr.; distilled water, 1/4 fl.
dr.; crum of bread, q. s. to form a mass. For 120 pills, each containing
1/8 gr.
5. (PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI BICHLORIDI CUM GUAIACO. Dupuytren.) _Prep._
Perchloride of mercury in subtle powder, 3 gr.; extract of opium, 6 gr.;
extract of guaiacum, 12 gr. Make into 20 pills.
_Obs._ The above formulæ are among those most usually employed. Other
authorities order pills containing 1/16th of a gr. Dzondi orders 1/20 gr.,
and Hüfeland only 1/30 gr., in each pill. The commencing dose should not
exceed 1 pill containing the 1/12 of a grain, twice or thrice a day. It
may afterwards be safely kept at 1/8th of a grain. They are chiefly
employed in syphilis, but are also occasionally exhibited with great
advantage in glandular indurations and enlargements, and in cancer; due
caution being observed.
=Pills, Cough.= See PILLS, PECTORAL, EXPECTORANT, &c.
=Pills of Cre′asote.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CREASOTI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Pitschaft.)
Creasote, 6 gr.; powdered henbane, 24 gr.; conserve of hips, q. s. For 24
pills.——_Dose_, 1 three times daily; in sea-sickness, the vomiting during
pregnancy, &c.
2. (Rieche.) Creasote, 1 dr.; extract of liquorice and gum galbanum, of
each 1/2 dr.; powdered mallow-root, 2 dr.; to be divided into 2-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6, four times a day; in acute rheumatism, bronchitis,
neuralgia, phthisis, &c.
=Pills, Crespigny’s.= See PILLS, DINNER.
=Pills of Cro′ton Oil.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CROTONIS, P. TIGLII, L. _Prep._ 1.
Croton oil, 3 drops; oil of cloves, 4 drops; bread-crum, q. s. For 3
pills, one of which is a dose.
2. (Dr Copland.) Croton oil, 6 drops; pill of aloes and myrrh, 1-1/2 dr.;
soap, 20 gr.; liquorice powder, q. s. For 30 pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4.
3. (Dr Reece.) Croton oil, 6 drops; Castile soap, 1/2 dr.; oil of caraway,
8 drops; liquorice powder, q. s. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3. In dropsy,
visceral obstructions, &c. See CROTON OIL.
4. (With MERCURY——Dr Neligan.) Croton oil soap, 3 gr.; extract of henbane
and mercurial pill, of each 24 gr.; oil of pimento, 12 drops; divide into
12 pills.——_Dose_, 2 at bedtime. (See _above_.)
=Pills of Cy′anide of Mer′cury.= _Syn._ PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI CYANIDI, P. H.
CYANURETI, L. _Prep._ (Guibourt.) Cyanide of mercury, 6 gr.; opium, 12
gr.; bread-crum, 60 gr.; honey or syrup, q. s. For 96 pills.——_Dose_, 1
night and morning; in syphilis, chronic inflammation of the viscera, &c.
=Pills of Cyanide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ POTASSII CYANIDI, L.
_Prep._ (Golding Bird.) Cyanide of potassium, 2 gr.; arrowroot, 20 gr.;
simple syrup, q. s. For 18 pills.——_Dose_, 1, twice or thrice a day; as a
sedative in hysteria, gastrodynia, extreme nervous excitability, &c. See
DRAUGHT and MIXTURE, HYDROCYANIC.
=Pills of Dandeli′on.= See PILLS, TARAXACUM.
=Pills, De Haen’s.= _Prep._ (St Marie.) Gum ammoniacum and pill aloes with
myrrh, of each 1 dr.; extracts of hemlock and Castile soap, of each 1-1/2
dr. For 2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 daily; in painful or obstructed
menstruation, chlorosis, &c.
=Pills of Del′phine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DELPHINIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr Turnbull.)
Delphine, 1 gr.; extracts of henbane and liquorice, of each 12 gr. For 12
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, twice a day; in dropsy, gout, rheumatism, &c.,
instead of veratrine.
=Pills, Deobstruent.= (L. Ph., 1746.) _Syn._ PILULÆ ECPHRACTICA. _Prep._
Aromatic pill, 3 oz.; rhubarb, 1 oz.; extract of gentian, 1 oz.; sulphate
of iron, 1 oz.; carbonate of potash, 1/2 oz.; syrup of roses, q. s.
=Pills of Deuto-iodide (Biniodide) of Mercury.= _Syn._ PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI
DEUTO-IODIDI. (Magendie.) _Prep._ Deuto-iodide (biniodide) of Mercury,
7-1/2 gr.; extract of juniper, 75 gr.; powdered liquorice, q. s. for 100
pills.
=Pills, Diaphoret′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DIAPHORETICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
Antimonial powder, 1/2 dr.; opium, 10 gr.; calomel, 5 gr.; confection of
opium, q. s. to mix; divide into 10 pills.——_Dose_, 1 at bedtime; in
coughs and bronchial irritability, after an aperient.
2. Guaiacum, 19 gr.; emetic tartar and opium, of each 1 gr.; simple syrup,
q. s. to mix; divide into 3 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, in acute rheumatism,
&c.
3. Camphor and antimonial powder, of each 1/2 dr.; opium, 10 gr.; aromatic
confection, q. s. to mix. For 12 pills. In fevers, and in some spasmodic
diseases.——_Dose_, 1 pill.
4. Powdered guaiacum, 10 gr.; compound powder of ipecacuanha, 5 gr.;
confection of roses, q. s. to mix; for a dose. As a diaphoretic, in
inflammatory affections and rheumatism.
=Pills, Diarrhœ′a.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTIDIARRHŒALES, L. _Prep._ (Trousseau &
Reveil.) Soft extract of opium, 1-1/2 gr.; calomel and powdered
ipecacuanha, of each 3 gr.; conserve of hips, q. s.; divide into 10
pills.——_Dose_, 1, two or three times daily; in chronic and choleraic
diarrhœa.
=Pills, Diges′tive.= Under this head are generally classed all the
stomachic and milder aperient pills. See PILLS, BATH; PILLS, DINNER, &c.
=Pills of Digita′line.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DIGITALINÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
Digitaline, 1 gr.; powdered sugar, 1/2 dr.; thick mucilage, q. s. For 24
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 daily, watching the effects; as a sedative to
reduce the force of the circulation, in phthisis, enlargement of heart,
&c. See PILLS, FOXGLOVE.
=Pills, Din′ner.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DICTÆ ANTECIBUM, L.; GRAINS DE SANTÉ, Fr.
_Prep._ 1. Aloes, 1 dr.; rhubarb and extract of gentian, of each 1/2 dr.;
ipecacuanha and capsicum, of each 12 gr.; syrup of ginger, q. s. to mix.
For 3-1/2-gr. pills.
2. (Dr Baillie’s.) See _above_.
3. (BATH DIGESTIVE PILLS.) See _above_.
4. (PILLS OF ALOES AND MASTIC; LADY CRESPIGNY’S PILLS, LADY HESKETH’S P.,
LADY WEBSTER’S P., DIGESTIVE P., STOMACH P., PILULÆ ALOËS ET MASTICHES, P.
A. CUM MASTICHE, P. STOMACHICÆ MESUES; GRAINS DE VIE, GRAINS DE MESUES.)
From aloes (powdered), 6 dr.; powdered mastic and petals of red roses, of
each 2 dr.; syrup of wormwood, q. s. to form a pill-mass. For 3-gr. pills.
In small doses they excite the appetite; in larger ones they produce a
bulky and copious evacuation. This is the formula of the old Paris Codex.
Rhubarb is now frequently substituted for the rose petals.
5. (Sir C. Bell’s.) From sulphate of quinine, 4 gr.; mastic, 6 gr.;
rhubarb, 50 gr.; syrup of orange peel, q. s. to mix. For 12 or,
preferably, 18 pills.
6. (Sir Chas. Clarke’s.) From extract of chamomile, 1/2 dr.; myrrh and
rhubarb (in powder), of each 20 gr.; powdered Socotrine aloes, 10 gr.; oil
of chamomile, 8 drops; mucilage, q. s. to form 20 pills. “These pills,
which were originally prescribed by Sir Chas. Clarke, are much used in
London.” (Redwood.)
7. (Frank’s.) From aloes and jalap, of each 4 parts; rhubarb, 1 part;
syrup of wormwood, q. s. For 3-gr. pills.
8. (P. Cod.) Aloes, 6 dr.; extract of cinchona bark, 3 dr.; cinnamon, 1
dr.; syrup of wormwood, q. s.
The dose of the above is 3 to 5 gr., about an hour before dinner, to
promote the appetite; or, as a purgative, 10 to 15 gr.
=Pills, Diuret′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DIURETICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. From powdered
foxglove, 12 gr.; calomel, powdered squills, and opium, of each 4 gr.;
conserve of hips, q. s. For 12 pills.
2. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Mercurial pill, 1 dr.; powdered squills, 20 gr.;
confection of roses, q. s.; divided into 20 pills. The dose of either of
the above is 1 pill, twice or thrice daily; in dropsy, &c.
=Pills, Dixon’s.= According to Dr Paris these pills consist of aloes,
scammony, rhubarb, and a little tartar emetic, beaten up with syrup. “The
following formula produces a pill precisely similar to this nostrum:——Take
of compound extract of colocynth (Ph. L. 1836), 4 dr.; powdered rhubarb, 2
dr.; potassio-tartrate of antimony, 8 gr.; syrup of buckthorn, q. s.; mix,
and divide into 120 pills. Aperient and diaphoretic.——_Dose_, 2 or 3, at
bedtime.” (Cooley.) Although a nostrum it is really an excellent medicine,
adapted for numerous cases.
=Pills, Duchesne’s.= _Prep._ From aloes and gum ammoniacum, of each 30
gr.; mastic and myrrh, 10 gr.; carbonate of potassa and saffron, of each 3
gr.; syrup, q. s. In the dyspepsia of hysterical patients, in engorgements
of the abdominal viscera, following intermittent fevers, &c.
=Pills, Dys′entery.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DYSENTERICÆ, L. _Prep._ Pure alumina
and tannic acid, of each 20 gr.; antimonial powder, 15 gr.; castor oil,
1/2 dr.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; frequently.
=Pills of Elate′rium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ELATERII, L. _Prep._ (Radius.)
Elaterium, 6 gr.; extract of gentian and Castile soap, of each 9 gr.; mix,
and divide in 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4; in obstinate constipation, and as
a purge in dropsy, &c.
=Pills, Emet′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ EMETICÆ, P. CUPRI SULPHATIS COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ (Swediaur.) Sulphate of copper and ipecacuanha equal parts; syrup
or conserve of roses, q. s. For 5-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, repeated
every 15 minutes, until vomiting comes on. See EMETICS.
=Pills, Epilep′sy.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTEPILEPTICÆ, P. AD EPILEPSIAM, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Griffith.) Powdered indigo, 75 gr.; assafœtida, 15 gr.;
Russian castor, 7 gr.; mix, and divide the mass into 20 pills.——_Dose_, 1
every hour.
2. (Récamier.) Oxide of iron, 9 gr.; camphor and extract of belladonna, of
each 6 gr. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, every 3 or 4 hours.
=Pills, Er′got of Rye.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ERGOTÆ, P. SECALIS CORNUTI, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Dewees.) Powdered ergot, 1/2 dr.; extract of gentian, 1 dr.;
divide into 15 pills. In obstructed and painful menstruation, hæmorrhages,
&c.——_Dose_, 1 pill, thrice daily.
2. (Lallemande.) Aloes, ergot, and rue, of each 8 gr.; for 12 pills. As
the last.
=Pills of Er′gotine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ERGOTINÆ, L. _Prep._ (Bonjean.)
Ergotine (Bonjean’s), 24 gr.; liquorice powder, 40 gr.; syrup, q. s. For
24 pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 daily; as an internal hæmostatic, &c.
=Pills, Everlast′ing.= _Syn._ PERPETUAL PILLS; PILULÆ ÆTERNÆ:, P.
PERPETUÆ, L. Small spheres of metallic antimony. They possess the property
of purging as often as swallowed, but have now long fallen into disuse.
=Pills, Expec′torant.= _Syn._ PILULÆ EXPECTORANTES, L. _Prep._ 1. Myrrh,
1-1/2 dr.; powdered squills, 1/2 dr.; extract of henbane, 2 dr.; syrup,
q. s.; divide into 30 pills.——_Dose_, 2, night and morning.
2. (A. T. Thomson.) Powdered squills and extract of hemlock, of each 1/2
dr.; ammoniacum, 1-1/2 dr.; divide into 30 pills.——_Dose_, 2 twice or
thrice a day. In chronic coughs, asthma, &c., after an aperient. See
PILLS, PECTORAL, &c.
=Pills of Extract of Walnut Leaves.= (Negrier.) _Syn._ PILULÆ JUGLANDIS.
_Prep._ Extract of walnut leaves, 1 dr.; powdered walnut leaves,
sufficient to form a mass; to be divided into 20 pills, 2 or 3 to be taken
in the day.
=Pills, Family Antibil′ious.= _Syn._ ALOE PILLS; ALOËS ROSATA, PILULÆ
ALOËS ROSATÆ, L. _Prep._ Socotrine or hepatic aloes, 3 oz.; juice of
roses, 1 pint; dissolve by heat, strain through a piece of coarse flannel,
evaporate to a proper consistence, and form it into pills. Purgative, in
doses of 5 to 15 gr.
=Pills, Fe′ver.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FEBRIFUGÆ, L. Of these the principal are
those containing antimonials, bark, quinine, and salicine (which _see_).
=Pills, Fordyce’s.= An active purgative, closely resembling in composition
the compound gamboge pill of the Ph. L.
=Pills, Dr Fothergill’s.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Aloes, 4 dr.; extract of
colocynth and scammony, of each 1 dr.; diaphoretic antimony, 30 gr.;
syrup, q. s. For 3-1/2-gr. pills. A diaphoretic aperient.——_Dose_, 1 to 4
pills at bedtime.
=Pills of Fox′glove and Hen′bane.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DIGITALIS ET HYOSCYAMI,
L. _Prep._ (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Powdered foxglove, 4 gr.; powdered camphor,
12 gr.; extract of henbane, 18 gr. For 6 pills——_Dose_, 1 or 2 at bedtime;
as a sedative in maniacal and spasmodic affections, &c.
=Pills of Fox′glove and Squills.= _Syn._ PILULÆ DIGITALIS ET SCILLÆ (Ph.
E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Powdered foxglove and squills, of each 1 part;
aromatic electuary (Ph. E.), 2 parts; conserve of red roses, q. s.; divide
into 4-gr. pills. A valuable diuretic in dropsies.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 pills.
=Pills, Frankfort.= These are the Pilules Angeliques noticed among PATENT
MEDICINES, formed into 2-gr. pills, and silvered.
=Pills, Franks’.= See PILLS, DINNER.
=Pills of Fuligoka′li.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FULIGOKALI, L. _Prep._ (Deschamps.)
Fuligokali, 5 dr.; starch, 2-1/2 dr.; powdered tragacanth, 10 gr.; syrup,
q. s. For 100 pills, which must be covered with 2 or 3 coats of gum, and
preserved from the air. The pills of sulphuretted fuligokal (Pilulæ
Fuligokali Sulphurati) are prepared in a similar manner.
=Pills, Fuller’s.= _Syn._ BENNET PILLS; PILULÆ BENEDICTÆ, L. _Prep._
(Cooley.) Aloes and sulphate of iron, of each 1/2 dr.; myrrh and senna, of
each 20 gr.; assafœtida and galbanum, of each 10 gr.; mace and saffron, of
each 6 gr.; syrup, q. s.; mix and divide into 4-gr. pills. Antispasmodic,
emmenagogue, and tonic, and slightly aperient.——_Dose_, 1 to 4, according
to the object in view.
=Pills, Gairthorn’s Mild Provi′′sional.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Compound
gamboge pill, 60 gr.; aqueous extract of aloes, 40 gr.; sulphate of
potassa and extract of senna, 30 gr.; compound scammony powder, 15 gr.;
balsam of Peru, 6 or 8 gr.; emetic tartar, 3 gr.; mix, and divide into 36
pills. Purgative.——_Dose_, 1, 2, or more, when required.
=Pills of Gal′banum (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULA GALBANI COMPOSITA (Ph. L.),
PILULÆ G. COMPOSITÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Myrrh and prepared sagapenum,
of each 3 dr.; prepared galbanum and soft soap, of each 2 dr.; prepared
assafœtida, 1 dr.; treacle, q. s. to form a pill-mass.
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) As the last, omitting the soap.
3. (Ph. D. 1826.) As the Ph. L., except that treacle is substituted for
syrup.
_Obs._ These pills are stimulant, expectorant, antispasmodic, and
emmenagogue.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr.; in hysteria, chronic coughs,
chlorosis, amenorrhœa, &c.
=Pills of Galbanum with Iron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ GALBANI CUM FERRO, L. _Prep._
(Guy’s Hosp.) Compound galbanum pill, 2 parts; precipitated sesquioxide of
iron, 1 part; water, q. s. to form a mass. For 4-1/2-gr. pills. An
excellent tonic emmenagogue.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr.; in chlorosis,
amenorrhœa, &c., when chalybeates are not contra-indicated.
=Pills of Gam′boge (Compound).= _Syn._ GAMBOGE PILLS, FORDYCE’S P.; PILULÆ
CAMBOGIÆ COMPOSITA (PH. L.), P. CAMBOGIÆ. (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Powdered Socotrine or hepatic aloes, 3 dr.; powdered gamboge, 2 dr.;
powdered ginger, 1 dr.; soft soap (Ph. L.), 4 dr.; mix, and beat them to a
pill-mass. The formulæ of the Ph. L. 1836 and Ph. D. 1826 are precisely
similar.
2. (Ph. E.) Gamboge, East Indian or Barbadoes aloes, and aromatic powder,
of each (in powder) 1 part; Castile soap, 2 parts; syrup, q. s.
_Obs._ All the above are active cathartics.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr., at
bedtime; in obstinate constipation, &c.
=Pills of Gen′tian (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ GENTIANÆ COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ (W. Cooley.) Extract of gentian, 1 dr.; powdered rhubarb and
cardamoms, of each 1/2 dr.; ipecacuanha, 12 gr. For 3-gr. pills.
Stomachic.——_Dose_, 2 or 3, twice or thrice daily, to improve the appetite
and digestion.
=Pills, Gout.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTARTHRITICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Bouchardat.)
Extract of colchicum and compound extract of colocynth, of each 1 dr.;
aqueous extract of opium, 3 gr.; mix, and divide into 3-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 1 or 2, according to their purgative action, as required.
2. (Sir H. Halford’s.) From acetic extract of colchicum, 1/2 dr.; Dover’s
powder and compound extract of colocynth, of each 18 gr. For 12
pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill.
3. (Lartigue’s.) From compound extract of colocynth, 20 gr.; alcoholic
extract of colchicum seeds and alcoholic extract of digitalis, of each 1
gr. For 2-gr. pills.——_Dose, &c._ As the last.
4. (St George’s Hosp.) Acetic extract of colchicum, 12 gr.; Dover’s
powder, 30 gr. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 2 pills.
5. (Sir C. Scudamore’s.) From acetic extract of colchicum, 1 dr.; powdered
marshmallow root, q. s. to form a mass. For 40 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, or
more, with caution, as required.
6. (Trousseau & Reveil.) Powdered colchicum seeds, 1/2 dr.; powdered
digitalis and sulphate of quinine, of each 15 gr.; calomel and extract of
colocynth, of each 8 gr.; syrup, q. s. For 20 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4,
during the day, at the commencement of an attack of gout. Other formulæ
for gout pills will be found under the respective names.
=Pills, Dr Griffith’s.= Powdered rhubarb, 1-1/2 dr.; sulphate of iron, 1/2
dr.; Castile soap, 40 gr.; water, q. s. to form a mass. For 48 pills. An
excellent remedy in costiveness, with loss of tone of the bowels.——_Dose_,
2 to 4, at bedtime.
=Pills, of Gu′aiacum (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ GUAIACI COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ 1. Powdered resin of guaiacum, 1 dr.; oxysulphide of antimony, 40
gr.; oil of cajeput, 12 drops; extract of gentian, q. s. to form a mass.
For 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6, thrice daily; in gout, rheumatism,
secondary syphilis, various obstinate cutaneous affections, &c.
2. (St B. Hosp.) Guaiacum, 30 gr.; ipecacuanha and opium, of each 3 gr.;
syrup, q. s. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3. As the last.
=Pills, Halford’s.= See PILLS, GOUT.
=Pills, Dr Hamilton’s.= The same as the colocynth and henbane pill of the
Ph. E. The compound pills of gamboge, now vended under the title of
‘MORISON’S NO. 2 PILLS,’ were long known in Scotland as Dr Hamilton’s
Pills.
=Pills, Head′ache.= _Syn._ CEPHALIC PILLS; PILULÆ CEPHALICÆ, P.
ANTICEPHALALGICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Caffeine, 15 gr.; aloes, 20 gr.; conserve
of hips, q. s. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, occasionally; when only one side of
the head is affected.
2. (Broussais.) Extract of opium, 6 gr.; extracts of belladonna and
henbane, of each 15 gr.; extract of lettuce, 30 gr.; butter of cacao, 4
dr. For 120 pills.——_Dose_, 1, twice or thrice daily; in headache,
accompanying spasmodic affections, &c.
3. (Dr Wilson Philip.) Powdered nutmeg and rhubarb, of each 20 gr.;
extract of chamomile, 20 gr.; oil of peppermint, 10 or 12 drops. For 30
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, thrice daily; in nervous headaches.
=Pills, Helvetius’s.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ALUMINIS HELVETII, L. _Prep._ Alum, 2
dr.; dragon’s blood, 1 dr.; honey of roses, to mix. For 48 pills.
Astringent.
=Pills of Hem′lock (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ CONII COMPOSITA (B. P., Ph.
L.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Extract of hemlock, 5 dr.; powdered ipecacuanha,
1 dr.; treacle, q. s. Antispasmodic, expectorant, and narcotic.——_Dose_, 4
to 8 gr. (B. P. 5 to 10 gr.), twice or thrice daily; in hooping-cough,
bronchitis, incipient phthisis, &c.
=Pills of Henbane (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ HYOSCYAMI ET ZINCI, L.;
PILULES DE MEGLIN, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Extracts of henbane and Valerian,
and oxide of zinc, equal parts. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 10; as an
anodyne or sedative in neuralgia, nervous attacks, &c.
=Pills, Lady Hesketh’s.= See PILLS, DINNER.
=Pills, Hoffmann’s.= See PILLS OF CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE.
=Pills, Holloway’s.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=Pills, Hooper’s Female.= _Prep._ 1. (Gray.) Sulphate of iron and water,
of each 8 oz.; dissolve, add, Barbadoes aloes, 2-1/2 lbs.; white canella,
6 oz.; myrrh, 2 oz.; opopanax, 1 oz.
2. (Phil. Coll. of Pharm.) Barbadoes aloes, 8 oz.; dried sulphate of iron,
2-1/4 oz.; myrrh, extract of black hellebore, and Castile soap, of each 2
oz.; canella and ginger, of each 1 oz.; water, q. s.; divide the mass into
2-1/2- or 3-gr. pills, and put 40 in each box. Cathartic and
emmenagogue.——_Dose_, 2, or more. “If we omit the soap, lessen the
quantity of extract of hellebore, and increase that of the aloes, we think
the form will be nearer that of the original.” (Cooley.)
=Pills of Hound’s-tongue.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PILULÆ CUM CYNOGLOSSÔ. _Prep._
Root-bark of hound’s-tongue, 4 dr.; henbane seeds, 4 dr.; extract of
opium, 4 dr.; myrrh, 6 dr.; olibanum, 4 dr. and 48 gr.; saffron, 96 gr.;
castor, 96 gr.; syrup of honey, 14 dr. Mix. Contains 1 gr. of extract of
opium in 10 gr. The original form of NICOLANS contained styrax, and seems
to have been the origin of the compound styrax pill, as well as of this
compound.
=Pills, Humphrey’s.= See PILLS, PECTORAL.
=Pills, Hunter’s.= See PILLS, RENAL.
=Pills, Hydragogue.= See BONTIUS’S PILLS, &c.
=Pills, Hydropho′bia.= _Syn._ PILULÆ AD RABIEM, L. _Prep._ (Werlhoff.)
Cantharides (in very fine powder), 2 gr.; belladonna and calomel, of each
4 gr.; camphor, 8 gr.; mucilage, q. s. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 3,
twice daily.
=Pills of Iatropha.= (Dr Barham.) _Syn._ PILULÆ IATROPHÆ. _Prep._
Decorticated seeds of _Jatropha gossypifoli_, 3 dr.; gamboge, extract of
colocynth and scammony, of each 1 dr. Make into 90 pills.——_Dose_, 1, 2,
or more.
=Pills of In′dian Hemp.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CANNABIS INDICÆ, L. _Prep._ From
alcoholic extract of Indian hemp, 1/2 dr.; sugar of milk, 1 dr.; mucilage,
q. s. For 48 pills. An excellent pill for soothing pain and quieting the
system, acting without causing headache or constipation of the
bowels.——_Dose_, 1 pill, increased to 2 or more, as necessary.
=Pills of In′digo.= See PILLS, EPILEPSY.
=Pills of I′odide of Arsenic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ARSENICI IODIDI, L. _Prep._
1. (Dr Neligan.) Iodide of arsenic, 2 gr.; manna, 40 gr.; mucilage, q. s.;
mix, and divide into 12 pills.
2. (Gardner.) Iodide of arsenic, 1 gr.; extract of hemlock, 20 gr. For 20
pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, twice or thrice daily; in lepra, psoriasis, and
some other scaly skin diseases.
=Pills of Iodide of Iron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI IODIDI, L. _Prep._ 1.
Unoxidised iron filings (recently levigated), 20 gr.; iodine, 40 gr.;
distilled water, 1/2 dr.; mix in a cold wedgwood-ware mortar, and
triturate them together until the red colour of the mixture has entirely
disappeared; then add, of powdered gum, 20 gr.; powdered sugar, 1 dr.;
liquorice powder, q. s. to form a mass, and divide it into 48 pills. Each
pill contains 1 gr. of dry iodide of iron.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 pills, twice or
thrice a day.
2. (B. P.) Fine iron wire, 40 gr.; iodine, 80 gr.; refined sugar, in
powder, 70 gr.; liquorice root, in powder, 140 gr.; distilled water, 50
minims. Agitate the iron with the iodine and the water in a strong
stoppered ounce phial until the froth becomes white. Pour the fluid upon
the sugar in a mortar, triturate briskly, and gradually add the
liquorice.——_Dose_, 3 to 8 gr.
3. (Ph. U. S.) Protosulphate of iron, 60 gr.; iodide of potassium, 80 gr.
(both in fine powder); mix, add of powdered tragacanth, 10 gr.; powdered
sugar, 30 gr.; and form the whole into a mass with syrup, q. s. For 40
pills. Each pill contains nearly 2 gr. of the dry iodide, or about 2-1/2
gr. of the common hydrated iodide of the shops.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, as the
last.
_Obs._ The above pills are reputed alterative, tonic, and emmenagogue, and
are found peculiarly useful in indurations, scrofula, chlorosis,
leucorrhœa, &c., when the administration of chalybeates is not
contra-indicated.
=Pills of Iodide of Lead.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PLUMBI IODIDI, L. _Prep._ From
iodide of lead, 15 gr.; powdered sugar, 1-1/2 dr.; mucilage, q. s. For 60
pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, gradually increased to 3, or more, twice a day; in
scrofula, scirrhus, &c.
=Pills of Iodide of Mer′cury.= _Syn._ PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI IODIDI, L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. L. 1836.) Green iodide of mercury and powdered ginger, of each 1
dr.; conserve of hips, 3 dr.——_Dose_, 2 to 5 gr., twice or thrice daily,
as an alterative in scrofula and scrofulous syphilis, &c.
2. (COINDET’S PILLS.) From green iodide of mercury, 1 gr.; extract of
liquorice, 20 gr.; mix, and divide into 8 pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, as the
last. Pills of red iodide of mercury are made in the same way, but, owing
to its greater activity, only one fourth of the above quantity of iodide
must enter into their composition.
=Pills of Iodide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ POTASSII IODIDI, L. _Prep._
1. Iodide of potassium and powdered starch, of each 1/2 dr.; conserve of
hips, q. s. For 36 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 6, thrice daily; in glandular
indurations and enlargements, goiture, scrofula, &c.
2. (Vogt.) Iodide of potassium, 15 gr.; burnt sponge and extract of
dulcamara, of each 5 dr.; water, q. s. For 180 pills.——_Dose_, 4 to 6,
twice a day, as the last.
=Pills of I′odine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ IODINII, L. _Prep._ (Radius.) Iodine, 6
gr.; extract of gentian, 1 dr.; powdered gum, q. s. For 24 pills.——_Dose_,
1 to 3; in scrofula, &c.; also, in mercurial and scorbutic salivation.
=Pills of Iodide of Silver.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ARGENTI IODIDI. (Dr Patterson.)
_Prep._ Iodide of silver, nitrate of potash, of each 10 gr., rub together
into a very fine powder, and add, liquorice powder, 1/2 dr.; white sugar,
20 gr.; mucilage, q. s.; to form a mass, to be divided into 40 pills; 1
three times a day.
=Pills of Iod′oform.= _Syn._ PILULÆ IODOFORMI, L. _Prep._ (Bouchardat.)
Iodoform, 1/2 dr.; extract of wormwood (or gentian), 1 dr.; mix, and
divide into 36 pills.——_Dose_, 1, twice or thrice daily; in scrofula, &c.
=Pills of Ipecac′uanha (Compound).= _Syn._ PILLS OF IPECACUANHA WITH
SQUILLS, P. OF I. AND OPIUM; PILULÆ IPECACUANHA CUM SCILLÂ (Ph. L.), P.
IPECACUANHÆ ET OPII (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Compound powder of
ipecacuanha (Dover’s powder), 3 dr.; powdered ammoniacum and squills
(freshly powdered), of each 1 dr.; treacle, q. s. to form a pill-mass.
Anodyne, sudorific, and expectorant.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; in chronic
coughs and asthma, &c.
2. (Ph. E.) Dover’s powder, 3 parts; conserve of red roses, 1 part; mix,
and divide into 4-gr. pills. Resembles Dover’s powder in its effects. It
is hence regarded by many as a useless preparation.
3. (B. P.) PILULA IPECACUANHÆ CUM SCILLÂ. _Prep._ Compound ipecacuanha
powder, 3 oz.; fresh-dried squill, 1 oz.; ammoniacum in powder, 1 oz.;
treacle, q. s. Beat all together.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
=Pills of I′ron (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI COMPOSITA (Ph. L.), P. F.
CUM MYRRHÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Myrrh (in powder), 2 dr.; carbonate of
soda, 1 dr.; rub them together in a warm mortar, then add of sulphate of
iron, 1 dr., and again triturate; lastly, add of treacle, 1 dr., and beat
all together, to form a pill mass. An excellent mild chalybeate tonic and
emmenagogue, similar in its properties to ‘Griffith’s Mixture,’——_Dose_, 5
to 15 gr., two or three times a day.
=Pills, Italian Black.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ITALICÆ NIGRÆ, P. ALOETICÆ FERRATÆ,
L. _Prep._ (Ph. Bor.) Powdered aloes and dried sulphate of iron, equal
parts; beaten up with rectified spirit, q. s., and divided into 2- or
2-1/2-gr. pills. See PILLS OF ALOES AND IRON.
=Pills of Jal′ap.= _Syn._ PILULÆ JALAPÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E. 1783.)
Extract of jalap, 2 dr.; aromatic powder, 1 dr.; syrup, q. s.
2. (Ph. Bor.) Soap of jalap, 3 parts; powdered jalap, 1 part; beat them to
a pill-mass.——_Dose_ (of either), 10 to 15 gr.
=Pills, James’s Analep′tic.= _Prep._ 1. Antimonial powder, guaiacum, and
pill of aloes with myrrh, equal parts; syrup, q. s.
2. (Cooley.) Antimonial powder (James’s), pill aloes with myrrh, and
compound aloes powder, of each 2 parts; powdered ammoniacum, 1 part;
beaten up with tincture of castor, q. s., and divided into 3-1/2-gr.
pills. A diaphoretic purge.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 pills.
=Pills, Dr J. Johnson’s.= _Prep._ From compound extract of colocynth, 2
dr.; calomel, 1/2 dr.; potassio-tartrate of antimony, 2 gr.; oil of
cassia, 12 drops. For 4 dozen pills. An excellent alterative and
diaphoretic aperient.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills.
=Pills, Kaye’s.= See PILLS, WORSDELL’S.
=Pills, Keyser’s.= _Prep._ (Guibourt.) Red oxide of mercury, 1-1/2 oz.;
distilled vinegar (dilute acetic acid), 1 pint; dissolve, add to the
resulting solution manna, 2 lbs., and triturate for a long time before the
fire, until a proper consistence is attained; lastly, divide the mass into
pills of 1-1/2 gr. each.
_Obs._ Keyser’s pills were once celebrated throughout Europe as a remedy
possessing extraordinary virtue, and so highly were they prized that the
method of preparing them was purchased by the French Government for the
benefit of the nation. Richard, who first published a full account of
them, concludes by observing that he considers this compound to be,
without exception, the most effectual remedy for syphilis hitherto
discovered. In this country, however, it has long sunk into comparative
disuse with the faculty; probably from pills of acetate of suboxide of
mercury being erroneously employed under the name, whereas, according to
Robiquet, acetate of protoxide of mercury (called by him the ‘peroxide’)
forms the basis of the original preparation. The dose is 1 to 2, night and
morning, as an alterative; and 2 to 6, twice a day, as a sialogogue.
=Pills, King’s.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=Pills, Kitchener’s.= _Syn._ Dr KITCHENER’S PERISTALTIC PERSUADERS; PILULÆ
RHÆI ET CARUI, L. _Prep._ From powdered Turkey rhubarb, 2 dr.; simple
syrup, 1 dr.; oil of caraway, 10 or 12 drops. For 40 pills. An admirable
stomachic, dinner, or laxative pill, according to the quantity
taken.——_Dose_, 2 to 6. “From 2 to 4 will generally produce one additional
motion within 12 hours. The best time to take them is early in the
morning.”
=Pills, Klein’s.= _Prep._ From ammoniacum and extract of centaury, of each
1-2 dr.; Castile soap, 1 dr.; oil of amber, 3 drops. For 2-gr. pills.
Stomachic, emmenagogue, and pectoral.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 pills.
=Pills of Lac′tate of Iron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI LACTATIS, L. _Prep._
(Cap.) Lactate of protoxide of iron and powdered marshmallow root, equal
parts; clarified honey, q. s. For 3-gr. pills. One of the most valuable of
the chalybeates.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, three or four times a day.
=Pills of Lactuca′′rium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ LACTUCARII, L. _Prep._ 1. (Brera.)
Lactucarium, 18 gr.; conserve of elder-berries and extract of liquorice,
of each q. s. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 pills, every three or four
hours; in dry asthma, obstinate coughs without expectoration, &c.
2. (Dr Duncan.) Lactucarium, 12 gr.; liquorice powder, 20 gr.; simple
syrup, q. s. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 pills, every hour, as an
anodyne, or to induce sleep.
=Pills, Lartigue’s.= See PILLS, GOUT.
=Pills of Lead.= _Prep._ 1. See PILLS OF ACETATE OF LEAD.
2. (Opiated; PILULÆ PLUMBI OPIATÆ——Ph. E.; PILULA PLUMBI CUM OPIO——B. P.)
Acetate of lead, 6 parts; opium, 1 part; conserve of red roses, about 1
part; beat them to a proper mass, and divide this into 4-gr. pills. “This
pill may also be made with twice the quantity of opium.” In hæmorrhages,
obstinate diarrhœa, dysentery, spitting of blood, and other cases
demanding the use of a powerful astringent. It has also been highly
extolled in cholera.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills, twice or thrice daily, washed
down with water soured with pure vinegar.
=Pills, Lee’s Antibil′ious.= _Prep._ (‘Amer. Journ. of Pharm.’) Aloes, 12
oz.; scammony, 6 oz.; calomel, 5 oz.; gamboge, 4 oz.; jalap, 3 oz.;
Castile soap and syrup of buckthorn, of each 1 oz.; mucilage, 7 oz.; beat
them together, and divide the mass into 5-gr. pills. A powerful cathartic,
and, from containing mercury, not adapted for frequent use. See WYNDHAM’S
PILLS.
=Pills, Lewis’s Al′terative and Liver.= These “for the most part resemble
SCOTT’S BILIOUS AND LIVER PILLS. They are, however, of a more drastic and
powerful character, and frequently operate with considerable violence.”
=Pills, Lockstadt’s.= _Prep._ (Phœbus.) Sulphate of quinine, 3 gr.;
aromatic powder, 10 gr.; essential oil of almonds, 1 drop; extract of
gentian, q. s. For 10 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, thrice daily, as a stomachic
tonic; or the whole at once, before an expected attack of an ague or
intermittent.
=Pills, Lockyer’s.= _Prep._ From panacea of antimony, 6 gr.; powdered
white sugar, 4 dr.; mucilage, q. s. For 48 pills. Cathartic and
emetic.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 pills.
=Pills of Lupulin.= (Magendie.) _Syn._ PILULÆ LUPULINI. _Prep._ The powder
triturated forms a sufficiently tenacious mass for pills, without any
addition.
=Pills, Dr Lynn’s.= _Prep._ From pill of aloes with myrrh and compound
extract of colocynth, of each 1 dr.; calomel, 1/2 dr. For 4 dozen pills.
Aperient and antibilious.——_Dose_, 1 to 3; in costiveness, biliousness,
&c.
=Pills of Manganese, Carbonate.= (Hannon.) _Syn._ PILULÆ MANGANESII
CARBONATIS. _Prep._ Dissolve separately, 17 oz. of crystallised sulphate
of manganese, and 19 oz. carbonate of soda, in water, q. s. Mix the
solutions and add to every 17 oz. of the liquid, 1 oz. of syrup, and allow
the precipitate to subside in a well-closed bottle. Pour off the
supernatant liquid, wash the precipitate with sugared water, express, mix
it with 10 oz. of honey, and evaporate rapidly to a pill
consistence.——_Dose_, from 4 to 10 4-grain pills daily, in anæmia,
chlorosis, &c.
=Pills of Manganese, Iodide.= (Hannon.) _Syn._ PILULÆ MANGANESII IODIDI.
_Prep._ Iodide of potassium, 1 oz.; dried sulphate of manganese, 1 oz.;
mix with honey, q. s. to form a pill mass; divide into 4-gr.
pills.——_Dose._ From 1 pill daily, gradually increased.
=Pills of Manganese, Malate.= (Hannon.) _Syn._ PILULÆ MANGANESII MALATIS.
Malate of manganese, 15 gr.; powdered cinchona bark, 15 gr.; honey, q. s.
for 20 pills. 3 to 5 or 6 daily.
=Pills of Manganese, Muriate.= (Niemann.) _Syn._ PILULÆ MANGANESII
MURIATIS. _Prep._ Chloride of manganese, 2 scruples; gum Arabic, 2
scruples; liquorice, 1 scruple. Mix.
=Pills of Manganese, Phosphate.= (Hannon.) _Syn._ PILULÆ MANGANESII
PHOSPHATIS. _Prep._ Phosphate of manganese, 1-1/2 dr.; cinchona bark, 1/2
dr.; syrup of catechu, q. s. Make into 4-gr. pills.
=Pills of Manganese, Tartrate.= _Syn._ PILULÆ MANGANESII TARTRATIS. As
Pills of Malate Manganese.
=Pills of Manganese and Sulphate of Iron.= (Hannon.) _Syn._ PILULÆ
MANGANESII ET FERRI SULPHATIS. _Prep._ Sulphate of iron, 13 oz.; sulphate
of manganese, 3-1/2 oz.; carbonate of soda, 17-1/2 oz.; honey, 10 oz.;
syrup, q. s. to make a mass to be divided into 4-gr. pills.
=Pills, Mar′tial.= _Syn._ PILLS OF IRON AND WORMWOOD; PILULÆ FERRI CUM
ABSINTHIO, P. MARTIALES, L. _Prep._ (Sydenham.) Levigated iron-filings, 1
dr.; extract of wormwood, q. s. Tonic and hæmatinic.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.,
twice a day.
=Pills, Matthew’s.= _Syn._ PILULÆ MATTHÆI, P. PACIFICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr
Paris.) Black hellebore, Castile soap, liquorice, opium, saffron, and
turmeric, equal parts; made into pills with oil of turpentine.
2. (Ph. E. 1744.) Opium and saffron, of each 1 dr.; castor, 2 dr.; soap of
turpentine, 3 dr.; balsam of copaiba (or oil of turpentine), q. s. to form
a mass. Alterative and anodyne.——_Dose_, 3 to 10 gr.
=Pills, McKinsey’s.= See MCKINSEY’S KATAPOTIA, among PATENT MEDICINES.
=Pills, Meglin’s.= _Syn._ PILULES DE MEGLIN, Fr. See PILLS OF HENBANE
(Compound).
=Pills, Mercu′′rial.= _Syn._ BLUE PILL; PILULA HYDRARGYRI (B. P.), PILULÆ
HYDRARGYRI (Ph. L.), PILULÆ H. (Ph. E. & D.), P. MERCURIALES, L.; PILULES
MERCURIELLES, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Mercury, 4 dr.; confection of roses,
6 dr.; rub them together until globules can no longer be seen; then add of
liquorice powder, 2 dr., and beat the whole together, so that a proper
mass may be formed.
2. (Ph. E.) As the last; afterwards dividing the mass into 5-gr. pills.
3. (Ph. D.) As the Ph. L. formula, but taking four times the quantity of
the respective ingredients.
4. (B. P.) Mercury, 2; confection of roses, 3; decorticated liquorice
root, in fine powder, 1; rub the mercury with the confection of roses
until metallic globules are no longer visible, then add the liquorice, and
mix the whole well together.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 gr. as an alterative, 10 gr.
as a purgative.
_Obs._ The remarks under ‘MERCURIAL OINTMENT’ (p. 1179), for the most
part, also apply here. This pill, when properly prepared, presents no
globules of mercury when moderately rubbed on a piece of white paper, and
immediately communicates a white stain to a piece of bright gold or
copper. It possesses considerable density, and has a dark blue or slate
colour. It contains 1-3rd of its weight of mercury, which may be
ascertained from its sp. gr.; or, more exactly, by an assay for the metal.
It is the mildest and the most extensively used of all the mercurial
preparations.——_Dose._ As an alterative, 1 to 3 gr.; as a purgative, 10 to
15 gr.; and as a sialogogue, 5 or 6 gr., or more, twice or thrice daily.
To prevent it affecting the bowels, it is commonly combined with either
rhubarb or opium. A blue pill taken over-night, and a black draught in the
morning, is a popular remedy in bilious complaints. See ABERNETHY
MEDICINES.
5. (Collier.) Mercury, 2 dr.; sesquioxide of iron, 1 dr.; confection of
red roses, 3 dr.; triturated, as before, until the globules disappear. An
excellent extemporaneous substitute for the common mercurial pill. The
addition of only a few grs. of the sesquioxide of iron to 1 oz. of
conserve, renders the latter capable of rapidly killing a large quantity
of quicksilver.
6. (Tyson.) Grey oxide of mercury (prepared by decomposing calomel with
liquor of potassa to which a little liquor of ammonia has been added), 2
dr.; confection of roses, 6 dr.; powdered chamomiles, 1 dr.; mix. As a
substitute for the College pill.
7. (‘Pharm. Journ.’) Stearin, 1 dr.; rub it in a warm mortar till it
assumes the consistence of thick cream, then add of mercury, 4 dr., and
again triturate until the globules disappear; next further add, of
confection of roses and wheaten flour, of each 3 dr., powdered gum, 1 dr.,
and form the whole into a pill-mass. As a substitute for the College pill.
8. (PILULÆ HYDRARGYROSÆ——P. Cod.) Mercury and honey, of each 6 dr.;
triturate till the globules are extinguished, then add of aloes, 6 dr.;
rhubarb, 3 dr.; scammony, 2 dr.; black pepper, 1 dr.; and make a pill-mass
as before. Contains 1-4th part of quicksilver. Alterative and
aperient.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr. BELLOSTE’S, BARBAROSSA’S, SÉDILLOT’S, and
MORELOT’S PILLS are nearly similar compounds. See PILLS OF CALOMEL and
CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE, &c.
9. (PILULÆ UNGUENTI HYDRARGYRI——Biett.) _Prep._ Mercurial ointment,
powdered sarsaparilla, 1 dr. Mix, and divide into 48 pills. From 1 to 4
daily.
10. (PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI CUM SAPONE——P. Cod.) _Prep._ Mercurial ointment, 2
dr.; soap, 4 scruples; liquorice powder, 2 scruples. Make into 3-gr.
pills.
=Pills, Mercurial (Arabic).= _Syn._ PILULÆ MERCURIALES ARABICÆ, L. _Prep._
Take of quicksilver and corrosive sublimate, of each 1/2 dr.; triturate
them patiently together until the globules disappear; then add, of agaric,
pellitory, and senna, of each 1 dr.; honey, q. s. to make a pill-mass. For
3-1/2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 a day. Employed in the ‘traitement arabique’
for the cure of obstinate cutaneous diseases.
=Pills, Mercurial, Hahnemann’s.= (F. H.) _Syn._ PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI
HAHNEMANNI. _Prep._ Hahnemann’s soluble mercury, 20 gr.; gum Arabic, 30
gr.; sugar, 30 gr. Mix, and divide into 30 pills.
=Pills, Mitchell’s.= _Prep._ Aloes, 1/2 dr.; rhubarb, 1 dr.; calomel, 6
gr.; emetic tartar, 2 gr. For 36 pills. An alterative aperient.——_Dose_, 2
to 4 pills.
=Pills, Moat’s.= Similar to MORISON’S PILLS.
=Pills, Morison’s.= _Prep._——_a._ (No. 1 Pills.) From aloes and cream of
tartar, equal parts, made into a mass with either syrup or mucilage. A
mild aperient.
_b._ (No. 2 pills.) From colocynth, 1 part; gamboge, 2 parts; aloes, 3
parts; and cream of tartar, 4 parts; made into a mass with syrup, as the
last. An active purgative, often acting with great violence. Both No. 1
and No. 2 are divided into 3-gr. pills, of which 4 dozen are put into each
1s. 1-1/2d. box. The proper dose of either is 1 to 3 or 4 pills; but they
are often given by the Morisons in doses of 12, 20, 30, or even more,
daily. For the history of these pills and their proprietors, see ‘Anat. of
Quackery,’ or ‘Med. Circ.,’ ii, 9-27.
=Pills of Mor′phia.= _Syn._ PILULÆ MORPHIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.)
Morphine, 1 gr.; conserve of roses (stiff), q. s. For 6 (or, better, 8)
pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill; as an anodyne or soporific.
=Pills of Morphia (Compound).= (Rougier.) _Syn._ PILULÆ MORPHIÆ COMPOSITÆ.
_Prep._ Sulphate of morphia, 2 gr.; cyanide of potassium, 4 gr.; mucilage,
q. s. Make into 24 pills; 1 every six hours, in neuralgia.
=Pills, Moseley’s.= _Prep._ Finest Turkey rhubarb, 60 gr.; Jamaica ginger,
30 gr.; sugar, 20 gr. (all in powder); tincture of rhubarb, q. s. to form
a mass. For 4-gr. pills. A mild and excellent medicine, closely resembling
KITCHENER’S PERISTALTIC PERSUADERS.
=Pills of Musk.= _Syn._ PILULÆ MOSCHI, L. _Prep._ (Dupuytren.) Opium, 2
gr.; musk (genuine), 8 gr.; camphor (in powder), 24 gr.; syrup, q. s. For
8 pills. Antispasmodic and stimulant.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, thrice daily, in
low nervous affections; or the whole during the day in hospital gangrene,
&c.
=Pills of Myrrh.= See PILLS OF ALOES AND MYRRH.
=Pills, Napier’s Neuroton′ic.= Of these, like MORISON’S PILLS, there are
No. 1 and No. 2. The first is a simple stomachic aperient; the other, a
stimulant tonic. They both owe their sale and reputed virtues to extensive
advertising. (‘Anat. of Quackery.’)
=Pills, Napoleon’s.= See PECTORAL PILLS.
=Pills, Neuralg′ia.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTINEURALGICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Marchal
De Calvi.) Aqueous extract of opium, 4 gr.; sulphate of quinine, 16 gr.;
powdered cinnamon, powdered orange leaves, and extract of valerian, of
each 20 gr.; syrup of belladonna, q. s. For 3 dozen pills.——_Dose_, 1,
hourly.
2. (Trousseau & Reveil.) Extracts of opium and stramonium, of each 8 gr.;
oxide of zinc, 2 dr.; syrup, q. s. For 40 pills.——_Dose_, 1, every two or
three hours, gradually increased in frequency until there is some
considerable disorder of vision, &c. Both of the above should be used with
care. See PILLS, MEGLIN’S, &c.
=Pills of Ni′trate of Bismuth.= _Syn._ PILULÆ BISMUTHI TRISNITRATIS, L.
_Prep._ From trisnitrate of bismuth and powdered rhubarb, equal parts;
syrup of orange peel, q. s. to form a mass. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to
2, every two hours; as a tonic, stomachic, and antispasmodic, in
dyspepsia, debility, spasms, &c.
=Pills of Nitrate of Mercury.= _Syn._ PILULÆ HYDRARGYRI PROTO-NITRATIS.
PILULES DE SAINTE MARIE. _Prep._ Powder of proto-nitrate of mercury, 7-1/2
gr.; extract of liquorice, 1/2 dr. Mix accurately, and divide into 60
pills.——_Dose_, 1, four times a day.
=Pills of Nitrate of Sil′ver.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ARGENTI NITRATIS, L. _Prep._
1. (St. B. Hosp.) Nitrate of silver (crystallised), 12 gr.; liquorice
powder, 24 gr.; treacle, q. s. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, twice or
thrice a day; in chronic epilepsy and some other spasmodic disorders.
2. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Nitrate of silver, 6 gr.; crum of bread, q. s. (say
1/2 dr.); mix, and divide into 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1, every six hours.
_Obs._ To prevent the blue or slate coloured tinge of the skin, so often
produced by the continued use of the salts of silver, 8 drops of diluted
nitric acid in 1 fl. oz. of water should be taken after each pill.
=Pills, Norton’s Chamomile.= _Prep._ From aqueous extract of aloes, 1 dr.;
extract of gentian, 3 dr.; mix, and drive off the excess of moisture by
the heat of a water bath; then add of essential oil of chamomiles, 20
drops, and divide the mass into 60 pills. To preserve their aromatic
properties, they should be kept in a dry glass bottle or a well-covered
earthenware pot.——_Dose_, 1, as a dinner pill; or 2, night and morning, as
a stomachic tonic. (‘Anat. of Quackery.’)
=Pills of Nux Vom′ica.= _Syn._ PILULÆ NUCIS VOMICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Nux
vomica and aloes (both in powder), equal parts; syrup, q. s. For 3-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, twice or thrice daily, carefully watching the
effects; in nervous derangement, general debility, impotence, paralysis,
&c.
2. Alcoholic extract of nux vomica, 1 part; powdered sugar, 2 parts;
beaten up with rectified spirit, q. s. For 2-1/2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to
2; as the last.
3. (Mondière.) Alcoholic extract, 6 gr.; levigated black oxide of iron, 1
dr.; syrup, q. s. In atonic incontinence of urine, amenorrhœa, &c.
=Pills, Odontal′gic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ODONTALGICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Bor.)
Powdered opium and extracts of belladonna and henbane, of each 10 gr.;
oil of olives, 20 drops; powdered pellitory of Spain, 1/2 dr.; beat them
to a mass, and divide it into 1-gr. pills; keep them in a corked phial.
=Pills, Opiated Lead.= See PILLS OF LEAD.
=Pills of O′′pium.= _Syn_. ANODYNE PILLS, NIGHT P., THEBAIC P.; PILULÆ
OPII (Ph. U. S.), P. O. or THEBAICÆ (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Opium
and conserve of red roses, of each 1 part; sulphate of potash, 3 parts;
rub them together to a proper mass, and divide into 5-gr. pills.——_Dose_,
1 to 2 pills, as an anodyne or soporific. Each pill contains 1 gr. of
opium, or double the quantity in the same pill of the previous edition of
the Ph. E.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Powdered opium, 1 dr.; Castile soap, 12 gr.; water, q. s.
For 60 pills. As the last.
=Pills of Ox-Gall.= _Syn._ BILE PILL; PILULÆ FELLIS BOVINI, P. BILIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. From inspissated ox-gall formed into pills by the addition of
any simple powder; or the harder extract beaten up with a little proof
spirit. Powdered rhubarb is frequently used for the purpose. For 3-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 6; for constipation, flatulence, &c., arising from a
deficiency of bile.
2. (Compound.) From inspissated ox-gall, 1 dr.; powdered rhubarb, 1/2 dr.;
powdered ipecacuanha and capsicum, of each 15 gr.; oil of caraway, 12
drops. For 48 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4; in loss of appetite and dyspepsia,
with torpor of the bowels, &c. See CONSTIPATION, GALL, &c.
=Pills of Ox′ide of Gold.= _Syn._ PILULÆ AURI OXYDI, L. _Prep._
(Magendie.) Teroxide of gold, 5 gr.; extract of mezereon, 2 dr.; mix, and
divide into 60 pills. Each pill contains 1/12 gr. of teroxide.——_Dose_, 1
to 3; in scrofula, syphilis, malignant fevers, &c.
=Pills of Oxide of Mercury.= See PILLS, MERCURIAL.
=Pills of Oxide of Sil′ver.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ARGENTI OXYDI, L. _Prep._ From
oxide of silver, 6 gr.; powdered rhubarb and extract of gentian, of each
12 gr. For 1 dozen pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, twice or thrice daily; in
gastralgia, hæmorrhages, nervous affections, &c. Milder than the pills of
nitrate of silver.
=Pills of Oxide of Zinc.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ZINCI OXYDI, L. _Prep._ From oxide
of zinc, powdered cascarilla, and conserve of hips, equal parts. For
3-1/2-gr. pills. Tonic and antispasmodic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, thrice daily;
in dyspepsia, gastric or spasmodic coughs, epilepsy, chorea, &c.
=Pills, Parr’s Life.= _Prep._ Aloes, 7 lbs.; rhubarb and jalap, of each 5
lbs. (all in powder); extract of gentian, 3-1/2 lbs.; soft soap, 1/2 lb.;
liquorice powder, treacle, and moist sugar, of each 4-1/2 lbs.; oil of
cloves, 10 oz.; oil of caraway, 3-1/2 oz.; mix, and beat the whole to a
proper mass with syrup bottoms, q. s., and divide it into 3-1/2-gr. pills.
“There are about 4 dozen in each 1s. 1-1/2d. box, weighing (dry) barely 3
gr. each.” A good stomachic and aperient pill, but possessing none of the
extraordinary virtues ascribed to it by its proprietors. (‘Med. Circ.,’
ii, 146, 167, &c.)
=Pills of Paullin′ia.= _Syn._ GUARANA PILLS; PILULÆ GUARANÆ, P. PAULLINIÆ,
L. _Prep._ 1. Paullinia mixed up with syrup of orange peel, and the mass
divided into 2-1/2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 8.
2. (Dr Gavrelle.) Extract of guarana, 1 dr.; liquorice powder, q. s. For
40 pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6, daily.
_Obs._ These pills are highly esteemed on the Continent as a tonic and
astringent, in diseases of the bowels and bladder, in chlorosis, debility,
&c.
=Pec′toral Pills.= _Syn._ BREATH PILLS; PILULÆ PECTORALES, L. _Prep._ 1.
Compound squill pill, 1 dr.; gum benzoin, 1/2 dr.; powdered ipecacuanha
and extract of henbane, of each 15 gr.; syrup, q. s. For 3-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, three or four times a day; in asthmas, chronic
bronchial affections, coughs, &c.
2. (Dr Copland.) Camphor (in powder), 10 gr.; ipecacuanha, 15 gr.; extract
of hemlock, 1 dr.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 gr.; in irritating and spasmodic coughs,
&c.
3. (Haggart.) Powdered ipecacuanha and squills, of each 1/2 dr.; acetate
of morphia, 6 gr.; Castile soap, 3 dr.; mix, and divide into 72 pills. A
most excellent medicine, at once soothing and expectorant.——_Dose_, 1 to
2, thrice a day, or oftener.
4. (HUMPHRIES’ COUGH PILLS.) From powdered ipecacuanha, 15 gr.; compound
squill-pill, 1 dr.; compound extract of colocynth, 1/2 dr. For 3-1/2-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 2 pills, night and morning.
5. (Dr Latham.) Compound powder of ipecacuanha, 1 dr.; fresh squill and
gum ammoniacum, of each 20 gr.; calomel, 4 gr. For 20 pills. A most
valuable pectoral and expectorant.——_Dose_, 1 pill, thrice daily; in
bronchitis, coughs, &c., after the more active inflammatory symptoms have
subsided.
6. (Napoleon’s.) From ipecacuanha, 30 gr.; squills and ammoniacum, of each
40 gr. (all in powder); mucilage, q. s. to mix. For 24 pills. It is said
that this was a favourite remedy with the Emperor Napoleon I for
difficulty of breathing, bronchitis, and various affections of the organs
of respiration.——_Dose_, 2 pills, night and morning.
7. (Dr Paris.) Powdered squills, 1/2 dr.; powdered myrrh, 1-1/2 dr.;
extract of henbane, 40 gr.; water (or simple syrup), q. s. to mix. For
4-gr. pills,——_Dose_, 2 pills, night and morning. As No. 2.
8. (Ph. L. 1746.) Gum ammoniacum, 4 dr.; gum benzoin, 3 dr.; gum myrrh, 2
dr.; saffron, 1 dr.; anisated balsam of sulphur, 1/2 dr.; syrup of tolu,
q. s. to mix.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr.
9. (Richter.) Assafœtida and valerian, of each 1/2 dr.; castor, 15 gr.;
powdered squills and sesquicarbonate of ammonia, of each 8 gr.; extract of
aconite (alcoholic), 3 gr. For 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills, night
and morning; in spasmodic affections of the respiratory organs.
=Pills, Perpe′tual.= See PILLS, EVERLASTING.
=Pills, Peter’s.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Aloes, 3 dr.; gamboge, jalap, and
scammony, of each 2 dr. (all in powder); calomel, 1 dr.; beaten up with
rectified spirit, q. s. A powerful cathartic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills.
=Pills of Phosphorus.= (B. P.) _Syn._ PILULÆ PHOSPHORI. _Prep._
Phosphorus, 2 gr.; balsam of tolu, 120 gr.; yellow wax, 60 gr. Put the
phosphorus and balsam into a wedgwood mortar half full of hot water, and
when the phosphorus has melted and the balsam become sufficiently soft,
rub them together beneath the surface of the water until no particles of
phosphorus are visible, the temperature of the water being maintained at
or near 140° F. Add now the wax, and as it softens mix it thoroughly with
the other ingredients. Allow the mass to cool without being exposed to the
air, and keep it in a bottle immersed in cold water. It may be softened
with a few drops of rectified spirit when made into pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6
gr.
=Pills of Pi′perine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PIPERINÆ, L. _Prep._ From piperine,
1/2 dr.; extract of cinchona, q. s. For 30 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, every
two hours, during the intermission of an ague; also as an aphrodisiac and
a remedy in piles.
=Pills of Pitch.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PICIS NIGRÆ, L. _Prep._ From black pitch
and powdered black pepper, equal parts; beaten together in a warm mortar,
and divided into 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 pills, night and morning; in
piles, &c.
=Pills, Pitschaft’s Eccopro′tic.= _Prep._ From strained aloes and
disulphate of quinine, equal parts; made into 2-gr. pills. A tonic and
stomachic aperient.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, at bedtime; in torpor of the large
intestines, the dyspepsia of the debilitated, &c.
=Pills of Podophyllin.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PODOPHYLLINI. _Prep._ Resin of
podophyllin, 1/4 gr. Extract of henbane. To make one pill. One or two for
a dose.
=Pills of Prussian Blue.= (Jolly.) _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI PERCYANIDI
COMPOSITA. _Prep._ Prussian blue, 18 gr,; sulphate of quinine, 12 gr,;
extract of opium, 1 gr.; conserve of roses, q. s. Mix, and make into 12
pills; 1 every three hours, in neuralgia.
=Pills, Plummer’s.= See PILLS OF CALOMEL (Compound).
=Pills, Pu′rgative.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PURGANTES, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr Robinson.)
Aqueous extract of aloes, 1 dr.; powdered scammony, 1/2 dr.; balsam of
Peru, 10 or 12 gr.; oil of caraway, 9 or 10 drops; mix, and divide into 30
pills. A warm, stimulating aperient, highly recommended to excite the
peristaltic action of the bowels of the aged, sedentary, and
debilitated.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 pills, as required.
2. (Trousseau & Reveil.) Resin of jalap, 1 dr.; scammony, 1/2 dr.; extract
of colocynth, 6 gr.; excipient, as required. For 20 (or, better, 24)
pills.——_Dose_, 1, “every two hours, in the morning, fasting, until they
operate.” For other formulae see PILLS, APERIENT and CATHARTIC, and PILLS
OF ALOES, JALAP, COLOCYNTH, &c.
=Pills of Quinine′.= See PILLS OF SULPHATE OF QUININE.
=Pills, Reece’s.= See PILLS, CHIRAYTA.
=Pills, Re′nal.= _Syn._ PILULÆ RENALES, L. _Prep._ 1. Squills, myrrh, and
digitalis, of each (in powder) 10 gr.; extract of rhubarb and mercurial
pill, of each 15 gr.; powdered nitre, 20 gr.; oil of juniper, 10 or 12
drops. For 24 pills. Alterative, diuretic, and tonic.——_Dose_, 3 to 6,
thrice a day. Hunter’s Renal Purifying Pills are similar, but omitting the
mercurial pill. De Roos’ Renal Pills contain a preparation of copaiba.
=Pills, Rhe′umatism.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTIRHEUMATICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Gum
guaiacum, 1 dr.; nitrate of potassia, 1-1/2 dr. (both in powder); soft
soap (Ph. L.), 1/2 dr.; oil of cajeput, 16 drops. For 4 dozen
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 6, night and morning; in chronic rheumatism, and
rheumatic gout. Their action is accelerated by the copious use of lemon
juice during the day.
2. (Beasley.) Extract of artichoke, 1/2 dr.; powdered sarsaparilla, 20
gr.; oil of sassafras, 1 drop. For 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, thrice
daily.
=Pills of Rh′ubarb.= _Syn._ PILULÆ RHEI (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.)
Powdered rhubarb, 9 parts; acetate of potassa, 1 part; conserve of red
roses, 5 parts; mix, and divide into 5-gr. pills. A stomachic and gentle
aperient, particularly useful in atonic dyspepsia.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 pills.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Powdered rhubarb, 6 dr; Castile soap, 2 dr.; beaten up with
water, q. s., and divide into 120 pills. As the last.
=Pills of Rhubarb (Compound).= _Syn._ AROMATIC PILLS, BALSAMIC LAXATIVE
P., EDINBURGH P., STOMACHIC P.; PILULA RHEI COMPOSITA (B. P., Ph. L.),
PILULÆ R. COMPOSITÆ (Ph. E. & D.), P. STOMACHICÆ, P. AROMATICÆ, L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. L.) Powdered rhubarb, 4 dr.; powdered Socotrine aloes, 3 dr.;
powdered myrrh, 2 dr.; soft soap (Ph. L.), 1/2 dr.; oil of caraway, 15
drops; treacle, q. s. to form a mass.
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Powdered rhubarb, 1 oz.; aloes, 6 dr.; myrrh, 4 dr.;
Castile soap, 1 dr.; oil of caraway, 1/2 fl. dr.; syrup, q. s.
3. (Ph. E.) Powdered rhubarb, 12 parts; aloes, 9 parts; myrrh and Castile
soap, of each 6 parts; conserve of red roses, 5 parts; oil of peppermint,
1 part; mix, and divide into 5-gr, pills. The oil of peppermint may be
omitted, when so preferred.
4. (Ph. D.) Rhubarb, 1-1/2 oz.; hepatic aloes, 9 dr.; myrrh and Castile
soap, of each in fine powder, 6 dr.; oil of peppermint, 1 fl. dr.;
treacle, 2 oz.; mix, and beat the whole to a uniform mass.
5. (Ph. U. S. & Ph. E. 1817.) Rhubarb, 8 dr.; aloes, 6 dr.; myrrh, 4 dr.;
oil of peppermint, 1/2 fl. dr.; syrup of orange peel, q. s.; mix, and
divide into 240 pills.
6. (B. P.) Rhubarb, in fine powder, 3 oz.; Socotrine aloes, in fine powder
(some physicians prefer the aqueous extract——_Squire_), 2-1/2 oz.; myrrh,
in fine powder, 1-1/2 oz.; hard soap, 1-1/2 oz.; English oil of
peppermint, 1-1/2 dr.; treacle, by weight, 4 oz.; reduce the soap to fine
powder and triturate it with the rhubarb, aloes, and myrrh; add the
treacle and oil, and beat into a mass.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.
_Obs._ The above are tonic, stomachic, and gently laxative; extremely
useful for obviating costiveness and giving tone to the stomach and
bowels.——_Dose_, 6 or 8 to 20 gr. The London pill is not only the most
agreeable, but it keeps the best.
=Pills of Rhubarb and Ca′raway.= See KITCHENER’S PERISTALTIC PERSUADERS
(Patent medicines).
=Pills of Rhubarb and Cham′omile.= _Syn._ SPEEDIMAN’S PILLS; PILULÆ RHEI
ET ANTHEMIDIS, L. _Prep._ From aloes, myrrh, rhubarb (each in powder), and
extract of chamomile, of each 1 dr.; essential oil of chamomile, 10 or 12
drops. For 4-gr. pills. An excellent tonic and stomachic aperient,
particularly useful in the dyspepsia and loss of appetite of hard
drinkers.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills, either before dinner or at bedtime.
=Pills of Rhubarb and Copa′iba.= _Syn._ PILULÆ RHEI ET COPAIBÆ, P. R.
BALSAMICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Swediaur.) Powdered rhubarb and gum, equal parts;
balsam of copaiba, q. s.
=Pills of Rhubarb and Gi′nger.= _Syn._ STOMACH PILLS; PILULÆ RHEI ET
ZINGIBERIS, L. _Prep._ From powdered rhubarb, 1 dr.; powdered ginger, 1/2
dr.; Castile soap, 20 gr.; tincture or essence of ginger, q. s. to form a
mass. For 30 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 6.
=Pills of Rhubarb and Ipeca′cuanha.= _Syn._ PILULÆ RHEI ET IPECACUANHÆ, L.
_Prep._ From rhubarb, 1/2 dr.; ipecacuanha, 15 gr.; opium, 5 gr. (each in
powder); oil of cinnamon, 6 drops; syrup, q. s. For 18 pills.——_Dose._ In
loss of appetite and spasmodic dyspepsia, 1 to 3 pills, twice a day; in
dysentery, diarrhœa, &c., to relieve tormina and tenesmus, 1 every two
hours.
=Pills of Rhubarb and I′ron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ RHEI ET FERRI (Ph. E.), L.
_Prep._ (Ph. E.) Dried sulphate of iron, 4 parts; extract of rhubarb, 10
parts; conserve of red roses, 5 parts; beat them to a proper mass, and
divide this into 5-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 pills; in the atonic
dyspepsia of debilitated subjects, in chlorosis, &c.
=Pills of Rhubarb and Ox-gall.= _Syn._ PILULÆ RHEI ET FELLIS BOVINI, L.
_Prep._ From powdered rhubarb, gum ammoniacum, and inspissated ox-gall,
equal parts; beaten up with a little tincture of ginger or proof spirit,
and the mass divided into 2-1/2-gr. pills. In dyspepsia and constipation
dependent on a torpid action of the liver.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 pills.
=Pills of Rhubarb and So′da.= _Syn._ PILULÆ RHEI ET SODÆ, P. R. COMP. CUM
SODÂ, L. _Prep._ (Guy’s Hosp.) Dried carbonate of soda, powdered rhubarb,
and extract of gentian, equal parts. For 4-1/2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4
pills; in acidity, heartburn, diarrhœa, loss of appetite, &c.
=Pills, Richter’s.= See PECTORAL PILLS.
=Pills, Dr Robinson’s.= See PILLS, PURGATIVE.
=Pills, Rudius’s.= _Syn._ RUDIUS’S EXTRACT; PILULÆ RUDII, EXTRACTUM RUDII,
L. _Prep._ 1. Colocynth pulp, 6 dr.; agaric, black hellebore, and
turpethum root, of each 4 dr.; cinnamon, mace, and cloves, of each 40 gr.;
rectified spirit, 1/2 pint; digest for 4 days, express the tincture, and
evaporate it to a proper consistence for making pills. Formerly esteemed
one of the most safe and certain cathartics in troublesome
constipation.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.
2. (Ph. E. 1783.) Black hellebore and colocynth, of each 2 oz.; water, 4
pints (o. w. m.); boil to a quart, strain, evaporate to the consistence of
honey, and add, of aloes, 2 oz.; scammony (powdered), 1 oz.; next remove
the vessel from the fire, and further add of sulphate of potassa, 2 dr.;
oil of cloves, 1 dr.; and form the whole into a pill-mass. Resembles the
last (nearly).
=Pills, Rufus’s.= See PILLS OF ALOES WITH MYRRH.
=Pills of Sabadilla.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CEVADILLÆ. _Prep._ Equal parts of
sabadilla and honey; make into 5-gr. pills.——_Dose._ For an adult, 4 to 6
pills; for a child, 1 to 2. Vermifuge.
=Pills of Sa′ffron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CROCI, L. _Prep._ 1. From hay saffron,
1 dr.; myrrh, 1/2 dr.; oil of cajeput, 6 drops; syrup of saffron, q. s.
For 36 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 or 4, occasionally; as a stimulant in low
spirits, hypochondriasis, &c.
2. (Phœbus.) Saffron, myrrh, and sulphur, equal parts; inspissated bile,
q. s. For 2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 12 daily; as an emmenagogue.
=Pills of Sagape′num (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ SAGAPENI COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L. 1836.) Sagapenum, 1 oz.; aloes, 1/2 dr.; syrup of ginger,
q. s.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.; as a stimulant antispasmodic laxative, in
dyspepsia with flatulence, flatulent colic, &c.
=Pills of Sal′icin.= _Syn._ PILULÆ SALICINÆ, L. _Prep._ From salicin, 1/2
dr.; powdered rhubarb, 20 gr.; extract of gentian, q. s. to mix. For 4-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, every three hours, during the apyrexia of
intermittents.
=Pills of Sandal Wood Oil.= (Ebert.) _Syn._ PILULÆ OLEI SANTALI. _Prep._
Oil of yellow sandal wood, 1/2 oz.; yellow wax, 1/2 oz. Melt the wax into
a capsule, and weigh into it the oil of sandal wood. Mix, and stir until
cold, then roll out the mass and divide it into 80 pills, by means of the
pill machine or pill-tite, in the same manner as in the ordinary mass, and
sprinkle with marshmallow root powder. Each pill contains about 3 gr. or
about 5 drops of the oil. The excipient is unobjectionable, as it is
readily soluble in the juices of the stomach.
=Pills of Scam′mony (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ SCAMMONII COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ 1. (St. B. Hosp.) Scammony, 24 gr.; ginger, 20 gr.; aloes and
gamboge, of each 12 gr.; treacle, q. s.; mix, and divide into 12 pills. A
powerful cathartic and vermifuge.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 pills.
2. (B. P.) Resin of scammony, resin of jalap, of each 1 oz.; curd soap, in
powder, 1 oz.; strong tincture of ginger, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 2
fl. oz. Add the tincture and spirit to the soap and resins, and dissolve
by the aid of a gentle heat, then evaporate the spirit over a water-bath
until the mass has a pilular consistence.——_Dose_, 5 gr. to 15 gr.
=Pills, Scot’s.= _Prep._ From aloes, 9 lbs.; jalap, 3 lbs.; gamboge and
ginger, of each 1/2 lb.; beaten with treacle, q. s. See PILLS, ANDERSON’S
SCOT’S.
=Pills, Dr Scott’s Bil′ious and Liver.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Compound extract
of colocynth (Ph. L. 1836), 8 oz.; powdered rhubarb, 4 oz.; powdered
myrrh, 2 oz.; soft soap, 1/2 oz.; oil of caraway, 2-1/2 dr.; strong syrup
of saffron, q. s. to form a pill-mass. “There are twenty-five 3-1/2-gr.
pills in each 1s. 1-1/2d. box.” “It has been stated that these pills
contain a minute portion of antimony.” (‘Anat. of Quackery.’)
=Pills, Se′dative.= _Syn._ PILULÆ SEDATIVÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Hydrochlorate of
morphia, 6 gr.; powdered sumbul, 20 gr.; alcoholic extract of Indian hemp,
1/2 dr. For 2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, twice or thrice daily; in
excessive nervous irritability, painful menstruation, &c.
2. (U. C. Hosp.) Camphor, 1 dr.; reduce it to powder by means of rectified
spirit, 3 or 4 drops; add of extract of henbane, 20 gr., and divide the
mass into 20 pills. To allay pain and excitement, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
pills.
3. To either of the above, add of powdered rhubarb and extract of gentian,
of each 20 gr., and divide the mass into 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4
pills; when, besides the other symptoms, the stomach and bowels are
disordered.
=Pills, Sedillot’s Febrifuge.= _Prep._ From powdered opium, 3 gr.;
sulphate of quinine, 12 gr.; confection of opium, 10 gr., or q. s. For 12
pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, every second hour, during the intermission of an
ague.
=Pills of Sen′na.= _Syn._ PILULÆ SENNÆ, P. S. COMPOSITÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
Powdered senna, 1 dr.; extract of rhubarb, 1/2 dr.; powdered capsicum, 4
gr.; oil of juniper, 6 or 8 drops. For 3-gr. pills. An aperient well
suited for females.——_Dose_, 5 to 8 pills.
2. (Hufeland.) Powdered senna, 1 dr.; extract of dandelion, q. s. to mix.
For 30 pills. As the last.
=Pills, Smith’s.= _Prep._ From powdered aloes, 4 dr.; jalap, 2 dr.; ginger
and soft soap, of each 1 dr.; oil of juniper, 1/2 dr.; emetic tartar, 6
gr. For 120 pills. Laxative and diuretic.——_Dose_, 1 to 4, at bedtime, or
early in the morning.
=Pills, Dr Hugh Smith’s.= See STOMACH PILLS.
=Pills of Soap.= _Syn._ PILULÆ SAPONIS, P. CUM SAPONE, L. _Prep._ (P.
Cod.) White Castile soap, 32 parts; powdered marshmallow root, 4 parts;
powdered nitrate of potassa, 1 part; beat them to a mass, and divide this
into 4-gr. pills. In habitual costiveness, calculary affections,
&c.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 pills, twice or thrice a day.
=Pills of Soap (Compound).= _Syn._ PILLS OF SOAP AND OPIUM, LAUDANUM
PILLS; PILULA SAPONIS COMPOSITA (Ph. L.), PILULÆ SAPONIS CUM OPIO, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Opium and liquorice, of each (in powder) 2 dr.; soft
soap (Ph. L.), 6 dr.; beat them to a uniform mass.
2. (B. P. & Ph. U. S.) Opium (in fine powder), 1/2 oz.; Castile soap, 2
oz.; distilled water, 1/2 fl. dr., or q. s.; reduce the soap to powder,
mix it with the other ingredients, and beat the whole together, as
before.——_Dose_, 3 gr. to 5 gr. See PILLS OF OPIUM.
_Obs._ The above pills contain 1-5th part of their weight in dry opium.
The dose is 3 to 10 gr., in the usual cases in which the administration of
opium is indicated. Mr Skey, the eminent surgeon of St. Bartholomew’s
Hospital, has shown the great value of this pill in promoting the healing
of obstinate ulcers, more especially those of the legs.
=Pills of Soda.= _Syn._ PILULÆ SODÆ CARBONATIS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E. 1817.)
Exsiccated carbonate of soda, 4 parts; Castile soap, 3 parts; syrup, q. s.
to form a mass. Antacid and slightly laxative.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr. This
pill was a great favourite of the once celebrated Dr Beddoes.
=Pills, Soot.= (Dr Neligan.) _Syn._ PILULÆ FULIGINIS. _Prep._ Extract of
soot, 1/2 dr.; compound galbanum pill, 1 scruple; oil of valerian, 15
minims. Make into 12 pills. Take 2 three times a day. For hysteria.
=Pills, Speediman’s.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Aloes, 3 dr.; rhubarb, myrrh (all
in powder), and extract of chamomile, of each 1 dr.; oil of chamomile, 20
drops. For 4-gr. pills. An excellent aperient, tonic, and
stomachic.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 pills, as a purgative; 1, as a stomachic or
dinner pill.
=Pills, Splenet′ic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTISPLENETICÆ, L. _Prep._ (Saunders.)
Strained aloes and gum ammoniacum, of each 3 dr.; myrrh and bryony, of
each 1/2 dr. For 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 5, “Extolled in amenorrhœa
and hypochondriasis.” (Dr R. E. Griffith.)
=Pills of Squill (Compound).= _Syn._ COUGH PILLS, PILLS OF SQUILLS AND
GINGER; PILULA SCILLÆ COMPOSITÆ (B. P., Ph. L.), PILULÆ SCILLÆ COMPOSITÆ
(Ph. D.), P. SCILLÆ (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Freshly powdered
squills, 1 dr.; powdered ginger and powdered ammoniacum, of each 2 dr.;
mix, add of soft soap (Ph. L.), 3 dr.; treacle, 1 dr.; and beat the whole
together, so that a mass may be formed.
2. (Ph. E.) Squills, 5 parts; ammoniacum, ginger (all in fine powder), and
Spanish soap, of each 4 parts; conserve of red roses, 2 parts; mix, as
before, and divide the mass into 5-gr. pills.
3. (Ph. D.) Squills (in fine powder), 2-1/2 dr.; ammoniacum, ginger, and
Castile soap, of each (in fine powder) 2 dr.; treacle, 1/2 oz.
4. (B. P.) Squill (in fine powder), 1-1/4; ginger (in fine powder), 1;
ammoniacum (in powder), 1; hard soap (in powder), 1; treacle (by weight),
2, or a sufficiency; mix the powders, add the treacle, and beat into a
mass.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 grains.
_Obs._ Compound squill pill is a most useful expectorant in chronic
coughs, asthmas, bronchial affections, difficulty of breathing, &c.; and,
combined with calomel and foxglove, and, occasionally, with croton oil, as
a diuretic, &c., in dropsies. Unfortunately, however, it soon spoils; and,
therefore, to be effective as a remedy, it must be recently prepared. As
an expectorant, it should not be administered until the inflammatory
symptoms have been subdued by purgatives or bleeding. A little powdered
opium, or extract of henbane, is occasionally added, to allay
irritation.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr., twice or thrice a day, accompanied by an
occasional aperient.
=Pills, Stahl’s.= See PILLS, APERIENT.
=Pills, Starkey’s.= _Prep._ (Original formula.) Extract of opium, 4 oz.;
mineral benzoar and nutmeg, of each 2 oz.; saffron and Virginian
snake-root, of each 1 oz.; Starkey’s soap, 1/2 lb.; oil of sassafras, 1/2
oz.; tincture of antimony (Old Ph.), 2 fl. oz. Anodyne, diaphoretic,
&c.——_Dose_, 3 to 10 gr. The formula already given under MATTHEW’S PILLS
is erroneously assigned to this pill by some writers.
=Pills, Mrs. Stephen’s.= This once celebrated remedy for stone was
prepared from the calcined shells of eggs and snails, made into 3-gr.
pills with soft soap. Its active ingredients were, consequently, lime and
potash.
=Pills, Stim′ulant.= _Syn._ PILULÆ STIMULANTES, L. _Prep._ 1. Capsicum,
1/2 dr.; nitrate of silver, 2 gr.; conserve of hips, q. s. For 12
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, washed down with a spoonful of warm spirit and
water, and repeated hourly until reaction ensues; in cholera, &c.
2. (A. T. Thomson.) Strychnine, 1 gr.; acetic acid, 1 drop; crum of bread,
20 gr.; mix very carefully, and divide the mass into 10 pills.——_Dose_, 1
every six hours; in paralysis arising from lead.
=Pills, Stoerck’s.= _Syn._ PILULÆ CONII, P. CICUTÆ, L. _Prep._ From
extract of hemlock, 1 dr.; powdered hemlock, q. s. to make a mass. For
2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 4, twice a day; in various glandular and
visceral enlargements, pulmonary affections, cancer, scrofula, neuralgia,
&c.
=Pills, Stomach.= _Syn._ PILULÆ STOMACHICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Ipecacuanha, 10
gr.; sumbul and extract of rhubarb, of each 30 gr.; powdered quassia, 20
gr.; oil of sassafras, 6 drops; beaten up with essence of ginger
(strongest), q. s. For 3-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 3, thrice daily; in loss
of appetite, flatulence, dyspepsia, &c.
2. (Dr Hugh Smith’s.) From aloes, rhubarb, ginger (all powdered), and
sagapenum, of each 1 dr.; oils of peppermint and cloves, of each 10 drops;
balsam of Peru, q. s. to mix. For 5-gr. pills——_Dose_, 2 or 3 nightly; or
1 to 2 before dinner. For other formulæ, see DINNER, APERIENT, COMPOUND
RHUBARB, ALOES AND MASTIC PILLS, &c.
=Pills of Sto′rax (Compound).= _Syn._ STORAX PILLS; PILULA STYRACIS
COMPOSITA (Ph. L.), PILULÆ STYRACIS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Prepared storax, 6 dr.; saffron and powdered opium, of each 2 dr. beat
them together to a uniform mass. Contains 1-5th of its weight of opium.
2. (Ph. E.) Opium and saffron, of each 1 part; extract of styrax, 2 parts;
beat them to a uniform mass, and divide this into 4-gr. pills. Contains
1/4th part of opium.
_Obs._ The storax is here chiefly employed to disguise the odour and taste
of opium. The name of the preparation has been chosen so that the word
‘opium’ may not appear in the prescription, a point highly necessary with
certain patients.——_Dose_, 3 to 10 gr.; as compound soap pill, and as an
anodyne and expectorant in chronic coughs, &c.
=Pills of Stramo′′nium.= _Syn._ PILULÆ STRAMONII, L. _Prep._ 1. Stramonium
seeds (in powder), 12 gr. (or leaves, 25 gr.); powdered camphor and
extract of seneka root, of each 1 dr.; powdered savine, 1-1/2 dr.; oil of
cajeput, 15 drops. For 2-1/2-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4, thrice daily; in
rheumatism, &c.
2. (Sir H. Halford.) Extract of stramonium and liquorice powder, of each 1
dr.; powdered Castile soap, 2 dr.; mucilage, q. s. to mix. For 60
pills.——_Dose_, 1 night and morning; in asthmas, &c.
=Pills of Strych′nine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ STRYCHNIÆ, L. _Prep._ (Magendie.)
Strychnine, 2 gr.; conserve of hips, 36 gr. (liquorice powder, q. s.); mix
very carefully, divide the mass into 24 pills, and silver them.——_Dose_, 1
pill night and morning; in amaurosis, impotence, paralysis, &c.
=Pills of Sulphate of Copper.= (Brande.) _Syn._ PILULÆ CUPRI SULPHATIS.
_Prep._ Sulphate of copper, 3 gr.; bread crum, 1 dr. Mix, for 24 pills;
1, three or four times a day.
=Pills of Sul′phate of I′ron.= _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI SULPHATIS (Ph. E.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Dried sulphate of iron and conserve of red roses, of
each 2 parts; extract of dandelion, 5 parts. For 5-gr. pills. A useful
chalybeate tonic. _Dose_, 1 to 2, twice or thrice daily; in dyspepsia,
chlorosis, amenorrhœa, &c.
2. (Ph. E. 1817.) Sulphate of iron (dried), 1 oz.; extract of chamomile,
1-1/2 oz.; oil of peppermint, 1 dr.; syrup, q. s. As the last.
3. (Ph. U. S.) As No. 1, but substituting extract of gentian for extract
of dandelion. For other formulæ, see PILLS, HOOPER’S FEMALE, &c.
=Pills of Sulphate of Quinine′.= _Syn._ PILULÆ QUINIÆ SULPHATIS, P. Q.
DISULPHATIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Sulphate of quinine, 20 gr.; extract of
gentian, 40 gr. For 20 pills.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Sulphate of quinine, 2 dr.; powdered gum, 1/2 dr.; strained
honey, q. s. For 120 pills. Each pill contains 1 gr. of the sulphate or
disulphate of quinine.——_Dose_, 1 or 2 twice a day, as a tonic and
stomachic; 6 to 12, every two or three hours during the remissions of
agues.
3. (B. P.) Mix 60 gr. of sulphate of quinine, and 20 gr. of confection of
hips to a uniform mass.——_Dose_, 2 gr. to 10 gr.
_Obs._ Various additions are often made to the above formulæ, according to
the indications, by which numerous other useful pills are produced. Thus,
potassio-tartrate of antimony is frequently added in obstinate
intermittents; iodide of potassium, in scrofulous affections; foxglove, in
the hectic fever of phthisis; bitter tonics and aromatics, in dyspepsia,
flatulence, &c.; carbonate of soda or magnesia, in acidity and heartburn;
calomel, mercurial pill, in bilious affections; rhubarb and aloes, in
bowelly affections; sulphate of iron and other chalybeates, in debility,
amenorrhœa, and chlorosis; calomel, as an alterative, &c., &c.
=Pills of Sulphate of Zinc.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ZINCI SUPHATIS, P. Z. S.
COMPOSITÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Sulphate of zinc, 12 gr.; extract of gentian, 1/2
dr.; liquorice powder, q. s. For 20 pills. In dyspepsia, epilepsy, and
various convulsive diseases.
2. (Dr Paris.) Sulphate of zinc, 10 gr.; powdered myrrh, 1-1/2 dr.;
conserve of roses, q. s. For 30 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, twice or thrice
daily; in hooping-cough, &c.
=Pills of Sulphuret of Iron.= (Biett.) _Syn._ PILULÆ FERRI SULPHURETI.
_Prep._ Sulphuret of iron, 1/2 dr.; marshmallow powder, 10 gr.; syrup,
q. s. Make into 20 pills; 1 to 4 pills daily, in scrofulous eruptions.
=Pills, Syph′ilis.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTISYPHILITICÆ, L. See the various
pills of mercury, gold, &c. The pills of corrosive sublimate commonly pass
under this name.
=Pills, Tangore.= See PILLS, ARSENICAL.
=Pills of Tan′nic Acid.= _Syn._ PILULÆ TANNINI, P. ACIDI TANNICI, L.
_Prep._ From tannic acid or tannin and powdered sugar, of each 1/2 dr.;
conserve of roses, q. s. For 24 pills.——_Dose_, 1 or 2 pills, thrice
daily, in diarrhœa; or 2 every three hours, in internal hæmorrhages,
spitting of blood, &c.
=Pills of Tar.= _Syn._ PILULÆ PICIS LIQUIDÆ, L. _Prep._ From tar, 1 dr.;
powdered gentian, 1/2 dr., or q. s. For 24 pills. Stimulant, diuretic, and
sudorific.——_Dose_, 1 to 4, thrice a day; in dropsies, worms, ichthyosis,
and several other skin diseases, &c.
=Pills of Tarax′acum.= _Syn._ PILULÆ TARAXACI, L. _Prep._ 1. Extract of
dandelion, 1 dr.; powdered rhubarb, q. s.; divide into 3-1/2-gr. pills. In
dyspepsia, &c., complicated with congestion of the liver.
2. (St Marie.) Extract of dandelion and Castile soap, equal parts; liquid
acetate of potassa, q. s. to mix. For 4-gr. pills. As a diuretic in
dropsy.
3. Extract of dandelion, 1 dr.; mercurial pill, 20 gr.; powdered
digitalis, 15 gr.; liquorice powder, q. s. For 24 pills.——_Dose_, 1,
afterwards increased to 2 or 3; in dropsy connected with liver disease.
=Pills, Thomson’s Stomach and Liver.= _Prep._ From extract of dandelion, 1
dr.; scammony and rhubarb, of each 15 gr. For 14 pills.——_Dose_, 2 pills,
night and morning; in hysteria, hypochondriasis, and chronic inflammation
of the liver or kidneys.
=Pills of Tobacco.= (Augustin.) _Syn._ PILULÆ TABACI. _Prep._ Powder of
tobacco, 24 gr.; confection of roses, q. s. Mix, and form 72
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 daily, till nausea is produced. In dropsy.
=Pills, Tonic.= _Syn._ PILULÆ TONICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Sulphate of iron,
ginger, and myrrh (all in powder), equal parts; conserve of roses, q. s.;
mix, and divide into 4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1, twice a day; in debility,
chlorosis, &c.
2. Powdered myrrh and sulphate of iron, of each 1 dr.; disulphate of
quinine, 1/2 dr., powdered capsicum, 15 gr.; conserve of roses, q. s. to
mix. For 60 pills.——_Dose_, 1 or 2, twice or thrice a day; in debility,
dyspepsia, ague, &c.
3. (Dr Collier.) Tartrate of iron and extract of gentian, of each 1 dr.;
oil of cinnamon, 2 drops. For 30 pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6, three or four
times a day. A good stomachic tonic.
4. (Dr Collier.) Oxide of zinc, 1/2 dr. (or sulphate of zinc, 20 gr.);
myrrh, 2 dr.; camphor, 20 gr.; confection of hips, to mix. For 40
pills.——_Dose_, 1 or two pills, three times a day; in epilepsy, chorea,
and other nervous disorders, debility, &c.
5. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Rhubarb and ginger, of each 1/2 dr.; extract of
chamomile, 1 dr.; divide into 30 pills.——_Dose_, 2 or 3, twice a day; in
dyspepsia and chlorosis.
6. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Sesquioxide of iron and extract of hemlock, of each
1 dr.; mix, and divide into 20 pills.——_Dose_, 1 or 2, twice a day; in
fluor albus, scrofula, &c. Several other formulæ for tonic pills will be
found under the names of the leading ingredients, &c. (See _above_.)
=Pills of Turpentine.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PILULÆ TEREBINTHINÆ. _Prep._
Venice turpentine, 1-1/2 oz.; carbonate of magnesia, 1 oz. Make into 200
pills.
=Pills of Vale′′rian (Compound).= _Syn._ PILULÆ VALERIANÆ COMPOSITÆ, L.
_Prep._ (Dupuytren.) Powdered valerian, 1/2 dr.; castor and white oxide of
zinc, of each 20 gr.; syrup, q. s.; to mix. For 18 pills.——_Dose_, 2 or 3,
thrice daily; in hysteria, hypochondriasis, chlorosis, hemicrania, &c.
=Pills of Vale′′rianate of Zinc.= _Syn._ PILULÆ VALERIANAS, L. _Prep._
From valerianate of zinc and powdered gum, of each 15 gr.; conserve of
hips, q. s. to form a mass. For 18 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, twice daily; in
nervous headache, neuralgia, hysteria, &c.
=Pills, Vallet’s.= See PILLS OF CARBONATE OF IRON.
=Pills, Vance’s.= See PILLS, APERIENT.
=Pills of Vera′trine.= _Syn._ PILULÆ VERATRINÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Magendie.)
Veratrine, 1/2 gr.; powdered gum Arabic and syrup of gum, of each q. s. to
form 6 pills. (See _below_.)
2. (Turnbull.) Veratrine, 1 gr.; extract of henbane and liquorice powder,
of each 12 gr.; mix, and divide into 12 pills.——_Dose_, 1 pill, every 3
hours; in dropsy, epilepsy, hysteria, paralysis, nervous palpitations, &c.
This should be prepared and used with great caution.
=Pills, Ward’s Red.= _Syn._ WARD’S ANTIMONIAL PILLS. _Prep._ From glass of
antimony (finely levigated), 4 oz.; dragon’s blood, 1 oz.; mountain wine,
q. s.; to form a mass. For 1-1/2-gr. pills. Emetic. “They are recommended
in obstinate rheumatism affections, in foulness of the stomach and bowels,
&c. Their action is often of a very unpleasant character.” (‘Anat. of
Quackery.’)
=Pills, Lady Webster’s.= See PILLS, DINNER.
=Pills, Whitehead’s Essence of Mustard.= Balsam of tolu, with resin. (Dr
Paris.)
=Pills, Whytt’s.= _Prep._ (Radius.) Aloes, chloride of iron, and extract
of horehound, of each 1/2 dr.; assafœtida, 1-1/2 dr. For 2-gr.
pills.——_Dose_, 2 to 5, thrice daily; in leucorrhœa, chlorosis, hysteria,
&c., with constipation.
=Pills, Worm.= _Syn._ PILULÆ ANTHELMINTICÆ, P. VERMIFUGÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
Calomel, 1 oz.; sugar, 1-1/2 oz.; mucilage, q. s.; mix, and divide into
240 pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, overnight, followed by a strong dose of castor
oil early the next morning.
2. Gamboge, 6 gr.; calomel, 5 gr.; mucilage, q. s.; divide into 3 pills.
For a morning’s dose, fasting.
3. Extract of wormwood, calomel, and powdered scammony, equal parts. For
4-gr. pills.——_Dose_, 1 to 2, as the last. For ascarides, and other small
worms.
4. (Bresmer.) Powdered aloes and tansy seed, of each 1/2 dr.; oil of rue,
9 or 10 drops. for 12 pills.——_Dose_, 3 to 6, in the morning, fasting, and
repeated in two or three hours.
5. (Phœbus.) Iron filings, 1/2 dr.; assafœtida, 1-1/2 dr.; essential oil
of tansy, 10 or 12 drops; extract of wormwood, q. s.; mix, and divide into
80 pills.——_Dose_, 6 pills, thrice daily.
6. (Peschier.) Ethereal extract of male fern, 30 drops; extract of
dandelion, 1 dr.; powdered rhizomes of male fern, q. s. to mix. For 30
pills. In tapeworm.——_Dose_, 6 to 15, at bedtime; the dose being repeated
in the morning, and then followed in an hour by a strong dose of castor
oil.
=Pills, Wordsell’s (Kaye’s).= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Powdered aloes, gamboge,
and ginger, equal parts; together with a very small quantity of
diaphoretic antimony, beaten into a mass with either syrup or treacle, and
divided into 2-1/2-gr. pills. “There are about 4-1/2 dozen pills in each
1s. 1-1/2d. box.” “The dose, as given in the directions, is from 2 to 8
pills (or even 10 to 12) daily.” (‘Anat. of Quackery.’) They frequently
operate with great violence.
=Pills, Wyndham’s (Lee’s).= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Aloes and gamboge, of each
(in powder) 3 oz.; Castile soap and extract of cow-parsnip, of each 1 oz.;
nitre, 1/2 oz. For 5-gr. pills. A powerful drastic cathartic.——_Dose_, 1
to 3 pills.
=Pills of Zinc.= See PILLS OF OXIDE, SULPHATE and VALERIANATE of ZINC, &c.
=PILOCARPINE.= _Prep._ Exhaust the leaves or bark of Jaborandi with 80%
alcohol, to which hydrochloric acid has been added in the proportion of 8
grains per litre; distil and evaporate to the consistence of an extract.
Redissolve the extract with a small quantity of distilled water and
filter; treat with ammonia in slight excess, and a large quantity of
chloroform. Distil off the chloroform, dissolve the residue in distilled
water acidulated with hydrochloric acid, and filter. Treat afresh with
chloroform and ammonia. The chloroformic solution is then shaken with
water, to which hydrochloric acid is added, drop by drop, up to the
quantity sufficient to saturate the pilocarpine. The foreign matters
remain in the chloroform, and upon evaporation of the aqueous liquid the
hydrochlorate is obtained, well crystallised, in long needles radiating
from a common centre. The hydrochlorate dissolved in distilled water, and
treated with ammonia and chloroform, yields the pilocarpine upon
evaporation of the chloroform solution.
Pilocarpine appears under the form of a soft viscous substance; it is
slightly soluble in water and very soluble in alcohol, ether and
chloroform. It presents all the chemical characters of an alkaloid, and
rotates the plane of polarized light strongly to the right. (Paris
Pharmaceutical Society.)
=PIMA′RIC ACID.= A resin acid first obtained by Laurent from the
turpentine of _Pinus maritima_ (Bordeaux turpentine), by the action of
hot alcohol.
=PIMEN′TO.= _Syn._ ALLSPICE, CLOVE PEPPER, JAMAICA P., PIMENTO BERRIES;
PIMENTA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & E.), PIPER CARYOPHYLLATUM, P. JAMAICENSE, P.
ODORATUM, PIMENTÆ BACCÆ, L. “The dried unripe berries of the allspice
tree, _Eugenia pimenta_, from the West Indies”——B. P. “The immature fruit
of _Eugenia pimenta_ (Myrtus pimenta, _Linn._)”——Ph. L. It possesses a
mixed odour of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmegs, which, with its other
properties, it for the most yields to alcohol, ether, and water. It is a
stimulant and tonic, and is much esteemed as an adjuvant in medicines
prescribed in dyspepsia, flatulence, gout, hysteria &c.; and also to cover
the taste of disagreeable medicines.——_Dose_, 5 to 30 gr., bruised or in
powder. See ESSENCE, OILS (Volatile), SPIRITS, and WATERS.
=PIM′PLES.= See ERUPTIONS (Papular).
=PINCH′BECK.= A gold-like alloy of copper and zinc. See DUTCH GOLD.
=PINE APPLE.= _Syn._ ANANAS. The fruit of _Ananassa sativa_, a plant of
the natural order _Bromeliaceæ_. It is astringent, esculent, and possesses
a rich flavour and odour. In Europe it is chiefly used as a delicacy for
the table; but in tropical climates it is said to be valuable in renal
diseases. See ESSENCE, &c.
=PI′NEY TAL′LOW.= _Syn._ PINEY RESIN, P. DAMMAR. An oleo-resinous
substance obtained from the fruit of _Vateria indica_, a tree common in
Malabar, by boiling it with water. It is intermediate between fat and wax,
makes good soap and excellent candles. It melts at 98° Fahr. Sp. gr. ·9250
to ·9265.
=PI′NIC ACID.= The portion of common resin or colophony which is soluble
in cold alcohol of sp. gr. ·833.
=PINK.= A well known shade of light red. The name is also applied to
several pigments, consisting of whiting stained with liquid dyes. See RED
and YELLOW PIGMENTS, &c.
=PINK DYE.= _Prep._ From washed safflower, 2 oz.; salt of tartar, 1/2 oz.;
cold water, 1 quart; digest for 3 hours, express the liquor, and strain
it. Used as a cosmetic, and to dye silk stockings, &c., of a rose colour.
The colour is brought out by afterwards applying to, or passing the
articles through, water soured with lemon juice. See SAUCERS (Pink).
=PIP′ERIN.= C_{17}H_{19}NO_{3}. _Syn._ PIPERINA, PIPERINUM, L. _Prep._ (P.
Cod.) Alcoholic extract of black pepper is treated with a weak solution of
caustic potassa (1 to 100), and the residuum, after being washed with cold
water, is dissolved in alcohol; the solution is next agitated with a
little animal charcoal, and the filtrate is allowed to evaporate
spontaneously; the product may be purified by the re-solution in alcohol
and re-crystallisation.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless, or only slightly yellow; tasteless; inodorous;
fusible; and crystallisable; insoluble in water; freely soluble in strong
spirit, and in the acids; very feebly basic; a few definite compounds
have, however, been obtained with difficulty; reddened by oil of vitriol.
It has been much employed in Italy and on the Continent as a
febrifuge.——_Dose_, 2 to 10 gr., frequently repeated, during the apyrexia
of intermittents.
_Obs._ An assay for its piperin is the only certain method of testing the
quality of either black or white pepper. For this purpose a weighted
quantity of the sample is reduced to powder, and is exhausted with alcohol
of the sp. gr. ·883; the mixed tinctures are then evaporated to an
extract, which is treated as above. See PEPPER.
=PIPES.= (In confectionery.) These are formed from any of the common
lozenge-masses, by rolling them into cylinders of about the thickness of a
goose-quill. They are frequently medicated.
=PIPETTE.= A graduated glass instrument, in frequent use in the chemical
laboratory, for conveying a measured quantity of fluid from one vessel to
another. The pipette mostly consists of a bulb, from each end of which
proceeds a straight, slender hollow stem, communicating with the bulb, and
varying in length with the capacity of the instrument. Thus constructed,
the lower end of the pipette can be dipped into a vessel with a narrow and
long neck, such as a flask, containing a fluid, the required volume of
which can be removed from it. The pipette varies in capacity from 1 to 200
cubic centimètres.
Dr Fresenius gives the following directions for its use:——“To fill a
pipette with the fluid which it is intended to transfer from one vessel to
another, the lower part of the instrument is dipped into the fluid, and
suction applied to the upper aperture, either direct with the lips or
through a caoutchouc tube until the fluid in the pipette stands a little
above the required mark; the upper, somewhat narrowed, ground orifice is
then closed with the point of the index of the right hand, which to that
end had always better be moistened a little, and holding the pipette in a
perfectly vertical direction, the excess of over the quantity required is
made to drop out by lifting the finger a little. When the fluid in the
pipette has fallen to the required level, the drops which may happen to
adhere to the outside of the pipette are carefully wiped off, and the
contents of the tube are then fully transferred to the other vessel. In
this process it is found that the fluid does not run out completely, but
that a small portion of it remains adhering to the glass in the point of
the pipette; after a time, as this becomes increased by other minute
particles of fluid trickling down from the upper part of the tube, a drop
gathers at the lower orifice, which may be allowed to fall from its own
weight, or may be made to drop off by a slight shake; if, after this, the
point of the pipette be laid against a moist portion of the inner side of
the vessel, another minute portion of fluid will trickle out; and lastly,
another trifling droplet or so may be got out by blowing into the pipette
through the upper orifice. Now, supposing the operator follows no fixed
rule in this respect, letting the fluid, for instance, in one operation
simply run out, whilst in another operation he lets it drain afterwards,
and in a third blows off the last particles of it from the pipette, it is
evident that the respective quantities of fluid delivered in the several
operations cannot be quite equal. I prefer in all cases the second method,
viz. to lay the point of the pipette whilst draining finally against a
moist portion of the inner side of the vessel, which I have always found
to give the most accurate corresponding measurements.”
=PISTA′CHIO NUTS.= _Syn._ PISTACIA NUTS; NUCES PISTACIÆ, L. The kernels of
the fruit of _Piscatia vera_ (Linn.), one of the turpentine trees. They
closely resemble almonds, but are sweeter, and form a green emulsion with
water. Used in confectionery and perfumery, and also as a dessert fruit.
=PITCH.= _Syn._ BLACK PITCH, BOILED P., STONE P., WOOD P.; PIX (Ph. L.),
PIX NIGRA, L. “A dry bitumen prepared from liquid pitch.” (Ph. L.) The
residuum from boiling tar in an open iron pot, or in a still, until the
volatile and liquid portion is driven off. The volatile products
principally consist of crude pyroligneous acid and oil of tar. Pitch is
chiefly employed in ship-building. As a medicine, it is stimulant and
tonic, and has been used internally in some skin diseases, and in piles.
An ointment made of it is also extensively used in cutaneous affections of
the scaly.——_Dose_, 10 gr. to 1/2 dr.
=Pitch, Burgundy.= _Syn._ WHITE PITCH, BURGUNDY PINE RESIN; PIX BURGUNDICA
(B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “Impure resin prepared from the turpentine
of _Abies excelsa_,” or Norway spruce fir. (Ph. L.) “A concrete resinous
exudation, probably, in a great measure, from _Abies excelsa_.” (Ph. E.)
It is chiefly used in plasters.
_Obs._ The importation of this substance has for some years past been
gradually lessening in amount, in consequence of the substitution for it
of a fictitious pitch, made by melting common resin with linseed oil, and
colouring the mass with annotta or palm oil. The physiological action of
the two articles is, however, considerably different, since Burgundy pitch
acts upon the skin as a powerful local irritant, exciting a slight degree
of inflammation, and not unfrequently producing a pimply eruption and an
exudation of purulent matter. It is celebrated for its effects when
employed as a plaster in all cases where warmth, support, and long
adhesion to the skin, are desirable; and in the latter quality no
substance equals it. The fictitious Burgundy pitch has similar properties,
but in an immensely less degree.
PREPARED BURGUNDY PITCH (PIX BURGUNDICA PRÆPARATA——Ph. L.) is ordered to
be obtained in the same way as that adopted for strained ammoniacum. This
plan is, however, seldom, if ever, adopted in trade.
=Pitch, Burgundy (Facti′′tious).= _Syn._ PIX BURGUNDICA FACTITIA, L.
_Prep._ By melting good yellow resin, 1 cwt.,with linseed oil, 1 gall.,
and palm oil (bright), q. s. to colour. The mixture is allowed to cool
considerably, and is then pulled with the hands in the same way as lead
plaster is treated; after which it is placed in ‘bladders’ or ‘stands’ for
sale.
_Obs._ The product of the above formula is the ‘Burgundy pitch’ of the
shops. The ‘pulling’ or ‘working’ destroys the translucency of the resin,
and imparts to it the peculiar semi-opacity of foreign Burgundy pitch.
Cold water is commonly employed to cool it down. Annotta is often
substituted for palm oil as a colouring substance. The addition of some of
the ‘droppings’ or ‘bottoms’ of Canada balsam, Chio turpentine, oil of
juniper, &c., renders this article nearly equal to foreign pitch; but in
commerce this is never attempted, the aim being only the production of a
lively colour with moderate toughness. A common melting-pan and fire (if
clean, and carefully managed) will succeed sufficiently, but, both for
safety and convenience, steam is preferable, and on the large scale,
almost indispensable. A good workman can pull and put into stands or casks
about 5 cwt. daily; or from 1-1/2 cwt. to 3 cwt. in bladders, the latter
quantity depending on the size of the bladders. (See _above_.)
=Pitch, Can′ada.= _Syn._ HEMLOCK GUM, H. PITCH. Similar to Burgundy pitch;
but from the _Abies canadenses_, or hemlock spruce fir.
=Pitch, Jews’.= Asphaltum.
=Pitch, Min′eral.= Indurated mineral bitumen. See ASPHALTUM, BITUMEN, &c.
=PIT′COAL.= _Syn._ COAL; HOUILLE, Fr.; STEINKOHLE, Ger. This article has
been truly described as the most valuable of all those mineral substances
from which Great Britain derives its prosperity, and the one which may be
regarded as the main support of the whole system of British production. It
fuses the metals, it produces the steam which sets our machinery in
motion, and, in short, it may be said to render all the resources of this
country available for use.
The more important kinds of coal may be classified as follows:——1. Lignite
or brown coal (see page 969).——2. Bituminous or caking coals. The most
widely diffused and valuable of English coals. They are subdivided into:
_a._ Caking coal. Splinters on heating, but the fragments then fuse
together in a semi-pasty mass. The chief sources of this valuable variety
of coal are the Newcastle and Wigan districts, _b._ Cherry coal or soft
coal. Lustre very bright; does not fuse, ignites well and burns rapidly.
Glasgow, Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Nottingham, Lancashire, &c. _c._
Splint, rough, or hard coal. Black and glistening; does not ignite
readily, but burns up to a clear hot fire. It constitutes the bulk of the
great coal fields of North and South Staffordshire, and occurs in the
Glasgow district, in Shropshire, Leicestershire, Warwickshire, &c. _d._
Cannel or parrot coal. Dense and compact, having a shelly fracture, and
taking a polish like jet. Splinters in the fire, and burns clearly and
brightly. Wigan and other parts of Lancashire, West Glasgow, &c. The
curious deposit at Bathgate, near Edinburgh, commonly known as ‘Boghead
cannel coal,’ or ‘Torbanehill mineral,’ differs considerably from the
ordinary ‘cannels,’——3. Anthracite or stone-coal. The densest, hardest,
and most lustrous of all kinds of pitcoal. Burns with little flame or
smoke, but gives great heat. South Wales, Devonshire, &c.——4. Steam coal.
Approaches nearly to anthracite. Admirably adapted for steam-vessels.
South Wales, Tyne district, &c.
The quality of coal may be ascertained by either directly testing its
heating power or by chemical analysis. In the investigations undertaken at
the Museum of Economic Geology, under the directions of Sir H. De la
Beche, and which furnished the materials for the celebrated ‘Admiralty
Reports,’ three different methods were adopted for this purpose.[109]
These consisted in——the determination of the quantity of water which a
given weight of the coal was capable of converting into steam, the
quantity of litharge which it was capable of reducing to the metallic
state, and, lastly, its ultimate analysis by combustion with oxide of
copper. See ORGANIC SUBSTANCES.
[Footnote 109: See Watt’s ‘Dict. of Chemistry,’ vol. i, page 1033.]
The quantity of sulphur in coal is another matter of importance that may
be determined by chemical analysis. (See SULPHUR.) The presence of more
than 1% of sulphur renders coal unfit for the economical production of
good light-gas, and more than 2% of sulphur renders it objectionable for
use as domestic fuel. In like manner, coals containing mineral ingredients
in excess are to be avoided, not merely on account of the quantity of
ashes left by them, but for their tendency to vitrify upon the bars of the
furnace, and to produce what is technically called ‘clinkers.’ The
presence of much silica or alumina, and more particularly of any of the
salts of lime, in ‘steam coal,’ is, on this account, highly objectionable.
For some further information connected with this subject, see ANTHRACITE,
CHIMNEYS, COKE, FUEL, GAS, LIGNITE, OILS, (Mineral), ORGANIC SUBSTANCES,
&c.
=PLAGUE.= (PESTIS). “A specific fever attended with bubo of the inguinal
and other glands, and occasionally with carbuncles.”
Such is the definition of plague given in the ‘Nomenclature of Diseases’
(published in 1869), drawn up by a joint committee appointed by the
College of Physicians.
More detailed accounts of the disease, described by other pathologists,
state that it attacks the patient with great suddeness, or only after a
few premonitory symptoms. These are:——Shivering, extreme prostration,
intense headache and giddiness, excessive restlessness, and an
overwhelming sense of anxiety. The patient’s gait becomes uncertain, and
he staggers like a drunken man. These symptoms are more or less
accompanied by nausea, bilious vomiting, and frequently by bilious
diarrhœa. As the disease advances, delirium very frequently sets in; the
nausea, vomiting, and diarrhœa increase in intensity, the tongue becomes
swollen and covered with a dark fur, whilst the lips, teeth, and nostrils
are coated with a dry fetid incrustation. Provided the attack does not
terminate fatally, in a very rapid manner, these symptoms are accompanied
by sharp pains (increasing in intensity during the progress of the malady)
in the groin, armpits, and neck. These pains in the above parts precede
the appearance of the buboes, and in many cases, of the carbuncles, which,
associated with the fever, are so characteristic of plague. These
glandular swellings vary, in different cases, as to the time when they
make their appearance. Sometimes they do so during the first day of the
attack, at others, after two or three days——and in others, again, not
until near the close of the disease. With the buboes and carbuncles, small
red purplish spots (_petechiæ_), frequently appear on the body. The
carbuncle is by no means an invariable accompaniment of the disease. Dr
Russell, out of 2700 cases, found only 490 in which it showed itself. He
states that when carbuncle develops itself, it is distributed over the
whole surface of the body with the exception of the scalp, the palms of
the hands, and the soles of the feet.
“The plague may be said to assume four degrees of severity:——1. Slight
fever, without delirium or buboes. 2. Fever, delirium, and buboes. 3.
Fever, delirium, or coma, buboes, carbuncles, and _petechiæ/e_. 4.
Congestive fever, fatal on the first, second, or third day, before the
appearance of buboes. The fever, though usually continued, may assume the
intermittent or remittent type.”[110]
[Footnote 110: Hooper’s ‘Vade Mecum,’ edited by Messrs Guy and Harley.]
There is considerable diversity of opinion as to the origin of plague. By
some pathologists it is maintained that it spreads solely by contagion; by
others the contagion theory is altogether repudiated, and certain local
and epidemic agencies are referred to as its source; whilst others, again,
adopt a medium view and, whilst not denying its contagious origin, hold
that it may also be developed by endemic and epidemic causes. It bears a
great resemblance to typhus.
With the exception of the outbreak of plague at Veltianka, in Astrakan, in
the beginning of the current year (1879), the pestilence has not visited
Western Europe during the present century an exemption which, being so
obviously due to the improved sanitary and hygienic conditions of the
modern European cities and towns, is a forcible illustration of how
largely the power of curtailing the propagation and progress of the
scourge is within the means of human control. There can be little, if any,
doubt that the same total absence of drainage, and the very possible
consequent contamination of drinking water, added to the narrowness of the
streets, the overcrowded and badly ventilated state of the houses
themselves, and the dirty habits of the inmates, which are also
characteristic of those quarters of eastern cities and towns in which
plague is always more or less occasionally prevalent, obtained in the
fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth centuries, amongst
European communities.
We learn, on the authority of Mr Marshall (who gets his figures from the
weekly bills of mortality of the period), that during the sixteenth and
seventeenth centuries London was seldom free from the pestilence, and that
in several years, not usually regarded by historians as plague epochs, it
annually slew from less than 1000 to 4000 of the inhabitants.
Between the years 1593 and 1665, five severe outbreaks of the disease
occurred in London, and the number of deaths for the respective years were
as follows:——1593, 11,503; 1603, 36,269; 1625, 35,417; 1636, 10,400; 1665,
68,596. According to Sir William Petty, the average mortality during these
several attacks amounted to about a fifth of the population.
That insanitary surroundings and the spread of plague, whilst sanitary
ones and its decline, follow each other like cause and effect, may be
emphasised by the statement of two facts:——1. The medical commissioner
lately sent by the Russian government to the seat of the late outbreak of
the malady in Astrakan, discovered the people dirty in their habits,
living in noisome, overcrowded houses, and the atmosphere polluted with
the smell of decaying fish, added to which the village was most miserably
drained. 2. Ranken records that in Rajpootana plague propagated by the
filthy habits of the inhabitants was for some years almost entirely
obliterated by the adoption of sanitary precautions.
It may here be noticed that the Astrakan plague was associated with
inflammation of the lungs, a feature which led an eminent Russian
physician to adopt the opinion, that the Astrakan malady is the same as
the Indian plague, which is believed to be the same disease which, under
the name of ‘The Black Death,’ committed such appalling devastation in
Europe, Asia, and Africa, in the fourteenth century.
In his ‘Epidemics of the Middle Ages,’[111] Hecker has told of the ravages
of this ruthless pestilence, which made its appearance in Europe in 1348.
Its devastations at Florence have been very powerfully described by
Boccaccio in the introduction to his ‘Decameron.’ Boccaccio was in Naples
at the time it was devastating Italy, therefore, it is conjectured, his
graphic description must have been derived from hearsay and the reports of
eyewitnesses.
[Footnote 111: Published by the Sydenham Society, 1844.]
In August of the same year it broke out at Dorset, from which county it
soon reached Devon and Somerset, and thence rapidly spread throughout
England, slaying its thousands in its progress. In London alone it has
been estimated that the mortality caused by it amounted to a hundred
thousand.
Hecker assumes that in Europe its victims were twenty-five millions. These
however, as well as the following figures, must only be received as
approximations to the correct numbers, which, owing to the absence of any
contemporary bills of mortality, cannot but be very imperfect:——
In Florence there died of the
black plague 60,000
In Venice 100,000
In Marseilles, in one month 16,000
In Sienna 70,000
In Paris 50,000
In St Denis 14,000
In Avignon 60,000
In Strasbourg 16,000
In Lübeck 9,000
In Basle 14,000
In Erfurt at least 16,000
In Weimar 5,000
In Lemburg 2,500
In London at least 100,000
In Norwich 51,000
To which may be added:——
Franciscan Friars in Germany 124,434
Minorites in Italy 30,000
From the circumstance——illustrative of the religious and blind bigotry of
this period——that the Jews were brutally tortured, massacred, and burnt,
on suspicion of having poisoned the wells from which drinking water was
drawn, it may be inferred that the wells, owing to the entire absence of
drainage, which led to their contamination by sewage matters, contributed
largely to the spread of the pestilence.
Of the potency of the contagion disseminated by the ‘Black Death’ Hecker
records:——
“Every spot which the sick had touched, their breath, their clothes,
spread the contagion; and in all other places the attendants and friends,
who were either blind to their danger, or heroically despised it, fell a
sacrifice to their sympathy.
“Even the eyes of the patient were considered as sources of contagion,
which had the power of acting at a distance, either on account of their
unwonted lustre, or the distortion which they always suffer in plague, or
in conformity with an ancient notion, according to which the sight was
considered as the bearer of a demoniacal excitement.
“The pestilential death of the sick, who expectorated blood, caused a
terrible contagion far and near, for even the vicinity of those who had
fallen ill of plague was certain death, so that parents abandoned their
infected children, and all the ties of kindred were dissolved.”
There is a striking similarity between the above description, referring to
the plague of 1348, and the following, which is extracted from Dr
Döppner’s official medical report to the Russian government on the plague
which manifested itself at Veltianka in Astrakan as lately as January,
1879. Dr Döppner, writes:——
“The necessary remedies were employed to combat the disease. I prescribed
especially salicylic acid, muriatic acid, quinine, &c., but everything
proved useless. Not a single patient recovered, viz. Dr Koch and six of
his assistants died, the priest of the Stanitza, the Cossacks employed in
burying the dead; in a word, all those who approached the persons attacked
with the disease, although furnished with the means of preservation used
in like circumstances, very few escaped the plague.[112]”
[Footnote 112: ‘Lancet.’]
No case of plague has occurred in England for more than two centuries,
although in 1721 it half depopulated Marseilles, and committed fearful
ravages at Moscow, in 1771.
Within the present century it has appeared in Europe at the following
places:——At Malta, in 1813; at Calabria, in 1816; at Corfu, in 1818; in
Silesia, in 1819; and amongst the Russian troops in Bulgaria, in 1824. In
Malta between 4000 and 5000 people fell victims to it.
It made its last appearance in England in 1665, and was especially fatal
in London, where it carried off, as we have already seen, 65,596 people.
Because of the frightful mortality it occasioned, this particular outbreak
of the disease has been named by historians “The Great Plague of London.”
Rapidly spreading from Westminster, where it first manifested itself, to
the more closely built city, its progress increased with the warm weather,
until during the sultry months of August and September it reached its
height. “Thus,” writes Pepys in his diary, August 31st, 1665 “this month
ends with great sadness upon the public through the greatness of the
plague everywhere through the kingdom almost. Every day sadder and sadder
news of its increase. In the city died this week 7496, and of them 6102 of
the plague. But it is feared the true number of the dead this week is near
10,000; partly from the poor that cannot be taken notice of through the
greatness of the number, and partly through the Quakers and others that
will not have the bell ring for them.” The general aspect of the
pestilence stricken city is thus described by Pepys, “To the Exchange,
where I have not been a great while. But, Lord! how sad a sight it is to
see the streets empty of people and very few upon the ‘Change. Jealous of
every door that one sees shut up, lest it should be plague; and about us
two shops in three, if not generally more, shut up.”
The doors of a house infected with the plague were marked with a red
cross, and on them was written the words, “The Lord have mercy upon us.”
Pepys tells of the fright he experienced when he came upon two houses of
this description, in Drury-lane, for the first time; and as he adds that
he was compelled to buy some roll tobacco to smell and to chew, it may be
concluded that this substance was at that time regarded as somewhat of a
safeguard against the disease.
Large carts called nightly at the infected habitations and collecting the
bodies of any dead conveyed them to pits, into which they were flung,
covered with quicklime. This rude kind of burial became a necessity as the
disease gained ground, because the ordinary grave-yards were full to
overflowing. “This is the first time,” writes Pepys, “since I have been in
the church since I left London for the plague, and it frightened me indeed
to go through the church more than I thought it could have done, to see so
many graves lie so high upon the churchyards where people have been buried
of the plague.”
Such was the fury of the pestilence, and frequently so sudden were its
attacks, that wayfarers were often assailed with it in the streets, and
staggering like drunken men fell down into the road or pathways insensible
or dead. Merchants in their counting-houses, clergymen in the act of
reading the burial service, buyers and sellers in the market-place, were
similarly assailed by the malignant malady, and it was no uncommon
occurrence for the mourner at the grave of a relative or friend one day,
to be himself borne to his own tomb the next. It is not improbable the
infection may have been conveyed by the rapidly decaying and putrid corpse
to large numbers of people, owing to the custom that prevailed of crowds
of mourners attending the obsequies.
Pepys records how he saw in broad daylight two or three burials, one at
the very heels of another, each followed by forty or fifty people.
Furthermore, he states that one day on his way to Greenwich, during the
month of August in 1665, he passed a coffin, “with a dead body therein,
dead of the plague, lying in an open close belonging to Coombe Farm.”
If this exposure of plague-stricken corpses were at all general, it will
readily be perceived how greatly it must have aided the propagation of the
pestilence.
Another important agent in the diffusion of the plague must have been the
infected clothing, whether of the dead or of those who had been in near or
close contiguity to them. On this part of our subject Dr Guy,
remarks:——“Nor will this surprise us if we imagine the frantic and
successful efforts that must have been made by the non-infected to escape,
and the temptation to servants and nurses to appropriate and remove the
property of the dying and the dead. Indeed, Dr Hodges accuses the nurses
of strangling their patients, and secretly conveying the pestilential
taint from sores of the infected to those who were well; and he justifies
his accusations ‘of these abandoned miscreants’——the Gamps and Prigs of
the seventeenth century——by two instances; the one, of a nurse who, ‘as
she was leaving the house of a family, all dead, loaded with her
robberies, fell down dead under her burden in the streets,’ the other, of
a worthy citizen who, being considered dying by his nurse, was beforehand
stripped by her, but recovering again, he came a second time into the
world naked.”
Lastly, in endeavouring to account for the great prevalence and
excessively fatal character of this pestilence, we must not leave out of
consideration one important factor——viz. fear.
We can easily conceive how powerfully the appalling incidents by which the
plague was accompanied must have affected the imaginations of those who
were in its midst, and thus have stimulated the fear, which, acting by its
depressing mental effect, would predispose and prepare men and women for
the reception of the contagion.
In ‘Pepys’ Diary’ we find a circumstance recorded corroborative of this. A
certain alderman, stumbling at night over a dead body in the street, when
he reaches home tells his wife of his adventure, and she is forthwith
seized with the plague and dies of it. Furthermore, the belief derived
from knowledge of the deadly character of the disease, operating upon the
minds of those who were attacked by it, would greatly diminish the chances
of their recovery, since they would most likely regard seizure and death
as synonymous.
There is an old Eastern fable which tells of a traveller journeying from
an infected city, and overtaking the plague, who had not long left it. The
traveller accosts the plague and reproaches him for having slain thirty
thousand people in the city. “You are in error there,” replied the plague,
“I slew only ten thousand, fear slew the rest.”
Tropical climates are never visited by plague. In those countries which
suffer from its ravages it prevails most during the hot months of the
year, and its virulence and spread appear to be commensurate with increase
of temperature. In northern climates it diminishes with the approach of
cold weather. In Europe it has always been most fatal during the summer
and autumn, and in the great plague of London the greatest mortality
prevailed during the months of August and September.
=PLAICE.= The _Platessa vulgaris_, a well-known flat fish, common to both
the English and Dutch coasts. Its flesh is good, and easy of digestion,
but more watery than that of the flounder.
=PLANTAIN.= The plantain, which belongs to the nat. ord. Musaceæ, and is a
native of the East Indies, is cultivated in all tropical and subtropical
regions of the world, in many of which it constitutes the principal food
of the inhabitants. There are a great many varieties of the plantain, in
some of which the stem is 15 or 20 feet high, whilst in others it does not
exceed 6 feet. It is one of the largest of the herbaceous plants.
The fruit is sometimes eaten raw, but is more generally boiled or roasted.
It contains both starch and sugar. Boiled and beaten in a mortar, it forms
the common food of the negroes in the West Indies. It also constitutes the
chief food of the Indians of North and South America.
Humboldt has calculated that the food produce of the plantain is 44 times
greater than that of the potato and 133 times that of wheat.
The banana is a species of plantain. See BANANA.
=PLASMA.= The liquor sanguinis. A tenacious plastic liquid, forming the
coagulating portion of the blood, and that in which the corpuscles float.
=PLAS′TER.= (In boiling, &c.) See MORTAR.
=Plaster of Paris.= Calcined sulphate of lime. See ALABASTER, GYPSUM,
LIME, &c.
=PLASTER.= (In pharmacy.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM, L. Plasters (emplastra) are
external applications that possess sufficient consistence not to adhere to
the fingers when cold, but which become soft and adhesive at the
temperature of the human body.
Plasters are chiefly composed of unctuous substances united to metallic
oxides, or to powders, wax, or resin. They are usually formed, whilst
warm, into 1/2-lb. rolls, about 8 or 9 inches long, and wrapped in paper.
When required for use, a little is melted off the roll by means of a
heated iron spatula, and spread upon leather, linen, or silk. The less
adhesive plasters, when spread, are usually surrounded with a margin of
resin plaster, to cause them to adhere.
In the preparation of plasters the heat of a water bath, or of steam,
should alone be employed. On the large scale, well-cleaned and polished
copper or tinned copper pans, surrounded with iron jackets, supplied with
high-pressure steam, are used for this purpose. The resins and gum resins
that enter into their composition are previously purified by straining.
After the ingredients are mixed, and the mass has acquired sufficient
consistence by cooling, portions of it are taken into the hands, anointed
with a little olive oil, and well pulled or worked until it becomes solid
enough to admit of being formed into rolls. To promote the cooling of the
plaster it is usual to plunge it into cold water, and to expose it to the
action of the fluid by working it about under the surface, after which it
is well pulled in the hands to remove the superfluous water; but this
process must not, on any account, be practised on compound plasters,
containing odorous substances, or substances soluble in water. These
should be suffered to cool on an oiled marbled slab, until sufficiently
‘stiff’ to be formed into rolls. Many plasters, as those of lead and
resin, derive much of their whiteness and beauty from the treatment just
referred to. White plasters are not, however, always the best; but they
are those which are most admired, and the most sought after in trade.
Plasters are preserved by enveloping the rolls with paper, to exclude the
air as much as possible, and by keeping them in a cool situation. A few,
as those of belladonna and ammoniacum with mercury, are commonly placed in
pots. When kept for any length of time, they are all more or less apt to
become hard and brittle, and to lose their colour. When this is the case,
they should be remelted by a gentle heat, and sufficient oil added to the
mass to restore it to a proper consistence.
The operation of spreading plasters for use requires skill and experience
on the part of the operator. Various textures are employed for the
purpose, of which linen or cotton cloth, or leather, are those most
generally employed. Silk and satin are used for ‘court plaster.’ The shape
and size must be regulated by the part to which they are to be applied.
On the large scale plasters are spread by means of a ‘spreading machine.’
Compound plasters are now much less frequently employed in medicine than
formerly. Those principally in use are such as afford protection to sores
and abraded surfaces, and give support to the parts. A few, however, which
contain acrid, stimulating, and narcotic substances, and operate as
rubefacients, blisters, or anodynes, are still retained in the
Pharmacopœias.
=Plaster of Ac′onite.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ACONITI, L. _Prep._ (Curtis.)
Gently evaporate tincture of aconite to the consistence of a soft extract,
then spread a very small portion over the surface of a common adhesive
plaster, on either calico or leather. Mr Curtis has strongly recommended
this plaster in neuralgia. A little of the alcoholic extract may be
employed instead of that obtained fresh from the tincture.
=Plaster, Adhe′′rent.= See PLASTER, SOAP (Compound).
=Plaster, Adhe′sive.= See PLASTER, RESIN, COURT P., &c.
=Plaster, Adhesive Lime.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ADHÆSIVUM CALCAREUM. _Prep._
Soap of lime, 200 parts; boiled turpentine, 100 parts; suet, 25 parts.
=Plaster, Ammoni′acal.= _Syn._ DR KIRKLAND’S VOLATILE PLASTER; EMPLASTRUM
AMMONIÆ, E. A. HYDROCHLORATIS, L. _Prep._ Take of lead plaster, 1 oz.;
white soap (shaved fine), 1/2 oz.; melt them together, and, when nearly
cold, add of sal ammoniac (in fine powder), 1 dr. Stimulant and
rubefacient. Dr Paris, who highly recommends it in pulmonary affections,
employs double the above proportion of sal ammoniac. Its efficacy depends
on the gradual extrication of free ammonia by the decomposition of the sal
ammoniac, on which account it is proper to renew the application of it
every 24 hours.
=Plaster of Ammoni′acum.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM AMMONIACI (Ph. L., E., & D.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. & E.) Ammoniacum (strained), 5 oz.; dilute acetic
acid (distilled vinegar), 8 fl. oz. (9 fl. oz.——Ph. E.); dissolve, and,
frequently stirring, evaporate by a gentle heat to a proper consistence.
2. (Ph. D.) Gum ammoniacum (in coarse powder), 4 oz.; proof spirit, 4 fl.
oz.; dissolve by the aid of a gentle heat, and evaporate, as before.
_Obs._ This plaster is adhesive, stimulant, and resolvent, and is employed
in scrofulous and indolent tumours, white swellings, &c. In the Ph. D.
1826 vinegar of squills was ordered instead of distilled vinegar.
=Plaster of Ammoniacum with Hem′lock.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM AMMONIACI CUM
CICUTÂ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E. 1744.) Gum ammoniacum, 8 oz.; vinegar of
squills, q. s. to dissolve; hemlock juice, 4 oz.; gently evaporate, as
before. In cancerous and other painful tumours. A better plan is to add 1
dr. of extract of hemlock to 1-1/4 oz. of strained ammoniacum (previously
reduced to a proper consistence with a little distilled vinegar), melted
by a very gentle heat.
=Plaster of Ammoniacum with Mer′cury.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM AMMONIACI CUM
HYDRARGYRO (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. & E.) Olive
oil, 1 dr.; heat it in a mortar, add of sulphur, 8 gr.; triturate; further
add of mercury, 3 oz.; again triturate, and when the globules are
extinguished, add it to ammoniacum (strained), 1 lb. (12 oz., B. P.),
previously melted by a gentle heat, and mix them well together.
2. (Ph. D.) From ammoniacum plaster, 4 oz.; mercurial plaster, 8 oz.;
melted together by a gentle heat, and then stirred constantly until nearly
cold.
3. (_Wholesale._) Take of mercury, 38 oz.; prepared sevum, 5 oz.;
triturate, as last, and add the mixture to strained ammoniacum, 10 lbs.,
previously sufficiently softened by a gentle heat. Possesses a fine blue
colour, and is quickly made.
_Obs._ This plaster cannot be rolled till considerably cooled, and neither
this nor the simple plaster must be put into water. It is powerfully
discutient, and is applied to indurated glands, indolent tumours, &c.
=Plaster, An′odyne.= SEE PLASTER, OPIUM, PLASTER, BELLADONNA, &c.
=Plaster, Antimo′′nial.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ANTIMONIALE, E. ANTIMONII
POTASSIO-TARTRATIS, L. _Prep._ (U. C. Hosp.) By sprinkling tartar emetic,
in very fine powder, on the surface of a spread Burgundy pitch (or common
adhesive) plaster. It has been successfully applied to the nape of the
neck, in the scarlatina of children; also the chest, in phthisis; and,
with the addition of a little opium, in rheumatic affections of the
joints.
=Plaster, Arnica.= (Ph. U. S.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ARNICÆ. _Prep._ Alcoholic
extract of arnica, 1-1/2 oz.; resin plaster, 3 oz. Add the extract to the
plaster previously melted over a water bath, and mix it thoroughly.
=Plaster, Aromatic.= _Syn._ STOMACH PLASTER; EMPLASTRUM AROMATICUM, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. D. 1826.) Strained frankincense (thus), 3 oz.; beeswax, 1/2
oz.; melt them together, and, when the mass has considerably heated, add,
of powdered cinnamon, 6 dr.; oils of allspice and lemons, of each 2 dr.
Stimulant; applied over the stomach in dyspepsia, spasms, nausea,
flatulence, &c. Camphor, 1 dr., is commonly added.
=Plaster of Assafœtida.= _Syn._ ANTIHYSTERIC PLASTER, ANTISPASMODIC P.;
EMPLASTRUM ASSAFŒTIDÆ (Ph. E.), E. ANTIHYSTERICUM, &c., L. _Prep._ (Ph.
E.) From lead plaster and strained assafœtida, of each 2 oz.; strained
galbanum and beeswax, of each 1 oz.; melted together. Antispasmodic;
applied to the stomach or abdomen in spasms, hysteria, &c.; and to the
chest in hooping-cough.
=Plaster, Baynton’s Adhesive.= _Prep._ From yellow resin, 1 oz.; lead
plaster, 1 lb.; melted together. Recommended for bad legs, and other like
sores.
=Plaster of Belladon′na.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM BELLADONNÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E.,
& D), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Soap plaster, 3 oz.; melt it by the heat of a
water bath; add of extract of belladonna (deadly nightshade), 3 oz.; and
keep constantly stirring the mixture until it acquires a proper
consistence.
2. (Ph. E.) Resin plaster, 3 oz.; extract of belladonna, 1-1/2 oz.; as the
last.
3. (Ph. D.) Resin plaster, 2 oz.; extract of belladonna, 1 oz.
4. (B. P.) Extract of belladonna, 3; resin plaster, 3; rectified spirit,
6; rub the extract and spirit together in a mortar, and when the insoluble
matter has subsided, decant the clear solution, remove the spirit by
distillation or evaporation, and mix the alcoholic extract thus obtained
with the resin plaster melted at the heat of a water bath, continuing the
heat until with constant stirring the plaster has acquired a suitable
consistence.
_Uses, &c._ As a powerful anodyne and antispasmodic; in neuralgia and
rheumatic pains, and as an application to painful tumours. The plaster of
the shops is usually deficient in extract. The following formula is in
common use in the wholesale trade:——Lead plaster and resin plaster, of
each 2-1/2 lbs.; extract of belladonna, 1-3/4 lb. This plaster must not be
‘pulled’ in water.
=Plaster, Berg’s Antirheumatic.= _Syn._ GOUT PAPER; EMPLASTRUM
ANTIRHEUMATICUM, CHARTA ANTIRHEUMATICA, L. _Prep._ By digesting
euphorbium, 2 parts, and cantharides, 1 part (both in powder), in
rectified spirit, 10 parts, for eight days; adding to the strained liquid,
black resin and Venetian turpentine, of each 4 parts; assisting the
mixture by a gentle heat. Two or three coats of the product are
successively spread over the surface of thin paper. Used in gout and
rheumatism. (‘Anat. of Quackery.’)
=Plaster, Black.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM NIGRUM. _Prep._ Mr Sharp’s black
plaster was formed by boiling together olive oil, 13 oz.; wax, 2-1/2 oz.;
carbonate of lead, 10 oz.
=Plaster, Black Diach′ylon.= See COURT PLASTER.
=Plaster of Black Pitch.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM PICIS NIGRÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
Wirtem.) Black pitch, black resin, and beeswax, of each 8 parts; suet, 1
part; melted together. Rubefacient and stimulant.
=Plaster, Blistering.= See PLASTER OF CANTHARIDES.
=Plaster, Bree’s Antiasthmatic.= _Prep._ From lead plaster, 1 oz.; olive
oil, 1 dr.; melted together, and, when somewhat cooled, mixed with
powdered camphor, 2 dr.; powdered opium, 1 dr., and at once spread on
leather.
=Plaster, Brown.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM FUSCUM, L.; ONGUENT DE LA MÈRE, Fr.
The butter, lard, oil, suet, and wax should be first melted together, and
the heat gradually increased until they begin to smoke; the litharge is
then to be sifted in, and the stirring and heat continued until the
mixture assumes a brown colour; the pitch is next added, and the whole
stirred for some time longer.
=Plaster, Brown Diach′ylon.= See PLASTER OF GALBANUM.
=Plaster, Bryony.= (Boerhaave.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM BRYONIÆ. _Prep._
Strained galbanum, 4 oz.; wax plaster, 9 oz.; olive oil, 1 oz. Melt
together and add powdered bryony root, 2 oz.; flowers of sulphur, 1 oz.;
Ethiops mineral, 2 dr.; stir till cold.
=Plaster of Bur′gundy Pitch.= _Syn._ CEPHALIC PLASTER, BREATH P.;
EMPLASTRUM PICIS (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), E. P. COMPOSITUM, E. P. BURGUNDICÆ,
L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Prepared (strained) Burgundy pitch, 2 lbs.;
prepared frankincense (thus), 1 lb.; yellow resin and beeswax, of each 4
oz.; melt them together, then add, olive oil and water, of each 2 fl. oz.;
expressed oil of nutmeg (mace), 1 oz.; and, constantly stirring, evaporate
to a proper consistence.
2. (Ph. E.) Burgundy pitch, 1 lb.; resin and beeswax, of each 2 oz.; olive
oil and water, of each 1 fl. oz.; oil of mace, 1/2 oz.; as the last.
3. (B. P.) Burgundy pitch, 26; common frankincense, 13; resin, 4-1/2;
yellow wax, 4-1/2; expressed oil of nutmegs, 1; olive oil, 2; water, 2;
add the oil and the water to the other ingredients, previously melted
together; stir, and evaporate to a proper consistency.
_Uses, &c._ Burgundy-pitch plaster is stimulant, rubefacient, and
counter-irritant. It is a common application to the chest in pulmonary
affections, to the joints in rheumatism, and to the loins in lumbago.
Spread on leather, it forms a good warm plaster to wear on the chest
during the winter. “When it produces a serous exudation, it should be
frequently renewed.”
The BURGUNDY-PITCH PLASTER of the shops is commonly made as
follows:——Factitious Burgundy pitch (bright coloured), 42 lbs.; palm oil
(bright), 3/4 lb.; beeswax (bright), 5 lbs.; melt, and, when nearly cold,
add, of oil of mace, 6 oz.; oil of nutmeg, 1 oz.
=Plaster of Burgundy Pitch (Irritating).= (Ph. G.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM PICIS
IRRITANS. _Prep._ Burgundy pitch, 32 oz.; yellow wax, 12 oz.; turpentine,
12 oz.; euphorbium, 3 oz.
=Plaster, Califa′cient.= _Syn._ WARM PLASTER; EMPLASTRUM CALEFACIENS (Ph.
D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.) 1. Plaster of cantharides, 1/2 lb. (1 part);
Burgundy pitch, 5-1/2 lbs. (11 parts); melt them together by a gentle
heat, and stir the mixture as it cools until it stiffens. Stimulant,
rubefacient, and counter-irritant; in a variety of affections. In some
persons, when long applied, it blisters or produces a running sore.
2. (Ph. B.) Cantharides in coarse powder, 4 oz.; boiling water, 1 pint;
expressed oil of nutmeg, 4 oz.; yellow wax, 4 oz.; resin, 4 oz.; soap
plaster, 3-1/4 lbs.; resin plaster, 2 lbs. Infuse the cantharides in the
boiling water for six hours; squeeze strongly through calico, and
evaporate the expressed liquid by a water bath till reduced to one third.
Then add the other ingredients and melt in a water bath, stirring well
till the whole is thoroughly mixed.
=Plaster, Camphor.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM CAMPHORÆ. Camphor is best applied by
sprinkling the powder on the warm surface of a spread adhesive or other
plaster. Blisters are treated in this way to prevent strangury.
=Plaster, Can′cer.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ANTICANCROSUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Wax
plaster, 1 oz.; extract of hemlock, 1 dr.; levigated arsenious acid, 1/2
dr.
2. (Richter.) Extract of hemlock, 1 oz.; extract of henbane, 1/2 oz.;
powdered belladonna, 1 dr.; acetate of ammonia, q. s. to form a plaster.
Both the above must be used with great caution. See CANCER, &c.
=Plaster of Canthar′ides.= _Syn._ BLISTERING PLASTER, VESICANT P., PLASTER
OF SPANISH FLIES; EMPLASTRUM CANTHARIDIS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), E. C.
VESICATORÆ, E. LYTTÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Yellow wax and suet, of each
7-1/2 oz.; lard, 6 oz.; resin, 3 oz.; melt them together, remove the
vessel from the fire, and, a little before they concrete, sprinkle in of
cantharides (in very fine powder), 1 lb. (12 oz. B. P.), and mix.
2. (Ph. E.) Cantharides, beeswax, resin, and suet, equal parts; as the
last.
3. (Ph. D.) Spanish flies, 6 oz.; prepared lard, resin, and yellow wax, of
each 4 oz.; proceed as before, and “stir the mixture constantly until the
plaster is cool.”
4. (Wholesale.) From beeswax and good lard, of each 4 lbs.; flies and
yellow resin, of each 6 lbs.; suet, 10 lbs. A commonly used formula, the
product of which is, however, greatly inferior to that of the
Pharmacopœia.
_Obs._ All the above are used to raise blisters. The plaster is spread on
white leather with a cold knife, and is surrounded with a margin of resin
plaster to make it adhere. A piece of thin muslin or tissue paper is
usually placed between the plaster and the skin to prevent absorption. A
little powdered camphor is sometimes sprinkled on the surface of the
spread plaster, to prevent strangury. A better mode of obviating the
action on the urinary organs is by the copious use of diluents. This
plaster should be rolled in starch powder, and not with oil.
=Plaster of Cantharides (Compound).= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM CANTHARIDIS
COMPOSITUM, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Venice turpentine, 4-1/2 oz.; cantharides
and Burgundy pitch, of each 3 oz.; beeswax, 1 oz.; verdigris (in fine
powder), 1/2 oz.; powdered mustard and black pepper, of each 2 dr.; mix at
a heat under 212° Fahr. Stronger than the last, and quicker in its action;
but it causes more pain, and is much more apt to occasion troublesome
ulcerations. Used in gout, spasms of the stomach, &c.
=Plaster, Capuchin′.= See PLASTER OF EUPHORBIUM.
=Plaster of Car′bonate of Lead.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM PLUMBI CARBONATIS, E.
CERUSSÆ, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Carbonate of lead, 1 lb.; olive oil and
water, of each 2 lbs.; boil them together until they combine and form a
plaster; lastly, remelt this with white wax, 3-1/2 oz. Its properties
resemble those of ordinary lead plaster. An excellent emollient and
defensive plaster. See PLASTER, MAHY’S.
=Plaster, Cephal′ic.= _Syn._ LABDANUM PLASTER; EMPLASTRUM CEPHALICUM, E.
LABDANI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1788.) Labdanum, 3 oz.; frankincense (thus), 1
oz.; melt, and add to the mixture, when nearly cold, powdered cinnamon and
expressed oil of mace, of each 1/2 oz.; oil of mint, 1 dr. Applied to the
forehead or temples, in headache; to the stomach, in colds, &c. See
PLASTER OF BURGUNDY PITCH, &c.
=Plaster, Cheselden’s Stick′ing.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM PLUMBI CUM PICE, L.
_Prep._ From lead plaster, 2 lbs.; Burgundy pitch (genuine), 1 oz.; melted
together.
=Plaster, Corn.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM AD CLAVOS, L. _Prep._ 1. Resin plaster,
5 parts; melt, stir in of sal ammoniac (in fine powder), 1 part, and at
once spread it on linen or soft leather.
2. (Kennedy’s.) From beeswax, 1 lb.; Venice turpentine, 5 oz.; verdigris
(in fine powder), 1-1/2 oz.; mixed by a gentle heat, and spread on cloth.
It is cut into pieces, and polished, and of these 1 dozen are put into
each box.
3. (Le Foret.) Galbanum plaster, 2 oz.; melt by a very gentle heat; add,
sal ammoniac and saffron, of each 1/2 oz.; powdered camphor, 2 oz.; and,
when nearly cold stir in of liquor of ammonia, 2 oz. Applied, spread on
leather, to the corn only, as it will blister the thinner skin surrounding
its base.
4. (Ph. Sax.) Galbanum plaster, 1 oz.; pitch, 1/2 oz.; lead plaster, 2
dr.; melt them together, and add verdigris and sal ammoniac (in fine
powder), of each 1 dr. For other formulæ, see PLASTER OF VERDIGRIS
(_below_), and CORNS.
=Plaster, Court.= _Syn._ STICKING PLASTER, ISINGLASS P.; EMPLASTRUM
ICHTHYOCOLLÆ, E. ADHESIVUM ANGLICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Isinglass, 1 part;
water, 10 parts; dissolve, strain the solution, and gradually add to it of
tincture of benzoin, 2 parts; apply this mixture, gently warmed, by means
of a camel-hair brush, to the surface of silk or sarcenet, stretched on a
frame, and allow each coating to dry before applying the next one, the
application being repeated as often as necessary; lastly, give the
prepared surface a coating of tincture of benzoin or tincture of balsam of
Peru. Some manufacturers apply this to the unprepared side of the plaster,
and others add to the tincture a few drops of essence of ambergris or
essence of musk.
2. (Deschamps.) A piece of fine muslin, linen, or silk is fastened to a
flat board, and a thin coating of smooth, strained flour paste is given to
it; over this, when dry, two coats of colourless gelatin, made into size
with water, q. s., are applied warm. Said to be superior to the ordinary
court plaster.
3. (Liston’s.) Soak isinglass, 1 oz., in water, 2-1/2 fl. oz., until it
becomes swollen and quite soft; then add of proof spirit, 3-1/2 fl. oz.,
and expose the mixture to the heat of hot water, frequently stirring,
until the union is complete; lastly, apply four coats of the solution to
the surface of oiled silk nailed to a board, by means of a soft brush.
4. (Dr Paris.) Black silk or sarcenet is strained and brushed over 10 or
12 times with the following composition:——Gum benzoin, 1/2 oz.; rectified
spirit, 6 oz.; dissolve. In a separate vessel dissolve of isinglass, 1
oz., in as little water as possible; strain each solution, mix them,
decant the clear portion, and apply it warm. When the last coating is
quite dry, a finishing coat is given with a solution of Chio turpentine, 4
oz., in tincture of benzoin, 6 oz.
_Obs._ The common ‘COURT PLASTER’ of the shops is generally prepared
without using spirit, and with merely sufficient tincture of benzoin, or
other aromatic, to give it an agreeable odour. Formerly, black silk or
sarcenet was exclusively employed as the basis of the plaster, but at the
present time checkered silk is also much in favour. ‘FLESH-COLOURED COURT
PLASTER’ is likewise fashionable. ‘TRANSPARENT COURT PLASTER’ is prepared
on oiled silk. ‘WATERPROOF COURT PLASTER’ is simply the common plaster
which has received a thin coating of pale drying oil on its exposed
surface. The FINEST COURT PLASTER of the West-end houses is now prepared
on gold-beaters’ skin (or the prepared membrane of the cæcum of the ox),
one side of which is coated with the isinglass solution, as above, and the
other with pale drying oil or a solution of either gutta percha or
caoutchouc in chloroform, or in bisulphuret of carbon.
=Plaster of Cro′ton Oil.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM CROTONIS, E. OLEI TIGLII, L.
_Prep._ (Bouchardat.) To lead plaster, 4 parts, melted by a very gentle
heat, add of croton oil, 1 part. A powerful counter-irritant; it also
generally acts powerfully on the bowels.
=Plaster of Cum′in.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM CUMINI (Ph. L.), E. CYMINI, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Burgundy pitch, 3 lbs.; beeswax, 3 oz.; melt, add of
cumin seed, caraways, and bay-berries, of each (in powder) 3 oz.; next add
of olive oil and water of each 1-1/2 fl. oz., and evaporate to a proper
consistence.
2. (Wholesale.) From yellow resin, 7 lbs.; beeswax and linseed oil, of
each 1/2 lb.; powdered cumin and caraway seeds, of each 7 oz.; mix.
_Obs._ This is a mere revival of the formula of the Ph. L. 1724. In that
of the Ph. L. 1778 no water was ordered, and the powders simply stirred
into the melted mass shortly before it cools; the common practice in all
laboratories.
Cumin plaster is carminative, stimulant, and discutient. It is applied
over the regions of the stomach and bowels in colic, dyspepsia, and
flatulence, and is also applied to indolent tumours. It has long been a
favourite remedy with the lower classes.
=Plaster, Delacroix’s Agglu′tinative.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM GLUTINANS SANCTI
ANDREÆ A CRUCE, E. PICIS CUM ELEMI, L. EMPLÂTRE D’ANDRÉ DE LA CROIX, Fr.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) From Burgundy pitch, 25 parts; gum elemi, 6 parts;
Venice turpentine and oil of bays, of each 3 parts; melted together, and
strained.
=Plaster, Diach′ylon.= See PLASTER OF LEAD.
=Plaster, Diapal′ma.= See PLASTER, PALM.
=Plaster of El′emi.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ELEMI, L. _Prep._ From wax plaster,
3 parts; gum elemi, 1 part; melted together by a gentle heat. Stimulant
and discutient. Used for issues, &c.
=Plaster of Euphor′bium.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM EUPHORBII, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Guy’s Hosp.) Burgundy pitch plaster, 8 oz.; melt, and add of euphorbium
(in powder), 1 dr.
2. (CAPUCHIN PLASTER——Ph. Wirt.) Burgundy pitch and beeswax, of each 3
oz.; Venice turpentine, 1 oz.; melt them together, add, gum ammoniacum,
olibanum, mastic, and lapis calaminaris, of each 1 oz.; euphorbium,
pyrethrum, and common salt, of each (in powder) 2 oz.; and stir until the
mass concretes. Both of the above are stimulant, rubefacient, and
counter-irritant.
=Plaster, Fayard’s.= See PAPER (Gout).
=Plaster of Flower of Ointments.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM FLOS UNGUENTORUM
DICTUM, L. _Prep._ From frankincense (thus), yellow resin, suet, and
beeswax, of each 1 lb.; olibanum, 1/2 lb.; Venice turpentine, 5 oz.; gum
myrrh, 2 oz.; white wine, 16 fl. oz.; boil to a plaster, adding, before
the mass cool, of camphor, 1/2 oz. Calorifacient and stimulant.
=Plaster of Frank′incense.= _Syn._ STRENGTHENING PLASTER; EMPLASTRUM
THURIS, E. ROBORANS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1788.) To lead plaster, 2 lbs.,
melted by a gentle heat, add of frankincense (thus), 1/2 lb., dragon’s
blood (in powder), 3 oz., and stir well. In muscular relaxations, weak
joints, &c. Mr Redwood says that a “better-looking plaster is produced by
melting the frankincense and dragon’s blood together, and straining them
through a cloth, then mixing these with the lead plaster previously
melted.” See PLASTER OF OXIDE OF IRON.
=Plaster of Gal′banum.= _Syn._ COMPOUND GALBANUM PLASTER, YELLOW
DIACHYLON, GUM PLASTER, DIACHYLON WITH THE GUMS, EMPLASTRUM GALBANI (B.
P., Ph. L.), E. GUMMOSUM (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Take of strained
galbanum, 8 oz.; common turpentine, 1 oz.; melt them together, then add of
prepared frankincense (thus), 3 oz.; and next, of lead plaster, 3 lbs.,
previously melted over a slow fire.
2. (Ph. E.) Gum ammoniacum and galbanum, of each 1/2 oz.; melt them
together, strain, and add, of litharge plaster, 4 oz.; beeswax, 1/2 oz.
(both previously melted); and mix the whole thoroughly. These proportions
are the same as those of the B. P.
3. (Wholesale.) From lead plaster, 42 lbs.; yellow resin, 12 lbs.;
strained galbanum, 3 lbs.; strained assafœtida, 1 oz.
_Obs._ Galbanum plaster is stimulant and resolvent, and is much used in
indolent, scrofulous, and other tumours, painful gouty and rheumatic
joints, in rickets, &c.
=Plaster, Gaulthier’s.= _Prep._ (Guibourt.) Palm plaster, 12 parts; olive
oil and white wax, of each 1 part; melt, and add of Venice turpentine, 2
parts. More adhesive than the simple PALM PLASTER.
=Plaster of Gin′ger.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ZINGIBERIS, L. See GINGER.
=Plaster, Gout.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ANTARTHRITICUM, L. See PLASTER OF
GALBANUM, PITCH, &c.; PAPER, GOUT.
=Plaster of Gum.= See PLASTER OF GALBANUM.
=Plaster of Hem′lock.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM CONII, E. CICUTÆ, L. _Prep._ 1.
Wax, 1 part; Burgundy pitch, 9 parts; melt them together, and add of
extract of hemlock, 3 parts.
2. (Ph. Bat.) Lead plaster and beeswax, of each 1 lb.; olive oil, 6 fl.
oz.; melt, and add of powdered hemlock (recent), 1 lb.
_Obs._ Hemlock plaster is occasionally used as an application to painful
and malignant ulcers and tumours, painful joints, &c. A spread plaster of
it, with 6 or 8 gr. of tartar emetic (in very fine powder) sprinkled over
its surface, has been highly extolled as a counter-irritant in
hooping-cough, phthisis, &c.
=Plaster of Hen′bane.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM HYOSCYAMI, L. _Prep._ As the
last, but using henbane instead of hemlock. As an anodyne, in various
external affections.
=Plaster of I′odide of Lead.= (Ph. B.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM PLUMBI IODIDI.
_Prep._ Add iodide of lead in fine powder, 1 oz.; to soap plaster and
resin plaster, of each 4 oz., previously melted together. Mix thoroughly.
=Plaster of Iodide of Potas′sium.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM POTASSII IODIDI (Ph.
L.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Iodide of potassium, 1 oz.; olive oil, 2 fl. dr.;
triturate them together, then add, of strained frankincense (thus), 6 oz.;
wax, 6 dr.; and stir constantly until the mass cools. “This plaster is to
be spread on linen, rather than on leather.” Used as a discutient or
resolvent; more particularly as an application to scrofulous tumours and
indurations.
=Plaster of I′odine.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM IODINII, L. _Prep._ Triturate
iodine, 1 dr., in a warm mortar, with olive oil, 1 oz.; then add, of
beeswax, 1 oz.; yellow resin, 1/2 oz.; previously melted together, and
stir the whole until it concretes. It should be, preferably, spread at
once on leather, and applied shortly after being prepared. Used as the
last.
=Plaster of Iodine (Compound).= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM IODINII COMPOSITUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. Iodine, 1 dr.; iodide of potassium, 2 dr.; rub them to a fine
powder, add this to lead powder, 2 oz.; Burgundy pitch, 1 oz.; previously
melted together, and just about to concrete. More active than either of
the preceding.
2. (EMP. IOD. CUM BELLADONNÂ.) To belladonna plaster, 2 oz., melted by a
very gentle heat, add iodine and iodide of potassium (in fine powder), of
each 1 dr.; and stir the mixture until nearly cold. Powerfully resolvent
and anodyne. Used in the same cases as the preceding, when there is much
pain.
=Plaster of I′ron.= See PLASTER OF OXIDE OF IRON.
=Plaster of I′′singlass.= See PLASTER, COURT.
=Plaster, Is′sue.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM AD FONTICULOS, SPARADRAPUM PRO
FONTICULIS, L. _Prep._ 1. From beeswax, 1/2 lb.; Burgundy pitch and Chio
turpentine, of each 4 oz.; vermilion and orris powder, of each 1 oz.;
musk, 4 gr.; melted together and spread upon linen. This is afterwards
polished with a smooth piece of glass moistened with water, and cut into
pieces.
2. (Ph. Aust.) Yellow wax, 6 oz.; mutton suet, 2 oz.; lard, 1-1/2 oz.;
melt, add of turpentine, 1-1/2 oz., and afterwards of red lead, 4 oz.; dip
pieces of linen into the melted mixture, pass these between rollers, and,
when cold, polish them, as before, and cut them into squares. The issue
plaster (issue paper; charta ad fonticulos) of the Ph. Suecica is a nearly
similar compound, with the addition of about 1-48th part of verdigris, in
very fine powder, and being spread upon paper.
=Plaster, Kennedy’s.= See PLASTERS, CORN.
=Plaster, Kirkland’s.= See PLASTER, AMMONIACAL.
=Plaster of Lab′danum.= See PLASTER, CEPHALIC.
=Plaster of Lead.= _Syn._ LEAD PLASTER, LITHARGE P., COMMON P., DIACHYLON,
SIMPLE DIACHYLON, WHITE D.; EMPLASTRUM PLUMBI (B. P., Ph. L.), E.
LYTHARGYRI (Ph. E. & D.), E. COMMUNE, DIACHYLON SIMPLEX, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. L.) Oxide of lead (litharge), in very fine powder, 6 lbs.; olive oil,
1 gall.; water, 1 quart; boil them over a slow fire, constantly stirring
to the consistence of a plaster, adding a little boiling water, if nearly
the whole of that used in the beginning should be consumed before the end
of the process.
2. (Ph. E.) Litharge, 5 oz.; olive oil, 12 fl. oz.; water, 8 fl. oz.; as
the last.
3. (Ph. D.) Litharge, 5 lbs.; olive oil, 1 gall.; water, 1 quart.
4. (Otto Kohnke.) For each lb. of litharge employed, add 1/4 pint of
colourless vinegar (each fl. oz. of which is capable of saturating 1/2 dr.
of carbonate of potassa); add the oil, boil until all moisture is
evaporated, and until only a few striæ of litharge rise to the surface,
then remove the vessel from the heat, add gradually 1/3 to 1/2 as much
vinegar as before, and boil the mixture to a proper consistence.
5. (Wholesale.) From Genoa oil, 7 galls. (or 65 lbs.); litharge (perfectly
free from copper), 28 lbs.; water, 2-1/2 galls.; boil to a plaster, as
before.
6. (B. P.) Oxide of lead, in very fine powder, 1; olive oil, 2-1/2; water,
1; boil all the ingredients together gently by the heat of a steam bath,
and keep them simmering for 4 or 5 hours, stirring constantly until the
product acquires the proper consistence for plaster, adding more water
during the process, if necessary.
_Obs._ The London College orders too little oil. The second, fourth, and
fifth formulæ produce beautiful plasters, that keep well; those of the
others, although very white, get hard and brittle much more rapidly. The
proper proportion of oil is fully 2-1/3 times the weight of the
litharge,——2-1/2 times appears the best quantity; and without this is
used, the plaster speedily gets hard and non-adhesive. The process
consists in putting the water and the litharge into a perfectly clean and
well-polished tinned copper or copper-pan, mixing them well together with
a spatula, adding the oil, and boiling, with constant stirring, until the
plaster is sufficiently hard, when thoroughly cold. This process usually
occupies from 4 to 5 hours, but by adopting the fourth formula an
excellent plaster may be made in from 20 to 30 minutes. This plaster is
generally cooled by immersion in cold water; and to render it very white,
a quality highly prized in the trade, it is usual to submit it to
laborious ‘pulling,’ in the manner already noticed.
_Use._ As a simple defensive plaster or strapping; but principally as a
basis for other plasters.
=Plaster, Liston’s.= See PLASTER, COURT.
=Plaster, Mahy’s.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM PLUMBI CARBONATIS, E. P. C.
COMPOSITUM, L. _Prep._ (Ph. U. S.) Carbonate of lead (pure white lead), 1
lb.; olive oil, 32 fl. oz.; water, q. s.; boil them together, constantly
stirring until perfectly incorporated; then add, of yellow wax, 4 oz.;
lead plaster, 1-1/2 lb.; and when these are melted, and the mass somewhat
cooled, stir in of powdered orris root, 9 oz. A favourite application in
the United States of America to inflamed and excoriated surfaces, bed
sores, burns, &c.
=Plaster of Mel′ilot.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM MELILOTI, E. È MELILOTO, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. E. 1744.) Fresh melilot, chopped small, 6 lbs.; suet, 3
lbs.; boil until crisp, strain with pressure, and add, of yellow resin, 8
lbs.; beeswax, 4 lbs., and boil to a plaster. Stimulant. Used to dress
blisters, &c. The greater portion of this plaster in the shops is made
without the herb, and is coloured with verdigris. (See the next formula.)
2. (Wholesale.) Take of yellow resin, 18 lbs.; green ointment, 4-1/2 lbs.;
yellow wax, 3 lbs.; finely powdered verdigris, q. s. to give a deep-green
colour.
=Plaster, Mercu′′rial.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM MERCURIALE, E. HYDRARGYRI (B.
P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Add, gradually, of sulphur,
8 gr., to heated olive oil, 1 fl. dr., and stir the mixture constantly
with a spatula until they unite; next add of mercury, 3 oz., and triturate
until globules are no longer visible; lastly, gradually add of lead
plaster (melted over a slow fire), 1 lb., and mix them all well together.
(About 1 fl. dr. of balsam of sulphur may be substituted for the oil and
sulphur ordered above.) These proportions are the same as those of the B.
P.
2. (Ph. E.) Resin, 1 oz.; olive oil, 9 fl. dr.; mix by heat, cool, add of
mercury, 3 oz., and triturate until its globules disappear; then add of
litharge plaster, 6 oz. (previously liquefied), and mix the whole
thoroughly.
3. (Ph. D.) Oil of turpentine, 1 fl. oz.; resin, 2 oz.; dissolve, with the
aid of heat; add of mercury, 6 oz.; triturate until the globules
disappear, and the mixture assumes a dark grey colour, then add of
litharge plaster (previously melted), 12 oz., and stir the whole until it
stiffens on cooling.
4. (Wholesale.) Take of mercury, 7 lbs.; prepared serum, 1/2 lb.;
triturate until the globules disappear, and add the mixture to lead
plaster (melted by a gentle heat), 36 lbs.; stir them well together, and
until they concrete. Very fine bluish-slate or lead colour.
_Obs._ Mercurial plaster is used as a discutient in glandular
enlargements, and other swellings; and is also applied over the hepatic
regions in liver complaints.
=Plaster, Mercurial, with Belladon′na.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM HYDRARGYRI CUM
BELLADONNÂ, L. _Prep._ From mercurial plaster, 6 dr.; extract of
belladonna, 2 dr.; olive oil, 1 dr.;mixed by a gentle heat. One of our
most useful anodyne and discutient applications, in painful scirrhous,
scrofulous, and syphilitic tumours. The Medico-Chirurgical Pharm. orders
1/2 fl. dr. of hydrocyanic acid to be added to every 2 oz. of the above.
=Plaster of Mezereon and Cantharides.= (Ph. G.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM MEZEREI
CANTHARIDATUM. _Prep._ Cantharides in coarse powder, 3 oz., mezereon cut
and dried, 1 oz.; acetic ether, 10 oz. by weight. Macerate for 8 days,
filter, and dissolve in the filtered liquid 175 gr. of sandarac, 87 gr. of
eleme, 87 gr. of resin, which, spread on silk previously covered with the
following solution; isinglass, 2 oz.; distilled water, 20 oz.; rectified
spirit, 5 oz. by weight.
=Plaster of Min′ium.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM MINII, E. È MINIO, E. PLUMBI OXYDI
RUBRI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746.) Olive oil, 4 lbs.; minium (red lead), in
fine powder, 2-1/2 lbs.; water, q. s.; proceed as for lead plaster (which
it closely resembles).
_Obs._ To ensure a good colour and the quality of keeping well, the
quantity of oil should be increased about 1-3rd. When discoloured by heat
it forms the ‘brown minium plaster’ (emp. è minio fuscum) of old pharmacy.
Lead plaster, either alone or with the addition of a little red lead, is
usually sold for it.
=Plaster of Minium (Compound).= _Syn._ NUREMBERG PLASTER; EMPLASTRUM MINII
COMPOSITUM, L.; EMPLÂTRE DE NUREMBERG, Fr. _Prep._ (Soubeiran.) Red lead,
12 parts; olive oil, 8 parts; grind them together on a porphyry slab, and
add the mixture to lead plaster, 50 parts, beeswax, 24 parts, melted
together; lastly, when nearly cold, stir in of camphor, 1 part.
=Plaster, Morrison’s Adhesive.= _Syn._ MORRISON’S ADHESIVE PASTE. From
wheaten flour, 2 oz.; mild ale, 1/2 pint; stir them together, and heat the
mixture to the boiling point; when cold, add of powdered resin, 3 oz.;
and, constantly stirring, again heat them to boiling. Used as a depilatory
in ringworm, &c.
=Plaster of Mu′cilages.= _Syn._ DIACHYLON COMPOSITUM, EMPLASTRUM È
MUCILAGINIBUS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1746.) Beeswax, 20 oz.; oil of
mucilages, 4 oz.; melt, and add them to strained ammoniacum, 3 oz.; common
turpentine, 1 oz., previously melted together. Stimulant and emollient.
=Plaster of Mus′tard.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM SINAPIS, L. This is always an
extemporaneous preparation. Flour of mustard is made into a stiff paste
with lukewarm water, or with vinegar, and is then spread on a piece of
calico or linen (folded two or three times); over the surface of the
mustard is placed a piece of gauze or thin muslin, and the plaster is then
applied to the part of the body it is intended to medicate. Its action is
that of a powerful rubefacient and counter-irritant; but its application
should not be continued long, unless in extreme cases. Its effects are
often apparently wonderful. We have seen very severe cases of facial
neuralgia, sore throat, painful joints, rheumatic pains, &c., relieved in
a few minutes by means of a mustard plaster or ‘poultice.’
=Plaster, Nuremberg.= See PLASTER, MINIUM (COMPOUND).
=Plaster of Oak-mistletoe.= (Hardy.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM VISCI QUERCINI.
_Prep._ To 2 parts of melted beeswax add gradually 1 part of juice of true
oak mistletoe, and form a plaster. In neuralgic pains.
=Plaster of O′′pium.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ANODYNUM, E. OPII (B. P., Ph. L.
E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Lead plaster, 8 oz.; melt, and add of
frankincense (thus), 2 oz.; next, add of extract of opium, 1 oz.,
previously dissolved in boiling water, 1 fl. oz.; and, constantly
stirring, evaporate the mixture over a slow fire to a proper consistence.
This plaster is much stronger than that of the Ph. L. 1836 and of the
other British Colleges.
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Lead plaster, 1 lb.; melt, add of powdered thus, 3 oz.;
mix, and further add, of powdered opium, 1/2 oz., water, 8 fl. oz., and
boil to a proper consistence.
3. (Ph. E.) Litharge plaster, 12 oz.; Burgundy pitch, 3 oz.; liquefy by
heat, then add, by degrees, of powdered opium, 1/2 oz., and mix them
thoroughly. This and the preceding contains only 1-3rd part of the opium
ordered in the present Ph. L. & D.
4. (Ph. D.) Resin plaster, 9 oz.; opium, in fine powder, 1 oz.; as the
last. Same as B. P.
5. (Ph. B.), Powdered opium, 1 oz.; resin plaster, 9 oz.; melt the plaster
and add the opium.
_Obs._ The above plaster is reputed anodyne, and useful in various local
pains; but its virtues in this way have been greatly exaggerated. The
formula of the Ph. L. 1836, from being less costly, is still often
employed in place of that of the Ph. L. 1851. The following is commonly
used:——Lead plaster, 14 lbs.; yellow resin, 2 lbs.; powdered opium, 1/2
lb.
=Plaster of Opium and Camphor.= (Dr Paris.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM OPII ET
CAMPHORÆ. _Prep._ Opium and camphor, of each 1/2 dr. Lead plaster q. s.
Mix.
=Plaster of Ox′ide of I′ron.= _Syn._ IRON PLASTER, FRANKINCENSE P.,
STRENGTHENING P.; EMPLASTRUM ROBORANS, E. FERRI (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.),
E. THURIS, E. FERRI OXYDI RUBRI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Lead plaster, 8
oz.; frankincense (thus), 2 oz.; melt them together over a slow fire,
sprinkle into the mixture sesquioxide of iron, 1 oz., and mix the whole
well together.
2. (Ph. E.) Litharge plaster, 3 oz.; yellow resin, 6 dr.; beeswax, 3 dr.;
melt them together, then add of red oxide of iron, 1 oz., previously
triturated with olive oil, 3-1/2 fl. dr.
3. (Ph. D.) Litharge plaster, 8 oz.; Burgundy pitch, 2 oz.; peroxide of
iron, in fine powder, 1 oz.; as No. 1. Same as B. P.
4. (Wholesale.) From lead plaster (quite dry), 84 lbs.; powdered yellow
resin, 14 lbs.; ‘crocus martis’ (lively coloured), 14 lbs.; olive oil, 3
pints; as No. 2.
5. (B. P.) Add hydrated peroxide of iron in fine powder, 1 oz., to
Burgundy pitch, 2 oz., and litharge plaster, 8 oz., previously melted
together, and stir the mixture constantly till it stiffens on cooling.
_Obs._ Iron plaster is reputed strengthening and stimulant. It is employed
as a mechanical support in muscular relaxation, weakness of the joints,
&c., especially by public dancers. Its tonic action is probably wholly
imaginary. No. 4 is the ‘EMPLASTRUM ROBORANS’ of the shops at the present
time.
=Plaster, Oxycro′ceum.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM OXYCROCEUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
E. 1744.) Beeswax, 1 lb.; black pitch and strained galbanum, of each 1/2
lb.; melt, and add of Venice turpentine, powdered myrrh, and olibanum, of
each 3 oz.; powdered saffron, 2 oz.
2. (Wholesale.) From black pitch, 9 lbs.; black resin, 11 lbs.; beeswax
and lard, of each 2-1/2 lbs.; melted together. Warm; discutient. Still
popular with the lower orders. The saffron of the original formula never
finds its way into the oxycroceum plaster of the druggists.
=Plaster, Palm.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM DIAPALMUM, L.; DIAPALME, EMPLÂTRE
DIAPALME, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Lead plaster, 32 parts; yellow wax, 2
parts; melt them together, add of sulphate of zinc, 1 part, dissolve in a
little water, and continue the heat, with constant agitation, until all
the water is evaporated.
_Obs._ This plaster originally contained palm oil, and this ingredient is
still ordered in the formulæ of Plenck and Reuss. Soubeiran directs white
wax to be employed.
=Plaster, Paracelsus’s.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM PARACELSI, E. STYPTICUM, L.
_Prep._ From lead plaster, 28 lbs.; galbanum plaster, 2 lbs.; powdered
white canella and gum thus, of each 1-1/2 lb.; melted together. The
original formula, as well as that of the Ph. L. 1721 were similar,
although much more complicated.
=Plaster of Pitch.= _Syn._ POOR MAN’S PLASTER, GOUT P., ANTI-RHEUMATIC P.;
EMPLASTRUM PAUPERIS, E. ANTIRHEUMATICUM, E. ANTARTHRITICUM, E. PICIS
COMMUNE, L. This has been already noticed under the head of RESIN PAPER.
It is also, but less frequently, spread on cloth and leather.
=Plaster, Prestat’s Adhe′sive.= _Prep._ From lead plaster, 2-1/2 lbs.;
yellow resin, 5 oz.; Venice turpentine, 4 oz.; gum ammoniacum and mastic,
of each 1-1/4 oz.; made into a plaster, and spread on linen or calico.
=Plaster of Red Lead.= See PLASTER OF MINIUM.
=Plaster of Res′in.= _Syn._ ADHESIVE PLASTER, RESINOUS P.; EMPLASTRUM
ADHESIVUM, E. RESINÆ (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), E. RESINOSUM (Ph. E.), E.
LYTHARGYRI CUM RESINÂ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) To lead plaster, 3 lbs.,
melted by a gentle heat, add of resin, 1/2 lb., also liquefied by heat,
and mix. The formula of the Ph. U. S. is similar.
2. (Ph. E.) Litharge plaster, 5 oz.; resin, 1 oz.; mix with a moderate
heat.
3. (Ph. D.) To litharge plaster, 2 lbs., melted by a gentle heat, add, of
powdered resin, 4 oz., Castile soap, in powder, 2 oz., and mix them
intimately.
4. (Wholesale.) Pale lead plaster (from a previous batch, and quite dry),
72 lbs.; olive oil (Genoa), 3 lbs.; melt them together in a bright and
perfectly clean copper pan, and sift in of pale yellow resin (in powder),
12 lbs., stirring all the while. The mixture is to be cooled, and ‘pulled’
or ‘worked,’ after the manner of lead plaster.
5. (B. P.) Resin (in powder), 2; litharge plaster, 16; hard soap, 1; melt
the plaster with a gentle heat, add the resin and soap, first liquefied,
and mix.
_Obs._ Resin plaster, spread upon calico, forms the well-known ‘STRAPPING’
or ‘ADHESIVE PLASTER’ so extensively used to protect raw surfaces, support
parts, and for dressing ulcers, retaining the lips of recent cuts and
wounds in contact, &c. It is gently stimulant, and is thought to assist
the healing process. It is also employed as a basis for other plasters.
The ‘HOSPITAL PLASTER’ of certain houses is of this kind. See PLASTER OF
SOAP, COMPOUND.
=Plaster, Resol′vent.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM RESOLVENS, E. EX MIXTIS QUATUOR,
L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Galbanum, hemlock, mercurial, and soap plasters,
equal parts, melted together.
=Plaster, Roper’s Royal Bath.= _Prep._ (Cooley.) Strained black pitch, 16
oz.; Burgundy pitch, 10 oz.; tar and beeswax, of each 1 oz.; melt, and,
when considerably cooled, add of expressed oil of mace, 2 dr.; croton oil,
1 dr.; and spread the mixture upon heart-shaped pieces of white
sheep-skin, without remelting it. Stimulant and counter-irritant;
recommended by its proprietor as a cure for all human ailments. The
‘BATH-PLASTER PILLS,’ also prepared by Mr Roper, resemble several of the
aperient pills already noticed. (See ‘Anat. of Quackery.’)
=Plaster, Scott’s.= _Prep._ From lead plaster, 14 oz.; olive oil and white
resin, of each 1 oz.; melted together, and spread on calico.
=Plaster, Sharp’s Black.= _Prep._ From olive oil, 5 parts; carbonate of
lead, 4 parts; beeswax, 1 part; boiled to a plaster.
=Plaster, Simple.= See PLASTER, WAX.
=Plaster of Soap.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM È SAPONE, E. SAPONIS (Ph. L. E. &
D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) To lead plaster, 3 lbs., melted by a slow
heat, add of Castile soap, sliced, 1/2 lb., resin, 1 oz., both (also)
liquefied by heat, and, constantly stirring, evaporate to a proper
consistence.
2. (Ph. E.) To litharge plaster, 4 oz., gum plaster, 2 oz., melted
together, add of Castile soap, in shavings, 1 oz., and boil a little.
3. (Ph. D.) To litharge plaster, 2-1/2 lbs., melted over a gentle fire,
add of Castile soap, in powder, 4 oz., and heat them together (constantly
stirring) until they combine.
4. (B. P.) Hard soap (in powder), 6; lead plaster, 36; resin (in powder),
1; to the lead plaster, previously melted, add the soap and the resin,
first liquefied, then, constantly stirring, evaporate to a proper
consistence.
_Obs._ Care must be taken to evaporate all the moisture from the above
compounds, as, if any is left in the plaster, it turns out crumbly, and
does not keep well. Much heat discolours it. (See _below_.)
Soap plaster is emollient and resolvent, and is used in abrasions and
excoriations, and as a dressing to soft corns, lymphatic tumours, &c.
=Plaster of Soap (Camphorated).= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM SAPONIS
CAMPHORATUM. Soap plaster, 10 oz.; camphor, 48 gr.
=Plaster of Soap (Compound).= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM SAPONIS COMPOSITUM, E.
ADHÆRENS, L. Prep. (Ph. D. 1826.) Resin plaster, 3 oz.; soap plaster, 2
oz.; melted together.
_Obs._ Less emollient, but more stimulant, than the simple plaster. The
‘EMPLASTRUM È MINIO CUM SAPONE’——Ph. E. 1744 was made by melting 1 part of
soap with 5 parts of minium plaster. Neither of the above must be put into
water. See PLASTER OF RESIN, Ph. D.
=Plaster of Soap-ce′rate.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM CERATI SAPONIS (B. P.).
_Prep._ 1. From soap cerate, heated by means of a water bath until all the
moisture is evaporated. Sometimes 2 or 3 dr. each of powdered mastic and
gum ammoniacum are added for each pound of cerate. The product is
generally spread whilst still warm. Said to be suppurative, resolvent,
cooling, and desiccative. See CERATE (soap).
2. (B. P.) Hard soap, 10; beeswax, 12-1/2; oxide of lead (in powder), 15;
olive oil, 20; vinegar, 160; boil the vinegar with the oxide over a slow
fire, or by a steam bath, constantly stirring them until they unite; then
add the soap and boil again in a similar manner until all the moisture is
evaporated; lastly, mix with the wax previously dissolved in the oil, and
continue the process till the product takes the consistence of a plaster.
=Plaster of Squill, Compound.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM SCILLÆ COMPOSITUM.
_Prep._ Galbanum, 1/2 oz.; soap, 1/2 oz.; litharge plaster, 2 oz.; melt
together, and add opium, 1 dr.; ammoniacum, 1/2 oz.; vinegar of squills, 3
oz., mixed together; keep them over the fire constantly stirred till they
are incorporated.
=Plaster, St Andrew’s.= _Prep_. From yellow resin, 8 oz.; gum elemi, 2
oz.; Bordeaux turpentine and oil of the bay-laurel, of each 1 oz.; melted
together by a gentle heat. A stimulant, resolvent, and adhesive plaster,
once supposed to possess extraordinary virtues.
=Plaster, Stick′ing.= See PLASTER, COURT, PLASTER OF RESIN, &c.
=Plaster, Stom′ach.= See PLASTER, AROMATIC, &c.
=Plaster, Strength′ening.= See PLASTERS OF FRANKINCENSE and OXIDE OF IRON.
=Plaster, Styp′tic.= See PLASTER OF OXIDE OF IRON, PARACELSUS’S P., &c.
=Plaster of Sul′phate of Quinine′.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM QUINIÆ, E. Q.
DISULPHATIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Sulphate of quinine, 1 dr.; resin plaster, 1
oz. Applied to the abdomen in intermittents.
2. Sulphate of quinine, 1 dr.; mercurial plaster, 2 oz. In affections of
the liver or spleen, following intermittents, applied over the regions of
those viscera.
3. Resin plaster, 9 dr.; sulphate of quinine, 1 dr.; camphor and oil of
cajeput, of each 1/2 dr. Applied over the epigastrium as a prophylactic of
cholera.
=Plaster of Thus.= See PLASTER OF FRANKINCENSE.
=Plaster of Ver′digris.= Syn. EMPLASTRUM ÆRUGINIS, E. CUPRI SUBACETATIS,
L. Prep. (P. Cod.) Beeswax, 4 parts; Burgundy pitch, 2 parts; melt, add of
Venice turpentine and prepared verdigris (in powder), of each 1 part, and
stir until the mass is nearly cold. For other formulæ, see PLASTER, CORN,
&c.
=Plaster, Ver′mifuge.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM VERMIFUGUM, E. ANTHELMINTICUM, L.
Prep. From powdered aloes, 1 dr.; oil of chamomile, 10 drops; croton oil,
2 drops; oil of turpentine, q. s.
=Plaster, Vigo’s.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM VIGONIS, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Lead
plaster, 40 oz.; mercury, 12 oz.; liquid styrax, 6 oz.; beeswax,
turpentine, and resin, of each 2 oz.; ammoniacum, bdellium, myrrh, and
olibanum, of each 5 dr.; saffron, 3 dr.; oil of lavender, 2 dr.; made into
a plaster s.a.
=Plaster, Warm.= See CALEFACIENT PLASTER, BURGUNDY PITCH P., &c.
=Plaster of Wax.= _Syn._ SIMPLE PLASTER; EMPLASTRUM ATTRAHENS, E. SIMPLEX
(Ph. E.), E. CERÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Beeswax, 3 oz.; suet and yellow
resin, of each 2 oz.; melt them together, and stir the mixture briskly
until it concretes by cooling.
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Yellow wax and suet, of each 3 lbs.; yellow resin, 1
lb.; as the last. Intended to be employed as a simple dressing, especially
to blistered surfaces. It is now seldom used.
=Plaster, White Diach′ylon.= See PLASTER OF LEAD.
=Plaster, Yellow Diach′ylon.= See PLASTER OF GALBANUM.
=Plaster, Zinco-lead.= _Syn._ EMPLASTRUM ZINCO-PLUMBICUM, E.
DIAPOMPHOLYGOS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Suec.) Beeswax, 1 lb; olive oil and
graphite (black lead), of each 6 oz.; carbonate of lead, 4 oz.; oxide of
zinc (impure), 3 oz.; olibanum, 1-1/2 oz.; boil to a plaster. Astringent
and desiccant. Other forms substitute an equal weight of litharge for the
graphite.
=PLATE.= The name is commonly given to gold and silver wrought into
instruments or utensils for domestic use.
The cleaning of plate is an important operation in a large establishment,
as its durability, and much of its beauty, depend on this being properly
done. The common practice of using mercurial plate powder is destructive
to both of these, as mercury not only rapidly erodes the surface of
silver, but renders it soft, and, in extreme cases, even brittle. The only
powder that may be safely used for silver is prepared chalk, of the best
quality. For gold, the form of red oxide of iron, known as _Jeweller’s
Rouge_, is the most useful and appropriate.
In his ‘Workshop Receipts’ Mr Spon recommends the following:——“Take an
ounce each of cream of tartar, common salt, and alum, and boil in a gallon
or more of water. After the plate is taken out and rubbed dry it puts on a
beautiful silvery whiteness. Powdered magnesia may be used dry for
articles slightly tarnished, but if very dirty it must be used first wet
and then dry.”
Chamois leather, a plate brush, or very soft woollen rags, should alone be
used to apply them; and their application should be gentle and long
continued, rather than the reverse. Dirty plate, after being cleaned with
boiling water, may be restored by boiling it in water, each quart of which
contains a few grains of carbonate of soda, and about an ounce of prepared
chalk, calcined hartshorn, or cuttle-fish bone, in very fine powder. The
ebullition sets up a gentle friction, which effects its purpose admirably.
The boiled plate, after being dried, is best ‘finished off’ with a piece
of soft leather or woollen cloth which has been dipped into the cold
mixture of chalk and water, and then dried. The same method answers
admirably with German silver, brass, pewter, and all the softer metals.
See POWDER (Plate), &c.
=PLAT′INA.= See PLATINUM.
=PLA′′TING.= The art of covering copper and other metals with either
silver or gold.
Plating is performed in various ways. Sometimes the silver is fluxed on to
the surface of the copper by means of a solution of borax, and subsequent
exposure in the ‘plating furnace,’ and the compound ingot is then rolled
to the requisite thinness between cylinders of polished steel. The common
thickness of the silver plate before rolling is equal to about the 1-40th
of that of the compound ingot. Sometimes the nobler metal is precipitated
from its solutions upon the copper by the action of chemical affinity, or,
more frequently, by the agency of electro-chemical decomposition
(electro-plating).
The metal employed for plating is a mixture of copper and brass, annealed
or hardened, as the case may require. For electro-plated goods, ‘nickel
silver’ is now almost invariably employed. See ELECTROTYPE, GILDING,
PLATINISING, SILVERING, &c.
=PLAT′INISING.= Metals may be coated with platinum by nearly similar
processes to those already referred to under PLATING. In the ‘moist way’
vessels of brass, copper, and silver are conveniently platinised in the
following manner:——Solid bichloride of platinum, 1 part, is dissolved in
water, 100 parts, and to this solution is added of common salt, 8 parts;
or, still better, 1 part of ammonio-chloride of platinum and 8 parts of
chloride of ammonium are placed in a suitable porcelain vessel, with about
40 parts of water, and the whole heated to ebullition; the vessels or
utensils, previously made perfectly bright, are then immersed in the
boiling liquid. In a few seconds they generally acquire a brilliant and
firmly adhering layer of platinum.
Silver plates for voltaic batteries are commonly platinised by immersing
them for a few seconds in a mixture of saturated solution of bichloride of
platinum, 1 part; dilute sulphuric acid, 3 parts; water, 4 to 6 parts.
Platinum battery plates are covered with a pulverulent deposit of platinum
by means of the electrotype.
Platinised asbestos is prepared by dipping asbestos into a solution of
bichloride of platinum, or one of the double chlorides of that metal, and
then gradually heating it to redness. It is used as a substitute for
spongy platinum. See ELECTROTYPE, VOLTAIC ELECTRICITY.
=PLAT′INUM.= Pt. _Syn._ PLATINA, WHITE GOLD; PLATINUM, L. A heavy,
greyish-white metal, occurring chiefly in certain of the alluvial
districts of Mexico and Brazil, in the Ural mountains of Russia, in
Ceylon, and in a few other places. It occurs in nature under the form of
grains and small rolled masses, associated with palladium, rhodium,
osmium, ruthenium, iridium, and a little iron. It has only been known in
Europe since 1748.
_Prep._ The native alloy of this metal (crude platinum) is acted upon, as
far as possible, by nitro-hydrochloric acid containing an excess of
hydrochloric acid, and slightly diluted with water, in order to dissolve
as small a quantity of iridium as possible; to the deep yellowish-red and
high acid solution thus produced ammonium chloride is added, by which
nearly the whole of the platinum is thrown down in the state of
ammonio-chloride. This substance, after being washed with a little cold
water, is dried and heated to redness; the product is spongy metallic
platinum. This is made into a thin uniform paste with water, introduced
into a slightly conical mould of brass, and subjected to a graduated
pressure, by which the water is squeezed out, and the mass rendered at
length sufficiently solid to bear handling. It is next dried, very
carefully heated to whiteness, and hammered, or subjected to powerful
pressure by suitable means, whilst in the heated state. It will now bear
forging into a bar, and may afterwards be rolled into plates, or drawn
into wire, at pleasure.
_Prop., &c._ Platinum is one of the heaviest substances known, its sp. gr.
being 21·5. It is whiter than iron, harder than silver, infusible in the
strongest heat of our furnaces, and melts only when exposed to the highest
temperature obtained by Deville’s oxyhydrogen gas furnace. It is
unaffected by air, water, and all the ordinary acids, and even its polish
is uninjured by the strongest heat of a smith’s forge; aqua regia,
however, dissolves it, though with much more difficulty than gold; it is
also superficially oxidised by fused hydrate of potassium. Spongy
platinum, powdered platinum, and even perfectly clean platinum foil,
possess the remarkable property of causing the union of oxygen and
hydrogen gases, with more or less elevation of temperature. Platinum is
precipitated from its solutions by deoxidising substances under the form
of a black powder (platinum black), which has the power of absorbing
oxygen, and again imparting it to combustible substances, and thus causing
their oxidation. In this way alcohol and pyroxylic spirit may be converted
into acetic and formic acids, &c.
Platinum black is simply platinum in a fine state of division, and is
readily obtained as follows:——1. A solution of platinic chloride, to which
an excess of carbonate of sodium and a quantity of sugar have been added,
is boiled until the precipitate which forms after a little time becomes
perfectly black, and the supernatant liquid colourless; the black powder
is then collected on a filter, washed, and dried by gentle heat.
2. Platinic-ammonium chloride, reduced to very fine powder, is moistened
with strong sulphuric acid, and a small piece of zinc is thrust into the
mixture; after the whole is reduced to a black powder it is washed, first
with hydrochloric acid, and then with pure water, and is, lastly, dried.
3. (Zdrawkowitch.) Platinum black, in a highly active condition, can be
obtained, according to the author, by adding 3 to 5 c.c. of solution of
perchloride of platinum, drop by drop, to a boiling mixture of 15 c.c. of
glycerin and 10 c.c. of solution of caustic potash of 1·08 sp. gr.
4. (Ph. B.) Boil down rapidly, solution of potash, 2 pints, in a silver or
clean iron vessel, until there remains a fluid of oily consistence, a drop
of which removed on a warm glass rod solidifies on cooling. Pour this into
proper moulds, and when solidified and while still warm put it into
stoppered bottles.
Platinum, in the state of platinum black, possesses the property of
condensing gases, more especially oxygen, into its pores, and afterwards
giving it out to various oxidisable substances. When placed in contact
with a solution of formic acid it converts it, with copious effervescence,
into carbonic acid; alcohol, dropped upon it, becomes changed by oxidation
into acetic acid, the rise of temperature being often sufficient to cause
inflammation; exposed to a red heat, it shrinks in volume, assumes the
appearance of spongy platinum, and, for the most part, loses these
peculiarities. That prepared with zinc explodes, when heated, like
gunpowder. The spongy platinum is obtained by igniting the ammonium
platinic chloride at a red heat.
The salts of platinum are recognised as follows:——Sulphuretted hydrogen
throws down from neutral and acid solutions of the platinic salts a
blackish-brown precipitate, which is only formed after a time in the cold,
but immediately on heating the liquid. Ammonium sulphide also gives a
blackish-brown precipitate, which completely redissolves in a large excess
of the precipitant, provided the latter contains an excess of sulphur.
Chloride of ammonium and chloride of potassium give yellow crystalline
precipitates, insoluble in acids, but soluble in excess of the
precipitate, upon the application of heat, and decomposable by heat, with
production of spongy platinum. Ammonia and potassium hydrate also give
similar precipitates in solutions previously acidulated with hydrochloric
acid.
_Estim._ This may be effected by throwing down the metal in the form of
chloride of ammonium and platinum, which, after being washed on a filter
with a little weak spirit to which a little of the precipitate has been
added, and afterwards with the spirit alone, may be carefully dried at
212° Fahr., and weighed. Or, the precipitate may be ignited in a platinum
crucible, and weighed in the state of a spongy platinum. 193·25 gr. of
the platinic and ammonium chlorides are equivalent to 98·75 gr. of
metallic platinum.
_Uses._ Platinum is valuable for the formation of crucibles, capsules, and
other utensils or instruments intended to be exposed to a strong heat, or
to the action of acids. Platinic chloride and the platinic and sodium
chloride are much used in chemical analysis. Both of these are also used
in medicines with the same intentions, and in the same doses, as the
corresponding salts of gold. These compounds are poisonous. The antidotes
and treatment are similar to those described under GOLD.
_Concluding Remarks._——Daville and Debray have introduced a method of
refining platinum, which has already done much to extend the useful
applications of the metal. The process consists in submitting the crude
metal to the action of an intensely high temperature, obtained by the
combustion of hydrogen (or coal-gas) with oxygen, in a crucible of lime.
By this means large quantities of platinum (50 lbs. or more) can be kept
fused until the sulphur, phosphorus, arsenic, and osmium, generally
occurring in crude platinum, are oxidised and volatilised, and the iron
and copper are oxidised and absorbed by the lime forming the crucible. At
the International Exhibition of 1862 an ingot of pure platinum, weighing
over 2 cwt., was exhibited by Messrs Johnson & Mathey, as an illustration
of the practical results of this process.
=Platinic Chloride.= PtCl_{4}. _Syn._ BICHLORIDE OF PLATINUM, CHLORIDE OF
PLATINUM, PERCHLORIDE OF P.; PLATINI BICHLORIDUM (Ph. L.), L. PLATINI
TETRACHLORIDUM. _Prep._ By dissolving platinum in nitro-hydrochloric acid,
and evaporating the solution to dryness at a gentle heat. _Prop., &c._
Reddish-brown, deliquescent, and very soluble in both water and alcohol,
yielding orange-coloured solutions. It combines with a variety of metallic
chlorides to form ‘double salts.’ Used as a test in chemical analysis, and
as an alterative in secondary syphilis, &c.——_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/4 gr.,
dissolved in distilled water, or made into a pill with syrup and liquorice
powder. Some persons prescribe much larger doses, but unsafely. Hoefer
recommends an ointment made with it as an application to indolent ulcers.
In doses of 5 gr. and upwards it acts as a violent caustic poison. This
last salt is the ‘chloride of platinum’ of the shops, and the one used in
the arts and medicine. It forms one of the tests included in the Appendix
to the Ph. L.
=Platinic-Ammonium Chloride.= Pt(NH_{4})_{2}Cl_{6}, or PtCl_{4} 2NH_{4}Cl.
_Syn._ AMMONIO-CHLORIDE OF PLATINUM, PLATINO-CHLORIDE OF AMMONIUM. _Prep._
A solution of chloride of ammonium is added to a strong solution of
platinic chloride, and the precipitate washed with dilute alcohol.
_Prop._ Minute, transparent, yellow octahedral crystals very feebly
soluble in water, less so in dilute alcohol, and insoluble in acids; heat
converts it into spongy platinum.
=Platinic-Potassium Chloride.= PtK_{2}Cl_{6}, or PtCl_{4}2KCl. _Syn._
PLATINO-CHLORIDE OF POTASSIUM, POTASSIO-CHLORIDE OF PLATINUM. _Prep._ A
bright yellow, crystalline precipitate, formed whenever solutions of the
chlorides of platinum and of potassium are mixed; or a salt of potassium,
acidulated with a little hydrochloric acid, is added to platinic chloride.
In appearance, solubility, &c., it closely resembles ammonio-chloride of
platinum.
=Platinic-Sodium Chloride.= PtNa_{2}Cl_{6}, or PtCl_{4}2NaCl. _Syn._
CHLORIDE OF PLATINUM AND SODIUM, SODIO-CHLORIDE OF PLATINUM,
PLATINO-BICHLORIDE OF SODIUM; PLATINI ET SODII CHLORIDUM, PLATINI
SODIO-CHLORIDIUM, &c., L. _Prep._ (Redwood.) Platinic chloride, 17 parts;
chloride of sodium, 6 parts; dissolve the two salts separately in water,
q. s., mix the solutions, and evaporate, that crystals may form. The
crystals are large, transparent, and of a yellow-red colour.——_Dose_, 1/12
to 1/2 gr.; in the same cases as the bichloride.
=Platinic Oxide.= PtO_{2}. _Syn._ BINOXIDE OF PLATINUM. _Prep._ 1. By
exactly decomposing the platinic sulphate with nitrate of barium, and
adding pure hydrate of sodium to the filtered solution, so as to
precipitate only half the oxide. (Berzelius.)——2. By boiling platinic
chloride with hydrate of sodium, in considerable excess, and then adding
acetic acid.
_Prop., &c._ As the hydrate (Pt(HO)_{4}), it is a bulky brownish powder;
this, when gently heated, becomes black and anhydrous. It forms salts with
the acids, and combines with some of the bases. The salts have a red or
yellow colour, and a remarkable tendency to form double salts with the
alkaline salts.
_Obs._ Both the oxides of platinum are reduced to the metallic state on
ignition.
=Platinous Oxide.= PtO. _Syn._ OXIDE OF PLATINUM. _Prep._ By heating to
below redness the platinic chloride and digesting with hydrate of
potassium the residue.
_Prop., &c._ A black powder, soluble in excess of alkali, and freely so in
the acids, forming brown solutions of the platinous salts. These are
distinguished from solutions of the platinic salts by not being
precipitated by chloride of ammonium. Platinous oxalate, in fine
copper-coloured needles, may be obtained by heating platinic oxide in a
solution of oxalic acid.
=Platinum Gas.= _Syn._ GAZ-PLATINE; GILLARD’S GAS. In Paris this gas is
employed by gold- and silversmiths and electro-platers because it gives
rise to no sulphur product and burns without giving off soot or smoke. It
is free from smell. Steam is decomposed by being made to pass through a
retort filled with red-hot charcoal. The hydrogen being freed from the
carbonic acid which is associated with it, by means of crystallised
carbonate of soda, is burnt from an Argand burner provided with numerous
small holes. The flame, which is not luminous in itself, is surrounded by
a network of moderately fine platinum wire, which on becoming white-hot
becomes luminous. It burns quite steadily, and its illuminating power is
said to exceed slightly that of coal gas.
=Platinum, Spongy.= _Prep._ 1. By heating ammonio-chloride of platinum to
redness.
2. Crude bichloride of platinum and chloride of ammonium are separately
dissolved in proof spirit, and the one solution added to the other as long
as a precipitate forms; this is collected, and, whilst still moist, formed
into little balls or pieces, which are then dried, and gradually heated to
redness.
_Prop., &c._ These have been noticed above. Small balls of spongy platinum
are used for the hydrogen instantaneous-light lamp (Döbereiner’s lamp);
but they are apt to absorb moisture from the atmosphere, and then lose
their power of inflaming hydrogen, until they are re-dried and heated.
=PLEURISY.= Inflammation of the pleura, or membrane covering the lungs.
The symptoms of pleurisy are a sharp pain in the side, which is rendered
more acute when a deep breath is taken; quick, short, difficult
inspiration; a quick pulse; and fever. Much pain is also experienced if
the attempt be made to lie on the affected side.
Pleurisy sometimes accompanies pneumonia or inflammation of the substance
of the lungs. If allowed to run on, the disease produces effusion of serum
or of lymph into the cavity of the chest, in either case giving rise to
adhesions, which cause embarrassment of breathing. On the contrary, it may
terminate by resolution or complete recovery.
Pleurisy generally arises from exposure to the cold. A blow or a wound
will also cause it, and a not uncommon origin is the splintered end of a
broken rib. In every case the advice of the medical practitioner should be
sought upon the first indications of the disease. The following treatment
is suggested for adoption only by emigrants, or others unable to procure
the services of the medical man in cases of urgency:——
Under these circumstances the patient, sitting in an upright posture,
should be bled until he is able to breathe without feeling pain. If after
bleeding the pain should return, leeches, if obtainable, should be applied
to the painful part, and a large blister should be placed near the
affected spot. After being bled the patient should have a hot bath.
Should the pain not subside, leeching must be had free recourse to, or
blood be drawn by cupping. A brisk purgative should be given at the
commencement of the disease, and after this has ceased acting the patient
should take two grains of calomel and a quarter of a grain of opium every
four hours, but this treatment must not be continued longer than is
necessary. The patient should remain in bed in a room which has a uniform
temperature of 60° F., and adopt a low diet.
IN HORSES.——_Symptoms._ Fever, indicated by shivering, indisposition to
move or turn, quick pulse, painful cough, and hurried respiration.
“Place the animal without delay in a cool, airy, loose box, and bleed to
the extent of seven or eight quarts, or until the pulse falters. Bleeding
is never justifiable after the third day, when the pulse reaches 70. Three
or four drachms of aloes in solution will suffice for the horse, and
clysters must also be given. Until the physic operates sedatives must be
used with great caution. Twenty minims of Flemming’s tincture of aconite
should be given every three hours.
“Towards the close of the second day the aconite may be discontinued, and
a scruple of calomel and a drachm of opium given in a bolus, and repeated
every four hours until four or five doses have been given. Apply liniment
of ammonia or mustard to the sides. If the animal be thirsty give water in
which nitre has been dissolved. Keep the animal perfectly quiet, and let
it have soft laxative food.” (Finlay Dun.)
=PLUG′GING.= The introduction of a mass of lint, sponge, or other suitable
material, into a wound or cavity, with the intention of arresting
hæmorrhage. It is now seldom adopted, except in cases of bleeding from the
nose, and that only after more approved methods have failed.
=PLUM.= A name applied to several varieties of the _Prunus domesticus_
(Linn.), or wild plum. Among the cultivated varieties, the damson,
greengage, French plum, magnum bonum or Mogul p., mirabelle p., Orleans
p., and prune, are those best known. Grocers’ ‘plums’ are raisins, or
dried grapes.
In the following table will be found the composition of the principal
varieties of plum.
+------------------+----------+---------------+-------+-------+----------------+
| | | Greengage. | | | Mussel Plums. |
| | | |Black- | | |
| |Mirabelle,+-------+-------+ blue, | Dark +-------+--------+
| | common |Yellow-|Large |middle-|black- | |Italian,|
| | yellow. |green, |green, | sized | red |Common.| very |
| | |middle | very | Plums.| Plums.| | sweet. |
| | | size. | sweet.| | | | |
+------------------+----------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+--------+
|_Soluble matter_——| | | | | | | |
| Sugar | 3·584 | 2·960| 3·405| 1·996| 2·252| 5·793| 6·730 |
| Free acid, | | | | | | | |
| reduced to | | | | | | | |
| equivalent in | | | | | | | |
| malic acid | 0·582 | 0·960| 0·870| 1·270| 1·331| 0·952| 0·841 |
| Albuminous | | | | | | | |
| substances | 0·197 | 0·477| 0·401| 0·400| 0·426| 0·785| 0·832 |
| Pectous | | | | | | | |
| substances, &c. | 5·772 | 10·475| 11·074| 2·313| 5·851| 3·646| 4·105 |
| Ash | 0·570 | 0·318| 0·398| 0·496| 0·553| 0·734| 0·590 |
| | | | | | | | |
|_Insoluble | | | | | | | |
|matter_—— | | | | | | | |
| Seeds | 5·780 | 3·250| 2·852| 4·190| 3·329| 3·540| 3·124 |
| Skins, &c. | 0·179 | 0·680| 1·035|} | |{ 1·990| 0·972 |
| Pectose | 1·080 | 0·010| 0·245|} 0·509| 1·020|{ 0·630| 1·534 |
|[_Ash from | | | | | | | |
|insoluble matter | | | | | | | |
|included on | | | | | | | |
|weights given_] | [0·082] |[0·039]|[0·037]|[0·041]|[0·063]|[0·094]|[0·066] |
| Water | 82·256 | 80·841| 79·720| 88·751| 85·238| 81·930| 81·272 |
| +----------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+--------+
| | 100·00 | 99·971|100·00 | 99·925|100·00 |100·00 |100·00 |
+------------------+----------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+--------+
=PLUMBA′GO.= _Syn._ GRAPHITE, BLACK-LEAD. One of the native forms of
carbon. It contains from 95 to 100% of pure carbon; has a metallic lustre,
and conducts electricity nearly as well as the metals. It was formerly
regarded as a carbide of iron, but the iron generally found is now known
to be merely in a state of mixture. There are two distinct varieties of
graphite——crystallised or foliated graphite, obtained chiefly from Ceylon;
and amorphous graphite (the ordinary plumbago or black-lead), largely
imported to this country from Germany. The Borrowdale mine in Cumberland,
from which the finest black-lead was formerly derived, is now nearly
exhausted. The foliated graphite of Ceylon and other parts is the
principal material employed for making plumbago crucibles and other
fire-resisting goods. The amorphous graphite is used for making black-lead
pencils, polishing powder for stoves and grates (‘lustre,’ ‘servants’
friend,’ &c.), and to diminish friction in heavy machinery (anti-friction
powder). Its powder is also used to give conducting surfaces to articles
on which it is desired to deposit copper by the electrotype. In medicine
plumbago has been used with apparent advantage in herpes and several
chronic skin diseases——externally, as an ointment made with four times its
weight of lard; and internally, made into pills.
_Purification._ For medical and chemical use graphite may be treated as
follows:——
1. (Dumas and Stas.) Heat it to redness with caustic potassa, in a covered
crucible, then wash it well with water, boil it in nitric acid and in aqua
regia, again wash it with water, dry it, and expose it at a white heat to
a stream of dry chlorine gas; lastly, wash it with water, and again heat
it to dull redness. In analysis.
2. (Ph. Bor.) Pure native plumbago, 1 lb., is boiled in water for 1 hour,
then drained, and digested for 24 hours in a mixture of water, 8 oz.;
nitric acid and hydrochloric acid, of each 2 oz.; it is, lastly, well
washed with water, and dried.
3. (Brodie’s patent.) This process is only applicable to the hard
varieties of graphite, as that of Ceylon. It consists in introducing
coarsely powdered graphite, previously mixed with 1/14th of its weight of
chlorate of potassa, into 2 parts of concentrated sulphuric acid, which is
heated in a water bath until the evolution of acid fumes ceases. The acid
is then removed by water, and the graphite dried. Thus prepared, this
substance, when heated to a temperature approaching a red heat, swells up
to a voluminous mass of finely divided graphite. This powder, which is
quite free from grit, may be afterwards consolidated by pressure, and used
for making pencils or other purposes.
=PLUM′BIC ACID.= Binoxide of lead occasionally receives this name on
account of its combining with some of the bases to form compounds which
have been called plumbates.
=PLUM′BUM COR′NEUM.= See LEAD, CHLORIDE OF.
=PLUM′OSE AL′UM.= The old name of the silky amianthine crystals of the
double sulphate of aluminum and iron occasionally found on alum slate.
Asbestos has also been so called.
=PLUNKET’S CANCER REMEDY.= See CAUSTIC, PLUNKET’S.
=PNEUMONIA.= Inflammation of the substance of the lungs. When the
inflammation extends to the pleura, or covering of the lungs, the disease
is distinguished as PLEURO-PNEUMONIA. By most pathologists pneumonia is
described under the three general heads of——(1) Croupous pneumonia, (2)
catarrhal pneumonia, (3) chronic pneumonia, each of which have, by some
medical writers, been subdivided into other forms and varieties.
1. ACUTE CROUPOUS PNEUMONIA. This first description of pneumonia is most
common amongst persons of from twenty to thirty years of age, although no
age escapes it, and it is generally very severe in character when it
attacks the very young or old. It prevails more amongst men than women,
since the former, from their more frequent exposure to the weather and to
changes of temperature, run greater risk of being overtaken by a very
fertile cause of croupal pneumonia, viz. a sudden chill when the body is
unusually heated.
It frequently seizes those suffering from chronic or acute disorders, as
well as those who are intemperate and drunken. It often assails patients
suffering from contagious and acute maladies, such as measles, smallpox,
pyæmia, puerperal fever, typhus, and as appears from the accounts of the
recent outbreak of Astrakan plague in that disease also. It likewise
frequently prevails amongst the poor and badly fed living in the
overcrowded quarters of large towns and cities.
The following are the principal symptoms of acute croupous pneumonia,
given by Dr Roberts:[113]——
[Footnote 113: ‘Handbook of the Theory and Practice of Medicine,’ by F. J.
Roberts, M.D., &c. Lewis, 1873.]
“In some cases there are premonitory signs of general indisposition for a
short time. In primary, or unmixed pneumonia, the attack sets in usually
very suddenly, the invasion being attended with a _single, severe, more or
less prolonged rigor_. There may be great prostration with fever; vomiting
or nervous symptoms, viz. headache, delirium, restless stupor, or, in
children, convulsions. The special symptoms are _local_ and _general_.
“_Local symptoms._——Pain in the side is usually present, commonly stabbing
or piercing, increased by a deep breath. Difficulty of breathing. Cough
also commences speedily; it does not come on in violent paroxysms, but is
short and hacking and difficult to repress. Soon expectoration occurs, the
expectorated matter presenting peculiar characters. It is scarcely at all
frothy but extremely viscid and adhesive, and the vessel which contains it
may often be overturned without its escaping. The expectorated matter has
a rusty colour or presents various tints of red, from admixture of blood,
and as the case progresses, changes of colour are observed through shades
of yellow, until finally they become merely like the expectoration of
bronchitis. In some cases of croupal pneumonia pain and other symptoms
are sometimes very slight or absent, and the expectoration may be merely
like that in bronchitis, absent, or in low cases present the appearance of
a dark, offensive, thin fluid, resembling liquorice or prune juice.
“_General symptoms._——These may be summed up generally as severe fever
with great depression and prostration. The skin is hot, dry, and burning.
The temperature rises with great rapidity to 102°, 103°, 105°, or
sometimes higher. It has been known to reach 107° in cases which
recovered, and in fatal cases it has attained to 109·4°. In a large number
of instances it does not exceed 104°. There is usually considerable
flushing of the cheeks. The pulse ranges generally from 90 to 120, or may
be much above this.”
In the majority of cases this variety of pneumonia has a favorable
termination, but however slight the form in which it shows itself, or the
mildness of its attack, the properly qualified practitioner should be
called in to combat it. We have described the nature and cause of the
disease and given the course to be followed in treating it, for the
benefit only of the emigrant and others similarly situated. The above
comments are meant to apply to the other descriptions of pneumonia, which
will be adverted to in the course of the present article.
_Treatment to be followed in croupous pneumonia._——Bleeding was formerly
had recourse to, but this treatment has either been abandoned of late
years, or very rarely practised, the only case in which its moderate
employment is recommended being that in which the patient is threatened
with death from partial privation or suspension of breath.
Leeches may be applied to the spot in pain, and a large blister near it,
but it is preferable to first try the effect of hot fomentations and
poultices containing laudanum; or turpentine sprinkled on a warm damp
flannel may be tried. A third of a grain of tartarised antimony, with a
few drops of laudanum, or a third of a grain of hydrochlorate of morphia
may be given every four hours.
“In all _low_ forms of the disease the only chance is in _free
stimulation_. At the same times full doses of carbonate of ammonia, with
bark, spirits of chloroform, ether, camphor, and such remedies, must be
administered. In some cases quinine with iron is useful.”[114]
[Footnote 114: Dr Roberts.]
The best diet consists of milk and beef tea. The patient, it is needless
to say, should be kept in bed, and the temperature of his chamber should
be maintained at about 60° F. It is also most essential that the room
should be thoroughly ventilated, and all the expectorated matter, stools,
&c., thoroughly disinfected before removal.
2. CATARRHAL PNEUMONIA. The acute variety of this form of pneumonia is
that which principally attacks infants and children, and frequently
complicates diphtheria, hooping-cough, measles, and influenza; although it
may occasionally occur when not associated with these diseases.
In the other variety——chronic catarrhal pneumonia——the greater number of
cases arise from bronchitis. Many authorities look upon the last variety
of pneumonia as the cause of a great proportion of the cases of pulmonary
phthisis.
_Symptoms._——These differ, in the great majority of cases, from croupal
pneumonia, in not being preceded by rigors. There is always fever and a
rise of bodily temperature from 103° to 105°. There is often copious
perspiration and increased pulse. As the disease progresses the breathing
becomes more difficult and rapid, the cough changes its character, and
“becomes short, harsh, hacking, and painful, the child endeavouring to
repress it, and having an expression of pain or crying and diminished
expectoration.”[115]
[Footnote 115: Dr Roberts.]
The treatment of this form of pneumonia consists in keeping up the
strength of the patient by means of good nourishing food, and stimulants
judiciously administered. Ammonia and senega should be given if the
sufferer is very weak. In ordinary cases ipecacuanha wine will be found
useful. Poultices of linseed or mustard to the chest are also prescribed.
During convalescence the patient requires careful watching; his diet
should be generous, and should include wine; cod-liver oil, quinine, and
iron, or other tonics are additionally necessary.
3. CHRONIC PNEUMONIA. This disease, in which the substance of the lung is
in a more or less abnormal or altered condition, is mostly the result of
some previous pulmonary affection. It frequently follows successive
attacks of the catarrhal variety of pneumonia and the bronchial irritation
arising from the inhalation of small particles of dust given off by
substances employed in certain occupations or manufactures, such as coal,
steel, granite, &c.
The symptoms are pains in the side, cough, sometimes occurring in severe
paroxysms, shortness of breathing, the patient meantime gradually becoming
thinner and weaker. Sometimes night sweats occur, but generally there is
little or no fever.
The best treatment is nourishing diet, combined with tonics and cod-liver
oil.
Of late years the doctrine of the contagious nature of some forms of acute
pneumonia (whether complicated with pleurisy or not) seems to have been
gaining ground amongst medical practitioners. The well-known fact that the
pleuro-pneumonia of cattle is propagated by contagion, if it does not
prove this contention, is at any rate “worthy,” as Dr Parkes remarks, “of
all attention.”
The following cases, selected from amongst many others equally striking,
would appear to lend considerable support to this view:
1. The ‘Lancet’ for January 9th, 1862, contains a communication from Dr
Bryson, describing an epidemic of pleuro-pneumonia which occurred in 1860
amongst the Mediterranean fleet. The infectious character of the disease
is stated to have been very marked; besides which there were several
points of resemblance between it and the pleuro-pneumonia which attacks
cattle.
2. Professor Bock of Christiana has recorded an outbreak of pneumonia
which took place in the Akerhus prison of that city in 1866. Out of 360
prisoners 62 of them were attacked with pneumonia in six months. The
prison, like the cattle sheds, ravaged by pleuro-pneumonia, was badly
ventilated and overcrowded.
The following illustrations are extracted from Dr Wynter Blyth’s valuable
‘Dictionary of Hygiene and Public Health.’
1. “Mr Alfred Mayo, Mildenhall, Suffolk, in a private letter to the
author, gives a series of cases in which the infectious character of the
malady was well marked. The first case was that of a bricklayer, about
thirty-five years of age, who was taken ill with pleuro-pneumonia. His
mother, who nursed him, very shortly afterwards took the same disease and
died. A neighbour, a healthy young woman over thirty, who came in to nurse
the last patient, was also taken similarly ill, and died with all the
physical and other signs and symptoms well developed; and lastly, her
child contracted the disease, but eventually recovered. There were other
cases in the neighbourhood at the same time, and all of them were
remarkable for their fatality.”
2. “Dr Richard Budd, of Barnstaple, has communicated to the author the
following remarkable cases:——1. A clergyman, after attending a public
meeting, became affected with acute pneumonia. 2. The nurse in attendance
became ill of the same disease about a week afterwards. 3. The clergyman’s
sister, taking the place of the nurse, was in her turn also seized with
pneumonia. 4. A brother of the clergyman, who now undertook the duty of
nurse, was in a very short time laid up with the same malady. The nurse
and sister died, the two brothers recovered. Dr Budd concludes his
communications as follows: ‘Since that time I have witnessed innumerable
instances of the occurrence of this disorder in several members of the
same family in succession, and I am thoroughly convinced that it spreads
by infection, as the facts I have observed admit of no other
explanation.’”
The following table, from the Registrar-General’s Report for 1875, gives
the yearly number of deaths from pneumonia in England from 1848 to 1875:——
1848 21,868
1849 21,194
1850 20,303
1851 22,001
1852 21,421
1853 24,098
1854 23,523
1855 26,052
1856 22,653
1857 23,452
1858 26,486
1859 24,514
1860 25,264
1861 22,914
1862 23,713
1863 24,181
1864 24,470
1865 22,489
1866 25,155
1867 21,118
1868 19,908
1869 25,246
1870 23,729
1871 22,768
1872 20,282
1873 22,904
1874 25,927
1875 27,161
As a commentary upon the high death-rate from pneumonia for 1875, we may
quote the Report for 1877 of the Registrar-General to the President of the
Local Government Board. He writes, “The winter of 1875 was unusually
severe; extremes of temperature, with a long continuance of east winds,
were fatal to infants and to elderly people, and no less than 162,156
deaths were registered in England for the first quarter of the year; the
mortality was at the annual rate of 27·5 per 1000, or 2·6 per 1000 above
the average of the thirty-eight years——1838-75.”
_In animals._ For pneumonia and ordinary pleuro-pneumonia, the treatment
prescribed for pleurisy may be followed.
EPIDEMIC PLEURO-PNEUMONIA OF CATTLE. It is now universally admitted that
this disease is very often traceable to contagion, and hence that its
propagation has been largely due to the practice of purchasing infected
animals in open market, and afterwards allowing them to herd with healthy
ones. When a cow is attacked with this epizootic disease, the first
noticeable symptoms are generally tenderness and flabbiness of the udder,
and a frothy condition of the milk.
These symptoms are accompanied with a dry cough and irregularity of
appetite; at the same time the mouth, horns, and legs become hot, the
pulse becomes more rapid, and the breathing also. When on its feet the
animal arches its back, and when lying down rests itself upon its breast
bone. Generally, however, when in the recumbent posture, it lies on that
side where the affected lung is.
The treatment, omitting the bleeding, is very similar to that recommended
for pleurisy, except that it should be supplemented by the application to
the sides of fomentations of hot water, followed by the rubbing in of
mustard or of some vesicant. “If no improvement occur after the third or
fourth day, give three times daily an ounce each of ginger and gentian,
with four drachms of sulphate of iron. Where there is debility, arrested
secretion, and cold extremities, give several times a day a quart of warm
ale, with an ounce each of ginger, cardamoms, fenugreek, or other
aromatics.”[116]
[Footnote 116: Finlay Dun.]
=POACH′ING.= Amongst cooks, a peculiar method of cooking small articles by
a slight boiling or stewing process.
POACHED EGGS are prepared by breaking them into a small saucepan or
stewpan containing about 1/2 a pint of boiling water, to which a
teaspoonful of common salt, and, occasionally, a little vinegar, is added,
and gently simmering them for 3 or 4 minutes, or until sufficiently firm
to bear removal with a spoon or ‘slice.’ Another method is to employ
melted butter instead of water, and to dress them either with or without
stirring.
Poached eggs are commonly served on toast, or with fried ham or bacon,
with spice or vegetable seasoning at will. They form an excellent
breakfast, or ‘make-shift dinner.’
=PODOPH′YLLIN.= _Syn._ RESIN OF PODOPHYLLUM; RESINA PODOPHYLLI (B. P.).
Obtained from the root of the _Podophyllum peltatum_ (Linn.), or
may-apple, a substance officinal in the Ph. U. S.
_Prep._ 1. The alcoholic extract of may-apple is digested in cold ether to
remove fatty matter, and is then dissolved in rectified spirit; the
solution is decoloured with a little animal charcoal, and filtered; it is,
lastly, allowed to evaporate spontaneously.
2. (B. P.) Podophyllum, in coarse powder, 1; rectified spirit, 3-3/4, or a
sufficiency; distilled water and hydrochloric acid, of each a sufficiency;
exhaust the podophyllum by percolation with the spirit; distil over the
spirit; slowly pour the liquid remaining after the distillation of the
tincture into three times its volume of water acidulated with 1/24th part
of its weight of hydrochloric acid, constantly stirring; let it stand 24
hours; collect the resin which falls, wash on a filter with distilled
water, and dry in a stove. Cholagogue purgative; used as a substitute for
calomel.——_Dose_, 1/6 to 1/2 gr., or even 2 gr. It is best to begin with
1/8 gr. (Squire.)
_Prop., &c._ An amorphous, greyish-white mass, soluble in alcohol, and
slightly soluble in water. It is a safe and certain cathartic, superior in
activity to resin of jalap.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 3 gr. See EXTRACT OF
MAY-APPLE.
=PODOPHYLLUM ROOT.= _Syn._ PODOPHYLLI RADIX (B. P.) The dried rhizome of
the _Podophyllum peltatum_; imported from North America. Active and
certain cathartic.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr.
=POIS′ON.= _Syn._ TOXICUM, VENENUM, L. Any substance which, when swallowed
or applied in any particular way to the living body, disturbs, suspends,
or destroys one or more of the vital functions. In sufficient quantity, or
in small doses long continued, the common result of the administration of
deleterious substances is either impaired vitality or death.
Poisons are classified by Orfila under four heads:——
1. IRRITANT POISONS, or such as inflame or corrode the parts with which
they come in contact. Their chief effects are upon the alimentary canal,
with, sometimes, ulceration of the tongue, fauces, and œsophagus. Nausea,
vomiting, stomachic and intestinal pains, extreme anxiety and anguish,
quick and feeble pulse, cold and clammy skin, and mucous, bilious, or
bloody diarrhœa, are among the common leading symptoms. Arsenic, blue
vitriol, verdigris, strong acids and alkalies, drastic purgatives, and
numerous other substances, belong to this class.
2. NARCOTIC OR STUPEFYING POISONS, or such as paralyse the functions of
the nervous system, and produce headache, vertigo, confused vision,
delirium, stupor, convulsions, coma, &c. It includes morphia, opium,
henbane, oil of bitter almonds, prussic acid, &c.
3. NARCOTICO-ACRID POISONS, which produce at the same time narcotism and
irritation of the parts which they touch. Alcohol, belladonna, cocculus
indicus, colchicum, foxglove, hemlock, poisonous fungi, strychnine,
tobacco, veratrine, &c., are of this kind.
4. SEPTIC OR PUTREFIANT POISONS, including all those which alter, liquefy,
or cause the putrescence of the fluids of the body; as sulphuretted
hydrogen, the gas from sewers and cesspools, putrefying organic matter,
miasmata, &c.
The treatment of cases of poisoning varies with the substance occasioning
it; the proper antidotes will be found noticed under the names of the
various substances that exert a deleterious action on the animal body. It
may here, however, be useful to remark that, in almost all cases of
poisoning, copious vomiting should be excited as soon as possible by the
administration of a powerful emetic; its action being promoted by copious
draughts of lukewarm water, tickling the throat with the finger, &c.
Should this fail, but not otherwise, the stomach-pump should be had
recourse to. The vomiting should be kept up and the stomach well washed
out with bland albuminous or mucilaginous liquids, such as milk-and-water,
barley water, sweetened water, flour-and-water, or any similar matters, as
circumstances may afford. After the vomiting a brisk aperient draught, or
clyster, may be administered, and nervous irritability or exhaustion
allayed by means of ether, opium, wine, or warm spirit-and-water, as the
case may require. Even in a suspected case of poisoning, when proper
medical advice is not at hand, an emetic should be immediately
administered. Vomiting may be, in general, produced very promptly by
merely swallowing a cupful of warm water mixed with a teaspoonful of flour
of mustard. If no dry mustard is at hand, a portion of the contents of a
mustard-pot, put into the water, will answer nearly as well. As mustard
may thus prove of so much use, it should never be wanting in any house;
but even should there be no mustard at hand, warm water by itself, freely
taken, forms a tolerably efficacious emetic.
=POLARISA′TION (of Light).= A change produced upon light by the action of
certain media and surfaces, by which it ceases to present the ordinary
phenomena of reflection and transmission. Instruments or apparatus
employed to effect this change are called ‘polariscopes.’ Although the
polarisation of light is frequently employed as a means of chemical
investigation, and is of the utmost interest to the philosophical
inquirer, its consideration scarcely comes within the province of this
work. See ‘Watt’s Dict. of Chemistry,’ ‘Ganot’s Physics,’ &c.
=POL′ISH.= Various substances, differing widely from each other, are
popularly known under this name. See POWDERS, VARNISH, &c., and _below_.
=Polish, French.= See FRENCH POLISH.
=Polish, French Reviver.= _Prep._ 1. Linseed oil, 1/2 pint; pale lac
varnish and wood naphtha, of each 1/4 pint; well shaken together, and
again every time before use.
2. Methylated rectified spirit, 3 pints; linseed oil and French polish, of
each 1 pint; as the last.
3. Linseed oil (pale), 1 quart; strong distilled vinegar, 1/2 pint; spirit
of turpentine, 1/4 pint; muriatic acid, 1 oz.
=Furniture Cream.= _Prep._ 1. Pearlash, 2 oz.; soft soap, 4 oz.; beeswax,
1 lb.; water, 1 gall.; boil until the whole is united and forms a creamy
liquid when cold.
2. Beeswax, 1/2 lb.; good yellow soap, 1/4 lb.: water, 5 pints; boil to a
proper consistence with constant agitation, then add of boiled oil and
spirit of turpentine, of each 1/2 pint. For use, the above are diluted
with water, spread upon the surface with a painter’s brush, and then
polished off with a hard brush, cloth, or leather.
3. Boiled oil (pale), 1/2 pint; beeswax, 1-1/2 oz.; mixed by heat. Applied
by a ‘rubber,’ and at once polished off.
4. (For wooden furniture.) White wax, 8 parts; resin, 2 parts; true Venice
turpentine, 1/2 pint; melt at a gentle heat. The warm mass, completely
melted, is poured into a stone jar, agitated, and 6 parts of rectified oil
of turpentine added thereto. After 24 hours the mass, having the
consistency of soft butter, is ready for use. Before using the paste the
furniture should be washed with soap and water, and then well dried.
(‘Dingler’s Journal.’)
=Furniture Oil.= See OILS, MIXED.
=Furniture Paste.= _Prep._ 1. Oil of turpentine, 1 pint; alkanet root, 1/4
oz.; digest until sufficiently coloured, then add of beeswax (scraped
small), 4 oz.; put the vessel into hot water, and stir until the mixture
is complete, then put it into pots. If wanted pale, the alkanet root
should be omitted.
2. (White.) White wax, 1 lb.; solution of potassa, 1/2 gall.; boil to a
proper consistence.
=Polish, Harness.= See BLACKING, HARNESS.
=Polish, Leather.= See BLACKING.
=POL′LARD.= See FLOUR.
=POL′YCHREST.= _Syn._ POLYCHRESTUS, L. A term formerly applied to several
medicines on account of the numerous virtues they were supposed to
possess. Sal polycrestus is the old name for sulphate of potassa.
=POL′YCHROITE.= The name formerly given to the colouring matter of
saffron, from the variety of colours which it exhibits with different
reagents. Its alcoholic and aqueous solutions are of a golden yellow;
nitric acid turns it green; sulphuric acid, first blue, and then lilac.
=POM′ACE.= See CIDER.
=POMA′TUM.= _Syn._ POMMADE, Fr. This term was originally applied to a
fragrant ointment prepared with lard and apples; but is now wholly
restricted, in this country, to solid greasy substances used in dressing
the hair. The pomatums of French pharmacy (POMMADES, GRAISSES
MÉDICAMENTEUSES——P. Cod.; LIPAROLÉS——Guibourt; LIPAROLÉS and
LIPAROIDÉS——Béral; STEAROLÉS——Chéreau) are soft ointments, having a basis
of lard or fat, without resinous matter. See OINTMENT and POMMADE.
=POMEGRAN′ATE.= The _Tunica granatum_ (Linn.), a small tree indigenous in
Persia and the East. Fruit (POMEGRANATE; GRANATA, MALA PUNICA) is cooling
and astringent; fruit-rind (POMEGRANATE PEEL; MATACORIUM, CORTEX GRANATI;
GRANATUM——Ph. L.) and root-bark (GRANATI RADIX——B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.)
are powerfully astringent, detersive, and anthelmintic; the last more
particularly so. The double flowers of the wild tree (BALAUSTINES;
BALAUSTIÆ), as well as those of the cultivated one (CYTINI), are tonic and
astringent.——_Dose_, 15 to 20 gr. of the root-bark, repeated every 30 or
40 minutes, until four doses have been taken, followed by castor oil; in
tapeworm. As an astringent, all the parts described are commonly given
under the form of decoction.
=POMMADE.= [Fr.] The term applied by Continental perfumers to any soft
fragrant ointment (POMATUM).
In the preparation of pommades one of the first objects of consideration
is to obtain their fatty basis in as fresh and pure a state as possible.
Lard, beef, and mutton suet, beef marrow, veal fat, and bear’s fat, are
the substances commonly employed for this purpose, either singly or in
mixtures of two or more of them. The fat, carefully selected from a young
and healthy animal, after being separated from extraneous skin and fibre,
is pounded in a marble mortar, in the cold, until all the membranes are
completely torn asunder. It is next placed in a covered porcelain or
polished metal pan, and submitted to the heat of a water bath, which is
continued until its fatty portion has liquefied, and the albuminous and
aqueous matter, and other foreign substances, have completely separated
and subsided. The liquid fat is then carefully skimmed, and at once passed
through a clean flannel filter. In this state it may be aromatised or
perfumed at will; after which, when it is intended that the pommade should
be opaque and white, it is assiduously stirred or beaten with a glass or
wooden knife, or spatula, until it concretes; but when it is desired that
it should appear transparent or crystalline, it is allowed to cool very
slowly, and without being disturbed. To prevent the accession of
rancidity, a little benzoic acid, gum benzoin, or nitric ether may be
added to the fat, whilst in the liquid state, as noticed under FAT and
OINTMENT. Sometimes a small portion of white wax or beeswax (according to
the intended colour of the product) is melted with the fat to increase its
solidity. Some parties employ a few grains of powdered citric acid per
ounce, in a like manner, with the intention of increasing the whiteness of
the compound; but the practice is not to be commended, as pommades so
prepared prove injurious to the hair.
The French perfumers, who are celebrated for the variety and excellence of
their pommades, divide them into four classes:——
1. POMMADES BY INFUSION. These are made by gently melting in a clean pan,
over a water bath, 2 parts of hog’s lard, and 1 part of beef suet (both of
the finest quality, and carefully ‘rendered’), and adding thereto one part
of the given flowers, previously carefully picked and separated from
foreign matter; or, if the odorous substance is a solid, then coarsely
bruised, but not reduced to fine powder. The mixture is next digested at a
very gentle heat for from 12 to 24 hours, with occasional stirring, the
vessel being kept covered as much as possible during the whole time. The
next day the mixture is reheated, and again well stirred for a short time,
after which it is poured into canvas bags, and these, being securely tied,
are submitted to powerful pressure, gradually increased, in a screw or
barrel press. This operation is repeated with the same fat and fresh
flowers, several times, until the pommade is sufficiently perfumed. A good
pommade requires thrice to six times its weight in flowers to be thus
consumed; or of the aromatic barks and seeds a corresponding proportion.
The pommades of cassia, orange flowers, and several others kept by the
French perfumers, are prepared in this manner.
2. POMMADES BY CONTACT (ENFLEURAGE). These are made by spreading, with a
palette knife, simple pommade (made with lard and suet as above) on panes
of glass or pewter plates, to the thickness of a finger, and sticking the
surface all over with the sweet-scented flowers. These last are renewed
daily for one, two, or three months, or until the pommade has become
sufficiently perfumed. On the large scale, the panes are placed in small
shallow frames, made of four pieces of wood nicely fitted together, and
are then closely piled one upon another. On the small scale, pewter plates
are generally used, and they are inverted one over the other. In some of
the perfumeries of France many thousands of frames are employed at once.
The pommades of jasmin, jonquil, orange flowers, narcissus, tuberose,
violet, and of some other delicate flowers, are prepared in this manner.
3. POMMADES BY ADDITION. These are prepared by simply adding the fragrant
essences or essential oils, in the required quantity, to the simple
pommade of lard and suet to produce the proper odour. In this way the
pommades of bergamotte, cédrat, cinnamon, lemons, lemon thyme, lavender,
limettes, marjoram, Portugal roses, rosemary, thyme, verbena, and about 40
others kept by the Parisian perfumers, are made.
4. MIXED POMMADES. Of these a great variety exists, prepared by the
addition of judicious combinations of the more esteemed perfumes to simple
pommade; or, by the admixture of the different perfumed pommades, whilst
in the semi-liquid state. (See _below_.)
THE COLOURED POMMADES derive their respective tints from tinctorial matter
added to the melted fat before perfuming it. GREEN is given by gum
guaiacum (in powder), or by the green leaves or tops of spinach, parsley,
lavender, or walnut;——RED, by alkanet root and carmine;——YELLOW and
ORANGE, by annatto or palm oil; WHITE POMMADES are made with mutton suet,
instead of beef suet. The BROWN and BLACK hard pomatums, vended under the
name of ‘COSMETIQUE,’ are noticed at page 513. A few compound pommades are
used as skin cosmetics.
=Pommade.= _Syn._ POMATUM. _Prep._ 1. (PLAIN POMATUM, SIMPLE P.)——_a._
From lard, 2 lbs.; beef suet, 1 lb.; carefully rendered as above. The
ordinary consistence for temperate climates.
_b._ Lard and suet, equal parts. For warm climates. Both may be scented at
will.
2. (SCENTED POMATUM.)——_a._ Plain pomatum, 1 lb.; melt it by the least
possible degree of heat, add of essence of lemon or essence of bergamot, 3
dr.; and stir the mixture until it concretes. This forms the ordinary
‘pomatum’ of the shops.
_b._ Plain pomatum, 1-1/2 lb.; essence of bergamot, 1-1/2 dr.; essence of
lemon, 1 dr.; oils of rosemary and cassia, of each 1/2 dr.; oil of cloves,
20 drops. More fragrant than the last.
=Pommade, Castor Oil.= _Prep._ 1. From castor oil, 1 lb.; white wax, 4
oz.; melt them together; then add, when nearly cold, of essence of
bergamot, 3 dr.; oil of lavender (English), 1/2 dr.; essence of ambergris,
10 drops. Supposed to render the hair glossy.
2. (Crystallised.) From castor oil, 1 lb; spermaceti, 3 oz.; melt them
together by a gentle heat, add, of essence of bergamot, 3 dr.; oil of
verbena, lavender, and rosemary, of each 1/2 dr.; pour it into
wide-mouthed glass bottles, and allow it to cool very slowly and
undisturbed.
=Pommade, Castor Oil and Glycerine.= (American receipt.) White wax, 1-1/2
oz.; glycerin, 2 oz.; castor oil, 12 oz.; essence of lemon, 5 dr.; essence
of bergamot, 2 dr.; oil of lavender, 1 dr.; oil of cloves, 10 drops;
annatto, 10 gr.; rectified spirit and distilled water, of each a
sufficient quantity. By a moderate heat dissolve the wax in a small
portion of the castor oil (one fourth), and triturate it with the
remainder of the oil and glycerin till quite cool; then add volatile oils.
Lastly, rub the annatto with a drachm of water till smoothly suspended;
add a drachm of alcohol, and stir the colouring into the pomade until it
is thoroughly mixed. Avoid much heat.
=Pommade, Cazenave’s.= _Prep._ From prepared beef marrow, 4 oz.; tincture
of cantharides (P. Cod.), 3 to 4 dr.; powdered cinnamon, 1/2 oz.; melt
them together, stir until the spirit has, for the most part, evaporated,
then decant the clear portion, and again stir it until it concretes.
Recommended as a remedy for baldness and weak hair. It is to be used night
and morning; the head being washed with soap-and-water, and afterwards
with salt-and-water, before applying it. Dr Cattell scents it with the
oils of origanum and bergamot instead of cinnamon.
=Pommade, Collante.= _Prep._ 1. Oil of almonds, 3 oz.; white wax, 3/4 oz.;
melt them together, and add, of tincture of mastic (strong), 1 oz.;
essence of bergamot, 1/2 dr. Used to stiffen the hair, and keep it in
form.
2. Burgundy pitch (true), 3 oz.; white wax, 2 oz.; lard, 1 oz.; melt, and,
when considerably cooled, stir in, of tincture of benzoin, 1 oz.; essence
of bergamot, 1/2 dr. Used to fasten false curls.
=Pommade, Cowslip.= _Prep._ From plain pommade, 2 lbs.; essence of
bergamot, 3 dr.; essence of lemon and essence of orange peel, of each 1
dr.; huile au jasmin and essence de petit grain, of each 1/2 dr.; essence
of ambergris, 6 drops.
=Pommade, Crystallised.= _Prep._ From olive oil and spermaceti, as
crystallised castor oil pommade, with scent at will.
=Pommade of Cucumbers.= _Syn._ POMMADE DE CONCOMBRES, UNGUENTUM CUCUMIS.
_Prep._ Lard, 10 oz.; veal suet, 6 oz.; balsam of tolu, 9 gr.; rose water,
44 minims; cucumber juice, 12 oz., by weight. Melt the lard and the suet
over a water bath, and add the tolu, previously dissolved in a little
alcohol, and then the rose water. When clear, decant it into a tinned
basin, then add to a third of the cucumber juice, and stir continually for
4 hours; pour off the juice and add another third, stir as before, then
pour off, and add the remainder of the juice; separate as much as possible
the fat from the liquid, melt by a water bath, and after some hours skim,
and put into pots. (Beat, when in a semi-liquid state, with a wooden
spatula, when it will become much lighter and nearly double in bulk.)
=Pommade d’Alyon.= See OINTMENT OF NITRIC ACID. See CUPS.
=Pommade de Beauté.= _Prep._ From oil of almonds, 2 oz.; spermaceti, 2
dr.; white wax, 1-1/2 dr.; glycerin, 1 dr.; balsam of Peru, 1/2 dr.;
mixed by a gentle heat. Used as a skin cosmetic as well as for the hair.
=Pommade de Casse.= _Prep._ From plain pommade, 1 lb.; palm oil, 1/2 oz.;
melt, pour off the clear, and add oil of cassia and huile au jasmin, of
each 1 dr.; neroli, 20 drops; oil of verbena or lemon grass, 15 drops;
otto of roses, 5 drops; and stir until nearly cold. Very fragrant.
=Pommade d’Hebe.= _Prep._ To white wax, 1 oz., melted by a gentle heat,
add, of the juice of lily bulbs and Narbonne honey, each 2 oz.; rose
water, 2 dr.; otto of roses, 2 drops. Applied night and morning to remove
wrinkles.
=Pommade de Ninon de l′Enclos.= _Prep._ Take of oil of almonds, 4 oz.;
prepared lard, 3 oz.; juice of houseleek, 3 fl. oz. Used chiefly as a skin
cosmetic. Said to be very softening and refreshing.
=Pommade Divine.= _Prep._ 1. Washed and purified beef marrow, 2 lbs.;
liquid styrax, cypress wood, and powdered orris root, of each 2 oz.;
powdered cinnamon, 1 oz.; cloves and nutmegs, of each (bruised) 1/2 oz.;
digest the whole together by the heat of a water bath for six hours, and
then strain through flannel.
2. Plain pommade, 2 lbs.; essence of lemon and bergamot, of each 2 dr.;
oils of lavender and origanum, of each 1 dr.; oils of verbena, cassia,
cloves, and neroli, of each 12 drops; huile au jasmin, 3 dr.; essence of
violets, 1/2 oz.
=Pommade, Dupuytren’s.= _Prep._ 1. Take of prepared beef marrow, 12 oz.;
melt, add of baume nerval (see OINTMENT, NERVINE), 4 oz.; Peruvian balsam
and oil of almonds, of each 3 oz.; and lastly, of alcoholic extract of
cantharides, 36 gr.; (dissolve in) rectified spirit, 3 fl. dr. This is the
original formula for this celebrated pommade. The following modifications
of it are now commonly employed:——
2. (Cap.) Beef marrow, 2 oz.; alcoholic extract of cantharides, 8 gr.;
rose oil, 1 dr.; essence of lemons, 30 drops.
3. (Guibourt.) Beef marrow and ‘baume nerval’ (page 1179), of each 1 oz.;
rose oil, 1 dr.; alcoholic (or acetic) extract of cantharides, 6 gr.;
(dissolved in) rectified spirit, q. s. These compounds are used to promote
the growth of the hair and to prevent baldness, for which purpose they are
usually coloured and scented according to the taste of the manufacturer.
To be useful, they should be well rubbed on the scalp, at least once
daily, for several weeks, and the head should be occasionally washed with
soap-and-water.
=Pommade, East India.= _Prep._ Take of suet, 3 lbs.; lard, 2 lbs.; beeswax
(bright), 1/2 lb.; palm oil, 2 oz.; powdered gum benzoin, 3 oz.; musk
(previously triturated with a little lump sugar), 20 gr.; digest the whole
together in a covered vessel, by the heat of a water bath, for 2 hours,
then decant the clear portion, and add, of essence of lemon, 1/2 oz.; oil
of lavender, 1/4 oz.; oils of cloves, cassia, and verbena, of each 1/2
dr. A favourite pommade in the East Indies.
=Pommade for Freckles.= (‘New York Druggists’ Circular.’) _Prep._ Citrine
ointment and oil of almonds, of each 1 dr.; spermaceti ointment, 6 dr.;
oil of roses, 3 drops. Mix well in a wedgwood mortar, using a wooden or
bone knife.
=Pommade, Hard.= _Syn._ HARD POMATUM, ROLL P. _Prep._ 1. Take of beef
suet, 2 lbs.; yellow wax, 1/4 lb.; spermaceti, 1 oz.; powdered benzoin,
1/4 oz.; melt them together, then add, of oil of lavender, 2 dr.; essence
of ambergris, 1/2 dr. Before it concretes pour it into moulds of paper or
tin foil.
2. Mutton suet and lard, of each 1 lb.; white wax, 6 oz.; melt, and add,
of essence of lemon, 2 dr.; oil of cassia, 1/2 dr. Other perfumes may be
employed at will.
Hard pomatums are used to gloss and set the hair. They act both as
‘pommade’ and ‘fixateur.’ See COSMETIQUE.
=Pommade, Macassar.= _Prep._ From castor oil, 5 oz.; white wax, 1 oz.;
alkanet root, 1/2 dr.; heat them together until sufficiently coloured,
then strain, and add, oil of origanum and oil of rosemary, of each 1 dr.;
oil of nutmeg, 1/2 dr.; otto of roses, 10 drops. Said to be equal in
efficacy to MACASSAR OIL.
=Pommade, Marechal.= Plain pommade scented by digesting it with _poudre
maréchale_.
=Pommade, Marrow.= _Syn._ MARROW POMATUM. _Prep._ From prepared beef
marrow, 1/2 lb.; beef suet, 1/4 lb.; palm oil, 1/4 oz.; melted together
and scented at will.
=Pommade, Millefleur.= _Prep._ From plain pommade scented with a mixture
of essence of lemon and essence of ambergris, each 4 parts; oil of
lavender, 2 parts; oil of cloves and essence de petit grain, of each 1
part; or with other like perfumes so proportioned to each other that no
one shall predominate. Much esteemed.
=Pommade, Roll.= See POMMADE, HARD.
=Pommade, Roman.= See _below_.
=Pommade, Rose.= _Syn._ ROSE POMATUM. This is plain pommade or hard lard,
which has been well beaten with eau de rose, or, better still, scented
with otto of roses. It is sometimes tinged with alkanet root.
=Pommade, Soft.= Plain pomatum scented at will.
=Pommade, Soubeiran’s.= _Prep._ From beef marrow, 1-1/2 oz.; oil of
almonds, 1/2 oz.; disulphate of quinine, 1 dr. Recommended for
strengthening and restoring the hair.
=Pommade, Transparent.= _Prep._ Spermaceti, 2 oz.; castor oil, 5 oz.;
alcohol, 5 oz.; oil of bergamot, 1/2 dr.; oil of Portugal, 1/2 dr.
=Pommade, Vanilla.= _Syn._ ROMAN POMMADE, POMMADE À LA VANILLE, POMMADE
ROMAIN. From plain pommade and pommade à la rose, of each 12 lbs.;
powdered vanilla, 1 lb.; heat them together in a water bath, stir
constantly for 1 hour, let it settle for another hour, decant the clear,
and add, oil à la rose, 2-1/2 lbs.; bergamot, 4 oz.
=POPPY.= _Syn._ WHITE POPPY; PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM, L. The capsules or fruit
(“mature”——Ph. L.; “not quite ripe”——Ph. E.) form the poppies or
poppy-heads of the shops (PAPAVERIS CAPSULÆ; PAPAVER——Ph. L., E., & D.).
They are anodyne and narcotic, similar to opium, but in only a very slight
degree. The seeds (MAW SEED), which are sweet, oleaginous, and nutritious,
are used as a substitute for almonds in confectionery and mixtures, and
are pressed for their oil. See EXTRACT, OPIUM, and SYRUP.
=Poppy, Red.= _Syn._ CORN POPPY, CORN ROSE; PAPAVER RHŒAS, L. The fresh
petals or flowers (RHŒADOS PETALA; RHŒAS——Ph. L., E., & D.) are reputed
pectoral, but are chiefly employed on account of their rich colour. See
SYRUP.
=POP′ULIN.= _Syn._ POPULINUM, L. A peculiar neutral, crystallisable
substance, formerly supposed to be an alkaloid, found, associated with
SALICIN, in the root-bark of the _Populus tremula_ (Linn.), or aspen.
_Prep._ Concentrate the decoction by a gentle heat, and set it aside in a
cool situation to crystallise; dissolve the crystals which are deposited
in rectified spirit, decolour them by digestion with animal charcoal,
filter, and again crystallise. To render them still purer they may be
redissolved and crystallised a second and a third time, if necessary.
_Prop., &c._ It resembles salicin in appearance and solubility, but,
unlike that substance, has a penetrating sweet taste. Dilute acids convert
it into benzoic acid, grape sugar, and saliretin; and with a mixture of
sulphuric acid and bichromate of potassa it yields a large quantity of
salicylous acid. It appears to be tonic, stomachic, and febrifuge.
=POR′CELAIN.= See POTTERY.
=PORK.= The value of pork as an article of diet is well known. That from
the young and properly fed animal is savoury, easy of digestion, and, when
only occasionally employed, highly wholesome; but it is apt to disagree
with some stomachs, and should, in such cases, be avoided. To render it
proper for food, it should be thoroughly but not overcooked. When salted
it is less digestible. The frequent use of pork is said to favour obesity,
and to occasion disorders of the skin, especially in the sedentary. See
MEAT.
=POR′PHYRIZED, PORPHORIZA′TION.= Words coined by recent pharmaceutical
writers, and possessing similar meanings to LEVIGATED and LEVIGATION.
=PORPHY′ROXIN.= A neutral crystallisable substance discovered by Merck in
opium. It is soluble in both alcohol and ether, insoluble in water, and is
characterised by assuming a purplish-red colour when heated in dilute
hydrochloric acid.
=PORRI′GO.= See RINGWORM.
=POR′TER.= This well-known beverage, now the common drink of the
inhabitants of London, by whom it is generally termed ‘beer,’ originated
with a brewer named Harwood, in 1722. Previously to this date, ‘ale,’
‘beer,’ and ‘twopenny,’ constituted the stock in trade of the London
publican, and were drunk, either singly or together, under the names of
‘half-and-half’ or ‘three threads,’ for which the vendor was compelled to
have recourse to two or three different casks, as the case might demand.
The inconvenience and trouble thus incurred led Mr Harwood to endeavour to
produce a beer which should possess the flavour of the mixed liquors. In
this he succeeded so well that his new beverage rapidly superseded the
mixtures then in use, and obtained a general preference among the lower
classes of the people. At first this liquor was called ‘entire’ or ‘entire
butt,’ on account of it being drawn from one cask only, but it afterwards
acquired, at first in derision, the now familiar name of ‘porter,’ in
consequence of its general consumption among porters and labourers. The
word ‘entire’ is still, however, frequently met with on the signboards of
taverns about the metropolis.
The characteristics of pure and wholesome porter are its transparency,
lively dark brown colour, and its peculiar bitter and slightly burnt
taste. Originally, these qualities were derived from the ‘high-dried
malt,’ with which alone it was brewed. It is now generally, if not
entirely, made from ‘pale’ or ‘amber malt,’ mixed with a sufficient
quantity of ‘patent’ or ‘roasted malt’ to impart the necessary flavour and
colour. Formerly, this liquor was ‘vatted’ and ‘stored’ for some time
before being sent out to the retailer, but the change in the taste of the
public during the last quarter of a century in favour of the mild or new
porter has rendered this unnecessary. The best ‘draught porter,’ at the
time of its consumption, is now only a few weeks old. In this state only
would it be tolerated by the modern beer-drinker. The old and acid
beverage that was formerly sold under the name of porter would be rejected
at the present day as ‘hard’ and unpleasant, even by the most thirsty
votaries of malt liquor.
The ‘beer’ or ‘porter’ of the metropolitan brewers is essentially a weak
mild ale, coloured and flavoured with roasted malt. Its richness in sugar
and alcohol, on which its stimulating and nutritive properties depend, is
hence less than that of an uncoloured mild ale brewed from a like original
quantity of malt. For pale malt is assumed to yield 80 to 84 lbs. of
saccharine per quarter; whereas the torrefied malt employed by the porter
brewers only yields 18 to 24 lbs. per quarter, and much of even this small
quantity is altered in its properties, and is incapable of undergoing the
vinous fermentation. In the manufacture of porter there is a waste of malt
which does not occur in brewing ale; and the consumer must, therefore,
either pay a higher price for it or be content with a weaker liquor.
The hygienic properties of porter, for the most part, resemble those of
other malt liquors. Some members of the faculty conceive that it is better
suited to persons with delicate stomachs and weak digestion than either
ale or beer. That there may be some reason for this preference, in such
cases, we are not prepared to deny, but undoubtedly, when the intention is
to stimulate and nourish the system, ale is preferable. Certain it is,
however, that the dark colour and strong taste of porter render its
adulteration easier than that of ale, whilst such adulteration is more
difficult of detection than in the paler varieties of malt liquors. “For
medical purposes, ‘bottled porter’ (CEREVISIA LAGENARIA) is usually
preferred to ‘draught porter.’ It is useful as a restorative in the latter
stages of fever, and to support the powers of the system after surgical
operations, severe accidents, &c.” (Pereira, ii, 982.) When ‘out of
condition’ or adulterated, porter, more than perhaps any other malt
liquor, is totally unfit for use as a beverage, even for the healthy; and
when taken by the invalid, the consequences must necessarily be serious.
Dr Ure says that pure porter, “when drank in moderation, is a far
wholesomer beverage for the people than the thin acidulous wines of France
and Germany.”
The manufacture of porter has been described in our article on BREWING,
and is also referred to above. It presents no difficulty or peculiarity
beyond the choice of the proper materials. A mixture of ‘brown’ and ‘black
malt’ is thought to yield a finer flavour and colour to the pale malt that
gives the body to the liquor than when ‘black’ or ‘roasted malt’ is
employed alone. The proportion of the former to the latter commonly varies
from 1-6th to 1-4th. When ‘black malt’ is alone used, the proportion
varies from the 1-10th to 1-15th. 1 lb. of ‘roasted malt,’ mashed with
about 79 lbs. of pale malt, is said to be capable of imparting to the
liquor the flavour and colour of porter. The following formulæ were
formerly commonly employed in London:——
1. (DRAUGHT PORTER.) From pale malt, 3-1/2 q. s.; amber malt, 3 q. s.;
brown malt, 1-1/2 q.; mash at twice with 28 and 24 barrels of water, boil
with brown Kent hops, 56 lbs., and set with yeast, 40 lbs. _Prod._ 28
barrels, or 3-1/2 times the malt, besides 20 barrels of table-beer from a
third mashing.
2. (BOTTLING PORTER; BROWN STOUT.) From pale malt, 2 q. s.; amber and
brown malt, of each 1-1/2 qr.; mash at 3 times with 12, 7, and 6 barrels
of water, boil with hops, 50 lbs., and set with yeast, 26 lbs. _Prod._ 17
barrels, or 1-1/2 times the malt.
The purity and quality of porter, as well as of other malt liquors, may be
inferred in the manner noticed under BEER; but can only be positively
determined by a chemical examination. For this purpose several distinct
operations are required:——
1. _Richness in_ ALCOHOL. This may be correctly found by the method of M.
Gay-Lussac; or from the boiling point. (See ALCOHOLOMETRY and
EBULLIOSCOPE.) The method with anhydrous carbonate of potassa will also
give results sufficiently near to the truth for ordinary purposes, when
strong or old beer is operated on. The quantity of the liquor tested
should be 3600 water grains measure; and it should be well agitated, with
free exposure to the air, after weighing it, but before testing it for its
alcohol. The weight of alcohol found, multiplied by 1·8587, gives its
equivalent in sugar. This may be converted into ‘brewer’s pounds’ or
density per barrel, as below.
2. _Richness in_ SACCHARINE or EXTRACTIVE MATTER. A like quantity of the
liquor under examination, after being boiled for some time to dissipate
its alcohol, is made up with distilled water, so as to be again exactly
equal to 3600 water-grains measure. The sp. gr. of the resulting liquid is
then taken, and this is reduced to ‘brewers’ pounds’ per barrel, by
multiplying its excess of density above that of water (or 1000) by 360,
and pointing off the three right-hand figures as decimals.
3. ACETIC ACID or VINEGAR. This is determined by any of the common methods
of ACIDIMETRY (which _see_; see also ACETIMETRY). Each grain of anhydrous
acetic acid so found represents 1·6765 gr. of sugar.
4. _Gravity of_ ORIGINAL WORT. This is obtained by the addition of the
respective quantities of saccharine matter found in Nos. 1, 2, and 3
(_above_). These results are always slightly under the true original
density of the wort, as cane sugar appears to have been taken by the
Excise as the basis of their calculations. More correctly, 12% of proof
spirit is equivalent to 19 lbs. of saccharine per barrel. 10-1/2 lbs. of
saccharine are equiv. to 1 gall. of proof spirit.
5. _Detection of_ NARCOTICS. This may be effected either by the method
described under ALKALOID, or by one or other of the following processes:——
_a._ Half a gallon of the beer under examination is evaporated to dryness
in a water bath; the resulting extract is boiled for 30 or 40 minutes in a
covered vessel with 10 or 12 fl. oz. of alcohol or strong rectified
spirit, the mixture being occasionally stirred with a glass rod, to
promote the action of the menstruum; the alcoholic solution is next
filtered, treated with a sufficient quantity of solution of diacetate of
lead to precipitate colouring matter, and again filtered; the filtrate is
treated with a few drops of dilute sulphuric acid, again filtered, and
then evaporated to dryness; it may then be tested with any of the usual
reagents, either in the solid state, or after being dissolved in distilled
water. Or the extract, obtained as above, may be boiled as directed with
rectified spirit, the solution filtered, the spirit distilled off, and a
small quantity of pure liquor of potassa added to the aqueous residue,
which is then to be shaken up with about 1 fl. oz. of ether; lastly, the
ethereal solution, which separates and floats on the surface, is decanted,
evaporated, and the residuum tested, as before. The alkaline liquid, from
which the ether has been decanted, is then separated from any precipitate
which may have formed, and both of these separately tested for alkaloids.
_b._ From 2 to 3 oz. of purified animal charcoal are diffused through 1/2
gall. of the beer, and is digested in it, with frequent agitation, for
from 8 to 12 hours; the liquor is next filtered, and the charcoal
collected on the filter is boiled with about 1/2 pint of rectified spirit;
the resulting alcoholic solution is then further treated as above, and
tested. This answers well for the detection of strychnia or nux vomica.
6. PICRIC ACID. This substance, which was formerly employed to impart
bitterness to London porter in lieu of hops, may be detected as follows:——
_a._ A portion of the liquor agitated with a little solution of diacetate
of lead loses its bitter flavour if it depends on hops, but retains it if
it depends on picric acid.
_b._ Pure beer is decoloured and deodorised by animal charcoal; but beer
containing picric acid, when thus treated, retains a lemon-yellow colour
and the odour.
_c._ Unbleached sheep’s wool, boiled for six or ten minutes, and then
washed, takes a canary-yellow colour if picric acid be present. The test
is so delicate that 1 grain of the adulterant in 150,000 gr. of beer is
readily detected.
_d._ (Vitate.[117]) The author agitates 10 c.c. of the suspected beer in a
test tube with half its volume of pure amylic alcohol. If the mixture is
left to settle, the amylic stratum separates entirely, and is drawn off
with a pipette, evaporated to dryness at a convenient temperature in a
porcelain capsule, and the residue is finally taken up in a little
distilled water with the aid of heat. The aqueous solution is divided into
portions, and submitted to the following reagents. One portion is treated
with a solution of ammonio-sulphate of copper, which, in dilute solutions
of picric acid, instantly produces a turbidity, due to the formation of
very minute crystals of the ammonio-picrate of copper, of a greenish
colour. Another portion may be treated with a concentrated solution of
cyanide of potassium, which produces a blood-red colour, more or less
intense, according to the quantity of picric acid present, in consequence
of the formation of iso-purpuric acid. A third portion may be submitted to
the action of sulphide of ammonium, rendered still more alkaline by the
addition of a few drops of ammonia. Here also a blood-red colour is
produced, which becomes more intense on the application of heat, and is
due to the formation of picramic acid.
[Footnote 117: ‘Chemical News,’ vol. xxxv, p. 75.]
7. MINERAL MATTER.——_a._ A weighed quantity of pure beer evaporated to
dryness, and then incinerated, does not furnish more than from ·20% to
·35% of ash, the quantity varying within these limits with the strength of
the liquor and the character of the water used in brewing it.
_b._ A solution of this ash, made by decoction with distilled water,
should be only rendered slightly turbid by solutions of acetate of lead,
bichloride of platinum, nitrate of baryta, nitrate of silver, oxalate of
ammonia, and sulphuretted hydrogen.
_c._ If the beer contained common salt, the above solution will give a
cloudy white precipitate with a solution of nitrate of silver. Each grain
of this precipitate is equivalent to 1/2 gr. of common salt (nearly).
_d._ If GREEN COPPERAS (sulphate of iron) is present, ferridcyanide of
potassium gives a blue precipitate, and ferrocyanide of potassium a
bluish-white one, turning dark blue in the air; solution of chloride of
barium gives a white precipitate, each grain of which, after being washed,
dried, and ignited, represents 1·188 gr. of crystallised protosulphate of
iron.
_e._ The ash, digested in water slightly acidulated with nitric acid, and
then boiled, yields a solution which, when cold, gives a black precipitate
with sulphuretted hydrogen, and a white one with dilute sulphuric acid
when lead is present.
8. _Wittstein’s method for the detection of_ ADULTERANTS _in beer_.[118]
One litre of the suspected beer is evaporated by a moderate heat to the
consistence of a thick syrup. This is poured into a tared glass cylinder
capable of containing ten times its volume and weighed; five times its
weight of 93° to 95° alcohol is added, and the whole frequently stirred,
by means of a thick glass rod, during twenty-four hours.
[Footnote 118: ‘Archiv der Pharmacie,’ January, 1876, (‘Pharm. Journal,’
3rd series, v.)]
By this means all the gum, dextrin, sulphates, phosphates, and chlorides
are separated, and a comparatively small portion is obtained in solution.
After clearing, this solution is decanted, the residue is again treated
with fresh alcohol, the two products mixed, filtered, and the alcohol
driven off by a gentle heat.
_a._ Of the syrupy residue left after this evaporation, a small portion is
diluted with three times its bulk of water, and tested for picric acid,
according to the directions already given.
_b._ The remaining largest portion of the syrup is agitated for some time
with six times its weight of pure colourless benzol (boiling point 80°
C.); this is decanted off, and the operation is repeated with fresh
benzol, and the two liquors, the first of which has become yellow, the
second having scarcely changed colour, are evaporated at a gentle heat.
The pale, yellow, resinous residue thus obtained may possibly contain
brucine, strychnine, colchicine, or colocynthin. To ascertain this, three
portions of the resin are placed on a porcelain capsule; one is treated
with nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·33 to 1·40), another with concentrated
sulphuric acid, and the third, after a few morsels of red chromate of
potash have been added, also with sulphuric acid. A red colour, produced
by the nitric acid, indicates brucine with certainty, and a violet colour
colchicine; a red colour produced by sulphuric acid indicates colocynthin,
and a purple violet, produced by sulphuric acid and bichromate of potash,
reveals strychnine. Resin in which one or other of these colorations is
produced possesses an extremely bitter taste; that in which the coloration
does not take place is also bitter, but the bitterness recalls the
well-known hop flavour.
_c._ The syrup which has been treated with benzol is freed, by gentle
heating, from the small quantity of benzol remaining, and agitated twice
with pure colourless amylic alcohol (boiling point 132° C.). The first
portion of the alcohol acquires a more or less wine or golden-yellow
colour. It would take up any picrotoxin or aloes if present, and thereby
acquire a strongly bitter taste.
If neither of these two substances be present, the amylic alcohol does not
become bitter, because neither the hop bitter nor the remaining four
bitter principles——absinthin, gentipicrin, menyanthin, and quassiin——are
soluble in it.
In order to distinguish picrotoxin from aloes a portion of the first
obtained amylic alcoholic solution is poured upon glass, and allowed to
evaporate spontaneously. If a fine white crystallisation be formed
picrotoxin is present, if not aloes is present, and can only be recognised
by its peculiar, saffron-like odour.
_d._ The syrup which has been treated with benzol and amylic alcohol is
freed by means of blotting paper from the small quantity of amylic alcohol
adhering to it, evaporation by heat being impracticable in consequence of
the high boiling point of the alcohol, and shaken with anhydrous ether.
This takes up the hop bitter yet present and absinthin. After evaporation
the latter is easily recognised through its wormwood-like aroma; it also
gives a reddish-yellow solution with concentrated sulphuric acid, which
changes quickly to an indigo-blue colour.
_e._ After treating with ether the syrup has yet to be tested for
gentipicrin, menyanthin, and quassiin. As it is now free from the hop
bitter, a decidedly bitter taste points to one of these three substances.
Any remaining ether is removed, and the syrup is dissolved in water and
filtered; to one portion is added strong ammoniacal solution of silver,
and it is then heated.
If it remains clear quassiin is present; if a silver mirror be formed it
originates either with gentipicrin or menyanthin. Another portion is
evaporated to dryness on porcelain, and concentrated sulphuric acid added.
If, while cold, no change of colour takes place, but on heating it becomes
carmine red, gentipicrin is present; menyanthin would give a
yellowish-brown colour, gradually changing to violet.
For further information connected with this subject, see ALCOHOLOMETRY,
ALE, BEER, BREWING, MALT LIQUORS, &c.
=PORT-FIRE.= A paper tube, from 9 to 12 inches in length, filled with a
slow-burning composition of metal powder, nitre, and sulphur, rammed
moderately hard, by a similar process to that adopted for small rockets.
It is used in lieu of a touch-match, to fire guns, mortars, pyrotechnical
devices, &c.
=PORTLAND CEMENT.= A species of mortar formed by calcining a mixture of
limestone and argillaceous earth, and grinding the calcined mass to
powder, in which state it must be preserved from the air. It is
characterised by absorbing a large quantity of water, and then rapidly
becoming solid, and, after a time, acquiring considerable hardness. See
MORTAR and CEMENT.
=POSOL′OGY.= See DOSE.
=POS′SET.= _Syn._ POSSETUM, L. Milk curdled with wine or any other
slightly acidulous liquor. It is usually sweetened with either sugar or
treacle, and is taken hot.
_Prep._ From new milk, 1/2 pint; sherry or marsala, 1 wine-glassful;
treacle, 1 or 2 tablespoonfuls, or q. s.; heat them together in a clean
saucepan until the milk coagulates. This is called ‘treacle posset’ or
‘molasses posset,’ and, taken on retiring to rest, is highly esteemed in
some parts of the country as a domestic remedy for colds. Lemon juice,
strong old ale, or even vinegar, is occasionally substituted for wine, and
powdered ginger or nutmeg added at will.
=POT METAL.= See COCK METAL.
=POT′ASH.= The ‘potash,’ or ‘potashes’ of commerce is an impure carbonate
of potassium, so named after the pots or vessels in which it was first
made. The ‘potash,’ or ‘potassa,’ of the chemist is the hydrate of a
peculiar metal, potassium, which is more particularly referred to below.
The word potash is vulgarly applied to the crude or commercial carbonate
of potassium. See CARBONATE OF POTASSIUM, &c.
Potash is now principally obtained from the following sources:——
1. From carnallite,[119] a hydrated double chloride of potassium and
magnesium, which occurs associated with other salts of potassium and
magnesium, as well as of sodium, in a bed of clay, at Stassfurth, near
Madgeburg, in Prussia.
[Footnote 119: Carnallite contains nearly a fourth of its weight of
potassium chloride.]
2. Feldspar and similar minerals.
3. Sea water, and the mother-liquor of salt works.
4. Native saltpetre.
5. The ashes of several plants.
6. The calcined residue of the molasses of beet-root sugar remaining after
distillation.
7. The seaweeds, as a by-product of the manufacture of iodine.
8. From the fleece of the sheep.[120]
[Footnote 120: Maumené and Rogelet state that a fleece weighing 9 lbs.
contains about 6 ounces of pure potash.]
The following is a process for obtaining alkali from seaweed, described in
the ‘Chemical News’ for Nov. 10th, 1876:——
At the chemical works at Aalbourg, in Jutland, Denmark, where about 30
tons of alkali are made per week by the ammonia process, Mr Theobald
Schmidt, the director of the manufactory, proposes to work, in conjunction
with this process, a method devised by himself of treating seaweed so as
to obtain iodine, potash, salts, and other marketable products therefrom.
In Denmark a very heavy duty is levied on the importation of common salt,
whilst enormous quantities of seaweed rich in iodine and potash can be
obtained at small cost in the neighbourhood of the works. Mr Schmidt’s
process is as follows:——After the seaweed is dried and burnt, a
concentrated solution of the ash is made and added to the liquor,
containing chlorides of sodium and calcium, left after the ammonia has
been recovered in the ammonia-soda process by boiling with lime. The
sulphates of potash, soda, and magnesia, contained in the ash of the
seaweed are thereby decomposed, and hydrated sulphate of lime and hydrated
magnesia are precipitated in a form which may be available for
paper-making, as ‘pearl-hardening.’ The last traces of sulphates are got
rid of by adding a small quantity of solution of chloride of barium. To
the clear solution nitrate of lead is now added, until all the iodine is
precipitated as iodide of lead, which is then separated by filtration and
treated for the production of iodine or iodides. After filtration the
liquid is boiled; nitrate of soda is added to convert the chloride of
potassium present into nitrate of potash. The latter is separated by
crystallisation. There remains a solution of common salt, containing
traces of ammonia from the previous soda operation, and a trace of
chloride of potassium. This solution is again treated by the ordinary
ammonia-soda process for the production of bicarbonate of soda and white
alkali. See CARBONATE OF POTASSIUM, &c.
=POTAS′SIUM.= K. The metallic base of potash. It was discovered, in 1807,
by Sir H. Davy, who obtained it by submitting moistened potassium hydrate,
under a film of naphtha, to the action of a powerful voltaic current. It
has since been procured by easier methods, of which the following,
invented by Brunner, is the best.
_Prep._ An intimate mixture of carbonate of potassium and charcoal is
prepared by calcining, in a covered iron pot, the crude tartar of
commerce; when cold, it is rubbed to powder, mixed with 1-10th part of
charcoal in small lumps, and quickly transferred into a retort of stout
hammered iron; the latter may be one of the iron bottles in which
quicksilver is imported, a short and somewhat wide iron tube having been
fitted to the aperture; the retort, thus charged, is placed upon its side,
in a furnace so constructed that the flame of a very strong fire,
preferably fed with dry wood, may wrap round it, and maintain every part
of it at a very high and uniform degree of heat. A copper receiver,
divided in the centre by a diaphragm, is next connected to the iron pipe,
and kept cool by the application of ice, whilst the receiver itself is
partly filled with mineral naphtha, to preserve the newly formed potassium
as it distils over. The arrangement of the apparatus being completed, the
fire is gradually raised until the requisite temperature, which is that of
full whiteness, is reached, when decomposition of the alkali by the
charcoal commences, carbonic acid gas is abundantly disengaged, and
potassium distils over, and falls in large drops into the liquid. To
render the product absolutely pure, it is redistilled in an iron or
green-glass retort, into which some naphtha has been put, that its vapour
may expel the air, and prevent the oxidation of the metal. The pieces of
charcoal are introduced for the purpose of absorbing the melted carbonate
of potassium and preventing its separation from the finely divided
carbonaceous matter. _Prod._ 3% to 4% of the weight of tartar acted on; 1
lb. yielded 280 gr.
_Prop., &c._ Pure potassium is a brilliant white metal, with a high
lustre; at the common temperature of the air it is soft, and may be easily
cut with a knife, but at 32° Fahr. it is brittle and crystalline; it melts
completely at 136° Fahr., and in close vessels distils unaltered at a low
red heat. Sp. gr. ·865. Its most remarkable property is its affinity for
oxygen, which is so great that it takes it from most other substances
containing it. Exposed to the air, its surface is instantly tarnished, and
quickly becomes covered with a crust of oxide or hydrate. It inflames
spontaneously when thrown on water, and burns with a beautiful purple or
purple-red flame, yielding a pure alkaline solution. It can only be
preserved in naphtha, rock oil, or some other fluid hydrocarbon.
The salts of potassium are all soluble in water, the tartrate, periodate,
and fluosilicate being the least so; they are usually colourless, unless
the acid be coloured, crystallise readily, and form numerous double
compounds. They can be recognised as follows:——
Sulphuretted hydrogen, sulphide of ammonium, and carbonate of ammonium, do
not affect them. A solution of tartaric acid, added in excess, to
moderately strong neutral or alkaline solutions of potassium salts, gives
a quickly subsiding, gritty or crystalline, white precipitate, which is
redissolved on heating the liquid, and again separates as it cools; and is
also soluble in aqueous solutions containing free alkali, or free mineral
acids. Platinic chloride produces, in neutral and acid solutions, a yellow
crystalline precipitate. Alkaline solutions require to be first slightly
acidulated with hydrochloric acid. The separation of the precipitate here,
as well as that produced by tartaric acid, is promoted by violent
agitation and friction against the sides of the vessel, and the delicacy
of both is increased by the addition of some alcohol. When converted into
carbonate by igniting with excess of carbonate of ammonium and alcohol,
and treated with sulphuretted hydrogen solution and nitro-prusside of
sodium, gives a splendid violet colour, turning through red to green on
standing.
Potassium salts give with sodium periodate and hydro-fluosilicic acid
white precipitates soluble in much water.
Heated in the inner flame of the blow-pipe on platinum wire, they impart a
violet coloration, masked, however, by a mere trace of sodium salts.
=Potassium, Acetate of.= KC_{2}H_{3}O_{2}. _Syn._ ACETATE OF POTASH,
POTASSIC ACETATE; POTASSÆ ACETAS (B. P., Ph. L., E., D.). _Prep._ (Ph. L.)
Acetic acid, 26 fl. oz.; distilled water, 12 fl. oz.; mix, and add,
gradually, carbonate of potassium, 1 lb., or q. s. to saturate the acid;
next, filter the solution, and evaporate it by the heat of a sand bath,
gradually applied, until the salt is dried.
_Prop., &c._ Acetate of potassium, prepared as above, occurs in shining
white masses, having a foliated soft texture, a slight but peculiar odour,
and a warm sharp taste; it deliquesces in the air; dissolves in rather
less than its own weight of water, and in about twice its weight of
alcohol; and by exposure to a red heat is converted into pure carbonate of
potassium. In trade it is preserved in well-corked and sealed bottles.
_Pur._ It is entirely soluble in water, and in rectified spirit. These
solutions neither affect litmus nor turmeric, nor are they disturbed by
either chloride of barium or nitrate of silver; but if from a stronger
solution anything is thrown down by nitrate of silver, the same is again
dissolved on the addition of water or dilute nitric acid. Sulphuric acid
being added, the vapour of acetic acid is evolved. 100 gr. of this salt,
digested in sulphuric acid, the solution evaporated, and the residuum
dried at a high temperature, furnish 88·8 gr. of sulphate of potassium.
_Uses, &c._ Acetate of potassium has been found useful in dropsies,
febrile affections, jaundice, scurvy, calculus, and several chronic skin
diseases. During its exhibition the urine becomes at first neutral, and
then alkaline, owing to the salt being converted into carbonate of
potassium in the system.——_Dose._ As a diaphoretic and antiscorbutic, 15
to 20 gr.; as a diuretic, 20 to 60 gr.; as an aperient, 2 to 3 dr.; in
each case dissolved in some bland liquid, or in the infusion of some mild
vegetable bitter.
=Potassium Antimoniates.= The normal potassic antimoniate may be obtained
by heating, in an earthen crucible, 1 part of metallic antimony with 4
parts of nitrate of potash. The mass so obtained is reduced to powder, and
afterwards washed with warm water to remove the excess of potash and
potassic nitrite. The residue must be boiled in water for an hour or two;
the insoluble anhydrous antimoniate is thus converted into a soluble
hydrated modification (K_{2}Sb_{2}O_{6},5H_{2}O.) The insoluble residue
now consists chiefly of acid antimoniate of potassium. The normal salts
possess the property of readily dissolving the acid antimoniate, which is
precipitated when such a solution is mixed with any neutral salt of one of
the alkalies. The normal antimoniate does not crystallise, and has an
alkaline reaction.
Acid antimoniate of potassium (K_{2}Sb_{4}O_{11}.) may be procured by
passing a stream of carbonic anhydride through a solution of the normal
antimoniate.
Acid metantimoniate of potash, or hydro-potassic metantimoniate is
prepared as follows:——Potassic antimoniate is first formed by deflagrating
antimony with nitre, the residue being washed and boiled as described
above, so as to bring the whole of the normal antimoniate into solution;
the resulting liquid is filtered, and evaporated to a syrup consistence in
a silver dish, fragments of caustic potash are then added, and the
evaporation is continued until a drop of liquid placed upon a cold slip of
glass begins to crystallise; it is then allowed to cool and the alkaline
supernatant liquid is poured off the crystals, which are allowed to drain
upon a porous tile. This salt is employed as a test for sodium.
=Potassium, Arseniate of.= KH_{2}AsO_{4}. _Syn._ ARSENIATE OF POTASSA,
MONOPOTASSIC ARSENIATE, POTASSIUM DIHYDRIC ARSENIATE; POTASSÆ BINARSENIAS,
L. _Prep._ Take of arsenious acid (white arsenic) and nitrate of
potassium, of each, in powder, 1 part; heat the mixture to dull redness in
a glass flask, until it fuses and red vapours cease to be evolved;
dissolve the residuum, when cold, in boiling distilled water, 50 parts;
concentrate the solution by evaporation, and set it aside to crystallise.
_Prop., &c._ This salt forms large crystals, which are permanent in dry
air, soluble in about 4-1/2 parts of water, and insoluble in alcohol. It
is reputed tonic, alterative, and antiperiodic.——_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/8 gr.
dissolved in sweetened water. It is also used to form a resist-paste in
calico printing, and in the manufacture of cobalt blue.
=Potassium, Borate of.= K_{4}B_{4}O_{8}. _Syn._ POTASSÆ BORAS, L. _Prep._
From dry carbonate of potassium and dry boracic acids, equal parts,
reduced to powder, and heated to redness in a covered crucible; the
sublimed mass, when cold, being dissolved in boiling water, and the
filtered solution concentrated by evaporation, and then set aside to
crystallise; or at once completely evaporated to dryness.——_Dose_, 1 to 6
gr.; in calculi, &c.
=Potassium, Borotartrate of.= _Syn._ POTASSÆ BOROTARTRAS, CREMOR TARTARI
SOLUBILIS, L.; CRÈME DE TARTRE SOLUBLE, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Crystallised
boracic acid, 1 part; bitartrate of potassium, 4 parts; water, 24 parts;
dissolve, by the aid of heat, in a silver basin, and, constantly stirring,
evaporate the resulting solution, either to dryness, and then powder it,
or merely to a syrupy consistence, when it may be spread upon plates, and
dried in scales, by the heat of a stove. It must afterwards be preserved
from the air.
_Prop., &c._ A white, deliquescent powder, freely soluble in water. It has
been used as a solvent for lithic calculi, and in gout, &c.——_Dose_, 15 to
30 gr. In doses of 2 to 3 dr. it is laxative, and is very popular as such
on the Continent.
=Potassium, Bromide of.= KBr. _Syn._ POTASSII BROMIDUM (B. P.). _Prep._
Exactly as the iodide, which it resembles in its character, only being
somewhat less soluble in water and more in alcohol. Employed in similar
cases and given in similar doses to the iodide.
=Potassium, Carbonate of.= K_{2}CO_{3}. _Syn._ CARBONATE OF POTASSA,
SUBCARBONATE OF POTASSA, SALT OF TARTAR; POTASSÆ CARBONAS (B. P., Ph. L.,
E., D.). Impure or crude carbonate of potassium is chiefly imported from
America and Russia, and is obtained by lixiviating wood ashes, and
evaporating the solution to dryness. The mass is then transferred into
iron pots, and is kept in a state of fusion for several hours, until it
becomes quiescent, when the heat is withdrawn, and the whole is left to
cool. It is next broken up and packed in air-tight barrels, and in this
state constitutes the ‘potashes’ or ‘potash’ of commerce. Another method
is to transfer the black salts, or product of the first evaporation, from
the kettles to a large oven or furnace, so constructed that the flame is
made to play over the alkaline mass, which is kept constantly stirred by
means of an iron rod. The ignition is continued until the impurities are
burned out, and the mass changes from a blackish tint to a dirty or bluish
white. The whole is next allowed to cool, and is then broken into
fragments, and packed in casks as before. It now constitutes ‘pearlash.’
When pearlash is dissolved in cold distilled water, the solution
depurated, filtered and crystallised, or simply evaporated to dryness, it
forms ‘refined ashes,’ or carbonate of potash sufficiently pure for most
pharmaceutical and technical purposes. The granulated carbonate of potash,
salt of tartar, or prepared kali, of the shops, is simply refined ashes
which, during the evaporation, and more especially towards the conclusion
of the desiccation, has been assiduously stirred, so that it may form
small white granulations, instead of adhering together to form an
amorphous solid mass. In this state it constitutes the ordinary or
carbonate of potassa of the Pharmacopœias. Ordinary potash or pearlash may
be refined as follows:——Raw potash, 10 parts, is dissolved in cold water,
6 parts, and the solution is allowed to remain for 24 hours, in a cool
place; it is then filtered, and somewhat concentrated by evaporation,
crystallisation being prevented by continually stirring the mass until the
whole is nearly cold; it is next decanted into a strainer, and the
mother-liquor allowed to drip off; the residuum is evaporated to dryness
at a gentle heat, and redissolved in an equal quantity of cold distilled
water; the new solution, after filtration, is again evaporated to dryness.
The product is quite free from potassium sulphate, and is nearly free from
both potassium chloride and silicates.
=Potassium, Pure Carbonate of.= CARBONATE OF POTASSA (POTASSÆ CARBONAS
PURUM——Ph. E. & D., and Ph. L., 1836).——(Ph. L., 1836.) From bicarbonate
of potassium, in crystals, heated to redness in a crucible.
(Ph. E.) As the last. Or, more cheaply, by dissolving bitartrate of
potassium in thirty parts of boiling water, separating and washing the
crystals which form on cooling, heating them in a loosely covered crucible
to redness as long as fumes are discharged, breaking down the mass, and
roasting it in an oven for two hours, with occasional stirring;
lixiviating the product with (cold) distilled water, filtering the
solution thus obtained, evaporating it to dryness, granulating the salt
towards the close by brisk agitation; and, lastly, heating the granular
salt thus obtained nearly to redness.
(Ph. D.) Bitartrate of potassium, 2 lbs., is exposed to a red heat in an
iron crucible, as before; the powdered calcined mass is boiled for 20
minutes in water, 1 quart, the solution filtered, and the filtrate washed
with water, 1 pint, to which ammonium sesquicarbonate, 1/2 oz., has been
added; the mixed and filtered liquors are evaporated to dryness, and, a
low red heat having been applied, the residuum is rapidly reduced to
powder in a warm mortar, and at once enclosed in (dry and) well-stoppered
bottles.
_Prop._ These are well known. It exhibits most of the properties of
hydrate of potassium, but in a vastly less degree. It is very
deliquescent, effervesces with acids, exhibits a marked alkaline reaction
with test paper, is insoluble in alcohol, but dissolves in less than its
own weight of water, its affinity for the last being so great that it
takes it from alcoholic mixtures.
_Pur., &c._ Carbonate of potassium frequently contains an undue quantity
of water, as well as silicic acid, sulphates, and chlorides. The water may
be detected by the loss of weight the salt suffers when heated; the
silica, by adding to it hydrochloric acid in excess, evaporating to
dryness, and igniting the residuum, by which this contamination is
rendered insoluble; the sulphates and chlorides may be detected by adding
nitric acid in excess, and testing the liquid with nitrate of silver and
chloride of barium. If the former produces a white precipitate, a chloride
is present; and if the latter does the same, the contamination is a
sulphate. Carbonate of potassium deliquesces in the air, and is almost
entirely dissolved by water; in an open vessel it spontaneously liquefies.
It changes the colour of turmeric brown. Supersaturated with nitric acid,
neither carbonate of sodium nor chloride of barium throws down anything,
and nitrate of silver very little. 100 gr. lose 16 gr. of water by a
strong red heat; and the same weight loses 26·3 gr. of carbonate anhydride
when placed in contact with dilute sulphuric acid.
=Potassium, Bicarbonate of.= KHCO_{3}. _Syn._ POTASSIUM HYDROGEN
CARBONATE, BICARBONATE OF POTASSA; POTASSÆ BICARBONAS (B. P., Ph. L., E.,
& D.). _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1836.) Carbonate of potassium, 6 lbs.; distilled
water, 1 gall.; dissolve, and pass carbonic anhydride (from chalk and
sulphuric acid diluted with water) through the solution to saturation;
apply a gentle heat, so that whatever crystals have been formed may be
dissolved, and set aside the solution that crystals may again form;
lastly, the liquid being poured off, dry them.
2. (Ph. D.) Carbonic anhydride, obtained by the action of dilute
hydrochloric acid on chalk (the latter contained in a perforated bottle
immersed in a vessel containing the acid), is passed, by means of glass
tubes connected by vulcanised india rubber, to the bottom of a bottle
containing a solution of carbonate of potassium, 1 part, in water, 2-1/2
parts; as soon as the air is expelled from the apparatus the corks through
which the tubes pass are rendered air-tight, and the process left to
itself for a week; the crystals thus obtained are then shaken with twice
their bulk of cold water, drained, and dried on bibulous paper, by simple
exposure to the air. From the mother-liquor, filtered, and concentrated to
one half, at a heat not exceeding 110° Fahr., more crystals may be
obtained. The tube immersed in the solution of carbonate of potassium will
have to be occasionally cleared of the crystals with which it is liable to
become choked, else the process will be suspended.
3. (Ph. B.) The same.
4. (Apothecaries’ Hall, London.) Potassium carbonate, 100 lbs.; distilled
water, 17 galls.; dissolve, and saturate the solution with carbonic
anhydride, as in No. 1, when 35 to 40 lbs. of crystals of bicarbonate of
potassium may be obtained; next dissolve carbonate of potassium, 50 lbs.,
in the mother-liquor, and add enough water to make the whole a second time
equal to 17 galls.; the remaining part of the operation is then to be
performed as before. This plan may be repeated again and again, for some
time, provided the carbonate used is sufficiently pure.
5. (Ph. E.) Take of carbonate of potassium, 6 oz.; sesquicarbonate of
ammonium, 3-1/2 oz.; triturate them together, and, when reduced to a very
fine powder and perfectly mixed, make them into a stiff paste with a very
little water; dry this, very carefully, at a heat not higher than 140°
Fahr., until a fine powder, perfectly devoid of ammoniacal odour, be
obtained, occasionally triturating the mass towards the end of the
process.
6. (Commercial.) From carbonate of potassium, in powder, made into a paste
with water, and exposed for some time on shallow trays, in a chamber
filled with an atmosphere of carbonic anhydride, generated by the
combustion of either coke or charcoal, and purified by being forced
through a cistern of cold water; the resulting salt is next dissolved in
the least possible quantity of water at the temperature of 120° Fahr., and
the solution filtered and crystallised.
_Prop._ It is soluble in 4 times its weight of water at 60° Fahr.; is
fixed in the air, but loses carbonic acid below the temperature of a
carbonate at a red heat. It possesses the general alkaline properties of
carbonate of potassium, but in an inferior degree, having only a slightly
alkaline taste, and, when absolutely pure, not affecting the colour of
turmeric.
_Pur._ In a solution of pure bicarbonate of potassium a solution of
mercuric chloride merely causes an opalescence, or very slight white
precipitate; if it contains carbonate, a brick-coloured precipitate is
thrown down. From 100 gr. of the pure crystals of bicarbonate, 30·7 gr. of
water and carbonic acid are expelled at a red heat. In other respects it
may be tested like the carbonate.
_Uses, &c._ Bicarbonate of potassium is the most agreeable of all the
salts of potassium, and is much used as an antacid or absorbent, and for
making effervescing saline draughts. It has also been successfully
employed in rheumatism, scurvy, gout, dyspepsia, and various other
diseases in which the use of potassium is indicated. The dose is from 10
gr. to 1/2 dr.
20 gr. bicarbonate, in crystals,
---------------------\/---------------------
are equivalent to
---------------------/\---------------------
14 gr. of crystallised nitric acid,
15 gr. of crystallised tartaric acid, and
1/2 oz. of lemon juice.
=Potassium, Chlorate of.= KClO_{3}. _Syn._ CHLORATE OF POTASH; POTASSÆ
CHLORAS (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. Chlorine gas is conducted by a
wide tube into a moderately strong and warm solution of hydrate or
carbonate of potassium, until the absorption of the gas ceases and the
alkali is completely neutralised; the liquid is then kept at the boiling
temperature for a few minutes, after which it is gently evaporated (if
necessary) until a pellicle forms on the surface, and is next set aside,
so as to cool very slowly; the crystals, thus obtained, are drained and
carefully washed on a filter, with ice-cold water, and are purified by
re-solution and re-crystallisation. The product is chlorate of potassium.
The mother-liquor, which contains much chloride of potassium mixed with
some chlorate, is either evaporated for more crystals (which are, however,
less pure than the first crop) or is preserved for a future operation.
_Obs._ The product of the above process is small, varying from 10 to 45%
of the weight of the potassium consumed in it, according to the skill with
which it is conducted; this apparent loss of potassium arises from a large
portion of it being converted into chloride, a salt of comparatively
little value. The following processes have been devised principally with
the view of preventing this waste, or of employing a cheaper salt of
potassium than the carbonate:——
2. (Ph. B.) Mix slaked lime, 53 oz., with carbonate of potash, 20 oz., and
triturate them with a few ounces of distilled water, so as to make the
mixture slightly moist. Place oxide of manganese, 80 oz., in a large
retort or flask, and having poured upon it hydrochloric acid, 24 pints,
diluted with 6 pints of water, apply a gentle sand heat, and conduct the
chlorine as it comes over, first through a bottle containing 6 oz. of
water, and then into a large carboy containing the mixture of carbonate of
potash and slaked lime. When the whole of the chlorine has come over
remove the contents of the carboy and boil them for 20 minutes with 7
pints of distilled water; filter and evaporate till a film forms on the
surface, and set aside to cool and crystallise.
The crystals thus obtained are to be purified by dissolving them in 3
times their weight of boiling distilled water, and again allowing the
solution to crystallise.——_Dose_, 10 gr. to 30 gr.
3. A solution of chloride of lime is precipitated with a solution of
carbonate of potassium, and the liquid, after filtration, saturated with
chlorine gas; it is then evaporated and crystallised as before. Dr Ure has
suggested the substitution of sulphate of potassium for the carbonate, by
which the process would be rendered very inexpensive.
4. Carbonate of potassium, 69 parts of the dry or 82 parts of the
granulated, hydrate of calcium, 37 parts (dry fresh slaked lime), both in
powder, are mixed together, and exposed to the action of chlorine gas, to
saturation (the gas is absorbed with great rapidity, the temperature rises
above 212° Fahr., and water is freely evolved); the heat, with free
exposure, is then maintained at 212° for a few minutes (to remove some
trace of ‘hypochlorite’), the residuum, consisting of chlorate of
potassium and chloride of calcium, is treated with hot water, and the
chlorate of potassium crystallised out of the resulting solution, as
before. This process, which is an excellent one (the loss of potassium
being for the most part avoided), has been modified and improved by
various authorities, as will be seen below.
5. A solution of chloride of lime (18° to 20° Baumé) is heated in a leaden
or cast-iron vessel, and sufficient of a salt of potassium added to raise
the density of the liquid 3 or 4 hydrometer degrees; the solution is then
quickly, but carefully, concentrated until the gravity rises to 30° or 31°
Baumé, when it is set aside to crystallise. A good and economical process.
6. Chloride of potassium, 76 parts, and fresh calcium hydrate, 222 parts,
are reduced to a thin paste with water, q. s., and a stream of chlorine
gas passed through the mixture, to saturation; chloride of calcium and
chlorate of potassium are formed; the last is then removed by solution in
boiling water, and is crystallised as before. This process, which has
received the approval and recommendation of Liebig, has long been
practised in Germany, and was originally introduced to this country by Dr
Wagenmann. The product is very large, and of excellent quality.
_Prop._ White, inodorous, four-or six-sided pearly scales, soluble in
about 20 parts of cold and 2-1/2 parts of boiling water; in taste it
resembles nitre, but is somewhat more austere; at about 450° Fahr. it
undergoes the igneous fusion, and on increasing the heat almost to redness
effervescence ensues, and fully 39% of pure oxygen gas is given off,
whilst the salt becomes changed into chloride of potassium. When mixed
with inflammable substances and triturated, heated, or subjected to a
smart blow or strong pressure, or moistened with a strong acid, it
explodes with great violence.
_Pur., Tests, &c._ The usual impurity of this salt is chloride of
potassium, arising from careless or imperfect manipulation. When this is
present, a solution of nitrate of silver gives a curdy white precipitate,
soluble in ammonia; whereas a solution of the pure chlorate remains clear.
_Uses._ Chlorate of potassium is principally used in the manufacture of
lucifer matches, fireworks, oxygen gas, &c., and as an oxidising agent in
calico printing. It was formerly used to fill percussion caps, but was
abandoned for fulminating mercury, on account of its disposition to rust
the nipples of the guns. As a medicine it is stimulant and diuretic. It
has been given in dropsy, syphilis, scurvy, cholera, typhus, and other
depressing affections. It gives a fine artificial colour to the blood.
(Stevens.)——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr., in solution, twice or thrice a day.
_Concluding Remarks._——Formerly, chlorate of potassium was a salt which
was made only on the small scale, and chiefly used in experimental
chemistry; now it is in considerable demand, and forms an important
article of chemical manufacture. The latter has hence, of late years,
received considerable attention and improvement in the leading
laboratories of Europe. The chlorate requires to be handled with great
care. It should never be kept in admixture with any inflammable substance,
more especially with sulphur, phosphorus, or the sulphides, as these
compounds are exploded by the most trivial causes, and, not unfrequently,
explode spontaneously.
=Potassium, Chloride of.= KCl. _Syn._ CHLORIDE OF POTASSA. _Prep._ The
chloride of potassium of commerce is usually a secondary product in the
manufacture of chlorate of potassium and other substances. The
mother-liquor of the former is evaporated to dryness and heated to dull
redness, the calcined mass is then dissolved in water, the solution
purified by defecation and evaporated down for crystals.
It can also be well prepared by neutralising boiling solution of carbonate
of potassium by dilute hydrochloric acid, evaporating down, and
crystallising.
_Prop., &c._ It closely resembles culinary salt in appearance; is
anhydrous; dissolves in about 4 parts of cold and 2 of boiling water; has
a slightly bitter, saline taste; fuses at a red heat; and is volatilised
at a very high temperature. As a medicine it is diuretic and aperient. It
was formerly in high repute as a resolvent and antiscorbutic, and,
particularly, as a remedy for intermittents. It is now seldom
used.——_Dose_, 10 gr. to 1/2 dr., or more.
=Potassium, Chromate of.= K_{2}CrO_{4}. _Syn._ CHROMATE OF POTASSA,
NEUTRAL CHROMATE OF P., MONOCHROMATE OF P., YELLOW C. OF P., SALT OF
CHROME; POTASSÆ CHROMAS, P. C. FLAVA, L. This salt is only prepared on the
large scale. Its source is ‘CHROME ORE,’ a natural octahedral chromate of
iron, found in various parts of Europe and America. For medicinal purposes
the commercial chromate is purified by solution in hot water, filtration,
and recrystallisation.
_Prep._ 1. The ore, previously assayed to determine its richness, and
freed as much as possible from its gangue, is ground to powder in a mill,
and mixed with a quantity of coarsely powdered nitre rather less than that
of the oxide of chromium which it contains; this mixture is exposed, for
several hours, to a powerful heat on the hearth of a reverberatory
furnace, during which time it is frequently stirred up with iron rods; the
calcined mass is next raked out and lixiviated with hot water, and the
resulting yellow-coloured solution evaporated briskly over a naked fire,
or by the heat of high-pressure steam; chromate of potassium falls, under
the form of a granular yellow salt, which is removed from time to time
with a ladle, and thrown into a wooden vessel, furnished with a bottom
full of holes (draining box), where it is left to drain and dry. In this
state it forms the chromate of potassium of commerce. By a second solution
and recrystallisation, it may be obtained in large and regular crystals.
The next process has for its object the employment of a cheaper salt of
potassa than the nitrate.
2. (Swindell & Co. Patent dated Nov., 1850.) A mixture of pulverised
chrome ore and chloride of potassium is exposed to a full red heat, on the
hearth of a reverberatory furnace, with occasional stirring for some time,
when steam at a very elevated temperature is made to act on it until the
conversion is complete, known by assaying a portion of the mass; the
chromate is then dissolved out of the residuum, as before. Common salt or
hydrate of calcium may be substituted for chloride of potassium, when the
chromates of sodium or calcium are respectively produced.
3. On the small scale this salt may be prepared from the bichromate by
neutralising it with hydrate of potassium.
_Prop._ Yellow; tastes cool, bitter, and disagreeable; soluble in 2 parts
of water at 60° Fahr.; the crystals are efflorescent.
_Pur._ The salt of commerce is frequently contaminated with large
quantities of sulphate or chlorate of potassium. To detect these, M.
Zueber adds tartaric acid, dissolved in 50 parts of water, to a like
solution of the sample. As soon as the decomposition is complete, and the
colour verges towards the green, the supernatant liquor should afford no
precipitate with solutions of the nitrates of silver and barium, whence
the absence of chlorides and sulphates may be respectively inferred. The
proportions are, 8 parts of tartaric acid to 1 part of the chromate. If
saltpetre is the adulterating ingredient, the sample deflagrates when
thrown upon burning coals.
_Assay._ 1. A solution of 50 gr. of the salt is treated with a solution of
nitrate of barium, the precipitate digested in nitric acid, and the
insoluble portion (sulphate of barium) washed, dried, and weighed. 117 gr.
of this substance are equivalent to 89 gr. of sulphate of potassium.
2. The nitric solution, with the washings (see _above_), is treated with a
solution of nitrate of silver, and the precipitate of chloride carefully
collected, washed, dried, ignited, and weighed. 144 gr. of chloride of
silver represent 76 gr. of chloride of potassium.
3. The nitric solution, with the washing (see _above_), after having any
remaining barium thrown down by adding dilute sulphuric acid, in slight
excess, is treated with ammonia, and the resulting precipitate of chromic
oxide collected on a filter, washed, dried, carefully ignited in a silver,
platinum, or porcelain crucible, and weighed. 40 gr. of this oxide
represent 100 gr. of pure chromate of potassium. Any deficiency consists
of impurities or adulterants.
_Uses._ Chromate of potassium is used in dyeing, bleaching, the
manufacture of chromic acid, bichromate of potassium, &c. It is the common
source of nearly all the other compounds of chromium. It is reputed
alterative in doses of 1/12 to 1/2 gr.; and is emetic in doses of 1 to 4
gr. A solution in 8 parts of water is occasionally used to destroy fungus;
1 in 30 to 40 parts of water is also used as an antiseptic and desiccant.
_Concluding Remarks._——The first process is undoubtedly the best, when
expense is not an object. To reduce this, a mixture of ‘potash’ or
‘pearlash,’ with about 1/2 of its weight of nitre, or 1-5th part of its
weight of peroxide of manganese, may be substituted without much
inconvenience. The assay of the chrome ore, alluded to above, may be made
by reducing 100 gr. of it to powder, mixing it with twice its weight of
powdered nitre, and a little hydrate of calcium, and subjecting the
mixture to a strong red heat for 3 or 4 hours; the calcined mass may then
be exhausted with boiling water, and the resulting solution, after
precipitation with dilute sulphuric acid, in slight excess, and
filtration, may be treated with rectified spirit, when its chromium may be
thrown down by the addition of ammonia. (See _above_.) In the conversion
of chrome ore into chromate of potassium care should, in all cases, be
taken that the proportion of nitre or alkali should be slightly less than
what is absolutely required to saturate the ore, as the production of a
neutral salt is thereby ensured; for should not the whole of the chromate
be decomposed by the first calcination, it may easily be roasted a second
time with fresh alkali, should the remaining quantity he thought worth the
trouble. The nature of the furnace to be employed in the conversion is not
of any great importance, so long as carbonaceous matters from the fire are
entirely excluded, and the required temperature is attainable.
=Potassium, Bichromate of.= K_{2}Cr_{2}O_{7}, or K_{2}CrO_{4},CrO_{3}.
_Syn._ BICHROMATE OF POTASSA, RED CHROMATE OF POTASH, ACID C. OF P.;
POTASSÆ BICHROMAS, L. _Prep._ 1. To a concentrated solution of yellow
chromate of potassium, sulphuric acid, or, better, acetic acid, is added
in quantity equal to one half that required for the entire decomposition
of the salt; the liquid is then concentrated by evaporation and slowly
cooled, so that crystals may form.
2. (Jacquelain.) Chrome ore, finely ground and sifted, is mixed with
chalk; the mixture is spread on a thin layer on the hearth of a
reverberatory furnace, and heated to bright redness, with repeated
stirring, for 9 or 10 hours. The yellowish-green product consists
essentially of neutral chromate of calcium, mixed with ferric oxide. It is
ground and stirred up with hot water, and sulphuric acid is added till a
slight acid reaction becomes apparent, a sign that the neutral chromate
has been converted into bichromate. Chalk is now stirred in to precipitate
the ferric sulphate, and after a while the clear solution is run off into
another vessel, where it is treated with carbonate of potassium, which
precipitates the lime and leaves bichromate of potassium in solution. The
solution is then evaporated to the crystallising point. This process, when
carried out on a large scale, is very economical.
_Prop., &c._ It forms very beautiful square tables, or flat four-sided
prismatic crystals; permanent in the air; soluble in 10 parts of water at
60°, and in less than 3 parts at 212° Fahr.; it has a metallic, bitter
taste, and is poisonous. It is chiefly used in dyeing and bleaching, and
as a source of chromic acid. The tests, &c., are the same as for the
yellow chromate.
=Potassium, Citrate of.= K_{3}C_{6}H_{5}O_{7}. _Syn._ POTASSÆ CITRAS, L.
_Prep._ From a solution of citric acid neutralised with carbonate of
potassium, evaporated, and granulated, or crystallised; very deliquescent.
Or, extemporaneously, in the form of solution, by adding carbonate or
bicarbonate of potassium to lemon juice, as in the common effervescing
draught. (Ph. B.) The same.
=Potassium, Cyanate of.= KCyO, or KCNO. _Prep._ 1. By roasting, at a red
heat, dry ferrocyanide of potassium, in fine powder, upon an iron plate,
constantly stirring it until it becomes fused into one mass, which must be
reduced to fine powder and digested in boiling alcohol, from which
crystals of the cyanate will be deposited as the solution cools.
2. (Liebig.) A mixture of ferrocyanide of potassium, with half its weight
of peroxide of manganese, may also be used to produce this salt, as the
last; the compound should be kindled by a red-hot body, and allowed to
smoulder away, after which it may be treated with alcohol, as before.
3. A mixture of ferrocyanide of potassium and litharge is heated as
before, and dissolved out by alcohol, and crystallised.
_Prop._ Crystallisable colourless or white salt, readily soluble in
alcohol and water, but readily decomposed when moist into bicarbonate of
potassium and ammonia, or in solution into the carbonate of potassium and
ammonium.
This salt is poisonous. The cyanates of silver, lead, and many other
metals may be made by adding a solution of cyanate of potassium to another
of a neutral salt of the base.
=Potassium, Cyanide of.= KCN, or KCy. _Syn._ CYANIDE OF POTASH, CYANURET
OF POTASSIUM; POTASSII CYANIDUM, P. CYANURETUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. (MEDICINAL CYANIDE OF POTASSIUM.)——_a._ A solution of pure
hydrate of potassium, 2 parts, in highly rectified spirit, 7 parts, is
placed in a receiver furnished with a safety tube, and surrounded with
bruised ice; the beak of a tubulated retort, containing ferrocyanide of
potassium, in powder, 4 parts, is then adapted to it in such a manner that
any gas or vapour evolved in the retort must traverse the solution in the
receiver; the arrangement being complete, sulphuric acid, 3 parts, diluted
with an equal weight of water, and allowed to cool, is cautiously poured
into the retort, and the distillation conducted very slowly, a very gentle
heat only being applied, as circumstances may direct; as soon as the force
of ebullition in the retort has subsided, the distillation is complete,
and the connection between the retort and receiver is broken; the contents
of the receiver, now transformed into a mixture of a crystalline
precipitate of cyanide of potassium, and an alcoholic solution of
undecomposed hydrate of potassium, is carefully thrown on a filter, and
the precipitate, after the mother-liquor has drained off, very cautiously
washed with ice-cold and highly rectified spirit, and then drained,
pressed, and dried on the same filter. The product is chemically pure, and
equal to fully 10% of the ferrocyanide employed. This is a modification of
what is commonly known as ‘Wigger’s process.’
_b._ Expose well-dried and powdered ferrocyanide of potassium to a
moderate red heat, in a close vessel; when cold, powder the fused mass,
place it in a funnel, moisten it with a little alcohol, and wash it with
cold water; evaporate the solution thus formed to dryness, expose it to a
dull red heat in a porcelain dish, cool, powder, and digest it in boiling
rectified spirit; as the spirit cools, crystals of cyanide of potassium,
nearly pure, will be deposited. The alcohol employed in both this and the
preceding process may be recovered by distillation from calcined sulphate
of iron.
2. (CRUDE or COMMERCIAL CYANIDE——Liebig.) Commercial ferrocyanide of
potassium, 8 parts, rendered anhydrous by gently heating it on an iron
plate, is intimately mixed with dry carbonate of potassium, 3 parts; this
mixture is thrown into a red-hot earthen crucible, and kept in a state of
fusion, with occasional stirring, until gas ceases to be evolved, and the
fluid portion of the mass becomes colourless; the crucible is then left at
rest for a few minutes, to allow its contents to settle, after which the
clear portion is poured from the heavy black sediment at the bottom upon a
clean marble slab, and the mass, whilst yet warm, broken up, and placed in
well-closed bottles.
_Obs._ A cheap and excellent process. The product is said to contain about
1-8th part of cyanate of potassium, and, though not sufficiently pure for
employment in medicine as potassium cyanide, is admirably adapted for the
various technical applications of this substance, as in electro-plating,
electro-gilding, photography, &c. It may also be advantageously
substituted for the ferrocyanide in the preparation of hydrocyanic acid by
the distillation of that substance along with dilute sulphuric acid.
_Prop., &c._ When pure, this salt is colourless and odourless; it forms
cubic or octahedral crystals, which are anhydrous; it is freely soluble in
water and in boiling alcohol, but most of it separates from the latter as
the solution cools; it is fusible; and undergoes no change, even at a full
red heat, in close vessels; it exhibits an alkaline reaction; when exposed
to the atmosphere, it absorbs moisture, and acquires the smell of
hydrocyanic acid. If it effervesces with acids, it contains carbonate of
potassium, and if it be yellow it contains iron. It is employed in
chemical analysis, and for the preparation of hydrocyanic acid; cyanide of
sodium may be made in the same way. The dose is 1/12 to 1/4 gr., in
solution; in the usual cases in which the administration of hydrocyanic
acid is indicated.——_Antidotes._ The same as for hydrocyanic acid.
=Potassium, Ferricyanide of.= K_{3}FeCy_{6}, or K_{3},FeC_{6}N_{6}. _Syn._
FERRIDCYANIDE OF POTASSIUM, FERRICYANURET OF P., RED PRUSSIATE OF POTASH;
POTASSII FERRICYANIDUM, P. PRUSSIAS RUBRUM, L. This important and
beautiful salt was discovered by L. Gmelin. At first it was merely
regarded as a chemical curiosity, but it is now extensively employed in
dyeing, calico printing, assaying, &c.
_Prep._ 1. Chlorine gas, prepared in the ordinary manner, is slowly passed
into a cold solution of ferrocyanide of potassium, 1 part, in water, 10
parts, with constant agitation, until the liquid appears of a deep
reddish-green colour, or of a fine red colour by transmitted light, and
ceases to give a blue precipitate, or even a blue tinge, to a solution of
ferric chloride, an excess of chlorine being carefully avoided; the
liquor is next evaporated by the heat of steam or boiling water, until
a pellicle forms upon the surface, when it is filtered, and set aside
to cool; the crystals are afterwards purified by re-solution and
re-crystallisation.——Another method is simply to evaporate the original
solution to dryness, by a steam heat, with agitation, then to re-dissolve
the residuum in the least possible quantity of boiling water, and, after
defecation or filtration, to allow the new solution to cool very slowly,
that crystals may form.
2. (Extemporaneous.) Add nitric acid, very gradually, to a cold solution
of ferrocyanide of potassium, with constant agitation, until a drop of the
mixture ceases to impart a blue colour to a solution of ferric chloride,
carefully avoiding excess of acid. It may be at once used in solution, or
evaporated, &c., as before.
_Prop, &c._ Magnificent regular prismatic or, sometimes, tubular crystals,
of a rich ruby-red tint; permanent in the air; combustible; decomposed by
a high temperature; soluble in 4 parts of cold water; insoluble in
alcohol. Colours ferric salts a pale brown, gives with ferrous salts a
deep blue, and precipitates bismuth salts pale yellow; cadmium and
mercuric salts, yellow; zinc salts, deep yellow; mercurous, cupric,
molybdenic, silver, and uranic salts, reddish brown; cobalt salts, dark
brown; manganous salts, brown; cupric salts, greenish; and nickelous
salts, olive brown.
=Potassium, Ethylate.= (C_{2}H_{5}KO.) Löweg and Weidmann obtained this
compound by heating together acetate of ethyl and potassium. Dr B. W.
Richardson, some few years ago, recommended the employment of the alkaline
ethylates as caustics, and they are now frequently used as such in
surgery. When first applied to the body the ethylates produce no action,
but as they absorb water from the tissues they are decomposed, the
potassium or sodium is oxidised, yielding caustic potash or soda in the
fresh condition, while alcohol is reformed from the recombination of
hydrogen derived from the water. Dr Richardson believes the ethylates of
potassium and sodium will be found the most effective and manageable of
all caustics, and that in cases of cancer, when it is important to destroy
structure without resorting to the knife, and in the removal of nævus and
other simple growths, they will be of essential service. The ethylates
dissolve in alcohol of different strengths; the solution may either be
applied with a glass brush or injected by the needle, and a slow or quick
effect can be insured according to the wish of the operator. The ethylate
of potassium is the more powerful agent.
=Potassium, Ferrocyanide of.= K_{4},FeCy_{6}, or K_{4},FeC_{6}N_{6}.
_Syn._ FERROCYANURET OF POTASSIUM, PRUSSIATE OF POTASH, YELLOW P. OF P.;
POTASSÆ PRUSSIA FLAVA (B. P.), POTASSII FERROCYANIDUM (Ph. L., E., & D.),
L. This valuable salt, the well-known ‘prussiate of potash’ of commerce,
was discovered by the illustrious Scheele about the middle of the 18th
century. It is now only manufactured on the large scale.
_Prep._ Good ‘potash’ or ‘pearlash,’ 2 parts, and dried blood, horns,
hoofs, woollen rags, or other refuse animal matter, 5 or 6 parts, are
reduced to coarse powder, and mixed with some coarse iron borings; the
mixture is then injected into egg-shaped cast-iron pots in a state of
moderate ignition; the mass is frequently stirred with an iron spatula, so
as to prevent it running together, and the calcination is continued until
fetid vapours cease to be evolved, and flame is no longer seen on stirring
the mixture, care being taken to exclude the air from the vessels as much
as possible; during the latter part of the process the pots are kept
constantly covered, and the ignited mass stirred less frequently; the hot
pasty mass is then removed with an iron ladle, and excluded from the air
until cold; it is next exhausted by edulcoration with boiling water, and
the resulting solution, after defecation or filtration, is concentrated by
evaporation, so that crystals may form as the liquid cools; these are
redissolved in hot water, and the solution allowed to cool very slowly,
when large and beautiful yellow crystals of ferrocyanide of potassium are
deposited.——_Product._ 1 ton of dried blood or woollen refuse, with 3 cwt.
of pearlash, yields from 2 to 2-1/2 cwt. of commercial ferrocyanide. The
mother-liquor contains sulphate of potassium.
_Prop._ It forms large and very beautiful yellow crystals, which are
permanent in the air, and very tough and difficult to powder; it is
soluble in 4 parts of cold and 2 parts of boiling water; has a mild saline
taste; at a gentle heat loses water; at a higher temperature, in closed
vessels, it is for the most part converted into cyanide of potassium, and,
when exposed to the air, into cyanate of potassium. Precipitates solutions
of antimonous, bismuth, mercurous, and zinc salts, white; cadmium salts,
of a pale yellow; cuprous salts, white, turning red; ferrous salts, white,
turning blue; lead salts, white; manganous salts, white, turned red;
mercuric salts, white, turning bluish; nickelous salts, white, turning
green; silver salts, white; stannous salts, white; cobalt salts, green;
cupric salts, chocolate red; ferric salts, dark blue; palladous salts,
green; stannic salts, yellow; uranic salts, reddish brown; and zinc salts,
white.
_Uses, &c._ Ferrocyanide of potassium is chiefly used in dyeing and calico
printing, in the manufacture of Prussian blue, in electro-plating, and, in
chemistry, as a test, and a source of hydrocyanic acid. As a medicine it
is said to be sedative and astringent, and in large doses purgative, but
appears to possess little action.——_Dose_, 10 gr. to 1/2 dr., dissolved in
water; in hooping-cough, chronic bronchitis, night-sweats, leucorrhœa, &c.
D’Arcet swallowed a solution containing 1/2 oz. of this salt without
experiencing any injurious effects.
=Potassium, Hydrate of.= KHO. _Syn._ POTASSA HYDRATE, HYDRATE OF POTASSA,
POTASSA, CAUSTIC P., HYDRATED OXIDE OF POTASSIUM; POTASSA CAUSTICA (B.
P.), POTASSA (Ph. E.), P. CAUSTICA (Ph. D.), P. HYDRAS (Ph. L.), P. FUSA.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Liquor of potassa, 1 gall.; evaporate the water in a
clean iron vessel over the fire until the ebullition being finished, the
residuum of potassium hydrate liquefies; pour this into proper moulds.
2. (Ph. E. & D.) As the last, but pouring the fused hydrate upon a bright
and clean iron plate (silver or iron dish——Ph. D.); as soon as it
solidifies, break it quickly (into fragments), and put it into stoppered
glass (green-glass——Ph. D.) bottles.
3. (Pure.) The hydrate, obtained as above, is dissolved in alcohol or
rectified spirit, and, after repose for a few days in a closely stopped
green-glass or silver vessel, the solution is decanted, and cautiously
evaporated in a deep silver basin, out of contact with the air.
4. (Pure.) M. Polacci states that he procures very pure hydrate of potash
in a few minutes by the following process. He heats together in an iron
vessel to a red heat a mixture consisting of 1 part of nitrate of potash
well triturated with 2 or 3 parts of iron filings. The mass becomes red in
a few minutes, and, after cooling, it is treated with water, left to
settle, and then decanted. A more or less concentrated solution may thus
be obtained, or it may be evaporated to produce the solid potash.
_Prop., &c._ When perfectly pure it is white, solid, very soluble in water
and in alcohol; very deliquescent; intensely acrid and corrosive; and
exhibiting the usual signs of alkalinity in the highest degree. That of
the shops has usually a greyish or bluish colour.
=Potassium, I′odate of.= KIO_{3}. _Syn._ POTASSÆ IODAS. L. _Prep._
Neutralise a hot solution of hydrate of potassium with iodine, evaporate
to dryness by a gentle heat, powder the residuum, and digest it in
alcohol, to remove iodide of potassium, dissolve the insoluble portion in
hot water, and crystallise.
_Obs._ Iodate of potassium is resolved at a red heat into oxygen gas and
iodide of potassium. It has been recommended in bronchocele.——_Dose_, 1 to
5 gr.
=Potassium, Iodide of.= KI. _Syn._ POTASSII IODIDUM (B. P., Ph. L., E.,
and D.).
1. (Ph. L. 1836.) Take of iron filings, 2 oz.; distilled water, 2 quarts;
iodine, 6 oz,; mix them, and heat the solution until it turns green, and
then add of carbonate of potassium, 4 oz., dissolved in water, 1 quart;
filter, wash the residuum on the filter with water, evaporate the mixed
filtered liquors and crystallise.——_Product_, 1 oz. of iodine yields 1 oz.
45 gr. of iodide.
The formulæ of the Ph. D. and Ph. E. are very similar.
2. Add iodine to a hot solution of pure hydrate of potassium until the
alkali is perfectly neutralised, carefully avoiding excess; evaporate the
liquid to dryness, and expose the dry mass to a gentle red heat in a
platinum or iron crucible; afterwards dissolve out the salt, gently
evaporate, and crystallise. An excellent process, yielding a large
product, but, if the ignition be not carefully managed, it is apt to
contain a little undecomposed iodate. To obviate this, Mr Scanlan proposes
the addition of a little powdered charcoal to the mass before ignition——a
plan adopted in the Ph. U. S.
3. Iodine is treated with a small proportion of phosphorus in water, and
is thus converted into ‘hydriodic acid,’ hydrate of calcium is then added,
and the ‘iodide of calcium’ formed is first fused, and then decomposed by
sulphate of potassium into ‘sulphate of calcium,’ which is precipitated,
and ‘iodide of potassium,’ which remains in solution, and may be
crystallised, as in the other processes. This is a modification of a
method devised by Liebig.
4. (Ph. B.) Put solution of potash, 1 gall., into a glass or porcelain
vessel, and add iodine 29 oz., or q. s., in small quantities at a time,
with constant agitation, until the solution acquires a permanent brown
tint. Evaporate the whole to dryness in a porcelain dish, pulverise the
residue, and mix this intimately with wood charcoal in fine powder, 3 oz.
Throw the mixture, in small quantities at a time, into a red-hot crucible,
and when the whole has been brought to a state of fusion, remove the
crucible from the fire and pour out its contents. When the fused mass has
cooled, dissolve it in 2 pints of boiling distilled water, filter through
paper, washing the filter with a little distilled boiling water; unite the
liquids, and evaporate till a film forms on the surface. Set aside to cool
and crystallise. Drain crystals and dry quickly with a gentle heat; more
crystals may be obtained by evaporating the mother liquor, and cooling.
The salt should be kept in a stoppered bottle.
_Prop._ It crystallises in cubes, which in the pure salt are extremely
white, though frequently opaque; these are anhydrous; fuse when heated,
without decomposition; dissolve in less than an equal weight of water, at
60° Fahr., and very freely in alcohol; and do not deliquesce in moderately
dry air unless they contain undecomposed hydrate of potassium. Its
solution dissolves the iodine freely, and also, less readily, several of
the insoluble metallic iodides and oxides.
_Pur._ It is entirely soluble in both water and alcohol. Its aqueous
solution alters the colour of turmeric either not at all or but very
slightly, nor does it affect litmus paper, or effervesce with acids.
Nitric acid and starch being added together, it becomes blue. It is not
coloured by the addition of tartaric acid with starch. No precipitate
occurs on adding either a solution of hydrate of calcium or of chloride of
barium. 100 gr., dissolved in water, by the addition of nitrate of silver,
yield a precipitate of 141 gr. of iodide of silver.
_Assay._ The iodide of commerce frequently contains fully one half its
weight of either chloride or carbonate of potassium, or both of them, with
variable quantities of iodate of potassium, a much less valuable salt. The
presence of these substances is readily detected by the above tests. As
the first of these is only very slightly soluble in cold alcohol, and the
others insoluble in that liquid, a ready method of determining the
richness of a sample in pure iodide, sufficiently accurate for ordinary
purposes, is as follows:——Reduce 50 gr. of the sample to fine powder,
introduce this into a test tube with 6 fl. dr. of alcohol, agitate the
mixture violently for one minute, and throw the whole on a weighed filter
set in a covered funnel, observing to wash what remains on the filter with
another fl. dr. of alcohol. The filtrate, evaporated to dryness, gives
the quantity of pure iodide, and the filter, dried by the heat of boiling
water, that of the impurities present in the sample examined, provided it
contained no hydrate of potassium. The quantity of alkali, whether hydrate
or carbonate, may be found by the common method of ‘alkalimetry.’
_Uses, &c._ Chiefly in photography, medicine, and pharmacy.——_Dose_, 1 to
10 gr., twice or thrice daily, made into pills, or, better, in solution,
either alone or combined with iodine; in bronchocele, scrofula, chronic
rheumatism, dropsy, syphilis, glandular indurations, and various other
glandular diseases. Also externally, made into a lotion or ointment.
=Potassium, Nitrate of.= KNO_{3}. _Syn._ NITRATE OF POTASH, NITRE,
SALTPETER; POTASSÆ NITRAS (B. P., Ph. L., E.,& D.), NITRUM†, SAL NITRI†,
SAL PETRƆ, KALI NITRATUM†, L. This salt is produced naturally in the soil
by the action of the atmosphere, and crystallises upon its surface, in
various parts of the world, especially in the East Indies. On the
Continent it has long been produced artificially, by exposing a mixture of
calcareous soil and animal matter to the atmosphere, when calcium nitrate
is slowly formed, and is extracted by lixiviation. The liquid is then
decomposed by the addition of wood ashes, or carbonate of potassium, by
which carbonate of calcium is precipitated, and nitrate of potassium
remains in solution. The places where these operations are performed are
called ‘nitriaries,’ or ‘nitrières artificielles.’ The British market is
wholly supplied from India. The salt of the first crystallisation, by
either process, is called ‘crude nitre’ or ‘rough saltpetre.’ This is
purified by solution in boiling water, skimming, and, after a short time
allowed for defecation, straining (while still hot) into wooden
crystallising vessels. The crystals thus obtained are called ‘single
refined nitre,’ and when the process is repeated ‘double refined nitre.’
1. (POTASSÆ NITRAS PURUM——Ph. D.) Commercial nitre, 4 lbs.; boiling
distilled water, 1 quart; dissolve, withdraw the heat, and stir the
solution constantly as it cools; the minute crystals, thus obtained, are
to be drained, and washed, in a glass or earthenware percolator, with cold
distilled water, until that which trickles through ceases to give a
precipitate with a solution of nitrate of silver, the contents of the
percolator are then to be withdrawn, and dried in an oven.
_Prop._ White, pellucid, six-sided prisms; permanent in the air; soluble
in 7 parts of water at 60° and in 1 part at 212° Fahr.; insoluble in
alcohol; its taste is cool, saline, and slightly bitter and pungent; at
about 560° it fuses to an oily-looking mass, which concretes on cooling,
forming ‘sal prunella,’ at a red heat it gives out oxygen, and,
afterwards, nitrous fumes; sp. gr. 1·925 to 1·975.
_Pur._ Commercial nitre generally contains chlorides, sulphates, or
calcareous salts. The first may be detected by its solution giving a
cloudy white precipitate with nitrate of silver. The second by chlorides
of barium or calcium giving a white precipitate, and the third by oxalate
of ammonium giving a white precipitate.
_Assay._ Of the numerous methods prescribed for this purpose, few are
sufficiently simple for mere practical men. The proportion of chlorides,
sulphates, and calcareous salts may be determined as above; and the
general richness of the sample by the method of Gay-Lussac, modified as
follows:——100 gr. of the sample (fairly chosen) are triturated with 50 gr.
of lampblack and 400 gr. of common salt, and the mixture placed in an iron
ladle, and ignited or fused therein, due care being taken to prevent loss;
the residuum is exhausted with hot water, and the solution thus obtained
tested by the usual methods of alkalimetry for carbonate of potassium. The
quantity of carbonate found, multiplied by 2·125 or 2-1/8, gives the
per-centage richness of the sample in nitrate.
_Uses, &c._ Nitre is chiefly employed in the manufacture of gunpowder,
fireworks, and nitric acid. It is also used in medicine as a sedative,
refrigerant, and diaphoretic, and as a cooling diuretic. It has been
recommended in active hæmorrhages (especially spitting of blood), in
various febrile affections, in scurvy, and in herpetic eruptions; and it
has been highly extolled by Dr Basham as a remedy in acute
rheumatism.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr., every 2 hours. A small piece, dissolved
slowly in the mouth, frequently stops a sore throat at the commencement.
In large doses it is poisonous. The best treatment is a powerful emetic,
followed by opiates.
=Potassium, Nitrite of.= KNO_{2}. _Syn._ NITRITE OF POTASSA; POTASSÆ
NITRIS, L. _Prep._ 1. By heating nitre to redness, dissolving the fused
mass in a little water, and adding twice the volume of the solution in
alcohol; after a few hours the upper stratum of liquid is decanted, and
the lower one, separated from the crystals, evaporated to dryness.
2. (Corenwinder.) Nitric acid, 10 parts, are poured on starch, 1 part, and
the evolved gas passed through a solution of hydrate of potassium of the
sp. gr. 1·380, to saturation; the liquid is then either neutralised with a
little hydrate of potassium (if necessary), and kept in the liquid form,
or at once evaporated. Fused pinkish mass, or clear colourless soluble
crystals, used in chemistry as a reagent, and deoxidiser.
=Potassium, Oxalate of.= K_{2}C_{2}O_{4}. _Syn._ NEUTRAL OXALATE OF
POTASSA; POTASSÆ OXALAS, L. _Prep._ Neutralise a solution of oxalic acid,
or the acid oxalates, with carbonate of potassium, evaporate, and
crystallise. Transparent colourless rhombic prisms, soluble in 3 parts of
water, and of the formula K_{2}C_{2}O_{4},Aq.
=Potassium, Hydrogen Oxalate of.= KHC_{2}O_{4}. _Syn._ POTASSIUM
BINOXALATE, SALT OF SORREL, ESSENTIAL SALT OF LEMONS; POTASSÆ BINOXALAS,
L. _Prep._ By saturating a solution of oxalic acid, 1 part, with carbonate
of potassium, adding to the mixture a similar solution of 1 part of oxalic
acid, unneutralised, and evaporating for crystals. It may also be obtained
from the expressed juice of wood or sheep’s sorrel, by clarifying it with
eggs or milk, and evaporating, &c., as before. Colourless rhombic crystals
of the formula KHC_{2}O_{4},Aq., soluble in 40 parts of cold and 6 parts
of boiling water, yielding a very sour solution.
=Potassium, Trihydrogen Oxalate of.= KH_{3}(C_{2}O_{4}), or KHC_{2}O_{4},
H_{2}C_{2}O_{4}. _Syn._ POTASSIUM QUADROXALATE, POTASSIUM ACID OXALATE.
_Prep._ By neutralising 1 part of oxalic acid with carbonate of
potassium, adding to the solution 3 parts more of oxalic acid,
evaporating and crystallising. Resembles the last; has the formula
KH_{3}(C_{3}O_{4})_{2},2Aq; but is less soluble, and more intensely sour,
and forms modified octahedral crystals. The salt is occasionally sold
under the names of ‘sal acetosellæ,’ ‘salt of sorrel,’ and ‘essential salt
of lemons.’ Both are used to remove ink and iron stains from linen, to
bleach the straw used for making bonnets, and, occasionally, in medicine,
as a refrigerant.
=Potassium, Oxide of.= K_{2}O. _Prep._ Burn pure potassium in a current of
oxygen. White powder, rapidly absorbing water and forming the hydrate.
=Potassium, Perchlorate of.= KClO_{4}. _Syn._ POTASSÆ PERCHLORAS, L.
Prepared by projecting well-dried and finely powdered chlorate of
potassium in small portions at a time, into warm nitric acid. The salt is
separated from the ‘nitrate’ by crystallisation.
=Potassium, Prus′siate of.= See POTASSIUM FERRICYANIDE and FERROCYANIDE.
=Potassium, Salicylite of.= Formed by mixing salicylous acid (artificial
oil of meadow-sweet) with a strong solution of hydrate of potassium; it
separates, on agitation, as a yellow crystalline mass, which, after
pressure in bibulous paper, is recrystallised from alcohol. Golden-yellow
crystals, soluble in both water and alcohol; damp air gradually converts
them into acetate of potassium and melanic acid.
=Potassium, Silicate of.= (Ure.) _Syn._ POTASSÆ SILICAS. _Prep._ Mix 1
part of powdered quartz or flint, or of fine siliceous sand with 2 parts
of carbonate of potash, and fuse them in a Hessian crucible. Dissolve the
mass in water, filter the solution and evaporate it to dryness——_Dose_, 10
gr. to 15 gr. in 6 or 8 oz. of water, twice a day. To dissolve gout
concretions. An impure silicate of potash is used as a water-glass.
=Potassium, Sulphate of.= K_{2}SO_{4}. _Syn._ POTASSÆ SULPHAS (B. P., Ph.
L., E., & D.). _Prep._ The sulphate of potassium of commerce is a
secondary product of several chemical and manufacturing processes. Thus,
the residuum of the distillation of nitric acid from nitre is dissolved
in water, the solution neutralised with carbonate of potassium, and, after
defecation, evaporation until a pellicle forms; it is then strained, or
decanted, and set aside to crystallise. Or, the residuum is simply
ignited, to expel excess of acid, and then dissolved and crystallised as
before.
_Prop., &c._ Anhydrous, heavy, quartz-like crystals; permanent in the air;
soluble in 12 parts of water at 60° and in 5 parts at 212° Fahr.;
insoluble in alcohol; extremely nauseous, and bitter-tasted. It crepitates
on the application of heat; fuses at a red heat, but loses nothing in
weight. 100 gr. dissolved in distilled water, on the addition of chloride
of barium and hydrochloric acid, furnish 132 gr. of sulphate of barium,
dried at a red heat.
=Potassium, Bisulphate of.= KHSO_{4}. _Syn._ POTASSIUM-HYDROGEN SULPHATE,
ACID POTASSIUM SULPHATE; POTASSÆ BISULPHAS. _Prep._ 1. (Anhydrous.)
Neutral sulphate of potassium and oil of vitriol, equal parts; hot water,
q. s. (not more) to dissolve; anhydrous bisulphate crystallises out, in
long delicate needles, as the solution cools. If these are left for
several days in the mother-liquor they are redissolved, and crystals of
the ordinary hydrated bisulphate are deposited.
2. (Hydrated,)——_a._ (Ph. L. 1836.) Salt left in distilling nitric acid, 2
lbs.; boiling water, 3 quarts; dissolve; add of sulphuric acid 1 lb.;
concentrate by evaporation, and set the liquid aside, so that crystals may
form.
_b._ (Ph. D.) Sulphate of potassium (in powder), 3 oz.; sulphuric acid, 1
fl. oz.; mix them in a porcelain capsule, and expose it to a heat capable
of liquefying its contents, until acid vapours cease to be evolved; powder
the residuum, and preserve it in a well-stopped bottle.
_Prop., &c._ Sour and slightly bitter-tasted rhombic prisms; soluble in
about 2 parts of cold and 1 part of boiling water, the solution exhibiting
a strongly acid reaction. It is much employed, in lieu of tartaric acid,
for the production of carbonic acid, in ‘gazogenes,’ &c.; also to
adulterate cream of tartar and tartaric acid. According to Dr Paris, it
forms a “grateful adjunct to rhubarb.”——_Dose_, 12 gr. to 1-1/2 dr., in
solution, combined with rhubarb or bitters, as the neutral sulphate.
=Potassium, Sulphide of.= _Syn._ SULPHURET OF POTASSIUM, LIVER OF
SULPHUR†; POTASSII SULPHURETUM (Ph. L., E., & U. S.), HEPAR SULPHURIS (Ph.
D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Sulphur, 1 oz.; carbonate of potassium, 4 oz.;
mix, heat them in a covered crucible till they form a uniform fused mass;
when cold, break it into fragments, and preserve it in well-closed
vessels. The formulæ of the Ph. L. 1836 and Ph. U. S. are similar.
2. (Ph. D.) Sublimed sulphur, 4 oz.; carbonate of potassium (from
pearlash, first dried, and then reduced to powder), 7 oz.; mix in a warm
mortar, heat them in a Hessian crucible, as before, pour the fused mass
into an iron cup, over which immediately invert a second vessel, to
exclude the air, and, when cold, break the mass into fragments, and
preserve it in a green-glass stoppered bottle.
_Prop., &c._ A hard, brittle, liver or greenish-brown coloured solid;
inodorous whilst dry; soluble in water, forming a highly-fetid solution;
and, in acids, evolving strong fumes of sulphuretted hydrogen; reaction,
alkaline; exposed to the air, it is gradually converted into sulphate of
potassa. As a medicine it is reputed diaphoretic, expectorant, and
stimulant.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 gr., in solution, or made into pills with soap;
in gout, rheumatism, liver affections, and various chronic skin diseases.
Externally, made into a lotion and ointment. It is highly acrid and
corrosive, and in large doses poisonous.
=Potassium, Sulphocyanide of.= KCNS, or KCyS. _Syn._ SULPHO-CYANURET OF
POTASSIUM; POTASSII SULPHOCYANIDUM, P. SULPHO-CYANURETUM, L. _Prep._ 1.
Ferrocyanide of potassium (anhydrous, or dried by a gentle heat), 46
parts; sulphur, 32 parts; pure carbonate of potassium, 17 parts; reduce
them to powder, and very gradually heat the mixture to low redness in a
covered iron crucible, which it will less than one half fill; remove the
half-refrigerated and still soft mass, crush it, exhaust it with water,
and evaporate the aqueous solution to dryness; powder the residuum, and
exhaust it with hot alcohol or rectified spirit; the alcoholic solution
will yield beautiful white crystals as it cools, and the residuum or
mother-liquor may be evaporated for the remainder of the salt.
2. Cyanide of potassium, 3 parts; sulphur, 1 part; water, 6 parts; digest
them together for some time, add 3 parts more of water, filter, evaporate,
and crystallise.
_Prop., &c._ Long, slender, colourless prisms or plates, which are
anhydrous, bitter-tasted, deliquescent, fusible, very soluble in both
water and alcohol, and non-poisonous. It is chiefly used as a test for
ferric oxide, for which purpose it is preferable to all other substances.
=Potassium, Tartrate of.= K_{2}C_{4}H_{4}O_{6}. _Syn._ NEUTRAL TARTRATE OF
POTASSIUM, TARTRATE OF POTASSA, NEUTRAL TARTAR, SOLUBLE T.; POTASSÆ
TARTRAS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), KALI TARTARIZATUM†, L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.)
Carbonate of potassium, 8 oz.; distilled water, 2 quarts; dissolve, and to
the solution, whilst boiling hot, gradually add of bitartrate of
potassium, in fine powder, 1 lb., or q. s., so that the liquid, after
ebullition for a couple of minutes, ceases to change the colour of either
blue or reddened litmus paper; next filter the liquid through calico,
evaporate it until a pellicle forms on the surface, and set it aside to
crystallise; after 12 hours collect the crystals, dry them on bibulous
paper, and preserve them from the air. The formula of the Ph. L. 1836 is
nearly similar.
_Prop., &c._ The crystals of this salt, which are obtained with
difficulty, are right rhombic prisms, and are deliquescent. The salt of
commerce is usually in the form of a white granular powder, which is
obtained by simply evaporating the solution to dryness, with constant
stirring. In this state it requires about 4 parts of cold water for
its solution. Acids convert it into the bitartrate. As a medicine it
acts as a gentle diuretic and aperient, and is valued for correcting
the griping properties of senna and resinous purgatives. It is also
antiscorbutic.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 3/4 oz., in powder, or dissolved in
water. The solution changes the colour neither of litmus nor turmeric. The
addition of almost any acid throws down crystals of bitartrate of
potassium, which generally adhere to the vessel. The precipitate
occasioned by either chloride of barium or acetate of lead is dissolved by
dilute nitric acid.
=Potassium, Bitartrate of.= KHC_{4}H_{4}O_{6}. _Syn._ ACID TARTRATE OF
POTASSA, SUPER-TARTRATE OF P., CREAM OF TARTAR; CREMOR TARTARI, POTASSÆ
BITARTRAS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), POTASSÆ SUPER-TARTRAS, TARTARI
CRYSTALLI, L. This well-known salt is deposited during the fermentation of
grape juice as a crust on the sides of the casks or vats. In its
unprepared or crude state it is called white or red tartar or argol,
according to the wine from which it has been obtained. It is purified by
boiling it in water, crystallisation, re-solution in water, and treatment
with freshly burnt charcoal and aluminous clay, to remove the colour; the
clear liquid is then decanted, whilst still hot, and allowed to cool
slowly; the resulting crystals form the ‘cream of tartar’ of commerce.
_Prop., &c._ Small, translucent, gritty, prismatic crystals, irregularly
grouped together; permanent in the air; requiring fully 100 parts of cold
water, and about 15 parts of boiling water, for their perfect solution;
the solution has a harsh, sour taste, and, like that of the tartrate,
suffers spontaneous decomposition by keeping. Its solution reddens litmus.
At a red heat it is converted into carbonate of potassium. Entirely
soluble in 40 parts of boiling water; 40 gr., in solution, are neutralised
by 30 gr. of crystallised carbonate of soda.——_Dose._ As an aperient, 1 to
3 dr.; as a diuretic, 1/2 dr. to 1 dr.; as an antiscorbutic, 10 to 20 gr.
frequently. It is much used to make a pleasant cooling drink (‘Imperial’),
and in tooth-powders.
=POTA′TO.= This well-known and valuable article of food is the tuber of
the _Solanum tuberosum_ or _esculentum_, a plant which was introduced to
this country by either Sir Francis Drake or Sir Walter Raleigh, towards
the latter part of the 16th century. It is now extensively cultivated in
all the temperate climates of the world. It yields a vast quantity of
food on a small space of ground, but only about 1-7th part of the weight
of the tuber is nutritious, and this is chiefly farinaceous. Its farina or
starch is, however, accompanied by no inconsiderable portion of saline
matter, more especially of potassa, which renders it highly antiscorbutic,
and a powerful corrective of the grossness of animal food. When forming
part of a mixed diet, perhaps no substance is more wholesome than the
potato, and, certainly, no other esculent hitherto discovered appears
equally adapted for universal use.
Boussingault gives the following as the average composition of the tubers
of the potato:——
Moist Dry.
Water 75·9 ——
Albumen 2·3 9·6
Oily matter 0·2 0·8
Fibre 0·4 1·7
Starch 20·2 83·8
Salts 1·0 4·1
—————— ——————
100·0 100·0
Manuring experiments on potatoes in 1867-1869 show that on light soils a
mixture of mineral superphosphate, crude potash salts, and ammonium
sulphate, produces very beneficial results; on stiff soils nitrogenous
manures have little effect. Further proof is given that manuring with
common salt tends to decrease the yield.
Analyses, conducted by A. Stockardt, of potatoes grown in eight different
years, show that those manured with salt invariably contain less starch
than those unmanured, the decrease being from 10 to 20 per cent. of
starch; the same effect is produced when the salt is mixed with other
manures.
Under the microscope the cells are seen to be very sparingly fitted with
starch grains.
Unmanured potatoes contained ·43 per cent. of sodium chloride in the dry
substance, and those which had received a small dressing of common salt
1·34 per cent.[121]
[Footnote 121: Voelcker ‘Roy. Agric. Society’s Journal,’ quoted in
‘Journal of Chemical Society,’ vol. XXV.]
No certain rule can be laid down for ‘dressing’ potatoes. “If boiled, it
may be that they require to be put into boiling water, or, may be, into
cold, and either boiled quickly or slowly; but this you must find out.
Choose them all about the same size, with a smooth skin, and when they are
boiled and begin to crack, throw off the water immediately, as it only
damages the root. When dressed let them stand near the fire, with a cloth
over them, and serve them in their skins. Salt may be put into the water
at the beginning. A watery potato will require quick boiling, and,
sometimes, to be put into boiling water.” (Soyer.)
To retain the highest amount of nourishment in potatoes they should be
‘dressed’ with their skins on them. The bruised or damaged parts,
worm-holes, &c., being removed with a knife, the dirt should be carefully
cleaned out of the ‘eyes,’ and from the rough parts of the skins, by means
of a brush and water, after which they should be well rinsed in clean
water, and drained in a colander. If they are at all dry or shrivelled,
they may be advantageously left to soak for 3 or 4 hours in clean cold
water before cooking them. Potatoes ‘dressed’ in the skins have been found
to be nearly twice as rich in potassa salts as those which have been first
peeled. The skins are easily removed before sending them to table.
NEW POTATOES should have their loose outer skin rubbed off with a cloth or
stiff brush before being dressed or cooked.
[Illustration: Potato starch granules.]
[Illustration: Potato starch granules swollen by liquor potassæ.]
MASHED POTATOES are prepared by crushing, with the back of a spoon, or
with a rolling-pin, the hot ‘dressed’ tubers, placed in a bowl or dish, or
on a pie-board. A little milk, butter, and salt may be added to them at
will, and they may be either at once ‘served up,’ or pressed into ‘forms,’
and first ‘browned off’ in the oven. Potatoes, if not soft and mealy, and
well masticated, frequently escape the solvent action of the stomach, and
pass off undigested, often to the serious derangement of the health. By
mashing them this inconvenience is removed. The delicate, the dyspeptic,
and the aged should take them in no other form.
Potatoes may be preserved so as to stand the longest voyages unchanged, by
thoroughly desiccating them in an oven, or by steam heat. For this purpose
the roots, either raw or three parts dressed, are generally first cut into
dice of above 3/4 inch square, to facilitate the operation. Under a patent
granted to Mr Downes Edwards, Aug., 1840, the boiled potatoes are mashed
and granulated by forcing them through a perforated plate before drying
them. The granulated product, beaten up with a little hot milk or hot
water, forms an excellent extemporaneous dish of mashed potatoes.
The microscopic detection of potato starch is easy. Instead of being round
or oval, and with a central hilum, the starch grains are pyriform, with an
eccentric hilum placed at the smaller end, and with well-marked concentric
rings. A weak solution of liquor potassæ (one drop of the Pharmacopœia
preparation to ten of water) swells them out greatly after a time; while
wheat starch is little affected by potash of this strength; if the
strength is 1 to 3 (as in the _figs._) the swelling takes place very
rapidly.
=POT POURRI.= [Fr.] A mixture of odorous flowers, roots, gums, &c., varied
according to the taste of the operator, either mixed together dry, or in
the fresh state preserved with salt. “The usual way of making it is to
collect roses, lavender, and other sweet-scented flowers, as they blow; to
put them into a large jar mixed (stratified) with salt, until a sufficient
quantity has been collected; then to add to these such other odorous
substances as may be required to form an agreeable perfume.” Among the
substances thus added are——ambergris, benzoin, calamus root, cascarilla,
cassia, cassia buds, cinnamon, civet, cloves, musk, musk seed, orange
berries and flowers, orris root, pimento, storax, vanilla, yellow sandal
wood, &c.
“Instead of the fresh flowers, dried roses are sometimes used, and, with
the addition of some essential oils, these answer quite as well.”
(Redwood.)
The following is a French formula:——Take the petals of the pale and red
roses, pinks, violets, moss rose, orange flower, lily of the valley,
acacia flowers, clove gilliflowers, mignonette, heliotrope, jonquils, with
a small proportion of the flowers of myrtle, balm, rosemary, and thyme;
spread them out for some days, and as they become dry put them into a
jar, with alternate layers of dry salt mixed with orris powder, till the
vessel is filled. Close it for a month and stir the whole up, and moisten
it with rose water.
=POT′TED MEATS.= See PUTREFACTION and POTTING (_below_).
=POT′TERY.= The mechanical operations connected with the manufacture of
pottery (CERAMIC ART) do not come within the province of this work. The
materials employed, in this country, to produce the best kind of
earthenware (STAFFORDSHIRE WARE) are the fine white clays of Devonshire
and Cornwall, and powdered chert or flint. This is brought to a perfectly
homogeneous plastic mass with water, and in this state is fashioned upon
the potter’s wheel and lathe, or by moulding, into all the varied objects
of utility and ornament, which are made in this material. After the newly
formed vessels and other articles have been dried by exposure in heated
rooms, they are enclosed in clay cases (SEGGARS) and exposed to heat in a
kiln, by which they arrive at a state (BISCUIT) which renders them fit for
glazing; the patterns (if any) and, afterwards, appropriate vitreous
materials having been applied to their surfaces, they are again placed in
the seggars, and are again exposed in a kiln to a heat sufficiently high
to fuse the newly applied compound, by which they acquire a uniform
enamelled surface, and become fit for the market. PORCELAIN, or CHINA, as
it is commonly called, is manufactured in a nearly similar manner, but the
materials are selected and the various processes conducted with
corresponding skill and care.
The ornamental patterns are produced upon both Staffordshire ware and
porcelain by a number of ingenious processes, among which printing,
painting, and moulding are the principal. The colours employed are those
which have been already referred to under ENAMELS.
The metallic lustres now so common on stoneware, &c., are given as
follows:——
1. GOLD LUSTRE. Dissolve grain-gold, 1 dr., in aqua regia, 3/4 oz.; to the
solution add of metallic tin, 6 gr.; and when this is dissolved, pour it
very gradually, with constant stirring, into a mixture of balsam of
sulphur, 1/2 dr.; oil of turpentine, 20 gr.; when the mass begins to
stiffen, 1/2 dr. more of oil of turpentine must be added, and well mixed
in. More gold deepens and brightens the lustre; more tin turns it on the
violet or purple.
2. IRON LUSTRE. From a mixture of ‘muriate of iron’ (ferric chloride) and
spirit of tar.
3. PLATINUM LUSTRE. To a solution of platinum in aqua regia (platinic
chloride) is added, drop by drop, a mixture of spirit of tar and balsam of
sulphur in equal proportions, until by a trial the composition is found to
give the required result. This gives the appearance of polished steel.
4. SILVER LUSTRE. The ammonio-chloride of platinum is reduced to an
impalpable powder, ground up to the requisite consistence with a little
spirit of tar, and at once applied with a brush.
The above lustres are applied, over an easily fusible glaze, to the outer
surfaces only of the vessels, after which adhesion is produced by exposing
the pieces to a slight degree of heat in the muffle. To give them their
full beauty they must be rubbed with cotton, wool, or chamois leather,
after the firing. See ALUMINA, CLAY, ENAMELS, GILDING, GLAZES, KAOLIN, &c.
=POT′TING.= A term commonly applied to the operation or practice of
preserving animal substances in a state fit for immediate use, in small
pots or jars. The method of proceeding is, first, to mince the substance
(previously well dressed, and carefully deprived of bones, sinews, skin,
&c.), and, next, to pound it in a clean polished marble or iron mortar,
along with a little butter and some cayenne pepper, or other suitable
spice or sauce, until it forms a perfectly smooth paste; this is pressed
into the pots, so as to about 2-3rds fill them, and clarified melted
butter is then poured in to the depth of about 1-8th of an inch; the pots
are, lastly, closely covered over, and kept in a cool situation. In this
state their contents may be preserved for a year, or longer. Potted beef,
ham, veal, poultry, game, anchovies, bloaters, salmon, &c., are commonly
sold in the shops. They are all intended for relishes, and are spread upon
bread in the same manner as butter.
=POUDRE KOUSIQUE.= [Fr.] A French nostrum, consisting of nitre and
sulphur, of each 50 parts; charcoal and antimony, of each 1 part. It is
divided into 1/2-dr. doses, of which three are put into each packet. It is
given to dogs in a ball of butter, to prevent the disorders to which they
are liable.
=POUDRE METALLIQUE.= [Fr.] See TOOTH CEMENTS.
=POUDRE SUBTILE.= [Fr.] See DEPILATORY.
=POUDRETTE.= [Fr.] Dried night-soil. The manure sold under this name is a
compound of night-soil with clay, charcoal, or gypsum, made into balls or
cakes. Its extensive use in Belgium, France, the United States of America,
and, more particularly, in China, where it was first employed, has shown
it to be the most fertilising and generally applicable of all the numerous
substances used as manure. Unfortunately, the prejudices of Englishmen
lead them to poison the air of their cities and towns, and the waters of
their rivers, with a substance which, if rightly applied, would crown
their fields with golden harvests, and drive pauperism from the land.
Tardieu, speaking of the men engaged in making poudrette, says:——“The
action of the exhalations from the manure manufacturers is certainly not
injurious. The workmen show actually no trace of sickness or disease
which can be referred to the influence of these exhalations.”
That ‘poudrette’ is, however, occasionally liable to set up fermentation
seems undeniable; and when this is the case, and large quantities of
poudrette are stored within a small space, serious consequences may ensue.
Parent Duchâtelet cites the case of a vessel carrying poudrette to
Guadaloupe, in which half the crew died, and the remainder were in a very
low state of health on the arrival of the vessel at Guadaloupe, owing, as
he affirms, to the exhalations given off by the poudrette.
=POUL′TICE.= _Syn._ CATAPLASM; CATAPLASMA, L. An external application,
generally extemporaneous, used to promote suppuration, allay pain and
inflammation, resolve tumours, &c.
Poultices (cataplasmata) are generally prepared with substances capable of
absorbing much water, and assuming a pulpy consistence, so as to admit of
their application to any surface, however irregular. Their curative action
principally depends upon the liquids with which they are moistened, and
the heat retained by the mass. With this object they should never be heavy
or very bulky, and should be frequently repeated, and lightly, but
securely, bandaged on, to prevent displacement.
The addition of a little lard, olive oil, or, still better, glycerin, to a
poultice, tends greatly to promote its emollient action, and to retard its
hardening.
As the continued medication of the part with warmth and moisture, or with
substances applied in the moist way, is the principal object to be
attained in the application of poultices, a fold or two of lint or soft
linen dipped in hot water, either simple or medicated, and covered with a
piece of thin sheet gutta percha or india-rubber cloth, to prevent
evaporation, may be often conveniently applied in their stead. A very
elegant and useful substitute of this kind is sold under the name of
‘spongio piline.’ Its cleanliness, lightness, and ease of application has
led to its extensive adoption by the medical profession.
The following formulæ embrace all the cataplasma of the Pharmacopœias:——
=Poultice of Al′um.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA ALUMINIS, L. _Prep._ (B. P., Ph. D.
1826.) Alum (in powder), 1 dr.; whites of 2 eggs; shake them together
until they form a coagulum. Applied, between the folds of fine linen, to
chilblains, sore nipples, inflamed eyes, &c.
=Poultice, Anodyne.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA ANODYNUM. _Prep._ Poppy
heads, 1 oz.; dried leaves of henbane, 2 oz.; water, 24 oz. Boil, strain,
and add to the liquor 4 oz. of emollient meals, to form a poultice.
=Poultice, Antiseptic.= (Fr. Hosp.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA ANTISEPTICUM.
_Prep._ Barley flour, 6 oz.; powdered Peruvian bark, 1 oz.; water, q. s.
Boil and, when cool enough, add camphor in powder, 1 dr.
=Poultice, Astringent.= (Foy.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA ASTRINGENS. _Prep._
Catechu, 1 oz.; powdered oak bark and barley meal, of each 1 oz.; cold
water, q. s.
=Poultice of Belladonna.= (Dr Reece.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA BELLADONNÆ.
_Prep._ Extract of belladonna, made in vacuo, 1 dr.; oatmeal, 1/2 lb.;
boiling water, q. s.
=Poultice, Bran.= _Syn_. CATAPLASMA FURFURIS. _Prep._ Fine bran, with one
tenth of linseed meal, made into a poultice with boiling water. Mr Payne
recommends, as a cheap hospital poultice, 3-1/2 pecks of pollard, 14 lbs.
of bruised meal, and 1/4 lb. of lard.
=Poultice of Bread.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA PANIS, L. _Prep._ From crum of
bread, soaked in hot water, slightly pressed, and then beaten up with a
little lard, butter, or oil. Emollient. See POULTICE, LINSEED MEAL
(_below_).
=Poultice of Car′rot.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA DAUCI, L. _Prep._ 1. From the
common esculent carrot, scraped fine, so as to form a pulp.
2. (Ph. D. 1826.) From the cultivated carrot boiled with a little water
until it becomes soft enough to form a poultice. Anodyne and antiseptic.
Used in foul and painful ulcers, burns, contusions, &c. That from the
first formula is the more stimulant.
=Poultice of Char′coal.= _Syn_. CATAPLASMA CARBONIS (B. P., Ph. L.), C. C.
LIGNI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Soak bread, 2 oz., in boiling water, 1/2
pint; to this add, by degrees, of linseed meal, 10 dr.; and, afterwards,
of powdered (recently burnt) charcoal, 2 dr.; lastly, sprinkle on the
surface of the poultice powdered charcoal, 1 dr. As an application to
fetid and gangrenous sores; frequently renewed.
2. (B. P.) Wood charcoal, 1/2 oz.; bread, 2 oz.; linseed meal, 1-1/2 oz.;
boiling water, 10 oz.; soak the bread in the water near the fire, add the
linseed meal and half the charcoal, stirring to a soft poultice,
sprinkling the remainder of the charcoal on the surface.
=Poultice of Chlo′′ride of So′da.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA SODÆ CHLORINATÆ (B.
P., Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Boiling water, 6 fl. oz.; linseed
meal, 4-1/2 oz.; mix gradually, then add of solution of chlorinated soda,
2 fl. oz. Applied to foul ulcers, gangrenous parts, &c.
2. (B. P.) Solution of chlorinated soda, 1; linseed meal, 2; boiling
water, 4; add the linseed meal gradually to the water, stirring
constantly, then mix the solution of chlorinated soda.
=Poultice, Compound Farina.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA FARINÆ COMPOSITUM. _Prep._
Rye flour, 1 lb.; old yeast, 4 oz.; salt, 2 oz.; hot water, q. s.
=Poultice, Cummin.= (L. Ph. 1788.) _Syn_. CATAPLASMA CUMINI. _Prep._
Cummin seeds, 1 lb.; bay berries, scordium leaves, serpentaria root, of
each 3 oz.; cloves, 1 oz.; to be powdered together and mixed with thrice
their weight of honey.
=Poultice, Discutient.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA DISCUTIENS. _Prep._ Barley meal,
6 oz.; fresh hemlock, 2 oz.; vinegar, q. s. Boil and add sal ammoniac, 1/2
oz. (Fr. Hosp.) The same, with 2 dr. of acetate of lead added.
=Poultice, Effervescing.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA EFFERVESCENS. _Prep._ Fresh
wort thickened with oatmeal, and a spoonful of yeast added.
=Poultice, Emetic.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA EMETICUM. _Prep._ Bruised groundsel
(_Senecio vulgaris_) applied over the stomach produces vomiting.
=Cataplasma of Fig.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA FICI. _Prep._ A dried fig, roasted
or boiled (sometimes in milk), is frequently applied to gum-boils, &c.
=Poultice, Foxglove.= (Mr Alland.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA DIGITALIS. _Prep._ A
strong decoction of foxglove, with bread-crum, or linseed meal, q. s.
=Poultice, Galbanum.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA GALBANI. _Prep._ Lily roots, 4
oz.; figs, 1 oz.; boil till soft, and bruise them with 1-1/2 oz. of onions
and 1/2 oz. of galbanum, triturated with yolk of egg and a sufficient
quantity of linseed meal.
=Poultice, Galvanic.= (Recamier.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA GALVANICUM. It
consists of cotton wadding containing a layer of very thin zinc plates,
and another layer of copper ones. This pad, conveniently quilted, is
enclosed in a bag, one face of which is of quilted calico, the other of
impermeable tissue. The natural perspiration, confined by the impermeable
tissue, excites galvanic action between the metals.
=Poultice of Hem′lock.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA CONII (B. P., Ph. L.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Boiling water, 1/2 pint; linseed meal, 4-1/2 oz., or
q. s.; make a poultice, and on this spread of extract of hemlock (Ph. L.),
1 oz., first softened with a little hot water. Anodyne. In irritable and
painful cancerous, scrofulous, and syphilitic sores, tumours, &c.
2. (B. P.) Hemlock leaf, in powder, 1 oz.; linseed meal, 3 oz.; boiling
water, 10 oz.; mix the ingredients, then add them to the water gradually,
constantly stirring.
=Poultice, Henbane.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA HYOSCYAMI. The same as POULTICE OF
POPPY.
=Poultice, Hop.= (Dr Trotter.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA HUMULI. Hops softened
with hot water. To foul ulcers.
=Poultice, Iodine.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA IODURETUM. To a common poultice add
solution or tincture of iodine.
=Poultice, Lead.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA PLUMBI. _Prep._ Goulard water, 1 lb.;
bread crum, q. s.
=Poultice, Lily.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA LILII. The pulp of the white lily
boiled and bruised.
=Poultice, Lime.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA CALCIS. _Prep._ Slaked lime, 2 oz.;
oatmeal, 2 oz.; lard, 4 oz. Formerly used at Bath Hospital.
=Poultice of linseed Meal.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA LINI (B. P., Ph. L.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) To boiling water, 1/2 pint, add, gradually,
constantly stirring, of linseed meal, 4-1/2 oz., or q. s. Emollient. Used
to promote the suppuration or ‘ripening’ of tumours. A little oil or lard
should be added, and some smeared over the surface as well, to prevent its
getting hard. For small ‘gatherings,’ as of the fingers, a little chewed
bread and butter is an efficient and convenient substitute.
2. (B. P.) Linseed meal, 4; olive oil, 1/2; boiling water, 10; mix the
linseed meal with the oil, add the water gradually, constantly stirring.
_Obs._ Linseed meal prepared from the cake, from which the oil has been
expressed, is less adapted for poultices than that prepared from the
unpressed, whole seed. The latter is ordered in the Ph. L.
=Poultice, Malt.= (Guy’s Hosp.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA BYNES. _Prep._ Ground
malt, with yeast, q. s., to form a poultice; to be applied warm.
=Poultice, Maturative.= (L. 1745.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA MATURANS. _Prep._
Pulp of figs, 4 oz.; resin ointment, 1 oz.; strained galbanum, 1/2 oz.
=Poultice of Mus′tard.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA SINAPIS (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(B. P., Ph. L.) Linseed meal and powdered mustard, of each 2-1/2 oz., or
q. s.; boiling water, 1/2 pint; mix as before.
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) As the last, but substituting boiling vinegar for water.
Used as a powerful counter-irritant, stimulant, and rubefacient; in low
fevers, apoplexy, coma, &c., where there is a determination of blood to
the head; in deep-seated inflammatory pains, neuralgic pains, &c. It
should not be left on long enough to raise a blister. See PLASTERS.
=Poultice, Onion.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA CEPÆ. _Prep._ Onions roasted and
mashed.
=Poultice of Pop′py.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA PAPAVERIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.
1839.) A strong decoction of poppies, thickened with crum of bread.
Anodyne.
=Poultice, Potash, Acetate of.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA POTASSÆ ACETATIS;
CATAPLASMA NEUTRALE. _Prep._ Acetate of potash, 1 oz.; water, 1 pint; crum
of bread, q. s. To ill-conditioned sores.
=Poultice of Po′tato.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA SOLANI TUBEROSI, L. _Prep._ From
the raw potato, scraped or grated fine. A popular application to fresh
bruises, extravasations, burns, scalds, &c.
=Poultice of Potato Starch.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA FECULÆ. _Prep._
Potato starch, 2 oz.; mix with a little cold water, add to it 20 oz. of
boiling water, and boil for an instant. Cataplasms of rice and wheat
starch are made in the same manner.
=Poultice, Pradier’s.= _Syn._ PRADIER’S CATAPLASMA; CATAPLASME DE PRADIER,
Fr. _Prep._ Take of balsam of Mecca, 6 dr.; rectified spirit, 16 oz.;
dissolve; next, separately, take red cinchona bark, sarsaparilla, and
sage, of each 1 oz.; saffron, 1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 32 oz.; digest
for 48 hours, and filter; mix the two liquors; add to them twice their
weight of lime water. In gout; 2 fl. oz. are sprinkled on the surface of a
hot linseed-meal poultice sufficiently large to surround the affected
part. It is said that the Emperor Napoleon gave £2500 for this receipt.
=Poultice of Pyroligneous Acid.= (Dr Reece.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA ACIDI
PYROLIGNOSI. _Prep._ Bran, 1 lb.; linseed meal, 1 oz.; impure pyroligneous
acid, q. s. For scrofulous ulcers; occasionally 30 minims of tincture of
perchloride of iron, and 3 dr. of extract or powder of hemlock, are added.
=Poultice of Red Wine.= (Gl. Hosp.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA VINI RUBRI. _Prep._
Linseed meal, 1-1/2 oz.; boiling water, 5 oz.; stir it over a slow fire
for a minute, remove, and add 2 oz. of red wine.
=Poultice, Roasted Apple.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA MALI. The soft pulp of
roasted apple, applied to inflamed eyes. Other ingredients are sometimes
added.
=Poultice, Rose.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA ROSÆ. _Prep._ Powdered alum, 30 gr.;
confection of roses, 4 oz.; mix.
=Poultice of Sea-wrack.= (Dr Russell.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA FUCI. _Prep._
Fresh bladder fucus (sea-wrack) bruised. Applied to glandular tumours, &c.
=Poultice, Sim′ple.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA SIMPLEX, L. _Prep._ (Ph. D. 1826.)
Powder for a cataplasma and boiling water, of each q. s. to form a
poultice, the surface of which is to be smeared over with olive oil.
Emollient. Bread poultice and linseed-meal poultice are now generally
called by this name. See POWDER (Poultice).
=Poultice of Slippery Elm.= CATAPLASMA ULMI. The powdered bark of the
slippery elm (_Ulmus fulva_) mixed with a sufficient quantity of hot
water.
=Poultice of Soap.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA SAPONIS, L. _Prep._ From white soap
(scraped or sliced), 1 oz.; boiling water, 1/4 pint; dissolve, and add
crum of bread, q. s. As an application to scalds and burns.
=Poultice, Sorrel.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA OXALIS. _Prep._ Bruised sorrel
leaves, mixed with oatmeal and beer.
=Poultice, Stimulating.= (Dr Hugh Smith.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA STIMULANS.
_Prep._ Rye flour, 1 lb.; old yeast, 4 oz.; common salt, 2 oz.
=Poultice, Sulphate of Lime.= (Blizard.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA CALCIS
SULPHATIS. _Prep._ Paris plaster mixed with water to a soft paste, and
applied before it hardens. Formerly applied to ulcers to form an
artificial scab; now occasionally used to afford mechanical support in
some surgical cases.
=Poultice of Sulphate of Soda.= (Kirkland.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA SODÆ
SULPHATIS. _Prep._ Sulphate of soda, 1 oz.; boiling water, 1/2 lb.; crum
of bread, a sufficient quantity.
=Poultice to cause Suppuration.= (E. Ph. 1774.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA
SUPPURANS. To an emollient cataplasm add bruised onions, 1-1/2 oz.;
basilicon ointment, 1 oz.
=Poultice of Tannate of Lead.= (G. Ph.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA AD DECUMBITUM;
PLUMBUM TANNICUM PULTIFORME. _Prep._ Boil 2 oz. Of oak bark in sufficient
water to yield 10 oz. of strained decoction; add to this 1 oz. (by weight)
of liquid subacetate of lead, collect the precipitate on a filter, and put
it into a bottle with 2 dr. of rectified spirit.
=Poultice, Tonic.= (G. Hosp.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA TONICUM. _Prep._ Powdered
bark, 1 oz.; charcoal, 1 oz.; camphor, 1-1/2 dr.; oil of turpentine, q. s.
=Poultice, Turnip.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA RAPI. _Prep._ Peel turnips, boil
them till soft, beat them to a pulp, and apply warm.
=Poultice, Turpentine.= (Dr Reece.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA TEREBINTHINÆ.
_Prep._ Oil of turpentine, 2 dr.; olive oil, 1 oz.; linseed meal, 1 oz.;
oatmeal, 4 oz.; boiling water, q. s. To indolent ulcers, and, with more
turpentine, to deep burns, scalds, and chilblains.
=Poultice of Vin′egar.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA ACETI, L. _Prep._ From crum of
bread soaked in vinegar. Applied cold in bruises, extravasations, &c.,
especially black eyes. Verjuice is often employed in the same way.
=Poultice of Walnut Leaves.= (Perfect.) _Syn._ CATAPLASMA JUGLANDIS.
_Prep._ The fresh leaves of walnut bruised and mixed with honey. Applied
over the abdomen as a vermifuge.
=Poultice of Yeast.= _Syn._ CATAPLASMA FERMENTI (B. P., Ph. L.), C. F.
CEREVISIÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Beer yeast and water at 100° Fahr., of
each 5 fl. oz.; mix, stir in flour, 1 lb., and place it near the fire
until it rises. In gangrenous or foul ulcers; to correct the fetor of the
discharge, and to hasten the sloughing.
2. (B. P.) Beer yeast, 6; flour, 14; water (at 100° Fahr.), 6; mix. Place
the mass near the fire till it rises.
=POUL′TRY.= Domestic birds, which are propagated and fed for the table,
and for their eggs, feathers, &c.
The poultry of this country are the common domestic fowl, the turkey, the
duck, and the goose; to which some writers add the guinea-fowl and the
peacock. Of these, the first is the most generally useful. Though a native
of India, it accompanies man through almost every gradation of
civilisation and climate, and flourishes almost everywhere, when properly
secured from the inclemency of the weather, and allowed an ample supply of
fresh air, with proper food. For the production of abundance of eggs it
must, however, be well fed and warmly lodged. The hen-roosts and
poultry-houses should be well protected from the weather, and their
temperature should be duly maintained by proximity to the stables,
cow-houses, or dwelling-house, and, in cold weather, by the employment,
when necessary, of artificial heat. The food should also contain an ample
supply of nitrogenous matter, for without this how can it be expected that
hens can produce abundance of eggs, which are peculiarly rich in nitrogen?
The ‘greaves’ of the tallow-chandlers, and such-like substances, are hence
excellent additions to the ordinary food of poultry. But it is not
sufficient merely to supply poultry with abundance of food and warmth; it
is equally necessary that they should have ample space for exercise and
recreation. This space “should always contain living plants of various
kinds, and some gravelly or sandy soil; because worms, snails, as well as,
occasionally, grass and herbage, form a part of the food of poultry; and
sand or gravel is swallowed by them for the purpose of promoting
digestion. Hence, no healthy poultry can ever be reared in towns, however
much the natural food may be imitated by the supply of animal matters,
herbage, and sand.” (Loudon.)
=POUNCE.= Powdered gum sandarac generally passes under this name. It is
used to prepare parchment for writing on, and to prevent ink from
spreading upon paper after erasures. Powdered cuttle-fish bone is
occasionally employed in the same way. Both are applied to the surface by
means of a cylindrical roll of list called a ‘rubber.’ Packers rub the
surface of porous and greasy woods, as the heads of boxes, cases, casks,
&c., with whiting or powdered resin, to make them bear the ink. The
coloured powders used by pattern drawers, for sprinkling over pricked
papers, are also called ‘pounce.’ For liquid pounce, see MARKING INK.
=POWDER.= _Syn._ PULVIS, L. Powders are divided by pharmaceutical writers
into two classes——simple and compound. The first are prepared by simple
pulverisation; the second by the admixture of two or more simple powders.
For use the appropriate doses are separately weighed, and placed in
separate papers. They are usually exhibited in a little honey, sugar, or
milk, either taken from a spoon or made into an electuary or bolus, and
swallowed in the semi-solid form. Metallic and other heavy powders are
best taken in the latter state. Very active substances should be, in all
cases, mixed with some inert powder, as that of starch, gum, liquorice, or
marshmallow, at the time of ‘dispensing’ them.
“This form of preparing medicines is the simplest, and perhaps the least
objectionable; but it is not applicable to all the articles of the Materia
Medica. Those remedies which are very unpleasant to the taste; those which
deliquesce rapidly when exposed to the air, or are very volatile; and
those which require to be given in very large doses, or which are not
diffused readily in water, cannot, with propriety, be administered in the
form of powder. Some substances cannot be reduced to powder unless they be
very much dried, and the heat necessary for that purpose alters their
properties.” Nor can we “be surprised that a great alteration should be
effected in a short time by the action of the air on so great an extension
of surface as takes place in the operation usually adopted for reducing
drugs to a fine powder.” (A. T. Thomson.)
In this country compound powders appear to be a favourite form of medicine
in the diseases of infancy and childhood.
“It is necessary that whatever we order to be reduced to powder should be
rubbed through a fine sieve, so that the impurities and coarser parts may
be separated; and it is needful that most powders should be recently
prepared, and not too long kept.” (Ph. L.)
As nearly all powders suffer by exposure to the air and light, they should
be preserved in closely-corked opaque or green-glass bottles, or in tin
canisters from which the external air is carefully excluded. See
PULVERISATION, &c.
=Powder, Algaroth’s.= See ANTIMONY, OXYCHLORIDE.
=Powder of Al′oes (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS ALOËS COMPOSITUS (Ph. L.), P.
ALOËS CUM GUAIACO, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Socotrine or hepatic aloes (in
powder), 1-1/2 oz.; guaiacum (in powder), 1 oz.; compound cinnamon powder,
1/2 oz.; rub them together. A warm, sudorific purgative.——_Dose_, 10 to 20
gr.
=Powder of Aloes with Canel′la.= _Syn._ ALOETIC POWDER, HOLY BITTER†;
HIERA PICRA†, PULVIS ALOES CUM CANELLÂ, L. _Prep._ From powdered Socotrine
or hepatic aloes, 4 parts; powdered white canella, 1 part. Uses and dose,
as the last.
_Obs._ Once a highly popular remedy. It was originally made into an
electuary with honey, and in this form was frequently called ‘HIERA
LOGADII,’ It is still a favourite in domestic medicine and veterinary
practice. The principal objection to both this and the preceding
preparation is the nauseous flavour of the aloes, which is ill concealed
by the aromatics. The ‘HIERA PICRA’ for farriers is usually made with the
cheapest Cape aloes.
=Powder of Aloes with Iron.= (L. Ph. 1788.) _Syn._ PULVIS ALOETICUS CUM
FERRO. _Prep._ Aloes, 1-1/2 oz.; myrrh, 2 oz.; sulphate of iron, 1 oz.;
dried extract of gentian, 1 oz.
=Powder of Al′um (Compound).= _Syn._ STYPTIC POWDER; PULVIS STYPTICUS, P.
ALUMINIS COMPOSITUS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Alum, 4 oz.; kino, 1
oz.; mix them, and reduce them to fine powder. Astringent and
styptic.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr.; in diarrhœa, profuse menstruation, &c.
Externally, in hæmorrhages, &c.
=Powder, Alum, Opiated.= (Bouchardat.) _Syn._ PULVIS ALUMINIS OPIATUS.
_Prep._ Alum, 1 dr.; sugar, 1 dr.; opium, 4 gr.; mix for 12 powders. 2 or
3 daily in obstinate diarrhœas and passive hæmorrhages.
=Powder of Alum with Capsicum.= (Dr Turnbull.) _Syn._ PULVIS ALUMINIS CUM
CAPSICO. _Prep._ Alum, 3 parts; concentrated tincture of capsicum, 1 part;
mix, dry, and triturate again. Applied to the tonsils.
=Powder of Alum with Gum.= (Frankel.) _Prep._ Alum, gum tragacanth, of
each equal parts. Applied to sore breasts.
=Powder of Alum with Starch.= (St. Th. Hosp.) _Syn._ PULVIS ALUMINIS CUM
AMYLO. _Prep._ Alum and starch, equal parts. In insufflation of
rhinorrhœa.
=Powder of Ambergris with Musk.= (Bat. Ph.) _Syn._ PULVIS AMBERGRISEÆ
MOSCHATUS. _Prep._ Ambergris, 6 dr.; musk, 1 dr.; oil of cinnamon, 2
scruples; refined sugar, 11-1/2 oz.; mix.
=Powder, Ammoniated Aromatic.= _Syn._ PULVIS AMMONIATUS AROMATICUS;
LEAYSON’S AMMONIACAL COLLYRIUM. _Prep._ Muriate of ammonia, 1 dr.; slaked
lime, 1 oz.; charcoal, 15 gr.; cinnamon, 15 gr.; cloves, 15 gr., bole, 1/2
dr. Put them into a bottle and moisten with a little water.
=Powder of Ancho′vy.= _Syn._ PULVIS CLUPEÆ ENCRASICOLI, L. _Prep._ Pound
anchovies to a paste, then rub them through a sieve, and add enough flour
to make a dough, which must be rolled out into thin slices and dried by a
gentle heat in a stove; it is, lastly, powdered and bottled. Colouring is
frequently added. Chiefly used to make sauces. British anchovies are
frequently substituted for the genuine fish.
=Powder, Anthrakokali, Compound.= _Syn._ PULVIS ANTHRAKOKALI, COMPOUND.
_Prep._ Anthrakokali, 2 gr.; washed sulphur, 6 gr.; mix. For 1 dose.
=Powder, Anthrakokali, Simple.= (Poyla.) _Syn._ PULVIS ANTHRAKOKALI
SIMPLEX. _Prep._ Anthrakokali, 2 gr.; liquorice powder, 6 gr.; mix. For 1
dose.
=Powder, Antiepileptic.= _Syn._ PULVIS ANTIEPILEPTICUS (E. Ph., 1744.)
_Prep._ White dittany, pæony, valerian, mistletoe of the oak, equal
parts.——_Dose_, 10 to 6 gr. (Behrends.) _Prep._ Valerian, 4 dr.; magnesia,
muriate of ammonia, oil of cajeput, of each 1 scruple.——_Dose._ A
teaspoonful three times a day. Dr Paris says the following was used
successfully by a Dutch empiric:——Sulphur, 1 scruple; sulphate of potash,
10 gr.; rhubarb, 5 gr.; nutmeg, 2 gr.; mix. (Germ. Hosp.) _Prep._ Oxide of
zinc, 16 gr.; carbonate of magnesia, 48 gr.; oleo-saccharum of cajeput, 3
dr. Mix for 8 doses. _Poudre de Ragolo._ Oxide of zinc, 10 gr.; valerian,
mistletoe, sugar, orange leaves, of each 4 dr.; magnesia, 2 scruples; oil
of cajeput, 2 scruples; a teaspoonful three times a day. Pasquier
prescribes——Wall crop, 10 gr.; gum Arabic, 10 gr.; 1 to 4 powders daily
for eight times. SOMMER’S SPECIFIC consists of——Wall crop, 6 to 10 gr.;
oleo-saccharum of mint, 8 gr.; one morning and evening for six times. See
PULVIS ARTEMISIÆ SACCHARATUS. The _Poudre de Guttète_ consists of
mistletoe, 2 parts; white dittany, 2; pæony root and seeds, 2; prepared
coral, 1; elk’s hoof, 2; seeds of orache, 2. Given in doses of a few
grains in convulsions of infants, or in larger doses for epilepsy.
=Powder, Antihydrophobic.= (Dr Mead.) _Syn._ PULVIS ANTILYSSUS. _Prep._
Ash-coloured ground liver-wort (_Pettidea canina_), 1/2 oz.; black pepper,
2 dr.; mix, and give a fourth part every morning for 4 times.
=Powder, Antimo′′nial.= _Syn._ FEVER POWDER, LISLE’S P., JAMES’S P.;
PULVIS JACOBI, PULVIS ANTIMONIALIS (B. P., Ph. E., & D.), PULVIS ANTIMONII
COMPOSITUS (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) A mixture of tersulphide of
antimony, 1 lb., and hartshorn shavings, 2 lbs., is reduced to powder,
thrown into a crucible heated to whiteness, and stirred constantly until
vapour no longer rises; the calcined mixture is then rubbed to powder,
again put into the crucible, and the heat gradually increased to
whiteness, and maintained so for 2 hours; the residuum is, lastly, reduced
to a very fine powder.
2. (Ph. E.) From sulphide of antimony and hartshorn shavings, equal
weights; as the last.
3. (Ph. D.) Tartarised antimony, 4 oz., is dissolved in water, 1/2 gall.,
and added to solution of phosphate of soda, 4 oz., in water, 1 quart; a
solution of chloride of calcium, 2 oz., in water, 1 quart, and to which
solution of ammonia (Ph. D.), 4 fl. oz., has been added, is next poured
in, and the whole boiled for 20 minutes; the precipitate is then collected
on a calico filter, and washed with hot distilled water, until the liquid
which passes ceases to give a precipitate with a weak solution of nitrate
of silver; it is, lastly, dried by a steam or water heat, and reduced to a
fine powder.
4. (B. P.) Oxide of antimony, 1; precipitated phosphate of lime, 2;
mix.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 gr.
_Uses, &c._ Febrifuge and diaphoretic. Intended as a substitute for the
proprietary and more expensive JAMES’S POWDER.——_Dose_, 3 to 10 or 12 gr.,
or more, repeated every fourth or fifth hour until diaphoresis is set up;
in fevers, rheumatic affections, chronic skin diseases, &c. It is a very
uncertain and variable compound, unless it has been carefully prepared. Dr
Elliotson exhibited it in doses of 100 gr. without producing any sensible
effect. A spurious article, made by triturating 1 oz. of tartar emetic
with 18 or 19 oz. of burnt hartshorn, is frequently sold for it in the
shops. See ANTIMONIOUS ACID and JAMES’S POWDER.
=Powder, Antispasmodic.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PULVIS ANTISPASMODICUS. _Prep._
Cyanide of zinc, 3 gr.; calcined magnesia, 24 gr.; cinnamon, 12 gr.; mix.
For 6 doses.
=Powder, Antispasmodic.= (Jourdan.) _Syn._ PULVIS ANTISPASMODICUS. _Prep._
Valerian, 1 oz.; oxide of zinc, 1 scruple; musk, 8 gr.; mix.
=Powder, Aromat′ic.= See POWDER, COMPOUND CINNAMON.
=Powder, Arsen′ical.= See POWDER, ESCHAROTIC.
=Powder of Asarabac′ca (Compound).= See SNUFF (Cephalic).
=Powder, Astrin′gent.= _Syn._ PULVIS ASTRINGENS, P. STYPTICUS, L. _Prep._
1. From Aleppo galls and burnt alum, in fine powder, equal parts. Used in
piles, soft polypi of the nose, chilblains, &c.
=Powder, Ba′′king.= _Prep._ 1. Tartaric acid, 1/2 lb.; bicarbonate of soda
and potato farina or British arrow-root, of each 3/4 lb. (each in powder);
separately dry them perfectly by a very gentle heat, then mix them in a
dry room, pass the mixture through a sieve, and at once put it into
packets, observing to press it hard, and to cover it with tinfoil or
close-made paper, to preserve it as much as possible from the air and
moisture.
2. (Delforte’s.) Powdered tartaric acid, 1/4 lb.; powdered alum, 1/2 lb.;
bicarbonate of soda, 3/4 lb.; farina, 1 lb.; dry separately, as before,
mix, and further add of sesquicarbonate of ammonia (in powder), 3 oz.;
lastly, closely pack it in tinfoil.
3. (Green’s.) Tartaric acid, 35 lbs.; sesquicarbonate of soda, 56 lbs.;
potato flour, 1 cwt.; mix as before.
_Uses, &c._ Baking powder is chiefly employed as a substitute for yeast. 1
or 2 teaspoonfuls are mixed with the dry flour and other ingredients,
which are then made into a dough, as quickly as possible, with cold water,
and at once baked or boiled as the case may be. By the addition of about
1/2 dr. of turmeric powder to each pound of the mixture it is converted
into egg powder. When intended to be kept for any length of time it should
be preserved in bottles or tins, so as to prevent the absorption of
moisture. We have discovered traces of arsenic in some of the baking
powders of the shops, which we refer to common washerwoman’s soda being
used in their composition, instead of the pure carbonate or
sesquicarbonate.
=Powder, Basil′ic.= _Syn._ ROYAL POWDER, CORNACHINI’S P.; PULVIS
BASILICUS, P. CORNACHINI, L. _Prep._ From scammony, calomel, cream of
tartar, and diaphoretic antimony, equal parts. This is the formula
generally adopted for this compound, which has now long been omitted from
the Pharmacopœias. It is still a favourite with many practitioners, as an
alterative purgative, and vermifuge for children.——_Dose._ For a child, 2
to 8 gr.; for an adult, 5 to 20 gr. Compound powder of scammony is now
generally sold for it.
=Powder, Belladonna, Saccharated.= (Wertzler.) _Syn._ PULVIS BELLADONNÆ
SACCHARATUS. _Prep._ Belladonna root, 15 gr.; pure sugar, 1 dr.; mix. For
72 powders. One twice a day, or oftener, according to the age. In
hooping-cough.
=Powder, Blaine’s Distem′per.= The basis of this preparation is the ‘aurum
musivum,’ or bisulphuret of tin. (Dr Paris.)
=Powder, Blancmange′.= _Prep._ From sago meal, 1 lb.; essence of lemon, 15
drops; mace, 12 gr.; mix.
=Powder, Bleaching.= Chloride or hypochlorite of lime.
=Powder, Blue.= See SMALTS.
=Powder, Bronze.= See STANNIC SULPHIDE, BRONZING, &c.
=Powder of Burnt Hartshorn.= _Syn._ PULVIS CORNU CERVINI USTI, L. _Prep._
From pieces of hartshorn calcined to whiteness, and powdered. It consists
principally of phosphate of lime.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.; in rickets, &c.
=Powder of Burnt Hartshorn with O′pium.= _Syn._ PULVIS OPIATUS, PULVIS
CORNU USTI CUM OPIO, L. _Prep._ From powdered calcined hartshorn, 1 oz.;
powdered opium and cochineal, of each 1 dr.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.
=Powder of Camphor.= Camphor may be readily pulverised by triturating it
with the addition of a few drops of rectified spirit or ether.
=Powder, Camphorated Nitre.= (Swediaur.) _Syn._ PULVIS NITRO CAMPHORATUS.
_Prep._ Nitre, 10 gr.; camphor, 4 gr.; gum Arabic, 24 gr.; mix. For two or
three doses.
=Powder, Capuchin′.= _Prep._ From powdered cevadilla, parsley seed,
stavesacre, and tobacco, equal parts. Used to destroy pediculi.
=Powder, Castillon’s.= _Prep._ From sago meal, salep, and gum tragacanth,
of each 3 dr.; prepared oyster shells, 1 dr.; cochineal, q. s. to colour.
Absorbent.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr., boiled in milk; in diarrhœa, &c.
=Powder of Cat′echu (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS CATECHU COMPOSITUS (B. P.,
Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.) Take catechu and kino, of each 2 oz.;
cinnamon and nutmeg, of each 1/2 oz.; reduce each to a fine powder, mix,
and keep the prepared powder in a well-stopped bottle. Aromatic and
astringent.——_Dose_, 1/4 dr. to 2 dr.; in various affections.
2. (B. P.) Pale catechu; kino, 2; rhatany, 2; cinnamon, 1; nutmeg, 1;
mix.——_Dose_, 15 to 30 gr.
=Powder of Chalk (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS CRETÆ AROMATICUS (B. P.),
PULVIS CRETÆ COMPOSITUS (Ph. L., E., & D.), P. CARBONATIS CALCIS COMP., L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Prepared chalk, 1/2 lb.; cinnamon, 4 oz.; tormentil
and gum acacia, of each 3 oz.; long pepper, 1/2 oz.; rub them, separately,
to a very fine powder, and mix them.
2. (Ph. E.) Prepared chalk, 4 oz.; cinnamon, in fine powder, 1-1/2 dr.;
nutmeg, in fine powder, 1 dr.
3. (Ph. D.) Prepared chalk, 5 oz.; cinnamon, 2-1/2 oz.; gum, 2 oz.;
nutmeg, 1/2 oz.
4. (AROMATIC POWDER OF CHALK——B. P.) Chalk, 11; cinnamon, 4; nutmeg, 3;
saffron, 3; cloves, 1-1/2; cardamom seed, 1; refined sugar, 25; all in
powder; mix.——_Dose_, 30 to 60 gr.
_Uses, &c._ Aromatic, astringent, and antacid.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.; in
acidity, flatulence, heartburn, diarrhœa, &c. The following form is used
by many wholesale houses:——Prepared chalk, 4 lbs.; powdered cassia, 2
lbs.; powdered calamus aromaticus, 3/4 lb.; powdered gum, 1-1/2 lb.; long
pepper, 1/4 lb.
=Powder of Chalk with Opium (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS CRETÆ AROMATICUS
CUM OPIO (B. P.); OPIATED CHALK POWDER; PULVIS CRETÆ COMPOSITUS CUM OPIO
(Ph. L.), PULVIS CRETÆ OPIATIS (Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Compound chalk powder, 6-1/2 oz.; powdered opium, 80 gr.
2. (Ph. E.) Compound chalk powder, 6 oz.; powdered opium, 80 gr.
3. (Ph. D.) Compound chalk powder, 4 oz. 7 dr.; opium, in fine powder, 1
dr.
4. (Wholesale.) Compound chalk powder, 21 oz.; powdered opium, 1/2 oz.
Anodyne, antacid, and carminative.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.; in the same
cases as the preceding, than which it is more active. It has long been a
favourite remedy in all cases of simple and even choleraic diarrhœa.
5. Aromatic powder of chalk (_see_ POWDER OF CHALK (Compound), 4), 39;
opium, in powder, 1; mix thoroughly, and pass through a sieve.——_Dose_, 10
to 40 gr.
=Powder, Chalk Mixture.= _Syn._ PULVIS PRO MISTURA CRETÆ, L. _Prep._
(Beasley.) Powdered gum acacia, 5 oz.; prepared chalk, 4 oz.; white sugar,
3 oz.; oil of cinnamon, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; mix. 40 gr. of this powder,
triturated with 1 fl. oz. of water.
=Powder, Chol′era (Saline).= _Syn._ PULVIS SALINUS ANTICHOLERICUS, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Dr O’Shaughnessy.) Carbonate of soda, 5 gr.; chloride of
sodium, phosphate of soda, and sulphate of soda, of each 10 gr. For a
dose.
=Powder of Cin′namon (Compound).= _Syn._ AROMATIC POWDER; PULVIS CINNAMOMI
COMPOSITUS (B. P., Ph. L.), PULVIS AROMATICUS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
L.) Cinnamon, 2 oz.; cardamoms, 1-1/2 oz.; ginger, 1 oz.; long pepper, 1/2
oz.; rub them together so that a fine powder may be made.
2. (B. P., Ph. E.) Cinnamon, cardamom seeds, and ginger, equal parts; to
be kept in a well-closed glass vessel.
3. (Ph. D.) Cinnamon and ginger, of each 2 oz.; cardamom seeds (husked),
and nutmegs, of each 1 oz. Aromatic and carminative.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.
In the powder of the shops cassia is generally substituted for cinnamon.
=Powder, Cla′rifying.= Flake albumen. See ALBUMEN.
=Powder, Cock′le.= From the well-known shell-fish _Cardium edule_ (Linn.),
as oyster powder.
=Powder, Colbatche’s Specific.= _Prep._ From solution of sesquichloride of
iron and acetate of lead, of each 4 oz.; mix, evaporate to dryness, powder
the residuum, and preserve it from the air. Astringent and
hæmostatic.——_Dose_, 3 to 8 grs.
=Powder of Col′ocynth.= _Syn._ PULVIS COLOCYNTHIDIS, L. That of the shops
is generally prepared from the whole of the peeled fruit, with the seeds,
instead of merely from the pulp, by which its activity is greatly
lessened. A factitious article is also met with in trade, made by grinding
bryony root with about twice its weight of colocynth seeds and a very
small quantity of gamboge.
=Powder, Compound Almond.= (B. Ph.) _Syn._ PULVIS AMYGDALÆ COMPOSITUS.
_Prep._ Steep 8 oz. of Jordan almonds in warm water till their skins can
be easily removed; and, when blanched, dry them thoroughly with a soft
cloth, and rub them lightly in a mortar to a smooth consistence; mix gum
Arabic in powder, 1 oz.; and refined sugar, in powder, 4 oz.; and adding
them to the pulp gradually, rub the whole to a coarse powder. Keep it in a
lightly covered jar.
=Powder, Compound Bark.= (Geneva Ph.) _Syn._ PULVIS CINCHONÆ COMPOSITUS.
_Prep._ Peruvian bark, 1 oz.; rhubarb, 1-1/2 dr.; muriate of ammonia,
1-1/2 dr.; mix.
=Powder, Compound Belladonna.= 1. (Hecker.) _Prep._ Belladonna, 1 to 3
gr.; musk, 5 gr.; camphor, 5 gr.; white sugar, 30 gr.; mix. For 8 powders.
2. (Kopp.) Belladonna root, 2 gr.; ipecacuanha, 2 gr.; sulphur, 32 gr.;
sugar of milk, 32 gr. Mix, and divide into 3 powders, three daily. In
hooping-cough.
=Powder, Compound Ceruse.= (Ph. L. 1788.) _Syn._ PULVIS CERUSÆ COMPOSITUS.
_Prep._ Carbonate of lead, 5 oz.; sarcocol, 1-1/2 oz.; tragacanth, 1/2
oz.; mix. For outward use.
=Powder, Compound, of Cyanide of Zinc.= (Guibourt.) _Syn._ PULVIS ZINCI
CYANIDI COMPOSITUS. _Prep._ Cyanide of zinc, 2 gr.; calcined magnesia, 27
gr.; cinnamon, 10 gr.; mix. For 6 doses, in cramp of the stomach.
=Powder, Compound Fennel.= (Brunsw. Ph.) _Syn._ PULVIS FŒNICULI
COMPOSITUS. _Prep._ Carbonate of magnesia, 1 oz.; fennel seeds, 1-2 oz.;
orange peel, 2 dr.; white sugar, 2 dr. Reduce each to a fine powder and
mix.
=Powder, Compound Musk.= (Russ. Ph.) _Syn._ PULVIS MOSCHI COMPOSITUS.
_Prep._ Musk, 8 parts; valerian, 10 parts; camphor, 3 parts.
=Powder, Compound Opium.= (B. P.) _Syn._ PULVIS OPII COMPOSITUS. _Prep._
Mix thoroughly 1-1/2 oz. of opium, in powder, with 2 oz. of powdered black
pepper, 5 oz. of ginger, 6 oz. of caraways, and 1/2 oz. of tragacanth.
Pass the powders through a fine sieve, rub them lightly in a mortar, and
keep the powder in a stoppered bottle. This powder nearly represents the
dry ingredients of confection of opium, L.——_Dose_, 2 to 5 gr.
=Powder, Compound Silver.= (Serre.) _Syn._ PULVIS ARGENTI COMPOSITUS.
_Prep._ Chloride of silver, 1 gr.; washed orris powder, 2 gr. Used in
frictions, the same as COMPOUND GOLD POWDER.
=Powder, Compound of Sulphate of Soda.= _Syn._ PULVIS SODÆ SULPHATIS
COMPOSITUS. SEL DE GUINDRE. _Prep._ Dried sulphate of soda, 18 dr.;
nitrate of potash, 1/2 dr.; potassio-tartrate of antimony, 1 gr. A third
part to be taken in water or herb broth.
=Powder, Compound Sulphur.= _Syn._ PULVIS SULPHURIS COMPOSITUS.
RATIER:——Sulphur, 1 oz.; cream of tartar, 1 oz.; white sugar, q. s. VAN
MONS (antidysenteric powder):——Sulphur, 1 oz.; fennel seed, 1 dr.; white
sugar, 2 oz.; gum Arabic, 2 oz.; mix. SWEDIAUR (pectoral
powder):——Sulphur, 1/2 oz.; liquorice, 1 oz.; orris, 2 dr.; benzoic acid,
1 scruple; white sugar, 2 oz.; oil of anise and fennel, of each 10 drops.
=Powder of Contrayer′va (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS CONTRAYERVÆ COMPOSITUS,
L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1824.) Powdered contrayerva root, 5 oz.; prepared
oyster shells, 1-1/2 lb.; mix. A tonic absorbent or antacid.——_Dose_, 10
gr. to 1/2 dr., as required.
=Powder, Cooling.= (G. Ph.) _Syn._ PULVIS TEMPERANE. _Prep._ Nitrate of
potash, 1 oz.; cream of tartar, 3 oz.; sugar, 6 oz.
=Powder, Corn.= See CORN SOLVENT and POWDER, WART (_below_).
=Powder, Cosmet′ic.= _Syn._ PULVIS COSMETICUS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Hann.
1831.) Blanched sweet almonds and beans, of each 18 oz.; orris root, 8
oz.; white Spanish soap, 6 oz.; spermaceti, 1-1/2 oz.; dried carbonate of
soda, 1 oz.; oils of lavender, bergamot, and lemon, of each 6 dr.; mix,
and beat them to a powder. See POWDER, HAIR, and HAND (_below_), PASTE
(Almond), POWDERS (Scented), &c.
=Powder of Cryst′al.= From quartz, like POWDERED GLASS (page 805). Used to
make fine glass; also for a dryer for paints, and sold under the name of
‘diamond dust’ for razor strops.
=Powder of Cubebs with Alum.= (Matthieu.) _Syn._ PULVIS CUBEBÆ CUM
ALUMINE. _Prep._ Cubebs, 2 oz.; alum, 4 dr.; mix. For 9 doses. Three
daily, in gonorrhœa.
=Powder, Cur′ry.= _Syn._ INDIAN CURRY POWDER. The samples of this compound
prepared by different houses vary so greatly from each other in the
proportions of the ingredients, that it is difficult to regard any one as
a standard. The following are therefore merely given as examples:——
_Prep._ 1. Corianders, 1 lb.; turmeric, 3/4 lb.; black pepper, 1/2 lb.;
scorched mustard, 1/4 lb.; ginger, 2 oz.; cumin seed, 1 oz.; capsicums,
3/4 oz.; mace, 1/4 oz. (all in powder); mix well.
2. Coriander seeds and black pepper, of each 8 lbs.; turmeric and cumin
seeds, of each 4 lbs., allspice, 3/4 lb.; mace, 1 oz. (all in powder);
mix. This receipt is employed by an eminent wholesale house that does very
largely in curry powder.
3. (See page 524.)
Used as a condiment and flavouring ingredient. The addition of a few heads
of garlic gives it an increased zest for Indian veterans.
=Powder, Cust′ard.= _Prep._ From sago meal, 2 lbs.; powdered turmeric, 1/2
oz.; bitter-almond powder, cassia, and mace, of each 1/2 dr.
=Powder, Cyprus.= From _Cladonia rangiferina_, or reindeer moss. It has a
very agreeable smell, and, being extremely retentive of odours, is much
used as a basis for scent-powders, sachets, &c. The lichen known as the
ragged hoary evernia also possesses nearly similar properties, and is
often substituted for it. See POWDERS (Scented).
=Powder, Diapente.= (Ed. Ph. 1744.) _Syn._ PULVIS DIAPENTE. _Prep._
Aristolochia root, gentian, bay berries, myrrh, ivory dust, of each 2 oz.;
mix.
=Powder, Disinfect′ing.= _Syn._ PULVIS DISINFECTANS, L. _Prep._ (Keist.)
Bisulphate of potassa, 41 parts; sugar of lead, 7 parts; binoxide of
manganese, 3 parts, reduce them separately to a fine powder, and, when
wanted for use, mix a proper quantity in any suitable vessel. For other
formulæ, see DISINFECTING COMPOUNDS. The name is generally applied to
hypochlorite of lime.
=Powder, Diuretic.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PULVIS DIURETICUS. _Prep._ Gum
Arabic, 6 oz.; sugar of milk, 6 oz.; nitrate of potash, 1 oz.; marshmallow
root, 1 oz.; liquorice root, 2 oz.; mix.
=Powder, Dover’s.= _Syn._ PULVIS DOVERI, L. _Prep._ (Original formula.)
Nitre and sulphate of potassa, of each 4 oz.; melt them together in a
red-hot crucible, reduce the cold fused matter to powder, and add powdered
ipecacuanha, liquorice, and opium, of each 1 oz. This is the formula
adopted in the Paris Codex. COMPOUND IPECACUANHA POWDER is now sold under
this name. (See _below_.)
=Powder, Duke of Portland’s.= _Syn._ PULVIS ANTIARTHRITICUS. _Prep._ Round
birthwort, gentian, tops of lesser centaury, tops of ground pine, and
germander, of each equal parts.——_Dose_, 1 dr.
=Powder, Egg.= See POWDER, BAKING.
=Powder of Elaterium, Compound.= (B. Ph.) PULVIS ELATERII COMPOSITUS.
_Prep._ Elaterium, 10 gr.; sugar of milk, 90 gr. Rub them together to fine
powder.——_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 5 gr.
=Powder, Emmen′agogue.= _Syn._ PULVIS EMMENAGOGUS, P. HÆMATINUS, P. CONTRA
AMENORRHŒAM, L. _Prep._ 1. Saccharine carbonate of iron, 3 parts; powdered
myrrh, ginger, and nutmeg, of each 1 part; divide into 1/2-dr. papers. One
for a dose, twice or thrice daily.
2. (Augustin.) Myrrh, 12 gr.; saffron, 3 gr.; oil of cloves, 1 drop. For a
dose, as the last.
3. (Klein.) Calomel, 4 gr.; extract of yew, 10 gr.; powdered savine, 1
dr.; Quevenne’s iron, 1/2 dr.; loaf sugar, 2 dr. For 6 powders; as
before.
=Powder, Emulsive, of Gluten.= (Taddei.) _Syn._ PULVIS GLUTENIS EMULSIVUS.
_Prep._ Fresh vegetable gluten, 10 oz.; soap, 2 oz.; water, 1 pint.
Dissolve, evaporate the solution, dry it on plates, and reduce to powder.
As an antidote to corrosive sublimate.
=Powder, Escharot′ic (Arsenical).= _Syn._ PULVIS ESCHAROTICUS ARSENICALIS,
L.; POUDRE DU FRÈRES COSME, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (Original formula.) From white
arsenic, 12 gr.; burnt hartshorn, 1/2 dr.; cinnabar, 1 dr.
2. (P. Cod.) Red sulphuret of mercury and powdered dragon’s blood, of each
2 parts; levigated arsenious acid, 1 part; carefully mixed together. See
CAUSTIC, ARSENICAL.
=Powder of Extract of Col′ocynth (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS EXTRACTI
COLOCYNTHIDIS COMPOSITI, L. _Prep._ From compound extract of colocynth
(Ph. L. 1836), dried by a gentle heat, and powdered.
_Obs._ This, like many other articles employed by lazy dispensers, does
not represent the preparation for which it is used as a substitute;
whilst, from its peculiar character, it is very open to sophistication——a
practice, we regret to say, very general with certain druggists. Indeed,
some of these parties make this article by simply throwing the ingredients
of the extract into a pan along with a little water, and, when they have
become soft, stirring them together with a spatula, after which they are
desiccated and powdered. This is then labelled by certain houses, “Pulv.
Ext. Coloc. co.——P. L.,” and sold to their unfortunate customers as such,
although no such an extract has been in the Ph. L. since that of 1836.
=Powder, Faynard’s.= The charcoal of beechwood, finely powdered. (Paris.)
Used in piles, and as a styptic.
=Powder, Fe′ver.= See POWDER, ANTIMONIAL (_above_).
=Powder of Flint.= _Syn._ SILEX CONTRITUS (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ As powdered
glass. (See page 805.) It is ordered in the Ph. L. to be employed, instead
of magnesia, for the purpose of mechanically dividing the essential oils
used in the preparation of distilled water. It is also used as an
escharotic.
=Powder, Fly.= _Prep._ From white arsenic, 5 oz.; white sugar, 6 lbs.;
rose pink, 2 oz.; mix, and put 6 dr. in each paper. Used to kill flies. It
is poisonous, and should be employed with great caution, particularly
where there are children.
=Powder, Fu′′migating.= _Syn._ PULVIS FUMALIS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Russ.)
Amber, mastic, and olibanum, of each 3 parts; storax, 2 parts; benzoin and
labdanum, of each 1 part; reduce them to coarse powder, and mix them well.
See FUMIGATION.
=Powder, Galls of (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS GALLÆ COMPOSITUS, L. See
POWDER, ASTRINGENT.
=Powder, Gascoign’s.= _Syn._ PULVIS ECHELIS COMPOSITUS. _Prep._ Prepared
crab shells, 1 lb.; prepared chalk, 3 oz.; prepared coral, 3 oz.; mix.
=Powder, Goelis’s Antihec′tic.= _Prep._ From burnt hartshorn, powdered
nutmeg, black pepper, and roasted laurel berries, of each 1 part;
liquorice powder, 3 parts.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr; in the hectic fever of
scrofulous subjects.
=Powder, Gold.= _Syn._ PULVIS AURI. Triturate gold leaf with 10 or 12
times its weight of sulphate of potash till bright particles are no longer
visible; pass it through a sieve, mix with boiling water, wash what
remains on the filter, and dry in a stove.
=Powder, Gold Compound.= _Syn._ PULVIS AURI COMPOSITUS. _Prep._
Auro-chloride of sodium, 1 gr.; lycopodium, starch, or washed orris
powder, 1 scruple; mix. A 1/15th part, gradually increased to 1/8th part,
of this powder to be rubbed on the gums.
=Powder of Gold and Iron.= (Buckler.) _Syn._ PULVIS AURI ET FERRI. _Prep._
Pulverised gold, 2 scruples; clean levigated iron filings, 2 scruples; gum
Arabic in powder, 30 gr.; mix. For one dose, to be given in water
acidulated with a few drops of sulphuric acid, as an antidote for
corrosive sublimate.
=Powder, Goulard.= Effloresced sugar of lead. Poisonous.
=Powder, Grey.= Mercurial powder.
=Powder, Gregory’s.= See POWDER OF RHUBARB (Compound).
=Powder of Guarana, Compound.= (Dr Gavrelle). _Syn._ PULVIS PAULLINIÆ
COMPOSITUS. _Prep._ Guarana, 1 dr.; compound cinnamon powder, 4 dr. Mix.
=Powder, Gum.= (G. Ph.) _Syn._ PULVIS GUMMOSUS. _Prep._ Gum Arabic, 3 oz.;
liquorice, 2 oz.; refined sugar, 1 oz. Mix.
=Powder, Hæmostat′ic.= _Syn._ PULVIS HÆMOSTATICUS, L. _Prep._ 1.
(Guibourt.) Charcoal and gum Arabic, of each, in powder, 1 part; powdered
resin, 4 parts.
2. (Mialhe.) From powdered alum, gum tragacanth, and tannin, equal parts.
Used to check local bleeding.
3. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Resin, 4 dr.; gum Arabic, 1 dr.; powdered catechu, 1
dr. Mix.
=Powder, Hair.= _Syn._ PULVIS PRO CRINE, L. Starch reduced to a very fine
powder, and then scented according to the fancy of the artist; it is,
lastly, passed through a gauze sieve. In its simple form, without any
addition, it constitutes ‘plain hair powder.’ In other cases it is
distinguished by the name of the substance added to perfume it. Thus, we
have ‘rose hair powder,’ ‘violet h. p.,’ &c. Potato farina, well
triturated, is now commonly used for hair powder. Amongst the lower
classes, the contents of the ‘flour dredger’ of the kitchen are frequently
misappropriated to this purpose. See POWDERS, SCENTED (_below_).
=Powder, Hand.= _Prep._ From almond powder, 1 lb.; powdered cuttle-fish
bone and white soap, of each 4 oz.; orris powder, 1 oz.; mix. Used to
clean the hands, and to render them soft and white. See POWDER, COSMETIC.
=Powder, Helvetius’s.= _Syn._ PULVIS HELVETII, L. A mixture of powdered
alum and dragon’s blood. (Dr Paris.)
=Powder, Herrenschwand’s Specific.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=Powder, Hiera Picra.= Powder of aloes with canella (see _above_).
=Powder, Hufeland’s.= _Syn._ HUFELAND’S QUINQUINA FACTICE, PULVIS CINCHONÆ
FACTITIUS, P. SALICIS COMPOSITUS, L. _Prep._ From bennet (the herb),
calamus aromaticus, chestnut bark, gentian root, and willow bark, equal
parts; reduced to powder.
=Powder, Hunter’s.= See POWDER, WART (_below_).
=Powder, Hunt’s.= See POWDER, BREAKFAST.
=Powder of Ipecacuan′ha (Compound).= _Syn._ DOVER’S POWDER, COMPOUND
POWDER OF IPECACUANHA WITH OPIUM; PULVIS DOVERI, PULVIS IPECACUANHÆ
COMPOSITUS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L.; POUDRE D’IPECACUANHA ET D’OPIUM,
Fr. _Prep._ 1. (B. P., Ph. L.) Ipecacuanha and opium, of each, in fine
powder, 1 dr.; sulphate of potassa, in fine powder, 1 oz.; mix them
(thoroughly). The Edin. and Dublin Formulæ are similar.
2. (P. Cod.) Nitre and sulphate of potassa, of each 4 oz.; ipecacuanha,
liquorice root, and hard extract of opium, of each 1 oz. This closely
resembles the original formula.
3. (Wholesale.) From powdered ipecacuanha and opium, of each 1 lb.;
powdered sulphate of potassa, 8 lbs. _Uses, &c._ ‘Dover’s powder’ is a
powerful and valuable sudorific.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 or 20 gr., followed by
warm diluents; in inflammatory affections, rheumatisms, colds, &c.
=Powder, Itch.= _Syn._ PULVIS ANTIPSORICUS, L. _Prep._ 1. Sulphur and
potato farina, of each 1/2 lb.; essence of bergamot, 1/4 oz.; mix.
2. (Poudre de Pihorel.) A mixture of finely pulverised sulphuret of
calcium and farina, in nearly equal quantities. Used either as a dusting
powder or mixed with a little oil or fat, and rubbed into the affected
part.
3. (Fr. Hosp.) Flowers of sulphur, 1 oz.; acetate of lead, 1 oz. Mix.
4. Equal parts of sulphur and charcoal.
=Powder of Jal′ap (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS JÂLAPÆ COMPOSITUS (B. P., Ph.
L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Jalap, 3 oz.; bitartrate of potassa,
6 oz.; ginger, 2 dr.; rub them separately into fine powder, then mix them.
2. (Ph. E.) As the last, omitting the ginger.
3. (Ph. D.) Jalap, 2 oz.; bitartrate of potassa, 3-1/2 oz.; ginger, 1/2
oz. (all in fine powder); mix by careful trituration.——_Dose_, 20 to 60
gr.; as a purgative in habitual costiveness, dropsies, &c.; also in worms,
the tumid bellies of children, &c.
4. (B. P.) Jalap, in powder, 5; acid tartrate of potash, 9; ginger, in
powder, 1; mix.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 gr.
5. (PULVIS LENITIVUS; SUCRE ORANGE PURGATIV.) From refined sugar, 3/4 lb.;
jalap and cream of tartar, of each 2 oz.; oil of orange peel, 1/4 oz. A
popular purgative on the Continent.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 dr.
=Powder, James’s.= _Syn._ PULVIS JACOBI, P. FEBRIFUGUS JACOBI, L. The
antimonial powder, or compound powder of antimony, of the Pharmacopœias
(see _above_) is the preparation which usually passes under this name; but
the true James’s powder is a nostrum the pretended secret of the
preparation of which is claimed to be possessed by only two parties in the
kingdom. The patent specification of the once celebrated Dr James runs as
follows:——
“Take of antimony, calcine it with a continued protracted heat, in a flat,
unglazed earthen vessel, adding to it, from time to time, a sufficient
quantity of any animal oil and salt, well dephlegmated; then boil it in
melted nitre for a considerable time, and separate the powder from the
nitre by dissolving it in water.” On this it has been remarked that it
yields a product totally different from that which Dr James and his
successors have sold under the name, and he has hence been charged with
concealing the real formula for his powder, and publishing a false one in
its stead.
According to Dr Robinson, the original formula for this nostrum, and that
still adopted by the vendors of the proprietary article at the present
day, is——Tartarised antimony, 1 part; prepared burnt hartshorn and calx of
antimony, of each 5 parts; carefully mixed together, and divided into
21-gr. powders. (‘Phil. Journ. Pharm.,’ vi, 282.)
From analyses recently made of three specimens of James’s powder
(‘Newberry’s,’ ‘Butler’s,’ and a sample of 60 years old obtained by Mr
Squire), it appears that antimonious acid was present in different
proportions, from about 45% to 33%, the amount being greatest in the old
specimen; teroxide of antimony was also present to the extent of from 9%
to less than 1%, the greatest quantity being again in the old preparation;
the remainder in each specimen consisted chiefly of phosphate of lime; no
trace of tartaric acid was discoverable in any of the samples.
Perhaps no nostrum ever received such extensive patronage from the faculty
as James’s powder. Dr James himself was remarkably successful in its use;
but whether his success depended upon his powder or the mercurials and
bark which he commonly employed at the same time is still undetermined.
=Powder of Kermes with Camphor.= (Germ. Hosp.) _Syn._ PULVIS KERMETIS CUM
CAMPHORA. _Prep._ Kermes mineral, 3 gr.; camphor, 6 gr.; white sugar, 2
dr.; mix. For 12 doses.
=Powder of Kermes with Ipecacuanha.= (Fr. Hosp.) _Syn._ PULVIS KERMETIS
CUM IPECACUANHA. _Prep._ Kermes, 2 gr.; ipecacuanha, 2 gr.; crabs’ eyes, 2
scruples; gum Arabic, 2 scruples; mix. For 12 doses. In hooping-cough.
=Powder of Ki′no (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS KINO COMPOSITUS (Ph. L.), L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L.) Kino, 15 dr.; cinnamon, 4 dr.; dried opium, 1 dr.; reduce
them separately to fine powder, and then mix them.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.;
in diarrhœa, pyrosis, &c.
(B. P.) _Prep._ Kino, 3-3/4 oz.; cinnamon, 1 oz.; opium, 1/4 oz.;
mix.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.
=Powder, Lausanne.= _Prep._ From nitre, 1-1/2 dr.; carbonate of magnesia,
bitartrate of potassa, precipitated sulphur, and oleo-saccharum of
peppermint, of each 4 dr.; sugar of milk, 1 oz. Lenitive and
antidysenteric.
=Powder, Lax′ative.= See SPECIES, LAXATIVE.
=Powder of Liquorice (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS GLYCYRRHIZÆ COMPOSITUS, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. Bor.) Liquorice root and senna leaves, of each 6 oz.;
fennel seed and milk of sulphur (pure), of each 3 oz.; white sugar, 18 oz.
(all in fine powder); mix. Pectoral and laxative.
2. (B. Ph.) _Prep._ Senna and liquorice root, both in fine powder, of each
2 oz.; sugar, in fine powder, 6 oz. Mix thoroughly and pass through a fine
sieve.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 1 dr.
=Powder of Magne′sia and Rhu′barb.= See POWDER OF COMPOUND RHUBARB
(_below_).
=Powder, Martin’s Cancer.= An American nostrum, composed of the powdered
stems of the _Orobanche Virginiana_ (Linn.), combined with a very small
quantity of arsenious acid. It is used as a sprinkle for open cancers and
cancerous sores.
=Powder, Mercu′′rial.= _Syn._ GREY POWDER (HYDRARGYRUM CUM CRETÂ, B. P.),
MERCURY WITH CHALK. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Mercury, 1; prepared chalk, 2;
triturate till the globules disappear.——_Dose_, 3 to 8 gr.
2. Mercury, 3 oz.; powdered resin, 3/4 oz.; prepared chalk, 5 oz.;
rectified spirit, q. s.; make a paste with the resin and a small quantity
of the spirit; add the mercury, which may be extinguished in a short time;
then the chalk and alcohol, gradually, so as to keep up the pasty
consistence; lastly, add sufficient spirit to dissolve out the resin, wash
the powder on a filter, and dry it. Rectified oil of turpentine may be
substituted for the spirit.
=Powder, Morison’s Ape′′rient.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=Powder of Mugwort, Saccharated.= (Bresler.) Powdered mugwort root, 3 oz.;
sugar, 6 oz.; a teaspoonful four times a day in chorea and epilepsy.
=Powder of Mush′room.= _Syn._ PULVIS AGARICI, P. A. ESCULENTI, L. From
edible mushrooms, dried by a gentle heat, and then powdered along with a
little white pepper, cloves, and mace. Some cayenne is frequently added.
=Powder of Mus′sel.= From the _Mytilus edulis_ (Linn.), or common mussel,
in the same way as POWDER OF OYSTER.
=Powder of Myrrh (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS È MYRRHÂ COMPOSITUS, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L. 1788.) Myrrh, dried savine, dried rue, and Russian castor,
equal parts, rubbed to powder, and then well mixed. Emmenagogue and
antispasmodic.——_Dose_, 12 to 30 gr.
=Powder, Nephritic.= (Fuller.) _Syn._ PULVIS NEPHRITICUS. _Prep._ Powdered
roots of smallage and saxifrage, of each 2 dr.; crabs’ eyes, 1 dr.;
sulphate of potash, 1 dr.; sal prunella, 2 scruples; oil of juniper, 4
drops. Mix.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 gr.
=Powder, Nur′sery.= See POWDER, VIOLET (_below_).
=Powder of Nux Vomica, Compound.= _Syn._ PULVIS NUCIS VOMICÆ COMPOSITUS;
VOGT’S STOMACHIC POWDER. _Prep._ Nux vomica, 18 gr.; ipecacuanha, 24 gr.;
rhubarb, 1 dr.; prepared oyster shell, 48 gr.; oleo-saccharum of mint, 1
dr. Mix, and divide into 12 powders.
=Powder, O′′piated.= Powder of chalk with opium.
=Powder, Opiated Guaiacum.= (Pareira.) _Syn._ PULVIS GUAIACI OPIATUS.
_Prep._ Guaiacum, 1 dr.; orange leaves, 1/2 dr.; acetate of morphia, 3/4
gr. Mix, and divide into 6 powders. One every two hours in articular
rheumatism.
=Powder of Oys′ter.= _Syn._ PULVIS OSTRÆ, L. _Prep._ From the common
oyster (_Ostrea edulis_——Linn.), pulped through a sieve, made into a paste
with wheaten flour and a little salt, and then rolled out into thin
pieces, and dried; these are reduced to powder, sifted, and packed in
well-corked bottles. Used to make sauce; about 1 oz., to water, 1 pint.
Other shell-fish are treated in the same way.
=Powder of Oxide of Zinc with Starch.= (Cazenave.) _Syn._ PULVIS ZINCI
OXYDI CUM AMYLO. _Prep._ Starch, 1 oz.; oxide of zinc, 1 dr.; camphor, in
powder, 1 dr. For excoriations and bed-sores.
=Powder, Parturifacient.= (E. Ph. 1744). _Syn._ PULVIS AD PARTUM. _Prep._
Borax, 4 dr.; castor, 1-1/2 dr.; saffron, 1-1/2 dr.; oil of cinnamon, 8
drops; oil of amber, 6 drops. Mix.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 gr. (This name, and
also that of PULVIS PARTURIFACIENS, has been given to powdered ergot.)
=Powder, Pea.= _Syn._ PEA FLOUR; FARINA PISORUM, L. _Prep._ From peas, in
the usual manner. Used to make extemporaneous pea-soup.
=Powder, Pearl.= _Prep._ From pure pearl white and French chalk (scraped
fine by Dutch rushes), equal parts; triturated together, Some makers add
more French chalk. Used as a skin cosmetic. This mixture is preferable to
pearl white alone, from being more adhesive.
=Powder, Pease.= _Prep._ From dried mint and sage, of each 4 oz,; celery
seed and white pepper, of each 1/2 oz.; turmeric powder, 1/4 oz.; reduced
to fine powder. Used as a condiment and kitchen-spice.
=Powder, Pec′toral.= See POWDER OF LIQUORICE, &c.
=Powder of Phosphate of Lime, Saccharated.= _Syn._ PULVIS CALCIS
PHOSPHATIS, SACCHARATUS. _Prep._ Precipitated phosphate of lime, 15 gr.,
white sugar, 85 gr.; triturate and divide into 20 packets. Two or more
powders daily, according to age of child. In rickets.
=Powder, Piles.= _Syn._ PULVIS ANTIHÆMORRHOIDALIS, P. HÆMORRHOIDALIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Fr. Hosp.) Precipitated sulphur, 3 oz.; cream of tartar and
black pepper, of each 1 oz.; oil of cubebs, 1/2 dr.——_Dose._ A
teaspoonful, in milk or honey, thrice a day.
2. (External.)——_a._ From Aleppo galls, in very fine powder, 2 oz.; opium,
in fine powder, 1 dr. A pinch to be applied occasionally.
_b._ From sesquioxide of iron, 1 oz.; powdered acetate of lead, 1/2 dr. As
the last.
=Powder of Pitch, Compound.= _Syn._ PULVIS PICIS COMPOSITUS; DISINFECTING
POWDER OF CORNE AND DEMAUX. 100 parts of plaster of Paris are triturated
thoroughly with 1 to 5 parts of coal tar. Used as an absorbent and
disinfectant to fetid ulcers and wounds.
=Powder, Plate.= _Syn._ PULVIS PRO ARGENTO, L. _Prep._ 1. Jeweller’s
rouge, 1/4 lb.; prepared chalk or levigated burnt hartshorn, 3/4 lb.; mix.
2. Levigated putty powder, 1/4 lb.; burnt hartshorn, 1/2 lb.; prepared
chalk, 1 lb.; rose pink, 1 oz.
3. (MERCURIAL.) From quicksilver with chalk, 1 oz.; prepared chalk, 11
oz.; mix. Used to clean and polish plate. See PLATE.
=Powder, Plate Boiling.= _Prep._ From cream of tartar, common salt, and
alum, equal parts. A little of this powder, added to the water in which
plate is boiled, gives to it a silvery whiteness.
=Powder, Plummer’s Al′terative.= See ANTIMONY, ETHIOPS OF.
=Powder, Poul′tice.= _Syn._ PULVIS PRO CATAPLASMATE (Ph. D. 1826), L.
_Prep._ From linseed meal, 1 part; oatmeal, 2 parts; mixed together.
=Powder, Purgative and Anthelmintic.= (Boerhaave). _Syn._ PULVIS PURGANS
ANTHELMINTICUS. _Prep._ Jalap, 12 gr. (or agaric, 8 gr.), Ethiops mineral,
12 gr.; for one dose.
=Powder of Quinine, Aerated.= (Dr Meireu). _Syn._ PULVIS QUINIÆ AERATUS.
_Prep._ Tartaric acid, 15 gr.; disulphate of quinia, 1-1/2 gr. Mix, and
add bicarbonate of soda, 18 gr.; refined sugar, 30 gr. Mix for one dose,
between the fits of intermittent fever.
=Powder of Quinine and Tobacco.= (Hug.) _Syn._ PULVIS QUINIÆ SULPHATIS ET
TABACI. _Prep._ Disulphate of quinine, 12 gr.; snuff, 1 oz. To be used as
a snuff for nervous headaches.
=Powder, Rat.= See RATS.
=Powder of Rhu′barb (Compound).= _Syn._ GREGORY’S MIXTURE, GREGORY’S
POWDER; PULVIS RHEI COMPOSITUS (B. P., Ph. E. and D.) L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
E.) Calcined magnesia, 1 lb.; rhubarb, 4 oz.; ginger, 2 oz. (all in fine
powder); mix, and preserve it from the air.
2. (B. P., Ph. D.) Calcined magnesia, 6 oz.; rhubarb, 2 oz.; ginger, 1 oz.
3. Calcined magnesia, 8 oz.; rhubarb, 3 oz.; chamomile, 2 oz.; ginger, 1
oz.
_Obs._ An excellent stomachic, antacid, and laxative.——_Dose_, 20 gr. to
1/2 dr. Some druggists substitute the heavy carbonate for the calcined
magnesia ordered above, but this alters the nature of the preparation, and
requires the dose to be increased. Heavy calcined magnesia may, however,
be employed with advantage.
=Powder, Sach′et.= See SCENTED POWDERS.
=Powder, Saline′ (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS SALINUS COMPOSITUS (Ph. E.),
L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Pure chloride of sodium and sulphate of magnesia, of
each 4 oz.; sulphate of potash, 3 oz.; each separately dried by a gentle
heat, and pulverised, then triturated together, and preserved in
well-closed vessels. An excellent saline purgative.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 dr.,
in 1/2 pint of water or table-beer, in the morning, fasting.
=Powder of Scammony (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS SCAMMONII COMPOSITUS (B.
P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Scammony and hard extract of
jalap, of each 2 oz.; ginger, 1/2 oz.; rub them separately to a very fine
powder, and then mix them.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr.
2. (Ph. E.) Scammony and bitartrate of potassa, of each, in very fine
powder, equal parts.——_Dose_, 7 to 20 gr.
3. (Ph. D.) Scammony, in fine powder, 1 oz.; compound powder of jalap, 3
oz.; mix,——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.
4. (B. P.) Scammony, 4; jalap, 3; ginger, 1; mix, and reduce to fine
powder.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr.
_Obs._ The above are favourite cathartics in worms, especially for
children. They are commonly sold for basilic powder. (See _above_.)
=Powder of Scammony with Cal′omel.= _Syn._ PULVIS SCAMMONII CUM
CALOMELANE, L. _Prep._ From scammony, 1/2 oz.; calomel and white sugar, of
each 2 dr. An excellent vermifuge for children.——_Dose._ For an adult, 5
to 20 gr.; for a child, 2 to 8 gr. Sold for basilic powder, to which it
approaches nearer in composition than the preceding.
=Powder of Scammony with Soot.= _Syn._ PULVIS SCAMMONII CUM FULIGINE;
POUDRE D’AILHAUT. _Prep._ Scammony, 1 dr.; wood soot, 1-1/2 dr.; resin, 2
dr.; mix. _Dose_, 1/2 dr. A once fashionable purgative.
=Powder, Schmidt’s Parturifa′′cient.= _Syn._ SCHMIDT’S POUDRE OCYTIQUE,
Fr. _Prep._ From powdered ergot of rye, borax, and oleo-saccharum of
camomile, of each 8 gr.; powdered sugar, q. s. For a dose; to be repeated
every quarter of an hour until some effect is produced.
=Powder of Scordium (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS E SCORDIO COMPOSITUS. (L.
Ph. 1746.) _Prep._ Bole, 4 oz.; scordium, 2 oz.; cinnamon, 1-1/2 oz.;
styrax tormentil, bistort, gentian, dittany, galbanum, gum acacia, red
rose petals, of each 1 oz.; long pepper, 1/2 oz.; ginger, 1/2 oz. Make a
powder.
=Powder of Scordium with Opium.= _Syn._ PULVIS E SCORDIO CUM OPIO. _Prep._
Add to the preceding, 3 dr. of dry strained opium, and powder it with the
other ingredients.
=Powder of Senna (Battley’s Green).= _Syn._ PULVIS SENNÆ VIRIDIS, L.
_Prep._ From senna leaves, dried and heated until they turn yellow, then
powdered along with a little (blue) charcoal, to give a green colour.
=Powder of Sen′na (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS SENNÆ COMPOSITUS, L. _Prep._
(Ph. L. 1824.) Senna and bitartrate of potassa, of each 2 oz.; scammony,
1/2 oz.; ginger, 2 dr.; all in fine powder; mix.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 gr., or
more; as a purgative or anthelmintic.
=Powder, Sil′vering.= _Prep._ 1. Silver dust (fine), 20 gr.; alum, 30 gr.;
common salt, 1 dr.; cream of tartar, 3 dr.; rub them together to a fine
powder.
2. As the last, but substituting 35 gr. of nitrate of silver for the
silver dust.
3. Chloride of silver is dissolved in a solution of hyposulphite of soda,
and the solution made into a paste with levigated burnt hartshorn or bone
dust; this is next dried, and powdered.
4. Silver dust, 1 oz.; common salt and sal ammoniac, of each 4 oz.;
corrosive sublimate, 1/4 oz.
_Obs._ The above powders, made into a paste with a little water, are used
to silver dial-plates, statuettes, and other articles in copper,
previously well cleaned, by friction. The best silver powder for the
purpose is that precipitated from its nitric solution by means of a copper
plate. When the product of the last formula is used, the articles should
be afterwards made red hot, and polished.
=Powder of Soap.= _Syn._ SAPO CONTRITUS, PULVIS SAPONIS, L. Castile soap,
sliced or cut small, dried by exposure to a warm atmosphere, or by a very
gentle heat, and then powdered. Used in dispensing; also as a hand,
shaving, and tooth powder. As a cosmetic it may be scented at will.
=Powder, Spermaceti.= _Syn._ PULVIS CETACEI. Spermaceti is pulverised as
camphor, by the aid of a few drops of spirit.
=Powder of Spermaceti, with Sugar.= _Syn._ PULVIS CETACEI CUM SACCHARO.
One part of powdered spermaceti with two of sugar. Pectoral.
=Powder of Sponge.= _Syn._ PULVIS SPONGIÆ, P. SPONGIÆ USTÆ, L. _Prep._ Let
sponge, cut into small pieces, be beaten so as to free it from sand or
stones; then burn it in a covered iron vessel, until it becomes black and
friable; finally, reduce it to powder. Deobstruent.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 3 dr.;
in glandular indurations and enlargements, &c. It should be of a
brownish-black colour; if over burnt its efficacy is destroyed.
=Powder of Squills.= _Syn._ PULVIS SCILLÆ, L. _Prep._ Remove the
membranous integuments from the bulb of the squill, cut it into thin
slices, and dry it at a heat between 90° and 100° Fahr.; next reduce it to
powder, and keep it in well-stoppered bottles.
=Powder, Sternuta′tory.= See SNUFFS (Medicated).
=Powder, Stahl’s Resolvent.= _Syn._ PULVIS RESOLVENS STAHLII. _Prep._
Antimonial powder, nitre, prepared crabs’ eyes, in equal parts.
=Powder of Starch with Soda.= _Syn._ PULVIS AMYLI ET SODÆ; DEVERGIE’S
ALKALINE POWDER. _Prep._ Mix 1 part of carbonate of soda in fine powder
with 10 of white starch. For external use in some skin diseases.
=Powder, Styp′tic.= See POWDER, ASTRINGENT, FAYNARD’S P., &c.
=Powder, Tonquin.= _Syn._ PULVIS ANTITYSSUS TUNQUINENSIS; Sir G. COBB’S
TONQUIN POWDER. _Prep._ Musk, 16 gr.; cinnabar, 48 gr.; to be mixed or
washed down with arrack or other spirit. Three doses to be given on three
alternate days, and three more on the three next changes of the moon.
=Powder of Trag′acanth (Compound).= _Syn._ PULVIS TRAGACANTHÆ COMPOSITUS
(B. P., Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Gum tragacanth, gum acacia,
and starch, of each, in fine powder, 1-1/2 oz.; powdered white sugar, 3
oz. The Edinburgh formula is similar. Demulcent.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 2
dr., in water or any simple liquid; in hoarseness and catarrhs, combined
with squills and henbane, to allay irritation; in dysentery, combined with
ipecacuahna; in gonorrhœa, strangury, &c., combined with acetate of
potassa or nitre.
2. (B. P.) Tragacanth, in powder, 1; gum Arabic, in powder, 1; starch, in
powder, 1; refined sugar, in powder, 3; rub well together.——_Dose_, 10 to
60 gr.
=Powder of Vanilla, with Sugar.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PULVIS VANILLÆ CUM
SACCHARO; POUDRE DE VANILLE SUCRÉE. Vanilla is reduced to powder by
cutting it in pieces, and triturating it with 9 times its weight of
refined sugar.
=Powder of Verdigris with Calomel.= _Syn._ PULVIS ÆRUGINIS CUM CALOMELANE.
_Prep._ Prepared verdigris, 1 dr.; calomel, 1 dr.; mix. For external use.
=Powder, Violet.= _Syn._ NURSERY POWDER, SKIN P. This is simply starch,
reduced to a very fine powder, and scented with orris powder or essence of
violets. The best kinds are also perfumed with a little musk or ambergris,
and are now generally made with potato farina. The commoner sort is only
scented with a little essence of bergamot or essence of lemon. ‘Plain
violet powder’ is, of course, unscented.
_Prep._ 1. Powdered starch, 28 lbs.; powdered orris root, 1 lb.; essence
of ambergris and essence of bergamot, of each 1/2 oz.; oil of rhodium, 1/2
dr.; mix, and pass the powder through a sieve.
2. Powdered starch, 14 lbs.; essence of bergamot, 1/2 oz.; oil of cloves,
1/2 oz.; as last. Used as a dusting powder in excoriations, &c. See
POWDERS, COSMETIC (_below_).
=Powder, Ward’s Sweating.= Resembles DOVER’S POWDER.
=Powder, Wart.= _Syn._ CORN POWDER, COSMETIC CAUSTIC, &c. _Prep._ 1. Ivy
leaves ground to powder. A pinch is applied with a rag, the part being
first moistened with strong vinegar. Useful for soft corns and warts.
2. (Hunter’s.) From savine and verdigris, equal parts. See CORN SOLVENT.
=Powder, Warwick’s (Earl of).= _Syn._ PULVIS COMITIS WARWICENCIS, L.
_Prep._ From scammony, prepared with the fumes of sulphur, 2 oz.;
diaphoretic antimony, 1 oz.; cream of tartar, 1/2 oz.——_Dose_, 15 to 30
gr.
_Obs._ This is a modification of CORNACHINI’S POWDER. It is represented in
the present Pharmacopœias by COMPOUND SCAMMONY POWDER. “Cornachini wrote a
whole book about his powder, the proportions of the ingredients of which
he varied according to circumstances.” (‘Med. Lex.’)
=Powder, Wash′ing.= The numerous compounds vended under this name have for
their basis the soda-ash of commerce, blended with common Scotch soda in
variable proportions. The best of them consist either wholly or chiefly of
the first of these substances. The alkaline matter is reduced to coarse
powder, and stirred up with liquid size, or with a decoction of linseed,
Irish moss, or British gum, and is then dried, and again crushed or
powdered, and at once put into the packages, in which it is rammed tight,
and covered up immediately. The object aimed at by the manufacturer is to
keep his commodity from the air as much as possible, because exposure
renders it less caustic, and consequently less detergent.
=Powder of Yellow Bladder-wrack.= (Ph. D.) _Syn._ PULVIS QUERCUS MARINÆ.
_Prep._ Yellow bladder-wrack, in flower, is dried, cleansed, and heated in
a crucible with a perforated lid till vapours cease to be given off, and
the carbonaceous residue reduced to powder.——_Dose_, 10 gr. to 2 dr.
=POWDERS.= The following preparations have been placed under this head
instead of under ‘POWDER,’ because some are invariably spoken of in the
plural number, and the others may be conveniently noticed in classes or
groups.
=Powders, Aerated Sherbet (IN ONE BOTTLE).= Double refined sugar, 14-1/2
oz.; powdered orange peel, 12 gr.; bicarbonate of soda, 3-1/2 oz.; essence
of cedrat, 12 drops; oil of orange peel, 60 drops; tartaric acid, 4 oz.
The powders must be carefully dried, mixed quickly, and afterwards kept
dry, in a bottle securely corked. A measure holding nearly 3 dr. of the
powder should accompany each bottle.
=Powders, Efferves′cing.= _Prep._ 1. (PULVERES EFFERVESCENTES——Ph. E.)
Take of tartaric acid, 1 oz.; bicarbonate of soda, 1 oz. 54 gr. (534 gr.),
or bicarbonate of potassa, 1 oz. 2 dr. 40 gr. (640 gr.); reduce the acid
and either bicarbonate separately to fine powder, divide each of these
into 16 powders, and preserve the acid and alkaline powders in separate
papers of different colours.
2. (PULVERES EFFERVESCENTES CITRATI——Ph. D.) Take of citric acid
(crystallised), 9 dr.; bicarbonate of soda, 11 dr., or bicarbonate of
potassa, 13 dr., proceed as last, dividing each into 18 parts.
3. (PULVERES EFFERVESCENTES TARTARIZATI——Ph. D.) Take of tartaric acid (in
crystals), 10 dr.; bicarbonate of soda, 11 dr., or bicarbonate of potassa,
13 dr.; reduce them to powder, and divide them into 18 parts, as before.
(See _below_.)
=Powders, Effervescing, with Iron.= (P. Cod.) _Syn._ PULVERES
EFFERVESCENTES CUM FERRO. _Prep._ Tartaric acid, 2-3/4 oz.; bicarbonate of
soda, 2 oz.; powdered sugar, 9 oz.; dried sulphate of iron, 46 gr. Mix the
acid and the sulphate of iron (previously reduced to coarse powder), add
the sugar, and lastly the soda, not in very fine powder. All the
ingredients must be very dry. Half an ounce of this powder is to be
quickly added to 2 pints of pure water (without air) contained in a
bottle, which is to be immediately corked.
=Powders for Gazogene.= For 2 pints:——Powdered tartaric acid, 14 scruples;
bicarbonate of soda, 17 scruples.
For 3 pints:——Powdered tartaric acid, 17 scruples; bicarbonate of soda, 21
scruples.
For 5 pints:——One each charge of 2 and 3 pints.
=Powders, Gin′ger Beer.= _Syn._ PULVERES EFFERVESCENTES CUM ZINGIBERE, L.
_Prep._ 1. Powdered white sugar, 1 to 2 dr.; bicarbonate of soda, 26 gr.;
finest powdered Jamaica ginger, 6 gr.; essence of lemon, 1 drop; mix, and
wrap it in blue paper. In the white paper put of powdered tartaric acid,
35 gr., or of powdered citric acid, 30 gr.
2. Finest Jamaica ginger, 1 dr.; bicarbonate of soda, 5 dr.; white sugar,
16 dr.; essence of lemon, 6 or 8 drops; mix, and divide it between 12
papers (blue). For the white papers, divide tartaric acid, 6 dr., in the
same way. By taking the drachms as ounces, the quantity will be sufficient
for 8 dozen. For use dissolve one of each colour separately in somewhat
less than half a glass of water, mix the two, and drink the mixture whilst
effervescing.
3. (In one bottle.)——_a._ The sugar and the saline ingredients are
separately dried by a very gentle heat, then mixed in a dry room with the
ginger and essence of lemon, and at once put into bottles.
_b._ By adding to the ‘acidulated kali,’ noticed at page 929, about 1-16th
of its weight of the finest powdered Jamaica ginger (_i. e._ 1/2 dr. to
each oz.; 1 oz. to each lb.) at the time of mixing the ingredients
together. A dessert-spoonful, thrown into a tumbler two thirds filled with
cold water, produces an excellent glass of ginger beer.
=Powders, Ink.= The article usually sold under this name is noticed under
INK. Another formula, which we have adopted with considerable success, is
as follows:——Good black ink, 3 pints, lump sugar, 1-1/2 oz., and gum
Arabic, 1/2 oz., are put into a clean iron pan, and evaporated by the heat
of boiling water, with occasional stirring, to dryness; the dried mass is
reduced to powder, and divided into 12 parts, which are enveloped in
either tin-foil or glazed paper, and kept dry. One of these papers
dissolved in 1/4 pint of hot water forms that quantity of excellent black
ink, without sediment, and which answers well with the copying press.
=Powders, Lem′onade.= _Syn._ LEMON SHERBET; LIMONADUM SICCUM, PULVIS PRO
LIMINADO, L. _Prep._ 1. Powdered citric or tartaric acid, 12 gr.; powdered
white sugar, 1/2 oz.; essence of lemon, 1 drop (or a little of the yellow
peel of a lemon rubbed off on a piece of sugar); mix. For one glass.
2. White sugar, 4 lbs.; citric or tartaric acid, 1-1/2 oz.; essence of
lemon, 1/4 oz.; mix well, and preserve it in a bottle for use. 1 to 2
dessert-spoonfuls make a glass of lemonade. It is also put up in papers
containing about 2-1/2 dr. each.
3. (EFFERVESCING.)——_a._ For the blue papers, take of powdered white
sugar, 1 lb.; bicarbonate of soda, 1/4 lb.; essence of lemon, 1-1/2 dr.;
mix, and divide it between 6 dozen papers. Next divide tartaric or citric
acid, 5 oz., between 6 dozen white papers. Or the two may be kept in bulk,
in separate bottles.
_b._ (In one bottle.) As ‘ACIDULATED KALI,’ Some makers slightly increase
the quantities of acid and essence of lemon there ordered.
=Powders, Orangeade.= _Syn._ AERATED SHERBET. _Prep._ Powdered sugar,
14-1/2 oz.; powdered orange peel, 12 gr.; oil of orange peel, 60 drops;
essence of cedrat, 12 drops; bicarbonate of soda, 3-1/2 oz.; mix, and put
145 gr. in each blue paper. In the white paper put 32 gr. of tartaric acid
(or 30 gr. of citric acid). Or the alkaline and acid powders may be put
into separate bottles, with a measure holding the proper proportions of
each. The orange peel may be omitted, if necessary.
=Powders, Pol′ishing.= _Prep._ 1. (For brass and copper.)——_a._ From
rotten stone, 3 oz.; powdered soap, 1 oz.
_b._ From rotten stone, 7 oz.; powdered oxalic acid, 1 oz. Both are used
with a little water. See BRASS PASTE.
2. (For gold.) Jeweller’s rouge. See SESQUIOXIDE OF IRON.
3. (For ivory.) Pumice stone and putty powder.
4. (For plate.) See PLATE and POWDER, PLATE.
5. (For silver.) As the last.
=Powders, Scented.= _Prep._ 1. COSMETIC POWDERS.——_a._ (POUDRE DE CHIPRE.)
Macerate oak moss in running water for 2 or 3 days, then dry and powder
it. Used as a basis for other powders, on account of its being highly
retentive of odours. Reindeer moss and ragged hoary evernia are also used
for the same purpose. See CYPRUS POWDER (_above_).
_b._ (POUDRE DE CHIPRE DE MONTPELIER.) From poudre de chipre, 2 lbs.;
musk, 30 gr.; civet, 20 gr. (the last two powdered by means of a little
sugar); cloves, 1/4 oz.
_c._ (POUDRE DE FLEURS D’ORANGES.) From starch or cyprus powder, 25 lbs.;
orange flowers, 1 lb.; mixed in a covered chest, and stirred twice or
thrice daily; the process being repeated, with fresh flowers, a second and
a third time. Or, the plain powder is scented by the addition of a little
neroli or essence of petit grain.
_d._ (POUDRE DE FRANGIPANNI.) From poudre de fleurs d’oranges and poudre
de chipre, of each 6 lbs.; essence of ambergris, 1 oz.; civet (powdered
with sugar), 1/2 dr. Ash-grey colour.
_e._ (POUDRE DE JASMINE.) As POUDRE DE FLEURS D’ORANGES, but using jasmin
flowers.
_f._ (POUDRE À LA MARÉCHALE.) From poudre de chipre, 2 lbs.; starch
powder, 1 lb.; calamus aromaticus, cloves, and cyperus perennis or
rotundis, of each 2 oz. Or, starch powder, 28 lbs.; powdered cloves, 3/4
lb.; powdered orris root, 1/2 lb.; essence of ambergris, 2 dr.
_g._ (POUDRE À LA MOUSSELINE.) From orris root, 1 lb.; coriander seed, 6
oz.; mace and violet ebony, of each 2 oz.; musk seed, cassia, cloves, and
sandal wood, of each 1 oz.
_h._ (POUDRE DE JONQUILLE.) From jonquils, as POUDRE DE JASMINE.
_i._ (POUDRE À L’ŒILLET.) From plain powder, 2 lbs.; orris root and dried
red rose leaves, of each 1 lb.; cloves and musk seed, of each 4 oz.;
essence of bergamot and essence de petit grain, of each 1/2 dr.
_k._ (POUDRE DE ROSES COMMUNES.) From pale roses, as POUDRE DE FLEURS
D’ORANGES.
_l._ (POUDRE DE ROSES MUSQUÉES.) From musk roses, as the last.
_m._ (POUDRE À LA VANILLA.) From poudre de chipre or cyprus, 3 lbs.;
vanilla, powdered by means of sugar, 2 dr.; oil of cloves and essence of
ambergris, of each 20 drops.
_n._ (POUDRE À LA VIOLETTE.) See POWDER, VIOLET (as _above_).
The above are used as cosmetic powders for the skin and hair; also, but
less frequently, for sachets, drawers, &c.
2. SACHET POWDER.——_a._ From orris root, 2 oz.; cassia, 1-1/2 oz.; cloves,
1 oz.; yellow sandal wood, 1/4 oz.; oils of lavender and bergamot, of each
1 dr.; otto of roses, 20 drops; musk and ambergris, of each, rubbed with a
little sugar, 6 gr.; reduce the dry ingredients to coarse powder, mix
them, and add the oils.
_b._ From corianders, orris root, rose leaves, and calamus aromaticus, of
each 4 oz.; lavender flowers, 8 oz.; rhodium wood, 1 dr.; musk, 20 gr.
_c._ From corianders, orris, calamus aromaticus, and red roses (dried), of
each 1 oz.; lavender flowers, 2 oz.; mace and cloves, of each 1 dr.;
essential oil of almonds, 10 drops.
_d._ As last, but substituting musk, 5 gr., for the oil of almonds.
_e._ From patchouli, 8 oz.; lavender flowers, (lightly dried), 3 oz.;
orris root, 2 oz.; cloves, 1 oz.; essence of bergamot, 1 dr.; essences of
ambergris and musk, of each 1/2 dr.
These are used, along with cotton wool, to fill scent bags, cassolettes,
&c.; and as scent powder for boxes, drawers, and the like. The scent is
added to the dry ingredients, separately reduced to powder, and the whole
is then passed through a fine sieve, to ensure perfect admixture.
3. PARFUM POUR LES AUTRES POUDRES. From poudre d’ambrette, 12 lbs.;
civette, 1-1/2 oz.; musk, 1 dr.; reduce the last two to powder by grinding
them with some dry lump sugar, then mix the whole together, and pass it
through a sieve. Used to perfume hair powder, sachets, &c.
=Powders, Seidlitz.= _Syn._ PULVERES EFFERVESCENTES APERIENTES, L. _Prep._
1. Potassio-tartrate of soda (Rochelle salt), 2 dr.; bicarbonate of soda,
40 gr.; mix, and put it in a blue paper; tartaric acid, 35 gr.; to be put
in a white paper. For about 1/2 pint of water. Laxative.
2. (In one bottle.) From potassio-tartrate of soda, 12 oz.; bicarbonate of
do., 4 oz.; tartaric acid, 3-1/2 oz.; white sugar, 1 lb. (all in fine
powder); dry each separately by a gentle heat, add of essence of lemon,
1/2 dr.; mix well, pass the mixture through a sieve, and put it at once
into clean dry bottles.——_Dose._ A dessert-spoonful, or more, to a
tumblerful of water.
_Obs._ The above mixtures, though now universally sold as Seidlitz powder,
do not, when dissolved, exactly resemble the natural water, which contains
carbonates, sulphates, and chlorides of calcium and magnesium. However,
the factitious article is equally effective, and much more agreeable.
=Powders, Sher′bet.= These are made of the same materials as lemonade
powders, the flavouring ingredient being varied to suit the particular
case.
=Powders, So′da-water.= _Syn._ EFFERVESCING POWDERS, E. SALINE P., SODAIC
P., AERATED SODA P.; PULVERES EFFERVESCENTES, L. _Prep._ 1. From
bicarbonate of soda, 30 gr. in each blue paper; tartaric acid, 25 gr. (or
citric acid, 24 gr.), in each white paper. One of each is dissolved
separately in about half a glassful of water, and the two solutions mixed,
and drank immediately. A cooling, wholesome summer beverage, but it should
not be indulged in to excess.
2. (Chalybeated.) By adding 1 gr. of dried protosulphate of iron to each
paper of acid. Tonic.
3. (Midgeley’s.) Made by adding 1/8 gr. of tartarised antimony to each
paper of acid. Refrigerant and diaphoretic. For the Ph. formulæ see
POWDERS, EFFERVESCING (_above_).
=Powders, Soup.= See POWDER, CURRY, POWDER, PEA, SPICE, &c.
=Powders, Spruce Beer.= _Syn._ PULVERES EFFERVESCENTES CUM ABIETE, L.
_Prep._ As ginger-beer powders, but substituting essence of spruce, 3 to 6
drops, for the powdered ginger.
=Powders, Tooth.= _Syn._ PULVIS DENTIFRICII, L. The general principles
which should be kept in view in the selection of the materials, and in the
preparation of dentifrices, have been already fully noticed under
DENTIFRICES, and need not, therefore, be repeated here. Care must be taken
that all the dry ingredients be finely pulverised, and that the harder and
gritty ones be reduced to the state of an impalpable powder, either by
levigation or elutriation. The mixture of the ingredients must also be
complete. This is the most readily effected by stirring them well together
until they form an apparently homogeneous powder, and then passing this
powder through a very fine sieve. Those which contain volatile substances
should be preserved in closely corked wide-mouth bottles, and those which
contain acidulous or gritty matter should not be frequently employed. The
selection of the tooth brush likewise deserves attention. It should be
sufficiently stiff to effect its purpose completely; but, at the same
time, it should be so formed as not to cause irritation or injury to the
gums during its use.
_Prep._ 1. Cuttle-fish bone and prepared chalk, of each 2 oz.; oil of
cloves, 20 drops. This may be perfumed at will, and medicated by any of
the substances referred to under DENTIFRICES.
2. To the last add of powdered Castile soap, 2 oz.
3. Prepared chalk, 12 oz.; cuttle-fish bone, 8 oz.; orris root, 4 oz.;
dragon’s blood, 1-1/2 oz.; oils of cloves and cassia, of each 1/2 dr.
4. Prepared chalk, 1 lb.; pumice-stone, in impalpable powder, 1/4 lb.;
orris root, 2 oz.; pure rouge, 1/4 oz.; neroli, 1/2 dr.
5. Yellow cinchona bark and myrrh, of each 1/2 oz.; recently burnt
charcoal, 3 oz.; cloves, 1 dr.
6. Pumice-stone, red coral, and powdered rhatany root, of each, 2 oz.;
orris root, 1/2 oz.; essence of vanilla, 1/2 dr.
7. (AROMATIC TOOTH POWDER.) From cuttle-fish bone, 4 oz.; calamus
aromaticus, 2 oz.; powdered Castile soap, 1 oz.; oil of cloves, 1/2 dr.
8. (ASIATIC DENTIFRICE.) From prepared red coral, 8-1/4 lbs.; Venetian
red, 3/4 lb.; prepared chalk and pumice-stone, of each 1-1/4 lb.; China
musk, 30 gr.
9. (Cadet’s.) From lump sugar and charcoal, of each 1 oz.; Peruvian bark,
1/2 oz.; cream of tartar, 1/4 oz.; cinnamon, 1/2 dr.
10. (Camphorated.) See CAMPHORATED CHALK.
11. (CHARCOAL DENTIFRICE.) From charcoal, preferably that from the willow
or the areka nut, either alone or combined with twice its weight of
prepared chalk. Scent or medicinals injure it. (See 9, 19, and 26.)
12. (CORAL DENTIFRICE.) See 16, 23, and 25 (_below_).
13. (Deschamp’s ALKALINE DENTIFRICE.) From powdered talc, 4 oz.;
bicarbonate of soda, 1 oz.; carmine, 6 gr.; oil of mint, 12 or 15 drops.
14. (FLORENTINE DENTIFRICE.) From prepared shells, 4 oz.; orris root,
1-1/2 oz.; bitartrate of potassa, 3/4 oz.; Florentine lake, q. s. to
colour.
15. (GALVANIC DENTIFRICE.) From gold, 3 leaves; silver, 4 leaves;
triturate them with alum and sulphate of potassa, of each 1-1/2 dr.; then
add, of dry common salt, pellitory of Spain, and Peruvian bark, of each 1
dr.; prepared hartshorn, 1 oz.; mix, and either colour it blue with smalts
or red with lake. A useless compound.
16. (Grosvenor’s.) From red coral, 3 lbs.; prepared oyster-shells, 2-1/2
lbs.; orris powder, 1/2 lb.; oil of rhodium, 25 drops. Rose-pink is now
commonly substituted for the coral.
17. (Hemet’s.) From cuttle-fish bone, 6 oz.; cream of tartar, 1 oz.; orris
root, 1/2 oz.
18. (‘Lancet.’) Red bark and Armenian hole, of each 1 oz.; powdered
cinnamon and bicarbonate of soda, of each 1/2 oz.; oil of cinnamon, 2 or 3
drops.
19. (Lardner’s.) From charcoal, in very fine powder, 1 oz.; prepared
chalk, 3 oz.; mix.
20. (Mialhe’s RATIONAL DENTIFRICE.) From sugar of milk, 3 oz.; pure
tannin, 3 dr.; red lake, 1 dr.; oils of mint and aniseed, of each 7 or 8
drops; neroli, 4 or 5 drops.
21. (MYRRH DENTIFRICE.) From cuttle-fish bone, 6 oz.; myrrh and orris
root, of each 2 oz.
22. (PEARL DENTIFRICE.) From heavy carbonate of magnesia or precipitated
chalk, 1 lb.; finest smalts, 3 dr.; essence de petit grain, 1/2 dr.
23. (Pelletier’s QUININE DENTIFRICE.) From prepared red coral, 3 oz.;
myrrh, 1 dr.; disulphate of quinine, 12 to 15 gr.
24. (Ph. Russ.) Cinchona bark, 4 oz.; orris root, 2 oz.; catechu and
myrrh, of each 1-1/2 oz.; sal ammoniac, 1 oz.; oil of cloves, 20 drops.
25. (POUDRE DENTIFRICE——P. Cod.) Red coral, red bole, and cuttle-fish
bone, of each 3 oz.; dragon’s blood, 1-1/2 oz.; cinnamon, 3/4 oz.;
cochineal, 3 dr.; cloves, 1 dr.; bitartrate of potassa, 4-1/2 oz.; reduce
them separately to very fine powder before mixing them. This is the ‘coral
dentifrice’ of the French.
26. (Rignini’s.) From charcoal, 1 oz.; yellow bark, 1/4 oz.
27. (ROSE DENTIFRICE.) From precipitated chalk, 6 oz.; cuttle-fish bone, 3
oz.; bicarbonate of soda, 2 oz.; red lake, 1/4 oz.; otto of roses, 20
drops.
28. (Ruspini’s.) From cuttle-fish bone, 8 oz.; Roman alum and orris root,
of each 1 oz.; cream of tartar, 2 oz.; oil of rhodium, 6 or 8 drops.
29. (VIOLET TOOTH POWDER.) From orris root, 3 oz.; cuttle-fish bone and
rose pink, of each 5 oz.; precipitated chalk, 12 oz.; pure indigo, q. s.
to give it a pale violet tinge.
30. (Zieter’s.) From finely powdered calcined hartshorn and cuttle-fish
bone, of each 6 oz.; calamus aromaticus, cassia, and pellitory of Spain,
of each 1 oz.; essence of vanilla, 1 dr.; essence of ambergris, 10 or 12
drops.
31. Chalk, carbonate of magnesia, and pale bark, of each 1 oz.; oil of
peppermint, 5 drops.
32. Cream of tartar, sugar of milk, of each 2 oz.; carmine, 88 gr. (all in
very subtle powder); oil of peppermint, 4 drops.
=Powders, Worm.= _Syn._ PULVERES ANTHELMINTICI, P. VERMIFUGI, L. _Prep._
1. (Bouchardat.) Powdered Corsican moss and worm-seed, of each 5 dr.;
calomel, 40 gr.; rub them together.
2. (Collier.) From powdered jalap and scammony, of each 1 dr.; cream of
tartar, 2 dr.; Ethiops mineral, 3 dr.
3. (Guibourt.) Sulphate of iron, 1 dr.; tansy, 2 dr.; worm-seed, 3 dr.
4. (P. Cod.) Corsican moss and worm-seed, of each 2 oz.; rhubarb, 1 oz.;
rubbed to a fine powder, and carefully mixed.
=POX.= A corruption of a Saxon word, originally applied to pustules or
eruptions of any kind, but now restricted to varicella, variola, vaccinia,
and, in its unqualified form, to syphilis. (See _below_.)
=Pox, Chick′en.= _Syn._ WATER-POX; VARICELLA, L. An eruptive disease,
consisting of smooth, semi-transparent vesicles, of various sizes, which
afterwards become white and straw-coloured, and about the fourth day break
and scale off, without leaving any permanent mark behind them. In hot
weather the discharge sometimes becomes purulent, and at others the
eruption is attended with considerable fever. Sometimes the vesicles
assume a pointed form, and the fluid remains clear throughout the disease;
it is then frequently called the “swine-pox.” When the vesicles are large
and globular, and their contents, at first whey-coloured, afterwards turn
yellow, it is popularly known as ‘hives.’
The treatment of chicken-pox consists in the adoption of a light,
vegetable diet, and in the administration of mild saline aperients and
cooling drinks.
The chicken-pox, except in children of a very bad habit of body, is an
extremely mild disease. Like the smallpox, it rarely attacks the same
person more than once during life.
=Pox, Cow.= _Syn._ VACCINIA, VARIOLA VACCINA, L. This disease was proposed
as a substitute and a preventive of smallpox by Dr Jenner in 1798, and its
artificial production (vaccination) has rendered smallpox a comparatively
rare disease in Britain. There appears no reason to doubt that the
pretensions of the advocates of vaccination have been fully justified by
the experience of more than half a century; or that this disease, when
actively developed, evinced by the completeness and maturation of the
pustules, acts as a prophylactic of smallpox.
The process of vaccination is similar to that of inoculation for smallpox.
The point of a lance is wetted with the matter taken from one of the
pustules, and is then gently inserted under the cuticle, and the scratch
afterwards rubbed over with the same. Hæmorrhage should be avoided, as the
blood is apt to wash away the virus, or to form a cake which shields the
living tissue from its action.
=Pox, Small.= _Syn._ VARIOLA, L. This disease comes on with the usual
symptoms of inflammatory fever. About the third day red spots, resembling
flea-bites, make their appearance on the face and head, and gradually
extend over the whole body. About the fifth day small circular vesicles,
depressed in the centre, surrounded by an areola, and containing a
colourless fluid, begin to form, when the feverish symptoms abate; about
the sixth day the throat becomes sore; about the eighth day the face is
swollen; and about the eleventh day the pustules acquire the size of a
pea, and cease to enlarge, the matter which they contain becomes opaque
and yellow, a dark central spot forms on each, the swelling of the face
subsides, and secondary symptoms of fever come on; the pustules become
rough, break, and scab over, and a dark spot remains for some days, often
followed by permanent indentations, popularly known as ‘pock-marks.’ At
the end of the sixteenth or eighteenth day the symptoms usually disappear.
In the confluent smallpox, a severer form of the disease, the pustules
coalesce, the eruption is irregular in its progress, and the inflammatory
symptoms are more severe.
The treatment of ordinary cases of smallpox resembles, for the most part,
that mentioned above for chicken-pox. As soon as the febrile symptoms
become marked the patient should not be suffered to lie in a hot bed, but
on a mattress, in a cool and well-ventilated apartment, and antiseptic
cooling drinks should be freely administered. When convulsions occur, or
great irritability exists, small doses of morphine, opium, or camphor may
be administered, and obstinate vomiting arrested by effervescing saline
draughts. When the skin is pale and cold, the pulse weak, and the
eruption languidly developed, the warm or tepid bath is often
serviceable. An infusion of the root of _Sarracenia pupurea_, an American
plant, has been strongly recommended as a preventive and cure of smallpox,
but many of our most eminent physicians regard it as valueless. The
application on the third day of a mask formed of thin muslin, covered with
mercurial ointment, and having holes cut in it for the nostrils, eyes, and
mouth, will effectually prevent ‘pitting.’ (Dr. Stewardson.) With the same
intention some persons recommend the puncture of the pustules as soon as
they are mature. A solution of india rubber in chloroform is now often
painted over the face when the eruption has become fully developed. The
chloroform quickly evaporates, leaving an elastic film of india rubber,
which almost entirely removes the itchiness of the pustules and prevents
‘pitting.’ To remove the pock-marks, whether recent or old, nothing
appears to be better than warm sea-bathing, or the use of tepid ioduretted
lotions.
The smallpox is eminently contagious, but only attacks the same person
once during life. Formerly, a milder form of the disease was propagated by
inoculation, a practice introduced into England from Turkey by Lady Mary
Wortley Montague, about the year 1721. At the present day, in England,
inoculation, as well as the exposure of a patient labouring under
smallpox, is penal, the punishment being either by fine or imprisonment.
See POX, COW (_above_).
“The absolute necessity for enforcing this measure after smallpox is
conclusively shown by the following cases which occurred during the late
severe outbreak of the disease at Ipswich. In the first instance a young
man brought a bundle of infected linen with him from London and had it
washed at Ipswich. Twelve days after, the servant who washed it showed
symptoms of smallpox. In another case, a woman who had been at Highgate
Hospital brought with her a shawl which she had worn during convalescence,
but had not been disinfected; and in fourteen days her sister, who washed
the shawl, was attacked with smallpox.”——_Sanitary Record._
=PRECIP′ITATE.= Any substance which has separated from its solution in a
solid and, usually, a pulverulent or flocculent form. The substance by
which such a change is produced is called the ‘precipitant,’ and the act
or operation by which it is effected is called ‘precipitation.’ The old
chemists gave this name to several compounds. Red precipitate, or
precipitate _per se_, is the red oxide of mercury prepared by heat. White
precipitate is the AMMONIATED MERCURY of the B. P.
=PRECIPITA′TION.= The formation or subsidence of a precipitate. (See
_above_.) When the precipitate is the chief object of the process, it is
necessary to wash it, after it is separated, by filtration. This operation
requires little attention when the substance thrown down is insoluble in
water; but when it is in some degree soluble in that liquid, great
attention is required to prevent the loss which might result from the use
of too much water. Precipitates soluble in water, but insoluble in
alcohol, are frequently, on the small scale, washed with spirit more or
less concentrated.
[Illustration]
The best precipitating vessel is a very tall glass jar, furnished with a
lip and spout, and narrower at the bottom than at the mouth, so that the
precipitate may readily collect by subsidence, and the supernatant liquor
be decanted off with more ease.
=PREG′NANCY.= For the preservation of the health, and the prevention of
the numerous discomforts and dangers which so frequently attend this
condition, nothing is so effective as exercise. It is this that is so
favorable to the humble peasant, and it is its absence that inflicts such
calamities on the wealthier classes. Exercise, moderate and unfatiguing,
when assisted by regular habits, and a diet nutritious, but not too
liberal, is, indeed, capable of not only affording pleasure and increasing
the comforts of existence, but is also generally sufficient to greatly
lessen the severity of the sufferings, and to ward off the not
unfrequently fatal results which terminate this interesting condition.
The sickness of pregnancy may be greatly ameliorated, if not removed, by
the occasional use of a saline aperient, and by effervescing draughts
formed with the bicarbonate of potassa and citric acid. The oxalate of
cerium is strongly recommended by Professor Simpson, of Edinburgh, as a
remedy for obstinate vomiting in pregnancy.——_Dose_, 1 gr. to 2 gr. three
times a day in pills.
=PRESCRI′′BING (Art of).= Besides a knowledge of diseases and their
treatment, much of the success of the physician depends on circumstances
connected with the form in which the remedies are exhibited. In writing a
prescription it is necessary to consider the age, sex, temperament, habits
and idiosyncracy of the patient, as well as the conditions of climate and
season, before the selection of the leading medicament and the
apportioning of the dose. The most convenient form of exhibiting it,
whether it should be given alone or in some simple form, or combined with
other ingredients, the compatibility of the latter, and how far these are
likely to assist, impede, or modify its operation, must also receive the
consideration of the practitioner. Without a careful attention to all
these circumstances the most valuable remedies may be rendered worthless,
and the highest medical skill and the best intentions frustrated.
A prescription generally contains several medicinal substances, which are
distinguished by medical writers by names indicative of the office which
each of them performs. These are——1. The BASIS, which is the principal or
most active ingredient;——2. The ADJUVANT, or that which is intended to
promote the action of the base;——3. The CORRECTIVE, intended to correct,
modify, or control its action, or to cover its odour or taste, as when we
add carminatives or diaphoretics to cathartics, or aromatics or liquorice
to nauseous substances;——4. The EXCIPIENT, or that which gives the whole a
commodious or agreeable form, and which, consequently, gives the
prescription its peculiar character, as that of draught, mixture, pills,
&c. To these, certain Continental writers add a 5th, the INTERMEDIUM,
which is the substance employed to unite remedies which are not, by
themselves, miscible with each other, or with the excipient. Of this
character are the yolk of egg and mucilage, employed in the preparation of
emulsions.
The medicinal substances, with the quantities to be taken, generally
arranged as above, are said to form the ‘inscription,’——the directions as
to their combination or dispensing, which usually comes next, the
‘subscription,’ and——the orders for the exhibition of the compound
medicine, which follow these, the ‘instructions.’ These distinctions are,
however, in many cases more technical than useful.
In choosing the form of a prescription it should be recollected that
solutions and emulsions generally act with more certainty and rapidity
than powders diffused through water; and these, again, than the semi-solid
and solid forms of medicine, represented by electuaries, boluses, and
pills. On these matters, however, the taste and wishes of the patient
should not be disregarded. For this purpose the taste of nauseous
medicines should be disguised as much as possible by the judicious
selection of an appropriate corrective or excipient. Thus, the
disagreeable flavour of Epsom salt may be in a great measure covered by
dissolving it in peppermint water; that of aloes by liquorice; that of
castor oil and copaiba by orange peel; and that of powdered bark by mixing
it with milk immediately before taking it; whilst the bitterness of all
bitter substances is concealed by strong coffee.
In order that a prescription may be well made it is not necessary to unite
all the elements above referred to. The basis and the excipient are the
only two which are absolutely necessary, since there are many medicines
which have no need of an adjuvant. The agreeable flavour and odour of
some, and the mild and harmless nature of others, often render the
intervention of a corrigent unnecessary when they are employed. A single
substance may also “be capable of answering two or more purposes. Thus,
the adjuvant may also act as a corrigent, as when the addition of soap to
aloes, or to extract of jalap, lessens their griping properties, and at
the same time promotes their action. In the same way neutral salts
correct the colic which follows the use of resinous purgatives, and
accelerate their action.” According to Gaubius, the number of ingredients
in a prescription should scarcely ever exceed three or four. See DOSE,
MEDICINES, INCOMPATIBLES, PILLS, &c.
=PRESCRIP′TIONS.= Recipes or formulæ for the preparation and exhibition of
medicines intended, generally, for immediate use. See PRESCRIBING
(_above_).
=PRESERVES′.= A general term, under which are included the various fruits
and vegetables which are seasoned and kept in sugar or syrup, more
especially those which are so preserved whole or in slices. See CANDYING,
JAM, MARMALADE, &c.
=PRESS (Correcting for the).= See PROOFS.
=PRESSURE, BAROMETRIC, on the Phenomena of Life.= M. Bert has contributed
to the ‘Comptes Rendus’[122] (lxxiii, 213, 503; lxxiv, 617; lxxv, 29, 88)
an account of the following experimental researches on the influence of
changes in the Barometric Pressure on the Phenomena of Life:——
[Footnote 122: ‘Journal Chemical Society,’ vol. xxv.]
He finds that at pressures under 18 centimètres of mercury animals die
from want of oxygen; at a pressure of one to two atmospheres, from want of
oxygen and presence of carbonic acid; at 2-6 atmospheres, from the
presence of carbonic acid alone; at 6-15 atmospheres, from the presence of
carbonic acid and of excess of oxygen; and at 15-25 atmospheres, from the
poisonous action of oxygen alone.
Animals die from want of oxygen when the amount contained in their
arterial blood is not sufficient to balance a pressure of 3·5 per cent. of
oxygen in the atmosphere. They die from poisoning by carbonic anhydride
when the amount contained in their venous blood is sufficient to balance a
pressure of 26 to 28 per cent. of carbonic anhydride in the atmosphere in
the case of sparrows, of 28 to 30 for mammals, and of 15 or 16 for
reptiles.
As the pressure of oxygen in the surrounding air depends on two factors,
the percentage proportion and the barometric pressure, the barometric
pressure may be reduced to 6 centimètres for sparrows, if the proportion
of oxygen in the air is increased; and it may be raised to 23 atmospheres
without causing death, if the proportion of oxygen is reduced by mixing
the air with nitrogen. Aeronauts might, therefore, ascend higher than it
has hitherto been possible to do by taking with them a bag of oxygen to
inhale; and the danger that threatens divers of being poisoned by the
oxygen in the compressed air might be averted by using a mixture of air
and nitrogen.
From an examination of the gases in the blood of animals confined in
rarefied air the author finds that both the oxygen and the carbonic
anhydride in the blood diminish. The dyspnœa which is felt in ascending
mountains is therefore due to want of oxygen in the blood. The diminution
in oxygen becomes diminished at 20 centimètres pressure, yet this is the
pressure under which the inhabitants of the elevated Mexican plateau of
Anahuac live. The oxygen diminishes more quickly and more regularly than
the carbonic anhydride. Although there are but very small quantities of
gases simply dissolved in the blood, the chemical combinations in which
they take part are dissociated very easily and in a progressive manner
under the influence of diminished pressure, and this dissociation takes
place more easily in the organisms than in experiments in vacuo.
=PRINCE’S METAL.= One of the names for Dutch gold. (See GOLD, DUTCH.)
=PRINT′ING (Anastatic).= A method of zincography, patented in 1845, having
for its object the reproduction of drawings, engravings, and letter-press,
from copies however old. To describe briefly the preparation of a plate or
cylinder, let us suppose a newspaper about to be reprinted by this means.
The sheet is first moistened with dilute acid and placed between sheets of
blotting paper, in order that the superfluous moisture may be absorbed.
The ink resists the acid, which attacks the blanks only. In all cases
where the letter-press is of recent date, or not perhaps older than half a
year, a few minutes suffice for this purpose. The paper is then carefully
placed upon the plate with which the letter-press to be transferred is in
immediate contact, and the whole passed under a press, on removal from
which, and on carefully disengaging the paper, the letters are found in
reverse on the plate. A preparation of gum is then applied to the plate by
means of a roller, after which the letters receive an addition of ink,
which is immediately incorporated with that by which they are already
formed. These operations are effected in a few minutes. The surface of the
plate round the letters is next bitten in a very slight degree by dilute
acid, and on the fresh application of the ink it is rejected by the zinc,
and received only by the letters, which are charged with the ink by the
common roller used in hand-printing. Each letter comes from the press as
clear as if it had been imprinted by type metal; and the copies are
fac-similes, which cannot easily be distinguished from the original sheet.
When pen-and-ink drawings are to be reproduced, they are made on any paper
free from hairs or filaments, and well-sized. The ink used is a
preparation made for the purpose, closely resembling lithographic ink, and
may be mixed to any degree of thickness in pure distilled water. It should
be used fresh, and slightly warm when a fine effect is to be given. In
making or copying a design a pencil may be used; but the marks must be
left on the paper, and by no means rubbed with india rubber or bread. It
is necessary to add that the paper should be kept quite clean and free
from friction, and should not be touched by the fingers, inasmuch as it
will retain marks of very slight touches.
Before closing this notice of anastatic printing it may be proper to
remark, that the great pretensions originally set up by the patentees have
not been fulfilled by its extensive adoption in trade.
=PRINTING (Letterpress).=[123] _Syn._ TYPOGRAPHY. The art of collecting
together and arranging movable types for the purpose of printing, in one
or more colours, by pressure applied from a flat surface or by means of a
cylinder biting the paper to be printed, and which is inserted between
itself and the type.
[Footnote 123: The Editor is much indebted to Mr J. E. Adlard for this
interesting article.]
In illustration of this section, some specimen types are appended, the
greater portion being from the well-known foundry of Messrs V. & J.
Figgins, and should now be carefully read down to render the further
remarks intelligible. The key is contained in itself by reading the column
as one continuous paragraph with the help of the foot-notes. Some idea may
thus be formed of the vast number of distinct kinds of type necessary to
carry out the requirements of the present system of printing.
Mention there has been made that the name of the body is determined by its
number of lines to a foot; but this must be qualified. The Imperial foot,
or inch, or yard, is an arbitrary measure of length in reality as well as
in name. When one foundry was sufficient to supply all the types that were
required for use in the early ages of printing, then a name and its
dimensions could be taken as absolute. But with the increase of printing,
type-founders also increased; and this has produced the variations of
bodies which are so annoying to the typographer, for one single letter or
space taken from a body larger than its own, yet of the same name, will be
enough to throw the column of type out of a straight line all the way
through. Still, when we look to the fact that, according to the ancient
masters, the large-sized type called _Pica_ (No. 3 and Nos. 18, 19,20 &
21) requires 72-1/2 lines to the foot, and that _Nonpareil_, half its size
(No. 9, and Nos. 26, 27, 28 & 29), requires 145 lines to the foot, and
recollecting that the slightest variation multiplied 145 times must
produce a very sensible deviation, the wonder is that each of the founders
should approach each other so closely as they do. An attempt was made some
years ago to introduce a certain fixity of standard for each body
throughout the trade, based on the French system; the difficulties of
altering the standards and matrices of each foundry were seen to be so
great that the effort was unavailing.
[Illustration: References to the above types——by reading across.
BODY. BOOKWORK FACE. DISPLAY FACE.
1 Great Primer—— Roman 14 Gt Primer Manuscript
15 Gt Primer Ext. Ornamented
16 Gt Primer Black
2 English—— Roman 17 Gt Primer Condensed Black
3 Pica—— Roman 18 Pica Antique
19 Pica Clarendon
20 Pica Rustic
4 Small Pica—— Roman 21 Pica Narrow Gauge
5 Long Primer—— Roman 22 Long Primer [Condensed
6 Bourgeois—— Roman [Sansserif
7 Brevier—— Roman 23 Brevier Grotesque
24 Brevier Extended
8 Minion——Rom. & Italic 25 Brevier Open Sansserif
9 Nonpareil—— Roman 26 Nonpareil Egyptian
27 Nonpareil Hair line
28 Nonpareil Ornamented
29 Nonpareil Condensed Grotesque
10 Ruby—— Roman
11 Pearl—— Roman 30 Pearl Clarendon
12 Diamond—— Roman 31 Diamond Grotesque
13 Small Pica 2-line (No. 4 doubled) German Text
During the latter half of the present century there has been a growing
disposition to return to the cut of the letters as used by the early
printers. To meet this desire, nearly all the type-founders have
introduced Old-style faces, but yet modernised as to their peculiarities.
Considering that this article would not be complete without some such
notice thereof, as well as to show the contrast, the following is here
introduced to the reader.
[Illustration]
These old-faced types cut by the celebrated William Caslon, in or about
the years 1716-30, are even now viewed with great satisfaction, and held
in high esteem, by judges of the typographic art as master-pieces of shape
and finish.
To the list of types presented, and which give a sufficient general view,
may be added _Emerald_——between _Minion_ and _Nonpareil_——for book-work,
and also for borders and flowers to be used in neat and artistic work; Gem
and _Semi-Nonpareil_ for music; and _Minikin_, for music and Oriental
work.
The larger sizes of type are, with very few exceptions, simple multiples
of the Pica; for instance, 6-_line Roman_ means a roman letter of the
depth of six lines of Pica; 20-_line Antique_, an antique of the depth of
twenty lines; and so on.
Very little more need be said on the names applied to the different faces.
Letters used in Title-pages are especially cut for and styled
_Titling——Square, Condensed_, and if very much condensed in width,
_Compressed_ or _Narrow-Gauge_. On the other hand, when the letters seem
pulled out right and left, they are styled _Extended_.
If the reader will notice the type in which this volume is composed, he
will observe that the bottoms of the _tail letters_ are very close down
upon the tops of the tall letters, and all but touch: this is termed
_solid_. When a page or book is required to look light and less wearisome
to the vision, the lines of type are removed from each other, and a
space-line inserted between them——the page is now termed _leaded_. These
space-lines used to be cut, by the compositor, from milled lead, first in
strips of the necessary width, then of the required length; hence the term
_leads_, by which name they are commonly known. However, they were but
poor appliances at the best. Moulds are now used for casting the metal to
the specified thickness in strips of about 9 inches long, then cut by a
machine to a set gauge; by these means the thickness of the space-lines,
or leads is not only more uniformly secured, but far greater regularity
obtained in the lengths cut. Here, as in the large type, as above
mentioned, Pica is the standard which regulates the lead; in other words,
leads are cast as 3 to a pica, that is, 3 leads form the solid measurement
of the Pica body; 4-to-pica requires 4 leads, and the body of the lead
continues to decrease according to the prefixed figure, which simply
denotes into how many parts the pica is to be divided. Leads are cast so
delicately fine that 16 form the pica, but they are seldom used. In many
of the News offices brass space-lines have superseded those cast from
type-metal.
The method of manufacturing type is——
The face having been determined upon——light or heavy, round or narrow, as
well as the thickness of the downstroke——a piece of prepared soft iron is
taken, and upon the tip-end thereof the proposed letter is cut in relief;
when this cutting is finished it is case-hardened, and afterwards styled
the punch. The strike is the next operation. The punch (the letter cut
upon which, by-the-bye, is backward) is now punched, or struck, into an
oblong piece of copper, about 3 inches long and 1/3rd of an inch thick,
the breadth such as the size of the letter may require: this is the
matrix. A most particular part has now to be performed, called justifying;
which means that the matrices shall, when placed in the mould, deliver the
letters perfectly upright, and all to be true on a line as fine as a
razor’s edge. When the process of justifying is accomplished, the matrix
is fixed at the bottom of a mould, of the shape of a parallelogram, of the
size of the body one way, of the width of the letter the other, and the
depth the standard height of the type; the molten metal is forced down
this tube, either by hand or by a pump worked by hand or steam, the metal
filling the matrix (the sunk letter upon which is now forward) receives
the shape of the letter, which is once more reversed, or in a backward
position, like as the original punch was cut. The castings are released
from the mould by a very ingenious method of opening from the two diagonal
corners. The types as cast are forwarded on to the dressers to remove
burrs and other superfluities; then are placed in long lines in a frame
for finishing; next turned face downwards, and a grooving plane driven
across the feet to insure correctness in height; finally looked over for
blemishes, when all faulty letters are thrown out; the process is
completed by ranging into lines of handy length, and tied up——ready for
delivery to the typographer.
=PRINT′ING INK.= _Prep._——_a._ The VARNISH. Linseed or nut oil, 10 or 20
galls., is set over the fire in an iron pot capable of containing fully as
much more; when it boils, it is kept stirred with an iron ladle, and, if
it does not take fire of itself soon after the smoke begins to rise, it is
kindled by means of a piece of burning paper, stuck in the cleft end of a
long stick; the pot is shortly afterwards removed from the fire, and the
oil is suffered to burn for about half an hour, or until a sample of the
varnish cooled upon a palette knife may be drawn into strings of about 1/2
inch long, between the fingers; the flame is now extinguished by the
application of a closely fitting tin cover, and, as soon as the froth of
the ebullition has subsided, black resin is added, in the proportion of
3/4 lb. to 1 lb. for every quart of oil thus treated; the mixture is next
stirred until the resin is dissolved, when dry brown soap, cut into
slices, 1-3/4 lbs., is further added (cautiously), and the ingredients are
again stirred with the spatula until the whole is united, the pot being
once more placed over the fire to promote the combination; when this is
effected, the varnish is removed from the heat, and, after a good
stirring, is covered over and set aside.
_b._ The INK. Indigo and Prussian blue, of each, in fine powder, 2-1/2
oz.; mineral lampblack (finest), 4 lbs.; vegetable lampblack, 3-1/2 lbs.;
stir them gradually into the warm varnish (_a_), and submit the mixture to
careful grinding, either in a mill or by means of a slab and muller. On
the large scale, steam power is now generally employed for this purpose.
An extemporaneous superfine black ink may be made by the following
formula:——Take of balsam of copaiba (pure), 9 oz.; lampblack, 3 oz.;
indigo and Prussian blue, of each 1/2 oz.; Indian red, 3/4 oz.; yellow
soap (dry), 3 oz.; grind the mixture to an impalpable smoothness by means
of a stone and muller. Canada balsam may be substituted for balsam of
copaiba where the smell of the latter is objectionable, but the ink then
dries very quickly.
COLOURED PRINTING INKS are made in a similar way from the following
pigments:——Carmine, lakes, vermilion, chrome yellow, red lead, orange red,
Indian red, Venetian red, for red; orange chrome, chrome yellow, burnt
terra di sienna, gall-stone, Roman ochre, yellow ochre, for orange and
yellow; verdigris, Scheele’s green, Schweinfurt green, blues, and yellows
mixed, for greens; indigo, Prussian blue, Antwerp b., cobalt b., charcoal
b., for blue; lustre, bronze powders, &c., for metallic colours; and
umbia, sepia, &c., for brown.
_Obs._ It is necessary to prepare two kinds of varnish, varying in
consistence, from more or less boiling, to be occasionally mixed together
as circumstances may require; that which answers well in hot weather being
too thick in cold, and _vice versâ_. Large characters also require a
thinner ink than small ones. Old linseed oil is preferable to new. Yellow
resin soap is preferred for black and dark-coloured inks, and white curd
soap for light ones.
A good varnish may be drawn into threads like glue, and is very thick and
tenacious. The oil loses from 10% to 14% by the boiling. Mr Savage
obtained the large medal of the Society of Arts for his black ink made as
above.
A PRINTER’S INK EASILY REMOVED FROM WASTE PAPER. The following process for
the preparation of a printer’s ink that can be far more readily removed
from waste paper than ordinary printer’s ink has been patented by Kirscher
and Ebner. Iron is dissolved in some acid——sulphuric, hydrochloric,
acetic, &c., will answer, and half of the solution is oxidised with nitric
acid and added to the other half and the oxide precipitated from the
mixture by means of soda or potash. The precipitate is thoroughly washed,
and treated with equal parts of solutions of tannic and gallic acids, and
the bluish black, or pure black pigment formed, is thoroughly washed and
dried, and mixed with linseed-oil varnish, and can then be immediately
used for printing from type, copper, wood, steel, or stone. Waste paper
printed with it can be bleached by digesting it for 24 hours in a lukewarm
bath of pure water, and 10 per cent. of caustic potash or soda, and then
grinding it well in the rag engine, and throwing the pulp upon cloth and
allowing it to drain. It is then to be washed with pure water, containing
10 per cent. of hydrochloric, acetic, or oxalic acids, or of binoxalate of
potassa, and allowed to digest for 24 hours, and may then be worked up
into paper, or it can be dried and used as a substitute in the manufacture
of finer paper.
=PRINTS (Ackerman’s Liquor for).= _Prep._ Take of the finest pale glue and
white curd soap, of each 4 oz.; boiling water, 3 pints; dissolve, then add
of powdered alum, 2 oz. Used to size prints and pictures before colouring
them.
=PRINTS, To Bleach.= Simple immersion of the prints in a solution of
hypochlorous acid (the article remaining in the solution for a longer or
shorter space, according to the strength of the solution) is generally all
that is required to whiten it.
=PRIVIES.= See WATER-CLOSETS.
=PROOF.= See ACETIMETRY, ALCOHOLOMETRY, &c.
=PROOFS (Correcting).= The specimen below, with the notes, will, if
carefully perused, put the reader into possession of all the secrets of
this useful art.
[Illustration]
[_The same corrected._]
As the _vine_, which has long twined its graceful foliage about the oak,
and been lifted by it into sunshine, will, when the hardy plant is rifted
by the thunderbolt, cling round it with its caressing tendrils, and bind
up its shattered boughs so is it beautifully ordered by Providence, that
WOMAN, who is the mere dependant and ornament of man in his happier hours,
should be his stay and solace when smitten by sudden calamity; winding
herself into the rugged recesses of his nature, tenderly supporting the
drooping head, and binding up the broken heart.
It also is interesting to notice how _some_ minds seem almost to create
THEMSELVES, springing up under every disadvantage, and working their
“solitary, but irresistible way,” through a thousand obstacles. Nature
seems, &c.
IRVING.
_Explanation of the marks_:
1. When a letter or word is to be in _italics_.
2. When a letter is turned upside down.
3. The substitution of a comma for another point or letter.
4. The insertion of a hyphen; also marked (-).
5. When letters should be close together.
6. When a letter or word is to be omitted.
7. When a word is to be changed to roman.
8, 9. Two methods of marking a transposition: when there are _several_
words to be transposed, and they are much intermixed, it is a common plan
to number them, and to put the usual mark in the margin.
10. Substitution of a capital for a small letter.
11. When a word is to be changed from small letters to capitals.
12. The transposition of letters in a word.
13. The substitution of one word for another.
14. When a word or letter is to be inserted.
15. When a paragraph occurs improperly.
16. The insertion of a semicolon.
17. When a space or quadrat stands up, and is seen along with the type.
18. When letters of a wrong fount are used.
19. When words crossed off are to remain.
20. The mark for a paragraph, when its commencement has been neglected.
Sometimes the sign [, or ¶, or the word ‘_break_,’ is used instead of the
syllables ‘_New Par_,’
21. For the insertion of a space when omitted or insufficient.
22. To change capitals to small letters.
23. To change small letters to small capitals.
24. When lines or words are not straight.
25, 26. The insertion of inverted commas. The apostrophe is similarly
marked.
27. The insertion of a period when omitted, or in place of another point
or letter.
28. Substitution of one letter for another.
29. The method of marking an omission or insertion when too long for the
side margin.
=PROPYLA′MINE.= _Syn._ TRITYLAMINE.
C_{3}H_{9}N, or C_{3}H_{7} }
H } N.
H }
This compound or substituted ammonia, in which one of the three atoms of
hydrogen is displaced by the radicle propyl or trityl (C_{3}H_{7}), is
isomorphous with trimethylamine, which has been often mistaken for it.
Proposed as a remedy for acute and chronic rheumatism.
Hence it is that the commercial substance known under the name of
‘propylamine,’ which has been proposed and employed as a remedy for
rheumatism, has been shown to be not propylamine, but its isomer,
trimethylamine, or a mixture of this latter, in varying proportions, with
ammonia.
Mendius gives the following process for the preparation of
propylamine:——36 grams of cyanide of ethyl, 500 grams of common alcohol,
200 grams of water, and 50 grams of 20 per cent. hydrochloric acid, are
allowed to act on excess of granulated zinc, and then distilled.
The distillate is put back once, and 400 grams of hydrochloric acid are
added.
The product is distilled to get rid of the alcohol, then excess of alkali
added to the residue, and the distillation continued, whereupon
propylamine and water come over. Mendius says 36 grams of the cyanide of
ethyl yield 9 grams of pure propylamine. The propylamine is dried by
distillation from solid potash.
Propylamine is a bright, colourless, highly refracting, very mobile
liquid, possessing a peculiar, strongly ammoniacal odour. It mixes with
water, heat being generated by the mixture. It boils at 50° C., and has a
sp. gr. of ·7134 at 21° C.
Propylamine combines with acids, and forms crystallised salts. The
chloride is a very deliquescent salt. The sulphate occurs in crystals, and
is also deliquescent. See TRIMETHYLAMINE.
=PROPYL′IC ALCOHOL.= C_{3}H_{7}O. _Syn._ HYDRATED OXIDE OF PROPYL, TRITYL
ALCOHOL. A liquid boiling at 204·8° Fahr., obtained by repeatedly
rectifying the first products of the distillation of the fusel oil of marc
brandy. It stands to ethylic alcohol (ordinary alcohol) in the same
relation in which the latter stands to methylic alcohol (pyroxylic
spirit).
=PRO′TEIN.= The name given by Mülder to a substance which he regarded as
the original matter from which animal albumen, casein, and fibrin, were
derived; but which is now considered as a product of the decomposition of
those important principles by moderately strong caustic alkali.
_Prep._ (Liebig.) Albumen, casein, or fibrin is dissolved in moderately
strong potassa, the solution heated for some time to 120° Fahr., and
acetic acid added; a gelatinous precipitate subsides, which, after being
washed and dried, is protein.
_Obs._ The names binoxide and teroxide of protein have been given by
Mülder to products of the long-continued action of boiling water upon
fibrin in contact with the air.
=PRO′TIDE.= A soluble, straw-yellow substance, formed, along with other
products, by the action of strong solution of potassa on albumen, fibrin,
or casein. See ERYTHROPROTIDE.
=PROTO-.= See NOMENCLATURE.
=PROVI′′SIONS (Preservation of).= See PUTREFACTION.
=PRUNES.= [Fr.] The fruit of cultivated varieties of _Prunus domestica_
(Linn.). The dried fruit (FRENCH PRUNES or PLUMS; PRUNUM——B. P., Ph. L.,
PRUNA——Ph. E. & D.) is cooling and gently laxative, and, as such, is
useful in habitual costiveness and fevers.
=Prunes, Pulp of.= _Syn._ PREPARED PRUNES; PULPA PRUNORUM, PRUNUM
PRÆPARATUM (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ The imported dried fruit is boiled gently
for four hours with water, q. s. to cover them, and then pressed, first
through a fine cane sieve, and afterwards through a fine hair sieve; the
pulp is, lastly, evaporated by the heat of a water bath to the consistence
of a confection. A better plan is to use as little water as possible, by
which the necessity of subsequent evaporation is avoided. Used in the
preparation of confection of senna.
=PRU′NING= varies according to the kind of plant or tree operated on and
the particular object in view, and its skilful performance must,
therefore, greatly depend on the experience and knowledge of the gardener.
“In the operation of pruning, the shoots are cut off close to the buds, or
at a distance not greater than the diameter of the branch to be cut off;
because without the near proximity of a bud the wounds will not heal over.
In shoots which produce their buds alternately the cut is made at the back
of the bud sloping from it, so that it may be readily covered by the bark
in the same or in the following year; but in the case of branches where
the buds are produced opposite each other, either one bud must be
sacrificed or the branch must be cut off at right angles to its line of
direction, which is most conveniently done with the pruning shears.”
(Loudon.)
=PRUS′SIAN AL′KALI.= Ferrocyanide of potassium.
=PRUS′SIAN BLUE.= _Syn._ BERLIN BLUE, PARIS B., FERROCYANIDE OF IRON,
PRUSSIATE OF I., CYANURET OF I. This is the well-known blue pigment of the
shops.
_Prep._ 1. The crude but clear solution of ferrocyanide of potassium
(blood lye) is precipitated by a mixed solution of alum, 2 parts, and
green sulphate of iron, 1 part; the dingy greenish precipitate that falls
gradually becomes blue by absorption of atmospheric oxygen, which is
promoted by exposure and agitation of the liquor; as soon as it has
acquired its full colour, the sediment is repeatedly washed with water,
and is then drained, and dried, at first in a stove, but afterwards on
chalk stones. Product large, but inferior in quality.
2. Repeatedly digest and wash the precipitate obtained by the above
process in very dilute hydrochloric acid, and then in pure water; drain
and dry it, as before. Superior.
3. (Paris blue.)——_a._ Neutralise the solution of ferrocyanide of
potassium (blood lye) with dilute sulphuric acid, precipitate the liquid
with a solution of any persalt or sesquisalt of iron (as the persulphate,
nitrate, sesquichloride, or peracetate); well wash the precipitate with
water, and dry it, as before. A very rich and intense colour.
_b._ (Hochstätter.) Crystallised ferrocyanide of potassium and green
sulphate of iron, of each 6 parts, are each separately dissolved in water,
15 parts; after the admixture of the solutions, and frequent agitation,
oil of vitriol, 1 part, and fuming hydrochloric acid, 24 parts, are
stirred in; after some hours have elapsed a strained solution of chloride
of lime, 1 part, dissolved in water, 80 parts, is gradually added, the
addition being stopped as soon as an effervescence from the escape of
chlorine is perceived; the whole is now left for 5 or 6 hours, when the
precipitate is thoroughly washed in pure soft water, drained, and dried.
Or, instead of the above, the precipitate is at once washed in dilute
nitric acid until its colour ceases to be improved by the process. The
product is of the finest quality.
_Prop._ Insoluble in water and in dilute acids, except the oxalic, in
solutions of which it dissolves freely when pure; oil of vitriol dissolves
it to a white pasty mass, which is again precipitated of the usual blue
colour by water; alkalies instantly decompose it, and so do red oxide of
mercury and some other oxides when boiled with it; it burns in the air
like tinder, leaving an ash of oxide of iron. It is not poisonous.
_Pur., &c._ The quality of Prussian blue may be estimated by the richness
of its colour, and by the quantity of potassa or soda required to destroy
this. If it effervesces with acids, it contains chalk; and if it forms a
paste with boiling water, it is adulterated with starch. It is pure if,
“after being boiled with dilute hydrochloric acid, ammonia throws down
nothing from the filtered liquid.” (Ph. L. 1836.) It is distinguished from
indigo by exhibiting a coppery tint when broken, but which is removed by
rubbing with the nail.
_Concluding Remarks._ The commercial Prussian blue is not pure
ferrocyanide of iron, but a mixture of this salt with varying proportions
of the ferricyanide of iron and potassium, which also has a fine deep blue
colour. The object in employing alum is to prevent or lessen the
precipitation of oxide of iron by the free alkali in the blood lye, but a
portion of alumina is in consequence thrown down with the blue, and tends
to render it paler and increase the product. The quantity of alum employed
may be varied according to the shades of the intended blue. Samples
containing this contamination must not be employed medicinally. (See page
324.)
=Prussian Blue, Sol′uble.= _Prep._ 1. (BASIC PRUSSIAN BLUE.) By adding a
solution of protosulphate of iron to a solution of ferrocyanide of
potassium; a bluish-white precipitate, turning dark blue by free exposure,
is formed, which, after it has acquired this colour, is washed until it
begins to dissolve in the water, and colour it blue; it is then either
collected and dried, or is at once dissolved in pure water. This variety
is not precipitated from its solution by alcohol.
2. (FERROCYANIDE OF POTASSIUM AND IRON.) By precipitating a solution of a
sesquisalt or persalt of iron (as the persulphate, pernitrate, peracetate,
or sesquichloride) with a stronger solution of ferrocyanide of potassium,
so that the latter may be in considerable excess. A blue precipitate is
formed, which is treated as before. This variety is precipitated by
alcohol. Both are freely soluble in pure water, but not in water which has
the slightest saline contamination. Hence it is that lengthened exposure
to the atmosphere and the use of the common steel pen causes the gradual
precipitation of this substance from its solution when used as ink. See
WRITING FLUIDS.
=PRU′′SSIC ACID.= See HYDROCYANIC ACID.
=PSEU′DO-MOR′PHIA.= A substance of little importance, occasionally found
in opium. It differs from morphine chiefly in not decomposing iodic acid.
It is said to contain nitrogen.
=PTIS′AN.= _Syn._ PTISANA, L. A decoction made of pearl barley, liquorice,
raisins, and other like vegetable matters, either alone or so slightly
medicated as to be taken as a common drink in fevers, catarrhs, &c. Those
retained in English pharmacy have been already noticed. The French
physicians often employ this form of medicine. The ’tisanes’ of the P.
Cod. are numerous. See DECOCTION, INFUSION, JULEP, TISANE, &c.
=PTY′ALIN.= A peculiar animal matter, analogous to diastase, obtained from
the saliva. It is soluble in water, but insoluble in alcohol.
Mialhe named ptyalin “animal diastase,” and regarded it as the principal
agent in effecting the digestion of starchy foods, by converting them into
soluble glucose. One part of ptyalin, according to Mialhe, was capable of
transforming 800 parts of insoluble starch into sugar. It has been
computed that the average daily secretion of ptyalin by an adult amounts
to 116 grains. It very quickly decomposes, and in properties somewhat
resembles sodic albuminate.
=PUCHA PAT.= _Syn._ PATCHOULI. Puchá pât is the dried foliaceous tops of
_Pogostemon Patchouli_, an Indian species of _Labiatæ_. It is much used in
perfumery, particularly for making sachets; but its odour, although very
durable, is not so agreeable as that of many other substances, unless it
is combined with lavender, bergamot, ambergris, musk, or some other like
perfume.
=PUD′DINGS.= The instructions given under CAKES, PIES, &c., will be found,
with some slight modifications, also to apply to puddings, and, therefore,
need not be repeated here. Soyer tells us that every sort of pudding, if
sweet or savory, is preferably dressed in a basin instead of in a cloth.
If boiled in a basin the paste receives all the nutriment of the
materials, which, if boiled in a cloth, are dissolved out by the water,
when by neglect it ceases boiling. To cause them to turn well out, the
inside of the basin should be thoroughly ‘larded’ or rubbed with butter.
In the preparation of meat puddings the first and most important point is
never to use any meat that is tainted; for in pudding, above all other
dishes, it is least possible to disguise it by the confined progress which
the ingredients undergo. The gradual heating of the meat, which alone
would accelerate decomposition, will cause the smallest piece of tainted
meat to contaminate all the rest. Be particular, also, that the suet and
fat are not rancid, ever remembering the grand principle that everything
which gratifies the palate nourishes.”
“A pudding cloth, however coarse, ought never to be washed with soap; it
should be simply dried as quickly as possible, and kept dry and free from
dust, and in a drawer or cupboard free from smell.” (Soyer.)
=PUD′DLING.= See IRON.
=PULMONI′TIS.= Inflammation of the lungs.
=PULP.= _Syn._ PULPA, L. The softer parts of plants, more particularly of
fruits, separated from the fibrous and harder portions.
“Pulpy fruits, if they be unripe, or ripe and dried, are to be placed in a
damp situation until they become soft; then the pulp is to be pressed out
through a hair sieve; afterwards it is to be boiled with a gentle heat,
frequently stirring; and finally, the (excess of) water is to be
evaporated in a water bath, until the pulp acquire proper consistence.
“Press the pulpy fruits which are ripe and fresh through a hair sieve,
without boiling them.” (Ph. L. 1836.)
=PULVERISA′TION.= The reduction of any substance to dust or powder.
On the small scale, pulverisation is usually performed by means of a
pestle and mortar; on the large scale, by stamping, grinding or cutting
the substance in a mill. A few soft substances, as carbonate of magnesia,
carbonate of lead, &c., may be pulverised by simply rubbing them through a
fine sieve, placed over a sheet of paper; whilst many hard, gritty
substances can only be reduced to fine powder by porphyrisation or
levigation. Elutriation, or ‘washing over,’ is adopted for several
substances, as chalk, antimony, &c., which are required to be reduced to
fine powder on the large scale. For some articles which are very tough,
fibrous, or resisting, a rasp or file is employed. Whichever of these
methods is adopted, the body to be powdered must be very dry, and where
spontaneous drying is insufficient, artificial desiccation in a stove or
oven, gently heated, is employed. To facilitate this, the substance should
be first cut into pieces or crushed small. On the other hand, a few
substances, as rice, sago, nux vomica, and St Ignatius’s bean, are often
soaked in water, or steamed, before being further operated on. Whenever a
substance cannot be dried completely, without an alteration of its
properties, an intermedium is had recourse to, by which the moisture may
be absorbed, or its state of aggregation modified. Thus, sugar is employed
in pulverising civet, musk, nutmeg, and vanilla. When camphor is to be
pulverised, the addition of a very small quantity of alcohol renders the
operation easy. In other cases the intermedium is of so hard a nature as
to assist in breaking down the substance to be powdered; thus, gold leaf
is reduced to powder by rubbing it with sulphate of potassa, and
afterwards removing this last by means of water. Fusible metals, as zinc
and tin, are powdered by pouring them into a mortar, and stirring them
rapidly whilst cooling; or, by briskly agitating them, in the melted
state, in a wooden box covered with chalk or whiting. Phosphorus is
powdered by melting it in urine or lime water, and then shaking the bottle
until its contents have become quite cold. Glass, quartz, and silicated
stones, require to be heated red hot, and in this state to be thrown into
cold water, by which they become sufficiently friable to admit of
pulverisation. Many salts which are reduced to fine powder with very great
difficulty, and do not dissolve in spirit of wine, are easily obtained in
a pulverulent form, by agitating their concentrated aqueous solution with
a considerable quantity of rectified spirit; the disengaged fine
crystallised powder may then be dried, and further divided by trituration.
Potassio tartrate of antimony may be advantageously thus treated. A large
number of salts, including nitre, sal ammoniac, and carbonate of potash,
may also be reduced to powder by keeping their solutions in a state of
constant and violent agitation during their rapid evaporation.
The following rules should be observed in the preparation of powders:——
1. If possible, perfectly dry articles should alone be operated on, and
only in dry weather.
2. The nature of the mortar, and the mode of operating, should be adapted
to the nature of the substance. Thus, woods and barks should be pulverised
in an iron mortar; sugar, alum, and nitre, in one of marble or
wedgwood-ware; and corrosive sublimate, only in one of glass.
3. The mortar should be provided with a cover, to prevent loss and
annoyance to the operator. If much powder escapes, or if it is dangerous
or disagreeable when breathed, or if the substance is rare or costly, the
mortar should be covered with a skin of leather, to which the pestle is
attached, so that the latter may be freely moved without causing the
slightest opening for the escape of the dust occasioned by the process.
When aloes or gamboge is powdered, a few drops of olive oil are commonly
added with the same intention.
4. The pulverised portions should be separated from time to time by aid of
a sieve, the coarser particles being returned to the mortar to be again
beaten and triturated; and this alternate pulverisation and sifting is to
be repeated until the process is complete.
=PUM′ICE STONE.= _Syn._ PUMEX, LAPIS PUMICEUS, L. PUMICIS, L. Found in the
neighbourhood of volcanoes. Used, in the solid form, to polish wood,
paint, &c.; also, when pulverised, as a polishing powder for glass, bone,
ivory, marble, metals, &c.
=PUMP FOR USE IN CHEMICAL, PAPER, and other Works.= The Perreaux Pump
Valve is made of vulcanised india rubber, and is of the form of the valves
in the human body. It is of the greatest, and perhaps the really only
valuable improvement in valves applicable, equally, to the common hand or
jack pump, and the most elaborate mechanical combinations for raising
water.
The valve may be taken as the key of the pump; a perfect valve renders an
indifferent pump a valuable and effective machine, whereas an imperfect
valve, in an otherwise excellently constructed pump, renders it
practically useless.
The pump which Simon the tanner, of Joppa, used for pumping his pits,
nearly two thousand years ago, may be taken as the type of the common hand
pump in use to this day. Various mechanical improvements have been made in
its form and construction, but, practically, and effectively, the only
real and valuable improvement is the Perreaux valve, now under
consideration.
Constructed of a flexible material, and made in form, as nearly as may be,
to the valves of the human body, they may be said to be automatic in their
action, or self acting; upon the pump being actuated, the least motion of
the pump ensuring a corresponding action of the valve, and the most rapid
action of the pump, being equally responded to by the pulsation of the
valves.
Although the most perfect valves for pumping clear water, because, what is
mechanically termed the duty of the pump is complete, in other words, the
quantity displaced is discharged, absolutely without loss, yet their most
valuable feature is that they pump semi-fluids equally well as clear
water.
For the pulps and stuffs in paper mills, for bleaches, dyes, and corrosive
liquors, for liquid manures and other such semi-fluids, they stand alone,
they are absolutely unchokable.
Used in conjunction with cylinders or barrels made of toughened glass,
they form the most perfect pump where the fluid to be raised is of a
caustic or corrosive nature, and where the fluid would be destructive to
or destroyed by its action upon metals, such for example as the caustic
bleach used in the manufacture of paper, &c. See VALVES.
=PUNCH.= An acidulous, intoxicating beverage, composed of water sweetened
with sugar, with a mixture of lemon juice and spirit, to which some
aromatic, as nutmeg, mace, or cinnamon, is occasionally added. Wine is
sometimes substituted for spirit. It is much less drunk than formerly. Rum
punch is the most popular amongst sailors, who are now the principal
consumers of this beverage.
_Prep._ 1. Juice of 3 or 4 lemons; yellow peel of 1 lemon; lump sugar, 3/4
lb.; boiling water, 3-1/2 pints; infuse 1/2 an hour, strain, and add, of
bitter ale, 1/2 pint; rum and brandy, of each 3/4 to 1 pint (or rum
alone, 1-1/2 to 2 pints). More hot water and sugar may be added if the
punch is desired either weaker or sweeter.
2. (COLD PUNCH.) From arrack, port wine, and water, of each 1 pint; juice
of 4 lemons; white sugar, 1 lb.
3. (GIN PUNCH.) From the yellow peel of 1/2 a lemon; juice of 1 lemon;
strongest gin, 3/4 pint; water, 1-3/4 pint; sherry, 1 glassful.
4. (ICED PUNCH.) From champagne or Rhenish wine, 1 quart; arrack, 1 pint;
juice of 6 lemons; yellow peel of 3 lemons; white sugar, 1 lb.; soda
water, 1 or 2 bottles; to be iced as cream.
5. (MILK PUNCH; VERDER.) Steep the yellow rinds of 18 lemons and 6
oranges, for 2 days, in rum or brandy, 2 quarts; then add 3 quarts more of
either spirit; hot water, 3 quarts; lemon juice, 1 quart; loaf sugar, 4
lbs.; 2 nutmegs, grated; and boiling milk, 2 quarts; mix well, and in 2
hours strain the liquor through a jelly-bag.
6. (NORFOLK PUNCH.) Take of French brandy, 20 quarts; yellow peels of 18
oranges and 30 lemons; infuse for 12 hours; add, of cold water, 30 quarts;
lump sugar, 20 lbs.; and the juice of the oranges and lemons; mix well,
strain through a hair sieve, add of new milk 2 quarts, and in 6 weeks
bottle in. Keeps well.
7. (ORANGE PUNCH.) As No. 1, using oranges, and adding some orange wine,
if at hand. A little curacoa, noyau, or mareschino improves it.
8. (RASPBERRY PUNCH.) As the last, but using raspberry juice, or raspberry
vinegar, for the oranges or lemons.
9. (REGENT’S PUNCH.) From strong hot green tea, lemon juice, and
capillaire, of each 1-1/2 pint; rum, brandy, arrack, and curacoa, of each
1 pint; champagne, 1 bottle; mix and slice a pineapple into it.
10. (TEA PUNCH.) From strong hot tea, 1 quart; arrack, 1/2 bottle; white
sugar, 6 oz.; juice of 8 lemons; and the yellow rinds of 4 lemons; mixed
together.
11. (WINE PUNCH.) From white sugar, 1 lb.; yellow peel of 3 lemons; juice
of 9 lemons; arrack, 1 pint; port or sherry (hot), 1 gall.; cinnamon, 1/4
oz.; nutmeg, 1 dr.; mix.
12. (YANKEE PUNCH.) Macerate sliced pineapple, 3 oz.; vanilla, 6 gr.; and
ambergris (rubbed with a little sugar), 1 gr., in the strongest pale
brandy, 1 pint, for a few hours, with frequent agitation; then strain with
expression; add, of lemon juice, 1 pint; lemon syrup, and either claret or
port wine, of each 1 bottle; with sugar, 1/2 lb., dissolved in boiling
water, 1-1/2 pint. See SHRUB.
=PURG′ATIVES.= _Syn._ DEJECTORIA, PURGANTIA, PURGATIVA, L. These have been
divided into five orders or classes, according to their particular
actions. The following are the principal of each class:——
1. (LAXATIVES, LENITIVES, or MILD CATHARTICS.) Manna, cassia pulp,
tamarinds, prunes, honey, phosphate of soda; castor, almond, and olive
oils; ripe fruit.
2. (SALINE or COOLING LAXATIVES.) Epsom salt, Glauber’s salt, phosphate of
soda (tasteless salt), seidlitz powders, &c.
3. (ACTIVE CATHARTICS, occasionally acrid, frequently tonic and
stomachic.) Rhubarb, senna, aloes, &c.
4. (DRASTIC or VIOLENT CATHARTICS.) Jalap, scammony, gamboge, croton oil,
colocynth, elaterium, &c.
5. (MERCURIAL PURGATIVES.) Calomel, blue-pill, quicksilver with chalk, &c.
In prescribing purgatives regard should be had to the particular portion
of the alimentary canal on which we desire more immediately to act, as
well as to the manner in which the medicine effects its purpose. Thus,
Epsom salt, sulphate of potassa, and rhubarb, act chiefly on the duodenum;
aloes on the rectum; blue-pill, calomel, and jalap on the larger
intestines generally; and tartrate and bitartrate of potassa, and sulphur
on the whole length of the intestinal canal. Again, others are stimulant,
as aloes, croton oil, jalap, scammony, &c.; others are refrigerant, as
most of the saline aperients; magnesia and its carbonate are both aperient
and antacid; whilst another class, including rhubarb, damask roses, &c.,
are astringent. Further, some produce only serous or watery dejections,
without greatly increasing the peristaltic action of the bowels; whilst a
few occasion a copious discharge of the fæces in an apparently natural
form. See DRAUGHT, MIXTURE, PILLS, PRESCRIBING, &c.
=PURL.= _Prep._ To ale or beer, 1/2 pint, gently warmed, add of bitters, 1
wine-glassful, or q. s. Some add a little spirit. A favourite beverage
with hard drinkers early in the morning.
=PUR′PLE.= A rich compound colour, produced by the admixture of pure blue
and pure red. This colour has always been the distinguishing badge of
royalty and distinction. The celebrated Tyrian purple was produced from a
shell-fish called murex.
=Purple An′iline.= _Syn._ PERKIN’S PURPLE, MAUVE. This valuable dye-stuff
is prepared under W. H. Perkin’s patent, by mixing solutions of sulphate
of aniline and bichromate of potassa in equivalent proportions, and, after
some hours, washing the black precipitate with water, drying it, digesting
it repeatedly in coal-tar naphtha, and, finally, dissolving it in boiling
alcohol. It may be further purified by evaporating the alcoholic solution
to dryness, dissolving the residue in a large quantity of boiling water,
reprecipitating by caustic soda, washing with water, dissolving in
alcohol, filtering, and evaporating to dryness. Thus purified, mauve forms
a brittle substance, having a bronze-coloured surface. It imparts a deep
purple colour to cold water, though dissolving sparingly in that liquid;
it is more soluble in hot water, and very soluble in alcohol. See PURPLE
DYE (_below_), and TAR COLOURS.
=Purple of Cassius.= _Syn._ PURPLE PRECIPITATE OF CASSIUS, GOLD PURPLE,
GOLD PREPARED WITH TIN; AURUM STANNO PARATUM, PURPURA MINERALIS CASII, L.
_Prep._ 1. Crystallised protochloride of tin, 1 part; crystallised
perchloride of tin, 2 parts; dissolve each separately, mix the solutions,
and add of crystallised terchloride of gold (in solution), 1 part;
carefully wash, and dry the precipitate. Very fine.
2. (Frick.) Dissolve pure grain tin in cold dilute aqua regia until the
fluid becomes faintly opalescent, then take the metal out and weigh it;
next, dilute the solution largely with water, and add, simultaneously, a
dilute solution of gold and dilute sulphuric acid in such proportion that
the tin in the one shall be to the gold in the other in the ratio of 10 to
36.
3. (P. Cod.) Terchloride of gold, 1 part, is dissolved in distilled water,
200 parts; another solution is made by dissolving in the cold, pure tin, 1
part, in a mixture of nitric acid, 1 part, and hydrochloric acid, 2 parts;
this last solution is diluted with distilled water, 100 parts, and is then
added to the solution of terchloride of gold until precipitation ceases to
take place; the powder is, lastly, washed by decantation, and dried by a
very gentle heat.
4. Silver, 150 parts; gold, 20 parts; pure grain tin, 35 parts; fuse them
together under charcoal and borax, cool, laminate, and dissolve out the
silver with nitric acid.
_Obs._ Purple of Cassius is generally supposed to be a combination of
oxide of gold and sesquioxide of tin, in which the latter acts as an acid.
Heat resolves it into a mixture of metallic gold and binoxide of tin. It
is used as a purple in porcelain painting, and to communicate a ruby-red
colour to glass, when melted in open vessels.
=PURPLE DYE.= The purples now in vogue are the numerous shades of ‘mauve’
and ‘magenta’ obtained by the ‘aniline colours.’ (See _above_, also RED.)
For silk and woollen goods no mordant is required. The proper proportion
of the clear alcoholic solution is mixed with water slightly warm, any
scum that may form is cleared off, and the goods are entered and worked
until the required shade is obtained; a small quantity of acetic or
tartaric acid is recommended to be added in some cases. For dyeing on
cotton with the aniline colours, the cloth or yarn is steeped in sumac or
tannic acid, dyed in the colour, and then fixed by tin; or it may be
steeped in sumac and mordanted with tin, and then dyed. Purples were
formerly, and are still occasionally, produced by first dyeing a blue in
the ‘indigo vat,’ and then dyeing a cochineal or lac scarlet upon the top.
See VIOLET DYE.
=PUR′PURATE OF AMMO′′NIA.= See MUREXIDE.
=PURPU′RIC ACID.= See MUREXAN.
=PURPURIN.= C_{9}H_{6}O_{3}. _Syn._ MADDER PURPLE. The name given by
Robiquet and Colin to a beautiful colouring principle obtained from
madder.
_Prep._ Coarsely powdered madder is allowed to ferment with water, after
which it is boiled in a strong solution of alum; the decoction is next
mixed with sulphuric acid, and the resulting red precipitate is purified
by one or more crystallisations from alcohol.
_Prop., &c._ Crystalline red needles, insoluble in cold water, but soluble
in hot water, and in alcohol, ether, and solutions of alum and the
alkalies. It differs from alizarin or madder red in containing 2 atoms
less of carbon.
=PUR′REE.= _Syn._ INDIAN YELLOW. A yellow substance, of doubtful origin,
imported from China and India, and now extensively used in both oil and
water-colour painting. According to the researches of Stenhouse and
Erdmann it consists of purreic acid, a strongly tinctorial vegetable
substance, united to magnesia.
=PURRE′IC ACID.= _Syn._ EUXANTHIC ACID. This substance is obtained from
purree. It crystallises in nearly colourless needles, which are only
sparingly soluble in cold water, and forms rich yellow-coloured compounds
with the alkalies and earths. Heat converts it into a neutral,
crystallisable substance, called purrenone.
=PUS.= The cream-like, white or yellowish liquid secreted by wounded
surfaces, abscesses, sores, &c.
=PUTREFAC′TION.= _Syn._ PUTREFACTIO, L. The spontaneous decomposition of
animal and nitrogenised vegetable substances, under the joint influence of
warmth, air, and moisture. The solid and fluid matters are resolved into
gaseous compounds and vapours, which escape, and into earthy matters,
which remain. The most striking characteristic of this species of
decomposition is the ammoniacal or fetid exhalations that constantly
accompany it.
The nature of putrefaction, and the conditions essential to its
occurrence, have been briefly alluded to under fermentation, to which we
must refer the reader. It may here, however, be useful to reiterate that
this change can only be prevented by the abstraction or exclusion of the
conditions essential to its occurrence. This may be affected by——reduction
of temperature,——exclusion of atmospheric air, or——the abstraction of
moisture. The antiseptic processes in common use are effective in
precisely the same degree as these preventive means are carried out.
Frozen meat may be preserved for an unlimited period, while the same
substance will scarcely keep for more than a few days at the ordinary heat
of summer. Animal substances will also remain uninjured for a long period
if kept in vessels from which the air is entirely excluded, as in the
process now so extensively adopted for the preservation of fresh meat for
the use of our army and marine. The third condition is fulfilled when
nitrogenised matter is preserved in alcohol, brine, or any similar fluid,
and when it is dried. In either case water is abstracted from the surface,
which then loses its propensity to putrefy, and forms an impervious layer,
which excludes atmospheric oxygen from the interior and softer portion of
the substance. Creasote, and most of the antiseptic salts, also act in
this way.
Among special antiseptic processes are the following:
APPLICATION OF COLD. The accession of putrefaction is prevented, and its
progress arrested, by a temperature below that at which water freezes. In
the colder climates of the world, butchers’ meat, poultry, and even
vegetables, are preserved from one season to the other in the frozen
state. In North America millions are thus supplied with animal food,
which, we can state, from personal experience, is often superior in
flavour, tenderness, and apparent freshness, to that from the recently
killed animal. In temperate climates, and in cold ones during their short
summer, ice-houses and ice-safes afford a temperature sufficiently low for
keeping meat fresh and sweet for an indefinite period. Substances
preserved in this manner should be allowed to gradually assume their
natural condition before cooking them; and on no account should they be
plunged into hot water, or put before the fire, whilst in the frozen
state.
BUCANING. A rude kind of drying and smoking meat, cut into thin slices,
practised by hunters in the prairies and forests.
DESICCATION or DRYING. In this way every article of food, both animal and
vegetable, may be preserved without the application of salt or other
foreign matter. The proper method is to expose the substances, cut into
slices or small fragments, in the sun, or in a current of warm dry air,
the temperature of which should be under 140° Fahr. Articles so treated,
when immersed for a short time in cold water, to allow the albumen and
organic fibres to swell, and then boiled in the same water, are nearly as
nutritious as fresh meat cooked in the same manner. If a higher degree of
heat than 140° be employed for animal substances, they become hard and
insipid. Owing to the practical difficulties in the way of applying the
above process to fresh meats, it is usually employed in conjunction with
either salting or smoking, and, frequently, with both of them.
EXCLUSION OF ATMOSPHERIC AIR. This is effected by the method of preserving
in sugar, potting in oil, and, more particularly, by some of the patented
methods noticed below. Fresh meat may be preserved for some months in that
state, by keeping it in water perfectly deprived of air. In practice some
iron filings and sulphur may be placed at the bottom of the vessel, over
which must be set the meat; over the whole is gently poured recently
boiled water, and the vessel is at once closed, so as to exclude the
external air.
IMMERSION IN ANTISEPTIC LIQUIDS. One of the commonest and most effective
liquids employed for this purpose is alcohol of 60 to 70%, to which a
little camphor, ammonia, sal ammoniac, or common salt, is occasionally
added. A cheaper and equally efficient plan is to employ a weak spirit
holding a little creasote in solution. A weak solution of sulphurous acid
may be substituted for alcohol. Weak solutions of alum, or carbolic acid,
with or without the addition of a few grains of corrosive sublimate, or of
arsenious acid, are also highly antiseptic. These are chiefly employed for
anatomical specimens, &c. A solution containing only 1/600th part of
nitrate of silver is likewise very effective; but, from this salt being
poisonous, it cannot be employed for preserving articles of food.
Butchers’ meat is occasionally pickled in vinegar. By immersing it for 1
hour in water holding 1/400th part of creasote in solution, it may be
preserved unchanged for some time even during summer.
INJECTION OF ANTISEPTIC LIQUIDS into the veins or arteries of the recently
killed animal. It is found that the sooner this is done after the
slaughter of the animal the more effective it becomes, as the absorbent
power of the vessels rapidly decrease by age. See GANNAL’S PROCESS
(_below_).
JERKING is a method of preserving flesh sometimes adopted in hot climates.
It consists in cutting the lean parts of the meat into thin slices, and
exposing these to the sunshine until quite dry and brittle, when they are
bruised in a mortar, and pressed into pots.
PICKLING IN VINEGAR. In this method the substances, rendered as dry as
possible by exposure to the air, are placed in glass or stoneware jars
(not salt-glazed), or wooden vessels, when strong vinegar, either cold or
boiling hot, is poured over them, and the vessel at once closely corked or
otherwise covered up, and preserved in a cool situation. Meat is
occasionally thus treated; vegetables frequently so. See PICKLE.
POTTING IN OIL. In this case salad or olive oil is substituted for vinegar
(see _above_), and is always used cold.
SALTING acts chiefly by abstracting water from the albuminous portions of
the meat, by which its disposition to change is lessened.
SMOKING. This process, which, as well as the last, is referred to further
on, acts both by the abstraction of moisture and the antiseptic properties
of certain substances (creasote, &c.) contained in wood smoke. Fresh meat
and fish are occasionally smoked; but, in general, substances intended to
be thus treated are first salted.
In Donkin and Gamble’s patent process the substances, previously
parboiled, are placed in small tin cylinders, which are then filled up
with rich soup; the lids are next soldered on quite air-tight, and a
small hole is afterwards made in the centre; the cylinders are then placed
in a bath of strong brine, or a strong solution of chloride of calcium,
which is at once heated to the boiling point, to nearly complete the
cooking process; after which the small hole in the lid is hermetically
sealed by covering it with solder while the vessel still remains boiling
hot; the tins are, lastly, again submitted to heat in the heated bath, the
duration of which is proportioned to the quantity and character of their
contents, the ‘dressing’ of which is to be perfected by this operation.
The ends of the tins, on cooling, assume a concave form, from the pressure
of the atmosphere, without which they cannot be air-tight, and the process
has been unsuccessful. To determine this, the patentees expose the
canisters, prepared as before, for at least a month in an apartment heated
to about 100° Fahr.; when, if the process has failed, putrefaction
commences, and the ends of the cases, instead of remaining concave, bulge
or become convex. This is called the ‘test.’ By this process, which was
invented by M. Appert in France about the year 1808, fish, flesh, poultry,
and vegetables may be preserved for years in any climate.
Goldner’s process differs somewhat from the preceding, in the employment
of a higher degree of heat, more hastily applied, and not prolonged or
repeated after the tins are soldered up.
Gannal’s process, having for its object the preservation of butchers’ meat
in the fresh state, depends on the peculiarly absorbent property of the
flesh of recently killed animals, above referred to. This process consists
in injecting a solution of sulphate of alumina, or, better, of chloride of
aluminium, of the sp. gr. 1·070 to 1·085 (10° to 12° Baumé), into the
carotid artery, by means of a syphon, as soon as the blood ceases to flow
from the slaughtered animal; both extremities of the jugular vein being
previously tied. 9 to 12 quarts of the solution are sufficient for an ox,
and a proportionate quantity for smaller animals. A less quantity is also
required in winter than summer. When the animal has been well bled, and
the injection skilfully performed, it is scarcely perceptible that the
animal has undergone any preparation. The injected animal is cut up in the
usual way; and when intended to be eaten within 2 or 3 weeks merely
requires to be hung up in a dry, airy situation free from flies; but if it
is to be kept for a longer period, it is directed to be washed with a
mixed solution of common salt and chloride of aluminium at 10° Baumé, and
then simply dried and packed in clean air-tight barrels, and kept in a
cool, dry place. If the air cannot be perfectly excluded, it should be
packed in dry salt, not for the purpose of preserving it, but to prevent
the vegetation of bissus, as, without this precaution, the meat becomes
musty from exposure and the action of moisture. Meat preserved by this
process may be kept for several years, and merely requires soaking for 24
hours in water, for the purpose of swelling its pores, to give it the
appearance and taste of fresh meat, fit for either roasting or boiling.
For hot climates a somewhat stronger solution, or a larger quantity of the
usual one, may be injected. The use of the strong solutions ordered in
some recent works, however, deprives the flesh of a portion of its
apparent freshness, and makes it more nearly approach in flavour to that
which has been slightly salted in the ordinary manner.
In addition to the above it may be added that both flesh and fish may be
preserved by dipping them into, or brushing them over with, pyroligneous
acid, and then drying them. This gives them a smoky flavour; but if pure
acetic acid (Ph. L.) be used, no taste will be imparted. These fluids may
be applied by means of a clean painter’s brush, or even a stiff feather. A
table-spoonful is sufficient to brush over a large surface. Fish and flesh
so prepared will bear a voyage to the East Indies and back, uninjured.
Fish may also be preserved in a dry state, and perfectly fresh, by means
of sugar alone. Fresh fish may be thus kept for some days, so as to be as
good when boiled as if just caught. If dried and kept free from
mouldiness, there seems no limit to their preservation; and they are much
more nutritious in this way than when salted. This process is particularly
valuable in making what is called ‘kippered salmon,’ and the fish
preserved in this manner are far superior in quality and flavour to those
which are salted or smoked. A few tablespoonfuls of brown sugar are
sufficient for a salmon of five or six pounds’ weight; and if salt be
desired, a teaspoonful or two may be added. Saltpetre may be used instead
of salt, if it be wished to make the kipper hard.
The well-known property possessed by ether, alcohol, pyroxylic spirit,
chloroform, and certain other hydrocarbons, of averting putrefaction, has
been thus applied by M. Robin:——He encloses the meat or other substances
to be preserved in a glass case, along with a sponge or a capsule
containing the preservative liquid, which latter is continually evolved in
a vaporous condition, and exercises the preservative agency. In this way
the vapours of hydrocyanic acid are found to be very efficacious. Camphor
is thus employed in the MUMMY CASES in the British Museum.
It has been asserted by Mr George Hamilton that in an atmosphere of
binoxide of nitrogen, in the dark, flesh preserves its natural colour and
freshness for about five months; and eats well provided it be boiled in
open vessels, to expel nitrous fumes. See CANDYING, EGG, FISH, FRUIT,
MILK, PICKLES, POTTING, PRESERVES, SALTING, SMOKING, STUFFING, VEGETABLE
SUBSTANCES, &c.
=PUT′TY.= This name is given to the following preparations (when used
alone. ‘Glazier’s putty’ is generally indicated):——
=Putty, Glazier’s.= From whiting made into a stiff paste with drying oil.
It is used to fix panes of glass in sashes, to fill holes and cracks in
wood before painting it, &c.
=Putty, Plasterer’s.= A fine cement used by plasterers, made of lime only.
It differs from ‘FINE STUFF’ in the absence of hair.
=Putty, Polisher’s.= _Syn._ PUTTY POWDER, CALCINE; CINERES STANNI, STANNI
OXYDUM CRUDUM, L. A crude peroxide of tin, obtained by exposing metallic
tin in a reverberatory furnace, and raking off the dross as it forms; this
is afterwards calcined until it becomes whitish, and is then reduced to
powder. Another method is to melt tin with rather more than an equal
weight of lead, and then to rapidly raise the heat so as to render the
mixed metal red hot, when the tin will be immediately flung out in the
state of ‘putty’ or ‘peroxide.’ The products of both these processes are
very hard, and are used for polishing glass and japan work, and to colour
opaque white enamel. See TIN.
=Putty, To Soften.= Take 1 lb. of American pearlash and 3 lbs. of
quick-lime. After slaking the lime in water add the pearlash, and let the
mixture be made of a consistence about the same as that of paint. When
required for use apply it to both sides of the glass, and let it remain in
contact with the putty for twelve hours; after which the putty will have
become so softened that the glass may be removed from the frame without
any difficulty.
=PUZZOLA′NA.= PUOZZOLANA, or, more correctly, PUZZUOLANA, is a volcanic
ash found at Puzzuoli, near Naples. When mixed with lime it forms an
excellent hydraulic cement. A good FACTITIOUS PUZZOLANA may be made by
heating a mixture of 3 bushels of clay and 1 bushel of fresh-slaked lime
for some hours to redness. (M. Bruyere.) See CEMENT and MORTAR.
=PYRI′TES.= A term applied to several native metallic sulphides. IRON
PYRITES is the best known of these.
=PY′RO-.= The term is applied to several acids that are obtained by the
action of heat on other substances; as, PYROGALLIC ACID, PYROLIGNEOUS A.,
&c.
=PYROACE′TIC SPIRIT.= See SPIRIT (Pyroacetic).
=PYROGAL′LIC ACID.= HC_{6}H_{5}O_{3}. _Syn._ ACIDUM PYROGALLICUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. From either gallic or tannic acid, heated in a retort by means
of an oil bath, and steadily maintained at a temperature of about 420°
Fahr. as long as crystals are formed in the neck of the retort, or in the
receiver, both of which should be kept well cooled. Pure. If a much higher
heat is employed, the product consists chiefly of metagallic acid.
2. From Aleppo galls, in very coarse powder, heated in a dish covered with
thin filtering paper pasted to its edge, and connected with a well-cooled
receiver. Dr Ure says that the so-called Chinese galls furnish, by dry
distillation, a “very concentrated solution of pyrogallic acid, which,
evaporated on the water bath, yields of brown crystalline pyrogallic acid
nearly 15% of the weight of the galls.”
3. (Dr Stenhouse.) By sublimation from the dry aqueous extract of
nut-galls, in a Mohr’s apparatus, in the same way that benzoic acid is
obtained from benzoin resin, observing the precautions referred to in No.
1 (_above_). Nearly pure. The product is fully 10% of the weight of
extract operated on.
_Prop._ Light crystals, which, when perfectly pure, are quite white;
freely soluble in water, but the solution cannot be evaporated without
turning black and suffering decomposition; it strikes a rich blackish-blue
colour with the protosalts of iron, and reduces those of the sesquioxide
to the state of protoxide; when heated to 480° Fahr., it is converted into
METAGALLIC ACID and water.
_Uses, &c._ Pure pyrogallic acid is now very extensively employed in
photography. A solution of the crude acid mixed with a little spirit is
used to dye the hair, to which it imparts a fine brown colour, but has the
disadvantage of also staining the skin when applied to it.
=PY′ROGEN ACIDS.= Those generated by heat.
=PYRO′LA.= See WINTER GREEN.
=PYROLIG′NEOUS ACID.= _Syn._ VINEGAR OF WOOD†, SPIRIT OF W.†, SMOKING
LIQUOR†, ESSENCE OF SMOKE†; ACIDUM PYROLIGNOSUM, L. Impure acetic acid,
obtained by the destructive distillation of wood in close vessels. It
comes over along with tar creasote, and other liquid and gaseous matters.
In this state it contains much empyreumatic matter in solution; but by
separation from the tar, saturation with slaked lime or chalk, defecation,
and evaporation, an impure acetate of pyrolignate of lime is obtained,
which, after being gently heated, to destroy part of its empyreumatic
matter, without injuring its acetic acid, is again dissolved and
defecated, and then precipitated by a solution of sulphate of soda, when a
solution of acetate of soda and a precipitate of sulphate of lime are
formed by double decomposition. The solution is next evaporated to
dryness, the dry mass (pyrolignite of soda) dissolved in water, and the
new solution filtered and recrystallised. The crystals of acetate of soda,
obtained by the last process, yield nearly pure acetic acid by
distillation along with sulphuric acid. See ACETIC ACID and VINEGAR.
=PYROLIG′NEOUS SPIRIT.= See SPIRIT (Pyroxilic).
=PYROM′ETER.= An instrument to measure high degrees of heat. WEDGWOOD’S
PYROMETER, the one best known, depends on the property which clay
possesses of contracting when strongly heated. PROF DANIEL’S PYROMETER
consists, essentially, of a small rod or bar of platinum, which acts in a
precisely opposite manner to the preceding, viz., by its expansion.
=PYROPH′ORUS.= _Syn._ LUFT-ZUNDER, Ger. Any substance that inflames
spontaneously when exposed to the air.
_Prep._ 1. Neutral chromate of lead, 6 parts; sulphur, 1 part; triturate
them with water, q. s. to form a paste, and make this into pellets; dry
these perfectly by a gentle heat, then heat them in a closed tube until
the sulphur is all driven off; lastly, transfer them to a stoppered phial.
2. (HOMBERG’S PYROPHORUS.) From alum and brown sugar, equal parts; stir
the mixture in an iron ladle over the fire until dry, then put it into an
earthen or coated glass phial, and keep it at a red heat so long as the
flame is emitted; it must then be carefully stopped up and cooled.
3. (Dr Hare.) Lampblack, 3 parts; burnt alum, 4 parts; carbonate of
potassa, 8 parts; as the last.
4. (Gay Lussac.) From sulphate of potassa, 9 parts; calcined lampblack, 5
parts; as No. 2.
5. Alum, 3 parts; wheat flour, 1 part; as No. 2.
6. (LEAD PYROPHORUS——Göbel.) Heat tartrate of lead to redness in a glass
tube, and then hermetically seal it. See TARTRATE OF LEAD.
_Obs._ When the above are properly prepared, a little of the powder
rapidly becomes very hot, and inflames on exposure to the air. The
accession of the combustion is promoted by moisture, as a damp atmosphere
or the breath. With the exception of the first and sixth, “they owe their
combustibility to the presence of sulphide of potassium.” (Gay Lussac.)
=PYROPHOSPHOR′IC ACID.= See DIBASIC PHOSPHORIC ACID (Phosphorus).
=PYRO′SIS.= _Syn._ BLACK WATER, WATER BRASH, WATER QUALM. An affection of
the stomach, attended by a sensation of heat and the eructation of a thin,
sour liquid, often in considerable quantity, especially in the morning.
The following pill will be found of service in this affection:——Powdered
opium, 1/8th gr.; subnitrate of bismuth, 5 gr.; extract of gentian,
sufficient to make into 2 pills. To be taken two or three times a day,
before meals.
The solution of bismuth and citrate of ammonia (Liquor Bismuthi et Ammoniæ
Citratis, B. P.), in doses of 1/2 dr. to 1 dr., taken as above, is another
medicine which may be had recourse to, should the above fail to give
relief.
=PYBOTARTAR′IC ACID.= H_{2}C_{5}H_{6}O_{4}. Obtained by the destructive
distillation of tartaric acid. See TARTARIC ACID.
=PYROTECH′NY.= The art of making fireworks. The three principal materials
employed in this art are charcoal, nitre, and sulphur, along with filings
of iron, steel, copper, or zinc, or with resin, camphor, lycopodium, or
other substances, to impart colour, or to modify the effect or the
duration of the combustion. Gunpowder is used “either in grain, half
crushed, or finely ground, for different purposes. The longer the iron
filings are, the brighter red and white spots they give; those being
preferred which are made with a coarse file, and quite free from rust.
Steel filings and cast-iron borings contain carbon, and afford a more
brilliant fire, with wavy radiations. Copper filings give a greenish tint
to flame; those of zinc, a fine blue colour; the sulphide of antimony
gives a less greenish blue than zinc, but with much smoke; amber affords a
yellow fire, as well as colophony (resin) and common salt; but the last
must be very dry. Lampblack produces a very red colour with gunpowder, and
a pink one with nitre in excess; it serves for making golden showers.”
When this substance is lightly mixed with gunpowder and put into cases, it
throws out small stars resembling the rowel of a spur; this composition
has hence been called ‘spur fire.’ “The yellow sand, or glistening mica,
communicates to fire-works golden radiations. Verdigris imparts a pale
green; sulphate of copper and sal ammoniac gives a palm-tree green.
Camphor yields a very white flame and aromatic fumes, which masks the bad
smell of other substances. Benzoin and storax are also used, on account of
their agreeable odour. Lycopodium burns with a rose colour and a
magnificent flame; but it is principally employed in theatres to represent
lightning, or to charge the torch of a Fury.” (Ure.) See FIRES (Coloured),
FLAME COLOURS, GUNPOWDER, STARS, ROCKETS, &c.
The following substances are in requisition by the Pyrotechnist:——
ZINC. This metal is employed in the form of fine powder, which is obtained
as follows:——The metal, scarcely melted, is poured into a hot mortar,
where it is reduced to powder, being kept during the operation at a
temperature of 401° F. It is then sifted to remove any particles which may
have escaped contact with the pestle.
COPPER. This metal may be obtained in a state of minute division by
precipitating it from a solution of sulphate of copper by means of iron,
the precaution being taken of using a large quantity of iron. The
precipitate, after being well washed, is dried between folds of blotting
paper, and kept in well stoppered bottles.
IRON-SAND. A quantity of sulphur is melted in a crucible over a slow fire,
and when it is quite fluid, iron filings are thrown in while the whole is
being stirred. The crucible is removed from the fire, and the contents are
rapidly stirred until cold. The material is then rolled on a board till it
is broken up as fine as corned powder, after which the sulphur is sifted
out.
SODA POWDER. This powder is prepared with the same precaution as ordinary
gunpowder, the proportions which answer best being:
Nitrate of soda 630 parts.
Sulphur 125 ”
Charcoal 125 ”
————
880 parts.
As the nitrate of soda is hygrometric, this powder must be preserved in
closed vessels from the moisture of the air.
LEAD POWDER. This mixture is also prepared like gunpowder, and the
constituents are used in the following proportions:
Nitrate of lead 12 parts.
Nitrate of potash 2 ”
Charcoal 3 ”
——
17 parts.
In the manufacture of this mixture on a large scale considerable care is
necessary, since the mixture of nitrate of lead and charcoal is very
liable to ignite by friction.
PREPARED BLOOD. 450 to 500 grammes of zinc is dissolved in 1340 grammes of
hydrochloric acid 22° B., largely diluted with water, and filtered. This
solution is again diluted with its own volume of water, and mixed with
fresh blood. The whole is well stirred from time to time for 48 hours, and
the clear liquor is siphoned off from the precipitate. The precipitate is
well washed with water, dried, and reduced to powder, in which state it
may be kept for any length of time.
TOUCH PAPER. This paper is prepared by immersing purple or blue paper in a
solution of nitrate of potash in spirits of wine or vinegar, and carefully
drying it.
When the touch paper is used with small articles, a piece is tied round
the orifice with thread, leaving sufficient paper to form a small tube at
the end. This tube is filled with gunpowder, and the paper twisted over
it, when all is ready for firing.
Touch paper for capping every description of fireworks, such as squibs,
crackers, Roman candles, &c., is prepared in the following
manner:——Dissolve 2 oz. of the best saltpetre in 1 quart of warm water,
and take care that the water is very clean.
After the mixture has stood for half an hour, pour off 1-1/2 pint into a
white basin, then cut your sheets of dark blue double-crown paper in half.
The weight of the paper should be 12 or 14 lbs. per ream.
Place the paper on a slab sufficiently large to give you room to use a
small piece of sponge, with which you use the liquor to wet your paper.
Cover each half sheet with the liquor as quickly as possible, on one side
only, and immediately this is done place it on a line, the wet side on
outwards, and when nearly dry, if you have a great number of sheets, place
them together as evenly as possible under a press for one hour, then lay
them out to dry, after which they will be quite smooth and ready for use.
In pasting this paper on the work, take care that the paste does not touch
that part which is to burn. To use this paper correctly, cut it in strips
sufficiently long to go twice round the mouth of the case, or even more if
requisite. When you paste on the strips, leave a little above the mouth of
the case not pasted; in small cases a little meal powder is put into the
mouth, and then the paper is twisted to a point. In larger cases damp
priming is used, and when dry, the capping process is proceeded with.
CRACKERS. The following mixtures are used for ordinary crackers:——
Meal powder parts 5 15 6 8 16
Fine charcoal ” 1 4 —— 2 17
Coarse charcoal ” —— —— 6 —— ——
Sulphur ” —— —— 2 —— 1
Saltpetre ” —— —— 16 1 7
Composition for crackers with Chinese fire——
Meal powder parts 9 6 16
Saltpetre ” 6 8 ——
Sulphur ” 1 2 3
Charcoal ” 1-1/2 1-1/2 2
Fine iron ” 5 —— 7
Sand ” —— 5 ——
Composition for crackers with brilliant fire——
Meal powder parts 8 8 36 18 32
Sulphur ” 1 1-1/2 1 1 3
Iron filings ” 2 2-1/2 —— —— ——
Litharge ” —— —— —— 2 ——
Steel filings ” —— —— 8 3 12
The paper generally used for cartridge is that known as ‘elephant’ or
cartridge, the latter being the more frequently employed.
Cartridge paper is employed in the preparation of crackers, which vary
from 12 to 15 inches, and 3-1/2 inches diameter. One edge of the paper is
folded down about 3/4-inch in breadth, then the double edge is turned down
about 1/4-inch, and the single edge is bent back over the double fold so
as to form a channel 1/4-inch wide. This is filled with meal powder, which
is then to be covered by the folds on each side, when the whole is to be
pressed very smooth and close, by passing it over the edge of a flat
ruler. The part containing the powder is to be gradually folded into the
remainder of the paper, each fold being carefully pressed down. The
cracker is then doubled backwards and forwards into as many folds of about
2-1/4 inches as the paper will allow.
The whole is pressed together by means of a wooden vice, a piece of twine
is passed twice round the middle across the folds, and the joinings are
secured by causing the twine to take a turn round the middle at every
turn. One of the ends of the folds may be doubled short under, which will
produce an extra report, but the other must project a little beyond the
rest, for the priming and capping with the touch paper. When these
crackers are fired they give a report at every turn of the paper.
The crackers may also be made of two single cards, rolled over each other
and covered with paper coated with paste. The crackers are partially
filled with the composition by means of a tin funnel. Ordinary powder is
then introduced, and the remaining space is filled with a little sawdust.
REVOLVING CRACKERS. These crackers are charged at each end with clay to a
depth of two lines, and filled with a composition without gunpowder. The
clay prevents the fire streaming out at the ends, and it escapes through
two holes placed opposite each other. The two holes are united at the same
time by connecting them by means of a quick-match, and a rotatory motion
is thus communicated to the cylinder.
ENGLISH PIN WHEELS. Pin, or Catherine wheels are of very simple
construction. A long wire about 3/16th of an inch in diameter is the
former; on this wire are formed the pipes, which being filled with
composition, are afterwards wound round a small circle of wood so as to
form a helix or spiral line. The cases are generally made of double-crown
paper (yellow wove), and cut into strips to give the greatest length, and
of width sufficient to roll about four times round the wire, and pasted at
the edge so as to bite firmly at the end of the last turn. When a number
of pipes are made and perfectly dry, they are filled with composition.
These cases are not driven for filling, but are filled by means of a tin
funnel with a tube 3/4 of an inch long, made to pass easily into the mouth
of the case, which is gradually filled by lifting a wire up and down in
this tube, the diameter of the charging wire being half that of the tube.
The dry composition being placed in the funnel, the moment an action of
the wire takes place the composition begins to fall into the case, which
the charging wire compresses by continuous motion until you have filled
the pipe to within 3/4 of an inch of the top. The pipe is then removed,
and the mouth neatly twisted, which will be the point for lighting.
When a number of pipes are ready, place them on a damp floor, or in any
damp situation, until they become very pliant, but by no means wet; then
commence winding them round a circle of wood whose substance must be
equal to the thickness of the diameter of the pipe; and when wound, secure
the end with sealing-wax, to prevent its springing open; after winding the
required quantity let them dry. Now cut some strips of crimson or purple
paper 3/16th of an inch wide, and in length twice the diameter of the
wheel; then paste all over thoroughly. Take a strip and paste it across
the wheel diametrically, rub it down, then turn the wheel over, and place
the ends down to correspond with the opposite side; when dry, the wheel
will be ready for firing.
They may be fired on a large pin or held in the hand, but it is preferable
to drive the pin into the end of a stick, which will prevent any accident,
should a section of the wheel burst.
SQUIBS. These are either filled with grained powder, or with a mixture
consisting of:——Gunpowder, 8 parts; charcoal, 1 part; sulphur, 1 part. The
cases, which are about 6 inches long, are made by rolling strips of stout
cartridge paper three times round a roller, and pasting the last fold.
They are then firmly tied down near the bottom, and the end is either
dipped into hot pitch or covered with sealing-wax. The cases are filled by
putting a thimble full of the powder in, and ramming it tightly down with
a roller, this operation being continued until the case is filled. It is
then capped with touch paper.
SERPENTS (MARROON SQUIBS). A suitable case being ready, it is filled two
thirds up with a powder consisting of:——Saltpetre, 16 parts; sulphur, 8
parts; fine gunpowder, 4 parts; antimony, 1 part. This, after being rammed
down into the case tolerably tightly, the remainder of the space is filled
with grained or corned powder.
SPARKS. These fireworks differs from stars in size, being very small and
made without cases. The English method of preparing them is as follows:——A
mixture of
Fine gunpowder 1 part
Powdered saltpetre 3 parts
Powdered camphor 4 ”
is placed in a mortar, and some weak gum-water in which a little gum
tragacanth has been dissolved, is poured over it, and the whole worked up
into a thin paste. Some lint, prepared by boiling it in vinegar or
saltpetre, and afterwards dried and unravelled, is placed in the
composition so as to absorb the whole. This is then poured into balls
about the size of a pea, dried and sprinkled with fine gunpowder.
In Germany the following compositions are used:
---------------+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+
| 1| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6| 7| 8| 9|10|11|12|13|14|
+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+
Chlorate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
potash parts |24|40|12|20|——|——|——|40|21|21|14|20|96|40|
Chlorate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
potash and | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
copper ” |——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|23|23|——|——|——|——|
Chlorate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
baryta ” |——|——|——|——|18|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Nitrate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
potash ” |——|——|——|——|——|12|26|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Nitrate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
lead ” |24|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Nitrate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
baryta ” |——|——|——|40|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Calomel ” |——|——|——|13| 7|——|——|28|12|12| 4| 8|18|——|
Sulphide of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
copper ” |——|——|——|——|——|——|——|28|——|12|6 | 4|——|——|
Sulphate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
strontia ” |——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|20|72|37|
Oxalate of | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
soda ” |——|16|10|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Chalk ” |——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——| 5|——|——|——|
Powdered | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
zinc ” |——|——|——|——|——|14|28|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Powdered | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
charcoal ” |——|——|——|——|——| 5|11|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Sulphur ” |12|——| 1|13|——|——|——|——|——|——| 6| 3|——|——|
Gum lac ” |1 | 8|——| 1| 3|——|——|——|——|——|——| 2|18| 8|
Soap ” |——| 3| 1|——|——|——|——| 3| 3| 3|——|——|——|——|
Starch ” |——|——|——|——|——|——|——|10|——|——|——|——|——|——|
Sugar ” |——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——| 4| 4|——|——|——|——|
Pine soot ” |——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——|——| 1|——|
---------------+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+——+
The above mixtures are intended to give coloured sparks, according to the
numbers.
No. 1 gives a bluish-white colour.
” 2 and 3 give yellow.
” 4 gives green.
” 5 gives green.
” 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 give blue.
” 11 and 12 give violet.
” 13 gives red.
” 14 gives purple.
The materials are mixed with a small quantity of a solution of starch, so
as to form a thick paste, which is forced through a perforated plate, the
holes in which are twice as large as it is intended the sparks should be
on drying. The small pieces fall on a pasteboard, to which the workman
gives a rapid horizontal motion to round the grains. They are then dried,
and those which are perfectly round are selected and separated by sieves
of different meshes to collect those of the same size together.
CHINESE FIRE.
_Red Chinese or Gerbe Fire._
Calibre of the case. Saltpetre. Sulphur. Charcoal. Iron Sand.
1st order.
12 to 16 lbs. 1 lb. 3 oz. 4 oz. 7 oz.
16 to 22 ” 1 ” 3 ” 5 ” 7 ” 8 drms.
22 to 36 ” 1 ” 4 ” 6 ” 8 ”
_White Chinese Fire._
Calibre. Saltpetre. Bruised Powder. Charcoal. Iron Sand.
3rd order.
12 to 16 lbs. 1 lb. 12 oz. 7 oz. 8 drms. 11 oz.
16 to 22 ” 1 ” 11 ” 8 ” 11 ” 8 drms.
22 to 36 ” 1 ” 11 ” 8 ” 8 ” 12 ”
The iron sand is moistened with a little spirits of wine, and then mixed
with the charcoal and saltpetre, which have been previously incorporated
in another mortar.
SIMPLE STARS OR FIREBALLS. These are generally used in combination with
other arrangements, &c., and the composition of which they are made,
consists of——saltpetre, 16 parts; sulphur, 8 parts; fine gunpowder, 3
parts.
These materials are mixed with gum and as little spirits of wine as will
suffice to make a very stiff paste. This paste is cut up into small
squares, which are rolled up into balls on a board covered with gunpowder.
The gunpowder, which adheres, serves for the purpose of firing them. When
perfectly dry, they are ready for use.
GERBES. These fireworks display themselves as luminous jets of fire
somewhat resembling a water spout. Previously to putting in the brilliant
composition, put two scoops of first firing or preparatory fire, for which
the following will suit, in cases not larger than 1/4 lb. size:——16 oz.
meal powder, 6 oz. saltpetre, 3 oz. sulphur, 3 oz. fine coal. It is
important to see that the interior of the cases are quite smooth and free
from wrinkles.
GOLD RAIN. The larger rockets are filled with this material, which
consists of small squares made in the same way as the simple stars. It is
composed as follows:——
Ordinary. Chinese. Composition for
immediate use.
Saltpetre parts 16 4 Saltpetre parts 4
Sulphur ” 8 2 Sulphur ” 2
Fine charcoal ” 2 4 Fine small coals ” 1
Pine soot ” 2 —— Fine gunpowder ” 8
Meal powder ” 4 16 Coarse cast iron ” 4
A portion of the cotton is softened in linseed oil and the materials
prepared in a mortar with water.
ROMAN CANDLES. These are made somewhat like gerbes and filled with the
same materials, the only difference being that _stars_ are placed between
the different layers of substances. The materials must not be too tightly
rammed down or the stars will be destroyed.
SIMPLE STARS OR FIREBALLS. Take of saltpetre 16 parts, sulphur 8 parts,
fine gunpowder 3 parts; mix them with gum and only just enough spirits of
wine to make a very stiff paste. Cut this up into small squares, and roll
into balls covered with gunpowder. When properly dry they are ready for
use.
MARROONS. These are small cubical boxes filled with an explosive
composition which explodes suddenly, making a loud report. They are
generally used in combination with other fireworks. The boxes are made of
pasteboard, the corners being made tight by pasting paper over them, but
leaving the top open until they are filled. They are filled with coarse
gunpowder, when the top is closed with strong paper well cemented, and the
whole box is wrapped round two or three times with lind cord dipped in
strong glue. A hole is made in one of the corners, into which a
quick-match is introduced, and the marroon is ready for action.
The reader who may be desirous of further information on the subject of
Pyrotechny, cannot do better than consult the article on the subject in
‘Knapp’s Chemical Technology,’ edited by Messrs. Richardson and
Watts.[124]
[Footnote 124: Vol. 1, part 4, No. 1. Ballière & Co.]
To this work we are indebted for much of the material contained in the
present papers. See COLOURED FIRES.
=PYROXYL′IC SPIRIT.= See SPIRIT (Pyroxylic).
=PYROX′YLIN.= _Syn._ FULMINATING COTTON, GUN-COTTON. A highly inflammable
and explosive compound, discovered by Schönbein. It is obtained by the
action of nitric acid on cotton (cellulin, C_{6}H_{10}O_{5}), in the
presence of sulphuric acid.
By varying the strength of the nitric acid three kinds of
gun-cotton may be obtained, called respectively mononitro-cellulin
[C_{6}H_{9}(NO_{2})O_{5}], dinitro-cellulin [C_{6}H_{8}(NO_{2})_{2}O_{5}],
and trinitro-cellulin [C_{6}H_{7}(NO_{2})_{3}O_{5}]. The first is but
slightly explosive; the second is not sufficiently explosive to be used as
a substitute for gunpowder, but is best adapted for the preparation of
collodion; the third is highly explosive, and is the variety employed in
mining and military operations, &c.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P., DINITRO-CELLULIN.) Cotton-wool, 1; sulphuric acid, 5;
nitric acid, 5; mix the acids, immerse the cotton, and stir with a glass
rod for three minutes, or until it is thoroughly wetted, then remove it,
and thoroughly wash out the acid, so that the washings cease to produce a
precipitate with chloride of barium. Drain on filtering paper, and dry in
a water bath. Used in the preparation of COLLODION.
2. Concentrated nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·500) and concentrated sulphuric
acid (sp. gr. 1·845) are mixed together in about equal measures; when the
mixture has become cold it is poured into a glass or wedgwood-ware mortar
or basin, and clean, dry carded cotton, in as loose a state as
practicable, is immersed in it for 4 or 5 minutes, the action of the
liquid being promoted by incessant stirring with a glass rod; the acid is
next poured off, and the cotton, after being squeezed as dry as possible,
by means of the glass stirrer, or between two plates of glass, is thrown
into a large quantity of clean soft water, and again squeezed to free it
from superfluous moisture; it is then washed in a stream of pure water
until it becomes perfectly free from acid, and is, lastly, carefully dried
by the heat of hot water or steam, at a temperature not higher than about
180° Fahr. 3. (Schönbein.) Nitric acid (1·45 to 1·50), 1 part; sulphuric
acid (1·85), 3 parts (both by volume); proceed as above, but, after the
cotton has been squeezed from the acid, allow it to remain in a covered
vessel for an hour before washing it, and after washing it, dip it into a
solution of carbonate of potassa, 1 oz., in pure water, 1 gall., then
squeeze, and partially dry it; next dip it into a weak solution of nitre,
and dry it in a room heated by hot air or steam to about 150° Fahr. (See
Patent Specif.)
4. (Von Lenk.) The cotton, having been thoroughly cleansed and dried, is
steeped, as above, in a mixture of nitric and sulphuric acids (the
strongest obtainable in commerce), squeezed as dry as possible, and
immersed in a fresh mixture of strong acids, being allowed to remain in
this second mixture 48 hours. It is then washed in a stream of water for
several weeks, and finally treated with a solution of silicate of potassa
(soluble glass). This is the celebrated Austrian gun-cotton which was
reported on so favorably by a committee of the British Association in
1863. The treatment with silicate of potassa is adopted merely for the
purpose of retarding the combustion.
5. (‘Bulletin de St Pétersbourg,’)——_a._ Take of powdered nitre, 20 parts;
sulphuric acid (1·830 to 1·835), 31 parts; dissolve in a glass vessel,
and, whilst the solution is still warm (122° Fahr.), add of dry carded
cotton 1 part, and employ agitation until this last is well saturated;
then cover over the vessel with a plate of glass, and let it stand, for 24
hours, at a temperature of about 86° Fahr.; next well wash the cotton, as
above, first with cold and afterwards with boiling water, and dry it
carefully at a very low temperature.
_b._ From sulphuric acid (containing 3 equiv. of water), 13 parts; nitric
acid (monohydrated), 12 parts; carded cotton, 1 part; the immersion being
limited to one hour at a temperature of from 104° to 122° Fahr. (See
‘Pharm. Journ.,’ vol. xiii, No. 2.)
_Prop., &c._ Pyroxylin explodes, with a very sudden flash, and the
development of very little heat, without either smoke or residue, at a
temperature of about 300° Fahr. (No. 3 at 277° Fahr.). Several
modifications of pyroxylin are known, varying considerably in composition,
though they all contain the elements of hyponitric acid, and are all
explosive. Some are insoluble in a mixture of ether and alcohol, whilst
others are readily dissolved, forming the glutinous solution which is used
in surgery under the name of ‘collodion,’ and which is also extensively
used in photography. The best gun-cotton (Von Lenk’s) is of no use
whatever for making collodion. The pyroxylin prepared by the formula 5,
_a_ (_above_), is soluble in a mixture of 7 parts of ether and 1 part of
alcohol; whilst the product of 5, _b_, if prepared by 2 hours’ digestion
instead of 1, is said to be even soluble in absolute alcohol.
_Obs._ General von Lenk has overcome all the difficulties which have
hitherto prevented gun-cotton being used in place of gunpowder. By
spinning the gun-cotton into thread or yarn, and weaving this into webs,
he has succeeded in making cartridges which will produce the exact amount
of force required. The time needed for the complete ignition of the
cartridge can be diminished or increased at pleasure by varying the
mechanical arrangement of the spun threads. Each gun and each kind of
projectile requires a certain density of cartridge. In general, it is
found that the proportion of 11 lbs. of gun-cotton occupying 1 cubic foot
of space produces a greater force than gunpowder of which from 50 to 60
lbs. occupies the same space, and a force of the nature required for
ordinary artillery. See COLLODION and XYLOIDIN; consult also Abel’s
researches in the ‘Transactions of the Royal Society.’
=QUACK MED′ICINES.= See PATENT MEDICINES, OINTMENT, PILLS, &c.
=QUAIL.= The _Coturnix vulgaris_, a gallinaceous bird, allied to the
partridge, but of smaller size. Its flesh is highly esteemed by epicures.
It is imported from Turkey, preserved in oil; and from Italy, potted with
clarified butter.
=QUARANTINE.= The old laws of Quarantine, as the French derivation of the
word indicates, compelled a vessel coming from the shores of a country
liable to, or ravaged by, an infectious disease, such as plague, to those
of a region free from contagion, to undergo forty days’ isolation before
it was unladen, or its passengers were allowed to land at the healthy
port.
In Europe these ancient enactments against the importation of infection
are still more or less vexatiously enforced in Spain, Portugal, Greece and
Turkey; and in a modified form at Malta and some of the French and Italian
ports. In the Mediterranean ports, ships coming from countries which lie
in the southern or eastern shores of that sea are usually subjected to a
quarantine of from six to fifteen days, during which period the passengers
are confined in a sort of barrack called a ‘lazaretto,’ the merchandise,
letters, &c., of the vessel being in the meantime frequently fumigated, or
otherwise disinfected.
The inconveniences to commerce and the necessary intercourse between
nations attending the too rigorous carrying out of quarantine have, within
the last twelve years, led to a series of sanitary international
conferences between the European Governments, with the object of divising
some methods which, without weakening the safeguards to the public health,
should as much as possible reduce the inconveniences attending the
enforcement of quarantine to a minimum. At the last of these conferences,
which was held at Vienna in 1873, the members were almost unanimous in
advising the abolition of quarantine on European rivers.
Until within the last twenty years the old quarantine laws were pretty
strictly enforced in this country. Since this time, however, they have
been considerably relaxed, or, we should rather say, superseded by the
following ordinances, which, upon the authority of an order in council of
July 31st, 1871, can be enforced in the case of suspected vessels.
This ordinance declares that it is lawful for a sanitary authority, having
reason to believe that any ship arriving in its district comes from a
place infected with cholera, to visit and examine the ship before it
enters the port.
Art. 3 provides that the master of a cholera-infected ship, or one that
has even been exposed to the infection of cholera, is to moor, anchor, or
place her in such a position as from time to time the sanitary authority
shall direct.
Art. 4 provides that no person shall land from any such ship until after
the examination.
Art. 5 provides for the proper examination of all persons on board by a
legally-qualified practitioner, and permits those not suffering from
cholera to land immediately.
Another order in council, dated August 3rd, 1874, empowers any
custom-house officer, or other person having authority from the
Commissioners or Board of Customs, at any time before the Nuisance
Authority shall visit and examine the ship, to detain the ship.
“No person shall, after such detention, land from the ship, and the
officer shall forthwith give notice of the detention, and of the cause
thereof, to the proper nuisance (local) authority; and the detention shall
cease as soon as the nuisance authority shall visit and examine the ship,
or at the expiration of twelve hours after notice shall have been given to
such nuisance authority.”
Another order in council, dated August 5th, 1871, directs that the master
of a vessel, in which cholera has existed, shall not be allowed to bring
his vessel into port until he has destroyed the infected clothes and
bedding.
Local Government Boards are also invested with considerable executive
powers, by which they are enabled to enforce quarantine during the
prevalence of any contagious disease in other countries. The main Act,
however, relating to quarantine, is the 6th of Geo. IV., c. 78; and all
vessels having on board any person or persons affected with a dangerous or
infections disorder, are to be deemed as coming within its provisions (see
‘Public Health Act,’ Schedule v., part 3). There is a land, as well as a
sea quarantine. Thus, for instance, in some countries, more particularly
those of Eastern Europe, the former is still in force on the frontiers of
contiguous States, to the great impediment of commerce and inconvenience
of travellers.
The late outbreak of plague in Astrakan has led to its being established
and very strictly carried out on the borders of Russia, Austria, Hungary,
and Germany.
Hecker, writing on the probable origin of quarantine, remarks:——“The
fortieth day, according to the most ancient notions, has always been
regarded as the last of ardent diseases, and the limit of separation
between these and those which are chronic. It was the custom to subject
lying-in women for forty days to a more exact superintendence.
There was a good deal also said in medical works of forty days’ epochs in
the formation of the fœtus, not to mention that the alchemists always
expected more durable revolutions in forty days, which period they called
the philosophical month. This period being generally held to prevail in
natural processes, it appeared reasonable to assume and reasonably to
establish it; as that required for the development of latent principles of
contagion, since public regulations cannot dispense with decisions of this
kind, even though they should not be wholly justified by the nature of the
case. Great stress has also been laid on theological and legal grounds,
which were certainly of greater weight in the fifteenth century than in
modern times; such as the forty days’ duration of the flood; the forty
days’ sojourn of Moses on Mount Sinai; our Saviour’s fast for the same
length of time in the wilderness; lastly, what is called the Saxon term,
which lasts for forty days.
=QUAR′TAN.= Occurring every fourth day.
=QUARTA′TION.= The practice, among assayers, of alloying 1 part of gold
with 3 parts of silver, before submitting it to the operation of
‘parting,’ in order that its particles may be too far separated to protect
the copper, lead, palladium, silver, or other metals, with which it is
contaminated, from the solvent action of the nitric or sulphuric acid, as
the case may be. See ASSAYING.
=QUARTZ.= Pure native silica. It is an essential constituent of granite
and many other rocks. Its crystalline, transparent varieties, are known as
rock crystal. See GLASS, POWDER, &c.
=QUASS.= _Syn._ POSCA VENALIS, L. _Prep._ Mix rye-flour and warm water
together, and keep the mixture by the fireside until it has turned sour.
Used as vinegar in Russia.
=QUAS′SIA.= _Syn._ QUASSIA (Ph. L., E., & D.; QUASSIA LIGNUM, QUASSIA
WOOD, B. P.). The “wood of _Picræna_ (_Picrasma_) _excelsa_, Lindl.” (B.
P., Ph. L.), or _Jamaica quassia_; and also of the “_Quassia amara_,
Linn.” (Ph. E.), or _Surinam quassia_. The latter is the original quassia,
but it is no longer imported. Quassia is characterised by its intense
bitterness. It is reputed tonic and stomachic, assisting digestion, and
giving tone and vigour to the system. Its name was given to it by Linnæus,
in honour of a negro slave who had long employed it as a remedy for the
malignant endemic fevers of Surinam. When sliced, it forms the ‘quassia
chips’ of the shops. It is generally taken in the form of infusion. This
last, sweetened with sugar, forms a safe and effective poison for
flies.——_Dose_ (in powder), 10 to 20 gr.
ROASTED QUASSIA, reduced to powder, is largely employed, instead of hops,
to embitter porter; and the unroasted powder is used for the same purpose
in the adulteration of the bitter varieties of ale.
=QUAS′SIN.= _Syn._ QUASSITE, QUASSINA. A peculiar bitter principle,
obtained by precipitating decoction of quassia with milk of lime,
evaporating the filtrate, dissolving the residue in alcohol, treating with
animal charcoal, again evaporating, dissolving in water, and
crystallising. 8 lbs. of quassia chips yield 1 drachm.
=QUEEN’S BLUE.= Thumb blue. See BLUE.
=QUEEN’S MET′AL.= A species of pewter used for teapots, &c., made by
fusing under charcoal a mixture of tin, 9 parts, and antimony, bismuth,
and lead, of each 1 part; or, tin, 100 parts; antimony, 8 parts; copper, 4
parts; bismuth, 1 part. See BRITANNIA METAL and PEWTER.
=QUEEN’S YEL′LOW.= Subsulphate of mercury.
=QUERCITRIN.= The bark of the _Quercus tinctoria_ yields a neutral
substance, to which the above name has been given. Quercitrin may be
prepared as follows by the process of Rochleder:——The bark is boiled with
water, the decoction is left to cool, and the impure quercitrin which
separates is collected, then rubbed to a pulp with alcohol of 35° B.,
heated over the water bath, collected on linen, and pressed, whereby the
principal impurities are removed. The residue is dissolved in a larger
quantity of boiling alcohol, the solution is filtered hot, and water is
added to it until it becomes turbid, so that the greater part of the
quercitrin separates before the liquid is cold. It is then collected,
pressed, and purified by a repetition of the same treatment.
Another process, by Zwenger and Dronke, is this:——The bark, in small
pieces, is exhausted with boiling alcohol, the alcohol is distilled off,
and the residue, while still warm, is mixed with a little acetic acid, and
then with neutral acetate of lead; the filtrate, freed from lead by
sulphuric acid, is evaporated, and the quercitrin which crystallises is
purified by repeated crystallisation from alcohol.
“Hydrated quercitrin forms microscopic, rectangular, partly rhombic
tablets, having their obtuse lateral edges truncated; pale yellow when
pulverised. It is neutral, inodorous, tasteless in the solid state, bitter
in solution, permanent in the air.”[125]
[Footnote 125: Watts.]
=QUER′CITRON.= The bark of _Quercus nigra_ or _tinctoria_, a species of
oak indigenous in North America. With alum mordants it yields a very
permanent yellow dye.
=QUER′CITRON.= A yellow dye stuff, composed of the shavings and powder of
the bark of _Quercus tinctoria_, or _Q. nigra_, or _Q. citrina_, a kind of
oak, a native of North America. It abounds more particularly in
Pennsylvania, Carolina, and Georgia.
In America quercitron is used for tanning, and in Europe for dyeing only.
When employed for the latter purpose it is used in the form of an aqueous
decoction, mordanted with alum or chloride of tin. Leesching states that a
dye possessing greater colorific powder may be procured by boiling the
bark with dilute sulphuric or hydrochloric acid.
=QUICK′SILVER.= See MERCURY.
=QUILLAI BARK.= _Syn._ QUILLAY BARK, SOAP BARK. The _Quillaya saponaria_,
from which yields this bark, is an evergreen tree, growing in the
mountainous parts of Chili, in South America.
It is believed to take its name from the native word _quillay_, which
signifies to wash. The inner bark only is employed. When bruised and
agitated in water it imparts a lather to the water, in the same way that
soap does. This quality has been found to be due to the existence in the
bark of _saponin_——the same principle which confers a similar property on
_Saponaria officinalis_. The bark is free from any bitter principle, as
well as from tannic acid. It is very generally used amongst the
inhabitants residing on the western side of South America, where it is
employed for removing grease from silk, and also in the form of a wash for
cleansing and preserving the hair.
When had recourse to for cleansing silks, quillai bark is said not to
change the colour of the fabric. It is sometimes given as a febrifuge, and
as a remedy for cold in the head. For this latter purpose the powder is
snuffed up the nostrils, when it occasions sneezing and profuse discharge
from the nose.
=QUILLS.= _Prep._ 1. The quills or wing-feathers of the goose (goose
quills) are separately plunged, for a few seconds, into hot ashes,
cinders, or sand, of a temperature about equal to that of boiling water,
after which they are scraped with a blunt knife, strongly rubbed with a
piece of flannel or woollen cloth, and gently ‘stoved,’ they are, lastly,
tied up in bundles by women or children. A yellow tinge is often given to
them by dipping them for a short time into dilute hydrochloric or nitric
acid, or into an infusion of turmeric.
2. Suspend the quills in a copper over water sufficiently high to nearly
touch the nibs; then close it steam tight, and apply three or four hours’
hard boiling; next, withdraw the quills, and dry them, and in 24 hours cut
the nibs and draw out the pith; lastly, rub them with a piece of cloth,
and expose them to a moderate heat in an oven or stove. Quills prepared in
this way are as hard as bone, without being brittle, and nearly as
transparent as glass. Crow quills and swan quills may be cured in the same
manner.
=QUI′NA.= See QUININE.
=QUINAMINE.= _Syn._ QUINAMINA. C_{20}H_{26}N_{2}O_{2}. This alkaloid was
discovered by Hesse, in 1872, in the bark of _Cinchona succirubra_,
cultivated at Darjeeling, in British Sikhim.
Dr de Vrij gives the following process for the preparation of
quinamine:——The mixed alkaloids obtained from the red bark are converted
into neutral sulphates, and the solution treated with Rochelle salt,
whereby the tartrates of quinine and of cinchonidine are separated. After
collecting these upon a filter the filtered liquid is shaken with caustic
soda and ether. By this process the amorphous alkaloid and the quinamine
are dissolved by the ether, with slight traces of cinchonine, whilst the
bulk of this last alkaloid remains undissolved. After distilling the
ethereal solution the residue is transformed into neutral acetate, and the
solution of this mixed with a solution of sulphocyanate of potassium.
By this reaction the sulphocyanate of the amorphous alkaloid is
precipitated in the shape of a yellow, soft, resinous substance, whilst
the sulphocyanate of quinamine remains dissolved. After subsiding and
filtering, the solution is clear and quite colourless, and by addition of
caustic soda the quinamine is precipitated. It is then collected upon a
filter, washed, and dried. It can now easily be obtained crystallised by
dissolving it in boiling spirit, from which it crystallises in cooling. By
this process the author obtained 0·38 per cent. of pure quinamine from
samples of red cinchona quill bark, which he had received, through the
Secretary of State for India, from the plantations in British Sikhim.
=QUINCE.= _Syn._ CYDONIA, L. The fruit of _Cydonia vulgaris_, or common
quince tree. Its flavour in the raw state is austere, but it forms an
excellent marmalade (quince marmalade), and its juice yields an agreeable
and wholesome wine. The seed or pips (cydoniæ seminæ; cydonium——Ph. L.)
abound in gummy matter, which forms a mucilage with water, and possesses
the advantage of not being affected by the salts of iron or alcohol. See
DECOCTION, FIXATURE, and JELLY.
=QUINETUM.= The alkaloids contained in the East Indian red bark (_Cinchona
succirubra_) consist of a large percentage of cinchonidine, cinchonine,
quinine, and amorphous alkaloid, besides a trace of quinidine, the
preponderating alkaloid being cinchonidine.
Dr de Vrij, of the Hague, has devised a process by which these can be
extracted in their entirety, and to the mixed alkaloids so obtained the
name ‘quinetum’ has been given.
It is affirmed of quinetum that it possesses a remedial value as a tonic
and antiperiodic that renders it, in many cases, superior to quinine, ague
being one of these; also that it may be advantageously employed in
affections in which quinine would be inadmissible. A medical
correspondent informs us that he has used it with signal success in hay
asthma. Another advantage it has over quinine is, it is much lower in
price. Quinetum, according to Dr de Vrij’s process, as well as a sulphate
and hydrochlorate, are prepared by Mr Whiffen, of Battersea.
=QUINICINE.= An alkaloid obtained in 1853 by Pasteur, by exposing quinine
or quinidine, under favorable circumstances, to a temperature varying from
248° to 266° Fahr., for several hours. It is very probable that this
alkaloid is either identical, or in very close connection, with the
amorphous alkaloid soluble in ether which occurs in all barks, and
particularly in the young barks of the plantations in India.
=QUINIDINE.= C_{20}H_{24}O_{2}N_{2}.2Aq. _Syn._ QUINIDIA, CONCHININE, &c.
An alkaloid contained in many species of cinchona, together with quinine
and cinchonine, and therefore often found in the mother liquors of quinine
manufactures. It is identical with the β quinine of Van Heyningen, and was
discovered, in 1833, by Henry and Delondre. As the cinchonidine discovered
by Winckler, in 1848, has been unhappily denominated quinidine by this
chemist, there is still a confusion about these alkaloids, and, therefore,
the quinidine of commerce was very often a mixture of both, till Pasteur
made, in 1853, a classical investigation of this matter. He maintained the
name of quinidine for the alkaloid discovered by Henry and Delondre,
because it is isomeric with quinine, and gives the same green colour when
treated with chlorine followed by ammonia, and gave the name of
cinchonidine to the alkaloid discovered by Winckler, because it is
isomeric with cinchonine. He determined also the action of the solutions
of these alkaloids on the plane of polarisation, and found that the
quinidine turned this plane to the right, its molecular rotation in
alcoholic solution being [_a_] = 250·75° →, whilst he found that the
cinchonidine turned this plane to the left, its molecular rotation in
alcoholic solution being [_a_] = 144·61° ←.
_Prop. &c._ Many of the salts of quinidine are very similar to those of
quinine, but the normal salt with hydriodic acid is not only very
different from that of quinine, but also from those of all the other
cinchona-alkaloids. The normal hydriodate of quinidine is so very
sparingly soluble in water that 1 part requires, at 60° Fahr., not less
than 1200 parts of water to be dissolved. Therefore the presence of
sulphate of quinidine in the sulphate of quinine, which often occurs,
either from that article being carelessly made or from wilful
adulteration, can be easily detected by adding a few minims of solution of
iodide of potassium to the saturated solution of sulphate of quinine in
water of 60° Fahr., whereby, if quinidine is present, its hydriodate will
be separated either in the shape of a sandy precipitate or, if only
traces are present, in the shape of striæ on the sides of the glass where
this has been rubbed by a glass rod.
For an account of its medicinal properties, the reader should consult the
recent report from India upon the experiments made there by order of
Government with all the four cinchona-alkaloids, which experiments are
very favorable to the therapeutical action of quinidine compared with that
of quinine.
=QUININE.= C_{10}H_{12}ON. _Syn._ QUINA, QUINIA. Till recently it was
found in the greatest quantity in good Calisaya bark, particularly in that
from Bolivia, but since it has been found in great quantity in some other
barks, especially in the bark of _Cinchona officinalis_, for instance, in
the bark of that species grown in Ceylon. Red bark contains not only
quinine and cinchonine, but also cinchonidine.
_Prep._ 1. By precipitating a solution of sulphate of quinine with a
_slight_ excess of ammonia, potassa, or soda, and washing and drying the
precipitate. By solution in alcohol, sp. gr. ·815, and spontaneous
evaporation, it may be procured in crystals. Crystals may also be obtained
from “its solution in hot water with a little ammonia.” (Liebig.)
2. (Direct.) By adding hydrate of lime, in slight excess, to a strong
decoction of the ground bark made with water acidulated with sulphuric
acid, washing the precipitate which ensues, and boiling it in alcohol; the
solution, filtered while hot, deposits the alkaloid on cooling.
_Prop., &c._ Quinine, when prepared by precipitation, is an amorphous
white powder, but when this precipitate is left in the liquor it assumes,
after some time, the appearance of aggregated crystalline needles; when
slowly crystallised from its solution, these needles are remarkably fine,
and of a pearly or silky lustre. It is freely soluble in rectified spirit
and in ether, and of all the cinchona-alkaloids it is the most soluble in
ammonia. It is upon this fact that Kerner’s method for testing the purity
of sulphate of quinine is founded. Its normal salts, if dissolved in
water, have a slightly alkaline reaction upon red litmus paper. It is only
sparingly soluble in water, even when boiling; both the fixed and volatile
oils dissolve it with the aid of heat, more especially when it has been
rendered anhydrous, or is presented to them under the form of an ethereal
solution. It fuses by a gentle heat, without decomposition; forms
crystallisable salts, which are only slightly soluble in water, unless it
be acidulated, and, like the pure alkaloid, are extremely bitter, and
possess much of the characteristic flavour of cinchona bark. It is
precipitated by the alkalies and their carbonates, by tannic acid, and by
most astringent substances.
_Pur._ See QUININE, SULPHATES OF, and QUINOMETRY (_below_).
_Tests._ Quinine is recognised by——1. Its appearance under the
microscope.——2. Its solubility in ether, and in pure ammonia water.——3.
Its solubility in concentrated nitric acid, forming a colourless liquid,
which does not become yellowish until it is heated.——4. The solubility of
itself and salts, when pure, in concentrated sulphuric acid, forming
colourless fluids, “which do not acquire any coloration upon being heated
to the point of incipient evaporation of the sulphuric acid, but which
afterwards become yellow, and finally brown.” (Fresenius.)——5. Its
solubility in concentrated sulphuric acid to which some nitric acid has
been added, forming a colourless, or, at the most, only a faintly
yellowish liquid.——6. It is wholly destroyed by heat.
A solution of quinine in acidulated water, and solutions of its salts,
exhibit the following reactions:——1. Ammonia, potassa, and the alkaline
carbonates, give white, pulverulent precipitates, becoming crystalline
after some time (see _above_), and which are soluble in ammonia in excess,
and which, when ether is added after the ammonia, and the whole is
agitated, redissolve in the ether, whilst the clear liquid, on repose,
presents two distinct layers.——2. Bicarbonate of soda (avoiding excess)
gives a similar precipitate, both in acid and neutral solutions of
quinine, either at once or after a short time. The precipitate is soluble
in excess of the precipitant, and is again precipitated from the new
solution upon protracted ebullition. “Vigorous stirring of the liquid
promotes the separation of this precipitate.” (Fresenius.)——3. If recently
prepared chlorine be added to it, and then ammonia, a beautiful
emerald-green colour is developed. (Ph. L.)——4. A concentrated solution of
ferrocyanide of potassium being added, in excess, after the chlorine,
instead of the ammonia, a dark red colour is instantly produced, which
after some time passes into green, especially when freely exposed to the
light. This reaction is not characteristic of quinine, for with quinidine
one gets the same reaction.——5. If caustic potassa be used instead of
ammonia (see _above_), the solution acquires a sulphur-yellow colour.
“These reactions are restricted to this alkaloid.” (Dr Garrod.)
Flückiger[126] says;——“The most characteristic test for ascertaining the
presence of quinine is the formation of the splendid green compound called
_thalleiochine_, which is produced if solutions of the alkaloid or its
salts are mixed with chlorine water, and then a drop of ammonia added.”
[Footnote 126: In ‘Jahrb. f. Pharm.,’ April, 1872, 136 (‘Ph. Journ,’, 3rd
series, ii, 901).]
If one part of quinine is dissolved in 4000 parts of acidulated water, and
then about 1/10 of the volume of the liquid, of chlorine water, and a drop
of ammonia added, a green zone will be readily formed if the liquids are
cautiously placed in a flask without shaking.
If the solution of quinine contain no more than 1/5000, the green of one
may still be obtained, but in more diluted solutions the success becomes
more and more uncertain.
From a practical point of view we may state that 1/5000 of the alkaloid is
the smallest quantity whose presence can thus be discovered with
certainty; Kerner (1870) has succeeded with 1/20000 but I was not able to
corroborate this statement.
The author was also induced to try the action of bromine in place of
chlorine. The _thalleiochine_ is then, indeed, produced in solution which
contain only 1/20000 of quinine.
Yet the behaviour of bromine displays some striking differences. Chlorine
alone, as already stated, causes no immediate alteration of somewhat
diluted solutions of quinine, whereas they became turbid on addition of
bromine as long as there is about 1/2500 or more of quinine present. Now,
the precipitate which is produced by bromine in solution of quinine does
_not_ turn green if a little ammonia is subsequently added, or, at least,
the thalleiochine thus obtained is rather greyish. But in more dilute
solutions of quinine bromine acts more readily than chlorine. An excess of
bromine is to be carefully avoided.
This is easily performed if the vapour of bromine, not the liquid bromine
itself, is allowed to fall down on the surface of the solutions of
quinine; their superficial layer only must be saturated with bromine by
gently moving the liquid. Then a drop of ammonia will produce the green or
somewhat bluish zone, which is much more persistent than that due to
chlorine.
Consequently, for demonstration of the test under notice, chlorine is to
be used in comparatively concentrated solutions. In solutions containing
so little quinine (less than 1/2500) that it is no longer precipitated by
the vapour of bromine, the thalleiochine test succeeds much better with
bromine, and goes much further, as shown above.
The author also shows that morphine gives a dark, dingy brown colour with
chlorine and ammonia, which is capable of more or less masking the
reaction of quinine.
Another test for quinine is the formation of its iodosulphate, the
so-called herapathite. For this purpose the quinine is dissolved in 10
parts of proof spirit, acidulated with 1/20th part of sulphuric acid, and
to this solution an alcoholic solution of iodine is carefully added, and
the liquid in the meanwhile stirred with a glass rod. There appears either
immediately or after some minutes a black precipitate of iodosulphate of
quinine, which if redissolved in boiling proof spirit, forms in cooling
the beautiful crystals of herapathite. 100 parts of this herapathite, if
dried on a water bath, represent 56·5 parts of pure quinine.
Dr de Vrij prefers the employment of the iodosulphate of chiniodine as a
reagent for the detection and estimation of quinine. In a communication to
the ‘Pharmaceutical Journal’ he writes:——“In estimating quinine in a
mixture of cinchona-alkaloids by means of an alcoholic solution of iodine
the reagent requires to be added in slight excess, in order to ensure
complete precipitation. An undue excess of the reagent, however, causes
the formation of a compound richer in iodine and much more soluble in
alcohol than herapathite, and thus renders the determination
inaccurate.”[127] For this reason the author suggests the application of
an alcoholic solution of iodosulphate of chiniodine (so-called sulphate of
amorphous quinine) in place of free iodine. The reagent is made as
following:——
[Footnote 127: 3rd series, vi, 461.]
Two parts of sulphate of chiniodine are dissolved in eight parts of water
containing 5 per cent. of sulphuric acid. To this _clear_ solution,
contained in a large capsule, a solution of one part of iodine and two
parts of iodide of potassium, in 100 parts of water, is _slowly_ added
with continuous stirring, so that no part of the solution of chiniodine
comes into contact with excess of iodine. By this addition an
orange-coloured flocculent precipitate is formed of iodosulphate of
chiniodine, which either spontaneously, or by a slight elevation of
temperature, collapses into a dark brown, red-coloured, resinous
substance, whilst the supernatant liquor becomes clear and slightly yellow
coloured. This liquor is poured off, and the resinous substance is washed
by heating it on a water bath with distilled water. After washing, the
resinous substance is heated on the water bath till all the water has been
evaporated. It is then soft and tenacious at the temperature of boiling
water, but becomes hard and brittle after cooling. One part of this
substance is now treated with 6 parts of alcohol of 92 or 94 per cent.
until it is completely dissolved, and the solution allowed to cool. In
cooling a part of the dissolved substance is separated. The clear
dark-coloured solution is evaporated on a water bath, and the residue
dissolved in 5 parts of cold alcohol. This second solution leaves a small
part of insoluble substance. The clear dark-coloured solution obtained by
the separation of this insoluble matter, either by decantation or
filtration, constitutes the reagent which the author has used for some
time under the name of iodosulphate of chiniodine, both for the
qualitative and quantitative determination of _crystallisable_ quinine.
To determine a quantity of quinine contained in the mixed alkaloids
obtained from a sample of cinchona bark, 1 part of the alkaloid is
dissolved in 20 parts of alcohol, of 90 or 92 per cent., containing 1·6
per cent. of sulphuric acid, to obtain an alcoholic solution of the acid
sulphates of the alkaloids.
From this solution the quinine is separated by adding carefully, by means
of a pipette, the above-mentioned solution of the iodosulphate of
chiniodine, as long as a dark brown-red precipitate of iodosulphate of
quinine-herapathite is formed. As soon as all the quinine has been
precipitated, and a slight excess of the reagent has been added, the
liquor acquires an intense yellow colour. The beaker containing the liquor
with the precipitate is now covered by a watch-glass, and heated on a
water bath till the liquid _begins_ to boil.
After cooling, the beaker is weighed, to ascertain the amount of liquid
which is necessary in order to be able to apply later the above-mentioned
correction. For although quinine-herapathite is very little soluble in
alcohol, it is not insoluble, and therefore a correction must be applied
for the quantity which has been dissolved both by the alcohol used for the
solution of the alkaloids and the alcohol contained in the reagents.
The liquor is now filtered to collect the iodosulphate of quinine on a
small filter, where it is washed with a saturated solution of herapathite
in alcohol. After the washing has been completed, the weight of the funnel
with the moist filter is taken, and the filter allowed to dry in the
funnel. As soon as it is dry the weight is taken again, to ascertain the
amount of solution of herapathite which remained in the filter, and which
left the dissolved herapathite on the filter after the evaporation of the
alcohol.
This amount is subtracted from the total amount of liquid, and for the
remaining the correction is calculated with reference to the temperature
of the laboratory during the time of the analysis. The dry iodosulphate of
quinine is taken from the filter and dried on a water bath, in one of a
couple of large watch-glasses closing tightly upon each other, so that the
weight of the substance contained in the glass may be taken without the
access of air.
When, after repeatedly ascertaining the weight, it remains constant,
this weight is noted down, and to it is added the product of the
calculated correction. The sum of this addition is the total amount
of iodosulphate of quinine obtained from the mixed alkaloids
subjected to the operation, and from this weight the amount of
_crystallisable_ quinine can be calculated by the use of Hauer’s formula,
2C_{40}H_{24}N_{2}O_{4}3(HO_{1}SO_{3}), 31 (old notation), which the
author has found to be correct. According to this formula, 1 part of
iodosulphate of quinine, dried at 100° C., represents 0·5509 per cent. of
anhydrous quinine, or 0·7345 per cent. of disulphate of quinine.
The accuracy of this determination may be seen from the following
examples:
0·24 gram of anhydrous crystallised quinine gave 0·541 gram of herapathite
dried at 100° C. = 0·298 gram of quinine.
According to Hauer’s formula, 0·5336 gram of herapathite = 0·294 gram of
quinine, which ought to have been obtained.
1·048 gram of bitartrate of quinine gave 1·224 gram of herapathite =
0·674 gram of quinine.
According to the formula of the bitartrate,
C_{20}H_{24}N_{2}O_{21}C_{4}H_{6}O_{6} + Aq. = 442; 1·048 of bitartrate
represents 0·69 of quinine, so that 1·255 gram of herapathite should have
been obtained.
Notwithstanding the different circumstances in which the reagent was
applied, the results are satisfactory.
The two following experiments were made with pure quinine, dried at 100°
C., at which temperature it still retains water, under identical
circumstances:——
1·0664 gram of hydrated quinine gave 1·7266 gram of herapathite = 164·5
per cent.
1·055 grams of the same hydrated quinine gave 1·7343 gram of herapathite =
164·3 per cent.
The author further states that the iodosulphate of quinine and of
quinidine prepared by means of his new reagent have an analogous
composition, and are identical with the compound described by Herapath,
whilst the iodosulphates of cinchonine and cinchonidine have a different
composition from the former, and both require more iodine to be converted
into the optical iodosulphates described by Herapath. Of all these
iodosulphates that of quinine is by far the most insoluble in alcohol, and
is precipitated first and free from the others by a judicious application
of the iodosulphate of chinioidine.
Quinine is distinguished from both cinchonine and quinidine by its
comparatively free solubility in ether; the last of these being very
sparingly soluble, and the other wholly insoluble, in that menstruum. The
presence of cinchonine may also be positively determined by reference to
the behaviour of that alkaloid. Quinidine is also distinguished from
quinine by the different crystallisation, greater specific gravity, and
freer solubility of its salts in cold water.[128]
[Footnote 128: An extremely elegant and highly sensitive method of testing
for quinine and quinidine by means of the microscope, &c., is described at
considerable length, by Dr Herapath, in the ‘Pharm. Journ.’ for November,
1853.]
_Estim._ See QUINOMETRY.
_Uses, &c._ Pure quinine is but rarely used in medicine, but several of
its salts are employed as remedies, on account of their great stimulant,
tonic, and febrifuge powers. As a tonic in dyspeptic affections, and for
restoring strength and vigour to morbidly weakened habits, and as an
antiperiodic or agent to counteract febrile action, it appears to be
superior to all other remedies, provided no abnormal irritability of the
mucous membranes, or of the circulatory organs, exists. The dose of the
salts of quinine, as a tonic, is 1/2 to 1 gr., twice or thrice daily; as
an antiperiodic, 2 to 5 gr., or even more, every second or third hour,
during the intervals of the paroxysms of ague, and of other intermittent
or periodic affections; also in acute rheumatism. The sulphate
(disulphate) is the salt generally used; this and other salts are most
effective when taken in solution.
The nature of the influence exerted upon blood by quinine was, in 1872,
made the subject of a fresh investigation by Schulte.[129] Its
extraordinary power of stopping fermentation and putrefaction, by
destroying low organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, has been before
pointed out. It is supposed to diminish the formation of pus in
inflammation by arresting the motions and preventing the exit from the
blood-vessels of the white blood-corpuscles, the accumulation of which,
according to Cohnheim, constitutes pus.
[Footnote 129: ‘N. Rep. Pharm.,’ xx, 539 (‘Pharm. Journ.,’ 3rd series, ii,
629).]
By depriving the red blood-corpuscles of the power to produce ozone, it
diminishes the change of tissue in the body, and thereby lessens the
production of heat. Ranke and Kerner have shown the waste of tissue is
reduced when large doses of quinine are administered, as indicated in the
small proportion of uric acid and urea excreted.
With the object of ascertaining whether this effect is referable to the
direct influence of quinine on oxidation in the blood, or to its indirect
influence through the nervous system, Schulte employed a method, based
upon the changes occurring in the alkalinity of the blood, observed by
Zuntz, who had noticed that a considerable formation of acid takes place
in freshly-drawn blood, and continues in a less degree till putrefaction
commences.
The amount of acid formed was estimated from the diminished alkalinity of
the blood, as comparatively shown by the quantity of dilute phosphoric
acid required for exact saturation.
A sufficient quantity of chloride of sodium was added to the phosphoric
acid to prevent the blood-corpuscles from being dissolved, and interfering
with the reaction by their colouring matter. The point of saturation was
fixed at the point of transient reddening of carefully prepared test paper
by the carbonic acid. Schulte has thus been enabled to confirm the
experiments of Zuntz and Scharrenbroich, showing that quinine and
berberine lessen the production of acid, and that quinine can stop it both
before and after coagulation; that sodium nitropicrate has an action
similar to, and nearly as powerful as, quinine; while the action of
cinchonine is much less energetic. Harley has shown that whilst quinine
lessens oxidation in blood, some substances, such as snake poisons,
increase it. Binz found that when putrid fluids were injected into the
circulation of an animal, the temperature rose; but that this increase of
temperature could be more or less prevented by the addition of quinine to
the putrid liquid, or the simultaneous injection of the quinine.
With respect to the influences of quinine on the change of tissue,
Schulte gives the result of some careful experiments made by Zuntz, who
found that after taking three 0·6 gram doses of hydrochlorate of quinine
for two days, the amount of urine he excreted was increased by one third,
and then decreased as much, the specific gravity falling from 1018 to
1012; the urea also showed a marked decrease.
The salts of quinine may be made by simply saturating the dilute acids
with the base, so that part of the latter remains undissolved, and gently
evaporating the solutions for crystals, or to dryness. Prince Lucien
Bonaparte recommends all these salts to be prepared by the addition of a
strong alcoholic solution of quinine to a cold solution of the acid. We
have tried this method with success.
=Quinine, Ac′etate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ ACETAS, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Mix
quinine, 2 parts, with water, 3 parts; heat the mixture, and add of acetic
acid, q. s. to dissolve the alkaloid, and to render the solution slightly
acid; lastly, decant or filter the solution whilst boiling hot, and set it
aside to crystallise. The mother water, on evaporation, will yield a
second crop of the acetate.
2. Effloresced sulphate of quinine, 17 parts, is dissolved in boiling
water, and mixed with crystallised acetate of soda, 6 parts. The acetate
of quinine crystallises.
_Prop., &c._ Satiny, acicular crystals, which are rather more soluble in
water than those of the sulphate.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 5 grains.
=Quinine, Arse′′niate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ ARSENIAS, L. _Prep._ (Bourières.)
Arsenic acid, 1-1/2 dr.; quinine, 5 dr.; distilled water, 6 fl. oz.; boil
them together in a covered glass vessel until the alkaloid is dissolved,
then set the solution aside to crystallise.
_Uses, &c._ Recommended by Dr Neligan, and others, as being more
powerfully antiperiodic than the other preparations of quinine.——_Dose_,
1/12 to 1/4 gr., made into pills; in agues, neuralgia, &c.; also in
cancer.
=Quinine, Ar′senite of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ ARSENIS, L. _Prep._ Sulphate of
quinine, 100 parts, is dissolved in alcohol, 600 parts, and boiled with
arsenious acid, 14 parts. The liquid is then filtered. The poisonous salt
is deposited in the crystalline form as the liquid cools.
_Uses, &c._ As the last.
=Quinine, Chlo′′ride of.= Hydrochlorate of quinine (see _below_).
=Quinine, Ci′trate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ CITRAS, L. _Prep._ 1. By mixing a hot
solution of sulphate of quinine with a like solution of citrate of soda.
2. From quinine and citric acid, as the acetate. Needle-shaped
prisms.——_Dose, &c._ As the sulphate or disulphate.
=Quinine, Disulphate of.= Sulphate of quinine (see _below_).
=Quinine, Ferrocy′anide of.= _Syn._ CYANIDE OF IRON AND QUININE; QUINÆ
HYDROFERROCYANAS, QUINÆ FERRO-PRUSSIAS, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Sulphate of
quinine, 100 parts; ferrocyanide of potassium, 31 parts; distilled water,
2500 parts; boil for a few minutes, and, when cold, separate the impure
salt which floats as an oily mass on the surface, wash it with a little
cold water, and dissolve it in boiling alcohol; the solution will deposit
crystals as it cools.
_Obs._ This compound is by some said to be the most efficacious of all the
salts of quinia. Pelouze asserts that it is simply quinine mixed with some
Prussian blue.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 gr.
=Quinine, Ferrosul′phate of.= See QUININE AND IRON, SULPHATE OF (_below_).
=Quinine, Hydri′odate of.= _Syn._ IODIDE OF QUININE; QUINÆ HYDRIODAS, Q.
IODIDUM, L. _Prep._ 1. By adding, drop by drop, a concentrated solution of
iodide of potassium to a like solution of acid sulphate of quinine, and
drying the precipitate in the shade; or heat the liquid nearly to the
boiling point, and allow it to crystallise.
2. (Parrish.) Effloresced sulphate of quinine, 5 parts, dissolved in
alcohol, and decomposed by an alcoholic solution of 3 parts of iodide of
potassium, precipitates sulphate of potassa, and yields, on cooling and
evaporating, hydriodate of quinine in fine crystalline needles.[130]
[Footnote 130: “1 and 2 are not identical; 1 is an acid salt which readily
crystallises, but 2 is a normal salt which I never saw crystallise, but
always like a fluid resin, quite amorphous.”——De Vrij.]
3. (IODURETTED——Bouchardat.) From an acid solution of quinia and a
solution of iodide of iron containing a slight excess of iron, as No. 1.
_Obs._ The above are reputed alterative, tonic, and antiperiodic.——_Dose_,
1 to 4 gr.; in obstinate intermittents, and in the scrofulous affections
of debilitated subjects.
=Quinine, Hydrochlo′′rate of.= _Syn._ CHLORIDE OF QUININE, MURIATE OF
QUININE†; QUINÆ HYDROCHLORAS, QUINÆ MURIAS, L. _Prep._ 1. By neutralising
dilute hydrochloric acid with the base, as above.
2. (Ph. Bor.) Chloride of barium, 5 dr.; boiling water, 1 lb.; dissolve,
add, gradually, of sulphate of quinine, 2 oz.; boil gently for a few
minutes, filter the solution whilst hot, and set it aside that crystals
may form.
3. (QUINÆ MURIAS——Ph. D.) Dissolve chloride of barium, 123 gr., in
distilled water, 2 fl. oz.; add of sulphate of quinine, 1 oz., dissolved
in boiling water, 1-1/2 pint; mix, evaporate the solution to one half,
filter, and again evaporate until spiculæ begin to appear; next allow the
liquid to cool, collect the crystals, and dry them on bibulous paper. The
mother liquor, by further concentration and cooling, will yield an
additional product.
_Obs._ Hydrochlorate of quinine occurs in snow-white groups of feathery
crystals, of a mother-of-pearl lustre, which are more freely soluble than
those of the disulphate.
=Quinine and Iodide of Iron.= _Syn._ QUINÆ ET FERRI IODIDUM.
(Bouchardat.) _Prep._ Pour a strong solution of acid sulphate of quinine
into a fresh solution of iodide of iron; collect the precipitate, dry it
quickly by pressing it between blotting paper, and keep it from the air.
=Quinine, Ki′nate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ KINAS, L. _Prep._ By saturating a
solution of kinic acid with quinine, and purifying by crystallisation out
of alcohol. The kinate of quinine is obtained in crystalline warts,
soluble in 4 parts of water and 8 parts of alcohol.
=Quinine, Lac′tate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ LACTAS, L. _Prep._ As the ACETATE or
CITRATE. By spontaneous evaporation fine crystals may be obtained. Said to
agree better with dyspeptic patients than the other salts of quinine.
=Quinine, Mu′′riate of.= Hydrochlorate of quinine (see _above_).
=Quinine, Neutral Hydrobromate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ HYDROBROMAS. (M. Boille.)
This salt is prepared by double decomposition of bromide of barium and
neutral sulphate of quinia, and is thus easily obtained pure and free from
chloride, the great solubility of bromide of barium in alcohol
facilitating the removal of any chloride which is insoluble.
The two salts are dissolved separately in alcohol and the solutions
filtered. The neutral sulphate of quinia solution is gradually added, in
slight excess, to the bromide of barium solution until a precipitate
ceases to form.
The solutions, diluted with water, are distilled to recover the alcohol,
afterwards filtered to separate the sulphate of quinia which has been
precipitated by the water, and then concentrated sufficiently to induce
rapid crystallisation. The addition of water is indispensable for the
concentration and crystallisation; the hydrobromate, being soluble in
alcohol of all proportions, redissolves as the alcoholic liquor is
concentrated. M. Boille claims for his neutral hydrobromate of quinine its
much readier solubility over the officinal sulphate, as well as its
superior richness in quinine.
=Quinine, Ni′trate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ NITRAS, L. _Prep._ As the
HYDROCHLORATE, substituting dilute nitric acid, or nitrate of baryta (P.
Cod.), for hydrochloric acid or chloride of barium.
=Quinine, Phos′phate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ PHOSPHAS, L. As the ACETATE. Silky,
needle-shaped crystals, with a pearly lustre. It has been highly
recommended in intermittents, &c., associated with rickets and stomach
affections.
=Quinine, Salicylate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ SALICYLAS. This may be made by
mixing an alcoholic solution of quinine with an alcoholic solution of
salicylic acid to complete saturation, and afterwards allowing the alcohol
slowly to evaporate.
=Quinine, Sul′phates of.= The salt often called ‘disulphate of quinine’ is
now generally regarded as the normal sulphate, while the soluble salt,
often called the ‘neutral sulphate’ is considered to be an acid salt.
This change in nomenclature results from doubling the atomic weight of the
alkaloid quinine:——
1. =Quinine Acid, Sulphate of.= (C_{20}P_{24}N_{3}O_{2}.H_{2}SO_{4}.7Aq.)
_Syn._ SULPHATE OF QUININE†, NEUTRAL SULPHATE OF QUININE†, SOLUBLE S. OF
Q.; QUINÆ SULPHAS SOLUBILIS, L. _Prep._ From sulphate of quinine, 1 oz.,
dissolved, by the aid of heat, in water, 1/2 pint, previously acidulated
with dilute sulphuric acid, 5 fl. dr.; the solution affords crystals on
cooling, and more on evaporation.
_Obs._ This salt possesses the advantage of being soluble in about 10
parts of water at 60° Fahr.; but it is seldom used in the crystalline
form; still, as the officinal sulphate (‘disulphate’) is generally
prescribed along with a small quantity of dilute sulphuric acid to render
it soluble, this acid sulphate is, in fact, the compound which is commonly
given. It is the ‘bisulphate,’ ‘supersulphate,’ or ‘acid sulphate of
quina’ of Soubeiran and other Continental chemists.
2. =Quinine, Sulphate of.= (C_{20}H_{24}N_{2}O_{2})_{2}.2H_{2}SO_{4}.7Aq.
_Syn._ NORMAL SULPHATE OF QUININE, DISULPHATE OF Q., QUININE; QUINÆ
DISULPHAS (Ph. L.), QUINÆ SULPHAS (Ph. E., D., & U. S., & P. Cod.), QUINÆ
SULPHAS (B. P.), L.; SULPHATE DE QUININE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1836.)
Take of yellow cinchona bark, bruised, 7 lbs.; sulphuric acid, 4-1/4 oz.;
(diluted with) water, 6 galls.; boil them for 1 hour, and strain; repeat
this a second time for 1 hour, with a like quantity of acid and water, and
again strain; next boil the bark for 3 hours, in water, 8 galls., and
strain; wash the residue with fresh quantities of boiling distilled water;
to the mixed decoctions and washings, add moist hydrated oxide of lead to
saturation, decant the supernatant fluid, and wash the sediment with
distilled water; boil down the liquor for 15 minutes, and strain, then
precipitate the quina with liquor of ammonia and wash the precipitate
(with very cold water) until nothing alkaline is perceptible; saturate
what remains with sulphuric acid, 1/2 oz., diluted with water, q. s.,
digest with animal charcoal, 2 oz., and strain; lastly, the charcoal being
well washed, evaporate the mixed liquors, that crystals may form.
2. (Ph. E.) This process varies from the last one, in the bark (1 lb.)
being first boiled in water (4 pints) along with carbonate of soda (4
oz.); the residuum, being pressed, is moistened with water, and again
pressed, and this operation is repeated a second and a third time, the
object being to remove, as much as possible, the acids, colouring matter,
gum, and extractive, before proceeding to extract the alkaloid. Carbonate
of soda is also used as the precipitant, instead of ammonia, and the
precipitate is formed into a sulphate (disulphate) by being stirred with
boiling water, 1 pint, to which sulphuric acid, 1 fl. scruple, or q. s.,
is subsequently added. The crystals, after digestion with prepared animal
charcoal, 2 dr., are ordered to be dried at a heat not higher than 140°
Fahr.
3. (Ph. D.) Yellow bark, 1 lb., is macerated for 24 hours in water, 2
quarts, acidulated with oil of vitriol, 2 fl. dr., and then boiled for
half an hour, after which the fluid is decanted; this is repeated a second
and a third time with water, 2 quarts, and oil of vitriol, 1 fl. dr.; the
decanted (or strained) liquors are evaporated to a quart, and filtered,
and slaked lime, 1 oz., or q. s., added to the solution until it exhibits
a decidedly alkaline reaction; the precipitate is next collected on a
calico filter, and, after having been washed with cold water, partially
dried on porous bricks, and subjected to powerful pressure enveloped in
blotting paper, is boiled for 20 minutes in rectified spirit, 1 pint, and
the liquid, after subsidence, decanted; this is repeated a second and a
third time with a fresh pint of spirit, and the residuum being well
pressed, the mixed liquors are filtered, and the spirit removed by
distillation; the brown viscid residuum is dissolved in boiling water, 16
fl. oz., boiled, and dilute sulphuric acid, 1/2 fl. oz, or q. s., added to
render the solution neutral or only slightly acid; animal charcoal, 1/2
oz., is next stirred in, the mixture boiled for about 5 minutes, filtered,
and set aside to crystallise; the crystals are dried on blotting paper by
mere exposure to a dry atmosphere.
4. (B. P.) Yellow cinchona bark, in coarse powder, 16; hydrochloric acid,
3; distilled water, a sufficiency; solution of soda, 80; dilute sulphuric
acid, a sufficiency. Dilute the hydrochloric acid with 10 pints of the
water. Place the bark in a porcelain basin, and add to it as much of the
diluted hydrochloric acid as will render it thoroughly moist. After
maceration, with occasional stirring, for twenty-four hours, place the
bark in a displacement apparatus, and percolate with the diluted
hydrochloric acid until the solution which drops through is nearly
destitute of bitter taste. Into this liquid (hydrochlorate of quinine)
pour the solution of soda, agitate well, let the precipitate (quinine)
completely subside, decant the supernatant fluid, collect the precipitate
on a filter, and wash it with cold distilled water until the washings
cease to have colour. Transfer the precipitate to a porcelain dish
containing a pint of distilled water, and, applying to this the heat of a
water bath, gradually add diluted sulphuric acid until very nearly the
whole of the precipitate has been dissolved, and a neutral liquid has been
obtained. (Or add about half the precipitated quinine to some water in an
evaporating basin, warm the mixture and pour in diluted sulphuric acid
until the precipitate has dissolved and the liquid is neutral or only
faintly acid, then add the other half, stir well, and again heat liquid.)
Filter the solution (sulphate of quinine), while hot, through paper, wash
the filter with boiling distilled water, concentrate till a film forms on
the surface of the solution, and set it aside to crystallise. The
crystals should be dried on filtering paper without the application of
heat.
5. “Those who are well acquainted with the chemistry of the
cinchona-alkaloids all agree with me in condemning the boiling of bark
with dilute acids. I prefer the following method, which can also be used
on a small scale for quinometry:——
“Yellow bark, or any other bark in which quinine prevails, like, for
instance, that of _Cinchona officinalis_, 1 lb., is mixed with milk of
lime, made from 4 oz. of lime and 40 oz. of water. After drying this
mixture it is exhausted with strong methylated spirit (the strongest
possible) and the slightly coloured solution neutralised with sulphuric
acid, so that the liquor has a slight acid reaction upon blue litmus
paper. After filtering or subsiding, the clear liquid is distilled and the
residue in the still dissolved in water, carefully neutralised, so that
the solution has a slight alkaline reaction upon red litmus paper, treated
with charcoal and crystallised, &c.”——De Vrij.
6. (‘HOSPITAL SULPHATE’——Mr E. Herring.) The crushed bark is boiled in a
solution of caustic soda or potassa, to extract colouring matter and gum;
it is then pressed, washed with cold water, a second time boiled with a
solution of caustic alkali, and again pressed, washed, and pressed; the
decoloured and purified bark is next exhausted by coction with acidulated
water, in the usual way, and the filtered mixed decoctions are
precipitated with carbonate of soda; the precipitated quina is then
dissolved in hot dilute sulphuric acid, to saturation, when the ‘HOSPITAL
SULPHATE’ crystallises out as the solution cools; this is, lastly, washed
with a little cold water, drained, and dried.——The advantage of this
process is the non-use of animal charcoal as a bleacher, and the
consequent less cost of the product. In the preparation of his ‘WHITE
SULPHATE,’ Mr Herring uses benzol as a solvent, instead of alcohol. Patent
dated July 28th, 1853.
_Prop._ When pure, sulphate of quinine forms very light, delicate,
flexible, white needles, which are efflorescent, inodorous, and intensely
bitter; it is soluble in 740 parts of water at 60°, and in 30 parts at
212° Fahr.; it takes about 80 parts of cold rectified spirit for its
solution, but is freely soluble in boiling alcohol and in acidulated
water; it melts at 240° Fahr., and is charred and destroyed at a heat
below that of redness. The crystals contain 76·1% of quinine, 8·7% of
sulphuric acid, and 15·2% of water; of the last, they lose about 3-4ths by
exposure to dry air, and nearly the whole when kept in a state of fusion
for some time.
_Pur._ This may not be inferred from the form of its crystallisation, for
the sulphates of quinidine and of cinchonidine may be obtained in the same
form of crystallisation. As mentioned already, the reaction with chlorine
and ammonia does not distinguish quinine from quinidine, as both give the
same green colour. “It is entirely soluble in water (hot), and more
readily so when an acid is present. Precipitated by ammonia, the residuary
liquid, after evaporation, should not taste of sugar. By a gentle heat it
loses 8% or 10% of water. It is wholly consumed by heat. If chlorine be
first added, and then ammonia, it becomes green.” (Ph. L. 1836.) “On
adding chloride of barium to 100 gr. of this salt, dissolved in water
mixed with hydrochloric acid, 26·6 gr. of sulphate of baryta, dried at a
red heat, are prepared.” (Ph. L. 1851.) “A solution of 10 gr., in 1 fl.
oz. of distilled water, and 2 or 3 drops of sulphuric acid, if decomposed
by a solution of 1/2 oz. of carbonate of soda, in two waters, and heated
until the precipitate shrinks and fuses, yields, on cooling, a solid mass,
which, when dry, weighs 7·4 gr. and when reduced to powder, dissolves
entirely in a solution of oxalic acid.” (Ph. E.)
_Adult._ Sulphate of quinine is said to be often adulterated with starch,
magnesia, gum, sugar, cinchonine, quinidine, &c.; but, according to De
Vrij, those with starch, magnesia, gum, and sugar, are very rare if ever
they were really observed. Very frequent are those with the sulphates of
the other cinchona-alkaloids, and these become even still more frequent,
as very different kinds of bark are used for the manufacture of quinine.
Salicin is, if ever, but very seldom used for adulteration of quinine. The
best practical test for the purity of sulphate of quinine is the
following:——A saturated solution of the salt is made at 60° Fahr., and one
part of this solution is mixed with 2 or 3 minims of a concentrated
solution of iodide of potassium, whilst another part is mixed with 2 or 3
minims of a concentrated solution of tartrate of potash and soda. If the
sulphate of quinine is pure its solution will remain unaltered by both
reagents, even after rubbing the sides of the test tube with a glass rod
and standing many hours. But if it contains one or more of the other
cinchona-alkaloids there will appear either precipitates or striæ on the
glass where it has been rubbed by the glass rod. Iodide of potassium
indicates particularly the presence of even traces of quinidine, but also
of cinchonidine and cinchonine, provided their quantity be not too small.
Tartrate of potash and soda indicate, under these circumstances, only the
presence of cinchonidine. The first three remain undissolved when the salt
is digested in spirit; the fourth is dissolved out by cold water; the
fifth may be detected by its total insolubility in ether; or, by
precipitating the quinine by solution of potassa, and dissolving the
precipitate in boiling alcohol; cinchonine crystallises out as the
solution cools, but the quinine remains in the mother liquor; and the
last, by the greater solubility and sp. gr. of the salt, &c. If the sample
disengages ammoniacal fumes when treated with liquor of potassa, it
contains sal ammoniac. The presence of most foreign organic substances is
also shown by the sample being turned brown, and being soon charred when
treated with a drop of concentrated sulphuric acid. If it turn red it
contains salicin, a substance which is now frequently used to adulterate
sulphate of quinine. The pure sulphate is not discoloured by this reagent.
_Uses, &c._ The sulphate is more extensively employed than any of the
other salts of quinine, and, indeed, to almost the exclusion of them. It
is the article intended to be used whenever ‘sulphate’ or ‘disulphate’ of
quinine, or even ‘quinine,’ is ordered for medicinal purposes, unless the
name is qualified by some other term. It is a most valuable stomachic, in
doses of 1/4 to 1 gr.; as a tonic, 1 to 3 gr.; and as a febrifuge, 2 to 20
gr.
=Quinine, Sulpho-tar′trate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ SULPHO-TARTRAS, L. _Prep._
From sulphate of quinine, 4 parts; tartaric acid, 5 parts; distilled
water, 20 parts; mix, gently evaporate to dryness, and powder the
residuum.
=Quinine, Tan′nate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ TANNAS, L. _Prep._ Dissolve sulphate
of quinine in slightly acidulated water, and add a solution of tannic acid
as long as a precipitate forms; wash this with a little cold water, and
dry it. The Ph. Græca orders infusion of galls to be used as the
precipitant. In intermittent neuralgia.
=Quinine, Tar′trate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ TARTRAS, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From
tartaric acid and quinine, as the acetate.
=Quinine, Vale′′rianate of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ VALERIANAS (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._
1. As the acetate or citrate.
2. (Ph. D.) Valerianate of soda, 124 gr., distilled water, 2 fl. oz.;
dissolve; also dissolve hydrochlorate of quinine, 7 dr., in distilled
water, 14 fl. oz.; next heat each solution to 120° (not higher), mix them,
and set the vessel aside for 24 hours; lastly, press the mass of crystals
thus obtained, and dry them, without the application of artificial heat.
_Prop., &c._ Silky needles and prisms; its solution suffers decomposition
when heated much above 120° Fahr. It is powerfully antispasmodic,
antiperiodic, and nervine.——_Dose_, 1/2 gr., every two hours, or 1 to 3
gr. twice or thrice daily; in epilepsy, hemicrania, hysteria, neuralgia,
and other nervous affections.
=QUININE AND COD-LIVER OIL.= _Syn._ COD-LIVER OIL WITH QUININE,
QUINIARETTED COD-LIVER OIL; OLEUM MORRHUÆ CUM QUINÂ, OLEUM JECORIS ASELLI
CUM QUINÂ, L. This medicine is a solution of pure anhydrous quinine in
pure cod-liver oil.
_Prep._ 1. Pure quinine (preferably recently precipitated) is fused in a
glass or porcelain capsule by the heat of an oil or sand bath, carefully
applied, by which it assumes a brown colour and the appearance of a resin;
it is then allowed to cool out of contact with the air, after which it is
reduced to powder in a dry mortar, and added to pure pale Newfoundland
cod-liver oil, gently heated in a closed glass vessel over a water bath;
the solution of the alkaloid is promoted by constant agitation, and, when
complete, the vessel, still corked, is set aside in a dark situation to
cool; when the ‘quiniaretted oil’ is quite cold it is put into bottles, in
the usual manner, and preserved as much as possible from the light and
air.
2. The anhydrous quinine is dissolved in a little anhydrous ether before
adding it to the oil, which in this case need not be heated, as the union
is effected by simple agitation; should this not take place, it may be
gently warmed for a few minutes.
3. The anhydrous quinine is dissolved in anhydrous alcohol, and after
being added to the oil, the whole is gently heated, in an open vessel, by
the heat of a water bath, until the alcohol is expelled; agitation, &c.,
being had recourse to as in No. 1.
_Prop., &c._ The above preparation resembles ordinary cod-liver oil,
except in having a pale yellowish colour and a slightly bitter taste,
similar to that of cinchona bark. It is said to possess all the properties
of cod-liver oil combined with those peculiar to quinine, by which the
tonic, stomachic, and antiperiodic qualities of the latter are associated,
in one remedy, with the genial supporting, and alterative action of the
other. The common strength is 2 gr. of quinine per oz.
=QUININE AND I′RON.= These two important medicinal agents are combined
together in various ways. The following compound salts are often
prescribed.
=Quinine and Iron, Cit′rate of.= _Syn._ CITRATE OF IRON AND QUININE; FERRI
ET QUINÆ CITRAS, B. P. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Solution of persulphate of iron,
4-1/2; sulphate of quinia, 1; dilute sulphuric acid, 1-1/2; citric acid,
3; solution of ammonia and distilled water, of each a sufficiency; mix 8
of the solution of ammonia with 40 of the water, and to this add the
solution of persulphate of iron, previously diluted with 40 of the water,
stirring them constantly and briskly. Let the mixture stand for 2 hours,
stirring it occasionally, then put it on a calico filter, and when the
liquid has drained away, wash the precipitate with distilled water until
that which passes through the filter ceases to give a precipitate with
chloride of barium. Mix the sulphate of quinia with 8 of the water, add
the sulphuric acid, and when the salt is dissolved, precipitate the quinia
with a slight excess of solution of ammonia. Collect the precipitate on a
filter, and wash it with 30 of the water. Dissolve the citric acid in 5 of
the water, and having applied the heat of a water bath, add the oxide of
iron, previously well drained; stir them together, and when the oxalic
acid has dissolved, add the precipitated quinia, continuing the agitation
until this also has dissolved. Let the solution cool, then add, in small
quantities at a time, 1-1/2 solution of ammonia, dilute with 2 of the
water, stirring the solution briskly, and allowing the quinia which
separates with each addition of ammonia to dissolve before the next
addition is made. Filter the solution, evaporate it to the consistence of
a thin syrup, then dry it in layers on flat porcelain or glass plates, at
the temperature of 100° Fahr., remove the dry salt in flakes, and keep it
in a stoppered bottle. Solubility, 2 in 1.——_Test._ Taste bitter as well
as chalybeate. When burned with exposure to air, it leaves a residue
(oxide of iron) which yields nothing to water. 50 gr., dissolved in an
ounce of water, and treated with a slight excess of ammonia, gives a white
precipitate (quinia) which, when collected on a filter and dried, weighs 8
gr. The precipitate is entirely soluble in pure ether, indicating absence
of quinidia and cinchonia. When burned it leaves no residue. When
dissolved by the aid of an acid it forms a solution which, after
decolorisation by a little purified animal charcoal, turns the plane of
polarisation strongly to the left (cinchona turns it to the
right).——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr. as a tonic, three times a day, in solution or
in pill.
2. (Ph. U. S.) Triturate sulphate of quinine, 1 oz., with distilled water,
6 fl. oz., and having added sufficient diluted sulphuric acid to dissolve
it, cautiously pour into the solution water of ammonia with constant
stirring, until in slight excess. Wash the precipitated quinine on a
filter, and having added solution of citrate of iron, 10 fl. oz., keep the
whole at a temperature of 120° by means of a water bath, and stir
constantly until the alkaloid is dissolved. Lastly, evaporate the solution
to the consistence of a syrup, and spread it on plates of glass, so that,
on drying, the salt may be obtained in scales.——_Dose_, 2 gr. to 5 gr.
=Quinine and Iron, I′odide of.= _Syn._ QUINÆ ET FERRI IODIDUM, L. _Prep._
From protiodide of iron, 2 parts; hydriodate of quinine, 1 part; rectified
spirit, 12 parts; heat them together, and either evaporate to dryness or
crystallise by refrigeration. A powder, or crystalline scales.
=Quinine and Iron, Sul′phate of.= _Syn._ FERROSULPHATE OF QUININE; QUINÆ
FERRO-SULPHAS, QUINÆ ET FERRI SULPHAS, L. _Prep._ From solutions of the
sulphates of iron and quinine, in atomic proportions, mixed whilst hot,
and the crystals which form as the liquid cools carefully dried and
preserved from the air.
QUININE AND MERCURY. See MERCURIC AND QUININE CHLORIDE.
=QUINOA.= The seed of this plant (a species of _Chenopodium_) is largely
consumed by the people who dwell in the elevated regions of Chili and
Peru, in which countries it is found growing at a height of some 13,000
feet above the sea-level. Mr Johnston says there are two varieties of it,
a sweet and a bitter one. It is a highly nutritious cereal, resembling
ointment in properties.
According to Voelker, quinoa has the following composition:
Quinoa seeds dried Quinoa
at 212° F. flour.
Nitrogenous matter 22·86 19
Starch 56·80 60
Fatty matter 5·74 5
Vegetable fibre 9·53 ——
Ash 5·05 ——
Water —— 16
=QUINOID′INE.= _Syn._ AMORPHOUS QUININE, CHINOIDINE; QUINA AMORPHA, QUINA
INFORMIS, QUINOIDIA, QUINOIDINA, QUINOIDINUM, CHINOIDEUM, L. A few years
after the discovery of the quinine by Pelletier and Caventou, Sertuerner,
a German physician, and known as the discoverer of morphia, obtained, by a
peculiar method, from yellow bark, an amorphous alkaloid which was called
by him Chinoidin[131] (to which the name amorphous quinine is improperly
given), and also fever-killer (Fiebertödter). He found that not only this
alkaloid itself, but also all its compounds with acids, were equally
amorphous. As recent investigations have proved that this amorphous
alkaloid occurs in all cinchona barks, and is found particularly in many
young Indian barks in great quantity, it is quite natural that in the
manufacture of quinine the uncrystallisable sulphate of this alkaloid
should accumulate in the mother liquors of the sulphate of quinine. From
such liquors it is precipitated in an impure state by an alkali, and
brought into commerce under the name of quinoidine. As this amorphous
alkaloid has the property of preventing the crystallisation of the salts
of the other alkaloids, particularly those of quinidine, it is clear that
the quinoidine of commerce very often contains quinidine and also
cinchonidine. Dr de Vrij, for instance, found sometimes more than 20% of
quinidine in some samples of quinoidine of commerce. Although commercial
quinoidine contains many impurities which may have their origin partly in
the adulteration of the cinchona-alkaloids, unadulterated quinoidine, no
doubt, chiefly consists of the amorphous alkaloid discovered by
Sertuerner.
[Footnote 131: Sertuerner, ‘Die neuesten Entdeckungen in der Physik,
Heilkunde, und Chemie,’ 3ter Band, 2tes Heft, Suite 269 (1830).]
The quinoidine of commerce ought never to be used in medicine unless
purified. For this purification there are two methods: 1. That of Mr
Bullock, which gives the purer but the more expensive product. Crude
quinoidine is exhausted with ether, which, after defecation, is distilled
off, leaving the purified quinoidine behind. This process has been
patented in England by Mr Bullock. 2. That of Dr de Vrij, which consists
in boiling 9 parts of crude quinoidine with a solution of 2 parts of
oxalate of ammonium in water. By this process the alkaloids contained in
the quinoidine are dissolved whilst the impurities, and amongst them the
lime which is often contained in the crude quinoidine, remain undissolved.
The solution is mixed with a large bulk of water, then filtered and the
purified quinoidine precipitated by a slight excess of liquor of soda.
_Prop., &c._ In its crude form quinoidine somewhat resembles aloes; in its
purest state it is a yellowish-brown, resin-like mass, freely soluble in
alcohol and ether, but nearly insoluble in water; with the acids it forms
dark-coloured, uncrystallisable salts. It is powerfully febrifuge, but
less so than either quinidine or quinine, although it is identical in
chemical composition with both of them.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 gr. for adults,
1/4 to 1 gr. for children, given in wine, lemonade, or acidulated honey.
=QUINOM′ETRY.= _Syn._ CINCHONOMETRY. The art of estimating the quantity of
quinine in cinchona bark, and in the commercial salts of this alkaloid.
_Proc._ 1. FOR BARK.——_a._ (Ph. E.) A filtered decoction of 100 gr. of
bark, in distilled water, 2 fl. oz., is precipitated with 1 fl. dr., or
q. s. of a concentrated solution of carbonate of soda; the precipitate,
after being heated in the fluid so as to become a fused mass, and having
again become cold, is dried and weighed. “It should be 2 gr., or more, and
entirely dissolve in a solution of oxalic acid.” To render the result
strictly accurate, the product should be dissolved in 10 parts of proof
spirit, containing 1/20th of sulphuric acid, and to this solution
carefully added an alcoholic solution of iodine as long as there appears a
brown precipitate, which immediately turns black by stirring with a glass
rod. This precipitate, collected upon a filter, washed with strong alcohol
and dried on a water bath, is Herapath’s iodosulphate of quinine, of which
100 parts represent 56·5 parts of pure quinine.
_b._ (Rebourdain.) 100 gr. of the bark (coarsely powdered) are exhausted
with acidulated water, and the filtered solution rendered alkaline with
solution of potassa; it is next shaken with about 1-3rd of its volume of
chloroform, and then allowed to repose for a short time; the chloroform
holding the alkaloid in solution sinks to the bottom of the vessel in a
distinct stratum, from which the supernatant liquid is separated by
decantation; the chloroformic solution, either at once or after being
washed with a little cold water, is allowed to evaporate; the residuum,
when weighed, gives the per-centage richness of the sample.
_Obs._ A like result may be obtained with ether instead of chloroform; in
which case the solution of quinine will form the upper stratum.
_c._ Instead of Rebourdain’s process, Dr de Vrij prefers that of
Charles,[132] so far as regards the separation of the total mixed
alkaloids from the bark. To this mixture is applied the process mentioned
above (_a_), viz. solution in acidulated proof spirit, &c.
[Footnote 132: ‘Journal de Pharmacie et de Chimie,’ 4e série, t. 12, p. 81
(Août, 1870).]
2. For the SALTS. The above methods, as well as several others which have
been devised for the purpose, may also be applied to the salts of quinine;
but, unfortunately, they are inapplicable when great accuracy is required,
owing to the non-recognition of the presence of quinidine, as such, and
which, consequently, goes to swell the apparent richness of the sample in
quinine. The following ingenious method, invented by Dr Ure, not merely
enables us to detect the presence of cinchonine and quinidine in
commercial samples of the salts of quinine, but, with some trifling
modifications, it also enables us to determine the quantity of each of
these alkaloids present in any sample:——“10 gr. of the salts to be
examined” (the sulphate is here more especially referred to) “is put into
a strong test-tube, furnished with a tight-fitting cork; to this are to be
added 10 drops of dilute sulphuric acid (1 acid and 5 water), with 15
drops of water, and a gentle heat applied to accelerate solution. This
having been effected, and the solution entirely cooled, 60 drops of
officinal sulphuric ether, with 20 drops of liquor of ammonia, must be
added, and the whole well shaken while the top is closed by the thumb. The
tube is then to be closely stopped, and shaken gently from time to time,
so that the bubbles of air may readily enter the layer of ether. If the
salt be free from cinchonine and quinidine, or contain the latter in no
greater proportion than 10%, it will be completely dissolved; while on the
surface, where contact of the two layers of clear fluid takes place, the
mechanical impurities only will be separated. After some time the layer of
ether becomes hard and gelatinous, and no further observation is
possible.”
“From the above statement respecting the solubility of quinidine in ether,
it appears that the 10 gr. of the salt examined may contain 1 gr. of
quinidine, and still a complete solution with ether and ammonia may
follow; but in this case the quinidine will shortly begin to crystallise
in a layer of ether. The least trace of quinidine may be yet more
definitely detected by employing, instead of the ordinary ether, some
ether previously saturated with quinidine, by which means all of the
quinidine contained in the quinine examined must remain undissolved. It is
particularly requisite, in performing this last experiment, to observe,
(immediately) after the shaking, whether all has dissolved; for, owing to
the great tendency of quinidine to crystallisation, it may become again
separated in a crystalline form, and be a source of error.”
“If more than 1-10th of quinidine or (any) cinchonine be present, there
will be found an insoluble precipitate at the limits of the two layers of
fluid. If this be quinidine, it will be dissolved on the addition of
proportionately more ether, while cinchonine will remain unaffected.”
_Note._ To Dr Ure’s test Dr de Vrij prefers, for several reasons, Dr
Kerner’s test, ‘Zeitschrift für Analytische Chemie,’ von Fresenius, 1st
Jahrg, 1862; ‘Ueber Die Prufung des Käuflichen Schwefelsauren Chinins auf
fremde Alkaloides,’ von Dr G. Keraer.
=QUINOVIC ACID.= C_{28}H_{33}O_{4}. This is insoluble in water, also in
chloroform, and difficultly soluble in alcohol. It can be obtained from
the boiling alcoholic solution, by cooling, in small crystals. In the
leaves, bark, and wood of the cinchona tree this acid is contained,
together with quinovin, and it is this mixture which has been recently
applied in therapeutics, as a powerful tonic in cases of dysentery, &c.
The mixture can easily be obtained from the leaves, bark, or wood of
cinchona, and even from bark which has been exhausted by ebullition with
water or diluted acids, by cold maceration with weak milk of lime, by
which it is dissolved, as it combines easily with bases. It is only the
quinovate of lime which has till now been used in medicine.——_Dose_, 2 to
8 gr. every two hours.
=QUINOVIN.= C_{30}H_{48}O_{8}. _Syn._ CINCHOVIN, QUINOVIA.
=QUINOVIN.= A very bitter amorphous glucoside contained in the genus
Cinchona, Nauslea, and probably in many other allied genera. It is
insoluble in water, very soluble in rectified spirit and in chloroform,
with which last liquid it forms, in concentrated solutions, a jelly. If a
current of hydrochloric gas is passed into its alcoholic solution the
liquid becomes hot and the quinovin is split up into a peculiar kind of
sugar.
=QUIN′QUINA.= Dr de Vrij states that the substance known under this name
is a mixture of hydrochlorate of cinchonidine and of cinchonine. See
CINCHONA.
=QUIN′SY.= See THROAT AFFECTIONS.
=QUINTES′SENCE.= _Syn._ QUINTA ESSENTIA, L. A term invented by the
alchemists to represent a concentrated alcoholic solution of the active
principles of organic bodies. It is still occasionally employed in
perfumery and the culinary art. See ESSENCE, TINCTURE, &c.
=QUITTOR.= It generally shows itself at the top or coronet of the hoof of
the horse, in the form of a fistulous opening (whence quittor is also
called ‘the pipes’), filled with a purulent discharge.
Quittor invariably points to the presence of an internal ulcer, abscess,
or some other irritating cause, the discharge from which, accumulating
under the hard hoof, slowly works its way to the surface. The origin of
quittor is generally some injury to the hoof, such as a corn, a prick, or
an inequality of tread.
The first thing to be done is to remove the animal’s shoe, to cut away any
dead or discoloured horn, so as to reach the seat of the suppuration, and
to allow it to escape by a more direct outlet. Hot-water fomentations and
poultices should afterwards be applied for a few days. Should the sores
show an indisposition to heal, the parts should be washed with a tolerably
strong solution of sulphate of zinc, or of bichloride of mercury——25 grams
of the latter to an ounce of water. The application of strong caustics is
to be particularly deprecated.
=QUOTID′IAN.= Occurring or returning daily. See AGUE.
=RAB′BIT.= The _Lepus cuniculus_ (Linn.) of the Cuvian order _Rodentia_.
The domestic rabbit, when young, is a light and wholesome article of food,
approaching in delicacy to the common barn-door fowl; but has less flavour
than the wild animal. The fat is among the ‘simples’ of the Ph. L. 1618.
Its hair and skin are made into cheap furs, gloves, hats, &c.
_Composition of Rabbit’s Flesh_ (BARTLETT).[133]
[Footnote 133: ‘Lancet,’ March 29th, 1873.]
+---------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+-----------+
| | Rabbit | Rabbit | Rabbit | | |
| | No. 1. | No. 2. | No. 3. | Average |Percentage.|
| | Grains. | Grains. | Grains. | Grains. | Grains. |
+---------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+-----------+
|Water | 5,982 | 6,623 | 7,315 | 6,640 | 73·17 |
|Fibrin and Syntonin | 1,143 | 1,247 | 1,393 | 1,261 | 13·90 |
|Gelatin | 302 | 335 | 350 | 329 | 3·63 |
|Fat | 240 | 272 | 345 | 286 | 3·15 |
|Albumen | 276 | 305 | 340 | 307 | 3·38 |
|Alcoholic extract, | 106 | 119 | 135 | 120 | 1·32 |
| including salts | | | | | |
|Watery extract | 102 | 108 | 125 | 112 | 1·23 |
|Calcium phosphates | 16 | 19 | 25 | 20 | 0·22 |
| +---------+---------+---------+---------+-----------+
| Edible portion | 8,167 | 9,028 | 10,029 | 9,075 | 100·00 |
| | | | | | |
|Additional gelatin | | | | | |
| from stewing bones | 215 | 232 | 251 | 233 | 2·06 |
|Bones, &c., dissected| | | | | |
| out and stewed | 1,501 | 1,674 | 1,854 |} |{ 17·88 |
|Shank bones, fur and | | | |} |{ |
| eyes, thrown away | 313 | 352 | 382 |} 2,027 |{ waste. |
| +---------+---------+---------+---------+-----------+
| | 10,201 | 11,286 | 12,516 | 11,335 | ... |
+---------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------+-----------+
=Rabbit Pie.= Cut up two young rabbits, season with white pepper, salt, a
little mace, and nutmeg, all in fine powder; add also a little cayenne.
Pack the rabbit with slices of ham, forcemeat balls, and hard eggs, by
turns in layers. If it is to be baked in a dish add a little water, but
omit the water if it is to be raised in a crust. By the time it is taken
out of the oven have ready a gravy of knuckle of veal, or a bit of the
scrag, with some shank bones of mutton, seasoned with herbs, onions, mace,
and white pepper. If the pie is to be eaten hot, truffles, morels or
mushrooms may be added, but not if intended to be eaten cold. If it be
made in a dish put as much gravy as will fill the dish, but in raised
crusts the gravy must be carefully strained, and then put in cold as
jelly.
=Rabbit Pudding.= Cut a rabbit into sixteen pieces, and slice a quarter of
a pound of bacon; season with chopped sage, pepper, and salt; then add
potatoes and onions according to the size of the family, and half a pint
of water. Boil for two hours. The meat and vegetables must be well mixed.
Rice may be substituted for potatoes if preferred.
=Rabbit, Ragout of.= “Wash and clean a good-sized Ostend rabbit; boil the
liver and heart, chop them, and mix with veal stuffing; fill the rabbit,
sew it up, and tie it into shape. Put a piece of fat beef and 1 lb. of
bacon, cut in slices, into a saucepan, with 1 oz. of dripping; put in the
rabbit to brown, turning it over to brown both sides; pour off the
dripping, and put in 1 quart of water; let it simmer gently an hour and a
half. A quarter of an hour before serving skim off all the fat, and
thicken the gravy with a little corn flour; season with pepper and salt,
and, if liked, stew a bunch of herbs and half an onion with it. Lay the
rabbit on a dish with the bacon round it, and pour the gravy over.”
(Tegetmeier.)
=RAC′AHOUT.= _Syn._ RACAHOUT DES ARABES. This is said to be farina
prepared from the acorns of _Quercus Ballota_, or Barbary oak, disguised
with a little flavouring. The following is recommended as an
imitation:——Roasted cacao or chocolate nuts, 4 oz.; tapioca, and potato
farina, of each 6 oz.; white sugar, slightly flavoured with vanilla, 1/2
lb. Very nutritious. Used as arrow-root.
=RACE′MIC ACID.= _Syn._ PARATARTARIC ACID. This compound was discovered by
Kestner in 1820, replacing tartaric acid in grape juice of the Department
of the Vosges. Racemic acid and tartaric acid have exactly the same
composition, and yield, when exposed to heat, the same products; the
racemates also correspond in the closest manner with the tartrates.
Racemic acid is rather less soluble than tartaric, and separates first
from a solution containing the two acids. A solution of racemic acid
precipitates a neutral salt of calcium, which is not the case with
tartaric acid. A solution of racemic acid does not affect a ray of
polarised light, while a solution of tartaric acid rotates the ray to the
right.
“Dessargnes and Jungfleisch found by experiment that under the influence
of heat ordinary tartaric acid is readily transformed into inactive
tartaric acid and racemic acid, and the latter chemist thought to find in
this fact an explanation of the production of racemic acid.
“But observations continued through many years upon mother liquors from
various tartaric acid factories showed that although more or less inactive
tartaric acid was present in all of them, racemic acid was not, even when
they had been subjected to prolonged treatment, and its occurrence in
appreciable quantity was confined to a small number of specimens. In fact,
some samples of mother liquor from factories where evaporation was carried
on in a partial vacuum contained more racemic acid than others from
factories where evaporation was carried on over a pure fire. Recently
Jungfleisch noticed that the liquors richest in inactive tartaric acid
were also rich in alumina, and the suspicion that alumina favoured the
conversion was confirmed by direct experiment; also that the neutral
aluminum sulphate has but little action. Jungfleisch has come to the
conclusion that when there is an accumulation of alumina on the mother
liquor, the conditions are favorable for the production of a large
proportion of inactive tartaric acid, and a small proportion of racemic
acid, although when the latter is present in considerable quantity, it
becomes the most manifest through its comparative insolubility.
Examination of liquors from which racemic acid has been deposited has
always shown them to contain much inactive tartaric acid. This theory does
not exclude the probability that certain vines under particular conditions
produce racemic acid.”[134]
[Footnote 134: ‘Pharmaceutical Journal.’]
=RACK′ING.= See CIDER and WINES.
=RAD′ICLE.= _Syn._ RADICAL. According to the binary theory of the
constitution of saline compounds, every salt is composed, like chloride of
sodium (NaCl), of two sides or parts, which are termed its radicals. That
part of a salt which consists of a metal, or of a body exercising the
chemical functions of one, is called the metallic, basic, or basylous
radical; while the other part, which, like chlorine, by combining with
hydrogen would produce an acid, is designated the chlorous or acidulous
radical. Every salt, therefore, consists of a basic and of an acid
radical. Sometimes radicals are elementary in their nature, when they are
called _simple_; and sometimes they are made up of a group of elements,
when they are termed _compound_. Some radicals, both simple and compound,
have been isolated, while many have but a hypothetical existence. In the
following formulæ the vertical line separates the basic from the acid
radicals, the former being on the left, the latter on the right:——
H | F Hydrofluoric acid (_Fluoride of hydrogen_).
Na | Cl Chloride of sodium.
K | CN Cyanide of potassium.
Ca | CO_{3} Carbonate of calcium.
NH_{4} | Cl Chloride of ammonium.
C_{2}H_{5} | NO_{2} Nitrite of ethyl.
=RAD′ISH.= The common garden radish (RAPHANUS, L.) is the root of
_Raphanus sativus_ (Linn.), one of the _Cruciferæ_. There are several
varieties. They are all slightly diuretic and laxative, and possess
considerable power in exciting the appetite. The seed is pressed for oil.
The horseradish (ARMORACIA, L.) belongs to a distinct genus.
=RAIN-GAUGE.= _Syn._ OMBOMETER, PLUVIAMETER, UDOMETER. An instrument for
determining the quantity of water, which falls as rain, at any given
place. A simple and convenient rain-gauge for agricultural purposes is
formed of a wide mouthed funnel, or open receiver, connected with a glass
tube furnished with a stop-cock. The diameter of the tube may be exactly
1-100th that of the receiver, and if the tube be graduated into inches and
tenths, the quantity of rain that falls may be easily read off to the
1-1000th of an inch. The instrument should be set in some perfectly open
situation; and, for agricultural purposes, with its edge as nearly level
with the ground as possible. Another form of gauge is furnished with a
float, the height of which marks the amount of liquid. The diameter of the
gauge should range between 4 and 8 inches. The quantity of water should be
duly measured and registered at 9 a.m. daily.
Mr Symonds, F.R.B.S., has drawn the following code of instructions for the
guidance of those registering the amount of rainfall at any locality:——
1. _Site._ A rain-gauge should not be set on a slope or terrace, but on a
level piece of ground, at a distance from shrubs, trees, walls, and
buildings——at the very least as many feet from their base as they are in
height.
Tall growing flowers, vegetables, and bushes must be kept away from the
gauges. If a thoroughly clear site cannot be obtained, shelter is most
endurable from north-west, north, and east; less so from south,
south-east, and west; and not at all from south-west or north-east.
2. _Old Gauges._ Old-established gauges should not be moved, nor their
registration discontinued, until at least two years after a new one has
been in operation, otherwise the continuity of the register will be
irreparably destroyed. Both the old and the new ones must be registered at
the same time, and the results recorded for comparison.
3. _Level._ The funnel of a rain-gauge must be set quite level, and so
firmly fixed that it will remain so, in spite of any gale of wind or
ordinary circumstances. Its correctness in this respect should be tested
from time to time.
4. _Height._ The funnel of gauges newly placed should be one foot above
grass. Information respecting height above sea level may be obtained from
G. J. Symons, Esq., 64, Camden Square, N.W., London.
5. _Rust._ If the funnel of a japanned gauge become so oxidised as to
retain the rain in its pores, or threatens to become rusty, it should have
a coat of gas tar or japan black, or a fresh funnel of zinc or copper
should be provided.
6. _Float Gauges._ If the measuring rod is detached from the float it
should never be left in the gauge; if it is attached to the float it
should be pegged or tied down, and only allowed to rise to its proper
position at the time of reading. To allow for the weight of the float and
rod these gauges are generally so constructed as to show 0 only when a
small amount of water is left in them. Care must always be taken to set
the rod to the zero or 0.
7. _Can and Bottle Gauges._ The measuring glass should always be held
upright. The reading is to be taken midway between the two apparent
surfaces of the water.
8. _Date of Entry._ The amount measured at 9 a.m. on any day is to be set
against the previous one, because the amount measured at 9 a.m. of, say,
the 17th, contains the fall during fifteen hours of the 16th, and only
nine hours of the 17th. (The rule has been approved by the meteorological
societies of England and Scotland, cannot be altered, and is particularly
commended to the notice of observers.)
9. _Mode of Entry._ If less than one tenth (·10) has fallen, the cipher
must always be prefixed; thus, if the measure is full up to the seventh
line, it must be entered as ·07——that is, no inches, no tenths, and seven
hundredths. For the sake of clearness it has been found necessary to lay
down an invariable rule that there shall always be two figures to the
right of the decimal point. If there be only one figure, as in the case of
one tenth of an inch (usually written ·1), a cipher must be added, making
it ·10. Neglect of this rule causes much inconvenience. All columns should
be cast _twice_——once up and once down——so as to avoid the same error
being made twice. When there is no rain a line should be drawn rather than
a cipher inserted.
10. _Caution._ The amount should always be written down before the water
is thrown away.
11. _Small Quantities._ The unit of measurement being ·01, observers whose
gauges are sufficiently delicate to show less than that are, if the amount
is under ·005, to throw it away; if it is ·005 to ·010 inclusive, they are
not to enter it as ·01.
12. _Absence._ Every observer should train some one as an assistant; but
where this is not possible, instructions should be given that the gauge
should be emptied at 9 a.m. on the 1st of the month, and the water
bottled, labelled, and tightly corked, to await the observer’s return.
13. _Heavy Rains._ When very heavy rains occur it is desirable to measure
immediately on their termination; and it will be found a safe plan, after
measuring, to return the water to the gauge, so that the morning
registration will not be interfered with. Of course, if there is the
slightest doubt as to the gauge holding all the falls it must be emptied,
the amount being previously written down.
14. _Snow._ In snow three methods may be adopted; it is well to try them
all:——(1) Melt what is caught in the funnel by adding to the snow a
previously ascertained quantity of warm water, and then deducting this
quantity from the total measurement, enter the residue as rain. (2) Select
a place where the snow has not drifted, invert the funnel, and, turning it
round, lift and melt what is enclosed. (3) Measure with a rule the average
depth of snow, and take one twelfth as the equivalent of water. Some
observers use in snowy weather a cylinder of the same diameter as the
rain-gauge, and of considerable depth. If the wind is at all rough all the
snow is blown out of a flat-funnelled rain-gauge.
15. _Overflow._ It would seem needless to caution observers on this head,
but as a recent foreign table contains _six instances in one day_, in
which gauges were allowed to run over, it is evidently necessary that
British observers should be on the alert. It is not desirable to purchase
any new gauge of which the capacity is less than four inches.
16. _Second Gauges._ It is often desirable that observers should have two
gauges, and that one of them should be capable of holding eight inches of
rain. One of the gauges should be registered daily, the other weekly or
monthly, as preferred, but always on the 1st of each month. By this means
a thorough check is kept on accidental errors in the entries, which is not
the case if _both_ are read daily.
17. _Dew and Fog._ Small amounts of water are at times deposited in
rain-gauges by fog and dew. They should be added to the amount of
rainfall, because (1) “they tend to water the earth and nourish the
streams,” and not for that reason only, but (2) because in many cases the
rain-gauges can only be visited monthly, and it would then obviously be
impossible to separate the yield of snow, rain, &c.; therefore, for the
sake of uniformity, all must be taken together.
18. _Doubtful Entries._ Whenever there is the least doubt respecting the
accuracy of any observation, the entry should be marked with a ?, and the
reason stated for its being placed there.
_Obs._ The height at which the rain-gauge is elevated from the ground is a
matter of considerable moment. Thus, one observer found the fall of rain
at York for twelve months (1833-1834) to be——at a height of 213 feet from
the ground, 14·96 inches; at 44 feet, 19·85 inches; and on the ground,
25·71 inches.
Later experimentalists have confirmed this curious fact. Thus, Colonel
Warde found the following to be the relative rainfall at different periods
for the four years extending from 1864 to 1867:
Inches.
On a level with the ground 1·07
At a height of 2 inches 1·05
” 6 ” 1·01
” 1 foot 1·00
” 2 feet 0·99
” 3 ” 0·98
” 5 ” 0·96
” 10 ” 0·95
” 20 ” 0·94
One of the causes that have been assigned for this singular phenomenon has
been——the greater exposure in elevated situations of the rain to
dispersive action of the wind, a surmise which derives some support from
the circumstance, that when a rain-gauge is placed on a building, the roof
of which is flat, of large area, and with few, if any, chimneys to disturb
the air currents, an amount of rain is collected equalling that obtained
on the surface of the ground.
=RAI′SINS.= _Syn._ DRIED GRAPES; UVÆ (B. P.). UVÆ SICCATÆ, UVA (Ph. L.),
UVÆ PASSÆ (Ph. E. & D.), L. “The prepared fruit of _Vitis vinifera_”
(Linn.)——Ph. L. The grapes are allowed to ripen and dry on the vine. After
being plucked and cleaned, they are dipped, for a few seconds, into a
boiling lye of wood ashes and quicklime at 12° or 15° Baumé, to every 4
galls. of which a handful of culinary salt and a pint of salad oil has
been added; they are then exposed for 12 or 14 days in the sun to dry;
they are, lastly, carefully garbled, and packed for exportation. The
sweet, fleshy kinds of grapes are those selected for the above treatment;
and, in general, their stalks are cut about one half through, or a ring of
bark is removed, to hasten their maturation.
Raisins are nutritious, cooling, antiseptic, and, in general, laxative;
the latter to a greater extent than the fresh fruit. There are many
varieties found in commerce. Their uses as a dessert and culinary fruit,
and in the manufacture of wine, &c., are well known, and are referred to
elsewhere. See GRAPES, WINES, &c.
=RANCID′ITY.= The strong, sour flavour and odour which oleaginous bodies
acquire by age and exposure to the air. For its prevention, see FATS, OILS
(Fixed), &c.
=RAPE OIL.= See OILS (Fixed).
=RASH.= Erasmus Wilson notices four different affections, as included
under this head:——
1. ST ANTHONY’S FIRE, or ERYSIPELAS, the severest of them all, already
referred to.
2. NETTLE-RASH, or URTICARIA, characterised by its tingling and pricking
pain, and its little white elevations on a reddish ground, like the wheals
caused by the sting of a nettle. This efflorescence seldom stays many
hours, and, sometimes, not even many minutes, in the same place, and is
multiplied or reproduced whenever any part of the skin is scratched or
even touched. No part of the body is exempt from it, and when many of them
occur together, and continue for an hour or two, the parts are often
considerably swelled, and the features temporarily disfigured. In many
cases these eruptions continue to infest the skin, sometimes in one place,
and sometimes in another, for one or two hours together, two or three
times a day, or perhaps, for the greatest part of the twenty-four hours.
In some constitutions this lasts only a few days; in others several
months.
There are several varieties of nettle-rash or urticaria noticed by medical
writers, among which URTICARIA FEBRILIS, PERSISTANS, and EVANIDA, are the
principal.
The common cause of nettle-rash is some derangement of the digestive
functions, arising either from the use of improper food or a disordered
state of the nervous or other systems of the body. Lobsters, crabs,
mussels, shrimps, dried fish, pork, cucumbers, mushrooms, and adulterated
beer or porter, bear the character of frequently causing this affection.
In childhood it commonly arises from teething. Occasionally, in persons of
peculiar idiosyncrasy, the most simple article of food, as almonds, nuts,
and even milk, rice, and eggs, will produce this affection.
The treatment may consist of the administration of gentle saline
aperients, and in severer cases a gentle emetic, followed by the copious
use of acidulated diluent drinks, as weak lemon-juice-and-water,
effervescing potassa-draughts, &c., and, when required, diaphoretics. The
clothing should be light, but warm, and the itching, when severe, may be
allayed by the application of a lotion of water to which a little vinegar
or camphorated spirit has been added; the latter must, however, be
employed with caution. A hot knee-bath is useful in drawing the affection
from the face and upper part of the body. A ‘compress,’ wrung out of cold
water until it ceases to drip, and kept in contact with the stomach by
means of a dry bandage, has been recommended to relieve excessive
irritation of the stomach and bowels. It has been stated that decoction of
Virginian snake-root is particularly useful in relieving chronic
urticaria.
3. RED-RASH, RED-BLOTCH, or FIERY SPOT, is commonly the consequence of
disordered general health, of dyspepsia, and particularly, of females, of
tight lacing. Sometimes it is slight and evanescent; at others it
approaches in severity to the milder forms of erysipelas, there being much
swelling and inflammation. Chaps, galls, excoriations, and chilblains are
varieties of this disease produced by cold, excessive moisture, or
friction. The treatment is similar to that of nettle-rash.
4. ROSE-RASH, FALSE MEASLES, or ROSEOLA, is an efflorescence, or rather a
discoloration of a rose-red tint, in small irregular patches, without
wheals or papulæ, which spread over the surface of the body, and are
ushered in by slight febrile symptoms. There are several varieties. The
causes are the same as those which produce the preceding affections, and
the treatment may be similar. In all of them strict attention to the diet,
and a careful avoidance of cold applications, or exposure to cold, so as
to cause a retrocession, are matters of the first moment.
=RASP′BERRY.= _Syn._ HINDBERRY. The fruit of _Rubus Idæus_ (Linn.), a
small shrub of the natural order _Rosaceæ_. It is cooling, antiscorbutic,
and mildly aperitive. It is frequently used to communicate a fine flavour
to liqueurs, confectionery, wine, &c. See FRUITS and VEGETABLES.
Fresenius gives the following as the composition of raspberries:
CULTIVATED.
Wild Red. Red. White.
_Soluble Matter_——
Sugar 3·597 4·708 3·703
Free acid (reduced to equivalent
in malic acid) 1·980 1·356 1·115
Albuminous substances 0·546 0·544 0·665
Pectous substances, &c. 1·107 1·746 1·397
Ash 0·270 0·481 0·318
_Insoluble Matter_——
Seeds }
Skins, &c. } 8·460 4·106 4·520
Pectose 0·180 0·502 0·040
[_Ash from insoluble matter included
in weights given_] [0·134] [0·296] [0·081]
Water 86·860 86·557 88·180
———————— ———————— ————————
100·000 100·000 100·000
=RATAFI′A.= Originally a liquor drank at the ratification of an agreement
or treaty. It is now the common generic name in France of liqueurs
compounded of spirit, sugar, and the odoriferous and flavouring principles
of vegetables, more particularly of those containing the juices of recent
fruits, or the kernels of apricots, cherries, or peaches. In its
unqualified sense this name is commonly understood as referring to
cherry-brandy or peach-brandy.
Ratafias are prepared by distillation, maceration, or extemporaneous
admixture, in the manner explained under the head LIQUEUR. The following
list includes those which are commonly prepared by the French
liquoristes:——
=Ratafia d’Angelique.= From angelica seeds, 1 dr.; angelica stalks, 4 oz.;
blanched bitter almonds, bruised, 1 oz.; proof spirit or brandy, 6 quarts;
digest for 10 days, filter; add, of water, 1 quart; white sugar, 3-1/2
lbs.; mix well, and in a fortnight decant the clear portion through a
piece of clean flannel.
=Ratafia d’Anis.= See (Liqueur) CORDIAL, ANISEED.
=Ratafia de Baume de Tolu.= From balsam of Tolu, 1 oz.; rectified spirit,
1 quart; dissolve, add water, 3 pints; filter, and further add of white
sugar, 1-1/2 lb. Pectoral and traumatic.
=Ratafia de Brou de Noix.= From young walnuts with soft shells (pricked or
pierced), 60 in no.; brandy, 2 quarts; mace, cinnamon, and cloves, of each
15 gr.; digest for 8 weeks; press, filter, add of white sugar, 1 lb.; and
keeping it for some months before decanting it for use. Stomachic.
=Ratafia de Cacao.= _Syn._ R. DE CHOCOLAT. From Caracca cacao-nuts, 1 lb.;
West Indian do., 1/2 lb.; (both roasted and bruised;) proof spirit, 1
gall.; digest for 14 days, filter, and add, of white sugar, 2-1/2 lbs.;
tincture of vanilla, 1/2 dr. (or shred of vanilla may be infused with the
nuts in the spirit instead); lastly, decant in a month, and bottle it.
=Ratafia de Café.= From coffee, ground and roasted, 1 lb.; brandy or proof
spirit, 1 gall.; sugar, 2 lbs. (dissolved in); water, 1 quart; as last.
=Ratafia de Cassis.= From black currant juice, 1 quart; cinnamon, 1 dr.;
cloves and peach kernels, of each 1/2 dr.; brandy, 1 gall.; white sugar, 3
lbs.; digest for a fortnight, and strain through flannel.
=Ratafia de Cerise.= From Morello cherries, with their kernels bruised, 8
lbs.; brandy or proof spirit, 1 gall.; white sugar, 2 lbs.; as last.
=Ratafia de Chocolat.= Ratafia de cacao (see _above_).
=Ratafia de Coings.= From quince juice, 3 quarts; bitter almonds, 3 dr.;
cinnamon and coriander seeds, of each 2 dr.; mace, 1/2 dr.; cloves, 15 gr.
(all bruised); rectified spirit, (quite flavourless), 1/2 gall.; digest
for a week, filter, and add of white sugar, 3-1/2 lbs.
=Ratafia de Crème.= From crème de noyeau and sherry, of each 1/4 pint;
capillaire, 1/2 pint; fresh cream, 1 pint; beaten together.
=Ratafia de Curaçoa.= Curaçoa.
=Ratafia de Framboises.= Raspberry cordial.
=Ratafia de Genièvre.= From juniper berries (each pricked with a fork),
1/4 lb.; caraway and coriander seed, of each 40 gr.; finest malt spirit
(22 u. p.), 1 gall.; white sugar 2 lbs.; digest a week, and strain with
expression.
=Ratafia de Grenoble.= From the small wild black cherry (with the kernels
bruised), 2 lbs.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; white sugar, 3 lbs.; citron
peels, a few grains; as before.
=Ratafia de Grenoble, de Teyssère.= From cherries (bruised with the
stones), 1 quart; rectified spirit, 2 quarts; mix, digest for 48 hours,
then express the liquor, and heat it to boiling in a close vessel; when
cold, add of sugar or capillaire, q. s., together with some noyeau, to
flavour, and a little syrup of the bay laurel, and of galangal; in 3
months decant, and bottle it.
=Ratafia de Noyeau.= From peach or apricot kernels (bruised), 120 in no.;
proof spirit or brandy, 2 quarts; white sugar, 1 lb.; digest for a week,
press, and filter.
=Ratafia de Œillets.= From clove-pinks (without the white buds), 4 lbs.;
cinnamon and cloves, of each 15 gr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; macerate for
10 days, express the tincture, filter, and add of white sugar, 2-1/2 lbs.
=Ratafia d’Ecorce d’Orange.= Crème d’Orange.
=Ratafia de Fleurs d’Oranger.= From fresh orange petals, 2 lbs.; proof
spirit, 1 gall.; white sugar, 2-1/2 lbs.; as last. Instead of orange
flowers, neroli, 1 dr., may be used.
=Ratafia à la Provençale.= From striped pinks, 1 lb.; brandy or proof
spirit, 1 quart; white sugar, 3/4 lb.; juice of strawberries, 3/4 pint;
saffron, 20 gr.; as before.
=Ratafia des Quatre Fruits.= From cherries, 30 lbs.; gooseberries, 15
lbs.; raspberries, 8 lbs.; black currants, 7 lbs.; express the juice, and
to each pint add, of white sugar, 6 oz.; cinnamon, 6 gr.; cloves and mace,
of each 3 gr.
=Ratafia Rouge.= From the juice of black cherries, 3 quarts; juices of
strawberries and raspberries, of each 1 quart; cinnamon, 1 dr.; mace and
cloves, of each 15 gr.; proof spirit or brandy, 2 galls.; white sugar, 7
lbs.; macerate, &c., as before.
=Ratafia Sec.= Take of the juice of gooseberries, 5 pints; juices of
cherries, strawberries, and raspberries, of each 1 pint; proof spirit, 6
quarts; sugar, 7 lbs.; as before.
=Ratafia à la Violette.= From orris powder, 3 oz.; litmus, 4 oz.;
rectified spirit, 2 galls.; digest for 10 days, strain, and add of white
sugar, 12 lbs.; dissolved in soft water, 1 gall.
=RATS.= The common or brown rat is the _Mus Decumanus_ (Linn.), one of the
most prolific and destructive species of the _Rodentia_. It was introduced
to these Islands from Asia; and has since spread over the whole country,
and multiplied at the expense of the black rat (_Mus Rattus_——Linn.),
which is the old British species of this animal, until its inroads on our
granaries, our stores, and dwelling-houses have increased to such an
extent, that its extirpation has become a matter of serious, if not of
national, importance.
For the destruction of these noxious animals two methods are adopted:——
1. Trapping. To render the bait more attractive, it is commonly sprinkled
with a little of one of the rat scents noticed below. The trap is also
occasionally so treated.
2. Poisoning. The following are reputed the most effective mixtures for
this purpose:——
ARSENICAL PASTE. From oatmeal or wheaten flour, 3 lbs.; powdered indigo,
1/2 oz.; finely powdered white arsenic, 1/4 lb.; oil of aniseed, 1/2 dr.;
mix, add of melted suet, 2-1/2 lbs.; and beat the whole into a paste. A
similar compound has the sanction of the French Government.
ARSENICAL POWDER. From oatmeal, 1 lb.; moist sugar, 1/4 lb.; white arsenic
and rotten cheese, of each 1 oz.; rat-scent, a few drops.
MILLERS’ RAT POWDER. From fresh oatmeal, 1 lb.; nux vomica (in very fine
powder), 1 oz.; rat-scent, 5 or 6 drops. This is highly spoken of by those
who have used it.
MINERAL RAT-POISON. From carbonate of baryta, 1/4 lb.; sugar and oatmeal,
of each 6 oz.; oils of aniseed and caraway, of each a few drops.
PHILANTROPE MUOPHOBON. A French preparation, which, according to Mr
Beasley, consists of tartar emetic, 1 part, with farinaceous matter, 4
parts, and some other (unimportant) ingredients.
PHOSPHOR PASTE.
RAT-SCENTS. The following are said to be the most attractive:
_a._ Powdered cantharides steeped in French brandy. For traps. It is said
that rats are so fond of this, that if a little be rubbed about the hands
they may be handled with impunity.
_b._ From powdered assafœtida, 8 gr.; oil of rhodium, 2 dr.; oil of
aniseed, 1 dr.; oil of lavender, 1/2 dr.; mix by agitation.
_c._ From oil of aniseed, 1/2 oz.; tincture of assafœtida, 1/4 oz.
_d._ From oil of aniseed, 1/4 oz.; nitrous acid, 2 to 3 drops; musk,
triturated with a little powdered sugar, 1 gr.
=RA′ZORS.= See PAPERS, PASTE, and SHAVING.
=REA′GENTS.= See TESTS.
=REAL′GAR.= This valuable red pigment is the bisulphide of arsenic. It is
found native in some volcanic districts; but that of commerce is prepared
by distilling, in an earthen retort, arsenical pyrites, or a mixture of
sulphur and arsenic, of orpiment and sulphur, or of arsenious acid,
sulphur, and charcoal, in the proper proportions. See DISULPHIDE OF
ARSENIC.
=RECOMMENDATIONS TO FARMERS.= A series of valuable suggestions, intended
for the guidance of farmers in the purchase of manures and cattle-feeding
materials have lately been issued by the Royal Agricultural Society of
England. In substance they are as follows:——In the purchase of
feeding-cakes, the guarantee of ‘pure’ should be insisted upon, since this
means a legal warranty that the article is produced from good clean seed.
The terms ‘best’ and ‘genuine’ are of no value, and should be objected to.
Furthermore, the sample should be subjected to analysis. For this purpose
a sample should be taken out of the middle of the cake, whilst the
remainder of the cake from which the sample has been selected, should be
sealed up and placed aside for reference in case of dispute.
The following advice is given to farmers about to purchase manures:——Raw
bones or bone dust should be purchased ‘as pure,’ whilst they should be
guaranteed to contain not less than 45 per cent. of tribasic phosphate of
lime, and 4 per cent. of ammonia. ‘Boiled bones’ should be purchased as
‘pure’ boiled bones, guaranteed to contain not less than 48 per cent. of
tribasic phosphate of lime, and 1-3/4 per cent. of ammonia. Dissolved
bones vary so greatly that the buyer should insist on a guarantee of
quality under the heads of ‘soluble phosphate of lime,’ ‘insoluble
phosphate of lime,’ and ‘nitrogen’ or ‘ammonia,’ also for an allowance at
current rates for each unit per cent. if the bones should prove on
analysis to contain less than the guaranteed per-centages, &c. It should
be insisted that mineral superphosphates are delivered dry and in good
condition, and be guaranteed to contain a certain per-centage of soluble
phosphates at a certain price per unit per cent. No value is to be
attached to ‘insoluble phosphates.’ Compound artificial manures, which are
rarely used, should be purchased on exactly the same terms. Nitrate of
soda should be purchased on exactly the same terms. Nitrate of soda should
be guaranteed to contain 94 to 95 per cent. of pure nitrate. Sulphate of
ammonia should yield 35 per cent. of ammonia. Peruvian guano should be
sold under that name, and guaranteed to be in a dry, friable condition,
and to contain a certain per-centage of ammonia.
In buying artificial manures the purchaser is recommended to obtain a
guarantee that they shall be delivered in a sufficiently dry and powdery
condition to allow of sowing by the drill.
Samples, taken out of three or four bags, should be well mixed together,
and they should be analysed not later than three days after delivery. Two
tins, holding about half a pound each, should be filled in the presence of
a witness, sealed up, one sent to the analyst, and the other retained for
future reference.
=RECTIFCA′TION.= The redistillation, &c., of a fluid, for the purpose of
rendering it purer.
=RED.= A term denoting a bright colour, resembling blood. Red is a simple
or primary colour, but of several different shades or hues, as scarlet,
crimson, vermilion, orange-red, &c.
=RED, AN′ILINE.= _Syn._ ROSANILINE. This artificial base is prepared by
the action of bichloride of tin, mercurial salts, arsenic acid, and many
other oxidising agents, upon aniline. The aniline reps of commerce, now so
largely used for dyeing, are saline compounds, more or less pure, of
rosaline, with 1 equiv. of acid. These compounds are known under the names
of ‘magenta,’ ‘fuchsine,’ ‘roseine,’ ‘azaleine,’ &c. In England the
aniline red commonly employed is the acetate of rosaniline, which has been
prepared by Mr Nicholson in splendid crystals of very considerable
dimensions. In France the hydrochlorate of rosaniline is chiefly employed.
The free base presents itself in colourless crystalline plates, but its
compounds with 1 equiv. of acid have, when dry, a beautiful green colour,
with golden lustre, and furnish with water an intensely coloured red
solution. See PURPLE (Aniline) and RED DYE, also TAR COLOURS.
=RED DYE.= The substances principally employed for dyeing reds are
cochineal, lac-dye, and madder, which, under proper treatment, yield
permanent colours of considerable brilliancy, the first and third more
particularly so. Extremely beautiful but fugitive colours are also
obtained from Brazil wood, safflower, archil, and some other substances.
For purple-red or crimsons (magenta, fuchsine, &c.), on silk or wool, the
aniline reds (salts of rosaniline) are now extensively used. (See
TAR-COLOURS.) The mode of applying them is noticed under PURPLE DYE. SILK
is usually dyed of a permanent red or scarlet with cochineal, safflower,
or lac dye; wool, with cochineal and, still more frequently, with madder;
and cotton, with madder (chiefly), Brazil wood, &c. The leading properties
of these substances are given under their respective names, and the
methods of employing them are generally referred to in the articles
DYEING, MORDANTS, &c., and, therefore, need not be repeated here. The
following may, however, be useful to the reader:——
1. First, give the ‘goods’ a mordant of alum, or of alum-and-tartar,
rinse, dry, and boil them in a bath of madder. If acetate of iron be used
instead of alum, the colour will be purple, and by combining the two, as
mordants, any intermediate shade may be produced.
2. The yarn or cloth is put into a very weak alkaline bath at the boiling
temperature, then washed, dried, and ‘galled’ (or, when the calico is to
be printed, for this bath may be substituted one of cow-dung, subsequent
exposure to the air for a day or two, and immersion in very dilute
sulphuric acid. In this way the stuff gets opened, and takes and retains
the colour better). After the ‘galling’ the goods are dried, and alumed
twice; then dried, rinsed, and passed through a madder bath, composed of
3/4 lb. of good madder for every lb. weight of the goods; this bath is
slowly raised to the boiling point in the course of 50 or 60 minutes, more
or less, according to the shade of colour required; after a few minutes
the stuff is taken out, and slightly washed; the operation is then
repeated, in the same manner, with fresh madder; it is, lastly, washed and
dried, or passed through a hot soap bath, which carries off the
fawn-coloured particles.
3. (ADRIANOPLE RED, TURKEY R.) This commences with cleansing or scouring
the goods by alkaline baths, after which they are steeped in oily liquors
brought to a creamy state by a little carbonate of soda; a bath of sheep’s
dung is next often used as an intermediate or secondary steep; the
oleaginous bath, and the operation of removing the superfluous or loosely
adhering oil with an alkaline bath, is repeated two or three times, due
care being taken to dry the goods thoroughly after each distinct process;
then follow the distinct operations of galling, aluming, maddering, and
brightening, the last for removing the dun-coloured principle, by boiling
at an elevated temperature with alkaline liquids and soap; the whole is
generally concluded with treatment by spirit of tin. In this way are given
the most brilliant reds on cotton.
_Obs._ Wool takes from half its weight of madder to an equal weight to dye
it red; cotton and linen take rather less. On account of the comparative
insolubility of the colouring matter of madder, this dye-stuff must be
boiled along with the goods to be dyed, and not removed from the
decoction, as is the practice in using many other articles. Other
dye-stuffs are frequently added to the madder bath, to vary the shades of
colour. Decoction of fustic, weld, logwood, quercitron, &c., are often
thus employed, the mordants being modified accordingly. By adding bran to
the madder bath the colour is said to be rendered much lighter, and of a
more agreeable tint.
=RED GUM.= A slight eruptive disease of infancy, occasioned by teething,
and, less frequently, by irritation from rough flannel worn next to the
skin. See STROPHULUS.
=RED LAV′ENDER.= See TINCTURE OF LAVENDER (Compound).
=RED LIQ′UOR.= The crude solution of acetate or sulpho-acetate of alumina
employed in calico printing. It is generally prepared by mixing crude
sulphate of alumina with about an equal weight of crude pyrolignite of
lime, both being in the state of solution.
=RED PIG′MENTS.= The preparation of the principal red pigments are
described under their respective names. The following list includes most
of the reds in use:——
=Arme′nian Bole.= _Syn._ BOLE ARMENIAN; BOLUS ARMENIÆ, L. Formerly
imported from Armenia, Portugal, Tuscany, &c.; now generally made by
grinding together a mixture of whiting, red oxide of iron, and red ochre,
in nearly equal proportions.
=Red, Brown.= A factitious mixture of red oxide of iron and red ochre, in
variable proportions.
=Car′mine.=
=Carmina′ted Lake.=
=Red Chrome.= _Syn._ DICHROMATE OF LEAD, RED CHROMATE OF L.; PLUMBI
DICHROMAS, P. CHROMUS RUBRUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Boil pure carbonate of lead
with chromate of potassa, in excess, until it assumes a proper colour;
then wash it well with pure water, and dry it in the shade.
2. Boil neutral chromate of lead with a little water of ammonia or lime
water.
3. (Liebig and Wöhler.) Fuse saltpetre at a low red heat in a Hessian
crucible, and throw in chromate of lead (pure chrome yellow), by small
portions at a time, as long as a strong ebullition follows upon each
addition of the pigment, observing to stir the mixture frequently with a
glass rod; after repose for a minute or two, pour off the fluid part, and,
as soon as the solid residuum is cold, wash it with water, and dry it by a
gentle heat.
_Obs._ Great care must be taken, in conducting the last process, not to
employ too much heat, nor to allow the saline matter to stand long over
the newly formed chrome-red, as the colour is thus apt to change to a
brown or orange. When well managed the product has a crystalline texture,
and so beautiful a red colour that it vies with native cinnabar. The
liquid poured from the crucible is reserved for manufacturing chrome
yellow.
=Red, In′dian.= _Syn._ PURPLE OCHRE; OCHRA PURPUREA PERSICA, TERRA
PERSICA, L. This is a native production, brought from Ormus. A factitious
article is prepared by calcining a mixture of colcothar and red ochre.
=Lakes= (Various).
=Red, Light.= From yellow ochre, by careful calcination. It works well
with both oil and water, and produces an admirable flesh-colour by
admixture with pure white. All the ochres, both red and yellow, are
darkened by heat.
=Red Or′ange.= _Syn._ SANDIX. Obtained from white lead by calcination.
Very bright.
=Real′gar.= Bisulphide of arsenic.
=Red Bole.= See ARMENIAN and VENETIAN BOLE. (Ochres.)
=Red Chalk.= A clay iron ore, much used for pencils and crayons, and, when
ground, also for paints.
=Red Lead.= _Syn._ MINIUM. The finest red lead is prepared by exposing
ground and elutriated massicott, or dross of lend, in shallow iron trays
(about 12 inches square, and about 4 or 5 inches deep), piled up on the
hearth of a reverberatory furnace, to a heat of about 600 to 650° Fahr.,
with occasional stirring, until it acquires the proper colour. The furnace
employed for the preparation of massicot during the day usually possesses
sufficient residuary heat during the night for this process, by which fuel
is saved. Lead for the above purpose should be quite free from copper and
iron.
=Red O′chre.= A natural product abounding on the Mendip hills.
=Red Or′piment.= _Syn._ RED ARSENIC. Tersulphide of arsenic.
=Red Vene′tian.= _Syn._ BOLUS VENETA, L. A species of ochre, brought from
Italy.
=Rose Pink.= This is whiting coloured with a decoction of Brazil wood to
which a little pearlash has been added. A very pretty colour, but it does
not stand. It is always kept in a damp state. The colour may be varied by
substituting alum for pearlash, or by the addition of a little spirits of
tin.
=Vermil′ion.= (See under that word.)
=REDUC′TION.= _Syn._ REVIVIFICATION. A term in its fullest sense applied
to any operation by which a substance is restored to its neutral state;
but now generally restricted, in chemistry, to the abstraction of oxygen,
and hence frequently termed deoxidation or deoxidisement. This change is
operated by either heating the substance in contact with carbon or
hydrogen, or in exposing it to the action of some other body having a
powerful affinity for oxygen. See POTASSIUM, &c.
=REFI′′NING.= A term employed in commercial chemistry and metallurgy
synonymously with purification. The separation of the precious metals from
those of less value, as in the operation of parting, constitutes the
business of the ‘refiner.’ See GOLD, SILVER, &c.
=REFRAC′TION (of Light).= The deviation of a ray of light from its
original path on entering a medium of a different density or power. For
the practical application of this property, see GEMS.
=REFRI′′GERANTS.= Medicines or agents which tend to lessen the animal
temperature without causing any marked diminution of sensibility or
nervous energy. Among internal refrigerants cold water, weak acidulous
drinks, and saline aperients, are those which are probably the best known
and the most useful. Among external refrigerants are cold water,
evaporating lotions, weak solutions of subacetate of lead, &c.
=REFRIGERA′TION.= The abatement of heat; the act or operation of cooling.
Among the purposes to which refrigeratory processes are applied in the
arts, the principal are——the condensation of vapours——the cooling of
liquids——the congelation of water, and——the production of extreme degrees
of cold in chemical operations. The first of these is referred to under
the heads DISTILLATION, STILL, &c., and the second under WORT. It is,
therefore, only necessary to notice here the third and fourth applications
of cold, artificially produced, above referred to.
The refrigeratory processes at present employed depend upon the greater
capacity for heat which the same body possesses as its density lessens, or
its attenuation increases; as exhibited in the sudden liquefaction of
solids, the rapid evaporation of liquids, and the almost instantaneous
return of atmospheric air, or other gaseous body, from a highly condensed
state to its normal condition. The loss of sensible heat in the first
example is the basis of the various processes of producing cold by what
are commonly called ‘FREEZING-’ or ‘FRIGORIFIC-MIXTURES,’ all of which act
upon the principle of liquefying solid substances without supplying heat.
The caloric of liquidity being in these cases derived from that previously
existing in the solid itself in a sensible state, the temperature must
necessarily fall. The degree of cold produced depends upon the quantity of
heat which is thus diffused through a larger mass, or which, as it were,
disappears; and this is dependent on the quantity of solid matter
liquefied, and the rapidity of the liquefaction. Saline compounds are the
substances most frequently employed for this purpose, and those which have
the greatest affinity for water, and thus liquefy the most rapidly,
produce the greatest degree of cold. Similar changes occur during the
evaporation of liquids. When heat passes from the sensible to the
insensible state, as in the formation of vapour, cold is generated. This
may be shown by pouring a few drops of ether or rectified spirit on the
palm of the hand, when a strong sensation of cold is experienced. A still
more familiar illustration of this fact is exhibited in the rapidity with
which the animal body loses heat when enveloped in damp or wet clothing.
The evaporation of water produces a degree of cold which is greater than
that of other liquids, in exact proportion as the insensible or latent
heat of its vapour exceeds theirs. In the attenuation or rarefaction of
gases similar phenomena occur.
It has been found that evaporation proceeds much more rapidly from the
surface of fluids in a vacuum than in the atmosphere. Water may be easily
frozen by introducing a surface of sulphuric acid under the receiver of an
air-pump, over which is placed a capsule filled with water, so that the
vapour arising from the latter may be immediately absorbed by the former.
After a few strokes of the piston the water is converted into a solid cake
of ice. The acid operates by absorbing the aqueous vapours as soon as
generated, and thus maintaining the integrity of the vacuum. Professor
Leslie found that, when air is thus rarified 250 times, the surface of
evaporation was cooled down 120° in winter; and when only 50 times, a
depression of 80° or even 100° took place. “Sulphuric acid is capable of
congealing more than 20 times its weight of water before it has imbibed
nearly its own bulk of that liquid, or has lost about 1/8th of its
refrigerating power.” (Ure.) Sulphuric acid, which has become diluted in
this way, may be reconcentrated by heat. Any substance having a great
tendency to absorb moisture may be substituted for the sulphuric acid.
Fused chloride of calcium, quicklime, nitrate of magnesium, chloride of
zinc, and oatmeal (dried nearly to brownness before a common fire), have
been used for this purpose. Again, instead of employing an air-pump, a
vacuum may be produced by the agency of steam, afterwards condensed by the
affusion of cold water.
A pleasing philosophical toy, illustrative of the evaporative power of a
vacuum, is the ‘CRYOPHORUS,’ or ‘FROST-BEARER,’ of Dr Wollaston. This
instrument consists of two small glass globes, united by a tube, one of
which is partly filled with water. The whole apparatus is perfectly free
from air, and is, consequently, filled with attenuated aqueous vapours. No
sooner is the pressure removed as by plunging the empty ball into a
freezing mixture (which condenses the vapour), than rapid evaporation
commences, and the water in the other ball is frozen in two or three
minutes.
[Illustration]
Even in hot climates ice may be produced under favorable circumstances by
evaporation. On the open plains, near Calcutta, this is effected by
exposing a thin stratum of water to the atmosphere, during the fine clear
nights of December, January, and February. The pans are made of porous
earthenware, and water is poured in to the depth of about 1-1/2 inch. A
large number of these vessels are arranged in an excavation in the ground,
30 or 40 feet square and 2 feet deep, the bottom of which is covered, to
the depth of 10 or 12 inches, with sugar canes or the stalks of Indian
corn. At sunrise the pans are visited, the ice separated from the water,
and packed as tight as possible in a deep cavity or pit, well screened
from the heat.
Several machines have recently been invented by which water is frozen in
large quantities by exposure to condensed air in the act of its subsequent
expansion. They are worked by either hand or steam power. The
refrigerating apparatus invented by Mr Kirk, of the Bathgate Paraffin
Works, acts on this principle; and it does its work so efficiently that it
produces a cooling effect equivalent to two tons of ice every twenty-four
hours, at a very small expenditure of fuel. A small model worked by hand
will readily freeze mercury. Kirk’s apparatus is used at Bathgate to cause
the crystallisation of solid paraffin from the heavy paraffin oils.
Formerly, a machine, acting by the evaporation of ether, was employed for
the same purpose.
For the production of an extremely low temperature, such as is required
for the liquefaction of some gases, Faraday employed solid carbonic acid
mixed with a little ether.
In the production of ice or an extreme degree of cold, by saline mixtures,
the salts should be in the crystallised state, and as rich as possible in
water, but without being in the least damp. They should also be coarsely
pulverised at the time of using them, and should not be mixed until
immediately before throwing them into the liquid ingredients. The mixture
should be made in a thick vessel, well clothed, to prevent the accession
of external heat; and the substance to be acted on should be contained in
a very thin vessel, so as to expose it more fully to the action of the
mixture. On the large scale, a vessel called a ‘FREEZING POT’ or
‘SABOTIÈRE’ is commonly employed. The following table, though founded on
experiments made more than 50 years ago by Mr Walker, gives full and
accurate information on the subject of freezing mixtures:——
Table _exhibiting a few of the most useful_
FRIGORIFIC MIXTURES. _Drawn up from actual
experiments performed by_ MR WALKER.
+----------------------------------------+------------------------+---------------+
| | | Deg. of cold |
| Ingredients. | Thermometer sinks. | produced. |
+----------------------------------------+------------------------+---------------+
| Snow or pounded ice 2 parts { From any | |
| Chloride of sodium 1 ” { temperature. to -5° | —— |
+----------------------------------------{------------------------+---------------+
| Snow or pounded ice 5 ” { From any | |
| Chloride of sodium 2 ” { temperature. to -12° | —— |
| Sal ammoniac 1 ” { | |
+----------------------------------------{------------------------+---------------+
| Snow or pounded ice 12 ” { From any | |
| Chloride of sodium 5 ” { temperature to -25° | —— |
| Nitrate of ammonia 5 ” { | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Snow 8 ” | |
| Hydrochloric From +32° to -27° | 59° |
| acid (_concentrated_) 5 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Snow 2 ” | |
| Crystallised chloride From +32° to -50° | 82° |
| of calcium 3 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Sal ammoniac 5 ” | |
| Nitrate of potassa 5 ” From +50° to +10° | 40° |
| Water 16 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Nitrate of ammonia 1 ” From +50° to +4° | 46° |
| Water 1 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Nitrate of ammonia 1 ” | |
| Carbonate of soda 1 ” From +50° to +7° | 57° |
| Water 1 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Phosphate of soda 9 ” | |
| Nitrate of ammonia 6 ” From +50° to -21° | 71° |
| Diluted nitrous acid[135]4 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Sulphate of soda 8 ” From +50° to 0° | 50° |
| Hydrochloric acid 5 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Snow 3 ” From 0° to -46° | 46° |
| Diluted nitrous acid[135]2 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Snow 2 ” | |
| Sulphuric acid[136] 1 ” From -20° to -60° | 40° |
| Water 1 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Snow 1 ” | |
| Crystallised chloride From 0° to -66° | 66° |
| of calcium 2 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Snow 1 ” | |
| Crystallised chloride From -40° to -73° | 33° |
| of calcium 3 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
| Snow 8 ” | |
| Sulphuric acid 5 ” From -68° to -91° | 23° |
| Water 5 ” | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+---------------+
[Footnote 135: Fuming “nitrous acid,” 2 parts; water, 1 part; by weight.]
[Footnote 136: Prof. Pfaundler has shown that an acid containing 66·19 per
cent. of H_{2}SO_{4}, is the most advantageous to employ for this purpose;
one part of an acid of this strength with 1·097 parts of snow forming a
refrigerating mixture which will reduce the temperature to -37° C. (-36°
F.). For practical purposes it is suggested an excess of snow would be
better, since the refrigerating value of the mixture is thereby largely
increased, though the lowest temperature is not obtained. See ICE.]
_Obs._ The materials in the first column are to be cooled, previously to
mixing, to the temperature required in the second, by the use of other
mixtures.
=REG′ULUS.= A term applied by the alchemists to various metallic matters
obtained by fusion; as REGULUS OF ANTIMONY, ARSENIC, &c. It is now
obsolete.
=REL′ISHES.= See SAUCES.
=REMEDIES, FERRUGINOUS.= Rob. Freygang:——
STEEL BRANDY is an ordinary clear brownish brandy, containing a very
little bitter matter, like the stomachic bitters of the apothecaries, and
mixed with about 1 per cent. of sugar. 10,000 parts contain about 1-1/2
part oxide of iron.
STEEL STOMACHIC BITTERS. This is more aromatic, but otherwise similar to
the steel brandy; 10,000 parts contain 2/3 part iron oxide.
STEEL LIQUEUR is a clear, agreeably-tasting liqueur, of the colour and
containing much of the juice of raspberries. 10,000 parts contain nearly
1,200 of sugar and only 1 of iron oxide.
STEEL SYRUP——Syrop ferrugineux de Quinquina. A clear slightly
violet-coloured, thin, sweet fluid, containing spirit and sugar, of which
cinchona bark may be an ingredient, though it is appreciable by neither
taste nor tests. It contains 1-1/4 part iron in 10,000 parts.
STEEL BONBONS contain a trace of iron oxide.
The iron present in the above preparations is in the form of citrate.
(Hager.)
=REMIT′TENT.= A term applied to fevers, and other diseases, which exhibit
a decided remission in violence during the twenty-four hours, but without
entirely leaving the patient, in which they differ from intermittents or
agues.
=REN′NET.= _Syn._ RUNNET, PREPARED CALF’S MAW. The fourth or true
digesting stomach of the calf, freed from the outer skin, fat, and useless
membrane, washed, treated with either brine or dry salt for a few hours,
and then hung up to dry. When well prepared, the dried ‘vells’ somewhat
resemble parchment in appearance.
_Uses, &c._ Rennet is employed to curdle milk. A piece of the requisite
size is cut off, and soaked for some hours in whey or water, after which
the whole is added to the milk for curdling, slightly warmed, and the
mixture is slowly heated, if necessary, to about 122° Fahr. In a short
time after this temperature has been attained the milk separates into a
solid white coagulum (curd), and into a yellowish, translucent liquid
(whey). Two square inches from the bottom of a good ‘vell’ are sufficient
for a cheese of 60 lbs. It is the gastric juice of the stomach that
operates these changes. The stomachs of all sucking quadrupeds possess the
same properties. See CHEESE.
=Rennet, Liquid.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF RENNET. _Prep._ From fresh rennet (cut
small), 12 oz.; common salt, 3 oz.; knead them together, and leave the
mixture at rest, in a cool place, for 5 or 6 weeks; then add of water 18
oz.; good rum or proof spirit, 2 oz.; lastly, digest for 24 hours, filter,
and colour the liquid with a little burnt sugar.
=Rennet, Liquid.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF RENNET. Fresh rennet, 12 oz.; salt, 2
oz.; proof spirit, 2 oz.; white wine, a quart; digest for 24 hours and
strain. A quart of milk requires 2 or 3 teaspoonfuls. WISLIN directs 10
parts of a calf’s stomach; salt, 3 parts. The membrane of the stomach is
to be cut with scissors and kneaded with the salt, and with the rennet
found in the interior of that organ; the whole left in a cool place in an
earthen pot till the cheesy odour is replaced by the proper odour of
rennet, which will be in one or two months. Then add 16 parts of water and
1 of spirit. Filter and colour with burnt sugar.
The German Pharmacopœia gives the following formula for liquid rennet:——3
parts of the mucous membrane of fresh calf’s rennet, macerated for three
days in 26 parts of white wine, 1 part of table salt being added.
_Obs._ 2 or 3 teaspoonfuls will curdle a quart of milk. Some persons use
white wine instead of water, with simple digestion for a day or two.
=RES′IN.= _Syn._ RESINA, L. This name is applied to many vegetable
principles composed of the elements carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The
resins (RESINÆ) cannot be very accurately defined, but we may in a general
way describe them as substances which are solid at ordinary temperatures,
more or less transparent, inflammable, readily fusible, do not volatilise
unchanged, become negatively electrified by rubbing; are insoluble in
water, but soluble in alcohol; mostly inodorous, and readily incorporated
with fatty bodies by fusion. Their sp. gr. varies from ·9 to 1·2.
According to Liebig, they are oxidised essential oils. Common resin,
rosin, or colophony, and the shellac of which sealing-wax is made, are
familiar examples of these substances. (See _below_.)
=Resin, Black.= _Syn._ ROSIN‡, BLACK R.‡, COLOPHONY; RESINA NIGRA,
COLOPHONIA, L. What remains of turpentine after the oil has been
distilled. When this substance, whilst still fluid, is agitated with about
1-8th part of water, it forms the yellow resin of pharmacy. Used for
violin bows, dark-coloured ointments, varnishes, &c.
=Resin, Yel′low.= _Syn._ YELLOW ROSIN‡, WHITE R.‡; RESINA FLAVA, RESINA
(Ph. L.), La. Detergent. Used in ointments, plasters, &c. (See _above_.)
=RES′INOIDS.= _Syn._ RESINOUS EXTRACTS, CONCENTRATED E.; EXTRACTA RESINA,
L. Under this head, the so-called ‘Eclectics,’ who form a numerous class
among American physicians, place their most important ‘concentrated
remedies.’ “Viewed as pharmaceutical preparations eligible for use in
medicine, though not purified so as to rank as distinctive proximate
principles, these are very appropriately named ‘resinous extracts,’ or
‘resins.’ The term ‘resinoid,’ so commonly used, is less appropriate to
the class, implying, as it does, a resemblance to resins, while all of
these are either resins, oleo-resins, or more or less mixed proximate
principles possessing no real resemblance to the class of resins.”
(Parrish.) Most of them are prepared from plants indigenous to North
America, by precipitating a strong alcoholic tincture with water. They are
all brought to the condition of powder, those which are naturally soft and
oily being mixed with a sufficient quantity of sugar of milk, or other dry
material. One of these eclectic remedies has been introduced into regular
practice. See PODOPHYLLIN.
=RESIN, or ROSIN OIL.= This is a product of the dry distillation of resin.
The apparatus used consists of an iron pot, a head piece, a condensing
arrangement, and a receiver.
In distilling the resin, a bright oil first comes over with water. As soon
as a cessation in the flow of the distillate occurs the receiver is
changed, and the heat is further raised, when a red-coloured and heavy
rosin oil comes over. The black residue remaining in the pot is used as
pitch. The light oil, called ‘pinoline,’ is rectified, and the acetic acid
water passing over with it is saturated with calcium hydrate, filtered and
evaporated to dryness; and the calcium acetate obtained is employed in the
manufacture of acetic acid. The rosin oil, obtained after the light oil
has passed over, has a dark violet-blue colour, and is called ‘blue rosin
oil.’ The red oil is boiled for a day with water, the evaporated water
being returned to the vessel; next day the water is drawn off, and the
remaining rosin oil is saponified with caustic soda lye of 36° Baumé, and
the resulting solid mass is distilled so long as oil passes over.
The product obtained is ‘rectified rosin oil,’ which is allowed to stand
in iron vessels, protected by a thin layer of gypsum, whereby after a few
weeks a perfectly clear oil is obtained free from water. The oil of first
quality is obtained by a repetition of the foregoing operation upon the
once rectified oil. The residues of both operations are melted up with the
pitch.[137]
[Footnote 137: Dingler’s ‘Polytech. Journ.,’ ccvi, 246 (‘Journ. Chem.
Soc.,’ new series, vol. xi, 304).]
Rosin oil is employed in the manufacture of axle grease, the oil being
previously converted into a soap by heating with slaked lime.
=RESOLV′ENTS.= _Syn._ DISCUTIENTS; RESOLVENTIA, L. Substances or agents
which discuss or resolve inflammatory and other tumours. See DIGESTIVES.
=RESPIRA′TION.= The peculiar function by which the blood is submitted to
the action of the air, for the purpose of removing carbonic acid, and
restoring its vitality by the absorption of atmospheric oxygen.
The air expired from the lungs is found to have undergone a most
remarkable change. It is now loaded with aqueous vapour, whilst a
considerable portion of its oxygen has disappeared, and its place is
supplied by about a like volume of carbonic acid. It is no longer capable
of supporting animal life, and even a lighted taper plunged into it is
immediately extinguished. In the mean time the ‘venous blood’ which
entered the lungs from the right chambers of the heart has lost its dingy
hue, and has acquired the rich florid colour which is characteristic of
‘arterial blood.’ In this state it is returned to the left chambers of the
heart, and is propelled by that organ to every part of the body, from
which it passes by the capillaries to the veins, and by these again to the
heart and lungs, to undergo the same changes and circulation as before.
The carbon and hydrogen of the blood, ultimately derived from the food,
are, in this course, gradually converted into carbonic acid and water by a
species of slow combustion; but how these changes are effected is not
definitely ascertained.
The lungs, as is well known, receive the atmospheric air through the
trachea or windpipe. At the root of the neck this divides into two
branches, called bronchi, and each bronchus, upon entering its respective
lung, divides into an infinity of small tubes. The latter terminate in
small pouches, called the air-cells, and a number of these little
air-cells communicate together at the extremity of each small tube. The
number of air-cells in the two lungs has been estimated at 1,744,000,000,
and the extent of the membrane which lines the cells and tubes together at
1500 square feet. (Dr Addison.) Under ordinary circumstances, from 22 to
43 cubic inches of air are thrown out at each expiration; but, by a forced
effort, 50 or 60 inches are ordinarily expelled. The number of
respirations per minute in health, when the individual is tranquil and
undisturbed, is about 15. Exercise increases this number. See FOOD,
NUTRITION, &c.
=Respiration, Artificial.= Various means have been adopted for this
purpose, among which blowing air into the lungs is, perhaps, that
generally adopted. A better, and, in general, a much more efficient
method, is as follows:——Powerful but not violent pressure is made upon the
sides of the chest and upon the abdomen at the same time, by which the
cavity of the thorax is diminished, and the air contained in the lungs is
expelled; the compression is then suddenly withdrawn, when the elasticity
of the ribs causes them to resume their old expanded positions; the chest
is again enlarged, a partial vacuum is formed, and air rushes into the
lungs, to be again expelled by pressure upon the ribs and abdomen as
before. By this means artificial respiration may be kept up for a great
length of time, without the use of bellows, or any other apparatus. The
chief principle of Dr Marshall Hall’s so-called ‘ready method’ is the
postural performance of artificial respiration. The patient is first
placed gently on the face, and then turned on the side; then on the face
again, alternately; these measures being repeated deliberately,
efficiently, and perseveringly, fifteen times in the minute. When the
prone position is resumed, equable, but efficient, pressure is applied
along the spine; this pressure is removed immediately before rotation on
the side.
The ‘Silvester method,’ invented by Dr Henry Silvester, is now
acknowledged to be far more effective than Dr Hall’s method, and is
adopted by the Royal Humane Society for the restoration of the apparently
drowned. It consists in laying the patient on the back, slightly raising
the head and shoulders, drawing the tongue forwards, and keeping it so by
passing an elastic band over it and under the chin. The arms are then
grasped just above the elbows, and drawn gently upwards until they meet
above the head (this is for the purpose of drawing air into the lungs),
keeping the arms in that position for two seconds. The patient’s arms are
then turned down, and pressed gently and firmly for two seconds against
the sides of the chest (this is for the purpose of pressing the air out of
the lungs). Artificial breathing is thus carried on. These efforts are
repeated fifteen times in a minute, until a spontaneous effort to respire
is perceived. During the employment of these means the nostrils are
excited with snuff or smelling salts, or the throat is tickled with a
feather. After natural breathing has been restored, warmth and circulation
are induced by wrapping the body in hot blankets, applying bottles or
bladders of hot water, heated bricks, &c., to the pit of the stomach, the
armpits, between the thighs, and to the soles of the feet, and by rubbing
the limbs upwards firmly and energetically.
In the ‘Landw. Versuchs Stat.’ (xviii, 81-169)[138] Rudolph Pott has
recorded a series of interesting experiments instituted with the object of
determining the comparative quantities of carbonic acid excreted by
respiration and perspiration in different species of animals in equal
intervals of time; together with some experiments on the excretion of
carbonic acid by the same animals under different physiological
conditions.
[Footnote 138: ‘Journ. Chem. Soc.,’ 1876, vol. i, p. 721.]
The author states that in his researches he used an air tight box, with
glass sides, in which the animal is placed, and through which the air can
be drawn at any rate required by means of an aspirator.
The air before entering the glass chamber passes over caustic potash and
through baryta water; after leaving the chamber it passes through three
flasks containing known quantities of baryta water.
In the first part of this paper the author estimates the amount of
carbonic acid excreted by different animals during the space of six hours,
and under otherwise similar circumstances. The following are the most
important conclusions he arrives at:——
1. The greatest quantity of carbonic acid in proportion to their weight is
given off by birds. Mammals are the next in order. Insects exhale less
than either of these.
2. Worms, amphibia, fishes, and snails form another group which excrete
much less carbonic acid. Of these worms exhale the most and snails the
least.
3. Those animals of the second group, which live in water, give off the
greatest part of their carbonic acid to the air, and only a much smaller
portion to the surrounding water.
4. Young animals excrete more carbonic acid than old ones; this is most
marked in amphibia. For example 100 grams of an old frog (_Rana
temporaria_) exhaled in six hours ·213 grm., whereas 100 grams of a young
frog gave off in the same time ·765 grm.
5. The larvæ of insects exhale less carbonic acid than the insects
themselves.
6. Different individuals of the same species exhale in the same time
nearly the same quantity of carbonic acid in proportion to their
body-weight.
In the second part of this paper the author describes experiments in the
influence of coloured light on the excretion of carbonic acid; in the same
animal (mouse) and for the same time.
He concludes that——
1. The excretion of carbonic acid is less in ordinary daylight than in
coloured light.
2. The violet and red rays exercise the least influence on the excretion
of carbonic acid, the green and yellow are the most active; and the
milk-white and blue rays occupy an intermediate position. The relation of
these different actions may be expressed by the following figures:——
Violet. Red. Milk-white.
86·89 93·38 100
Blue. Green. Yellow.
122·63 128·52 174·79
Finally, the author experimented with a mouse during the night, and found
then the excretion of carbonic acid at that time is considerably less than
during the day.
=REVALEN′TA ARABICA.= A mixture of the red Arabian or Egyptian lentil with
barley flour, and a little sugar or salt. (‘Lancet.’) See LENTIL and
REVALENTA.
=REVERB′ERATORY FURNACE.= See FURNACE.
=REVI′′VER.= _Prep._ 1. (BLACK REVIVER, PARIS’S ANTICARDIUM.)——_a._ Blue
galls (bruised), 4 oz.; logwood and sumach, of each 1 oz.; vinegar, 1
quart; macerate in a closed vessel, at a gentle heat, for 24 hours, then
strain off the clear, add iron filings and green copperas, of each 1 oz.,
shake it occasionally for a week, and preserve it in a corked bottle.
_b._ Galls, 1 lb.; logwood, 2 lb.; boil for 2 hours in water, 5 quarts,
until reduced to a gallon, then strain, and add of green copperas 1/2 lb.
Used to restore the colour of faded black cloth.
2. (BLUE REVIVER.) From soluble Prussian blue, 1 oz.; dissolved in
distilled water, 1 quart. Used for either black or blue cloth.
=RHAM′NIN.= _Prep._ Express the juice from buckthorn berries scarcely
ripe, which is to be rejected; boil the cake or residue with water, strain
with pressure, and filter the liquid whilst hot; crude rhamnin will be
deposited as the liquid cools, which, by solution in boiling alcohol and
filtration, may be procured in crystals.
_Obs._ Buckthorn juice (succus rhamni), “the juice of the fruit of
_Rhamnus catharticus_ (Linn.),” is officinal in the Ph. L.
=RHAT′ANY.= _Syn._ RHATANY ROOT; KRAMERIÆ RADIX (B. P.); KRAMERIA (Ph. L.
E. & D.), RHATANIÆ RADIX, L. “The root of _Krameria triandria_.” (Ph. L.)
It is stomachic, and powerfully astringent and styptic.——_Dose_, 20 to 60
gr., either in powder or made into a decoction or infusion. It is much
employed in tooth powders, to fix the teeth when they become loosened by
the recession of the gums, and also for improving the natural red colour
of the lips and gums. A saturated tincture or fluid extract, made with
brandy, forms the ‘wine-colouring’ used by the Portuguese to give
roughness, colour, and tone to their port wine. Hard extract of rhatany is
also much employed for the same purpose.
=RHE′IN.= _Syn._ CHRYSOPHANIC ACID. The yellow colouring principle of
rhubarb.
=RHEUMATIC and GOUT PILLS.= (W. Gross Cardiff). Pills weighing 2 grammes
rolled in lycopodium, the essential ingredients of which are quinine
sulphate, gamboge, jalap, resin, and a little rhubarb. (Hager.)
=RHEU′MATISM.= _Syn._ RHEUMATISMUS, L. An affection of the joints, and of
the external muscular, tendinous, and fibrous textures of the body,
attended with swelling, stiffness, and great pain. Acute rheumatism or
rheumatic fever,——arthritis, inflammation of the synovial membrane, or
rheumatic gout,——sciatica, or rheumatism of the cellular envelope of the
great sciatic nerve, affecting the hip,——and lumbago, or rheumatism of the
loins, are varieties of this disease.
The treatment of rheumatism consists in the administration of purgatives
and diaphoretics or sudorifics, accompanied by tonics, as bark, quinine,
&c. Calomel with opium, and iodide of potassium, have also been frequently
and successfully employed in this complaint. Of late years the
administration of the bicarbonate, citrate, or nitrate of potassa, in
rather large doses, has been strongly recommended, and in numerous cases
adopted with success. Lemon juice, liberally taken, has also proved useful
in suddenly cutting short severe attacks of certain forms of rheumatism.
The compound powder of ipecacuanha, taken at night, will generally promote
the ease and sleep of the patient, and, by its sudorific action, tend
considerably to hasten a cure. Where possible, a dry atmosphere and a
regular temperature should be sought, since a damp atmosphere, and,
indeed, exposure to damp under any form, are the principal causes of
rheumatism. Stimulating embrocations, blisters, frictions, and, above all,
the hot or vapour bath, are also frequently serviceable in rheumatism,
especially in lumbago and casual attacks arising from cold. The daily use
of oranges, or of lemon juice diluted with water, has been found, in the
majority of cases, to lessen the susceptibility of those who employ them
to attacks of rheumatism and rheumatic gout arising from a damp situation
or exposure to the weather. See LEMON JUICE.
=RHO′DIUM.= A whitish metal discovered by Wollaston, in 1803, associated
with palladium in the ore of platinum.
It is chiefly employed for tipping the nibs of metallic pens (‘rhodium’ or
‘everlasting pens’). A very small quantity added to steel is said to
improve its closeness, hardness, and toughness, and to render it less
easily corrodible by damp.
=RHU′BARB.= _Syn._ RHEI RADIX (B. P.); RHEUM (Ph. E. & D.), RHEUM——Sinense
(Ph. L.), RHABARBARUM†, RHŒM†, L. “The root of uncertain species of
Rheum.” (Ph. L.) According to Dr F. Farre, the term ‘sinense’ (Chinese),
employed by the London College, “was placed after ‘rheum,’ to include the
so-called Russian and East Indian rhubarbs, which are considered to be the
produce of China and Chinese Tartary, and to exclude European, Himalayan,
&c.”
Three principal varieties of rhubarb are known in this country:——
Russian or Turkey rhubarb is the produce of six-year-old plants of the
mountain declivities of Chinese Tartary; and its principal excellence
depends on its more careful preparation, and subsequent garbling, both
before its selection for the Russian market, and after its arrival at
Kiachta, and again at St Petersburg. At Kiachta all pieces of a porous,
grey, or pale colour are rejected, the whole being pared and perforated,
the better to determine the quality of the interior portion. At St
Petersburg the pieces are again carefully examined and garbled, and are,
finally, packed in close cases or chests, which are rendered air-tight by
the application of pitch on the outside.
East India or Chinese rhubarb is the produce of the locality just referred
to, as well as of other parts of China. It is obtained from younger
plants, and its preparation and subsequent selection or garbling is
conducted with less care.
English rhubarb is principally produced at Banbury, Oxfordshire, from the
_Rheum rhaponticum_. It is cut and dressed up after the manner of Turkey
rhubarb, for which it is sold by itinerant vendors, habited as Turks.
_Adult._ Dr Maisch[139] says the presence of turmeric may be detected in
powdered rhubarb by the following method:——A small quantity of the
suspected rhubarb is agitated for a minute or two with strong alcohol, and
then filtered, chrysophanic acid being sparingly soluble in this
menstruum. The brown yellow colour of the filtrate is due to the resinous
principles of rhubarb mainly; if adulterated with turmeric, the tincture
will be of a brighter yellow shade; a strong solution of borax produces in
both tinctures a deep red-brown colour.
[Footnote 139: ‘American Journal of Pharmacy,’ xliii, 259.]
If now pure hydrochloric acid be added in large excess, the tincture of
pure rhubarb will instantly assume a light yellow colour, while the
tincture of the adulterated powder will change merely to a lighter shade
of brown-red.
The test is a very delicate one, and is based on the liberation of boracic
acid, which imparts to curcumine a colour similar to that produced by
alkalies, while all the principles of rhubarb soluble in strong alcohol
yield pale yellow solutions in acid liquids.
_Qual._ Russian or Turkey rhubarb occurs in irregular plano-convex or
roundish lumps, perforated with a circular hole; it possesses a yellow
colour outside; when recently broken, the inside presents a rich mottled
appearance, and evolves a peculiar and somewhat aromatic odour. It is
firm, compact, heavy, perfectly free from moisture, and easily grated. Its
taste is bitter, slightly astringent, and sub-acid; and when chewed it
feels gritty, and tinges the saliva of a beautiful yellow colour. It
breaks with a rough, hackly fracture, is easily pulverised, and its powder
is of a bright buff-yellow colour.
East India, Canton, or Chinese rhubarb is in flat pieces, seldom
perforated, and its taste and odour are stronger than the other. It is
also heavier, tinges the saliva of an orange-red hue, and when pulverised
the powder is redder than that of Russian rhubarb.
English rhubarb possesses all the preceding qualities in a greatly less
degree. It is light and spongy, does not feel gritty between the teeth,
its taste is mucilaginous, and its powder has a peculiar pinkish hue not
present in either of the other varieties of rhubarb. As a medicine it
possesses little value, and is chiefly employed to adulterate East India
and Turkey rhubarb.
_Prop., &c._ Rhubarb is astringent, stomachic, and purgative. In small
doses its operation is principally or wholly confined to the digestive
organs; in larger ones, it first acts as a mild aperient, and, afterwards,
as an astringent; hence its value in diarrhœa. It has also been used
externally to promote the healing of indolent sores.——_Dose._ As a
stomachic, 1 to 5 gr.; as a purgative, 10 to 20 gr. It is most effective
when chewed, or in the form of powder produced by grating it.
=Rhubarb, Roast′ed.= _Syn._ BURNT RHUBARB; RHEUM USTUM, L. _Prep._ 1.
Rhubarb, in coarse powder, is carefully and regularly heated in a smooth
shallow iron disc, with constant stirring, until its colour has changed to
a moderately dark brown, when it is allowed to cool out of contact with
the air; when cold, it is reduced to powder, and at once put into a
well-closed bottle.
2. (Hoblyn.) Roast powdered rhubarb, in an iron vessel, constantly
stirring, until it becomes almost black; then smother it in a covered
jar.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; as an astringent in diarrhœa, and a tonic in
dyspepsia, &c. Prof. Procter, the well-known American Pharmaceutist,
recommends the rhubarb to be only roasted to a ‘light brown.’
=RICE.= _Syn._ ORYZA, L. The seed of _Oryza sativa_, a plant of the
natural order _Graminaceæ_. Several varieties are known in commerce,
distinguished by the name of the country or district which produces them.
The finest is that imported from Carolina. It reaches this country in a
decorticated condition. ‘Paddy’ is rice with the husk upon it. Dr Letheby
estimates that it affords nourishment to not less than a hundred millions
of people.
As an article of diet, rice is highly nutritious and wholesome when
combined with fresh animal or other nitrogenised food; but, owing to the
very small quantity of ‘flesh-formers’ which it contains, and its
comparative destitution in saline matter, it is totally unfit to form the
principal portion of the diet of the working classes, or the poorly fed,
at least in this climate. “It does not appear so well calculated for
European constitutions as the potato, for we find the poor constantly
reject it when potatoes can be had.” This preference evidently depends on
something more than mere whim or taste, for some years ago, when rice was
substituted for potatoes in some of our union workhouses, the most serious
consequences followed. In one of these, nine or ten deaths from scurvy and
allied diseases occurred in a single fortnight. Large quantities of rice
are annually imported into Britain, and used by distillers in the
manufacture of spirits.
Letheby gives the following as the composition of rice:——
Nitrogenous matter 6·3
Carbo-hydrates 79·5
Fatty matter 0·7
Saline matter 0·5
Water 13·0
——————
100·0
Payen gives the following as the composition of dried rice:——
Nitrogenous matter 7·55
Starch 88·65
Dextrin, &c. 1·00
Fatty matter 0·80
Cellulose 1·10
Mineral water 0·90
——————
100·00
Ash of rice:——
Potash 18·48
Soda 10·67
Lime 1·27
Magnesia 11·69
Oxide of iron 0·45
Phosphoric acid 53·36
Chlorine 0·27
Silica 3·35
——————
99·54
=Rice, To Cook.= If rice is boiled it should be subjected to a low
temperature. The best way of cooking rice, however, is by thoroughly
steaming it. By this method, it is said, the loss of nitrogenous matter is
prevented, and the grain consequently suffers no diminution of nutritive
power, as in the case of boiling.
[Illustration: FIG. 1.]
[Illustration: FIG. 2.]
_Microscopic appearance of Rice._
Fig. 1——Transverse section of the husk of rice.
Fig. 2.——Appearance of husk as seen in a transparent medium of glycerin
and gum: _a_, Siliceous granules arranged in longitudinal and transverse
ridges, perforated by openings——stomata, some having hairs over them. _b
c_, Transverse and longitudinal, brittle, rough-edged fibres, _d_, A fine
membrane of transverse angular cells; these overlie a very delicate
membrane of large cells, _e_.
[Illustration: Microscopic appearance of ground rice-flour.]
=RICINO′LEIC ACID.= A variety of oleic acid discovered in saponified
castor oil.
=RICK′ETS.= _Syn._ RACHITIS, L. A disease, generally confined to
childhood, characterised by a large head, prominent forehead, protruded
breast bone, flattened ribs, tumid belly, emaciated limbs, and great
general debility. The bones, more particularly those of the spine and
legs, become distorted, and exhibit a deficiency of earthy matter; the
stools are frequent and loose, a slow fever succeeds, with cough, painful
and difficult respiration, and, unless the child rallies, atrophy is
confirmed, and death ensues. When recovery takes place there is always
more or less deformity left.
The common causes of rickets are bad nursing, exposure to damp and cold,
and insufficient nutrition, arising from the use of white bread containing
alum, or any of the pernicious compounds vended under the names of
‘FARINACEOUS FOOD,’ ‘INFANTS’ F.,’ ‘PATENT F.,’ &c. Rickets, like caries
of the bones, is a disease which is scarcely known amongst infants whose
pap is made of pure wheaten bread, and whose mothers or nurses consume the
same themselves.
The treatment of rickets depends more on proper domestic management than
on direct medication. Careful nursing, warm dry clothing, thorough
ventilation, moderate exercise, and, above all, a light nutritious mixed
diet abounding in nitrogenous matter and the phosphates, will do much to
effect a cure. To these may be added the administration of the milder
chalybeate tonics, bark, or quinine, with occasional doses of some mild
aperient, as phosphate of soda, or, when there is diarrhœa, of rhubarb or
some other tonic purge. The administration of small doses of phosphate of
lime or of dilute phosphoric acid, frequently repeated, or, still better,
the daily use of jelly made of pure ivory or bone shavings, will often
effect wonders in those cases in which the bones are implicated from an
apparent deficiency of earthy matter. See BREAD, FARINA, NURSING, &c.
=RING′WORM.= _Syn._ SCALD-HEAD; PORRIGO, L. The common ringworm, the
PORRIGO SCUTULATA of medical writers, is a disease that appears in
circular patches of little pustules, which afterwards form scabs, leaving
a red pimply surface, and destroying the bulbs of the hair in its
progress. It spreads rapidly, and is very infectious, often running
through a whole school. It chiefly affects the neck, forehead, and scalp
of weakly children, and frequently arises without any apparent cause, but,
in general, may be traced to uncleanness, or contact with parties
suffering from the disease.
The treatment of ringworm consists in shaving the part, and keeping it
clean with soap and water, at the same time that an occasional mild saline
aperient is administered, and a light, nutritious diet, of which the red
meat and ripe fruits should form a portion, be rigorously adhered to. When
the scabbing commences, dressings of tar ointment, or of the ointment of
nitrate or red oxide of mercury, or a mixture of equal parts of the first
and either the second or third, should be applied, in each case diluting
the mixture with sufficient lard to adapt it to the state of irritability
of the part. During this treatment the head should be covered with an
ordinary nightcap, or some simple bandage, and not enveloped in a bladder
or oil-skin case, as is commonly the practice, since the complete
exclusion of atmospheric air tends to aggravate the disease.
=RI′′PENING.= See BREWING, MALT LIQUORS, WINE, &c.
=ROAST′ING.= Alexis Soyer recommends, “as an invariable rule,” that “all
dark meats, such as beef and mutton, should be put down to a sharp fire
for at least fifteen minutes, until the outside has acquired a coating of
osmazome, or condensed gravy, and then removed back, and allowed to cook
gently. Lamb, veal, and pork, if young and tender, should be done at a
moderate fire. Veal should even be covered with paper.
“Very rich meat, if covered with paper, does not require basting. Fowls,
&c., should be placed close to the fire, to set the skin, and in about ten
minutes rubbed over with a small piece of butter, pressed in a spoon.
Meats, whilst roasting, should be dredged with flour, just at the time
when the gravy begins to appear; the flour absorbs it, and forms a coating
which prevents any more coming out. Hares and small game should be treated
in the same manner.”
Under ordinary circumstances as to the fire, and the distance between it
and the joint, beef, mutton, and veal, take about 1/4 hour per lb. in
roasting. Lamb, poultry, and small game, require only 12 to 14 minutes per
lb.; whilst veal takes fully 15 minutes, and pork takes from 1/4 hour to
20 minutes, as they must always be well done. The flesh of old animals
requires more cooking than the flesh of young ones; and inferior, tough,
and bony parts than the prime joints and pieces.
Roasting is not an economical method of cooking pieces of meat abounding
in bone or tendinous matter, since the nutritious portion of these is
either destroyed or rendered insoluble by the heat employed. Thus, the raw
bones from a joint are capable of affording a rich and excellent basin of
soup, highly nutritious; whilst the bones from a corresponding joint which
has been roasted are nearly worthless when so treated. The same applies
with even greater force to the gristly and tendinous portions. A dry heat
either destroys them or converts them into a horny substance, unfit for
food; whilst by boiling they are transformed into a highly succulent and
nutritious article of food, besides affording excellent soup or jelly.
Hence the policy of ‘boning’ meat before roasting or baking it; or, at all
events, of removing the bony portion which would be most exposed to the
action of the fire. See BONE and JELLY.
=ROB.= _Syn._ ROOB. A term, derived from the Arabic, formerly applied to
the inspissated juice of ripe fruit, mixed with honey or sugar to the
consistence of a conserve of thin extract. Rob of elder-berries (ELDER
ROB; ROOB SAMBUCI), juniper berries (JUNIPER ROB; ROOB JUNIPERI),
mulberries (MULBERRY ROB; ROOB DIAMORUM), and walnuts (WALNUT ROB; ROOB
DYACARYON), with a few others, are still found in some of the foreign
Pharmacopœias.
=ROCK.= The popular name of a sweetmeat formed of sugar boiled to a candy,
and then poured upon an oiled slab, and allowed to cool in the lump. It is
variously flavoured.
=ROCK CRYS′TAL.= Native crystallised silica. See QUARTZ.
=ROCK OIL.= See PETROLEUM.
=ROCK SOAP.= A native silicate of alumina; used for crayons, and for
washing cloth.
=ROC′KETS.= (In pyrotechny.) _Prep._ The CASES.——These are made of stout
cartridge paper, rolled on a mould and pasted, and then throttled a little
below the mouth, like the neck of a phial. The diameter should be exactly
equal to that of a leaden ball of the same weight, and the length should
be equal to 3-1/2 times the external diameter. Above the spindle there
must be one interior diameter of composition driven solid. They are filled
with the following mixtures, tightly driven in, and when intended for
flight (SKY-ROCKETS), they are ‘garnished,’ and affixed to willow rods to
direct their course.
The COMPOSITION.——1. (Marsh.)——_a._ For 2-oz. rockets. From nitre, 54-1/2
parts; sulphur, 18 parts; charcoal, 27-1/4 parts; all in fine powder, and
passed through lawn.
_b._ For 4-oz. do. From nitre, 64 parts; sulphur, 16 parts; charcoal, 20
parts; as the last.
_c._ For 1/2-lb. to 1-lb. do. From nitre, 62-3/4 parts; sulphur, 15-3/4
parts; charcoal, 21-1/2 parts.
2. (Ruggieri.)——_a._ For rockets of 3/4-inch diameter. From nitre, 16
parts; charcoal, 7 parts; sulphur, 4 parts.
_b._ For 3/4- to 1-1/2-inch rockets, use 1 part more of nitre.
_c._ For 1-3/4-inch rockets, use 2 parts more of nitre.
_d._ By using 1 part less of charcoal and adding respectively 3, 4, and 5
parts of fine steel filings, the above are converted into ‘BRILLIANT
FIRES,’
_e._ By the substitution of coarse cast-iron borings for filings, and a
further omission of 2 parts of charcoal from each, the latter are
converted into ‘CHINESE FIRE,’
HAND-ROCKETS and GROUND-ROCKETS are usually loaded with nothing but very
fine meal gunpowder and iron or zinc filings or borings.
After SKY-ROCKETS and WATER-ROCKETS are charged, a piece of clay is driven
in, through which a hole is pierced, and the ‘head’ or ‘garniture’ filled
with stars, and a little corn-powder is then applied. See FIRES, STARS,
and PYROTECHNY.
=ROLLS.= A variety of fancy bread, generally in the form of small
semi-cylindrical cakes, prepared by the bakers, and intended to be eaten
hot for breakfast. They differ from ordinary fine or French bread, as it
is called, chiefly in containing more water. Some are wetted up with milk
and water, and are hence called ‘milk rolls.’
=ROLL (Wine).= _Prep._ Soak a French roll or sponge-biscuit in raisin,
marsala, or sherry wine, surround it by a custard or cream thickened with
eggs, and add some spice and ornaments.
=ROOT.= _Syn._ RADIX, L. That part of a plant which imbibes its
nourishment from the soil or medium in which it grows. In popular
language, bulbs, corms, tubers, &c., are improperly included under this
term.
=RO′′PINESS.= See MALT LIQUORS and WINES.
=RHYPOPH′AGON.= _Prep._ From yellow soap, sliced, 1 oz.; soft soap
(finest), 3 oz.; melt them by the heat of hot water, then allow them to
cool a little, and stir in of oil of cloves, 1/2 dr.; essence of
ambergris, 10 drops. It is kept a month before sale. Used for shaving.
=ROSE.= _Syn._ ROSA, L. The typical genus of the natural order _Rosaceæ_.
It includes numerous species greatly prized as garden plants.
=Rose, Cabbage.= _Syn._ HUNDRED-LEAVED ROSE; ROSÆ CENTILFOLIÆ PETALA (B.
P.), ROSA CENTIFOLIA (Ph. L. & E.), L. “The fresh petals” (Ph. L.) of this
species are used in medicine. Odorous and slightly astringent and
laxative. See WATERS and SYRUP.
=Rose, Dog.= The _Rosa canina_, or wild briar. See HIPS.
=Rose, French.= _Syn._ RED ROSE; ROSÆ GALLICÆ PETALA (B. P.), ROSA GALLICA
(Ph. L. E. & D.), L. “The fresh and dried unexpanded petals” (Ph. L.) of
this species are officinal. The white claws of the petals are removed
before drying them.
_Uses, &c._ The red rose is an elegant astringent and tonic, and, as such,
is used as the basis of several pharmaceutical preparations. See
CONFECTION, HONEYS, INFUSION, and SYRUP.
=ROSE′MARY.= _Syn._ ROSMARINUS (Ph. L. E. & D.) The flowering tops of
_Rosmarinus officinalis_ (Linn.), or the common rosemary of our gardens,
are officinal in the Ph. E. & D.; as is also the oil (oleum rosmarini) in
the B. P. and Ph. L. The odour of both is refreshing, and they are reputed
carminative, emmenagogue, and neurotic. The dried leaves are occasionally
used by the hysterical and hypochondriacal as a substitute for China tea.
The oil is an ingredient in Hungary water, and is much used in various
cosmetic compounds, under the presumption of its encouraging the growth of
hair and improving its quality.
=ROSE PINK.= See RED PIGMENTS.
=RO′SIN.= See RESIN.
=ROSY-DROP.= See ACNE.
=ROT.= _Syn._ GREATROT, HYDROPHIC R.,
SHEEP R., WET R. A disease peculiar to sheep, produced by the presence in
the liver of the _Distoma hepatica_, a parasite commonly known under the
name of “a fluke.” Rot prevails during very wet or rainy seasons. The
leading symptoms are loss of flesh and vivacity; the lips and tongue look
vivid, and the eyes sad and glassy; the pelt comes off on the slightest
pull; the breath is fetid, and the urine highly coloured and scanty; and
there is either black purging or obstinate costiveness. The treatment
consists in a change to a dry warm elevated situation, and a dry diet,
consisting of oats, barley meal, tail-wheat, &c., to which some turnips,
carrots, or mangel wurzel may be added, with a liberal supply of common
salt, and a few grains of sulphur, daily. These last two substances form
the active ingredients in Flesh’s ‘Patent Restorative.’ See MEAT, DISEASE
OF.
=ROT (in Timber).= See DRY ROT.
=ROTA′TION (of Crops).= The rotation or succession of crops is absolutely
necessary for the successful and economical cultivation of the soils.
Crops have been divided by agriculturists into exhausting crops, restoring
crops, and cleaning crops. The most exhausting crops are usually
considered to be those of corn, but all those that are allowed to ripen
their seed and which are carried off the ground are also exhausting, but
in different degrees. Even clover, tares, and grass cut green are
considered as exhausting, but in a less degree than those that are allowed
to ripen. Restoring crops are such as are allowed to decay upon the
ground, or are consumed upon it by domestic animals. Cleaning crops are
such as are grown in drills, and undergo the usual operations of weeding,
hoeing, &c.; the majority of these may also be regarded as exhausting
crops. An exhausting crop should always be followed by a restoring or a
cleaning crop; or, where possible, by both combined. Crops should also
succeed each other in such a way that the soil may not be exhausted of any
one particular kind of nutriment. This is best effected by so rotating the
crops that plants which are nearly allied should not succeed each other on
the same soil, or, at all events, not more than once. See AGRICULTURE,
SOILS, &c.
=ROT′TEN STONE.= See TRIPOLI.
=ROUGE.= _Syn._ TOILET ROUGE; ROUGE VEGETAL, ROUGE D’ESPAGNE, Fr. _Prep._
Wash safflower (any quantity) until the water comes off colourless; dry
and pulverise it, and digest the powder in a weak solution of crystallised
carbonate of soda; then place some fine cotton-wool at the bottom of a
porcelain or glass vessel, pour the filtered tinctorial solution on this,
and throw down the colouring matter, by gradually adding lemon juice or
white-wine vinegar, until it ceases to produce a precipitate; next wash
the prepared cotton in pure cold water, and dissolve out the colour with a
fresh solution of soda; to the new solution add a quantity of finely
powdered talc or French chalk, proportionate to the intended quality of
rouge; mix well, and precipitate with lemon juice, as before; lastly,
collect the powder, dry it with great care, with as little heat as
possible, and triturate it with a very small quantity of oil of olives, to
render it smooth and adhesive.
_Obs._ According to the best authorities, this is the only article which
will brighten a lady’s complexion without injuring the skin. The relative
fineness and proportion of talc employed determines the quality of the
rouge. It is applied by means of a camel-hair pencil, a small ‘powder
puff,’ or a hare’s foot. It is also employed under the form of ‘pommade’
and ‘crepons.’ The last of these consist of pieces of white woollen crape,
upon which the colouring matter of the carthamus has been precipitated,
instead of upon the talc, noticed above.
The following articles also pass under the name of rouge, and are used for
the purposes named after each:——
=Rouge, Brown-red.= Jeweller’s rouge.
=Rouge, Chinese Card.= This is said to be a ‘carthamate of soda,’ it is
colourless when applied, but, being decomposed by the acid secretions of
the skin, acquires a most beautiful rose-like tint. (O’Shaughnessy.)
=Rouge, Jeweller’s.= Sesquioxide of iron prepared by calcination. Used to
polish gold, &c.
=Rouge, Liquid.= The red liquid left from the preparation of carmine; or a
solution of carmine in weak carbonate of potash water, or of pure rouge in
alcohol acidulated with acetic acid.
=Rouge, Indienne.= The terra persica, or Indian red; imported from Ormuz.
=Rouge de Prusse.= Light red or burnt yellow ochre. See RED PIGMENTS.
=Rouge, Spanish Lady’s.= This is cotton wool which has been repeatedly
wetted with an ammoniacal solution of carmine, and dried. It is applied
like ‘rouge crepons.’
=Rouge d’Athenes, Vert.= _Syn._ PURE ROUGE. See CARTHAMINE.
=ROUGH′ENING.= See WINES.
=RUBEFA′′CIENTS.= _Syn._ RUBEFACIENTIA, L. Substances or agents which,
when applied for a certain time to the skin, occasion a redness and
increase of heat, without blistering. They act as counter-irritants.
Mustard, powdered ginger (both made into a paste with water), hartshorn
and oil, and ether and spirit of wine (when their evaporation is
prevented), are familiar examples of this class of remedies.
=RUBE′OLA.= See MEASLES.
=RUBIA′CIN.= An orange-coloured substance, obtained from madder.
=RUBID′IUM.= [Eng., L.] A metal belonging to the alkaline group discovered
by Bunsen and Kirchhoff by means of spectrum analysis. It is found in many
mineral waters associated with cæsium.
=RU′BY.= See GEMS and PASTES.
=RUE.= _Syn._ RUTÆ FOLIA, RUTA (Ph. L. & E.), L. “The leaf _Ruta
graveolens_.” (Ph. L.) A powerful antispasmodic, diuretic, and stimulant.
It is also reputed nervine and emmenagogue. The fresh leaves are
powerfully acrid, and even vesicant; but they become milder in
drying.——_Dose._ Of the powder, 15 to 30 gr., twice or thrice daily; in
hysteria, flatulent colic, &c. See INFUSION and OILS (Volatile).
=RUM.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS JAMACIENSIS, SPIRITUS SACCHARI, L. An ardent spirit
obtained by distillation from the fermented skimmings of the sugar-boilers
(syrup scum), the drainings of the sugar-pots and hogsheads (molasses),
the washings of the boilers and other vessels, together with sufficient
recent cane juice or wort, prepared by mashing the crushed cane, to impart
the necessary flavour. The sweet liquor before fermentation commonly
contains from 12 to 16% of saccharine, and every ten gallons yield from
one to two gallons of rum.
The average strength of rum, as imported into this country, is about 20
O.P. Like all other spirits, it is colourless when it issues from the
still, but owing to the taste of the consumer the distiller is compelled
to colour it before it leaves his premises.
_Obs._ Rum is imported from the West Indies. The best comes from Jamaica,
and is hence distinguished by that name. Leeward Island rum is less
esteemed. The duty on rum is 10_s._ 2_d._ per proof-gallon if imported
direct from any of the British Colonies (Colonial rum), but 10_s._ 5_d._
if from any other part of the world (foreign rum). The consumption of rum
has long been declining in England; its place being chiefly supplied by
gin. Rum owes its flavour to a volatile oil and butyric acid, a fact which
the wary chemist has availed himself of in the manufacture of a butyric
compound (essence of rum) for the especial purpose of enabling the spirit
dealer to manufacture a factitious rum from malt or molasses spirit. In
Jamaica it is usual to put sliced pine apples into the puncheons
containing the finer qualities of rum, which is then termed pine-apple
rum. See ALCOHOL, SPIRIT, &c.
=RUM, BAY, R. Rother’s Formula for.= According to an American authority,
true bay rum is made from _Pimenta acris_ (_Myrica acris_, Schwartz;
_Myrtus acris_, Willd.), and not from _Laurus nobilis_, as commonly
supposed; the method of its distillation not being known outside the West
Indies, it has been customary to make it extemporaneously with the oil of
bay distilled from the leaves of the former plant. This preparation is
inferior in fragrance, however, to the genuine article. The following
formula of R. Rother is said to give very good results. Take of oil of
bayberry, 1 fl. oz.; Jamaica rum, 1 pint; strong alcohol, 4 pints; water,
3 pints. Mix the rum, alcohol, and water, then add the oil; mix and
filter.
=RUPERT’S DROPS.= These are made by letting drops of melted glass fall
into cold water. By this means they assume an oval form, with a tail or
neck resembling a retort. They possess this singular property that, if a
small portion of the tail is broken off, the whole bursts into powder with
an explosion, and a considerable shock is communicated to the hand.
=RUPIA.= This is an affection of the skin attended by the formation on it
of vesicles, that develop into ulcers which copiously discharge a foul,
unhealthy, and reddish matter. After a time this matter hardens and forms
a thick incrustation over the sores.
The best treatment is to put the patient upon a generous diet, including
wine, and to administer iodide of potassium with sarsaparilla or quinine.
The scabs should be poulticed.
=RUP′TURE.= See SURGERY.
=RUSKS.= _Prep._ From 4 eggs; new milk and warm water, of each 1/2 pint;
melted butter and sugar, of each 1/4 lb.; yeast, 3 table-spoonfuls; beat
well together with as much flour, added gradually, as will make a very
light paste; let it rise before the fire for half an hour, then add a
little more flour, form into small loaves or cakes 5 or 6 inches wide, and
flatten them; bake these moderately, and, when cold, cut them into slices
of the size of rusks, and put them into the oven to brown a little. A nice
tea-cake when hot, or with caraways, to eat cold. PLAIN RUSKS are made by
simply cutting loaves of bread into slices, and baking them in a slow oven
to the proper colour.
=RUS′MA.= An arsenical iron pyrites, found in Galatia, which, when reduced
to powder, and mixed with half its weight of quicklime, is used by the
Turkish ladies to make their ‘PSILOTHRONS,’ or compounds to remove
superfluous hair. See DEPILATORY.
=RUST.= _Syn._ RUBIGO, L. The coating or film of oxide or carbonate which
forms on the surface of several of the metals when exposed to a moist
atmosphere; more particularly, that which forms on iron or steel (FERRI
HYDRATE; HYDRATED SESQUIOXIDE OF IRON; FERRUGO, FERRI RUBIGO).
To prevent iron or steel goods rusting, it is merely necessary to preserve
them from damp or moisture. In the shops, small articles in steel are,
commonly, either varnished or enclosed in quick-lime finely pulverised;
large articles are generally protected with a coating of plumbago, or of
boiled oil, or some cheap varnish, applied to them, previously gently
heated. Surgical instruments are frequently slightly smeared with a little
strong mercurial ointment, with the same intention.
Spots of rust may be removed from the surface of polished iron or steel by
rubbing them with a little tripoli or very fine emery made into a paste
with sweet oil; or, chemically, by a mixture of polisher’s putty-powder
with a little oxalic acid, applied with water. When the last is employed,
the articles should be afterwards well rinsed in pure water, then wiped
dry, and finished off with a warm and dry rubber, in order to remove every
trace of acid.
=RUTHENIC ACID.= _Syn._ RUTHENIC ANHYDRIDE (RuO_{3}). This may be procured
by heating any of the preceding oxides with potassic nitrate. Ruthenic
acid is insoluble in water.
=Ruthenic Sesquioxide= (Ru_{2}O_{3}); occurs in the anhydrous form when
the metal is ignited in a current of air. It is the most stable of the
basic oxides of the metal. Alkalies fail to dissolve it. With acids it
forms soluble salts of a yellow colour; when, to a solution of these, an
alkali is added, a bulky blackish-brown precipitate of the hydrated oxide,
having the composition Ru_{2}O_{3},8H_{2}O, is thrown down.
There are three chlorides of ruthenium:——RuCl_{2}; RuCl_{3}; and RuCl_{4}.
=RUTHEN′IUM.= (Ru. = 104·2.) A metal discovered by Claus, associated with
iridium, in the residue from crude platinum, which is insoluble in aqua
regia. It forms small angular masses, with a metallic lustre; is very
brittle and infusible; resists the action of acids, but readily oxidises
when heated in the air. Sp. gr. 11 to 11·4.
In Fremy’s process for separating osmium from the residues of platinum
ore, ruthenium occurs in a dioxide. By heating this dioxide in a current
of oxygen, the metal may be obtained in the form of a powder of dark grey
colour.
With oxygen, ruthenium forms four compounds:——RuO; Ru_{2}O_{3}; RuO_{2};
and RuO_{3}.
=Ruthenium Trichloride= (RuCl_{3}), which is the most important of the
chlorides, may be procured by dissolving the sesquioxide in hydrochloric
acid. The solution being evaporated, the trichloride occurs as a
greenish-blue deliquescent mass, which is soluble in alcohol.
_Tests._ In solutions of the trichloride, hydrogen sulphide gives a brown
precipitate of ruthenic sesquisulphide, the supernatant liquid being of a
bright blue colour. This reaction is a very delicate as well as a very
characteristic one.
Metallic zinc reduces the yellow trichloride to the blue dichloride, the
metal being afterwards precipitated as a black powder. Plumbic acetate
gives a purplish-red precipitate, mercuric cyanide a blue one, the
supernatant liquid being also blue. The caustic and carbonated alkalies
throw down a black precipitate of sesquioxide of ruthenium, which is
insoluble in excess of the precipitant. If the salts of ruthenium are
boiled with sodic formiate or oxalate the solution becomes colourless, but
no precipitate of reduced metal takes place.
[Illustration: FIG. 1.——Transverse section of testa, &c. × 108.
FIG. 2.——Coats _in situ_ from without, × 170. _a_, External; _b_, Middle;
_c_, Internal coat; _d_, Starch grains, × 108.]
=RYE.= _Syn._ SECALE, L. The seed of _Secale cereale_, a gramineous
plant, the native country of which is undetermined. It is a more certain
crop and requires less culture and manure than wheat, and is hence largely
cultivated in Germany, Russia, and in the northern parts of Europe, where
it is extensively employed for bread. When roasted it is occasionally used
as a substitute for coffee. It furnishes an excellent malt for the
distillation of spirit, and is much used in the making of Hollands.
Rye bread is very likely to cause diarrhœa in those unaccustomed to
partake of it. By continued use, however, this inconvenience disappears.
Rye bread is acid and dark in colour. It is about equal in nutritive power
to wheat. It is less abundant than wheat in fibrin, but richer in casein
and albumen.
The foregoing plate represents the microscopic appearance of rye.
Sommer recommends the microscopic examination of rye flour to be conducted
as follows:——The flour is placed on a glass slide, and moistened with
water; a single drop of oil of vitriol is added, and a small disc is laid
upon it. If, now, it be viewed with a magnifying power of 200, the starch
grains of wheat and rye are seen to dissolve in a uniform manner, but the
grains of barley starch, after losing their external coat, break up into a
number of polyhedrons before their solution is completed.
=Rye, Spurred.= See ERGOT.
=SABADIL′LA.= _Syn._ CEBADILLA, CEVADILLA, SABADILLA (B. P., Ph. E.), L.
The dried fruit (_Asagræa officinalis_). A drastic and dangerous
cathartic, occasionally used in tapeworm; and, externally, to destroy
pediculi, but, even for this purpose, when the scalp has been denuded or
ulcerated, it has sometimes caused death. It is now used chiefly as a
source of VERATRINE.
=SA′BLE.= The _Mustella Zibellina_ (Linn.), a small quadruped of the
martin-cat family, found in Northern Asia. Its fur is remarkable for its
fine quality and rich colour, and for the hairs turning with equal ease in
every direction. The skins of the rabbit, cat, &c., dressed, painted, and
lustred, are sold under the name of COMMON or MOCK SABLE.
=SABOTIÈRE.= [Fr.] An apparatus of peculiar construction, employed by the
French confectioners for making ices. It consists of a pail to contain a
freezing mixture, and an inner vessel for the creams to be iced. It may be
used with a mixture of pounded ice and salt, or any other freezing
mixture. The pail and cream vessels being loaded, and closely covered, an
alternate rotatory motion is given to the apparatus by means of the
handle, for 10 or 15 minutes, care being taken to occasionally scrape down
the frozen portion of the cream from the sides, by means of a wooden
spoon. See ICES and REFRIGERATION.
=SACCHAR′IC ACID.= _Syn._ OXALHYDRIC ACID†. A compound, resulting from
the action of dilate nitric acid on sugar.
=SAC′CHARINE.= The technical name of the uncrystallisable sugar found in
malt-wort.
=SACCHARINE FERMENTATION.= This occurs during the germination and
kiln-drying of grain in the operation of malting, and in the mashing of
malt in brewing. The sweetening of bread during its exposure to heat in
the oven is also included under this head by many writers.
The substance which most powerfully excites the sugar fermentation was
first shown by Payen and Persoz to be a peculiar principle to which they
have given the name of ‘DIASTASE,’ This is always present in good malt,
and possesses the singular property of converting STARCH successively into
gum (dextrin) and sugar, at a temperature ranging between 149° and 168°
Fahr. During the action of this substance on starch it is itself
decomposed; and when the sugar fermentation ceases it is found to have
entirely disappeared. It is the presence of diastase in malt which alone
converts the starch of the grain into sugar during the operation of
mashing with hot water; and hence the absolute necessity of employing
water at the proper temperature, as on this depends the strength and
sweetness of the wort, and consequently its fitness for undergoing the
vinous fermentation, and for making beer. Vegetable albumen and gluten
also possess the property of exciting the saccharine fermentation, but in
a considerably inferior degree to diastase.
The sugar formed during the germination of seeds containing starch results
from the action of diastase, and disappears as soon as the woody fibre
(lignin), which has a similar constitution, is developed, forming the
skeleton of the young plant. (Liebig.) See BREWING, DIASTASE, DEXTRIN, &c.
=SACCHAROM′ETER.= An instrument similar in principle to the common spirit
hydrometer, but so weighted and graduated as to adapt it for the
indication of the richness of malt-worts in sugar, or saccharine,
expressed in pounds per barrel, or the excess of gravity over that of
water, the last being taken at 1000. See BREWING, SYRUP, WORT, &c.
=SACH′ET.= _Syn._ SACCULUS, L. Sachets (SACCULI) are little bags
containing dry substances, used for the external medication of parts, or
for communicating agreeable perfumes to wearing apparel, drawers,
furniture, &c. Those belonging to perfumery are commonly filled with
mixtures of fragrant vegetable substances, reduced to coarse powder, and
differ from those employed for _pot pourri_ chiefly in being used in the
dry state. Sacculi are now seldom employed in this country in legitimate
medicine. See POWDERS (Scented), &c.
=Sachet, Ammoniacal.= _Syn._ SACCULUS AMMONIACALIS. _Prep._ Equal parts of
sal ammoniac and quicklime are mixed, and sprinkled between cotton
wadding, which is to be quilted in muslin.
=Sachet, Anodyne.= (Quincy.) _Syn._ SACCULUS ANODYNUS. _Prep._ Chamomiles,
1 oz.; bay berries, 1 oz.; lavender flower, 1/2 oz.; henbane seed, 1 dr.;
opium, 1 dr. To be dipped in hot spirits.
=Sachet, Anti-phthisic.= _Syn._ SACCULUS ANTI-PHTHISICUS, L. _Prep._
Dissolve of aloes, 1 oz., in strong decoction of fresh rue, 1/2 pint; next
fold a piece of soft muslin in eight folds large enough to cover the chest
and part of the stomach; steep this in the decoction, and dry it in the
shade; lastly, place in a small bag, one side of which is formed of
scarlet silk or wool, and the other, intended to be worn next the skin, of
the finest net or gauze. A celebrated domestic remedy for consumption and
asthma. It is intended to be constantly worn on the chest.
=Sachet, Resolv′ent.= _Syn._ MELTING BAG; SACCULUS RESOLVENS, L. _Prep._
1. (Dr Breslau.) Iodide of potassium, 1 part; sal ammoniac, 8 parts; dry,
and reduce each separately to fine powder; mix them, and enclose 1/2 oz.
to 1 oz. of the mixed powder in a small bag of linen or silk. Used as a
resolvent to indolent tumours, especially goitres and scrofulous
indurations. It should be worn on the part night and day for some time.
The part next the skin should be well pricked with a needle, and the
powder shaken up and readjusted every 2 or 3 days; and it should be
renewed about once a fortnight.
2. (Trousseau & Reveil.) Iodide of potassium, 1 part; burnt sponge, 4
parts; fine sawdust, 5 parts; as before.
=Sachet, Sponge.= _Syn._ SACCULUS SPONGII, COLLIER DE MORAND. _Prep._
Muriate of ammonia, chloride of sodium, burnt sponge, of each 1 oz.; mix,
sprinkle the powder on a piece of cotton wool, and quilt between muslin,
in the form of a cravat. To be worn constantly in goitre or bronchocele,
renewing it every month.
=Sachet, Stomachic.= (Fuller.) _Syn._ SACCULUS. _Prep._ Mint, 4 drm.;
wormwood, thyme, red roses, each 2 drm.; balastines, angelica root,
caraway seed, nutmeg, mace, cloves, of each 1 drm. Coarsely powder the
ingredients, and put them into a bag, to be moistened with hot red wine
when applied for flatulence.
=SACK.= (From SEC, Fr., dry.) A wine used by our ancestors, supposed by
some to have been Rhenish or Canary; but, with more probability, by
others, to have been dry mountain——vin d’Espagne; vin sec——(Howell, ‘Fr.
and Eng. Dict.,’ 1650). Falstaff[140] calls it ‘sherris sack’ (sherry
sack), from Xeres, a sea town of Corduba, where that kind of sack (wine)
is made. (Blount.) At a later period the term came to be used as a
general name for all sweet wines.
[Footnote 140: In Shakespeare’s day sack was occasionally adulterated with
lime, as we learn from Falstaff’s speech to the Drawer: “You rogue,
there’s lime in this sack.”]
=SAF′FLOWER.= _Syn._ BASTARD SAFFRON, DYER’S S.; CARTHAMUS, L. The florets
of _Carthamus tinctorius_, a plant cultivated in Spain, Egypt, and the
Levant. It contains two colouring principles——the one yellow, and the
other red. The first is removed by water, and is rejected. The second is
easily dissolved out by weak solutions of the carbonated alkalies, and is
again precipitated on the addition of an acid. This property is taken
advantage of in the manufacture of rouge, and in dyeing silk and cotton.
The most lively tints of cherry, flame, flesh, orange-red, poppy, and rose
colour, are imparted to silk by the following process, modified to suit
the particular shade required:——The safflower (previously deprived of its
yellow colouring matter by water) is exhausted with water containing
either carbonate of soda or of potassa, in the proportion of about 5% of
the weight of the prepared dye-stuff acted on; the resulting liquid is
next treated with pure lemon juice until it acquires a distinct and rich
red colour; the silk is then introduced and turned about as long as it is
perceived to take up colour, a little more lemon juice being added as may
appear necessary; for deep shades this is repeated with one or more fresh
baths, the silk being dried and rinsed between each immersion; it is,
lastly, brightened by turning it for a few minutes through a bath of warm
water, to which a little lemon juice has been previously added. For flame
colour the silk should receive a slight shade with annotta before putting
it into the safflower bath. For the deeper shades, when expense is an
object, a little archil is commonly added to the first and second bath.
See CATHARMIN.
=SAF′FRON.= The prepared stigmata or stigmas of the _Crocus sativus_, or
saffron crocus. There are two principal varieties known in commerce:——
1. (SAFFRON, HAY’S.; CROCUS IN FŒNO, C. HISPANIOLUS, CROCISTIGMATA;
CROCUS——B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.) This consisted of the stigmas, with part
of the styles, carefully picked from the other parts of the flowers, and
then dried on paper by a very gentle heat, generally in a portable oven
constructed for the purpose.
2. (CAKE SAFFRON; CROCUS IN PLACENTÂ.) This, professedly, merely varies
from the last, it being compressed into a cake after it has become
softened by the fire, and being then dried in that condition. The ‘cake
saffron’ of commerce is now, however, mostly, if not entirely, composed of
safflower made into a paste with some sugar and gum water, rolled out on
paper into oval cakes 10 to 12 inches long, 9 or 10 broad, and about 1/8th
of an inch thick, and then dried. “I can detect neither saffron nor
marigold in them.” (Dr Pereira.)
_Pur._ Saffron, of all the articles of commerce, except French brandy, is,
perhaps, the one most largely and constantly adulterated. Abroad it is
frequently mixed with safflower, and in England with ‘prepared marigolds,’
or ‘French (mock) saffron.’ These frauds may be detected by the
inferiority of the colour, and by soaking the leaves in water, when the
stigmas of the _Crocus sativus_ may be readily distinguished from the
florets of safflower and the petals of marigolds. Winckler and Grüner
proposed to detect these substances by means of a solution of nitrate of
silver or of sesquichloride of iron. The infusion of true saffron is not
altered by those reagents, but that of either of the above-mentioned
adulterants is rendered opaque, and is at length precipitated. “It
consists of tripartite filaments, of an orange-red colour, with the small
filaments towards the apex dilated.” (Ph. E.) In the wholesale drug trade
prepared marigolds are not only employed to mix with genuine saffron, but
are extensively sold to the country dealers for that purpose. Old and dry
saffron is ‘freshened up’ by rubbing it between the hands slightly oiled,
and then repicking it.
The late Mr D. Hanbury, F.R.S., found that the article known in commerce
as alicante saffron was largely sophisticated with carbonate of lime,
which he says had been made to adhere to the thread-like saffron without
in the least altering its general appearance. To ascertain the amount of
earthy matter thus fraudulently added, he subjected several specimens of
saffron to incineration, each having in the first instance been dried in
warm air until it caused it to lose its weight. The result indicated that
while good Valentia saffron yields from 4 to 6 per cent. of ash, the
alicante furnishes from 12 to 28 per cent. The method of taking a sample
of saffron for earthy adulteration which Mr Hanbury recommends is
this:——Place in a watch glass a small quantity (say 1 grain) of the
saffron, and drop upon it 8 or 10 drops of water; lightly touch the
saffron with the tip of the finger, so as to cause the water to wet it. If
the drug is free from earthy matter, a clear bright-yellow solution will
be immediately obtained; if adulterated, a white powder will instantly
separate, causing the water to appear turbid; and if a drop of
hydrochloric acid be now added, a brisk effervescence will take place.
Mr Hanbury says that saffron almost always contains a few of the pale
yellow stamens, accidentally gathered; but the pollen from them which is
detached when the drug is wetted, but which is minute in quantity, is
easily distinguished from carbonate of lime, by not dissolving when
hydrochloric acid is added. Moreover, the form of pollen grains may be
easily recognised under the microscope.
Mr Hanbury furthermore states that an effectual method of examination is
to scatter a very small pinch of saffron on the surface of a glass of warm
water. The stigma of the saffron-crocus immediately expands, and exhibits
a form so characteristic that it cannot be confounded with the flowerets
of safflower, marigold, or arnica, or with the stamens of crocus
itself.[141]
[Footnote 141: ‘Pharm. Journ.’]
_Prop., &c._ Saffron is anodyne, cordial, emmenagogue, and exhilarant; but
is now seldom employed, except as an adjuvant, in medicine. Amongst cooks,
confectioners, and liquoristes, it is largely used on account of its fine
colour.
=Saffron, Mead′ow.= See COLCHICUM.
=SAGAPE′NUM.= This substance is described in the London Pharmacopœia as a
gum resin, the production of an uncertain species of _Ferula_. The mass of
the sagapenum sold to the retail trader is, however, a factitious article,
formed by softening a mixture of assafœtida, 3 parts, and galbanum, 15
parts, over a water or steam bath, and then stirring in about 1/17th of
their weight of oil of turpentine, with a little oil of juniper. This
mixture is labelled ‘Gum Sagapeni Opt.’ an inferior sort being made by
adding sundry portions of yellow resin and paste of gum tragacanth to the
above.
PREPARED SAGAPENUM (SAGAPENUM PRÆPARATUM——Ph. L.) is ordered to be
prepared in the same manner as ‘prepared ammoniacum.’
_Obs._ Sagapenum is the feeblest of all the fetid gum resins.——_Dose_, 5
to 15 gr., made into pills; as an antispasmodic and emmenagogue.
=SA′GO.= _Syn._ SAGO (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “The fæcula (starch) from the
stem of _Sagus lœvis_, _S. Rumphii_, and, perhaps, of other species of
palms.” (Ph. L.) It forms the principal portion of the pith of the Sago
palms, the Gommuti palm, the Talipot palm, and other allied trees. Its
properties and uses, for the most part, resemble those of arrow-root. It
is used for making puddings, jellies, &c.
Under the microscope the starch-grains of sago present an elongated form,
rounded at the larger ends, and compressed at the smaller. They differ
altogether in appearance from potato starch.
The pilum of the sago starch-grains is a point, or, more frequently, a
crop, slit, or star, and is seated at the smaller end, whilst in the
marsanta arrow-root the pilum is situated at the larger end. Rings are
more or less clearly seen.
=Sa′go, To Prepare.= Wash an ounce of pearl sago in cold water; then boil
it very gently in a pint of fresh water, stirring it frequently till
dissolved. It may be flavoured with wine, spices, and sugar. For children,
and for consumptive and debilitated persons, it will be found advantageous
to substitute milk for water. The common sago being in larger grains, more
time is required to dissolve it, and it is usually steeped for some hours
before boiling it.
=Sa′go Milk.= (See _above_.)
[Illustration: Sago of commerce, magnified 147 times.]
=Sa′go Posset.= (For invalids.) Macerate a table-spoonful of sago in a
pint of water for two hours on the hob of a stove, then boil for 15
minutes, assiduously stirring. Add sugar, with an aromatic, such as ginger
or nutmeg, and a table-spoonful or more of white wine. If white wine be
not permitted flavour with lemon juice.
=ST VITUS’ DANCE.= See CHOREA.
=SAL.= [L.] Salt. A word much used in compound names, handed down to us
from the old chemists.
=Sal Absin′thii.= Carbonate of potassium.
=Sal Acetosel′læ.= Binoxalate and quadroxalate of potassium.
=Sal Alem′broth.= Ammoniated mercury (white precipitate).
=Sal Ammo′′niac.= Chloride of ammonium.
=Sal de Duobus.= Sulphate of potassium.
=Sal Diure′ticus.= Acetate of potassium.
=Sal Enix′um.= Crude bisulphate of potassium.
=Sal Gem′mæ.= Rock or fossil salt (chloride of sodium).
=Sal Mar′tis.= Sulphate of iron.
=Sal Mirab′ile.= Sulphate of sodium.
=Sal Perla′tum.= Phosphate of sodium.
=Sal Polycrest′us.= Sulphate of potassium.
=Sal Prunel′la.= _Syn._ SORE-THROAT SALT, CRYSTAL MINERAL; POTASSÆ NITRAS
FUSA, NITRUM TABULATUM, SAL PRUNELLÆ, L. From nitre fused in a Hessian
crucible, and poured out on a smooth surface, or into moulds, to cool. Its
usual form and size is that of an ordinary musket bullet, with the tail,
in which state it is known in the drug trade as ‘sal prunellæ globosum.’
When in cakes it is often called ‘sal p. in placentis,’ or ‘s. p.
tabulatum.’ A small portion allowed to dissolve slowly in the mouth, the
saliva being slowly swallowed, often removes incipient inflammatory sore
throat.
=Sal Saturn′i.= Sugar of lead (neutral acetate of lead).
=Sal Seignette′.= Rochelle salt (tartrate of potassium and sodium).
=Sal Volat′ile.= Sesquicarbonate of ammonia. The name is commonly used as
an abbreviation of aromatic spirit of ammonia. See SPIRITS (Medicinal).
=SAL′ADS= are generally made of esculent vegetables, either singly or
mixed, chosen according to taste or time of year, and ‘dressed’ with oil,
vinegar, and salt, and sometimes also with mustard and other condiments.
Sliced boiled egg is a common addition.
Sydney Smith’s recipe for salad dressing:——
To make this condiment your poet begs
The powdered yellow of two hard-boiled eggs;
Two boiled potatoes passed through kitchen-sieve
Smoothness and softness to the salad give;
Let onion atoms lurk within the bowl,
And, half suspected, animate the whole;
Of mordant mustard add a single spoon
(Distrust the condiment that bites too soon);
But deem it not, thou man of taste, a fault
To add a double quantity of salt;
And, lastly, o’er the flavoured compound toss
A magic soupçon of anchovy sauce.
Oh! green and glorious! Oh! herbaceous treat!
’Twould tempt the dying anchorite to eat;
Back to the world he’d turn his fleeting soul,
And plunge his finger in the salad bowl;
Serenely full the epicure would say,
“Fate cannot harm me, I have dined today.”[142]
[Footnote 142: The poet has inadvertently ignored the oil and vinegar.]
Another recipe for salad dressing:——Yolk of two eggs; table salt, 1/4 oz.;
salad oil, 4 oz.; mustard, 1/2 oz.; best vinegar, 6 oz.; isinglass, 1 dr.;
soluble cayenne, 10 grams. (‘Phar. Jour.’)
Cold meat, poultry, and game, sliced small, with some cucumber or celery,
and a little onion or chopped parsley, or, instead of them, some pickles,
make a very relishing salad. Fish are also employed in the same manner.
Mr C. J. Robinson, writing to ‘Nature’[143] on our salad herbs,
says:——“There is, perhaps, no country in the world so rich as England in
native materials for salad making, and none in which ignorance and
prejudice have more restricted their employment. At every season of the
year the peasant may cull from the field and hedgerow wholesome herbs
which would impart a pleasant variety to his monotonous meal, and save his
store of potatoes from premature exhaustion. Besides there can be no
question that in hot seasons a judicious admixture of fresh green food is
as salutary as it is agreeable. Much has been said lately about the
advantage which the labouring man would derive from an accurate
acquaintance with the various forms of fungus; he has been gravely told
that the _Fistulina hepatica_ is an admirable substitute for beef-steak,
the _Agaricus gambosus_ for the equally unknown veal cutlet.
[Footnote 143: August 18th, 1870.]
“But deep-seated suspicion is not easily eradicated, and there will always
be a certain amount of hazard in dealing with a class of products in which
the distinctions between noxious and innocuous are not very clearly
marked.
“There is not this difficulty with regard to salad herbs, and we conceive
that the diffusion of a little knowledge as to their properties and value
would be an unmixed benefit to our rural population.
“The first place must be assigned on the score of antiquity to the sorrel
plant (_Rumex acetosa_), which in some districts still preserves the name
of ‘green sauce,’ assigned to it in early times, when it formed almost the
only dinner vegetable.
“Its acid is pleasant and wholesome, more delicate in flavour than that of
the wood-sorrel (_Oxalis acetosella_), which, however, is used for table
purposes in France and Germany. Chervil (_Anthriscus cerefolium_) is often
found in a wild state, and is an admirable addition to the salad bowl; and
it is unnecessary to enlarge upon the virtues of celery (_Apium
graveolens_) when improved by cultivation.”
John Ray, writing in 1663, says that “the Italians use several herbs for
sallets, which are not yet, or have not been used lately, but in England,
viz. _Selleri_, which is nothing else but the sweet smallage; the young
shoots whereof, with a little of the head of the root, cut off, they eat
raw with oil and pepper,” and to this we may add that the alisander
(_Smyrnium olusattrum_) is no bad substitute for its better-known
congener. The dandelion, which in France is blanched for the purpose,
affords that _amarie aliquid_ which the professed salad maker finds in the
leaves of the endive, and the same essential ingredient may be supplied by
the avens (_Geum urbanum_), the bladder campion (_Silene inflata_), and
the tender shoots of the wild hop. Most people are familiar with the
properties of the watercress (_Nasturtium officinale_), garlic hedge
mustard (_Erysimum aliaria_), but it may not be generally known that the
common shepherd’s purse (_Eupsulla Bursa-pastoris_) and the lady’s-smock
(_Cardamine pratensis_) are pleasant additions, whose merits have long
been recognised by our foreign neighbours. In fact, there is scarcely a
herb that grows which has not some culinary virtue in a French peasant’s
eyes. Out of the blanched shoots of the wild chicory (_Cichorium Intybus_)
he forms the well-known _barbe de capucius_, and dignifies with the title
of _Salade de chamoine_ our own neglected corn-salad (_Fedia olitaria_).
It would be very easy to extend the dimensions of our list of native salad
herbs, for there are, perhaps, some palates to which the strong flavours
of the chives (_Allium schœnoprasum_) and stonecrop (_Sedum reflexum_) may
commend themselves; but enough has been said to show that nature has not
dealt niggardly with us, and that only knowledge is needful to make the
riches she offers available.
If the British peasant can be taught to discover hidden virtues in these
plants, with whose outward forms he has had life-long familiarity, we do
not despair of his acquiring the one secret of salad-making, viz. the
judicious employment of oil, so as to correct the acrid juices of the
plants, and yet preserve their several flavours unimpaired.
=Salad, Let′tuce.= _Prep._ Take two large lettuces, remove the faded
leaves and the coarser green ones; next cut the green tops off, pull each
leaf off separately, rinse it in cold water, cut it lengthways, and then
into four or ten pieces; put these into a bowl, and sprinkle over them,
with your fingers, 1 small teaspoonful of salt, 1/2 do. of pepper, 3 do.
of salad oil, and 2 do. of English or 1 of French vinegar; then with the
spoon and fork turn the salad lightly in the bowl until thoroughly mixed;
the less it is handled the better. A teaspoonful each of chopped chervil
and tarragon is an immense improvement.
_Obs._ The above seasoning is said to be enough for 1/4 lb. of lettuce.
According to Soyer, it is “such as the Italian count used to make some
years since, by which he made a fortune in dressing salads for the tables
of the aristocracy.” The above may be varied by the addition of 2 eggs,
boiled hard, and sliced, a little eschalot, or a few chives or young
onions. Several other salad herbs, especially endive, water-cresses, and
mustard-and-cress, may be ‘dressed’ in the same manner; always remembering
that the excellence of a salad depends chiefly on the vegetables which
compose them being recently gathered and carefully cleansed.
To improve the appearance of the above and other salads, when on the table
or sideboard, before being used, the gay flower of the nasturtium or
marigold, with a little sliced beet-root or radish, and sliced cucumber,
may be tastefully intermixed with them.
=Salad, Lobs′ter.= _Prep._ (Soyer.) “Have the bowl half filled with any
kind of salad herb you like, as endive, lettuce, &c.; then break a lobster
in two, open the tail, extract the meat in one piece, break the claws, cut
the meat of both in small slices, about a quarter of an inch thick, and
arrange these tastefully on the salad; next take out all the soft part
from the belly, mix it in a basin with 1 teaspoonful of salt, half do. of
pepper, 4 do. of vinegar, and 4 do. of oil; stir these well together, and
pour the mixture on the salad; lastly, cover it with 2 hard eggs, cut into
slices, and a few slices of cucumber.” “To vary this, a few capers and
some fillets of anchovy may be added, stirred lightly, and then served
either with or without some salad sauce. If for a dinner ornament it with
some flowers of the nasturtium and marigold.”
=SAL′EP.= _Syn._ SALOP, SALOOP. The tuberous roots of _Orchis mascula_,
and other allied species, washed, dried, and afterwards reduced to coarse
powder. That imported from Persia and Asia Minor occurs in small oval
grains, of a whitish-yellow colour, often semitranslucent, with a faint,
peculiar smell, and a taste somewhat resembling gum tragacanth. It
consists, chiefly, of bassorin and starch, is very nutritious, and is
reputed aphrodisiac. It is employed in the same way as sago. A decoction
of about 1 oz. of this substance in a pint of water was formerly sold at
street-stalls. A tea made of sassafras chips, flavoured with milk and
coarse brown sugar or treacle, was also sold in the same way, and under
the same name.
FRENCH SALEP is prepared from the potato. Dr Ure says that the _Orchis
mascula_ of our own country, properly treated, would afford an article of
salep equal to the Turkey, and at a vastly lower price.
=SAL′ICIN.= C_{13}H_{18}O_{7}. A white, crystalline substance discovered
by Le Roux and Buchner in the bark and leaves of several species of
_Salix_ and _Populus_. It occurs most abundantly in the white willow
(_Salix alba_) and the aspen (_Salix helix_), but is also found in all the
bitter poplars and willows. From willow bark which is fresh, and rich in
salicin, it may be obtained by the cautious evaporation of the cold
aqueous infusion.
_Prep._ 1. (Merck.) Exhaust willow bark by repeated coction with water,
concentrate the mixed liquors, and, while boiling, add litharge until the
liquid is nearly decoloured; filter, remove the dissolved oxide of lead,
first by sulphuric acid, and afterwards by sulphuret of barium; filter,
and evaporate, that crystals may form; the crystals must be purified by
re-solution and recrystallisation.
2. As No 1, but using a stream of sulphuretted hydrogen, to free the
solution from lead.
3. (P. Codex.) To a strong filtered decoction of willow bark add milk of
lime, to throw down the colour; filter, evaporate the liquor to a syrupy
consistence, add alcohol (sp. gr. ·847), to separate the gummy matter,
filter, distil off the spirit, evaporate the residuum, and set it aside in
a cool place to crystallise; the crystals are purified by solution in
boiling water, agitation with a little animal charcoal, and
recrystallisation.
_Prop., &c._ Salicin forms white, silky needles and plates; it is
intensely bitter; inodorous; neutral; non-basic; fuses at 230° Fahr., with
decomposition; burns with a bright flame; is soluble in 5-1/2 parts of
water at 60°, and in much less at 212°; dissolves readily in alcohol, but
is insoluble in ether. It is tonic, like sulphate of quinine, but less
liable to irritate the stomach. It is given in indigestion and
intermittent diseases, in from 5- to 10-gr. doses.
Salicin has lately been used with considerable advantage in acute
rheumatism.
Dr Maclagan[144] states that he found when administered in doses of 10 gr.
to 1/2 dr., every 2 to 4 hours, the pain and fever ceased in the course of
48 hours. The results are stated to have been quite as favorable as those
following the employment of salicylic acid. It was found to effect with
certainty a great reduction in the bodily temperature.
[Footnote 144: ‘Lancet,’ March 4th and 11th, 1876.]
_Pur. & Tests._——1. It is entirely soluble in water and rectified
spirit.——2. When strongly heated it is wholly dissipated, and, if kindled,
burns with a bright flame, leaving a bulky charcoal.——3. Its solution is
absolutely neutral to test-paper.——4. Concentrated sulphuric acid causes
it to agglutinate into resin-like lumps, with the accession of an intense
blood-red colour.——5. When its aqueous solution is mixed with some
hydrochloric acid, or dilute sulphuric acid, and the mixture is boiled for
a short time, the liquid suddenly becomes turbid, and deposits SALIRETIN,
under the form of a granular crystalline precipitate. This is
characteristic.——6. No reagent deposits salicin without decomposition. See
SALICYLIC and SALICYLOUS ACIDS.
=SAL′ICYL.= C_{7}H_{4}O. A compound radical, forming the basis of the
so-called SALICYL-COMPOUNDS, or SALICYL-SERIES. It is known only in
combination. The volatile oil of meadow-sweet is a natural hydride of
salicyl, a substance which, when artificially prepared, is better known
under the name of SALICYLOUS ACID. (See _below_.)
=SALICYL′IC ACID.= H_{2}C_{7}H_{4}O_{3}. A peculiar volatile,
crystallisable acid, discovered by Piria. It is obtained by fusing
salicylous acid with solid hydrate of potassa in slight excess, until the
mixture turns white and gas is disengaged, and treating a solution of the
residuum with hydrochloric acid, in slight excess to separate the potassa;
the salicylic acid separates in crystals, which are purified by solution
in hot water. It may also be obtained from the oil of partridge-berry
(_Gaultheria procumbens_), by acting on it with a strong and hot solution
of potassa, and afterwards separating the acid as before. This oil is
methylo-salicylic ether, or salicylate of methyl. In its general
properties, salicylic acid closely resembles benzoic acid.
The greater part, if not the whole, of the salicylic acid of commerce is
now obtained by a method invented by Professor Kolbe. This process, which
consists in acting on sodium carbolate with carbonic acid, is thus
described in the ‘Archiv der Pharm.,’ 3rd series, v, 445.[145] In a strong
crude soda liquor of known strength is dissolved a sufficiency of
previously melted crystals of carbolic acid to saturate the soda.
[Footnote 145: ‘Pharm. Journal,’ 3rd series, v, 421.]
The solution is then evaporated in an iron capsule, and by means of
stirring brought to a dry powder. The sodium carbolate so obtained is
gradually heated in a retort to a temperature of from 220° to 250° C., in
a continuous current of dry carbonic anhydride.
The reaction is ended when at the above-mentioned temperature no more
carbolic acid passes over. It might have been expected that, the reaction
going forward in this manner, a molecule of carbonic anhydride would have
been introduced into the molecule of sodium carbonate, and thus a molecule
of sodium salicylate be formed.
This, however, is not the case, only half the sodium carbolate being
converted into salicylate. The reaction proceeds according to the
following equation:——
2NaC_{6}H_{5}O + CO_{2} = Na_{2}C_{7}H_{4}O_{3} + HC_{6}H_{5}O.
The disodic salicylate is dissolved in water and decomposed by
hydrochloric acid. Salicylic acid then separates in crystalline films and
may be purified by recrystallisation out of its solution in hot water.
_Props._——Salicylic acid is a white solid which forms acicular crystals;
it melts at from 155°-156° C.; it dissolves in about 1800 parts of cold
water, but is more soluble in boiling water as well as in alcohol and in
ether. An aqueous solution of salicylic acid mixed with one of a ferric
salt produces a deep violet colour.
Professor Kolbe surmised that from the constitution of salicylic acid, as
revealed by his synthetical process, that it would split up with heat into
carbonic anhydrate and carbolic acid, and hence that it might be employed
as an antiseptic and antiputrefactive agent. He quotes the following
experiments as confirmatory of his views on this point:——Mustard meal,
which, in a few minutes after being mixed with warm water, gave off a
strong smell of mustard oil, formed with water a scentless mixture, when a
little salicylic acid had been previously added. No fermentation was set
up by yeast in a fermentation of grape sugar, to which salicylic acid had
been added; whilst in a sugar solution already in fermentation the action
stopped after the addition of some salicylic acid. The preservation
influence of this acid upon fresh meat is also recorded.
The following, among other experiments, in their results, illustrate the
physiological action of salicylic acid:——
Solution of amygdalin mixed with emulsion of sweet almonds developed no
smell of bitter almonds if some salicylic acid were added. Beer, to which
salicylic acid, in the proportion of 1 to 1000, was added, was thereby
prevented from being spoiled by fungoid growth.
Fresh pure cow’s milk, mixed with 0·04 per cent. of salicylic acid, and
allowed to stand in an open vessel at a temperature of 18° C., curdled
thirty-six hours later than a similar quantity of milk standing by the
side of it, but containing no salicylic acid. The milk remained of a good
flavour, the small quantity of salicylic acid present not being
perceptible to the palate.
Some fresh urine was divided into two portions, and placed in separate
vessels, after some salicylic acid had been added to one portion.
The urine containing the acid was on the third day still clear and free
from ammoniacal odour, whilst the other portion was far advanced in
putrefaction.
Professor Thiersch has investigated the antiseptic action of this acid,
specially in relation to surgery. He has found that as a powder, either
alone or mixed with starch, it destroys for a long time the fetid odour of
cancerous surfaces or uncleansed wounds, without setting up any
inflammatory symptoms. A solution of one part of salicylic acid, and three
parts of sodium phosphate in fifty parts of water, promotes the healing of
granulated surfaces.
According to Dr Rudolph Wagner, salicylic acid may be applied to the
following industrial purposes:——
If a concentrated aqueous solution of salicylic acid be applied to fresh
meat, and the meat be then placed in well-closed vessels, it will remain
perfectly fresh for a long period. This solution is also very useful in
the manufacture of sausages and such food. Butter containing a bitter
salicylic acid will remain fresh for months, even in the hottest weather.
The same acid prevents the moulding of preserved fruits. In the
manufacture of vinegar this acid is of great utility.
The addition of a little salicylic acid renders glue more tenacious. The
acid also prevents decomposition in gut and parchment during their
manufacture.
Skins to be used for making leather do not undergo decomposition if
steeped in a dilute solution of salicylic acid.
Weaver’s or bookbinder’s glue and other allied substances may be preserved
for a long period by treating them with a solution of this acid.
Albumen may be preserved by the same means.
This acid is a very delicate test reagent for iron.
The methyl ether and amyl ether of salicylic acid are used as perfumes.
The calcium salt on keeping and distilling with water yields a liquid
which has a strong odour of roses.
Mr Rother, an American chemist, contends that the antiseptic powers of
salicylic acid have been much overrated. He states that he had tried it
for the preservation of the syrups of marshmallow, raspberry juice, and
milk, and that it was a failure. Professor Salkowsky regards it as of less
value as an antiseptic than benzoic acid.
Dr Muter gives the following method for estimating the value of commercial
samples of salicylic acid, and of detecting it in milk and similar organic
solutions:——A standard solution of pure salicylic acid (1 grain of acid
dissolved in 1 litre of water, so that 1 c.c. represents 1 mgm. of acid)
is prepared; the _indicator_ solution consists of a solution of pure
neutral ferric chloride, of such a strength that 1 c.c. added, drop by
drop, to 50 c.c. of standard acid, just ceases to give any increase in
intensity of colour; 1 gram of the commercial sample is then dissolved in
1 litre of water, and 50 c.c. is put into a Nessler tube; to this 1 c.c.
of ferric solution is added, and the colour observed after standing for
five minutes, some of the standard acid is also poured into another tube,
and made up to 50 c.c. with water, and the 1 c.c. of ferric chloride
added. When the colours are alike the amount of pure acid present in the
sample is equal to the amount of pure acid added. All mineral acids should
be absent, even acetic acid affects the reaction. To detect the presence
of salicylic acid added to beer or milk, four ounces of these liquids are
dialysed for twelve hours in a pint of distilled water; if after that time
salicylic acid is still found to be present, the dialysis must be
continued for forty-eight hours. The amount present is determined in the
manner above stated.
=SALICYL′OUS ACID.= C_{7}H_{6}O_{2}. _Syn._ SALICYLOL, HYDROSALICYLIC
ACID†, HYDRIDE OF SALICYL, ARTIFICIAL OIL OF MEADOW-SWEET. A nearly
colourless, oily, inflammable liquid, discovered by Pagenstecher in the
volatile oil of _Spiræa ulmaria_ (meadow-sweet), which, when pure,
entirely consists of it; and by Piria, as a product of the decomposition
of salicin.
_Prep._ The oil of meadow-sweet is mixed with a strong solution of caustic
potassa, and the yellow crystalline mass which separates on agitation is
purified by pressure between folds of bibulous paper and recrystallisation
from alcohol; the resulting crystals (salicylite of potassium) are then
decomposed by the addition of dilute sulphuric acid, the floating oil
separated from the water, and freed from moisture by careful distillation
from chloride of calcium.
_Prop., &c._ Salicylous acid is soluble in ether and alcohol, and slightly
so in water, to which it imparts its peculiar fragrance and the
characteristic property of striking a deep violet colour with the
sesquisalts of iron. It is distinguished from salicylic acid, which also
exhibits this reaction, by its liquid form and odour.
=SALI′VA.= See MASTICATION.
=SALM′ON.= _Syn._ SALMO, L. The _Salmo Salar_ (Linn.), a well-known,
soft-finned abdominal fish. Its normal locality is at the mouth or estuary
of the larger rivers of the northern seas, which, during the breeding
season, it ascends, sooner or later, in the summer months, against all
obstacles, for the purpose of depositing its spawn.
The salmon is an excellent and highly esteemed fish; but it is rich, oily,
and difficult of digestion, and, therefore, ill adapted to the delicate or
dyspeptic. When pickled, salted, or smoked it is only fitted for persons
of very strong stomachs, although in this state it is regarded as a great
delicacy by epicures.
Salmon has the following composition:——
Nitrogenous matter 16·1
Fat 5·5
Saline matter 1·4
Water 77·
———————
100·0
Salmon is preferably cooked by boiling. One weighing 10 lbs. will require
to be gently simmered for about an hour, reckoning from the time the water
commences boiling. For fish of other weights, from 6 to 7 minutes per lb.
may be allowed. See FISH, &c.
=SALOOP′.= Sassafras (chips) tea, flavoured with milk and sugar. A
wholesome and useful drink in cutaneous and rheumatic affections. See
SALEP.
=SALT.= _Syn._ SAL, L.; SEL, Fr. Salts may be regarded as acids in which
one or more atoms of hydrogen, a constant constituent of all true acids,
are replaced by a metal or other basic radical. This relationship between
acids and salts will be better understood by reference to the subjoined
list of acids and their corresponding potassium and ammonium salts:——
Acids. Salts.
HCl (Hydrochloric acid) —— KCl (Chloride of potassium).
” ” ” —— NH_{4}Cl (Chloride of ammonium).
HNO_{3} (Nitric acid) —— KNO_{3} (Nitrate of potassium).
” ” ” —— NH_{4}NO_{3} (Nitrate of ammonium).
H_{2}SO_{4} (Sulphuric acid) —— K{2}SO_{4} (Sulphate of potassium).
” ” ” —— (NH_{4})_{2}SO_{4} (Sulphate of
ammonium).
Acids are, in fact, hydrogen salts. The so-called DOUBLE SALTS are,
according to one view, combinations of two salts of the same acid, but of
different basic radicles; thus, common alum is a compound of sulphate of
aluminum and sulphate of potassium.
The salts are a most important class of bodies, and their applications and
uses in the arts of life and civilisation are almost infinite. See
NOMENCLATURE, &c.
=Salt of Bark.= See EXTRACT OF BARK, DRIED.
=Salt, Bitter Pur′ging.= Epsom salt.
=Salt, Cathar′tic.= Of GLAUBER, sulphate of sodium; ENGLISH or BITTER S.,
sulphate of magnesium (Epsom salt).
=Salt, Common.= _Syn._ CULINARY SALT. Chloride of sodium.
=Salt, Diuret′ic.= Acetate of potassium.
=Salt, Ep′som.= Sulphate of magnesium.
=Salt, Feb′rifuge.= Chloride of potassium.
=Salt, Fu′′sible.= Phosphate of ammonium.
=Salt, Glauber’s.= Sulphate of sodium.
=Salt, Macqueer’s.= Binarseniate of potassium.
=Salt, Microcos′mic.= Phosphate of sodium and ammonium.
=Salt, Red.= Common salt wetted with an infusion of beet-root, or
cochineal, or tincture of red sanders wood, then dried, and rubbed through
a sieve. Used to impart a colour to gravies, &c. Infusion of saffron also
gives a beautiful colour for this purpose. It has been proposed to colour
Epsom salt in this way, to distinguish it from oxalic acid.
=Salt, Rochelle.= Tartrate of potassium and sodium.
=Salt, Sea.= Chloride of sodium.
=Salt, Sed′ative.= Boracic acid.
=Salt, Smelling.= See SALTS (_below_).
=Salt, Sore-throat.= Sal prunella.
=Salt, Taste′less.= Phosphate of sodium.
=Salt, Veg′etable.= Tartrate of potassium.
=Salt, Vol′atile.= Common carbonate of ammonium.
=Salt of Lem′ons.= _Syn._ SAL LIMONUM, L. Citric acid. That sold in the
shops for the removal of ink spots from linen is binoxalate or
quadroxalate of potassium, either alone or mixed with one half its weight
of cream of tartar.
=Salt of Sor′rel.= Binoxalate or quadroxalate of potassium.
=Salt of Steel.= Sulphate of iron.
=Salt of Tar′tar.= Carbonate of potassium.
=Salt of Vit′riol.= Sulphate of zinc.
=Salt of Wormwood.= Carbonate of potassium.
=SALT′ING.= PICKLING. _Syn_. This is an easy method of preserving
butcher’s meat, fish, and, indeed, most animal substances. It is performed
in two ways:——
1. (DRY SALTING.) This, as practised in Hampshire, Yorkshire, and in
various large establishments elsewhere, consists in merely well rubbing
ordinary culinary salt, mixed with a little saltpetre, into the meat,
until every crevice is thoroughly penetrated, and, afterwards, sprinkling
some over it, and placing it on a board or in a trough, in such a manner
that the brine may drain off. On the small scale, in private families, a
mixture of salt, 2 lbs., with saltpetre, 1-1/2 or 2 oz., either with or
without about an oz. of good moist sugar, is commonly used for the
purpose, and imparts a fine flavour to the meat. In both cases the pieces
are turned every day, or every other day, until sufficiently cured, a
little fresh salt being added as required. Sometimes the fresh meat is
packed at once in casks, with the best coarse-grained or bay salt. This
method is that commonly adopted for sea stores.
2. (WET SALTING, or PICKLING IN BRINE.) When the meat is allowed to lie in
the liquor that runs from it (see _above_), or is at once plunged into
strong brine, it is said to be ‘pickled,’ or ‘wet salted.’ On the small
scale, this is most conveniently performed by rubbing the fresh meat with
salt, &c., as above, and, after it has lain a few hours, putting it into a
pickle formed by dissolving about 4 lbs. of good salt and 2 oz. of
saltpetre in 1 gall. of water, either with or without the addition of 1/2
to 1 lb. of moist sugar. This pickling liquor gets weaker by use, and
should, therefore, be occasionally boiled down a little, and skimmed, at
the same time adding some more of the dry ingredients. Three to ten days,
depending on the size, is sufficiently long to keep meat in the brine.
When it is taken out it should be hung up to dry, after which it may be
packed in barrels with coarse-grained salt, or smoked, whichever may be
desired. Saltpetre added to brine gives the meat a red colour, and brown
sugar improves the flavour.
The sooner animal substances, more especially flesh, are salted after
being killed, the better, as they then possess considerable absorbent
power, which they gradually lose by age. See PUTREFACTION, SCURVY,
SMOKING, &c.
=SALTPE′TRE.= Nitrate of potassium.
=SALTS for producing Factitious Mineral Waters.= AERATED, OR CARBONATE
WATERS. These require the aid of the powerful machine employed by
soda-water manufacturers, to charge the waters strongly with carbonic-acid
gas. The gas is made from whiting and diluted sulphuric acid, and is
forced by a pump into the watery solution. Sometimes the gas is produced
by the mutual action of the ingredients introduced into the bottle of
water, which must be instantly closed; but this method is found
practically inconvenient, and is only adopted in the absence of proper
apparatus. The quantity of gas introduced is directed, in the French and
American pharmacopœias, in most cases, to be 5 times the volume of liquid.
For chalybeate and sulphuretted waters the water should be previously
deprived of the air it naturally contains, by boiling, and allowing it to
cool in a closed vessel.
There are various manufacturers of aerated-water machines, and of syphon
bottles for holding these waters when made. The names and addresses of
these makers may be found in any trade directory.
SIMPLE AERATED WATER. Carbonic-acid gas water. Water charged with five or
more volumes of carbonic-acid gas, as above.
ALKALINE AERATED WATERS. Aerated soda and potash waters should be made by
dissolving a drachm of the carbonated alkali in each pint of water, and
charging it strongly with carbonic-acid gas. The soda water of the shops
generally contains but little (or no) soda.
AERATED MAGNESIA WATER. This is made of various strengths.
MURRAY’S and DINNEFORD’S FLUID MAGNESIA may be thus made:——To a boiling
solution of 16 oz. of sulphate of magnesia in 6 pints of water add a
solution of 19 oz. of crystallised carbonate of soda in the same quantity
of water; boil the mixture till gas ceases to escape, stirring constantly;
then set it aside to settle; pour off the liquid, and wash the precipitate
on a cotton or linen cloth, with warm water, till the latter passes
tasteless. Mix the precipitate, without drying it, with a gallon of water,
and force carbonic-acid gas into it under strong pressure, till a complete
solution is effected. The _Eau Magnésienne_ of the French codex is about a
third of this strength; and we have met with some prepared in this country
not much stronger.
CARBONATED LIME WATER. Carrara water. Lime water (prepared from lime made
by calcining Carrara marble) is supersaturated by strong pressure with
carbonic acid, so that the carbonate of lime at first thrown down is
redissolved. It contains 8 gr. of carbonate of lime in 10 fl. oz. of
water.
AERATED LITHIA WATER. This may be conveniently made from the fresh
precipitated carbonate, dissolved in carbonated water, as directed for
fluid magnesia. Its antacid and antilithic properties promise to be
useful.
SALINE CARBONATED WATERS.
The following afford approximate imitations of these waters. The earthy
salts, with the salts of iron, should be dissolved together in the
smallest quantity of water. The other ingredients to be dissolved in the
larger portion of the water, and the solution impregnated with the gas.
The first solution may be then added or be previously introduced into the
bottles. The salts, unless otherwise stated, are to be crystallised.
BADEN WATER. Chloride of magnesium, 2 gr.; chloride of calcium, 40 gr.;
perchloride of iron, 1/4 gr. (or 3 minims of the tincture); chloride of
sodium, 30 gr.; sulphate of soda, 10 gr.; carbonate of soda, 1 gr.; water,
1 pint; carbonic-acid gas, 5 volumes.
CARLSBAD WATER. Chloride of calcium, 8 gr.; tincture of chloride of iron,
1 drop; sulphate of soda, 50 gr.; carbonate of soda, 60 gr.; chloride of
sodium, 8 gr.; carbonated water, 1 pint.
EGER. Carbonate of soda, 5 gr.; sulphate of soda, 4 scruples; chloride of
sodium, 10 gr.; sulphate of magnesia, 3 gr.; chloride of calcium, 5 gr.;
carbonated water, 1 pint. (Or it may be made without apparatus,
thus:——Bicarbonate of soda, 30 gr.; chloride of sodium, 8 gr.; sulphate of
magnesia, 3 gr.; water, a pint; dissolve, and add a scruple of dry
bisulphate of soda, and close the bottle immediately.)
EMS. Carbonate of soda, 2 scruples; sulphate of potash, 1 gr.; sulphate of
magnesia, 5 gr.; chloride of sodium, 10 gr.; chloride of calcium, 3 gr.;
carbonated water, a pint.
MARIENBAD. Carbonate of soda, 2 scruples; sulphate of soda, 96 gr.;
sulphate of magnesia, 8 gr.; chloride of sodium, 15 gr.; chloride of
calcium, 10 gr.; carbonated water, a pint. (Or, bicarbonate of soda, 50
gr.; sulphate of soda, 1 dr.; chloride of sodium, 15 gr.; sulphate of
magnesia, 10 gr.; dissolve in a pint of water, add 25 gr. of dry
bisulphate of soda, and cork immediately.)
MARIENBAD PURGING SALTS. Bicarbonate of soda, 5 oz.; dried sulphate of
soda, 12 oz.; dry chloride of sodium, 1-1/2 oz.; sulphate of magnesia,
dried, 2 oz.; dried bisulphate of soda, 2-1/2 oz. Mix the salts,
previously dried, separately, and keep them carefully from the air.
PULLNA WATER. Sulphate of soda, 4 dr.; sulphate of magnesia, 4 dr.;
chloride of calcium, 15 gr.; chloride of magnesium (dry), a scruple;
chloride of sodium, a scruple; bicarbonate of soda, 10 gr.; water,
slightly carbonated, 1 pint. One of the most active of the purgative
saline waters.
PULLNA WATER WITHOUT THE MACHINE. Bicarbonate of soda, 50 gr.; sulphate of
magnesia, 4 dr.; sulphate of soda, 3 dr.; chloride of sodium, a scruple;
dissolve in a pint of water; add, lastly, 2 scruples of bisulphate of
soda, and close the bottle immediately.
SALTS FOR MAKING PULLNA WATER. Dry bicarbonate of soda, 1 oz.; exsiccated
sulphate of soda, 2 oz.; exsiccated sulphate of magnesia, 1-1/2 oz.; dry
chloride of sodium, 2 dr.; dry tartaric acid, 3/4 oz. (or rather dry
bisulphate of soda, 1 oz.).
SEIDLITZ WATER. This is usually imitated by strongly aerating a solution
of 2 dr. of sulphate of magnesia in a pint of water. It is also made with
4, 6, and 8 dr. of the salts to a pint of water.
SEIDLITZ POWDER. The common seidlitz powders do not resemble the water. A
closer imitation would be made by using effloresced sulphate of magnesia
instead of the potassio-tartrate of soda. A still more exact compound will
be the following:——Effloresced sulphate of magnesia, 2 oz.; bicarbonate of
soda, 1/2 oz.; dry bisulphate of soda, 1/2 oz.; mix, and keep in a close
bottle.
SEIDSCHUTZ WATER. Sulphate of magnesia, 3 dr.; chloride of calcium,
nitrate of lime, bicarbonate of soda, of each 8 gr.; sulphate of potash,
5 gr.; aerated water, 1 pint.
SELTZER WATER. Chloride of calcium and chloride of magnesium, of each 4
gr.; dissolve these in a small quantity of water, and add it to a similar
solution of 8 gr. of bicarbonate of soda, 20 gr. of chloride sodium, and 2
gr. of phosphate of soda; mix, and add a solution of 1/4 gr. of sulphate
of iron; put the mixed solution into a 20-oz. bottle, and fill up with
aerated water. Much of the Seltzer water sold is said to be nothing more
than simple carbonated water, containing a little chloride of sodium. An
imitation of Seltzer water is also made by putting into a stone Seltzer
bottle, filled with water, 2 dr. bicarbonate of soda, and 2 dr. of citric
acid in crystals, corking the bottle immediately. Sodaic powders are
sometimes sold as Seltzer powders.
VICHY WATER. Bicarbonate of soda, 1 dr.; chloride of sodium, 2 gr.;
sulphate of soda, 8 gr.; sulphate of magnesia, 3 gr.; tincture of chloride
of iron, 2 drops; aerated water, a pint. Dorvault directs 75 gr. of
bicarbonate of soda, 4 gr. of chloride of sodium, 1/5 gr. sulphate of
iron, 10 gr. sulphate of soda, 3 gr. sulphate of magnesia, to a pint of
water. By adding 45 gr. (or less) of citric acid, an effervescing water is
obtained.
M. Soubeiran, relying on the analysis of Longchamps, imitates Vichy water
by the following combination:——Bicarbonate of soda, 135 gr.; chloride of
sodium, 2-1/2 gr.; cryst. chloride of calcium, 12 gr.; sulphate of soda,
11-1/2 gr.; sulphate of magnesia, 3-3/4 gr.; tartrate of iron and potash,
1/8 gr.; water, 2-1/10 pints (1 litre); carbonic acid, 305 cub. inches (5
litres). Dissolve the salts of soda and iron in part of the water, and add
the sulph. magnes. and then the chlor. calc. in the remaining water.
Charge now with the carbonic-acid gas under pressure.
VICHY SALTS. Bicarbonate of soda, 1-1/2 oz.; chloride of sodium, 15 gr.;
effloresced sulphate of soda, 1 dr.; effloresced sulphate of magnesia, 1
scruple; dry tartarised potash and iron, 1 gr.; dry tartaric acid, 1 oz.
(or dry bisulphate of soda); mix the powders, previously dried, and keep
them in a close bottle.
SALINE WATERS, &C., NOT CARBONATED.
SEA WATER. Chloride of sodium, 4 oz.; sulphate of soda, 2 oz.; chloride of
calcium, 1/4 oz.; chloride of magnesium, 1 oz.; iodide of potassium, 4
gr.; bromide of potassium, 2 gr.; water, a gallon. A common substitute for
sea water as a bath is made by dissolving 4 or 5 oz. of common salt in a
gallon of water.
The following mixture of dry salts may be kept for the immediate
production of a good imitation of sea water:——Chloride of sodium (that
obtained from evaporating sea water, and not recrystallised, in
preference), 85 oz.; effloresced sulphate of soda, 15 oz.; dry chloride
of calcium, 4 oz.; dry chloride of magnesium, 16 oz.; iodide of potassium,
2 dr.; bromide of potassium, 1 gr. Mix, and keep dry. Put 4 or 5 oz. to a
gallon of water.
BALARUC WATER. Chloride of sodium, 1 oz.; chloride of calcium, 1 oz.;
chloride of magnesium, 1/2 oz.; sulphate of soda, 3 dr.; bicarbonate of
soda, 2 dr.; bromide of potassium, 1 gr.; water, a gallon. Chiefly used
for baths.
SULPHURETTED WATERS.
SIMPLE SULPHURETTED WATERS. Pass sulphuretted hydrogen into cold water
(previously deprived of air by boiling, and cooled in a closed vessel)
till it ceases to be absorbed.
AIX-LA-CHAPELLE WATER. Bicarbonate of soda, 12 gr.; chloride of sodium, 25
gr.; chloride of calcium, 3 gr.; sulphate of soda, 8 gr.; simple
sulphuretted water, 2-1/2 oz.; water, slightly carbonated, 17-1/2 oz.
BARÈGES WATER. (Cauterets, Bagnères de Luchon, Eaux Bonnes, St Sauveur,
may be made the same.) Crystallised hydrosulphate of soda, crystallised
carbonate of soda, and chloride of sodium, of each 1-1/2 gr.; water (freed
from air), a pint. A stronger solution for adding to baths is thus
made:——Crystallised hydrosulphate of soda, crystallised carbonate of soda,
and chloride of sodium, of each 2 oz.; water, 10 oz.; dissolve. To be
added to a common bath at the time of using.
NAPLES WATER. Crystallised carbonate of soda, 15 gr.; fluid magnesia, 1
oz.; simple sulphuretted water, 2 oz.; aerated water, 16 oz. Introduce the
sulphuretted water into the bottle last.
HARROGATE WATER. Chloride of sodium, 100 gr.; chloride of calcium, 10 gr.;
chloride of magnesium, 6 gr.; bicarbonate of soda, 2 gr.; water, 18-1/2
oz. Dissolve, and add simple sulphuretted water, 1-1/2 oz.
CHALYBEATE WATERS.
SIMPLE CHALYBEATE WATER. Water freed from air by boiling, 1 pint; sulphate
of iron, 1/2 gr.
AERATED CHALYBEATE WATER. Sulphate of iron, 1 gr.; carbonate of soda, 4
gr.; water (deprived of air and charged with carbonic-acid gas), a pint.
Dr Pereira recommends 10 gr. each of sulphate of iron and bicarbonate of
soda to be taken in a bottle of ordinary soda water. This is equivalent to
4 gr. of carbonate of iron.
BRIGHTON CHALYBEATE. Sulphate of iron, chloride of sodium, chloride of
calcium, of each 2 gr.; carbonate of soda, 3 gr.; carbonated water, 1
pint.
BUSSANG, FORGES, PROVINS, and other similar waters, may be imitated by
dissolving from 1/2 to 2/3rds of a grain of sulphate of iron, 2 or 3 gr.
of carbonate of soda, 1 gr. of sulphate of magnesia, and 1 of chloride of
sodium, in a pint of aerated water.
MONT D’OR WATER. Bicarbonate of soda, 70 gr.; sulphate of iron, 2/3 gr.;
chloride of sodium, 12 gr.; sulphate of soda, 1/2 gr.; chloride of
calcium, 4 gr.; chloride of magnesium, 2 gr.; aerated water, a pint.
PASSY WATER. Sulphate of iron, 2 gr.; chloride of sodium, 3 gr.; carbonate
of soda, 4 gr.; chloride of magnesium, 2 gr.; aerated water, a pint.
PYRMONT WATER. Sulphate of magnesia, 20 gr.; chloride of magnesium, 4 gr.;
chloride of sodium, 2 gr.; bicarbonate of soda, 16 gr.; sulphate of iron,
2 gr.; Carrara water, a pint.
VARIOUS AERATED MEDICINAL WATERS NOT RESEMBLING ANY NATURAL SPRING.
MIALHE’S AERATED CHALYBEATE WATER. Water, a pint; citric acid, 1 dr.;
citrate of iron, 15 gr.; dissolve, and add 75 gr. of bicarbonate of soda.
TROSSEAU’S MARTIAL AERATED WATER. Potassio-tartrate of iron, 10 gr.;
artificial Seltzer water, a pint.
BOUCHARDAT’S GASEOUS PURGATIVE. Phosphate of soda, 1-1/2 oz.; carbonated
water, a pint.
MIALHE’S IODURETTED GASEOUS WATER. Iodide of potassium, 15 gr.;
bicarbonate of soda, 75 gr.; water, a pint; dissolve and add sulphuric
acid, diluted with its weight of water, 75 gr. Cork immediately.
DUPASQUIER’S GASEOUS WATER OF IODIDE OF IRON. Solution of iodide of iron
(containing 1/10th of dry iodide), 30 gr.; syrup of gum, 2-1/2 oz.;
aerated water, 17-1/2 oz.
=SALTS (Smelling).= _Syn._ SAL VOLATILIS OLEOSUS, L. Sesquicarbonate of
ammonia commonly passes under the name of ‘SMELLING SALTS,’ and, with the
addition of a few drops of essential oil, is frequently employed to fill
‘SMELLING BOTTLES,’ but when a strong and durable pungency is desired, the
carbonate should alone be used, as in one or other of the following
formulæ:——
1. Carbonate (not sesquicarbonate) of ammonia, 1 lb.; oil of lavender
(Mitcham), 2 oz.; essence of bergamot, 1 oz.; oil of cloves, 1/4 oz.; rub
them together, and sublime; keep the product in well-stopped bottles.
2. Carbonate of ammonia, 1 lb.; oil of lavender, 2 oz.; oils of bergamot
and lemon, of each 1 oz.; as the last.
3. Carbonate of ammonia, 1/2 lb.; essence of bergamot, 1 oz.; oil of
verbena, 1/4 oz.; otto of roses, 1 dr.; as before.
4. Carbonate of ammonia, 3/4 lb.; essences of bergamot and lemon, of each
1/2 oz.; essence de petit grain, 1/4 oz.; oil of cloves, 1 dr.; as before.
5. (Extemporaneous.)——_a._ From sal ammoniac, 1 dr.; pure potassa, 3 dr.;
grind them together, and add, of essence of lemons, 15 drops; oil of
cloves, 3 or 4 drops.——_b._ From carbonate or sesquicarbonate of ammonia
(bruised), q. s.; volatile ammoniacal essence, a few drops.
According to Dr Paris, GODFREY’S SMELLING SALTS are made by resubliming
volatile salt with subcarbonate of potassa and a little spirits of wine
(and essential oil).
=SALVE.= A name indiscriminately applied by the vulgar to any consistent,
greasy preparation used in medicine.
=Salve, Lip-.= _Syn._ CERATUM LABIALE, L.
_Prep._ 1. (RED or PERUVIAN.) From spermaceti ointment, 1/2 lb.; alkanet
root, 1/2 oz.; melt them together until sufficiently coloured, strain,
and, when the strained fat has cooled a little, add of balsam of Peru, 3
dr.; stir well, and in a few minutes pour off the clear portion from the
dregs; lastly, stir in of oil of cloves, 20 or 30 drops. This never gets
rancid.
2. (ROSE.) See CERATE.
3. (WHITE.) From the finest spermaceti ointment or cerate, 3 oz.; finely
powdered white sugar, 1 oz.; neroli or essence de petit grain, 10 or 12
drops, or q. s.
_Obs._ Numerous formulæ are extant for lip-salves, as for other like
articles, but the preceding are those generally employed in trade. The
perfumes may be varied at will and the salve named after them. A very
small quantity of finely powdered borax is occasionally added. FRENCH
LIP-SALVE is said to contain alum, in fine powder; and GERMAN LIP-SALVE is
said to be made of cacao butter. See CERATE, POMMADE, and OINTMENT.
=SAND.= _Syn._ ARENA, L. River and sea sand consist chiefly of finely
divided siliceous matter, mixed, occasionally, with carbonate of lime.
That of Lynn and Alum Bay is nearly purely silica, and is, therefore,
selected for the manufacture of glass. Sand is used by moulders in metal,
and as a manure for heavy land. It is a large and necessary portion of
every fertile soil.
=SAND PAPER.= The ‘American Builder’ gives the following process for
making sand-paper of superior quality, at almost nominal cost:
“The device for making sand-paper is simple and at hand to any one who has
occasion to use the paper. A quantity of ordinary window glass is taken
(that having a green colour is said to be the best) and pounded fine,
after which it is passed through one or more sieves of different degrees
of fineness, to secure the glass for coarse or fine paper. Then any tough
paper is covered evenly with glue, having about one third more water than
is generally employed for wood work. The glass is sifted upon the paper,
allowed a day or two in which to become fixed in the glue, when the refuse
glue is shaken off, and the paper is fit for use.”
=SAN′DAL WOOD.= 1. (RED SANDERS WOOD, R. SAUNDERS W.; LIGNUM SANTALI
RUBRI, LIGNUM SANTALINUM RUBRUM, PTEROCARPUS——Ph. L. & E.) The wood of
_Pterocarpus santilinus_. It is used in medicine as a colouring matter. It
is also employed in dyeing, and to stain varnishes. WOOL may be dyed a
carmine red by dipping it alternately into an infusion of this wood and an
acidulous bath, (Trommsdorff.) Prepared with a mordant of alum and tartar,
and then dyed in a bath of sandal wood and sumach, it takes a
reddish-yellow. (Bancroft.) See SANTALIN.
2. (WHITE SANDAL WOOD, WHITE SANDERS; SANTALUM ALBUM.) The young timber,
or, according to others, the outside wood of _Santalum album_. (Linn.)
3. (YELLOW SANDAL WOOD; SANTALUM CITRINUM, S. FLAVUM.) The old timber, or,
according to others, the heart of the same tree. Both the latter are much
esteemed on account of their fragrance, and yield a valuable essential
oil.
=SAN′DARACH.= _Syn._ SANDRAC, GUMS. A resin obtained from _Thuja
articulata_, and _Juniperus communis_ (in warm climates). It is slightly
fragrant, is freely soluble in rectified spirit, and has a sp. gr. of 1·05
to 1·09. It is used as incense, pounce, in varnishes, &c.
=SAN′DERS WOOD.= See SANDAL WOOD.
=SAN′DIVER.= _Syn._ GLASS GALL; FELL VITRI, SAL VITRI, L. The saline scum
that swims on glass when first made. It is occasionally used in tooth
powders.
=SANGUINA′RINE.= _Syn._ SANGUINARINA, L. Obtained from the root of
_Sanguinaria Canadensis_ (Linn.), or blood-root, by digesting it in
anhydrous alcohol; exhausting it with weak sulphuric acid; precipitating
by liquor of ammonia; dissolving out by ether, and precipitating sulphate
of sanguinarine by the addition of sulphuric acid. The sulphate may be
decomposed by ammonia, which precipitates the alkaloid as a white pearly
substance, of an acrid taste, very soluble in alcohol, also soluble in
ether and volatile oils. With acids it forms soluble salts, remarkable for
their beautiful red, crimson, and scarlet colours. These salts are used in
medicine as expectorants, in doses of fractions of a grain.
The ‘sanguinarin’ of the American ‘Eclectics’ is prepared by precipitating
a saturated tincture of blood-root by water. It contains an uncertain
proportion of the alkaloid, and is of a deep reddish-brown colour. See
RESINOIDS.
=SANITARY AUTHORITIES AND SANITARY DISTRICTS.= With the exception of the
metropolis, the whole of England and Ireland is divided into urban and
rural sanitary districts, which are respectively governed by urban and
rural authorities.
The Public Health Act (sec. 6) thus defines an urban district, and an
urban authority in England:——
----------------------------------------+---------------------
_Urban Districts._ | _Urban Authority._
----------------------------------------+---------------------
Borough, constituted such either before | The mayor, aldermen,
or after the passing of this Act. | and burgesses,
| acting by the
| council.
|
Improvement act district, constituted | The improvement
such before the passing of the Public | commissioners.
Health Act, 1872, and having no |
part of its area situated within a |
borough or local government district. |
|
Local government district constituted | The local board.
such either before or after the passing |
of this Act, having no part of |
its area situated within a borough, |
and not coincident in area with a |
borough or improvement act district. |
----------------------------------------+---------------------
Provided that——
1. Any borough the whole of which is included in and forms part of a local
government district or improvement act district, and any improvement act
district which is included in and forms part of a local government
district, and any local government district which is included in and forms
part of an improvement act district, shall, for the purposes of this Act,
be deemed to be absorbed in the larger district in which it is included,
or of which it forms part; and the Improvement commissioners, or local
board, as the case may be, of such larger district, shall be the urban
authority therein; and
2. Where an improvement act district is coincident in area with a local
government district, the improvement commissioners, and not a local board,
shall be the urban authority there; and
3. Where any part of an improvement act district is situated within a
borough or local act district, or where any part of a local government
district is situated within a borough, the remaining part of such
improvement act district or of such local government district so partly
situated within a borough, shall for the purposes of this Act continue
subject to the like jurisdiction as it would have been subject to if this
Act had not been passed, unless and until the Local Government Board by
provisional order otherwise directs.
For the purposes of the Public Health Act, the boroughs of Oxford,
Cambridge, Blandford, Calne, Wenlock, Folkestone, and Newport, Isle of
Wight, are not to be deemed boroughs.
The borough of Cambridge is to be deemed an improvement act district, the
borough of Oxford is to be included in the local government district of
Oxford, and there is a special provision in the case of the borough of
Folkestone.
An English rural sanitary district and authority are thus defined by the
Public Health Act (sec. 9):——
“The area of any union which is not coincident in area with an urban
district, nor wholly included in an urban district (in this section
called a rural union), with the exception of those portions (if any) of
the area which are included in any urban district, shall be a rural
district, and the guardians of the union shall form the rural authority of
such district, provided that——
“1. An _ex officio_ guardian resident in any parish or part of a parish
belonging to such union, which parish or part of a parish forms or is
situated in an urban district, shall not act or vote in any case in which
guardians of such union act or vote as members of the rural authority,
unless he is the owner or occupier of property situated in the rural
district of a value sufficient to qualify him as an elective guardian for
the union.
“2. An elective guardian of any parish belonging to such union, and
forming or being included within an urban district, shall not act or vote
in any case in which guardians of such union act or vote as members of the
rural authority.
“3. Where part of a parish belonging to a rural union forms or is situated
in an urban district, the Local Government Board may by order divide such
parish into separate wards, and determine the number of guardians to be
elected by such wards respectively, in such manner as to provide for the
due representation of the part of the parish situated within the rural
district; but until such order has been made, the guardian or guardians of
such parish may act and vote as members of the rural authority in the same
manner as if no part of such parish formed part of, or was situated in,
the urban district.”
Where the number of elective guardians, who are not by this section
disqualified from acting and voting as members of the rural authority, is
less than five, the Local Government Board may from time to time by order
nominate such number of persons as may be necessary to make up that
number, from owners or occupiers of property situated in the rural
district of a value sufficient to qualify them as elective guardians for
the union; and the persons so nominated shall be entitled to act and vote
as members of the rural authority, but not further or otherwise.
Subject to the provisions of this Act, all statutes, orders, and legal
provisions applicable to any board of guardians shall apply to them in
their capacity of rural authority under this Act for the purposes of this
Act; and it is hereby declared that the rural authority are the same body
as the guardians of the union or parish for or within which such authority
act.
Sanitary districts in Ireland are:——The City of Dublin, other corporate
towns above 6000, and towns or townships having commissioners under local
Acts.
And urban authorities are:——
In the City of Dublin, the Right Hon. the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and
Burgesses acting by the town council.
In towns corporate, the town council.
In towns exceeding 6000, having commissioners under the Lighting,
Cleaning, and Watching Act of George IV; or having municipal commissioners
under 3 and 4 Vict., c. 108; or town commissioners under the Towns
Improvement (Ireland) Act (17 and 18 Vict., c. 103), the said
commissioners, municipal, or town councillors respectively.
In towns or townships having commissioners under local Acts, the town or
township commissioners (37 and 38 Vict. c. 98, s. 3).
The Irish rural sanitary districts and authorities are exactly analogous
to the English.
In Scotland, sanitary powers are exercised by town councils, police
commissioners, and parochial boards, controlled and supervised by a board
of supervision; but the names of urban and rural sanitary authorities have
not yet been applied to them.
Under the English Public Health Act, there may also be formed united
districts; for example:
Where, on the application of any local authority of any district, it
appears to the Local Government Board that it would be for the advantage
of the districts, or any of them, or any parts thereof, or of any
contributory places, in any rural district or districts, to be formed into
a united district for all or any of the purposes following:——
1. The procuring a common supply of water; or
2. The making a main sewer, or carrying into effect a system of sewerage
for the use of all such districts, or contributory places; or
3. For any other purposes of this Act, the Local Government Board may, by
provisional order, form such districts or contributory places into a
united district.
All costs, charges, and expenses of and incidental to the formation of a
united district are, in the event of the united district being formed, to
be a first charge on the rates leviable in the united district in
pursuance section 279 of the Public Health Act.
Notice of the provisional order must be made public in the locality; and
should the union be carried out, the incidental expenses thereto are a
first charge on the sanitary rates of the united district. A united
district is governed by a joint board consisting of such _ex officio_, and
of such number of elective members as the provisional order determines.
The business arrangements of the joint board differ little from those of a
sanitary authority.
The joint board is a body corporate having a name——determined by the
provisional order——a perpetual succession, and a common seal, and having
power to acquire and hold lands without any licence in mortmain. The joint
board has only business and power in matters for which it has been formed.
With the exception of these special objects, the component districts
continue as before to exercise independent powers.
Nevertheless, the joint board may delegate to the sanitary authority of
any component district the exercise of any of its powers, or the
performance of any of its duties (Public Health Act, sec. 281).
Sanitary authorities and districts may be also combined for the execution
and maintenance of works, for the prevention of epidemic diseases, as well
as for the purpose of appointing a medical officer of health. Districts
when once formed are not fixed and unvariable, the Local Government Board
having the most extensive powers over the alterations of areas.
1. The Local Government Board, by provisional order, may dissolve any
local government district, and may merge any such district in some other
district, or may declare the whole or any portion of a local government or
a rural district immediately adjoining a local government district to be
included in such last mentioned district, or may declare any portion of a
local government district immediately adjoining a rural district to be
included in such last-mentioned district; and thereupon the included area
shall, for the purposes of the Public Health Act, be deemed to form part
of the district in which it is included in such order; and the remaining
part (if any) of such local government district or rural district affected
by such order, shall continue subject to the like jurisdiction as it would
have been subject to if such order had not been made, unless and until the
Local Government Board by provisional order otherwise directs.
2. In the case of a borough comprising within its area the whole of an
improvement act district, or having an area coextensive with such
district, the Local Government Board, by provisional order, may dissolve
such district, and transfer to the council of the borough, all or any of
the jurisdiction and powers of the improvement commissioners of such
district, remaining vested in them at the time of the passing of the
Public Health Act.
3. The Local Government Board may, by order, dissolve any special drainage
district constituted either before or after the passing of the Public
Health Act in which a loan for the execution of works has not been raised,
and merge it into the parish or parishes in which it is situated; but in
the cases where a loan has been raised the Local Government Board can only
do this by provisional order (Public Health Act, sec. 271).
Disputes with regard to the boundaries of districts are to be settled by
the Local Government Board after local inquiry (Public Health Act, sec.
278).
Where districts also are constituted for the purposes of main sewerage
only, in pursuance of the Public Health Act of 1848, or where a district
has been formed subject to the jurisdiction of a joint sewerage board, in
pursuance of the Sewage Utilisation Act of 1867, such districts or
district may be dissolved by provisional order, and the Local Government
Board may constitute it a united district, subject to the jurisdiction of
a joint board (Public Health Act, sec. 323).
The Local Government Board may also declare by provisional order any rural
district to be a local government district.
The Local Government Board has also the important power of investing a
rural authority with urban powers as follows:
“The Local Government Board may, on the application of the authority of
any rural district, or of persons rated to the relief of the poor, the
assessment of whose hereditaments amounts at the least to one tenth of the
net rateable value of such district, or of any contributory place therein,
by order to be published in the ‘London Gazette,’ or in such other manner
as the Local Government Board may direct, declare any provisions of this
Act in force in urban districts to be in force in such rural district or
contributory place, and may invest such authority with all or any of the
powers, rights, duties, capacities, liabilities, and obligations of an
urban authority under this Act, and such investment may be made either
unconditionally or subject to any conditions to be specified by the board
as to the time, portion of its district, or manner during, at, and in
which such powers, rights, duties, liabilities, capacities, and
obligations are to be exercised and attach, provided that an order of the
Local Government Board made on the application of one tenth of the persons
rated to the relief of the poor in any contributory place shall not invest
the rural authority with any new powers beyond the limits of such
contributory places” (Public Health Act, sec. 276).
_Powers and Duties of Sanitary Authorities._ In England urban sanitary
authorities have very extensive powers and duties under the Public Health
Act of 1875, and in addition they have to carry out the Bakehouse
Regulation Act, and the Artisans’ and Labourers’ Dwellings Act. They also
have power to adopt the Baths and Wash-houses Acts, and the Labouring
Classes’ Lodging Houses Acts; but where adopted or in force, the powers,
rights, duties, &c., of these Acts belong to the urban authority. The
powers of any local act for sanitary purposes (except a River Conservancy
Act) are transferred to the urban authority.
The powers of an English rural authority are exercised principally under
the Public Health Act, but they have also to carry out the Bakehouse
Regulation Act.
The powers given by the Irish Public Health Act to Irish Sanitary
Authorities are similar.
The Local Government Act is not in force there, and equal powers are given
without distinction to urban and rural sanitary authorities.
The duties of sanitary authorities are to carry out the Acts which apply
to them, and appoint certain officers, such as medical officers of health,
inspectors of nuisances, clerk, treasurer, &c.
Speaking generally, it may be affirmed that all sanitary authorities are
invested with ample powers for enforcing sanitary measures. Their duty
consists in perfecting drainage, sewerage, and water supply. In towns they
have the control of streets and houses, both private and public, and in
all localities they possess ample powers to cause every species of
nuisance to be abated, which is in the least inimical to health.
The Public Health Act contains a proviso for dealing with an authority
which fails in its duty. Under these circumstances, the Local Government
Board is invested with compulsory powers, and may compel the due
performance of whatever it may deem necessary.
=SANITARY HERBAL BITTERS——Gesundheitskräuter-Bitter.= An indispensable
household remedy for every family, for colic, stomach-ache, cramp in the
bladder, flatulence, loss of appetite, nausea, chronic liver diseases,
constipation, and diarrhœa; also as a soothing agent for infants
(Gottschlich). The fluid contains in 100 grammes the soluble portion of
about ·8 gramme opium. (Hager.)
=SANITARY LIQUEUR——Gesundheits Liqueur.= Swedish elixir of life, with
rhubarb in place of the aloes, made into a liqueur with sugar and spirit.
(Hager.)
=SANITARY, POPULAR, ERRORS.= It is a popular sanitary error to think that
the more a man eats the fatter and stronger he will become. To believe
that the more hours children study the faster they learn. To conclude
that, if exercise is good, the more violent the more good is done. To
imagine that every hour taken from sleep is an hour gained. To act on the
presumption that the smallest room in the house is large enough to sleep
in. To imagine that whatever remedy causes one to feel immediately better
is good for the system, without regard to the ulterior effects. To eat
without an appetite; or to continue after it has been satisfied, merely to
gratify the taste. To eat a hearty supper at the expense of a whole night
of disturbed sleep and weary waking in the morning (‘Sanitary Record’).
=SANITARY RATAFIA——Gesundheits Ratafia.= For removing all stomach, chest,
and bowel complaints, indigestion, colic, diarrhœa, vomiting, flatulence,
dysuria, and affections caused by chills. A clear brown schnapps
containing, in 250 grammes by weight, 75 grammes sugar, 105 grammes water,
100 grammes strong spirit, 40 grammes each of tincture of orange peel and
tincture of orange berries, 2·5 grammes each tincture of cloves and
tincture of wormwood, 1 drop oil of peppermint, 5 drops acetic ether, and
some drops of caramel. (Dr Horn.)
=SANITARY SOUL, Flowers of.——Gesundheitsblumengeist.= A mixture of
spirit, 500 parts; tinct. aromatica, 5 parts; oils of bergamot, lavender,
and rosemary, of each 2 parts; oil of thyme, 3 parts; oil of spearmint, 1
part. (Hager.)
=SANITATION, DOMESTIC.= Not one of the least creditable or important
benefits conferred of late years, by the efforts of philanthropic and
enlightened enterprise upon the poorer classes of this country, has been
the erection——in cities and large towns more particularly——of healthy
houses for them to dwell in. In the construction of these habitations the
architects and designers have for the most part been guided by sound
sanitary principles, the carrying out of which has been effected by means
of legislative supervision, and if needful, of legislative action.
The result of these measures has, in most cases, been to provide
residences for our poorer brethren, wherein, amongst other advantages,
they enjoy the two primary ones of pure air and water. That the richer,
upper, and middle classes, whilst devising and achieving so much in the
way of comfort and health for those beneath them, should themselves in so
many cases live in houses notoriously unhealthy, and should fail to
recognise the advantages of the compulsory enforcement of necessary
hygienic arrangements, are anomalies so amazing as to be, at first sight,
scarcely credible. Yet a little piece of statistics may serve to discomfit
those who are incredulous on this point. The average mortality in London
is 24 persons in a 1000. In the improved dwellings of the poor it is only
14 in the 1000.
This subject was ventilated in a very earnest and valuable paper read
before the Social Science Congress at Brighton in 1875 by Mr H. H.
Collins. In this paper Mr Collins refers only to the houses of the
metropolis and its suburbs, and maintains that, as far as regards the
enforcement of sanitary precautions in house building, London and its
suburbs are infinitely worse provided for than many second-rate provincial
towns, most of which, he says, have the construction of their buildings
and streets regulated by bye-laws issued under the powers of the Public
Health Act, and sanctioned by the Home Secretary, whereas in London the
various Acts of Parliament for this purpose have been inoperative. Mr
Collins describes the insanitary condition of some of the high-rented
houses he examined and says the descriptions which follow equally apply to
many others situated in the most aristocratic quarters of London.
Imagine one of our legislators who, perhaps, had been voting for the
passing of the “Nuisance Removals Act,” returning from his parliamentary
duties to such a mansion as is portrayed by Mr Collins in the following
extract:——“I have recently purchased on behalf of a client the lease of a
mansion in Portland Place from a well-known nobleman, who had spent, as I
was informed, a fortune in providing new drainage; indeed, I found the
principal water-closet built out of the house altogether; the soil-pipe of
it, however, was carried through the basement, where it was supposed to be
connected with the drain. Upon removing the floor-boards to examine it, I
found the ground surrounding the connection literally one mass of black
sewage, the soil oozing through the point even at the time of the
examination, and the connection with the main-drain laid in it at right
angles. The 9-inch drain-pipes ran through the centre of the house, having
a very slight gradient, and had evidently not been laid in many years, yet
they were nearly full of consolidated sewage, and but little space was
left for the passage of the fluid. With but a slightly increased pressure
the joints would have given way, and the sewage would have flowed under
the boards instead of into the sewer. The sinks, water-closets, and
cisterns were all badly situated, and all more or less defective in
sanitary arrangement. In the butler’s pantry the sink was placed next to
the turn-up bedstead of the butler, who must have inhaled draughts of
impure atmosphere at every inspiration. The soil-pipes of the closets had
indeed been ventilated with a zinc rectangular tube, but, as this had been
so placed as to let the sewer-gas through an adjacent skylight into the
house, and the odour being extremely disagreeable, it had been by his
lordship’s directions (as I am told) closed. Here was evidence that it had
at all events been doing some service, and probably had only poisoned a
few of the domestics. I found the bends of soil-pipes likewise riddled
with holes, as described by Dr Leargus. There happened to be a housemaids’
sink situated close to a bedroom, the waste from which had been carefully
connected with the soil-pipe, so that probably had the closets been
satisfactorily ventilated, this arrangement would have defeated the object
in view. I should also mention that the best water-closet was situated on
the bedroom floor under the stairs, and was lighted and ventilated through
a small shaft formed of wood boarding and carried to the roof; it also
opened by a window to the main or principal staircase. The gutter of the
roof ran through the bedrooms and under the floors; at the time of
examination it was full of black slimy filth. This is a fair specimen of
the sanitary arrangements of a nobleman’s town house, situated in one of
the best streets of this great metropolis in the year of grace 1875.”
Let us take another example:——“A few years ago a client of mine, who
resided in a large house in a wealthy suburb, informed me that his wife
and two daughters had suffered in health ever since they had occupied
their house, that he had consulted several medical men without beneficial
result, and that he wished me to make a survey of the premises. He paid a
rental of about £200 per annum. I found that the drainage was in every way
defective, although he told me that he had spent a large sum of money in
making it ‘perfect,’ the gradients were bad, the pipes choked, and the
joints unsound. The servants’ water-closet was adjacent to the scullery,
which was in communication with the kitchen, the sink being directly
opposite the kitchen range. The water-closet was supplied direct from the
cistern, the waste from which entered the drain, although it was said to
be trapped. The waste of the sink was simply connected with the drains and
trapped with an ordinary bell-trap, the cover or trap of which I found
broken. Under the kitchen range hot-water tap I found a trapped opening,
also leading into the drain. The domestics complained of frequent
headaches and general depression, and I need not add that it excited no
surprise, seeing that the kitchen fire was continuously drawing in from
the sewers and house drains a steady supply of sewer-gas to the house and
drinking-water cistern. In addition I found the basement walls damp, owing
to the absence of a damp-proof course and the want of dry areas. The upper
water-closets, house-closets, and cisterns were situated over each other,
off the first-floor landing, and directly opposite the bedroom doors. The
bath and lavatory were fixed in the dressing-room, communicating with the
best bedroom, the wastes from which were carried into the soil-pipe of
closets. This latter was unventilated, but was trapped with an S pipe at
bottom. The water-closets were pan closets, and were trapped by D traps.
The upper closet periodically untrapped the lower closet, and both traps
leaving the impure air free access to the house and cistern, which latter
was also in communication by means of its waste-pipe with the
house-drains. The overflows from safes of the water-closets were
practically untrapped. The peculiar nauseating odour of sewer-gas was
distinctly perceptible, and I had but little doubt but that atonic disease
was rapidly making its inroads on the occupants. The landlord refused to
recognise the truth of my report. My client, acting on my advice,
relinquished his lease, took another house, the sanitation of which was
carefully attended to, and his wife and children have had no recurrence of
illness.”
Mr Collins mentions a very alarming and unsuspected source of aerial
poisoning in many town-houses to be the existence of old disused cesspools
in the centre of the buildings. These receptacles, which are frequently
nearly filled with decaying fæcal substances, are very often found to be
insecurely covered over with tiles, stones, or boarding. To ensure the
construction of a healthy dwelling-house, Mr Collins regards attention to
the following conditions as essential:——“All subsoil should be properly
drained, proper thickness of the concrete should be applied to the
foundations, damp-proof courses should be inserted over footings, earth
should be kept back from walls by dry areas properly drained and
ventilated, external walls should be built of good hard well-burnt stock
brickwork, of graduated thicknesses, and never less than 14 inches thick;
internal divisions should be of brick in cement. The mortar and cement
should be of good quality. All basement floors should have a concrete or
cement bottom, with air flowing under the same, and the boarding thereof
should be tongued so as to prevent draught and exhalation penetrating
through the joints of the same. Ample areas back and front should be
insisted on, the divisional or party fence walls of which should never be
allowed to exceed 7 feet in height, to allow free circulation and to
prevent the areas becoming wells or shafts for stagnant air. The main
drains should be carried through the back yards, and, to prevent
inconvenience to adjoining owners from any obstruction, they should be
laid in subways, so that the sewer inspector could gain ready access
thereto without entering any of the premises or causing any annoyance to
the tenants. No basement should on any account be allowed to be
constructed at such a level as will not permit of the pipes having good
steep gradients to the sewer.
All sinks should be placed next external walls, having windows over the
same, and removed from the influence of the fire-grates. All wastes should
discharge exteriorly over and not into trapped cess-pits, all of which
should be provided with splashing stones fixed round the same. The
basement cisternage should be placed in convenient and accessible
positions, protected from dirt and guarded from the effects of
alternations of temperature. They should be of slate and galvanised iron,
and never of lead or zinc. They should be fitted with overflows
discharging over the sink, or over trapped cesses as just mentioned. They
should be supplied with stout lead encased, block-tin pipe, the services
therefrom for all drinking purposes should be of the same description, and
should be attached to an ascending filter, so that water may be delivered
free from lead or organic impurities. Lead poisoning is more frequent than
is generally believed. Cupboards under stairs, under sinks, under
dressers, or out-of-the-way places should be avoided, and when fitted up
should always be well ventilated. All passages should be well lighted and
ventilated. Borrowed lights are better than none at all. Every room should
be furnished with a fireplace, and Comyn and Chingo ventilators over doors
and windows should be freely disposed. It would conduce to the health of
the house, without adding one shilling to its cost, to build next the
kitchen flue a separate ventilating flue, and to conduct the products of
combustion from gas and other impure or soiled air, &c., into the same,
from ventilators placed in the centre of or close to the ceilings, as may
be found most convenient. By carefully proportioning the inlet and outlet
ventilation, the air will be kept moving without draught, and preserved in
a pure and sweet condition for respiration. The windows and doors will
then serve only their legitimate objects of admitting light, and of
affording ingress and egress to the various apartments. The staircase
should be made the main ventilator of the house, and it is essentially
necessary to preserve the air surrounding the same, uncontaminated, pure,
and undefiled. It will be better to light and ventilate it from the top;
and to prevent the Ethiopians or blacks of London finding their way into
the house, an invisible gauze net may be placed under it, which can
periodically be easily removed and cleansed, or it may be furnished with a
movable inner, ornamental flat light.
Under no circumstances must lavatories or sinks be brought in connection
with the drains. Most people desire the bath-room to be in proximity to
the bedrooms; whether so placed or not, all connection with main drainage
must be studiously avoided. The hot and cold pipes, known as the flow and
return pipes, should be of galvanised iron, with junctions carefully made
with running joints in red lead; on no account should these be in contact
with any other pipes. The wastes from the bath safe (and lavatories if
any) should be carried through the front wall of the house, and should
turn over and into rain-water head, covered with domical wire grating to
prevent birds building their nests therein, and carried down to the
basement area, where they must discharge over a trapped cess-pit, as
before described, surrounded with a splash-stone or curve to obviate the
nuisance of the soap-suds flowing over the pavement. A brush passed up and
down these waters now and then will effectually remove any soapy sediment
which may cling to their surfaces. The waste from bath, &c., into heads
should be furnished with a ground valve flap and collar to prevent
draught, and the bath should be fitted with india-rubber seatings between
the metal and wood framing. Mansarde or sloping roofs should be avoided;
they are injurious to the health of the domestics, whose sleeping chambers
they are generally appropriated to; they are unhealthy, hot in summer, and
prejudicially cold in winter, laying the basis for future disease for
those least able to bear it. Gutters taken through roofs, known as
‘trough,’ should never be permitted; they congregate putrescent filth,
which remains in them for years to taint and poison the atmosphere.”
Consult also, as supplementing this subject, the articles DRAINS,
DUSTBINS, CESSPOOLS, TANKS, TRAPS, WATER-CLOSETS.
=SAN′TALIN.= The colouring principle of red sanders wood.
=SAN′TONIN.= C_{15}H_{18}O_{3}. _Syn._ SANTONIC ACID; SANTONINUM, L. The
crystalline and characteristic principle of the seed of several varieties
of _Artemisia_.
_Prep._ (Ph. Baden, 1841.) Take of worm-seed, 4 parts; hydrate of lime,
1-1/2 part; mix, and exhaust them with alcohol of 90%; distil, off 3-4ths
of the spirit, and evaporate the remainder to one half, which, at the
boiling temperature, is to be mixed with acetic acid in excess, and
afterwards with water; on repose, impure santonin subsides; wash this with
a little weak spirit, then dissolve it in rectified spirit, 10 parts,
decolour by ebullition for a few minutes with animal charcoal, and filter;
the filtrate deposits colourless crystals of santonin as it cools; these
are to be dried, and kept in opaque bottles.
Mr W. G. Smith, M.B., states that two singular effects are known to result
from the administration of santonin in moderate doses, viz. visual
derangements and a peculiar alteration in the colour of the urine. He adds
that three hours after taking 5 gr. of pure white santonin, he became
conscious, while reading, of a yellowish tint on the paper, and a yellow
haze in the air. His own hands, and the complexions of others, appeared of
a sallow unhealthy colour; and the evening sky, which was really of a pale
lavender colour, seemed to be light green. Vision was not perfectly
distinct for some hours, and was accompanied by a certain vagueness of
definition. Mr Smith endorses the observations of previous observers who
had noticed that the urine of persons under the influence of santonin is
tinged of a saffron yellow or greenish colour. The coloured urine
resembles that of a person slightly jaundiced, and like this permanently
stains linen of a light yellow colour.
The best test for santonin in the urine is an alkali, upon the addition of
which the urine immediately assumes a fine cherry-red colour, varying in
depth according to the amount of santonin present. Potash was found to be
the preferable alkali.
_Prop., &c._ Prismatic or tubular crystals; inodorous; tasteless, or only
slightly bitter; fusible; volatilisable; soluble in 4500 parts of cold and
about 250 parts of boiling water; soluble in cold alcohol and ether;
freely soluble in hot alcohol. It is much esteemed as a tasteless worm
medicine, and is especially adapted to remove lumbricales (large round
worms).——_Dose_, 6 to 18 or 20 gr., repeated night and morning, followed
by a brisk purge.
(Ph. B.) Boil 1 lb. of santonico, bruised, with 1 gall. of distilled
water, and 5 oz. of slaked lime, in a copper or tinned iron vessel for an
hour, strain through a stout cloth and express strongly. Mix the residue
with 1/2 gall. of distilled water and 2 oz. of lime, boil for half an
hour, strain and express as before. Mix the strained liquors, let them
settle, decant the fluid from the deposit, evaporate to the bulk of 2-1/2
pints. To the liquor while hot add, with diligent stirring, hydrochloric
acid, until the fluid has become slightly and permanently acid, and set it
aside for five days that the precipitate may subside. Remove, by skimming,
any oily matter which floats on the surface, and carefully decant the
greater part of the fluid from the precipitate. Collect this on a paper
filter, wash it first with cold distilled water, till the washings pass
colourless and nearly free from acid reaction, then with 1/2 fl. oz. of
solution of ammonia, previously diluted with 5 oz. of distilled water,
and, lastly, with cold distilled water, till the washings pass colourless.
Press the filter containing the precipitate between folds of filtering
paper, and dry it with a gentle heat. Scrape the dry precipitate from the
filter, and mix it with 60 gr. of purified animal charcoal. Pour on them 9
fl. oz. of rectified spirit, digest for half an hour, and boil for ten
minutes. Filter while hot, wash the charcoal with 1 fl. oz. of boiling
spirit, and set the filtrate aside for two days in a cool dark place to
crystallise. Separate the mother liquor from the crystals, and concentrate
to obtain a further product. Collect the crystals, let them drain,
redissolve them in 4 fl. oz. of boiling spirit, and let the solution
crystallise as before. Lastly, dry the crystals on filtering paper in the
dark and preserve them in a bottle protected from the light.
=SAP GREEN.= See GREEN PIGMENTS.
=SAPONIFICA′TION.= See SOAP.
=SAP′ONIN.= _Syn._ SAPONINUM, L. A white, non-crystallisable substance,
obtained by the action of hot diluted alcohol on the root of _Saponaria
officinalis_ (Linn.), or soapwort.
_Prop., &c._ Saponin is soluble in hot water, and the solution froths
strongly on agitation. The smallest quantity of the powder causes violent
sneezing.
=SARCOCOL′LA.= A gum-resin supposed to be derived from one or more plants
of the natural order _Renæaceæ_, growing in Arabia and Persia. It somewhat
resembles gum Arabic, except in being soluble in both water and alcohol,
and in having a bitter-sweet taste. It was formerly used in surgery.
=SAR′COSINE.= C_{3}H_{7}O_{2}N. A feebly basic substance, obtained by
boiling kreatine for some time with a solution of pure baryta. It forms
colourless, transparent plates, freely soluble in water, sparingly so in
alcohol, and insoluble in ether; it may be fused and volatilised.
=SARSAPARIL′LA.= _Syn._ SARSÆ RADIX (B. P.), RADIX SARZÆ, RADIX
SARSAPARILLÆ, SARZA (Ph. L. & E.), SARSAPARILLA (Ph. D. & U. S.), L.
“Jamaica sarza. The root of _Smilax officinalis_, Kunth” (Ph. L.); “and
probably of other species.” (Ph. E.)
The sarsaparillas of commerce are divided by Dr Pereira into two
classes:——‘Mealy sarsaparilla’ and ‘non-mealy sarsaparillas.’ In the first
are placed Brazilian or Lisbon, Caraccas or gouty Vera Cruz, and Honduras;
the second includes Jamaica, Lima, and true Vera Cruz.
The mealy sarsaparillas are distinguished by “the mealy character of the
inner cortical layers, which are white or pale-coloured. The meal or
starch is sometimes so abundant, that a shower of it, in the form of
white dust, falls when we fracture the roots.” The medulla or pith is also
frequently very amylaceous.
The non-mealy sarsaparillas “are characterised by a deeply coloured (red
or brown), usually non-mealy, cortex. The cortex is red, and much thinner
than in the mealy sorts.” “If a drop of oil of vitriol be applied to a
transverse section of the root of the non-mealy sarsaparillas, both cortex
and wood acquire a dark-red or purplish tint;” whilst in the preceding
varieties, the mealy coat, and, sometimes, the pith, is but little altered
in colour. “The decoction of non-mealy sarsaparilla, when cold, is
somewhat darkened, but does not yield a blue colour when a solution of
iodine is added to it.” The aqueous extract, when rubbed down with a
little cold distilled water in a mortar, does not yield a turbid liquid,
nor become blue on the addition of iodine. The reverse is the case with
the decoction and extract of the mealy varieties.
The JAMAICA, RED JAMAICA, or RED-BEARDED SARSAPARILLA (SARZA
JAMAICENSIS——Ph. D.), is the variety which should alone be used in
medicine. This kind yields from 33 to 44% of its weight of extract
(Battley, Hennell, Pope), and contains less starchy matter than the other
varieties. It is distinguished by exhibiting the above peculiarities in a
marked degree, by the dirty reddish colour of its bark, which “is not
mealy,” and by being “beset very plentifully with rootlets” (fibres).——Ph.
L. Its powder has also a pale reddish-brown colour. The other varieties of
sarsaparilla, viz. the Lisbon, Lima, Vera Cruz, and Honduras, are
frequently substituted for the Jamaica by the druggists in the
preparations of the decoctions and extracts of this drug; but the products
are vastly inferior in quantity, colour, taste, and medicinal virtue, to
those prepared from the officinal sarsaparilla. Decoction of sarsaparilla,
when made with the Honduras root, is very liable to ferment, even by a few
hours’ exposure, in hot weather. We have seen hogsheads of the strong
decoction, after exposure for a single night, in as active a state of
fermentation as a gyle of beer, with a frothy head, and evolving a most
disagreeable odour, that was not wholly removed by several hours’ boiling.
When this occurs the decoction suffers in density, and the product in
extract is, consequently, considerably lessened. Yet this is frequently
allowed to occur in the wholesale laboratory, where the rule should
be——always begin a ‘bath of sarza’ (as it is called), and, indeed, of
other perishable articles, early in the morning, and finish it, completely
and entirely, the same day.
Sarsaparilla has been recommended as a mild but efficacious alterative,
diaphoretic and tonic. It has long been a popular remedy in chronic
rheumatism, rheumatic and gouty pains, scurvy, scrofula, syphilis,
secondary syphilis, lepra, psoriasis, and several other skin diseases;
and, especially, in cachexia, or a general bad habit of body, and to
remove the symptoms arising from the injudicious use of mercurials, often
falsely called ‘secondary syphilis.’ During its use the skin should be
kept warm, and diluents should be freely taken. Its efficacy has been
greatly exaggerated. It is, however, much more effective in warm than in
northern climates.——_Dose._ In substance, 1/2 to 1 dr., three or four
times daily; but, preferably, made into a decoction or infusion.
The articles so much puffed under the names of American or United States
sarsaparilla and extract of sarsaparilla are “nothing more than the
decoction of a common herb, a sort of ‘aralia,’ inhabiting the swamps and
marshes of the United States. When cut up it has the appearance of chaff,
but not the slightest resemblance in character, colour, or taste, to even
the most inferior species of smilax (or sarza). The decoction is sweetened
with a little sugar, flavoured with benzoin and sassafras, and, finally,
preserved from decomposition by means of the bichloride of mercury.” “I
have heard of several cases of deadly sickness, and other dangerous
symptoms, following its use.” “We do not believe that a particle of real
sarsaparilla ever entered into the composition of either of the articles
referred to.” (‘Med. Circ.,’ ii, 227.) See DECOCTION and EXTRACT.
=SARSAPARIL′LIN.= _Syn._ PARIGLIN, PARILLIC ACID, SALSAPARIN, SMILACIN. A
white, crystallisable, odourless, and nearly tasteless substance,
discovered by Pallotta and Folchi, in sarsaparilla.
_Prep._ The bark of Jamaica sarsaparilla is treated with hot rectified
spirit, and the resulting tincture reduced to about one third by
distilling off the spirit; the residual liquid is then filtered, whilst
boiling, slightly concentrated by evaporation, and set aside to
crystallise; the crystalline deposit is redissolved in either hot
rectified spirit or boiling water, and decoloured by agitation with a
little animal charcoal; the filtrate deposits crystals of nearly pure
smilacin as it cools. It may also be extracted by boiling water.
_Prop., &c._ A non-nitrogenised neutral body. Water holding a very small
quantity of it in solution froths considerably on agitation. This is
especially the case with infusion of Jamaica sarsaparilla, and this
property has consequently been proposed as a test of the quality of
sarsaparilla root. Its medicinal properties are similar to those of
sarsaparilla. According to Pallotta, it is a powerful sedative, and
diminishes the vital energies in proportion to the quantity
taken.——_Dose_, 2 to 10 gr.; in the usual cases in which the root is
given.
=SAS′SAFRAS.= _Syn._ SASSAFRAS RADIX (B. P.), SASSAFRAS RADIX, SASSAFRAS
(Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “The root of _Sassafras officinale_, Nees. _Laurus
sassafras_, Linn.”——Ph. L. It has a fragrant odour, and a sweetish
aromatic taste. It has long been reputed a stimulating, alterative,
diaphoretic, diuretic, and tonic; and an infusion of the chips (sassafras
chips), under the name of sassafras tea, has been a popular ‘diet drink’
in various cutaneous affections, gout, chronic rheumatism, &c.
=SATURA′TION.= The state in which a body has taken its full dose, or
chemical proportion, of any other substance with which it can combine, or
which it can dissolve; as water with sugar or a salt, or an alkali with an
acid, when the properties of both are neutralised.
=SAUCERS (for Dyeing).= _Prep._ 1. (BLUE.) From blue carmine, made into a
paste with gum water, which is then spread over the inside of the saucers,
and dried.
2. (PINK.)——_a._ From pure rouge mixed with a little carbonate of soda,
then made into a paste with thin gum water, and applied as the last.
_b._ Well-washed safflower, 8 oz.; carbonate of soda, 2 oz.; water, 2
gall.; infuse, strain, add of French chalk (scraped fine with Dutch
rushes), 2 lbs.; mix well, and precipitate the colour by adding a solution
of tartaric acid; collect the red powder, drain it, add a very small
quantity of gum, and apply the paste to the saucers. Inferior. Both the
above are used to tinge silk stockings, gloves, &c.
=SAUCE.= A liquid or semi-liquid condiment or seasoning for food. The
following receipts for sauces may be useful to the reader:
=Sauce, Ancho′vy.= 1. (Extemporaneous.) From 3 or 4 anchovies, chopped
small; butter, 3 oz.; water, a wine-glassful; vinegar, 2 tablespoonfuls;
flour, 1 do.; stir the mixture over the fire till it thickens, then rub it
through a coarse hair sleeve.
2. (Wholesale.) As essence of anchovies. Other fish sauces may be made in
the same manner.
=Sauce, Apple.= From sharp apples, cored, sliced, stewed with a spoonful
or two of water, and then beaten, to a perfectly smooth pulp with a little
good moist sugar. Tomato, and many other like sauces, may be made in the
same manner.
=Sauce, Aristocratique.= From green-walnut juice and anchovies, equal
parts; cloves, mace, and pimento, of each, bruised, 1 dr. to every lb. of
juice; boil and strain, and then add to every pint, 1 pint of vinegar, 1/2
pint of port wine, 1/4 pint of soy, and a few shallots; let the whole
stand for a few days, and decant the clear liquor.
=Bech′amel.= A species of fine white broth or consommée, thickened with
cream, and used as ‘white sauce.’
=Sauce, Caper.= Put twelve table-spoonfuls of melted butter into a
stewpan, place it on the fire, and, when on the point of boiling, add 1
oz. of fresh butter and 1 table-spoonful of capers; shake the stewpan
round over the fire until the butter is melted, add a little pepper and
salt, and serve where directed. Also as mint sauce.
=Sauce, Chut′ney.= 1. From sour apples (pared and cored), tomatoes, brown
sugar, and sultana raisins, of each 3 oz.; common salt, 4 oz.; red
chillies and powdered ginger, of each 29 oz.; garlic and shallots, of each
1 oz.; pound the whole well, add, of strong vinegar, 3 quarts; lemon
juice, 1 do.; and digest, with frequent agitation, for a month; then pour
off nearly all the liquor, and bottle it. Used for fish or meat, either
hot or cold, or to flavour stews, &c. The residue is the ‘Chutney,’
‘Chetney,’ or ‘Chitni,’ which must be ground to a smooth paste with a
stone and muller, and then put into pots or jars. It is used like mustard.
2. (BENGAL CHITNI.) As the last, but using tamarinds instead of apples,
and only sufficient vinegar and lemon juice to form a paste.
=Cor′atch.= From good mushroom ketchup, 1/2 gal.; walnut ketchup, 3/4
pint; India soy and chillie vinegar, of each 1/2 pint; essence of
anchovies, 5 or 6 oz.; macerate for a fortnight.
=Sauce, Epicurienne.= To the last add of walnut ketchup and port wine, of
each 1 quart; garlic and white pepper, of each (bruised) 4 oz.; chillies
(bruised), 1 oz.; mace and cloves, of each 1/2 oz.
=Sauce, Fish.= From port wine 1 gall.; mountain do., 1 quart; walnut
ketchup, 2 quarts; anchovies (with the liquor), 2 lbs.; 8 lemons, 48
shallots, scraped horseradish, 1-1/2 lb.; flour of mustard, 8 oz.; mace, 1
oz.; cayenne, q. s.; boil the whole up gently, strain, and bottle.
=Ketchup.= See under that name.
=Sauce, Kitchener’s.= _Syn._ KITCHENER’S RELISH. From salt, 3 oz.; black
pepper, 2 oz.; allspice, horseradish, and shallots, of each 1 oz.;
burnt-sugar colouring, a wine-glassful; mushroom ketchup, 1 quart (all
bruised or scraped); macerate for 3 weeks, strain, and bottle.
=Lem′on Pickle.= From lemon juice and vinegar, of each 3 gall.; bruised
ginger, 1 lb.; allspice, pepper, and grated lemon peel, of each 8 oz.;
salt, 3-1/2 lbs.; cayenne, 2 oz.; mace and nutmegs, of each 1 oz.; digest
for 14 days.
=Sauce, Lobs′ter.= From lobsters, as ANCHOVY SAUCE.
=Sauce, Mint.= From garden mint, chopped small, and then beaten up with
vinegar, some moist sugar, and a little salt and pepper.
=Sauce, On′ion.= From onions boiled to a pulp and then beaten up with
melted butter and a little warm milk.
=Sauce, Oys′ter.= From about 12 oysters, and 6 or 7 oz. of melted butter,
with a little cayenne pepper, and 2 or 3 spoonfuls of cream, stirred
together over a slow fire, then brought to a boil, and served.
=Sauce, Piquante.= From soy and cayenne pepper, of each 4 oz.; port wine,
1/2 pint; brown pickling vinegar, 1-1/2 pint; mix, and let them stand for
7 or 8 days before bottling.
=Sauce, Quin’s.= From walnut pickle and port wine, of each 1 pint;
mushroom ketchup, 1 quart; anchovies and shallots (chopped fine), of each
2 dozen; soy, 1/2 pint; cayenne, 1/4 oz.; simmer gently for 10 minutes,
and in a fortnight strain, and bottle.
=Sauce au Roi.= From brown vinegar (good), 3 quarts; soy and walnut
ketchup, of each 1/2 pint; cloves and shallots, of each 1 doz.; cayenne
pepper, 1-1/2 oz.; mix, and digest for 14 days.
=Sauce, Shrimp.= From shrimps or prawns, as ANCHOVY SAUCE.
=Soy.= See that article.
=Sauce, Superlative.= From port wine, and mushroom ketchup, of each 1
quart; walnut pickle, 1 pint; soy, 1/2 pint; powdered anchovies, 1/2 lb.;
fresh lemon peel, minced shallots, and scraped horseradish, of each 2 oz.;
allspice and black pepper (bruised), of each 1 oz.; cayenne pepper and
bruised celery seed, of each 1/4 oz. (or currie powder, 3/4 oz.); digest
for 14 days, strain, and bottle. Very relishing.
=Sauce, Toma′to.= From bruised tomatoes, 1 gall.; good salt, 1/2 lb.; mix,
in 3 days press out the juice, to each quart of which add of shallots, 2
oz.; black pepper, 1 dr.; simmer very gently for 20 to 30 minutes, strain,
and add to the strained liquor, mace, allspice, ginger, nutmegs, and
cochineal, of each 1/4 oz.; coriander seed, 1 dr.; simmer gently for 10
minutes, strain, cool, and in a week put it into bottles.
=Sauce, Waterloo.= From strong vinegar (nearly boiling), 1 quart, port
wine, 3/4 pint; mushroom ketchup, 1/2 pint; walnut ketchup, 1/4 pint;
essence of anchovies, 4 oz.; 8 cloves of garlic; cochineal (powdered), 1/2
oz. (or red beet, sliced, 3 oz.); let them stand together for a fortnight
or longer, occasionally shaking the bottle.
=Sauce, White.= _Syn._ BUTTER SAUCE, MELTED BUTTER. From good butter, 4
oz.; cream, 2-1/2 oz.; salt (in very fine powder), 1/2 teaspoonful; put
them into a pot or basin, set this in hot water, and beat the whole with a
bone, wooden, or silver spoon, until it forms a perfectly smooth,
cream-like mixture, avoiding too much heat, which would make it run oily.
A table-spoonful of sherry, marsala, lemon juice, or vinegar, is sometimes
added; but the selection must depend on the dishes the sauce is intended
for. Used either by itself, or as a basis for other sauces. Beaten up with
any of the ‘bottled sauces,’ an excellent compound sauce of the added
ingredient is immediately obtained.
=Sauces, American.= White vinegar, 15 gall.; walnut ketchup, 10 gall.;
Madeira wine, 5 gall.; mushroom ketchup, 10 gall,; table salt, 25 lbs.
(troy); Canton soy, 4 gall.; powdered capsicum 2 lbs. (troy); allspice,
powdered, coriander powder, of each 1 lb. (troy); cloves, mace, cinnamon,
of each 1/2 lb. (troy); assafœtida, 1/4 lb. (troy); dissolved in brandy, 1
gall.; 20 lbs. of hog’s liver is boiled for 12 hours with 10 gall. of
water, renewing the water from time to time. Take out the liver, chop it,
mix it with water, and work it through a sieve; mix with the sauce.
2. White vinegar, 240 gall.; Canton soy, 36 gall.; sugar-house syrup, 30
gall.; walnut ketchup, 50 gall.; mushroom ketchup, 50 gall.; table salt,
120 lbs. (troy); powdered capsicum, 15 lbs. (troy); allspice, coriander,
of each 7 lbs. (troy); cloves, mace, cinnamon, of each 4 lbs. (troy);
assafœtida, 2-1/2 lbs. (troy), dissolved in St Croix rum, 1 gall.
3. White vinegar, 1 gall. Canton soy, molasses, of each 1 pint; walnut
ketchup, 1-1/2 pint; table salt, 4 oz.; powdered capsicum, allspice, of
each 1 oz.; coriander, 1/2 oz.; cloves, mace, of each 1/2 oz.; cinnamon, 6
dr., assafœtida 1/4 oz. in 4 oz. of rum.
=SAUERKRAUT.= [Ger.] _Prep._ Clean white cabbages, cut them into small
pieces, and stratify them in a cask along with culinary salt and a few
juniper berries and caraway seeds, observing to pack them down as hard as
possible, without crushing them, and to cover them with a lid pressed down
with a heavy weight. The cask should be placed in a cold situation as soon
as a sour smell is perceived. Used by the Germans and other northern
nations of Europe, like our ‘pickled cabbage,’ but more extensively.
=SAU′SAGES.= From the fat and lean of pork (PORK SAUSAGES), or of beef
(BEEF SAUSAGES), chopped small, flavoured with spice, and put into gut
skins, or pressed into pots or balls (SAUSAGE MEAT). Crum of bread is also
added. Their quality is proportionate to that of the ingredients, and to
the care and cleanliness employed in preparing them.
A pea sausage, composed of pea flour, fat pork, and a little salt, was
largely consumed by the German soldiers during the Franco-German campaign.
Dr Parkes found 100 parts of this sausage to consist of——16·2 parts of
water, 7·19 of salts, 12·297 of albuminates, 33·65 of fat, and 30·663 of
carbohydrates. It is ready cooked, but can be made into soup, although
much relished for a few days. The soldiers soon became tired of it. In
some cases it gave rise to flatulence and diarrhœa. See MEAT.
=SAV′ELOYS.= Pork sausages made in such a way that they keep good for a
considerable time. _Prep._ (Mrs Rundell.) Take of young pork, free from
bone and skin, 3 lbs.; salt it with 1 oz. of saltpetre, and 1/2 lb. of
common salt, for 2 days; then chop it fine, add, 3 teaspoonfuls of pepper,
1 doz. sage leaves, chopped fine, and 1 lb. of grated bread; mix well,
fill the skins, and steam them or bake them half an hour in a slack oven.
They are said to be good either hot or cold.
=SAV′INE.= _Syn._ SAVIN; FOLIA SABINÆ, SABINA (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. “The
recent and dried tops of _Juniperis sabina_, Linn.,” or common savine.
(Ph. L.) It is a powerful stimulant, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, and
anthelmintic; and, externally, rubefacient, escharotic and vesicant. In
large doses it is apt to occasion abortion, and acts as a poison. SAVINE
POWDER mixed with verdigris is often applied to corns and warts. It is now
chiefly used in the form of ointment.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr., twice or
thrice daily (with care), in amenorrhœa and worms. See CERATE.
=SAVONETTES.= [Fr.] _Syn._ WASH BALLS. These are made of any of the mild
toilet soaps, scented at will, generally with the addition of some
powdered starch or farina, and sometimes sand. The spherical or spheroidal
form is given to them by pressure in moulds, or by first roughly forming
them with the hands, and, when quite hard, turning them in a lathe.
According to Mr Beasley, “they are formed into spherical balls by taking a
mass of the prepared soap in the left hand, and a conical drinking-glass
with rather thin edges in the right. By turning the glass and ball of soap
in every direction, the rounded form is soon given; when dry, the surface
is scraped, to render it more smooth and even.”
_Prep._ 1. Take of curd soap, 3 lbs.; finest yellow soap, 2 lbs. (both in
shavings); soft water, 3/4 pint; melt by a gentle heat, stir in of
powdered starch (farina), 1-1/2 lb.; when the mass has considerably
cooled, further add of essence of lemon or bergamot, 1 oz., and make it
into balls.
2. (CAMPHOR.) Melt spermaceti, 2 oz.; add camphor (cut small), 1 oz.;
dissolve, and add the liquid mass to white curd soap, 1-1/2 lb.,
previously melted by the aid of a little water and a gentle heat, and
allowed to cool considerably as above. These should be covered with
tin-foil.
3. (HONEY.) From the finest bright-coloured yellow soap, 7 lbs.; palm oil,
1/4 lb.; melt, and add of oil of verbena, rose-geranium, or ginger-grass,
1 oz.; as No. 1. Sometimes 1/2 oz. of oil of rosemary is also added.
4. (MOTTLED.)——_a._ RED. Cut white curd or Windsor soap (not too dry) into
small square pieces, and roll these in a mixture of powder bole or rouge,
either with or without the addition of some starch; then squeeze them
strongly into balls, observing to mix the colour as little as
possible.——_b._ BLUE. Roll the pieces in powdered blue, and proceed as
before.——_c._ GREEN. Roll the pieces in a mixture of powder blue and
bright yellow ochre. By varying the colour of the powder, mottled
savonettes of any colour may be produced.
5. (SAND.) From soap (at will), 2 lbs.; fine siliceous sand, 1 lb.; scent,
q. s.; as No. 1. For the finer qualities, finely powdered pumice-stone is
substituted for sand.
6. (VIOLET.) From palm-oil soap, 4 lbs.; farina, 2 lbs.; finely powdered
orris root, 1 lb. Sometimes a little smalts, or indigo, is added.
=SAWDUST, Preparation of Alcohol from.= M. Zetterland[146] states that he
has obtained alcohol from sawdust by the following process:——Into an
ordinary steam-boiler, heated by means of steam, were introduced 9 cwt. of
very wet sawdust, 10·7 cwt. of hydrochloric acid (sp. gr. 1·18), and 30
cwt. of water; after eleven hours boiling there was formed 19·67 per cent.
of grape sugar.
[Footnote 146: ‘Chemical News,’ xxvi——181.]
The acid was next saturated with chalk, so as to leave in the liquid only
a small quantity (1/2 degree by Ludersdorf’s acid areometer); when the
saccharine liquid was cooled down to 30° yeast was added, and the
fermentation finished in twenty-four hours. By distillation there were
obtained 26·5 litres of alcohol of 50 per cent. at 15°, quite free from
any smell of turpentine, and of excellent taste. It appears that the
preparation of alcohol from sawdust may be successfully carried on
industrially when it is precisely ascertained what degree of dilution of
acid is required, and how long the liquid has to be boiled.
If all the cellulose present in sawdust could be converted into sugar, 50
kilos of the former substance would yield, after fermentation, 12 litres
of alcohol at 50 per cent.
=SCAB′IES.= See ITCH.
=SCAB IN SHEEP.= This disease, corresponding to mange in the dog, the
horse, or in cattle, is caused by a species of acaris, a minute insect
which burrows under the skin of the sheep, and sets up therein a
considerable amount of irritation, which is followed by an irruption of
pimples, accompanied with scurf, but frequently the wool comes off from
the affected part.
The following are some of the numerous remedies employed for this
disease:——
1. Quicksilver, 1 lb.; Venice turpentine, 1/2 lb.; rub them together until
the globules are no longer visible; then add 1/2 pint of oil of
turpentine, and 4 lbs. of lard. The mode of applying this ointment is as
follows:——Begin at the head of the sheep, and proceeding from between the
ears along the back to the end of the tail, divide the wool in a furrow
till the skin can be touched; and let a finger, slightly dipped in the
ointment, be drawn along the bottom of the furrow. From this furrow
similar ones must be drawn along the shoulders and thighs to the legs, as
far as the wool extends. And if much infected, 2 or more should also be
drawn along each side, parallel with that on the back, and one down each
side before the hind and fore legs. It kills the sheep-fag, and probably
the tick and other vermin. It should not be used in very cold or wet
weather. (Sir Joseph Banks.)
2. Tar oils. Tobacco juice. Stavesacre. (Finlay Dun.)
3. Strong mercurial ointment, 1 part; lard, 5 parts; mix. (Youatt.)
4. Quicksilver, 1 lb.; Venice turpentine, 1/2 lb.; spirit of turpentine, 2
oz., lard, 4-1/2 lb.; to be made and used as No. 1. In summer 1 lb. of
resin may be substituted for alike quantity of lard. (Clater.)
5. Strong mercurial ointment, 1 lb.; lard, 4 lbs.; oil of turpentine, 8
oz.; sulphur, 12 oz.——WHITE.
6. _Mild._ Flowers of sulphur, 1 lb.; Venice turpentine, 4 oz.; rancid
lard, 2 lbs.; strong mercurial ointment, 4 oz.; mix well.——CLATER.
7. Lard or other fat, with an equal quantity of oil of
turpentine.——DAUBENTON.
8. _Without mercury._ Lard, 1 lb.; oil of turpentine, 4 oz.; flowers of
sulphur, 6 oz.——WHITE.
9. Strong mercurial ointment, 1 lb.; lard, 4 lbs.; Venice turpentine, 8
oz.; oil of turpentine, 2 oz. If mixed by heat, care must be taken not to
use more heat than is necessary, and to add the oil of turpentine when the
other ingredients begin to cool and to stir till cold.——M’EWEN.
10. Corrosive sublimate, 2 oz.; white hellebore, 3 oz.; fish oil, 6
quarts; resin, 1/2 lb.; tallow, 1/2 lb. The sublimate and then the
hellebore to be rubbed with a portion of the oil till perfectly smooth,
and then mixed with the other ingredients melted together.——STEVENSON.
11. The following once had considerable local celebrity, but it obviously
requires to be used with caution. Dissolve 2-1/4 oz. of corrosive
sublimate in the same quantity of muriatic acid, and beat up the solution
with 6 lbs. of strong mercurial ointment; put in a large pan, and pour on
it 19-1/2 lbs. of lard, and 1-1/2 lb. of common turpentine, melted
together and still hot, and stir the whole continually until it becomes
solid.
12. Castor-oil seeds well bruised and steeped for 12 hours in sour milk,
after straining rub the liquid briskly into the skin. (An Indian remedy.)
=SCAGLIO′LA.= A species of plaster or stucco, made of pure gypsum, with
variegated colours, in imitation of marble. In general, the liquid
employed is a weak solution of Flanders glue; and the colours, any which
are not decomposed or destroyed by admixture with sulphate of lime and
exposure to the light. The composition is often applied upon hollow
columns formed of wood, or even of laths nailed together, and the surface,
when hard, is turned smooth in a lathe, and polished.
=SCALES.= A special article under the head of “BALANCE” has been devoted
to the scales employed by the chemist and analyst.
But although these claimed from their greater complexity of structure and
the extreme delicacy of movement required of them a separate notice, every
pharmacist and apothecary will recognise the importance of bestowing an
equal amount of attention upon his dispensing scales; and, to ensure
accurate weighing by them, will take care to keep them scrupulously clean,
and properly poised.
For dispensing purposes, scales fitted with glass pans (or at least with
one glass pan, in which medicinal substances can be weighed) should always
be employed. The beams should be of steel, and the attachments of one
piece of brass only, in preference to chains, or supports of silken
thread. The beams are best cleaned with sand paper, or rotten stone, and
may be protected from rust by being rubbed over with a little almond oil.
=SCALD-HEAD.= See RINGWORM.
=SCALDS.= See BURNS AND SCALDS.
=SCALL.= _Syn._ SCALD. The popular name of several skin diseases
distinguished by scabs or scurfiness, whether dry or humid. See ERUPTIONS,
RINGWORM, &c.
=SCAM′MONY.= _Syn._ SCAMMONIUM (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. The “gum
resin emitted from the cut root of _Convolvulus Scammonia_, Linn.” (Ph.
L.), or Aleppo scammony plant.
There are three principal varieties or qualities of scammony known in the
market; viz. VIRGIN (sp. gr. 1·21); SECONDS (sp. gr. 1·460 to 1·463); and
THIRDS (sp. gr. 1·465 to 1·500). The best, and that only intended to be
used in medicine, is imported from Aleppo.
_Pur._ Scammony is not only largely adulterated in the country of its
production, but again after its arrival in England. SMYRNA SCAMMONY, a
very inferior variety, is also commonly dressed up, and sold as Aleppo
scammony. In many cases substances are sold at the public sales in London,
and elsewhere, as scammony, which contain only a mere trace of that
article. This is all ground up to form the scammony powder of the shops.
(_Vide_ ‘Evid. Com. Ho. Com.,’ 1155.) PURE SCAMMONY has a peculiar cheesy
smell, and a greenish-grey colour. It is “porous and brittle, and the
freshly broken surface shines; hydrochloric acid being dropped on it, it
emits no bubbles; nor does the powder digested in water, at heat of 170°
Fahr., become blue by the simultaneous addition of iodide of potassium and
dilute nitric acid. Out of 100 gr., 78 (80——Ph. E.) should be soluble in
ether.” (Ph. L.) The tincture of pure scammony is not turned green by
nitric acid. If the powder effervesce with dilute acids, it contains
chalk.
_Uses, &c._ Pure scammony is a powerful drastic purgative and
anthelmintic, inadmissible in inflammatory conditions of the alimentary
canal, but well adapted for torpid and inactive conditions of the
abdominal organs. Associated with calomel, rhubarb, or sulphate of
potassa, it is useful in all cases in which an active cathartic or
vermifuge may be required, especially for children.——_Dose._ (For an
adult) 5 to 15 gr., in powder, or made into a bolus or emulsion.
=SCARLATI′NA.= See SCARLET FEVER.
=SCAR′LET DYE.= _Proc._ (Poërner.)——_a._ The ‘Bouillon.’ Take of cream of
tartar, 1-3/4 oz.; water, q. s.; boil in a block-tin vessel, and when
dissolved, add of solution of tin (made by dissolving 2 oz. of grain tin
in a mixture of 1 lb. each of nitric acid and water, and 1-1/2 oz. of sal
ammoniac), 1-3/4 oz.; boil for 3 minutes, then introduce the cloth, boil
for 2 hours, drain it, and let it cool.——_b._ The ‘Rougie.’ Next take of
cream of tartar, 1/4 oz.; water, q. s.; boil, and add powdered cochineal,
1 oz.; again boil for 5 minutes, then gradually add of solution of tin, 1
oz., stirring well all the time; lastly, put in the goods and dye as
quickly as possible. The quantities given are those for 1 to 1-1/4 lb. of
woollen cloth. The result is a full scarlet. To make the colour turn on
the ‘ponceau’ or poppy, a little turmeric is added to the bath.
_Obs._ Scarlet is red with a tinge of yellow; it is nearly always produced
by cochineal. See RED DYE.
=SCARLET FE′VER.= _Syn._ SCARLATINA, FEBRIS SCARLATINA, L. A highly
contagious disease, so named after the peculiar eruption or efflorescence
of the skin which accompanies it. The milder form of this disease
(SCARLATINA SIMPLEX, S. MITIS) comes on with languor, chilliness
alternated by fits of heat, nausea, vomiting (frequently), and other
common symptoms of fever; followed, on the third or fourth day, by a
scarlet efflorescence upon the skin, which after three or four days ends
in the cuticle or scarf-skin peeling off in branny scales. Dropsical
swelling of the whole body sometimes follows the disappearance of the
eruption; but this, with the febrile symptoms, and the soreness of the
throat (if any), then give way, and the patient gradually regains his
former health and strength. In the _malignant form_ of scarlet fever
(SCARLATINA CYNANCHICA, S. ANGINOSA, S. MALIGNA) the febrile symptoms,
from the first, are more alarming; there is bilious vomiting, great
soreness and ulceration of the throat, the pulse is small and quick, and
the breathing laborious. These symptoms rapidly increase on the appearance
of the eruption; the body then becomes swollen, the nose and eyes
inflamed, the breath fetid, the throat suppurates, putrid symptoms ensue,
and the patient is either suddenly cut off or recovers very slowly.
The early symptoms of scarlet fever are distinguished from those of the
MEASLES and SMALLPOX by the greater extent and want of elevation of the
eruption, and by its not congregating into patches. Nor are there the
cough or running from the eyes and nose which usher in the measles.
The treatment of the milder form of scarlet fever, especially that of
childhood, may consist of the administration of an emetic, followed by a
saline aperient, to clear the bowels; the latter being repeated as
occasion may require. The patient should be kept in a cool and
well-ventilated room, the diet should be light and farinaceous, and the
use of diluent drinks copiously indulged in. If the febrile symptoms are
severe, or the throat much affected, small doses of some mild mercurial,
as calomel, mercurial pill, or quicksilver with chalk, may be
administered, either separately or combined with antimonial diaphoretics
or Dover’s powder. In malignant scarlet fever a smart emetic should be
given early, and mercurials and diaphoretics at once freely exhibited.
Acidulated gargles may be used for the throat, and, when the heat of the
body is much above the natural standard, sponging the whole body with cold
water, or with vinegar and water, may be had recourse to. If the malignant
symptoms run high, and assume a typhoid or putrid character, the system
must be supported with stimulant tonics as wine, bark, capsicum, &c.
According to Hahnemann, Koreff, and Randhahn, belladonna is a prophylactic
against scarlet fever. The homœopathists also hold it to be almost a
specific in the disease.
Dr Renfrew’s medicinal treatment consists in the administration of a
mixture consisting of tincture of perchloride of iron and chlorate of
potash. He contends that the chlorine which the mixture contains destroys
the blood poison, that the hydrochloric acid supplies a desirable
ingredient for the blood, that the iron improves the impaired red blood
disks and assists in forming new ones, whilst the chlorate of potash is a
source of oxygen whereby the disintegrated matters floating in the blood
are burnt up and destroyed.
Scarlet fever is common to all ages of life, but children and young
persons are the most subject to it. Unlike the smallpox, it occasionally
attacks the same person more than once. It is most common in dirty, close,
damp situations.
_In horses_, the commencing symptoms are very similar to those in
man——indisposition to movement, febrile symptoms as indicated by a hot and
dry skin, and sore throat, the glands about the head and neck being
frequently tender and swollen. The respiration becomes quickened and the
pulse thready. In about 48 hours scarlet spots about the size of a pea
show themselves on the mucous membrane about the lips and nostrils, the
spots after a time becoming confluent. Except the attack be a very mild
one, similar spots spread all over the body, but are most plentiful about
the animal’s head and neck. After about a fortnight or three weeks, the
hair leaves the parts on which the spots are, and then desquamation sets
in, and bare bald patches are left. The after results bear a great
resemblance to those which frequently follow an attack of the same disease
in the human being. The best treatment consists in placing the animal in a
cool, well-ventilated loose box, applying bandages to the legs, and a
linen cover to the body, with a warm rug over that.
A dose of nitre and Mindererus spirit should be given in water three times
a day, combined with mild tonics, stimulants, and diuretics. See
DISINFECTANTS.
=SCENE′-PAINTING.= A variety of distemper painting employed in theatres,
&c., governed by perspective, and having for its object the production of
striking effects when viewed at a distance. Water, size, turpentine, and
the ordinary pigments, are the materials used for the purpose.
=SCENT BAGS.= See SACHETS.
=SCENT BALLS.= _Syn._ PASTILLES DE TOILETTE ODORANTES, Fr. These are
prepared from any of the materials noticed under POT POURRI, SCENTED
POWDERS, and SACHETS, made into a paste with mucilage of gum tragacanth,
and moulded into any desired forms, as that of balls, beads, medallions,
&c. The larger ones are frequently polished.
=SCENTED CAS′SOLETTES.= See POT POURRI, and _above_.
=SCENTS (Pommade).= _Prep._ 1. (COWSLIP.) From essence of bergamot, 8 oz.;
essence of lemon, 4 oz.; oil of cloves, 2 oz,; essence de petit grain, 1
oz.
2. (JONQUILLE.) From essence of bergamot and lemon, of each 8 oz.; oils of
orange peel and cloves, of each 2 oz.; oil of sassafras, 1 oz.; liquid
storax, 1/2 oz,; digest, with warmth and agitation, for a few hours, and
decant the clear portion in a week.
3. (MILLEFLEUR.) From essence of ambergris (finest), 4 oz.; essence of
lemon, 3 oz.; oil of cloves and English oil of lavender, of each 2 oz.;
essence de petit grain, essence of bergamot, and balsam of Peru (genuine),
of each 1 oz.; as the last.
_Obs._ The above are employed to scent pomatums, hair oils, &c. 1 oz. of
any one of them, dissolved in one pint of the strongest rectified spirit,
produces a delicious perfume for the handkerchief.
=SCENTS (Snuff).= _Prep._ 1. Essence of bergamot, 2 oz.; otto of roses and
neroli, of each 1 dr.
2. Oil of lavender, 1 oz.; essence of lemon, 2 oz.; essence of bergamot, 4
oz.
3. To the last, add of oil of cloves, 2 oz.
4. Essence of musk and ambergris, of each 1 oz.; liquor of ammonia, 1/2
dr. See SNUFF, &c.
=SCHEELE’S GREEN.= See GREEN PIGMENTS.
=SCHLIPPE’S SALT.= Sulphantimoniate of sodium. See ANTIMONY,
SULPHANTIMONIATE.
=SCHWARTZ’S DROPS.= See DROPS, WORM.
=SCIAT′ICA.= See RHEUMATISM.
=SCIENCE.= “Man,” says Whewell, “is the interpreter of nature. Science the
right interpretation. The senses place before us the _characters_ of the
‘Book of Nature,’ but these convey no knowledge to us till we have
discovered the alphabet by which they are to be read.”
Various classifications of the sciences have been proposed by different
authors. Dr Neil Arnott conceived that the object of all the sciences,
viz. a knowledge of nature, might be best attained by the study of
physics, chemistry, life and mind, including under this latter the laws of
society, or the modern science of sociology.
As to mathematics he regarded it as a system of “technical mensuration,”
invaded by the mind in order to enable it to study the other sciences. In
his ‘Cours de Philosophie Positive,’ Comte traverses the entire circle of
the theoretical, abstract, or fundamental sciences, and divides them into
mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry, biology, and sociology. He
admits no distinct science on psychology or the science of mind.
Mr Herbert Spencer proposes to classify the sciences into three groups;
viz.:——1. Abstract science, which treats of the forms of phenomena
detached from their embodiments. 2. Abstract concrete science, or the
phenomena of nature analysed into their separate elements. 3. Concrete
science or natural phenomena in their totalities.
“For the classification of the sciences it is convenient to prepare the
way by distinguishing between theoretical sciences which are the sciences
properly so called, and practical science. A theoretical science embraces
a distinct department of nature, and is so arranged as to give in the most
compact form the entire body of ascertained (scientific) knowledge in that
department, such as mathematics, chemistry, physiology, and zoology. A
practical science is the application of scientifically obtained facts and
laws in one or more departments to some practical end, which end rules the
selection and arrangement of the whole; as for example, navigation,
engineering, mining, and medicine. Another distinction must be made before
laying down the systematic order of the theoretical sciences.
“A certain number of these sciences have for their subject-matter each a
separate department of natural forces or powers; thus, biology deals with
the department of organised beings, psychology with mind. Others deal with
the application of powers elsewhere recognised to some region of concrete
facts or phenomena. Thus, geology does not discuss any natural powers not
found in other sciences, but seeks to apply the laws of physics,
chemistry, and biology to account for the appearance of the earth’s crust.
“The sciences that embrace peculiar natural powers are called abstract,
general, or fundamental sciences; those that apply to the powers treated
of under these, to regions of concrete phenomena, are called concrete,
derived, or applied sciences.”[147]
[Footnote 147: ‘Chambers’s Encyclopædia.’]
The separation of the sciences into these two sections is that now
generally accepted.
The first section, that of the abstract or theoretical sciences, is
subdivided by almost common consent into mathematics, physics, chemistry,
biology (vegetable and animal physiology), psychology (mind), and
sociology (the laws of society).
The second section, that of the concrete sciences, includes meteorology,
mineralogy, botany, zoology, geology, and geography.
The order in which the abstract sciences are arranged above has also been
found to best illustrate the sequence in which they may be most
advantageously studied.
=SCIL′LITIN.= _Syn._ SCILLITINA, SCILLITITE. A whitish, resinous,
translucent, bitter, deliquescent substance, obtained by Vögel from
squills. It is soluble in water, alcohol, and acetic acid, and is
purgative, acrid, and poisonous.
=SCORBU′TUS.= See SCURVY.
=SCO′′RIA.= Dross; the refuse or useless part of any substance, more
especially that left from bodies which have been subjected to the action
of fire. It is frequently used in the plural (SCORIÆ).
=SCOTT’S DROPS.= See PATENT MEDICINES.
=SCOUR′ING.= The common method of cleaning cloth is by heating and
brushing it, unless it be very dirty, when it undergoes the operation of
scouring. This is best done on the small scale, as with ARTICLES OF
WEARING APPAREL, as follows:——A little curd soap is dissolved in water,
and, after mixing it with a little clarified ox-gall, is applied to all
the spots of grease, dirt, &c., and well rubbed into them with a stiff
brush, until they appear to be removed; after which the article is well
cleaned all over with a brush or sponge dipped into some warm water, to
which the previous mixture and a little more ox-gall has been added. The
cloth is next thoroughly rinsed in clean water, and hung up to dry. For
dark-coloured cloths, some fullers earth is often added to the mixture of
soap and gall. When the article is nearly dry, the nap is laid smooth, and
it is carefully pressed (if with a hot iron, on the wrong side), after
which a soft brush, moistened with a drop or two of olive oil, is
frequently passed over it, to give it a finish and gloss.
Cloth is also cleaned in the dry way:——The spots being removed, as above,
and the wetted parts having become dry, clean damp sand is strewed over
it, and beaten into it with a brush, after which the article is well gone
over with a hard brush, when the sand comes out, and brings the dirt with
it.
BUFF and DRAB CLOTH is generally cleaned by covering it with a paste made
with pipe-clay and water, either with or without a little umber to temper
the colour, which, when dry, is rubbed and brushed off.
When the article requires renovation as well as scouring, it is placed,
whilst still damp, on a board, and the threadbare parts are rubbed with a
half-worn hatter’s card filled with flocks, or with a teasel, or a prickly
thistle, until a nap is raised; it is next hung up to dry, after which it
is ‘finished off’ as before. When the cloth is much faded, it is usual to
give it a ‘dip,’ as it is called, or to pass it through a dye bath to
freshen up the colour. BLACK and DARK BLUE CLOTH, if rusty or faded, is
commonly treated to a coat of ‘reviver,’ instead of being ‘re-dipped,’ and
is then hung up until next day, before being pressed and finished off.
See SPOTS and STAINS.
=SCOURING IN ANIMALS.= See DIARRHŒA.
=SCOURING DROPS.= See DROPS.
=SCROFULA.= _Syn._ KING’S EVIL, STRUMA, STRUMOUS DISEASE. By modern
pathologists scrofula is regarded as a constitutional tendency to form and
deposit in various tissues and organs of the body a substance called
_tubercle_.[148] The _tendency_ may, however, in some cases only exist
without any actual tuberculous deposit taking place. Sir James Paget thus
describes scrofula as generally understood to be a “state of constitution
distinguished in some measure by peculiarities of appearance even during
health, but much more by peculiar liability to certain diseases, including
pulmonary phthisis. The chief of these ‘scrofulous’ diseases are various
swellings of the lymphatic glands, arising from causes which would be
inadequate to produce them in healthy persons.
[Footnote 148: See Phthisis.]
“The swellings are due sometimes to mere enlargement, as from an increase
of natural structure, sometimes to chronic inflammation, sometimes to an
acute inflammation or abscess, sometimes to tuberculous disease of the
glands.
“But besides these it is usual to reckon as ‘scrofulous’ affections
certain chronic inflammations of the joints; slowly progressive carious
inflammations of bones; chronic and frequent ulcers of the cornea;
ophthalmia attended with extreme intolerance of light, but with little, if
any, of the ordinary consequences of inflammation; frequent chronic
abscesses; pustules or other cutaneous eruptions frequently appearing upon
slight affection of the health or local irritation; habitual swelling and
catarrh of the mucous membrane of the nose; habitual swelling of the upper
lip.”
Scrofula is a disease which almost always shows itself during childhood,
and rarely after maturity has been attained.
Scrofulous children, or those of scrofulous diathesis, are frequently
narrow-chested, or their chests present that projecting appearance known
as ‘pigeon-breasted,’ their abdomens are also unnaturally large, and their
limbs emaciated. Their circulation is languid, and they are very generally
attacked with chilblains during inclement weather. They also suffer from
obstinate indigestion. Bearing in mind the fact that scrofula is
frequently induced, irrespective of hereditary taint, in the children of
the poor by bad and damp air, insufficient food and clothing, exclusion
from sunshine, and such like insanitary surroundings, the chief treatment
that will suggest itself will consist in remedying these adverse
conditions. Hence the patient should live on generous but digestible food,
partaking of meat twice a day. Milk and eggs also form an excellent diet
for the scrofulous. A scrofulous mother should refrain from suckling her
offspring, and procure a wet-nurse for that purpose. Flannel should be
worn both summer and winter. Various medicines have been employed in this
disease, including cod-liver oil, sarsaparilla, bark, syrup of iodide of
iron, the alkalies, and mineral acids. Of these cod-liver oil and syrup of
iodide of iron deservedly enjoy the highest reputation.
=SCUDAMORE’S LOTION.= See LOTION, GOUT.
=SCURF.= _Syn._ FURFURA. Scurf “is a natural and healthy formation, and
though it may be kept from accumulating, it cannot be prevented. It is
produced on every part of the body where hair is found, although, from the
more active growth of hair on the scalp, the facilities for collecting,
and the contrast of colour, it strikes the eye most disagreeably in that
situation. This will show how futile any attempt must be which shall have
for its object to prevent the formation of the scurf. It may be removed,
and should be removed, every day, with the hair-brush; but prevention is
impossible, inasmuch as it is opposed to a law of nature. Occasionally, as
a morbid action, an unusual quantity of scurf is produced, in which case
medical means may be adopted to bring the scalp into a more healthful
state.” (Eras. Wilson.) In such cases the daily use of some mild
stimulating or detergent wash, with due attention to the stomach and
bowels, will generally abate this annoyance.
=SCURF POWDER——Grindpulver= (Mahon, Paris). Three powders which, according
to Chevalier and Figuier, are nothing but wood ashes. Buchner found no
alkalies, but announced the following composition:——Organic calcium
carbonate (oyster shells, egg shells, crab shells), with a little gypsum,
charcoal powder, and more or less brick-dust, powdered, mixed, and exposed
to a moderate red heat in a covered crucible, till part of the chalk is
converted into quicklime, and the gypsum reduced by the charcoal powder to
calcium sulphide, which in its turn is gradually converted by the air into
calcium sulphite. All three powders are made of the same ingredients, but
in different proportions. No. 1 has more gypsum and charcoal powder; No. 2
less charcoal and more chalk; and No. 3 more brickdust. (Wittstein.)
=SCURF SALVE——Grinsalbe.= In France it is generally a mixture of 2 parts
slaked lime, 5 parts soda crystals, and 25 parts fat. (Hager.)
=SCUR′VY.= _Syn._ SCORBUTUS, L. This disease commences with indolence,
sallow looks, debility, and loss of spirits; the gums become sore and
spongy, the teeth loose, and the breath fetid; the legs swell, eruptions
appear on different parts of the body, and, at length, the patient sinks
under general emaciation, diarrhœa, and hæmorrhages.
The treatment of ordinary cases of this disease mainly consists in
employing a diet of fresh animal and green vegetable food, with mild ale,
beer, or lemonade, as beverages; scrupulously avoiding salted and dried
meat. The fresh-squeezed juice of lemons is, perhaps, of all other
substances, the most powerful remedy in this disease in its early stages,
and is useful in all of them. Effervescing draughts formed with the
bicarbonate of potassa (not soda) are also excellent.
In former years, before the nature of this malady had been intelligently
investigated, and the proper preventive methods and remedial measures for
combating it were unknown, scurvy was not only a very common but a very
fatal disease in our own navy, as well as in the navies of other powers.
Of 961 men who constituted Anson’s fleet sent out during our war with
Spain in 1742, 626 died of scurvy in nine months; whilst Sir Gilbert Blane
records that in the year 1780, out of a fleet composed of between 7000 and
8000 men, more than 1000, or one in seven, perished from the same cause.
Sir Richard Hawkins, one of the naval celebrities of Elizabeth and James’
reign, affirmed that daring twenty years he had known 20,000 sailors fall
victims to scurvy alone; and a Portuguese writer, quoted by Sir Charles
Blane, speaking of the number of victims from scurvy, during a naval
exploring expedition of his own country men, says “that if the dead who
from this cause had been thrown overboard between the coast of Guinea and
the Cape of Good Hope, and between that Cape and Mozambique, could have
had tombstones placed for them, each on the spot where he sank, the whole
way would have appeared one continued cemetery.”[149]
[Footnote 149: Dr Guy.]
The statistical report of the navy for 1871 offers a gratifying contrast
to the above figures. From this document it appears that out of a total
force of 4720 sailors, only four were affected with scurvy during that
year. The much greater number of men attacked by the disease on board
merchant ships appears to be due to the inferior or worthless character of
the lime or lemon juice purchased by them.
Writing on the hygienic condition of the merchant marine in 1867, Mr Harry
Leach says:——
“We are prepared to maintain, from the following table (and other
statistics from which these have been taken), that the want of good lime
or lemon juice was distinctly the cause of scurvy in the vessels below
mentioned.
No. of Hands Cases of Result of examination
Name of Ship. (all told). Scurvy. of Lime juice.
Hermione 17 5 Sulphuric acid.
Merrie England 29 10 Stinking.
Stirling Castle 32 6 Very weak.
Hoang-Ho 21 5 Acetic acid.
Blanche Moore 35 8 Musty and nauseous.
St Andrew’s Castle 19 7 Citric acid.
Tamerlane 21 4 Nauseous.
Marlborough 23 8 Very weak.
Galloway 29 6 Short allowance.
Tamar 17 2 Very weak.
French Empire 27 7 or 8 Citric acid.
Eaglet 14 3 Thick and nasty.
Geelong 14 9 Taken irregularly.
Thorndean 35 2 Spoiled (short supply of
provisions).
Taken with ships that, with others, have arrived in the port of London
during the past two years with cases of scurvy.
“Of direct causes this is undoubtedly first and foremost; but of indirect
causes we have a few words to say. Dirt, bad provisions, and any form of
disease to which sailors, in common with other men, are subject, will
predispose to scurvy. This cannot and should not be denied, but it affords
to parsimonious captains a very large peg whereon to hang sundry
invectives as to the cry lately made about the continued prevalence of
this disease in the mercantile marine. Such captains, with pardonable
ignorance, consider scurvy a form of venereal disease, give the wretched
subject thereof mercury, and bring him into port salivated as well as
scorbutic.”
Mr Leach further adds:——
“In summing up statistics of scurvy for the past year (1867), we find that
a total of 235 accredited cases were admitted into British hospitals,
giving no account of those who convalesced in sailors’ homes or elsewhere.
“To this we may add, that seven sailors were left at St Helena, from a
ship recently arrived in the Thames; that a vessel put into Falmouth on
the 29th ult., with no less than sixteen severe cases of scurvy on board,
and that between twenty and thirty cases have arrived in this port during
the present month. It would be well (as a supplementary aid to the
prevention of scurvy by inspection of lime juice) that the dues levied for
the St Helena Hospital should be abolished. It was stated to us some weeks
ago by a very old inhabitant of that Island, that this fact alone caused
many ships to pass without calling for needful supplies of antiscorbutic
material.
“I would however remark, that if the system proposed by the Seamen’s
Hospital Society were put in force, no such aid to the prevention of this
disease would be required, inasmuch as every ship would then be supplied
with good lime juice.”
The following figures, giving the number of patients suffering from scurvy
admitted into the Seamen’s Hospital, shows a decrease in the disease,
since the publication of the above:——
In 1865, from British vessels, 101; foreign do. 1
” 1866 ” ” 96 ” 5
” 1867 ” ” 90 ” 4
” 1868 ” ” 64 ” 10
” 1869 ” ” 31 ” 9
” 1870 ” ” 30 ” 21
” 1871 ” ” 24 ” 16
=SEAL′ING WAX.= See WAX.
=SEA SICKNESS.= The most effectual preventive of sea sickness appears to
be the horizontal position. When there is much pain, after the stomach has
been well cleared, a few drops of laudanum may be taken, or an opium
plaster may be applied over the region of the stomach. Persons about to
proceed to sea should put their stomach and bowels in proper order, by the
use of mild aperients, and even an emetic, if required, when it will
generally be found that a glass of warm and weak brandy-and-water, to
which 15 or 20 drops of laudanum, or, still better, 1 or 2 drops of
creasote, have been added, will effectually prevent any disposition to sea
sickness, provided the bowels be attended to, and excess in eating and
drinking be at the same time avoided. A spoonful of crushed ice, in a
wine-glassful of cold water, or weak brandy-and-water, will often afford
relief when all other means fail. Smoking at sea is very apt to induce
sickness. M. F. Curie, in the ‘Comptes Rendus,’ asserts that drawing in
the breath as the vessel descends, and exhaling it as it ascends, on the
billows, by preventing the movements of the diaphragm acting abnormally on
the phrenetic nerves, prevents sea sickness. On this Mr Atkinson, at one
of the meetings of the British Association, observed that——if a person,
seated on board ship, holding a tumbler filled with water in his hand,
makes an effort to prevent the water running over, at the same time
allowing not merely his arm, but also his whole body, to participate in
the movements, he will find that this has the effect of preventing the
giddiness and nausea that the rolling and tossing of the vessel have a
tendency to produce in inexperienced voyagers. If the person is suffering
from sickness at the commencement of his experiment, as soon as he grasps
the glass of liquid in his hand, and suffers his arm to take its course
and go through the movements alluded to, he feels as if he were performing
them of his own free will, and the nausea abates immediately, and very
soon ceases entirely, and does not return so long as he suffers his arm
and body to assume the postures into which they seem to be drawn. Should
he, however, resist the free course of his hand, he instantly feels a
thrill of pain, of a peculiarly stunning kind, shoot through his head, and
experiences a sense of dizziness and returning nausea.
Dr Doring, a Viennese physician, states that an ordinary dose of chloral
hydrate is an unfailing remedy for sea sickness. In various cases recorded
by him it seems to have been of the greatest service, even during long sea
voyages, ensuring a good night’s rest, arresting violent sickness when it
has set in, and preventing its return.
=SEDATIVE PILLS, Gunther’s.= These are composed of the following
ingredients:——Assafœtida powder, 50 parts; extract of valerian, 50;
extract of belladonna, 3; oxide of zinc, 1 part; castor, 2 parts. Make
into a pill-mass, to be administered in doses of 3 to 10 grains, twice
daily, in chorea, &c.
=SED′ATIVES.= _Syn._ SEDATIVA, L. Medicines and agents which diminish the
force of the circulation or the animal energy, and allay pain. Foxglove,
henbane, tobacco, potassio-tartrate of antimony, and several of the
neutral salts and acids, act as sedatives. Cold is, perhaps, the most
powerful agent of this class.
=SEED.= _Syn._ SEMEN, L. The seeds of plants are conspicuous for their
vast number and variety, and their extreme usefulness to man. The seeds of
certain of the _Graminaceæ_ furnish him with his daily bread; some of
those of the _Leguminosæ_ in either the immature or ripe state, supply his
table with wholesome esculents, or provide a nourishing diet for his
domestic animals; whilst those of numerous other plants, dispersed through
every class, orders, and family, yield their treasures of oil, medicinals,
or perfumes for his use.
=SELEN′IC ACID.= H_{2}SeO_{4}. _Syn._ ACIDUM SELENICUM, L. _Prep._ By
fusing selenium with nitrate of potassium or of sodium, acting on the
fused mass with water, precipitating the resulting solution with acetate
or nitrate of lead, and decomposing the precipitate (selenate of lead),
diffused in water, with sulphuretted hydrogen. The selenic acid, thus
obtained, may be cautiously concentrated in a glass vessel, if necessary;
but if this be pushed too far, it is resolved into selenious acid
(H_{2}SeO_{3}) and oxygen.
_Prop., &c._ Hydrated selenic acid is a colourless liquid, closely
resembling sulphuric acid; its salts (selenates) bear the closest analogy
to the sulphates.
SELENIC ACID (H_{2}SeO_{4}). No selenic anhydride is known. Selenic acid
may be obtained in solution by deflagrating selenium or a selenite with
potassic nitrate. The residue dissolved in water is mixed with a solution
of plumbic nitrate, an insoluble plumbic seleniate being precipitated. The
plumbic seleniate is suspended in water and decomposed by means of a
current of sulphuretted hydrogen. Plumbic sulphide is precipitated, and
the liberated selenic acid separated by filtration is concentrated until
it acquires a sp. gr. of 2·6; if heated above 554° F. it decomposes into
selenious anhydride, water, and oxygen. Selenic acid has a great
resemblance to sulphuric acid. It acts upon the metals in the same manner,
and even dissolves gold. The seleniates are also very similar in
properties to the sulphates, and both classes of salts are isomorphous.
The seleniates give the same characteristic odour before the blowpipe as
the selenites. Their solutions give white precipitates with the salts of
barium, strontian and lead, insoluble in nitric acid. If a soluble
seleniate is boiled with hydrochloric acid, selenic acid is set free, and
is reduced to selenious acid, sulphurous acid will then precipitate
reduced selenium from the solution. Baric seleniate may be also decomposed
in a similar manner, and this reaction distinguishes it from baric
sulphate.
=SELE′NIUM.= Se. A rare chemical element, discovered by Berzelius in 1817
in the refuse of a sulphuric acid manufactory near Fahlun, in Sweden, it
having been derived from the pyrites employed in the manufacture of the
acid. Hence the pyrites of Fahlun forms the chief source of this rare
body, although it exists, but less abundantly, in combination with a few
other metals, termed selenides. Selenium is chiefly interesting to the
chemist from its remarkable analogy in chemical properties to sulphur.
Like this latter element, it is capable of assuming three allotropic
forms——the amorphous, the vitreous, and the crystalline.
The latter variety of selenium, like the crystalline form of sulphur,
dissolves in bisulphide of carbon, but much less readily. Selenium boils
below a red heat and becomes converted into a deep yellow vapour, which,
when heated, is subject to the same anomalous expansion as sulphur vapour.
It is not so combustible as sulphur, which it still further resembles by
burning with a blue flame when ignited in the air. During combustion it
gives off a peculiar and characteristic smell, resembling that of putrid
horse-radish. Heated with strong sulphuric acid, selenium forms a green
solution. If this solution is poured into water, the selenium separates
and is thrown down. Selenium is without taste or smell, is insoluble in
water, and in its normal state is a non-conductor of heat and electricity.
Selenium may be extracted from the Fahlun residue by the following
process:——It should be first boiled with sulphuric acid, diluted with an
equal volume of water, and nitric acid should then be added in small
quantities until the oxidation of the selenium is accomplished, which may
be known when red fumes cease to be cooled. The solution which contains
selenious (SeO_{2}) and selenic (SeO_{3}) acid is then to be largely
diluted with water, filtered, the filtrate mixed with about one fourth of
its bulk of hydrochloric acid, and then concentrated a little by
evaporation, the result of which is that the hydrochloric acid reduces the
selenic to selenious acid. A current of sulphurous acid being then passed
through the solution, the selenium is precipitated in red flakes, which
form into a dense black mass when the liquid is gently heated. The
following equation illustrates the reaction:——
H_{2}O,SeO_{2} + H_{2}O + 2SO_{2} = 2(H_{2}SO_{3}) + Se.
Like sulphur, selenium combines with oxygen and forms an anhydride
corresponding to sulphurous anhydride. SELENIOUS ANHYDRIDE (SeO_{2}) may
be obtained by burning selenium in a current of oxygen; it is, however,
more easily prepared by boiling selenium with nitric acid or with aqua
regia, the excess of acid being expelled by heat, the selenious anhydride
is left as a white mass. When this is dissolved in water it yields a
crystalline hydrate of selenious acid (H_{2}SeO_{3}). The salts formed by
selenious acid (selenites), with the exception of those of the alkali
metals, are mostly insoluble in water. They are easily known by the
peculiar odour of selenium which they give off when heated on charcoal in
the reducing flame of the blowpipe; solutions of the selenites give a
reddish-brown precipitate when treated with sulphurous acid.
=Seleniuretted Hydrogen= (H_{2}Se). This may be obtained in a precisely
similar manner, namely, by acting on selenide of iron or potassium with
diluted sulphuric or hydrochloric acid. Seleniuretted hydrogen is soluble
in water, and precipitates many metals from their salts as selenides. The
solution is feebly acid, and, like its analogue solution of sulphuretted
hydrogen, if exposed to the air, absorbs oxygen and deposits selenium. The
selenides of the alkali metals are soluble in water. The selenides of
cerium, zinc, and manganese are flesh-coloured; most of the others are
black. This gas is inflammable like sulphuretted hydrogen; it has,
however, a still more offensive smell than this latter gas, Berzelius lost
his sense of smell for several hours by the application to his nose of a
bubble of seleniuretted hydrogen not larger than a pea. There are two
chlorides of selenium——a dichloride (Se_{2}Cl_{2}), a volatile liquid of a
brown colour, and a tetra-chloride (SeCl_{4}), which occurs as a white
crystalline solid. Selenium unites with sulphur, forming a bisulphide
(SeS_{2}) and a tersulphide (SeS_{3}). A very curious physical property of
selenium when exposed to the action of light was first noticed in 1873 by
Mr May, assistant chemist at the Telegraph Station at Valentia, in
Ireland, who observed that a stick of crystallised selenium which had been
used for some time in telegraphy, where high electrical resistance was
required, offered a considerably diminished resistance to the current when
exposed to the light than when kept in the dark. Mr May’s discovery, which
was at first received with some amount of incredulity, has since been
amply corroborated by the observations and researches of many physicists,
amongst them by Professor Werner Siemens, the result of whose experiments
on this interesting subject we quote from a lecture delivered at the Royal
Institution by his brother, Dr William Siemens, in February, 1876. After
describing the method by which his brother arranged the selenium, so that,
when inserted in the galvanic current of a single Daniell’s cell, the
surface action produced by the light upon it attained a maximum effect,
and thereby did away with the necessity of employing a large galvanic
battery, and at the same time allowed an ordinary galvanometer to be used
instead of a delicate one, as hitherto employed, Dr Siemens proceeded to
illustrate the action of light upon the element by experiment. “I here
hold,” he said, “an element so prepared of amorphous selenium, which I
place in a dark box, and insert in a galvanic circuit comprising a
Daniell’s cell and a delicate galvanometer, the face of which will be
thrown upon the screen through a mirror by means of the electric light.
“In closing the circuit it will be seen that no deflection of the needle
ensues. We will now admit light upon the selenium disc and close the
circuit, when again no deflection will be observed, showing that the
selenium in its present condition is a non-conductor both in the dark and
under the influence of light. I will now submit a similar disc of selenium
which has been kept in boiling water for an hour and gradually cooled to
the same tests as before. In closing the circuit while the plate is in the
dark a certain deflection of the galvanometer will be discernible, but I
will now open the lid of the box so as to admit light upon the disc, when
on again closing the circuit a slight deflection of the galvanometer
needle will be observed. In closing the box against the light this
deflection will subside, but will again be visible the moment the light is
readmitted to the box. Here we have, then, the extraordinary effect of
light upon selenium clearly illustrated.
“I will now insert into the same circuit another selenium plate which has
been heated up to 210° C, and, after having been kept at that temperature
for several hours, has been gradually cooled; it will be observed that
this plate is affected to a greater extent than the former by the action
of light, and other conditions, to which I shall presently allude, prove
the selenium heated to a higher temperature to be in other respects
dissimilar to the other two modifications of the same. These differences
will be best revealed in describing my brother’s experiment. He placed one
of his amorphous preparations of selenium in an air-bath heated above the
melting point of selenium (to 260° C.), while the connecting wires were
inserted in a galvanic circuit consisting of only one Daniell’s element
and a delicate reflecting galvanometer, and every five minutes the
temperature and conductivity of the selenium were noted. Up to the
temperature of 80° C. no current passed; from this point onward the
conductivity of the material rapidly increased until it obtained its
maximum at the temperature of 210° C., being nearly its melting point,
after which an equally rapid diminution of conductivity commenced,
reaching a minimum at a temperature of about 240° C., when the
conductivity was only such as could be detected by a most delicate
galvanometer. In continuing to increase the temperature of the fluid
selenium very gradually but steadily, its conductivity increased again.
The interpretation of these experiments is as follows: Amorphous selenium
retains a very large amount of specific heat, which renders it a
non-conductor of electricity: when heated to 80° this amorphous solid mass
begins to change its amorphous condition for the crystalline form, in
which form it possesses a greatly reduced amount of specific heat, giving
rise to the increase of temperature beyond that of surrounding objects
when the change of condition is once set in. If care is taken to limit the
rise of temperature of the selenium to 100° C., and if it is very
gradually cooled after being maintained for an hour or two at that
temperature, a mass is obtained which conducts electricity to some extent,
and which shows increased conductivity under the influence of light. But
in examining the conductivity of selenium so prepared at various
temperatures below 80°, and without accession of light, it was found that
its _conductivity increases with rise of temperature_, in which respect it
resembles carbon, sulphide of metals, and generally electrolytes. This my
brother terms his first modification of selenium.
But in extending the heating influence up to 210°, and in maintaining that
temperature by means of a bath of paraffin for some hours before gradually
reducing the same, he obtained a second modification of selenium, in which
its conductivity increases with fall of temperature, and in which
modification it is, therefore, analogous to the metals. This second
modification of selenium is a better conductor of electricity than the
first, and its sensitiveness to light is so great that its conductivity in
sunlight is fifteen times greater than it is in the dark, as will be seen
from the following table, in which is given the effects of different
intensities of light on selenium (Modification II) obtained at Woolwich on
the 14th of February, 1876:——
---------------------------------------------------------------
Selenium in |Relative Conductivities. | Resistance in
|-------------------------| Ohms.
|Deflections. | Ratio. |
| | |
---------------------------------------------------------------
1. Dark | 32 | 1·0 | 10,070,000
2. Diffused | | |
daylight. | 110 | 3·4 | 2,930,000
3. Lamplight | 180 | 5·6 | 1,790,000
4. Sunlight | 470 | 14·7 | 680,000
---------------------------------------------------------------
Unfortunately, however, the second modification is not so stable as the
first; when lowered in temperature parts of it change back into the first
or metalloid modification by taking up specific heat, and in watching this
effect a point is discovered at which ratio of increase of conductivity
with fall of temperature changes sign, or where the electrolyte substance
appears to predominate over the metallic selenium. If cooled down to 15°
C., the whole of the metallic selenium is gradually being converted back
into the first variety. The physical conclusions here arrived at may be
said to be an extension of Helmholtz’s theory that the conductivity of
metals varies inversely as the total heat contained in them. Helmholtz had
only the sensible heat of temperature (counting from the absolute zero
point) in view, but it has already been shown by Hittorf and Werner
Siemens that it applies in the case of tin and some other metals, also to
specific heat and to the latent heat of fusion. In selenium the specific
heat is an extremely variable quantity, changing in the solid mass at
certain temperatures, and, it is contended, under the influence of light.
Aided by these experimental researches, my brother arrives at the
conclusion that the influence of light upon selenium may be explained by a
“_change of its molecular condition near the surface, from the first or
electrolyte into the second or metallic modification_, or in other words,
by a _liberation of specific heat upon the illuminated surface of
crystalline selenium_, which liberated heat is reabsorbed when the
liberating cause has ceased to act.” Professor Adams, who has likewise
investigated this singular action of light upon selenium, ascribes it to a
different cause. He says:——
1. That the light falling on the selenium causes an electromotive force in
it in the same direction as the battery current passing through it, the
effect being similar to the effect due to polarisation in an electrolyte,
but in the opposite direction.
2. That the light falling on the selenium causes a change on its surface
akin to the change which it produces on the surface of a phosphorescent
body, and that in consequence of this change the electro-current is
enabled to pass more readily over the surface of the selenium.
=SEM′OLA (Bullock’s).= This preparation consists of wheaten flour deprived
of much of its starch by washings with water, and contains the largest
amount (48 per cent.) of nitrogenous or albumenoid principles consistent
with its adaptability to culinary purposes. It is specially intended as a
food for infants, weakly children, and invalids.
=SEMOLI′NA.= _Syn._ SÉMOULE, SEMOULINA. The large hard grains of wheat
flour retained in the bolting machine, after the fine flour has passed
through its meshes. “The best sémoule is obtained from the wheat of the
southern parts of Europe. With the sémoule the fine white Parisian bread
called ‘_gruau_’ is baked.” (Ure.)
=SEN′EGA.= _Syn._ SENEKA, SNAKEROOT, RATTLESNAKE R.; SENEGÆ RADIX (B. P.);
SENEGA (Ph. L., E., & D.), RADIX SENEGÆ, L. “The root of the _Polygala
Senega_, Linn.” (Ph. L.) A stimulating diaphoretic, and expectorant; in
large doses diuretic, cathartic, and emetic. In America it is used as
an antidote to the bite of the rattlesnake. Drs Chapman and
Hartshorne extol it as an emmenagogue. Dr Pereira says that it is an
exceedingly valuable remedy in the latter stages of bronchial or
pulmonary inflammation, when this disease occurs in aged,
debilitated, or torpid constitutions.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr., in
powder or decoction (combined with aromatics, opium, or camphor),
thrice daily.
According to Patrouillard senega is occasionally adulterated with the
roots of _Asclepias vincetoxicum_. The branches of the latter root are
cylindrical, very white, and almost devoid of taste; those of senega, on
the contrary, are yellowish and twisted, and have a very acrid taste. The
froth produced by shaking an infusion of senega keeps much longer than
that produced by an infusion of the adulterant. In other respects there is
a great resemblance between the two roots.
=SEN′EGIN.= _Syn._ POLYGALIN, POLYGALIC ACID. A white odourless powder,
discovered by Gehlin in the bark of seneka root (_Polygala Senega_).
=SEN′NA.= _Syn._ SENNA, SENNÆ FOLIA, L. There are three principal
varieties:——
1. ALEXANDRIAN SENNA (SENNA ALEXANDRINA——B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.),
referred in the, Ph. L. to _Cassia officinalis_ and _Cassia obovata_, in
the Ph. D. to _Cassia acutifolia_ (Delile), and in the Ph. E. to various
species of cassia. The leaves are “unequal at the base, ovate acute, or
obovate mucronate.” (Ph. L.) It is generally mixed with the leaves of
_Solenostemma Argel_ (argel leaves), the presence of which is often the
occasion of much griping. The leaf of argel is fully an inch long, warty,
regular in its formation, and the lateral nerves are imperfectly seen on
the under side; whilst that of the true Alexandrian senna never exceeds
3/4 inch in length, is oblique, and the nerves on the under side are very
conspicuous.
2. INDIAN SENNA (SENNA INDICA——B. P.; Ph. L., & E.) is referred to _Cassia
officinalis_ in the Ph. L., and in the Ph. E. & D. to _Cassia elongata_
(Lemaire, Lisancourt). The leaf is “unequal at the base,” and
“Lanceolate.” (Ph. L.)
3. TINNEVELLY SENNA, forming the finest Indian, now introduced into the
Ph. D., is therein described as composed of the leaflets of _Cassia
oblongata_. These are pale green, thin, flexible, and from 1 to 2 inches
long, and nearly 1/2 inch broad. This variety is equal in medicinal virtue
to the best Alexandrian, and is to be preferred, on account of its being
imported perfectly free from adulteration.
Senna is purgative in doses of 10 to 30 gr., either in powder or made into
an infusion of tea with Water, combined with ginger, caraways, or some
other aromatic, to prevent griping. It acts chiefly on the small
intestines, and generally effects its purpose within 4 hours after being
taken.
=SE′′PIA.= A pigment prepared from the ‘ink’ or black fluid secreted by
_Sepia officinalis_ (Linn.), and several other varieties of cuttle-fish.
The contents of the ‘ink bags’ are inspissated as soon as possible after
collection, and then form the crude sepia of commerce. This is prepared
for artists by boiling it for a short time in a weak lye of caustic
alkali, precipitating the solution with an acid, and well washing and
carefully drying the precipitate by a gentle heat. It possesses a fine
brown colour, and is used like Indian ink.
=SER′PENTARY.= _Syn._ VIRGINIAN SNAKE-ROOT; SERPENTARIA RADIX (B. P.),
SERPENTARIÆ RADIX, SERPENTARIA (Ph. L. & E.), ARISTOLOCHIA SERPENTARIA
(Ph. D.), L. An excellent stimulating diaphoretic and tonic; in typhoid
and putrid fevers, dyspepsia, &c. It is admirably suited to check vomiting
and to tranquilise the stomach, particularly in bilious cases. (Dr
Chapman.)——_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr., every third or fourth hour, its use being
preceded by an aperient.
=SE′′RUM.= _Syn._ SERALBUMEN. The clear pale fluid in which the
blood-globules float, and which separates from blood during its
coagulation. It is, essentially, a feebly alkaline solution of albumen.
See ALBUMEN.
=SESQUI-.= See NOMENCLATURE.
=SE′TON.= _Syn._ SETACEUM. An artificial ulcer, made by passing a portion
of silk or thread under the skin by means of a seton needle, a part of
which is drawn through daily, and thus keeps up a constant irritation.
Occasionally the thread is anointed with some irritating substance for the
purpose of increasing the discharge.
=SEVEN SEALS, or Golden Wonder——Dr Radcliffe’s Great Remedy.= According to
the prospectus, this remedy is good for cholera morbus, dysentery,
diarrhœa, burns, sprains, rheumatism, warts and corns, and all diseases.
In a quadrangular bottle we find about 95 grammes of a brownish-orange
clear fluid, which is a spirituous tincture of cayenne pepper mixed with
ether, chloroform, American oil of peppermint, and a little camphor. The
proportion of these ingredients is, approximately, 4 grammes ether, 6
grammes chloroform, 4 gramme camphor or camphoraceous oil, 2 grammes oil
of peppermint, 35 grammes tincture of capsicum. 50 grammes spirit of wine
(90 per cent.) (Hager.)
=SE′VUM (Prepared).= _Syn._ SEVUM PRÆPARATUM (B. P.), SEVUM MAGNETICUM, L.
_Prep._ 1. (‘Pharm. Journ.’) Mould candles, at least 2 years old, melted
by a very gentle heat, and strained from the wicks.
2. As MAGNETIC ADEPS. Used to make mercurial ointment. Triturated with 8,
12, or 16 times its weight of quicksilver, the globules are completely
extinguished in from 10 to 15 minutes.
=SEWAGE, Removal and Disposal of.= The waste and putrescible refuse
discharged from dwelling-houses by house-pipes and drains into sewers may
be said, in general terms, to consist, besides human fæces and urine,[150]
of the dirty water and soapsuds arising from washing our bodies, our
houses, and linen, more or less foul, as well as the water which, having
been used for cooking operations, necessarily contains variable quantities
of mineral and vegetable matter.
[Footnote 150: In the drainage of some towns the fæces are not allowed to
enter the sewers. This, however, is the exception.]
The above statement will have prepared us not only for the complex nature
of sewage water as shown in the following tables, but also for the
variability in the amount of its constituents, this latter condition
depending upon locality, and, as experiment shows, the hour of the day at
which the sewage was collected.
_Composition of Sewer Water_ (WAY).
+-------------------------------+----------------------------------+
| | Grains per Gallon. |
| +--------+-------+-------+---------+
| | 1. | 2. | 3. | 4. |
+-------------------------------+--------+-------+-------+---------+
|Organic matters (soluble) | 19·40 | 41·03 | 12·30 | } 9·20 |
|Organic matters (suspended) | 39·10 | 17·00 | 24·37 | } |
|Lime | 10·13 | 14·71 | 12·52 | 11·25 |
|Magnesia | 1·42 | 1·82 | 1·59 | 1·35 |
|Soda | 4·01 | 2·40 | 2·41 | 1·89 |
|Potash | 3·66 | 3·57 | 3·31 | 1·09 |
|Chloride of Sodium | 26·40 | 22·61 | 34·30 | 5·58 |
|Sulphuric Acid | 5·34 | 5·31 | 6·40 | 3·43 |
|Phosphoric Acid | 2·63 | 5·76 | 2·48 | 0·64 |
|Carbonic Acid | 9·01 | 8·92 | 11·76 | } |
|Silicia {Oxide of Iron} | 6·20 | 13·55 | 6·46 | } 4·77 |
| {Oxide of Zinc} | | | | |
|Ammonia | 7·48 | 8·43 | 7·88 | |
| +--------+-------+-------+---------+
| |134·78 |145·11 |125·78 | 39·20 |
+-------------------------------+--------+-------+-------+---------+
_London Sewer Water_ (LETHEBY).
+-----------------+---------------------------------------------+
| | Grains per gallon. |
| +--------------+--------------+---------------+
| | Day Sewage. | Night Sewage.| Storm Sewage. |
+-----------------+--------------+--------------+---------------+
|Soluble matters | 55·74 | 65·09 | 70·26 |
|Organic matters | 15·08 | 7·42 | 14·75 |
|Nitrogen | 5·44 | 5·19 | 7·26 |
|Mineral matters | 40·66 | 57·67 | 55·71 |
|Phosphoric acid | 0·85 | 0·69 | 1·03 |
|Potash | 1·21 | 1·15 | 1·61 |
|Suspended matters| 38·15 | 13·99 | 31·88 |
|Organic | 16·11 | 7·48 | 17·55 |
|Nitrogen | 0·78 | 0·29 | 0·67 |
|Mineral | 22·04 | 6·51 | 14·33 |
|Phosphoric acid | 0·89 | 0·64 | 0·98 |
|Potash | 8·08 | 0·04 | 0·16 |
+-----------------+--------------+--------------+---------------+
Letheby states that the sewer water in towns with water-closets has the
following average composition per gallon:
Organic matter 27·72
Nitrogen 6·21
Phosphoric acid 1·57
Potash 2·03
Sewer water placed under the microscope reveals various dead decaying
matters, besides swarms of bacteria, ciliated infusoria, amœbiform bodies,
and fungi, consisting of spores and mycelium. The rotifera, diatoms, and
desmids are few in number.[151] That a fluid having a composition such as
sewage water has been shown to possess, when mixed with solid excreta,
would, from the decomposition that so soon takes place in it, seriously
endanger the health of those in whose habitations it was allowed to
remain, is so self-evident to the sanitarian and pathologist that it is no
wonder every civilised community should endeavour to get rid of this
refuse from their habitations as speedily and effectively as possible. But
the removal of the home sewage is a proceeding as illogical as it is
imperfect if we afterwards neglect so to dispose of it as to render it
innocuous or devoid of danger to the public health. The old method of
getting rid of sewage (even when deprived of the fæcal matter) by turning
it into rivers and streams, has, more particularly since the Report of the
Rivers Pollution Commissioners in 1870, been gradually abandoned. That
when sewer water passes into a river it undergoes a great amount of
purification from oxidation, subsidence, and the agency of water-plants is
undeniable.
[Footnote 151: Parkes.]
Letheby considered that if sewage mixed with twenty times its bulk of
water flowed for nine miles it would be perfectly oxidised. It appears,
however, from the experiments of Frankland, that so far as sewage when
mixed with twenty times its volume of water being oxidised during a flow
of ten or twelve miles, scarcely two thirds of it would be so destroyed in
the flow of 168 miles, at the rate of one mile per hour, or after the
lapse of a week. The results of Frankland’s experiments led him to infer
that there is no river in the United Kingdom of sufficient length to
effect the destruction of sewage by oxidation; and he adds, “there is no
process practicable on a large scale by which the noxious material (sewage
matter) can be removed from water once so contaminated, and, therefore, I
am of opinion that water which has been once contaminated by sewage or
manure matter is thenceforth unsuitable for domestic use.”
The discharge of sewage water, whether with or without solid excreta, into
our springs and rivers, was a practice so dangerous and prejudicial to
health that it is no cause for wonder the Legislature should, during the
session of 1876, have passed a measure the object of which was after the
lapse of one year to facilitate legal proceedings being instituted against
persons who permitted sewage or other deleterious refuse to flow into
rivers or streams. This measure, known as the “Rivers Pollution Prevention
Act,” is now in force, and permits offenders to be proceeded against; but
it still leaves unsolved the important hygienic problem——How are we
ultimately and with safety to the community to dispose of our sewage?
The numerous processes (the chief of which will be brought under notice)
proposed for the attainment of this end have been divided by writers and
authorities on sanitary science into——
1. WET METHODS.
2. DRY METHODS.
1. WET METHODS. These comprise the removal of excreta——(1) By discharging
it into running water. (2) By storage in tank with overflow. (3) By
carrying it into the sea. (4) By precipitation. (5) By irrigation and
filtration.
(1) _By discharging it into running water._ Our previous remarks have
already shown in what respect this proposal is fallacious, and why it has,
therefore, been discontinued.
(2) _By storage in tank with overflow._ In this process the sewage runs
into a well-cemented tank fitted with an overflow pipe, which sometimes
leads into a second tank arranged in the same manner; the solids subside,
and are removed from time to time, whilst the liquid is allowed to run
away. Instead of permitting the liquid to escape into a ditch or stream,
it has been proposed to carry it into drain pipes, which are buried from
half a foot to a foot in the subsoil, where it will be readily sucked up
by the roots of grasses. This plan is only suited for small villages, or
for a single house or mansion.
(3) _By carrying it into the sea._ The precautions to be observed in the
working of this system are, wherever possible, to let the outlet or
discharge pipe, which conveys the sewage to the sea, be always under water
even at ebb tide, and to take special care that the wind does not blow up
the sewers. A tide-flap, opening outwards, which is usually fixed by a
hinge on the sewer at its outlet, will obviate this last contingency. At
high water the tide will fill the outfall sewers to its own level, and to
that extent will check the discharge of sewage, and thus cause a deposit
in the sewers filled with mixed sea water and sewage. It is most important
that this should be removed.
“If the sewage cannot be got well out to sea, and if it issues in narrow
channels, it may cause a nuisance, and may require to be purified before
discharge.”[152]
[Footnote 152: Parkes.]
(4) _By precipitation._ The simplest of the plans proposed for this method
of removal is by subsidence only, and would afterwards permit the
discharge of the supernatant sewage water into running water or over the
land. The removal of the solid material is effected in a manner somewhat
similar to that followed in plan No. 2, but as the thin water which runs
off must, when poured into rivers or streams, be almost as dangerous as
the sewage itself, the process of precipitation by settlement alone has
little to commend it over the old rude and objectionable practice, a
circumstance that in these days will doubtless lead to its entire
prohibition.
In order to ensure greater purification the sewage in the subsiding tanks
is now usually mixed with certain chemical reagents, which, it is
believed, have the effect not only of speedily precipitating the solid
materials, but also carrying down injurious matters suspended in the
sewage water, thus rendering it sufficiently pure to be discharged without
risk to health into any watercourse.
Of the numerous precipitants employed for this purpose, we may mention the
following:
_Lime and salts of lime._ Quicklime, in the proportion of 8 gr. to a
gallon of water; or 1 lb. to about 600 galls. of sewage; lime, with the
addition of about a fortieth of its weight of chloride of lime; calcic
phosphate dissolved in sulphuric acid; Whitehead’s patent, which consists
of a mixture of mono- and dicalcic phosphate; chloride of calcium.
_Aluminous compounds._ Bird’s process——A mixture of aluminous earths and
sulphuric acid. Andersons and Lenk’s——Impure sulphate of alum; refuse of
alum works, either alone or mixed with lime or charcoal. Scott’s cement
process——Clay mixed with lime; natural phosphate of aluminium dissolved by
sulphuric acid and mixed with lime.
The quantities of the above substances when used as precipitants vary, in
some of them fifty, and in others eighty grains to a gallon of sewer water
being employed.
_Magnesium salts._ Impure chloride of magnesium mixed with superphosphate
of lime.
_Carbon._ As vegetable charcoal, peat, seaweed charcoal, carbonised tan,
lignite, and Boghead coke.
_Iron._ In the form of sulphate. Ellerman’s and Dale’s——Perchloride; the
sulphate is sometimes mixed with coal dust.
_Manganese._ Condy’s fluid.
_Zinc._ As sulphate and chloride.
_Sillar’s process._ The A. B. C. process, so called because composed of
alum, blood, charcoal, and clay.
_Hill’s process._ Lime and tar are the precipitants. The effluent water is
filtered through charcoal. The question now arises as to whether the sewer
water after treatment with any of the above substances is in a fit
condition to be poured into a stream or river. The Rivers Pollution
Commissioners in their first and second reports give a number of analyses,
from which it appears that on an average the chemical treatment removes
89·8 per cent. of the matters suspended in the sewage waters, but only
36·6 per cent. of the organic nitrogen is dissolved in them.
Of the A. B. C. process, Mr Crookes states that, when properly carried
out, it removes all the phosphoric acid; and Professor Voelcker’s analysis
of the effluent water from sewage treated by the acid phosphate of alumina
process gives more ammonia than the original sewer water, less organic
nitrogen by one half, and less phosphoric acid. Such a water is said by
some authorities to be pure enough to be discharged into streams.
_General Scott’s process._ General Scott proposes to treat the sewer water
with lime and clay, and instead of employing the precipitate obtained by
this means as a manure, would, after burning it, use it as cement. He
argues that the deposit contains so much combustible matter as to
considerably reduce the quantity of coal usually expended in the
manufacture of cement, and consequently the cement could be sold at a
remunerative price.
This, like the ‘carbonisation’ process, possesses the merit of effectually
destroying any noxious principles present in the deposit.
Commenting on the various precipitation processes Dr Parkes writes:——“When
the sewer water is cleared by any of these plans is it fit to be
discharged into streams? In the opinion of some authorities, if the
precipitate is a good one it may be so, and it appears certain that in
many cases it is chemically a tolerably pure water, and it will no longer
silt up the bed nor cause a nuisance. But it still contains, in all cases,
some organic matter, as well as ammonia, potash, and phosphoric acid. It
has, therefore, fertilising powers certainly, and possibly it has also
injurious powers. No proof of this has been given, but also no disproof at
present, and when we consider how small the agencies of the specific
diseases probably are, and how likely it is that they remain suspended, we
do not seem to be in a position to expect that the water, after subsidence
of the deposit, will be safe to drink.
(5) _By irrigation and filtration._ By this process is meant the passing
of the sewer water over and through soil, with the object not only of
effecting its purification to such an extent as to render it fit to be
discharged into a river or stream, but also of employing it as a valuable
manure. In the present article we shall treat only of the application of
the process to the first of these purposes.
There is ample evidence to show that, if carried out with due attention to
detail, no process for the treatment of effluent sewage water, so as to
render it innocuous, is equal to that which subjects it to irrigation and
filtration.
The Rivers Pollution Commissioners thus report on it:——“We are, therefore,
justified in recommending irrigation as a safe as well as profitable and
efficient method of cleansing town sewage.”
The conditions necessary for the successful carrying out of this system
are thus stated by Mr T. J. Dyke, in explaining “the process of the
downward intermittent filtration of sewage at Troedyrhiw, near Merthyr
Tydvil:”——“1. The soil of the land to be used must be porous. 2. A main
effluent drain, which must not be less than six feet from the surface,
must be provided. 3. The surface of the soil to be so inclined as to
permit the sewage stream to flow over the whole land. 4. The filtering
area should be divided into four equal parts, each part to be irrigated
with the sewage for six hours, and then an interval of eighteen hours to
elapse before a second irrigation takes place; each of the four parts
would thus be used for six hours out of the twenty-four. An acre of land
so prepared would purify 100,000 gallons of sewage per day.” At Troedyrhiw
the sewage has lime added to it, and the mixture is strained through
cinders into tanks. From the tank it flows on to the conduit, by which it
is conveyed to the filtering areas.
“These consist of about twenty acres of land, immediately adjoining the
road on which the tanks are placed, and have been arranged into filtering
areas or beds on a plan devised by Mr J. Bayley Denton. The land is a
loamy soil, eighteen inches thick, overlying a bed of gravel. The whole of
these twenty acres have been underdrained to a depth of from five to seven
feet. The lateral drains are placed at regular distances from each other,
and run towards the main or effluent drain. This is everywhere six feet
deep. The surface of the land is formed into beds; these have been made to
slope towards the main drain by a fall of 1 in 150.
“The surface is ploughed in ridges; on these vegetables are planted or
seeds sown. The line of the ridged furrow is in the direction of the under
drain. Along the raised margin of each bed, in each area, delivering
carriers are placed, one edge being slightly depressed.
“The strained sewage passes from the conduits into the delivery carriers,
and as it overflows the depressed edges runs gently into and along the
farrows down to the lowest and most distant part of the plot. The sewage
continues to be so delivered for six hours, then an interval of rest of
eighteen hours takes place, and again the land is thoroughly charged with
the fertilising stream. The water percolates through the six feet of
earth, and reaches the lateral drains, which convey it to the main
effluent drain.
“The result of this plan of disposing of sewage by downward intermittent
filtration, may be seen in samples of the effluent water taken from the
outlet of the main drain. Such water is bright, perfectly pellucid, free
from smell, and tastes only of common salt. It may be safely drunk——in
fact, is used by the workmen employed on the farm. During the process of
irrigation no nuisance is caused, for the soil quickly absorbs all the
fluids passed on to it; in fact, in two or three hours after the water has
ceased to flow on the land, an observer would say that the ground had not
been wetted for days. The workmen say that no unpleasant smell is noticed,
nor has the health of the persons employed, in any one instance, been
affected by any presumed poisonous exhalation.
“The only imperfection of the plan is that, at the end of the furrows
nearest the lowest corner of a plot, a slight deposit of scum is formed.
This scum is formed by the fine insoluble precipitate caused mainly by the
addition of lime to the sewage stream.”
The table below, taken from the report of the Rivers Pollution
Commissioners, gives the composition of the effluent water after it has
passed through the soil.
If those results be compared with the condition of the supernatant sewage
water, after treatment by any of the chemical precipitants already
enumerated, the inferiority of these latter as methods of removal of the
organic impurity of the sewage water will be evident.
The best of these precipitants give a removal of only 65·8 per cent. of
organic nitrogen, whilst the A. B. C. process shows a diminution of 58·9
only. It appears from the first and second reports of the Rivers Pollution
Commissioners, that on an average the precipitation processes remove 89·8
per cent. of the suspended matters, but only 36·6 per cent. of the organic
nitrogen dissolved in the liquid.
The effects of a soil upon sewage water passing through it are the
following:——
1. The filtering property of the soil mechanically arrests and retains the
suspended particles of the sewage.
2 and 3. The porosity and physical attraction of the soil lead to the
oxidation of the organic matter contained in the sewage, as instanced in
the discovery of nitrates and nitrites in the effluent water, which did
not exist previous to filtration.
4. A chemical reaction takes place between the constituents of the sewage
and those of the soil.
If the charges brought against the system of irrigation, viz. that it is
detrimental to the health and comfort of those who reside near sewage
farms cannot be denied, it seems pretty certain that, in most cases, any
ill effects arising from the method may be traced to its defective
management. The selection of the soil which is to receive the sewage is a
highly important consideration. The best for this purpose seems to be a
loose marl, containing oxide of iron and alumina; but sand, as well as
chalk, are both said to answer excellently.
+-------------------------------------------+-----------------------+----------+
| |Percentage of dissolved|Percentage|
| |Organic Pollution |suspended |
| | removed. |Organic |
|Results of irrigation, in part per 100,000.+----------+------------+Pollution |
| | Organic | Organic |removed |
| | Carbon. | Nitrogen. | |
+-------------------------------------------+----------+------------+----------+
| | | | |
|On fallow land at Chorley (adhesive loam) | 62·3 | 70·2 | 100· |
|At Edinburgh (both sand and clay) | 45·3 | 81·1 | 84·9 |
|Barking (gravelly soil) | 65·8 | 86·2 | 100· |
|Aldershot (light sand)—— | | | |
| Best result | 91·8 | 87·3 | 99·7 |
| Worst result | 69·9 | 82·9 | 87·7 |
| Average result | 80·9 | 85·1 | 93·7 |
|Carlisle (light loam) | 77·9 | 59·8 | 100· |
|Penrith (light loam) | 75·0 | 77·2 | 100· |
|Rugby (adhesive soil) | 72·3 | 92·9 | 96·0 |
|Banbury (principally clay)—— | | | |
| Best result | 87·8 | 91·3 | 96·0 |
| Worst result | 64·1 | 80·1 | 90·3 |
| Average result | 76· | 85·7 | 93·2 |
|Warwick (stiff clay) | 71·7 | 89·6 | 100· |
|Worthing (loam) | 42·7 | 85·3 | 100· |
|Bedford (light gravelly soil), | | | |
| average result | 71·6 | 81·3 | 100· |
|Norwood (clay), average result | 65·0 | 75·1 | 100· |
|Croydon (gravelly soil)—— | | | |
| Best result | 73·2 | 93·2 | 100· |
| Worst result | 61·6 | 90·4 | 100· |
| Average result | 67·4 | 91·8 | 100· |
+-------------------------------------------+----------+------------+----------+
If the soil be of a stiff clayey nature it must be broken up and mixed
with sand, lime, or ashes. The upper parts must be comminuted and
rendered porous, and it must be efficiently and deeply drained. At
Troedyrhiw, as we have seen, the effluent drain is six feet deep.
The sewer water should be poured over the land in as fresh a condition as
possible, having been previously deprived of any solid or grosser parts by
straining. At Carlisle, decomposition of the sewage during its flow is
prevented by adding carbolic acid to it. Lastly, it is of the utmost
consequence that the amount of land used as the filtering medium shall be
large. Letheby has shown that where this precaution is neglected, not only
is the purification of the sewage incomplete, but the plan becomes a
public nuisance. The amount of filtering earth should not be less than one
cubic yard for eight gallons of sewage in twenty-four hours, in properly
prepared soils; in some soils more than a cubic yard is required.
The late Dr Parkes has given a summary of various reports that have from
time to time been issued as to the effects of sewage farms upon the public
health and comfort. He says:——“That sewage farms, if too near to houses,
and if not carefully conducted, may give off disagreeable effluvia is
certain; but it is also clear that in some farms this is very trifling,
and that when the sewer water gets on the land it soon ceases. It is
denied by some persons that more nuisance is excited than by any other
mode of using manure. As regards health, it has been alleged that these
farms may——1st, give off effluvia which may produce enteric fever or
dysentery, or some allied affection; or, 2nd, and in the spread of
entozoic diseases; or, 3rd, make ground swampy and marshy, and may also
poison wells, and thus affect health.”
The evidence of Edinburgh, Croydon, Aldershot, Rugby, Worthing, Romford,
the Sussex Lunatic Asylum, is very strong against any influence in the
production of typhoid by sewage farms effluvia. On the other hand, Dr
Clouston’s record of the outbreak of dysentery in the Cumberland Asylum is
counter evidence of weight, and so is one of the cases noted by Letheby of
typhoid fever outbreak in Copley, when a meadow was irrigated with the
brook water containing the sewage of Halifax.
The negative evidence is, however, so strong as to justify the view that
the effluvia from a well-managed sewage farm do not produce typhoid fever,
or dysentery, or any affection of the kind. In a case at Eton in which
some cases of enteric fever were attributed to the effluvia, Dr Buchanan
discovered that the sewer water had been drunk; this was more likely to
have been the cause.
With regard to the second point, the spread of entozoic diseases by the
carriage of the sewer water to the land, has been thought probable by
Cobbold, though as solid excreta from towns have been for some years
largely employed as manure, it is doubtful whether the liquid plans would
be more dangerous. The special entozoic diseases which, it is feared,
might thus arise, are tapeworms, round worms, trichina, Bilharzia, and
distoma hepaticum in sheep. Cobbold’s latest observations show that the
embryos of Bilharzia die so rapidly, that even were it introduced into
England there would be little danger.
The trichina disease is only known at present to be produced in men by the
worms in the flesh of pigs which is eaten, and it seems doubtful whether
pigs receive them from the land. There remain, then, only tapeworms and
round worms for men and distoma hepaticum for sheep to be dreaded. With
regard to these, the evidence at present is negative; and though much
weight must be attached to any opinion of Cobbold’s, this argument against
sewage irrigation must be admitted to want evidence from experience.
The third criticism appears to be true.
The land may become swampy and the adjacent wells poisoned, and disease
(ague, and perhaps diarrhœa and dysentery) be thus produced. But this is
owing to mismanagement, and when a sewage farm is properly arranged it is
not damp, and the wells do not suffer.[153]
[Footnote 153: ‘Practical Hygiene.’]
The foregoing processes for the removal of excreta from dwellings
necessitates the joint employment of sewers and large quantities of water.
It may, however, sometimes happen that the adoption of either of these
appliances may be not only difficult, but altogether impracticable; as for
instance, in localities where a sufficient fall cannot be obtained for the
sewers; or where the supply of water is not adequate; or when the severity
of the climate at certain times is such, that for months in the year the
water is frozen. Under these conditions the excreta must either be allowed
to accumulate about houses, or else be removed by methods other than those
we have described, at more or less short intervals. Of course their speedy
removal is the best and safest; but in cases where they are permitted to
accumulate, it is essential they should be mixed with deodorants, and
confined in properly constructed receptacles (as far as possible from
dwellings), from which category such pre-eminently unsanitary arrangements
as cesspools and dead wells must be excluded.
When excreta are got rid of from houses by other means than those of
sewers and water, the processes employed are termed,
2. DRY METHODS. These comprise——
1. Removal of the excreta without admixture.
2. Removal of the excreta after treatment with deodorising and
anti-putrescent substances.
1. _Removal without admixture._ In some cases boxes and tanks receive the
ordure and urine, and these are changed more or less frequently.
In Glasgow the excreta from a part of the city containing eighty thousand
people is thus collected and removed without admixture,[154] daily.
[Footnote 154: Except that from the garbage of the houses.]
In Edinburgh there are also many closets supplied with movable metal
pails, which are likewise removed daily. Many large dwelling-houses in
this latter city are entirely without water-closet accommodation; hence
the custom of placing pails full of excrement, urine, &c., outside the
houses to be taken away by the scavenger. In Rochdale the excrement, &c.,
is collected in tubs, with tight-fitting lids, which are emptied twice or
thrice a week. These tubs are manufactured out of disused paraffin casks.
In Leeds, also, the excreta are collected in boxes without being subjected
to admixture. In some towns in the north of England the excreta fall into
receptacles constructed upon what is termed the ‘Goux’ principle. In this
system the pails or receptacles are lined with some absorbent lining,
which abstracts the urine;[155] another contrivance is to have the
receptacle fitted with a pipe or drain; the object in each case being to
render the fæces drier and to delay their decomposition.
[Footnote 155: The refuse of cloth manufacturers is chiefly used for this
purpose.]
The pail or tub system (Fosses Mobiles) which is employed in Belgium, has
for its object the collection of the fæces in a state of purity, without
admixture with water, in a clean and odourless condition.
The apparatus for carrying it out consists of——
1. _The seat._ This consists simply of a soil-pan of stoneware or
_faïence_, without woodwork, the soil-pan merely projecting from the top
of the descent pipe. Its borders are furnished with a groove filled with
water or sand, into which the raised rim of the lid fits.
2. _The connecting pipe._ This pipe is straight without a syphon, and
joins the descent pipe at the very acute angle of 22°, and is about 4
inches in diameter inside. It is, like the next, made of stoneware, glazed
inside.
3. _Descent pipe._ This is from 6 to 8 inches in internal diameter; it is
vertical, and is composed of a series of pipes, connected with each other
by dry sand joints, without cements, fixed to the wall by iron bands.
It rests at the ground-floor level on a strong flagstone. Its prolongation
through and below this stone consists of a sliding pipe of wrought copper
capable of being lengthened or shortened, and solidly fixed to the stone
by a cast-iron connector. A sort of circular shallow dish (_ecuelle_),
which can be hung under this last part of the descent pipe, serves at a
given moment to shut its lower orifice.
4. _Tub_ (Tonneau). The excremental matters coming down the descent pipe
fall into a tub of from 2 to 3 hectolitres (44 to 66 gallons), in a hole
in the top of which the lower part of the pipe fits tightly. A cover
fitted with a spring serves to shut and lute the tub when it is full.
Placed on a stand furnished with wheels, the tub is easily managed.
When filled it is immediately replaced by another similar contrivance. If
the tub is underground, the rails (on which the stand moves) should be
placed on an incline, so that the removal and replacement may be easily
effected. The underground chamber must be isolated, and the entrance to it
placed outside the building. The thorough tarring of the interior of the
tub not only preserves the staves, but also partly neutralises the effect
of the mephitic gases which the excremental matters discharge.
_Ventilation pipe._ To prevent the smells and gases which are given off
from the mouth of the tub from spreading themselves (in the house) by
means of the opening in the privy seat, at the upper extremity of the
descent pipe, is fixed a ventilation pipe, which rises above the coping of
the roof, and the action of which is increased by means of a vane, or any
other contrivance producing the same effect.[156]
[Footnote 156: Corfield.]
It is said that in the working of any of the above processes, little or no
nuisance ensues, if only ordinary care and intelligence are used. In many
cases the excreta collected by the methods above specified is conveyed to
manufactories and then converted into manure.
It does not appear that in England the health of the workmen employed in a
manure manufactory or of those who live in the neighbourhood of it suffers
in consequence.
_Removal of the excreta after treatment with deodorising and
antiputrescent substances._ This is the method usually adopted when the
dry process is followed; the excreta mixed with the deodorising substance
when removed from the house being at once applied to the land.
_a._ _Coal and wood ashes._ It is a common practice in the north of
England to throw coal ashes on the excreta, which fall into closets made
with hinged flaps or seats for the purpose of admitting the ashes, as at
Manchester and Salford. Wood ashes are far more effective deodorisers than
coal ashes, but they are seldom procurable. “In some towns there are
receptacles called ‘middens,’ intended both for excreta and ashes;
sometimes these are cemented, and there may be a pipe leading into a sewer
so as to dry them. The midden system is a bad one; even with every care,
the vast heaps of putrefying material which accumulate in some of our
towns must have a very serious influence on the health, and the sooner the
middens are abolished the better.”[157]
[Footnote 157: Parkes.]
_b._ _Deodorising powders._ At some of the Indian stations deodorants,
such as M’Dougall’s, or Calvert’s carbolic acid powders, have been
successfully employed, a comparatively small quantity being mixed with the
excreta.
In Germany a mixture of lime, chloride of magnesium, and tar is largely
used for the same purpose, and is known as Süverns’ deodoriser.”
Another deodoriser (the Müller Schür), also used in the dry method, is
composed of lime, 100 lbs.; powdered wood charcoal 20 lbs.; peat powder or
sawdust, 10 lbs.; and carbolic acid (containing 60 to 70 per cent. of real
acid) 1 lb. After having been mixed, the mass is placed under cover for a
night to avoid any chance of spontaneous ignition, and when dry it is
packed in barrels.
_c._ _Charcoal._ The powerfully deodorising properties of charcoal
obviously adapt it for the removal of excreta in the dry state, after the
admixture with them. But the comparatively high price of animal charcoal,
although nearly six times the value of dry earth as a deodorant, prohibits
its being extensively used. Peat is, however, cheaper than animal
charcoal. To obviate the objection of cost, Mr Stanford, in 1872, proposed
to make charcoal for this purpose from seaweed. The charcoal obtained from
this source is said to be cheap and of great service as an excretal
deodoriser. The mixed charcoal and sewage is sufficiently odourless to be
stored for some months in a convenient receptacle outside a
dwelling-house.
After the seaweed charcoal has become thoroughly impregnated with fæces
and urine, the mixture is recarbonised in a retort, and the carbon can be
again used; the distilled products (ammoniacal liquor, containing acetate
of lime, tar, and gas) are sufficient to pay the cost, and it is said even
to yield a profit.[158]
[Footnote 158: About the same time carbonisation of sewage in retorts,
with or without previous admixture with charcoal, was proposed by Mr
Hickey, of Darjeeling. There can be little doubt that, regarded in a
purely sanitary point of view, carbonisation of sewage matter is an
excellent plan. Mr Hickey proposed the utilisation of the ammoniacal
products resulting from his process.]
_d._ _Dried earth._ The Rev. Mr Moule was the first to direct attention to
the value of dried earth as a deodorant of excreta.
Mr Moule’s ‘earth closet’ consists of a box with a receptacle below for
the excreta. By pulling a plug dried earth, which is placed in a hopper
above, enters the closet and falls upon the excreta, thus disinfecting and
deodorising it. The consumption of earth averages from 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 lb.
a day. The slop water should not be thrown into the closet, but disposed
of in some other way. In another plan, as in Taylor’s improved closet, the
urine is carried off without mixing at all with the fæces.
Clay, marl, and vegetable humus form the best kind of earths. When dried
the clay may be easily reduced to powder. Chalk and sand are comparatively
useless. The receptacle is emptied from time to time, the contents forming
a valuable manure.
The earth closet is more particularly adapted for small villages and
isolated mansions. One difficulty of its application by cottagers consists
in the necessity of collecting, drying, and storing the earth; the
cottager’s mostly limited space in his dwelling not permitting this. One
great obstacle to the effective carrying out of this system amongst
extensive communities is the difficulty of procuring the large supply of
earth that its adoption necessitates. With proper supervision and care the
‘earth system’ answers admirably; but if these are not bestowed on it, it
as signally fails. It has been adopted with great success in many schools,
barracks, and other large buildings.
“It is coming into great use in India, and is carried out with great
attention to detail. In those European stations where water is not
procurable Mr Moule’s invention has been a boon of great value, and
medical officers say that nothing has been done in India of late years
which has contributed so much to the health and comfort of the men. The
plan of separating the urine from the fæces has been strongly advocated by
Dr Cornish, of Madras, and would, no doubt, be attended with great
advantages in India if there are means of disposal of the urine. The chief
difficulty in the European barracks in India is felt during the rainy
season, when the mixed excreta and earth cannot be kept sufficiently dry.
In the case of natives of India, however, a serious difficulty arises in
the use of the earth system, in consequence of the universal use of water
for ablution after using the closet. Every native takes with him a small
vessel holding ten to twenty ounces of water, so that a large amount of
fluid has to be disposed of. The usual earth closet does not suffice for
this. Mr Charles Turner, C.E., of Southampton, has contrived a closet
suitable for the native family; it is unfortunately too costly, and
possibly a simple iron box, with a pipe to carry off the urine and
ablution water, would be better suited for the poorer classes.”[159]
[Footnote 159: Parkes.]
_e._ _Captain Lieurnur’s pneumatic plan._ This process, the invention of a
Dutch engineer, is in use at Amsterdam, Leyden, Drodrecht, and a few other
Continental towns. It is also known as the ‘aspiration plan.’ Its outlines
are as follows:——“The pipes and, tubes leading from the various
water-closets and privies peculiar to the system are connected with street
mains, which mains again communicate with underground horizontal cast-iron
cylinders or tanks, these tanks being directly connected with a powerful
air-pump worked by steam. Communication between the main and the tanks, as
well as between the tanks and the pump, can be made or broken by means of
stopcocks. Hence it follows that when access is allowed between one of the
tanks and the air-pump, this latter will, when put into action, produce a
vacuum in the tank, and if the stopcock of the main leading to the tank be
then opened, the contents of all the privies and water-closets, the pipes
of which run into the main, will be removed by being swept into the tank
by pneumatic force. In this manner each tank is treated in succession.
Similarly the sewage is carried to the large reservoirs of a manure
manufactory. It is here mixed with a little sulphuric acid to prevent the
formation of ammonia, and being evaporated down _in vacuo_ becomes
converted, when sufficiently dry, into poudrette. In Lieurnur’s process
all deodorants are dispensed with, and its mixture with water is prevented
by means of porous drain pipes laid above the sewers, by which contrivance
the subsoil water is kept out of the sewers.
=Sewage, Utilisation of.= “Mr Peregrine Birch read before the Institution
of Surveyors a paper on ‘The Use of Sewage by Farmers,’ which embodied
some facts that deserve to be noticed, as bearing on a question we have
repeatedly discussed. It appears that there are at the present time
‘upwards of one hundred owners and occupiers of land in Great Britain who
use sewage for the sake alone of what they can get out of it by
agricultural means.’ Of these ‘more than sixty are tenant farmers, who
continue to use it although they have, annually at least, the option of
ceasing to do so,’ It seems five out of six of the tenant farmers purchase
the sewage they employ, so that their adhesion to the method proves
conclusively that it _pays_. Nearly four thousand acres of land are under
regular cultivation with sewage. Mr Birch is of opinion that ‘advocates of
sewage precipitation processes should not regard sewage farmers as their
rivals, for a chemical process might be very largely used with advantage
when farmers are being persuaded or taught to use sewage. But this should
be the distinct aim of all cultivation, for there is no chemical process
that could not be worked to greater advantage during two months of the
year than twelve, or applied to a small quantity of sewage at less cost
than to a large.’ Our primary interest is to see the utilisation of sewage
generally adopted; the method employed must be determined by experience on
the grounds of cheapness and expediency.”——_Lancet._
=SHAD′DOCK.= A large species of orange, the fruit of _Citrus Decumana_
(Linn.).
=SHAGREEN′.= This is prepared from the skins of the horse, wild ass, and
camel, as follows:——The skin, freed from epidermis and hair by soaking in
water, and, after dressing with the currier’s fleshing-knife, is sprinkled
over, whilst still wet and stretched, with the seeds of a species of
chenopodium, which are imbedded in it by strong pressure, and in this
state it is dried; the seeds are then shaken off, and the surface rubbed
or shaved down, nearly to the bottom of the seed-pits or indentations; it
is next soaked in water, by which the skin swells, and the recently
depressed surface rises into a number of minute prominences; it is,
lastly, dyed and smoothed off. Black is given to it with galls and
copperas; blue, with a solution of indigo; green, with copper filings and
sal ammoniac; and red, with cochineal and alum. Shagreen was formerly very
extensively used for covering the cases of watches, spectacles, surgical
instruments, &c.
=SHALLOT′.= _Syn._ ESCHALOT. The _Allium ascalonicum_ (Linn.), a plant
allied to the onion, the bulb of which is much used as a sauce or
pot-herb.
=SHAMPOO′ING.= A practice common in the East, having for its object the
increase or restoration of the tone and vigour of the body, or the
mitigation of pain. It is applied either in the bath or immediately after
quitting it, generally the latter, and consists in pressing and kneading
the flesh, stretching and relaxing the knee-joints, and laboriously
brushing and scrubbing the skin.
=SHARPS.= See FLOUR.
=SHA′VING.= The following are Mr Mechi’s instructions for this, to many
persons, troublesome operation:——Never fail to well wash your beard with
soap and cold water, and to rub it dry, immediately before you apply the
lather, of which the more you use the easier you will shave. Never use
warm water, which makes a tender face. Place the razor (closed, of course)
in your pocket, or under your arm, to warm it. The moment you leave your
bed is the best time to shave. Always put your shaving-brush away with the
lather on it.
The razor (being only a very fine saw) should be moved in a sloping or
sawing direction, holding it nearly flat to your face, care being taken to
draw the skin as tight as possible with the left hand, so as to present an
even surface and throw out the beard. The practice of pressing on the edge
of a razor in stropping generally rounds it; the pressure should be
directed to the back, which must never be raised from the strop. If you
shave from heel to point of the razor, strop it from point to heel; but if
you begin with the point, then strop from heel to point. If you only once
put away your razor without stropping or otherwise cleaning the edge, you
must no longer expect to shave well, the soap and damp so soon rust the
fine teeth or edge. A piece of plate leather should always be kept with
the razors.
=SHAVING FLUID.= See ESSENCE OF SOAP.
=SHAWLS, To Scour.= Scrape one pound of soap into thin shavings, and let
it be boiled with as much water as will convert into a thin jelly. When
cold, beat it with the hand, and mix with it three tablespoonfuls of oil
of turpentine, and one of hartshorn. Let the shawl be well washed in this
mixture, and afterwards rinsed in cold water, so as to get rid of all the
soap.
Next let the shawl be rinsed in salt and water, then wring out the water
from it, and fold it between two sheets, being careful not to allow two
folds of the shawl to lie together; finally mangle, and iron with a cool
iron.
=SHEEP.= _Syn._ OVIS, L. The _Ovis aries_, an animal domesticated almost
everywhere. Its flesh supplies us with food, its skin with leather, its
fleece with wool, and its intestines with catgut. Its fat (sevum) is
officinal. See MUTTON, SUET, &c.
=Sheep Washes.= 1. Arsenious acid in powder, carbonate of potash, of each
6 oz.; water, 14 gall. Boil together for half an hour.
2. Arsenious acid in powder, soft soap, and carbonate of potash, of each 6
oz.; sulphur, 4 oz.; bruised hellebore root, 2 oz.; water, 14 gall. Boil
the ingredients in a portion of the water for half an hour, or until the
arsenic is dissolved, then add the remainder of the water, and strain
through a coarse sieve. Mr Youatt says:——“More care than is usually taken
should be exercised in order that the fluid may penetrate to every part of
the skin, and which should be ensured by a previous washing in soap and
water. The arsenic that necessarily remains about the wool when the water
has dried away would probably destroy the acari as fast as they are
produced. When a greater quantity of arsenic has been used, or the sheep
has been kept too long in the water, fatal consequences have occasionally
ensued.”
3. A sheep-dipping composition employed on the Continent is:——Arsenious
acid, 1 lb.; sulphate of zinc, 10 lbs.; dissolved in 25 gallons of water.
4. The Australian sheep farmers use a weak solution of bichloride of
mercury (1 oz. of the bichloride to 4 gall. of water).
5. Water, 40 parts, at the temperature of 50° to 57° C.; to this add 1
part of soluble glass (the soluble silicates). This is recommended as a
very efficient and perfectly safe sheep wash by Messrs Baerle and Co., of
Worms. In washing the sheep with this preparation care should be taken to
cover the eyes of the animal with a bandage, to perform the washing with
the solution instantaneously, and to remove the surplus with tepid water.
“Yards into which newly clipped sheep are to be turned should be
previously cleared of all green food, hay, and even fresh water; if
perfectly empty they are still safer. When the dipping is finished they
should be cleaned, washed, and swept, and any of the unused dipping
solution at once poured down the drains. Dipped sheep should remain, if
possible, in an open exposed place, as on a dry road, or in a large open
yard. Over-crowding should be avoided, and every facility given for rapid
drying, which is greatly expedited by selecting for the operation fine,
clear, drying weather. On no account should sheep be returned to their
grazings until they are dry, and all risk of dripping over.[160]
[Footnote 160: Finlay Dunn.]
=SHELL-FISH.= The common name for the Crustacean and Molluscous animals
that are used for food. ‘Shell-fish’ are extremely liable to disturb the
functions of the stomach and bowels. The oyster (_Ostrea edulis_), and
the cockle (_Cardium edule_), are, perhaps, the least objectionable. The
crab (_Cancer pagurus_), the crayfish (_Astacus fluvialis_), the lobster
(_Homarus vulgaris_), the mussel (_Mytilus edulis_), the prawn (_Palæmon
serratus_), the periwinkle (_Littorina littorea_), and the shrimp
(_Crangon vulgaris_), with the exception of the claws of the first three,
are always suspicious, particularly in hot weather, and often absolutely
poisonous. We have seen the most alarming, nay, fatal symptoms, follow the
use of mussels, even amongst those habitually accustomed to take them;
whilst it is a well known fact that the luscious bodies of the crab and
lobster have too often formed the last supper of the epicure. See OYSTER,
&c.
=SHEL-LAC.= See LAC.
=SHELLS (Prepared).= _Syn._ TESTÆ PRÆPARATÆ (Ph. L. 1836), L. _Prep._ (Ph.
L. 1836.) Wash oyster-shells (OSTRÆ——Ph. L.) with boiling water, having
previously freed them from extraneous matters; then prepare them in the
manner directed for chalk. The product is similar in constitution and
properties to prepared chalk.
=Shells, To Polish.= 1. The surface of the shell should be first cleaned
by rubbing it over with a rag dipped in hydrochloric acid, till the outer
dull skin is removed. It must be then washed in warm water, dried in hot
sawdust, and polished with chamois leather. Those shells which are
destitute of a natural polished surface, may be either varnished or rubbed
with a mixture of tripoli powder and turpentine applied by means of a
wash-leather, after which fine tripoli alone should be used, and, finally,
a little olive oil, the surface being brought up with the chamois leather
as before.
2. “The shells are first boiled in a strong solution of potash, then wound
on wheels, sometimes through one strata to show an underlying one, then
polished with hydrochloric acid and putty powder. In this operation the
hands are in great danger. Shell grinders are generally almost all
cripples in their hands. (Spon.)
=SHER′BET.= [Pers.] A cooling drink, used in the East, prepared with the
juices of fruit, and water, variously sweetened and flavoured. The word
has been, of late years, commonly employed in these countries in a similar
manner. See LEMONADE, ORANGEADE, and POWDERS.
=SHER′RY.= _Syn._ SHERRY WINE, SHERRIS; VINUM XERICUM (Ph. L.), VINUM
ALBUM (Ph. E.), VINUM ALBUM HISPANICUM (Ph. D.), L. This is the only wine
ordered in the British Pharmacopœias. See WINES.
=SHERRY-COBBLER.= _Prep._ (Redwood.) Half fill a tumbler with clean
pounded ice; add a table-spoonful of powdered white sugar, a few thin
slices of lemon with the peel (or some strawberries or other similar
fruit, bruised), and a wine-glassful or more of sherry wine; mix them
together (lightly), and as the ice melts, suck the liquor through a straw
(or a small tube of silver or glass).
_Obs._ A favourite American drink; very refreshing in hot weather.
=SHIN′′GLES.= _Syn._ ZOSTER, HERPES ZOSTER, HERPES ZONA, L. A local
variety of herpes or tetter, remarkable for forming a kind of belt round
or partly round some part of the trunk of the body, chiefly the waist or
abdomen. See TETTERS.
=SHODDY.= The epithet (we believe of American origin) is applied to the
old, used-up wool and cloth, fraudulently mixed with fresh woollen
fabrics. A plan for the examination of a fabric suspected of containing
shoddy has been given by a German chemist, Herr Schlesinger, and is as
follows:——Examine it with the microscope and note if it contains cotton,
silk, or linen, as well as wool. If so dissolve them by ammoniacal
solution of copper. A qualitative examination is thus obtained. Then
direct attention to the wool. In shoddy both coloured and colourless
fibres are often seen, the fibres having been derived from different
cloths which have been partially bleached; the colouring matter, if any,
instead of consisting of one pigment, will be composed of two or three
different kinds, such as indigo, purpurin, or madder. Again, the diameter
of the wool is never so regular as in fresh wool, but is seen to vary
suddenly or gradually in diameter, and suddenly widens again with a little
swelling, and tapers off again, besides which the cross markings or scales
are almost always absent. When shoddy-wool is placed in liquor potassæ it
is much more speedily attacked than new wool.
=SHOT METAL.= _Prep._ From lead, 1000 parts; arsenic, 3 parts. When the
lead is coarse, 6 to 8 parts of metallic arsenic are required to fit it
for this purpose.
=SHOW BOTTLES.= The large ornamental carboys and jars filled with coloured
liquids, and displayed in the shop-windows of druggists, may be noticed
under this head. They are striking objects when the solutions they contain
are bright and of a deep pure tint, especially at night, when they are
seen by transmitted light. The following formulæ for the solutions have
been recommended by different persons:——
AMBER. From dragon’s blood (in coarse powder), 1 part; oil of vitriol, 4
parts; digest, and, when the solution is complete, dilute the mixture with
distilled or soft water, q. s.
BLUE.——_a._ From blue vitriol, 2 oz.; oil of vitriol, 1/2 oz.; water, 1
pint.——_b._ A solution of indigo in sulphuric acid, diluted with water,
q. s.——_c._ A solution of soluble Prussian blue in either oxalic or
hydrochloric acid, slightly diluted, and afterwards further diluted with
water to the proper shade of colour.
CRIMSON.——_a._ From alkanet root, 1 oz.; oil of turpentine, 1 pint. Used
chiefly for the bull’s eyes of lamps.——_b._ As PINK (_b_), _below_.
GREEN.——_a._ From sulphate of copper, 2 oz.; bichromate of potash, 1 dr.,
or q. s.; water, 1 pint.——_b._ A solution of sulphate of copper, 2 oz.;
chloride of sodium, 4 oz.; water, 1 pint, or q. s.——_c._ A solution of
distilled verdigris in acetic acid, diluted with water, q. s.——_d._
Dissolve blue vitriol in water, and add nitric acid until it turns green.
LILAC.——_a._ Dissolve crude oxide of cobalt (zaffre) in nitric or
hydrochloric acid, add sesquicarbonate of ammonia, in excess, and
afterwards sufficient ammonio-sulphate of copper to strike the
colour.——_b._ As the purple, but more diluted.
MAGENTA. Acetate of rosaniline, dissolved in water, q. s.
OLIVE. Dissolve sulphate of iron and oil of vitriol, equal weights, in
water, and add of nitrate of copper, q. s. to strike the colour.
ORANGE.——_a._ A solution of bichromate of potash in water, either with or
without the addition of some hydrochloric or sulphuric acid.——_b._
Dissolve gamboge or annotta in liquor of potassa; dilute with water, and
add a little spirit.
PINK.——_a._ To a solution of chloride or nitrate of cobalt, in water, add
sesquicarbonate of ammonia, q. s. to dissolve the precipitate at first
formed.——_b._ From madder (washed with cold water), 1 oz.; sesquicarbonate
of ammonia, 4 oz.; water, 3 pints; digest, with agitation, for 24 hours,
then dilute with more water, and filter.
PURPLE.——_a._ A solution of sulphate of copper, 1 oz., in water, 1 quart,
or q. s., with the addition of sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 1-1/2 oz.——_b._
To the last add a sufficient quantity of the first pink (_above_) to turn
the colour.——_c._ To an infusion of logwood, add carbonate of ammonia or
of potassa, q. s.——_d._ Sugar of lead, 3 oz.; powdered cochineal, 1 dr.;
water, q. s.——_e._ Add sulphate of indigo, nearly neutralised with chalk,
to an infusion of cochineal, till it turns purple.
RED.——_a._ Dissolve carmine in liquor of ammonia, and dilute with
water.——_b._ Digest powdered cochineal in a weak solution of ammonia or of
sal ammoniac, and afterwards dilute with water.——_c._ Add oil of vitriol,
4 oz., to water, 1 gall., and digest dried red rose leaves, 8 oz., in the
mixture for 24 hours.——_d._ Dissolve madder lake in a solution of
sesquicarbonate of ammonia, and dilute the solution with water.
VIOLET. To a solution of nitrate of cobalt in a solution of
sesquicarbonate of ammonia, add solution of ammonio-sulphate of copper,
q. s. to strike the colour.
YELLOW.——_a._ A solution of sesquioxide or rust of iron, 1/2 lb., in
hydrochloric acid, 1 quart, diluted with water.——_b._ To a strong
decoction of French berries add a little alum.——_c._ A simple solution of
chromate or bichromate of potash in distilled water.——_d._ A solution of
equal parts of nitre and either chromate or bichromate of potash, in
water.
_Obs._ Most of the above require filtering, which should be done through
powdered glass, placed in a glass funnel, and never through paper. They
usually need a second filtration, after being exposed to the light for
some weeks; hence it is convenient always to make a little more of them
than is required to fill the bottle, as several of them, when diluted
after filtration, become again turbid. Distilled water or filtered rain
water should be used.
=SHRIMP.= See SHELL-FISH.
=SHRUB.= A species of concentrated cold punch, prepared with lemon juice,
spirit, sugar, and water. When the word is used in its unqualified form,
RUM SHRUB is alluded to.
=Shrub, Brandy.= _Prep._ 1. Take of brandy, 1 gall.; orange and lemon
juice, of each 1 pint; peels of 2 oranges; do. of 1 lemon; digest for 24
hours, strain, and add of white sugar, 4 lbs., dissolved in water, 5
pints; in a fortnight decant the clear liquid for use.
2. As RUM SHRUB (below), but using brandy.
=Shrub, Lemon.= _Syn._ LEMONADE SHRUB. Concentrated lemonade, either with
or without the addition of a little spirit. Used to make lemonade or lemon
sherbet.
=Shrub, Punch.= Concentrated punch, made with equal parts of spirit and
water. Used to make punch.
=Shrub, Rum.= _Prep._ 1. As BRANDY SHRUB, but substituting rum for brandy.
2. Take of rum, at proof, 34 gall. (or, if of any other strength, an
equivalent quantity); essential oils of orange and lemon, of each 2 oz.,
dissolved in rectified spirit, 1 quart; good lump sugar, 300 lbs.;
dissolved in water, 20 galls.; mix well by ‘rummaging,’ and gradually and
cautiously add of Seville orange juice, or of a solution of tartaric acid
in water, q. s. to produce a pleasant but scarcely perceptible acidity;
next ‘rummage’ well for 15 minutes, then add sufficient water to make the
whole measure exactly 100 galls., and again ‘rummage’ well for at least
half an hour; lastly, bung the cask down loosely, and allow it to repose
for some days. In a fortnight, or less, it will usually be sufficiently
‘brilliant’ to be racked. The product is 100 galls., at 66 u. p.
_Obs._ Rum shrub is the kind in the greatest demand, and that having a
slight preponderance of the orange flavour is the most esteemed. If wholly
flavoured with lemon it is apt to acquire a kind of ‘dead’ or ‘musty’
flavour by long keeping. The substitution of a few gallons of brandy for a
portion of the rum, or the addition, after racking, of about 1 oz. each of
bruised bitter almonds, cloves, and cassia, the peels of about 2 dozen
oranges, and a ‘thread’ of the essences of ambergris and vanilla, render
it delicious.
=SIAL′OGOGUES.= Medicines which increase the flow of saliva. Mercurials
and pellitory of Spain belong to this class.
=SICK′NESS.= Nausea and vomiting frequently arise from the use of improper
food, and other articles which offend the stomach; at other times it is
symptomatic of some disease, as colic, cholera, dyspepsia, head
affections, incipient fever, &c.; in which case the primary affection
should be attended to. Nausea lowers the pulse, contracts the small
vessels, occasions cold perspiration, severe rigors, and trembling; and
diminishes, as long as it lasts, the actions, and even the general powers,
of life. The act of retching, and vomiting more especially, on the
contrary, rouses rather than depresses, puts to flight all the preceding
symptoms, and often restores the system to itself.
The best remedies or palliatives in these affections are effervescing
saline draughts, either with or without the addition of a few drops of
tincture of henbane, or tincture of opium. A glass of genuine lemonade,
iced, or a spoonful of crushed ice in a wine-glassful of mint water, is
also very serviceable. Pepsin (Bullock and Reynolds) and oxalate of cerium
are said to be most valuable remedies in the sickness of pregnancy. See
DRAUGHTS, PREGNANCY, SEA SICKNESS, &c.
=SIFT′ING= is to pulverulent substances what filtration is to liquids; but
in this case the medium through which the substance passes is, usually, of
a simpler and coarser description. Sieves are commonly employed for the
purpose, which are fitted with silk or brass-wire gauze for fine purposes,
and horsehair cloth, or wire netting, for coarser ones. Drum sieves are
such as are furnished with covers and an enclosed space to receive the
fine powder that passes through, by which dust and loss are prevented.
=SIGHT.= See VISION.
=Sight, Effect of Gaslight on.= The German Minister of Instruction has
recently issued a report on the influence of gaslight on the eye. The
conclusion arrived at in this report——the result of frequent conference
with well-known physicians——is that no evil results follow a moderate use
of gas, if the direct action of the yellow flame on the eye is prevented.
For this purpose screens or shades are employed. Very great objections,
however, exist to the use of zinc or lead shades, most evils affecting the
eye being traceable to them. Their use, it is said, inevitably tends to
blindness or inflammation, and other harmful effects. The milky-white
glass shade is the best, as it distributes the light and has a grateful
effect on the eyes. The burner should not be too close to the head, as
congestions of the forehead and headaches result from the radiated heat.
The glass plate below the gas, employed in some places, is especially
useful for the purpose, as it causes an equal distribution of the
light——necessary where a number are working at one burner——prevents the
radiation of heat, and tends to a steady illumination by shielding the
flames from currents of air. In cases of highly-inflamed eyes, dark-blue
globes can be very beneficially employed. With precautions of this kind no
evil effects from the burning of gas need be feared.
=SIG′NATURES (Fac-similes of).= These may be readily obtained as
follows:——
1. Let the name be written on a piece of paper, and, while the ink is
still wet, sprinkle over it some finely-powdered gum Arabic, then make a
rim round it, and pour on it some fusible alloy in a liquid state.
Impressions may be taken from the plates formed in this way, by means of
printing ink and the copper-plate press.
2. By the use of transfer ink and lithography.
=SILBER LIGHT.= This light is thus described in ‘Dingler’s Polytechnic
Journal,’[161]——This mode of illumination is recommended where gas cannot
be had.
[Footnote 161: ccix, 79 (‘Journ. Chem. Society,’ vol. xi, new series,
1273).]
The material used is oil, which is converted into gas before combustion
takes place, whereby the combustion of the wick is greatly lessened (one
wick may last a year); the accumulation of impurity is obviated, and the
prevention of smell completely effected. The light is regular and uniform,
and of a white colour. The light, with a burner 1-1/4 inch wide, is equal
to that of 28 sperm candles, each consuming 120 gr. per hour, and with one
1-3/4 inch wide a light is obtained equal to 50 such candles.
The burning apparatus consists of a row of concentrically enclosed double
cylinders, perpendicularly arranged at definite intervals. The innermost
cylinder contains the wick between its two walls, the hollow space in the
interior serving to convey fresh air to the interior of the flame. The
second cylinder conveys air to the outer side of the wick, and the third
contains oil, and is in direct communication with both wick and reservoir.
The mouths of all these chambers have a dome-shaped head, and form a
suitable opening in this; the gas streams forth in such a manner that it
comes in contact with a current of air, and thus a complete combustion is
attained.
According to the nature of the oil burnt the construction is somewhat
varied in its minor details. Rape oil or light hydrocarbon oils are
mentioned.
=SIL′ICA.= SiO_{2}. _Syn._ SILICIC ANHYDRIDE, SILICIC ACID, SILEX,
SILICEOUS EARTH†, EARTH OF FLINTS†. This exists in quartz and rock crystal
in a nearly pure state. The sands of rivers and the sea-shore, flint, and
almost all the scintillating stones, chiefly consist of it.
Silica occurs under two conditions——the crystalline and the amorphous. The
former variety has a sp. gr. of 2·642; the amorphous of 2·2-2·3. Some of
our well-known native gems and precious stones consist almost wholly of
one of the above forms of silica. In agate and calcedony the two varieties
are combined. Amethyst is silica, coloured purple by ferric oxide. Onyx is
formed of calcedony arranged in layers of different colours. Cornelian is
a red or brown variety of silica coloured with ferric oxide, whilst opal
is amorphous silica combined with varying quantities of water. Silica is
present in the stems of certain plants, such as wheat, many grasses, to
which the shining appearance of the stems is due, &c. The Italians polish
marble with the ashes of burnt straw, the usefulness of which for such a
purpose depends upon the silica contained in the straw; for similar
reasons the Dutch rush is thus employed. Silica also occurs in solution in
many natural waters. In the geysers, or boiling springs of Iceland, it
exists in large quantity.
It may be obtained in a state of absolute purity by passing gaseous
fluoride of silicon into water, collecting the resulting gelatinous
precipitate on a calico filter, washing it with distilled water, drying
it, and heating it to redness. Another method is to precipitate a solution
of silicate of soda or potassa (soluble glass) with dilute hydrochloric
acid, and to treat the precipitate as before.
Nearly pure silica may also be procured by heating colourless quartz to
redness, and plunging it into cold water, by which treatment the quartz is
rendered so friable as to be easily reducible to fine powder. Ordinary
flints, subjected to this method, are found to yield silica in a condition
approaching to purity. Amorphous silica is much more easily attacked by
solvents than the crystalline variety. The artificial forms of silica are
all amorphous.
The test for a silicate consists in fusing the suspected body with sodic
or potassic carbonate, heating the residue with acid, and evaporating to
dryness. If the residue be then treated with hot water the silica remains
undissolved in the form of a white powder, which will yield a colourless
bead when fused with sodic carbonate upon a piece of platinum foil before
the blowpipe flame. If silica be fused with borax it becomes slowly
dissolved, forming a clear, colourless bead.
Chapman contests Plattner’s opinion that, when silicates are fused with
phosphor salt, the ‘silica skeleton’ that results is especially due to the
presence of alkalies or earthy bases.
Chapman says: “It is true enough that silicates in which these bases are
present exhibit the reaction; but as other silicates——practically all,
indeed——exhibit the reaction also, the inference implied in the above
statement is quite erroneous.
“The opalescence of the glass arises entirely from precipitated silica.
“If some pure silica (or a silicate of any kind), in a powdered condition,
be dissolved before the blowpipe flame in borax until the glass be
saturated, and some phosphor salt be then added, and the blowing be
continued for an instant, a precipitate of silicate will immediately take
place, the bead becoming milky white (or, in the case of many silicates,
opaque) on cooling. This test may be resorted to for the detection of
silica in the case of silicates, which dissolve with difficulty in
phosphor salt alone, or which do not give the pronounced ‘skeleton’ with
that reagent.”[162]
[Footnote 162: Chapman on ‘Blow-pipe Reactions.’]
_Prop., &c._ A fine, white, tasteless, infusible powder, insoluble in all
acids, after being heated, except the hydrofluoric; requires the heat of
the oxyhydrogen blowpipe for its fusion; approaches the precious stones in
hardness; soluble in strong alkaline solutions; its salts are called
SILICATES. Sp. gr. 2·66. See GLASS, GLASS, SOLUBLE, &c.
=Silica, Hydrates of.= By pouring a dilute solution of sodium silicate
into a considerable excess of hydrochloric acid the whole of the silica is
retained in solution, together with the chloride of sodium formed by the
action of the hydrochloric acid upon the soda. By subjecting this solution
to dialysis (see DIALYSIS) the hydrochloric acid and chloride of sodium
are removed, whilst the hydrate of silica is left behind, in solution, in
the dialyser. Graham recommends a stratum of the liquid four tenths of an
inch in depth, to be subjected for four or five days to dialysis, the
water in the outer vessel to be changed every twenty-four hours.
If the solution so obtained be carefully evaporated down in a flask, and
any drying of the silicic acid at the edges of the liquid being prevented,
a solution may be obtained containing 14 per cent. of silica.
The solution has a very feebly acid reaction, and is without taste or
colour. It cannot be preserved in the liquid state for more than a very
few days, even in well-closed vessels, but becomes converted into a
transparent gelatinous mass, which separates from the water. Hydrochloric
acid, as well as small quantities of caustic potash or soda, retard the
coagulation.
When the solution is evaporated _in vacuo_ at 59° F. over sulphuric acid,
a lustrous transparent glass is left behind, which consists of 22 per
cent. of water, which closely accords with the formula SiO_{2}H_{2}O.
By the action of moist air upon silicic ether a transparent glassy hydrate
was obtained by Ebelmen, to which this chemist assigned the formula
2SiO_{2},3H_{2}O. Two hydrates of silica were obtained by Fuchs, one
having the formula 3SiO_{2},H_{2}O, the other, 4SiO_{2},H_{2}O.
=Silicic Chloride.= _Syn._ SILICIC TETRACHLORIDE. (SiCl_{4}.) This
compound is rarely, if ever, obtained by the direct method, viz. by
heating silicon in chlorine, but by the following indirect process:——A
paste is made of finely divided silica, oil, and charcoal, and heated in a
covered crucible. The fragments of the charred substance (consisting of
silica and carbon) are then placed in a porcelain tube, which is raised to
a red heat in a furnace, and during the ignition of the fragments a
current of dry chlorine is passed into and over them; the silicic chloride
which is thus formed being made to distil over into a bent tube
surrounded by a freezing mixture of ice and salt, whereby it becomes
condensed.
Silicic chloride is a very voluble and strongly fuming gas, transparent
and colourless, with an irritating and pungent smell. It is immediately
decomposed by water into hydrochloric acid and hydrated silica, which
deposits in the vessel.
=Silicic Fluoride.= _Syn._ SILICIC TETRAFLUORIDE. (SiF_{4}.) This gas is
best prepared by heating in a capacious flask or retort equal parts of
finely powdered fluorspar and white sand, or glass with ten or twelve
times their weight of strong sulphuric acid. This gas must be collected
over mercury, and in jars that are free from the least trace of moisture.
Silicic fluoride is a colourless gas, with a very pungent odour, fuming
strongly in the air, and neither burning nor supporting combustion.
Faraday succeeded in liquefying it under great pressure, and Natterer
states that at a temperature of -220° F. it may be solidified. By water it
is partially decomposed and partially dissolved, yielding silicic acid and
hydrofluosilic acid.
With twice its volume of ammoniacal gas silicic fluoride combines to form
a crystalline volatile. Silicic hydride has an acid reaction.
=Silicic Hydride.= (H_{4}Si?) To procure this gas silicide of magnesium is
decomposed with cold diluted hydrochloric acid.
The silicide of magnesium may be prepared as follows:——Mix intimately 40
parts of fused magnesic chloride, 35 of dried sodic silico-fluoride, and
10 of fused sodic chloride; these are mixed in a warm, dry tube, with 20
parts of sodium in small fragments, and thrown into a red-hot Hessian
crucible, which is immediately covered, the operation being finished when
the vapours of sodium cease to burn.
Silicic hydride becomes spontaneously ignited in the air, and in doing so
gives off white fumes, which consist of amorphous silica (SiO_{2}). A cold
body, such as a piece of porcelain or glass, introduced into the flame,
becomes covered with a brown deposit of reduced silicon. Passed into
solutions of cupric sulphate, argentic nitrate, and palladium chloride,
this gas throws down the metals, in most cases combined with silicon.
=SILICOFLUORIC ACID.= See FLUOSILICIC ACID.
=SIL′ICON.= Si. _Syn._ SILICIUM. An elementary substance forming the base
of silica.
This element was first obtained by Sir Humphry Davy, by acting upon silica
with potassium. It is now procured much more easily by the decomposition
of silico-fluoride of potassium, at an elevated temperature, with
potassium or sodium. By heating a mixture of fluorspar and ground flints
with sulphuric acid a gaseous tetra-fluoride of silicon is formed, which,
being partially soluble in water, yields an acid solution of the
tetra-fluoride. Caustic potash is then added to the acid solution of the
tetra-chloride until it becomes neutralised, and the sparingly soluble
silico-fluoride of potassium thus formed is thoroughly dried and mixed in
a glass or iron tube with eight or nine tenths of its weight of potassium
or half its weight of sodium, and heated. The following equation explains
the reaction that takes place:
2KF,SiF_{4} + 2K_{2} = Si + 6KF.
The resulting mass, consisting of potassic fluoride, and reduced silicon
in partial combination with the excess of potassium, is treated with cold
water, when a copious evolution of hydrogen gas ensues, owing to the
decomposition of the water by the excess of potassium. The potassic
fluoride is got rid of by washing with cold water, its entire removal
being indicated by the water ceasing to have an alkaline reaction on test
paper, whilst amorphous silicon is left behind in the form of a brown
powder.
Another method by which silicon may also be procured is by passing the
vapour of silicic chloride over heated potassium or sodium, placed on a
porcelain tray in a glass tube. In this operation it is advisable to
protect the lining of the tube with thin plates of mica.
The silicon obtained by the above processes is known as _amorphous
silicon_, and, as already stated, occurs as a brown powder. It is dull in
colour, and, being heavier than water, as well as insoluble in it, sinks
in that fluid. It is a non-conductor of electricity, is unaffected by
nitric or sulphuric acid, but dissolves readily in hydrofluoric acid, and
in a warm solution of caustic potash. It burns with great brilliancy when
heated in air or oxygen, and becomes converted into silica, which, owing
to the great heat of combustion, fuses, and thus forms a superficial crust
over the unburnt silicon. A _crystalline_ variety of silicon may also be
procured by heating the brown amorphous silicon, already described,
intensely in a platinum crucible, with exclusion of air. This crystalline
silicon so obtained is much darker in colour than the amorphous, and also
considerably denser; besides which it differs widely in properties from
the latter. It will not take fire if heated strongly in the air or oxygen,
even if before the blowpipe flame. Its density is such that it sinks in
strong sulphuric acid, and hydrofluoric acid fails to dissolve it,
although it is soluble in a mixture of hydrofluoric and nitric acids. It
does not become oxidised, even if fused with potassic nitrate or chlorate,
unless a white heat is obtained, when it burns brilliantly, giving rise,
on so doing, to the formation of silica.
In addition to the above, a _graphitoid_ form of silicon, occurring in
plates, has been described by Deville and Wöhler. These chemists obtained
this last modification from an alloy of silicon and aluminium, which was
treated in succession with boiling hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids.
The plates of silicon which are left have a metallic lustre, and a sp.
gr. of 2·49. The graphitoid bears a great resemblance in properties to the
crystalline silicon. It is a conductor of electricity. Like the
crystalline variety, it dissolves in a mixture of hydrofluoric and nitric
acids, although slowly, but, unlike the crystalline, it undergoes no
change when heated to whiteness in a current of oxygen.
Deville states that silicon requires a temperature between the melting
points of iron and steel to fuse it. He effected its fusion in a platinum
crucible lined with lime, the platinum crucible being then placed in a
clay crucible, which was then exposed to intense heat in a wind furnace.
By passing the vapour of silicic chloride over pure aluminium, placed on a
porcelain tray, and raised to an intense heat, the aluminium becomes
volatilised as aluminic chloride, whilst the silicon remains behind in
crystals possessing a reddish lustre. These crystals occur in regular
six-sided prisms, terminated by three-sided pyramids, derived from the
octohedra, and are so hard that glass may be cut by them, in the same way
as by the diamond.
With oxygen silicon forms only one oxide, silica, described above.
=SILK.= As an article of clothing, as far as “roundness of fibre, softness
of texture, absence of attraction for moisture, and power of communicating
warmth, are concerned, silk is greatly superior to both linen and cotton;
moreover, it gives the sensation of freshness to the touch which is so
agreeable in linen. But, with all these advantages, silk (when worn next
the body) has its defects; on the slightest friction it disturbs the
electricity of the skin, and thus becomes a source of irritation.
Sometimes, it is true, this irritation is advantageous, as causing a
determination of blood to the surface; but when this action is not
required, it is disagreeable, and quite equal, in a sensitive
constitution, to producing an eruption on the skin. I have seen eruptions
occasioned in this manner, and, when they have not occurred, so much
itching and irritation as to call for the abandonment of the garment.”
(Eras. Wilson.)
Silk is characterised by its fibres appearing perfectly smooth and
cylindrical, without depressions, even under a magnifying power of 160.
Its fibres (even when dyed) acquire a permanent straw-yellow colour when
steeped in nitric acid of the sp. gr. 1·20 to 1·30. The fibres of white or
light-coloured silk are similarly stained by a solution of picric acid. A
thread of silk, when inflamed, shrivels and burns with difficulty, evolves
a peculiar odour, and leaves a bulky charcoal. By these properties silk is
distinguished from cotton and linen.
Cotton, wool, and silk may be easily distinguished from each other by
means of the microscope.
The cotton fibre will be seen to consist of only one cell; wool (as well
as hair and alpaca) is made up of numerous cells in juxtaposition; whilst
silk fibre is similar to the secreted matter of spiders and caterpillars.
[Illustration: FIG. 1-3.]
The silk fibre (fig. 1) is smooth, cylindrical, devoid of structure, not
hollow inside, and equally broad. The surface is glossy, and only seldom
are any irregularities seen on it. If it is desired to detect in a woven
fabric the genuineness of the silk, it is best to cut a sample to pieces,
place it under water under the object-glass of a microscope, magnifying
120 to 200 times, covering it with a thin piece of glass. The round,
glazed, equally proportioned silk fibre (fig. 1), is easily distinguished
from the unequalled and scaled wool fibre (W in fig. 2), and from the
flat, band-like, and spiral cotton fibre (B, fig. 3). Under the microscope
also the mixture of inferior with superior fibres of silk can be easily
detected.
Black silk, the weight of which has been augmented by extensive
sophistication, is not uncommon in English, French, and German markets. It
is known as ‘weighted’ or ‘shotted’ silk, and very frequently contains no
more——and frequently less——than one third of its weight of silk, the
remaining two thirds consisting, according to Persoz, of a combination of
iron salts, with some astringent substance, salts of tin, and cyanides. It
is easily distinguishable from genuine silk by its want of elasticity and
tenacity, and its much greater combustibility. Persoz found a specimen of
this adulterated silk to yield, upon incineration, more than 8 per cent.
of ferric oxide.
The cleaning and renovation of articles of wearing apparel made of silk
are matters requiring some care. No silk goods look well after being
washed, however carefully it may be done; and this method should,
therefore, never be resorted to but from absolute necessity. It is
recommended to sponge faded silks with warm water and curd soap, then to
rub them with a dry cloth on a flat board, and afterwards to iron them on
the wrong side with an ordinary smoothing iron. Sponging with spirit,
benzol, or pure oil of turpentine, also greatly improves old silk, and is
often preferable to any other method. The odour of the benzol passes off
very quickly, that of the turpentine after exposure for a few days. When
the ironing is done on the right side thin paper should be spread over the
surface to prevent ‘glazing.’ See DYEING, GILDING, &c.
=Silk Material, a New.= The ‘Textile Manufacturer’ contains the
following:——The utilisation of new substances as raw material for
manufactures is a distinguishing feature of the scientific investigations
of the nineteenth century. One of the most recent suggestions is the
result of the researches of Herr Tycho Tulburg, an eminent German
naturalist, on the products of the mussel. It will be remembered it was
from one of the mussel species the famous purple dye was in past ages
obtained, and this colour gained an imperishable renown from its being
adopted by the Roman emperors, and the imperial purple became the symbol
of sovereignty. In these latter days animal products have been displaced
by aniline dyes, and there is no likelihood of their regaining their
former celebrity. The researches of Tulburg have not, however, been in the
direction of dyes, but in the adaptation of animal products other than the
silkworm for silk yarns. The mussel (_Mytilus edulis_) fastens itself to
the rocks by strong threads, called by naturalists _byssus_, and it is
this substance which it is proposed to utilise for the manufacture of
silk. The material is of a silky texture and very tough, and the
experiments that have been made prove that it is well adapted to be made
into yarn. Already the _Pinna_, one of the mussel tribe, has been already
manufactured into fabrics, although it is not of general use, nor at
present of much commercial value, and the same obstacles to the use of the
_byssus_ of the common mussel are apparent. Notwithstanding the abundant
supply of this popular shell fish, it is difficult to see how a sufficient
quantity of _byssus_ can be collected to enable manufacturers to purchase
the raw material at rates low enough for a marketable remuneration on the
manufactured article. But the records of industrial progress testify to
greater difficulties than these having been successfully overcome; and
should the commercial value of the new material be satisfactorily
demonstrated, there is no doubt some agency will be developed whereby the
requisite supply may be obtained.
At present it is sufficient to notice the discovery that has been made,
and to welcome another instance of the results of scientific labour being
for the advantage of manufacturers.
=SILK′WORM, Diseases of.= Silkworms are liable to a disease known as
_pébrine_, which Pasteur has shown to be due to the presence, on the body,
the egg, and in the blood of the insect, of peculiar parasitic corpuscles.
Pasteur states that the black specks which constitute these bodies are
very easily distinguishable in the moth of the silkworm, but that in the
earlier stages of its development, such as in the egg and worm condition,
the detection of them becomes difficult, if not impossible. Pasteur
further adds that sound moths produce sound eggs, and unsound moths the
reverse, and that although the unsound eggs show no sign of disease, they
never give rise to healthy worms.
Pasteur advises the silk cultivator, therefore, to ensure breeding from
healthy moths at starting, and to abandon the old and useless precaution
of hatching apparently healthy eggs.
The loss resulting from the silkworm disease in Italy may be seen from the
following tables, which are calculated for bales of 102 lbs.
weight:[163]——
[Footnote 163: ‘British Manufactory of Industries,’ Stamford.]
Average production prior to disease, 81,600.
1863 Bales, 50,600 Deficit, 38 per cent.
1864 ” 38,000 ” 53 ”
1865 ” 38,700 ” 52 ”
1866 ” 39,600 ” 51 ”
1867 ” 44,000 ” 46 ”
1868 ” 41,000 ” 49 ”
1869 ” 47,300 ” 42 ”
1870 ” 69,900 ” 14 ”
1871 ” 76,300 ” 6 ”
1872 ” 68,000 ” 16 ”
The value of the cocoons grown in the whole world in 1870 was said to be
as follows:——France, £4,334,000; Italy, £11,260,000; Spain and other
European countries, £984,000; giving a total for Europe of £16,588,000.
China, £17,000,000; India, £4,800,000; Japan, £3,200,000; Persia,
£920,000; other Asiatic states, £2,192,000; giving a total for Asia of
£28,112,000. Africa, £68,000. America, £20,000. Making a general total of
£44,788,000.
=Silkworm Gut.= See GUT.
=SIL′LABUB.= _Prep._ Grate off the yellow peel of a lemon with lump sugar,
and dissolve the sugar in 3/4 pint of wine; add the juice of 1/3 a lemon,
and a 1/4 pint of cream; beat the whole together until of a proper
thickness, and then put it into glasses.
_Obs._ 3/4 to 1 pint of new milk is often substituted for the cream, and
strong cider or perry for the wine. Grated nutmeg is often added. When
‘whipped’ to a froth it is called ‘WHIPPED SILLABUB,’ See CREAM (Whipped).
=SILVER.= Ag. _Syn._ ARGENTUM, L. This metal, like gold, appears to have
been as much valued in the remotest ages of antiquity of which we have any
record, as at the present time. It is found in nature, both in the
metallic state and mineralised, in the state of alloy, and combined with
sulphur, chlorine, and other metallic sulphurets. In Great Britain it is
found in combination chiefly with lead. It is extracted from its ores
principally by the process of amalgamation, founded on its easy solubility
in mercury, and by subsequent cupellation. It is only prepared on the
large scale.
Chemically pure silver may be obtained by the methods noticed
subsequently.
_Prop._ Pure silver has a very white colour, a high degree of lustre, is
exceedingly malleable and ductile, and is the best conductor of heat and
electricity known. Its hardness is between that of copper and gold; its
sp. gr. is 10·475 to 10·500; it melts at about 1873° Fahr.; or bright
redness (Daniell); is freely soluble in nitric acid, and dissolves in
sulphuric acid by the aid of heat; it refuses to oxidise alone at any
temperature, but, when strongly heated in open vessels, it absorbs many
times its bulk of oxygen, which is again disengaged at the moment of
solidification; its surface is rapidly tarnished by sulphuretted hydrogen
and by the fumes of sulphur.
_Pur._ “Entirely soluble in diluted nitric acid. This solution, treated
with an excess of muriate of soda, gives a white precipitate entirely
soluble in ammonia water, and a fluid which is not affected by
sulphuretted hydrogen.” (Ph. E.)
_Tests._ 1. The compounds of silver, mixed with carbonate of soda, and
exposed on a charcoal support to the inner flame of the blowpipe, afford
white, brilliant, and ductile metallic globules, without any incrustation
of the charcoal.——2. The salts of silver are non-volatile and colourless,
but most of them acquire more or less a black tint by exposure to full
daylight.
The soluble salts of silver give——1. A white curdy precipitate (chloride
of silver) with hydrochloric acid and the soluble metallic chlorides,
which is soluble in ammonia and insoluble in nitric acid, and blackened by
exposure to light;——2. White precipitates with solutions of the alkaline
carbonates, oxalates, and ferrocyanides;——3. Yellow precipitates with the
alkaline arsenites and phosphates;——4. With the arseniates, red
precipitates;——5. With the fixed alkalies, brown precipitates;——6. With
sulphuretted hydrogen and hydrosulphuret of ammonia, a black powder, which
is insoluble in dilute acids, alkalies, alkaline sulphurets, and cyanide
of potassium, but readily soluble, with separation of sulphur, in boiling
nitric acid; and——7. With phosphorus, and with metallic copper or zinc,
pure silver.
_Assay._ 1. The method of assaying silver by cupellation has been
explained under ASSAY and CUPELLATION; and that method is alone applicable
when the alloy contains a very small quantity of silver, as a few ounces
only per ton. When the reverse is the case, as with the silver of
commerce, the following is a much more accurate method:——
2. _Humid assay of silver._——_a._ Dissolve 10 gr. of the silver for assay
in 100 gr. of nitric acid, sp. gr. 1·28, by the aid of heat, the solution
being made in a tall stoppered glass tube, furnished with a foot; then
place it in a very delicate balance, bring it into an exact state of
equilibrium, and add the test solution (see _below_), gradually and
cautiously, until the whole of the silver be thrown down, the number of
grains now required to restore the equilibrium of the balance or scales
gives the exact quantity of pure silver in 1000 parts of the
sample.——_Obs._ To ensure accuracy, after each addition the stopper should
be placed in the tube, and the latter violently agitated for a short time,
when the liquor will rapidly clear and enable us to see when the operation
is concluded. We must then, as a check, add a small quantity of a solution
of nitrate of silver to the liquor in the tube, after having first
carefully taken the weight. If too much of the test liquor has been added,
this will produce a fresh precipitate, and the assay cannot then be
depended on.——Instead of weighing the quantity of test liquor used, a tube
graduated into 100 parts, and holding 1000 gr., may be employed, every
division of which, required to throw down the silver, will represent the
1/10th of a grain. See ALKALIMETRY and ACIDIMETRY.
_b._ The precipitate of chloride of silver may be collected in a paper
filter, and be dried, washed, fused, and weighed. The previous weight of
the paper, deducted from the gross weight of the filter and its contents,
gives the quantity of chloride of silver present, which multiplied by
0·75278, gives the weight of the pure silver in the sample.
_Test liquor._ Dissolve 54·27 (54-1/4) gr. of pure sea salt in 9945·73 gr.
(or 22 oz. and 320-3/4 gr. avoirdupois) of distilled water; filter, and
keep the liquor in a stoppered bottle for use. Pure sea salt is obtained
by boiling together, for a few minutes, in a glass vessel, a solution of
common salt with a little pure bicarbonate of soda; then adding to the
filtered liquor sufficient hydrochloric acid to render it neutral to
litmus and turmeric paper, and, lastly, evaporating and crystallising.
_Obs._ The presence of mercury, lead, or sulphuret of silver, interferes
with the accuracy of the above assay. When mercury is present, the
precipitate blackens less readily by exposure to light; and when it
contains 4/1000 or 5/1000 of chloride of mercury, it remains of a dead
white; with 3/1000 it is not sensibly discoloured by the diffused light of
a room, with 2/1000 only slightly darkened, with 1/1000 more so, but with
pure chloride of silver, the effect is very rapid and intense. When this
metal is present, which is, however, seldom the case, the assay sample
must be placed in a small crucible, and exposed to a full red heat, before
solution in the acid. Another method, proposed by M. Levol, and modified
by M. Gay-Lussac, is to add to the nitric solution of the silver
sufficient acetate of ammonia or crystallised acetate of soda to saturate
all the nitric acid existing in the liquor, either in the free state or
combined with the silver. When the alloy contains lead, shown by the
precipitated chloride being partly soluble in water, it may either be
laminated and subjected to the action of acetic acid before solution in
the nitric acid; or, the test solution of chloride of soda should be
replaced by one of chloride of lead; (139·355 gr. of the latter are equiv.
to 58·732 gr. of the former). The presence of sulphuret of silver is
detected whilst dissolving the sample in nitric acid, by the black flakes
which may be observed floating about in the liquor in an insoluble state.
These flakes may be dissolved by fuming nitric acid, or by adding pure
concentrated sulphuric acid to the solution, which should be then heated
for about a 1/4 hour in a steam-bath. When thus treated, the precipitate
produced by the test liquor represents the whole of the silver contained
in the alloy.
Dr Gräger[164] gives the following process of the preparation of pure
metallic silver:——He dissolved the alloy of silver in nitric acid, taking
care to use as small a quantity of the acid as possible. The solution is
then transferred to a large-sized porcelain basin, and gradually
neutralised with previously lixiviated chalk free from chlorine. The
neutralised liquid is next boiled, and chalk again added to it, while
boiling, until the fluid has become colourless. (In order to test more
accurately, a drop of the liquid is poured on a piece of white
filtering-paper, and next to that drop is placed one of a solution of
ferrocyanide of potassium; as long as the well-known red colouration,
copper reaction, hereby ensues, chalk is added.) The fluid is next
filtered to separate the carbonate of copper, and the filtrate (a solution
of nitrate of silver, and nitrate of lime) is again boiled, and either
further treated with carbonate of lime, or better still, with carbonate of
soda. The bright yellow-coloured precipitate thereby ensuing, a mixture of
carbonate of silver, and carbonate of lime, is washed, dried, and ignited,
leaving a greyish-white mass of metallic silver, mixed with carbonate of
lime. This mixture is treated with dilute hydrochloric acid, washed with
distilled water, and then fused along with borax, yielding pure silver.
The bright green coloured carbonate of copper can be used as a pigment for
painting purposes.
[Footnote 164: ‘Chemical News,’ xxv, No. 641, 119.]
Krüger says:——In frequently experimenting with silver salts, a mixture of
solution of precipitates is obtained, in which silver exists in all kinds
of combination. When such mixtures are shaken up with an ethereal solution
of phosphorus, the solution and the precipitate soon separate, the former
being more or less yellow, the latter intensely black. If light-coloured
particles are perceived in the precipitate, the quantity of phosphorus
solution employed is not sufficient, and more must be added till the
precipitate is uniformly black. The precipitate is next filtered, washed,
and dried, or placed while still damp, in a porcelain dish and boiled with
potash solution. Pure metallic silver is thus obtained. If a solid fused
mass is required, pure potassium hydrate is fused in a crucible, and to
this the dried precipitate is added in small portions.
_Uses, &c._ Metallic silver, unless in a state of very minute division,
has no action on the human body. A plate of silver is ordered, in the Ph.
L., as a test of the presence of nitric acid in the acetic and phosphoric
acids; and metallic silver (preferably granulated) is employed by the
other colleges in the preparation of the nitrate. Its numerous
applications in the arts are well known. The standard silver of England
contains 111 parts of silver and 9 parts of copper.
_Concluding Remarks._ The researches of Tillet, D’Arcet, and Gay-Lussac
have clearly shown that the percentage of silver in an alloy, as indicated
by cupellation, is always below its real richness in that metal, owing to
loss in the process; and, that the cupelled button always retains a trace
of lead and copper, the precise quantity of which is variable. The
following table exhibits the additions to be made on this score, when the
quantity assayed (assay pound) is 20 gr.:——
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+
| |Actual richness| Percentage |
|Weight after cupellation.| in _pure_ |of richness in|
| | _silver_. |_pure silver_.|
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+
| 19·979 | 20 | 100 |
| 18·95 | 19 | 95 |
| 17·92 | 18 | 90 |
| 16·917 | 17 | 85 |
| 15·914 | 16 | 80 |
| 14·91 | 15 | 75 |
| 13·905 | 14 | 70 |
| 12·905 | 13 | 65 |
| 11·906 | 12 | 60 |
| 10·906 | 11 | 55 |
| 9·906 | 10 | 50 |
| 7·921 | 8 | 40 |
| 5·948 | 6 | 30 |
| 3·949 | 4 | 20 |
| 1·982 | 2 | 10 |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+
In assaying lead ores very poor in silver the best quantity to be taken
for cupellation is 500 gr.; and from that quantity 0·0148 of silver,
including compensation for loss, represents one ounce of silver to the
ton. A cupel may absorb its own weight of lead. If the quantity of lead to
be absorbed is more considerable, another cupel may be turned topsy-turvy,
and the cupel in which the assay is to be made may be placed upon it. See
Assay, and M. Gay-Lussac’s elaborate memoir on the ‘_Humid Assay of
Silver_,’
For the recovery or reduction of silver from the chloride and its other
compounds, several methods are employed:——
_a._ The washed chloride is placed in a zinc or iron cup, along with a
little water strongly acidulated with sulphuric acid; or in a glass or
porcelain cup along with a zinc plate; the whole may then be left to
itself for some hours; or, to hasten the reduction, gently heated, or even
boiled; the precipitated silver is washed with pure water, and dried.
_b._ (Hornung.) Digest the chloride with some ammonia and pure copper
filings, for 24 hours, then wash and dry the powder.
_c._ (M. Levol.) The washed chloride is mixed with an equal weight of
sugar, and the mixture is digested in an excess of a moderately strong
solution of caustic potassa, with occasional agitation for 24 hours; or
the whole is boiled for some time; the reduced silver is washed with
distilled water.
_d._ (Mohr.) The dry chloride is mixed with 1-3rd of its weight of
powdered black resin, and moderately heated in a crucible until the flame
ceases to have a greenish-blue colour; the heat is then suddenly increased
so as to melt the metal into a button or ingot.
_e._ (M. Gay-Lussac.) If the chloride, dry it, and throw it, in successive
portions, into twice its weight of carbonate of potassa fused in a red-hot
Hessian crucible; effervescence ensues, and the pure silver subsides to
the bottom.——If a “soluble salt,” as the nitrate, acidulate the solution,
and precipitate it by means of a polished plate of copper; the silver is
then obtained in the form of powder. The products of the above processes,
when the latter are carefully conducted, are chemically pure silver.
=Silver, Acetate of.= _Syn._ ARGENTI ACETAS, L. _Prep._ By adding a
solution of acetate of potassa to a like solution of nitrate of silver,
washing the precipitate with cold water, redissolving it in a little hot
water, and setting the solution aside to crystallise. Small colourless
needles.
=Silver, Ammoniuret of.= See FULMINATING SILVER (Berthollet’s, Nos. 1 and
2, _page_ 768).
=Silver, Ammonio-chloride of.= _Syn._ ARGENTOCHLORIDE OF AMMONIA; ARGENTI
AMMONIO-CHLORIDUM, L. _Prep._ Add, gradually, chloride of silver (recently
precipitated and well washed) to concentrated liquor of ammonia, as long
as it is dissolved on agitation, applying a gentle heat towards the end;
then heat the solution to the boiling-point, concentrate a little, and
allow it to cool very slowly; collect the crystals which form, dry them by
pressure (with care) between folds of bibulous paper, and at once preserve
them from the light and air.——_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/8 gr.
=Silver, Ben′zoate of.= AgC_{7}H_{5}O_{2}. Thin transparent plates, which
are blackened by exposure to the light. See BENZOATE.
=Silver, Bro′mide of.= AgBr. Resembles the chloride.
=Silver, Car′bonate of.= Ag_{2}CO_{3}. _Syn._ ARGENTI CARBONAS, L. A white
insoluble powder, obtained by precipitating a cold solution of nitrate of
silver with another of carbonate of sodium. It is decomposed by heat.
=Silver, Chlo′′ride of.= AgCl. _Syn._ ARGENTIC CHLORIDE. _Prep._
Precipitate a solution of nitrate of silver by dilute hydrochloric acid or
a solution of common salt; wash the precipitate, and dry it in the
shade.——_Dose_, 1/4 to 3 gr., thrice daily; in epilepsy, chronic
dysentery, cholera, diarrhœa, &c. Dr Perry regards it as preferable to the
nitrate. When fused, chloride of silver forms horn silver, the ‘luna
cornea’ of the older writers.
=Silver, Cy′anide of.= AgCN. _Syn._ ARGENTIC CYANIDE, HYDROCYANATE OF
SILVER. _Prep._ Add dilute hydrocyanic acid to a solution of nitrate of
silver, as long as a precipitate falls; wash this with distilled water,
and dry it.
_Prop., &c._ Cyanide of silver is a white powder, soluble in ammonia, and
decomposed by contact with vegetable substances; light turns it
violet-coloured.——_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/8 gr.; in syphilis, &c. It has been
proposed as a source of hydrocyanic acid. (Everitt.)
=Silver Hyposul′phite of.= Ag_{2}S_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ ARGENTI HYPOSULPHIS,
L. A white substance, insoluble in water, and very prone to decomposition.
It is very soluble in the alkaline hyposulphites, forming compounds
possessing an intensely sweet taste. See HYPOSULPHUROUS ACID.
=Silver, I′odide of.= AgI. _Syn._ ARGENTIC IODIDE; ARGENTI IODIDUM, L.
_Prep._ Precipitate a solution of nitrate of silver with another of iodide
of potassium; wash the precipitate with distilled water, and dry it in the
shade. Pale greenish-yellow; insoluble in water and in liquor of ammonia;
soluble in a solution of hyposulphite of soda. Used in some of the French
hospitals in the stomach affections of scrofulous subjects: also in
epilepsy.——_Dose_, 1/12 to 1 gr.
=Silver, Ni′trate of.= AgNO_{3}. _Syn._ ARGENTI NITRAS, L. This article is
found in commerce under two forms:——
1. CRYSTALLISED. _Prep._ By dissolving grain silver in nitric acid diluted
with about twice its weight of water, evaporating the solution until it is
strong enough to crystallise on cooling, and then allowing it to cool very
slowly. Colourless; transparent, anhydrous rhombic prisms or tables;
soluble in an equal weight of cold and in half their weight of boiling
water; soluble in alcohol; fuse when heated, and at a higher temperature
suffer decomposition; blackened by light, and by contact with organic
substances. Its solution in distilled water is not sensibly darkened by
light, in the absence of organic matter. Used for solutions, and in
photography.
2. FUSED (LUNAR CAUSTIC; ARGENTI NITRAS——B. P., Ph. L. & E., A. N.
FUSUM——Ph. D.). _Prep._ (Ph. D.) Refined silver, 3 oz.; pure nitric acid,
4 fl. oz.; distilled water, 5 fl. oz.; mix in a glass flask, and apply in
a gentle heat until the metal is dissolved; transfer the solution to a
porcelain capsule (or a large porcelain crucible), decanting it off a
heavy black powder which appears at the bottom of the flask, and, having
evaporated it to dryness, raise the heat (in a dark room) until the mass
liquefies; then pour it into a brass mould (iron moulds——Ph. E. & Ph. L.
1836), furnished with cylindrical cavities of the size of a goose-quill,
and which then admits of being opened by a hinge; preserve the concreted
salt in well-stopped bottles, impervious to the light. The formulæ of the
Ph. E. & Ph. L. 1836 are similar.
_Obs._ In preparing this salt care should be had that the silver is free
from copper. Pure nitrate of silver may, however, be prepared from silver
containing copper, by evaporating the nitric solution to dryness, and
cautiously heating the mixed nitrates to fusion. A small portion of the
melted mass is examined from time to time, until a little dissolved in
water, and treated with ammonia in excess, ceases to strike a blue colour.
When this point is arrived at, the fused nitrate is allowed to cool, when
it is redissolved in water, filtered or decanted from the insoluble black
oxide of copper, and evaporated in the usual way.
The heat employed in preparing the fused nitrate should not exceed 420°
Fahr., and the fusion should be effected completely, but with moderate
expedition, to prevent loss of nitric acid. Formerly, a mass of
well-tempered white clay, perforated by means of a well-greased
goose-quill, was used instead of metal moulds. In the Ph. E. & Ph. L. 1836
the moulds are ordered to be greased; when this is done, the sticks of
caustic should be wiped clean before rolling them in paper. The moulds
should be gently heated before pouring the fused nitrate into them. Mr
Benzoin, the celebrated Danish pharmaceutist, recommends mould formed of
the massive white Bohemian talc or of English slate.
_Pur., &c._ Pure nitrate of silver, whether crystallised or fused, is
entirely soluble in water, yielding a colourless solution, from which
metallic silver is precipitated by a piece of bright copper; both are
originally white, but are darkened by exposure to light and contact with
organic matter.
_Uses, &c._ Nitrate of silver is a powerful tonic, antispasmodic,
astringent and escharotic.——_Dose_, 1/8 to 1 gr., gradually increased,
twice or thrice a day, made into a pill with crum of bread; in cholera,
epilepsy, &c., preceded by purgatives. It has been highly extolled by Mr
Ross as a remedy in cholera. Its continued use permanently colours the
skin. It is also extensively employed externally as a caustic. It is
powerfully poisonous. A solution of common salt, emetics, and demulcents,
constitute the treatment in such cases. Nitrate of silver is much employed
in the manufacture of ‘indelible ink’ for linen, and hair dyes.
=Silver, Di′oxide of.= Ag_{2}O_{2}. _Syn._ ARGENTI SUBOXYDUM, L. _Prep._
From dry citrate of silver heated to 212° Fahr., in a stream of hydrogen
gas, until it turns dark brown, when it is dissolved in water; the
solution is next treated with potassa, and the precipitate is carefully
washed and dried. A black powder, easily decomposed, and soluble in
ammonia.
=Silver, Oxide of.= Ag_{2}O. _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF SILVER; ARGENTI OXYDUM,
A. PROTOXYDUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Lane.) Nitrate of silver, 2 parts; hydrate
of potassa, 1 part; dissolve each separately in distilled water, mix the
solutions, and, after frequent agitation during an hour, collect and wash
the precipitate, and dry it by a gentle heat in the shade. A pale brown
powder.
2. Recently precipitated chloride of silver is boiled in a solution of
hydrate of potassium of the sp. gr. 1·25, with frequent stirring and
trituration, until, on testing a little of it, it is found to be entirely
soluble in dilute nitric acid, when it is washed and dried, as before. A
black and very dense powder. Chemically pure.
3. Nitrate of silver, 1/2 oz.; water, 4 fl. oz., dissolve, and pour the
solution into a bottle containing lime water, 2 quarts, or q. s.; agitate
the mixture well, collect and wash the sediment, and dry it at a heat not
exceeding 212° Fahr. A dark olive-brown powder. Pure.
_Prop., &c._ Very soluble in solutions of ammonia and of the alkaline
hyposulphites; slightly soluble in water; reaction alkaline; decomposed by
light.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 gr.; in epilepsy, gastralgic irritations, &c. It
is much used in France, and has been highly extolled in menorrhagia. By
some, however, it is not considered superior to the nitrate.
=Silver Pencils, Nitrate of.= According to A. Huber, very thin pencils of
nitrate of silver, such as are sometimes required for intra-uterine
applications may be prepared in the following manner:——Silver nitrate is
fused in a capsule, and the liquid drawn up by slow and cautious suction
into a glass tube, the calibre of which is a trifle larger than the
required diameter of the pencil. Especial care is to be taken that no
cavities filled with air-bubbles are produced in the contents of the tube.
When entirely cold the tube is warmed by turning over a spirit-lamp until
the outer surface of the stick has become soft, when it may be easily
pushed out by means of a knitting needle. With a little practice very
handsome pencils of considerable length may be obtained in this manner.
=Silver, Perox′ide of.= _Syn._ ARGENTI PEROXYDUM, L. A black crystalline
substance which forms on the positive electrode of a voltaic arrangement
employed to decompose solution of nitrate of silver.
=Silver, Sul′phate of.= Ag_{2}SO_{4}. _Syn._ ARGENTI-SULPHAS, L. _Prep._
By boiling silver in sulphuric acid; or, by precipitating a solution of
the nitrate by another of sulphate of sodium. It dissolves in 80 parts of
hot water, and falls in small colourless needles as the solution cools.
=Silver, Sul′phide of.= Ag_{2}S. _Syn._ SULPHURET OF SILVER; ARGENTI
SULPHURETUM, L. Prepared by passing sulphuretted hydrogen through a
solution of nitrate of silver; or, by melting its constituents together.
It possesses a greyish-black colour, and is a strong sulphur-base.
=Silver, Ox′idised.= The high appreciation in which ornamental articles in
oxidised silver are now held, renders a notice of the process followed
interesting. There are two distinct shades in use, one produced by
chlorine, which has a brownish tint, and the other by sulphur, which has a
bluish-black tint. To produce the former, it is only necessary to wash the
article with a solution of sal ammoniac. A much more beautiful tint may,
however, be obtained by employing a solution composed of equal parts of
sulphate of copper and sal ammoniac dissolved in vinegar. A fine black
tint may be produced by a slightly warm solution of sulphide of potassium
or of sodium. (‘Chem. Techn.’)
=SILVER DUST.= _Syn._ SILVER POWDER; ARGENTI CROCUS, A. PULVIS, L. _Prep._
1. Pure pulverulent silver, obtained by any of the methods explained on
the previous page. Used to coat pills, by japanners, &c.
2. Heat oxide of silver to dull redness in a porcelain crucible, cool,
triturate the powder in an agate mortar, and pass it through a fine sieve.
Used at the hospital of Montpellier.
=SILVER SHELLS.= These are prepared and used like gold shells.
=SIL′VERING.= The art of covering the surfaces of bodies with a thin
coating of silver. Leather, paper, wood, &c., are silvered by covering
them with silver leaf, by a similar process to that employed for gilding
them.
=Silvering of Glass.= Two distinct methods are adopted for this
purpose——one of which consists in employing a layer of tin-foil and
mercury, falsely called ‘silvering,’ the other in using a coating of real
silver precipitated from a solution of that metal.
1. Plane surfaces, as those of mirrors, &c., are commonly silvered as
follows:——A sheet of tin-foil corresponding to the size of the plate of
glass is evenly spread on a perfectly smooth and solid marble table, and
every wrinkle on its surface is carefully rubbed down with a brush; a
portion of mercury is then poured on, and rubbed over the foil with a
clean piece of very soft woollen stuff, or a hare’s foot, after which two
rules are applied to the edges, and mercury poured on to the depth of a
crown-piece, when any oxide on the surface is carefully removed, and the
sheet of glass, made perfectly clean and dry, is slid along over the
surface of the liquid metal, so that no air, dirt, or oxide can possibly
either remain or get between them. When the glass has arrived at its
proper position, gentle pressure is applied, and the table sloped a little
to carry off the waste mercury, after which it is covered with flannel and
loaded with heavy weights; in 24 hours it is removed to a wooden table and
further slanted, and this position is progressively increased during a
month, until it becomes perpendicular.
For silvering convex or concave surfaces a mould of plaster of Paris is
employed, so that the amalgamated foil may be accurately fitted to the
surface.
Globes and other hollow vessels are commonly silvered by the application
of one of the silvering amalgams noticed at page 117.
2. In the HUMID WAY.——_a._ (Drayton.) A mixture is first made of nitrate
of silver (in coarse powder), 1 oz., ammonia, 1/2 oz., and water, 2 oz.,
which, after standing for 24 hours, is filtered (the deposit upon the
filter, which is silver, being preserved), and an addition is made thereto
of spirit (by preference, rectified spirit at 60% o. p.), or naphtha, 3
oz.; from 20 to 30 drops of oil of cassia are then added; and, after
remaining for about 6 hours longer, the solution is ready for use. The
glass to be silvered (first well cleaned and polished) is placed in a
horizontal position, and a wall of putty, or other suitable material,
formed around it; the above solution is then poured over it to the depth
of from 1/8 to 1/4 inch; from 6 to 12 drops of a mixture of oil of cloves
and spirit of wine (in the proportion of 1 part, by measure, of oil of
cloves, to 3 of spirit of wine) are next dropped into it, at different
places; or the diluted oil of cloves may be mixed with the solution before
it is poured upon the glass, a larger quantity, in both cases, increasing
the rate of the deposit. When the glass is sufficiently silvered, the
solution is poured off; and as soon as the silver on the glass is
perfectly dry, it is varnished with a composition formed by melting
together equal quantities of beeswax and tallow. The solution, after being
poured off, is allowed to stand for 3 or 4 days, in a close vessel; as it
still contains silver, and may be again employed after filtration, and the
addition of a sufficient quantity of fresh ingredients to supply the place
of those which have been used. 18 gr. of nitrate of silver are sufficient
for one square foot of glass. Hollow vessels may he silvered by pouring
the solution into them. By the addition of a small quantity of oil of
caraway, oil of cloves, or oil of thyme, the colour of the silver may be
varied. (‘Patent Journ.’)
_b._ (Thomson & Mellish.) Nitrate of silver, 2 oz.; water and rectified
spirit, of each 3 fl. oz.; dissolve, add of spirit of hartshorn or liquor
of ammonia, 1 fl. oz., mix, and after a short time filter the solution; to
each ounce of this add of grape sugar, 1/4 oz., previously dissolved in a
mixture of rectified spirit and water, of each 1/2 pint; after 3 or 4
hours’ repose it is fit for use. This solution is applied to the glass,
heated to about 160° Fahr., in a similar manner to the last. Patented.
_c._ The best plan of silvering plain or slightly curved surfaces is,
however, the method employed for coating the specula of the silvered-glass
Newtonian telescopes. This method is very easy, and has the advantages of
giving a brilliant and durable surface on both sides, and the film is
sufficiently firm to admit of being polished with rouge and fine
wash-leather.
One half ounce of pure nitrate of silver is dissolved in 4 oz. of
distilled water, and divided into two equal portions. One is treated with
dilute ammonia until the brownish precipitate is entirely redissolved; and
to this clear solution, 1/2 oz. of pure hydrate of potassium dissolved in
8 oz. of water added; and the brown precipitate, and grey sediment that
remains after the brown precipitate disappears, dissolved by the cautious
addition of ammonia, stirring well all the time. The remaining nitrate of
silver solution is now added, stirring well until it gives a greyish
precipitate that does not disappear after well stirring. The bulk of the
solution is next made up to 100 oz., and allowed to settle, when the clear
solution is poured off for use.
The reducing solution is prepared by dissolving 1/2 oz. of pure milk
sugar in 10 oz. of hot water, and adding 10 minims of pure alcohol.
This quantity of silvering solution will coat over two square feet of
glass surface with a brilliant film of pure silver. The glass must be
perfectly clean, and is to be suspended face downwards on the surface of
the solution and allowed to stand one hour; the temperature of the
solution being best about 80° Fahr.
_d._ (R. Siemens.) As a reducing agent, acetic aldehyde is used in the
form of aldehyde ammonia, prepared by passing dry ammoniacal gas into
aldehyde. Four grams of silver nitrate and 2-1/2 grams of aldehyde ammonia
are separately dissolved in a litre of distilled water, and the solutions
mixed and filtered. The article to be silvered, after washing out with
potassium carbonate, and then with spirits of wine and distilled water, to
remove every trace of grease, is filled with this solution (as far as it
is desired to silver), and then hung up in the water bath.
It is now gradually heated, and as soon as the temperature reaches 50° C.
the separation of the silver mirror begins, and soon spreads over the
whole inner glass surface. Its formation is soon finished, usually between
55° or 60°. When the beauty of the silver surface reaches a maximum it is
time to withdraw the article from the water bath, and pour off the
contents, or the brilliancy of the mirror will be impaired. The article is
finally rinsed in distilled water.
_e._ (Martin.) M. Martin makes use of four liquids, viz., first, a 10 per
cent. solution of nitrate of silver; second, liquor ammoniæ, sp. gr. ·970;
third, a 4 per cent. solution of caustic soda; and fourth, a 12-1/2 per
cent, solution of white sugar, to which he adds 2-1/2 per cent. of nitric
acid, and after twenty minutes’ boiling he adds to it 25 parts of alcohol
and water, to make up the bulk to 250. The silvering solution is made by
mixing together 12 parts of solution No. 1, 8 parts of No. 2, 20 parts of
No. 3, and 60 parts of distilled water, and finally, in twenty-four hours,
10 parts of No. 4. The object to be silvered is then immersed, when it
will be covered with a film of reduced silver, which in ten minutes’ time
will be sufficiently thick for use. After having been washed with
distilled water and dried the surface may be polished with chamois leather
and rouge.
=Silvering of Metals.= 1. (LEAF SILVERING.) This is performed with leaf
silvering in the way described under GILDING for the gilding of polished
metals.
3. (COLD SILVERING.) Mix chloride of silver, 1 part, with pearlash, 3
parts, common salt, 1-1/2 part, and whiting, 1 part; and well rub the
mixture on the surface of the brass or copper (previously well cleaned),
by means of a piece of soft leather, or a cork moistened with water and
dipped into the powder. When properly silvered the metal should be well
washed in hot water slightly alkalised, and then wiped dry.
3. (ELECTEO-SILVERING.) This is described under ELECTROTYPE.
=Silver, A New Imitation of.= A patent for an alloy has been taken out by
M. Lemarquand, which is said to bear a close resemblance to silver in
appearance, and to be unaffected by atmospheric influences. It has the
following composition:——
Pure copper 750 parts.
Nickel 140 ”
Black oxide of cobalt 20 ”
Tin, in sticks 18 ”
Zinc 72 ”
=SIMAROU′BA.= _Syn._ SIMARUBA (Ph. E. & D.), L. The root-bark of _Simaruba
amara_ or _officinalis_, the mountain damson. Tonic, bitter, and
astringent.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 gr.; in intermittents, obstinate diarrhœa,
dysentery, and dyspepsia.
=SIN′AMINE.= C_{4}H_{6}N_{2}. A basic substance formed, along with
sulphide of lead, when thiosinamine is treated with oxide of lead. It is
very bitter tasted, has a powerful alkaline reaction, and, when slowly
obtained from its concentrated aqueous solution, forms brilliant
colourless crystals.
=SIN′APISM.= _Syn._ SINAPISMUS, L. A mustard poultice.
=SIN′APOLINE.= C_{7}H_{12}N_{2}O. A basic substance, formed, along with
carbonic acid, when the volatile oil of mustard, or sulphocyanide of
allyl, is treated with oxide of lead. It is soluble in water and alcohol,
has an alkaline reaction, and crystallises in colourless plates.
=SINKS.= “In no case,” says Mr Eassie,[165] “should the waste pipe of
sink, laboratory, or bath lead direct into the drains; yet how frequently
is this the case, and a special card sent out to disease and death.
[Footnote 165: ‘Healthy Houses,’ by Wm. Eassie, C.E. Simpkin, Marshall &
Co.]
“It must also be remembered it is every whit as dangerous if these waste
conduits lead into the soil pipe of a closet. Waste pipes from the
above-named places should be led down to within 12 or 18 inches from the
ground, and should deliver on to the grating of a gully or yard trap.”
This subject has been already treated in the article on “Sanitation,
Domestic,” wherein we have embodied the practical suggestions of Mr
Collins, another sanitary house reformer, as well as in our article on
“Drainage,” in which will be found details for carrying out the system
recommended by Messrs Eassie and Symonds, and thus preventing the
admission into our dwelling-houses of the poisonous sewer gas.
The matter has so important a bearing upon health, that we shall make no
apology for having thus reiterated and emphasised it by quoting Mr
Eassie’s words of warning. See TRAPS.
=SIT′FASTS.= These hard tumours, possessing but little sensibility, are
situated in those superficial parts of the horse’s body which have been
exposed to the unequal pressure of the collar, the saddle, or the harness.
The tumour should be removed by the veterinary surgeon, if the previous
application of either blisters, biniodide of mercury ointment, or a seton
have been tried and failed to disperse it. The precursor of the sitfast is
always a swelling filled with serum and lymph, caused, as before stated,
by badly-fitting harness. Hence the soundest treatment is to prevent its
development into the hard form, by proper means, directly it shows itself,
the best remedies being the application of salt and water or Goulard
water, and correcting the defects of the harness.
=SIZE.= Obtained, like glue, from the skins of animals, but is evaporated
less, and kept in the soft state. See GOLD and GOLD SIZE.
=Size, Oil.= This may be made by grinding yellow ochre or burnt red ochre
with boiled linseed oil, and thinning it with oil of turpentine.
=SKATE.= The _Raia batis_ (Linn.). Other varieties of _Raia_ also pass
under the name. It is a coarse fish, and is principally salted and dried
for exportation.
=SKIN (The).= _Syn._ CUTIS, DERMIS, PELLIS, L. Every person must be
familiar with the external appearance and general properties of the skin;
but there are many of our readers who may not be aware of its peculiar
compound character. The skin, then, although apparently a single membrane,
is composed of three distinct layers or membranes, each of which performs
its special duties:——1. The exterior of these is called the cuticle,
epidermis, or scarf-skin. It is an albuminous tissue, possessing no
sensibility, and is found thickest on those parts of the body most exposed
to friction or injury.——2. The mucous net, or rete mucosum, which is a
thin layer of soft pulpy matter, which lies immediately under the cuticle,
and is supposed to be the seat of the colour of the skin.——3. The derma,
cutis vera, or true skin, is a highly sensitive, vascular, gelatinous
texture, the third, and last in succession from the surface of the body.
It is this which, when the scarf-skin and hair have been removed, is
converted by the process of tanning or tawing into leather.
The skin, because of its tough, elastic, flexible nature and its
underlying layer of fat, is admirably adapted for covering the various
internal parts and organs, as well as for bodily movement and exertion.
Besides this, it exercises, in common with the lungs, the liver, and the
kidneys, the important function of a depurator, and may, with the organs
above specified, be regarded as one of the main outlets for the waste
products of the body; the effete and noxious matters of which, when in a
healthy condition, it effects the removal, are those contained in the
perspiration, and in addition carbonic acid, and, in the case of unhealthy
subjects, nitrogen. The importance of the removal of these substances from
the organism will be realised when it is stated that, when this excretory
function of the skin has, in the course of experiments upon animals, been
prevented by covering their bodies over with a coat of varnish or some
other impermeable agent, the animal has quickly perished.
The perspiration is variable in amount, owing to various causes, such as
temperature, the amount of exercise taken, the more or less hygroscopic
condition of the surrounding atmospheres, the quantity of fluid swallowed,
the season of the year, &c., with the exception of that which occurs under
the armpits and upon the soles of the feet, it has generally an acid
reaction, due to the presence in it of uncombined formic and lactic acids.
Under ordinary conditions of life it averages daily about 2 lbs. in
quantity, being, as might be expected, more abundant than the urine in
summer, and less in winter. The perspiration is of very complex
composition, and contains lactates, butyrates, and acetates of sodium and
ammonium, sodic chloride, phosphate of calcium, and sulphates——these
latter, however, occurring in but small quantities. It also contains a
peculiar nitrogenous substance that very quickly decomposes, and a
peculiar odorous principle. According to Anselmino the proportion of solid
matter in the perspiration varies from 5 to 12·5 parts in 1000.
Various observers have arrived at different conclusions respecting the
amount of carbonic acid exhaled from the skin. Professor Scharling
believed it to be from a fortieth to a sixtieth the amount given off by
the lungs. Recent observations seem, however, to have shown that this
estimate was too high. Dr Edward Smith, operating upon himself by placing
every part of his body except the head in a caoutchouc bag, and
subsequently collecting the evolved carbonic acid (the experiment being
performed in the summer time), found the quantity evolved to be 6 grains
per hour, or about a hundredth part of that passing off from the lungs.
Aubert’s experiments led him to the conclusion that it was about half the
amount given by Smith; whilst Reinhart estimated it at 34 or 35 grains a
day.
These excretory processes of the skin are effected by means of very minute
vessels called the _sudoriparous_ or _sweat-glands_. These glands abound
in almost every part of the human skin. They are of largest size under the
axillæ or arm-pits, where perspiration is most profuse. They are also very
abundant upon the palms of the hand. Professor Erasmus Wilson says that as
many as 3528 of these sweat-glands exist in a square inch of surface on
the palm of the hand; and as every tube, when straightened out, is about
a quarter of an inch in length, it follows that, in a square inch of skin
from the palm of the hand, there exists a length of tube equal to 882
inches, or 73-1/2 feet. These glands, as we have seen, vary in number for
different parts of the human body; but if we take Professor Wilson’s
average for the superficial area of a man of ordinary stature, viz., 2800
of them to the square inch, it follows “the total number of pores on such
a man’s skin would be about _seven millions_, and the length of
perspiratory tubing would then be 1,750,000 inches, or 145,833 feet, or
48,611 yards, or nearly 28 miles.”[166]
[Footnote 166: Carpenter’s ‘Human Physiology.’]
[Illustration: _Sudoriferous Gland_ from the palm of the hand magnified 40
diam.:——_a, a_, contorted tubes, composing the gland, and uniting in two
excretory ducts; _b, b_, which unite into one spiral canal that perforates
the epidermis at _c_, and opens on its surface at _d_; the gland is
imbedded in fat-vesicles, which are seen at _e, e_.]
In addition to the _sudoriparous_, the skin also possesses _sebaceous_
glands which stud almost every part of its surface except the palms of the
hands and the soles of the feet. The sebaceous glands secrete a
semi-fluid, greasy kind of substance, the office of which is probably to
aid in rendering the skin soft and supple, and to prevent the too rapid
evaporation of moisture from it. The sebaceous glands are more
particularly found on the scalp, the anus, and the nose, their locality in
the skin of this last feature being sometimes marked by small black specs,
which when squeezed yield a little white mass resembling a maggot in
appearance. This is merely the solidified secretion from the sebaceous
gland. A parasite known as the _Acarus folliculorum_ infests the sebaceous
glands. In the cartilaginous part of the external passage of the ear are
other glands, the _ceruminous_, which secrete the wax that forms a
protective film for the membrane of the tympanum or drum, and guards it
against dust, insects, &c. See EXERCISE, PERSPIRATION.
=SKIN BALSAM, Glycerin——Glycerin Haut, Balsam.= A mixture of 1000 parts
glycerin, 120 parts orange-flower water, 1 part each oils of neroli and
bitter almonds. (Hager.)
=SKIN COSMET′ICS.= The simplest, cheapest, and most generally employed
cutaneous cosmetics are soap and water, which at once cleanse and soften
the skin. Soap containing a full proportion of alkali exercises a solvent
power upon the cuticle, a minute portion of which it dissolves; but when
it contains a small preponderance of oily matter, as the principal part of
the milder toilet soaps now do, it mechanically softens the skin and
promotes its smoothness. Almond, Naples, and Castile soaps are esteemed
for these properties, and milk of roses, cold cream, and almond powder
(paste), are also used for a similar purpose. To produce an opposite
effect, and to harden the cuticle, spirits, astringents, acids, and
astringent salts, are commonly employed. The frequent use of hard water
has a similar effect. The application of these articles is generally for
the purpose of strengthening or preserving some particular part against
the action of cold, moisture, &c.; as the lips, or mammæ, from chapping,
or the hands from contracting chilblains; but in this respect oils,
pommades, and other oleaginous bodies, are generally regarded as
preferable.
Another class of cutaneous cosmetics are employed to remove freckles and
eruptions. Among the most innocent and valuable of these is Gowland’s
lotion, which has long been a popular article, and deservedly so, for it
not only tends to impart a delightful softness to the skin, but is a most
valuable remedy for many obstinate eruptive diseases which frequently
resist the usual methods of treatment. Bitter almonds have been
recommended to remove freckles (Celsus), but moistening them with a lotion
made by mixing 1 fl. oz. of rectified spirit, and a teaspoonful of
hydrochloric acid with 7 or 8 fl. oz. of water, is said to do this more
effectually. A safe and excellent cosmetic is an infusion of horseradish
in cold milk. (Withering.)
Hermann prescribes the following lotion:——Blanched almonds, 2 oz.; rose
water, 8 oz.; orange-flower water, 2 oz. Make an emulsion, strain, and add
sal ammoniac, 1 dr.; simple tincture of benzoin, 2 dr.
Skin paints and skin stains are employed to give an artificial bloom or
delicacy to the skin. Rouge and carmine are the articles most generally
used to communicate a red colour. The first is the only cosmetic that can
be employed, without injury, to brighten a lady’s complexion. The other,
though possessing unrivalled beauty, is apt to impart a sallowness to the
skin by frequent use. Starch powder is employed to impart a white tint,
and generally proves perfectly harmless. The American ladies, who are very
fond of painting their necks white, use finely-powdered magnesia, another
very innocent substance. Several metallic compounds, as the trisnitrate,
chloride, and oxide of bismuth (pearl white, Fard’s white, &c), carbonate
of lead (flake white), white precipitate, &c., are frequently used to
revive faded complexions; but they are not only injurious to the skin, but
act as poisons if taken up by the absorbents. Trisnitrate of bismuth
(pearl white), probably the least injurious of these articles, has been
known to cause spasmodic tremblings of the muscles of the face, ending in
paralysis. (‘Voght. Pharm.’) The employment of liquid preparations
containing sugar of lead, which are commonly sold under the name of milk
of roses, cream of roses, &c., is equally injurious. Another disadvantage
of these metallic preparations is, that they readily turn black when
exposed to the action of sulphuretted hydrogen gas, or the vapours of
sulphur, such as frequently escape into the apartment from coal fires.
There are many instances recorded of a whole company being suddenly
alarmed by the pearly complexion of one of its belles being thus
transformed into a sickly grey or black colour.
In conclusion, it may be remarked that the best purifiers of the skin are
soap and water, followed by the use of a coarse but not a stiff cloth, in
opposition to the costly and smooth diapers that are commonly employed;
and the best beautifiers are health, exercise, and good temper.
=Skin, Goldbeat′er’s.= See GOLDBEATER’S SKIN.
=SKINS (of Animals).= The preparation and preservation of fur skins are
noticed under PELTRY; the preparation and uses of the skins of the larger
animals under LEATHER, TANNING, TAWING, &c.
=SLACK.= Small coal, such as is used for kilns.
=SLAG.= The semi-vitrified compounds, produced, on the large scale, during
the reduction of metallic ores by fluxes. Those from iron and copper works
are often used for building materials, mending roads, &c.
According to Egleston[167] the following are some of the industrial
applications to which the slag from blast furnaces is put.
[Footnote 167: Dingler’s ‘Polytech. Journ.,’ ‘Journ. Chem. Society.’]
When required for building stones the slag is run from the blast furnace
into a semicircular vessel on moving wheels, and having its bottom covered
three centimetres deep with sand and coke dust. By means of a bent iron
instrument the slag is mixed with sand and coke dust till the escape of
gases has nearly ceased and the mass is sufficiently tough. With the same
tool it is next pressed into a mould furnished with a lid, which is forced
down as soon as the escape of gas ceases. The red-hot stone is then placed
in the cooling oven, covered with coke dust, and allowed to remain three
or four days to cool completely. These stones are impervious to damp, and
make good foundations. According to another method the slag, which should
contain from 38 to 44 per cent. of silica, is run down a shoot into a
large cavity, and then covered over with sand and ashes, and left to cool
from five to ten days, when it is distributed in moulds, and there
hardens. In certain parts of Belgium slag is poured upon iron plates and
cooled by water, and thus a kind of glass is manufactured.
In other districts the slag is granulated as it flows from the blast
furnace by means of a stream of water. The granulated slag is preferred by
the puddlers to the sand for the moulds of pig iron. The slag gravel may
be advantageously substituted for sand in mortar making, a more rapid
hardening being thus secured, a matter of great moment in building
foundation walls.
Artificial stone is also manufactured from the granulated slag, and used
for building purposes, furnishing warm dry houses of handsome appearance.
When stones for building with enamelled surfaces are required they are
obtained in some parts of Europe as follows:——The unburnt bricks are
covered with granulated slag, and after drying are burnt in a furnace
where they do not come in contact with carbon. The stones are completely
glazed, and according to the different kinds of slag used are tinted of
different colours. This operation is also employed advantageously with
tiles, pipes, and earthenware.
If, in the preparation of fire-proof bricks, a certain proportion of
mixture of clay and granulated slag be added to the mixture, very hard and
durable fire bricks are obtained. These have been tested in a brass
furnace, and experiments are being tried as to their applicability to
building puddling furnaces. This granulated slag may also be
advantageously used for manure. Blast furnace slag has also been drawn out
in fine threads or filaments, furnishing the so-called ‘furnace wool.’
This substance, being a very bad conductor of heat, has suggested various
household and other uses. A cheap and valuable cement, said to be equal to
Portland cement, has been prepared from the finely granulated slag, which
will also resist well the action of acids.
Mr Britten in 1876 patented a process for the manufacture of glass from
blast furnace slag. Large works for the purpose of carrying out this
invention, under the title of ‘Britten’s Patent Glass Company,’ have been
erected at Finedon in Northamptonshire, and are, we believe, successfully
worked in manufacturing glass bottles.
The method consists in removing molten slag in a ladle from the blast
furnace, and pouring into a Siemen’s furnace, when certain amounts of
carbonate of sodium and silica are added, depending upon the quality of
the slag used, and of the glass required.
=SLATE.= The excellence of this material for water cisterns deserves a
passing notice here.
Irish slate (_Lapis Hibernicus_) is an argillaceous mineral, said to
contain iron and sulphur, found in different parts of Ireland. It is a
common remedy, among the vulgar, for internal bruises, taken in a glass of
gin.
=SLEEP.= During the period of our waking hours the exercise of the animal
functions entails a waste or destruction of tissue in the organs
performing them, which, unless duly repaired, would soon lead to the
enfeeblement and consequent failure of the powers of the organs
themselves. For the animal economy therefore to be maintained in a state
of efficiency the repair of the reduced tissues is a necessity; and this
essential condition is effected by the agency of sleep, during which
respiration, circulation, digestion, &c., continue to be carried on
simultaneously with assimilative processes which end in the regeneration
of the impaired tissue.
A proper amount of sleep is therefore as great or even a greater necessity
than a proper supply of food; and any one failing to obtain it soon
perishes of exhaustion. Thus it is that any great mental emotion——such as
intense remorse, grief, anxiety, or the depressing effect of a reverse of
fortune——so frequently expedites death. Like Macbeth “it murders sleep,”
one of the great needs of man’s existence.
Infants and children it is well known require much more sleep than adults.
In these latter the organism, being already matured, demands only so much
sleep as will enable it to make up for the daily waste of the body, which
waste falls very far below the amount of nutrition required by the growing
infant. In a still earlier state of development, viz., the fœtal one,
life may be said to be passed entirely in slumber; whilst children
prematurely born scarcely ever wake except for food. We may assume that,
as a general rule, infants take treble the amount of sleep that adults do,
and that very young infants thrive the better the larger the amount of
sleep they get, is borne out by the experience of medical practitioners,
who affirm that they have known many children who were born small and
weakly, but who slept the greatest part of their early existence,
afterwards became strong and healthy; whilst those children on the
contrary who, being born large and strong, were not good sleepers, became
subsequently enfeebled and unhealthy. As regards the sleep of adults, if
the slumber has been of average length, or the subject of it awakes fully
refreshed therefrom, a second sleep instead of being conducive is
prejudicial to health, and should never be encouraged.
During sickness a patient, if in a very helpless and enfeebled state, may
often be exposed whilst asleep to great peril, unless the nurse who
attends him exercises intelligence and a proper amount of vigilance. In
his work on ‘Household Medicine’ Dr Gardner has pointed out the dangers
that beset the sleeping patient, and the means by which they may be
avoided. “Having disposed,” he says, “of the patient in bed in the best
manner, be careful that no part of the pillow can project over the mouth
or nose, and that the bedclothes do not cover the mouth.
“The attendant should be particularly attentive to these points, when a
narcotic has been taken, when the disease is paralysis, fever, head
diseases, bronchitis, or any pulmonary complaint. The patient should be
watched until he sleeps, and during his sleep, if a nurse is not
constantly present, should be visited frequently, to observe whether the
mouth and nostrils are free, and nothing obstructs the breathing.
“Very little suffices for an obstruction in such cases, which may
extinguish life. Hundreds, perhaps we may say thousands of persons die
prematurely from suffocation during sleep, in a low condition of the vital
energies.
“How often does it happen that a patient left in a calm sleep is found
dead upon being visited an hour or two after. Soft yielding pillows, in
which the head and face get buried, are the instruments of suffocation to
weakly persons, very, very often.”
The larger amount of sleep indulged in by the very old, over adults, is
referable to the incapacity of the aged for exercise, and to their
enfeebled powers of nutrition. Besides age, temperament, habit, and
surrounding circumstances exercise considerable influence on the amount of
sleep necessary for man. Persons of lymphatic temperament are generally
great sleepers; whilst those of a nervous and active nature are mostly the
reverse. The late Earl Russell was we believe in the years of his active
political life a very small sleeper, his slumbers seldom extending over
five hours. So, likewise was the Duke of Wellington; General Elliott, the
defender of Gibraltar, seldom slept more than four hours out of the
twenty-four. As a contrast to these cases may be mentioned that of Dr
Reid, the metaphysician, of whom it is stated that he could take as
sufficient food and afterwards as much sleep as would suffice for an
ordinary man for two days.
Several well-attested cases of excessive slumber are on record in which
the sleep lasted in some cases for weeks, and in others even for months.
In the ‘Comptes Rendus’ for 1864 Dr Blanchet records the case of one of
his patients, a lady of 24 years of age, who had slept for 40 days when
she was 18 years of age. Two years later she had a sleep lasting 50 days.
Upon a subsequent occasion she fell asleep on Easter Sunday, 1862, and did
not wake till March, 1863. She was fed during this period with milk and
soup. She continued motionless and insensible, the pulse was low, the
breathing scarcely perceptible, there were no evacuations, and she
betrayed no signs of wasting away, whilst her complexion is described as
florid and healthy.
This, however, as well as other cases of a similar kind, must not be
regarded as an extreme instance of healthy slumber, but as a form of
lethargy or coma, as indicative of disease, as the opposite condition or
sleeplessness, that is frequently an accompaniment of certain forms of
fevers, inflammatory affections, and brain disorders.
Mr Durham, of Guy’s Hospital, seems to have disposed of the condition that
sleep is caused by the pressure of the distended veins on the brain.
A piece of bone being removed from a dog’s skull so that the animal’s
brain could be observed when sleeping, it was found, 1, the veins were not
distended. 2. During sleep the brain is in a comparatively bloodless
condition, and the blood in the encephalic vessels is not only diminished
in quantity, but moves with diminished rapidity; and this is corroborated
by the observations of Dr Hughlings Jackson on the ophthalmoscopic
condition of the retina during sleep, the optic disk being then whiter,
the arteries smaller, and the retina generally more anæmic than in the
waking state. 3. The condition of the cerebral circulation during sleep is
from physical causes, that which is most favorable to the nutrition of the
brain tissue. See BED, WATCHFULNESS.
=SLEEPLESSNESS AND COLD FEET.= The association betwixt cold feet and
sleeplessness is much closer than is commonly imagined. Persons with cold
feet rarely sleep well, especially women. Yet the number of persons so
troubled is considerable. We now know that if the blood-supply to the
brain be kept up, sleep is impossible. An old theologian, when weary and
sleepy with much writing, found that he could keep his brain active by
immersing his feet in cold water; the cold drove the blood from the feet
to the head.
Now, what this old gentleman accomplished by design is secured for many
persons much against their will. Cold feet are the bane of many women.
Light boots keep up a bloodless condition of the feet in the day, and in
many women there is no subsequent dilatation of the blood-vessels when the
boots are taken off. These women come in from a walk and put their feet to
the fire to warm——the most effective plan of cultivating chilblains. At
night they put their feet to the fire, and have a hot bottle in bed. But
it is all of no use; their feet still remain cold. How to get their feet
warm is the great question of life with them——in cold weather. The
effective plan is not very attractive at first sight to many minds. It
consists in first driving the blood-vessels into firm contraction, after
which secondary dilatation follows. See the snowballer’s hands! The first
contact of the snow makes the hands terribly cold; for the small arteries
are driven thereby into firm contraction, and the nerve-endings of the
finger-tips feel the low temperature very keenly. But as the snowballer
perseveres, his hands commence to glow; the blood-vessels have become
secondarily dilated, and the rush of warm arterial blood is felt agreeably
by the peripheral nerve-endings. This is the plan to adopt with cold feet.
They should be dipped in cold water for a brief period; often just to
immerse them, and no more, is sufficient; and then they should be rubbed
with a pair of hair flesh gloves, or a rough Turkish towel, till they
glow, immediately before getting into bed. After this a hot-water bottle
will be successful enough in maintaining the temperature of the feet,
though without this preliminary it is impotent to do so. Disagreeable as
the plan at first sight may appear, it is efficient; and those who have
once fairly tried it continue it, and find that they have put an end to
their bad nights and cold feet. Pills, potions, lozenges, “night-caps,”
all narcotics, fail to enable the sufferer to woo sleep successfully: get
rid of the cold feet, and then sleep will come of itself.——_British
Medical Journal._
=SMALLPOX.= See POX.
=Smallpox in Sheep.= _Syn._ VARIOLA OVINA. This disease, although bearing
the same name as that which attacks the human subject, is a perfectly
distinct malady, and incapable of being communicated to man either by
inoculation or contagion. In about ten days from the time of the animal’s
having imbibed the contagion feverish symptoms set in accompanied with a
mucous discharge of a purulent character from the nose. Red inflammatory
pimples then begin to develop, first appearing where the skin is thin.
After the pimples have been out about three days they assume a white
appearance, and are filled with serum and pus. “Some of the vessels dry
up, leaving brown scabs; others, especially in the severer cases, run
together, and the scarf skin is detached, leaving an ulcerated surface. It
is in this ulcerated stage that the prostration reaches its height, and
that most sheep die. The mortality from smallpox in sheep ranges from 25
to 90 per cent.”[168]
[Footnote 168: Finlay Dun.]
The disease being a very infectious one, the affected animals must be kept
separate from the healthy ones. Thirty grains of chlorate of potash should
be given three times a day, whilst the food should be nutritious and such
as to tempt the animal’s appetite. It may consist of bruised oilcake,
bran, and steeped oats. Professor Simonds recommends inoculation as a
prophylactic measure.
=Smallpox Marks, Prevention of.= 1. For preventing disfigurement from
smallpox marks, Dr Bernard suggests that the pustules as soon as they have
acquired a certain size should be punctured with a fine needle, and then
repeatedly washed with tepid water.
2. Dr Thorburn Patterson prescribes the following ointment:——Carbonic
acid, 20 to 30 minims; glycerine, 1-1/2 dr.; ointment of oxide of zinc, 6
dr.
3. Cream smeared on the pustules, frequently during the day, with a
feather. See also OINTMENTS.
=SMALTS.= _Syn._ AZURE, POWDER BLUE, SILICEOUS B., SMALT, AZURUM, SMALTA,
L. This consists, essentially, of glass coloured by fusing it with oxide
of cobalt.
_Prep._ 1. Cobalt ore is roasted, to drive off the arsenic, then made into
a paste with oil of vitriol, and heated to redness for an hour; the
residuum is powdered, dissolved in water, and the ferric oxide
precipitated with carbonate of potassium, gradually added, until a
rose-coloured powder begins to fall; the clear portion is then decanted,
and precipitated with a solution of silicate of potassium (prepared by
fusing together, for 5 hours, a mixture of 10 parts of potash, 15 parts of
finely ground flints, and 1 part of charcoal); the precipitate after being
dried is fused, and reduced to a very fine powder. A very rich colour.
2. Roasted cobalt ore and carbonate of potassium, of each 1 part;
siliceous sand, 3 parts; fuse them together, and cool and powder the
residuum. Used as a blue pigment, also to colour glass, and for ‘blueing’
the starch used to get up linen. See BLUE PIGMENTS.
=SMELL′ING SALTS.= See SALTS, SMELLING.
=SMELT.= A beautiful little abdominal fish abounding in the Thames, and a
few other rivers, between the months of November and February. It is
esteemed a great delicacy by epicures, but sometimes proves offensive to
the delicate and dyspeptic.
=SMOKE PREVEN′TION.= Although the full consideration of this subject
belongs to public hygiene and civil engineering, its immediate
application and advantages are interesting and important to everybody.
The history of smoke burning scarcely commences before the year 1840, at
which date Mr Charles Wye Williams obtained a patent for this purpose.
Since that time a ‘thousand-and-one’ schemes, either patented or
non-patented, professedly for the same object, have been brought before
the public. Most of these have been supported by the most reckless
statements regarding their value, made by interested parties; and the most
serious inconvenience and losses have often followed their adoption.
Williams’s method is to admit an abundant supply of cold air through a
large number of small perforations in the door and front part of the
furnace. Lark’s method is based on the admission of heated air, under due
regulation, both through the door, and at the bridge or back of the
furnace, by which means combustion is rendered more complete, and smoke
thereby prevented.
Ivison’s plan consists in the introduction of steam by minute jets over
the fire, which is thus greatly increased in intensity without the
production of smoke, and with a saving of fuel. In Jucke’s arrangement the
grate bars of a furnace are replaced by an endless chain web, which is
carried round upon two rollers, in such a way that each part of the fuel
is exposed to conditions most favorable for perfect combustion. Other
inventions are based upon supplying fuel to the fires from beneath, so
that the products of combustion must pass through the incandescent coals
above.
For household fires, the smokeless grate, invented by Dr Arnott, will be
found entirely successful, and most economical. Its general introduction
would be a great advance in both domestic and public hygiene; and, being
hence of national importance, should be enforced by law.
=SMO′′KING.= This is done, on the large scale, by hanging up the articles
(previously more or less salted) in smoking rooms, into which smoke is
very slowly admitted from smothered dry-wood fires, kindled in the cellar,
for the purpose of allowing it to cool and deposit its cruder part before
it arrives at the meat. This process requires from six days to as many
weeks to perform it properly, and is best done in winter. In farm-houses,
where dry wood is burnt, hams, &c., are often smoked by hanging them up in
some cool part of the kitchen chimney. When the meat is cut into slices,
or scored deeply with a knife, to allow the smoke to penetrate it, it is
called ‘BUCANING,’
“The quality of the wood has an influence upon the smell and taste of the
smoke-dried meat; smoke from beech wood and oak being preferable to that
from fir and larch. Smoke from the twigs and berries of juniper, from
rosemary, peppermint, &c., impart somewhat of the aromatic flavour of
these plants.” (Ure.) The occasional addition of a few cloves or allspice
to the fuel gives a very agreeable flavour to the meat.
Hung beef, a highly esteemed variety of smoked beef, is prepared from any
part, free from bone and fat, by well salting and pressing it, and then
drying and smoking it in the usual manner. It is best eaten shredded. See
PUTREFACTION, SALTING, &c.
=SNAKE-POISONING, Mortality from.= The ‘Lancet’[169] quoting a letter from
T. B. Beighton, Esq., of the Bengal Civil Service, magistrate of the Culna
district of the Burdwan province of Bengal, says:——“The Culna district
comprises, we presume, 80 or 100 square miles, and has a population of
about 300,000. Mr Beighton says that deaths from snakebite are singularly
common in the subdivision. An average of one per day is reported through
the police. The actual deaths are probably double the number reported. If
this daily average is meant to apply the whole year round, we should thus
get in a comparatively small district the frightful death of 700 persons
from snakebite. It is lamentable to think that despite the supposed
remedial discoveries in this direction, we still seem to be without an
agent to neutralise the effects of the bites of poisonous snakes.”
[Footnote 169: ‘Analyst,’ 11th, 1870.]
=SNAKE-ROOT.= See SENEGA. For ‘Virginian snake-root’ see SERPENTARY.
Snakeweed (_Bistortæ radix_) is the root of _Polygonum Bistorta_ (Linn.).
=SNIPE.= The _Scolopax Gallinago_, a well-known bird indigenous to this
country. It is fine-flavoured, but rather indigestible.
=SNOW, Foreign Bodies in.= M. Bondier[170] having lately made an
examination of snow, records that of the solid matters floating in the air
and retained in the snow, the most abundant was found to be soot; next
some cells of _Protococcus virictis_, and spores and filaments of other
cryptograms; then granules of starch and cells and fibres of various
plants. Epithelial cells and hairs of animals were also present, as well
as fibres of wool and silk. These last, being dyed, indicated the presence
of man, as did also the fibres of hemp, cotton, and indigo. The amount of
foreign matter was greatest in the snow collected at the lowest levels,
especially in the vicinity of human habitations and of woods, which are
both fertile sources of floating particles. Permanganate of potassium was
used to estimate the amount of organic matter dissolved by the filtered
snow water.
[Footnote 170: ‘Journ. Ch. Soc.’]
Immediately mixed with the soot were the ferruginous corpuscles observed
by Tissandier. These are regarded by the author, in opposition to the
opinion of Tissandier, as of terrestrial origin.
=SNUFF.= _Syn._ PULVIS TABACI, L.; TABAC EN POUDRE, Fr. A powder, prepared
from tobacco, for the purpose of being sniffed up the nose as a stimulant
or intoxicant.
The finer kinds of snuff are made from the soft portions of the best
description of manufactured leaf-tobacco, separated from the damaged
portion; but the ordinary snuffs of the shops are mostly prepared from the
coarser and damaged portions, the mid-ribs, stems, or stalky parts that
remain from the manufacture of ‘shag tobacco,’ the dust or powder sifted
from the bales, and the fragments that are unfit for other purposes.
_Prep._ The proper material being chosen, and if not in a sufficiently
mature state rendered so by further fermentation, they are sufficiently
dried by a gentle heat or exposure to the air to admit of being
pulverised. This is performed, on the large scale, in a mill, and on the
small scale, with a kind of pestle and mortar. During the operation the
tobacco is frequently sifted, that it may not be reduced to too fine a
powder, and is several times slightly moistened with rose or orange-flower
water, or eau d’ange, which are the only liquids fit for the superior
kinds of snuff. In preparing the dry snuffs no moisture is used. The scent
or other like matters are next added, and, after thorough admixture, the
snuff is packed in jars or canisters.
_Adult._ During the grinding of tobacco it is frequently mixed with
dark-coloured rotten wood, various English leaves, colouring, and other
matter. Ammonia, hellebore, euphorbium, and powdered glass are common
additions to snuffs to increase their pungency. We have seen powdered sal
ammoniac sent by the hundredweight at one time to a certain celebrated
London tobacconist. The moist kinds of snuff are generally drugged with
pearlash, for the triple purpose of keeping them damp and increasing their
pungency and colour. The dry snuffs, especially ‘Scotch’ and ‘Welsh,’ are
commonly adulterated with quicklime, the particles of which may be
occasionally distinguished even by the naked eye. This addition causes
their biting and desiccating effect on the pituitary membrane. “We were
once severely injured by taking snuff which, after our suspicions were
awakened, we found to contain a mixture of red lead and umber.” (Cooley.)
The following circumstance related by Dr Garrod[171] in a lecture at
King’s College Hospital leads to the inference that the custom of packing
snuff in lead is not free from danger. The doctor says:——A gentleman, a
resident in India, began to suffer some time since from nervous
exhaustion, anæmia, and debility of both extremities; he was a great snuff
taker, taking on an average as much as an ounce in the course of a day. He
consulted several medical men in India, and they attributed his symptoms
to inordinate snuff taking. He, however, continued to take snuff and to
get worse, and at last came to England to seek further advice. When Dr
Garrod saw him he discovered a blue line on the gums. His suspicions were
directed to the snuff, which he found to contain a considerable quantity
of lead. To ascertain whether or not the presence of lead in this
circumstance was an accidental circumstance, six packets were ordered from
the house in Calcutta with which the gentleman had been in the habit of
dealing. The snuff was contained in sheet-lead packages, which were all
found to contain lead to about the same extent as the first specimen. Dr
Garrod exhibited a solution, which he tested in the following way:——Ten
grains of snuff were burned in a platinum crucible, and the ash was
treated with nitric acid, the crystallised result was dissolved in water
with the addition of a small quantity of acetic acid, and then tested with
iodide of potassium, which threw down an abundant precipitate of yellow
iodide of lead. The leaden packages were labelled ‘best brown rappee,’ and
bore the name of a well-known English firm, from which they had been
exported to India. The snuff itself was rather moist. Where it adhered to
the sides of the case it was dotted with white spots, probably consisting
of carbonate of lead, formed by, Dr Garrod suggests, the fermentation of
the damp snuff.
[Footnote 171: ‘Lancet.’]
Since Dr Garrod’s attention has been directed to this subject, he has
spoken to a medical man recently returned from Calcutta, who told him that
he had quite lately met with three cases of lead-poisoning, which, on
investigation, were found to be due to the use of snuff.
_Var._ Snuffs are divided into two kinds——DRY SNUFFS, as ‘Scotch,’
‘Irish,’ ‘Welsh,’ and ‘Spanish snuff,’ ‘Lundyfoot,’ &c.; and MOIST SNUFFS,
or RAPPEES, including ‘black’ and ‘brown rappee,’ ‘carrotte,’ ‘Cuba,’
‘Hardham’s mixture,’ ‘prince’s mixture,’ ‘princeza,’ ‘queen’s snuff,’ &c.
The last three also come under the denomination of SCENTED SNUFFS.
The immense variety of snuffs kept in the shops, independently of the
above-named conditions, depend for their distinguishing characteristics on
the length of the fermentation, the fineness of the powder, the height to
which they are dried, and the addition of odorous substances. Tonquin
beans, essence of tonquin bean, ambergris, musk, civet, leaves of orchis
fusca, root and oil of calamus aromaticus, powder and essence of orris
root, and the essences or oils of bergamot, cedra, cloves, lavender, petit
grain, neroli, and roses (otto), as well as several others, either alone
or compounded, are thus employed. TABAC PARFUMÉE AUX FLEURS is perfumed by
putting orange flowers, jasmins, tuberoses, musk roses, or common roses,
to the snuff in a close chest or jar, sifting them out after 24 hours, and
repeating the treatment with fresh flowers, as necessary. Another way is
to lay paper, pricked all over with a large pin, between the flowers and
the snuff.
MACOUBA SNUFF is imitated by moistening the tobacco with a mixture of
treacle and water, and allowing it to ferment well.
SPANISH SNUFF is made from unsifted ‘Havannah snuff,’ reduced by adding
ground Spanish nutshells, sprinkling the mixture with treacle water, and
allowing it to sweat for some days before packing.
YELLOW SNUFF is prepared from ordinary pale snuff moistened with a mixture
of yellow ochre diffused in water, to which a few spoonfuls of thin
mucilage have been added; when dry, the colour that does not adhere to the
snuff is separated with a fine sieve.
RED SNUFF. As last, but using red ochre.
=Snuff, Asarabac′ca.= _Syn._ CEPHALIC SNUFF, COMPOUND POWDER OF
ASARABACCA; PULVIS ASARI COMPOSITUS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. D. 1826.)
Asarabacca leaves, 1 oz.; lavender flowers, 1 dr. (both dried); mix and
powder them.
2. (Ph. E. 1817.) Asarabacca leaves, 3 dr.; leaves of marjoram and flowers
of lavender, of each 1 dr.; as before. Both are used as errhines in
headaches and ophthalmia. See SNUFF, CEPHALIC, ASARABACCA, &c.
=Snuff, Cephal′ic.= _Prep._ 1. From asarabacca leaves and Lundyfoot snuff,
of each 2 oz.; lavender flowers, 1/4 oz.; essence of bergamotte and oil of
cloves, of each 2 or 3 drops; mixed and ground to a powder, the perfume
being added last.
2. (Boeli’s.) From tobacco or pure snuff and valerian root, of each 1/2
oz.; reduced to powder, and scented with the oils of lavender and
marjoram, of each 5 or 6 drops.
_Obs._ The first formula is an excellent one; and the product is very
useful in nervous headaches, dimness of sight, &c. See SNUFF, ASARABACCA
(_above_).
=Snuff, Eye.= _Prep._ From finely levigated tribasic sulphate of mercury
(‘Turpeth mineral’), 1/2 dr.; pure dry Scotch or Lundyfoot snuff, 1 oz.;
triturate them well together. A pinch of this, occasionally, has been
recommended in inflammation of the eyes, dimness of sight, headache,
polypus, &c.; but it should be used with caution, and not too often.
=SOAP.= _Syn._ SAPO, L.; SAVON, Fr. SPANISH, CASTILE, or HARD SOAP, made
with olive oil and soda (SAPO, SAPO EX OLIVÆ OLEO ET SODÂ CONFECTUS——Ph.
L.; SAPO DURUS——B. P., Ph. E., & D.), and SOFT SOAP, made with olive oil
and potash (SAPO MOLLIS——B. P., Ph. L., & E., SAPO EX OLIVÆ OLEO ET
POTASSÂ CONFECTUS——Ph. L.), are the only kinds directed to be employed in
medicine. The former is intended whenever ‘soap’ is ordered, and is the
one which is principally employed internally; the latter is used in
ointments, &c., and in some of the officinal pills.
_Prep._ The fatty or oleaginous matter is boiled with a weak alkaline lye
(soap-lye) rendered caustic by quicklime, and portions of stronger lye are
added from time to time, the ebullition being still continued, until
these substances, reacting on each other, combine to form a tenacious
compound, which begins to separate from the water; to promote this
separation and the granulation of the newly-formed soap, some common salt
is generally added, and the fire being withdrawn, the contents of the
boiler are allowed to repose for some hours, in order that the soap may
collect into one stratum, and solidify; when this happens it is put into
wooden frames or moulds, and when it has become stiff enough to be handled
it is cut into bars or pieces, and exposed to the air, in a warm
situation, to further harden and to dry.
In the print works of Alsace, where an immense quantity of egg albumen is
consumed, there collect, as a necessary result, enormous quantities of the
yolks of egg. Amongst other purposes to which these are applied that of
soap-making is one. According to Kingzett, the olein is not the only
ingredient of the yolk which reacts upon the soda or potash, and thus
produces soap; but the yolk also contains another body, which, absorbing
water under the influence of the bases, splits up into oleic and margaric
acids.
“Besides the olein contained in the free state, there is,” says Mr
Kingzett, “present a body called _lecithine_ of the formula
C_{42}H_{84}NPO_{9}.” Gobloy, Diakonow, Strecker, Thudicum, and Kingzett
have studied this substance, and express its chemolysis as follows:——
Lecithine. Water. Glycero-phosphoric
acid.
C_{42}H_{84}NPO_{9} - 3H_{2}O = C_{3}H_{9}PO_{6}
Choline. Oleic acid. Palmitic
acid.
+ C_{5}H_{15}NO_{2} + C_{18}H_{34}O_{2} + C_{16}H_{32}O_{2}.
That is to say, bases have the power, by abstracting water, to split up
_lecithine_ into, among other products, oleic and palmitic acid; so that
when eggs are used for soap-making this process actually occurs, the soda
or potash employed being sufficient to effect the necessary decomposition,
and the resulting soap being, therefore, the product from not only the
olein, but from the fatty acids so formed.
Tessie du Mothay has proposed a method for the recovery of potash, soda,
&c., from soap water, which is as follows:——He decomposes the soap water
by calcium, barium, or magnesium carbonate, and then passes carbonic acid
through the liquid. The bicarbonate form precipitates organic matter and
other impurities, and these settle down. The solution is then evaporated
or treated with baryta water, which precipitates the last portion of
foreign matters, and leaves a solution of caustic alkali. At a particular
stage of the process an acid is used in order to hasten the separation of
the resinous substances, and, in certain cases, of the sulphides of sodium
and calcium, or barium and calcium and ferric oxide, and then passes
carbonic acid into the liquid. The precipitated metallic substances carry
down with them the humus-like substances present.
_Var._ The principal varieties of soap found in commerce are:——
ALMOND SOAP (SAPO AMYGDALINUS), made from almond oil and caustic soda, and
chiefly used for the toilet.
The P. Codex gives the following formula for its preparation:——Solution of
caustic soda (1·334), by weight, 10 oz.; oil of almonds, by weight, 21
oz.; add the lye to the oil in small portions, stirring frequently; leave
the mixture for some days at a temperature of from 64° to 68° Fahr.,
stirring occasionally, and when it has acquired the consistence of a soft
paste, put it into moulds until sufficiently solidified. It should be
exposed to the air for one or two months before it is used.
ANIMAL SOAP. SAPO ANIMALIS, CURD SOAP (B. P.). A soap made with soda and a
purified animal fat consisting principally of stearin (P. Cod.). Put 5
parts of beef marrow with 10 parts of water into a porcelain or silver
basin, heat, and when melted add by portions, with constant stirring,
2-1/2 parts of liquor sodæ (1·33); when saponified, add 1 part of salt;
stir, remove the soap from the surface, drain it, melt it with a gentle
heat, and pour it into moulds.
CASTILE SOAP, SPANISH S., MARSEILLES S.; SAPO CASTILIENSIS, SAPO
HISPANICUS. An olive-oil soda soap, kept both in the white and marbled
state. The former is said to be the purest, the latter the strongest.
CURD SOAP, made with tallow (chiefly) and soda (see _above_).
MEDICATED SOAPS, containing various active ingredients. The chief of these
are noticed _below_.
MOTTLED SOAP, made with refuse kitchen-stuff, &c.
SOFT SOAP (of commerce), made with whale, seal, or cod oil, tallow, and
caustic potash.
N. Gräger[172] gives the following method for the easy determination of
the fat and alkali in soft (potash) soaps:——25 to 50 grammes of soap are
dissolved in 150 c.c. of water by aid of heat, cooled, and mixed with an
excess of salt, so that a soda-soap separates out; the latter is washed on
a paper filter with a saturated solution of salt. In the filtrate the free
alkali is estimated by a normal acid. The precipitate is decomposed by
warming with excess of normal acid, and the quantity of acid neutralised
by the combined alkali, determined by a standard soda solution. The cake
of fat which separates in the last operation, is dried and weighed after
adding to it, while melted, a known weight of stearin or paraffin to give
it hardness.
[Footnote 172: ‘Dingler’s Journal’ (‘Journ. of Chem. Soc.,’ vol. ix, new]
TOILET SOAPS, prepared from any of the preceding varieties, and variously
coloured and scented. Formulæ are given _below_.
YELLOW SOAP, RESIN SOAP, made with tallow, resin, and caustic soda.
Soluble glass is now largely employed in place of resin.
Soaps are also divided into SOFT or POTASH SOAPS, and HARD or SODA SOAPS.
_Assay._ 1. For the WATER. A piece, fairly taken from the sample, and
weighing 100 gr., is reduced to thin shavings, which are dried by the heat
of boiling water, until they cease to lose weight. The loss indicates the
proportion of free water. This should not exceed 35% for ordinary curd and
mottled soap, 45% for yellow soap, and about 15% to 16% for Castile soap.
2. For the ALKALI. 100 gr. of the soap are dissolved in 4 or 5 fl. oz. of
boiling water, and the solution tested by the common method of
alkalimetry. Curd and yellow soap usually contain from 6% to 7%, mottled
soap from 7% to 8%, and Castile soap 8% to 9% of soda.
3. For the OIL or FAT. The solution tested for alkali (see No. 2) is
heated, and then allowed to cool slowly; when cold the floating fatty
matter is removed, freed from water, and weighed. When the fat or oil has
little consistence, 100 gr. of pure white wax is added to the soap
solution before heating it. The weight obtained, in grains in the one
case, and the excess above 100 gr. in the other, give the proportion of
oil or fat present. This, in ordinary mottled soap, should be about 68%;
in yellow soap, 65%; in curd soap, 60%; and in Castile soap, 75%.
4. UNSAPONIFIED FATTY MATTER.——_a._ Pure soap is entirely soluble in
distilled water and insoluble in saline solution; if a film of fatty
matter forms on its solution in the former, after repose, that portion has
not been saponified.
_b._ The fat separated from soap (see No. 2), when it has been perfectly
saponified, is entirely soluble in alcohol.
5. OTHER IMPURITIES. Pure soap is soluble in rectified spirit, forming a
colourless or nearly colourless solution. The undissolved portion, if
exceeding 1%, is adulteration.
ANOTHER METHOD OF SOAP ASSAY (M. Moffit). The constituents to be
determined in an analysis of soap are alkalies (combined and free),
carbonates, fatty acids, resin, glycerin, salts, colouring matters, and
water.
Three portions of the finely divided soap are weighed off, containing
respectively 10 grams, 20 grams, and 40 grams. Ten grams are digested with
alcohol on the water-bath and filtered. The residue containing carbonates
and other salts, colouring matter, &c., is dried at 100°, weighed,
digested with water, and titrated with normal oxalic acid. Every c.c. of
acid used indicates 0·053 Na_{2}CO_{3}.
Regard must be had to a slight precipitate of calcium oxalate. The weight
of Na_{2}CO_{3} found is subtracted from the total residue insoluble in
alcohol, the difference is the weight of the salts and foreign matters.
The filtrate is subjected to a stream of carbonic acid, filtered, and the
precipitate dissolved in water and titrated with oxalic acid. Each c.c.
of acid indicates 0·031 free soda, or 0·042 free potash. No precipitate
shows the absence of free alkalies. The filtrate from the precipitate
produced by the carbonic acid is, after the addition of 15 c.c. of water,
evaporated to remove the alcohol. The aqueous solution, treated with
normal oxalic acid to acid reaction, shows for every c.c. of acid 0·031
soda, or 0·042 potash in combination. Sulphuric acid is then added, and
the whole is heated on a water bath with pure beeswax to separate the
fatty acids and resin, which are then weighed, the weight of the beeswax
being subtracted.
Forty grams of the soap are next dissolved in water and mixed with
sulphuric acid, as long as any precipitate is formed. On standing the
fatty acids separate, and can be dried and weighed. These fatty acids are
digested with a mixture of equal volumes of water and alcohol, till the
liquid on cooling ceases to appear milky. The solid layer is again
weighed, and the difference between the weight and that obtained above
shows the weight of the resin.
The melting point of the acids is next determined. Ten grams are then
dissolved in alcohol, and sulphuric acid diluted with alcohol is added,
till a precipitate is no longer formed. The liquid is filtered, mixed with
barium carbonate, and again filtered. The sweet residue left after
evaporation of the alcohol is glycerin. The weights of the carbonates,
salts, and foreign matters, free and combined alkalies, fatty acids,
resin, and glycerin are added together, and the sum subtracted from 10
grams gives the weight of the water.
See also Soap analysis, ‘Chem. News,’ xxxv, 2. The article is too long to
allow of insertion here.
_Uses, &c._ The common uses of soap need not be enumerated. As a medicine
it acts as a mild purgative and lithontriptic, and it has been thought by
some to be useful in certain affections of the stomach arising from
deficiency of bile. _Externally_ it is stimulant and detergent.——_Dose_, 3
to 20 or 30 gr., made into pills, and usually combined with aloes or
rhubarb.
_Concluding Remarks._ Prior to the researches of Chevreul, no correct
ideas were entertained as to the constitution of soap. It was long known
that the fixed oils and fats, in contact with caustic alkaline solutions
at a high temperature, undergo the remarkable change which is called
saponification; but here the knowledge of the matter stopped. Chevreul
discovered that if the soap, so produced, be afterwards decomposed by the
addition of an acid, the fat which separates is found to be completely
changed in character; to have acquired a strong acid reaction when applied
in a melted state to test paper, and to have become soluble with the
greatest facility in warm alcohol; in other words——that a new substance,
capable of forming salts, and exhibiting all the characteristic properties
of an acid, has been generated out of the elements of the neutral fat
under the influence of the base. Stearin, when thus treated, yields
stearic acid, palmitin gives palmitic acid, olein gives oleic acid, and
common animal fat, which is a mixture of several neutral bodies, affords,
by saponification by an alkali and subsequent decomposition of the soap, a
mixture of the corresponding fatty acids. These bodies are not, however,
the only products of saponification; the change is always accompanied by
the formation of a very peculiar sweet substance called glycerin, which
remains in the mother liquor from which the acidified fat has been
separated. The process of saponification itself proceeds with perfect
facility, even in a closed vessel; no gas is disengaged; the neutral fat,
of whatsoever kind, is simply resolved into an alkaline salt of the fatty
acid, which is soap, and into glycerin, a neutral body resembling syrup,
and, like that liquid, miscible with water in every proportion.
“When yellow soap is made with the cheaper kinds of fat it will hardly
acquire a sufficient degree of firmness or hardness to satisfy the thrifty
washerwoman. It melts away too rapidly in hot water, a defect which may be
well remedied by the introduction into the soap of a little (1·20th) fused
sulphate of soda; and this salt concreting gives the soap a desirable
hardness, whilst it improves its colour, and renders it a more desirable
article for the washing tub.” (Ure.) This process was patented by Dr
Normandy, but soon proved a source of annoyance and molestation to him on
the part of the Board of Excise, it being an enormous crime in law to
attempt to improve and cheapen soap.
“Soda which contains sulphurets is preferred for making mottled or marble
soap, whereas the desulphuretted soda makes the best white curd soap.”
“The Barillas always contain a small proportion of potash, to which their
peculiar value, in making a less brittle or more plastic hard soap than
the factitious sodas, may, with great probability, be ascribed.” (Ure.)
The mottled appearance is usually given, in the London Soap-works, by
watering the nearly finished soap with a strong lye of crude soda, by
means of a watering can furnished with a rose spout. For ‘Castile soap’ a
solution of sulphate of iron is so employed. See SOAPS (Medicated and
Toilet).
=Soap, Arsen′ical.= _Syn._ SAPO ARSENICALIS, L. _Prep._ (Bécœurs.) From
carbonate of potash, 12 oz.; white arsenic, white soap, and air-slaked
lime, of each 4 oz.; powdered camphor, 3/4 oz.; made into a paste with
water, q. s. Used to preserve the skins of birds, and other small animals.
=Soap, Black.= _Syn._ SAPO NIGER, S. MOLLIS COMMUNIS, L. A crude soft
soap, made of fish oil and potash; but the following mixture is usually
sold for it:——Soft soap, 7 lbs.; train oil, 1 lb.; water, 1 gall.; boil to
a proper consistence, adding ivory black or powdered charcoal, q. s., to
colour. Used by farriers.
=SOAPS (Med′icated).= A few only of these deserve notice here:——
=Soap, Antimo′′nial.= _Syn._ SAPO ANTIMONIALIS, SAPO STIBIATUS, L. _Prep._
(Hamb. Cod. 1845.) Golden sulphuret of antimony, 2 dr.; solution of
caustic potassa, 6 dr. (or q. s.); dissolve and triturate the solution
with medicated (Castile) soap (in powder), 1-1/2 oz., until the mass
assumes a pilular consistence. It should be of a greyish-white colour.
=Soap, Chlorina′ted.= _Syn._ SAPO CALCIS CHLORINATÆ, L.; SAVON
ANTISYPHILITIQUE, Fr. _Prep._ From Castile soap (in powder), 11 oz.;
chloride of lime (dry and good), 1 oz.; mix, beat them to a mass with
rectified spirit, q. s.; (holding in solution) oil of verbena or of ginger
grass, 1/4 oz.; lastly, form the mass into flat tablets, and wrap these in
thin sheet gutta percha. A most excellent detergent and stimulant soap in
various affections, admirably adapted for hospital use, and for removing
stains from the skin and rendering it white. It is the most powerful known
agent against infection from contagious diseases communicable by contact.
=Soap, Cod-Liver Oil.= _Syn._ SAPO OLEI JECORIS (Deschamps). _Prep._
Cod-liver oil, 2 oz.; caustic soda, 2 dr.; water, 5 dr.; dissolve the soda
in the water, and mix it with the oil. An ioduretted soap is made by
mixing with the above, 1 dr. of iodide of potassium dissolved in 1 dr. of
water.
=Soap, Cro′ton.= _Syn._ SAPO CROTONIS, L. _Prep._ From croton oil and
liquor of potassa, equal parts; triturated together in a warm mortar until
they combine. Cathartic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr.
=Soap of Gamboge.= _Syn._ SAPO GAMBOGIÆ. (Soubeiran.) _Prep._ Mix 1 part
of gamboge with 2 of soap, dissolve it with a little spirit, and evaporate
to a pilular consistence.
=Soap, of Gua′iacum.= _Syn._ SAPO GUAIACI, SAPO GUAIACINUS, L. _Prep._
(Ph. Bor.) Liquor of potassa, 1 oz.; water, 2 oz.; mix in a porcelain
capsule, apply heat, and gradually add of resin of guaiacum (in powder), 6
dr., or as much as it will dissolve; next decant or filter, and evaporate
to a pilular consistence.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.; in chronic rheumatism,
various skin diseases, &c.
=Soap I′odine.= _Syn._ SAPO IODURATUS, L. _Prep._ From Castile soap
(sliced), 1 lb.; iodide of potassium, 1 oz.; (dissolved in) water, 3 fl.
oz.; melt them together in a glass or porcelain vessel, over a water bath.
Excellent in various skin diseases; also as a common soap for scrofulous
subjects.
=Soap of Jal′ap.= See JALAP, SOAP OF.
=Soap, Larch.= _Syn._ SAPO LARICIS. (Dr Moore.) _Prep._ Dissolve 12 oz. of
white curd soap in 24 oz. of rose water on a steam bath. Infuse 4 oz. of
wheat bran in 10 oz. of cold water for 24 hours, and express. Add to the
last, 3 oz. of pure glycerin. Dissolve 6 dr. of extract of larch bark in 1
oz. of boiling water. Mix these solutions with the dissolved soap,
evaporate over a steam bath to a proper consistence, and pour into moulds
to cool. For the local treatment of psoriasis.
=Soap, Macquer’s Acid.= _Syn._ SAPO VITRIOLICUS, L. _Prep._ From Castile
soap, 4 oz.; softened by heat and a little water, and then continually
triturated in a mortar with oil of vitriol (added drop by drop).
Detergent. Used where alkalies would be prejudicial.
=Soap, Marine.= _Patent._ This is made by substituting cocoa nut oil for
the fats and oils used in the manufacture of common soap. It has the
advantage of forming a lather with salt water.
=Soap, Mercu′′rial.= _Syn._ SAPO HYDRARGYRI. (M. Herbert.) 1. _Prep._
Dissolve 4 oz. of quicksilver in its weight of nitric acid without heat;
melt in a porcelain basin by water bath 18 oz. of veal suet, and add the
solution, stirring the mixture till the union is complete. To 5 oz. of
this ointment, add 2 oz. of solution of caustic soda (1·33), porphyry
slag, till a soap is formed, which is completely soluble in water. For
external use, alone, or dissolved in water, in some cutaneous diseases.
2. SAPO MERCURIALIS, L. _Prep._ (SAPO SUBLIMATIS CORROSIVI.) From Castile
soap (in powder), 4 oz.; corrosive sublimate, 1 dr.; (dissolved in)
rectified spirit, 1 fl. oz.; beaten to a uniform mass in a porcelain or
wedgwood-ware mortar.
3. (SAPO HYDRARGYRI, PRECIPITATI ALBI——Sir H. Marsh.) _Prep._ Beat 12 oz.
of white Windsor soap in a marble mortar, add 1 dr. of rectified spirit, 2
dr. of white precipitate, and 10 drops of otto. Beat the whole to a
uniform paste.
4. (SAPO HYDRARGYRI, PRECIPITATI RUBRI——Sir H. Marsh.) From white Windsor
soap, 2 oz.; nitric oxide of mercury (levigated), 1 dr.; otto of roses, 6
or 8 drops; (dissolved in) rectified spirit, 1 to 2 fl. dr.; as the last.
Both the above are employed as stimulant detergents and repellants, in
various skin diseases; also as SAVON ANTISYPHILITIQUE.
=Soap of Subacetate of Lead.= _Syn._ SAPO SATURNI (Bristol Infirmary).
_Prep._ Boil 1 lb. of white soap in 4 pints of rain water; when the soap
is dissolved add 1 oz. of camphor pulverised with spirit, and mixed with 2
oz. of liquid subacetate of lead, stir the whole till cold.
=Soap, Sul′phuretted.= _Syn._ SAPO SULPHURIS, SAPO SULPHURATUS, L. _Prep._
(Sir H. Marsh.) From white soap, 2 oz.; sublimed sulphur, 1/4 oz.; beaten
to a smooth paste in a marble mortar with 1 or 2 fl. dr. of rectified
spirit strongly coloured with alkanet root, and holding in solution otto
of roses, 10 or 12 drops. In itch and various other cutaneous diseases.
=Soap, Tar.= _Syn._ SAPO PICIS LIQUIDÆ, SAPO PICEUS, L. _Prep._ From tar,
1 part; liquor of potassa and soap (in shavings), of each 2 parts; beat
them together until they unite. Stimulant. Used in psoriasis, lepra, &c.
=Soap, Tur′pentine.= _Syn._ STARKEY’S SOAP; SAPO TEREBINTHINÆ, S.
TEREBINTHINATUS, L.; SAVON TÉRÉBINTHINE, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
Subcarbonate of potash, oil of turpentine, and Venice turpentine, equal
parts; triturate them together, in a warm mortar, with a little water,
until they combine; put the product into paper moulds, and in a few days
slice it, and preserve it in a well-stopped bottle.
=SOAPS (Toilet).= Of toilet soaps there are two principal varieties:——
1. (Hard.) The basis of these is, generally, a mixture of suet, 9 parts,
and olive oil, 1 part, saponified by caustic soda; the product is
variously scented and coloured. They are also made of white tallow, olive,
almond, and palm-oil soaps, either alone or combined in various
proportions, and scented.
2. (Soft.) The basis of these is a soap made of hog’s lard and potash,
variously scented and coloured.
3. Guido Schnitzer, writing to ‘Dingler’s Journal’ (cciii, 129-132),[173]
says that the use of sodium silicate (ordinary water-glass) has proved of
great value in the manufacture of palm oil and cocoa-nut oil soaps, as it
increases their alkalinity, and gives to them greater hardness and
durability. It is for these reasons the silicate is much used in the
manufacture of toilette soaps.
[Footnote 173: ‘Journ. of Chem. Soc.,’ new series, vol. x.]
He states that during the American war, when the price of resin soap
reached a high price, sodium silicate was much used as a substitute in
soap making. The soap is found to be the more active and durable in
proportion to the amount of silica in the silicate.
Schnitzer made a series of experiments in order to discover a mixture
which, on fusing, will yield a silicate as rich as possible in silica,
without being insoluble in boiling water, and he found the following
proportions yielded on fusion the best silicate for the above purposes:——
100 parts of soda ash (containing 91 per cent, of Na_{2}CO_{3}), and 180
of sand. In the solution of silicate obtained on treatment with boiling
water, the proportion of the Na_{2}O to the SiO_{2} would then be as 1 to
2·9.
After long boiling with water, there ordinarily remains a slimy residue,
which, on boiling up with fresh dilute soda-lye for a long time, furnishes
a concentrated solution of silicate. This residue, consisting of silica,
with insoluble higher silicates, was boiled with soda solution at 6°
Baume, and the solution concentrated to 40° Baume, when the proportion
therein of Na_{2}O to SiO_{2} was found to be as 1 to 1·, and on cooling
those crystallised out, sodium silicate of the formula Na_{2}SiO_{3} ×
8H_{2}O, in white foliated crystals.
On the small scale the perfume is generally added to the soap melted in a
bright copper pan by the heat of a water bath; on the large scale it is
mixed with the liquid soap, at the soap-maker’s, before the latter is
poured into the frames.
The following are examples of a few of the leading toilet soaps:[174]
[Footnote 174: See also SAVONETTES.]
=Soap, Bitter Al′mond.= _Syn._ SAVON D’AMANDE, Fr. _Prep._ From white
tallow soap, 56 lbs.; essential oil of almonds, 3/4 lb.; as before.
=Savon au Bouquet.= [Fr.] _Prep._ From tallow soap, 30 lbs.; olive-oil
soap, 10 lbs.; essence of bergamot, 4 oz.; oils of cloves, sassafras, and
thyme, of each 1 oz.; pure neroli, 1/2 oz.; brown ochre (finely powdered),
1/2 lb.; mixed as the last.
=Soap, Cin′namon.= _Prep._ From tallow soap, 14 lbs.; palm-oil soap, 7
lbs.; oil of cinnamon (cassia), 3 oz.; oil of sassafras and essence of
bergamot, of each 1/2 oz.; levigated yellow ochre, 1/2 lb.
=Soap, Float′ing.= _Prep._ From good oil soap, 14 lbs.; water, 3 pints;
melted together by the heat of a steam or water bath, and assiduously
beaten until the mixture has at least doubled its volume, when it must be
put into the frames, cooled, and cut into pieces. Any scent may be added.
=Soap, Glycerin.= Any mild toilet soap being liquefied, glycerin is
intimately mixed with it in the proportion of from a 20th to a 25th of the
weight of the soap. Sometimes a red, and others an orange tint is given to
it. The scent usually consists of bergamot, or rose geranium, mixed with a
little oil of cassia, to which sometimes a little oil of bitter almonds is
added.
2. (Spon.) 40 lbs. of tallow, 40 lbs. of lard, and 20 lbs. of cocoa-nut
oil, are saponified with 45 lbs. of soda lye, and 5 lbs. of potash lye, of
40° Baume, when the soap is to be made in the cold way. To the paste then
add, pure glycerin 6 lbs., oil of Portugal, 1/2 oz., oil of bergamot, 1/3
oz., bitter almond oil, 5 oz., oil of vitivert, 3 oz.
=Soap, Hon′ey.= _Prep._ 1. From palm-oil soap and olive-oil soap, of each
1 part; curd soap, 3 parts; melted together and scented with the oil of
verbena, rose-geranium, or ginger-grass.
2. From the finest bright-coloured yellow soap, scented with the oils of
ginger-grass and bergamot.
=Soap, Liquid Glycerin——Glycerinseife, Flüssige.= Sesame or cotton-seed
oil is saponified with sufficient caustic potash, and while moist is
dissolved in six times its weight of spirit of wine. The solution is
filtered, five-sixths of the spirit is distilled from a water bath, and
the cooled residue is reduced to the consistence of thin honey, with a
mixture of 2 parts glycerin and 1 part spirit. It is then perfumed.
=Soap, Musk.= 1. A good ox suet or tallow soap is generally used for the
basis of this. The scent is composed of a mixture of essence of musk, with
small quantities of the oils of bergamot, cinnamon, and cloves. The
quantity of musk must be regulated by the amount of fragrance required.
The soap is usually coloured with caramel.
2. Another kind is made with tallow and palm-oil soap, to which is added a
mixture of the powders of cloves, roses, and gilliflowers, oil of
bergamot, and essence of musk. The colouring matter is brown ochre.
=Soap, Musk.= As CINNAMON SOAP, but with essence of musk, supported with a
little essence of bergamot and oil of cloves, as perfume, and burnt sugar,
to colour.
=Soap, Naples.= From olive oil and potash.
=Soap, Orange-flower.= As SAVON À LA ROSE, with oil of neroli or essence
de petit grain, supported with a little of the essence of ambergris and
Portugal, for perfume.
=Soap, Palm-oil.= _Syn._ VIOLET SOAP. Made of palm oil and caustic soda
lye. It has a pleasant odour of violets and a lively colour.
=Soap, Pearl.= _Syn._ ALMOND CREAM; CRÊME D’AMANDES, Fr. _Prep._ From a
soap made of lard and caustic potash lye; when quite cold it is beaten in
small portions at a time in a marble mortar, until it unites to form a
homogeneous mass, or ‘pearls,’ as it is called; essence of bitter almonds,
q. s., to perfume, being added during the pounding.
=Savon à la Rose.= [Fr.] _Prep._ From a mixture of olive-oil soap, 36
lbs.; best tallow soap, 24 lbs. (both new and in shavings); water, 1
quart; melted in a covered bright copper pan, by the heat of a water bath,
then coloured with vermilion (finely levigated), 2-1/2 oz.; and, after the
mixture has cooled a little, scented with otto of roses, 3 oz.; essence of
bergamot, 2-1/2 oz.; oil of cloves and cinnamon, of each 1 oz.
=Soap, Rondeletia.= This is merely cinnamon soap scented with the essence
made with mixed essential oils, &c., known as rondeletia. It is coloured
with brown or yellow ochre.
=Soap, Sha′′ving.= See PASTE (Shaving).
=Soap, Transpa′′rent.= _Prep._ From perfectly dry almond, tallow, or soft
soap, reduced to shavings, and dissolved, in a closed vessel or still, in
an equal weight of rectified spirit, the clear portion, after a few hours’
repose, being poured into moulds or frames; after a few weeks’ exposure to
a dry atmosphere, the pieces are ‘trimmed up’ and stamped, as desired. It
may be scented and coloured, at will, by adding the ingredients to it
while in the soft state. A rose colour is given by tincture of archil; and
yellow, by tincture of turmeric or annotta. It does not lather well.
=Soap, Windsor.= _Syn._ SAPO VINDESORÆ, S. VINDESORIENSIS, L. _Prep._ 1.
(WHITE; S. V. ALBUS.) The best ‘English’ is made of a mixture of olive
oil, 1 part, and ox tallow or suet, 9 parts, saponified by caustic soda.
‘French Windsor-soap’ is made of hogs’ lard, with the addition of a
little palm oil. That of the shops is merely ordinary curd soap, scented
with oil of caraway, supported with a little oil of bergamot, lavender, or
origanum. To the finer qualities a little of the essences of musk and
ambergris is occasionally added. 1-1/2 lb. of the mixed scents is the
common proportion per cwt.
2. (BROWN; S. V. FUSCUS.) This merely differs from the last in being
coloured with burnt sugar, or (less frequently) with umber. Originally it
was the white variety, that had become mellow and brown with age.
=SO′DA.= See SODIUM.
=SO′DIUM.= Na. _Syn._ NATRIUM. The metallic base of soda. It was first
obtained by Sir H. Davy, in 1807, by means of a powerful galvanic battery;
but it may be more conveniently and cheaply procured, in quantity, by the
method described under POTASSIUM. The process, when well conducted, is,
however, much easier and more certain than that for the last-named metal.
_Prep._ The anhydrous carbonate of sodium, 6 parts, is dissolved in a
little water, and the solution mixed with charcoal in fine powder, 2
parts, and charcoal in small lumps, 1 part; the whole is then evaporated
to dryness, transferred to an iron retort, and treated in the manner
described at page 1353.
_Obs._ Very important improvements have been made in the manufacture of
this metal by Deville, consisting partly in the simplification of the
receiver, and partly in the addition of carbonate of calcium to the
mixture, which addition appears to facilitate the reduction of the sodium
in a most remarkable manner.
_Prop., &c._ Sodium is a soft silver-white metal, scarcely solid at common
temperatures, fuses at 194° Fahr., and volatilises at a red heat; it
oxidises very rapidly in the air; when placed on the surface of cold
water, it decomposes that liquid with great violence, but generally
without flame, in which it differs from potassium; on hot water it burns
with a bright yellow flame——in both cases a solution of pure soda being
formed. Sp. gr. ·972; it is more malleable than any other metal, and may
be easily reduced into very thin leaves (Ure); its other properties
resemble those of potassium, but are of a feebler character. With oxygen
it forms two oxides; with chlorine, a chloride (common salt); and——with
bromine, iodine, fluorine, &c., bromide, iodide, fluoride, &c., all of
which may be obtained by similar processes to the respective compounds of
potassium, which, for the most part they resemble.
_Uses._ Until recently sodium has been regarded as a mere mechanical or
philosophical curiosity; it has now, however, become of great practical
importance, from being employed in the manufacture of the metals
aluminium, magnesium, &c.
_Tests._ Sodium salts are recognised by their solubility in water, and by
their giving a precipitate with none of the ordinary reagents. They give a
rich yellow colour to the colourless Bunsen or the pale blue blowpipe
flame. They can, to a certain extent, be also distinguished from potassium
salts by the carbonate being an easily crystallisable salt, effervescing
in dry air; the carbonate of potassium being crystallised with difficulty,
and deliquescent. Platinum chloride does not give a precipitate with
sodium chloride; neither does picric acid, perchlorate of ammonium, nor
tartaric acid.
=Sodium, Acetate of.= NaC_{2}H_{3}O_{2}. _Syn._ ACETATE OF SODA; SODÆ
ACETAS (B. P., Ph. D.), L. Prepared from carbonate of sodium as the
corresponding potassium salt; but the resulting solution is evaporated to
a pellicle, and set aside to crystallise. Its crystals are striated
oblique rhombic prisms; it effloresces slightly in the air, and is soluble
in 4 parts of water at 60° Fahr. Diuretic.——_Dose_, 20 to 40 gr.
=Sodium, Aluminate.= This salt has of late been in extensive demand by the
calico printer and dyer. In France it is obtained from banxite, a native
hydrate of aluminate, by treatment with caustic or carbonate of soda. If
caustic soda be employed, the powdered banxite is boiled with a solution
of the alkali, whereas if carbonate of soda be used, it is fused with the
banxite in a reverbatory furnace. By the first process the resulting
aluminate of soda is dissolved in water, and evaporated to dryness, forms
the commercial article. If prepared by ignition, the semifused mass is
lixiviated with water, and then evaporated to dryness. Aluminate of soda
prepared as above occurs as a white powder, of a greenish-yellow hue, and
dry to the touch.
It is equally soluble in both hot and cold water, and readily decomposed
by carbonic and acetic acids, bicarbonate and acetate of soda, chloride of
ammonia, &c. Dr Wagner states that it is used for the preparation of lake
colours, the induration of stone, in the manufacture of artificial stone,
and for the saponification of fats in the manufacture of stearin candle
manufacture, also in the preparation of an opaque, milky-looking glass, or
semi-porcelain.
Aluminate of soda may likewise be procured from cryolite, as described
under ALUM.
=Sodium Arseniates.= _Syn._ SODÆ ARSENIAS (B. P.). Arsenious acid, 10 oz.;
nitrate of soda, 8-1/2 oz.; dried carbonate of soda, 5-1/2 oz.; boiling
distilled water, 35 fl. oz. Reduce the dry ingredients separately to fine
powder, and mix them thoroughly in a porcelain mortar. Put the mixture
into a large clay crucible and cover it with the lid. Expose it to a full
red heat till all effervescence has ceased, and complete fusion has taken
place. Pour out the fused salt on a clean flagstone, and as soon as it has
solidified and while it is still warm put it into the boiling distilled
water, stirring diligently. When the salt has dissolved filter the
solution through paper, and set it aside to crystallise. Drain the
crystals, and having dried them rapidly on filtering paper, enclose them
in a stoppered bottle.
=Sodium, Benzoate.= _Syn._ SODÆ BENZOAS. (B. Cod.) _Prep._ Heat gently
benzoic acid and water, and add caustic soda, q. s. to neutralise the
acid. Filter, evaporate, and crystallise over sulphuric acid under a
bell-glass.
=Sodium, Bisulphate.= _Syn._ ACID SULPHATE, SODÆ BISULPHIS. _Prep._
Dissolve crystallised carbonate of soda in twice its weight of water, and
pass sulphurous acid in excess through the solution. Set it aside to
crystallise. Its solution is used to preserve subjects.
=Sodium, Bromide of.= _Syn._ SODII BROMIDUM. Prepared as bromide of
potassium.
=Sodium, Carbonate of.= Na_{2}CO_{3}. 10Aq. _Syn._ CARBONATE OF SODA,
MONO-CARBONATE OF SODA, SUBCARBONATE OF S.†, Salt of barilla†; SODÆ
CARBONAS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. The carbonate of sodium of commerce
(WASHING SODA) was formerly prepared from the ashes of seaweed, and other
marine vegetables, in a somewhat similar manner to that by which carbonate
of potassium is obtained; but it is now usually obtained from chloride of
sodium by the action of heat, sulphuric acid, and carbonaceous matter.
[Illustration: Scotch Soda Furnace.]
_Prep._ 1. (From common salt or sulphate of sodium.) The latter is
generally obtained by decomposing the former with sulphuric acid, the
evolved gas being passed into water, or through flues filled with coke,
over which a very small stream of cold water constantly flows, by which it
is condensed, and forms ‘LIQUID HYDROCHLORIC ACID,’ a substance afterwards
consumed, in large quantities, in the manufacture of chloride of lime, and
for other purposes. The sulphate of sodium, obtained from this or any
other source, is well mixed with an equal weight of chalk or limestone,
and about half its weight of small coal, each being previously ground to
powder, and the mixture is exposed to a strong heat in a ‘reverbatory
furnace’ (see _engr._) until the decomposition of the sulphate is
complete, the mass during the calcination being frequently stirred about
with a long iron rod; the semi-liquid is now raked into an iron trough,
where it is allowed to cool, whilst the furnace is recharged with fresh
materials. The crude dark-grey product, thus obtained, is known as ‘ball
alkali,’ or ‘British barilla,’ and usually contains about 22 or 23% of
pure hydrate of sodium. This is now lixiviated with tepid water, and the
solution, after defecation, evaporated to dryness; the residuum is mixed
with a certain quantity of sawdust, coal-dust, or charcoal, and roasted in
a reverberatory furnace, at a heat not exceeding 700° Fahr., until all the
sulphur is expelled. The product is the ‘soda-ash,’ ‘soda salt,’ or
‘British alkali,’ of commerce, and contains about 50% of pure sodium,
partly in the state of carbonate, and partly as hydrate, the remainder
being chiefly sulphate of sodium and common salt. When this is purified by
solution in water, defecation, evaporation, and crystallisation, it
furnishes commercial crystallised carbonate of soda. When this last is
redissolved, and the filtered solution is carefully crystallised, it
constitutes the ordinary carbonate of sodium used in pharmacy and
medicine.
Another process for the preparation of commercial carbonate of sodium,
known as the ‘ammonia process,’ has of late years met with considerable
adoption. The history of this process, together with the process itself,
are thus described by Dr R. Wagner:[175] “Six years ago (he was writing in
1873), when the international jury at the Paris Exhibition expressed their
opinion upon the state of the soda industry at that time, all the judges,
whether practical or theoretical men, believed that Leblanc’s process
(that previously described) would hold the field for a long time yet. This
seemed still more probable, since a process had just been introduced for
recovering the sulphur from the soda residues. At that time all the soda
in use was prepared by this process, excepting a comparatively small
amount obtained from Chili saltpetre and cryolite, although there were
already tangible indications that soda could be made on a larger scale by
another method, which would be cheaper than Leblanc’s process.
[Footnote 175: ‘Journal of Applied Chemistry.’]
“The chemical section of the international jury at the Vienna Exposition,
under the presidency of Professor A. W. Hofmann, constituted a congress of
chemical technology. By its labours during the course of the summer this
congress of scientific men was able to authenticate the very important
fact that although Leblanc’s process might in the future possess some
importance for certain branches of the industry, yet in most places
another soda process would be introduced in the immediate future, and
entirely supersede that of Leblanc. Since the time of the Paris Exhibition
this new process has grown from a small germ to a strong tree.
“The process in question, and which is called by Professor Hofmann ‘the
ammonia process,’ is not new, from either a chemical or scientific point
of view. It belongs to the same methods as those in which oxide of lead,
bicarbonate of magnesia, quicklime, alumina, silicate of alumina, oxide of
chromium, or fluosilicic acid are employed to decompose chloride of
sodium, and convert it directly into soda or its carbonate. None of these
attempts met with a success deserving of notice; although for a century
past efforts have been made to render them practically operative. The new
process is founded upon a reaction noticed over thirty years ago——that of
bicarbonate of ammonia upon a strong solution of common salt. The greater
part of the sodium is precipitated as bicarbonate, while chloride of
ammonium remains in solution, from which the ammonia for a second
operation is expelled by quicklime. The carbonic acid necessary to convert
the ammonia into bicarbonate of ammonia, and thus make the process a
continuous one, is obtained by heating the bicarbonate of soda to convert
it into the simple carbonate.
“The sensation which the ammonia process has created in industrial circles
will render a brief history of its development not uninteresting.
“So far as I know, Harrison, Dyer, Grey, and Hemming were the first to
patent the ammonia process in Great Britain in 1838. Great expectations
were excited by it, but it soon sank into oblivion.
“Thirty or forty years ago the manufacture of soda was by no means at the
head of the great branches of industry; at that time, too, ammonia was not
to be had cheaply and in immense quantities, and that branch of machine
building which has furnished the necessary apparatus for chemical
industries did not exist. Besides this, Anton, of Prague, in 1840, claimed
to have proved that in the ammonia process a very considerable portion of
the common salt still remained undecomposed.
“After a sleep of sixteen years the ammonia process again entered the
field. On the 26th of May, 1854, Turck took out a patent in France, and on
the 21st June, the same year, Schlœsing, chemist of the Imperial Tobacco
Factory at Paris, took out a patent for France and Great Britain. The
mechanical portion and machinery for Schlœsing’s process were designed by
Engineer E. Rolland, director of the tobacco factory. In 1855 a company
was organised to work this process. An experimental manufactory was
started at Puteaux, near Paris, but, owing to its situation and
arrangements, as well as the salt monopoly, it could not produce soda
cheap enough to compete with the other process, and hence, in 1858, the
experiment was abandoned. Schlœsing and Rolland were of the opinion that
sooner or later the new process must come into use in making soda.
“It must here be noticed that in 1858 Professor Heeren, of Hanover,
subjected the ammonia process to a very careful test in his laboratory.
“From his experiments and calculations it was ascertained that this
process was better adapted to the manufacture of the bicarbonate than of
the simple protocarbonate of soda.
“To render this sketch more complete and historically true, it must be
mentioned that T. Bell, of England, took out a patent, Oct. 13th, 1857,
for a new soda process, which in principle and practice was almost
literally the same as that of Dyer.
“It was known when the jury was working at Paris in 1867 that essential
improvements had been introduced into the ammonia process by the efforts
of Marguerite and De Sourdeval, of Paris, and James Young, of Glasgow. A
more important fact, however, is that Solvay and Co., of Conillet, in
Belgium, actually exhibited at the Paris Exhibition carbonate of soda
prepared by this new process.
“Since that time the ammonia process has been developed and perfected to
such an extent, especially by Solvay, Honigmann, and Prof. Gerstenhœfer,
that as early as February, 1873, A. W. Hofmann, in his introduction to the
third group of the catalogue of the Exhibition of the German Empire, was
able to make this remark:——‘At all events the ammonia process is the only
one which threatens to become an important competitor of the now also most
exclusively employed process of Leblanc.’ The Vienna Exposition has since
proved the truth of this assertion.
“There are now large works in England, Hungary, Switzerland, Westphalia,
Thueringia, and Baden, which employ the improved ammonia process, and some
of them make fifteen tons of soda per day.
“The advantages of the new process over that of Leblanc are very evident,
although the details of the process have not yet been made public.
“The chief advantage consists in the direct conversion of salt into
carbonate of soda, and next from the fact, that from a saturated brine
only the sodium is precipitated, with none of the other metals of the
mother liquor. Besides this, the product is absolutely free from all
sulphur compounds, the soda is of a high grade, the apparatus and utensils
are very simple, there is a great saving of labour and fuel, and no
noxious gases and waste products are produced, which is of importance from
a sanitary point of view. The only weak point of the ammonia process is
the loss of chlorine, which is converted into worthless chloride of
calcium.
“The effect which the general introduction of the new soda process will
exert upon large chemical industries in general, and especially upon the
consumption of sulphur, the manufacture of sulphuric acid, and chloride of
lime, cannot be overlooked.”
3. Another method for the direct preparation of soda and potash from their
chlorides is described in the ‘Bayerisches Industrie und Gewerbe
Blatt.’[176] The process is thus described by its author, Herr E. Bohlig:
[Footnote 176: ‘New Remedies,’ 1878, 4.]
1. Magnesium oxalate (freshly prepared when newly starting, but, after the
first operation, obtained as a dry product in the next step) is allowed
to drain, and then mixed in a large vat with the proper quantities of
sodium chloride, or concentrated brine and hydrochloric acid, after which
it is allowed to stand a few hours. Decomposition takes place almost
instantaneously; all the magnesium goes into solution in form of syrupy
magnesium chloride, while all the sodium and oxalic acid are deposited as
a crystalline acid salt (acid sodium oxalate, or binoxalate of sodium).
Since the magnesium oxalate is always obtained of the same composition and
in the same quantity, it is sufficient to determine its weight once for
all, and to take each time the previously common amounts of common salt.
The acid need not be weighed either; it must be added in just sufficient
quantity to destroy the milky appearance which the mixture first assumes.
The reaction is as follows:
MgC_{2}O_{4} + HCl + NaCl = NaHC_{2}O_{4} + MgCl_{2}
Magnesium + Hydrochloric + Sodium = Sodium Magnesium
oxalate. acid. chloride. binoxalate. chloride.
The crystalline powder of sodium binoxalate is transferred to large
draining filters, washed with water until the acid solution of magnesium
chloride is removed, and worked up, as below described, while still moist.
The acid solution of magnesium chloride is made use of several times in
succession as so much hydrochloric acid, together with a quantity of fresh
acid sufficient for the reaction. Finally, when the magnesium chloride has
inconveniently accumulated, it is worked up by itself into magnesia and
hydrochloric acid.
2. In order to obtain the soda, the sodium binoxalate is brought together
with an equivalent quantity of magnesium carbonate and water in a tight
cask. As soon as the remaining air has been nearly expelled by the
generated carbonic acid gas, the cask is closed, and a stirring mechanism
set in motion.
A pressure gauge attached to the cask indicates a gradual rise of the
pressure to two atmospheres, but, on continual stirring, this diminishes,
until, finally, the gauge stands again at 0°. The cask now contains a
concentrated solution of sodium bicarbonate, and a precipitate of
magnesium oxalate, which latter, being coarsely granular, is easily
separated from the liquid, and is used over again, after washing, for a
new operation.
The solution of sodium bicarbonate is boiled for a short time with
magnesia, obtained in distilling magnesium chloride, and both are thereby
converted into simple carbonates. Both reactions are shown in the
following scheme:
1. NaHC_{2}O_{4} + MgCO_{3} = NaHCO_{3} + MgC_{2}O_{4}
Sodium + Magnesium = Sodium Magnesium
binoxalate. carbonate. bicarbonate. oxalate.
2. 2NaHCO_{3} + MgO = Na_{2}CO_{3} + MgCO_{3} + H_{2}O
Sodium + Magnesia. = Sodium + Magnesium + Water
bicarbonate. carbonate. carbonate.
As the solution of sodium carbonate, after concentration to 40°B., is
incapable of dissolving or retaining in solution any sodium oxalate, it
follows that the whole of the oxalic acid is recovered. The magnesia which
is required for the purpose is obtained by distilling magnesium chloride,
which thereby splits up into hydrochloric acid and magnesia. One half of
the latter receives, as we have seen, its carbonic acid by boiling with
sodium bicarbonate; the other half is placed, whilst still moist, upon
trays in great wooden closets, through which the gases of the furnace
pass, and is thereby carbonated. The process may also be so modified that
the sodium binoxalate is first decomposed by caustic magnesia, and that
magnesium carbonate is afterwards added.
The whole mixture is then transferred to a stirring cask, provided with
openings for the passage of cooled furnace gases, whereby the caustic soda
present is very soon carbonated.
3. As soon as a large quantity of magnesium chloride solution has
accumulated, it is tested as follows:——A small sample is mixed, while
boiling, with magnesium oxalate, as long as the latter is dissolved, and
then allowed to cool. There should be no crystalline deposit of sodium
binoxalate formed, a proof that the solution does not contain any sodium
chloride in excess, and is fit for distillation. It is first neutralised
by adding some more magnesia, and evaporated over a naked fire in large
kettles to a doughy consistence, short of driving off the hydrochloric
acid. It is then transferred into the ordinary soda furnace, where it is
distilled with a moderate fire. The eliminated hydrochloric acid is
condensed in the usual manner.
The residuary mass should not be heated red hot, so as not to impair its
porosity or its ready affinity for carbonic acid. If, however, the
first-mentioned test shows the magnesium chloride to contain sodium
chloride the whole mass must be mixed with magnesium oxalate, and after
removal of the precipitated sodium oxalate, saturated with magnesia and
distilled. The same process, in all its details, may also be employed for
the manufacture of potassa and its carbonate.
4. Another method of manufacture of commercial soda is by treating the
mineral cryolite (a double fluoride of sodium and aluminium) with either
caustic, or hydrate of lime. The results of the reaction are caustic soda,
sodium aluminate, and calcium fluoride.
The aluminate and caustic soda being both soluble in water, a stream of
carbonic acid is passed through the solution containing them, whereby all
the soda becomes converted into carbonate, whilst the alumina is thrown
down as an insoluble precipitate. In the wet way, if enough hydrate of
lime be employed, all the soda may be obtained in the caustic condition.
This process is largely used in Germany. Various other processes for the
manufacture of commercial soda have been devised, some of which are still
followed, whilst others, being impracticable, have collapsed.
Mr Kingzett, in his work on the alkali trade, has described most of them.
When anhydrous carbonate of sodium is required (SODÆ CARBONAS EXSICCATA,
B. P., Ph. L.; SODÆ CARBONAS SICCATUM, Ph. E. & D.), the crystallised
carbonate is heated to redness, and, when cold, powdered.
_Prop., &c._ Carbonate of sodium forms large, transparent, oblique rhombic
prisms, which, as ordinarily met with, and of the formulæ
Na_{2}CO_{3}.10Aq; but by particular management may be had with fifteen,
nine, seven, or sometimes with only one molecule of water of
crystallisation (Fownes); it is soluble in twice its weight of water at
60°, and less than an equal weight at 212° Fahr. As a medicine it is
deobstruent and antacid, and is given in doses of 10 to 30 gr. It is also,
occasionally, used to make effervescing draughts. When taken in an
overdose it is poisonous. The antidotes are the same as for carbonate of
potassium. The crude carbonate is largely employed in the manufacture of
soap, glass, &c.
Fifty three gr. of the dried carbonate are equal to 143 of the
crystallised salt. The medicinal properties of both are similar. It has,
however, the disadvantage of being difficultly soluble in water.
The ordinary carbonate of sodium generally contains either sulphates or
chlorides, or both; and these may be detected as under CARBONATE OF
POTASSIUM. “When supersaturated with nitric acid, it precipitates only
slightly, or not at all, chloride of barium or nitrate of silver; and 143
gr. require at least 960 grain-measures of solution of oxalic acid” (B.
P.). At a high temperature 100 gr. lose 62·5 gr. of water.
=Sodium, Bicarbonate of.= NaHCO_{3}. _Syn._ SESQUICARBONATE OF SODA, SODÆ
BICARBONAS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.). This salt can be prepared in exactly
the same manner as the corresponding salt of potassium. Another method is
as follows:——Take of crystallised carbonate of sodium, 1 part; dried
carbonate of sodium, 2 parts (both in powder); triturate them well
together, and surround them with an atmosphere of carbonic acid gas, under
pressure; let the action go on until no more gas is absorbed, which will
generally occupy 10 to 14 hours, according to the pressure employed, then
remove the salt, and dry it at a heat not above 120° Fahr.
_Prop., &c._ A crystalline white powder; it is soluble in 10 parts of
water at 60° Fahr., but it cannot be dissolved in even warm water without
partial decomposition; it is more pleasant tasted and more feebly alkaline
than the carbonate of the same base. When absolutely pure it does not
darken turmeric paper, or only very slightly. The dose is from 10 to 40
gr., as an antacid and absorbent. It is much employed in the preparation
of effervescing powders and draughts, for which purpose
20 gr. of commercial bicarbonate of sodium
\------------------\/--------------------/
are taken with
/------------------/\---------------\
18 gr. of crystallised tartaric acid;
17 gr. of crystallised citric acid; or
1/2 fl. oz. of lemon juice.
The quantity of bicarbonate any given sample contains may be approximately
determined by well washing 100 gr. of the salt with an equal weight of
water, and filtering the solution. The residuum left upon the filter,
dried at a heat of 120° Fahr., and weighed, gives the per-centage of pure
bicarbonate of sodium present (very nearly). The solution of this in water
will give only a very trifling white precipitate with corrosive sublimate;
whilst the filtered portion, which was used to wash the salt, will give a
red one, if it contains the simple carbonate of sodium.
=Sodium, Chloride of.= NaCl. _Syn._ SODII CHLORIDUM (B. P., Ph. L., & D.),
SODÆ MURIAS (Ph. E.), L. This important and wholesome compound appears to
have been known in the earliest ages of which we have any record. It is
mentioned by Moses (Gen. xix, 26), and by Homer in the Iliad (lib. ix,
214). In ancient Rome it was subjected to a duty (_vectigal salinarium_);
and even at the present day a similar tax furnishes no inconsiderable
portion of the revenue of certain nations. Common salt forms no small
portion of the mineral wealth of England, and has become an important
article of commerce in every part of the known world. The principal
portion of the salt consumed in this country is procured by the
evaporation of the water of brine springs. It is also prepared by the
evaporation of sea-water (hence the term ‘sea-salt’), but this process has
been almost abandoned in England, being more suited to hot dry climates or
to very cold ones.
_Var._ BAY SALT; SAL MARINUS, SAL NIGER; imported from France, Portugal,
and Spain, and obtained from sea-water evaporated in shallow ponds by the
sun; large-grained and dark-coloured.——BRITISH BAY SALT, CHESHIRE
LARGE-GRAINED S.; by evaporating native brine at a heat of 130° to 140°
Fahr.; hard cubical crystals. Both of the above are used to salt
provisions for hot climates, as they dissolve very slowly in the brine as
it grows weaker. CHESHIRE STOVED SALT, LUMP S., BASKET S.; obtained by
evaporating the brine of salt springs; small flaky crystals.——LONDON’S
PATENT SOLID SALT; Cheshire rock salt, melted and ladled into
moulds.——ROCK SALT, FOSSIL S.; SAL GEMMÆ, SAL FOSSILIS; found in mineral
beds in Cheshire; has commonly a reddish colour; chiefly exported for
purification.
_Prop._ Pure chloride of sodium is fixed in the air; crystallises in
anhydrous cubes, which are often grouped into pyramids or steps; dissolves
in about 2-1/2 parts of water at 60° Fahr.; its solubility is not
increased by heat; it is slightly soluble in proof spirit; insoluble in
alcohol; decrepitates when heated; fuses at a red heat, and volatilises at
a much higher temperature.
_Pur., &c._ The common salt of commerce contains small portions of
chloride of magnesium, chloride of calcium, and sulphate of calcium; and
hence has commonly a slightly bitter taste, and deliquesces in the air. To
separate these, dissolve the salt in 4 times its weight of pure water, and
drop into the filtered solution, first, chloride of barium, and then
carbonate of sodium, as long as any precipitate falls; filter, and
evaporate the clear fluid very slowly, until the last crystallises, which
is pure chloride of sodium. (‘Thomson’s Chem.,’ ii, 377.) For medical
purposes the Ph. E. orders the salt to be dissolved in boiling water, and
the solution to be filtered and evaporated over the fire, skimming off the
crystals as they form, which must then be quickly washed in cold water,
and dried. A solution of pure salt is not precipitated by a solution of
carbonate of ammonium, followed by a solution of phosphate of sodium; a
solution of 9 gr. in distilled water is not entirely precipitated by a
solution of 26 gr. of nitrate of silver. (Ph. E.)
_Uses._ Common salt is stimulant, antiseptic, and vermifuge, and is hence
employed as a condiment, and for preserving animal and vegetable
substances. It is also occasionally used in medicine, in clysters and
lotions.
=Sodium, Dried Sulphate of.= _Syn._ SODÆ SULPHAS EXSICCATA, EFFLORESCED
GLAUBER SALT. Expose the crystals to a warm dry air till they fall into
powder. They lose half their weight. The dose is reduced in like
proportion.
=Sodium, Effervescing Citro-tartrate of.= _Syn._ SODÆ CITRO-TARTRAS
EFFERVESCENS. (B. P.) _Prep._ Mix thoroughly, powdered bicarbonate of
soda, 17 oz.; tartaric acid, 8 oz.; and citric acid, 6 oz.; place in a
dish or pan of suitable form, heated to between 200° and 220° Fahr., and
when the particles begin to aggregate, stir assiduously till they assume a
granular form. By means of suitable sieves separate the granules of
uniform and most convenient size. Preserve in well-closed bottles.
=Sodium, Ethylate.= Prepared as POTASSIUM ETHYLATE, substituting sodium
for potassium. Properties similar to ethylate of potassium.
=Sodium, Hydrate of.= NaHO. _Syn._ HYDRATE OF SODA, SODIUM HYDRATE,
CAUSTIC SODA; SODÆ HYDRAS. _Prep._ Exactly in the same manner from
carbonate of sodium as potassium hydrate is prepared from carbonate of
potassium.
The ‘Pharmaceutical Journal’[177] states that a pure hydrate of sodium is
now manufactured from metallic sodium by the following method:——A deep
silver vessel, of a hemispherical form, and capable of holding about four
gallons of water, is employed. Into this vessel, which is cooled
externally with a current of cold water, is placed a very little water,
and upon the water is placed a cube of metallic sodium, of about half an
inch in diameter.
[Footnote 177: 3rd series, i, 65.]
The vessel is made to revolve, so as continually to bring fresh portions
of liquid into contact with the metal, and by this means explosion is
avoided. When the first cube of metal has dissolved, and yielded a thick
syrupy liquid, a little more water and a second cube of metal are added,
and the reaction allowed to take place, as before, the vessel being kept
in motion all the time. In this manner several pounds of sodium may be
worked up into soda.
The thick syrup so resulting is next evaporated down, heated to redness,
fused, and poured into a mould.
Inasmuch as the price of sodium is five shillings a pound, the yield of
soda from 1 lb. of metal being about 1-3/4 lb., it is plain that the
alkali so prepared must be cheap.
The danger of explosions (which, however, are not likely to occur if
proper care is taken) necessitates the employment of skilled labour in
this manufacture, and constitutes a very serious drawback to the
commercial success of the process.
Greyish, semitranslucent, deliquescent masses, very soluble in water, and
bearing a very great resemblance to the corresponding potassium compound.
=Sodium, Hypochlo′′rite of.= _Syn._ CHLORINATED SODA, CHLORIDE OF SODA‡;
SODA CHLORINATA, L. _Prep._ (Dr Christison.) Dried carbonate of sodium, 19
parts, are triturated with water, 1 part, and the mixture placed in a
proper vessel, and exposed to the prolonged action of chlorine gas,
generated from a mixture of chloride of sodium, 10 parts; binoxide of
manganese, 8 parts; sulphuric acid, 14 parts; (diluted with) water, 10
parts.
=Sodium Hypophosphate.= See PHOSPHORUS.
=Sodium, Hyposul′phite of.= Na_{2}S_{2}O_{3}. _Syn._ SODÆ HYPOSULPHIS, L.
_Prep._ 1. Dried carbonate of sodium, 1 lb.; flower of sulphur, 10 oz.;
mix, and slowly heat the powder in a porcelain dish until the sulphur
melts; stir the fused mass freely to expose it to the atmosphere until the
incandescence flags, then dissolve the mass in water, and immediately boil
the filtered liquid with some flowers of sulphur; lastly, carefully
concentrate the solution for crystals.
2. A stream of well-washed sulphurous anhydride gas is passed into a
strong solution of carbonate of sodium, which is then digested with
sulphur at a gentle heat during several days; by evaporating the solution
at a moderate temperature, the salt is obtained in large and regular
crystals.
3. (Capaun’s process.) Boil a dilute solution of caustic soda with sulphur
to saturation, then pass sulphurous acid gas into the solution until a
small portion, when filtered, is found to have a very pale yellow colour;
when this is the case, it must be filtered and evaporated, as before.
4. (P. Cod.) Dissolve carbonate of sodium, 8 parts, in water, 16 parts;
add of sublimed sulphur, 1 part, and pass sulphurous acid gas, in excess,
into the solution; next boil the liquid in a glass matrass for a few
minutes, filter, gently evaporate the filtrate to 1-3rd its volume, and
set it aside in a cool place to crystallise.
_Prop., &c._ Hyposulphite of sodium crystallises in four-sided prisms,
which, in the dry state, are unalterable in the air; it is freely soluble
in water. It may be perfectly freed from sulphide of sodium by agitating
it with about half its weight of alcohol; the alcohol dissolves out the
sulphide, which may then be easily separated. This salt is now very
extensively used in the practice of photography, also as an ‘antichlore,’
to extract the last traces from paper pulp.
=Sodium, Iodide of.= NaI. _Syn._ SODII IODIDUM. _Prep._ As IODIDE OF
POTASSIUM. This, as well as the bromide, crystallises in clear or whitish
cubes, deliquescent, and soluble in water. Used in medicine in the same
manner as the corresponding potassium salts.
=Sodium and Iron, Pyrophosphate of.= _Syn._ SODÆ ET FERRI PYROPHOSPHAS,
NATRUM PYROPHOSPHORICUM FERRATUM. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Dissolve 20 oz. of
pyrophosphate of soda in 40 oz. of cold distilled water, and add,
gradually, to the solution, and with constant stirring, 8 oz. (by weight)
of solution of perchloride of iron (Ph. G.), previously diluted with 22
oz. of distilled water, as long as the precipitate is redissolved. Filter,
and to the clear, bright green liquid thus obtained pour in 100 oz. (by
weight) of rectified spirit, wash the precipitate with more spirit, press
it between blotting paper, and dry by a gentle heat.
=Sodium Lactate.= _Syn._ SODII LACTAS. _Prep._ Let lactate acid be diluted
with three parts of water; saturate whilst boiling with sodium
bicarbonate; then evaporate, and run into flakes.
Sodium lactate is a very deliquescent salt. The solution evaporated to the
consistence of a syrup deposits flattened prismatic crystals, and stellar
groups of needles.
=Sodium, Ni′trate of.= NaNO_{3}. _Syn._ CHILI SALTPETRE, CUBIC NITRE; SODÆ
NITRAS, L. This salt occurs native like ordinary nitre, and is chiefly
imported into England from South America. It is largely employed as a
manure, in the preparation of nitric acid, and, recently, in the
manufacture of fireworks, on account of the comparative slowness with
which it burns. It is deliquescent and very soluble in water.
=Sodium, Nitrite of.= _Syn._ SODÆ NITRIS. (B. P., 1864.) Mix nitrate of
soda, 1 lb., and charcoal, recently burned, and in fine powder, 1-1/4 oz.,
thoroughly in a mortar, and drop the mixture in successive portions into a
clay crucible, heated to a dull redness. When the salt has become quite
white, raise the heat so as to liquefy it, pour on to a clean flagstone,
and when it has solidified break into fragments, and keep in a stoppered
bottle.
=Sodium, Oxide of.= Na_{2}O. _Syn._ ANHYDROUS SODA. _Prep._ By burning dry
metallic sodium in air. White powder, very deliquescent, and soluble in
water, forming pure sodium hydrate.
=Sodium, Phos′phate of.= Na_{2}PO_{4}.12Aq. _Syn._ COMMON TRIBASIC
PHOSPHATE OF SODA, RHOMBIC P. OF S.; SODÆ PHOSPHAS (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.). _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Take of powdered bone ashes, 10 lbs.; sulphuric
acid, 44 fl. oz.; mix, add gradually of water 6 pints, and digest for 3
days, replacing the water which evaporates; then add 6 pints of boiling
water, strain through linen, and wash the residue on the filter with
boiling water; mix the liquors, and, after defecation, decant and
evaporate to 6 pints; let the impurities again settle, and neutralise the
clear fluid, heated to boiling, with a solution of carbonate of sodium in
slight excess; crystals will be deposited as the solution cools, and by
successively evaporating, adding a little more carbonate of sodium to the
mother liquor till it is feebly alkaline, and cooling, more crystals may
be obtained; these must be kept in close vessels. The formula of the Ph.
D. is nearly similar. It is placed in the Materia Medica of the B. P. and
Ph. L.
2. (Funcke.) To ground calcined bones, diffused through water, add a
little dilute sulphuric acid to saturate any carbonate of calcium present;
when effervescence ceases, dissolve the whole in nitric acid, q. s.; to
this solution add as much sulphate of sodium as the bone ash used, and
distil the whole to recover the nitric acid; the residuum is treated with
water, and the resulting solution filtered, evaporated, and crystallised.
_Prop., &c._ It forms very beautiful oblique rhombic prisms, of the
formula Na_{2}H,PO_{4},12H_{2}O, which effloresce in the air, dissolve in
about 4 parts of cold water and in 2 parts at 212° Fahr., and fuse when
heated. As a medicine it is mildly aperient, in doses of 1/2 to 1 oz., or
even more; and antacid in doses of 20 to 30 gr., frequently repeated. It
has a purely saline taste, resembling that of culinary salt, and is
commonly taken in broth or soup.
=Sodium Pyrophosphate (Crystallised).= _Syn._ SODÆ PYROPHOSPHAS
CRYSTALLISATA. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ This salt may be obtained by heating,
gently at first, and afterwards to a red heat, crystallised phosphate of
sodium in a platinum crucible until all the water is driven off, and the
salt has become fused. Dissolve the fused mass in water, filter, and
concentrate until it has a density of 1·20, and crystallise in the cold.
=Sodium, Salicylate of.= _Syn._ SODÆ SALICYLUS. _Prep._ Made by
neutralising a solution of pure salicylic acid with caustic soda, and
evaporating to dryness. It must be purified by crystallisation from
alcohol. Antipyretic; given in acute rheumatism.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 grams.
=Sodium Santonate.= _Syn._ SODÆ SANTONAS. This salt is made by digesting
an alcoholic solution of santonic acid with carbonate of soda,
evaporating, redissolving in strong alcohol, and crystallising.
=Sodium, Sesquicarbonate of.= Na_{4}H_{2}(CO_{3})_{3}. A salt found native
on the banks of the soda lakes of Sotrena, in Africa, whence it is
exported as ‘Trona.’
=Sodium Silicate.= See GLASS, SOLUBLE.
=Sodium, Stan′nate of.= Na_{2}SnO_{3}. _Prep._ (Greenwood & Co.) Caustic
soda, 22 lbs., is heated to low redness in an iron crucible, when nitrate
of sodium, 8 lbs., and common salt, 4 lbs., are added; when the mixture is
at a ‘fluxing heat,’ 10 lbs. of feathered block tin is stirred in with an
iron rod, both the stirring and heat being continued until the mass
becomes red hot and ‘pasty,’ and ammoniacal fumes are given off. The
product may be purified by solution and crystallisation. Patented. (See
_below_.)
=Sodium, Stan′nite of.= _Prep._ (Greenwood & Co.) From caustic soda,
13-1/2 lbs.; feathered block tin and common salt, of each 4 lbs.; as the
last. Patented. Both the above are used to prepare tin mordants (about 12
oz. to water, 1 gall.). The stannate and stannite of potassium are
prepared in a similar manner.
=Sodium Sulphate.= _Syn._ SODÆ SULPHIS. _Prep._ Pass sulphurous acid to
saturation through a solution of carbonate of soda. Used internally for
sarcina ventriculi, and externally as an application in skin diseases of
fungous origin. Hyposulphate of soda is employed in the same cases.
=Sodium, Sul′phate of.= Na_{2}SO_{4}.10Aq. _Syn._ GLAUBER’S SALT; SODÆ
SULPHAS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), SAL CATHARTICUS GLAUBERI†, L. This is
obtained as a secondary product in various chemical processes; but it may
be easily formed directly from its constituents.
_Prop., &c._ It forms transparent, six-sided, irregular, channelled
prisms, with dihedral summits, of the formulae Na_{2}SO_{4}10H_{2}O, which
effloresce in the air, and fall to an opaque white powder; soluble in
about 3 parts of water at 60°, and in considerably less at 100° Fahr., but
at a higher temperature its solubility rapidly lessens; insoluble in
alcohol; fuses when heated. It is seldom wilfully adulterated. When pure
the solution is neutral to test paper; nitrate of silver throws down
scarcely anything from a dilute solution; nitrate of baryta more, which is
not dissolved by nitric acid. It loses 55·5% of its weight by a strong
heat.
_Uses._ It is purgative, but being extremely bitter-tasted, is now less
frequently used than formerly. Its nauseous flavour is said to be covered
by lemon juice.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 oz. The dried salts (SODÆ SULPHAS
EXSICCATA) is twice as strong. LYMINGTON GLAUBER’S SALT is a mixture of
the sulphates of soda and potassa obtained from the mother liquor of sea
salt.
=Sodium, Sul′phide of.= _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Saturate a solution of caustic
soda (sp. gr. 1·200) with sulphuretted hydrogen, closely cover up the
vessel, and set it aside that crystals may form; drain, press them in
bibulous paper, and at once preserve them in a well-closed bottle. Used to
make mineral waters, and in certain skin diseases.
Of this salt Dr Ringer says——“it possesses the property of preventing and
arresting suppuration, and stopping the formation of pus. Given for boils
and carbuncles; it also produces excellent results.——_Dose._ For adults,
1/10th of a grain, mixed with sugar of milk every hour or two on the
tongue.
The anhydrous sulphides resemble closely and are prepared in the same
manner as the potassium sulphides.
=Sodium, Sulpho-Carbolate.= _Syn._ SODÆ SULPHO-CARBOLAS. (Pareira.)
_Prep._ Mix two volumes of pure carbolic acid with one volume of sulphuric
acid in a flask, and heat the mixture to 280° or 290° F. for five minutes.
Let cool, dilute, and saturate with carbonate of soda, evaporate, and
crystallise. The other sulpho-carbolates may be prepared in the same
manner.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr., in phthisis and zymotic diseases;
externally, as a lotion in ozæna and fetid ulcers.
=Sodium, Sulpho-Salicylate of.= _Syn._ SODÆ SULPHO-SALICYLAS. Mr J.
Williams obtains this salt by treating very pure salicylic acid with about
twice its weight of sulphuric acid, then adding carbonate of barium, and
decomposing the sulpho-salicylate of barium by sulphate of soda (see
‘Pharm. Journ.,’ Sept. 30th, 1876).
=Sodium Sulphovinate.= _Syn._ SODII SULPHOVINAS. _Prep._ Sulphovinic acid
is first prepared by pouring gradually, with great care, and increasingly
stirring with a glass rod, 1000 grams of 60° sulphuric acid into 1000
grams of rectified 96° alcohol. The mixture is left for some hours in
contact, then diluted with 4 litres of distilled water, and afterwards
saturated with pure barium carbonate.
When the saturation is complete the barium sulphate is allowed to deposit
on a filter. The solution of barium sulphovinate is then decomposed with
pure carbonate of soda until it ceases to give a precipitate.
The liquid, evaporated in a water bath, is left to crystallise. If
necessary the crystals are purified by recrystallisation. They should be
kept in well-closed flasks.
Sodium sulphovinate crystallises in hexagonal tables, which are slightly
unctuous to the touch, and very soluble in water and in alcohol. If heated
in a capsule they give off, at 120°, the alcohol which they contain in
combination. They become gradually deprived of bitterness. Sodium
sulphovinate ought not to contain sulphuric acid, nor have an acid taste.
It should not be precipitated by barium chloride, and especially by
soluble sulphates. The possession of either of these properties is a proof
of faulty preparation, and that a portion of the sulphovinic acid has been
decomposed. In such a case it should be rejected.
Sulphovinate of soda is said to be a very effective, and by no means
unpleasant, saline aperient, and to be unattended with subsequent
constipation. The dose is from 5 to 6 dr.
=Sodium, Tartrate of, and Potassium.= KNaC_{4}H_{4}O_{6}.4Aq. _Syn._
TARTRATE OF POTASSA AND SODA, ROCHELLE SALT, SEIGNETTE’S S., TARTARISED
SODA†; SODÆ TARTARATA (B. P.), SODÆ, POTASSIO-TARTRAS (Ph. L.), SODÆ ET
POTASSÆ TARTRAS (Ph. E. & D.), SODA TARTARIZATA,†, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.
1836.) Take of carbonate of sodium, 12 oz.; boiling water, 2 quarts;
dissolve, and add, gradually, of powdered bitartrate of potassium, 16 oz.
(or q. s.); strain, evaporate to a pellicle, and set it aside to
crystallise; dry the resulting crystals, and evaporate the mother liquor
that it may yield more of them. The formulæ of the other colleges are
nearly similar.
_Prop., &c._ Large, transparent, hard, right rhombic prisms, often
occurring in halves; slightly efflorescent; soluble in 5 parts of water at
60° Fahr. Its “solution neither changes the colour of litmus nor of
turmeric. On the addition of sulphuric acid, bitartrate of potassium is
thrown down; on adding either nitrate of silver or chloride of barium
nothing is thrown down, or only what is redissolved by the addition of
water.” (Ph. L.) By heat it yields a mixture of the pure carbonates of
potassium and sodium.
Potassio-tartrate of sodium is a mild and cooling laxative.——_Dose_, 1/4
to 1 oz., largely diluted with water. It forms the basis of the popular
aperient called SEIDLITZ POWDERS.
=Sodium, Vale′′rianate of.= NaC_{5}H_{6}O_{2}. _Syn._ SODÆ VALERIANAS (Ph.
D.), L. _Prep._(Ph. D.) Dilute oil of vitriol, 6-1/2 fl. oz., with water,
1/2 pint; then dissolve of powdered bichromate of potassium, 9 oz., with
the aid of heat, in water, 3-1/3 pints; when both solutions have cooled,
put them into a matrass, and having added of fusel oil (alcohol
amylicum——Ph. D.) 4 fl. oz., shake them together repeatedly until the
temperature, which first rises to 150°, has fallen to 80° or 90° Fahr.; a
condenser being connected, next apply heat so as to distil over about 4
pints of liquid; saturate this exactly with a pint, or q. s., of solution
of caustic soda, separate the liquid from the oil which floats upon the
surface, and evaporate it until the residual salt is partially liquefied;
the heat being now withdrawn, and the salt concreted, this last, whilst
still warm, is to be divided into fragments, and preserved in well-stopped
bottles.
_Obs._ This salt is intended to be used in the preparation of the
VALERIANATES OF IRON, QUININE, and ZINC.
=SOILS.= These are classified by agriculturists according to their chief
ingredients, as loamy, clayey, sandy, chalky, and peaty soils. Of these
the first is the best for most purposes, but the others may be improved by
the addition of the mineral constituents of which they are deficient. Sand
and lime or chalk are the proper additions to clayey soils, and clay
gypsum, or loam, to sandy and gravelly ones. Clayey soils are expensive to
bring into a fertile state; but when this is once effected, and they are
well manured, they yield immense crops of wheat, oats, beans, clover, and
most fruits and flowers of the rosaceous kinds.
The fertilisation of soils is suggested partly by chemical analysis,
practical experience, and geological observations. In cases where a barren
soil is examined with a view to its improvement it is, when possible,
compared with an extremely fertile soil in the same neighbourhood, and in
a similar situation; the difference given by their analyses indicates the
nature of the manure required, and the most judicious methods of
cultivation; and thus a plan of improvement is suggested, founded upon
scientific principles.
The analysis of soils may be briefly and generally described as follows:——
1. The general character of the soil, as loamy, sandy, stony, rather
stony, &c., being noted, 3 or 4 lbs. of it, fairly selected as an average
specimen, may be taken during a period of ordinary dry weather. From this,
after crushing or bruising the lumps with a piece of wood, all stones of a
larger size than that of a filbert may be picked out, and their proportion
to the whole quantity duly registered.
2. 1000 grains of the remainder may be next dried by the heat of boiling
water, until the mass ceases to lose weight; and, afterwards, exposed to a
moist atmosphere for some time. The loss of weight in the first case, and
the increase of weight in the second, indicate the absorbent powers of the
soil.
3. The matter from No. 2, freed from siliceous stones by garbling, may be
gradually heated to dull redness in a shallow open vessel, avoiding waste
from decrepitation, &c. The loss of weight, divided by 10, gives the
percentage quantity of vegetable or organic matter present (nearly).
4. Another 1000 grains (see No. 1) may be next washed with successive
portions of cold water as long as anything is removed. The residuum, after
being dried, indicates the proportion of sand and gravel (nearly).
5. Another portion of the soil (100, 200, or more gr., according to its
character) is tested in the manner described under CARBONATE and
ALKALIMETRY. The loss of weight in carbonic acid indicates the quantity of
CARBONATE of lime present in the sample examined; 22 gr. of the former
being equal to 50 gr. of the latter.
6. Another like portion of the soil may be gently boiled for 4 or 5 hours,
along with dilute hydrochloric acid, in a flask furnished with a long
glass tube passing through the cork, to prevent loss (see ETHER); after
that time the whole must be thrown upon a filter, and what refuses to pass
through (silica) washed with distilled water, dried, ignited, and weighed.
7. The filtrate and washings from No. 6 are next successively treated for
alumina (pure clay), lime, phosphate of lime, phosphoric acid, oxide of
iron, alkalies (potassa or soda), ammonia (both ready formed and latent),
&c. &c., in the manner noticed under GLASS, GUANO, and the names of the
respective substances referred to. See AGRICULTURE, MANURES, &c.
=SOL′ANINE.= _Syn._ SOLANI, SOLANINA, L. A peculiar basic substance,
obtained from the leaves and stem of _Solanum Dulcamara_ or
_bitter-sweet_, and other species of the _Solanaceæ_.
=SOL′DERING.= The union of metallic surfaces by means of a more fusible
metal fluxed between them. The method of autogenous soldering, invented by
M. De. Richmont, is an exception to this definition. In all the cases
surfaces must be perfectly clean, and in absolute contact, and the air
must be excluded, to prevent oxidation. For this last purpose the brazier
and silversmith use powdered borax made into a paste with water; the
coppersmith, powdered sal ammoniac; and the tinman, powdered resin.
Tin-foil applied between the joints of fine brass work, first wetted with
a strong solution of sal ammoniac, makes an excellent juncture, care being
taken to avoid too much heat. See SOLUTION (Soldering), and _below_.
=SOL′DERS.= _Prep._ 1. (For copper, iron, and dark brass.) From copper and
zinc, equal parts; melted together. For pale brass more zinc must be used.
2. (Fine solder.) From tin, 2 parts; lead, 1 part. Melts at 350° Fahr.
Used to tin and solder copper, tin plates, &c.
3. (For German silver.) From German silver, 5 parts; zinc, 4 parts; melted
together, run into thin flakes, and then powdered. Also as No. 7.
4. (Glazier’s.) From lead, 3 parts; tin, 1 part. Melts at 500° Fahr.
5. (For gold.) Gold, 12 pennyweights; copper, 4 do.; silver, 2 do.
6. (For lead and zinc.) From lead, 2 parts; tin, 1 part.
7. (For pewter, Britannia metal, &c.) From tin, 10 parts; lead, 5 parts;
bismuth, 1 to 3 parts.
8. (For silver.) From fine brass, 6 parts; silver, 5 parts; zinc, 2 parts.
9. (For tin plate.) From tin, 2 parts; lead, 1 part. The addition of
bismuth, 1 part, renders it fit for pewter.
=SOLE.= The _Solea vulgaris_, a well-known fish. It is perhaps more
frequently eaten than any other flat fish, and, when skilfully cooked,
exceeds them all in delicacy, nutritiousness, and flavour.
=SOLU′TION.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO, L. Under the head of solutions (SOLUTIONES),
in pharmacy, are properly included only those liquids which consist of
water, or an aqueous menstruum, in which has been dissolved an appropriate
quantity of any soluble substance to impart to the liquor its peculiar
properties. When spirit is the menstruum, the liquid receives the name of
alcoholic solution, spirit, or tincture. In the B. P. and the Ph. L. & D.
aqueous solutions are named LIQUORS (LIQUORES), whilst in the Ph. E., and
in the old pharmacopœias generally, they are termed WATERS (AQUÆ).
The following list embraces all the solutions of the British
pharmacopœias, with a few others likely to be useful to the reader. Some
other preparations to which the name has been given will be found under
LIQUORS, TINCTURES, &c.
=Solution of Ac′etate of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR OF ACETATE OF AMMONIA,
WATER OF A. OF A., MINDERERUS’ SPIRIT; AMMONIÆ ACETATIS LIQUOR (B. P.),
LIQUOR AMMONIÆ ACETATIS (Ph. L. & D.), AMMONIÆ ACETATIS AQUA (Ph. E.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) From dilute acetic acid, 1 pint; exactly neutralised
by sesquicarbonate of ammonia (in coarse powder), 9 dr., or q. s. Sp. gr.
1·022.
2. (Ph. E.) Distilled vinegar (preferably from French vinegar), sp. gr,
1·005, 24 fl. oz.; carbonate (sesquicarbonate) of ammonia, 1 oz., or q. s.
Sp. gr. 1·011.
3. (Ph. D.) Sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 2-1/2 oz.; dilute acetic acid, 3
pints. Sp. gr. 1·012.
4. (B. P.) Carbonate of ammonia, 3-1/4, or sufficient; acetic acid (28 per
cent.), 10; distilled water, 50. Dissolve the carbonate in the acid, and
add the water.
_Prop., &c._ Free from colour and odour. It changes the colour neither of
litmus nor turmeric. Sulphuretted hydrogen being dropped in, it is not
discoloured, neither is anything thrown down on the addition of chloride
of barium. What is precipitated by nitrate of silver is soluble in water,
but especially so in nitric acid. Potassa being added, it emits ammonia;
and sulphuric acid being added, it gives off acetic vapours. The fluid
being evaporated, what remains is completely destroyed by heat.
_Uses, &c._ Solution of acetate of ammonia is a very common and excellent
febrifuge and diaphoretic, and, in large doses, aperient saline liquor.
Taken warm, in bed, it generally proves a powerful sudorific; and as it
operates without heat, it is much used in febrile and inflammatory
disorders. Its action may likewise be determined to the kidneys, by
walking about in the cold air.——_Dose_, 2 to 6 dr., twice or thrice daily,
either by itself or along with other medicines. _Externally_, as a
discutient and refrigerant lotion; and diluted (1 oz. to 9 oz. of water),
as a collyrium in chronic ophthalmia. For this last purpose it must be
free from excess of ammonia.
5. (Concentrated.) Saturate acetic acid, sp. gr. 1·038, 1/2 gall., with
carbonate of ammonia (in powder), 2-1/2 lbs., or q. s.; carefully avoiding
excess.
_Obs._ This article is in great demand in the wholesale drug trade, under
the name of ‘concentrated liquor of acetate of ammonia’ (LIQ. AMMON. ACET.
CONC.). It is very convenient for dispensing. One fl. dr. added to 7 fl.
dr. of water forms the LIQUOR AMMONIÆ ACETATIS of the Ph. L.
=Solution of Acetate of Lead.= See SOLUTION OF DIACETATE OF LEAD.
=Solution of Acetate of Morphia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR MORPHIÆ ACETATIS (B. P.,
Ph. L., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Acetate of morphia, 4 dr.; acetic
acid, 15 drops; distilled water, 1 pint; proof spirit, 1/2 pint; mix, and
dissolve. Sixty drops (minims) contain 1 gr. of acetate of
morphia.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 or 20 drops.
2. (B. P.) Acetate of morphia, 4 gr.; diluted acetic acid, 8 minims;
rectified spirit, 2 dr.; distilled water, 6 dr.; dissolve in the mixed
liquids.——_Dose_, 10 to 60 minims.
3. (Ph. D.) Acetate of morphia, 82 gr.; rectified spirit, 5 fl. oz.;
distilled water, 15 fl. oz. 120 drops (minims) contain 1 gr. of the
acetate.——_Dose_, 10 to 45 or 50 drops, or similar to that of tincture of
opium.
4. (Magendie.) Each fl. dr. contains 1-1/2 gr. of acetate
(nearly).——_Dose_, 5 to 15 drops. Anodyne, hypnotic, and narcotic; in
those cases in which opium is inadmissible. See MORPHIA.
=Solution of Aconitia.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO ACONITIÆ (Dr Turnbull). _Prep._
Aconitia, 1 gr.; rectified spirit, 1 dr. To be applied externally by means
of a sponge in neuralgic and rheumatic affections.
=Solution of Al′um (Compound).= _Syn._ BATE’S ALUM WATER; LIQUOR ALUMINIS
COMPOSITUS (Ph. L.), AQUA ALUMINOSA COMPOSITA †, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Alum
and sulphate of zinc, of each 1 oz.; boiling water, 3 pints; dissolve, and
filter (if necessary). Detergent and astringent. Used as a lotion for old
ulcers, chilblains, excoriations, &c.; and, largely diluted with water, as
an eye-wash and injection.
=Solution of Ammo′′nia.= See LIQUOR OF AMMONIA.
=Solution of Ammo′′nio-ni′trate of Sil′ver.= _Syn._ HUME’S TEST; SOLUTIO
ARGENTI AMMONIATI (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Nitrate of silver (pure
crystallised), 44 gr.; distilled water, 1 fl. oz.; dissolve and add
ammonia water, gradually, until the precipitate, at first thrown down, is
very nearly, but not entirely, redissolved. Used as a test for arsenic.
=Solution of Ammo′′nio-sul′phate of Cop′per.= _Syn._ LIQUOR CUPRI
AMMONIO-SULPHATIS (Ph. L.), CUPRI AMMONIATI SOLUTIO (Ph. E.), C. A. AQUA,
L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Ammonio-sulphate of copper, 1 dr.; water, 1 pint;
dissolve, and filter. Stimulant and detergent. Applied to indolent ulcers,
and, when largely diluted, to remove specks on the cornea; also used as a
test for arsenic.
=Solution for Anatom′ical Preparations, &c.= _Syn._ ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION.
_Prep._ 1. Nearly saturate water with sulphurous acid, and add a little
creasote.
2. Dissolve chloride of tin, 4 parts, in water, 100 parts, to which 3% of
hydrochloric acid has been added.
3. Dissolve corrosive sublimate, 1 part, and chloride of sodium, 3 parts,
in water, 100 parts, to which 2% of hydrochloric acid has been added.
4. Mix liquor of ammonia (strong) with 3 times its weight (each) of water
and rectified spirit.
5. Sal ammoniac, 1 part; water, 10 or 11 parts. For muscular parts of
animals.
6. Sulphate of zinc, 1 part; water, 15 to 25 parts. For muscles,
integuments, and cerebral masses.
7. (Dr Babington.) Wood naphtha, 1 part; water, 7 parts; or wood naphtha
undiluted, as an injection.
8. (Sir W. Burnett.) Concentrated solution of chloride of zinc, 1 lb.;
water, 1 gall. The substances are immersed in the solution for 2 to 4
days, and then dried in the air.
9. (Gannal.) Alum and culinary salt, of each 1/2 lb.; nitre, 1/4 lb.;
water, 1 gall.
10. (Goadsby.)——_a._ From bay salt, 2 oz.; alum, 1 oz.; bichloride of
mercury, 1 gr.; water, 1 pint. For ordinary purposes.
_b._ To the last add of bichloride of mercury, 1 gr.; water, 1 pint. For
very tender tissues, and where there is a tendency to mouldiness.
_c._ From bay salt, 1/4 lb.; bichloride of mercury, 1 gr.; water, 1 pint.
For subjects containing carbonate of lime.
_d._ From bay salt, 1/4 lb.; arsenious acid, 10 gr.; water, 1 pint;
dissolve by heat. For old preparations.
_e._ To the last add of bichloride of mercury, 1 gr. As the last, when
there is a tendency to the softening of parts; and, diluted, for mollusca.
These solutions are approved of by Prof. Owen.
11. (M. Réboulet.) Nitre, 1 part; alum, 2 parts; chloride of lime, 4
parts; water, 16 or 20 parts; to be afterwards diluted according to
circumstances. For pathological specimens. 12. (Dr Stapleton.) Alum,
2-1/4 oz.; nitre, 1 dr.; water, 1 quart. For pathological specimens.
13. (For FEATHERS——Beasley.) Strychnia, 16 gr.; rectified spirit, 1 pint.
_Obs._ These fluids are used for preserving ANATOMICAL PREPARATIONS,
OBJECTS OF NATURAL HISTORY, &c., by immersing them therein, in close
vessels; or, for temporary purposes, applying them by means of a brush or
piece of rag. The presence of corrosive sublimate is apt to render animal
substances very hard. See PUTREFACTION.
=Solution, Antiseptic.= (See _above_.)
=Solution of Arseniate of Ammonia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ARSENIATIS AMMONIÆ.
(Hosp. Of St Louis.) _Prep._ Arseniate of ammonia, 4 gr.; distilled water,
4 oz.; spirit of angelica, 2 dr.——_Dose_, 12 to 30 minims. There are other
formulæ for the solution, differing in strength from the above.
Dr Neligan gives us Biett’s:——Arseniate of ammonia, 1-1/2 gr.; distilled
water, 3 oz.; spirit of angelica, 6 dr.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 dr.
Bouchardat says 6 gr. to 8 oz. of distilled water.——_Dose._ From 12 drops
to 1 dr.
=Solution of Arseniate of Soda.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ARSENIATIS SODÆ. PEARSON’S
ARSENICAL SOLUTION. _Prep._ Arseniate of soda, 4 gr.; distilled water, 4
oz.——_Dose_, 12 minims to 30.
=Solution of Arseniate of Soda.= (B. P.) _Syn._ LIQUOR SODÆ ARSENIATIS.
_Prep._ Dissolve arseniate of soda (rendered anhydrous by a heat not
exceeding 300° Fahr.) 4 gr. in distilled water, 1 oz.——_Dose_, 5 to 10
minims.
=Solution, Arsenical.= _Syn._ MINERAL SOLUTION; SOLUTIO ARSENICALIS,
SOLUTIO MINERALIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Devergie.) As SOLUTION OF ARSENITE OF
POTASSA, Ph. L., but of only 1-50th the strength, and flavoured with
compound spirit of balm, and coloured to a deep rose with cochineal.
2. (Pearson.) Arseniate of soda, 4 gr.; water, 4 fl. oz.;
dissolve.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops during the day. (See _below_.)
=Solution of Arse′′nious Acid.= See DROPS, AGUE, and ARSENIOUS ACID.
=Solution of Ar′senite of Potas′sa.= _Syn._ FOWLER’S MINERAL SOLUTION;
LIQUOR POTASSÆ ARSENITIS. (Ph. L.), LIQUOR ARSENICALIS (B. P., Ph. E., D.,
& U. S.), L. _Prep._ (B. P., Ph. L., & E.) Arsenious acid, coarsely
powdered, and carbonate of potassa, of each 80 gr.; distilled water, 1
pint; boil until dissolved, and add, to the cold solution, compound
tincture of lavender, 5 fl. dr.; water, q. s. to make the whole exactly
measure a pint. Tonic, antiperiodic, and alterative.——_Dose_, 4 or 5
drops, gradually and cautiously increased; in agues and various scaly skin
diseases. It is preferably taken soon after a meal. See ARSENIOUS ACID,
&c.
=Solution of Atropia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ATROPIÆ (B. P.). _Prep._ Atropia, 4
gr.: rectified spirit, 1 dr.; dissolve, and add water, 7 dr.;
mix.——_Dose_, 1 minim.
=Solution of Auro-Chloride of Gold.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO AURI AMMONIO-CHLORIDI.
(Furnari.) _Prep._ Ammonio-chloride of gold, 8 gr.; distilled water and
rectified spirit, of each 10 oz.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful morning and
evening in sugared water for dysmenorrhœa and amenorrhœa.
=Solution of Bimeconate of Morphiæ.= SOLUTIO MORPHIÆ BIMECONATIS. There is
no standard formula for this preparation. It is made about the same
strength as tincture of opium. The following contains 1 gr. in 84
minims:——Bimeconate of morphia, 10 gr.; rectified spirit, 1 dr.; distilled
water, 13 dr.
=Solution of Bismuth and Citrate of Ammonia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR BISMUTHI ET
AMMONIÆ CITRATIS (B. P.). Purified bismuth, 1; nitric acid, 2; citric
acid, 2; solution of ammonia, a sufficiency; mix the nitric acid with an
ounce of distilled water, and add the bismuth in successive portions. When
effervescence has ceased, apply for ten minutes a heat approaching that of
ebullition, and decant the solution from any insoluble matter. Evaporate
the solution until it is reduced to 2, then add the citric acid previously
dissolved in 4 of distilled water, and afterwards the solution of ammonia
in small quantities at a time, until the precipitate formed is
redissolved, and the solution is neutral or slightly alkaline to test
paper; dilute with distilled water to the volume of 20.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1
dr.
=Solution of Bromine.= _Syn._ LIQUOR BROMINII. (Pourche.) _Prep._ Bromine,
1 part; distilled water, 40 parts.——_Dose_, 5 or 6 drops, 3 times a day. A
stronger solution (1 part to 10) is sometimes used externally.
=Solution of Carbon (Detergent).= _Syn._ LIQUOR CARBONIS DETERGENS. This
name is applied to an alcoholic solution of coal tar. Properly diluted it
is used externally in skin diseases.
=Solution, Brandish’s.= See SOLUTION OF POTASSA.
=Solution, Burnett’s.= A solution of chloride of zinc. See SOLUTION FOR
ANATOMICAL PREPARATIONS (_above_), also DISINFECTING COMPOUNDS.
=Solution of Camphor, Carbonated.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO CAMPHORÆ CARBONICA.
(Swediaur.) _Prep._ Water saturated with carbonic acid gas, 2 lbs.;
powdered camphor, 3 dr.
=Solution of Camphor and Chloroform.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO CAMPHORÆ ET
CHLOROFORMI. (Messrs Smith.) _Prep._ Camphor, 3 dr.; chloroform, 1 fl. dr.
Dissolve. For exhibiting camphor with yolk of egg in emulsions.
=Solution of Carbolic Acid.= FOR THE TOILETTE. _Prep._ Crystallised
carbolic acid, 10 parts; essence of millefleur, 1 part; tincture of
Quillai Saponaria, 50; water, 1000 parts. Mix. The saponine replaces soap
with advantage. The above should be employed diluted with 10 times its
bulk of water, for disinfecting the skin, for washing the hands, after any
risk of contagion, inoculation, &c.
=Solution of Car′bonate of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF SESQUICARBONATE
OF AMMONIA, CARBONATE OF AMMONIA WATER; LIQUOR AMMONIÆ SESQUICARBONATIS
(Ph. L.), AQUA AMMONIÆ CARBONATIS (Ph. E.). _Prep._ (Ph. L. & E.)
Sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 4 oz.; distilled water, 1 pint; dissolve.
Stimulant and antacid.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 fl. dr., in water.
=Solution of Carbonate of Magnesia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR MAGNESIÆ CARBONATIS (B.
P.) _Prep._ Dissolve separately, each in 1/2 a pint of distilled water,
sulphate of magnesia, 2 oz.; and carbonate of soda, 2-1/2 oz. Heat the
solution of sulphate of magnesia to the boiling point, add the solution of
carbonate of soda, and boil together until carbonic acid ceases to be
evolved. Collect the precipitated carbonate of magnesia, and wash until
what passes ceases to give a precipitate with chloride of barium. Mix the
precipitate with a pint of distilled water, and in a suitable apparatus,
charge with pure washed carbonic acid gas. Retain excess of carbonic acid
under pressure for 24 hours. Filter to remove undissolved carbonate, and
again pass carbonic acid into the solution. Keep in a bottle securely
closed. (This contains about 13 gr. of carbonate of magnesia in each fluid
ounce.)
=Solution of Carbonate of Potas′sa.= _Syn._ OIL OF TARTAR†, WATER OF
SUBCARBONATE OF POTASH†; LIQUOR POTASSÆ CARBONATIS (Ph. L. & D.), L. P.
SUBCARBONATIS†, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Carbonate of potassa, 20 oz. (10
oz.——Ph. D.); water, 1 pint; dissolve and filter (or decant). Sp. gr.——Ph.
L., 1·473; Ph. D., 1·310.——_Dose_, 10 drops to 1 dr., as an antacid, &c.
=Solution of Carbonate of So′da.= _Syn._ SUBCARBONATE OF SODA WATER†; SODÆ
CARBONATIS LIQUOR (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.) Carbonate of soda (in
crystals), 1-1/2 oz.; distilled water, 1 pint. Sp. gr. 1·026.——_Dose_, 1/4
to 1-1/2 fl. oz., as an antacid; in heartburn, dyspepsia, &c.
=Solution of Chloride of Antimony.= _Syn._ ANTIMONII CHLORIDI LIQUOR (B.
P.). _Prep._ Dissolve black sulphide of antimony in boiling hydrochloric
acid. Used as an escharotic, and in the preparation of oxide of antimony.
=Solution of Chlo′′ride of Ar′senic.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ARSENICI
HYDROCHLORICUS (B. P.), LIQUOR ARSENICI CHLORIDI (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. L.) Arsenious acid (in coarse powder), 1/2 dr.; hydrochloric acid,
1-1/2 fl. dr.; distilled water, 1 fl. oz.; boil until the solution of the
arsenious acid is complete, and, when cold, add enough distilled water to
make the whole exactly measure a pint.——_Dose_, 4 to 5 drops.
2. (B. P.) Arsenious acid, 80 gr.; hydrochloric acid, 2 dr.; distilled
water, 20 oz.; boil the two acids with 4 oz. of the water until a solution
is effected, then add sufficient distilled water to make up 20
oz.——_Dose_, 2 to 8 minims.
=Solution of Chloride of Ba′′rium.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF MURIATE OF BARYTA†;
LIQUOR BARII CHLORIDI (Ph. L. & D.), SOLUTIO BARYTÆ MURIATIS (Ph. E.), L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L. & E.) Dissolve chloride of barium, 1 dr. (1 oz.——Ph. D.),
in water, 1 fl. oz. (8 oz. Ph. D.), and filter the solution. Sp. gr. (Ph.
D.) 1·088.——_Dose_, 5 drops, gradually increased to 10 or 12, twice or
thrice daily; in scrofula, scirrhous affections, and worms; _externally_,
largely diluted, as a lotion in scrofulous ophthalmia.
=Solution of Chloride of Cal′cium.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF MURIATE OF LIME†;
CALCII CHLORIDI LIQUOR (Ph. D.), CALCIS MURIATIS SOLUTIO (Ph. E.). _Prep._
1. (Ph. L. 1836.) Fused chloride of calcium, 4 oz. (crystals, 8 oz.——Ph.
E.); water, 12 fl. oz.; dissolve, and filter.
2. (Ph. D.) Fused chloride of calcium, 3 oz.; water, 12 oz. Sp. gr.
1·225.——_Dose_, 10 drops to 1 dr., or more; in scrofulous and glandular
diseases, &c.
=Solution of Chloride of Zinc.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ZINCI CHLORIDI (B. P.).
_Prep._ Granulated zinc, 8; hydrochloric acid, 22; solution of chlorine,
q. s.; carbonate of zinc, 1/4; distilled water, 10. Mix the acid and water
in a porcelain dish, add the zinc, and apply a gentle heat to promote the
action until gas is no longer evolved; boil for half an hour, supplying
the water lost by evaporation, and allow the product to cool. Filter it
into a bottle, and add solution of chlorine by degrees, with frequent
agitation until a brown sediment appears. Filter the liquid into a
porcelain basin, and evaporate until it is reduced to the bulk of 20.
=Solution of Chlo′′rinated Lime.= _Syn._ BLEACHING LIQUID, SOLUTION OF
CHLORIDE OF LIME‡, S. OF HYPOCHLORITE OF LIME; SOLUTIO CALCIS HYPOCHLORIS,
S. CALCIS CHLORIDI, CALCIS CHLORINATÆ LIQUOR (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
D.) Chlorinated lime (‘chloride of lime’), 1/2 lb.; water, 1/2 gall.;
triturate them together, then transfer the mixture to a stoppered bottle,
and shake it repeatedly for the space of 3 hours; lastly, filter through
calico, and preserve it in a well-stopped bottle.
2. Chloride of lime (dry and good, and rubbed to fine powder), 9 lbs.;
tepid water, 6 galls.; mix in a stoneware bottle capable of holding 8
galls., agitate frequently for a day or two, and, after 2 or 3 days’
repose, decant the clear portion, and keep it in well-corked bottles, in a
cool situation. If filtered, it should be done as rapidly as possible, and
only through coarsely powdered glass in a covered vessel.
3. LIQUOR CALCIS CHLORATÆ (B. P.). _Prep._ Blend well together, by
trituration in a large mortar, 1 lb. of chlorinated lime with 1 gall. of
water, transfer the mixture to a stoppered bottle, and shake it frequently
for the space of 3 hours; pour it on a calico filter, and let the solution
which passes through be kept in a well-stoppered bottle. Sp. gr. 1·035.
_Obs._ The last is the usual strength sold in trade, under various
attractive names, to give it importance. It is used as a disinfectant,
bleacher, and fumigation; and, diluted with water, as a lotion, injection,
or collyrium, in several diseases. See HYPOCHLORITE OF CALCIUM.
=Solution of Chlorinated lime, Spirituous.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO CALCIS
CHLORIDI, SPIRITUOSA. (Chevallier). _Prep._ Chloride of lime, 3 dr.;
distilled water, 2 oz.; rectified spirit, 2 oz. Mix and filter.
=Solution of Chlorinated Potas′sa.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF CHLORIDE OF
POTASH‡, S. OF HYPOCHLORITE OF POTASSA, JAVELLE’S BLEACHING LIQUID;
SOLUTIO POTASSÆ HYPOCHLORIS, LIQUOR POTASSÆ CHLORIDI, L. POTASSÆ
CHLORINATÆ, L.; EAU DE JAVELLE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. Dissolve carbonate of
potassa, 1 part, in water, 10 parts, and pass chlorine gas through the
solution to saturation.
2. Chloride of lime (dry and good), 1 part; water, 15 parts: agitate them
together for an hour; next dissolve of carbonate of potassa, 2 oz., in
water, 1/4 pint; mix the two solutions, and after a time either decant or
filter.——_Uses, &c._ As the last.
=Solution of Chlorinated Soda.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF CHLORIDE OF SODA‡, S.
OF HYPOCHLORITE OF SODA, LABARRAQUE’S DISINFECTING LIQUID; SOLUTIO SODÆ
HYPOCHLORIS, HYPOCHLORIS SODICUS AQUA SOLUTUS (P. Cod.), LIQUOR SODÆ
CHLORINATÆ (Ph. L. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.), Carbonate of soda (in
crystals), 1 lb.; water, 1 quart; dissolve, and pass through the solution
the chlorine evolved from a mixture of common salt, 4 oz.; binoxide of
manganese, 3 oz.; sulphuric acid, 2-1/2 fl. oz. (4 oz.——Ph. L. 1836);
diluted with water, 3 fl. oz.; placed in a retort, heat being applied to
promote the action, and the gas being purified by passing through 5 fl.
oz. of water before it enters the alkaline solution.
2. (Ph. D.) Chlorinated lime, 1/2 lb., and water, 3 pints, are triturated
together in a marble mortar, after which the mixture is transferred to a
stoppered bottle, agitated frequently during three hours, and then
filtered through calico; in the mean time carbonate of soda (cryst.), 7
oz., is dissolved in water, 1 pint; the two solutions are next mixed, and,
after agitation for about 10 minutes, the whole is filtered as before. The
filtrate is to be preserved in a well-stopped bottle.
3. (B. P.) Dissolve 12 oz. of carbonate of soda in 36 oz. of distilled
water, and put the solution into a glass vessel. Mix black oxide of
manganese, 4 oz., and hydrochloric acid, 15 fl. oz., in a glass flask,
with a bent tube attached by means of a cork to its mouth, apply a gentle
heat, and with a suitable arrangement cause the gas evolved to pass first
through a wash-bottle containing 4 oz. of water, and then into the
solution of carbonate of soda, regulating heat so that the gas shall be
slowly but constantly introduced. When the disengagement of chlorine has
ceased, transfer the solution which has absorbed it to a stoppered bottle,
and keep in a cool and dark place. Sp. gr. 1·103.
_Obs._ This solution is used as an antiseptic, disinfectant, and bleaching
liquid.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 drops, in any bland fluid, in scarlet fever,
sore throat, &c.; it is also made into a lotion, gargle, injection, and
eye-water. Meat in a nearly putrid state, unfit for food, is immediately
restored by washing or immersion in this liquid.
=Solution of Chlo′′rine.= _Syn._ CHLORINE WATER; SOLUTIO CHLORINII, LIQUOR
CHLORINI (Ph. L. & D.), CHLORINEI AQUA (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) On
binoxide of manganese (in powder), 2 dr., placed in a retort, pour
hydrochloric acid, 1 fl. oz., and pass the chlorine in distilled water,
1/2 pint, until it ceases to be evolved.
2. (Ph. E.) Muriate of soda (common salt), 60 gr.; red oxide of lead, 350
gr.; triturate them together, and put them into 8 fl. oz. of distilled
water, contained in a stoppered bottle; then add of sulphuric acid, 2 fl.
dr.; and having replaced the stopper, agitate the whole, occasionally,
until the oxide of lead turns white; lastly, after subsidence, pour off
the clear liquid into another stoppered bottle.
3. (Ph. D.) Introduce into a gas bottle peroxide of manganese (in fine
powder), 1/2 oz.; add of hydrochloric acid, 3 fl. oz., (diluted with)
water, 2 fl. oz.; apply a gentle heat, and cause the evolved gas to pass
through water, 2 fl. oz., and then into a 3-pint bottle containing
distilled water, 20 fl. oz., and whose mouth is loosely plugged with tow;
when the air has been entirely displaced by the chlorine, cork the bottle
loosely, and shake it until the chlorine is absorbed; it should now be
transferred to a pint stoppered bottle, and preserved in a dark and cool
place.
(B. P.) LIQUOR CHLORI. _Prep._ Put 1 oz. of black oxide of manganese, in
fine powder, into a gas bottle, and having poured upon it 6 fl. oz. of
hydrochloric acid, diluted with 2 oz. of distilled water, apply a gentle
heat, and by suitable tubes cause the gas, as it is developed, to pass
through 2 oz. of distilled water placed in an intermediate small phial,
and thence to the bottom of a 3-pint bottle containing 30 oz. of distilled
water, the mouth of which is loosely plugged with tow. As soon as the
chlorine ceases to be developed, let the bottle be disconnected from the
apparatus in which the gas has been generated, corked loosely, and shaken
until the chlorine is absorbed. Lastly, introduce the solution into a
green bottle furnished with a well-fitting stopper, and keep it in a cool
and dark place. Sp. gr. 1·003. One fluid ounce contains 2·66 grains of
chlorine.
_Prop., &c._ Irritant and acrid, but, when largely diluted, stimulant and
antiseptic.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr., in 1/2 pint of water, sweetened
with a little sugar, in divided doses, during the day; in scarlatina,
malignant sore throat, &c. On the large scale, liquid chlorine may be
procured by passing the gas obtained by any of the methods named under
CHLORINE into water, until it will absorb no more.
=Solution of Cit′rate of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR AMMONIÆ CITRATIS (B.
P., Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Dissolve citric acid, 3 oz., in distilled
water, 1 pint; and to the solution add of sesquicarbonate of ammonia (in
powder), 2-1/2 oz., or q. s. to exactly neutralise the liquor.——_Dose_, 2
to 6 fl. dr.
=Solution of Citrate of Magne′sia.= _Syn._ SOLUTION MAGNESIÆ CITRATIS. See
MAGNESIUM, CITRATE OF.
(B. P.) Carbonate of magnesia, 100 gr.; citric acid, 200 gr.; syrup of
lemons, 1/2 fl. oz.; bicarbonate of potash in crystals, 40 gr.; water,
q. s. Dissolve the citric acid in 2 oz. of the water, and having added the
carbonate of magnesia, stir until it is dissolved. Filter the solution
into a strong half-pint bottle, add the syrup and water sufficient to
nearly fill the bottle, then introduce the bicarbonate of potash, and
immediately close the bottle with a cork, which should be secured with
string or wire, afterwards shake till the bicarbonate has
dissolved.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 fl. oz.
=Solution of Citrate of Morphia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR MORPHIÆ CITRATIS, SOLUTIO
M. C., L. _Prep._ (Magendie.) Pure morphia, 13 gr.; citric acid, 8 or 10
gr.; water, 1 fl. oz.; tincture of cochineal, 2 fl. dr.——_Dose_, 3 to 12
drops.
=Solution of Citrate of Potash.= _Syn._ LIQUOR POTASSÆ CITRATIS. NEUTRAL
MIXTURE. (Ph. U. S.) _Prep._ Citric acid, 1/2 troy oz.; bicarbonate of
potash, 330 gr.; water, 8 oz.
=Solution of Copai′ba.= See SOLUTION, SPECIFIC.
=Solution of Cor′rosive Sub′limate.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF CHLORIDE OF
MERCURY; LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI BICHLORIDI† (Ph. L.). _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Corrosive sublimate and sal ammoniac, of each 10 gr.; water, 1 pint,
dissolve.——_Dose._ As an alterative, 10 to 30 drops; as an antisyphilitic,
1/2 to 2 fl. dr., in simple or sweetened water. It must not be allowed to
touch anything metallic. It also forms a most useful lotion in various
skin diseases.
2. See LOTION, MERCURIAL.
=Solution of Cyanide of Potassium.= _Syn._ LIQUOR POTASSII CYANIDI.
(Laming.) _Prep._ Cyanide of potassium, 22 gr.; proof spirit, 9 fl. dr.
This is the strength of his hydrocyanic acid, which contains 1 gr. of real
acid in 1 fl. dr. Magendie’s medicinal hydrocyanate of potash consists of
cyanide of potassium dissolved in 8 times its weight of distilled water.
=Solution of Delphinia.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO DELPHINIÆ. (Dr Turnbull.)
Delphinia, 1 scruple; rectified spirit, 2 oz. For outward use.
=Solution of Diac′etate of Lead.= See SOLUTION OF SUBACETATE OF LEAD.
=Solution, Donovan’s.= See SOLUTION OF HYDRIODATE OF ARSENIC AND MERCURY
(_below_).
=Solution, Escharotic (Freyburg’s).= _Syn._ SOLUTIO ESCHAROTICA, L.
_Prep._ From camphor, 30 gr.; corrosive sublimate, 60 to 100 gr.;
rectified spirit, 1 fl. oz.; dissolve. In syphilitic vegetations, and
specially condylomes. It is spread over the diseased surface, either at
once or after the application of a ligature.
=Solution of Flints.= _Syn._ LIQUOR OF FLINTS; LIQUAMEN SILICUM, LIQUOR
POTASSÆ SILICATIS, L. _Prep._ 1. Soluble glass dissolved in water.
2. (Bate.) Powdered quartz, 1 part; dry carbonate of potash, 2 parts (3
parts——Turner); triturate them together, fuse the mixture in a Hessian
crucible, and allow the resulting glass to deliquesce by exposure in a
damp situation.——_Dose_, 5 or 6 to 30 drops; in gouty concretions, stone,
&c. “It resolves the stone, and opens obstructions.” See SOLUBLE GLASS.
=Solution, Gannal’s.= { See SOLUTION FOR
=Solution, Goadsby’s.= { ANATOMICAL PREPARATIONS.
=Solution, Goulard’s.= See SOLUTION OF SUBACETATE OF LEAD.
=Solution, Hahnemann’s Prophylac′tic.= _Syn._ LIQUOR BELLADONNÆ, SOLUTIO
PROPHYLACTICA, L. _Prep._ From extract of belladonna (alcoholic), 3 gr.;
distilled water, 6 fl. dr.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. dr.; dissolve. Used
against scarlet fever.——_Dose_, 2 or 3 drops for a child under 12 months;
and an additional drop for every year above that age to maturity.
=Solution of Hartshorn, Succinated.= _Syn._ LIQUOR CORNU CERVI SUCCINATUS.
(P. Cod.) Neutralise true spirits of hartshorn (or a solution of 1 oz. of
salt of hartshorn in 1 oz. of water) with acid of amber.
=Solution of Hydri′odate of Ar′senic and Mer′cury.= _Syn._ DONOVAN’S
SOLUTION; SOLUTIO ARSENICI ET HYDRARGYRI IODIDI, ARSENICI ET HYDRARGYRI
HYDRIODATIS LIQUOR. (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Donovan.) Triturate metallic
arsenic, 6·08 gr., mercury, 15·38 gr., and iodine, 50 gr., with alcohol, 1
fl. dr., until dry; to this add, gradually, of distilled water, 8 fl. oz.,
and again well triturate; next put the whole into a flask, add of
hydriodic acid, 1/2 fl. dr., and boil for a few minutes; lastly, when
cold, add distilled water, q. s. to make the whole measure exactly 8 fl.
oz.
2. (Ph. D.) Pure arsenic (in fine powder), 6 gr.; pure mercury, 16 gr.;
pure incline, 50-1/2 gr.; alcohol, 1/2 fl. dr.; triturate as before, add,
gradually, of water, 8 fl. oz., heat the mixture until it begins to boil,
and, afterwards, make up the cold and filtered solution to exactly 8 fl.
oz. 6 fl. dr.
3. (Wholesale.) From metallic arsenic, 61 gr.; iodine, 500 gr.; mercury,
154 gr.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 fl. oz.; distilled water, 2 quarts;
hydriodic acid, 5 fl. dr.; as No. 1; the product being made up with
distilled water so as to measure exactly 4 pints, or 80 fl. oz., or to
weigh 5 lbs. 1-1/4 oz. (av.), when cold.
_Obs._ Great care must be taken that the whole of the arsenic be
dissolved, which can only be effected by the most careful trituration.
Soubeiran recommends the employment of 1 part, each, of the respective
iodides, with 98 parts of water, as furnishing a simpler and equally
effective product, proportions which are almost exactly those employed by
Mr Donovan.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops, twice or thrice a day, preferable
soon after a meal; in lepra, psoriasis, lupus, and several other scaly
skin diseases. It is a most valuable medicine in these affections.
=Solution of Hydrochlo′′rate of Mor′phia.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF MURIATE OF
MORPHIA; LIQUOR MORPHIÆ HYDROCHLORATIS (Ph. L.), SOLUTIO MORPHIÆ MURIATIS
(Ph. E.), MORPHIÆ MURIATIS LIQUOR (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)
Hydrochlorate of morphia, 4 dr.; proof spirit, 1/2 pint; distilled water,
1 pint; dissolve by the aid of a gentle heat. 60 drops (minims) of this
solution contain 1 gr. of hydrochlorate of morphia.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 or 20
drops.
2. (Ph. E. & D.) Muriate of morphia, 90 gr.; rectified spirit, 5 fl. oz.;
distilled water, 15 fl. oz. 107 drops (minims) contain 1 gr. of the
hydrochlorate.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 or 40 drops, or nearly as laudanum.
3. (Apothecaries’ Hall.) Muriate of morphia, 16 gr.; rectified spirit, 1
fl. dr.; water, 1 fl. oz.; 30 drops (minims) contain 1 gr.——_Dose_, 3 to
10 drops. See SOLUTION OF ACETATE OF MORPHIA, &c.
=Solution of Hypochlo′′rite of Lime.= Solution of chlorinated lime.
=Solution of I′odide of Ar′senic.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ARSENICI PERIODIDI, L.
_Prep._ (Wackenroder.) Each drachm contains 1/8 gr. of teriodide of
arsenic; equivalent to 1/48 gr. of metallic arsenic, and 1/10 gr. (nearly)
of iodine.
=Solution of Iodide of Mer′cury and Potas′sium.= _Syn._ LIQUOR
IODOHYDRARGYRATIS POTASSII IODIDI, L. _Prep._ (Dr Channing.) Iodide of
potassium, 3-1/2 gr.; binoxide of mercury, 41/2 gr.; distilled water, 1
fl. oz.; dissolve.——_Dose_, 2 to 5 or 6 drops, three times a day, much
diluted; in dyspepsia, indurations, enlargement of the spleen, dropsy, &c.
=Solution of Iodide of Potas′sium (Compound).= _Syn._ IODURETTED WATER,
COMPOUND SOLUTION OF IODINE; LIQUOR POTASSII IODIDI COMPOSITUS (Ph. L. &
D.), LIQUOR IODINEI COMPOSITUS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. & D.)
Iodide of potassium, 10 gr.; iodine, 5 gr.; water, 1 pint;
dissolve.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 dr.; in the usual cases where iodine is
employed.
2. (Ph. E.) Iodide of potassium, 1 oz.; iodine, 2 dr.; water, 16 fl. oz.
This is 30 times as strong as the preceding.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 drops.
=Solutions of Iodine.= _Syn._ LIQUOR IODI (B. P.). _Prep._ Dissolve 20 gr.
of iodine and 30 gr. of iodide of potassium in 1 oz. of distilled water.
(Lugol’s.) _Syn._ SOLUTIONES IODINII VEL IODURETÆ. _Prep._ Ioduretted
waters, Nos. 1, 2, and 3; iodine, 1-1/2 gr., 2 gr., and 2-1/2 gr.; water,
1 pint. _Drops._——Iodine, 1 scruple; iodide of potassium, 2 scruples;
water, 9 dr. _Lotions, &c._——Iodine, 1-1/2 gr. to 3 gr.; iodide of
potassium, 3 gr. to 6 gr.; water, 1 pint. _Rubefacient._——Iodine, 1 pint;
iodide of potassium, 2 parts; water, 12 parts. _Caustic._——Iodine, 1 part;
iodide of potassium, 1 part; water, 2 parts.
=Solution of Iodide of Iron.= _Syn._ LIQUOR FERRI IODIDI. (Ph. U. S.).
_Prep._ Mix 2 oz. (troy) of iodine with 5 oz. of water, and add 1 oz.
(troy) of iron filings, stir frequently, and heat the mixture gently till
it assumes a greenish colour; then filter into a glass bottle containing
12 oz. of powdered sugar, and after it has passed, pour distilled water on
the filter, until the filtered liquor, including the sugar, measures 20
oz., last shake the bottle till the sugar is dissolved.——_Dose_, 15 minims
to 1 dr.
=Solution of Iodine with Hemlock.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO IODINII CUM CONIO. Dr
SCUDAMORE’S SOLUTION. For inhaling. Iodine, 6 gr.; iodide of potassium, 6
gr.; rectified spirit, 2 dr.; water, 5 oz. 6 dr. From 1/2 dr. to 5 dr. of
this solution, with 1/2 dr. of tincture of hemlock to be added to warm
water at 120° F. in a glass inhaler, and used twice a day. Two thirds of
the ingredients are first put into the inhaler, and the rest added when
half the time for inhaling has elapsed.
=Solution of I′ron (Alkaline).= _Syn._ LIQUOR FERRI ALKALINI, L. _Prep._
(Ph. L. 1824.) Iron filings, 2-1/2 dr.; nitric acid, 2 fl. oz.; water, 6
fl. oz.; dissolve, decant, gradually add of solution of carbonate of
potash 6 fl. oz., and in 6 hours decant the clear portion. This was
intended as an imitation of Stahl’s Tinctura Martis Alkalina. It is tonic,
emmenagogue, &c.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 drops.
=Solution of Iron and Alum.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO FERRI ALUMINOSA. (Swediaur.)
Calcined sulphate of iron, 10 scruples; alum, 5 scruples; water sufficient
to dissolve them; sulphuric acid, 15 drops.——_Dose_, 10 to 15 drops. Once
a celebrated nostrum in Germany, under the name of _Tinctura nervosa_.
=Solution, Javelle’s.= See SOLUTION OF CHLORINATED POTASH.
=Solution, Labarraque’s.= See SOLUTION OF CHLORINATED SODA.
=Solution of Lime.= _Syn._ LIME WATER; SOLUTIO CALCIS HYDRATIS, LIQUOR
CALCIS (Ph. L. & D.), AQUA CALCIS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Upon the
lime, 1/2 lb., first slaked (by sprinkling it) with a little of the water,
pour the remainder of water, 12 pints, and shake them well together (for 5
minutes——Ph. D.); immediately cover the vessel, and set it aside for three
hours; then keep the solution with the remaining lime (equally divided) in
stoppered glass vessels, and, when it is to be used, decant the required
portion from the clear solution (replacing it with more water, and
agitating briskly, as before——Ph. E.).
LIQUOR CALCIS (B. P.). _Syn._ Lime water. Put 2 oz. of slaked lime into a
stoppered bottle containing 1 gall. of distilled water, and shake well for
two or three minutes. After 12 hours the excess of lime will have
subsided, and the clear solution may be drawn off with a siphon as it is
required for use, or transferred to a green glass bottle furnished with a
well-ground stopper.
_Obs._ Cold water dissolves more lime than hot water. 1 pint of water at
32° Fahr. dissolves 13-1/4 gr., at 60° it dissolves 11-1/2 gr., but at
212° only 6-1/2 gr. (Phillips.)
_Uses, &c._ Lime water is antacid, astringent, antilithic, tonic and
vermifuge.——_Dose._ A wine-glassful, or more, 2 or 3 times a day, in milk
or broth; in dyspepsia, diarrhœa, calculous affections, &c.; and,
externally, as a detersive and discutient lotion.
=Solution of Lime (Saccharated).= (B. P.) _Syn._ LIQUOR CALCIS
SACCHARATUS. _Prep._ Slaked lime, 1; refined sugar (in powder), 2;
distilled water, 20; digest for some hours and strain.——_Dose_, 15 to 60
minims in milk.
=Solution of Lithia, Effervescing.= _Syn._ LIQUOR LITHIÆ EFFERVESCENS. (B.
P.) _Prep._ Mix 10 gr. of carbonate of lithia and 1 pint of water in a
suitable apparatus, and charge with carbonic acid gas under a pressure of
7 atmospheres. Keep in bottles securely corked.
=Solution, Mackenzie’s.= _Prep._ From nitrate of silver, 20 gr., dissolved
in distilled water, 1 fl. oz. Used to wash the throat and fauces, and to
sponge the trachea, in affections of those parts.
=Solution of Magne′sia.= _Syn._ AERATED MAGNESIA WATER, CARBONATED M. W.,
FLUID MAGNESIA, CONDENSED SOLUTION OF M., CONCENTRATED S. OF M.; LIQUOR
MAGNESIÆ CARBONATIS, AQUA M. C., L.; EAU MAGNESIENNE, Fr. _Prep._
(Dinneford’s.) Water and Howard’s heavy carbonate of magnesia, in the
proportion of 17-1/2 gr. of the latter to every fl. oz. of the former, are
introduced into a cylindrical tinned copper vessel, and carbonic acid,
generated by the action of sulphuric acid on whiting, is forced into it by
steam power for 5-1/2 hours, during the whole of which time the cylinder
is kept in motion. Sir J. Murray’s is similar. The Paris Codex orders
recently precipitated carbonate of magnesia to be used while still moist.
Antacid and laxative. See FLUID MAGNESIA.
=Solution, Min′eral.= See SOLUTION OF ARSENITE OF POTASSA.
=Solution of Mor′phia.= See SOLUTIONS OF ACETATE, HYDROCHLORATE, and
SULPHATE.
=Solution of Myrrh, Alkaline.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO MYRRHÆ ALKALINA. (Swediaur.)
_Prep._ Carbonate of soda, 1 dr.; myrrh, 2 oz.; boiling water, 8 oz.
Digest in a water bath for 2 days, frequently stirring, and strain.
=Solution of Nitrate of Mercury (Acid).= _Syn._ LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI NITRATIS
ACIDUS (B. P.). _Prep._ Mercury, 4; nitric acid, 5; distilled water,
1-1/2; mix the nitric acid with the water in a flask, and dissolve the
mercury in the mixture without the application of heat. Boil gently for 15
minutes, cool, and preserve the solution in a stoppered bottle. Used
alone, as a caustic; 1 to 2 minims to 1 oz. of water, as a gargle; and 1
minim to 2 oz. of water, as an injection in gonorrhœa.
=Solution of Nitrate of Mercury and Ammonia.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO HYDRARGYRI ET
AMMONIÆ NITRATIS. WARD’S WHITE DROP. _Prep._ Nitrate of ammonia and
mercury in crystals, 1 part; rose water, 3 parts; digest till dissolved.
=Solution of Nitrate of Sil′ver.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ARGENTI NITRATIS (Ph. L.),
SOLUTIO A. N. (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Nitrate of silver (cryst.), 1
dr. (40 gr.——Ph. E.); distilled water, 1 fl. oz. (1600 gr.——Ph. E.);
dissolve. Used as an escharotic, &c. It should be kept from the light. See
LOTION, NITRATE OF SILVER, &c.
=Solution of O′pium (Sed′ative).= See LIQUOR.
=Solution of Oxysulphate of Iron‡.= _Syn._ LIQUOR FERRI OXYSULPHATIS, L.
_Prep._ From sulphate of iron (in powder) and nitric acid, of each 3 dr.;
triturated together for 15 minutes, and then dissolved in distilled water,
1-1/2 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 5 or 6 to 12 drops.
=Solution of Perchloride of Iron.= _Syn._ LIQUOR FERRI PERCHLORIDI (B.
P.). _Prep._ Stronger solution of perchloride of iron (see _below_), 1;
distilled water, 3.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.
=Solution of Perchloride of Iron (Stronger).= _Syn._ LIQUOR FERRI
PERCHLORIDI FORTIOR (B. P.). _Prep._ Iron wire, 2 oz.; hydrochloric acid,
12 oz.; nitric acid, 9 dr.; distilled water, 8 gr. Mix 8 of the
hydrochloric acid with the water, and pour the mixture on the iron wire,
applying a gentle heat, so that the whole of the metal may be dissolved;
filter the solution, and add to it the remainder of the hydrochloric and
nitric acids; heat the mixture briskly, until, on the sudden evolution of
red fumes, the liquid becomes of an orange-brown colour, then evaporate by
the heat of a water bath until it is reduced to 10 fl. oz. Used as an
application to diphtheritic patches, for injecting nævi, as a powerful
styptic, and in the preparation of SOLUTION OF PERCHLORIDE OF IRON. (See
_above_.)
=Solution of Perchloride of Mercury.= _Syn._ LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI
PERCHLORIDI (B. P.). _Prep._ Corrosive sublimate, 10 gr.; chloride of
ammonium, 10 gr.; distilled water, 20 oz.; dissolve.——_Dose_, 30 to 120
minims.
=Solution of Perchloride of Mercury (Compound).= _Syn._ LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI,
PERCHLORIDI COMPOSITUS, LIQUOR MERCURIELLE NORMALE (Mialhe). _Prep._
Distilled water, 16 oz,; chloride of sodium, 16 gr.; chloride of ammonium,
16 gr.; white of 1 egg, perchloride of mercury, 4 gr. Beat the white of
egg with the water, filter, dissolve the salts in the liquid and filter
again.
=Solution of Permanganate of Potassa.= _Syn._ LIQUOR POTASSÆ PERMANGANATIS
(B. P.). _Prep._ Permanganate of potassa, 4 gr.; distilled water, 1 oz.;
dissolve. Diluted with 40 parts of water, it is used as a gargle or as a
cleansing wash for diseased surface.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 dr.
=Solution of Perni′trate of Iron.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF PERSESQUINITRATE OF
IRON; FERRI PERNITRAS LIQUOR (Ph. D.), SOLUTIO PERSESQUINITRAS FERRI
(Kerr), L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.). Take of pure nitric acid, 3 fl. oz.; water,
16 fl. oz.; mix, add fine iron wire, 1 oz.; dissolve, and to the clear
solution add as much water as will make the whole measure 1-1/2 pint. Sp.
gr. 1·107.——_Dose_, 5 or 6 to 30 drops, or more; in passive hæmorrhages,
mucous discharges, chronic diarrhœa with prostration, &c.
=Solution of Persulphate of Iron.= _Syn._ LIQUOR FERRI PERSULPHATIS.
_Prep._ Sulphate of iron, 8; sulphuric acid, 3/4; nitric acid, 3/4;
distilled water, 12. Add the sulphuric acid to 10 of the water, and
dissolve the sulphate of iron in the mixture with the aid of heat. Mix the
nitric acid with the remaining 2 of the water, and add the dilute acid to
the solution of sulphate of iron. Concentrate the whole by boiling until,
by the sudden evolution of ruddy vapours, the liquid ceases to be black,
and acquires a red colour. A drop of the solution is now to be tested with
ferricyanide of potassium, and if a blue precipitate be formed, a few
additional drops of nitric acid should be added, and the boiling renewed,
in order that the whole may be converted into persulphate of iron. When
the solution is cold, make up the quantity to 11 by the addition, if
necessary, of distilled water. Used in making several preparations of
iron; it is also a good styptic.
=Solution of Phosphoric Ether.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO PHOSPHORI ÆTHEREA. _Prep._
Sliced phosphorus, 5 gr.; rectified ether, 1 oz.; mix, set the bottle in a
dark place for 3 or 4 days, shaking occasionally, and decant.
=Solution for Plate.= _Syn._ PLATE LIQUOR; SOLUTIO PRO ARGENTO, L. _Prep._
From alum, cream of tartar, and common salt, of each 1 oz.; water, 1/2
gall.; dissolve. Used to increase the lustre and whiteness of silver
plate, the articles being boiled in it.
=Solution of Potas′sa.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF HYDRATE OF POTASSA, LIQUOR OF
POTASSA, POTASH WATER, CAUSTIC P. W.; LIQUOR POTASSÆ (B. P., Ph. L.),
AQUA POTASSÆ (Ph. E.), POTASSÆ CAUSTICÆ LIQUOR (Ph. D.), AQUA KALI PURI†,
LIXIVIUM SAPONARUM†, AQUA KALI CAUSTICUM†, LIXIVIUM CAUSTICUM†, L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. L.) Lime (recently burnt), 8 oz.; boiling distilled water, 1
gall.; sprinkle a little of the water on the lime in an earthen vessel,
and, when it is slaked and fallen to powder, add of carbonate of potassa
15 oz., dissolved in the remainder of the water; bung down, and shake
frequently, until the mixture is cold, then allow the whole to settle, and
decant the clear supernatant portion into perfectly clean and
well-stoppered green-glass bottles. Sp. gr. 1·063. It contains 6·7% of
pure potassa.
2. (Ph. E.) Carbonate of potassa (dry), 4 oz.; quicklime, 2 oz.; water, 45
fl. oz.; boiling briskly for a few minutes after each addition of the milk
of lime; to yield at least 35 fl. oz., by decantation, after 24 hours’
repose in a deep, narrow, glass vessel. Sp. gr. 1·072.
3. (Ph. D.) Pure carbonate of potassa, 1 lb.; distilled water, 1 gall.;
dissolve, heat the solution to the boiling point in a clean iron vessel,
gradually add to it of fresh quicklime, 10 oz., previously slaked with
water, 7 fl. oz., and continue the ebullition for 10 minutes, with
constant stirring; next allow it to cool out of contact with the air, and,
when perfectly clear, decant it by means of a syphon, and bottle it as
before. Sp. gr. 1·068.
4. (B. P.) Carbonate of potash, 2; slaked lime, 1-1/2; distilled water,
20; dissolve the carbonate of potash in the water, and having heated the
solution to the boiling point in a clean iron vessel, gradually mix the
slaked lime, and continue the ebullition for 10 minutes with constant
stirring; decant the clear liquid.——_Dose_, 15 to 60 minims 3 times a day
in beer, milk, or _Mistura Amygdalæ_.
5. (Wöhler.) Nitrate of potassa, 1 part, is mixed, in alternate layers,
with clippings of sheet copper, 2 or 3 parts, and then heated to moderate
redness for about 1/2 an hour in a copper or iron crucible; when cold, the
potassa is washed out with distilled water, and the solution, after repose
in a closed vessel, decanted as before. Not a trace of copper can be
detected in the liquid. The clippings may be again used if mixed with a
little fresh metallic copper.
6. (Wholesale.) From carbonate of potash (kali), 1 lb., and quicklime, 1/2
lb., to each gall. of water.
7. (BRANDISH’S ALKALINE SOLUTION; LIQUOR POTASSÆ BRANDISHII.) From
American pearlashes, 6 lbs.; quicklime and wood ashes (from the ash), of
each 2 lbs.; boiling water, 6 galls. (old meas.); to each gall. of the
clear product is added 12 or 15 drops of oil of juniper. This ‘solution’
is much asked for in trade. Ordinary liquor of potassa is generally sold
for it.
_Pur._ “Nothing, or scarcely anything, is thrown down from this solution
on the addition of lime water; and when it has been first saturated by
nitric acid, no precipitate falls on the addition of carbonate of soda,
chloride of barium, or nitrate of silver. What is thrown down by
bichloride of platinum is yellowish.” (Ph. L.)
_Uses, &c._ Liquor of potassa is antacid, diuretic, resolvent, and
lithontriptic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 or 40 drops, in any bland diluent (not
acidulous); in heartburn, gout, calculi, indurations, scrofula, lepra,
psoriasis, &c.
_Obs._ Quicklime fails to abstract the carbonic acid from the alkaline
carbonates in solutions much stronger than those above referred to. Weaker
solutions may, however, be easily concentrated by evaporation in iron
vessels. See POTASSIUM, HYDRATE OF, and _below_.
=Solution of Potas′sa (Effervescing).= _Syn._ LIQUOR POTASSÆ EFFERVESCENS
(B. P.); EFFERVESCING POTASH WATER, SUPERCARBONATE OF POTASSA W.; AQUA
POTASSÆ EFFERVESCENS (Ph. E.), A. P. SUPERCARBONATIS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. &
E.) Bicarbonate of potash, 1 dr.; distilled water, 1 pint; dissolve, force
in carbonic acid gas in excess, and keep it in a well-stoppered bottle.
Resembles soda water, but sits better on the stomach. It is almost
specific in the early stages of scurvy.
(B. P.) Dissolve 30 gr. of bicarbonate of potash in one pint of distilled
water, filter, pass in washed carbonic acid (obtained by the action of
sulphuric acid on chalk) up to a pressure of 7 atmospheres. Keep in
bottles closely secured.
_Obs._ An excellent substitute for this preparation is to pour a bottle of
soda water into a tumbler containing 20 gr. of powdered bicarbonate of
potash, and to drink it immediately.
=Solution of Potas′sio-tar′trate of An′timony.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO ANTIMONII
POTASSIO-TARTRATIS, ANTIMONII TARTARIZATI LIQUOR (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph.
D.) Tartarised antimony, 1 dr.; rectified spirit, 7 fl. oz.; distilled
water, 1 pint; dissolve. Strength, doses, and uses, similar to those of
antimonial wine (which _see_), than which it keeps better.
=Solution, Prophylac′tic.= See HAHNEMANN’S SOLUTION.
=Solution of Protonitrate of Mercury.= _Syn._ LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI NITRICI
(PROTO-NITRATIS) (G. Ph.). _Prep._ Protonitrate of mercury, 1 oz.;
distilled water, 9 oz.; nitric acid (1·185), 46 gr. Filter.——_Dose_, 1 to
5 drops.
=Solution of Sesquicar′bonate of Ammonia.= See SOLUTION OF CARBONATE OF
AMMONIA.
=Solution of Sil′icate of Potas′sa.= See SOLUTION OF FLINTS.
=Solution of So′da.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF HYDRATE OF SODA, LIQUOR OF SODA,
CAUSTIC SODA WATER; LIQUOR SODÆ (B. P., Ph. L.), SODÆ CAUSTICÆ LIQUOR (Ph.
D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Carbonate of soda, (cryst.), 32 oz.; lime, 9
oz.; boiling distilled water, 1 gall.; proceed as for solution of
potassa. “In 100 gr. are contained 1 gr. of (pure) soda.” (Ph. L.) Sp. gr.
1·061.
2. (Ph. D.) Carbonate of soda (cryst.), 2 lbs.; fresh-burned lime, 10 oz.;
water, 1 gall. 7 fl. oz.; as liquor of potassa. Sp. gr. 1·056.
3. (B. P.) Carbonate of soda, 7; slaked lime, 3; distilled water, 40;
dissolve the carbonate in the water, boil in a clean iron vessel,
gradually mixing the lime, and stirring constantly for ten minutes; decant
into a green-glass bottle, with air-tight stopper. Sp. gr. 1·047.——_Dose_,
1/2 to 1 dr.
=Solution of Soda (Effervescing).= _Syn._ SODA WATER; LIQUOR SODÆ
EFFERVESCENS, AQUA S. E. (Ph. E.), A. S. SUPERCARBONATIS, SODÆ CARBONATIS
AQUA ACIDULA, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Bicarbonate of soda, 1 dr.; distilled
water, 1 pint; dissolve, and force carbonic acid gas into the solution
under pressure. Used as an antacid and grateful stimulant, often proving
gently laxative. The soda water of the shops cannot be substituted for
this preparation, as, in opposition to its name, it is usually made
without soda. (B. P.) Half the strength.
=Solution, Sol′dering.= _Prep._ Dissolve zinc in hydrochloric acid nearly
to saturation, add 1-5th part of powdered sal ammoniac, and simmer for 5
minutes. Used to make solder flow easily and take well; applied with a
feather. See SOLDERING.
=Solution, Speci′fic (Frank’s).= _Syn._ SPECIFIC SOLUTION OF COPAIBA;
LIQUOR COPAIBÆ ALKALINA, L. _Prep._ Take of balsam of copaiba, 2 parts;
liquor of potassa (Ph. L.), 3 parts; water, 7 parts; boil the mixture for
2 or 3 minutes, put it into a separator, and allow it to stand for 5 or 6
days; then draw it off from the bottom, avoiding the upper stratum of oil,
and to the clear liquid add of sweet spirit of nitre (perfectly free from
acid), 1 part; should it turn foul or milky, a very little liquor of
potassa will usually brighten it; if not, place it in a clean separator,
and let it stand, closely covered, for a few days, and then draw it off
from the bottom as before, when it will be perfectly transparent, without
filtering. Some persons add the sweet spirit of nitre whilst the solution
is still warm, mix it in as rapidly as possible, and immediately cork or
fasten up the vessel. This is a good way when the article is wanted in a
hurry, but is objectionable from the loss of spirit thereby occasioned,
and the danger, without care, of bursting the separator.
_Obs._ A receipt for this article, upon the authority of Battley, has been
going the round of the pharmaceutical works for many years. It is as
follows:——Take 12 oz. of balsam of copaiba, and 6 oz, of calcined
magnesia; rub together, add a pint of proof spirit, filter, and then add
1/2 oz. of sweet spirits of nitre. (‘Gray’s Supplement.’) The product of
this formula, utterly unlike ‘Frank’s Specific Solution,’ is a colourless
tincture, scarcely flavoured with copaiba, and holding very little of the
active matter of the balsam in solution, owing to the compound formed with
the magnesia being insoluble in spirit. Such is the affinity of this earth
for copaiba (copaibic acid), that it will even take it from caustic
potassa. See COPAIBA, and its preparations.
=Solution of Strychnia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR STRYCHNIÆ (B. P.). _Prep._
Strychnia, in crystals, 4 gr.; dilute hydrochloric acid 6 minims;
rectified spirit, 2 dr.; distilled water, 6 dr.; mix the hydrochloric acid
with 4 dr. of the water, and dissolve the strychnia in it by means of
heat; then add the spirit and the remainder of the water.——_Dose_, 4 to 10
minims.
=Solution of Subac′etate of Lead.= _Syn._ LIQUOR OF SUBACETATE OF LEAD, L.
OF DIACETATE OF L.†, GOULARD’S EXTRACT; LIQUOR PLUMBI, L. PLUMBI
DIACETATIS (Ph. L.), PLUMBI DIACETATIS SOLUTIO (Ph. E.), PLUMBI
SUBACETATIS LIQUOR (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Acetate of lead, 27
oz.; litharge, in fine powder, 16 oz.; water, 3 quarts; boil for 1/2 an
hour, constantly stirring, and then add enough distilled water to make the
whole measure 3 quarts; lastly, filter, if required, and keep it in a
closed vessel. The proportions, ordered in the Ph. E. are similar. Sp. gr.
1·260.
2. (Ph. D.) Acetate of lead, 6 oz.; litharge, 4 oz.; distilled water, 1
quart; boil, &c., as before; to produce 1 quart. Sp. gr. 1·066. (B. P.)
the same.
3. (Wholesale.) From finely powdered litharge, 32 lbs.; distilled vinegar,
32 galls.; boil in a perfectly bright copper pan for 2 hours, cool, add
water to make up 32 galls., again simmer for 1 minute, cover up the
vessel, and in an hour decant the clear portion. Common trade strength.
(See _below_.)
=Solution of Subacetate of Lead (Dilute).= _Syn._ GOULARD, GOULARD’S
LOTION, GOULARD’S WATER; LIQUOR PLUMBI DIACETATIS DILUTUS (Ph. L.), PLUMBI
SUBACETATIS LIQUOR COMPOSITUS (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Liquor of
diacetate of lead, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; proof-spirit, 2 fl. dr.; distilled
water, 1 pint; mix.
2. (Ph. D.) Solution of subacetate of lead and proof spirit, of each 2 fl.
oz.; distilled water, 1/2 gall.; mix, filter, and preserve it in a
well-stoppered bottle.
3. (B. P.) Solution of subacetate of lead, 2 fl. dr.; rectified spirit, 2
fl. dr.; distilled water, 19-1/2 oz. Filter through paper.
_Obs._ Both the above preparations were formerly made with common vinegar,
and hence were coloured, but those of the Pharm. are white. If wanted
coloured, a little spirit colouring may be added. The stronger liquor is
only used diluted; and the dilute solution is now seldom prepared by the
wholesale druggist. The last (diluted solution) is employed as a sedative,
refrigerant, and astringent wash, in various affections. Both are
poisonous. For the antidotes, see LEAD.
=Solution of Sulphate of Atropia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR ATROPIÆ SULPHATIS (B.
P.). _Prep._ Sulphate of atropia, 4 gr.; distilled water, 1 oz.;
dissolve.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 minims.
=Solution of Sulphate of Copper.= _Syn._ LIQUOR CUPRI SULPHATIS
COMPOSITUS, AQUA STYPTICA. (Ph. L. 1746). Sulphate of copper, 3 oz.; alum,
3 oz.; sulphuric acid, 2 oz.; (by wt.), water, 24 oz. For external use.
=Solution of Sulphate of Indigo.= _Syn._ LIQUOR INDIGO SULPHATIS. _Prep._
Digest 1 part of powdered indigo in 10 of sulphuric acid; when dissolved
dilute it with water. Used as a test.
=Solution of Sulphate of Mor′phia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR MORPHIÆ SULPHATIS, L.
_Prep._ From sulphate of morphia, as the solution of the acetate or
hydrochlorate. The uses, doses, &c., are the same.
=Solution of Sulphate of Zinc (Compound).= See SOLUTION OF ALUM, COMPOUND.
=Solution of Sul′phuret of Potassium.= _Syn._ SOLUTION OF HYDROSULPHATE OF
POTASSA; SOLUTIO POTASSII SULPHURETI, LIQUOR POTASSÆ HYDROSULPHATIS, AQUA
POTASSÆ SULPHURETI (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ Take of washed sublimed sulphur, 1
part; water of caustic potassa, 11 parts: mix, boil for 10 minutes,
filter, and keep the solution in well-closed bottles. Sp. gr. 1·117. The
product is a mixed solution of hydrosulphate and hyposulphate of
potassa.——_Dose_, 10 to 60 drops, diluted in water; and, externally, made
into a lotion; in itch, and several other eruptive diseases.
=Solution of Tartrate of Magnesia.= _Syn._ LIQUOR MAGNESIÆ TARTRATIS.
(Airat.) _Prep._ Tartaric acid, 15-1/4 oz. troy; distilled water, 20
pints; fresh calcined magnesia, diffused in 16 oz. of distilled water, 3
oz. troy and 1 dr.——_Dose._ As a purgative, 15 oz.
=Solution of Veratria.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO VERATRIÆ. _Prep._ Veratrine, 1 gr.;
distilled water, 2-1/2 oz. Dr Turnbull’s solution, for external use,
is——veratria, 1 scruple; rectified spirit, 2 oz.
=Solution, Swan’s.= _Syn._ SOLUTIO SODÆ HYPOPHOSPHITIS. _Prep._ Mr. Squire
says this contains 3 gr. of the salt in a drachm.
=SOL′VENT.= _Syn._ MENSTRUUM, L. The liquid in which any substance is
dissolved. The substance dissolved is, occasionally, called the ‘solvend.’
(Kirwan.)
=Solvent, Glazier’s.= _Syn._ GLAZIER’S PICKLE. From soft soap dissolved in
thrice its weight of strong soapers’ lye; or, from freshly slaked lime
made into a thin paste or cream with twice its weight of pearlash
dissolved in a little water. Very caustic. Used to soften old putty, and
to remove old paint.
=SOMNAMBULISM.= Children are most subjected to sleep-walking. When adults
are affected with it the cause may generally be traced to mental
exhaustion, over-excitement, or emotional feeling. The most preferable
method of awakening a somnambulist, if this be desirable, is by dashing
cold water on the face. It is well to occasionally administer an
aperient, and also to rectify any errors of diet, if necessary, and to
remove by the exercise of judicious and kindly advice, and change of scene
undue excitement or morbid feeling.
The other precautions, such as securing the feet, &c., during sleep,
guarding the exits of the bed-chamber, are so obvious as to need no
further allusion to.
=SOOT.= _Syn._ FULIGO. Wood soot was formerly officinal, and reputed
vermifuge and antiseptic. The soot from pit-coal contains, besides
empyreumatic matter, sulphate of ammonia; hence it is valuable as a
manure, when not too freely applied. It is also employed by gardeners to
kill insects.
=SOPORIF′ICS.= Hypnotics (which _see_).
=SORBITE.= A crystalline saccharine substance resembling mannite, obtained
by Boussingault from the berries of the mountain ash. It was obtained from
the liquid containing the undecomposed saccharine matter remaining after
the juice of the berries had been subjected to fermentation.
=SOU′JEE.= _Syn._ SOOJEE. A species of semolina. Semoletta (_semola
rarita_) is a still smaller variety of pearled wheat, separated from the
others by means of a sieve. ‘Baster’s soojee’ is said to be a mixture of
ordinary wheat flour and sugar.
=SOUR KROUT.= See SAUER-KROUT.
=SOUP.= A strong decoction of flesh, properly seasoned with salts, spices,
&c., for the table. The different tastes of people require more or less of
the flavour of spices, salt, garlic, butter, &c., which can, therefore,
never be ordered by general rules. If the cook has not a good taste, and
attention to that of his or her employers, not all the ingredients which
nature and art can furnish will give an exquisite flavour to the dishes.
The proper articles should be always at hand, and must be proportioned
until the true zest be obtained. A variety of flavours may be given to
different dishes served at the same time, or even to the same soup, by
varying the condiments and spices. At a Parisian restaurant one cauldron
is made to produce almost every imaginable variety of soup.
=Soup, Cabbage, Cheap.= Wash a large cabbage and cut it into narrow
strips, throwing them into 1/2 a gallon of boiling water, containing 2 oz.
of butter. Let it boil for an hour and a half; then add half a pint of
milk and flavour with pepper and salt. Serve when hot.
=Soup, Carrot.= INGREDIENTS REQUIRED.——4 quarts of liquor in which a leg
of mutton or beef has been boiled, a few beef bones, 6 large carrots, 2
large onions, 1 turnip, seasoning of salt and pepper to taste, 3 lumps of
sugar, and cayenne.
_Mode._ Put the liquor, bones, onions, turnips, pepper and salt into a
stewpan, and simmer for 3 hours. Scrape and cut the carrots thin, strain
the soup on them, and stew them till soft enough to pulp through a hair
sieve or coarse cloth; then boil the pulp with the soup, which should be
of the consistency of pea soup. Add cayenne. Pulp only the red part of the
carrot, and make this soup the day before it is wanted.
_Time._——4-1/2 hours. Seasonable from October to March. Sufficient for 8
persons.
=Soup, Celery.= INGREDIENTS.——9 heads of celery, 1 teaspoonful of salt,
nutmeg to taste, 1 lump of sugar, 1/2 pint of strong stock, a pint of
cream, and 2 quarts of boiling water.
_Mode._——Cut the celery into small pieces; throw it into the water,
seasoned with the nutmeg, salt and sugar. Boil it till sufficiently
tender; pass it through a sieve, add the stock and simmer it for half an
hour. Now put in the cream, bring it to the boiling point, and serve
immediately.
_Time._——1 hour.
=Soup, Giblet.= Scald and carefully clean 3 or 4 sets of goose or duck
giblets; let them stew well, a pound or two of gravy beef, scrag of
mutton, or the bone of a knuckle of veal, an ox-tail, or some shanks of
mutton, with 3 onions, a large bunch of sweet herbs, a teaspoonful of
white pepper, and a large spoonful of salt. Add 5 pints of water and
simmer till the gizzards (which must be each in four pieces) are quite
tender; skim nicely, and add a 1/4 pint of cream, 2 teaspoonfuls of
mushroom powder, and 1 oz. of butter mixed with a dessert-spoonful of
flour. Let it boil a few minutes, and serve with the giblets. Instead of
cream, two glasses of sherry or Madeira, a large spoonful of ketchup, and
some cayenne may be used for the seasoning. Add salt when the soup is in
the tureen.
For the larger part of the above culinary preparations we are indebted to
the excellent cooking manuals of Miss Acton and Mrs Beeton.
=Soup, a Good Family.= INGREDIENTS.——Remains of a cold tongue, 2 lbs. of
shin of beef, any cold pieces of meat or beef bones, 2 turnips, 2 carrots,
2 onions, 1 parsnip, 1 head of celery, 4 quarts of water, 1/2 teacupful of
rice, salt and pepper to taste.
_Mode._——Put all the ingredients in a stewpan, and simmer gently for 4
hours, or until all the goodness is drawn from the meat. Strain off the
soup and let it stand till cold. The kernels and soft part of the tongue
must be saved. When the soup is wanted for use, skim off all the fat, put
in the kernels and soft parts of the tongue, slice in a small quantity of
fresh carrot, turnip, and onion; stew till the vegetables are tender, and
serve with toasted bread.
_Time._——5 hours. Seasonable at any time. Sufficient for 8 persons.
=Soup, Gravy.= INGREDIENTS.——4 lbs. of shin of beef, a piece of the
knuckle of veal weighing 4 lbs., a few pieces of trimmings of meat or
poultry, 3 slices of nicely flavoured lean ham, 1/4 lb. of butter, 2
onions, 4 carrots, 1 turnip, nearly a head of celery, 1 blade of mace, 6
cloves, a bunch of savoury herbs, seasoning of salt and pepper to taste, 3
lumps of sugar, 5 quarts of boiling soft water. It can be flavoured with
ketchup, Leamington sauce, or Harvey’s sauce and a little soy.
_Mode._——Slightly brown the meat and ham in the butter, but do not let
them burn. When this done, pour to it the water, put in the salt, and as
the scum rises take it off; when no more appears, add all the other
ingredients, and let the soup simmer slowly by the fire for 6 hours
without stirring it any more from the bottom; take it off, and pass it
through a sieve. When perfectly cold and settled all the fat should be
removed, leaving the sediment untouched, which serves nicely for thick
gravies, hashes, &c. The flavourings should be added when the soup is
heated for table.
_Time._——7 hours. Seasonable all the year. Sufficient for 12 persons.
=Soup, Green Pea.= INGREDIENTS.——3 pints of green peas, 1/4 lb. of butter,
2 or 3 thin slices of ham, 4 onions sliced, 4 shredded lettuces, the crumb
of 2 French rolls, 2 handfuls of spinach, 1 lump of sugar, 2 quarts of
medium stock.
_Mode._——Put the butter, ham, 1 quart of the peas, onions and lettuces, to
a pint of stock and simmer for an hour; then add the remainder of the
stock, with the crumb of the French rolls, and boil for another hour. Now
boil the spinach, squeeze it very dry, and rub it, with the soup, through
a sieve, to give the preparation a good colour. Have ready a pint of young
peas boiled; add them to the soup, put in the sugar, give one boil, and
serve.
_Time._——2-1/2 hours. Seasonable from June to the end of August.
Sufficient for six persons.
⁂ It will be well to add, if the peas are not quite young, a little more
sugar; where economy is essential, water may be used instead of stock for
this soup, boiling in it likewise the peashells, and using rather a larger
quantity of vegetables.
=Soup, Hare.= Cut down a hare into joints, and put it into a soup-pot or
large stewpan, with about a pound of lean ham, in thick slices, 3
moderately sized mild onions, 3 blades of mace, a faggot of thyme, sweet
marjoram and parsley, with about 3 quarts of good beef stock. Let it stew
very gently for full three hours from the time of its first beginning to
boil, and more if the hare be old. Strain the soup, and pound together
very fine, the slices of ham and all the flesh of the back, legs, and
shoulders of the hare, and put this meat into a stewpan with the liquor,
in which it was boiled, the crumb of two French rolls, and half a pint of
port wine. Set it on the stove to simmer twenty minutes; then rub it
through a sieve, place it again on the stove till very hot, but do not let
it boil; season it with salt and cayenne, and send it to table directly.
INGREDIENTS.——Hare, 1; ham, 12 to 16 oz.; onions, 3 to 6; mace, 3 blades;
faggot of savoury herbs; beef stock, 3 quarts; 2 hours. Crumb of 2 rolls;
port wine, 1/2 pint; little salt and cayenne; 20 minutes.
=Soup, Hare, a less Expensive.= Pour on two pounds of neck or shin of
beef, and a hare well washed and carved into joints, one gallon of cold
water, and when it boils and has been thoroughly skimmed, add 1-1/2 oz. of
salt, 2 onions, 1 large head of celery, 3 moderate-sized carrots, a
tablespoonful black peppercorns, and 6 cloves.
Let these stew gently for 3 hours, or longer, should the hare not be
perfectly tender. Then take up the principal joints, cut the meat from
them, mince, and pound it to fine paste, with the crumb of 2 penny rolls
(or 2 oz. of crumb of household bread), which has been soaked in a little
of the boiling soup, and then pressed very dry in a cloth; strain, and mix
smoothly with it the stock from the remainder of the hare; pass the soup
through a strainer, season it with cayenne, and serve it when at the point
of boiling; if not sufficiently thick, add to it a tablespoonful of
arrow-root, moistened with a little broth, and let the soup simmer for an
instant afterwards. Two or 3 glasses of port wine, and 2 dozen of small
forcemeat balls may be added to this soup with good effect.
INGREDIENTS.——Beef, 2 lbs.; hare, 1; water, 1 gall.; salt, 1-1/2 oz.;
onions, 2; celery, 1 head; carrots, 3; bunch of savoury herbs;
peppercorns, 1 teaspoonful; cloves, 6; 3 hours or more. Bread, 2 oz.;
cayenne, arrow-root (if needed) 1 tablespoonful.
=Soup, Haricot Bean.= Take a quart of haricot beans and let them soak all
night in cold water. Then pour on them 2-1/2 pints of cold water, add 1
onion, and put on the fire, and when the liquid begins to boil, let them
continue to boil for 3 hours. Then remove from the fire and strain through
a wire sieve, after which return to the saucepan, and season with pepper
and salt; next add 2 oz. of butter and a little milk. Then just boil up,
and serve. An economical and nutritious soup for the poor.
=Soup, Julienne.= INGREDIENTS.——1/2 pint carrots, 1/2 pint of turnips, 1/2
pint of onions, 2 or 3 leeks, 1/2 head of celery, 1 lettuce, a little
sorrel and chervil, if liked, 2 oz. butter, 2 quarts of medium stock.
_Mode._——Cut the vegetables into strips about 1-1/4 in. long, and be
particular they are all the same size, or some will be hard, whilst the
others will be done to a pulp. Cut the lettuce, sorrel, and chervil into
larger pieces; fry the carrots in the butter, and pour the stock boiling
to them. When this is done, add all the other vegetables thereto, and stew
gently for nearly an hour. Skim off all the fat, pour the soup over thin
slices of bread cut round, about the size of a shilling, and serve.
_Time._——1-1/2 hour. Seasonable all the year. Sufficient for 7 or 8
persons.
⁂ In summer, green peas, as asparagus tops, French beans, &c., can be
added. When the vegetables are very strong, instead of frying them in
butter at first, they should be blanched, and afterwards simmered in the
stock.
=Soup, Macaroni.= Throw 4 oz. of fine, fresh, mellow Naples macaroni into
a pan of fast-boiling water, with about 1 oz. of fresh butter, and a small
onion stuck with 3 or 4 cloves (the onion must be omitted for white
soups). When it has swelled to its full size, and become tender, drain it
well, cut it into half-inch lengths, and slip it into a couple of quarts
of clear gravy soup; let it simmer for a few minutes, when it will be
ready for table. Observe that the macaroni should be boiled quite tender;
but it should by no means be allowed to burst, nor to become pulpy. Serve
grated Parmesan cheese with it.
INGREDIENTS.——Macaroni, 4 oz.; butter, 1 oz.; 1 small onion; 5 cloves; 3/4
hour, or more. In soup 5 to 10 minutes.
=Soup, Mock Turtle.= INGREDIENTS.——Half a calf’s head, 1/4 lb. butter, 1/4
lb. lean ham, 2 tablespoonfuls of minced parsley, a little minced lemon
thyme, sweet marjoram, basil, 2 onions, a few chopped mushrooms (when
obtainable), 2 shalots, 2 tablespoonfuls of flour, 2 glasses of madeira or
sherry, forcemeat balls, cayenne, salt and mace to taste, the juice of one
lemon and 1 Seville orange, 1 dessert-spoonful of pounded sugar, 3 quarts
of best strong stock.
_Mode._——Scald the head with the skin on, remove the brain, tie the head
up in a cloth, and let it boil for an hour. Then take the meat from the
bones, cut it into small square pieces, and throw them into cold water.
Now take the meat, put it into a stewpan, and cover it with stock; let it
boil gently for an hour, or rather more, if not quite tender, and set it
on one side. Melt the butter in another stewpan, and add the ham, cut
small, with the herbs, parsley, onions, shalots, mushrooms, and nearly a
pint of stock; let these simmer slowly, for 2 hours, and then dredge in as
much flour as will dry up the butter. Fill up with the remainder of the
stock, add the wine, let it stew gently for 10 minutes, rub it through a
sieve, and put it to the calf’s head; season with cayenne, and, if
required, a little salt; add the juice of the orange and lemon; and when
liked, 1/4 teaspoonful of pounded mace, and the sugar. Put in the
forcemeat balls, simmer 5 minutes, and serve very hot.
_Time._——4-1/2 hours. Seasonable in winter. Sufficient for 10 persons.
⁂ The bones of the head should be well stewed in the liquor it was first
boiled in, and will make good white stock, flavoured with vegetables.
=Soup, Ox-tail.= A very inexpensive and nutritious soup may be made of
ox-tails, but it will be insipid without the addition of a little ham,
knuckle of bacon, or a pound or two of other meat.
Wash and soak 3 tails, pour on them a gallon of cold water, let them be
brought gradually to boil, throw in 1-1/2 oz. of salt, and clear off the
scum carefully as soon as it forms upon the surface; when it ceases to
rise, add four moderate-sized carrots, from 2 to 4 onions, according to
the taste, a large faggot of savoury herbs, a head of celery, a couple of
turnips, 6 or 8 cloves, and 1/2 a teaspoonful of peppercorns. Stew these
gently from 3 to 3-1/2 hours, if the tails be very large; lift them out,
strain the liquor, and skim off all the fat; divide the tails into joints,
and put them into a couple of quarts or rather more of the stock; stir in
when these begin to boil, a thickening of arrow-root or rice flour, mixed
with as much cayenne and salt as may be required to flavour the soup well,
and serve it very hot.
INGREDIENTS.——Ox tails, 3; water, 1 gall.; salt 1-1/2 oz.; carrots, 4;
onions, 2 to 4; turnips, 2; celery, 1 head; cloves, 8; peppercorns, 1/2
teaspoonful; faggot of savoury herbs; 3 to 3-1/2 hours. For a richer soup,
5 to 6 hours.
=Soup, Ordinary Pea.= Wash well a quart of good split peas, and float off
such as remain on the surface of the water; soak them for one night, and
boil them with a bit of soda the size of a filbert, in just sufficient
water to allow them to break to a mash. Put them into from 3 to 4 quarts
of good beef broth, and stew them in it gently for an hour; then work the
whole through a sieve, heat afresh as much as may be required for table,
season it with salt, or cayenne, or common pepper, clear it perfectly from
scum, and send it to table with fried or toasted bread. Celery sliced and
stewed in it will be found a great improvement.
INGREDIENTS.——Peas, 1 quart; soaked one night, boiled in 2 quarts or
rather more of water, 2 to 2-1/2 hours. Beef broth, 3 to 4 quarts; 1 hour.
Salt and cayenne or pepper, as needed; 3 minutes.
=Soup, Portable.= _Syn._ GLAZE. From skin of beef, or other like part; the
soup being gently simmered until reduced to the consistence of a thin
syrup, and then poured into small upright jelly-pots, with covers, or,
upon flat dishes, to lie about 1/4 inch deep. The latter, when set, is
divided into pieces, which are dried. Used to make extemporaneous soup and
glazes. A similar article, prepared on the large scale, now generally
forms part of every ship’s stores.
=Soup, Potato.= Mash to a smooth paste, 3 lbs. of good mealy potatoes,
which have been steamed, or boiled very dry; mix with them, by degrees, 2
quarts of boiling broth, pass the soup through a strainer, set it again on
the fire, add pepper and salt, and let it boil for five minutes. Take off
entirely the black scum that will rise upon it, and serve it very hot,
with fried or toasted bread. Where the flavour is approved, 2 oz. of
onions minced and fried a light brown, may be added to the soup, and
stewed in it for 10 minutes before it is sent to the table.
INGREDIENTS.——Potatoes, 3 lbs.; broth, 2 quarts; 5 minutes. (With onions,
2 oz.) 10 minutes.
=Soup, Spanish Onion.= Peel two large Spanish onions and cut them into
rings; fry them with a little dripping in a stewpan. When the onions have
browned, add 2-1/2 pints of boiling water, and let them boil for two hours
and a half; add pepper and salt to flavour, and a little vinegar. Thicken
with oatmeal or bread crumbs (oatmeal is the more nourishing); let the
mixture boil for another half hour, and serve. A good cheap wholesome
soup.
=Soup, Turnip, Cheap.= Wash and wipe the turnips, pare and weigh them;
allow 1-1/2 lb. for every quart of soup, cut them in slices about 1/4 inch
thick. Melt 4 oz. of butter in a clean stewpan, and put in the turnips
before it begins to boil; stew them gently 3/4 hour, taking care that they
shall not brown, then have the proper quantity of soup ready boiling, pour
it on them and let them simmer in it for 3/4 hour. Pulp the whole through
a coarse sieve or soup strainer, put it again on the fire, keep it stirred
until it has boiled three or four minutes, take off the scum, add salt or
pepper if required, and serve it very hot.
INGREDIENTS.——Turnips, 3 lbs.; butter, 4 oz.; 3/4 hour. Soup, 2 quarts;
3/4 hour. Last time, 3 minutes.
=Soup, Vermicelli.= Drop very lightly and by degrees 6 oz. of vermicelli,
broken rather small, into 3 quarts of boiling bouillon, or clear gravy
soup; let it simmer for half an hour over a gentle fire, and stir it
often.
INGREDIENTS.——Bouillon or gravy soup, 3 quarts, vermicelli, 6 oz.; 30
minutes. Or soup, 3 quarts; vermicelli, 4 oz.; blanched in boiling water,
5 minutes; stewed in soup 10 to 15 minutes.
=SOUR′ING.= See MALT LIQUORS and WINES.
=SOY.= Genuine soy is a species of thick black sauce, imported from China.
_Prep._ Take of the seeds of _Soja hispida_ (white haricots or kidney
beans may be used for them), 1 gall.; boil them in water, q. s., until
soft, add of bruised wheat, 1 gall., and keep the mixture in a warm place
for 24 hours; then add of common salt, 1 gall.; water, 2 gall.; put the
whole into a stone jar, and bung it up loosely for two or three months,
shaking it very frequently during the whole time; lastly press out the
liquor and bottle it; the residuum may be treated afresh with water and
salt, for soy of an inferior quality.
_Obs._ The soy of the shops is, in nine cases out of ten, a spurious
article made in this country, by simply saturating molasses or treacle
with common salt. A better and a really wholesome imitation is made as
follows:——Malt syrup, 1 gall. (or, 13-1/2 lbs.); treacle, 5 lbs.; salt,
4-1/4 lbs.; mushroom juice, 1 quart; mix, with a gentle heat, and stir
until the union is complete; in a fortnight decant the clear portion.
=SPAN′ISH FLIES.= See CANTHARIDES.
=SPAR′ADRAP.= _Syn._ SPARADRAPUM, L. Originally a cerecloth; now applied
to spread plasters; as SPARADRAPUM COMMUNE, common strapping or adhesive
plaster; S. VESICATORIUM, blistering plaster or tissue, &c.
The following are in occasional demand by the pharmacist:——
=Sparadrap, Opium.= _Syn._ SPARADRAPUM OPII (M. Schœufelle.) _Prep._ On a
piece of black sarcenet of a close and strong texture, properly stretched;
spread with a brush, 3 layers of extract of opium, softened with water, to
the consistence of treacle, and mixed with a sixth part of powdered gum.
Keep the plaster dry.
=Sparadrap, Thapsian.= _Syn._ SPARADRAPUM THAPSIÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Yellow wax, 4-1/4 oz.; resin, 1-1/2 oz.; Burgundy pitch, 1-1/2 oz.; boiled
turpentine, 1-1/2 oz.; Swiss turpentine, 1/2 oz.; glycerin, 1/2 oz.;
honey, 1/2 oz.; resin of thapsia, 3/4 oz. Melt the first five substances
together and strain through linen. Keep them liquefied and add the
glycerin, the honey, and the resin. When well mixed, and of a proper
consistence, spread on strips of linen cloth.
=Sparadrap, Wax.= SPARADRAPUM CUM CERA, TOILE DE MAI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
White wax, 8 oz.; (by wt.), oil of almonds, 4 oz.; (by wt.), Swiss
turpentine, 1 oz. Melt together and dip into it strips of linen cloth,
which are to be passed between wooden rollers, to remove the superfluous
plaster. Spread on paper it forms waxed paper.
=SPARTE′INE.= _Syn._ SPARTEINA, L. A volatile oily liquid, possessing
basic properties, obtained from _Spartium scoparium_, or broom. It is
highly poisonous, and resembles conine and nicotine in its general
properties.
=SPASMS.= _Syn._ CRAMP; SPASMUS, L. An involuntary contraction of the
muscles, generally of the extremities, accompanied with pain more or less
severe. Spasms are distinguished into clonic spasms or convulsions, in
which the contractions and relaxations are alternate, as in epilepsy; and
into tonic spasms, in which there is continued rigidity, as in locked-jaw.
That form which commonly attacks the muscles of the legs and feet,
especially after great exertion or exposure to cold, is commonly called
cramp. The best treatment for this is immediately to stand upright, and to
well rub the part with the hand. The application of strong stimulants, as
spirits of ammonia, or of anodynes, as opiate liniments, has been
recommended. When spasm or cramp occurs in the stomach, a teaspoonful of
sal volatile in water, or a teaspoonful of good brandy, may be swallowed
immediately. When cramp comes or during cold bathing, the limb should be
thrown out as suddenly and violently as possible, which will generally
remove it, care being also taken not to become flurried or frightened, as
presence of mind is very essential to personal safety on such an occasion.
A common cause of spasm is indigestion, and the use of acescent liquors;
these should, therefore, be avoided, and bitters and absorbents had
recourse to. See ANTISPASMODICS, and the names of the principal spasmodic
diseases.
=SPEAR′MINT.= See MINT.
=SPE′CIES.= (In pharmacy.) Mixtures of dried plants, or parts of plants,
in a divided state, which, for convenience, are kept mixed for use. The
dry ingredients of pills, conserves, electuaries, mixtures, &c., that do
not keep well when made up, or which are in little demand, may be
economically and conveniently preserved in this state. The word, thus
applied, is obsolete out of the pharmaceutical laboratory.
=Species, Anthelmin′tic.= _Syn._ SPECIES ANTHELMINTICÆ, L. The dried
flowering tops of tansy and wormwood, and the flowers of chamomile, equal
parts; mix, and keep them in a close vessel. (P. Cod.)
=Species, Aperitive.= See SPECIES, DIURETIC (_below_).
=Species, Aromat′ic.= _Syn._ AROMATIC POWDER; SPECIES AROMATICÆ, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. Bor.) Leaves of balm and curled-leaf mint (_Mentha crispa_),
of each 4 oz.; lavender flowers, 2 oz.; cloves, 1 oz.; dry them by a
gentle heat, and then powder them.
=Species, Astrin′gent.= _Syn._ SPECIES ASTRINGENTES, L. The roots of
bistort and tormentil, and bark of pomegranate, equal parts. (P. Cod.)
=Species, Bechicæ.= (P. Cod.) 1. Leaves of Canadian maidenhair, ground
ivy, hartstongue, speedwell, hyssop tops and poppy capsules, (freed from
seed), of each equal parts. Cut and mix. 2. Dried flowers of mallow,
catsfoot, coltsfoot and petals of red poppy, of each 1 oz. Mix. The
Fructûs Bechici are:——Dates (stored) 1 oz.; jujubes, 1 oz.; figs, 1 oz.;
raisins, 1 oz.
=Species, Bitter.= _Syn._ THREE BITTER HERBS; SPECIES AMARÆ, HERBÆ AMARÆ,
L. The leaves of germander, and dried tops of lesser centaury and
wormwood, equal parts. (P. Cod.)
=Species, Carminative.= _Syn._ SPECIES CARMINATIVE. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Equal parts of aniseeds, caraway seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds.
=Species, Capil′lary.= _Syn._ FIVE CAPILLARY HERBS; HERBÆ QUINQUE
CAPILLARES, L. Hartstongue, black maiden hair, white do., golden do., and
spleenwort, equal parts. (Ph. L. 1720.)
=Species, Cor′dial.= _Syn._ FOUR CORDIAL FLOWERS; SPECIES CORDIALES, L.
The flowers of borage, bugloss, roses, and violets, equal parts. (Ph. L.
1720.)
=Species for Decoction Woods.= _Syn._ SPECIES AD DECOCTUM LIQUORUM. (G.
Ph.) _Prep._ Rasped guaiacum wood, 4 oz.; cut burdock root, 2 oz.; ononis
root, 2 oz.; cut liquorice, 1 oz; cut sassafras, 1 oz. Mix,
=Species, Diuret′ic.= _Syn._ APERIENT ROOTS, APERITIVE SPECIES; SPECIES
DIURETICÆ, L. 1. (FIVE GREATER APERITIVE ROOTS——P. Cod., & Ph. E. 1744.)
The dried roots of asparagus, butcher’s broom, parsley, smallage, and
sweet fennel, equal parts.
2. (FIVE LESSER APERITIVE ROOTS.) Those of caper, dog-grass, eryngo,
madder, and restharrow.
=Species, Emol′lient.= _Syn._ SPECIES EMOLLIENTES, L. 1. (THREE EMOLLIENT
MEALS; FARINÆ EMOLLIENTES.) The meal of barley, linseed, and rye, equal
parts. (P. Cod.)
2. (FIVE EMOLLIENT HERBS; HERBÆ QUINQUE EMOLLIENTES.)——_a._ The dried
leaves of groundsel, common mallow, marshmallow, great mullein, and wall
pellitory, equal parts. (P. Cod.)
_b._ The leaves of mallow, marshmallow, French mercury, pellitory of the
wall, and violet. (Ph. E. 1744.)
=Species for Ene′mas.= _Syn._ HERBS FOR CLYSTERS; HERBÆ PRO ENEMATE, L.
Mallow leaves, 2 parts; chamomile flowers, 1 part.
=Species of the five Herbs.= _Syn._ SPECIES DIETÆ; QUINQUE HERBÆ. FIVE
CAPILLARY HERBS. (Ph. L. 1720.) _Prep._ Black and white maidenhair,
spleenwort, hartstongue, and golden maidenhair.
=Species for Fomenta′tions.= _Syn._ SPECIES PRO FOTU, HERBÆ PRO FOTU, L.
Leaves of southernwood, tops of sea-wormwood, and flowers of chamomile, of
each 2 parts; bay leaves, 1 part.
=Species, Hot.= 1. (FOUR GREATER HOT SEEDS.) The seeds of anise, caraway,
cumin, and fennel.
2. (FOUR LESSER HOT SEEDS.) The seeds of bishop’s weed, smallage, stone
parsley, and wild carrot.
=Species, Lax′ative.= _Syn._ ST GERMAIN LAXATIVE POWDER; SPECIES LAXANTES
ST GERMAIN, L. _Prep._ (Ph. Bor.) Senna leaves (exhausted with spirit), 4
oz.; elder flowers, 2-1/2 oz.; aniseed and fennel seed, of each 1-1/4 oz.;
reduce them to coarse powder, and, when dispensing, add of powdered cream
of tartar, 1 dr., to each 1-1/2 oz. of the mixture.
=Species, Narcotic.= _Syn._ FOUR NARCOTIC HERBS; SPECIES NARCOTICÆ, L.
Dried leaves of belladonna, black nightshade, henbane, and thorn-apple,
equal parts.
=Species, Purging.= _Syn._ SPECIES PURGANTES. THÉ DE SANTÉ. THÉ DE ST
GERMAIN. (P. Cod.) Senna, 12 dr.; elder flowers, 5 dr.; fennel seeds, 3
dr.; aniseed, 5 dr.; cream of tartar, 3 dr. Eighty grains in a cup of
boiling water for a dose, said to be very serviceable and largely used in
France for habitual constipation.
=Species, Pec′toral.= _Syn._ SPECIES BECHICÆ, SPECIES AD INFUSUM
PECTORALES, L, 1. Mallow root, 4 oz.; coltsfoot leaves, 2 oz.; liquorice
root, 1-1/2 oz.; aniseed, great mullein flowers and red-poppy flowers, of
each 1 oz.; orris root, 1/2 oz. (Ph. Bor.)
=Species, Refri′′gerant.=——1. (FOUR COLD SEEDS.) The seeds of cucumber,
gourd, melon, and water-melon.
2. (FOUR LESSER COLD SEEDS.) The seeds of endive, lettuce, purslane, and
succory.
=Species, Resol′vent.= _Syn._ FARINÆ RESOLVENTES, L. The meal of the seeds
of barley, bean, tare, and white lupin.
=Species, Vulnerary.= _Syn._ SPECIES VULNERARIÆ. THÉ SIUSSE. _Prep._
Leaves and tops of wormwood, betony, bugle, calamint, germander, hyssop,
ground ivy, millefoil, origanum, periwinkle, rosemary, self-heat, sage,
hartstongue, water-germander, thyme, speedwell, flower of Armea, flower of
catsfoot, flower of coltsfoot, of each equal parts. Cut and mixed.
=SPECIF′IC GRAVITY= is the comparative weights of equal bulks of different
substances, the assumed standard being 1 and sometimes 1000. This standard
is pure distilled water for liquids and solids, and atmospheric air for
gaseous bodies and vapours.[178] In England the sp. gr., unless when
otherwise expressed, is always taken at 60° Fahr.; but in France it is
taken at 32° Fahr. (0° C), or the temperature of melting ice. In the
‘British Pharmacopœia,’ whenever specific gravity is mentioned, the
substance spoken of is supposed to be of the temperature of 60° Fahr. In
most cases, however, it is sufficient merely to note the temperature, and
to apply a correction, depending on the known density of water, or air, at
the different degrees of the thermometric scale.
[Footnote 178: By many modern chemists _hydrogen_, the lightest substance
in nature, is taken as the standard for the specific gravity of gases and
vapours.]
To determine the specific gravity as a solid, we weigh it, first in the
air, and then in water. In the latter case it loses, of its weight, a
quantity precisely equal to the weight of its own bulk of water; and
hence, by comparing this weight with its total weight, we find its
specific gravity. The rule is——Divide the total weight by the loss of
weight in water; the quotient is the specific gravity.
The specific gravity of a substance lighter than water may be determined
by attaching it to some substance, as a piece of lead, the sp. gr., &c.,
of which is known. In this way, by deducting the loss in weight of the two
substances, when weighed in water, from the loss sustained by the lead
alone, when so weighed, we obtain a difference (_a_) which, added to the
weight of the substance taken in air (_b_), gives the respective
densities. From these the sp. gr. is found by the rule of three:——
(_a_ + _b_) : 1 :: _b_ : _sp. gr._
The specific gravities of substances soluble in water are taken in pure
oil of turpentine, rectified spirit, olive oil, or some other liquid, the
density of which is exactly known. Sometimes, for rough purposes, the
article is covered with a coating of mastic varnish. This last method
answers for mercurial pill.
The specific gravity of a substance in fragments, or in powder, may be
found by putting a portion (say 100 gr.) into a sp. gr. bottle, filling
the latter with distilled water, and then weighing it. The weight of water
which it is found to contain, deducted from 1000 (the weight of the bottle
when filled with distilled water), gives a difference (_a_) which bears
the same relation to the sp. gr. of water (1·000) as the weight of the
powder (_b_) put into the bottle does to the required sp. gr. Or——
_a_ : 1·000 :: _b_ : _sp. gr._
The specific gravity of alloys and mixtures, when no condensation has
occurred, is equal to the sum of the weights divided by the sum of the
volumes, compared to water reckoned as unity; and is not merely the
arithmetical mean between the two numbers denoting the two sp. gr., as is
frequently taught. See BEADS (Lovi’s), HYDROMETER, MIXTURES (Arithmetic
of), &c. For the mode of determining the specific gravity of gases, the
reader is referred to the works on chemistry of Miller and Fownes.
The specific gravity of a liquid is found by weighing it in a sp. gr.
bottle, glass flask, or other vessel of known capacity, and dividing that
weight by the weight of the same bulk of water; the quotient is, as
before, the specific gravity. A bottle of the capacity of 1000
water-grains (specific gravity bottle) gives the density of a liquid at
once, by simply filling it to the given mark, and then accurately weighing
it.
We reprint from the ‘Journal of the Chemical Society’[179] a new method of
determining the specific gravity of liquids, which is said by Dr H.
Sprengel, the chemist who devised it, to be both expeditious and accurate.
Dr Sprengel says:
[Footnote 179: (2) xi, 577.]
[Illustration: FIG. 1.]
“The form of my instrument, as shown in the accompanying fig. 1, is that
of an elongated U-tube, the open ends of which terminate in two capillary
tubes, which are bent at right angles in opposite directions. The size and
weight of this instrument should be adapted to the size and capability of
the balance in which it is to be weighed. As our usual balances indicate
1/10 milligram when loaded with 50 grams, the U-tube, when charged with
the liquid, should not be heavier than 1000 gr.=(64·799 grams).
The instrument which served for my determinations, mentioned below, had a
length of 17·7 cm. (7 inches), and was made of a glass tube, the outer
diameter of which was 11 mm. (7/16 of an inch). It need hardly be
mentioned that the U-shape is adopted for the sake of presenting a large
surface, and so rendering the instrument sensitive to changes of
temperature. The point, however, I wish to notice more particularly (for
reasons explained below) is the different calibre of the two capillary
tubes. The shorter one is a good deal narrower (at least towards the end)
than the longer one, the inner diameter of which is about 1/2 mm. The
horizontal part of this wider tube is marked near the bend with a delicate
line (_b_). This line, and the extremity of the opposite capillary tube
(_a_), are the marks which limit the volume of the liquid to be laid.
The filling of the instrument is easily effected by suction, provided that
the little bulb apparatus (as represented in fig. 2) has previously been
attached to the _narrow_ capillary tube by means of a perforated stopper,
_i. e._ a bit of an india-rubber tube tightly fitting the conical tubules
of the bulb. On dipping the wider and longer capillary tube into a liquid,
suction applied to the open end of the india-rubber tube will produce a
partial vacuum in the apparatus, causing the liquid to enter the U-tube.
As the partial vacuum maintains itself for some time (on account of the
bulb, which acts as an air-chamber), it is not necessary to continue the
suction if the end of the india-rubber tube be timely closed by
compression between the fingers. When bulb and U-tube have about equal
capacity, it is hardly necessary during the filling to repeat the
exhaustion more than once.
Without such a bulb the filling of the U-tube through these fine capillary
tubes is found somewhat tiresome; the emptying the U-tube is effected by
reversing the action, and so compressing the air. After the U-tube has
been filled, it is detached from the bulb, placed in water of the standard
temperature almost up to the bends of the capillary tubes, left there
until it has assumed this temperature, and after a careful adjustment of
the volume, is taken out, dried, and weighed.
Particular care must be taken to ensure the correctness of the standard
temperature, for a mistake of 0·1° causes the weight of 10 c.c. of water
to be estimated either too high or too low by 0·14 milligram, giving rise
to an error in the fifth decimal, or making 100,000 parts 100001·4 parts.
These determinations have been made in Dupré’s apparatus, which, when
furnished with a sensitive thermometer, allows the fluctuations of
temperature to be fixed within the limits of 0·01°. If many determinations
had to be made, I should avail myself of Scheibler’s (‘Zeitschrift für
Analytische Chemie,’ vol. vii, p. 88, 1868) electro-magnetic regulator for
maintaining a constant temperature.
A peculiar feature of my instrument is the ease and precision with which
the measurement of the liquid can be adjusted at the moment it has taken
the standard temperature; for it will be found that the liquid expands and
contracts only in the wider capillary tube, viz. in the direction of the
least resistance. The narrow capillary tube remains always completely
filled. Supposing the liquid reaches beyond the mark _b_, it may be
reduced through capillary force by touching the point _a_ with a little
roll of filtering paper. Supposing, however, that in so doing too much
liquid is abstracted, capillary force will redress the fault if point _a_
be touched with a drop of the liquid under examination; for this gentle
force acts instantly through the whole mass of the liquid, causing it to
move forward again to or beyond the mark.
As the instrument itself possesses the properties of a delicate
thermometer, the time when it has reached the standard temperature of the
bath may be learned from the stability of the thread of liquid inside the
wider tube. The length of this thread remains constant after the lapse of
about _five minutes_.
In wiping the instrument (after its removal from the bath) care should be
taken not to touch point _a_, as capillarity might extract some of the
liquid; otherwise the handling of the liquid requires no especial
precaution.
The capillary tubes need not be closed for the purpose of arresting
evaporation, at least that of water. I have learned from the mean of
several determinations that the error arising from this source amounts in
one hour to 1/20 of a milligram.
In cases where the temperature of the balance-room is high, and the
expansion coefficient of the liquid to be examined is considerable, it may
be found necessary to put a small cap (bead-shaped and open at both ends)
over the extremity of the _wider_ capillary tube, for the purpose of
retaining the liquid, which during the time of weighing might otherwise be
lost, owing to its expansion. When a cap is used the _wider_ capillary
tube need not be longer than the narrow one.[180]
[Footnote 180: This instrument is manufactured by E. Cetti & Co., 11,
Brooke Street, Holborn, London.]
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.’)]
[Illustration]
=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.
3. (Cadet Gassincourt.) Take of pure neroli, essences (oils) of cedrat,
orange, lemon, bergamot, and rosemary, of each 24 drops; lesser cardamom
seeds, 1/4 oz.; spirit at 32° Baumé (sp. gr. ·869), 1 quart; digest a few
days and then distil 1-1/2 pint.
4. (Farina.) Take of rectified spirit, 5 galls.; calamus aromaticus, sage,
and thyme, of each 1/2 dr.; balm-mint and spearmint, of each 1 oz.;
angelica root, 10 gr.; camphor, 15 gr.; petals of roses and violets, of
each 3 dr.; lavender flowers, 1-1/2 dr.; orange flowers, 1 dr.; wormwood,
nutmeg, cloves, cassia lignea, and mace, of each 20 gr.; oranges and
lemons, sliced, of each 2 in no.; bruise or slice the solids, macerate,
with agitation, for 48 hours, then distil off 2/3rds, and add to the
product——essences of lemon, cedrat, balm-mint, and lavender, of each 1 fl.
dr.; pure neroli and essence of the seeds of anthos, of each 20 drops;
essences of jasmin and bergamot, of each 1 fl. oz.; mix well and filter,
if necessary.
5. (P. Cod.) Oils of bergamot, lemon, and cedrat, of each 3 oz.; oils of
rosemary, lavender, and neroli, of each 1-1/2 oz.; oil of cinnamon, 3/4
oz.; spirit of rosemary, 1 quart; compound spirit of balm (eau de melisse
des Carmes), 3 pints; rectified spirit, 3 galls.; digest for 8 days, then
distil 3 galls.
6. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Oils of bergamot, orange, and rosemary, of each 1
fl. dr.; cardamom seeds, 1 dr.; rectified spirit and orange-flower water,
of each 1 pint; mix, digest for a day, and then distil a pint.
7. (Trommsdorff.) Oils of neroli, citron, bergamot, orange, and rosemary,
of each 12 drops; Malabar cardamoms, bruised, 1 dr.; rectified spirit of
wine, 1 quart; mix, and, after standing 2 or 3 days, distil a quart.
_Obs._ Eau de Cologne is principally used as a perfume, but a very large
quantity is consumed by fashionable ladies as a cordial and stimulant. For
this purpose it is dulcified with sugar. A piece of linen dipped in
Cologne water, and laid across the forehead, is a fashionable remedy for
headache.
=Eau d’Elegance.= [Fr.] From spirit of jessamine, 1 pint; rectified spirit
and spirits of hyacinth and storax, of each 1/2 pint; tinctures of
star-anise and tolu, of each 2 fl. oz.; tincture of vanilla, 1 fl. oz.;
essence of ambergris, 1/2 dr.; mix, and in a week decant the clear
portion.
=Eau de Framboises.= [Fr.] From strawberries, bruised, 16 lbs.; rectified
spirit, 1 gall.; digest, and distil to dryness in a salt-water or steam
bath.
=Eau d’Heliotrope.= [Fr.] From essence of ambergris, 1/2 fl. dr.; vanilla,
1/2 oz.; orange-flower water, 1/2 pint; rectified spirit, 1 quart; digest
a week, and filter.
=Eau d’Hongrie.= [Fr.] _Syn._ HUNGARY WATER; AQUA HUNGARICA, SPIRITUS
ROSMARINI COMPOSITUS, L.; EAU DE LA REINE D’HONGRIE, Fr. A fragrant
stimulant and cosmetic. Sweetened with sugar it is also used as a liqueur.
_Prep._ 1. Rosemary tops, in blossom, 4 lbs.; fresh sage, 1/2 lb.; bruised
ginger, 2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 gall.; water, 1/2 gall.; macerate
for 10 days, add of common salt, 3 lbs., and then distil 11 pints.
2. From oil of rosemary (genuine), 1-1/2 fl. dr.; oil of lavender, 1/2
dr.; orange flower water, 1/2 pint; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 pint; mix.
SPIRIT OF ROSEMARY (see _above_) is now commonly sold for it.
=Eau d’Ispahan.= [Fr.] From oil of the bitter orange, 2 fl. oz.; oil of
rosemary, 2 dr.; oils of cloves and neroli, of each 1 fl. dr.; oil of
spearmint, 1/2 fl. dr.; eau de rose, 1 pint; rectified spirit, 7 pints;
mix. It is better for distillation. Used as Eau de Cologne.
=Eau de Jasmin.= [Fr.] See ESPRIT DE JASMIN ODORANTE (_below_).
=Eau de Lavande.= [Fr.] _Syn._ LAVENDER WATER, DOUBLE DISTILLED L. W.;
AQUA LAVANDULÆ, A. L. ODORIFERA, SPIRITUS L., L. _Prep._ 1. From the
flowering tops of lavender (freshly and carefully picked), 7 lbs.;
rectified spirit, 2 gall.; macerate for a week, add of water, 1/2 gall.;
(holding in solution) common salt, 3 lbs.; and distil 2 gallons.
2. From Mitcham oil of lavender, 8 oz.; essence of musk, 4 oz.; essence of
ambergris and oil of bergamot, of each 1-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 2
gall.; mix well. Very fine.
3. (Brande.) Oil of lavender, 20 oz.; oil of bergamot, 5 oz.; essence of
ambergris (finest), 1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 5 gall.; mix.
_Obs._ The products of the last two formulæ are better for distillation;
but in that case the essences of ambergris and musk should be added to the
distilled spirit. The oils should be of the best quality, and newly
distilled, and the spirit should be perfectly scentless.
It may be useful to observe here, that the common lavender water, double
distilled lavender water, or spirit of lavender of the shops, is made with
spirit at proof, or even weaker; hence its inferior quality to that of the
more celebrated perfumers. One ounce of true English oil of lavender is
all that will properly combine with 1 gall. of proof spirit, without
rendering it muddy or cloudy.
Eau de lavande is a most agreeable and fashionable perfume. The article
produced by the second formula has received the commendation of Her
Majesty and many of the nobility.
=Eau de Lavande de Millefleurs.= To each quart of the ordinary eau de
lavande (No. 2 or 3), add of oil of cloves, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; essence of
ambergris, 1/2 fl. dr.
=Eau de Lavange (Ammoniacal).= 1. To lavender water, 1 pint; add of liquor
of ammonia, 1/2 fl. oz.
2. (P. Cod.) English oil of lavender, 1 oz.; spirit of ammonia, 2 lbs.;
dissolve. Used as a stimulating scent in fainting. See PERFUMES
(Ammoniated).
=Eau de Luce.= [Fr.] See TINCTURE OF AMMONIA, COMPOUND.
=Eau de Maréchale.= [Fr.] _Syn._ EXTRAIT DE MARÉCHALE, Fr. 1. From
ambergris and grain musk, of each 20 gr.; oils of bergamot, lavender, and
cloves, of each 1 oz.; oils of sassafras and origanum, of each 1/2 fl.
dr.; rectified spirit, 2 quarts; macerate with agitation for a week.
2. Rectified spirit, 1 pint; essence of violets, 1 oz.; essences of
bergamot and œillets, of each 1/4 oz.; orange-flower water, 1/2 pint; mix.
=Eau de Melisse.= [Fr.] See SPIRIT OF BALM, COMPOUND.
=Eau de Miel.= [Fr.] _Syn._ HONEY WATER, SWEET-SCENTED H. W.; AQUA MELLIS,
A. M. ODORIFERA, L. _Prep._ 1. Take of spirit of roses (No. 3——see
_above_), 2 quarts; spirit of jasmin and rectified spirit, of each 1
quart; essence of Portugal, 1 fl. oz.; essences of vanilla and musk, of
each (No. 3) 4 fl. oz.; flowers of benzoin, 1-1/2 dr.; mix, agitate, and
add of eau de fleurs d’oranges, 1 quart. Delightfully fragrant.
2. Honey (finest), 1/4 lb.; essence of bergamot, 1/2 oz.; essence of
lemon, 1/4 oz.; oil of cloves, 12 drops; musk, 12 gr.; ambergris, 6 gr.;
orange-flower and rose water, of each 1 quart; rectified spirit, 1 gall.;
macerate for 14 days, with frequent agitation, and filter.
_Obs._ The last is often coloured with 20 or 30 gr. of saffron, and made
into a ratafia with sugar. HONEY WATER FOR THE HAIR is a different article
to the above. It is obtained by the dry distillation of honey, mixed with
an equal weight of clean sand, a gentle heat only being employed. The
product is yellowish and acidulous, from the presence of acetic acid. This
last is used to promote the growth of the hair.
=Eau de Millefleurs.= [Fr.] _Syn._ EXTRAIT DE MILLEFLEURS, Fr. _Prep._ 1.
From grain musk, 12 gr.; ambergris, 20 gr.; essence of lemon, 1-1/2 oz.;
oils of cloves and lavender (English), of each 1 oz.; neroli and oil of
verbena, of each 1/2 dr.; rectified spirits, 2 quarts; macerate in a
closed vessel, and a warm situation for a fortnight.
2. Balsam of Peru (genuine) and essence of cloves, of each 1 oz.; essences
of bergamot and musk, of each 2 oz.; essences of neroli and thyme, of each
1/4 oz.; eau de fleurs d’oranges, 1 quart; rectified spirit, 9 pints; mix
well. Very fine.
3. Essence of bergamot, 1/4 oz.; eau de lavande and essence of jasmin, of
each 1 oz.; orange-flower water, 8 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint; mix.
=Eau de Mousselline.= [Fr.] From eau de fleurs d’oranges and spirit of
clove-gillyflower, of each 1 quart; spirit of roses (No. 3——see _above_),
spirit of jasmin (No. 4), and spirit of orange flowers (No. 4), of each 2
quarts; essences of vanilla and musk, of each (No. 3), 2 fl. oz.; sanders
wood, 1/2 oz. Very fine.
=Eau de Naphe.= [Fr.] See WATERS (Perfumed).
=Eau sans Pareille.= [Fr.] 1. From essence of bergamot, 5 dr.; essence of
lemon, 8 dr.; essence of citron, 4 dr.; Hungary water, 1 pint; rectified
spirit, 6 quarts; mix, and distil.
2. Grain musk, 20 gr.; ambergris, 25 gr.; oils of lavender and cloves, of
each 1 oz.; essence of bergamot, 1/2 oz.; oils of sassafras and origanum,
of each 20 drops; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; macerate for 14 days.
=Eau, Romain.= [Fr.] From essence of ambergris, 1 fl. oz.; tincture of
benzoin, 4 fl. oz.; spirit of tuberose, 1/2 pint; spirit of acacia flowers
and tincture of vanilla, of each 1 pint; spirit of jasmin, 3 pints; mix.
=Eau de Rosières.= [Fr.] From spirit of roses, 1 pint; spirits of
cucumber, angelica root, and celery seeds, of each 1/2 pint; spirits of
jasmin and orange flowers, of each 1/4 pint; tincture of benzoin, 2 fl.
oz.; mix.
=Eau de Violette.= [Fr.] See ESPRIT DE VIOLETTES (_below_).
=Esprit d’Ambrette.= [Fr.] See ESSENCE.
=Esprit de Bergamotte.= [Fr.] From essence (oil) of bergamot (best), 5
oz.; essence of ambergris (pale), 2 fl. oz.; essence of musk, 1/2 fl. oz.;
oil of verbena, 2 fl. dr.; rectified spirit, 1 gall,; mix.
=Esprit de Bouquet.= [Fr.] From Mitcham oil of lavender, 1 oz.; oils of
cloves and bergamot, of each 3 fl. dr.; essence of musk, 1 fl. dr.; otto
of roses, 10 drops; rectified spirit, 1 quart.
=Esprit de Fleurs.= [Fr.] See SPIRIT OF THE FLOWERS OF ITALY (_below_).
=Esprit de Jasmin.= [Fr.] _Syn._ EAU DE JASMIN, Fr.
=Esprit de Jasmin Odorante.= [Fr.] From spirit of jasmin and rectified
spirit, of each 1 pint; essence of ambergris, 1 fl. dr.
=Esprit de Jonquille.= [Fr.]
=Esprit de la Reine.= [Fr.] From oil of bergamot, 1 fl. oz.; essence of
ambergris, 2 fl. dr.; otto of roses, 1 fl. dr.; rectified spirit, 1 quart.
=Esprit de Rondeletia.= [Fr.] _Syn._ EXTRAIT DE RONDELETIA, Fr. From
Mitcham oil of lavender, 3 oz.; oil of cloves, 1-1/4 oz.; oil of bergamot,
1 oz.; essences of musk and ambergris, of each 2 fl. dr.; rectified
spirit, 3 pints.
=Esprit de Rose.= [Fr.] 1. From spirit of roses (see general directions,
page 1547), 1 pint; essence of ambergris and oil of rose-geranium, of each
1/2 fl. dr.
2. From otto of roses, 2 dr.; neroli, 1/2 dr.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.;
dissolve, add of chloride of calcium (well dried and in powder), 1-1/2
lb.; agitate well, and distil 7 pints. Very fine.
=Esprit de Suave.= [Fr.] From the essences of cloves and bergamot, of each
1-1/2 fl. dr.; neroli, 1 fl. dr.; essence of musk, 1 fl. oz.; spirit of
tuberose and rectified spirit, of each 1 pint; spirits of jasmin and
cassia, of each 1 quart; dissolve, then add of eau de rose, 1 pint, and
mix well.
=Esprit de Tain.= [Fr.] _Syn._ SPIRIT OF LEMON THYME; SPIRITUS THYMI, L.
From tops of lemon thyme, 2 lbs.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; distil 7 pints.
=Esprit de Violettes.= [Fr.] _Syn._ SPIRIT OF VIOLETS, ESSENCE OF V., E.
OF ORRIS. From Florentine orris root, reduced to coarse powder, 1/4 lb.;
rectified spirit, 1 pint; by simple maceration for a fortnight. A stronger
and finer article (ESSENCE OF VIOLETS) is prepared from orris root, 5
lbs., to rectified spirit, 1 gall.; by percolation.
=Extrait de Bouquet.= [Fr.] Extract of nosegay.
=Extrait de Maréchale.= [Fr.] See EAU DE MARÉCHALE (_above_).
=Extrait de Millefleurs.= [Fr.] See EAU DE MILLEFLEURS (_above_).
=Extrait de Rondeletia.= [Fr.] See ESPRIT (_above_).
=Odeur, Délectable.= [Fr.] From oils of lavender, bergamot, rose-geranium,
and cloves, of each 1 fl. dr.; eaux de rose and fleurs d’orange, of each
1/4 pint; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 pint.
=Odeur Suave.= [Fr.] See ESPRIT (_above_).
=Spirit of Cytherea.= From the spirits of violets, tuberose,
clove-gillyflower, jasmin (No. 2——see _above_), roses (No. 2), and
Portugal, of each 1 pint; orange-flower water, 1 quart; mix.
=Spirit of the Flowers of Italy.= _Syn._ ESPRIT DE FLEURS, Fr. From the
spirits of roses (No. 1——see _above_), jasmin (No. 2), oranges (No. 3),
and cassia (No. 2), of each 4 pints; orange-flower water, 3 pints; mix.
=Victoria Perfume.= See ESPRIT DE LA REINE (_above_).
=SPIT′TING OF BLOOD.= See HÆMOPTYSIS.
=SPLINT.= This is the common name given to an enlargement of the bone in
horses; which generally occurs below the knee, between the large and small
splint bones, usually on the inside of the limb. It mostly results from
fast driving or riding, or from the animal having been much worked while
young, or made to unduly traverse hard or paved roads. The splint is a
frequent cause of lameness if it develops just under the knee, since it
interferes with and circumscribes the free movement of the joint. It is
very essential to have recourse to prompt measures directly this affection
shows itself.
The treatment usually prescribed is the constant application to the part
of cold water, if the splint he accompanied by much tenderness or
inflammation. This may be accomplished by bandages soaked in cold water,
taking care to renew the cold water as soon as it becomes warm. Mr Finlay
Dun advises the horse, where practicable, to stand for an hour several
times a day up to the knees in a stream or pool of water. In addition he
prescribes rest for ten days or a fortnight, and when the heat and
tenderness have been subdued the application of a blister, or of biniodide
of mercury ointment, or the hot iron.
=SPONGE.= _Syn._ SPONGIA, S. OFFICINALIS, L. Sponge is a cellular fibrous
structure, produced by marine animals of the humblest type, belonging to
the subkingdom Protozoa. The finest quality is imported from Smyrna, and
is known as TURKEY SPONGE; another, called WEST INDIAN or BAHAMA SPONGE,
is much less esteemed, being coarse, dark coloured, and very rotten.
Sponge, as collected, and also as generally imported, contains many
impurities, more especially sand, most of which may be removed by beating
it, and by washing it in water. Amusing disputes often arise between the
smaller importers and the wholesale purchasers on this subject——the
privilege of beating it before weighing it, the number of minutes so
employed, and even the size of the stick, being often made important
matters in the ‘haggling.’
1. BLEACHED SPONGE (WHITE SPONGE; SPONGIA DEALBATA) is prepared by soaking
ordinary sponge in very dilute hydrochloric acid, to remove calcareous
matter, then in cold water, changing it frequently, and squeezing the
sponge out each time, and next, in water holding a little sulphuric or
sulphurous acid, or, still better, a very little chlorine, in solution;
the sponge is, lastly, repeatedly washed and soaked in clean water scented
with rose or orange-flower water, and dried.
2. The sponges are first soaked in hydrochloric acid to remove the lime,
they are then washed in water, and afterwards placed for ten minutes in a
2 per cent. solution of permanganate of potassium. When taken out they
have a brown appearance; this is owing to the deposition of manganous
oxide, and may be removed by steeping the sponge for about two minutes in
a 2 per cent. solution of oxalic acid, to which a little sulphuric acid
has been added. As soon as the sponges appear white they are well washed
out in water to remove the acid. Strongly diluted sulphuric acid may be
used instead of oxalic acid.
3. Sponges can be bleached by first soaking them in hydrochloric acid,
diluted with 1-1/2 parts of water, until no more carbonic acid is given
off; then wash in pure water, and afterwards leave in a bath composed of 2
lbs. of hyposulphite of soda, 12 lbs. of water, and 2 lbs. of hydrochloric
acid. If the sponge be afterwards dipped in glycerin and well pressed, to
remove excess of liquid, it remains elastic, and can be used for
mattresses, cushions, and general upholstery. Sponge mattresses prepared
in this way are now finding great favour. It is, of course, not necessary
to bleach the sponge where it is intended to be used for such
purposes.[190]
[Footnote 190: ‘Pharmacist.’]
BURNT SPONGE (SPONGIA USTA——Ph. D.) is prepared by heating the cuttings
and unsaleable pieces in a closed iron crucible until they become black
and friable, avoiding too much heat, and allowing the whole to cool before
exposing it to the air. It was formerly in great repute in bronchocele and
scrofulous complaints.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 dr., in water, or made into an
electuary or lozenges. When good burnt sponge evolves violet fumes of
iodine on being heated in a flask along with sulphuric acid.
COMPRESSED or WAXED SPONGE (SPONGIA CERATA, S. COMPRESSA) is sponge which
has been dipped into melted wax and then compressed between two iron
plates until cold. When cut into pieces it forms ‘SPONGE TENTS,’ which are
used by surgeons to dilate wounds.
=Sponge, To Clean a.= There is nothing more pleasant for washing the skin
than a fresh good sponge, or the reverse when not kept thoroughly clean.
Without the greatest care, a sponge is apt to get slimy long before it is
worn out. It may be made almost as good as, in fact often better than,
new, by the following process:——Take about 2 or 3 oz. of carbonate of
soda, or of potash; dissolve in 2-1/2 pints of water; soak the sponge in
it for 24 hours, then wash and rinse it in pure water. Then put it for
some hours in a mixture, 1 glassful of muriatic acid to 3 pints of water;
finally, rinse in cold water, and dry thoroughly. A sponge should always
be dried, if possible, in the sun every time it has been used.
=SPONGES Employed in Washing Wounds, Purification of.= M. Leriche advises
the sponge to be first saturated with a solution of 4 parts of
permanganate of potassium in 100 parts of water; then passed through a
solution of sulphurous acid, and finally washed thoroughly with water. The
sponges are said to become perfectly disinfected and deodorised, whilst
the tissue is not affected by the treatment.
=SPOROKTON.= See SULPHUROUS ANHYDRIDE.
=SPOTS and STAINS.= 1. OIL and GREASE SPOTS on boards, marble, &c., when
recent, may be removed by covering them with a paste made of fullers
earth and hot water, and the next day, when the mixture has become
perfectly dry, scouring it off with hot soap-and-water. For old spots, a
mixture of fullers earth and soft soap, or a paste made of fresh-slaked
lime and pearlash, will be better; observing not to touch the last with
the fingers.
2. RECENT SPOTS of OIL, GREASE, or WAX, on woollen cloth or silk, may be
removed with a little clean oil of turpentine or benzol; or with a little
fullers earth or scraped French chalk, made into a paste with water, and
allowed to dry on them. They may also be generally removed by means of a
rather hot flat-iron and blotting-paper or spongy brown paper, more
especially if the cloth, or one of the pieces of paper, be first slightly
damped. OLD OIL and GREASE SPOTS require to be treated with ox-gall or
yolk of egg, made into a paste with fullers earth or soap. PAINT SPOTS,
when recent, generally yield to the last treatment. Old ones, however, are
more obstinate, and require some fullers earth and soft soap made into a
paste with either ox-gall or spirit of turpentine.
The ‘American Chemist’ gives the following method for extracting
grease-spots from books or paper:——Gently warm the greased or spotted part
of the book or paper, and then press upon it pieces of blotting paper one
after another, so as to absorb as much of the grease as possible. Have
ready some fine, clear, essential oil of turpentine heated almost to a
boiling state;[191] warm the greased leaf a little, and then with a soft,
clean brush, wet with the heated turpentine both sides of the spotted
part. By repeating this application the grease will be extracted. Lastly,
with another brush dipped in rectified spirits of wine go over the place,
and the grease will no longer appear, neither will the paper be
discoloured.
[Footnote 191: This operation ought to be very carefully accomplished, as
the turpentine is a highly inflammable body.]
FRUIT and WINE STAINS, on linen, commonly yield easily to hot
soap-and-water. If not, they must be treated as those below.
INK SPOTS and RECENT IRON MOULDS on washable fabrics may be removed by
dropping on the part a little melted tallow from a common candle, before
washing the articles; or, by the application of a little lemon juice, or
of a little powdered cream of tartar made into a paste with hot water. Old
ink spots and iron moulds will be found to yield almost immediately to a
very little powdered oxalic acid, which must be well rubbed upon the spot
previously moistened with boiling water, and kept hot over a basin filled
with the same.
Boettger recommends the use of pyrophosphate of soda for the removal of
ink stains from coloured woven tissues, to be applied in the form of a
concentrated solution. The recent ink stains are readily removed, but
older stains require washing and rubbing with the solution for a long
time.
STAINS arising from ALKALIES and ALKALINE LIQUORS, when the colours are
not destroyed, give way before the application of a little lemon juice;
whilst those arising from the weaker acids and acidulous liquids yield to
the fumes of ammonia, or the application of a little spirit of hartshorn
or sal volatile.
STAINS OF MARKING INK may be removed by soaking the part in a solution of
chloride of lime, and afterwards rinsing it in a little solution of
ammonia or of hyposulphate of soda; or they may be rubbed with the
tincture of iodine, and then rinsed as before.
NITRIC ACID STAINS, TO REMOVE. The yellow stain left by nitric acid can be
removed either from the skin or from brown or black woollen garments by
moistening the spots for awhile with permanganate of potash, and rinsing
with water. A brownish stain of manganese remains, which may be removed
from the skin by washing with aqueous solution of sulphurous acid. If the
spots are old they cannot be entirely removed. See BALLS, CLOTHES, HANDS,
SCOURING, STAINS, &c.
=SPRAIN.= _Syn._ SUBLUXATIO, L. An injury of a joint, in which it has been
strained or twisted in an unnatural manner, without actual dislocation.
Pain, swelling, and inflammation, are the common consequences, which must
be combated by purgatives, repose, and a low diet, with refrigerant
lotions, or warm fomentations, according to circumstances. In extreme
cases, blood should be taken. Where there is simple stiffness and
weakness, exercise is often serviceable.
_Treatment for the Horse and other Animals._ Foment. Apply lead lotion and
refrigerants.
IF FOR CURB use counter-irritants, or red iodide of mercury ointment, or
the firing iron; and if for a horse a high-heeled shoe.
=SPRAT.= The _Clupea Sprattus_ (Linn.), a small fish of the herring
family, abounding on our coasts. Gutted, coloured, and pickled, it is sold
for anchovies, or as British anchovies, and much used to make the sauce of
that name. Sprats contain about 6 per cent. of fat.
=SPRENGEL’S PUMP.= See AIR PUMP.
=SPRINKLES.= See BOOKBINDING.
=SPRUCE.= See BEER, ESSENCE, and POWDERS.
=SPUNK.= See AMADOU.
=SQUILL.= _Syn._ SCILLA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. The bulb of
“_Urginea Scilla_,” sliced and dried. In small doses, squill acts as a
stimulating expectorant and diuretic; in larger ones, as an emetic and
purgative. With the first intention it is generally given in substance
(powder), in doses of 1 to 3 or 4 gr.; with the latter, either made into
vinegar or oxymel (which _see_). It is an excellent remedy in coughs,
&c., after the inflammatory symptoms have subsided.
=STAGGERS.= There are two varieties of the disease known under this name
by which horses are affected, viz. stomach staggers, and grass or sleepy
staggers. The first, which occasionally kills the horse in twelve or
fifteen hours after the attack, is generally induced by an overladen
stomach and improper food. The animal has perhaps partaken largely and
rapidly, and after too long a fast, of some diet to which it is
unaccustomed, such as vetches, clover, or grass. These undergo
decomposition within the stomach and intestines, and give rise to such an
evolution of gas, as either to set up inflammation of the stomach and
intestines, or to lead to their rupture, in which latter case the result
is, of course, fatal. The symptoms are a quick and feeble pulse, attempts
at vomiting, a staggering gait, whilst very frequently the animal sits on
its haunches like a dog. Sleepy staggers, which is a more chronic
manifestation of the disease, is most common during the summer and autumn
months, and generally occurs amongst horses fed on tough and indigestible
food, such as vetches or rye grass, from which circumstances the complaint
has been called ‘grass staggers.’ Both kinds of the disease require the
same treatment.
Mr Finlay Dun prescribes a brisk purge, consisting of 6 dr. of aloes in
solution, with a dr. of calomel and 2 oz. of oil of turpentine; also the
injection every hour of clysters, consisting of salt, soap, or tobacco
smoke, the abdomen being at the same time diligently rubbed and fomented
with water nearly boiling. To ward off stupor he recommends the frequent
administration of 2 or 3 dr. of carbonate of ammonia, with an ounce or two
of spirit of nitrous ether, or of strong whiskey toddy, combined with
plenty of ginger. To guard against a return of the attack light and easily
digestible food should be administered every four or five hours, and
occasional mild purgatives should be given.
Horses are also subject to another form of staggers called ‘mad staggers.’
This disease originates, however, in causes wholly dissimilar from those
just stated, being the result of phrenitis or inflammation of the brain.
The animal is frequently very furious and excited, and seems wholly unable
to control itself, throwing itself madly about, and attempting to run down
anybody that comes in its way; it is also frequently unable to keep on its
legs, and when it falls, plunges, and struggles violently.
The treatment recommended is prompt and copious bloodletting, combined
with active purges and enemas, with refrigerant lotions to the head.
=STAINED GLASS.= The art of painting or staining glass resembles enamel
painting, in the effect being produced by fluxing certain metallic
substances, as oxides or chlorides, on its surface, by means of heat
applied in a suitable furnace. The operations it embraces are difficult,
and require great promptitude and experience to prove successful. The
colours or compounds employed are, for the most part, similar to those
noticed under ENAMEL and PASTE.
=STAINS.= Discolorations from foreign matters. Liquid dyes are also
frequently termed ‘stains.’ See SPOTS, &c., and _below_.
=Stains, Blood.= Spots of dried blood on wood, linen, &c., however old,
are easily recognised by the microscope; but simple stains or marks of
blood of a slight character, especially those occurring on iron or steel,
are recognised with greater difficulty. To obviate this, H. Zollikofer
adopts the following plan:——The spot is removed, by scraping, from the
surface of the metal, and the resulting powder is digested in tepid water,
when a liquid is obtained which exhibits the following reactions:
1. The liquid is neutralised with acid, and heated to ebullition, when
opalisation occurs, or a dirty red coagulum forms.
2. The coagulum is dissolved in hot liquor of potassa; the solution, if
blood (hæmatin) be present, is diachromatic, or appears green by
transmitted light and red by reflected light.
3. By the addition of concentrated chlorine water, in excess, to either
solution, white flocks of albumen and chlorhæmatin separate, which are
free from iron, as tested by sulphocyanide of potassium.
_Obs._ The last two reactions are said to be characteristic. Very old
spots must be boiled in water containing a little liquor of potassa. See
Dr Taylor’s ‘Medical Jurisprudence,’ and BLOOD.
=Stains, Bookbinder’s.= See LEATHER, MARBLING, &c.
=Stains, Confectioner’s.= These are similar to those noticed under
LIQUEUR. Mineral colours, especially mineral blues, greens, and yellows,
must on no account be used, as they are nearly all dangerous poisons; nor
is there any inducement to use them, since the vegetable substances
referred to afford, by proper management, every shade that can be possibly
required. These stains are also used for cakes and pastry.
=Stains, Liqueur.= See LIQUEUR.
=Stains, Map.= See MAPS, VELVET COLOURS, &c.
=STAM′MERING.= _Syn._ BLÆSITAS, L. Occasionally this depends on some
organic affection, or slight malformation of the parts of the mouth or
throat immediately connected with the utterance of vocal sounds; but, much
more frequently, it is a habit resulting from carelessness, or acquired
from example or imitation. When the latter is the case, it may be
generally removed by perseveringly adopting the plan of never speaking
without having the chest moderately filled with air, and then only slowly
and deliberately. Hasty and rapid speaking must not be attempted until
the habit of stammering is completely subdued. Nervous excitement and
confusion must be avoided as much as possible, and the general health
attended to, as circumstances may direct. This variety of stammering is
commonly distinguished by the person being able to sing without
hesitation. Stammering depending on elongation of the uvula, and other
like causes, may be generally removed by a simple surgical operation.
=STAN′NIC ACID.= Peroxide of tin.
=STARCH.= C_{6}H_{10}O_{5}. _Syn._ AMYLACEOUS FECULA; AMYLUM, L. One of
the most important and widely diffused of the proximate principles of
vegetables being found, in greater or less quantity, in every plant. The
mealy and farinaceous seeds, fruits, roots, and the stem-pith of certain
trees, consist chiefly of starch in a nearly pure state. Wheat contains
about 75% and potatoes about 15% of this substance. From these sources the
fecula is obtained by rasping or grinding to pulp the vegetable structure,
and washing the mass upon a sieve, by which the torn cellular tissue is
retained, whilst the starch passes through with the liquid, and eventually
settles down from the latter as a soft, white, insoluble powder, which,
after being thoroughly washed with cold water, is dried in the air, or
with a very gentle heat.
WHEAT STARCH (AMYLUM, B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.) is commonly prepared by
steeping the flour in water for a week, or a fortnight, during which time
the saccharine portion ferments and the starch granules become freed, for
the most part, from the glutinous matter which envelops them, by the
disintegrating and solvent action of the lactic acid generated by the
fermentation. The sour liquor is then drawn off, and the feculous residue
washed on a sieve; what passes through is allowed to settle, when the
liquid is again drawn off, and the starch thoroughly washed from the
slimy matter; it is then drained in perforated boxes, cut up into square
lumps, placed on porous bricks to absorb the moisture, and, lastly, air-
or stove-dried.
In the preparation of starch from potatoes (potato starch) and other like
vegetable substances, the roots or tubers, after being washed and peeled,
either by hand-labour or by machinery, are rasped by a revolving grater,
and the pulp washed on hair sieves until freed from feculous matter.
Successive portions of the pulp are thus treated until the vessel over
which the sieves are placed, or into which the washings run, is
sufficiently full. The starch held in suspension in the water having
subsided to the bottom, the water is drawn off, and the starch stirred up
with fresh water, and again allowed to subside. This operation is repeated
several times, with fresh water, until the starch is rendered sufficiently
pure for commercial purposes, when it is washed and dried as before. The
waste fibres and the washing waters are used as manure.
The starch manufactory at Hohenziatz treated 1216 tons of potatoes for
starch between the 4th October, 1874, and the 6th February, 1875. The
waste water after passing through precipitating vats, &c., for the purpose
of collecting all the particles of starch, was conducted into a reservoir
and mixed with spring water. This water was conducted over a meadow of
18·5 acres, and then passed to a meadow of 4·95 acres, and from this to
the third and last, which contained 6·19 acres. The 29·64 acres received
the water from 1064 tons of potatoes, or for each acre 4·38 cwt. of
potash, 1·26 cwt. of phosphoric acid and 1·27 of nitrogen.
The following table shows analysis (1) of potato water; (2) of the same
diluted; (3) of water from the first meadow; (4) water from the second
meadow; 1 litre contained——
1. 2. 3. 4.
mg. mg. mg. mg.
Whole solid matter 1857·8 323·8 322·8 262·0
Organic matter 1134·2 101·8 38·0 78·8
Inorganic matter 723·8 222·0 348·8 183·2
Potash 212·5 55·0 41·2 8·2
Phosphoric acid 56·6 5·5 trace trace
Nitrogen 140·7 12·0 4·0 9·1
Ammonia 37·4 0 0 0
Nitric acid 3·8 trace trace trace
The disappearance of ammonia and phosphoric acid in 2 is accounted for by
the precipitation of phosphate of magnesium and ammonium on the addition
of the spring water.
The harvest in hay before the use of potato water was 19·13 cwt. per acre,
and afterwards 31·88 cwt. The composition of the hay is better than
before, as will be seen by the following comparative table:——
1 2
Moisture 15·00 15·00
Woody matter 22·66 22·88
Mineral matter 7·64 8·69
Sol. in ether 2·00 2·30
Albumen 10·89 15·85
Extractable matter }
not containing } 41·81 35·34
nitrogen }
—————— ——————
100·00 100·00[192]
[Footnote 192: ‘Dingl. Polyt. Jour.,’ ccxxv, 394-396 (‘Journ. Chem.
Soc,’).]
In the manufacture of starch from rice and Indian corn (rice starch, maize
starch), a very dilute solution of caustic soda, containing about 200 gr.
of alkali to each gallon of liquid, is employed to facilitate the
disintegration and separation of the gluten and other nitrogenised
matters. A weak solution of ammonia, or sesquicarbonate of ammonia, is
also similarly employed with advantage. The gluten may be recovered by
saturating the alkali with dilute sulphuric acid. Such starch does not
require boiling, and is less apt than wheat starch to attract moisture
from the atmosphere. Most of the so-called ‘wheaten starch’ of commerce
used by laundresses is now prepared from rice.
To whiten the starches made from damaged roots and grains, and the coarser
portions of those from sound ones, a little solution of chloride of lime
is occasionally added to the water, followed by another water containing a
very little dilute sulphuric acid; every trace of the last being
afterwards removed by the copious use of pure soft or spring water.
The bluish-white starch used by laundresses is coloured with a mixture of
smalts and alum in water, and is regarded as unfit for medicinal purposes.
_Prop., &c._ Starch is insoluble in cold water, and in alcohol and most
other liquids, but it readily forms a gelatinous compound (amidin) with
water at about 175° Fahr.; alcohol and most of the astringent salts
precipitate it from its solutions; infusion of galls throws down a copious
yellowish precipitate, containing tannic acid, which is redissolved by
heating the liquid; heat and dilute acids convert it into dextrin and
grape sugar; strong alkaline lyes dissolve it, and ultimately decompose
it. Sp. gr. 1·53.
To the naked eye it presents the appearance of a soft, white, and often
glistening powder; under the microscope it is seen to be altogether
destitute of crystalline structure, but to possess, on the contrary, a
kind of organisation, being made of multitudes of little rounded
transparent bodies, upon each of which a series of depressed parallel
rings, surrounding a central spot or hilum, may be traced. The starch
granules from different plants vary both in magnitude and form. Those of
potato starch and canna starch (tous les mois) are the largest, and those
of rice and millet starch the smallest, the dimensions ranging from 1/200
to the 1/10000 of an inch. The granules of arrow-root and tous les mois
are ovoid, those of potato starch both oblong and circular those of
tapioca muller-shaped, and those of wheat starch circular.
_Identif._ One of the commonest frauds practised upon the profession and
the public is the admixture of the cheaper kinds of starch, chiefly potato
farina, with arrow-root, and vending manufactured for genuine tapioca,
sago, and other articles of diet, used for invalids and children. These
sophistications are most easily detected with a good microscope.[193]
[Footnote 193: Drawings of the principal starches will be found under the
substances from which they are obtained, as “arrow-root,” &c.]
=Starch, I′odide of.= _Syn._ AMYLI IODIDUM, AMYLI IODATUM, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
Castr. Ruthena.) Iodine, 24 gr.; rectified spirit, a few drops; rub them
to a powder; then add of starch, 1 oz., and again triturate, until the
mass assumes a uniform colour. Recommended by Dr A. Buchanan, of Glasgow,
as producing the alterative effects of iodine, without the usual irritant
action of that medicine.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful, or more, in water-gruel,
or any bland liquid, twice or thrice a day.
=Starch, Soluble Iodide of.= (Petit.) _Prep._ Iodine, 12 grammes; starch,
100 grammes; ether, q. s. Dissolve the iodine in the ether, pour the
resulting solution over the starch, and triturate until the ether has
sufficiently evaporated. Put the product in a porcelain capsule and expose
it to the heat of a boiling water bath for half an hour, with occasional
stirring. This treatment is sufficient to render it entirely soluble in
hot water.
Dr Bellini strongly recommends iodide of starch as a valuable antidote in
cases of poisoning by caustic alkalies, alkaline, or earthy sulphides, and
vegetable alkaloids. The advantages attending its employment, he says,
are: that it may be administered in large doses; that it does not possess
the irritating properties of free iodine; and that it readily forms
harmless compounds with the substances named. To avoid the subsequent
decomposition of the latter, he advises its administration to be followed
by an emetic. As an antidote to alkaline and earthy sulphides, the author
thinks it preferable to all others. In cases of poisoning by ammonia,
caustic potash, or soda, it is applicable when acid drinks are not on
hand.
=STARCHING (Clear).= Muslins, &c., are ‘clear-starched’ or ‘got-up’ by
laundresses in the following manner:——Rinse the articles in three waters,
dry them, and dip them into thick-made starch, which has been previously
strained through a piece of muslin; squeeze them, shake them gently, and
again hang them up to dry; when they are dry, dip them twice or thrice
into clear water, squeeze them, spread them on a linen cloth, roll them up
in it, and let them lie an hour before ironing them. Some persons put a
morsel of sugar into the starch, to prevent its sticking whilst ironing,
and others stir the starch with a candle to effect the same end; both
these practices are as injurious as unnecessary. The best plan to prevent
sticking is simply to use the best starch, and to make it well, and to
have the irons quite clean and highly polished. Mr W. B. Tegetmeier
recommends the addition of a small piece of paraffin (a piece of paraffin
candle-end) to the starch, to increase the glossiness of the ironed
fabric.
=STARS.= (In pyrotechny.) _Prop._ 1. (Brilliant——Marsh.) Nitrate, 52-1/2
parts; sulphur and black antimony, of each 13 parts; reduce them to
powder, make them into a stiff paste with isinglass, 1-1/2 parts,
dissolved in a mixture of vinegar, 6-1/2 parts; and spirits of wine, 13
parts; lastly, form this into small pieces, and whilst moist, roll them in
meal gunpowder.
2. (WHITE——Ruggieri.) Nitre, 16 parts; sulphur, 7 parts; gunpowder, 4
parts; as the last.
3. (GOLDEN RAIN.)——_a._ (Ruggieri.) Nitre and gunpowder, of each 16 parts;
sulphur, 10 parts; charcoal, 4 parts; lampblack, 2 parts; mix, and pack it
into small paper tubes.
_b._ (Ruggieri.) Nitre, 16 parts; sulphur and gunpowder, of each 8 parts;
charcoal and lampblack, of each 2 parts; as the last.
_c._ (Marsh.) Mealed gunpowder, 66-3/4 parts; sulphur, 11 parts; charcoal,
22-1/4 parts; as before. Used for the ‘garniture’ of rockets, &c. See
PYROTECHNY.
=STAVES′ACRE.= _Syn._ STAVESACRE SEEDS; STAPHISAGRIÆ SEMINA, STAPHISAGRIA
(Ph. L. & D.), L. “The seed of _Delphinium Staphisagria_, Linn.” (Ph. L.)
This article is powerfully emetic and cathartic, but is now scarcely ever
used internally. Mixed with hair powder, it is used to kill lice. An
infusion or ointment made with it is said to be infallible in itch, but
its use requires some caution.
=STAYS.= _Syn._ CORSET. Stays, “before womanhood, are instruments of
barbarity and torture, and then they are needed only to give beauty to the
chest. It is the duty of every mother, and every guardian of children, to
inquire the purpose for which stays were introduced into female attire.
Was it for warmth? If so, they certainly fulfil the intention very badly,
and are much inferior to an elastic woollen habit, or one of silk quilted
with wool. Was it to force the ribs, while yet soft and pliable, into the
place of the liver and stomach, and the two latter into the space allotted
for other parts, to engender disease and deformity to the sufferer and her
children for generations? Truly, if this were the object, the device is
most successful, and the intention most ingeniously fulfilled.” (Eras.
Wilson.)
“Only observe,” exclaimed Dr John Hunter——“only observe, if the statue of
the Medicean Venus were to be dressed in stays, and her beautiful feet
compressed into a pair of execrably tight shoes, it would extort a smile
from an Heraclitus, and a horse-laugh from a Cynic.”
“The Turkish ladies express horror at seeing Englishwomen so tightly
laced.” (Lady M. W. Montague.) See DISTORTIONS.
=STEAM.= The application of steam of the laboratory, as a source of heat,
is commonly effected by means of double pans, to the space between which
steam, at a moderate pressure, is introduced, the arrangements being such
as to permit of the condensed steam, or distilled water, being removed, by
means of a cock, nearly as soon as formed, or as may be desirable. Another
plan is to place coils of metal pipe along the bottom of cisterns, vats,
&c., formed either of wood or metal, and to keep them supplied with
high-pressure steam.
“It is quite susceptible of positive proof that by no arrangement yet
discovered, can more than two thirds of the heat generated by a given
quantity of coal, during combustion, be fairly absorbed and utilised in
any of our manufactories; and, moreover, there are undeniable facts, which
demonstrate that seldom, in the burning of coal, are more than three
fourths of the total heat, which might be eliminated, actually obtained;
thus justifying the supposition that one half of all the coal now consumed
is virtually wasted and lost to society.” To lessen, as much as possible,
this loss various improvements have been made, “which, for the most part,
have consisted in lengthening the flues, and exposing a larger surface of
the boiler to the action of the heated air passing from the furnace to the
chimney.” “Remembering that air is an extremely bad conductor of heat, and
that water about to be converted into steam is also a bad conductor, it is
evident that time must form an important element in the perfect
transmission of heat from one of these to the other; and hence, with a
great velocity of current existing in the flues, very little heat would
pass from air, however high its temperature, to water contained in a
boiler, and so circumstanced with respect to its all but gaseous
condition.” The results of the experiments on fuel made at the Museum of
Practical Geology by Sir H. de la Beche and Dr Lyon Playfair go clearly to
show that “to open the damper of a steam-boiler furnace is pretty
generally to diminish the effective power of the fuel.” “Great waste of
coal now arises from this simple circumstance; and much of the heat of the
fire, which ought to go to the boiler, is lost by its (too) hasty
transmission up the chimney. If, however, there be thus far room for
improvement in the direction just indicated, still wider is the vacant
space, caused by imperfect combustion, or, in technical phrase, ‘bad
stoking,’ merely because the stoker, to economise his labour, and to avoid
trouble, throws on to the bars of his furnace a thick layer of fuel, by
which loss is caused in two or three directions.” These are, principally,
imperfect combustion, and the volatilisation of fuel, as smoke, &c., from
an insufficient supply of air, and from a mass of mere red-hot coke or
cinder, two or three inches thick, lying between the boiler and the
hottest part of the furnace; which last, according to Dr Kennedy, is about
one inch above the fire-bars. Besides which, “in passing over this
red-hot coke, the carbonic acid would be converted into carbonic oxide,
and thus not only remove a quantity of carbon equal to its own, without
yielding any additional heat, but actually with the production of cold,
or, in other words, the absorption of heat.” (‘Dict. Arts, Manuf., and
Mines.’) This points to the evident policy of using a smoke-consuming
furnace, as noticed elsewhere.
Another matter worthy of remark is the constant waste of heat, and,
consequently, of fuel, in laboratories and manufactories in which steam is
employed, owing to the exposed condition of the pipes, boilers, and pans.
All of these should be well ‘clothed’ or covered by some non-conducting
medium, to prevent loss of heat by radiation, and by contact with the
atmosphere. Not only does economy dictate such a course, but the health
and comfort of the workpeople demand that the atmosphere in which they
labour should be as little heated and poisoned as possible.
TABLE _of corresponding Pressure and Temperatures of
Steam_. By ARAGO and DULONG.
+------------------+------------++------------------+------------+
|Pressure |Temperature,||Pressure |Temperature,|
|in | ||in | |
|Atmospheres.[194] | Fahr. ||Atmospheres.[194] | Fahr. |
|------------------+------------++------------------+------------+
| | _Degrees._ || | _Degrees._ |
| 1 | 212· || 13 | 380·66 |
| 1-1/2 | 234· || 14 | 386·94 |
| 2 | 250·5 || 15 | 392·86 |
| 2-1/2 | 263·8 || 16 | 398·48 |
| 3 | 275·2 || 17 | 403·83 |
| 3-1/2 | 285· || 18 | 408·92 |
| 4 | 293·7 || 19 | 413·78 |
| 4-1/2 | 300·3 || 20 | 418·46 |
| 5 | 307·5 || 21 | 422·96 |
| 5-1/2 | 314·24 || 22 | 427·28 |
| 6 | 320·36 || 23 | 431·42 |
| 6-1/2 | 326·26 || 24 | 435·56 |
| 7 | 331·7 || 25 | 439·34 |
| 7-1/2 | 336·86 || 30 | 457·16 |
| 8 | 341·78 || 35 | 472·73 |
| 9 | 350·78 || 40 | 486·59 |
| 10 | 358·88 || 45 | 499·14 |
| 11 | 366·85 || 50 | 510·6 |
| 12 | 374· || | |
+------------------+------------++------------------+------------+
[Footnote 194: Estimating 14·6 lbs. = 1 atmosphere.]
A cubic inch of water, during its conversion into steam, under the
ordinary pressure of the atmosphere, expands into 1696 cubic inches, or
nearly a cubic foot.
One part, by weight, of steam, at 212° Fahr., when condensed into cold
water, is found to be capable of raising 5·6 parts of the latter from the
freezing to the boiling point. See FUEL, PIT-COAL, SMOKE, &c.
=STEAR′IC ACID.= HC_{18}H_{35}O_{2}. _Syn._ STEARIN (Commercial). This is
obtained from stearin (see _below_), by saponification.
_Prep._ 1. Repeatedly dissolve and crystallise commercial stearic acid in
hot alcohol, until its melting point becomes constant at not less than
158° Fahr. Pure.
2. (Chevreul.) Saponify mutton suet with caustic potassa, and dissolve the
newly formed soap in 6 times its weight of hot water; to the solution add
40 or 50 parts of cold water, and set the mixture aside in a temperature
of about 52° Fahr.; after a time separate the pearly matter (stearate and
margarate of potassa) which falls, drain and wash it on a filter, and
dissolve it in 24 parts of hot alcohol of sp. gr. ·820; collect the
stearate of potassa which falls as the liquid cools, recrystallise it in
alcohol, and decompose it, in boiling water, with hydrochloric acid;
lastly, wash the disengaged stearic acid in hot water, and dry it.
3. (Commercial.) Ordinary tallow is boiled in large wooden vessels, by
means of high pressure steam, with about 16% of hydrate of lime (equiv. to
11% of pure lime), for 3 or 4 hours, or until the combination is complete,
and an earthy soap is formed, when the whole is allowed to cool; the
product (stearate of lime) is then transferred to another wooden vessel,
and decomposed by adding to it 4 parts of oil of vitriol (diluted with
water) for every 3 parts of slaked lime previously employed, the action
being promoted by steam heat and brisk agitation; after repose, the
liberated fat is decanted from the sediment (sulphate of lime) and water,
and is then well washed with water, and by blowing steam into it; it is
next allowed to cool, when it is reduced to shavings by means of a number
of knives worked by machinery, and in this divided state is placed in
canvas bags and submitted to the action of a powerful hydraulic press, by
which a large portion of the oleic acid which it contains is expelled; the
pressed cakes are then a second time exposed to the action of steam and
water, again cooled, and coarsely powdered, and again submitted to the
joint action of steam and pressure; they are, lastly, melted, and cast
into blocks for sale.
_Obs._ This product is a more or less impure mixture of stearic acid and
other fatty bodies, particularly the so-called margaric acid, now
generally regarded as a mixture of palmitic and stearic acids. The hard,
fatty acids of vegetable origin (palmitic, cocinic, myristic, &c.), now so
extensively used as candle materials, are obtained from the natural oils
and butters by the process known as ‘sulphuric acid saponification,’ which
consists in treating the fatty bodies with 5 or 6% of concentrated
sulphuric acid at a high temperature (about 350° Fahr., produced by
superheated steam), and distilling the resulting mass by the aid of steam
heated to about 560° Fahr. Frequently the operations of hot and cold
pressing are resorted to in order to free the product from the softer
fats.
By a patent process employed at Price’s candle works the natural vegetable
fats are decomposed into their constituents (fatty acids and glycerin) by
the action of superheated steam alone, without previous ‘saponification’
with lime or sulphuric acid.
Another method for the preparation of commercial stearic acid is that of
Messrs Moinier and Bontigny. This process is thus described in the
‘Chemical Technology’ of Messrs Ronalds and Richardson:——Two tons of
tallow and 900 gall. of water are introduced into a large rectangular vat
of about 270 feet capacity.
The tallow is melted by means of steam admitted through a pipe coiled
round the bottom, and the whole kept at the boiling heat for an hour,
during which a current of sulphurous acid is forced in. At the end of this
period 6 cwt. of lime, made into milk with 350 gall. of water, are added.
The mixture soon acquires consistence, and becomes frothy and viscid. The
whole is now agitated in order to regulate the ebullitions, and prevent
the sudden swelling up of the soapy materials. The pasty appearance of the
lime soap succeeds, and it then agglomerates into small nodular masses.
The admission of sulphurous acid is now stopped; but the injection of the
steam is continued until the small masses become hard and homogeneous. The
whole period occupies eight hours, but the admission of the sulphurous
acid is discontinued at the end of about three hours. The water containing
the glycerin is run off through a tube into cisterns prepared to receive
it.
The arrangements for preparing sulphurous acids are retorts, into which
are put sulphuric acid and pieces of wood; upon the application of heat
the sulphurous acid passes off, and is conveyed by leaden pipes into the
vessels containing the tallow. The lime soap formed is then moistened with
12 cwt. of sulphuric acid, at 150° Fahr., diluted with 50 gall. of water.
The whole is thoroughly agitated and the steam cautiously admitted, so as
not to dilute the acid too much until the decomposition is general at all
points. This occupies about 3 hours, and in 2 or 3 hours more the sulphate
of lime has collected at the bottom, while the fatty acids are floating on
the surface of the solution of the bisulphate of lime. Several processes
of washing with steam and water are necessary to ensure the removal of the
sulphate of lime, &c., and after settling for 4 hours the fatty acids are
forced through a fixed siphon, into a vat, where they are again washed
with water; they are then siphoned at last into a trough lined with lead,
on the bottom of which are placed leaden gutters, pierced below by long
pegs of wood. The fatty acids are then placed in clothes and subjected to
pressure in the stearin cold press.
In 1871 Professor Boek of Copenhagen, after a careful microscopic and
chemical investigation, discovered that the neutral fats were composed of
a congeries of little globules enclosed in albuminous envelopes. To the
presence of these latter substances in the fat he attributed the
difficulty of eliminating the fatty acids from it by means either of
sulphuric acid, except in excess, or of alkali, except under great
pressure; conceiving that both these agents as employed under the usual
methods were expended in rupturing and destroying the albuminous
coverings.
The inconveniences arising from the above processes are, in the case of
the excess of the sulphuric acid, a considerable destruction of the fatty
acid, as well as the necessity of its distillation, and the consequent
danger of conflagration; whilst in the case of the alkali, this must
either be used in quantities much greater than theory requires, or else be
heated under great pressure, at the risk of giving rise to an explosion.
In Professor Boek’s process these dangers, together with the waste of
material, are avoided. By submitting the fat for a limited time and at a
given temperature to the action of a small quantity of sulphuric acid, the
albuminous envelopes are broken and partly destroyed. The neutral fat thus
liberated is then placed in open tanks in water, by which, after the
expiration of several hours, it becomes decomposed. When this is
completely effected the glycerin, dissolved in the water used for the
decomposition, is removed; the fatty acids which remain behind, and which
amount to 94 per cent. of the original fat, being at this stage of the
operation dark brown or blackish in colour.
In this condition they are placed in open tanks, and dilute solutions of
certain agents are poured upon them, whereby the albuminous débris as well
as the colouring matters with which they are associated become oxidised,
whilst the specific gravity of these latter is in consequence so increased
as to cause them to subside to the bottom of the tank, leaving the fatty
acids, now greatly whitened, on the upper part of the liquid.
The acids after being washed 2 or 3 times with dilute acid and water are
then cooled, and hot-pressed in the usual manner, and the stearic acid
thus obtained is said to have a higher melting point, and to be larger in
yield than that obtained by any other method, an oleic acid of excellent
quality being at the same time produced.
In 1874 a French patent was taken out for an improvement in the
manufacture of stearic acid. The patentee employs carbon disulphide to
increase the fluidity of the oleic acid, so that the warm pressure of the
crude stearic acid is avoided. The addition of the carbon disulphide may
be made either before or after the cold pressing of the stearic acid. The
crude fat acid is melted in a special apparatus, and 20 per cent. of the
disulphide is mixed with it whilst in the fluid state. It is then left to
cool and subjected to cold pressure. The stearic acid thus obtained should
be free from oleic acid.
_Prop., &c._ Pure stearic acid crystallises in milk-white needles, which
are soluble in ether and in cold alcohol, and forms salts with the bases,
called stearates. The commercial acid is made into candles. See CANDLES,
FAT, OILS (Fixed), and TALLOW.
=STE′ARIN.= C_{57}H_{110}O_{6}. The solid portion of fats which is
insoluble in cold alcohol.
_Prep._ Pure strained mutton suet is melted in a glass flask along with 7
or 8 times its weight of ether, and the solution allowed to cool; the
soft, pasty, semi-crystalline mass is then transferred to a cloth and is
strongly pressed as rapidly as possible, in order to avoid unnecessary
evaporation; the solid portion is then redissolved in ether, and the
solution allowed to crystallise, as before. The product is nearly pure.
_Prop., &c._ White; semi-crystalline; insoluble in water and cold alcohol;
soluble in 225 parts of cold ether, and freely so in boiling ether. It
melts at 130° Fahr. The stearin of commerce is stearic acid.
=STEAROP′TEN.= The name given by Herberger to the concrete portion or
camphor of volatile oils. Bizio calls it stereusin.
=STEEL.= This important material may be defined as iron chemically
combined with sufficient carbon to give it extreme toughness and hardness
without brittleness. According to one of our greatest authorities on
metallurgy, steel should contain from ·833% to 1·67% of carbon, these
numbers referring respectively to the softest and the hardest varieties.
By some authorities silicon in small quantities is supposed to be a useful
ingredient in steel, and to increase its capacity for being hardened; an
opinion dissented from by others, who hold that its presence has a
tendency to interfere with the welding of the metal. Faraday and Stodart
believed that the addition of small quantities of chromium and iridium to
steel served to improve its quality, and the same has been asserted of
tungsten and titanium; but on these points there is still a divergence of
opinion, and no satisfactory decision has yet been arrived at concerning
them.
Manganese has also been credited with the property of improving steel, but
as it has been found that only a very minute quantity of the manganese is
taken up by the steel, an indirect influence may possibly be exercised by
it, viz. its power of uniting with the stage, and of carrying away any
prejudicial excess of sulphur and phosphorus with it; and in this manner
it may contribute to the increased purity of the metal. The addition of
manganese to cast steel constitutes Mr Heath’s patent, the chief advantage
of which is that blistered steel made from British bar iron can be
substituted for the much more expensive Swedish and Russian iron, in
certain branches of iron manufacture.
“Among the various substances which are frequently present in malleable
iron and in cast iron, those which are more prejudicial to the quality of
steel are sulphur, phosphorus, and copper. The amount of sulphur in steel
of the best quality rarely exceeds ·012; within the limit of ·1 per cent.
it is considered to render the metal more capable of being welded at a
moderate heat, but to make it red short. Phosphorus also renders steel
more capable of being welded, and at the same time makes its cold short
when it amounts to ·1 per cent. The best steel rarely contains so much.
Copper renders steel decidedly red short when present in very small
amount, and for this reason iron smelted from ores containing copper
pyrites is not suitable for making steel.”[195]
[Footnote 195: Payen.]
Within the last few years great attention has been paid to the
investigation of the chemistry of steel. The researches of Despretz and
Fremy tend to the conclusion that nitrogen exercises a very important
influence over the phenomena of ‘steeling,’ and that carbon plays a less
necessary part; while those of Caron and Deville still refer the formation
of steel to the chemical combination of iron with carbon. There is no test
of the value of steel beyond its elasticity and temper, and the fineness,
equality, and smoothness of its grain.
Cast iron, wrought iron, and steel are all combinations of iron and
carbon, differing in the amount they contain of the latter element. As
cast iron contains a larger and wrought iron a smaller proportion of
carbon than steel, it follows that to convert the cast iron into steel,
its excess of carbon must be removed; whilst conversely, to make the
wrought iron into steel, the requisite amount of carbon must be added to
it.
Thus it is that the various processes for the manufacture of steel (with
the exception of those which propose to obtain it direct from the ores)
are directed to one or other of these ends, viz. the decarburation of cast
or pig iron, and the carburation of wrought or malleable iron.
1. In the first, or decarburation method, the oxygen of the air plays an
important part. Best carbon is heated with coal or charcoal, in some works
on the refining hearth, in others upon the bed of the puddling furnace.
The oxygen burnt off the excess of carbon from the iron and steel is left.
Payen says that when the iron contains slag, the ferrous silicate present
in this takes part in the reaction.
The steel obtained by this method is called natural steel. It is
afterwards subjected to forging, and being of inferior quality is employed
in the manufacture of springs for machinery, railway carriages, wheel
tyres, ploughs, and other farming implements.
_The following Table, from ‘Payen’s Industrial
Chemistry’ gives the Composition of several kinds of
Steel._
+--------------+---------+------+------+------+---------------+
| | | | | | Carbon. |
| | | | | +------+--------+
|Kind of Steel.|Locality.| Fe. | Mn. | Cu. |Comb- |Graphi- |
| | | | | |ined. | tic. |
+--------------+---------+------+------+------+------+--------+
|Natural Steel |Siegen | ... | ... |·379 |1·698 | ... |
|Ditto |Solingen | ... | ... | ... |1·570 | ... |
|Puddled Steel |Hartz | ... |0·12 | ... |1·380 | ... |
|Cement Steel |English | ... | ... | ... |1·807 | ... |
|Ditto |German | ... | ... | ... | ·416 | ·080 |
|Cast Steel |Sheffield| ... | ... | ... | ·950 | ·220 |
|Ditto |Ditto | ... | ... | ... | 1·758 |
|Ditto |French | ... | ... | ... | ·65 |
|Sword Steel |Damascus | ... | ·070 | ... | 1·089 |
|Ditto |Ditto | ... |trace | ... | ·775 |
|Wootz |Indian | ... | ... | ... | 1·500 |
|Ditto |Ditto |98·092| ... | ... |1·333 ·312 |
|Cast Steel |German | ... |trace |·300 | 1·180 |
|Ditto |English | ... |·024 |·066 | 1·275 |
|Bessemer Steel|Dowlais | ... |·576 |·025 | ·490 |
|Ditto |Sweden | ... |trace | ... | ·085 |
|Ditto | ... | ... |·179 | ... | ·300 |
|Ditto | ... | ... |·256 | ... | ·700 |
|Ditto | ... | ... |·468 | ... | ·950 |
|Ditto | ... | ... |·355 | ... | 1·050 |
|Wired |Barrow- | ... |·214 | ... | ·200 |
| |in-Furness | | | |
|Rail Heads |German | ... |·386 | ... | ·138 |
|Rails | ... | ... |·264 | ... | ·150 |
|Ditto | ... | ... |·638 | ... | ·046 |
|Boiler Plates | ... | ... |·136 | ... | ·250 |
|Ditto | ... | ... |·273 | ... | ·300 |
+--------------+---------+------+------+------+---------------+
+--------------+-----+-------+-----+----------+
|Kind of Steel.| Si. | S. | P. |Authority.|
+--------------+-----+-------+-----+----------+
|Natural Steel |·038 | ... | ... |Karsten. |
|Ditto |·020 | ... | ... |Lampadius.|
|Puddled Steel |·006 |(at·12)|trace|Brauns. |
|Cement Steel |·100 | ... | ... |Berthier. |
|Ditto | ... | ... | ... |Bromeis. |
|Cast Steel | ... | ... | ... |Ditto. |
|Ditto | ... | ... | ... |Karsten. |
|Ditto |·040 | ... | ... | ... |
|Sword Steel | ... |(Ni·07 Wo·01)| ... |
|Ditto | ... |(Ni·21 | ... |
| | |Co trace | |
| | |Wo trace) | |
|Wootz |·600 | ... | ... | ... |
|Ditto |·045 |(as 037) ... |Henry. |
|Cast Steel |·330 |(Ni ·12) ·020| ... |
|Ditto |·213 |(as·007) ...| ... |
|Bessemer Steel|·009 |·003 | ·036| ... |
|Ditto |·008 |trace | ·025|Brusewitz.|
|Ditto |·044 | do. | ·033| Ditto. |
|Ditto |·032 | do. | ...| Ditto. |
|Ditto |·047 | do. | ·032| Ditto. |
|Ditto |·067 | do. | ...| Ditto. |
|Wired |·179 |·030 | ·026| Ditto. |
|Rail Heads |·306 |·040 | ·034| Ditto. |
|Rails |·091 |·025 | ·032| Ditto. |
|Ditto |·634 |·045 | ·093| Ditto. |
|Boiler Plates |·016 |·010 | ... | Ditto. |
|Ditto |·056 |·040 | ·041| Ditto. |
+--------------+-----+-------+-----+----------+
Krupp’s cast steel, manufactured at Essen, near Cologne, is a natural
steel, being made on the bed of a puddling furnace. It is obtained from
hæmatite and spathic ore, coke being used for the smelting. The proportion
of carbon in Krupp’s steel is about 1·2 per cent. When required for
ordnance it is fused with a little bar iron in pots, each of which holds
30 lbs. It sometimes happens that in the manufacture of a huge gun or
cannon the contents of as many as 1200 of these pots are required. When
this is the case the pots are emptied of their molten contents
simultaneously into a channel leading to the cast, 400 well-drilled men
being required to carry out the operation.
It is very essential that castings of such magnitude should be allowed to
cool very gradually. They are therefore enveloped in hot cinders for two
or three months, after which they are ready for the forging.
2. _The carburation method._ This is generally effected by the process
known as ‘cementation,’ which is carried out as follows:——Two chests, made
of fire-brick or stone, one narrow end of each of which is shown in the
accompanying plate, are so fixed in a dome-shaped furnace, so that the
flames from the hearth beneath can effectually play around them.
The process renders it necessary that the temperature of the furnace
should be steadily maintained for some days; and this is achieved by
surrounding the furnace with a conical wall of brick-work, as shown in the
cut. The chests are usually about 10 or 12 feet in length, 3 feet in
height, and 3 feet in depth. A layer of charcoal of a fineness to pass
through a sieve of a 1/4 inch mesh, or of soot, is placed on the bottom of
each chest, and upon this the bars of wrought iron which are intended for
conversion into steel. The bars inside must be of iron of the best
quality, and generally about 3 inches broad and 3/4 of an inch thick. When
arranged regularly a little distance apart, the interstices between them
are filled up with charcoal, with which they are then covered to a depth
of about an inch. Similar layers of bars, similarly arranged, succeed to
this first one, until the chests are filled.
They are then covered in to a depth of 6 inches with a luting of damp clay
or sand. Each chest when thus filled contains from 5 to 6 tons of iron.
One of the bars projects through an opening at the end of the chest, to
facilitate an inspection of it from time to time by a workman, so that he
may be enabled to judge of the progress of the operation. The materials of
which the chests are composed render it important that the temperature of
the furnace should be carefully and gradually increased, as a too sudden
accession of heat would lead to the splitting of the chests. The
temperature necessary to effect the carburation of the iron has been found
to be that required for the melting of copper, viz. 1996° Fahr. When this
temperature is reached it is maintained for eight or ten days, or even
longer, the period depending upon the thickness of the iron, and the
degree of hardness it is desired it shall possess. Six or eight days are
sufficient to yield steel of a moderate degree of hardness. At the end of
the requisite time the fire is gradually put out, and the chests as
gradually cooled, a process which occupies about another ten days.
[Illustration]
The effect of the treatment to which the iron bars have been subjected has
been, in the first place, to entirely alter their interior structure; for
if they are broken asunder at any part, instead of showing the fibrous
arrangement observable in bar iron, they present a closely granular one.
In the second place, chemical analyses demonstrate that the iron has
combined with about 1 per cent. of carbon, and that this combination has
not only taken place on the surface of the bar, but has extended
throughout its whole substance. It is because of this perfect impregnation
of the iron by the solid carbon that the process by which it has thus been
converted into steel is called ‘cementation.’
Two suggestions have been offered in explanation of the blistered surface
presented by the steel. One of these, the theory of Mr T. H. Henry, is
that part of the carbon in penetrating into the body of the bar iron had
combined with the small quantity of sulphur present in the iron, and that
the bisulphide of carbon thus formed becoming vaporised by the elevated
temperature, in escaping through the soft surface of the metal, has caused
its blistered condition. The second conjecture is that the blebs have
arisen from the extrication of carbonic oxide, which had been formed in
the bar by the union of the carbon with the small quantity of oxide of
iron or slag accidentally remaining in it.
Graham has shown that soft iron has the power of absorbing or occluding at
a low red heat 4·15 times its volume of carbolic oxide, which the metal,
when it becomes cold, retains, but which it parts with when subjected to a
temperature such as that which prevailed in the cementation box. This fact
seems to offer a reasonable confirmation of the reaction it has been
surmised takes place during the cementation process, and which is supposed
to be as follows:
The small quantity of atmospheric oxygen remaining in the chest unites
with the carbon to form carbonic oxide. This carbonic oxide gives up half
its carbon to the iron (which thereby becomes converted into steel), and
in doing so changes to carbonic acid, which becomes reduced to carbonic
oxide by the absorption of more carbon from the charcoal, which carbon the
carbonic oxide again transfers to the iron.
The above reaction may not improbably occur throughout the substance of
the bar. By some chemists, cyanogen compounds are supposed to be present
in the cementation powder, and the cyanogen contained in these is supposed
to be the carrier of the carbon to the iron.
“The blistered steel obtained by this process is, as would be expected,
far from uniform, either in composition or texture; some portions of the
bar contain more carbon than others, and the interior contains numerous
cavities. In order to improve its quality it is subjected to a process of
fagotting similar to that employed in the case of bar iron; the bars of
blistered steel, being cut into short lengths are made up into bundles,
which are raised to a welding heat, and placed under a tilt hammer
weighing about 2 cwt., which strikes 200 or 300 blows in a minute; in this
way, the several bars are consolidated into one compound bar, which is
then extended under the hammer till of the required dimensions.
“The bars, before being hammered, are sprinkled with sand, which combines
with the oxide of iron upon the surface, and forms a vitreous layer which
protects the bar from oxidation. The steel which has been thus hammered is
much denser and more uniform in composition; its tenacity, malleability,
and ductibility are greatly increased, and it is fitted for the
manufacture of shears, files, and other tools. It is commonly known as
shear steel. Double shear steel is obtained by breaking the tilted bars
in two, and welding these into a compound bar. The best variety of steel,
however, which is perfectly homogeneous in composition, is that known as
cast steel, to obtain which about 30 lbs. of blistered steel are broken
into fragments, and fused in a fire-clay or plumbago crucible, heated in a
wind furnace, the surface of the metal being protected from oxidation by a
little glass melted upon it. The fused steel is cast into ingots, several
crucibles being emptied simultaneously into the same mould. Cast steel is
far superior in density and hardness to shear steel, but, since it is
exceedingly brittle at a red heat, great care is necessary in forging it.
It has been found that, in addition to 100 parts of the cast steel, of one
part of a mixture of charcoal and oxide of manganese, produces a very fine
grained steel, which admits of being cast on to a bar of wrought iron in
the ingot mould, so that the tenacity of the latter may compensate for the
brittleness of the steel; when the compound bar is forged, the wrought
iron forming the back of the implement, and the steel its cutting
edge.”[196]
[Footnote 196: Bloxam’s ‘Chemistry Inorganic and Organic.’]
Another distinct method from the cementation one, by which the carburation
of iron is affected, is that in which scrap or malleable iron is mixed
with pig or cast iron, this latter being fused with the scrap iron in
quantity sufficient to afford such an amount of carbon as is necessary to
convert the mixture into steel. Steel made by this operation is entirely
homogeneous, the tilting process which precedes the casting of the steel
obtained by cementation is therefore unnecessary. The pig iron is placed
on the bed (made of refractory sand) of one of Siemens’ regenerative
furnaces, heated by gaseous fuel. The temperature in this furnace is so
intense that the pig iron becomes perfectly liquid, and, when in this
condition, the scrap iron, which has been previously heated to redness in
an adjoining refractory furnace, is added, it becomes dissolved by it.
Iron may also be carburetted by heating wrought iron bars in carburetted
hydrogen. This process, however, is seldom had recourse to.
In the manufacture of Bessemer steel both the carburation and
decarburation processes are practised. From 1 to 5 tons of pig or cast
iron in a molten state are run from a contiguous blast, cupola, or
reverberatory furnace, with an apparatus known as a converter, which is
previously heated up to redness by means of coke. The converter is figured
under two aspects in the annexed engraving.
This vessel, which is generally made of boiler plates of sheet iron, has
an inside lining, consisting of a siliceous fireproof material, and is
perforated at the bottom with a number of concentric little openings,
which are the orifices of as many little tubes or tuyeres, that lead into
an outside main tube, as shown in the plate. By means of these tubes
condensed air is forced into the mass of melted metal, which is soon
thrown into violent commotion, and sends out a shower of ignited sparks.
The oxide of iron formed at the same time being set into active movement
by the incoming blast of air, is brought into intimate contact with every
particle of the carbon and silicon contained in the cast iron, and
converts the former into carbonic oxide, which burns with its
characteristic flame at the mouth of the converter, and the silica into
silicic acid, which enters into the slag, and floats, in the form of foam,
on the top of the heavier molten iron.
[Illustration]
The removal of the carbon (which is known by the discontinuance of the
carbonic oxide flame) being thus accomplished, the iron has next to be
submitted to the carburetting operation. This is performed by running into
the liquid iron in the converter such a quantity of molten pig or cast
iron as contains the required proportion of carbon.
The pig iron used for this purpose generally contains, in addition to a
large amount of carbon, a very perceptible quantity of manganese. The
converter (as shown in the plate) is then by means of the trunnion tilted,
so that its contents can be run into a ladle and transferred to the
necessary moulds. The time of conversion occupies from ten to twenty
minutes.
By Bessemer’s process the sulphur present in the pig iron is almost
entirely eliminated; the greater part of the silicon is also separated,
together with the carbon, and almost in the same proportion; but the
phosphorus is not removed, and, owing to the oxidation of some iron, the
amount is actually greater in the finished steel than in the pig
iron.[197]
[Footnote 197: Payen’s ‘Industrial Chemistry,’ edited by B. H. Paul,
Ph.D.]
Bessemer’s steel is in large demand, and is excellently suited for rails
for railroads, cannon, boiler plates, armour plates, and similar heavy
material, for the manufacture of which it has largely supplanted wrought
iron, but not at all adapted for the manufacture of knives, razors,
lancets, or similar instruments, in which a sharp or keen edge is
desirable.
The Bessemer process, which is largely adopted by the manufacturers of
steel throughout Europe and America, has proved a source of princely
income to its inventor, who obtains a bounty of a shilling on every ton of
steel made by it. In Europe alone in 1859 5-1/2 million cwts. Seventy per
cent. of this quantity was the produce of British industry.
Latterly, attempts have been made to obtain steel direct from the ores.
The efforts made in this direction have been greatly stimulated by the
invention of the regenerating furnace of Siemens. In these furnaces, in
which an intense temperature is obtained by means of the combustion of
inflammable gases (chiefly consisting of carbonic oxide, hydrogen, and
carburetted hydrogen), the ore after (in one process) being melted in
hoppers by means of the burning gases, runs down, and is gradually
dissolved in some melted pig iron placed on the hearth of the furnace.
When this latter has been sufficiently diluted with the decarbonised iron
the operation is complete.
_Properties of Steel._ The effects of temperature upon steel are
remarkable, and a knowledge of them has proved of great practical utility
in the manufacture of the various steel-ware articles that are so
indispensable to our every-day wants and needs. If forged and soft steel
is heated, and then suddenly cooled, it becomes hard, the hardness varying
with the temperature and the rapidity with which this has been reduced.
The higher the temperature and the more rapidly it is cooled, the greater
will be its hardness. Steel, which has been heated until white-hot, and
then suddenly plunged into a bath of cold mercury, acquires a hardness
nearly equalling that of the diamond. That, however, which the steel gains
in hardness, it loses in pliancy and elasticity, besides becoming so
brittle as to be of no possible use.
Soft steel, which has been made hard by heating it to redness, and by
subsequent sudden immersion in cold water, may be reconverted into soft
steel by again heating it to redness and allowing it to cool suddenly. By
stopping short, however, of heating it to redness, its hardness may be
proportionally modified.
Hence steel articles, varying as much in the qualities of hardness and
elasticity as a lancet and watch-spring, are made either by ‘heating down’
hard steel to requisite temperature and allowing it to cool, or by
‘heating up’ soft steel to the necessary point and also letting it
gradually cool. When steel is so treated it is said to be _tempered_ or
_annealed_. If polished steel be heated over a flame to a temperature of
430° F. its surface becomes of a very pale yellow colour; the colour
passes through different shades of yellow and blue with each successive
increase of temperature, until when raised to 600° F. it becomes blackish
blue.
These effects are due to the formation on the surface of the steel of
films of oxide of different degrees of thickness, and to the action of the
light on these. They are precisely analogous to those which are caused
when a ray of reflected light falls upon any other body, the surface of
which is composed of thin layers, which are continually changing in
thickness, such as a soap-bubble, or a thin coating of tar or oil swimming
on water, and which are exemplified in Newton’s rings.
As each shade of colour is an index of the temperature of the steel, and
as this determines its adaptability for various purposes, all that the
workman has to do, when he requires it for any special object, is to heat
it by the proper methods (such as a bath of oil, or tallow, or melted
metal) until it acquires the desired colour, and then to allow it to
gradually cool.
The following table, exhibiting the different melting points of steel when
employed in the manufacture of different kinds of works, together with the
corresponding colours, the composition of the metallic baths, &c., is from
Dr Wagner’s ‘Handbook of Chemical Technology,’ edited by W. Crookes, Esq.,
F.R.S.
Composition of
Metallic Mixture.
_____¦_____ Melting
Lead. Tin. Point. Temperature.
Lancets 7 4 220° C Hardly pale yellow.
Razors 8 4 228° ” Pale yellow to straw yellow.
Penknives 8-1/2 4 232° ” Straw yellow.
Pairs of scissors 14 4 254° ” Brown.
Clasp-knives, joiners’ and } 19 4 265° ” Purplish colour.
carpenters’ tools }
Swords, cutlasses, watch- } 48 4 288° ” Bright blue.
springs }
Stilettos, boring tools, and} 50 2 292° ” Deep blue.
fine saws }
Ordinary saws {in boiling linseed}
{oil } 316° ” Blackish blue.
Steel is of a greyish-white colour, and has a sp. gr. varying from 7·66 to
7·93. During hardening the sp. gr. becomes reduced from 7·93 to 7·66,
whilst it experiences a slight increase of volume. The property (already
pointed out) that steel possesses of becoming hard after being heated to
redness, and suddenly chilled, does not belong to pure iron, such as may
be obtained by electrolysis. Unlike pure iron, too, steel presents a
granular instead of a fibrous structure when broken; the best samples
closely resembling silver in this respect. The chemical difference between
hard and soft steel appears to consist in the much more intimate
combination of the carbon with the iron in the hard variety than in the
soft. In this latter kind the carbon seems to be only mechanically mixed,
for if it be immersed in hydrochloric acid the iron is dissolved, and
leaves the carbon behind. Steel is the most tenacious of all the metals,
being greater than that of either cast or malleable iron.
What is termed _case-hardening_ (which _see_) is a process by which small
articles of iron, such as keys, gun-locks, &c., are superficially
converted into steel. It is performed by heating the articles in contact
with iron filings or powdered charcoal. Another method is to make the iron
substance red hot, and then to sprinkle powdered potassic ferrocyanide all
over it.
=STEREOCHROMY.= This is a branch of the pictorial art confined to the
embellishment of walls and monuments. In the operations by which it is
accomplished it will be seen that the soluble silicates (water glass) play
an important part.
The foundation for the future picture or coloured design must be of some
durable stone or imperishable cement. Over this is first placed a layer of
lime mortar, to which is applied when it is dry and has become
sufficiently hard, a solution of water glass, by which all the interstices
of the mortar are filled up. Another coating of mortar made of sharp sand
and a lye of chalk is next laid on, and this, after it has been carefully
smoothed, properly levelled on the surface, and become quite dry, is
washed over and thoroughly impregnated with water-glass solution. When
this last layer has become dry it is ready to receive the painting, which
must be executed in water colours. After laying on these colours may be
permanently fixed by covering them with water glass. The following are the
colours used:——Zinc white, chrome green, chrome oxide, cobalt green,
chrome red, zinc yellow, oxide of iron, sulphide of cadmium, ultramarine,
ochre, &c. Vermillion is inadmissible, since, in fixing, it turns from red
to brown. Cobalt ultramarine, on the contrary, increases greatly in
brilliancy upon the application of the fixing solution. Stereochromatic
paintings are found to be very durable, and impervious to damp, smoke, or
variations of temperature.
=STE′REOTYPE METAL.= See TYPE METAL.
=STER′LING.= The truth of the old proverb, that “all is not gold which
glitters,” is often painfully experienced by the purchaser of modern
jewelry. The following table will, therefore, prove highly useful to the
reader in determining the value of articles in gold, provided he ascertain
the ‘fineness’ of the metal, either by examination or written warranty:——
_Sterling value of Gold of different degrees of
‘Fineness,’_
Carats. Value per
Fine. oz. Troy.
£ _s._ _d._
24 _carats_ 4 4 11-1/2
23 ” 4 1 5
22 ” (_British standard_) 3 17 10-1/2
21 ” 3 14 4
20 ” 3 10 9-1/2
19 ” 3 7 3
18 ” (_lowest Hall-mark_) 3 3 8-1/2
17 ” 3 0 2
16 ” 2 16 7-1/2
15 ” 2 13 1
14 ” 2 9 6-1/2
13 ” 2 6 0
12 ” 2 2 5-1/2
11 ” 1 18 11
10 ” 1 15 4-1/2
9 ” 1 11 10
8 ” 1 8 3-1/2
7 ” 1 4 9
6 ” 1 1 2-1/2
5 ” 0 17 8
4 ” 0 14 2
3 ” 0 10 7-1/2
2 ” 0 7 1
1 ” 0 3 6
=STEREO-METAL.= A remarkable alloy recently invented by Baron de Rosthorn,
of Vienna, and used in place of ordinary gun-metal. It consists of copper
and spelter, with small proportions of iron and tin, and to these latter
its peculiar hardness, tensile strength, and elasticity, are attributed.
=STETH′OSCOPE.= An instrument employed in auscultation. It consists of a
tube (usually made of wood, sometimes of gutta percha) widening
considerably at one end, and but slightly at the other. The wide end is
applied to the chest or other part of the patient, the physician putting
his ear at the other end; and from the sounds emitted by the heart, lungs,
&c., the state of these parts is ascertained.
=STEW′ING.= A method of cooking food intermediate to frying and boiling,
performed by simmering it in a saucepan or stewpan, with merely sufficient
water to prevent burning, and to effect the object in view; the whole
being served up to form the ‘dish.’ It is undoubtedly the most simple and
economical, and, when skilfully conducted, one of those best calculated to
develop the flavour and nutritious qualities of animal food. The following
is one of the most popular stews:——
=Stew, Irish.= _Prep._ (Soyer.) Take about 2 lbs. of scrag or neck of
mutton; divide it into ten or twelve pieces, and lay them in the pan; add
8 large potatoes and 4 onions cut into slices, season with 1-1/2
teaspoonful of pepper, and 3 do. of salt; cover all with water, put it
into a slow oven, or on a stove, for two hours, then stir it all up well,
and serve it up in deep dishes. If a little more water is added at the
commencement, you can take out, when half done, a nice cup of broth.
=STILL.= A vessel or apparatus employed for the distillation of liquids on
the large scale. The forms of stills, and the materials of which they are
made, vary according to the purposes for which they are intended, some
being exceedingly simple, whilst others are equally elaborate and
complicated. The _engr._ represents the most common and useful apparatus
of this kind, and the one almost exclusively employed in the laboratory.
It is used as follows:——After the fluid and other matters (if any) are put
into the still, the head is placed on and connected with the worm-tub or
refrigerator, and the joints are all securely luted. For ordinary liquids,
a stiff paste made with linseed meal and water, to which a little chalk
may be added, answers well for this purpose. For corrosive liquids,
nothing is better than elastic bands or rings interposed between the
joints, which are then ‘brought home,’ as it is called, with screws or
clamps. Heat is next applied, and the worm-tub is supplied with cold water
in sufficient quantity to preserve its contents at a proper temperature;
the application of the heat being so regulated that the liquid may drop
from the end of the refrigerator quite cold and unaccompanied with vapour.
For highly volatile liquids a closed receiver should be provided.
[Illustration:
_a._ Body of still, which may be either placed in a steam jacket or in
a brick furnace.
_b._ Still head or capital.
_c._ Worm-tub.
_d._ Pewter-worm or refrigerator.
_e._ Cold-water pipe.
_f._ Waste-pipe.
_g._ Receiver.]
Of the various forms of distillatory apparatus that patented by Coffey in
1832 is the one almost universally employed in this country. It yields the
strongest spirits obtainable on a large scale. Coffey’s still (of which a
drawing is given on the next page) effects a great economy in the
expenditure of heat, by causing the liquid to be exposed to a very
extended heated service; whilst it effects the evaporation of the alcohol
from the wash by passing a current of steam through it.
[Illustration: Coffey’s Still.]
The wash is pumped from the ‘wash charger’ into the worm-tub, which passes
from top to bottom of the rectifier. In circulating through this tube it
experiences a slight elevation of temperature. Arrived at the last
convolution of the tube in the rectifier, the wash passes by the tube M in
at the top of the ‘analyser.’ It falls, and collects on the top shelf till
this overflows, whence it falls on the second shelf, and so on to the
bottom. All the time this operation is going on steam is passed up from
the steam boiler through fine holes in the shelves, and through valves
opening upwards. As the wash gradually descends in the analyser it becomes
rapidly weaker in alcohol, partly from condensation of steam which is
passed into it, and partly from loss of alcohol, either evaporated or
expelled by the steam, till when it arrives at the bottom it has parted
with the last traces of spirits.
At the same time the vapour, as it rises through each shelf of the
analyser, becomes constantly richer in alcohol, and contains less and less
water because of its condensation; it then passes from the top of the
analyser in at the bottom of the lower compartment of the rectifier. Here
it ascends in a similar way, bubbling through the descending wash, until
it arrives at F, above which it merely circulates round the earlier
windings of the wash pipe; the low temperature of which condenses the
spirits; which, collecting on the shelf at F, flows off by the tube into
the finished spirit condenser.
To still further effect a saving of heat, the water for supplying the
boiler is made to pass through a long coil of pipe, immersed in boiling
spent wash, by which means its temperature is raised before it enters the
boiler.
Another variety of distillatory apparatus is that of Siemens’ (see page
1566), much employed in the distillation of brandy.
It consists of two mash stills set in a boiler, and capable of being
alternately used by means of the three cocks (_a_, _b_, and _c_). L is the
boiler; P one of the mash retorts; K is the low wine receiver; R the fore
warmer, a reservoir in which the condensed water intended as feed water of
the boiler is collected; C is the dephlegmator; B a reservoir for the
vapours condensed in C.
From the dephlegmator the vapour passes to a condenser, not shown in the
engraving.
The mash warmer consists of a cylindrical portion (_i i_), the lower part
of which has an indentation (_c_). In the cylinder is placed a narrower
portion (_o o_) of the real mash, containing a vessel, fitted with the
heading tube (_f n_). The upper part of the fore warmer is fitted to the
lower part by means of the flange (_h h_); _r_ is a stirring apparatus,
which is frequently set in operation during the process of distillation.
The vapours from the second still are carried into the depression (_c_)
under the fore warmer, which, in order that the vapours may come into
contact with the phlegma, is covered with a sieve.
[Illustration: Siemens’ Distillatory Apparatus.]
The vapours surround the under part of the mash reservoir, and enter into
the tube (_f_), through which they pass to the lower cylinder of the
dephlegmator. The condensed water of the dephlegmator is conducted into
the reservoir (A). The upper and under part of the fore warmer are made of
cast iron, but the interior bottom and heating surfaces are made of
copper. This kind of fore warmer has the advantage of uniformly
distributing the heat, while it can be easily cleansed.
The dephlegmator (C) is so contrived that the rectified vapour can be
conveyed to the condenser by two separate pipes placed in an opposite
direction to each other, which are joined again in close proximity to the
condenser.
The remainder of the details will be seen by studying the engraving.
Another distilling apparatus is that known as Derosne’s, which is an
improvement upon one invented by Cellier-Blumenthal. This apparatus is
only designed for the distillation of wine, and not, like the previous
ones, of mash.
The engraving on page 1568 gives a representation of it.
It consists of two stills (A and A′); the first rectifier (B); the second
rectificator (C); the wine warmer and dephlegmator (D); the condenser (F);
the regulator (E); a contrivance for regulating the flow of the fluid wine
from the cistern (G).
The still A′, which, as well as the still A, is filled with wine, acts as
a steam boiler. The low wine vapours evolved come, when they have arrived
in the rectifiers, in contact with an uninterrupted stream of wine,
whereby dephlegmation is effected; the vapour, thus enriched in alcohol,
becomes stronger in the vessel (D), and thus arrives at the cooling
apparatus (F). In order that a real rectification should take place in the
rectificators the stream of wine should be heated to a certain
temperature, which is imparted to it by the heating of the condensed
water. The steam from the still A′ is carried by means of the pipe (Z) to
the bottom of the still A.
Both stills are heated by the fire of the same furnace. By means of the
tube B′ the liquid contained in the still A can be run into the still A′.
The first rectificator (B) containing a number of semicircular discs of
unequal size, placed one above the other, and which are so fastened to a
vertical centre rod that they can be easily removed and cleansed. The
larger discs, perforated in the manner of sieves, are placed with their
concave surfaces upwards.
[Illustration: Derosne’s Distillatory Apparatus.]
In consequence of this arrangement the vapours ascending from the stills
meet with large surfaces moistened with wine, which, moreover, trickles
downward in the manner of a cascade from the discs, and comes, therefore,
into very intimate contact with the vapours. The second rectificator (C)
is fitted with six compartments; in the centre of each of the partition
walls (iron or copper plates) a hole is cut, and over this hole, by means
of a vertical bar, is fastened an inverted cup, which nearly reaches to
the bottom of the compartment wherein it is placed. As a portion of the
vapours are condensed in these compartments, the vapours are necessarily
forced through a layer of low wine, and have to overcome a pressure of a
column of liquid two centimètres high. The fore warmer and dephlegmator
(D) is a horizontal cylinder made of copper fitted with a worm, the
convolutions of which are placed vertically. The tube (M) communicates
with this worm, the other end of which passes to O. A phlegma collects in
the convolutions of this tube, which is richer in alcohol in the formost
windings, and weaker in those more remote; this fluid, collecting in the
lower part of the spirals, may be drawn off by means of small tubes,
thence to be transferred, at the operator’s pleasure, either all or in
part, by the aid of another tube and stopcocks, to the tube (O), or into
the rectificator.
By means of the tube (L) the previously warmed wine of the dephlegmator
can be run into the rectificator. The condensor (F) is a cylindrical
vessel closed on all sides, and containing a worm communicating with the
tube (O).
The other end of the condensing tube carries the distillate away. On the
top of this portion of the apparatus the tube (K) is placed, by means of
which wine is run into the dephlegmator. The cold wine flows into the
cooling vessel by the tube (I).
Another variety of distillatory apparatus, invented by Langier, is that
represented in the accompanying cut.
[Illustration]
The fluid intended for distillation flows from the tube (_s_) into the
funnel (_p_), thence into the vessel (A), entering its lower part, and
serving to condense the alcoholic vapour. From this vessel the warmed
fluid passes by means of the tube (_r_) into the lower part of the second
vessel (B), where dephlegmation takes place by means of a condensing tube.
From B the fluid flows through the tube (_c_) into the second still (C),
which is heated by the hot gases evolved from the fire, kept burning under
the first still (D); in the still (C) the fluid undergoes a rectification,
and the vinasse flows by the tube (_e_) into the still (D); _m_ is the
pipe for conveying the hot vapour from D into C; the tube (_b_) carries
the alcoholic vapours into the dephlegmator. The tube (_d_) conveys the
phlegma into the still (C); _g_ and _h_ are glass gauging-tubes for
indicating the height of the fluid in the interior of the stills; the tube
(_l_) conveys the uncondensed vapours from the dephlegmator into the
condensing apparatus, while _i_ carries the vapours formed in the vessel
(B) into the condensing apparatus.
The alcohol condensed in the cooling apparatus flows, as shown in the cut,
into the vessel (_o_), provided with a hydrometer, which shows the
strength of the liquid. The cooling apparatus of the vessel (B) consists
of seven compartments or sections formed by wide spirals, to each of
which, at its lower level, is attached a narrow tube, all of which tubes
are connected to the tube (_d_), which latter conveys the condensed fluids
back into the still.
A very simple form of apparatus in use is that figured below.
[Illustration]
A is a cylinder made of cast iron or copper, in which the fluid to be
distilled is heated by a spiral tube made of copper. The inlet of this
tube is shown at _b_ and the outlet at _a._; c serves to carry off the
vinasse; B is the dephlegmator, through which the fluid to be distilled
continually flows in a downward direction, while the vapour of the low
wine evolved in A ascends uninterruptedly.
The dephlegmator is so constructed as to have as large a surface and as
many points of contact as possible. The vapour ascends to the reservoir
(E), and passes into the rectifier (C) by the tube (F). The condensed
portion returns through the tube (H) to the dephlegmator, whilst the
uncondensed vapour passes on to the condenser of the vessel (D), where it
becomes condensed, and is carried off through M. The liquid intended for
distillation is kept in a tank (not shown in the engraving), placed above
the apparatus, and is conveyed to the latter by the tube (L I), fitted
with the stop-cock (K), so that the liquid arrives first in D, is next
conveyed to C, thence through G into the dephlegmator, and finally into
the cylinder.
Divers adaptations for heating by steam have been arranged, in a very
convenient form, by Mr Coffey. His so-called ESCULAPIAN STILL affords the
pharmaceutical chemist the means of conducting the processes of
ebullition, distillation, evaporation, desiccation, &c., on the small
scale. The following cut represents his apparatus.
[Illustration: B, a burner supplied with gas by a flexible tube; C. the
boiler or still; I, an evaporating pan fixed over the boiler, and forming
the top of the still head; K, a valve for shutting off the steam from I,
when it passes through the tube (M), otherwise it would pass through L,
and communicate heat to the drying closet (O O), and from thence to the
condenser (T T). _o_ is a second evaporating pan over the drying closet.]
For further information on the subject of stills consult ‘Ure’s
Dictionary,’ ‘Illustrated Chemistry,’ and Wagner’s ‘Chemical Technology.’
=STIM′ULANTS.= _Syn._ STIMULANTIA, L. Medicines or agents which possess
the power of exciting vital action. They are divided in general
stimulants, or those which affect the whole system, as mercury or bark;
and local or topical stimulants, or those which affect a particular organ
or part only, as mustard applied as a poultice. Diffusible stimulants are
general stimulants the effects of which are rapid but fugacious, as ether
or alcohol. “Much discrimination and caution are required in the
administration of articles of this class, because, if given when
inflammation is present, they are liable to create more mischief than
benefit; but they are called for when, on the decline of that condition of
an organ or organs, a state of relaxation or torpidity exists. In this
state of things a gentle stimulation materially assists the functions, and
is productive of much benefit.”
=STINGS.= See BITES.
=STIR-ABOUT.= Thick gruel formed of oatmeal and water boiled together.
When eaten with cold milk, it forms the porridge of the Scotch; and when
mixed with the liquor in which meat or vegetables have been boiled, it is
called beef brose, kale brose, &c.
=STOCK.= Among cooks, is condensed soup or jelly, used to make
extemporaneous soup, broth, &c.
=STOM′ACH AFFEC′TIONS.= Those of a character to admit of being usefully
noticed in a popular work are referred to under the heads APPETITE,
DYSPEPSIA, SICKNESS, &c.
Dr Budd recommends small doses of ipecacuanha as a remedy for those cases
of indigestion in which digestion is slow, and the food lies heavily on
the stomach, and there is an inability for mental or bodily exertion for
some time after meals. He says it should be given in the morning, fasting,
and in quantity barely sufficient to occasion a slight feeling of
vermiculating motion in the stomach, but without causing any sensation of
pain or nausea. The dose to produce this effect varies from 1/4 to 2 gr.
He thinks there is no other medicine which appears so effectual in
removing the affections in question. Small doses of rhubarb, ginger, and
cayenne pepper, have a similar kind of action, and may be given singly or
together for the same purpose. “I generally prescribe from 1/2 to 1 gr. of
ipecacuanha, in a pill, with 3 or 4 gr. of rhubarb. With many, a favourite
remedy for the discomfort resulting from slow digestion is a grain of
cayenne pepper, with 3 or 4 gr. of rhubarb. The best time for giving these
medicines is shortly” (say 1/2 an hour) “before any meal after which a
sense of oppression is usually felt.”
=STOPP′ERS=, when obstinately immoveable in bottles, are the most safely
treated by patiently hitting them upwards alternately on opposite sides
with a piece of wood. When this fails the part may be dipped into hot
water.
“Another method of removing a bottle-stopper is to insert its head into a
chink, and then endeavouring to turn the bottle with both hands. If the
neck of the stopper break, the hand is out of the way of danger. An
upright board, such an one as supports the ends of a set of shelves,
should be selected in a convenient situation in the laboratory, and a
vertical slit cut through it about a foot in length, an inch in width
above, but gradually decreasing in size, so as to be about one third of an
inch at the bottom. The top of the hole may be about the height of the
breast. This aperture will in one part or another receive and retain the
head of almost any stopper, and prevent its turning with the bottle. Then
by wrapping a cloth about the bottle and grasping it with both hands, the
attempt to turn it round so as to move the stopper may be made with any
degree of force which it may be thought safe to exert. The force employed
should never be carried so far as to cause fracture anywhere, but the
attempts, if unavailing with the application of a moderate degree, should
be desisted. Another and very successful method of removing a stopper is
to turn the bottle round when held horizontally over the small flame of a
spirit lamp or candle applied to the neck. The heat should be applied only
to the part round the plug of the stopper, and in a few moments, when that
has become warm, the stopper should be tapped with the piece of wood as
before stated. As soon as the stopper moves by tapping it is to be taken
out, and must not be replaced till the glass is cold.
“The application of heat in this manner must be short and the operation
altogether, to be successful, must be a quick one. If the contents of the
bottle are fluid, it should be so inclined that they must not become
heated; if they are volatile this method should be tried very carefully,
lest the vapour formed within should burst the bottle.
“It is often advantageous to put a little olive oil round the edge of the
stopper at its insertion, allowing it to soak in for a day or two. If this
be done before the heat be applied, it frequently penetrates by increased
facility; by oil, heat, and tapping very obstinate stoppers may be
removed.
“When a stopper has been fixed by crystallisation from solution, water
will sometimes set it free, and it is more efficacious in such cases than
oil, because it dissolves the cement. When the cementing matter is a
metallic oxide or sub-salt, a little muriatic acid may be useful if there
be no objection to its application arising from the nature of the
substance within.”[198]
[Footnote 198: Faraday.]
A writes in ‘New Remedies’ suggests that, in attempting to extricate the
fixed stopper by means of knocking with a piece of wood, the motion given
to it when putting it in should be reversed, that is, the stopper should
be knocked from _right_ to _left_.
=STORM-GLASS.= A philosophical toy, consisting of a thin glass tube about
12 inches long and 3/4 inch in diameter, about three fourths filled with
the following liquid, and covered with a brass car having an almost
capillary hole through it, or else tied over with bladder.
The solution. Take of camphor, 2 dr.; nitre 1-1/2 dr.; sal ammoniac, 1
dr.; proof spirit 2-1/4 fl. oz.; dissolve, and place it in the tube above
referred to. Used to foretell changes of the weather.
=STOVES.= In England the open grate or fireplace, because of its cheerful
appearance and the sense of comfort it suggests when filled with glowing
coal, is the favorite and general receptacle for the fuel with which we
warm our apartments. The cozy appearance, however, of our old-fashioned
English grate, constitutes its chief, if not its only merit; for it not
only fails in uniformly warming and effectively ventilating our
apartments, but it more or less sets into circulation a number of draughts
of cold air, and besides occasionally filling our rooms with smoke and
spoiling our furniture by the deposition of soot and dust, wastes our
fuel, by allowing it to escape unconsumed in the shape of smoke, and thus
pollutes the atmosphere of our cities and towns.
In France, Germany, Belgium, Russia, and other European countries, as well
as in America and Canada, the stove or closed fireplace is used. The
domestic stove of these countries is made either of sheet or cast-iron, or
fire-clay. The iron stoves, being mostly composed of thin plates, soon
absorb and radiate the heat; and although this property enables them to
rapidly warm an apartment, it has the disadvantage, if the stove becomes
red-hot, of allowing the escape through the heated metal into the
surrounding air of the carbonic acid generated in the stove; and
furthermore, in its immediate vicinity converts a portion of it into
carbonic oxide. Such stoves must necessarily be unsafe unless used in
well-ventilated apartments.[199] Another effect of the over heating of the
stove is to desiccate or parch the air, and to render it irritating when
breathed. The fire-clay stoves are free from these drawbacks, and continue
to radiate from their surfaces a large amount of heat, even when the fuel
with which they have been supplied is consumed. But although we exclude
the close stove from our sitting rooms and dormitories, it is in frequent
requisition in halls, picture-galleries, churches, theatres,
lecture-rooms, and the like.
[Footnote 199: Dr Bond has suggested coating them with soluble glass, as a
remedy for this.]
“Stove literature,” if such a term may be applied to the various treatises
descriptive of the multitude of patterns in use, which have emanated alike
from inventors and their critics, is so voluminous that it is impossible
for us to attempt to give even a list of the numberless stoves in use, to
say nothing of a commentary on their relative value. Of close stoves
suitable for heating spaces other than dwelling or sleeping-rooms, mention
may be made of Arnott’s stove, and one known as “The Belfast.” These
stoves are serviceable when it is desirable to keep up a fire for some
time, as in heating a lobby. They have the advantage of requiring little,
if any, attention after the fuel has been placed in them and ignited.
Of late years, gas-stoves, both for heating and cooking purposes, have
come largely into use. One of those for the former purpose is called the
“Pyropneumatic.” The inner part of this apparatus is formed of lumps of
fire-clay traversed by vertical air-passages which communicate with the
external air by a special channel. The air becomes heated as it passes
through the lumps of fire-clay, and rising to the top of the stove,
escapes therefrom by an outlet into the room. Another so-called
“ventilating” warming gas-stove is Mr George’s “Culirogen.” It consists of
a stove made of thin-rolled iron, inside of which is a coil of
wrought-iron tubing open at the top of the stove. The lower end of this
tubing is in connection with an iron pipe which is carried through the
wall of the apartment, and fed with air from without. Gas is the fuel
generally used to heat the inside of the stove. The continuous current of
air as it rushes into the iron pipe from without, thus becomes warmed as
it ascends into the coil, which it leaves to become diffused into the
surrounding apartment, whilst the products of combustion of the gas used
as fuel are, by means of a pipe attached to the stove, carried into the
chimney, as with coal fire.
A gas-cooking apparatus possesses many advantages over an ordinary coal
fire. In the first place, it is more cleanly; in the second, it affords a
much more uniform and equable temperature; in the third, it forms no
smoke, and in the fourth it is more economical as well as expeditious.
Mr Eassie gives the following practical suggestions to intending
purchasers of gas-stoves:——
“It is not necessary here to enter into a description of any of the
numberless common patterns extant, but it might be well to record the
opinion of the best engineers, that the simplest gas-stove is the best.
They should not be surrounded by a non-conducting material, as that
affords no advantage, but the contrary. An Argand or fish-tail burner
should also be used instead of rings pierced for so many separate jets,
and where practicable, the Bunsen-burner should be employed, as the
mixture of common air with the gas not only prevents the formation of
soot, but also intensifies the heat.”
=STRABIS′MUS.= _Syn._ SQUINTING. This need not be described. When one eye
only is affected, an excellent plan is to blindfold the sound eye during
several hours each day, until the affection be removed. When both eyes are
affected, a projecting piece of pasteboard, in the line of the nose, may
be worn as much as possible with the same object. In bad cases of
squinting inwards, as it is called, the division of the internal rectus
muscle of the eyeball by a skilful surgeon, is said to often relieve the
deformity.
=STRANGULATION.= See HANGING.
=STRAP′PING.= Spread adhesive plaster. Used to dress wounds, &c.
=STRASS.= See ENAMEL.
=STRAW′BERRY.= _Syn._ FRAGARIA, L. The fruit of _Fragaria vesca_ (Linn.),
or strawberry plant. Strawberries are, perhaps, the mildest of all the
cultivated fruits; they are cooling, and slightly laxative and diuretic;
rubbed on the teeth, they dissolve the tartar, and whiten them. They were
formerly in repute in gout, stone, and consumption. The root of the plant
is aperient.
=Strawberry essence, factitious.= Nitric ether, 1 part; acetate of ethyl,
5 parts; forminate of ethyl, 5 parts; butyrate of ethyl, 5 parts;
salicylate of methyl, 1 part; acetate of amyl, 3 parts; butyrate of amyl,
2 parts; glycerin, 2 parts; alcohol, 100 parts.[200]
[Footnote 200: ‘Pharm. Journ.’]
=STRAW PLAIT=, and the articles made of it, are bleached by exposing them
to the fumes of burning sulphur in a close chest or box; or, by immersing
them in a weak solution of chloride of lime, and afterwards well washing
them in water. Water acidulated with oil of vitriol or oxalic acid is also
used for the same purpose. Straw plait may be dyed with any of the simple
liquid dyes.
=STRINGHALT.= The same as CHOREA, which _see_.
=STRON′TIUM.= Sr. The metallic base of the earth strontia. It was
discovered by Sir H. Davy, in 1808. It closely resembles barium, but is
less lustrous. With chlorine it combines to form a chloride of strontium,
a somewhat deliquescent salt, soluble in 2 parts of cold and in less of
boiling water, and freely soluble in alcohol. With oxygen it forms an
oxide.
_Test._ Strontium salts are precipitated by sulphuric acid and alkaline
carbonates and sulphate. They are distinguished from barium by not giving
such a decided precipitate with sulphates, and by not being precipitated
by bichromate of potassium. From calcium, by sulphates of calcium
solution giving a precipitate, and by concentrated solutions giving a
precipitate with chromate of potassium. It is distinguished from magnesium
by the insolubility of its sulphate.
=Strontium, Oxide of.= SrO. _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF STRONTIUM, STRONTIA.
_Prep._ Quite pure crystalline nitrate of strontium. _Prop._ Greyish-white
powder, uniting with water to form a white, somewhat soluble substance,
the hydrate of strontium, Sr(HO)_{2}.
With acids it forms various salts, of which the carbonate is a white
insoluble powder, and the nitrate a white crystalline salt, soluble in 5
parts of cold water, and in alcohol; communicating a brilliant red colour
to flame.
=STROPH′ULUS.= A papular eruption peculiar to infants. There are several
varieties:——In strophulus intertinctus, red gum, or red gown, the pimples
rise sensibly above the level of the cuticle, possess a vivid red colour,
and are usually distinct from each other; they commonly attack the cheeks,
forearm, and back of the hand, and, occasionally, other parts of the
body.——In strophulus albidus, or white gum, there are a number of minute
whitish specks, which are, sometimes, surrounded by a slight redness. The
two preceding varieties commonly occur during the first two or three
months of lactation.——In strophulus confertus, rank red gum, or tooth
rash, which usually appears about the fourth or fifth month, the pimples
usually occur on the cheeks and sides of the nose, sometimes on the
forehead and arms, and still less frequently on the loins. They are
smaller, set closer together, and less vivid, but more permanent than in
the common red gum.——In strophulus volaticus small circular patches or
clusters of pimples, each containing from 6 to 12, appear successively on
different parts of the body, accompanied with redness; and as one patch
declines another springs up near it, by which the efflorescence often
spreads gradually over the whole face and body.——In strophulus candidus
the pimples are larger than in the preceding, and are pale, smooth and
shining; it principally attacks the upper parts of the arms, the
shoulders, and the loins. The last two varieties commonly appear between
the third and ninth month.
The treatment of the above affections consists chiefly in removing acidity
and indigestion and duly regulating the bowels by an occasional dose of
magnesia or rhubarb, or both combined. Diarrhœa may be met by the warm
bath and the daily use of arrowroot (genuine), to which a teaspoonful or
two of pure port wine has been added; and itching and irritation may be
alleviated by the use of a lotion consisting of water, to which a little
milk, lemon juice, borax, or glycerin, has been added.
=STRYCH′NINE.= C_{21}H_{22}N_{2}O_{2}. _Syn._ STRYCHNINA, STRYCHNIA (B.
P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. Dissolve hydrochlorate or sulphate
of strychnine in distilled water, and throw down the alkaloid with
ammonia, carefully avoiding excess; redissolve the precipitate in hot
rectified spirit, and collect the crystals which form as the liquid cools.
2. (Ph. D.) Nux vomica (in powder), 1 lb., is digested for 24 hours in 1/2
gall. of water acidulated with 2 fl. dr. of sulphuric acid, after which it
is boiled for half an hour, and the decoction decanted; the residuum is
boiled a second and a third time with a fresh 1/2 gall. of water
acidulated with 1 fl. dr. of the acid, and the undissolved matter is
finally submitted to strong expression; the decoctions are next filtered
and concentrated to the consistence of a syrup, which is boiled with
rectified spirit, 3 pints, for about 20 minutes, hydrate of calcium, 1
oz., or q. s., being added in successive portions during the ebullition,
until the solution becomes distinctly alkaline; the liquid is then
filtered, the spirit distilled off, and the residuum dissolved in diluted
sulphuric acid, q. s.; ammonia, in slight excess, is added to the filtered
solution, and the precipitate which falls is collected upon a paper
filter, and dried; it is next redissolved in a minimum of boiling
rectified spirit, and digested with 1/2 oz. of animal charcoal for 20
minutes; the filtered liquid, as it cools, deposits strychnine, in
crystals.
3. (Ph. B.) Nux vomica 1 lb., acetate of lead 180 gr., solution of ammonia
q. s., rectified spirit q. s., distilled water q. s. Subject the nux
vomica for two hours to steam in any convenient vessel; chop or slice it;
dry it in a water bath or hot-air chamber, and immediately grind it in a
coffee mill. Digest the powder at a gentle heat for 12 hours with two
pints of the spirit and 1 pint of the water, strain through linen, express
strongly, and repeat the process twice. Distil off the spirit from the
mixed fluid, evaporate the watery residue to about 16 oz., and filter when
cold. Add now the acetate of lead, previously dissolved in distilled
water, so long as it occasions any precipitate; filter; wash the
precipitate with 10 oz. of cold water, adding the washings to the
filtrate; evaporate the clear fluid to 8 oz., and when it has cooled add
the ammonia in slight excess, stirring thoroughly. Let the mixture stand
at the ordinary temperature for 12 hours; collect the precipitate on a
filter, wash it once with a few ounces of cold distilled water, dry it in
a water-bath or hot-air chamber, and boil it with successive portions of
rectified spirit, till the fluid scarcely tastes bitter. Distil off most
of the spirit, evaporate the residue to the bulk of about 1/2 oz., and set
it aside to cool. Cautiously pour off the yellowish mother-liquor (which
contains the brucia of the seeds) from the white crust of strychnia which
adheres to the vessel. Throw the crust on a paper filter, wash it with a
mixture of two parts of rectified spirit and one of water, till the
washings cease to become red on the addition of nitric acid; finally,
dissolve it, by boiling it with 1 oz. of rectified spirit, and set it
aside to crystallise. More crystals may be obtained by evaporating the
mother-liquor. [Strychnine is more readily obtained, and in greater
purity, from St Ignatius’s Bean.] The usual dose of strychnia and its
salts to commence with is from 1/30th to 1/12th of a grain, to be very
slowly increased, carefully watching its effects. Magendie says the salts
are more active than their base.
_Prop._ A white, inodorous, infusible powder; or small, but exceedingly
brilliant, transparent, colourless, octahedral crystals; soluble in about
7000 parts of water at 60°, and in 2500 parts at 212° Fahr.; freebly
soluble in hot rectified spirit; insoluble in absolute alcohol, ether, and
solutions of the caustic alkalies; imparts a distinctly bitter taste to
600,000 times its weight of water (1 part in 1,000,000 parts of water is
still perceptible——Fownes); exhibits an alkaline reaction; and forms salts
with the acids, which are easily prepared, are crystallisable, and well
defined.
_Tests._——1. Potassium hydrate and the carbonate produce, in solutions of
the salts of strychnia, white precipitates, which are insoluble in excess
of the precipitant, and which, when viewed through a lens magnifying 100
times, appear as aggregates of small crystalline needles. In weak
solutions the precipitate only separates after some time, in the form of
crystalline needles, which are, however, in this case, perfectly visible
to the naked eye.——2. Ammonia gives a similar precipitate, which is
soluble in excess of the precipitant.——3. Bicarbonate of sodium produces,
in neutral solutions, a like white precipitate, which is insoluble in
excess, but which redissolves on the addition of a single drop of acid; in
acid solutions no precipitate occurs for some time in the cold, but
immediately on boiling the liquid.——4. Nitric acid dissolves pure
strychnia and its salts to colourless fluids, which become yellow when
heated. Commercial strychnine, from containing a little brucine, is
reddened by this test.——5. A minute quantity of strychnine being mixed
with a small drop of concentrated sulphuric acid, placed on a white
capsule or slip of glass, forms a colourless solution, but yields, on the
addition of a very small crystal of bichromate of potassium, or a very
minute portion of chromic acid, a rich violet colour, which gradually
changes to red and yellow, and disappears after some time. The 1/1000th of
a grain yields very distinct indications.——6. Pure oxide or peroxide of
lead produces a similar reaction to the last, provided the sulphuric acid
contain about 1% of nitric acid.
_Pois._ The characteristic symptom is the special influence exerted upon
the nervous system, which is manifested by a general contraction of all
the muscles of the body, with rigidity of the spinal column. A profound
calm soon succeeds, which is followed by a new tetanic seizure, longer
than the first, during which the respiration is suspended. These symptoms
then cease, the breathing becomes easy, and there is stupor, followed by
another general contraction. In fatal cases these attacks are renewed, at
intervals, with increasing violence, until death ensues. One phenomenon
which is only found in poisonings by substances containing strychnine is,
that touching any part of the body, or even threatening to do so,
instantly produces the tetanic spasm.
_Treat._ The stomach should be immediately cleared by means of an emetic,
tickling the fauces, &c. To counteract the asphyxia from tetanus, &c.,
artificial respiration should be practised with diligence and care. “If
the poison has been applied externally, we ought immediately to cauterise
the part, and apply a ligature tightly above the wound. If the poison has
been swallowed for some time, we should give a purgative clyster, and
administer draughts containing sulphuric ether or oil of turpentine, which
in most cases produce a salutary effect. Lastly, injections of chlorine
and decoction of tannin are of value.”
According to Ch. Gunther, the greatest reliance may be placed on full
doses of opium, assisted by venesection, in cases of poisoning by
strychnia or nux vomica. His plan is to administer this drug in the form
of solution or mixture, in combination with a saline aperient.
_Uses, &c._ It is a most frightful poison, producing tetanus and death in
very small doses. Even 1/24 gr. will sometimes occasion tetanic twitchings
in persons of delicate temperament. 1/4 gr. blown into the throat of a
small dog produced death in 6 minutes. In very minute doses it acts as a
useful tonic in various nervous diseases, chronic diarrhœa, leucorrhœa,
&c.; in slightly larger ones, it has been advantageously employed in
certain forms of paralysis, in tic douloureux, impotence, &c.——_Dose_,
1/24 to 1/16 gr. (dissolved in water by means of a drop of acetic or
hydrochloric acid), gradually and cautiously increased until it slightly
affects the muscular system. Externally, 1/8 to 1/4 gr. at a time.
The Edinburgh College ordered the nux vomica to be exposed for two hours
to steam, to soften it, then to chop or slice it, next to dry it by the
heat of a vapour bath or hot air, and, lastly, to grind it in a
coffee-mill. In the process of the Ph. L. 1836 magnesia was employed to
effect the precipitation. In the last Ph. L. strychnine appears in the
Materia Medica. Most of that of commerce is now obtained from St
Ignatius’s bean, which, according to Geiseler, yields 1-1/4% of it;
whereas 3 lbs. of nux vomica produce little more than 1 dr. Commercial
strychnine may be freed from brucine by digesting the powder in dilute
alcohol.
The salts of strychnine, which are occasionally asked for in trade, are
the acetate (strychniæ acetas), hydrochlorate or muriate (s. murias——Ph.
D.), hydriodate (s. hydriodas), nitrate (s. nitras), phosphate (s.
phosphas), and sulphate (s. sulphas). All of these may be easily formed by
simply neutralising the acid previously diluted with 2 or 3 parts of
water, with the alkaloid, assisting the solution with heat; crystals are
deposited as the liquid cools, and more may be obtained by evaporating the
mother-liquor.
=STRYCHNOS.= See NUX VOMICA and BEAN, ST IGNATIUS’S.
=STUC′CO.= The name of several calcareous cements or mortars. Fine stucco
is the third or last coat of three-coat plaster, and consists of a mixture
of fine lime and quartzose sand, which, in application, is “twice hand
floated and well trowelled.” See CEMENTS.
=STUFFING.= Seasoning, placed in meat, poultry, game, &c., before dressing
them, to give them an increased relish. The same materials formed into
balls, are added to soups, gravies, &c., under the name of FORCEMEAT.
_Prep._ 1. (For fowls, &c.) Shred a little ham or gammon, some cold veal
or fowl, some beef suet, a small quantity of onion, some parsley, a very
little lemon peel, salt, nutmeg, or pounded mace, and either white pepper
or cayenne, and bread crumbs, pound them in a mortar, and bind it with 1
or 2 eggs.
2. (For hare, or anything in imitation of it.——Mrs Rundell.) The scalded
liver, an anchovy, some fat bacon, a little suet, some parsley, thyme,
knotted marjoram, a little shalot, and either onion or chives, all chopped
fine, with some crumbs of bread, pepper, and nutmeg, beaten in a mortar
with an egg.
3. (For goose.) From sage, onion, suet, and crumb of bread. Geese are now,
however, more commonly stuffed with veal stuffing.
4. (For veal——Soyer.) Chop 1/2 lb. of suet, put it into a basin with 3/4
lb. of bread crumbs, a teaspoonful of salt, a 1/4 do. of pepper, a little
thyme or lemon peel chopped, and 3 whole eggs; mix well.
_Obs._ 1 lb. of bread crumbs and one more egg may be used; they will make
it cut firmer. This, as well as No. 1, is now commonly employed for
poultry and meat. Ude, a great authority in these matters, observes that
“it would not be amiss to add a piece of butter, and to pound the whole in
a mortar.” “Grated ham or tongue may be added to this stuffing.”
(Rundell.) This is also used for turkeys, and for ‘forcemeat patties.’
=STUFFING (Birds, &c.).= The skins are commonly dusted over with a mixture
of camphor, alum, and sulphur, in about equal quantities; or, they are
smeared with Bécœur’s arsenical soap, noticed under SOAP. According to
Crace Calvert, carbolic acid, which is worth only about 2s. per gall., is
superior to all other substances for preserving the skins of birds and
animals, as well as corpses. See TAXIDERMY, PRACTICAL.
=STURDY.= This disease, known also by the name of GAD, which attacks
cattle and sheep, but more particularly the latter, is caused by the
presence in the brain of the animal, of a hydatid——a creature enclosed in
a sac of serous fluid. This hydatid develops from the ova of the tape
worm, in the animal’s body, whence it has gained an entrance, with the
grass which constitutes the cattle or sheep’s food upon which it has been
voided by dogs and other animals.
It is most common in sheep of from 6 to 8 months old, and, as might be
expected, with those which feed in damp meadows. The animals attacked by
it turn round and round in one position, lose their gregarious habits,
seem dazed, and refuse their food; which latter circumstance frequently
causes death by inducing starvation.
As regards the treatment of this disease Mr Finlay Dun writes: “A stout
stocking wire thrust up the nostrils has long been used with occasional
success, to get rid of the hydatid; but the use of the trocar and canula
now sold by most surgical instrument makers is much safer and better. The
sheep is placed with its feet tied upon a table or bench, and the head
carefully examined, when a soft place may often be detected, indicating
that the hydatid lies underneath. A portion of the skin is dissected back
and the trocar and canula introduced, when the hydatid will often come
away as the trocar is withdrawn.” Mr Dun says “that, should the trocar
fail to extract it, it must be drawn to the surface by a small syringe
made for the purpose. Furthermore, the wound, after the removal of the
hydatid, must be treated with a cold water dressing.”
All cattle similarly affected should be treated as above.
=STUR′GEON.= Several species of _Acipenser_ pass under this name. The
common sturgeon is the _Acipenser sturio_ (Linn.). The roe is made into
‘caviare,’ the swimming-bladder into ‘isinglass.’
=STY.= _Syn._ STYE, STIAN; HORDEOLUM, L. A small inflamed tumour, or boil,
at the edge of the eyelid, somewhat resembling a barleycorn. It is usually
recommended to promote its maturation by warm applications, since “the
stye, like other furunculous inflammations, forms an exception to the
general rule, that the best mode in which inflammatory swellings can end
is resolution.”
=STYP′TICS.= _Syn._ STYPTICA, L. Substances which arrest local bleeding.
Creasote, tannic acid, alcohol, alum, and most of the astringent salts,
belong to this class.
=Styptic, Brocchieri’s.= A nostrum consisting of the water distilled from
pine tops.
=Styptic, Eaton’s.= A solution of sulphate disguised by the addition of
some unimportant substances. “Helvetius’s styptic was for a long time
employed under this title.” (Paris.)
=Styptic Helvetius’s.= _Syn._ STYPTICUM HELVETII, L. Iron filings (fine),
and cream of tartar, mixed to a proper consistence with French brandy.
See POWDER, HELVETIUS’S.
=STY′RAX.= _Syn._ STORAX, STORAX BALSAM; STYRAX (Ph. L., & E.), L. “The
liquid balsam of an uncertain plant.” (Ph. L.) The “balsamic exudation of
_Styrax officinale_, Linn.” (Ph. E.), or cane storax tree. Two or three
varieties are known in commerce:——Liquid storax (_styrax liquida_), lump
of red storax (_s. in massis_), which is generally very impure; storax in
tears (_s. in lachrymis_), and storax in reeds (_s. calamita_). The last
are now seldom met with in trade.
PREPARED STORAX (_styrax colata_; _s. præparata_, B. P., Ph. L.) is
obtained by dissolving storax, 1 lb., in rectified spirit, 4 pints, by a
gentle heat, straining the solution through linen, distilling off greater
part of the spirit, and evaporating what is left to a proper consistence
by the heat of a water bath. It is less fragrant than the raw drug.
Storax is stimulant, expectorant, and nervine. It was formerly much used
in menstrual obstructions, phthisis, coughs, asthmas, and other breath
diseases. It is now chiefly used as a perfume.——_Dose_, 6 to 20 or 30 gr.
(10 to 20 gr. twice a day, B. P.).
=A factitious strained Storax= is made as follows:——1. Balsam of Peru, 1
lb.; balsam of tolu, 4 lbs.; mix.
2. Gum benzoin, 8 lbs.; liquid storax, 6 lbs.; balsam of tolu and
Socotrine aloes, of each 3 lbs.; balsam of Peru, 2 lbs.; N.S.W. yellow
gum, 7 lbs.; rectified spirit, 7 gall.; digest, with frequent agitation,
for a fortnight, strain and distil off the spirit (about 5-1/2 galls.)
until the residuum has a proper consistence. _Prod._ 28 lbs.
3. Liquid storax, 1 oz.; Socotrine aloes, 1/4 lb.; balsam of tolu, 2 lbs.;
rectified spirit, q. s.
=SUB-.= See NOMENCLATURE and SALTS.
=SU′BERIC ACID.= Obtained by boiling rasped cork for some time in nitric
acid.
=SUBLIMA′TION.= The process by which volatile substances are reduced to
the state of vapour by heat, and again condensed in the solid form. It
differs from ordinary distillation in being confined to dry solid
substances, and in the heat employed being, in general, much greater.
=SUB′STANTIVE COLOURS=, in the art of dyeing, are such as impart their
tints to cloth and yarns without the intervention of a mordant; in
contradistinction to adjective colours, which require to be fixed by
certain ‘intermedes,’ or substances which have a joint affinity for the
colouring matter and the material to be dyed.
=SUCCIN′IC ACID.= C_{4}H_{4}O_{4}H_{2}. _Syn._ ACIDUM SUCCINICUM. _Prep._
From amber, in coarse powder, mixed with an equal weight of sand, and
distilled by a gradually increased heat; or from the impure acid obtained
during the distillation of oil of amber; the product in both cases being
purified by wrapping it in bibulous paper, and submitting it to strong
pressure, to remove the oil, and then resubliming it.
From malic acid, by fermentation, or by digestion with hydriodic acid in
sealed tubes.
_Prop., &c._ Colourless; inodorous (when pure); crystallises in oblique
rhombic prisms; soluble in 5 parts of cold and in 2-1/2 parts of boiling
water; fusible and volatile, without decomposition. Its salts are called
‘succinates,’ most of which are soluble. Succinate of ammonium is used as
a test for iron. Succinic acid is distinguished from benzoic acid by its
greater solubility, and by giving a brownish or pale red bulky precipitate
with ferric chloride in neutral solutions; whereas that with benzoic acid
is paler and yellower.
_Uses, &c._ Succinic acid is antispasmodic, stimulant, and diuretic, but
is now seldom used.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr.
=SUC′CORY.= Chicory, or wild endive. (See CHICORY.)
=SUDORIF′ICS.= See DIAPHORETICS.
=SU′ET.= _Syn._ SEVUM, SEBUM, L. This is prepared from the fat of the
loins of the sheep or bullock by melting it by a gentle heat, and
straining the liquid fat. In this state it forms the ADEPS OVILLUS (Ph.
D.), SEVUM (Ph. L. & E.), SEVUM OVILLUM, or SEVUM PRÆPARATUM, employed in
medicine and perfumery, as the basis of ointments, cerates, plasters,
pommades, &c.
=Suet, Mel′ilot.= _Syn._ SEVUM MELILOTI, L. _Prep._ From suet, 8 lb.;
melilot leaves, 2 lb.; boil until the leaves are crisp, strain, and allow
it to cool very slowly, so that it may ‘grain well.’ Used by farriers, and
to make melilot plaster.
=SUFFOCA′TION.= The treatment varies with the cause. See ASPHYXIA,
CHARCOAL, DROWNING, HANGING, SULPHURETTED HYDROGEN, &c.
=SUG′AR.= C_{12}H_{22}O_{11}. _Syn._ CANE SUGAR; SACCHARUM, L.; SUCRE, Fr.
This well-known and most useful substance is found in the juice of many of
the canes or grasses, in the sap of several forest trees, and in the roots
of various plants. In tropical climates it is extracted from the
sugar-cane (_Saccharum officinarum_), in China from the sweet sorgho
(_Sorghum saccharatum_), in North America from the sugar-maple (_Acer
saccharinum_), and in France, Germany, Russia, and Belgium, from white
beet-root (_Beta vulgaris_, var. _alba_).
Until of late years the ordinary sugar consumed in this country was that
chiefly sent from the West Indian Islands, South America, the Mauritius,
&c., and was the produce of the sugar cane; recently, however, large and
increasing quantities of beet-root sugar have found their way into the
English markets from the Continental factories.
The _Saccharum officinarum_, of which there are several varieties, the
sugar-cane ranges in height from 6 to 15 feet, and in diameter from 1 to 2
inches. In order to obtain the saccharine juice contained in it, the cane,
stripped of its leaves, is cut just before the commencement of
inflorescence, the period in which it is richest in juice. As this sap or
juice is found to abound most in sugar, when taken from the lower part of
the stem, the cane is cut off nearly close to the ground.
The stump which remains develops into a fresh plant, and one plant thus
treated will last several years, not, however, without a gradual
diminution in the size of the successive crops.
In South America and the West Indies a variety known as the Otaheita cane
is extensively cultivated, since it is very productive and yields a large
amount of juice.
The annual average produce in raw sugar for a hectare (about 2-1/4 English
statute acres) of land is in
Martinique 2000 kilos.[201]
Guadaloupe 3400 ”
Mauritius 4000 ”
Brazil 6000 ”
[Footnote 201: A kilo = 2·2046 lbs.]
Sugar-cane growing in the below-mentioned places has, according to the
analysis of the three chemists whose names are appended, the following
composition:——
(_a._) (_b._) (_c._)
Péligot. Dupuy. Icery.
Sugar 18·0 17·8 20·0
Water 72·1 72·0 69·0
Cellulose 9·9 9·8 10·0
Salts —— 0·4 0·7-1·2
The cane, therefore, may be said to yield 90 per cent. of juice, which
latter contains from 18 to 20 parts of pure sugar. However, the actual
quantity obtained is rarely if ever more than 1 lb. of sugar to a gallon
of juice, or 10 per cent.; and much more frequently only 8 per cent.
A large part of this loss is due to the prolonged exposure of the cane
juice during its repeated boilings to heat, whereby a large proportion of
its crystallisable sugar is converted into the uncrystallisable variety
which passes away in the form of molasses and treacle. Another important
cause of loss is the retention of a large amount of juice by the cane.
The following figures will convey an idea of the enormous quantities of
cane sugar produced and consumed yearly throughout the globe. It is taken
from ‘British Manufacturing Industries,’ one of a series of excellent
industrial manuals published by Mr Sandford, of Charing Cross:——
Cuba 600,000 tons.
The other West Indian colonies 250,000 ”
Java and Sumatra 170,000 ”
China 140,000 ”
French colonies in America and Africa 120,000 ”
Brazil 100,000 ”
Mauritius 80,000 ”
British Guiana 80,000 ”
Porto Rico 90,000 ”
Manilla 60,000 ”
Mexico 35,000 ”
Egypt Large and growing.
The late Dr Edward Smith found that 98 per cent. of indoor operatives
partook of 7-1/2 oz. of sugar per adult weekly; that 96 per cent. of
Scotch labourers use it; and 80 per cent. of Irish. He further states that
in Wales sugar is commonly used to an average extent of 6 oz. per adult
weekly; but that there is a marked difference in the rate of consumption
in the northern and southern portions of the principality. In North Wales,
for example, the average amount per head is 11-1/4 oz.; whereas in South
Wales it is only 3 oz.
The manufacture of sugar is exclusively conducted on the large scale. The
recent canes are crushed between rollers, and the expressed juice is
suffered to flow into a suitable vessel, where it is slowly heated to
nearly the boiling-point, to coagulate albuminous matter. The crushed
canes generally supply the fuel needed for this purpose. The ashes left
after the combustion of the canes are carefully collected and used as a
manure for future crops of sugar cane.
The cut below represents a press for the extraction of the juice from the
canes. By means of the screws (_i i_), the rollers are adjusted to the
proper distance apart; the upper roller is half the size of the two lower
ones, and all are moved by cogged wheels fitting on to the axes of the
rollers. The sugar-canes are transferred from the slate gutter (_d d_) to
the rollers (_a c_), which press them a little; and from thence they are
carried over the arched plate (_n_) to the rollers (_c b_). The pressed
sugar-canes fall over the gutter (_f_), the expressed juice collecting in
_g g_, and running off through _h_. A small quantity of milk of lime is
then added to the juice to remove mechanical impurities, and the skimmed
and clarified juice, after being sufficiently concentrated by rapid
evaporation in open pans, is transferred to coolers, and thence into
upright casks perforated at the bottom, and so placed that the syrup, or
uncrystallisable portion, may drain off into a tank or cistern from the
newly formed sugar. During the period of crystallisation it is frequently
agitated, in order to hasten the change, and to prevent the formation of
large crystals. The solid portion of the product forms moist, raw, or
muscovado sugar; the uncrystallisable syrup, molasses or treacle.[202]
[Footnote 202: The term ‘molasses’ is usually restricted to the drainings
from raw sugar, and ‘treacle’ to the thicker syrup which has drained from
refined sugar in the moulds.]
[Illustration]
Raw sugar is refined by redissolving it in water, adding to the solution
albumen, under the form of serum of blood or white of egg, and, sometimes,
a little lime-water, and heating the whole to the boiling-point; the
impurities are then removed by careful skimming, and the syrup is
decoloured by filtration through recently burnt animal charcoal; the clear
decolorised syrup is next evaporated to the crystallising-point in vacuo,
and at once transferred into conical earthern moulds, where it solidifies,
after some time, to a confusedly crystallised mass; this, when drained,
washed with a little clean syrup, and dried in a stove, constitutes
ordinary loaf, lump, or refined sugar. Sometimes in washing the
crystallised mass for the purpose of removing the coloured syrup which is
mingled with it, the process known as ‘claying’ is followed.
In this case, instead of white syrup being used, a layer of thin mud or a
paste of thin pipe-clay is poured into the mould on to the base of the
inverted sugar cone, through which the water escaping from the mud or
pipe-clay permeates, and carries with it the coloured syrup. Neither the
mud nor the pipe-clay mix with the sugar, but remaining on the top soon
become hard, when they are removed. As the syrup running from the moulds
still contains a large quantity of crystalline cane sugar, this is
recovered as follows:
The syrup, after being sufficiently concentrated by boiling in the vacuum
pan, is removed and allowed to cool, when it assumes the appearance of a
crystalline magma known as ‘crushed sugar.’
Crushed sugar is a mixture of a large quantity of sugar crystals with
uncrystallisable syrup. To get rid of this latter from the crystals, the
mass is placed in quantities of 3 or 4 cwts. at a time in a ‘centrifugal
machine.’ This, of which an engraving is given below, consists, as will be
seen, of a drum fixed on a vertical axis. The walls of the drum are made
of perforated metal, or are formed of meshed wire work, and the drum
itself enclosed in an outer metal cylinder, which is fixed, and, of
course, unperforated. When the drum is made to revolve on its axis at the
rate of 1000 or 1200 revolutions in a minute, the syrup flying off by
centrifugal action, and escaping through the perforation at the sides of
the drum, is received into the outer cylinder, whence it escapes by a
trough into a proper receptacle, leaving behind the crystals in the
interior of the drum.
[Illustration]
_a_ is an open drum of fine meshed wirework, caused to revolve in the
cast-iron vessel (_b b_), by means of the bevel wheels (_c d_), gearing
with a motive power. The motion of the drum can be stopped by means of the
brake (_e_), and regulated by the weights placed at _o_.
When the crystallisation of sugar is allowed to take place quietly and
slowly, the product is sugar candy. The evaporation at a low temperature
in vacuum pans has the effect of diminishing the yield of treacle.
_Prop._ Sugar requires for its solution only 1/3rd of its weight of cold
and still less of boiling water; it is slowly dissolved by cold rectified
spirit; it dissolves in 4 parts of boiling rectified spirit and in 80
parts of boiling absolute alcohol; it melts by heat, and cools to a glassy
amorphous mass (barley sugar); at about 400° Fahr. it suffers rapid
decomposition, and fuses to a brown, uncrystallisable mass (caramel);
long boiling with water increases its colour, and lessens its tendency to
crystallise; its aqueous solution dissolves alkalies, earths, and many
metallic oxides, with facility. The presence of cane sugar in solutions
containing certain metallic salts prevents the precipitation of their
oxides by alkalies. The oxides of copper and iron are amongst those thus
kept in solution. Sugar also possesses the power of effecting the partial
or complete reduction of many metallic oxides, if boiled with their salts;
the first results is exemplified in the case of the chromates; for if a
chromate be added to a solution of sugar, and to the mixture a few drops
of free acid, the chromic acid suffers reduction to chromic oxide, which,
dissolving in the excess of acid, imparts a green colour to the liquid.
Mercuric salts become reduced to mercurous, whilst the salts of gold throw
down a precipitate of the metal in fine powder. The action of strong oil
of vitriol on cane sugar is very energetic. The sugar is instantly reduced
to a black charred mass, whilst carbonic and formic acids are given off.
The same effects are produced by exposing it to dry chlorine at a
temperature of 212° F. By nitric acid of sp. gr. 1·25, cane sugar is
converted into saccharic acid; if a stronger acid be employed, oxalic acid
is produced. When a mixture of concentrated nitric and sulphuric acids is
poured on to cane sugar, an explosive compound, resembling gun cotton, is
produced. This body is known as ‘nitro-sugar.’ Weak syrups take up about
half as much hydrate of calcium as they contain sugar; when slowly
crystallised, it assumes the form of oblique 4-sided prisms, terminated by
2-sided summits. Sp. gr. 1·60 (1·577——Ure).
_Pur._ Moist or muscovado sugar and crushed lump sugar are occasionally
adulterated with chalk, plaster, sand, potato-flour, and other fecula; but
frequently, and in certain neighbourhoods constantly, with starch sugar or
potato-sugar.[203] These frauds may be detected as follows:
[Footnote 203: See further on.]
_Tests._——1. Pure cane sugar dissolves freely and entirely in both water
and proof spirit, forming transparent colourless solutions, which are
unaffected by either sulphuretted hydrogen or dilute sulphuric acid.——2.
Its solution bends the luminous rays in circumpolarisation to the right,
whereas grape and fecula sugars bend it to the left.[204]——3.
(Chevallier.) Boiled for a short time in water containing 2 or 3% of
caustic potassa, the liquid remains colourless; but it turns brown, which
is more or less intense, according to the quantity, if starch sugar is
present. Even 2 or 3% of starch sugar may be thus detected.——4. (E.
Krantz.) A filtered solution of 33 gr. of cane or beet sugar in 1 fl. oz.
of water, mixed with 3 gr. of pure hydrate of potassium, and then agitated
with 1-1/2 gr. of sulphate of copper in an air-tight bottle, remains
clear, even after the lapse of several days; but if starch sugar be
present, a red precipitate is formed after some time; and if it is present
in considerable quantity, the copper will be wholly converted into oxide
within 24 hours, the solution turning first blue or green, and then
entirely losing its colour.——5. (Trommer’s test.) A solution of cane sugar
is mixed with a solution of sulphate of copper, and hydrate of potassium
added in excess; a blue liquid is obtained, which, on being heated, is at
first but little altered; a small quantity of red powder falls after a
time, but the liquid long retains its blue tint. When grape sugar or
fecula sugar is thus treated, the first application of heat throws down a
copious greenish precipitate, which rapidly changes to scarlet, and
eventually to dark red, leaving a nearly colourless solution. This is an
excellent test for distinguishing the two varieties of sugar, or
discovering an admixture of grape sugar with cane sugar. The 1/1000th part
of grape sugar may be thus detected. The proportion of oxide of copper
produced affords a good criterion, not only of the purity of the sugar,
but also of the extent of the adulteration.——6. (Ure.) Dissolve a little
sulphate of copper (say 20 gr.) in a measured quantity of water, and add
to it, in the cold, a solution of hydrate of potassium, until, by testing
with turmeric paper, the liquid appears faintly alkaline, shown by the
paper becoming slightly brown. If a small quantity of this test-liquor
(previously well shaken) be added to an aqueous solution of the sugar, and
the whole boiled, the solution becomes at first green, and then
olive-green, if dextrin is present; but if it contain grape sugar, the
salt of copper is immediately reduced into the state of orange and oxide;
whilst a solution of pure sugar undergoes no change, or is scarcely
altered.——7. M. Riffard,[205] taking advantage of the fact that sugar,
like tartaric, malic, citric acid, and albumen, prevents the precipitation
of iron by ammonia, employs iron as a means for estimating sugar. A
solution containing sugar and iron in a certain proportion, when saturated
with ammonia, will form a compound of a fine red colour, which remains
clear if no alkaline earthy metals are present. M. Riffard has applied to
sugar the method proposed by M. Juette for the estimation of tartaric
acid. He observed that a neutral or acid solution of crystallised
perchloride of iron, when heated for a considerable time to 100° C,
requires 2·710 grams of sugar, if 100 milligrams of iron are to remain in
solution in the presence of ammonia. If, on the other hand, the solution
is prepared simply by dissolving crystallised perchloride of iron in pure
water, without the addition of an acid, 100 milligrams of iron only
require 2·587 grammes of sugar to remain dissolved. In this case the
liquid is perfectly clear, and remains so; but if a smaller quantity of
sugar be added, it is turbid, and deposits peroxide of iron. To estimate
the sugar by this process, 25·870 grammes of the substance to be tested
are dissolved, the solution mixed with a few drops of oxalate of ammonia
to precipitate the lime, filtered and made up with water to 250 c.c., 25
c.c. of this mixture require the addition of as many milligrams of iron
as there are per cents. of pure sugar in the sample under examination, and
by two tests the following results will be arrived at:——With _n_
milligrams of iron the solution is clear. With _n_ + 1 milligrams of iron
the solution is precipitated. _n_ representing the number of per cents. of
sugar contained in the sample.——8. M. Perrot’s method for the
determination of sugars by means of normal solutions is as follows:——He
prepares a standard solution of copper by dissolving 39·275 grams of
sulphate of copper, very pure, and dried between several folds of
filtering paper, and makes it up with distilled water to 1000 c.c. Each
c.c. of this solution contains 0·01 grams of copper. On the other hand,
he dissolves about 25· grams of pure cyanide of potassium in 1 litre of
distilled water. Of this solution 10 c.c. are taken and put in a flask,
to which about 20 c.c. of ammonia are added, and the liquid is kept at a
temperature of 60° or 70°. He pours in the copper solution drop by drop by
means of a burette graduated into tenths of a c.c., until there appears
the blue tint characteristic of salts of copper in an ammoniacal solution.
The number of degrees of the burette are then read off, and indicate the
quantity of copper which has been required to produce the reaction. The
solution of the sugar in question (previously inverted if it is required
to determine crystalline sugar) is then placed in contact with an excess
of Fehling’s liquor, and reduced in the water-bath. The whole is filtered
in order to collect the precipitate of suboxide, which is first well
washed with hot water, and dissolved in nitric acid, diluted with an equal
volume of water, and a few fragments of chlorate of potassa are added.
This solution is effected on the filter, which is then carefully washed in
acidulated water. The filtrate to which the washings are added is then
mixed with water enough to make up 100 or 150 c.c., and is then poured by
means of the burette into 10 c.c. of cyanide, mixed with 20 c.c. of
ammonia as above, stopping when the blue colour appears, and reading off
the quantity of copper employed. From the former experiment it is known
how much copper 10 c.c. of the cyanide solution require. Hence it is easy
to calculate the total amount of copper which has been present as
suboxide. The amount of sugar is then found from the data that 9298 parts
of copper equal 5000 of crystalline sugar, or 5263 of glucose.[206]——9.
The specific gravities and crystalline forms offer other means of
distinguishing the varieties of sugar.
[Footnote 204: Of late years, owing to the little difference in price
between the two, this form of adulteration has been abandoned.——ED.]
[Footnote 205: ‘Journ. de Pharm. et de Chimie,’ 1874, 49 (‘Pharm. Year
Book,’ 1874).]
[Footnote 206: ‘Comptes Rendus Hebdomadaire des Sciences’ (‘Chem. News’),
January 5th, 1877.]
_Concluding Remarks._ Refined sugar (SACCHARUM——Ph. L., S. PURUM——Ph. E.,
S. PURIFICATUM——Ph. D.), raw sugar (S. COMMUNE——Ph. E.), and molasses or
treacle (SACCHARI FÆX——Ph. L. & E.), were officinal.
The relative sweetening power of cane sugar is estimated at 100; that of
pure grape sugar, at 60; that of fecula or starch sugar, at 30 to 40.
According to Messrs Oxland’s method (patented 1849) of defecating and
bleaching the juice of beet-root, cane, &c., acetate of aluminium, formed
by dissolving 4 lbs. of that earth in acetic acid, is boiled with each ton
of sugar, and as soon as the acetic acid is nearly all driven off, a
solution of tannin, formed from 1 lb. of bruised valonia and 2 galls. of
hot water, is added to the boiling syrup; the excess of aluminium is
afterwards separated by lime, and the usual method of further procedure
adopted. By their second patent (1851), superphosphate of aluminium or of
calcium is substituted for acetate of aluminium, in the proportion of
about 6 lbs. of aluminium, dissolved in phosphoric acid, for each ton of
sugar.
The presence of certain saline bodies in a solution of cane sugar,
exercises a very prejudicial effect upon it, since these, by combining
with the sugar, give rise to compounds which contribute to the more or
less reduction of the sugar to the uncrystallisable condition, and to a
consequent increase of the molasses.
Of one of the chief constituents of the sugar-cane that possesses this
objectionable property is potash in combination with acids, both organic
and inorganic. Last year a patent for the removal of these potash salts
was taken out by the Messrs Newlands. The patentees proceed upon the facts
that the solubility of alum in water is very trifling, and that it
contains only 1/10th part of its weight of potash. They add to a
concentrated syrup a strong solution of sulphate of alumina (having by a
previous examination of the syrup determined the quantity required).
Sulphate of potash is thereby formed, and this, uniting with the sulphate
of alumina, the resulting alum after a time deposits in a crystalline form
at the bottom of the vessel containing the sugar solution. This being run
off into another receptacle, the free acid, of which it now contains a
large quantity, is neutralised with lime or chalk, boiled, filtered, and
passed through charcoal.
The addition of the lime has also thrown down the alumina liberated by the
reaction, which has carried with it and removed certain injurious
nitrogenous principles previously present in the saccharine liquid.
Some few years back Messrs Dubrunfaut and Péligot being cognisant of the
fact of the insolubility, in boiling water, of the compounds of sugar with
lime, based upon it a method of separating crystallisable sugar from
treacle. Péligot has obtained from common treacle one fourth of its weight
of crystallised sugar, by dissolving the precipitated sugar lime in water,
and separating the lime by passing into the mixture a stream of carbonic
acid.
Sugar may be obtained from nearly all sweet vegetable substances, by a
process essentially similar to that described above.
_Table showing the Specific Weight of Sugar Solutions
with the corresponding percentage of Cane Sugar at
17·5° C._——GERLACH.
------------------------+-------------------------+----------------------
Percentage, Specific |Percentage, Specific |Percentage, Specific
Cane Sugar. Weight |Cane Sugar. Weight |Cane Sugar. Weight
of Sol. | of Sol. | of Sol.
| |
75 1·383,342 | 49 1·227,241 | 24 1·101,377
74 1·376,822 | 48 1·221,771 | 23 1·096,792
73 1·370,345 | 47 1·216,339 | 22 1·092,240
72 1·363,910 | 46 1·210,945 | 21 1·087,721
71 1·357,518 | 45 1·205,589 | 20 1·083,234
70 1·351,168 | 44 1·200,269 | 19 1·078,779
69 1·344,860 | 43 1·194,986 | 18 1·074,356
68 1·338,594 | 42 1·189,740 | 17 1·069,965
67 1·332,370 | 41 1·184,531 | 16 1·065,606
66 1·326,188 | 40 1·179,358 | 15 1·061,278
65 1·320,046 | 39 1·174,221 | 14 1·056,982
64 1·313,946 | 38 1·169,121 | 13 1·052,716
63 1·307,887 | 37 1·164,056 | 12 1·048,482
62 1·301,868 | 36 1·159,026 | 11 1·044,278
61 1·295,890 | 35 1·154,032 | 10 1·040,104
60 1·289,952 | 34 1·149,073 | 9 1·035,961
59 1·284,054 | 33 1·144,150 | 8 1·031,848
58 1·278,197 | 32 1·139,261 | 7 1·027,764
57 1·272,379 | 31 1·134,406 | 6 1·023,710
56 1·266,600 | 30 1·129,586 | 5 1·019,686
55 1·260,861 | 29 1·124,800 | 4 1·015,691
54 1·255,161 | 28 1·120,048 | 3 1·011,725
53 1·249,500 | 27 1·115,330 | 2 1·007,788
52 1·243,877 | 26 1·110,646 | 1 1·003,880
51 1·238,293 | 25 1·105,995 | 0 1·000,000
50 1·232,748 | |
------------------------+-------------------------+----------------------
=Sugar, Al′um.= _Syn._ SACCHARUM ALUMINATUM, ALUMEN SACCHARINUM, L. From
alum and white sugar, in fine powder, equal parts, formed into minute
sugar-loaf shaped lumps with mucilage of gum Arabic made with rose water.
Used to make astringent lotions and eye-waters.
=Sugar. Bar′ley.= _Syn._ SACCHARUM HORDEATUM, PENIDIUM, SACCHARUM
PENIDIUM, L. _Prep._ Take of saffron, 12 gr.; hot water, q. s.; sugar, 1
lb.; boil to a full ‘candy height,’ or that state called ‘crack,’ or
‘crackled sugar,’ when 2 or 3 drops of clear lemon juice or white vinegar
must be added, and the pan removed from the fire and set for a single
minute in cold water, to prevent its burning; the sugar must be then at
once poured out on an oiled marble slab, and either cut into pieces or
rolled into cylinders and twisted in the usual manner. One drop of oil of
citron, orange, or lemon, will flavour a considerable quantity. White
barley sugar is made with a strained decoction of barley instead of water,
or starch is added to whiten it.
=Sugar, Beet-root.= _Syn._ SACCHARUM BETÆ, L. Sugar obtained from the
white beet.
In the following table the names of the countries in which this plant is
cultivated are given, together with the amount of sugar annually produced
in each:
France 280,000 tons.[207]
Germany 260,000 ”
Austria and Hungary 180,000 ”
Russia and Poland 130,000 ”
Belgium 50,000 ”
Holland and other countries 17,000 ”
[Footnote 207: British Manufacturing Industries, Glanford.]
The white beet is used in preference to the red varieties, not only
because of the colour of its juice, but also in consequence of its being
richer in sugar. The roots vary in their yield of sugar according to
quality and the season of the year. They are generally in best condition
in October. The root is made up of a series of small cells, which are
filled with the saccharine fluid. According to Wagner the constituents of
the sugar-beet are as follows:
Water 82·7
Sugar 11·3
Cellulose 0·8
Albumen, casein, and other bodies 1·5
Fatty matter 0·1
Organic substances, citric acid, pectin, and pectic acid. Asparagin, }
aspartic acid, and betain, a substance having, according to }
Schiebler, the formula C_{15}H_{33}N_{3}O_{6} }
Organic salts, oxalate and pectate of calcium, oxalate and pectate }
of potassium and sodium } 3·7
Inorganic salts, nitrate and sulphate of potash, phosphate of lime }
and magnesia }
Twelve and a half hundred weight of beet yield on an average 1 cwt.
of raw sugar, or 8 per cent.
The first operation in the manufacture of beet-root sugar after washing
and cleansing the roots (an operation which sometimes reduces their weight
10 or 20 per cent.) is the extraction from them of the juice. This may be
effected either by:
1. Pressure.
2. Centrifugal power.
3. Dialysis.
1. _Pressure._ The roots being put into a proper crushing machine are soon
reduced to an uniform pulp, which in some manufactories is subjected to
pressure wrapped in linen cloths under stone or iron rollers, and in
others is placed in bags and placed under the Bramah or hydraulic press,
the resulting juice being collected in proper receptacles.
2. _Centrifugal power._ This method is that generally employed for
separating the juice from the pulp, which thus yields between 50 or 60 per
cent. of juice. A weak saccharine solution, also used in sugar
manufacture, is afterwards obtained by mixing the residue of the pulp with
water, and subjecting it to the same process.
3. _Dialysis._ The application of the principle of diffusion for the
extraction of the sugar from the beet-root originated with M. Robert. The
fresh roots, cut into thin slices, are immersed in a little more than
their own weight of water heated to about 120° F. The crystalloid sugar
thus diffuses out through the cell membrane which encloses it into the
surrounding water, leaving the pectous and colloid matters, such as
albumen, gum, &c., behind. The operation which is so managed as to bring
the same water into contact with successive quantities of root, yields a
saccharine solution of nearly the same strength as the natural juice. The
solution so obtained is, after concentration and the usual methods,
converted into sugar. The same process is said to have been tried with
cane sugar, and with equally satisfactory results.
The succeeding stages of the manufacture of beet sugar, such as refining,
liming, decolorising, &c., are the same as those already described under
cane sugar.
Beet sugar is in every respect identical with cane. It was discovered in
1747 by Marggraf, of Berlin, but it did not come into use until about the
beginning of the present century, its manufacture at this period in
France being necessitated by an edict of the first Napoleon’s, which
prohibited the importation of cane sugar into that country.
The engraving represents a vacuum pan much used in the French sugar
refineries.
Fig. 1 gives a perspective, and fig. 2 a sectional view of this
evaporating pan.
[Illustration: FIG. 1.]
[Illustration: FIG. 2.]
The boiling-pan (B) consists of two air-tight hemispheres, surmounted by a
funnel, connected by the tube (_l_) with the condenser (A). The apparatus
is supplied by steam by (_r s_), the steam circulating in the boiling-pan
by means of the pipes (_g_), fig. 2. By opening the lever valves (_f_) the
juice can be run by means of the pipe (_o_) into the pan (_p_). When the
pan, after continued boiling, requires to be refitted, the pipes (_l_ and
_w_) are connected to an air-pump. The manometer (_h_) shows the state of
the air pressure, which can be regulated by opening the pipes connected to
the vacuum chamber. By means of the gauge cylinder (G) the quantity of
syrup in the boiling-pan can be ascertained, the gauge cylinder being
connected to the boiling-pan by the pipes (_a_ and _i_), and the height
read off from the gauge tube (_n_). The syrup can be removed, for the
purpose of ascertaining its consistency, from the gauge cylinder by means
of either of the three pipes (_b_, _c_, _d_). By _u_ steam can be admitted
to the boiling-pan and condenser. _e_ is generally of stout glass, and
enables the state of the juice to be seen. _g_ is the grease cock, _f_ the
manhole. The condenser consists of the jacket (B), arranged to prevent the
mixing of the juice with the water used for condensation. _x_ is the
gauge. The pipe (_m_) conveying water to the condenser terminates in a
rose. _z_ is a thermometer showing the interior temperature of the
boiling-pan.
The air-pump being set in operation the tube (_c_) is opened, and the
gauge cylinder filled by the juice rising from _q_. By closing _m_ and
opening _y_ the juice is admitted to the boiling-pan. When this is half
full the steam pipe (_s_) is opened, the steam quickly heating the
contents of the pan to the boiling point. The condenser is then placed in
working; by opening the pipe (_l_) the steam of the juice passes into the
condenser, where it is speedily condensed, passing with the water through
β.
=Sugar, Diabet′ic.= Grape sugar found in the urine of persons labouring
under diabetes. In _diabetes insipidus_, a substance having the general
properties of a sugar, but destitute of a sweet taste, appears to be
produced (Thénard.)
=Sugar, Gel′atin.= See GLYCOCINE.
=Sugar, Grape=, C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}.H_{2}O. _Syn._ GLUCOSE, FRUIT SUGAR;
SACCHARUM UVÆ, S. FRUCTUS, L. This substance is found in the juice of
grapes and other fruit, in the urine of diabetic patients, and in the
liquid formed by acting on starch and woody fibre with dilute sulphuric
acid.
_Prep._ 1. From the juice of ripe grapes or an infusion of the ripe fruit
(raisins), by saturating the acid with chalk, decanting the clear liquid,
evaporating to a syrup, clarifying with white of egg or bullock’s blood,
and then carefully evaporating to dryness; it may be purified for chemical
purposes by solution and crystallisation in either water or boiling
alcohol. Like other sugar, it may be decoloured by animal charcoal.
2. From honey, by washing with cold alcohol, which dissolves the fluid
syrup and leaves the solid crystallisable portion.
_Prop._ It is less sweet and less soluble than cane sugar, requiring 1-1/2
part of cold water for its solution; instead of bold crystals, it forms
granular warty masses, without distinct crystalline faces; it does not
easily combine with either oxide of calcium or oxide of lead; with heat,
caustic alkaline solutions turn it brown or black, but it dissolves in oil
of vitriol without blackening, the reverse being the case with cane sugar;
with chloride of sodium it forms a soluble salt, which yields large,
regular, and beautiful crystals. Sp. gr. 1·400.
The various fruits contain grape sugar in the following proportions:
Per Cent.
Peach 1·57
Apricot 1·80
Plum 2·12
Raspberry 4·00
Blackberry 4·44
Strawberry 5·73
Bilberry 5·78
Currant 6·10
Plum 6·26
Gooseberry 7·16
Cranberry 7·45 (according to Fresenius).
Pear 8·02 to 10·8 (E. Wolff).
Apple 8·37 (Fresenius).
” 7·28 to 8·04 (E. Wolff).
Sour cherry 8·77
Mulberry 9·19
Sweet cherry 10·79
Grape 14·93
_Obs._ Cane sugar is converted into grape sugar during the process of
fermentation, and by the action of acids. See SUGAR, and SUGAR, STARCH
(_below_).
=Sugar, Maple.= _Syn._ SACCHARUM ACERINUM, L. From the juice of the sugar
maple. It is identical with cane sugar.
In the United States and the British Colonies of North America
considerable quantities of this sugar are made. The juice is obtained by
boring through the bark of the tree to a depth of about a quarter or half
an inch. Each tree has generally two perforations made in it, and they are
always made on that side of the tree which faces towards the south, and at
a distance of about 20 inches from the ground. The juice flows into
suitable vessels, into which it is conducted by reeds placed under the
perforations. The period chosen for tapping the trees is that during which
it is known the sap is ascending, from March to May. Sometimes the tree
undergoes a second tapping in the autumn, but this is not generally
practised, inasmuch as it is injurious to the tree. A daily yield of 6
galls, of juice from each incision is looked upon as a ‘good run,’ and if
this 6 gall. be the produce of an old tree or ‘old bush’ they will yield 1
lb. of sugar. In a young tree or ‘young bush’ the yield of sugar from the
same quantity of sap is only half. By proper care the same tree may be
tapped 20 or 30 years following. Unlike the sugar-cane the juice in the
maple is the richest in sugar the higher it is found from the ground. The
concentrated saccharine liquid is concentrated every 24 hours. The raw
crystallised sugar undergoes no refining, and being made into blocks is
then sent to market.
=Sugar, Milk.= C_{12}H_{22}O_{11}.H_{2}O. _Syn._ SUGAR OF MILK, LACTIN;
SACCHARUM LACTIS (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ Gently evaporate clarified whey
until it crystallises on cooling, and purify the crystals by digestion
with animal charcoal and repeated crystallisations.
_Prop., &c._ White, translucent, very hard cylindrical masses or
four-sided prisms; soluble in about 6 parts of cold and in 2 parts of
boiling water; nearly insoluble in alcohol and ether; ammoniacal plumbic
acetate precipitates it from its solutions. When an alkaline solution of
grape sugar is boiled with the salts of copper, silver, or mercury, it
reduces them; it produces right-handed rotation of a ray of polarised
light; by boiling with dilute acid it is converted into _galactose_
(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}); treated with nitric acid it yields mucic acid, with
small quantities of saccharic, oxalic, and tartaric acid. Milk sugar is
unsusceptible of the vinous fermentation, except under the action of
dilute acids, which convert it into grape sugar; in solution, it is
converted into lactic or butyric acid by the action of caseine and
albuminous matter. Milk contains about 5% of it. (Boussingault.)
_Obs._ Sugar of milk is chiefly imported from Switzerland. In this country
it is chiefly used as a vehicle for more active medicines, especially
among the homœopathists.
=Sugar, Starch.= _Syn._ POTATO SUGAR, FÆCULA S. This is grape sugar
obtained by the action of diastase on starch, in the manner noticed under
GUM (British), or by the action of dilute sulphuric acid on starch, or of
the strong acid on lignin, or on substances containing it.
_Prep._ 1. From corn. The corn is first steeped in soda lye; it is then
ground wet and passed through revolving sieves to separate the husks and
gluten. The starch is carried through long troughs, in which are placed
transverse pieces of wood, against which the solid particles of starch
lodge, and are thus separated from the washing waters. These wash waters
run into a large cistern, where it undergoes fermentation into weak
vinegar. The starch in the wet state is then put into a mash tub and
treated for from 3 to 8 hours with 1 per cent. of sulphuric acid. The acid
liquor is neutralised with chalk and evaporated in vacuum pans; and after
being separated from the sulphate of lime it is run into barrels and
allowed to crystallise. The grape sugar is sometimes manufactured in
blocks 6 inches square, and dried on plaster plates in a current of dry
air, as hot air would decolorise it. Large quantities of grape sugar
manufactured as above are now produced in the United States, particularly
in New Orleans, Buffalo, and Brooklyn. A considerable amount from the same
source reaches this country from the Continent, and is employed in our
breweries. When specially prepared for the use of the latter the blocks
are crushed into small pieces about the size of malt grains. Our excise
authorities prohibit the entrance of glucose into a brewer’s premises in
the liquid state. In the brewing of pale sparkling ales grape is esteemed
more than either cane sugar or malt, and is said to yield a more sound and
wholesome liquor, and one free from the acidity, impurity, and treacly
sweetness frequently found in beers brewed from raw or inferior sugars.
Glucose may also be obtained from cellulose, but the process is too
expensive to admit of being practically worked.
2. Potato starch, 100 parts; water, 00 parts; sulphuric acid, 6 parts;
mix, boil for 35 or 40 hours, adding water, to make up for evaporation;
then saturate the acid with lime or chalk, decant or filter, and evaporate
the clear liquor. Under pressure the conversion is more rapid. _Prod._
105%.
3. “The starch of potatoes can be converted into glucose by digestion for
a few hours with parings of the potato. This operation is largely
practised by German farmers in the preparation of food for fattening hogs.
An excellent starch sugar can be prepared from Indian corn, which will
yield alcohol one eighth cheaper, and quite as pure as that from cane
sugar.”[208]
[Footnote 208: ‘Journ. of Applied Chemistry.’]
4. Shreds of linen or paper, 12 parts; strong sulphuric acid, 17 parts
(Braconnot; 5 of acid, and 1 of water——Vogel); mix in the cold; in 24
hours dilute with water, and boil it for 10 hours; then neutralise with
chalk, filter, evaporate to a syrup, and set the vessel aside to
crystallise. _Prod._ 114%. Sawdust, glue, &c., also yield grape sugar by
like treatment. See LIGNIN.
=Sugar from other Sources.= Considerable quantities of East Indian cane
sugar are yielded by certain Indian palms, the principal of which are the
_Arenga saccharifera_ and the _Phœnix sylvestris_ or wild date. Another
source whence large quantities of cane sugar are procured is the _Sorghum
saccharatum_ or sugar grass. This plant is exclusively grown in Ohio, and
yields annually more than 15,000,000 gall. of juice, which is made into
sugar.
_Melezitose_ (C_{12}H_{22}O_{11}). From larch manna.
_Mycose_ or _trehalose_ (C_{12}H_{22}O_{11}). From Turkish manna.
_Melitose_ (C_{12}H_{24}O_{12}). From the eucalyptus.
_Maltose_ (C_{12}H_{24}O_{12}). From malt.
_Eucalen_ (C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}). By fermentation of melitose.
_Sorbin_ (C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}). From the berries of the service tree.
_Effects of the varieties of Sugar on Polarised Light._ Both sucrose, or
cane sugar, and dextrose produce rotation upon a ray of polarised light.
The plane of rotation is rotated to the right by sucrose rather more
powerfully than by dextrose. It is remarkable that the uncrystallisable
sugar of fruits produces an opposite rotation, viz. to the left. Since the
degree of rotation is proportionate in columns of equal length to the
quantity of sugar present, it has been proposed to employ this property in
order to determine the quantity of sugar present in syrups.[209] The
following, according to Berthelot, are the rotatory powers of the
different varieties of sugar, if equal weights of each are dissolved in an
equal bulk of water; the quantities of each sugar are calculated for the
formulæ annexed:
[Footnote 209: Miller.]
+----------------------+--------------------+-----------+-----------------+
| | | | Temperature. |
| Variety. | Formula. | Rotation. | |
| | | |° Fahr. |° Cent. |
+----------------------+--------------------+-----------+--------+--------+
| | | | | |
|Sucrose (cane sugar) |(C_{12}H_{22}O_{11})|Right 73·8°| | |
|Melezitose |(C_{12}H_{22}O_{11})| ” 94·1°| | |
|Mycose |(C_{12}H_{22}O_{11})| ” 193° | | |
|Melitose |(C_{12}H_{24}O_{12})| ” 102° | | |
|Dextrose (grape sugar)|(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) | ” 57·4°| | |
|Malt sugar |(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) | ” 172° | | |
|Lœvulose (fruit | | | | |
| sugar) |(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) |Left 106° | 56 | 13·3 |
|Eucalin |(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) |Right 50° | | |
|Sorbin |(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) |Left 46·9°| | |
|Lactose (milk sugar) |(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) |Right 56·4°| | |
|Glucose of ditto | | | | |
| (galactose) |(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) | ” 83·3°| | |
|Inverted cane sugar |(C_{6}H_{12}O_{6}) |Left 28° | 57 | 13·9 |
| | | | | |
+----------------------+--------------------+-----------+--------+--------+
=SUGAR-BOILING.= The art or business of the confectioner or sugar-baker;
the candying of sugar. The stages are as follow:——Well clarified and
perfectly transparent syrup is boiled until a ‘skimmer’ dipped into it,
and a portion ‘touched’ between the forefinger and thumb, on opening them,
is drawn into a small thread, which crystallises and breaks. This is
called a ‘weak candy height.’ If boiled again, it will draw into a larger
string, and if bladders may be blown through the ‘drippings’ from the
ladle, with the mouth, it has acquired the second degree, and is now
called ‘bloom sugar.’ After still further boiling, it arrives at the state
called ‘feathered sugar.’ To determine this re-dip the skimmer, and shake
it over the pan, then give it a sudden flirt behind, and the sugar will
fly off like feathers. The next degree is that of ‘crackled sugar,’ in
which state the sugar that hangs to a stick dipped into it, and put
directly into a pan of cold water, is not dissolved off, but turns hard
and snaps. The last stage of refining this article reduces it to what is
called ‘carmel sugar,’ proved by dipping a stick first into the sugar, and
then into cold water, when, on the moment it touches the latter, it will,
if matured, snap like glass. It has now arrived at a ‘full candy height.’
Care must be taken throughout that the fire is not too fierce, as, by
flaming up against the sides of the pan, it will burn and discolour the
sugar; hence the boiling is best conducted by steam heat.
Any flavour or colour may be given to the candy by adding the colouring
matter to the syrup before boiling it, or the flavouring essences when the
process is nearly complete. See STAINS, &c.
=SUGAR CAN′DY.= _Syn._ SACCHARUM CANDIDUM, S. CRYSTALLINUM, S.
CRYSTALLIZATUM, L. Sugar crystallised by leaving the saturated syrup in a
warm place (90 to 100° Fahr.), the shooting being promoted by placing
sticks, or threads, at small distances from each other in the liquor; it
is also deposited from compound syrups, and does not seem to retain much
of the foreign substances with which they are loaded. Brown sugar candy is
prepared in this way from raw sugar; white do., from refined sugar; and
red do., from a syrup of refined sugar which has been coloured red by
means of cochineal.
Sugar candy is chiefly used as a sweetmeat; and, being longer in
dissolving than sugar, in coughs, to keep the throat moist; reduced to
powder, it is also blown into the eye, as a mild escharotic in films or
dimness of that organ.
=SUGAR OF LEAD.= Acetate of lead.
=SUGAR PLUMS.= _Syn._ BON-BONS, DRAGÉES, Fr. These are made by various
methods, among which are those noticed under DROPS (Confectionery),
LOZENGES, and PASTILS, to which may be added the following:——Take a
quantity of sugar syrup, in the proportion to their size, in that state
called a ‘blow’ (which may be known by dipping the skimmer into the sugar,
shaking it, and blowing through the holes, when parts of light may be
seen), and add a drop or two of any esteemed flavouring essence. If the
‘bon-bons’ are preferred white, when the sugar has cooled a little, stir
it round the pan till it grains and shines on the surface. When all is
ready, pour it through a funnel into little clean, bright, leaden moulds,
which must be of various shapes, and be previously slightly moistened with
oil of sweet almonds; it will then take a proper form and harden. As soon
as the plums are cold, take them from the moulds; dry them for two or
three days in the air, and put them upon paper. If the bon-bons are
required to be coloured, add the colour just as the sugar is ready to be
taken off the fire.
CRYSTALLISED BON-BONS are prepared by dusting them with powdered
double-refined lump sugar before drying them.
LIQUEUR BON-BONS, now so beautifully got up by the Parisian confectioners,
are obtained by pressing pieces of polished bone or metal into finely
powdered sugar, filling the hollow spaces so formed with saturated
solutions of sugar in the respective liqueurs, and then spreading over
the whole an ample layer of powdered sugar. In the course of three or four
days the bon-bons may be removed, and tinted by the artist at will.
Instead of white powdered sugar ordered above, coloured sugar may be used.
These bon-bons are found to be hollow spheres, containing a small quantity
of the spirit or liqueur employed, and will bear keeping for many months.
See SWEETMEATS, &c.
=SUGARS (Medicated).= _Syn._ SACCHARIDES; SACCHARA MEDICATA, L.;
SACCHAROLÉS, SACCHARURES, Fr. Some of these are prepared by moistening
white sugar with the medicinal substance, then gently drying it, and
rubbing it to powder; in other cases they are obtained in the manner
noticed under PULVERULENT EXTRACTS, or OLEOSACCHARUM. The most valuable
preparation of this class in British pharmacy is the saccharated carbonate
of iron (FERRI CARBONAS CUM SACCHARO——Ph. L.).
=SUINT, Gas from.= By this is understood a gas prepared from the fatty
materials present in the soap-suds used in washing raw wool and spun
yarns. The water containing the suint and soap-suds is run into cisterns,
and is there mixed with milk of lime, and left to stand for twelve hours.
A thin precipitate is formed, which, after the supernatant clear liquor
has been run off, is put upon coarse canvas for the purpose of draining
off any impurities, sand, hair, &c., while the mass which runs through the
filter is put into a tank, in which it forms, after six or eight days, a
pasty mass, which, having been dug out and moulded into bricks, is dried
in open air. At Rheims the first wash-water of the wool is used for making
both gas and potash, because the water contains no soap and only suintate
of potash. Havrez, at Verviers, has recently proposed to employ
suint——which, by-the-bye, is very rich in nitrogen——for the purpose of
making ferrocyanide of potassium.
The dried brick-shaped lumps are submitted to distillation, yielding a gas
which does not require purification, and which possesses an illuminating
power three times that of good coal gas. The wash-water of a wool-spinning
mill with 20,000 spindles yields daily, when treated as described, about
500 kilos of dried suinter, as the substance is technically called. One
kilo of this substance yields 210 litres of gas. Annually about 150,000
kilos of suinter are obtained, and this quantity will yield 31,500,000
litres = 1,112,485 cubic feet of gas. Every burner consuming 35 litres of
gas per hour, and taking the time of burning at 1200 hours, the quantity
of gas will suffice for 750 burners, and as a spinning mill of 20,000
spindles only requires 500 burners, there is an excess of gas supply
available for 250 other burners, or the owner may dispose of 5000 kilos of
suinter, which is valued at Augsburgh at about 3s. per 50 kilos, and at
about 4s. at Mulhouse.[210]
[Footnote 210: Wagner’s ‘Chemical Technology.’]
=SUL′PHATE.= _Syn._ SULPHAS, L. A salt of sulphuric acid.
=SUL′PHIDE.= A salt consisting of sulphur and a metal or other basic
radical. See SULPHURETTED HYDROGEN.
=SULPHINDYL′IC ACID.= _Syn._ SULPHINDIGOTIC ACID. An intensely blue pasty
mass, formed by dissolving 1 part of indigo in about 15 parts of
concentrated sulphuric acid. See SULPHATE OF INDIGO.
=SUL′PHITE.= A salt of sulphurous acid.
=SULPHOCARBOLIC ACID.= (SULPHOCARBOLATES.) Carbolic acid, when acted upon
by bases, yields a class of salts termed carbolates. These compounds are
very unstable; they readily absorb water from the air, which sets free
carbolic acid; they usually have the powerful odour of the latter. When,
however, equivalent weights of carbolic and sulphuric acids are mixed,
union takes place, a definite double acid (sulphocarbolic) results, and
the salts formed by this double acid with the various bases are entirely
different from the simple salts of carbolic acid. They are very stable,
very soluble, possess neither odour nor taste of carbolic acid, and are
singularly beautiful in crystalline form.
=Sulphocarbolic Acid= (HC_{6}H_{3}SO_{4}) is obtained by the
crystallisation in long colourless needles; unlike carbolic acid, it is
soluble in water, alcohol, and ether, in any proportions.
=Sulphocarbolate of Calcium= [Ca(C_{6}H_{5}SO_{4})_{2} + Aq.] is obtained
in very long, fine, densely interlacing crystals, which form in bulk, by
their interlacement, a porous mass. Unlike the usual lime-salts, this is
exceedingly soluble. This fact overcomes the great difficulty of treatment
when in disease there is a deficiency of lime in the body, especially in
rickets, in which disease the want of lime in the bones gives rise to
distortions. The sulphocarbolate of magnesium crystallises in large,
clear, rhombic prisms, easily soluble in water.
=Sulphocarbolate of Copper= [Cu(C_{6}H_{5}SO_{4})_{2}] forms fine
prismatic crystals of a blue colour. It is used as the zinc
sulphocarbolate, chiefly as a lotion and dressing, in the proportion of 3
to 10 grains to the ounce of distilled water.
=Sulphocarbolate of Iron= [Fe(C_{6}H_{5}SO_{4})_{2}] is in colourless or
pale green rhombic plates. It is readily administered, and seems in some
instances to be preferred to other salts of iron. It seems to have been of
especial use in the skin diseases of children, wherein there is much
formation of matter.
=Sulphocarbolate of Sodium= [Na(C_{6}H_{5})SO_{4}.Aq] is in brilliant,
clear, rhombic prisms. The salt is very soluble in water. This salt can be
administered as a medicine in doses of 20 to 60 gr.; it is slowly
decomposed in the textures, carbolic acid being evolved. It thus becomes
a very simple means of obtaining the beneficial effects of the
administration of this antiseptic without the difficulties and dangers
which attend it in its uncombined irritant and caustic form. It has proved
of great service in the treatment of infectious diseases. Administered in
the severest cases of diphtheria, malignant scarlet fever, typhoid,
erysipelas, &c., the remedy has proved of extreme value.
=Sulphocarbolate of Zinc= [Zn(C_{6}H_{5}SO_{4})_{2}] is chiefly employed
in solution as a lotion. By high surgical authorities it is considered to
answer all the purposes of the antiseptic dressing of carbolic acid. It is
inodorous, and has very slight irritating action.
=The Sulphocarbolates of Potassium= [KC_{6}H_{5}SO_{4}] =and Ammonium=
[NH_{4}C_{6}H_{5}SO_{4}] are also brilliant crystals; they are freely
soluble, administered with the greatest ease, and have been used with
success as remedial agents.
=SULPHOCYAN′OGEN.= A well-defined salt radical, containing sulphur united
to the elements of cyanogen. Its compounds are the sulphocyanides, most of
which may be formed by directly saturating hydrosulphocyanic acid with the
oxide or hydrate of the base; or, from the sulphocyanide of potassium and
a soluble salt of the base, by double decomposition.
=SULPHOFORM.= _Syn._ SULPOFORMUM. An oily liquid obtained by distilling
one part of iodoform with three of sulphide of mercury.
=SULPHOPHE′NIC ACID.= A synonym of sulphocarbolic acid. See
SULPHOCARBOLATES.
=SULPHOVIN′IC ACID.= C_{2}H_{5}HSO_{4}. _Syn._ SULPHETHYLIC ACID; ACIDUM
SULPHOVINICUM, L. This substance is formed by the action of heat on a
mixture of alcohol and sulphuric acid; it is the intermediate product
which is developed in the preparation of ether. The salts are called
sulphovinates or sulphothylates.
=SUL′PHUR.= [Eng., L.] _Syn._ BRIMSTONE; SOUFRE, Fr. An elementary
substance. That of commerce is chiefly imported from Sicily and Italy, and
is a volcanic production.
_Var._ The principal of these are:
AMORPHOUS SULPHUR, BROWN S.; SULPHUR AMORPHUM, S. FUSCUM, S. INFORME, S.
RUBRUM, L. Prepared from sublimed sulphur, by melting it, increasing the
heat to from 320° to 350° Fahr., and continuing it at that temperature for
about half an hour, or until it becomes brown and viscid, and then pouring
it into water. In this state it is ductile, like wax, may be easily
moulded in any form, is much heavier than usual, and when it has cooled
does not again become fluid until heated to above 600° Fahr. The same
effect is produced more rapidly by at once raising the temperature of the
melted mass to from 430° to 480° Fahr.
PRECIPITATED SULPHUR, HYDRATE OF SULPHUR, MILK OF S.; SULPHURIS HYDRAS,
LAC SULPHURIS, SULPHUR PRÆCIPITATUM (Ph. L.). _Prep._ 1. From sublimed
sulphur, 1 part; dry and recently slaked lime, 2 parts; water, 25 parts,
or q. s.; boil for 2 or 3 hours, dilute with 25 parts more of water,
filter, and precipitate with dilute hydrochloric acid; drain, and well
wash the precipitate, and dry it by a gentle heat. Resembles sublimed
sulphur in its general properties, but is much paler, and in a finer state
of division.
2. (B. Ph.) Sublimed sulphur, 5 oz.; slaked lime, 3 oz.; hydrochloric
acid, 3 fl. oz., or q. s.; distilled water, q. s. Heat the sulphur and
lime, previously well mixed, in 1 pint of water, stirring diligently with
a wooden spatula, boil for 15 minutes and filter. Boil the residue again
in 1/2 pint of water and filter. Let the united filtrates cool, dilute
with 2 pints of water, and in an open place, or under a chimney, add in
successive quantities the hydrochloric acid previously diluted with 1 pint
of water until effervescence ceases, and the mixture acquires an acid
reaction. Allow the precipitate to settle, decant off the supernatant
liquid, pour on fresh distilled water, and continue the purification by
affusion of distilled water and subsidence, until the fluid ceases to have
an acid reaction, and to precipitate with oxalate of ammonia. Collect the
precipitated sulphur on a calico filter, wash it once with distilled
water, and dry it at a temperature not exceeding 120° Fahr.
_Prop._ A greyish-yellow powder free from grittiness, and with no smell of
sulphuretted hydrogen.
_Obs._ Many pharmacists regard LAC SULPHURIS and SULPHUR PRECIPITATUM as
distinct substances, and assume that by milk of sulphur is intended a
preparation made by an old pharmacopœial process, in which sulphuric acid
being employed, the sulphur so precipitated contains from 50 to 75 per
cent. of sulphate of lime. Pareira, Royle, Atfield, and some other
authorities, hold that LAC SULPHURIS and SULPHUR PRECIPITATUM are
synonymous; whilst others, including Professor Redwood (one of the
compilers of the B. P.) entertain a contrary opinion.
ROLL SULPHUR, CANE S., STICK S.; SULPHUR IN BACCULIS, S. IN ROTULIS, S.
ROTUNDUM, L. This is crude sulphur, purified by melting and skimming it,
and then pouring it into moulds. That obtained during the roasting of
copper pyrites, and which forms the common roll sulphur of England,
frequently contains from 3 to 7% of yellow arsenic.
SUBLIMED SULPHUR, FLOWERS OF SULPHUR; FLORES SULPHURIS, SULPHUR (Ph. L.),
SULPHUR SUBLIMATUM (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), L. Prepared by subliming sulphur
in iron vessels. For medical purposes, it is ordered to be well washed
with water, and dried by a gentle heat. “A slightly gritty powder, of a
fine greenish-yellow colour, without taste and without odour till
heated.” (B. P.)
SULPHUR VIVUM, BLACK SULPHUR, CRUDE S., HORSE BRIMSTONE; SULPHUR NIGRUM,
S. CABALLINUM, S. GRISEUM, L. This is crude native sulphur. It is a grey
or mouse-coloured powder. The residuum in the subliming pots from the
preparation of flowers of sulphur is now commonly substituted for it. It
generally contains much arsenic, and is consequently very poisonous.
_Pur._ The sublimed sulphur of the shops is now, in general, of
respectable quality, but the precipitated sulphur frequently contains
about 2/3 of its weight of sulphate of lime (plaster of Paris), owing to
the substitution of sulphuric acid for hydrochloric acid in its
manufacture.[211] This is readily detected by strongly heating a little of
the suspected sample in an iron spoon or shovel, when the sulphur is burnt
or volatilised, and leaves behind the sulphate of lime as a white ash;
this, when mixed with water, and gently dried, gives the amount of the
adulteration. A still simpler plan is to dissolve out the sulphur in the
sample with a little hot oil of turpentine or liquor of potassa; the
undissolved portion is foreign matter.
[Footnote 211: See PRECIPITATED SULPHUR, above.]
_Prop._ Sulphur melts to a clear thin fluid, and volatilises at about 232°
Fahr., and in open vessels rapidly takes fire, burning with a bluish
flame. It is insoluble in both water and alcohol; it is soluble in oil of
turpentine and the fatty oils, and freely so in bisulphide of carbon and
hot liquor of potassa. With oxygen it unites to form sulphurous anhydride,
and with the metals to form sulphides. Sp. gr. 1·982 to 2·015.
_Estim._ The determination of the quantity of sulphur, phosphorus, and
chlorine, in a state of combination, especially in organic mixtures, is
often rather troublesome. The proportion of sulphur is best determined by
oxidising a known weight of the substances by strong nitric acid, or by
fusing it in a silver vessel with 10 or 12 times its weight of pure
hydrate of potassa and about half as much nitre. The sulphur is thus
converted into sulphuric acid, the quantity of which can be determined by
dissolving the fused mass in water, acidulating the solution with nitric
acid, adding a salt of baryta, and weighing the resulting sulphate.
Phosphorus is, in like manner, oxidised to phosphoric acid, the quantity
of which is determined by precipitation in combination with sesquioxide of
iron, or otherwise. The chlorine is correctly determined by placing a
small weighed portion in a combustion-tube, which is afterwards filled
with fragments of pure quicklime. The lime is then brought to a red heat,
and the vapour of the liquid driven over it, when chloride of calcium is
formed. The contents of the tube, when cold, are dissolved in dilute
nitric acid, filtered, the chlorine precipitated by nitrate of silver, and
the chlorine weighed under the form of chloride of silver. See ORGANIC
SUBSTANCES.
_Uses, &c._ Sulphur is extensively used in the manufacture of gunpowder,
in bleaching, &c., &c. When swallowed, it acts as a mild laxative and
stimulating diaphoretic; and has hence been long taken in various chronic
skin diseases, in pulmonary, rheumatic, and gouty affections, and as a
mild purgative in piles, prolapsus ani, &c. Externally, it is extensively
used in skin diseases, especially the itch, for which it appears to be a
specific.——_Dose_, 20 to 63 gr., in sugar, honey, treacle, or milk.
=Sulphur, Chlo′′rides of.= Several of these compounds exist but the
following are the most important. 1. (DICHLORIDE, S_{2}Cl_{2}.) Prepared
by passing dry chlorine gas over the surface of sulphur melted in a
bulbed-tube or small retort connected with a well-cooled receiver. The
product is a deep orange-yellow and very mobile liquid, which possesses a
disagreeable odour, and boils at 280° Fahr. It is soluble in bisulphide of
carbon, and in benzol, without decomposing. It dissolves sulphur in large
quantities, especially when heated. A solution of the dichloride with
excess of sulphur in crude benzol is used for vulcanising caoutchouc.
2. (CHLORIDE, HYPOCHLORIDE, or HYPOCHLORITE of the shops; SULPHURIS
CHLORIDUM, S. HYPOCHLORIDUM, S. HYPOCHLORITIS, L.) This is prepared by
spreading washed sulphur thinly on the bottom of a wooden box, or other
chamber, and passing chlorine gas slowly over until it ceases to be
absorbed.
_Obs._ This last compound is of variable and undetermined constitution. It
has been recommended for internal use, by Derksengi, in old gouty
affections, combined with pains in the stomach, and in severe nervous
fever.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 gr.; dissolved in ether, and taken with old
Hungary wine. It is also used externally in _psoriasis inveterata_, and
other skin diseases.
=Sulphur, I′odide of.= S_{2}I_{2}. _Syn._ BINIODIDE OF SULPHUR; SULPHURIS
IODIDUM (Ph. L.), SULPHUR IODATUM (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ Into a glass flask
put 1 part of sublimed sulphur, and over it place 4 parts of iodine;
insert the cork loosely, and place the flask in a water bath; as soon as
its contents melt, stir them with a glass rod, replace the cork, remove
the bath from the fire, and let the whole cool together. When cold, break
the iodide into pieces, and place it in a wide-mouthed stoppered bottle.
In this way a beautiful semi-crystalline, dark grey mass, resembling
antimony, is obtained. The formulæ of the B. P., Ph. L., E., & D., Ph. U.
S., & P. Cod., are essentially similar. The Ph. D. orders the two
substances to be powdered and mixed before heating them.
_Uses, &c._ It is stimulant and alterative. An ointment made of it has
been recommended by Biett and others in tuberculous affections of the
skin, in lepra, psoriasis, lupus, porrigo, &c.
Iodide of sulphur stains the skin like iodine, and is readily decomposed
by contact with organic substances.
=SULPHURA′TION.= The process by which silk, cotton, and woollen goods,
straw plait, &c., are subjected to the fumes of burning sulphur, or
sulphurous acid, for the purpose of bleaching or decolouring them. On the
large scale, this is effected in closed apartments, called ‘sulphuring
rooms,’ to which sufficient air only is admitted to keep up the slow
combustion of the sulphur. On the small scale, as for straw hats, bonnets,
&c., a large wooden chest is frequently employed in the same way.
=SUL′PHURET.= _Syn._ SULPHIDE; SULPHURETUM, SULPHIDUM, L. See SULPHIDE.
=SULPHURET′TED HY′DROGEN= (H_{2}S). _Syn._ HYDROGEN SULPHIDE, DIHYDRIC
SULPHIDE, HYDRIC SULPHIDE; HYDROSULPHURIC ACID. Sulphuretted hydrogen
occurs in nature amongst the gaseous products given off by volcanoes, as
well as in many mineral waters, amongst which may be instanced those of
Harrogate, in England, of Moffat, in Scotland, and of Barèges, Eaux
Bonnes, St. Sauveur, &c., in the Pyrenees. It is also evolved from
decaying animal matter containing albumen, such as white-of-egg, as well
as from putrisable animal and vegetable substances, when in contact with a
soluble sulphate, and is always one of the gases present in the air of
drains and sewers. Sulphuretted hydrogen may be procured by the direct
union of hydrogen and sulphur, as by passing hydrogen into boiling
sulphur. But this method of procuring it is rarely, if ever, adopted. The
much readier process of acting upon a metallic sulphide by an acid
constitutes the means by which the chemist almost invariably obtains this
gas.
The details of the process are as follows:
1. About an ounce of ferrous sulphide, previously reduced to small pieces,
is placed in a bottle, and then there is poured on to it a fluid ounce of
sulphuric acid diluted with 8 times its bulk of water, when the following
reaction ensues:——FeS + H_{2}SO_{4} = H_{2}S + FeSO_{4}.
The gas which is immediately and copiously given off may be collected in
an apparatus, a drawing and description of which are given below.
[Illustration]
The diluted acid, having become cool, is poured through the bulb-shaped
aperture down the glass tube upon the ferrous sulphide, and the evolved
gas passing through the small intermediate wash-bottle into the bottle at
the reader’s right hand, is absorbed by the water therein contained, the
operation being continued until the water has become saturated with the
gas. The glass tubes are connected with vulcanised india rubber, as shown
in the above plate. Diluted hydrochloric acid is frequently substituted
for sulphuric.
2. In the above process, the gas obtained, owing to the contamination of
the iron sulphide, is more or less impure. When sulphuretted hydrogen is
required in a state of purity, 1 oz. of antimonious sulphide must be
employed instead of the iron sulphide, and instead of sulphuric 3 or 4
parts of hydrochloric acid. As heat must be applied to the mixture, it
will be necessary to substitute a flask for the larger bottle, and to
support it on a retort stand. In other respects the apparatus needs no
alteration.
3. Sulphuretted hydrogen is also obtainable when paraffin is heated at a
moderately elevated temperature with sulphur, the reaction being attended
with an abundant evolution of the gas, and a simultaneous separation of
carbon.
⁂ The solution of sulphuretted hydrogen, which is so indispensable to the
chemist, and consequently in such constant requisition in the laboratory,
unfortunately very quickly decomposes into water, and sulphur, which
deposits at the bottom of the vessel containing it. To diminish as much as
possible the tendency to deterioration, the solution should be made either
with boiled water, or with the clear spoilt solution.
_Qualities, &c._ Sulphuretted hydrogen is a colourless inflammable gas,
somewhat heavier than air, its specific gravity being 1·174. When ignited,
it burns with a bluish flame, to water and sulphurous anhydride if the
combustion take place in a sufficient quantity of air, but if the supply
of air be too limited, sulphur is deposited. Under a pressure of 17
atmospheres it is condensed to a colourless and very mobile fluid, which
boils at 79·6° F., and freezes at 72·8° F. to a transparent solid. Both
the gas and its aqueous solution exercise a feebly acid reaction on
litmus.
Sulphuretted hydrogen is highly poisonous; when inhaled in any quantity it
causes fainting; and in smaller quantities, even when considerably diluted
by air, if breathed for any length of time, it acts as a dangerous
depressant and insiduous poison. Upon the lower animals it acts with fatal
rapidity, even if diluted with 800 or 1000 parts of atmospheric air.
Transmitted through tubes heated to redness, sulphuretted hydrogen becomes
partially decomposed into its elements, hydrogen and sulphur. Water at 32°
F. takes up 4·37 times its bulk of this gas, and at 59, 3·23 times its
hulk, hence the importance of collecting it, over warm water, if required
in the gaseous form.
In the presence of moisture, sulphurous anhydride and sulphuretted
hydrogen, if equivalent quantities of each react upon each other, become
decomposed into sulphur, water, and pentathronic acid; hence the value of
sulphurous acid as a disinfectant. The deposited sulphur is found always
to occur in the electro-positive condition. Chlorine, bromine, and iodine,
also decompose sulphuretted hydrogen with deposition of sulphur, and
formation of hydrochloric, hydrobromic, and hydriodic acids.
_Hydrosulphates or Sulphides._ Sulphuretted hydrogen or hydrosulphuric
acid, as it is sometimes called, when brought into contact with bases in
solution, gives rise to compounds, which by some chemists are regarded as
hydrosulphates, or combinations of the base with hydrosulphuric acid; and
by others as sulphides or combinations of the metal with sulphur, the
latter reaction being attended with the elimination of water, as when a
base is acted upon by hydrochloric acid. By those who hold the former view
the reaction would be as follows:
K_{2}O + H_{2}S = K_{2}O_{1}H_{2}S.
In the latter case it would be thus represented:
K_{2}O + H_{2}S = K_{2}S + H_{2}O.
The latter is the more general opinion, and it receives support from the
fact that when sulphuretted hydrogen is passed into the solution of a
metallic salt, an insoluble precipitate of a sulphide of the metal is
thrown down. Thus, when the gas is passed into a solution of cupric
sulphate, the precipitate consists of hydrated cupric sulphide, the
liberated sulphuric acid renders the liquid which was before neutral,
acid. The larger number of sulphides so formed, combining with water at
the instance of their precipitation, occur as hydrates.
There is also a class of sulphides known as hydrosulphides, sulphydrates,
or double sulphides, in which an equivalent of the metal is replaced by an
equivalent of hydrogen. Examples of these are the potassic hydrosulphide
(KHS), sodic hydrosulphide (NaHS), and ammonic hydrosulphide (H_{4}NHS).
No such combinations occur with hydrogen and the metals of the earth
proper, and of the iron group.
_Tests._ Many of the hydrosulphates or sulphides may be detected, by
dropping on them some hydrochloric acid, when the characteristic smell of
sulphuretted hydrogen will be immediately evolved from them. Very small
quantities of a sulphide may be detected as follows:——Place the suspected
sulphide in a small test tube, on the upper part of which is inserted a
piece of blotting paper moistened with a solution of plumbic acetate, then
carefully pour some hydrochloric acid on to the substance, when, if it be
a sulphide, the paper will become. immediately browned or blackened.
Many small quantities of the soluble sulphides are revealed in neutral or
alkaline solutions by the rich purple colour which they form on the
addition of a solution of sodic nitro-prusside. Most of them, when heated
before the blow-pipe, give off the smell of sulphurous acid.
The quantitative determination of free sulphuretted hydrogen, or of a
soluble sulphide in any solution, is conducted as follows:——The liquid to
be tested is mixed with a small quantity of a cold solution of starch,
made slightly acid with acetic acid. A solution of iodine of known
strength, dissolved in potassic iodide is then added, until the liquid
just begins to turn blue from the action of the excess of iodine on the
starch. In this process the sulphuretted hydrogen converts the iodine into
hydriodic acid, whilst sulphur is liberated.
Of course the quantity of sulphuretted hydrogen is calculated from the
quantity of iodine employed. The reaction is——
2H_{2}S + 2I_{2} = 4HI + S_{2}.
The value of sulphuretted hydrogen as a reagent has already been alluded
to. It throws down most of the metals from solutions of their salts in the
form of insoluble sulphides; and each of the sulphides so produced in many
cases being distinguished from the others by a special and characteristic
colour. The sulphuretted hydrogen thus presents the metal in a form in
which it can, in many instances, be easily and with certainty recognised.
Thus sulphide of lead is black, of arsenic yellow, of antimony orange, of
manganese salmon colour, and of zinc white. By means of sulphuretted
hydrogen, also, the chemist is enabled to separate the metals into groups.
For instance, from solutions containing certain metallic salts,
sulphuretted hydrogen throws down the metals as sulphides, provided the
solution has been previously made slightly acid. Copper, arsenic, tin, and
cadmium, are some of the metals thrown down under these conditions.
The salts of iron, nickel, cobalt, and certain others, although they do
not yield precipitates under like circumstances, are found to do so if
their solutions are made alkaline instead of acid. Again, there are other
salts, those of the alkalies and alkaline earths, which, when sulphuretted
hydrogen is passed through these solutions, give no precipitates either in
acid or alkaline solutions. The chemist, therefore, in the course of an
analysis, frequently avails himself of a knowledge of these facts to
separate certain metals from each other.
=Hydrogen, Persulphide of.= _Syn._ HYDRIC PERSULPHIDE, HYDROGEN
DISULPHIDE. To procure this substance, calcium disulphide (CaS_{2}) in
solution is poured into hydrochloric acid diluted with twice its bulk of
water. The solution being gently warmed, the persulphide subsides at the
bottom as an oily fluid. Hydric persulphide has a great resemblance to
hydric peroxide in qualities. It bleaches, and is decomposed, with
violence, when brought into contact with the oxides of manganese and
silver. It easily decomposes into sulphur and sulphuretted hydrogen.
=SULPHU′RIC ACID.= H_{2}SO_{4}. _Syn._ OIL OF VITRIOL, BRITISH O. OF V.,
VITRIOLIC ACID†; ACIDUM SULPHURICUM (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), ACIDUM
SULPHURICUM VENALE (Ph. D.), ACIDUM VITRIOLICUM†, L. This acid, in a
concentrated form, was discovered by Basil Valentine towards the end of
the 15th century. At first it was obtained by the distillation of green
vitriol, but is now made by the oxidation of sulphurous anhydride,
obtained by the combustion either of sulphur or of certain sulphides. In
consequence of the growing demand for sulphur in the manufacture of
gunpowder, ultramarine, and for the destruction of the vine parasites in
the vineyards of France, Italy, and Spain, sulphuric acid is now seldom
made by burning sulphur, but, with few exceptions, by roasting iron
pyrites, or bisulphide of iron.
The following table will convey an idea of the enormous consumption of
this mineral in vitriol making in England alone. The quantities given
represent tons.
+-----+-----------------------------------------------------------+-------+
| | Pyrites from[212] | |
|Date.+-------+--------+--------+---------+--------+------+-------+ Sum |
| |Norway.|Germany.|Belgium.|Portugal.| Spain. |Italy.|Sundry |Total. |
| | | | | | | |Places.| |
+-----+-------+--------+--------+---------+--------+------+-------+-------+
|1862 | 4,975 | 6,817 | 9,860 | 53,296 | 33,717 | ... | 2,187 |110,852|
|1863 | 6,736 | 15,409 | 12,059 | 109,180 | 33,213 | ... | 2,628 |179,225|
|1864 |16,087 | 12,751 | 7,069 | 118,489 | 15,529 | ... | 1,065 |170,990|
|1865 |22,229 | 14,727 | 2,121 | 137,787 | 16,393 | ... | 369 |193,626|
|1866 |38,262 | 21,574 | 4,006 | 165,993 | 11,910 | ... | 1,625 |244,596|
|1867 |77,895 | 34,592 | 2,299 | 105,556 | 50,222 | ... | 2,134 |272,698|
|1868 |63,007 | 41,559 | ... | 75,883 | 47,458 | 794 | 1,019 |229,720|
|1869 |63,091 | 13,983 | ... | 140,805 | 99,648 | ... | 2,420 |319,947|
|1870 |67,464 | 14,914 | ... | 174,459 |150,990 | ... | 3,676 |411,512|
|1871 |74,416 | 12,809 | ... | 120,573 |242,163 | ... | 4,581 |454,542|
|1872 |71,665 | 5,682 | ... | 180,329 |257,429 | ... | 2,521 |517,626|
+-----+-------+--------+--------+---------+--------+------+-------+-------+
[Footnote 212: “Development of the Chemical Arts during the last Ten
Years,” by Dr A. W. Hofman (‘Chemical News,’ vol. xxv, 1879).]
Of the other sulphides employed in vitriol making may be mentioned galena,
or native sulphide of lead, which, when roasted, is made to give up half
its sulphur. The chief consumption of this mineral is in the Harz. Copper
pyrites is also used in the Harz, as well as in Swansea and Glasgow.
Blende, or native sulphide of zinc, is also occasionally had recourse to.
In addition to the above sulphides, the vitriol maker in England, France,
and Germany has lately largely availed himself of a compound known as
‘Laming’s mixture,’ which is an impure oxide of iron that has been used in
gas manufacture for the removal from the gas of the sulphur. Laming’s
mixture is consequently rich in this last element.
Associated with the pyrites in small quantities are various substances,
some of which, becoming volatilised when the ore is burnt, enter the
chambers with the mixed gases, and thus find their entrance into the acid,
whilst others remain behind in the iron residue of impure ferric oxide,
left on the hearth of the furnace after roasting. The former of these
foreign bodies, which are found in most commercial acids, are described
below under the section “Purification.” Amongst the solid non-volatile
matters, the extraction of which from the burnt iron has been found in
many works to yield a profit, are zinc, copper, silver and thallium.
At Wolcrum, in Germany, the zinc which exists in the residue in the form
of sulphate is extracted by lixiviation, and then treated with common
salt, the reaction giving rise to the production of sulphate of soda and
chloride of zinc. The soda obtained is sufficient to pay for the working
of the operation, whilst a good profit is made by the sale of the large
quantities of chloride of zinc which are thus yielded.[213]
[Footnote 213: Ibid.]
The copper, which in some residues is met with to the amount of 4 per
cent., also pays for extraction, and is sold to the smelter. It is first
converted into chloride, and then precipitated by iron. The silver is
recovered by Claudet’s process, which consists in precipitating it from a
saline solution in which it is in the state of a soluble chloride, by
iodide of potassium.
In the Widnes Copper Works the silver so extracted yields an annual profit
of £3000.[214]
[Footnote 214: Ibid.]
Thallium is found in the fine dust caused by the combustion of the
pyrites, which dust deposits in the flues between the furnace and the
chambers. The metal is extracted from the dust by treating this latter
with dilute sulphuric acid. The resulting sulphate is converted into
chloride, and again reconverted alternately into sulphate and chloride
several times, the sulphate last obtained being reduced by metallic
zinc.[215]
[Footnote 215: Ibid.]
Selenium is also a frequent constituent in the flue dust. Some ores, after
being subjected to roasting, yield iron capable of being worked. This is
more particularly the case with the Spanish and Portuguese pyrites.
The following is an outline of the process by which sulphuric acid is
obtained, and of the chemical changes which occur during its manufacture:
The sulphur or sulphide being placed on the hearth of the furnace, shown
at A in the accompanying cut, when heated from below, soon takes fire, and
combining with the oxygen of the atmospheric air, the admission of which
into the furnace is regulated by an experienced workman, by the door shown
in the plate, forms sulphurous anhydride. An iron pot, standing on the
hearth of the furnace, contains a mixture of nitrate of soda and oil of
vitriol, and this becoming heated by the burning sulphur, decomposition of
the salt ensues, and fumes of nitric acid are given off. The sulphurous
anhydride and nitric acid gases thus formed together with air are carried
into large leaden chambers, standing on, and supported by, massive
frameworks of stout timber. Steam is admitted continuously by several jets
(see plate) into these chambers, which are covered at the bottom with
water to a depth of about three inches.
As soon as the mixed gases enter the chamber and come into contact with
the steam, the sulphurous anhydride acts on the nitric acid, forming
sulphuric acid, which falls into and is absorbed by the water on the floor
of the chamber, and nitric oxide, which is liberated in the chamber.
The following equation will illustrate the reaction:
2HNO_{3} + 3SO_{2} + 2H_{2}O = 3H_{2}SO_{4} + 2NO.
170 parts by weight of nitrate of soda are required to oxidise to
sulphuric acid 96 parts of sulphur, whereas rarely more, and frequently
less, than 5 parts of soda are required by the vitriol maker. This saving
of material is effected by the function performed in the chamber by the
nitric oxide resulting from the decomposition of the nitric acid.
The nitric oxide reacting upon the air in the chamber abstracts oxygen
from it and becomes converted into nitric peroxide, thus:
2NO + O_{2} = 2NO_{2}.
Nitric peroxide is a very unstable compound, and directly it comes into
contact with the fresh sulphurous anhydride entering the chamber, it
oxidises it in the presence of water to sulphuric acid, thus:
2NO_{2} + 2SO_{2} + 2H_{2}O = 2H_{2}SO_{4} + 2NO.
This deportment of the nitric oxide being continuous, it will be seen it
acts the part of a carrier of oxygen from the atmospheric air contained in
the chamber to the sulphurous acid, and by so doing (theoretically)
renders any further supply of nitrate of soda than that required to start
the process unnecessary.
As soon as the water, or rather liquid acid on the floor of the leaden
chambers, has acquired the sp. gr. of 1·35 to 1·50, it is drawn off, and
concentrated by boiling in shallow leaden pans to the density of about
1·72, after which it is further concentrated in green-glass or platinum
retorts, until the sp. gr. reaches 1·842 to 1·846. When of sp. gr. from
1·35 to 1·50 it is called chamber acid, and when of the last strength, is
used in the manufacture of salt-cake, sulphate of ammonia, some kinds of
manure, and nitric acid. Sulphuric acid of sp. gr. 1·720 is mostly
employed in the preparation of superphosphate of lime. After concentration
to 1·842 or 1·846, the clear acid is put into large globular bottles of
green glass (carboys), surrounded with straw and basket-work, and is sent
into the market under the name of ‘oil of vitriol.’
The leaden chambers in which the chemical changes take place, that result
in the formation of the acid, vary greatly in dimensions in different
works, being sometimes as much as 12 or 15 feet high, 15 or 20 wide, and
from 150 to 300 feet long. They are mostly partially divided by incomplete
leaden partitions, known as curtains, so arranged on the roof and the
floor as to cause the currents of mixed gases to come into collision, and
thus cause their admixture. Where there are a number of small separate
chambers they are connected by means of leaden tubes. A chamber having a
capacity of 25,000 cubic feet will yield 10 tons of acid weekly.
The sheets of lead used in the construction of the chambers are united by
fusion, or melting together of their edges. If cement were used it would
be speedily attacked and destroyed by the acid and gaseous products.
The process for the manufacture of sulphuric acid above described, was
devised in 1774 by a calico printer of Rouen, and improved by Chaptal.
In 1776 the first vitriol factory was set up at Prestonpans, by Dr
Roebuck, of Birmingham, with whom originated the idea of the leaden
chambers.
Various attempts have been at different times unsuccessfully made to
supersede the old process. Of these we may mention:
1. The proposal to oxidise sulphurous acid by means of chlorine in the
presence of steam.
2. Persoz’s method to oxidise sulphurous acid by means of nitric acid, and
to regenerate the nitric oxide resulting from the reduction of the acid by
the oxygen of the air in the presence of steam.
3. _a_, by the decomposition of gypsum by superheated steam at a red heat;
or _b_, by decomposing the gypsum by chloride of lead.
The failure of the above and other efforts has led to the chemist turning
his attention to the elaboration and perfection of the old process, in the
working of which considerable improvements have been introduced within the
last ten or fifteen years; improvements resulting not only in a diminished
cost of production, but in the manufacture of a purer, and therefore
better acid.
The proper construction of the furnaces, ovens, and grates on which the
firing of the sulphur or pyrites takes place, together with the flues, is
an important condition in the manufacture of the acid; and to this end a
great deal of scientific knowledge and experience have lately been applied
with excellent effect. Of the many improvements in this direction for
burning poor ores of pyrites is a contrivance much used in Germany, where
the furnace on which it is carried out is known as Gerstenhöfer’s oven. It
is shown in the accompanying drawing.
[Illustration]
The furnace is fitted inside with a number of little fire-clay
projections, arranged as shown in the plate, in banks or terraces, the
function of which is to prolong the exposure of the pyrites to heat. The
furnace having been previously raised to a red heat, by means of a coal or
wood fire (which is then extinguished), the pyrites are admitted into it
through the hoppers (_a_). At the base of the hoppers are grooved iron
rollers, which crush the lumps of ore as they enter the chambers, and by
thus reducing their size, expose a larger amount of surface to the action
of heat. The greater part of the sulphur of the pyrites is thus burnt off,
as the lumps pass from terrace to terrace, the heat at the same time
generated by their combustion being sufficient to keep up that of the
furnace. A moderate blast of air is admitted at _c_, whilst the sulphurous
acid formed ascends through _d_ into the leaden chambers, the spent
pyrites falling out through the apertures at _c_.
Another improved furnace is Perret’s, which is largely used in France. In
this, small lumps of pyrites are placed on horizontal plates, and exposed
to the hot gases generated in kilns below. The gases, on their way to the
chambers, sweep over the pyrites and rob them of their sulphur.
The most important and noticeable improvement, however, of late years in
sulphuric acid manufacture is that resulting from the addition to the
plant of a contrivance of Gay-Lussac. Previous to this invention, the
sulphuric acid of commerce, amongst other impurities, always contained
appreciable quantities of certain oxides of nitrogen, the results of which
were not only the contamination of the acid, but a waste of substances,
which, properly utilised, are essential for the conversion of the
sulphurous and sulphuric acid, and the loss of which leads to an increased
consumption of nitrate of soda. Under the old method, these valuable
oxides of nitrogen, which, with a large amount of nitrogen and a small
quantity of oxygen, constituted the spent air of the last leaden chamber,
were carried off into the air, and consequently lost. Now, instead of
being allowed to diffuse into the atmosphere, they are made to pass
through a tower or chamber (shown at C in the plate below) filled with
coke, through which a thin stream of sulphuric acid is made to trickle. In
passing through the coke, therefore, the expiring spent gases come into
contact with the sulphuric acid, to which they give up their oxides of
nitrogen. From the tower (C) the acid flows into a cistern (D), whence it
is pumped up to the top of another tower (E), either filled with coke, or
arranged with inclined shelves, as shown in the plate. In this tower the
acid meets with a current of hot sulphurous acid and air coming up from
the furnace, which deprive it of the oxides of nitrogen, and the gaseous
mixture enters the chambers, whilst the denitrafied acid flows off into a
suitable reservoir.
[Illustration]
Since the introduction of the above, the consumption of nitrate of soda is
sometimes lessened by more than half.
Another very recent improvement, the invention of a German chemist named
Sprengel, is the substitution of water spray, blown in by steam, for steam
jets, in the leaden chambers. By this method a saving of coal to the
extent of one third is said to be effected.
In theory, 1 molecule of sulphur requires only 3 molecules of oxygen to
convert it into sulphuric acid, viz. 2 to form sulphurous anhydride, and 1
to convert the latter into sulphuric anhydride, which combines with 1
molecule of water to form the acid. Thus, 1 kilogram of sulphur requires
1500 grams or 1055 litres of oxygen, which is equivalent to 5275 litres of
air containing 4220 litres of nitrogen; when pyrites is used, a far larger
quantity of air is required, for the obvious reason that the pyrites
becomes converted into ferric peroxide. 1 kilogram of pyrites requires for
its combustion nearly 6600 litres of air.
In well-regulated works the spent and escaping gases should not contain
more than 2 per cent. of oxygen. If from 100 kilograms of sulphur 306
kilograms of strong acid of sp. gr. 1·84 be obtained, the result is
regarded as very satisfactory; more frequently the product from 100
kilograms of sulphur does not exceed 280 or 290 kilograms.
_Purif._ Commercial sulphuric acid frequently contains nitrous acid and
other oxides of nitrogen, arsenic, lead, and saline matter. The nitrous
acid may be removed by adding a little sulphate of ammonia, and heating
the acid to ebullition for a few minutes. Both nitric and nitrous acid are
thus entirely decomposed into water and nitrogen gas. The arsenic may be
got rid of by adding a little sulphide of barium to the acid, agitating
the mixture well, and, after repose, decanting and distilling it. Lead,
which exists as sulphate, may be separated as a white precipitate by
simply diluting the acid with water. Saline matter may be removed by
simple rectification. A good way of purifying oil of vitriol is to heat it
nearly to the boiling point, and pass a current of hydrochloric acid
through it; the arsenic is thus carried over as the volatile chloride of
arsenic, while the nitrous and nitric acids are expelled almost
completely. To obtain a perfectly pure acid, it should be distilled after
the removal of the nitrous acid and arsenic by the methods indicated
above. “The distillation is most conveniently conducted, on the small
scale, in a glass retort, containing a few platinum chips, and heated by a
sand bath or gas-flame, rejecting the first 1/2 fl. oz. that comes over.”
(Ph. E.) In the Ph. D. the first tenth of the distillate is ordered to be
rejected, and the process to be stopped when no more than about 1 fl. oz.
is left in the retort.
According to Dr Ure, the capacity of the retort should be from 4 to 8
times as great as the volume of the acid, and connected with a large
tubular receiver by a loosely fitting glass tube, 4 feet long and 1 to 2
inches in diameter. “The receiver should not be surrounded with cold
water.” We find that fragments of glass, or of rock crystals, may be
advantageously substituted for platinum foil, to lessen the explosive
violence of the ebullition. Sulphuric acid which has become brown by
exposure may be decolorised by heating it gently, the carbon of the
organic substances being thus converted into carbonic acid.
_Prop._ Commercial sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol) is a colourless,
odourless, and highly corrosive liquid, the general properties of which
are well known. Its sp. gr. at 60° should never be greater than 1·848, or
less than 1·840. (Miller and Odling give the sp. gr. of the pure and
concentrated acid as 1·842; Abel and Bloxam, as 1·848; Apjohn gives it as
1·846, and Hardwich about 1·845.) It is immediately coloured by contact
with organic matter. It attracts water so rapidly from the atmosphere when
freely exposed to it, as to absorb 1-3rd of its weight in 24 hours, and 6
times its weight in a few months. When 3 volumes are suddenly mixed with 2
of water, the temperature of the mixture rises more than 180° Fahr. Its
freezing point appears to be about 60° below that of water (Miller and
Odling give that of the rectified acid as -30° Fahr.; Apjohn and Abel and
Bloxam, -29°). It boils at about 620° Fahr. (620·6°, Odling; 620°,
Hardwich and Fownes; 617°, Apjohn; 590·6°, Abel and Bloxam). It exhibits
all the properties of the acids in an exalted degree. Its salts are called
sulphates.
In the following table is given the quantity of anhydrous sulphuric acid
contained in sulphuric acid at 60°F. (15·5°C.).
+--------------------------------+----------------------------------+
|Hydrated Sp. Gr. Anhydrous | Hydrated Sp. Gr. Anhydrous |
|Sulphuric Acid. | Sulphuric Acid. |
|Acid. | Acid. |
| | |
| 100 1·8485 81·54 | 76 1·6630 61·97 |
| 99 1·8475 80·72 | 75 1·6520 61·15 |
| 98 1·8460 79·90 | 74 1·6415 60·34 |
| 97 1·8439 79·09 | 73 1·6321 59·55 |
| 96 1·8410 78·28 | 72 1·6204 58·71 |
| 95 1·8376 77·40 | 71 1·6090 57·89 |
| 94 1·8336 76·65 | 70 1·5975 57·08 |
| 93 1·8290 75·83 | 69 1·5868 56·26 |
| 92 1·8233 75·02 | 68 1·5760 55·45 |
| 91 1·8179 74·20 | 67 1·5648 54·63 |
| 90 1·8115 73·39 | 66 1·5503 53·82 |
| 89 1·8043 72·57 | 65 1·5390 53·00 |
| 88 1·7962 71·75 | 64 1·5280 52·18 |
| 87 1·7870 70·94 | 63 1·5170 51·37 |
| 86 1·7774 70·12 | 62 1·5066 50·55 |
| 85 1·7673 69·31 | 61 1·4960 49·74 |
| 84 1·7570 68·49 | 60 1·4860 48·92 |
| 83 1·7465 67·68 | 59 1·4760 48·11 |
| 82 1·7360 66·86 | 58 1·4660 47·29 |
| 81 1·7245 66·05 | 57 1·4560 46·58 |
| 80 1·7120 65·23 | 56 1·4460 45·68 |
| 79 1·6993 64·42 | 55 1·4360 44·85 |
| 78 1·6870 63·60 | 54 1·4265 45·03 |
| 77 1·6750 62·78 | 53 1·4170 43·22 |
+--------------------------------+----------------------------------+
_Pur._ “Free from colour and odour. Sp. gr. 1·843. 100 gr. are saturated
by 285 gr. of crystallised carbonate of soda.” (Ph. L.) “What remains
after the acid is distilled to dryness does not exceed 1/400th part of its
weight. Diluted sulphuric acid is not discoloured by sulphuretted
hydrogen.” (Ph. L. 1836.) “Diluted with its own volume of water, only a
scanty muddiness arises, and no orange fumes escape. Sp. gr. 1·840.” (Ph.
E.) “The rectified acid (ACIDUM SULPHURICUM PURUM——Ph. E. & D.) is
colourless; dilution causes no muddiness; solution of sulphate of iron
shows no reddening at the line of contact when poured over it. Sp. gr.
1·845.” (Ph. E.) Sp. gr. 1·846——Ph. D.; 1·843——B. P.; 1·842——Ure.
_Tests._——See SULPHATE.
_Uses, &c._ “The uses of sulphuric acid are so numerous that it would be
impossible to mention all of them, sulphuric acid being to chemical
industry what iron is to the mechanical. Sulphuric acid is employed in
preparing a great many other acids——among them, nitric, hydrochloric,
sulphurous, carbonic, tartaric, citric, phosphoric, stearic, oleic, and
palmitic. Further, sulphuric acid is used in making superphosphates, soda,
sulphate of ammonia, alum, sulphates of copper and iron, in paraffin and
petroleum refining, silver refining, manufacture of garacine, garanceux,
and other madder preparations, manufacture of glucose from starch, to
dissolve indigo, &c.[216] In the diluted state it is used in medicine.
When swallowed, it acts as a violent corrosive poison. The antidotes are
chalk, whiting, magnesia, carbonate of soda, or carbonate of potash, mixed
with water, or any bland diluent, and taken freely, an emetic being also
administered.
[Footnote 216: Wagner.]
_Estim._ The strength of sulphuric acid is most correctly ascertained by
its power of saturating bases. In commerce, it is usually determined from
its sp. gr. The quantity of sulphuric acid present in a compound may be
determined by weighing it under the form of sulphate, as explained in a
former part of this volume. See ACIDIMETRY.
_Concluding Remarks._ According to most of our standard works on
chemistry, British oil of vitriol, when purified and brought to its
maximum strength by distillation, is a definite chemical compound, having
the formula H_{2}SO_{4}, and designated normal sulphuric acid by Odling.
Marignac, however, asserts that the distilled acid always contains an
excess of water, and that the true monohydrate can only be obtained by
submitting fuming sulphuric acid (‘Nordhausen s. a,’) to congelation.
According to this chemist, the true monohydrate readily freezes in cold
weather, and remains solid up to 51° Fahr. Two other definite hydrates of
sulphuric acid are generally recognised by chemists, viz.——Bihydrated
sulphuric acid (‘glacial s. a,’), having a sp. gr. of 1·78; freezing at
about 40° Fahr. (47°, Miller); and boiling at about 435° (Apjohn; 401° to
410°, Odling): Terhydrated sulphuric acid, having a sp. gr. of 1·632, and
the boiling-point 348° Fahr. See also SULPHURIC ACID, NORDHAUSEN
(_below_).
=Sulphuric Acid, Al′coholised.= _Syn._ ACIDUM SULPHURICUM ALCOHOLISATUM,
L.; EAU DE RABEL, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) To rectified spirit, 3 parts, add,
very gradually, sulphuric acid, 1 part. It is generally coloured by
letting it stand over a little cochineal. Refrigerent, and, externally,
escharotic.——_Dose_, 1/2 fl. dr. to water, 1 pint; as a cooling drink in
fevers, &c.
=Sulphuric Acid, Anhy′drous.= SO_{3}. _Syn._ SULPHURIC ANHYDRIDE, DRY
SULPHURIC ACID; ACIDUM SULPHURICUM SINE AQUÂ, L. _Prep._ 1. By heating
Nordhausen acid to about 100° Fahr. in a glass retort connected with a
well-cooled receiver.
2. By distilling anhydrous bisulphate of soda, which has previously been
raised to a low red heat in an earthen retort, to which a receiver is
fitted without the aid of corks.
3. (Barreswill.) 2 parts of the strongest oil of vitriol are gradually
added to 3 parts of anhydrous phosphoric acid, contained in a retort
surrounded by a freezing mixture; when the compound has assumed a brown
colour, the retort is removed from the bath, and connected with a receiver
which is set there in its place; a gentle heat is now applied to it, when
white vapours pass over into the receiver, and condense there under the
form of beautiful silky crystals. The product equals in weight that of the
phosphorus originally employed. “If a few drops of water be added, a
dangerous explosion ensues.”
_Prop._ White, silky, asbestos-like crystals, deliquescing rapidly, and
fuming in the air; put into water, it hisses like a red-hot iron; it melts
at 77°, and rapidly volatilises at 86° Fahr.; it does not redden dry
litmus paper; sp. gr. 1·97 at 78° Fahr.
=Sulphuric Acid, Aromat′ic.= _Syn._ ELIXIR OF VITRIOL, ACID E. OF V.;
ACIDUM SULPHURICUM AROMATICUM (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.
& D.) Oil of vitriol, 3-1/2 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 pint; mix,
add of powdered cinnamon, 1-1/2 oz.; powdered ginger, 1 oz.; digest for 6
days (7 days——Ph. D.), and filter. Sp. gr. ·974——Ph. D.
2. (Wholesale.) From compound tincture of cinnamon, 1 gall.; oil of
vitriol, 1 lb.; mix, and in a week filter——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops, in the
same case as the dilute acid.
3. (B. P.) Sulphuric acid, 3; rectified spirit, 40; cinnamon, in powder,
2; ginger, in powder, 1-1/4; mix the acid gradually with the spirit, add
the powders, macerate for 7 days, and filter.——_Dose_, 5 to 30 minims.
=Sulphuric Acid, Dilute′.= _Syn._ SPIRIT OF VITRIOL; ACIDUM SULPHURICUM
DILUTUM (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Take of
sulphuric acid, 15 fl. dr., and dilute it gradually with distilled water,
q. s. to make the whole exactly measure a pint. Sp. gr. 1·103. “1 fl. oz.
of this acid is exactly saturated by 216 gr. of crystallised carbonate of
soda.”
2. (Ph. E.) Sulphuric acid, 1 fl. oz.; water, 13 fl. oz. Sp. gr. 1·090.
3. (Ph. D.) Pure sulphuric acid, 1 fl. oz.; distilled water, 13 oz. Sp.
gr. 1·084.
4. (B. P.) Sulphuric acid, 3; distilled water, q. s. to measure 35-3/4;
mix by adding the acid gradually to the water.——_Dose_, 4 to 20 minims.
_Prop., &c._ Antiseptic, tonic, and refrigerant.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops,
largely diluted with water, several times daily; in low typhoid fevers,
passive hæmorrhages, profuse perspiration, in various skin diseases to
relieve the itching, in dyspepsia, &c. It is also used externally.
=Sulphuric Acid, Nordhausen.= _Syn._ FUMING SULPHURIC ACID; ACIDUM
SULPHURICUM FUMANS, L. _Prep._ By distilling calcined ferrous sulphate
(‘green vitriol’) in earthen retorts. The retorts, which are shown at A in
the plate after the ‘green vitriol’ has been put into them, are placed in
a galley-furnace, as shown below, the necks passing through the wall of
the furnace, and being properly secured to the necks of the receivers (B
B.). Into each of the flasks 2-1/2 lbs. of green vitriol are put; on the
first application of heat only sulphurous acid and weak hydrated sulphuric
acid come over, and are usually allowed to escape, the receivers not being
securely luted until white vapours of anhydrous sulphuric acid are seen.
Into each of the receiving flasks 30 grams of water are poured, and the
distillation continued for 24 to 36 hours. The retort flasks are then
again filled with raw material, and the operation repeated four times
before the oil of vitriol is deemed strong enough. The residue in the
retorts is red (peroxide) of iron, still retaining some sulphuric acid.
The product is a brown oily liquid, which fumes in the air, is intensely
corrosive, and has a sp. gr. about 1·900. When heated to about 100° Fahr.
the anhydrous acid is given off, and ordinary oil of vitriol is left.
According to Marignac, crystals of normal sulphuric acid (H_{2}SO_{4}) are
formed in this acid when it is submitted to a low temperature. Nordhausen
acid is so called from the place of its manufacture in Saxony. It may be
regarded as a mixture or compound of H_{2}SO_{4} and SO_{2}. It is chiefly
used for dissolving indigo.
[Illustration]
=SULPHURIC ANHYDRIDE.= See SULPHURIC ACID, ANHYDROUS.
=SULPHURIC E′THER.= See ETHER.
=SUL′PHUROUS ACID.= SO_{2}. _Syn._ SULPHURUS ANHYDRIDE; ACIDUM
SULPHUROSUM, B. P. This compound is freely evolved in the gaseous form
when sulphur is burnt in air or oxygen, and when the metals are digested
in hot sulphuric acid; and, mixed with carbonic acid, when charcoal, chips
of wood, cork, and sawdust, are treated in the same way.
_Prep._ 1. By heating together sulphur and strong sulphuric acid.
2. By the action of sulphuric acid on chippings of copper or mercury at a
gentle heat. Pure.
3. (Berthier.) By heating, in a glass retort, a mixture of black oxide of
manganese, 100 parts, and sulphur, 12 or 14 parts. Pure. The gas evolved
should be collected over mercury, or received into water.
4. (Redwood.) Pounded charcoal, 1/2 oz.; oil of vitriol, 4 fl. oz.; mix in
a retort, apply the heat of a spirit lamp, and conduct the evolved gases
by means of a bent tube into a bottle containing water. The sulphurous
acid is absorbed, whilst the carbonic acid gas passes off.
5. (B. P.) Distilled water, saturated with sulphurous anhydride. It is
colourless and emits a pungent odour. Used as a deoxidiser, disinfectant,
and antiseptic. Diluted with from 1 to 2 parts of water it is employed as
a lotion for wounds, cuts, ulcers, bed-sores, scalds, and burns; with from
1 to 5 of water it is used as a gargle, also as a lotion in parasitic skin
diseases; from 1/2 to 1 dr., in a wine-glassful of water, 3 times a day,
relieves constant sickness.
_Prop., &c._ Water absorbs 30 times its volume of this gas. Pure liquid
sulphurous acid can only be obtained by passing the pure dry gas through a
glass tube surrounded by a powerful freezing mixture. Its sp. gr. is 1·45;
boiling point, 14° Fahr.; it causes intense cold by its evaporation.
Sulphurous acid forms salts called sulphites.
_Uses._ To bleach silks, woollens, straw, &c., and to remove vegetable
stains and iron-moulds from linen. For these purposes it is prepared from
sawdust or any other refuse carbonaceous matter.
Several preparations containing sulphurous acid have recently been
invented by the Editor and introduced to the public as agents in
sanitation under the name of _Sporokton_ (germ-killer). To understand the
nature and merits of these preparations it is desirable to explain the
true and individual meanings of ‘Deodoriser,’ ‘Antiseptic,’ and
‘Disinfectant,’——words which are too often improperly employed as if they
had the same signification, and as if, in fact, they were convertible
terms.
A deodoriser is a substance which will absorb or destroy bad smells; an
antiseptic is an agent which will prevent or retard putrefaction; and a
disinfectant is an agent which will render harmless the virus of smallpox,
scarlet fever, measles, diphtheria, influenza, pleuro-pneumonia, cattle
plague, glanders, distemper in dogs, and other infectious or contagious
diseases.
Now, medical authorities and sanitarians are of opinion that the most
potent disinfectant with which we are acquainted is sulphurous acid, a gas
which has been used for ages, as a fumigator. Sulphurous acid has not,
however, been so generally employed for disinfecting purposes as one might
from these circumstances have expected, on account of the difficulties
and inconveniences which formerly attended its generation.
To remove these drawbacks, and to render sulphurous acid, both as a gas
and in solution, easily and cheaply available for the above-named and many
other applications, sporokton has been invented. Several varieties are
made; they are as follows:
_Liquid No. 1._——This preparation consists of a colourless solution of a
non-volatile antiseptic, usually a salt of zinc, impregnated with eighty
times its bulk of sulphurous acid gas; in other words, one pint of the
liquid contains ten gallons of gas. Liquid sporokton is, in fact, a
combination of one of the most powerful antiseptics with the disinfectant;
the former ingredient will effectually prevent the putrefaction of any
solid or liquid animal or vegetable matter with which it may come in
contact, while the sulphurous acid will rapidly pass off in the gaseous
state into the surrounding air and act as an energetic destroyer of
noxious atmospheric impurities.
Liquid sporokton absorbs ammonia and sulphuretted hydrogen, destroys bad
smells, and prevents the spread of infectious diseases; it is,
consequently, a valuable agent for the deodorisation and disinfection of
wards of hospitals, sick rooms, dairies, larders, ship, stables,
cow-houses, kennels, piggeries, slaughter-houses, urinals, water-closets,
privies, cesspools, sewers, drains, and other similar buildings and
places.
After it has parted with the whole of its sulphurous acid gas, liquid
sporokton leaves an odourless, non-volatile antiseptic and absorber of
ammonia and sulphuretted hydrogen.
Liquid sporokton evolves its sulphurous acid by simple exposure to air,
without the aid of heat, so that no risk of fire attends its use, as is
the case when rooms, buildings, holds of ships, &c., are fumigated with
this gas by the old plan; it will not stain or in any other way injure
undyed woollen, linen, or cotton goods. It is consequently well adapted
for the disinfection of underclothing, sheets, blankets, bed-furniture,
&c.
Liquid sporokton may be employed for the instantaneous preparation of a
bath or lotion of sulphurous acid, to be used, under medical direction, in
the treatment of itch, ringworm, chronic eczema, lepra, psoriasis,
impetigo, pityriasis, &c., in man, as well as mange, scab, and other skin
affections in the lower animals.
Liquid sporokton is clean, it requires no skill in using it, and its
action is perfectly controllable.
_Liquid, No. 2._——This preparation is specially made for the disinfection
and purification of old beer barrels, wine casks, and the like. It is
similar in composition to, and may be used for the same purpose as No. 1;
except, however, that as No. 2, unlike No. 1, is liable, from its
containing iron instead of zinc, to stain linen, wood, &c., it should not
be employed for disinfecting clothing or sprinkling over floors, decks of
ships, and the like.
_Solid._——This is a powder, usually a mixture of calcium sulphite and
ferric chloride, which, by simple expose to air, will slowly and steadily,
or when sprinkled with water, rapidly give out 25 per cent. of its weight
of sulphurous acid and leave no unpleasant smell behind it.
Sulphurous acid gas, unlike non-volatile disinfectants, quickly mingles
with the air, and seeks out, as it were, the noxious atmospheric
impurities it is capable of destroying.
Solid sporokton, in addition to evolving sulphurous acid, contains an
excess of ferric chloride which, together with this gas, renders it a most
useful and efficient antiseptic.
=Sulphurous Anhydride.= See SULPHUROUS ACID.
=SU′MACH.= This dye stuff is chiefly used as a substitute for galls. With
a mordant of acetate of iron, it gives grey or black; with tin or acetate
of alumina, yellow; and with sulphate of zinc, a yellowish-brown; alone,
it gives a greenish-fawn colour.
=SUM′BUL.= _Syn._ MUSK ROOT, JATAMANSI, SUMBUL ROOT; SUMBUL RADIX (B. P.).
A substance introduced to British medicine by Dr A. B. Granville, in 1850.
It occurs in circular pieces, varying from 1 to 3 or 4 inches in diameter;
has a musk-like odour, and a sweet balsamic taste. It acts as a powerful
stimulant, especially of the nervous system. In India and Persia it has
long been used as a medicine, a perfume, and as incense.——_Dose_, 15 gr.
to 1 dr., either masticated, or made into an infusion, electuary, or
tincture; in cholera, hysteria, neuralgia, epilepsy, low fevers, and
various other spasmodic and nervous disorders.
=SUMMER DRINKS.= See LEMONADE, SHERBET, &c.
=SU′PER-.= See NOMENCLATURE.
=SUP′PER.= The evening meal; the last meal of the day. Supper is generally
an unnecessary meal, and, when either heavy, or taken at a period not long
before that of retiring to rest, proves nearly always injurious,
preventing sound and refreshing sleep, and occasioning unpleasant dreams,
nightmare, biliousness, and all the worst symptoms of imperfect digestion.
The last meal of the day should be taken at least three hours before
bedtime. Even when it consists of some ‘trifle,’ as a sandwich or biscuit,
an interval of at least an hour should elapse before retiring to rest. In
this way restlessness and unpleasant dreams will become rare.
=SUPPOS′ITORY.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM, L. A medicine placed in the rectum
for the purpose of affecting the lower intestine, or, by absorption, the
system generally. Suppositories are rounded, usually elongated masses,
having the active medicine combined with some substance which will retain
the proper shape, as soap, spermaceti cerate, or cacao-butter. The latter
substance is, perhaps, the best vehicle for remedies prescribed in this
form. It is, however, rather too soft to be used without admixture.
According to Dorvault, the addition of one eighth part by weight of wax
imparts the proper hardness.
All difficulty of removing suppositories from the mould may be obviated by
having the moulds previously dusted with lycopodium.
The mode of proportioning the doses of active ingredients has been noticed
in the article ENEMA.
=Suppository, Astringent.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM ASTRINGENS (Reuss).
_Prep._ Powdered oak bark, 2 dr.; tormentil, 2 dr.; honey, q. s. For 8
suppositories.
=Suppository of Carbolic Acid.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM ACIDI CARBOLICI (Ph.
U. S.). _Prep._ Carbolic acid, 12 gr.; oil of theobroma, 348 gr.; water,
q. s. Dissolve the acid in a few drops of water, and mix it with 1 dr. of
oil of theobroma; then add it to the remainder of the theobroma previously
melted, and cooled to the temperature of 95° F., and pour the whole
immediately into moulds of 30 gr. each, standing in iced water.
=Suppository of Copaiba.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM COPAIBA (Colombat). _Prep._
Solidified copaiba, 1 dr.; butter of cacao, 1 dr.; extract of opium, 1/2
gr.
=Suppository of Elaterium.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM ELATERII (St B. H.).
_Prep._ Extract of elaterium, 2 gr.; hard soap, 10 gr.; water, q. s. Mix.
=Suppository, Emollient.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM EMOLLIENS. _Prep._ Butter
of cacao and spermaceti in equal parts; melted together.
=Suppository of Iodide of Potassium.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM POTASSII
IODIDII (Mr Stafford). _Prep._ Iodide of potassium, 1 gr. to 4 gr.;
extract of henbane, 6 gr.; extract of hemlock, 6 gr. In enlarged prostate.
=Suppository, Irritant.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM IRRITANS (Richard). _Prep._
Butter of cacao, 2 dr.; aloes, 4 gr.; tartarised antimony, 1 gr. To
restore the hæmorrhoidal flux.
=Suppository of Lead (Compound).= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM PLUMBI COMPOSITUM
(B. P.). _Prep._ Acetate of lead, in powder, 36; opium, in powder, 12;
benzoated lard, 42; white wax, 10; oil of theobroma, 80; melt the wax and
oil of theobroma with a gentle heat, then add the other ingredients,
previously rubbed together in a mortar, and, having mixed them thoroughly,
pour the mixture while it is fluid into suitable moulds of the capacity of
15 gr. The above makes 12 suppositories.
=Suppository of Mercury.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM HYDRARGYRI (B. P.). _Prep._
Ointment of mercury, 60 gr.; benzoated lard, 20 gr.; white wax, 20 gr.;
oil of theobroma, 80 gr.; melt all but the mercurial ointment together,
then add the ointment of mercury, stir till well mixed, and immediately
pour into moulds of the capacity of 15 gr. The above makes 12
suppositories.
=Suppository of Morphia.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM MORPHIÆ (B. P.). _Prep._
Hydrochlorate of morphia, 6 gr.; oil of theobroma, 90 gr.; benzoated lard,
64 gr.; white wax, 20 gr.; melt the wax and oil of theobroma with a gentle
heat, then add the hydrochlorate of morphia and benzoated lard, previously
rubbed together in a mortar, and mix all the ingredients thoroughly; pour
the mixture, while it is fluid, into suitable moulds of the capacity of 15
gr., or the fluid mixture may be allowed to cool, and then be divided into
12 equal parts, each of which should be made into a conical form.
=Suppository of Opium.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM OPII (Ph. U. S.). _Prep._
Extract of opium, 12 gr.; oil of theobroma, 348 gr.; water, q. s. Proceed
as for carbolic acid suppository.
=Suppository for Piles.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM HÆMORRHOIDALE, S. SEDATIVUM,
L. _Prep._ 1. Powdered opium, 2 gr.; finely powdered galls, 10 gr.;
spermaceti cerate, 1 dr.
2. (Ellis.) Powdered opium, 2 gr.; soap, 10 gr.; mix.
3. (Richard.) Extracts of opium and stramonium, of each 1 gr.;
cacao-butter, 2 dr. Used when the piles are very painful.
=Suppository, Pur′gative.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM CATHARTICUM, L. _Prep._ 1.
Soap, 1 dr.; elaterium, 1 to 2 gr.; mix. As a strong purge.
2. (Niemann.) Soap, 2 dr.; common salt, 1 dr.; honey, q. s.; mix. As a
mild cathartic.
=Suppository of Quinine.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM QUINÆ (Boudin). _Prep._
Sulphate of quinine, 15 gr.; butter of cacao, 1-1/2 dr. Mix.
=Suppository, Resol′vent.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM RESOLVENS, L. _Prep._
(Stafford.) Iodide of potassium, 3 to 4 gr.; extracts of henbane and
hemlock, of each 6 gr. In enlargement or induration of the prostate gland.
=Suppository of Rhatany.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM RHATANIÆ (P. Cod). _Prep._
Butter of cacao, 1 dr.; extract of rhatany, 15 gr., for 1 suppository.
=Suppository, Sed′ative.= See _above_.
=Suppository of Sulphate of Soda.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM SODÆ SULPHATIS
(Phœbus). _Prep._ Dried sulphate of soda, 2 dr.; powdered soap, 4 dr.;
honey, q. s. For 4 suppositories. To be smeared over with oil when
applied.
=Suppository of Tannic Acid.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM ACIDI TANNICI (B. P.).
_Prep._ Tannic acid, 36 gr.; benzoated lard, 44 gr.; white wax, 10 gr.;
oil of theobroma, 90 gr.; melt the wax and oil with a gentle heat, then
add the tannic acid and benzoated lard, previously rubbed together, and
mix thoroughly. Pour the mixture while it is fluid into suitable moulds of
the capacity of 15 gr. The above makes 12 suppositories.
=Suppository, Ver′mifuge.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIUM ANTHELMINTICUM, S.
VERMIFUGUM, L. _Prep._ (Swediaur.) Aloes, 4 dr.; common salt, 3 dr.;
flour, 2 dr.; honey, q. s. to make a stiff mass; divide into proper-shaped
pieces, weighing about 15 gr. each. One to be used after each motion.
=Suppositories of Aloes.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA ALOES (B. P.). _Prep._ Aloes
in fine powder. 1 dr.; oil of theobroma, 300 gr. Proceed as for carbolic
acid suppository, omitting the water.
=Suppositories of Assafœtida.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA ASSAFŒTIDÆ (Ph. U. S.).
_Prep._ Tincture of assafœtida, 1 oz.; oil of theobroma, 320 gr. Let the
tincture evaporate by exposure to the air until of the consistence of a
thick syrup, and proceed as for suppositories of carbolic acid.
=Suppositories of Belladonna.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA BELLADONNÆ (Ph. U. S.).
_Prep._ Alcoholic extract of belladonna, 6 gr.; oil of theobroma, 354 gr.
Proceed as for carbolic acid suppositories.
=Suppositories of Carbolic Acid with Soap.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA ACIDI
CARBOLICI CUM SAPONE (B. P.). _Prep._ Carbolic acid, 12 gr.; curd soap, in
powder, 180 gr.; starch, q. s.; mix the carbolic acid with the soap, and
add starch, q. s., to make of a suitable consistency; divide into 12 equal
parts, and make each suppository into a conical or other convenient form.
=Suppositories of Colocynth.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA COLOCYNTHIDIS (Sp. Ph.).
_Prep._ Colocynth, 30 gr.; salt, 1 dr. Evaporate to a due consistence.
=Suppositories of Morphia with Soap.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA MORPHIÆ CUM
SAPONE (B. P.). _Prep._ Hydrochlorate of morphia, 6 gr.; glycerin of
starch, 50 gr.; curd soap in powder, 100 gr.; starch, q. s. Mix the
hydrochlorate with the glycerin of starch and soap, and add starch q. s.
to form a paste of suitable consistence. Divide into 12 equal parts, each
of which is to be made into a conical or other convenient form of
suppository.
=Suppositories of Tannic Acid with Soap.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA ACIDI
TANNICI CUM SAPONE (B. P.). _Prep._ Tannic acid, 36 gr.; glycerin of
starch, 50 gr.; curd soap in powder, 100 gr.; starch, q. s. Mix the tannic
acid with the glycerin of starch and soap, and add starch q. s. to form a
paste of suitable consistence, divide into 12 equal parts, each of which
is to be made into a conical or other convenient form of suppository.
=Suppositories, Vaginal.= _Syn._ SUPPOSITORIA VAGINALE (Guadrist). _Prep._
Liquid chloride of zinc, 5 minims; sulphate of morphia, 1/2 gr.; mix with
2 dr. of the following paste:——Thick mucilage of tragacanth, 6 parts;
white sugar, 3 parts; starch, 9 parts. Mr Druitt prescribes in
leucorrhœa:——Tannin, 10 gr., with mucilage of tragacanth, q. s.
=SURGERY.= “This word,” says Brande, “in its modern acceptation, may be
defined as the practical application of science, in the use of all
mechanical and instrumental means, for the removal of diseases and the
relief of human suffering.”
One of the earliest professors of the ancient art of surgery, of whom
history affords a reliable record, was Hippocrates, a Greek, who lived in
the fifth century of our era, and who seems to have been a man of
considerable skill for the period in which he flourished, since he could
set fractures, reduce dislocations, and perform other important
operations. About two centuries after Hippocrates the studies of surgery,
anatomy, and medicine were prosecuted with evident success at Alexandria.
The Alexandrian school produced some able surgeons, one of whom, Ammianus,
invented an instrument for crushing the stone in the bladder, and was thus
the first to practise the now important surgical operation known as
lithotrity. At the beginning of the Christian era Celsus practised the art
of surgery in Rome; he appears to have been the first to operate for
cataract, and to apply ligatures to arteries after operations. It is
curious to note that so practical a people as the Romans held the art of
surgery in comparative contempt, and banished its professors, whose
services they discarded, for the practice of spells, incantations, and
charms.
In the sixth century lived Œtius, who conceived the idea of dissolving
urinary calculi by the administration of internal remedies; and in the
tenth, Avicenna, who, it has been conjectured, invented the flexible
catheter, and was the inventor of the instrument now known as Hey’s saw.
In 1271 the Paris College of Surgeons was founded, and the College of
Surgeons of London in 1460, and the Edinburgh College in 1505.
The most prominent figure in the annals of surgery of the 16th century was
Paré, a man of great originality of thought, whose works exercised a
considerable influence over his own contemporaries, and for many years
subsequently. Towards the end of the 17th century lived Wiseman, serjeant
surgeon to Charles II. Wiseman was a man of considerable ability, and was
the first to demonstrate that gun-shot wounds were not of a poisonous
nature; and that therefore the old practice of applying painful and
caustic dressings to them might most advantageously be abandoned. A
contemporary of Wiseman was Young, of Plymouth, who merits notice as
being the first who performed the flap-operation in amputation.
In the 17th century also lived Frère St Cosme, a French monk, who obtained
considerable fame as an operator for lithotomy, for the performance of
which he regarded himself as especially chosen by Heaven. In the 18th
century lived in England Cheselden and Douglas, two eminent lithotomists;
John Hunter, Pott and Ley; in Scotland, Benjamin and John Bell and Monro;
and in Ireland, O’Halloran and Deases; whilst in France flourished Petit,
celebrated for his treatise on diseases of the bones; from Germany,
Rechter and Haller.
In this century (1784) was founded the Royal College of Surgeons in
Ireland. In the present century there are few branches of science in which
greater progress has been made than that of surgery. From amongst the most
eminent of the English surgeons of the present century we may select the
following names:——Abernethy, Blizard, Astley Cooper, Brodie, Dalrymple,
Guthrie, Aston Key, Liston, Stanley, Travers, Arnott, Bowman, Erichsen,
Fergusson, Prescott Hewett, Hilton, Lane, Lawrence, Paget, Spencer Wells,
Marshall, Christopher Heath, Durham, Bryant, Nunn, Lee, H. Smith, Mason,
and Pollock.
=SUSPENDED ANIMATION.= See ASPHYXIA.
=SWAL′LOW.= Three or four species of _hirundo_ (Linn.) pass under this
name. It was once held in great repute in medicine. Even the excrement was
included among the simples of the Ph. L. 1618. The swallow is an
insectivorous bird, but, like the sparrow and rook, is much persecuted for
its good services. It has been calculated that, directly and indirectly, a
single swallow is the humble means of lessening the race of one kind of
insect alone to the extent of 560,970,489,000,000,000 of its race in one
year.
=SWEEPING.= Before commencing to sweep, the floor should be strewed with a
good amount of damp tea-leaves, saved for the purpose; these collect the
dust and thereby save the furniture, which as far as practicable should be
covered up during the process. Tea-leaves may also be advantageously used
upon druggets and short-piled carpets. Light sweeping and soft brooms are
desirable if these latter are to be operated upon. Many a carpet is
prematurely worn out by over-violent sweeping.
In sweeping thick-piled carpets, such as Axminster and Turkey carpets, the
servant should always be instructed to brush the way of the pile; by
following this advice the carpets may be kept clean for years; but if the
broom is used in a contrary direction, all the dust will be forced into
the carpet, and soon spoil it.
=SWEET BALLS.= _Prep._ Take of Florentine orris root, 3 oz.; cassia, 1
oz.; cloves, rhodium wood, and lavender flowers, of each 1/2 oz.;
ambergris and musk, of each 6 gr.; oil of verbena, 10 or 12 drops; beat
them to a paste, form this into balls with mucilage of gum tragacanth
made with rose water, pierce them, whilst soft, with a needle, and, when
they are quite dry and hard, polish them. Worn in the pocket as a perfume.
Some persons varnish them, but that keeps in the smell.
=SWEET BAY.= _Syn._ LAUREL; LAURUS NOBILIS (Linn.), L. The fruit (LAURI
BACCÆ; LAURUS——Ph. L.), as well as the leaves (LAURI FOLIA), are reputed
aromatic, stimulant, and narcotic. They were formerly very popular in
coughs, colic, hysteria, suppressions, &c.; and externally, in sprains,
bruises, &c.
=SWEET′BREAD.= The thymus gland of the calf. When boiled, it is light and
digestible; but when highly dressed and seasoned it is improper both for
dyspeptics and invalids. (Pereira.)
=SWEET FLAG.= _Syn._ ACORUS CALAMUS, L. A plant of the natural order
_Orontiaceæ_. The rhizome (‘root’) is an aromatic stimulant, and is
regarded by some as a valuable medicine in agues, and as a useful adjunct
to other stimulants and bitter tonics. It is sometimes employed by the
rectifiers of gin. The volatile oil obtained from it by distillation is
employed for scenting snuff and in the preparation of aromatic vinegar.
=SWEET′MEATS.= Under this head are properly included confections, candies,
and preserves, in sugar; but, as generally employed, the word embraces all
the sweet compounds of the confectioner.
Sweetmeats, as well as cakes, blancmange, and jellies, are not
unfrequently coloured with deleterious substances, the consequences of
which are always pernicious, and in many instances have proved fatal.
Gamboge, a drastic cathartic; chrome yellow, red lead, orpiment, emerald
green, and various other pigments containing lead, arsenic, copper, or
other poisons, have been thus employed. The whole of these may be readily
detected by the tests and characteristics appended to their respective
names.
The colours and stains which may be safely employed to increase the beauty
of these articles are noticed under STAINS and LIQUEUR.
=SWEETS.= Home-made wines: British wines.
=SWINE-POX.= See POX.
=SYDENHAM’S LEN′ITIVE.= _Prep._ Take of rhubarb (recently grated or
powdered), 3 dr.; tamarinds, 2 oz.; senna, 1/2 oz.; coriander seeds
(bruised), 2 dr.; boiling water, 1 pint; macerate for 3 hours in a covered
vessel, and strain. An excellent stomachic and laxative.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1
wine-glassful.
=SYL′VIC ACID.= _Syn._ SILVIC ACID. The portion of common resin or
colophony which is the least soluble in cold and somewhat dilute alcohol.
=SYMBOLS.= In chemistry are representations of one atom of each of the
elementary bodies, by the capital initial letter with or without the
addition of a small letter of their Latin names. As C, for _carbon_; Fe
(_ferrum_), iron; O, _oxygen_, &c.
Symbols, Alchemical[217]——
[Footnote 217: This list of alchemical and botanical symbols and
abbreviations is a reprint of that contained in the ‘Lexicon of Terms used
in Medicine and the Allied Sciences,’ now being published by the New
Sydenham Society, under the Editorship of Henry Power, M.B., and Leonard
W. Sedgwick, M.D.]
Acetum [symbol]
Acetum destillatum [symbol]
Acidum [symbol]
Aër [symbol]
Aerugo [symbol]
Alumen [symbol]
Alembic [symbol]
Æther [symbol]
Amalgama [symbol]
Ammonium [symbol]
Aqua [symbol]
Aqua fortis [symbol]
Aqua pluvialis [symbol]
Aqua regia [symbol]
Arena [symbol]
Argentum [symbol]
Arsenicum [symbol]
Auripigmentum [symbol]
Aurum [symbol]
Aurantium [symbol]
Baln. arenæ [symbol]
Baln. mariæ [symbol]
Baln. vaporis [symbol]
Baryta [symbol]
Bismuth [symbol]
Borax [symbol]
Calcaria [symbol]
Calcaria usta [symbol]
Camphora [symbol]
Cancer [symbol]
Caput mortuum [symbol]
Carbo [symbol]
Carbonicum [symbol]
Carduus benedictus [symbol]
Card. marianus [symbol]
Cera [symbol]
Cinis clavelatum [symbol]
Cinis [symbol]
Cinnabar [symbol]
Cornu cervi [symbol]
Cristalli [symbol]
Crucibulum [symbol]
Cuprum [symbol]
Distillare [symbol]
Ferrum [symbol]
Fictile [symbol]
Fixum [symbol]
Flores [symbol]
Gummi [symbol]
Hora [symbol]
Hydrargyrum [symbol]
Hydr. chloridum [symbol]
Hydr. corrosivum [symbol]
Ignis [symbol]
Kali [symbol]
Lapis [symbol]
Lithargyrum [symbol]
Magnet [symbol]
Magnesia [symbol]
Menstruum [symbol]
Natrum [symbol]
Nitrum [symbol]
Oleum [symbol]
Oxidatum [symbol]
Oxidulatum [symbol]
Per deliquium [symbol]
Plumbum [symbol]
Precipitare [symbol]
Preparare [symbol]
Pulvis [symbol]
Regulus [symbol]
Resina [symbol]
Retorta [symbol]
Saccharum [symbol]
Sal [symbol]
Sal kali [symbol]
Sal ammoniac [symbol]
Sal medius [symbol]
Sapo [symbol]
Spiritus [symbol]
Spiritus vini [symbol]
Spiritus rectificatissimus [symbol]
Spiritus rectificatus [symbol]
Stannum [symbol]
Stibium [symbol]
Stratum super stratum [symbol]
Sublimare [symbol]
Succinum [symbol]
Sulphur [symbol]
Tartarus [symbol]
Terra [symbol]
Terra foliata [symbol]
Tinctura [symbol]
Vitriolum [symbol]
Vitrum [symbol]
Volatile [symbol]
Urina [symbol]
Ustare [symbol]
Zincum [symbol]
=Symbols and Abbreviations, Botanical.=
[symbol] _Monocarp._ A plant which produces
seed only once during its life. The
symbol representing the sun.
=A=, [symbol] _Annual._ A monocarp which dies in
the same year that it germinated,
e.g. _Mustard_.
=B=, [symbol] _Biennial._ A monocarp which produces
leaves _only_ the first year and
perfects its seed the next, e.g. _Mullein_.
=P= _Perennial._ A plant which produces
seed for an indefinite number of
years, e.g. _Apple_.
[symbol] _Rhizocarp._ A perennial the stems
of which die down to the ground
every year, e.g. _Rhubarb_, _Mint_.
The symbol representing Jupiter,
which has a period of revolution
round the sun of 12 years.
[symbol] _Caulocarp._ A perennial, the stems
of which are persistent throughout
the whole of its life, e.g. _Apple_.
The symbol representing Saturn,
the period of revolution of which
round the sun is 30 years.
=H= _Herb._ A plant, the stems of which
remain soft or succulent, e.g. _Mint_
or _Rhubarb_.
=S=, [symbol] _Shrub._ A plant in which the stems
are woody, and which usually divide
near the ground into numerous
branches and twigs, e.g. _Lilac_.
[symbol] _Under shrub._ A small shrub; one
that does not grow more than 3 feet
in height, e.g. _Gooseberry_.
=T=, [symbol] _Tree._ A plant which grows to 20 feet
or more in height, having a woody
stem forming a distinct trunk, e.g.
_Oak_.
[symbol] A climbing plant which follows the
sun, e.g. _Hop_.
[symbol] A climbing plant which moves against
the sun, e.g. _Scarlet-runner_.
[symbol] Flowers having stamens only (unisexual,
staminiferous, or male),
e.g. male flowers of _Box_. The symbol
representing Mars, the period
of revolution of which is 2 years.
[symbol] Flowers having pistils only (unisexual,
pistillate, or female), e.g.
female flowers of _Box_. The symbol
representing Venus.
[symbol] Flowers having both stamens and
pistils (bisexual or hermaphrodite),
e.g. _Buttercup_.
[symbol] Abortive staminiferous flowers (neuter).
[symbol] Abortive pistillate flowers (neuter),
e.g. the florets of the ray in _Daisy_.
[symbol] Monœcious plants, producing male
and female flowers upon the same
individual, e.g. _Box_.
[symbol] Diœcious plants, producing male and
female flowers, but upon separate
individuals, e.g. _Willow_.
[symbol] Polygamous plants, which produce
hermaphrodite and unisexual flowers
upon the same or different individuals,
e.g. _Atriplex_.
[symbol] Indefinite in number; applied to
stamens and other parts of flowers.
[symbol] Cotyledons accumbent, radicle lateral.
[symbol] Cotyledons incumbent, radicle dorsal.
[symbol] Cotyledons conduplicate, radicle dorsal.
[symbol] Cotyledons twice folded, radicle dorsal.
[symbol] Cotyledons thrice folded, radicle dorsal.
[symbol] Trimerous, applied to flowers when
the whorls of the flower are multiples
of three, as in most endogens.
[symbol] Pentamerous, applied to flowers when
the whorls of the flower are multiples
of five, as in exogens generally.
Bab., Babington.
Berk., Berkeley.
Br., Brown.
Cal., calyx.
Caul, caulis, stem.
Cl., Classis, class.
Cor., corolla.
Cuv., Cuvier.
D. C., or De Cand., De Candolle.
Endl., Endlicher.
Fam., family.
Fr., fructus, fruit.
Gen., genus, genus.
Hook., Hooker.
Juss., Jussieu.
D. or Linn., Linnæus.
Lindl., Lindley.
Nat. Ord., Natural order.
O. or Ord., ordo, order.
Per., perianthus, perianth.
Rad., radix, root.
Rich., Richard.
Sp. or Spec, species, species.
Subord., Suborder.
Subk., Subkingdom.
Var., varietas, variety,
V. s. c., vidi siccam cultam, a dry cultivated plant seen.
V. s. s., vidi siccam spontaneam, a dried specimen seen.
V. v. c, vidi vivam cultam, a living cultivated plant seen.
V. v. s., vidi vivam spontaneam, a living wild plant seen.
Willd., Willdenow.
With., Withering.
=SYMPATHET′IC INK.= See INK.
=SYN′APTASE.= _Syn._ EMULSIN. The name given by Robiquet to the EMULSIN, a
nitrogenised or albuminoid principle existing in both the bitter and sweet
almond. It possesses the remarkable property of converting amygdalin, in
the presence of water, into hydrocyanic acid and the essential oil of
bitter almonds. 100 gr. of amygdalin yield, under the influence of
synaptase and water, 47 gr. of raw oil, and 5·9 gr. of anhydrous
hydrocyanic acid. (Liebig.)
=SYN′COPE.= See FAINTING.
=SYR′UP.= _Syn._ SIRUP, SIROP; SYRUPUS, L. A saturated, or nearly
saturated, solution of sugar in water, either simple, flavoured, or
medicated.
In the preparation of syrups care should be taken to employ the best
refined sugar, and either distilled water or filtered rain water; by which
they will be rendered much less liable to spontaneous decomposition, and
will be perfectly transparent, without the trouble of clarification. When
inferior sugar is employed, clarification is always necessary. This is
best done by dissolving the sugar in the water, or other aqueous
menstruum, in the cold, and then beating up a little of the cold syrup
with some white of egg, and an ounce or two of cold water, until the
mixture froths well; this must be added to the syrup in the boiler, and
the whole ‘whisked up’ to a good froth; heat should now be applied, and
the scum which forms removed from time to time with a clean ‘skimmer.’ As
soon as the syrup begins to slightly simmer it must be removed from the
fire, and allowed to stand until it has cooled a little, when it should be
again skimmed, if necessary, and then passed through clean flannel. When
vegetable infusions or solutions enter into the composition of syrups,
they should be rendered perfectly transparent by filtration or
clarification, before being added to the sugar.
M. Magnes-Lahens[218] describes below a process for the clarification of
syrups, the originator of which was M. Demarest, a pharmacien. The
process is as follows:——White unsized paper is beaten up into a pulp with
a portion of the syrup, and then mixed with the bulk. The proportion of
paper should be one gram to every litre of syrup; and the latter should be
maintained at a temperature of 35° to 40° C.
[Footnote 218: ‘Germ. Pharm. Chem.,’ 4th Series, xv, 140 (‘Year Book,
Phar.,’ 1872).]
A filter of moleskin capable of holding about one third of the volume of
the syrup, and having the form of an inverted sugar-loaf, is supported
over a suitable receptacle; the syrup with the pulp is poured rapidly into
it, so as to fill it as quickly as possible; and the filter is kept full
so long as any of the syrup remains. When the greater part has run
through, and but little remains in the filter, and consequently the
‘felting’ of the paper pulp is complete, the syrup which has already run
through, is again poured into the filter. The liquid which now passes is
perfectly bright, and may be collected. In pouring the syrup into the
filter, the stream should be directed into the middle, and not upon the
sides, so as to avoid disarranging the felt, which would interfere with
the success of the operation.
The author very strongly recommends this method for the clarification of
all kinds of syrups; its advantages being that it results in a perfectly
limpid liquid, and that it involves neither trouble nor loss of time or
material. He states that in 4 or 5 hours, with a filter of 8 litres in
capacity, 24 litres of syrup may be clarified.
The small quantity of syrup retained in the filter and pulp, may be
recovered by pouring on a sufficient quantity of warm water, pressing
strongly, evaporating the liquid to a syrupy consistence, beating up with
a little paper pulp, and passing, it again through a small filter.
The proper quantity of sugar for syrups will, in general, be found to be 2
lbs. (avoir.) to every imperial pint of water or thin aqueous fluid. These
proportions, allowing for the water that is lost by evaporation during the
process, are those best calculated to produce a syrup of the proper
consistence, and possessing good ‘keeping qualities.’ They closely
correspond to those recommended by Guibourt for the production of a
perfect syrup, which, he says, consists of 30 parts of sugar to 16 parts
of water.
In the preparation of syrups it is of great importance to employ as little
heat as possible, as a solution of sugar, even when kept at the
temperature of boiling water, undergoes slow decomposition. The plan which
we adopt is to pour the water (cold) over the sugar, and to allow the two
to lie together for a few hours, in a covered vessel, occasionally
stirring, and then to apply a gentle heat (preferably that of steam or
water bath) to finish the solution. Some persons (falsely) deem a syrup
ill prepared unless it has been allowed to boil well; but if this method
be adopted, the ebullition should be only of the gentlest kind
(‘simmering’), and should be checked after the lapse of 1 or 2 minutes.
Mr Orynski recommends the preparation of all syrups without the
application of heat, as follows:
Introduce 30 or 32 oz. of sugar (according to the temperature) into a
percolator, in which has been previously introduced a piece of lint or
sponge, well adjusted, and gradually pour on 16 ounces of liquid, so as to
make the percolate (syrup) pass drop by drop. If the first liquid is
turbid pour it back into the percolator till the syrup passes clear.
The advantages claimed for this process are: First, the syrups are clear;
and there is no necessity for purifying them.
Secondly, they possess their medicinal properties unaltered; since many
drugs may be injured by heat, more especially aromatics, and those
containing readily volatile substances; and——
Thirdly, the syrups will neither crystallise nor ferment; and may be
prepared in large quantity, provided the vessels or bottles are clean
before filling them with syrup.
When it is necessary to thicken a syrup by boiling, a few fragments of
glass should be introduced, in order to lower the boiling point.
To make highly transparent syrups, the sugar should be in a single lump,
and, by preference, taken from the bottom or broad end of the loaf, as,
when taken from the smaller end, or if it be powdered or bruised, the
syrup will be more or less cloudy.
Syrups are judged, by the laboratory man, to be sufficiently boiled when
some taken up in a spoon, pours out like oil, or a drop cooled on the
thumb-nail gives a proper ‘thread’ when touched. When a thin skin appears
on blowing upon the syrup, it is judged, by the same party, to be
completely saturated. These rude tests often lead to errors, which might
be easily prevented by employing the proper proportions, or determining
the sp. gr.
A fluid ounce of SATURATED SYRUP weighs 577-1/2 gr.; a gallon weighs
13-1/5 lbs. (avoir.); its sp. gr. is 1·319 to 1·321, or 35° of Baumé’s
aërometer; its boiling-point is 221° Fahr., and its density at the
temperature of 212° is 1·260 to 1·261, or 30° Baumé. The syrups prepared
with the juices of fruits, or which contain much extractive matter, as
those of sarsaparilla, poppies, &c., mark about 2° or 3° more on Baumé’s
scale than the other syrups.
In most pharmaceutical works directions are given to completely saturate
the water with sugar. Our own experience, which is extensive, leads us to
disapprove of such a practice, since we find that, under all ordinary
circumstances, a syrup with a very slight excess of water keeps better
than one fully saturated. In the latter case a portion of sugar generally
crystallises out on standing, and thus, by abstracting sugar from the
remainder of the syrup, so weakens it, that it rapidly ferments and
spoils. This change proceeds at a rapidity proportionate to the
temperature. Saturated syrup kept in a vessel that is frequently uncorked
or exposed to the air soon loses sufficient water, by evaporation from its
surface, to cause the formation of minute crystals of sugar, which,
falling to the bottom of the vessel, continue to increase in size at the
expense of the sugar in the solution. We have seen a single 6-gallon stone
bottle, in which syrup has been kept for some time, the inside of which,
when broken, has been found to be entirely cased with sugar candy,
amounting in weight to 16 or 18 lbs. On the other hand, syrups containing
too much water also rapidly ferment, and become acescent; but of the two
this is the less evil, and may be more easily prevented. The proportions
of sugar and water given above will form an excellent syrup, provided care
be taken that an undue quantity be not lost by evaporation.
The decimal part of the number denoting the sp. gr. of a syrup, multiplied
by 26, gives the number of pounds of sugar it contains per gallon, very
nearly. (Ure.)
In boiling syrups, if they appear likely to boil over, a little oil, or
rubbing the edges of the pan with soap, will prevent it.
Syrups may be decoloured by agitation with, or filtration through,
recently burnt animal charcoal. Medicated syrups should not, however, be
treated in this way.
The preservation of syrups, as well as of all other saccharine solutions,
is best promoted by keeping them in a moderately cool, but not a very
cold, place. “Let syrups be kept in vessels well closed, and in a
situation where the temperature never rises above 55° Fahr.” (Ph. L.) They
are better kept in smaller rather than in large bottles, as the longer a
bottle lasts the more frequently it will be opened, and, consequently, the
more it will be exposed to the air. By bottling syrups whilst boiling hot,
and immediately corking down and tying the bottles over with bladder
perfectly air-tight, they may be preserved, even at a summer heat, for
years, without fermenting or losing their transparency.
The ‘candying,’ or crystallisation, of syrup, unless it be oversaturated
with sugar, may be prevented by the addition of a little acetic or citric
acid (2 or 3 dr. per gall.).
The fermentation of syrups may be effectually prevented by the addition of
a little sulphite of potassa or of limes. Chlorate of potassa has been
proposed for this purpose by Dr Macculloch, on theoretical grounds. M.
Chereau recommends the addition of some (about 3 to 4%) sugar of milk,
with the same intention. Dr Durand asserts that by adding about 1 fl. dr.
of ‘Hofmann’s anodyne’ to each pint of syrup, the accession of
fermentation may not only be prevented, but arrested when it occurs,
fermenting syrups may be immediately restored by exposing the vessel
containing them to the temperature of boiling water. The addition of a
little spirit is ordered in the new ‘London Pharmacopœia.’
In making the above additions to syrup, care must be had not to mix
incompatible substances. Thus, in general the two methods referred to
cannot be practised together.
Syrup is, perhaps, the worst possible form of medicine, owing to the
difficulty of accurately saturating it with active medicinals, and its
liability to change. Few persons think that “sweetness renders a nauseous
drug more palatable.” See also Squire’s ‘Companion to the British
Pharmacopœia.’
=Syrup of Ac′etate of Mor′phia.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MORPHIÆ ACETATIS, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. D.) Solution of acetate of morphia, 1 fl. oz.; simple syrup,
15 fl. oz.; mix. Each fl. oz. contains 1/4 gr. of acetate.——_Dose_, 1/2 to
2 teaspoonfuls.
=Syrup of Al′mond.= _Syn._ BARLEY SYRUP, ORGEAT; SYRUPUS AMYGDALÆ, L.;
SIROP D’ORGEAT, Fr. _Prep._ 1. Sweet almonds, 1 lb.; bitter almonds, 1
oz.; blanch, beat them to a smooth paste, and make an emulsion with barley
water, 1 quart; strain, to each pint add of sugar, 2 lbs., and a
table-spoonful or two of orange-flower water; put the mixture into small
bottles, and preserve it in a cool place. Some persons add a little
brandy.
2. (Ph. Bor.) Sweet almonds, 8 oz.; bitter almonds, 2 oz.; blanch them,
after cold maceration, then beat them in a marble mortar, with a wooden
pestle, to a paste, adding, gradually, of water, 16 fl. oz.; orange-flower
water, 3 fl. oz.; after straining through flannel, dissolve 3 lbs. of
sugar in each pint of the emulsion. An agreeable pectoral and demulcent.
=Syrup of Aniseed.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ANISI. _Prep._ Infuse 1/2 oz. of
bruised aniseed in 4 oz. of hot water, strain, and add 2 dr. of sugar.
=Syrup, Antiscorbutic.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ANTISCORBUTICUS (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Scurvy-grass, watercresses, horseradish, all fresh, of each 10 oz.;
buckbean, 1 oz.; bitter orange peel, 2 oz.; cinnamon, 1/2 oz.; white wine,
40 oz. (by weight); macerate 2 days and distil off 10 oz. (by weight);
then add to the distillate, sugar, 25 oz.; strain the residue left in the
retort, decant and make into a syrup with another 25 oz. of sugar; clarify
with white of egg, and when cold, add to it the former syrup.——_Dose_, 4
dr.
=Syrup of Balsam of Peru.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS BALSAMI PERUVIANI. (Ph. G.)
_Prep._ Balsam of Peru, 1 oz.; boiling water, 11 oz.; digest with frequent
agitation till cold, and form 10 oz. of the filtered liquid into a syrup,
with 18 oz. of sugar.
=Syrup of Bark.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CINCHONÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Calisaya bark,
1 oz.; percolate, with 10 oz. of proof spirits (·996), and then with
water, so as to yield 10 oz. of liquid; distil off spirit, filter, and add
10 oz. of sugar; reduce by a gentle heat, so as to obtain 15-1/4 oz. (by
weight) of product.
=Syrup of Bark, Vinous.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CINCHONÆ VINOSUS. (P. Cod.)
_Prep._ Soft extract of bark, 1 oz.; white wine, 2 pints 3 oz.; dissolve,
filter, add 3-1/2 lbs. of white sugar, and dissolve by a water bath.
=Syrup of Belladonna.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS BELLADONNÆ. (P. Cod.) Tincture of
belladonna (P. Cod), 3/4 oz. (by weight); syrup, 10 oz. (by weight).
=Syrup, Boyle’s.= See SYRUP, SYMPHYTIC.
=Syrup of Buck′thorn.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS RHAMNI (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), S.
RHAMNNI CATHARTICI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Juice of Buckthorn, defecated
by 3 days’ repose, 2 quarts; ginger and allspice, of each (bruised) 6 dr.;
macerate the spice in 1 pint of the juice, at a gentle heat, for 4 hours,
and filter; boil the remainder of the juice to 1-1/2 pint, mix the
liquors, dissolve therein of white sugar, 6 lbs.; and add to the (nearly
cold) syrup 6 fl. oz. of rectified spirit. In the Ph. E. the spirit is
omitted.
2. (B. P.) Buckthorn juice, 97; ginger, sliced, 1; pimento, bruised, 1;
refined sugar, 97; rectified spirit, 8 oz.; evaporate the juice to nearly
half (5/8); add the ginger and pimento, digest at a gentle heat for four
hours, and strain; when cold add the spirit, let the mixture stand for two
days, then decant off the clear liquor, and in this dissolve the sugar at
a gentle heat; sp. gr. 1·32.——_Dose_, 1 dr.
3. (Wholesale.)——_a._ Take of buckthorn juice, 3 gall.; bruised pimento
and ginger (sifted from the dust), of each 1/2 lb.; simmer for 15 minutes,
strain, and add of sugar, 44 lbs.
_b._ Take of buckthorn juice, 3 galls.; boil to 2 gall.; add of bruised
pimento and ginger gruffs (free from dust), of each 3/4 lb.; boil to 1
gall., strain, add molasses, 72 lbs., and finish the boiling.
_Obs._ Syrup of buckthorn is a brisk but unpleasant cathartic. It is now
chiefly used in veterinary practice.——_Dose_, 1/2 fl. oz. to 1 fl. oz.
Should the colour be dull, the addition of a few grains of citric or
tartaric acid will brighten it.
=Syrup of Cabbage-tree Bark.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS GEOFFROYÆ. (Dr Wright.)
_Prep._ Decoction of cabbage-tree bark made into a syrup with twice its
weight of sugar. Vermifuge.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 tablespoonfuls.
=Syrup of Cahinca.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CAHINCÆ. (Soubeiran.) _Prep._ Alcoholic
extract of cahinca, 64 gr.; syrup, 16 oz.; dissolve the extract in a
little water, and add the solution to the boiling syrup.——_Dose_, 1 oz.
daily.
=Syrup of Cap′illaire.= _Syn._ SYRUP OF MAIDENHAIR; SYRUPUS ADIANTHI,
SYRUPUS CAPILLORUM VENERIS, L.; CAPILLAIRE, SIROP DE CAPILLAIRE, Fr.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) Canadian maidenhair (_Adiantum pedatum_——Linn.), 4 oz.;
boiling water, 2-1/2 pints; infuse, strain, add of white sugar, 5 lbs.,
and pour the boiling clarified syrup over 2 oz. more of maidenhair;
re-infuse for 2 hours, and again strain.
_Obs._ Demulcent. Clarified syrup flavoured with orange-flower water or
curaçoa is now commonly sold for CAPILLAIRE. It is usually ‘put up’ in
small bottles of a peculiar shape, known in the trade as ‘capillaires.’ It
is now chiefly used to sweeten and flavour grog. See CAPILLAIRE.
=Syrup of Car′rageen.= _Syn._ SYRUP OF ICELAND MOSS. _Prep._ Boil
horehound, 1 oz., liverwort, 6 dr., in water, 4 pints, for 15 minutes;
express and strain; then add carrageen (previously softened with cold
water), 6 dr.; again boil for 15 minutes, strain through flannel, and add
sugar, 1 lb., to each pint. An agreeable demulcent in coughs.
=Syrup of Castor, Compound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CASTORII COMPOSITUS. (Lebron.)
_Prep._ Valerian water, 5 oz.; cherry laurel water, 2-1/2 oz.; castor
(dissolved in a sufficient quantity of spirit), 3 dr.; white sugar, 15 oz.
In spasmodic asthma.
=Syrup of Catechu.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CATECHU. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Extract
catechu, 2-1/2 oz.; syrup, 6 lbs.; dissolve the extract in double its
weight of water, and add to the syrup.
=Syrup of Chamomile.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ANTHEMIDIS. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Chamomile flowers, dried, 1 lb.; boiling water, 10 lbs.; macerate, strain
with expression, and form the infusion into a syrup with twice its weight
of sugar.
=Syrup of Chloral Hydrate.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CHLORALIS HYDRATIS. (B. Ph.)
_Prep._ Hydrate of chloral, 80 gr.; distilled water, 4 fl. dr. Syrup to
measure, 1 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 fl. dr. to 2 fl. dr.
=Syrup of Chloride of Lime.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CHLORIDI CALCIS. (Dr Reid.)
_Prep._ Liquid chloride of lime, 1 dr.; mucilage, 2 dr.; syrup of orange
peel, 10 dr.
=Syrup of Cinchonine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CINCHONINÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Sulphate cinchonine, 20 gr.; syrup, 16 oz. (by weight).
=Syrup of Citrate of Caffeine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CAFFEINÆ CITRATIS.
(Hannon.) _Prep._ Citrate of caffeine, 1 scruple; syrup, 1 oz.
=Syrup of Citrate of Iron and Ammonia.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI ET AMMONIÆ
CITRATIS. (Beral.) _Prep._ Ammonio-citrate of iron, 1/4 oz.; syrup 9-1/2
oz. (by weight); cinnamon water, 1/4 oz.
=Syrup of Citrate of Iron and Quinine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI ET QUINIÆ
CITRATIS. A syrup is prepared by Mr Bullock under this name, but its
composition has not been made known. Another form is citrate of iron and
quinine, 1 oz.; syrup of orange peel, 1 pint. (Beasley.)
=Syrup of Cit′ric Acid.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ACIDI CITRICI (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._
(Ph. D.) Take of citric acid (in powder) and distilled water, of each,
2-1/2 oz.; dissolve, add the solution, together with tincture of lemon
peel, 5 fl. dr., to simple syrup, 3 pints, and mix with agitation. An
agreeable refrigerant. Used for sweetening barley water, &c., and for
flavouring water to be used as a beverage in fevers and other
inflammatory diseases.
=Syrup of Cloves.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CARYOPHYLLI. (Ph. E.) _Prep._ Clove,
July flowers, 1 troy oz.; boiling water, 4 oz.; macerate for 12 hours,
strain, and add sugar, 7 oz.; make a syrup. Used for its colour and
flavour.
=Syrup of Cochineal.= _Syn._ SRYUPUS COCCINELLÆ, SYRUPUS COCCI (Ph. L.),
L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Take of cochineal (bruised), 80 gr.; boiling distilled
water, 1 pint; boil for 15 minutes in a closed vessel, strain, and add of
sugar, 3 lbs., or twice that of the strained liquor; lastly, when the
syrup has cooled, add of rectified spirit, 2-1/2 fl. oz., or 1/2 fl. dr.
to each fl. oz. of syrup. Used as a colouring syrup, and often sold for
SYRUP OF CLOVE-PINKS.
=Syrup of Cochineal, Alkaline.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS COCCI ALKALINUS. _Prep._
Cochineal in powder, 2 scruples; carbonate of potash in powder, 4
scruples; triturate, and add boiling distilled water, 16 oz.; strain, and
add 4 oz. of sugar candy. A popular domestic remedy for hooping
cough.——_Dose._ From a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful, according to the
age of the child, 3 or 4 times a day.
=Syrup of Cod-liver Oil.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS OLEI MORRHUÆ. (Duclos.) _Prep._
Mix 5 parts of powdered gum with 4 of simple syrup; add 8 parts of
cod-liver oil, triturate till perfectly mixed, gradually adding 12 parts
of water; lastly, dissolve in the emulsion, 24 oz. of sugar by means of a
gentle heat. In the same manner may be prepared syrups from the oil of
skate, castor oil, &c.
=Syrup of Coffee.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CAFFEÆ. _Prep._ Concentrated infusion of
fresh-roasted coffee, 4 oz.; refined sugar, 8 oz.; dissolved in a closed
vessel by a gentle heat.
=Syrup of Colchicum.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS COLCHICI. (Ph. E., 1817.) _Prep._
Fresh colchicum, 1 oz.; vinegar, 16 oz.; macerate for 2 days, and strain
with gentle expression; add to the clear liquor 26 oz. of sugar, and boil.
=Syrup of Colts′foot.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS TUSSILAGINIS, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
Flowers of coltsfoot, 1 lb. (or dried flowers, 2 oz.); boiling water, 2
lbs.; macerate for 12 hours; strain, press, filter, and add of white
sugar, 4 lbs. A popular remedy in coughs, colds, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
table-spoonfuls, _ad libitum_.
=Syrup of Copaiba.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS COPAIBÆ. (Puche.) _Prep._ Triturate 2
oz. of copaiba with 1/2 oz. of powdered gum and 1-1/2 oz. of water; add 32
drops of essence of peppermint, and 12 oz. of simple syrup.
=Syrup of Corsican Moss.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS HELMINTHOCORTI. (P. Cod.)
Macerate 1 lb. of cleansed Corsican moss in 2-1/2 lbs. of boiling water;
in six hours strain. Macerate the residue in sufficient boiling water, so
as to obtain, including the product of the first maceration, 2-3/4 lbs.,
in which dissolve 5 lbs. of sugar.
=Syrup of Cream.= Finely powdered lump sugar mixed with an equal weight of
fresh cream. It will keep for a long time if put into bottles, and closely
corked and sealed over. It is commonly placed in 2-oz. wide-mouthed
phials, and taken on long voyages, a fresh phial being opened at every
meal.
=Syrup of Cyanide of Potassium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS POTASSII CYANIDI; SYROP DE
HYDROCYANATE DE POTASSE. _Prep._ Clarified syrup, 16 oz.; medicinal
hydrocyanate of potash (a solution of 1 part of cyanide of potassium in 8
of water), 1 dr.
=Syrup of Dittany.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS DIOTAMNI. From Dittany of Crete, as
SYRUP OF HYSSOP.
=Syrup of Dulcamara.= _Syn._ SYRUP OF BITTER SWEET, SYRUPUS DULCAMARÆ. As
SYRUP OF CORSICAN MOSS.
=Syrup, Easton’s.= This preparation is said to contain in each fluid
drachm——1 gr. of phosphate of iron, 1 gr. of phosphate of quinia, and a
1/32 gr. of strychnia. The dose is 1 dr. A precipitate, which consists of
phosphate of quinine, sometimes forms in this syrup. This may be obviated
by avoiding as much as possible exposure of the syrup to the air, caused
by filtration of the quinine solution into the syrup.
=Syrup of Eggs.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS OVORUM. (Fuller.) _Prep._ Beat the whites
of 3 eggs with 6 oz. of plantain water, and work it in a mortar with 6 oz.
of powdered sugar till they form a syrup.
=Syrup of Emetina.= SYRUPUS EMITINÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Coloured emetine,
12 gr.; syrup, 17-1/2 oz. (by weight); mix.
=Syrup, Empyreumat′ic.= Treacle.
=Syrup of Ergotine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ERGOTINÆ (Bonjean.) Ergotine (watery
extract of ergot), 2 dr.; orange-flower water, 1 oz.; dissolve, and add
the solution to 16 oz. (by weight) of boiling syrup.——_Dose_, 2 to 4
spoonfuls in the day.
=Syrup of E′ther.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ÆTHERIS, S. Æ. SULPHURICI, L.; SIROP
D’ÆTHER, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Sulphuric ether, 1 part; white (simple)
syrup, 16 parts; place them in a glass vessel having a tap at the bottom,
shake them frequently for 5 or 6 days, and then draw off the clear syrup
into small bottles.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 3 fl. dr.
=Syrup of Eucalyptus.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS EUCALYPTI GLOBULI. _Prep._ 1. 100
gr. of the chopped leaves are infused for 6 hours in 1 litre of boiling
water, the liquid expressed, and after allowing it to deposit, it is made
into a syrup by the addition of 190 grams of sugar, for 100 grams of the
clear liquid.
2. (Dorvault.) Distilled water of eucalyptus, 50 parts; sugar, 95 parts;
dissolve.
=Syrup, Euston’s.= See SYRUP OF PHOSPHATE OF IRON, WITH QUININE AND
STRYCHNIA.
=Syrup of Fennel.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FŒNICULI. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Infuse
bruised fennel seed, 2 oz., in 12 oz. of boiling water for three hours;
strain off 10 oz., and dissolve it in 18 oz. sugar.
=Syrup of Foxglove.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS DIGITALIS. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Tincture
of foxglove (P. Cod), 1/2 oz. (by weight); syrup, 20 oz. (by weight).
=Syrup of Fumitory.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FUMARIÆ. (P. Cod.) Clarified juice of
fumitory, 1 lb.; white sugar, 2 lbs.; boil to a syrup.
=Syrup of Garlic.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ALLII. (Ph. U. S.) _Prep._ Garlic, 6 oz.
troy; distilled vinegar, 16 oz. (o. m.); macerate for 4 days; express, and
form a syrup with the clear liquor and sugar, 2 troy lbs.
=Syrup of Garlic, Compound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ALLII COMPOSITUS. Dr WILL’S
SYRUP. _Prep._ Garlic, cut small, 1/2 oz.; bruised aniseed, 1/2 oz.;
elecampane root, 3 dr.; liquorice root, 2 dr.; brandy, 24 oz.; digest for
2 or 3 days, strain, and form a syrup with 1-1/2 lb. of sugar.
=Syrup of Gin′ger.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ZINGIBERIS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Bruised ginger, 2-1/2 oz.; boiling water, 1 pint;
macerate for 4 hours, strain, and add of white sugar, 2-1/2 lbs., or
q. s.; and rectified spirit, as directed for syrup of cochineal. The Ph.
E. omits the spirit.
2. (Ph. D.) Tincture of ginger, 1 fl. oz.; simple syrup, 7 fl. oz.; mix.
Stimulant and carminative. Chiefly used as an adjuvant, in mixtures.
3. (B. P.) Strong tincture of ginger, 1; syrup, 25; mix.——_Dose_, 1 to 4
dr.
=Syrup of Gold.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS AURI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Powdered gold, 20
gr.; syrup, 1 oz. As a local application.
=Syrup of Guaiacum Wood.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS GUAIACI LIGNI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Boil rasped guaiacum wood, 3 oz. twice, and for an hour each time, in 30
oz. of water; strain through a thick cloth; mix the two liquids, and
concentrate until they are reduced to 6 oz. (by weight); let cool, filter
through paper, and add 10 oz. of sugar.
=Syrup of Guarana.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS PAULLINIÆ, SYRUPUS GUARANÆ. _Prep._
Extract of guarana, 2-1/2 dr.; syrup, 32 oz.
=Syrup of Gum.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ACACIÆ, L.; SIROP DE GOMME, Fr. _Prep._ (P.
Cod.) Dissolve pale and picked gum Arabic in an equal weight of water, by
a gentle heat, add the solution to four times its weight of simple syrup,
simmer for 2 or 3 minutes, remove the scum, and cool. A pleasant
demulcent. The addition of 1 or 2 fl. oz. of orange-flower water to each
pint greatly improves it.
=Syrup of Gum Ammoniacum.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS GUMMI AMMONIACI. (Wurt. Ph.)
_Prep._ Dissolve 2 oz. of gum ammoniacum in 8 oz. of white wine, by the
heat of a water-bath, and add sugar, 16 oz.
=Syrup of Gum Tragacanth.= SYRUPUS GUMMI TRAGACANTHÆ. (Mouchon.) _Prep._
Gum tragacanth, 1 oz.; water, 32 oz.; macerate for 48 hours, press through
a linen cloth, and mix the mucilage with 8 lbs. of syrup, heated to 176°
F., and strain through coarse cloth.
=Syrup of Hedge Mustard.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ERYSIMI. _Prep._ From the
expressed juice of hedge mustard (clarified), 1 lb.; sugar, 2 lbs.; make
into a syrup.
=Syrup of Hedge Mustard, Compound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ERYSIMI COMPOSITUS,
SIROP DE VELAR, SIROP DE CHANTRE. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Pearl barley, raisins,
liquorice root, of each 3/4 oz.; cut and dried leaves of borage and
chicory, of each 1 oz.; fresh hedge mustard, 15 oz.; dried elecampane
root, 1 oz.; maidenhair, 1/4 oz.; dried lavender and rosemary tops, of
each 1/4 oz.; green aniseeds, 1/4 oz.; sugar, 20 oz.; honey, 5 oz. Boil
the pearl barley in the water until it bursts, add the raisins and the
sliced liquorice, the borage and the chicory, and after just boiling
strain and press. Then pour the strained liquid on to the other substances
properly bruised and cut, and let the mixture digest for 24 hours over a
water bath; then distil, drawing over 2-1/2 oz. liquid (by weight); on the
other hand, press and strain the liquor that remains in the retort,
clarify with white of egg, add the sugar and honey, and make into a syrup
that, when boiling, shall have a sp. gr. of 1·29; when nearly cold add the
2-1/2 oz. of distilled liquid, and strain.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 oz.
=Syrup of Henbane.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS HYOSCYAMI (P. Cod.). From the tincture
(P. Cod.) as syrup of belladonna.
=Syrup, Hive.= Compound syrup of squills.
=Syrup of Horehound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MARUBII, L.; SIROP DE PRASSIO, Fr.
_Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Dried horehound, 1 oz.; horehound water, 2 lbs.;
digest in a water bath for 2 hours, strain, and add of white sugar, 4 lbs.
2. White horehound (fresh), 1 lb.; boiling water, 1 gall.; infuse for 2
hours, press out the liquor, filter, and add of sugar, q. s.
_Obs._ A popular remedy in coughs and diseases of the lungs.——_Dose._ A
table-spoonful, _ad libitum_. “It is sold for any syrup of herbs that is
demanded, and which is not in the shop.” (Gray.)
=Syrup, Horseradish.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ARMORACIÆ. (Dr Cullen.) _Prep._
Scraped horseradish, 1 oz.; hot water, 8 oz.; digest, strain, and dissolve
in the liquor twice its weight of sugar.——_Dose_, 1 dr. frequently in
hoarseness from relaxation.
=Syrup of Houndstongue.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CYNOGLOSSI. (Fuller.) _Prep._
Clarified juice of houndstongue boiled, with its weight of sugar, to a
syrup. In catarrhous humours.
=Syrup of Hydrochlo′′rate of Mor′phine.= _Syn._ SYRUP OF MURIATE OF
MORPHINE; SYRUPUS MORPHIÆ MURIATIS (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.) Solution
of muriate of morphia, 1 fl. oz.; simple syrup, 17 fl. oz.; mix. Each fl.
oz. contains 1/4 gr. of the muriate.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 teaspoonfuls.
=Syrup of Hydrocyanic Acid.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ACIDI HYDROCYANICI. The Paris
Codex orders a syrup, in which 200 parts (by weight) contain 1 part (by
weight) of officinal medicinal hydrocyanic acid, containing 10 per cent.
of anhydrous acid.
=Syrup of Hypophosphate of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI HYPOPHOSPHITIS.
(Wood.) _Prep._ Granulated sulphate of iron, 480 gr.; hypophosphite of
lime, 326 gr.; diluted phosphoric acid, 1 fl. oz.; water, 1-1/2 oz.;
syrup, 3 dr. Dissolve without heat the iron in the acid, mixed with the
water; rub the hypophosphite to fine powder, and pour on it the solution
of sulphate of iron; rub together for two or three minutes; then pour the
mixture on a piece of damp calico, and squeeze out the liquid; filter the
solution so obtained, and add to it seven times its volume of syrup.
=Syrup of Hypophosphite of Lime.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CALCIS HYPOPHOSPHITIS.
(Churchill.) _Prep._ Hypophosphite of lime, 1 part; syrup, 100 parts.
=Syrup of Hypophosphite of Potash.= See SYRUP OF THE HYPOPHOSPHITES.
=Syrup of Hypophosphite of Soda.= See SYRUP OF THE HYPOPHOSPHITES.
=Syrup of Hyposulphite of Soda.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SODÆ HYPOSULPHITIS.
(Mouchon.) _Prep._ Hyposulphite of soda, 1 oz.; water, 12 oz.; sugar, 33
oz. Dissolve with a gentle heat, and filter.
=Syrup of the Hypophosphites.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS HYPOPHOSPHITICUS. _Prep._
Hypophosphite of lime, potash, and soda, 1 part each, dissolved with heat
in syrup, 100 parts.——_Dose_, 1 dr.
=Syrup of Hyssop.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS HYSSOPI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ As syrup of
coltsfoot.
=Syrup of Iceland Moss.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS LICHENIS. Iceland moss deprived of
its bitterness, 1 oz.; syrup, 32 oz. Make a concentrated decoction of the
moss, strain and add the syrup, and boil to a proper consistence.
=Syrup of Indian Sarsaparil′la.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS HEMIDESMI (B. P., Ph. D.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.) Indian sarsaparilla (_Hemidesmus Indicus_——Brown),
bruised, 4 oz.; boiling water, 1 pint; infuse for 4 hours, and to the
strained and defecated infusion add twice its weight of sugar. Tonic,
diuretic, &c.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 fl. dr.; in nephritic complaints, and in
some others, instead of sarsaparilla.
2. (B. P.) Hemidesmus, bruised, 1; refined sugar, 7; boiling distilled
water, 5; infuse 4 hours, strain, add the sugar, and dissolve. The product
should weigh 10-1/2 oz., and measure 8. Sp. gr. 1·335.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 dr.
=Syrup of I′odide of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI IODIDI (B. P., Ph. L.,
E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Mix iodine, 1 oz., and iron wire 3 dr.,
with distilled water, 8 fl. oz., and heat the solution until it assumes a
greenish colour; then strain it, evaporate it to about 4 fl. oz., and add
to it of white sugar, 10 oz.; lastly, when the syrup has cooled, add as
much water as may be necessary, that it may measure exactly 15 fl. oz.,
and keep it in a well-stoppered black glass bottle. The formulæ of the Ph.
E. & D. are nearly similar, a fl. dr. of each containing about 5 gr. of
the pure dry iodide. This syrup is tonic and resolvent, and
hæmatinic.——_Dose_, 15 or 20 drops to 1 fl. dr.; in anæmia, debility,
scrofula, &c.
2. (B. P.) Iron wire, 1; iodine, 2; refined sugar, 28; distilled water,
13. Make a syrup with the sugar and 10 of the water, and keep it hot. Put
into a strong soda-water bottle, covered with a cloth, the iron wire, the
iodine, and 3 of the water, shake them together until the froth of the
mixture becomes white, filter whilst still hot into the syrup. The product
should be made up by water to weigh 43 or to measure 31-1/2. Sp. gr.
1385.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 minims.
=Syrup of Iodide of Iron, Compound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI IODIDI
COMPOSITUS. (Ricord.) _Prep._ This may be made by adding 1 oz. of the
syrup to 9 oz. of compound syrup of sarsaparilla, both by weight.
=Syrup of Iodide of Iron and Quinine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI ET QUINIÆ
IODIDI. (Bouchardat.) _Prep._ Digest 1 dr. of iodine with 1/2 dr. of iron
filings and 4 dr. of water, with a gentle heat and frequent agitation,
till the solution is colourless. Filter it rapidly into a vessel
containing 28 oz. of simple syrup. Dissolve also 12 gr. of sulphate of
quinine in 2 dr. of water acidulated with sulphuric acid, and add to the
former.
=Syrup of Iodide of Manganese.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MANGANESII IODIDI. (M.
Hannon.) Pure hydrated carbonate of manganese, 1 dr.; concentrated
hydriodic acid, q. s. to dissolve it. Mix this solution with 16-1/2 oz. of
sudorific syrup.——_Dose._ From 2 to 6 tablespoonfuls daily.
=Syrup of Iodide of Potassium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS POTASSII IODIDI. (P. Cod.)
_Prep._ Iodide of potassium, 1/4 oz.; water, 1/4 oz.; syrup, 9-1/4 oz. (by
weight).
=Syrup of Iodine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS IODINII. (Foy.). _Prep._ Compound
tincture of iodine, 4 dr.; mint water, 4 oz.; syrup, 16 oz.
=Syrup of Iodohydrargyrate of Potassium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS IODOHYDRARGYRATIS
POTASSII (Puche). _Prep._ Iodohydrargyrate of potassium, 16 gr.; tincture
of saffron, 2-1/2 dr.; syrup, 16 oz.
=Syrup of Ipecacuan′ha.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS IPECACUANHÆ, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.)
Ipecacuanha (in coarse powder), 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 15 fl. oz.;
digest for 24 hours at a gentle heat, and strain; add of proof spirit, 14
fl. oz., and again digest and strain, and repeat the process with water,
14 fl. oz.; distil off the spirit from the mixed liquors, evaporate to 12
fl. oz., and filter; next add to the residuum rectified spirit, 5 fl. oz.,
and simple syrup, 7 pints, and mix well.——_Dose._ As an emetic for
infants, 1/2 teaspoonful; for adults, 1 to 1-1/2 fl. oz.; as an
expectorant, 1 to 3 teaspoonfuls.
=Syrup of Iron and Iodide of Potassium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI ET POTASSII
IODIDI. _Prep._ Dissolve 1 oz. of iodide of potassium in 6 oz. of hot
water, add 12-1/4 oz. (fl.) of syrup of iodide of iron, and sufficient
simple syrup to make up 1-1/2 pint.
=Syrup of Jalap.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS JALAPINUS. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Jalap, 10
dr.; coriander, 1/2 dr.; fennel seed, 1/2 dr.; water, 12 oz.; heat to 212°
F. for twenty minutes, let it stand 24 hours; strain, and make a syrup
with 24 oz. of sugar.
=Syrup of Kermes.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS KERMETIS, SYRUPUS ANTIMONIATUS. _Prep._
Kermes mineral, 20 gr.; syrup of squills, 1-1/2 oz.; syrup of marshmallow,
1-1/2 oz. Mix.
=Syrup of Lactate of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI LACTATIS. (Cap.) _Prep._
Lactate of iron, 1 dr.; boiling distilled water, 6 oz.; pure sugar, 12
oz.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 dr.
=Syrup of Lacto-phosphate of Lime.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CALCIS
LACTO-PHOSPHATIS. (P. Vincent.[219]) _Prep._ Burnt bones, 155 gr.;
hydrochloric acid, 310 gr.; liquid ammonia, 200 gr.; concentrated lactic
acid, distilled water, of each q. s.; sugar, 18-1/2 oz.; leave together
for some time the bone ash and the acid until effervescence ceases, then
add distilled water, 500 gr.; precipitate with the ammonia, filter, and
well wash the precipitate with distilled water, until the washings cease
to give a precipitate with nitrate of silver. Leave to drain for 12 hours,
after gently heating in a porcelain capsule, and add sufficient lactic
acid to dissolve the precipitate; add sufficient distilled water to make
the product weigh 9-1/2 oz.; filter, and add the sugar; make dissolve with
a gentle heat.
[Footnote 219: ‘Pharm. Journ.’]
=Syrup of Lactucarium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS LACTUCARII. (U. S.) _Prep._
Lactucarium, 1 troy oz.; syrup, 14 oz. (o. m.); proof spirit, q. s.; rub
the lactucarium with the proof spirit to a syrupy consistence, transfer to
a percolator and percolate with proof spirit until 8 oz. (o. m.) of
tincture have been obtained. Evaporate this portion in a water bath at
160°F. to 2 oz. (o. m.). Mix it with the syrup made hot, and strain
immediately.
=Syrup of Le′mon.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS LIMONIS (B. P.), SYRUPUS LIMONUM (Ph. L.
& E.), SYRUPUS CITRI MEDICÆ. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Lemon juice (strained or
defecated), 1 pint; white sugar, 2-1/2 lbs.; dissolve by a gentle heat,
and set it aside; in 24 hours remove the scum, decant the clear portion,
and add of rectified spirit, 2-1/2 fl. oz. The Edinburgh College omits the
spirit. A pleasant refrigerant syrup in fevers, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl.
dr., in any diluent. With water it forms an excellent extemporaneous
lemonade.
2. (B. P.) Fresh lemon peel, 2; lemon juice, strained, 20; refined sugar,
36. Heat the lemon juice to the boiling point, and having put it into a
covered vessel with the lemon peel, let them stand until they are cold,
then filter and dissolve the sugar in the filtered liquid with a gentle
heat. The product should weigh 56 and measure 41.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
=Syrup of Lettuce.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS LACTUCÆ. (P. Cod.) Dissolve 2 oz. of
extract of lettuce in 8 times its weight of cold water, filter, and add 6
lbs. 2 oz. of syrup, which, when boiling, has a specific gravity of 1·26.
=Syrup of Lime.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CALCIS. (Trousseau.) _Prep._ Slake, 2-1/2
dr. of quicklime, with 3 oz. of water, and add it to 32 fl. oz. of simple
syrup; boil 10 minutes and filter. This is usually diluted with 4 parts of
syrup. Given in diarrhœa.
=Syrup of Liquorice.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS GLYCYRRHIZÆ. _Prep._ Liquorice root,
4 oz.; boiling water, 16 oz.; digest, strain, and make a syrup with sugar.
=Syrup of Lobelia.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS LOBELIÆ. (Mr Proctor.) _Prep._ Vinegar
of lobelia, 6 oz.; sugar, 12 oz. Dissolve in a gentle heat.
=Syrup of Malate of Manganese.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MANGANESII MALATIS. (M.
Hannon.) _Prep._ Malate of manganese, 1 oz.; simple syrup, 16 oz.; spirit
of lemon peel, 2 dr.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 1 dr.
=Syrup of Manna.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MANNÆ. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Dissolve 3 oz. of
manna in 12 oz. of water, strain and filter; then add 16 oz. of sugar, and
make it into a syrup.
=Syrup of Mercury.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS HYDRARGYRI. _Prep._ “There are several
forms for mercurial syrups, but they all appear liable to serious
objection. Plenk:——Quicksilver, 1 dr.; powdered gum Arabic, 3 dr.; syrup,
2 oz.; triturate and gradually add 1 oz. of water. Larrey:——Sudorific
syrup, 1 pint; bichloride of mercury, 5 gr.; muriate of ammonia, 5 gr.;
extract of opium, 5 gr.; Hofman’s anodyne liquor, 1/2 dr.——_Dose_, 1/2 oz.
to 1 oz. Creron’s syrup consists of mercurial ether (4 gr. of sublimate to
2 dr. of ether), 2 dr.; syrup, 8 oz.” (Beasley.)
=Syrup of Marshmal′low.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ALTHÆÆ (Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. L.) Marshmallow root, fresh and sliced, 1-1/2 oz.; distilled water
(cold), 1 pint; macerate for 12 hours, press out the liquor, strain it
through linen, and add to the strained liquor twice its weight of white
sugar (about 3 lbs.); dissolve by a gentle heat, and, when cold, add of
rectified spirit, 2-1/2 fl. oz., or q. s. See SYRUP OF COCHINEAL.
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Take of fresh marshmallow root, bruised, 8 oz.; water, 4
pints; boil down to one half, and express the liquor when it is cold; set
it aside for 24 hours, that the fæces may subside, then decant off the
clear liquid, and, having added to it of sugar, 2-1/2 lbs., boil the whole
to a proper consistence. The formula of the Ph. E. is similar.
_Obs._ This is a popular demulcent and pectoral.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.;
in coughs, &c. either alone or added to mixtures.
=Syrup of Milk.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS LACTIS. Reduce skimmed milk by gentle
evaporation to one half, and add twice its weight of sugar.
=Syrup of Monosulphide of Sodium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SODII MONOSULPHIDI. (P.
Cod.) Crystallised monosulphide of sodium, 44 gr.; distilled water, 1 oz.;
syrup, 94 oz. (by weight).
=Syrup of Mugwort.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ARTEMISIÆ. As SYRUP OF WORMWOOD.
=Syrup of Mugwort, Compound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ARTEMISIÆ COMPOSITUS. (P.
Cod.) _Prep._ Take of fresh tops of mugwort, pennyroyal, catmint, and
savine, of each 2 oz.; fresh roots of elecampane, lovage, and fennel, of
each 88 gr.; fresh tops of wild marjoram, hyssop, feverfew, rue, and
basil, of each 1 oz.; aniseed, 1/4 oz.; cinnamon, 1/4 oz.; all properly
divided; rectified spirit, 2-1/2 oz. (by weight); water, 30 oz.; syrup of
honey, 12-1/2 oz. (by weight). Put the plants in a vessel over a water
bath, pour on the water mixed with the spirit, let it stand 24 hours, and
then distil over 3-1/2 oz. (by weight). On the other hand, press the
residue of the distillation, clarify with white of egg, and add sugar, 25
oz.; then make into a syrup, which, when boiling, has the sp. gr. 1·26.
Take the weight and evaporate until it has lost weight, equal to that of
the distilled liquid, then add the syrup of honey, and lastly, when nearly
cold, the distilled liquid, and strain.——_Dose_, 2 to 12 dr.
=Syrup of Mul′berries.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MORI (B. P., Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(Ph. L.) Juice of mulberries, strained, 1 pint; sugar, 2-1/2 lbs.;
dissolve by a gentle heat, and set the solution by for 24 hours; then
remove the scum, decant the clear liquid, and add of rectified spirit,
2-1/2 fl. oz. Used as a colouring and flavouring, when alkalies and earths
are not present. Syrup of red poppies (_rhœados_), slightly acidulated
with tartaric or dilute sulphuric acid, is very generally sold for it.
2. (B. P.) Mulberry juice, 20; refined sugar, 32; rectified spirit, 2-1/2;
heat the juice to the boiling point, and, when it has cooled, filter it;
dissolve the sugar in the filtered liquid by a gentle heat, and add the
spirit. The product should weigh 54. Sp. gr. 1·33.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
=Syrup of Mu′′riate of Morphia.= See SYRUP OF HYDROCHLORATE OF MORPHINE.
=Syrup of Opium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS OPII. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Extract of opium,
87-1/2 gr., dissolve in 6 dr. of cold water, and mix with sufficient syrup
to make up 6-1/4 lbs. (1 in 500).
=Syrup of Orange Flowers.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS AURANTII FLORIS (B. P.) _Prep_.
Orange-flower water, 8; refined sugar, 48; distilled water, 16, or a
sufficiency; heat the sugar and water together, strain, and when nearly
cold add the orange-flower water. When finished should weigh 72 and
measure 54. Sp. gr. 1·33.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
=Syrup of Orange Juice.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS E SUCCO AURANTIORUM. (Ph. E.,
1744.) _Prep._ Orange juice, 1 lb.; sugar, 2 lbs. Dissolve by heat.
=Syrup of Or′ange Peel.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS AURANTII (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.), S. CITRI AURANTII, S. É CORTICIBUS AURANTIORUM, L. _Prep_. 1. (Ph.
L.) Dried orange peel, 2-1/2 oz.; boiling distilled water, 1 pint;
macerate for 12 hours in a covered vessel, press out the liquor, simmer it
for 10 minutes, and then complete the process as directed for SYRUP OF
COCHINEAL. In the Ph. E. & D., and Ph. L. 1836, no spirit is ordered.
2. (B. P.) Tincture of orange peel, 1; syrup, 7; mix.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
3. (Wholesale.)——_a._ From fresh orange peel, 18 oz. (or dried, 3/4 lb.);
sugar, 18 lbs.; water, q. s.
_b._ From tincture of orange peel, 1 fl. oz.; simple syrup, 19 fl. oz.;
mix. An agreeable flavouring and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.
=Syrup, Pectoral.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS PECTORALIS. (Ph. L. 1746.) Black
maidenhair, 5 oz.; liquorice root, 4 oz.; boiling water, 4 pints; macerate
for some hours, strain, add to the infusion twice its weight of sugar, and
make a syrup.
=Syrup of Pepsine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS PEPSINÆ. (Corvisart.) _Prep._ 6 parts
of pepsin in 20 parts of cold water, and added to 70 parts of acidulated
syrup of cherries.
=Syrup of Persulphuret of Iron.= SYRUPUS FERRI PERSULPHURETI.
(Bouchardat.) _Prep._ Reduce 10 oz. of syrup by evaporation to 9 oz., and
add 2 oz. hydrated persulphuret of iron in a gelatinous state; mix, and
keep in a close bottle.——_Dose_. A teaspoonful two or three times a day in
scrofulous and cutaneous affections. As an antidote for poisoning by the
salts of lead, mercury and copper. Give a teaspoonful frequently.
=Syrup of Phosphate of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI PHOSPHATIS. (B. P.)
_Prep._ Granulated sulphate of iron, 224 gr.; phosphate of soda, 200 gr.;
acetate of soda, 74 gr.; dilute phosphoric acid, 5-1/2 oz.; refined sugar,
8 oz.; distilled water, 8 oz. Dissolve the sulphate of iron in 4 oz. of
the water, and the phosphate and acetate of soda in the remainder; mix the
two solutions, and, after careful stirring, transfer the precipitate to a
calico filter, and wash it with distilled water till the filtrate ceases
to be affected with chloride of barium. Then press the precipitate
strongly between folds of bibulous paper, and add to it the dilute
phosphoric acid. As soon as the precipitate has dissolved, filter the
solution, add the sugar, and dissolve without heat. The product should
measure exactly 12 fluid ounces. One fluid drachm contains 1 grain of
phosphate of iron.
In the preparation of this syrup as much expedition as possible should be
used in washing and pressing the precipitate of phosphate of iron formed.
It is best washed by decantation. The water employed should be just
previously boiled to expel oxygen; the protosulphate of iron should be
entirely free from persulphate, and clear crystals of phosphate of soda
should be chosen. Mr Howie (whose suggestions the previous ones are in
substance) proposes the use of bicarbonate of soda instead of acetate, the
phosphate of iron being soluble to a considerable extent in the acetic
acid liberated, if acetate of soda be employed. Mr W. H. Jones[220] gives
a process for the preparation of this syrup, which consists in dissolving
metallic iron in phosphoric acid and water, and then adding the solution
to syrup.
[Footnote 220: ‘Pharm. Journ.,’ 3rd series, vol. v, p. 541.]
=Syrup of Phosphate of Iron, Compound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI PHOSPHATIS
COMPOSITUS; PARRISH’S CHEMICAL FOOD; SYRUP OF THE COMPOUND PHOSPHATES;
SYRUPUS PHOSPHATICUS. (Mr E. Parrish, U. S.) Dissolve sulphate of iron, 10
dr., in boiling water, 2 oz.; and phosphate of soda, 12 dr., in boiling
water, 4 oz. Mix, and wash the precipitated phosphate of iron. Dissolve
phosphate of lime, 12 dr., in 4 oz. of boiling water, with enough
hydrochloric acid to make a clear solution; precipitate with liquid
ammonia, and wash precipitate. Add to the fresh precipitates glacial
phosphoric acid, 20 dr., dissolved in 4 dr. of water; when clear, add
carbonate of soda, 2 scruples, and carbonate of potassa, 1 dr., and then
sufficient hydrochloric acid to dissolve the precipitate. Now add water to
make the solution measure 22 oz. old measure, and add powdered cochineal,
2 dr.; mixed sugar, 32 troy oz.; apply heat, and, when the syrup is
formed, strain it and add orange-flower water, 1 oz.——_Dose._ A
teaspoonful. In addition to phosphate of iron and phosphate of lime this
syrup contains smaller quantities of the alkaline phosphates. Mr Howie
points out that Parrish is incorrect in stating that this syrup contains 1
gr. of phosphate of iron and 2-1/2 gr. phosphate of lime in the fluid
drachm, if this statement be compared with his formula, which by
calculation will be found to give ·715 gr. of phosphate of iron and 2 gr.
of phosphate of lime for the fluid drachm, even if none of the former were
wasted in the process. Mr Howie deprecates the use of hydrochloric acid
sometimes had recourse to in preparing the syrup, and he adds that the
purest sugar only should be used, and that made from beet-root should be
carefully avoided. See a valuable paper by Mr Howie on this subject,
‘Pharm. Journ.,’ 3rd series, vol. vi, p. 804.
=Syrup of Phosphate of Iron and Manganese.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRIPHOSPHATIS
ET MANGANESII. _Prep._ Dissolve 6 dr. of glacial phosphoric acid in a
small quantity of water, add 72 gr. of phosphate of iron, and 48 gr. of
phosphate of manganese; apply heat to dissolve, then add sugar, 10 oz.,
and water up to measure of 12 oz.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 dr.
=Syrup of Phosphate of Iron, with Quinine and Strychnia.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS
FERRI PHOSPHATIS, CUM QUINIA ET STRYCHNIA.
=Syrup of Phosphate of Manganese.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MANGANESII PHOSPHATIS.
(M. Hannon.) _Prep._ Phosphate of manganese, 1/2 dr.; spirit of tolu, 3
oz. 3 dr; syrup of bark, 5 oz.; spirit of lemon peel, 1-1/2 dr.; powder of
tragacanth, 10 gr. Mix quickly and preserve in a well-stoppered bottle.
=Syrup of Phosphate of Quinine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS QUININIÆ PHOSPHATIS.
_Prep._ Phosphate of quinine, 96 gr.; water, 13-1/2 fl. dr.; syrupy
phosphoric acid (sp. gr. 1·500), 2-1/2 fl. dr.; syrup, 10 fl. dr. Mix the
acid with the water, add the quinine, and filter into the syrup.
=Syrup of Phosphate of Zinc.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ZINCI PHOSPHATIS. _Prep._
Phosphate of zinc, 192 gr.; water, 11 fl. dr.; syrupy phosphoric acid (sp.
gr. 1·500), 5 fl. dr.; syrup, 10 fl. oz. Rub the phosphate with the water,
add the acid and filter into the syrup.
=Syrup of Phosphoric Acid.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ACIDI PHOSPHORICI. _Prep._
Phosphoric acid (sp. gr. 1·454), 1/2 oz.; syrup, 32-1/2 oz. (both by
weight). Syrup of raspberries may be substituted for simple syrup.
=Syrup of Pomegranate-root Bark.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CORTICIS RADICIS GRANATI.
(Guibort.) _Prep._ Obtain from 1 lb. of powdered bark of pomegranate root
4 lbs. of infusion by percolation. Boil this with 28-1/2 oz. of syrup till
reduced to 2 lbs.
=Syrup of Pop′pies.= _Syn._ SYRUP OF WHITE POPPIES; SYRUPUS PAPAVERIS (B.
P., Ph. L. & E.), S. P. SOMNIFERI, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Poppy capsules,
coarsely powdered, free from seeds, 36; rectified spirit, 16; refined
sugar, 64; boiling distilled water, a sufficiency; macerate the poppy
capsules in 80 of the water. Infuse for 24 hours, then pack in a
percolator, and, adding more of the water, allow the liquor slowly to pass
until 320 have been collected or the poppies are exhausted; evaporate the
liquor by a water bath until it is reduced to 60; when quite cold add the
spirit; let the mixture stand for 12 hours and filter. Distil off the
spirit, evaporate the remaining liquor to 40, and then add the sugar. The
product should weigh 104 and measure 78-3/4. Sp. gr. 1·32.——_Dose_, 1 dr.;
10 to 20 minims for children, increasing cautiously.
2. (Ph. L.) Poppy-heads, dried, bruised, and without the seed, 3 lbs.;
boiling water, 5 galls.; boil down to 2 galls., press out the liquor,
evaporate the expressed liquid to 2 quarts, strain it whilst hot, and set
it aside for 12 hours; next decant the clear portion from the fæces, boil
this down to 1 quart, and dissolve in it sugar, 5 lbs.; lastly, when cold,
add of rectified spirit, 5 fl. oz. “Each fl. oz. is equivalent to 1 gr. of
dry extract.” In the Ph. E. & Ph. D. 1826 no spirit is ordered.
3. (Wholesale.) Extract of poppies, 1-1/2 lb.; boiling water, 2-1/2
galls.; dissolve, clarify, or filter, so that it may be perfectly
transparent when cold, then add of white sugar, 44 lbs., and dissolve.
_Obs._ Syrup of poppies is anodyne and soporific.——_Dose._ For an infant,
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoonful; for an adult, 2 to 4 fl. dr. According to M.
Chereau, its tendency to fermentation is prevented by the addition of 32
parts of sugar of milk to every 1000 parts of the syrup.
=Syrup of Potassio-tartrate of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI
POTASSIO-TARTRATIS. _Prep._ Dissolve 4 dr. of potassio-tartrate of iron in
4 dr. of cinnamon water, and mix the solution with 16 oz. of syrup.
=Syrup of Pyrophosphate of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI PYROPHOSPHATIS.
(Parrish.) _Prep._ Pyrophosphate of iron in scales, 16 gr.; syrup, 1 fl.
oz.
=Syrup of Pyrophosphate of Iron and Ammonia.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI
PYROPHOSPHATIS ET AMMONIÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Pyrophosphate of iron with
citrate of ammonia, 1 dr.; water, 2 dr.; syrup, 12 oz.
=Syrup of Quinine with Coffee.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS QUINIÆ CUM CAFFEA. _Prep._
Prepare 1-1/2 pint of clear infusion from 4 oz. of roasted coffee;
dissolve it in 5 lbs. of refined sugar, and add to the syrup 1-1/2 dr. of
sulphate of quinine dissolved in a little water, with the addition of a
few drops of sulphuric acid.
=Syrup of Raspberry.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ACETI RUBI IDŒA. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Raspberry vinegar, 10 oz. (by weight); sugar, 17-1/2 oz.; boil them
together.
=Syrup of Red Pop′pies.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS RHŒADOS (Ph. L. & E.), S.
PAPAVERIS RHŒADOS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Petals of the red poppy, 1 lb.;
boiling water, 1 pint; mix in a water bath, remove the vessel, macerate
for 12 hours, press out the liquor, and, after defecation or filtering,
complete the process as directed for SYRUP OF COCHINEAL.
2. (Wholesale.) From dried red-poppy petals, 3 lbs,; boiling water, q. s.;
white sugar, 44 lbs.; as the last.
_Obs._ Syrup of red poppies is chiefly employed for its fine red colour. A
little acid brightens it. The colour is injured by contact with iron,
copper, and all the common metals.
=Syrup of Red Roses.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ROSÆ (B. P.), SYRUPUS ROSÆ GALLICÆ
(Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Dried petals of the red rose, 2 oz.;
boiling water, 1 pint; pure sugar, 20 oz.; as the last.
2. (Ph. D.) Dried petals of the gallic rose, 2 oz.; boiling water, 1 pint;
boil in a glass or porcelain vessel until the colour is extracted, strain
with expression, and, after defecation, add to the clear decanted liquor
twice its weight of white sugar. Astringent and stomachic; chiefly used as
an adjunct in mixtures, &c.
3. (B. P.) Dried rose petals, 1; refined sugar, 15; boiling distilled
water, 10; infuse the petals in the water 2 hours, squeeze through calico,
heat the liquor to the boiling point, and filter; add the sugar and
dissolve with heat. The product should weigh 23 and measure 17-1/4. Sp.
gr. 1·335.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
=Syrup of Rhatany.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS KRAMERIÆ. (P. Cod.) As syrup of
catechu.
=Syrup of Rhu′barb.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS RHEI (B. P.). _Prep._ 1. (B. P.).
Rhubarb, in coarse powder, 2; coriander fruit, in powder, 2; refined
sugar, 24; rectified spirit, 8; distilled water, 24; mix the rhubarb and
coriander, pack them in a percolator, pass the spirit and water,
previously mixed, slowly through them, evaporate the liquid that has
passed until it is reduced to 13, and in this, after it has been filtered,
dissolve the sugar with a gentle heat.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 dr.
2. (P. Cod.) Bruised rhubarb, 3 oz.; cold water, 16 fl. oz.; macerate for
12 hours, filter, and add of white sugar, 32 oz.
3. (Ph. U. S.) Take of rectified spirit, 8 fl. oz.; water, 24 fl. oz.;
rhubarb (coarsely powdered), 2 oz.; (mixed with) sand, an equal bulk, or
q. s.; make a tincture by percolation, evaporate this, over a water bath,
to 13 fl. oz., and dissolve it in 2 lbs. of white sugar. An excellent
formula.
4. (Wholesale.) Rhubarb (bruised), 1-3/4 lb.; cold water, q. s.; sugar, 20
lbs.; as No. 1. Stomachic and purgative.——_Dose._ For an infant, 1/2 to 1
teaspoonful; for an adult, 1/2 to 3/4 fl. oz., or more.
=Syrup of Rhubarb and Senna.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS RHEI ET SENNÆ. (Ph. E.,
1745.) _Prep._ Rhubarb, 1 oz.; senna, 2 oz.; fennel seed, 2 dr.; cinnamon,
2 dr.; boiling water, 2-1/2 pints; macerate for 12 hours, strain, and boil
with 3 lbs. of sugar to a syrup.
=Syrup of Rhubarb (Spliced).= _Syn._ SYRUPUS RHEI AROMATICUS, L. _Prep._
(Ph. U. S.) Rhubarb, 2-1/2 oz.; cloves and cinnamon, of each 1/2 oz.;
nutmeg, 1/4 oz. (all bruised); proof spirit, 32 fl. oz.; macerate for 14
days (or percolate), strain, gently evaporate to 16 fl. oz., filter whilst
hot, and mix the liquid with simple syrup (gently warmed), 4-3/4 pints. A
cordial laxative.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 teaspoonful; in infantile
constipation, diarrhœa, &c.
=Syrup of Ros′′es.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ROSÆ (Ph. L.), SYRUPUS ROSÆ CENTIFOLIÆ
(Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Dried petals of damask roses (_Rosa
centifolia_), 7 oz.; boiling water, 3 pints; macerate for 12 hours,
filter, evaporate in a water bath to 1 quart, and add of white sugar, 6
lbs.; and, when cold, rectified spirit, 5-1/2 fl. oz.
2. (Wholesale.) From rose leaves, 1 lb.; sugar, 19 lbs.; water, q. s.; as
the last. Gently laxative.——_Dose_, 1/4 to 1 fl. oz. It is usual to add a
few drops of dilute sulphuric acid, to brighten the colour. Alkalies turn
it green.
=Syrup of Rue.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS RUTÆ, L. _Prep._ Take of oil of rue, 12 to
15 drops; rectified spirit, 1/2 fl. oz.; dissolve, and add it to simple
syrup, 1 pint.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 teaspoonful; in the flatulent colic of
children. An infusion of 1/2 oz. of the herb is sometimes substituted for
the solution of the essential oil.
=Syrup of Saf′fron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS CROCI (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. L.) Hay saffron, 5 dr. (10 dr.——Ph. E; 1/2 oz.——Ph. D.); boiling
water, 1 pint; macerate in a covered vessel for 12 hours, then strain the
liquor, and add of white sugar, 3 lbs., q. s., and rectified spirit, 2-1/2
fl. oz., or q. s. in the manner directed under SYRUP OF COCHINEAL. The Ph.
E. & D. omit the spirit.
2. (Wholesale.) Hay saffron, 6 oz.; boiling water, 6 quarts; white sugar,
24 lbs.; as the last. Used for its colour and flavour; the first is very
beautiful.
=Syrup of Salicin.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SALICINI. _Prep._ Salicin, 1 dr.;
boiling water, 1 oz.; sugar, 2 oz.
=Syrup of Santonate of Soda.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SODÆ SANTONATIS. This formula
is recommended because of the adaptability of its administration to
children; the syrup being of very pleasant taste. It is made as
follows:——Powdered santonate of soda, 5 grams; simple syrup, 900 grams;
syrup of orange flower, 100 grams. Suspend the santonate in 250 grams of
the syrup, and heat it over a spirit-lamp until dissolved; add the
remainder of the syrup, then the syrup of orange flower, and mix
carefully. A tablespoonful or 20 grams of this syrup will contain 10
centigrams of santonate, or the equivalent of 5 centigrams of santonin.
For adults the dose might be double, or a syrup made containing 20
centigrams to the tablespoonful.
=Syrup of Sarsaparil′la.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SARZÆ (Ph. L. & E.), SYRUPUS
SARSAPARILLÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Take of sarsaparilla (sliced), 3-1/2
lbs.; boil it in water, 2 galls., down to one half; pour off the liquor,
and strain it whilst hot; again boil the sarsaparilla. in another gall. of
water down to one half, and strain; evaporate the mixed liquors to 1
quart, and in these dissolve of white sugar, 8 oz.; lastly, when the syrup
has cooled, add to it of rectified spirit, 2 fl. oz.
2. (Ph. E. & Ph. L. 1836.) Sarsaparilla (sliced), 15 oz.; boiling water, 1
gall.; macerate for 24 hours, boil to 2 quarts, strain, add of sugar, 15
oz., and boil to a syrup.
3. (Wholesale.) Take of extract of sarsaparilla, 3 lbs.; boiling water, 3
quarts; dissolve, strain, and add of white sugar, 12 lbs. Alterative and
tonic.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 dr. See SARSAPARILLA.
=Syrup of Sarsaparil′la, Compound.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SARZÆ COMPOSITUS, L.;
SYROP DE CUISINIER, Fr. _Prep._ (Ph. U. S.) Sarsaparilla (bruised), 2
lbs.; guaiacum wood, rasped, 3 oz; damask roses, senna, and liquorice
root, bruised, of each 2 oz.; diluted alcohol (proof spirit), 10 wine
pints (1 gall. imperial); macerate for 14 days, express, filter through
paper, and evaporate in a water bath to 4 wine pints (3-1/4 pints,
imperial); then add of white sugar, 8 lbs.; and, when cold, further add of
oils of sassafras and aniseed, of each 5 drops, and oil of partridge berry
(_Gaultheria procumbens_), 3 drops, previously triturated with a little of
the syrup.
_Obs._ This is an excellent preparation; but the rose leaves might be well
omitted.——_Dose_, 1/2 fl. oz. 3 or 4 times a day, as an alterative, tonic,
and restorative. The syrup of the P. Cod. is made with water instead of
spirit, and is inferior as a remedy to the preceding.
=Syrup of Sarsaparilla, Ioduretted.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SARSÆ IODURETI.
(Ricord.) _Prep._ Syrup of sarsaparilla, 31 parts; iodide of potassium, 1
part.
=Syrup of Senega.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SENEGÆ. (U. S.) _Prep._ Senega in
moderately fine powder, 4 troy oz.; sugar, 15 troy oz.; proof spirit, 2
pints (o. m.) Introduce the senega into a percolator and pour on the proof
spirit; when finished, evaporate the percolate by a water bath at 160° F.
to 8 oz. (o. m.); filter, add the sugar, dissolve by a gentle heat, and
strain whilst hot.
=Syrup of Sen′na.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SENNÆ (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. L.) Take of senna, 3-1/2 oz.; fennel seed (bruised), 10 dr.;
boiling water, 1 pint; macerate for 6 hours, with a gentle heat; then
strongly press out the liquid through linen, and dissolve in it of manna,
3 oz.; next add this solution to treacle, 3 lbs., previously evaporated
over a water bath until a little of it, on being cooled, almost concretes,
and stir them well together.
2. (Ph. E.) Senna, 4 oz.; boiling water, 24 fl. oz.; infuse, strain, add
of treacle, 48 oz., and evaporate to a proper consistence.
Aperient.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 dr.
3. (B. P.) Senna, broken small, 8 oz.; oil of coriander, 4-1/2 minims;
refined sugar, 12 oz.; distilled water, 50 oz.; or a sufficiency;
rectified spirit, 1 oz.; digest the senna in 3/4 of the water twenty-four
hours at a temperature of 120°, press, and strain; digest the marc in the
remainder of the water six hours, press, and strain; evaporate the mixed
liquors to 5 oz.; when cold add the rectified spirit containing the oil of
coriander; filter, and wash the filter with water to make up to 8 oz.; add
the sugar, and dissolve with gentle heat. The product should weigh 21 oz.,
and measure 16 oz. Sp. gr. 1·310.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
=Syrup of Senna with Manna.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SENNÆ CUM MANNA. (Ph. G.)
_Prep._ Infuse 10 oz. of senna leaves and 1 oz. of bruised fennel seeds
for some hours in 205 pints of hot water; strain, and dissolve in the
strained liquor 15 oz. of manna. Pour off 5-1/2 oz. (by weight) of liquid
from the sediment, and dissolve it in 3 lbs. 2 oz. of sugar.
=Syrup, Simple.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS (B. P., Ph. L.), SYRUPUS SIMPLEX (Ph. E. &
D.), L.
1. (Ph. L.) White sugar, 3 lbs.; distilled water, 1 pint; dissolve by a
gentle heat.
2. (Ph. E. & Ph. L. 1836.) Pure sugar, 10 lbs.; boiling water, 3 pints.
3. (Ph. D.) Refined sugar (in powder——crushed), 5 lbs.; distilled water, 1
quart.
4. (B. P.) Refined sugar, 6; distilled water, 3; dissolve the sugar in the
water with the aid of heat, and when cool add water to make the product
weigh 9 and measure very nearly 7. Sp. gr. 1·33.
5. (Wholesale.) Finest double refined sugar, 44 lbs.; distilled water,
2-3/4 gall.; make a syrup.
_Obs._ This preparation should be as white and transparent as water. Used
as capillaire, &c., and to give cohesiveness and consistence to
pulverulent substances in the preparation of electuaries, pills, &c.
=Syrup of Snails.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS LIMACIBUS (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Vine snails,
deprived of their shells and of the black portions, and cut up, 2 oz.;
wash in cold water and then boil with 10 oz. of water to 7 oz.; then add
10 oz. of sugar.
=Syrup of Soap Wort.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SAPONARIÆ. From the root, the same as
syrup of coltsfoot.
=Syrup of Squills.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SCILLÆ (B. H., Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._
1. (Ph. E.) Vinegar of squills, 3 pints; white sugar (in powder), 7 lbs.;
dissolve by a gentle heat.
2. (Ph. D.) Vinegar of squills, 8 fl. oz.; refined sugar (in powder), 1
lb.; dissolve.
3. (B. P.) Vinegar of squills, 20; refined sugar, 40; dissolve with the
aid of heat.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr.
4. (Wholesale.) Take of vinegar of squills (perfectly transparent), 14
lbs.; double refined sugar, 28 lbs.; dissolve in a stoneware vessel, in
the cold, or at most by a very gentle heat.
_Obs._ This syrup, like the last, should be as clear as water, and nearly
colourless.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl. dr., as an expectorant; in chronic coughs
and asthma. In large doses it proves emetic.
=Syrup of Squills, Compound.= =Syn.= HIVE SYRUP; SYRUPUS SCILLÆ
COMPOSITUS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. U. S.) Squills and senega, of each, bruised, 5
oz.; water, 1/2 gall.; boil to a quart; add of sugar, 4-1/2 lbs.;
evaporate to 3 pints, or a proper consistence, and dissolve in it, whilst
hot, of potassio-tartrate of antimony (in powder), 1 dr.
_Obs._ This syrup is a popular expectorant in the U. S., where it is known
as hive syrup.——_Dose._ As an expectorant, 20 to 30 drops, for adults; for
children, 5 to 10 drops; in croup, 10 drops to 1/2 fl. dr., repeated until
it vomits.
=Syrup of Stinking Hellebore.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS HELLEBORI FŒTIDI. _Prep._
Sprinkle the fresh leaves of bear’s foot with vinegar, and express the
juice. Boil this with twice its weight of sugar.
=Syrup of Stramonium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS STRAMONII. From the tincture as
syrup of belladonna.
=Syrup of Strychnia.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS STRYCHNIÆ. (P. Cod.) The Paris Codex
orders a syrup containing 1/4 gr. of sulphate of strychnia in 1000 gr. of
syrup.
=Syrup, Sudorific.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SUDORIFICUS. (Foy.) Sarsaparilla, 6
oz.; guaiacum raspings, 6 oz.; water, 3 pints. Macerate for 24 hours,
evaporate to 1-1/2 pint; strain, and make into a syrup with 2-1/2 lbs. of
sugar.
=Syrup of Sulphate of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI SULPHATIS. (Willis.)
_Prep._ Sulphate of iron, 1 dr.; water, 2 dr.; syrup, 16 oz.
=Syrup of Sulphate of Quinine.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS QUININÆ SULPHATIS. (P.
Cod.) _Prep._ Dissolve 30 gr. of sulphate of quinine in 4 dr. of water,
with 1/2 dr. of dilute sulphuric acid, and mix the solution with 13 oz. of
white syrup.
=Syrup of Sulphuret of Potassium.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS POTASSII SULPHURETI. (P.
Cod.) _Prep._ Liver of sulphur, 8 gr.; water, 16 gr.; syrup, 1 oz.
=Syrup of Superphosphate of Iron.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS FERRI-SUPERPHOSPHATIS.
(Mr Greenish.) _Prep._ Superphosphate of iron, 2 scruples; simple syrup, 1
fl. oz.
=Syrup, Symphytic.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS SYMPHYTI; BOYLE’S SYRUP. (Ph. E. 1745.)
_Prep._ Fresh comfrey root, 1/2 lb.; plantain leaves, 1/2 lb.; bruise,
express the juice, boil to half, and make a syrup with an equal weight of
sugar.
=Syrup of Tannin.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS TANNINI. (Foy.) _Prep._ Tannin, 2 oz.;
water, 16 oz.; sugar, 32 oz.
=Syrup of Tar.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS PICIS. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Tar water, 5-1/4
oz.; sugar, 10 oz. Dissolve by water bath, and filter through paper.
=Syrup of Tartaric Acid.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ACIDI TARTARICI. (P. Cod.)
_Prep._ Tartaric acid, 1 oz.; water, 2 oz,; sugar, 6 lbs. 1 oz. Dissolve
in the cold.
=Syrup of Tartrate of Manganese.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS MANGANESII TARTRATIS.
Made with tartrate of manganese, as syrup of malate of manganese.
=Syrup of Tolu′.= _Syn._ BALSAMIC SYRUP; SYRUPUS TOLUTANUS (B. P., Ph. L.,
E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Balsam of Tolu, 10 dr. (1 oz.——Ph. D.);
boiling distilled water, 1 pint; boil in a covered vessel for 1/2 an hour,
frequently stirring, then cool, strain, and dissolve in the liquor sugar,
2-1/2 lbs.
2. (Ph. E.) Simple syrup (warm), 2 lbs.; tincture of Tolu, 1 oz.; mix by
degrees, and agitate them briskly together in a closed vessel.
3. (B. P.) Balsam of Tolu, 1-1/4; sugar, 32; water, 20; boil the balsam
half an hour, adding water when required; when cold make up to 16, filter,
add the sugar, and dissolve. The product weighs 48 and measures 36. Sp.
gr. 1·33.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
4. (Wholesale.) To warm water, 23 lbs., add tincture of Tolu, gradually,
until it will bear no more without becoming opaque; then cork down the
bottle, and occasionally agitate until cold; when quite cold, filter it
through paper, and add of the finest double-refined sugar, 44 lbs.;
lastly, promote the solution, in a closed vessel, by a gentle heat, in a
water bath.
_Obs._ This syrup should be clear and colourless as water; but, as met
with in the shops, it is usually milky. It is strange that the London
College should have omitted from their formula the usual addition of
rectified spirit, although this syrup, perhaps more than any other, would
be benefited by it.
Syrup of Tolu is pectoral and balsamic.
=Syrup of Valerian.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS VALERIANÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Infuse 1
lb. of bruised valerian in 4 lbs. of boiling water for six hours; strain,
and press; then pour upon the marc 2 lbs. more of boiling water, or q. s.
so as to obtain 4-1/2 lbs. of infusion, including the product of the first
infusion; filter, and add 1 lb. of valerian water, and then dissolve in
it, by the aid of a water bath, 10 lbs. of sugar.
=Syrup of Vanilla.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS VANILLÆ. _Prep._ Vanilla, 2 oz.; white
sugar, 18 oz.; water, 9 oz. Beat the vanilla with a few drops of spirit,
then with part of the sugar, and water, q. s. to form a soft paste; add
the rest of the sugar and water, and digest for 18 or 20 hours in a glass
vessel placed in a water bath. Strain and clarify with white of egg if
required.
=Syrup, Velno’s Vegetable.= According to Dr Paris and Sir B. Brodie, this
celebrated nostrum is prepared as follows:——Young and fresh burdock root,
sliced, 2 oz.; dandelion root, 1 oz.; fresh spearmint, senna, coriander
seed, and bruised liquorice root, of each 1-1/2 dr.; water, 1-1/2 pint;
boil down gently to a pint, strain, add of lump sugar, 1 lb., boil to a
syrup; and, lastly, add a small quantity of corrosive sublimate,
previously dissolved in a little spirit. Used as an alterative and
purifier of the blood.
=Syrup of Vin′egar.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ACETI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Take of
vinegar (French, in preference), 11 fl oz.; white sugar, 14 oz.; and make
a syrup.——_Dose_, 1 dr. to 1 fl. oz.; as an expectorant, in coughs and
colds, or diffused through any mild diluent, as a drink in fevers. A more
agreeable preparation is that of the P. Cod., made by dissolving 30 parts
of sugar in 16 parts of raspberry vinegar.
=Syrup of Vi′olets.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS VIOLARUM, SYRUPUS VIOLÆ (Ph. L. & E.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Macerate violet flowers, 9 oz., in boiling water, 1
pint, for twelve hours, then press, strain, and set aside the liquid, that
the fæces may subside; afterwards complete the process with sugar, 3 lbs.,
and rectified spirit, 2-1/2 fl. oz. (or as much of each as may be
necessary), in the way which has been ordered concerning syrup of
cochineal.
2. (Ph. E.) Fresh violets, 1 lb.; boiling water, 2-1/2 pints; infuse for
24 hours in a covered vessel of glass or earthenware, strain off the
liquor (with gentle pressure), filter, and dissolve in the liquid white
sugar, 7-1/2 lbs.
3. (Wholesale.) From double-refined white sugar, 66 lbs.;
‘anthokyan,’[221] 11 lbs.; water, 22 lbs., or q. s.; dissolve in
earthenware.
[Footnote 221: The expressed juice of violets, defecated, gently heated in
earthenware to 192° Fahr., then skimmed, cooled, and filtered; a little
spirit is next added, and the next day the compound is again filtered.]
_Uses._ Syrup of violets is gently laxative.——_Dose._ For an infant, a
teaspoonful.
_Obs._ Genuine syrup of violet has a lively violet-blue colour, is
reddened by acids, turned green by alkalies, and both smells and tastes of
the flowers. It is frequently used as a test. A spurious sort is met with
in the shops, which is coloured with litmus, and slightly scented with
orris root. The purest sugar, perfectly free from either acid or alkaline
contamination, should alone be used in the manufacture of this syrup. The
Ph. E. orders the infusion to be strained without pressure; and the P.
Cod., and some other Ph., direct the flowers to be first washed in cold
water.
=Syrup of Wild Cherry Bark.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS PRIMI VIRGINIANÆ. (U. S.)
_Prep._ Moisten 5 troy. oz. of coarsely powdered bark of wild cherry and
water; let it stand 24 hours, then put it into a percolator, adding water
till 16 oz. (o. m.) of liquid are obtained. To this add 2-1/4 troy lbs. of
sugar in a bottle and agitate until it is dissolved.
=Syrup, Wilks’.= See SYRUP OF GARLIC, COMPOUND.
=Syrup of Worm′wood.= _Syn._ SYRUPUS ABSINTHII, L.; SIROP D’ABSINTHE, Fr.
_Prep._ (P. Cod.) Tops of wormwood (dried), 1 part; boiling water, 8
parts; infuse for 12 hours, strain, with expression, and dissolve in the
liquor twice its weight of sugar. Bitter, tonic, and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1
to 3 fl. dr.
=Syrups for Aerated Waters.= 1. _a._ _Lemon Syrup._——Dissolve 1 oz. of
citric acid in 4 oz. of water, and add to 9 pints of simple syrup; also
add 4 fl. oz. of mucilage of acacia and half a fluid ounce of tincture of
lemon.
_b._ Grate off the yellow rind of lemons and beat it up with a sufficient
quantity of granulated sugar. Express the lemon-juice; add to each pint of
juice 1 pint of water and 3-1/2 lbs. of granulated sugar, including that
rubbed up by the rind. Warm until the sugar is dissolved, and strain.
_c._ Dissolve 6 dr. of tartaric acid and 1 oz. of gum Arabic in pieces in
1 gallon of simple syrup, then flavour with 1-1/2 fl. dr. of best oil of
lemon. Or flavour with the saturated tincture of the peel in Cologne
spirits.
2. _a._ _Orange Syrup._ To be prepared from the fruit in the same manner
as _b_, Lemon Syrup.
_b._ Dissolve 6 dr. of citric acid in 1 gall. of simple syrup, and add 2
fl. dr. of fresh oil of orange in 2 oz. of alcohol, or, instead of the
alcohol solution of the oil, use the saturated tincture, obtained by
macerating the fresh peel for ten days in sufficient Cologne spirits to
cover. The lemon and orange syrups made from the fruit, after being
strained, may be diluted with an equal bulk of simple syrup. One dozen of
the fruit is sufficient to make 1 gallon of finished syrup.
3. _Vanilla Syrup._ See SYRUP.
4. _Syrup of Coffee._ See SYRUP.
5. _Strawberry and Raspberry Syrups._ Mash the fresh fruit, express the
juice, and to each quart add 3-1/2 lbs. of granulated sugar. The juice,
heated to 180° Fahr. and strained or filtered previous to dissolving the
sugar, will keep for an indefinite time. See also STRAWBERRY ESSENCE,
FACTITIOUS.
6. _Pine-apple Syrup._ Expressed juice of pine-apple, 1 pint; sugar, 2
lbs. Boil gently, and when cold, filter.
7. _Nectar Syrup._ Mix 3 parts of vanilla syrup with 1 each of pine-apple
and lemon syrup.
8. _Sherbet Syrup._ Mix equal parts of orange, pine-apple, and vanilla
syrup.
9. _Grape Syrup._ Mix 1/2 pint of brandy, 1/4 oz. of tincture of lemon,
and sufficient tincture of red sanders, with 1 gall. of syrup.
10. _Cream Syrup._ Condensed milk, 1 pint; water, 1 pint; sugar, 1-1/2 lb.
Heat to boiling, and strain.
11. _Orgent Syrup._ Cream syrup and vanilla syrup, of each 1 pint; oil of
bitter almonds, 4 minims.
12. _Ginger Syrup._ Syrup, 7-1/2 fl. oz.; essence of ginger (1 part of
ginger to 4 of spirit), 1/2 oz.
13. _Syrup of Chocolate._ Chocolate, 8 oz.; syrup, sufficient; water, 1/2
pint; white of 1 egg. Grate the chocolate and rub it in a mortar with the
egg. When thoroughly mixed, add the water gradually, and triturate till a
uniform mixture is obtained. Finally, add syrup to 4 pints, and strain.
=TABASHEER.= A deposit chiefly composed of silica, found in the joints of
the bamboo. When dry it is opaque, but possesses the property of becoming
transparent when placed in water. Its deposition in the nodes and joints
of the bamboo appears to be due to a diseased condition of these parts.
Tabasheer is much and unduly prized by the natives of India as a tonic and
constitutional restorative, and is chewed mixed with betel. It has the
least refractive power on light of any body known.
=TABES DORSALIS.= A disease of the posterior column of the spinal cord,
resulting in incoordination of the movements of the legs, sometimes
spreading to the upper limbs, so that the patient in walking throws out
the legs with a jerk, and brings them down violently upon the heels. Such
patients are popularly called “Stampers.”
=TABLETTES.= [Fr.] See LOZENGES and SAVONETTES.
=TACAMAHACA.= The resinous substance known by this name, is believed to be
obtained from the _Fagara octandra_ (of Linnæus), a large tree growing in
the island of Curaçoa and in Venezuela. The juice, which exudes from the
tree spontaneously, becomes hard upon exposure. The commercial article
varies greatly in size, sometimes occurring in irregular-shaped pieces of
one or two inches in diameter, whilst at others it is met with no larger
than a mustard seed. The pieces are usually of a reddish-brown or light
yellow colour. They have a resinous agreeable odour, with a balsamic,
bitter, slightly acrid taste. Tacamahaca dissolves partially in alcohol,
and entirely so in ether and fixed oils. It is composed of resin and a
little volatile oil. There are several varieties of this substance. At one
time Tacamahaca enjoyed a high reputation as an internal remedy for
urinary and scorbutic affections. It is now only occasionally employed in
medicine as an ingredient in ointments and plaster. Sometimes it enters
into the composition of incense. In properties it is very similar to the
turpentines.
=TAF′FETAS.= Plasters on silk are occasionally so called. For TAFFETAS
ANGLICUM, see COURT PLASTER; for TAFFETAS VESICANS, see VESICANTS.
=TALC.= _Syn._ FOLIATED TALC; UBRUC. A transparent, foliated, siliceous
magnesian mineral, flexible, but not elastic, found in Scotland, the
Tyrol, and elsewhere. It is used as a cosmetic, to impart a silky
whiteness to the skin; also in the composition of _rouge végétal_, and to
give a flesh-like polish to alabaster figures. A second and harder species
of this mineral (FRENCH CHALK, SOAPSTONE, STEATITE; CRETA GALLICA) is
employed as a crayon by carpenters, glaziers, and tailors, and forms the
boot-powder of the boot-makers. Writing executed with it on glass, even
after being apparently removed by friction, becomes again visible when
breathed upon.
=TAL′LOW= and other fats are commonly purified by melting them along with
water, passing the mixed fluids through a sieve, and letting the whole
cool slowly, when a cake of cleansed fat is obtained.——Another plan is to
keep the tallow melted for some time, along with about 2% of oil of
vitriol, largely diluted with water, employing constant agitation, and
allowing the whole to cool slowly; then to remelt the cake with a large
quantity of hot water, and to wash it well.——Another method is to blow
steam for some time through the melted fat. By either this or the
preceding process a white hard tallow may be obtained.——Some persons add a
little nitre to the melted fat, and, afterwards, a little dilute nitric or
sulphuric acid, or a solution of bisulphate of potash. Others boil the fat
along with water and a little dilute nitric or chromic acid, or a mixture
of bichromate of potash and sulphuric acid; and afterwards wash it
thoroughly with water. These methods answer well for the tallow or mixed
fats of which ordinary candles are made.
Tallow converted into stearic acid by saponification is readily hardened
and bleached, if moderately pure. A mixture composed of 1 part of oxalic
acid and 2000 parts of water is sufficient to bleach 1000 parts of stearic
acid. The mode of operating is as follows:——Throw the stearic acid, cut
into small pieces, into a vessel of cold water, and turn on steam; as soon
as it has melted and assumed a turbid appearance, add the solution of
oxalic acid, and boil the mixture. After boiling for 3/4 hour, long
threads appear in the liquid; the liquid itself, which previously was of a
greyish colour, becomes black, and the threads unite together. The boiling
must now be discontinued, and the contents of the vessel, having been
allowed to settle for three or four hours, must be drawn off into the
coolers.
As commercial stearic acid frequently contains undecomposed tallow, as
well as various foreign matters, this process is occasionally
unsuccessful. To obviate the inconveniences connected with the use of this
impure material, the candle may be run at two operations, as
follows:——“The stearic acid, treated as above, is exposed for a month to
the sun, by which means the foreign matters are oxidised, and the bleached
stearic acid acquires a dirty yellow colour; the oxidised blocks are then
melted in water containing a little sulphuric acid, at about 150° Fahr.;
an addition of about 10 per cent. of good white wax (or spermaceti) is
next made, and the whole boiled for half an hour; the white of an egg,
previously beaten up in a quart of water, is then added to each 1 cwt. of
stearic acid, the temperature of the mass having been reduced to 100°, or
at most 120° Fahr., after which the mixture is again well stirred and
boiled, when the liquid soon becomes clear, which is seen by the dark
colour it assumes.
“This mixture of stearic acid and wax or spermaceti is very suitable for
forming the exterior coating of the candle; it is transparent, and of
perfect whiteness, and, as it is devoid of oxalic acid, it does not injure
the moulds; whilst at the same time, as it is less fusible than pure
stearic acid, candles made with it do not run. The first coating may be
run hot without crystallising; the interior of the candle, being protected
from without against too sudden a cooling, may also be run somewhat hot;
by this means the candle acquires a whiteness and a transparency which
cannot be realised by other processes.” (‘Le Moniteur Industriel.’)
The sulphuric acid saponification of inferior tallow and other solid or
semi-solid fatty bodies is now carried out on a very large scale for
producing the cheaper varieties of ‘stearine candles.’ For this purpose,
the tallow or fat is mixed with 5 or 6% of concentrated sulphuric acid,
and exposed to a steam heat of 350° to 360° Fahr. After cooling, the black
mass thus obtained crystallises to a tolerably solid fat, which is well
washed once or twice with water, or high-pressure steam, and is then
submitted to distillation by the aid of steam heated to about 560° Fahr.
The product of the distillation is beautifully white, and may be at once
used for making candles. It is better, however, to first submit it to the
processes of cold and hot pressing, whereby a much more solid fat is
obtained.
According to M. Pohl, palm oil or palm tallow is most easily purified by
simple exposure to a high temperature, provided it has been first well
defecated. When quickly heated to about 465° Fahr., and kept at that
temperature for from 5 to 15 minutes, it is completely decoloured. The
product has a slight empyreumatic odour, but this disappears by age,
exposure, or saponification, and the natural violet odour of the oil
returns. Cast-iron pans should be employed in the process, and should be
only 2-3rds filled, and well covered during the operation.
By the distillation of sulphurated palm oil in closed vessels, at a heat
ranging from 570° to 600° Fahr., from 68% to 75% of a mixture of palmitic
and palm-oleic acid passes over, of which 25% to 30% is colourless, hard,
and crystalline, and the rest darker and softer. (Pohl.) The residuum in
the still is a fine hard pitch. See CANDLES, FAT, GLYCERIN, OILS (Fixed),
STEARIC ACID, &c.
=TAMAR′A.= A mixed spice used in Italian cookery, consisting of cinnamon,
cloves, and corianders, of each 2 parts; aniseed and fennel seed, of each
1 part.
=TAM′ARIND.= _Syn._ TAMARINDUS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. The pulp or
preserved fruit or pod of the _Tamarindus Indica_, or tamarind tree.
Tamarind pulp is refrigerant and gently laxative. Mixed with water, it
forms a grateful acidulous drink in fevers.——_Dose_, 1/4 oz. and upwards.
_Composition of the Tamarind._——Vanquelin.
Citric acid 9·40 per cent.
Tartaric ” 1·55 ”
Malic ” 0·45 ”
Bitartrate of potash 3·25 ”
Sugar 12·50 ”
Besides gum, vegetable jelly, parenchyma, and water.
=TANKS.= The difference between water-tanks and cisterns is not very
obvious. Perhaps the definition the most nearly representing the general
idea respecting them would be, that whilst both were receptacles for
water, in tanks water would be stored for a longer period than in
cisterns, which supplying the constantly recurring needs of a house or a
building of any kind would be more frequently filled and emptied; although
in many instances there might be no such distinction between them, and
they might be regarded as synonymous. In whatever sense the terms may be
understood, the remarks that follow as to their construction and
management have a common application.
The materials for tanks and cisterns for the reception of water consist of
stone, cement, brick, slate, iron, zinc, and lead. Of these materials, the
best, although the dearest, is slate. The slate cistern, however, is
occasionally liable to leakage, a defect mostly arising from the
employment of mortar instead of cement for joining the slabs.
Wrought-iron cisterns and tanks as well as the pipes in connection with
them are in very general use. The tendency of both to corrosion by the
action of the water is considerably reduced by coating the insides with
Portland cement or a vitreous glaze.
Mr Burn advocates the employment of a compound of tar, which, he says,
most effectually protects them. Zinc, although cheap, and little acted
upon by water, is seldom employed for cisterns. Dr Osborne says he has
seen several cases of zinc poisoning, caused by drinking water that had
passed through zinc pipes, or had stood in zinc pails. Equal, if not
greater risk is incurred when drinking-water is kept in lead cisterns, or
is made to run through lead pipes. In setting up cisterns or tanks made of
stone or cement, common mortar must not be used, as lime is taken up and
the water is rendered hard in consequence.
In seasons of drought it is by no means an unusual occurrence for many
rural districts to lack a sufficiency of water, the limited supply of
which entails considerable suffering, sometimes terminating fatally upon
farm stock, with frequent loss to the owners. Few persons, perhaps, can
form a correct idea of the immense quantity of water that in the shape of
rain falls even in the least humid portions of our islands. If this rain,
which is now allowed to run waste, were properly collected and stored, it
would form a valuable resource in times and at places where there was a
dearth or scarcity of this necessary element.
Mr Bayley Denton, writing on this subject, says:——“Take an ordinary
middle-class house in a village with stabling and outbuildings, the space
of ground covered by the roofs will frequently reach 10 poles, while the
space covered by a farm-labourer’s cottage and outbuildings will be 2-1/2
poles.
Assuming that the roof is slate and the water dripping from it is properly
caught by eave-troughing, and conducted by down-pipes and impervious
drain-pipes into a water-tight tank sufficiently capacious to prevent
overflow under any circumstances, and that by this method 20 inches of
water from rain and dew are collected in the course of the year, the
private houses will have the command of 28,280 gallons, and the cottage
7070 gallons in a year.... A tank 16 feet long, and ten feet wide, will
hold 1000 gallons in every foot of depth, and where the water is not
wanted for drinking, it need not be covered, except with a common boarded
floating roof of half-inch boards fastened together. This floating roof
keeps the water clean, and prevents evaporation.”[222]
[Footnote 222: ‘On the Storage of Water,’ by Bayley Denton.]
Leakage of pipes of any kind into a cistern or tank should be particularly
guarded against. Another important precaution claiming adoption is to see
that the overflow-pipe is not directly connected with the sewer, for if it
be, the sewer gases will rise through it, and being prevented escaping
from the cistern because of its covering, will become absorbed by the
water. To obviate this, the overflow-pipe is curved, so as to force a
syphon trap; but this device conduces to a sense of false security, since
it mostly fails owing to the evaporation of the water in it, or to the
gases forcing their way through it. The overflow-pipe, therefore, should
never have direct communication with the sewer, but should always end
above ground, and discharge over a trapped grating into it. For similar
reasons the same tanks or cisterns should never supply the water used for
culinary or drinking purposes and also the water-closets.
To the water in the tanks attached to these latter, some disinfectant
substance should from time to time be added; more particularly during hot
weather.
Unless a cistern be efficiently protected, particularly if it be placed in
an exposed situation, various disgusting and filthy substances, such as
the ordure of birds, cats, rats, and dead insects, &c., will be liable to
fall into it, and foul its contents. This must not only be guarded against
by the proper means, but even where the contamination may not be
suspected, or likely to occur, the cistern should be frequently examined
and periodically cleansed; part of the proper carrying out of which should
consist in always running off the water remaining in it and renewing it
with fresh.
The London and General Water Purifying Company have adopted an excellent
idea in connection with tanks and cisterns; they fit them with filters, so
that the water drawn from the pipes shall have been submitted to
filtration previous to delivery.
=TAN′NATE.= A salt of tannic acid.
=TAN′NER’S BARK.= The best of this is oak bark; but the bark of the
chestnut, willow, and larch, and other trees which abound in tannin, are
also used for preparing leather.
=TAN′NIC ACID.= C_{27}H_{22}O_{17}. _Syn._ TAN, TANNIN, GALLO-TANNIC
ACID†; TANNINUM, ACIDUM TANNICUM (B. P., Ph. L., D., & U. S.), L. A
peculiar vegetable principle, remarkable for its astringency and its power
of converting the skins of animals into leather.
_Prep._ 1. (Pelouze.) From galls, in moderately fine powder, by
percolation, in a closed vessel, with sulphuric ether that has been
previously agitated with water. After some time the percolated liquid will
be found divided into two distinct portions, the lower and heavier one
being a watery solution of tannic acid, and the upper one an ethereal
solution of gallic acid and colouring matter. Fresh ether must be passed
through the powder as long as the lower stratum of liquid continues to
augment. The two fluids are now carefully separated, and after the heavier
one has been well washed with ether, it is gently evaporated to dryness,
preferably under the receiver of an air pump, or over sulphuric acid. The
ether may be recovered unaltered from the ethereal solution, by cautious
distillation in a retort connected with a Liebig’s condenser supplied with
ice-cold water. _Prod._ About 40%.
2. (Ph. D.) From galls, in tolerably fine powder, 8 oz., and a mixture of
sulphuric ether, 3 pints, with water, 5 fl. oz.; by percolation, in
successive portions, like the last; the aqueous solution of tannic acid
being evaporated, and finally dried at a heat not exceeding 212° Fahr.
_Prop., &c._ Pure tannic acid is perfectly white, but as ordinarily met
with it has a slight yellowish colour, owing to the action of the air; it
is uncrystallisable; possesses a powerful and purely astringent taste,
without bitterness; is freely soluble in water, less so in alcohol, and
only very slightly in ether; it reddens vegetable blues; when boiled with
acids, it assimilates water and splits into gallic acid and grape sugar;
when heated in the dry state, it suffers decomposition, metagallic and
pyrogallic acids being formed; it unites with the bases, forming salts
called tannates, which are characterised by striking a deep black with the
persalts of iron (ink), and forming a white precipitate with gelatin.
E. Schmidt[223] gives the following comparative method of determining
tanning materials, stating, preliminarily, “that the question to be solved
is, knowing that a certain weight of pure tannin is required to obtain a
certain result, how much of another tanning body, _e.g._ the extract of a
wood, is required to produce the same result? None of the published
methods for the determination of tannin is sufficiently precise, easy, and
rapid for industrial purposes.”
[Footnote 223: Chem. News, from ‘Bull. de la Soc. Chem. de Paris.’]
The author proposes a modification of Pibram’s method with sugar of lead,
the modification being as follows:
A. _Preparation of the Test Liquor._ Fifty grams neutral acetate of lead
are dissolved in 400 grams of alcohol, of 92 per cent., and distilled
water is added to make up 1 litre.
On the other hand, 1 gram of tannin is dissolved in 40 grams of alcohol of
the same strength, and the solution is made up with water to the bulk of
100 c.c. This being done, 10 c.c. of the tannin solution are mixed with
20 c.c. of water, and heated to 60°. The lead liquor is then run into the
hot solution from a burette, graduated to tenths of a c.c., so long as a
precipitate is formed. At this temperature, and with these alcoholised
liquids, the precipitate forms and settles rapidly. Iodide of potassium
may be used as an indicator to show excess of lead, proceeding in the same
manner as is done with ferrocyanide in titrating phosphates with nitrate
of uranium. If we suppose that to precipitate 10 c.c. of the tannin
solution 28° of the lead liquor have been required, then 2·8 c.c. of the
latter = 0·10 gram of tannin.
B. _Preparation of the Sample to be tested._ Suppose that chestnut bark is
to be examined. It is coarsely powdered, and 10 grams are mixed with an
equal volume of washed sand, and exhausted with water at 50° or 60° C. The
filtered liquid is evaporated to dryness in a water bath in a tarred
porcelain capsule. After evaporation the capsule is weighed, which shows
the yield of the bark in aqueous extract. This is taken up in 40 grams of
alcohol at 92°, and water is added to make up 100° c.c. The liquid is
filtered if needful. In this manner the resinous, albuminoid, pectic, and
gummy matters are got rid of.
C. _Titration._ The liquid thus prepared is divided into two parts. The
first, one third of the entire volume, serves for direct determination of
the acetate of lead. Suppose that a gram of the dry extract of chestnut
has required, for 10 c.c. of the tannin liquor, in three successive
experiments, 16°, 17°, and 16° of the burette, which corresponds to 57 per
cent. of tannin. Thus figure 57 represents not only tannin, but every
other substance capable of precipitating acetate of lead.
The tannin is then absorbed with bone black, previously washed with
hydrochloric acid, and dried at 100° C. in the following manner:——We act
with bone black upon the tannin liquor, and on a solution of pure tannic,
prepared at a standard somewhat lower than that indicated for the extract
by the first direct titration. In the present case this solution of tannin
should be prepared at 55 per cent.
From one and the same glass tube, about 1 centimètre in diameter, we cut
off two lengths of 20 centimètres each, and we draw out each at one of its
ends. The two tubes are fixed perpendicularly with the points downwards,
and plugged with a little carded cotton. Into each is put 10 grams of the
bone black, pouring into one of them the second part of the tannin liquor
under examination, and into the other the same volume of the pure solution
of pure tannin at 55 per cent.
Twenty c.c. of the tannin liquor (which will be found to have retained
its original brown colour in spite of the bone black) are now heated to
60° C., and the standard lead liquor is added from the burette as before.
Two successive trials show 16° = 8° for 10 c.c. in place of the 16° found
for 10 c.c. on direct titration. On the other hand, 20 c.c. of the
solution of pure tannin require 14°, or 7° for 10 c.c. Thus we see that
in the tannin liquor (chestnut extract) there is a certain quantity of
matter which acts upon the standard lead solution like tannin,
corresponding to 1° of the lead liquor, _i. e._ to 357 thousandths of a
centigram of tannin; 28°, therefore, correspond to 10 centigrams. The
figure 57, obtained by direct titration, is, therefore, too high by 3·57
per cent., and the extract contains 57 - 3·57 = 53·43 per cent. of tannin.
_Uses, &c._ The value of substances containing tannin in the preparation
of leather is well known. In its pure form it is used as an astringent in
medicine; internally, in diarrhœa, hæmorrhages, as a tonic in dyspepsia,
&c.; externally, made into a gargle, injection, or ointment.——_Dose_, 1 to
10 gr., in the form of pills or solution. See GALLIC ACID, &c.
=TAN′NIN.= See TANNIC ACID.
=TAN′NING.= When the skin of an animal, carefully deprived of hair, fat,
and other impurities, is immersed in a dilute solution of tannic acid, the
gelatin gradually combines with that substance as it penetrates inwards,
forming a perfectly insoluble compound, which resists putrefaction
completely; this is tanned leather. In practice, lime water is used for
cleansing and preparing the skin, water acidulated with oil of vitriol for
‘raising’ or opening the pores, and an infusion of oak bark, or sometimes
of catechu, or other astringent matter, as the source of tannic acid. The
process itself is necessarily a slow one, as dilute solutions only can be
safely used. Skins intended for the curriers, to be dressed for ‘uppers,’
commonly require about 3 weeks; and ‘thick hides,’ from 12 to 18 months.
Of late years various ingenious contrivances have been adopted, with more
or less success, to hasten the process of tanning skins and hides. Among
these may be mentioned the employment of stronger tan solutions, the
application of a gentle heat, puncturing the skins to afford more ready
access for the liquid to their interior parts, and maceration in the tan
liquor under pressure, either at once or after the vessel containing them
has been exhausted of air by means of an air-pump. On the merit of these
several methods it has been remarked “that the saturated infusions of
astringent barks contain much less extractive matter, in proportion to
their tannin, than the weak infusions; and when the skins are quickly
tanned in the former, common experience shows that it produces leather
which is less durable than leather slowly formed.” (Sir H. Davy.) “100
lbs. of skin, quickly tanned in a strong infusion of bark, produce 137
lbs. of leather; while 100 lbs., slowly tanned in a weak infusion, produce
only 117-1/2 lbs.” “Leather thus highly (and hastily) charged with tannin
is, moreover, so spongy as to allow moisture to pass readily through its
pores, to the great discomfort and danger of persons wearing shoes made of
it.” (Ure.)
According to Mr G. Lee, much of the original gelatin of the skin is wasted
in the preliminary processes to which they are subjected, more especially
the ‘liming’ and ‘bating,’ He says, that 100 lbs. of perfectly dry hide,
cleaned from extraneous matter, should, on chemical principles, afford at
least 180 lbs. of leather.
MOROCCO LEATHER is prepared from goat or sheep skins, which, after the
action of lime water and a dung bath, are slightly tanned in a bath of
sumach. They are subsequently grained, polished, &c.
RUSSIA LEATHER is generally tanned with a decoction of willow bark, after
which it is dyed, and curried with the empyreumatic oil of the birch tree.
It is the last substance which imparts to this leather its peculiar odour
and power of resisting mould and damp. See LEATHER, TANNIC ACID, TAWING,
&c.
=TANTALIC ACID.= _Syn._ TANTALIC ANHYDRIDE; COLUMBIC ACID. Rose believed
this substance to be a dioxide, to which he gave the formula TaO_{2}; but
the subsequent researches of Marignac, and the crystalline form of
potassic tantalic fluoride 2KF, TaF_{5}, seem to show that it is to be
regarded rather as Ta_{2}O_{5}.
=TAN′TALUM.= Ta. _Syn._ COLUMBIUM. A rare metal discovered by Mr Hatchett,
in 1801, in a mineral from Massachusetts; and by M. Ekeberg, in 1803, in
tantalite, a mineral found in Sweden. It exists in most of its ores in
combination with oxygen.
=TAPEWORM.= See WORMS.
=TAPEWORM CURE= (Bloch, Vienna). Coarsely powdered pomegranate root bark,
125 grammes, boiled for half an hour in 800 grammes water. To this add
solution of ammonia, 5 grammes; boil again for a quarter of an hour. Add
kousso flowers 25 grammes. Again boil for a few minutes, and when cold add
citric acid, 1 gramme; and alcohol, 30 grammes. Press, filter, and set
aside. The product should weigh about 500 grammes. Klinger says this
remedy is merely a concentrated essence of pomegranate root bark, and
contains neither ammonia nor citric acid.
=Tapeworm Cure= (Jacoby, Berlin). A box containing 20 grammes of kousso
powder and directions for use. (Hager.)
=Tapeworm Cure= (Mix). (_a_) A mixture containing 3 decigrammes of
sulphate of quinine, with a few drops of hydrochloric acid to dissolve it
in 200 grammes water. To be taken in the course of three days. (_b_) A box
with 12 grammes kousso powder. A teaspoonful to be taken each morning in
black coffee. (Schädler.)
=Tapeworm Cure= (Richard Mohrmann, Frankenberg, Saxony). This Mohrmann
travels about in the fashion of the old charlatans, to sell his medicines.
These consist of two varieties, the first being 10 grammes of extract of
male fern, the second a mixture of 8 grammes each of raspberry juice and
castor oil. These remedies have been used for tapeworm for almost 100
years. The doctor’s directions for use are to mix 30 grammes of the
extract with the castor oil and raspberry compound, and 30 drops of the
mixture to be taken every quarter of an hour, until purging occurs.
=Tapeworm Cure= (Mork, Berlin). A decoction of about 110 grammes of
pomegranate root bark, yielding 400 grammes of liquid, and mixed 1 gramme
of extract of male fern. The directions order that on one day one or two
tablespoonfuls of castor oil should be taken, a herring salad in the
evening, and the following morning, after coffee, a third of the contents
of the bottle, another third half an hour later, and the remainder in yet
another half hour. (Hager.)
=Tapeworm Cure for Children and Adults= (E. Karig, Berlin). Burned oxide
of copper, 1 gramme; cassia powder, 1-1/2 gramme; sugar of milk, 10
grammes. Divide in 24 powders. (Schädler.)
=Tapeworm Pills, Laffon’s=, are compounded of the ethereal extract of the
root of _Aspidium Lonchitis_, _Asp. Helveticum_, and _Asp. Filixmas_,
together with the alcoholic extract of the flowers of _Achillea mutellina_
and _maschata_, and the powder of the flowers of _Arnica Doronicum_.
(Wittstein.)
=Tapeworm Pills, Peschier’s.=——Ethereal extract and powder of the rhizome
of male fern, of each gramme 1·6 make 20 pills. Take ten at night and ten
in the morning.
=TAPIO′CA.= _Syn._ TAPIOCA (Ph. E. & D.), L. The fecula of the root of
_Janipha manihot_ (_Jatropha manihot_——Linn.), which has been well washed
in water, and dried on hot plates, by which it assumes the appearance of
warty-looking granules.
[Illustration: Microscopic appearance of tapioca.]
Pure tapioca is insipid, inodorous, only slightly soluble in cold water,
but entirely soluble in boiling water, forming a translucent and highly
nutritious jelly. Its granules are muller-shaped, about 1/2000 of an inch
in diameter, and display very marked hilums. It is used in a similar
manner to sago and arrow-root. See CASSAVA.
=TAPS, WOODEN (to prevent their cracking).= The taps are placed in mother
paraffin, heated to from 110° to 120°; by this means the water is
eliminated from the wood, and the wood becomes thoroughly impregnated with
paraffin. The taps are heated in this bath until all the aqueous vapour
has been expelled, and are left in it, after the removal of the vessel
from the fire, up to the very moment the paraffin begins to solidify.
Wooden taps thus prepared are very durable, do not become soaked with
liquids, keep very tight, and are not liable to become mouldy. The excess
of paraffin is wiped off with care, and the taps are next rubbed clean
with a piece of flannel. (Dr E. Kopp.)[224]
[Footnote 224: ‘Chemical News.’]
=TAR.= _Syn._ PIX LIQUIDA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. A liquid bitumen
prepared from the wood of _Pinus sylvestris_, and other species, by heat.
The chemical constitution of tar is very complicated. Its uses in the arts
are well known. As a medicine it is stimulant, diuretic, sudorific, and
vermifuge.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 minims, made into pills with flour; in
ichthyosis, &c. Externally, in lepra, psoriasis, foul ulcers, &c. See
OINTMENT and INFUSION.
=Tar, Barbadoes.= _Syn._ PIX LIQUIDA BARBADENSIS, PETROLEUM BARBADENSE,
PETROLEUM (Ph. L. and E.), L. “Black liquid bitumen, exuding spontaneously
from the earth.” (Ph. L.) Its properties for the most part resemble those
of the last.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops; in asthma, chronic coughs, tapeworm,
&c. Externally, in chilblains, chronic and rheumatic pains, &c. See
PETROLEUM.
=Tar, Coal.= Produced during the distillation of bituminous coal for gas.
See NAPHTHA, &c.
=TARAX′ACUM.= See DANDELION.
=TAR COLOURS.= _Syn._ COAL TAR COLOURS, ANILINE COLOURS, &c. Coal tar, the
source of the aniline colours, consists of the oily fluid obtained in the
destructive distillation of coal, during the manufacture of ordinary
illuminating gas, and collected in a tank from the hydraulic main and
condensers.
The composition of coal tar is highly complex, the most important
constituents being, however, a series of homologous hydrocarbons obtained
by distilling coal tar, and known as ‘coal naphtha.’ Naphtha, by
rectification between 180° and 250° Fahr. (82 and 121 Cent.), yields a
light yellow oily liquid, of sp. gr. ·88, the benzol of commerce.
By the action of a mixture of nitric and sulphuric acids on benzol,
nitro-benzol, a heavy oily liquid with an odour of oil of bitter almonds
is obtained. In commerce this substance is made in large cast-iron pots,
fitted with tight covers, and provided with stirrers worked by steam
power. By means of pipes the reagents are admitted and the nitrous fumes
are carried off, while the nitro-benzol and the spent reagents are drawn
off from the bottom. The entire charge of benzol is first placed into the
vessels, and the mixed acids are, as the reaction is very energetic,
cautiously run in, the whole being well stirred throughout. When finished,
the contents are drawn off, and the nitro-benzol collected, washed with
water, and, if necessary, neutralised with a solution of soda. See BENZOL.
Nitro-benzol is converted into aniline in a similar apparatus, only
provided with means of admitting a current of superheated steam, and
condensing the aniline as it distils over. Into the vessel iron borings
are placed, and acetic acid and nitro-benzol cautiously run in as the
reduction is violent, stirring well all the time. A current of superheated
steam is passed through, and the aniline collected as it distils over as a
pale, sherry-coloured oily liquid, boiling at 360° Fahr. (182 Cent.), and
of sp. gr. 1·02. See ANILINE.
MAUVE, INDISINE, VIOLINE, PHENAMINE, the first-discovered coal tar, or
aniline colour, was obtained by Mr Perkins during some experiments
directed towards the artificial formation of quinine, and was also first
practically manufactured by Mr Perkins. Commercially, mauve is made as
follows:
Aniline and sulphuric acid in proper proportions are dissolved in water in
a vat by aid of heat, and when cold a solution of bichromate of potassium
added, and the whole allowed to stand a day or two, when a black
precipitate is obtained, which, after collecting on shallow filters, is
washed and well dried. This black resinous substance is digested with
dilute methylated spirit in a suitable apparatus, to dissolve out the
mauve, and the major portion of the spirit distilled off. The mauve is
precipitated from the aqueous solution left behind by hydrate of sodium,
and after washing is either drained to a paste or dried.
The amount of mauve thus obtained is but small in comparison with the raw
material, coal tar, as 100 lbs. of coal yield 10 lbs. 12 oz. of coal tar;
8-1/2 oz. of mineral naphtha, 2-3/4 oz. of benzol; 4-1/4 oz. of
nitro-benzol, 2-1/4 oz. of aniline, and 1/4 oz. of mauve. Mauve is usually
sent into the market in paste or solution, the expense of the crystals
being heavy, and offering no corresponding advantages.
Other salts than the bichromate of potassium have been employed to convert
aniline into mauve, as chloride of copper, permanganate of potassium, &c.;
but experience has shown none to possess the same advantages as the
bichromate of potassium.
MAUVEINE, the organic base of mauve or aniline purple, is a black
crystalline powder, of the formula C_{27}H_{24}N_{3}, yielding a dull
violet solution. The moment, however, mauveine is brought in contact with
an acid, it turns a magnificent purple colour. The salts of mauveine form
beautiful crystals possessing a splendid green metallic lustre, soluble
very readily in alcohol, and less so in water. The commercial salt, or
mauve, is the acetate, or sometimes the hydrochlorate.
=Magenta.= _Syn._ ANILINE RED, ROSEINE, FUCHSINE, AZALEINE, SOLFERINO,
TYRALINE. Various processes have been proposed and patented for the
preparation of this commercially important coal-tar colour. Amongst these
processes are——
1. Gerber-Keller’s, patented in France, October 29th, 1859. By this the
aniline is treated with mercuric nitrate.
2. Lauth and Depouilly used nitric acid.
3. Medlock (patent dated January, 1860). Nicholson, and Messrs Girard and
De Laire, all in 1860, separately patented the use of arsenic acid. This
process, being the one now almost exclusively employed, is thus described
in Crace Calvert’s work, ‘Dyeing and Calico Printing,’ edited by Messrs
Stenhouse and Grove. “The manufacture of magenta, as it is now conducted
in the large colour works, is a comparatively simple process, the
apparatus employed consisting of a large cast-iron pot set in a furnace,
provided with means of carefully regulating the heat. It is furnished with
a stirrer, which can be worked by hand or by mechanical means, the gearing
for the stirrer being fixed to the lid, so that by means of a crane the
lid may be removed, together with the stirrer and gearing. There is also a
bent tube passing through the lid for the exit of the vapours, which can
be easily connected or disconnected with a worm at pleasure; lastly, there
are large openings at the bottom of the pot, closed by suitable stoppers,
so that the charge can be removed with facility as soon as the reaction is
complete. Into this apparatus, which is capable of holding about 500
gallons, a charge of 2740 lbs. of a concentrated solution of arsenic acid,
containing 72% of the anhydrous acid, is introduced, together with 1600
lbs. of commercial aniline. The aniline selected for this purpose should
contain about 25% of the toluidine.
“After the materials have been thoroughly mixed by the stirrer the fire is
lighted, and the temperature gradually raised to about 360° F. In a short
time water begins to distil, then aniline makes its appearance along with
the water, and, lastly, aniline alone comes over, which is nearly pure,
containing, as it does, but a very small per centage of toluidine. The
operation usually lasts about eight or ten hours, during which time about
170 gallons of liquid pass over, and are condensed in the worm attached to
the apparatus; of this about 150 lbs. are aniline. The temperature should
not exceed 380° F. at any period during the operation. When this is
complete steam is blown in through a tube, in order to sweep out the last
traces of the free aniline, and boiling water is gradually introduced in
quantity sufficient to convert the contents into a homogenous liquid. When
this occurs the liquid is run out of the openings at the bottom into
cisterns provided with agitators; here more boiling water is added, in
the proportion of 300 galls. to every 600 lbs. of crude magenta, and also
6 lbs. of hydrochloric acid. The mass is then boiled for four or five
hours by means of steam pipes, the agitators being kept in constant
motion. The solution of hydrochloride, arsenite, and arseniate of
rosaniline thus obtained is filtered through woollen cloth, and 720 lbs.
of common salt added to the liquid (which is kept boiling) for each 600
lbs. of crude magenta. By this means the whole of the rosaniline is
converted into hydrochloride, which, being nearly insoluble in the strong
solution of arseniate and arsenite of sodium produced in the double
decomposition, separates and rises to the surface; a further quantity is
deposited from the saline solution on allowing it to cool and stand for
some time. In order to purify the crude rosaniline hydrochloride it is
washed with a small quantity of water, redissolved in boiling water
slightly acidulated with hydrochloric acid, filtered, and allowed to
crystallise.”
If in the treatment of aniline with arsenic acid the latter be
considerably beyond the proportion of aniline employed, VIOLET and BLUE
dyes may be formed. The production of such has been patented by Girard and
De Laire.
4. Laurent and Casthélaz have obtained aniline red direct from benzol,
without the preliminary isolation of aniline. Nitrobenzol is treated with
twice its weight of iron finely divided, and half its weight of
concentrated hydrochloric acid. The colouring matter obtained by this
process is said to be inferior in beauty to that procured from aniline.
5. Messrs Renard Brothers include in their patent the ebullition of
aniline with stannous, stannic, mercurous, and mercuric sulphates, with
ferric and uranic nitrates and nitrate of silver, and with stannic and
mercuric bromides.
6. Messrs Dale and Curo’s (patent dated 1860) consists in the treatment of
aniline or hydrochlorate of aniline with nitrate of lead.
7. Mr Smith claims the ebullition of aniline with perchloride of antimony,
or the action of antimonic acid, peroxide of bismuth, stannic, ferric,
mercuric, and cupric oxides, upon hydrochlorate or sulphate of aniline, at
the temperature of 180°.
Coupier’s process for the manufacture of magenta without the use of
arsenic acid is as follows:——He heats together pure aniline, nitrotoluene,
hydrochloric acid, and a small quantity of finely-divided metallic iron,
to a temperature of about 400° F. for several hours. The pasty mixture
soon solidifies to a friable mass resembling crude aniline red——ordinary
commercial aniline. The above processes are for the preparation of crude
aniline red only. The crude colours contain some undecomposed aniline,
mostly in the form of salts. They are also contaminated with tarry
matters, some insoluble in water and dilute acids; others soluble in
bisulphide of carbon, naphtha, or in caustic or carbonated alkalies. If,
therefore, the crude red be boiled with an excess of alkali the
undecomposed aniline is expelled, the acid which exists in the product
being fixed. On treating the residue with acidulated boiling water the red
is dissolved, while certain tarry matters remain insoluble. If now the
boiling solution be filtered, and then saturated with an alkali, the
colouring matter is precipitated in a tolerable state of purity. By
redissolving the precipitated red in an acid, not employed in excess, a
solution is obtained which frequently crystallises, or from which a pure
red may be thrown down by a new addition of chloride of sodium or other
alkaline salt.
Dr Hofmann and Mr Nicholson have demonstrated that pure aniline, from
whatever source obtained, is incapable of furnishing a red dye, but that
it does so when mixed with its homologue toluidine——toluidine by itself
being equally incapable of yielding it. From this it will be evident that
an aniline rich in toluidine is an essential condition for obtaining
aniline red.
Magenta consists of brilliant large crystals, having a beautiful
golden-green metallic lustre, and soluble in water to an intense
purplish-red solution. It is a salt of a colourless base, rosaniline,
which is prepared from magenta by boiling with hydrate of potassium, and
allowing the solution to cool, when it crystallises out in colourless
crystals, having the formula C_{20}H_{19}N_{3}H_{2}O. All the salts of
rosaniline have a splendid purple-red colour, and that usually met with as
magenta is the hydrochlorate, although the nitrate, oxalate, and acetate
are also to be obtained.
Sugar, previously dyed with magenta, is sometimes used as an adulterant of
crystallised magenta. If present, the larger crystals of dyed sugar may be
readily detected by their colour being paler at the edges, when the
suspected sample is spread out on a sheet of white paper in the sunshine.
One of the best methods of testing magenta is to make a comparative dyeing
experiment with the sample under examination, and with one of known
purity, using white woollen yarn.
From magenta or hydrochlorate of rosaniline a large number of colouring
matters are produced, the most important of which will be briefly
described below.
ANILINE BLACK. “Dissolve 20 parts of potassium chlorate, 40 parts of
sulphate of copper, 16 parts of chloride of ammonium, and 40 parts of
aniline hydrochloride, in 500 parts of water, warming the liquid to about
60°, and then removing it from the water bath. In about three minutes the
solution froths up and gives off vapours which strongly attack the
breathing organs. If the mass does not become quite black after the lapse
of a few hours it is again heated to 60°, and then exposed in an open
place for a day or two, and afterwards carefully washed out till no salts
are found in the filtrate. For use in printing, the black paste is mixed
with a somewhat large quantity of albumen, and the goods after printing
are strongly steamed. The paste can be pressed into moulds, and used as a
substitute for Indian ink.” (A. Müller.) “Mix equal weights of aniline
(containing toluidine), hydrochloric acid, and potassium chlorate, with a
minute quantity of cupric chloride and a sufficient quantity of water, and
leave the mixture to evaporate spontaneously, when a black powder will be
obtained.” (Rheineck.)
ANILINE BLUE, or BLEU DE LYONS. This dye is prepared by heating a mixture
of magenta, acetate of sodium, and aniline in iron pots, provided with
stirrers, &c., in an oil bath, to 370° Fahr. (190° C.), and the excess of
aniline distilled over. When a good blue has been obtained the heat is
removed, and the thick treacly fluid purified. This is effected for the
commoner varieties by treating the crude product with hydrochloric acid,
to dissolve all the excess of aniline, and the various red and purple
impurities; but for the better qualities by mixing the crude product with
methylated spirit, and pouring the whole into water acidulated with
hydrochloric acid, and then thoroughly washing the colouring matter that
is precipitated, with water and drying.
This blue, like magenta, is a salt of a colourless base, which
has been named Triphenyl-rosaniline. C_{38}H_{31}N_{3}, or
C_{20}H_{16}(C_{6}H_{5})_{3}N_{3}. Aniline blue, or Lyons blue, is sent
into the market either as a coarse powder of a coppery lustre, or in
alcoholic solution; as it is insoluble in water, which necessitates it
being added to the dye bath in solution in spirit, a great drawback.
Mr Nicholson, by treating Lyons blue in the same manner as indigo is
converted into sulphindigotic acid, has succeeded in rendering it soluble;
dissolving in alkalies to form colourless salts, and decomposed by acids
into its original blue colour.
By a modification of this method ‘NICHOLSON’S BLUE’ is prepared, a fine
soluble blue dye. Another colouring matter called Paris blue or bleu de
Paris was obtained by heating stannic chloride with aniline for 30 hours
at a temperature of 356° Fahr. (180 C.). It is a fine pure blue, soluble
in water, and crystallising in large blue needles with a coppery lustre.
Another method pursued in manufacture of this colour on a large scale is
carried out by allowing a mixture of a salt of rosaniline, with an excess
of aniline, to digest at a temperature of 150° to 160° for a considerable
time. If a mixture of 2 kilogrammes of dry hydrochlorate of rosaniline,
and 4 kilogrammes of aniline be employed, the operation is completed in
four hours. The crude blue is purified by treating it successively with
boiling water, acidulated with hydrochloric acid, and with pure water,
until it is of the purest blue colour. ‘Nicholson’s blue’ is obtained by
digesting triphenyl rosaniline——mono-sulphonic acid (made by dissolving
triphenyl rosaniline hydrochloride in strong sulphuric acid, and heating
the solution for five or six hours. On the addition of water, the acid is
obtained as a dark blue precipitate, and dried at 100°), with a quantity
of soda-lye not quite sufficient for saturation, filtering the solution
and evaporating. It is dried at 100°. Wool dipped into a hot aqueous
solution of Nicholson’s blue, especially if borax or water-glass be added,
extracts it in a colourless state, and holds it so fast that it cannot be
washed out with water, but on dipping the wool thus prepared into an acid
the salt is decomposed, and the colouring matter is set free.
ANILINE BLUE FOR PRINTING. Blumer-Zweefel gives the following
process:——“Mix 100 parts of starch with 1000 parts of water, and add to it
while warm 40 parts of potassium chlorate, 3 to 4 parts of ferrous
sulphate, and 10 parts of sal ammoniac. The well-mixed paste, when quite
cold, is mixed with 70 parts of aniline hydrochloride, or an equivalent
quantity of tartrate, and immediately used. The printed goods are
oxidised, then passed through warm or faintly alkaline water, whereby the
blue colour is developed.”
VIOLET IMPERIAL. If the action of the aniline and magenta in the process
of manufacturing aniline blue be stopped before it is finished, and the
resulting product treated with dilute acid, a colouring matter called
violet imperial is obtained. It is now, however, replaced by the Hofmann
violets.
Mr Nicholson obtains another violet from aniline red, by heating it in a
suitable apparatus to a temperature between 200° and 215° C. The resulting
mass is exhausted with acetic acid, and the deep-violet solution diluted
with enough alcohol to give the dye a convenient strength. Aniline violet,
although it resists the action of light to a very considerable extent, has
been shown by Chevreul to be inferior in this particular than either
madder, cochineal, or indigo.
HOFMANN VIOLETS. On a large scale these violets are produced in deep
cast-iron pots, surrounded by a steam jacket, and provided with a lid,
having a perforation for distilling over the excess of reagents.
These vessels are charged with a solution of magenta in methylated or wood
spirit, and iodide of ethyl or methyl, in proportions according to the
shade required, and the whole heated by steam for five or six hours, when
the excess of alcohol and iodide of ethyl is distilled over. The resulting
product is dissolved in water, filtered, precipitated with common salt,
and well washed.
Like most of the other colours, Hofmann violets are salts of colourless
bases. That of a red shade has a formula of C_{22}H_{23}N_{3}, or
C_{20}H_{18}(C_{2}H_{5})N_{3}; of a true violet shade C_{24}H_{27}N_{3},
or C_{20}H_{17}(C_{2}H_{5})_{2}N_{2}; and of a blue shade of violet, of
C_{26}H_{31}N_{3}, or C_{20}H_{16}(C_{2}H_{5})_{3}N_{3}. They are all
moderately fast on wool and silk, although less so on cotton, and, as they
can be produced in nearly every shade of violet, are in great use, having
replaced most of the other violets.
The following processes have also been proposed for the production of
aniline violet:
1. Oxidation of an aniline salt by means of a solution of permanganate of
potassium. (Williams.)
2. Oxidation of an aniline salt by means of a solution of ferricyanide of
potassium. (Smith.)
3. Oxidation of a cold and dilute solution of hydrochlorate of aniline, by
means of a dilute solution of chloride of lime. (Bolley, Beale, and
Kirkmann.)
4. Oxidation of a salt of aniline by means of peroxide of lead under the
influence of an acid. (Price.)
5. Oxidation of a salt of aniline in an aqueous solution of peroxide of
manganese. (Kay.)
6. Oxidation of a salt of aniline by free chlorine or free hypochlorous
acid. (Smith.)
DAHLIA. This is prepared from mauve and iodide of ethyl, in the same
manner as the Hofmann violets, and is a purple-red violet. It is a good
colour, but the expense precludes its general use.
BRITANNIA VIOLET. This is obtained in the same manner as the Hofmann
violets, by acting on an alcoholic solution of magenta, with a thick,
viscid, oily fluid of the formula C_{10}H_{15}Br_{3}, obtained by
cautiously acting with bromine on oil of turpentine. It is a beautiful
violet, capable of being manufactured of every shade, from purple to blue,
and most extensively used.
ALDEHYDE GREEN. Prepared by dissolving one part of magenta in three parts
of sulphuric acid, diluted with one part of water, adding by degrees one
and a half part of aldehyde, and heating the whole on a water bath until a
drop put in water turns a fine blue. It is then poured into a large
quantity of hot water containing three parts of hyposulphite of sodium,
boiled and filtered. The filtrate contains the green, which can either be
kept in solution or be precipitated by means of tannic acid or acetate of
sodium. Like the other colours, this green is a salt of a colourless base,
containing sulphur, the formula of which is not known, and is principally
used for dyeing silk, being very brilliant in both day and artificial
light.
IODIDE GREEN. Produced during the manufacture of the Hofmann colours, and
is now used for dyeing cotton and silk; its colour being bluer than that
of aldehyde green, it is more useful. Iodide green, not being precipitated
by carbonate of sodium, is usually sold in alcoholic solution.
PERKINS GREEN. This is also a magenta derivative, and a salt of a powerful
colourless base. It resembles the iodide green, but is precipitated by
alkaline carbonates and picric acid. This colour is used chiefly for
calico printing, and is quite as fast as the Hofmann colours.
ANILINE GREEN. When treated with chlorate of potassium, to which a
quantity of hydrochloric acid has been added, aniline assumes a rich
indigo-blue colour. The same result occurs if the aniline be treated with
a solution of chlorous acid. Similar blues have been obtained by Messrs
Crace Calvert, Lowe, and Clift. Most of these blues possess the property,
when subjected to the action of acids, of acquiring a green tint, called
EMERALDINE. Dr Calvert obtained this colour directly upon cloth, by
printing with a mixture of an aniline salt and chlorate of potassium, and
allowing it to dry. In about twelve hours the green colour is developed.
This colour may be converted into blue by being passed through a hot
dilute alkaline solution, or through a bath of boiling soap.
ANILINE YELLOW. Amongst the secondary products obtained during the
preparation of aniline red, there occurs a well-defined base of a splendid
yellow colour, to which the name _chrysaniline_ has been given. It is
prepared by submitting the residue, from which the rosaniline has been
extracted, to a current of steam for some time, when a quantity of the
chrysaniline passes into solution. By adding nitric acid to the solution,
the chrysaniline is thrown down in the form of a difficultly soluble
nitrate. The intimate relation between chrysaniline, rosaniline, and
leucaniline has been shown by Hofmann.
Chrysaniline C_{20}H_{17}N_{3}.
Rosaniline C_{20}H_{19}N_{3}.
Leucaniline C_{20}H_{21}N_{3}.
SAFFRANINE. This dye stuff is of a bright red-rose colour. Mené says it
may be prepared commercially by treatment of heavy aniline oils
successively with nitrous and arsenic acids; or two parts of the aniline
may be heated with one of arsenic acid, and one of an alkaline nitrate for
a short time, to 200° or 212° F. The product is extracted with boiling
water, neutralised with an alkali, filtered, and the colour thrown down by
common salt.
Besides the above products obtained from aniline, a series of colours have
been obtained from phenol, or carbolic acid, another substance obtained
from coal tar.
PICRIC ACID. This is obtained by treating in a suitable apparatus, with
proper precautions, carbolic acid with nitric acid. It is a pale yellow
crystalline acid, forming dark orange explosive salts, and dyeing silk a
fine yellow.
ISOPURPURATE OF POTASSIUM. GRENATE BROWN. GRENATE SOLUBLE. By treating
picric acid with cyanide of potassium a very explosive salt is obtained,
used to dye wool a dark maroon colour.
AURINE, or ROSOLIC ACID. This is obtained by heating a mixture of
sulphuric, oxalic, and carbolic acids, and purifying the products. It is
a beautiful reddish, resinous substance, with a pale green lustre, and
yielding an orange coloured solution, changed by alkalies to a splendid
crimson. Owing to the difficulty in using it, however, it is not very
extensively employed.
PEONINE, or CORALLINE. This dye is formed when rosolic acid and ammonia
are heated to between 248° and 284° Fahr. (120° to 140° C.). It is a fine
crimson dye, forming shades similar to safflower on silk, but, owing to
the bad effects of acids, not much used.
AZULINE. Prepared by heating coralline and aniline together. A coppery
coloured resinous substance, soluble, in alcohol, and with difficulty in
water, and dyeing silk a blue colour. The aniline blues, however, have
superseded it to a great extent.
There are other substances obtained from coal tar that have been employed
to form dyes, but of which we shall only refer to one——naphthaline. By
treating this in exactly the same manner as benzol, it is converted into
aniline. A solid crystalline white base, termed naphthylamine, is
produced. From this substance is obtained the following dye.
DINITRONAPHTHAL, or MANCHESTER YELLOW. Naphthylamine is converted into
diazynaphthol by treatment with nitrate of potassium, and the latter, when
heated with nitric acid, yields the colour. It is a weak acid, and the
salt employed in commerce is the beautiful yellow crystalline calcium salt
which dyes silk and wool a magnificent golden-yellow colour.
=TARPAU′LIN.= _Syn._ TARPAWLING. Canvas covered with tar or any
composition to render it waterproof.
=TAR′RAS.= _Syn._ TERRAS. A volcanic product resembling puzzolano, that
imparts to mortar the property of hardening under water. Several other
argillo-ferruginous minerals possess the same power, and are used under
this term.
=TAR′TAR.= _Syn._ ARGAL, ORGOL; TARTARUM, TARTARUS, L. Impure bitartrate
of potassa. Crude tartar is the concrete deposit formed upon the sides of
the casks and vats during the fermentation of grape juice. That obtained
from white wine is white argol; that from red wine, red argol. After
purification it forms cream of tartar.
=Tartar, Ammo′′niated.= _Syn._ AMMONIO-TARTRATE OF POTASSA, SOLUBLE TARTAR
(Ammoniated); TARTARUS AMMONIATUS, TARTARUM SOLUBILE AMMONIATUM, L.
_Prep._ Neutralise a solution of cream of tartar with ammonia in slight
excess, then evaporate, and crystallise. Very soluble in water. A
favourite laxative on the Continent.
=Tartar, Bo′′raxated.= _Syn._ SOLUBLE CREAM OF TARTAR, BORO-TARTRATE OF
POTASSA AND SODA; TARTARUM BORAXATUM, CREMOR TARTARI SOLUBILIS, POTASSÆ ET
SODÆ TARTRAS BORAXATA, L. _Prep._ From borax, 2 lbs; cream of tartar, 5
lbs. (both in powder); dissolved in water, evaporated, and crystallised.
See POTASSIUM BOROTARTRATE.
=Tartar, Chalybea′ted.= Potassio-tartrate of iron.
=Tartar, Cream of.= Bitartrate of potassa.
=Tartar, Emet′ic.= Potassio-tartrate of antimony.
=Tartar, Oil of.= Deliquesced carbonate of potassa.
=Tartar, Reduced.= _Syn._ CREMOR TARTARI REDUCTUS, L. An article is sold,
under the name of ‘British cream of tartar,’ which contains 1/4 its weight
or more of bisulphate of potassa.
=Tartar, Salt of.= Carbonate of potassa.
=Tartar, Sol′uble.= Neutral tartrate of potassa.
=Tartar, Spirit of.= Pyrotartaric acid.
=TARTAR′IC ACID.= H_{2}C_{4}H_{4}O_{6}. _Syn._ ACID OF TARTAR, ESSENTIAL
SALT OF T.†; ACIDUM TARTARICUM (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), SAL ESSENTIALE
TARTARI†, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. 1836.) Take of cream of tartar, 4 lbs.;
boiling water, 2 gall.; dissolve by boiling; add, gradually, of prepared
chalk, 12 oz. 7 dr. (made into a milk with water), and, when the
effervescence ceases, add another like portion of prepared chalk,
dissolved in hydrochloric acid, 26-1/2 fl. oz., or q. s., diluted with
water, 4 pints; collect the precipitate (‘tartrate of lime’), and, after
well washing it with water, boil it for 15 minutes in dilute sulphuric
acid, 7 pints and 17 fl. oz.; next filter, evaporate the filtrate (to the
density of 1·38), and set it aside to crystallise; redissolve the crystals
in water, concentrate the solution by evaporation, and recrystallise a
second and a third time. The Edinburgh formula is nearly similar. In the
Ph. L. & D. tartaric acid is placed in the Materia Medica.
2. (Gatty.) The solution of argol or tartar is first neutralised with
carbonate of potassa, and to every 300 gall. of the clear liquid, at 5°
Twaddell, 34 gall. of milk of lime (1 lb. of lime per gall.) are added;
carbonic acid gas is then forced in, with agitation; decomposition ensues,
with the formation of ‘bicarbonate of potassa’ and ‘tartrate of lime,’ the
last is converted into tartaric acid in the usual manner, and the former
is evaporated in iron pans, and roasted in a reverberatory furnace for its
potassa.
_Prop._ Tartaric acid forms inodorous, scarcely transparent, oblique
rhombic prisms, more or less modified, which are permanent in the air; it
possesses a purely sour taste, dissolves in about 2 parts of water at 60°
Fahr., and in about its own weight of boiling water; it is slightly
soluble in alcohol; the aqueous solution exhibits right-handed
polarisation, and suffers gradual decomposition by age.
It is free from colour; is entirely, or almost entirely, dissipated by
ignition; and is entirely soluble in water.
_Tests._ 1. Tartaric acid is known to be such by its solution giving white
precipitates with solutions of caustic lime, baryta, and strontia, which
dissolve in excess of the acid.——2. A solution of potassa causes a white
granular precipitate of cream of tartar, soluble by agitation in excess of
the precipitant.——3. Nitrate of silver and acetate of lead give white
precipitates, which, when heated, f nine, and yield the pure metal.——4. If
to a solution of tartaric acid, or a tartrate, solution of a ferric or
aluminum salt be added, and subsequently ammonia or potassa, no
precipitate is formed.——5. At about 570° Fahr. all the tartrates are
blackened, and yield a peculiar and characteristic odour.
_Uses, &c._ Tartaric acid is chiefly employed in calico printing, and, in
medicine, as a substitute for citric acid and lemon juice in the
preparation of cooling drinks and saline draughts. For the latter purpose,
bicarbonate of soda is the alkaline salt commonly employed.——_Dose_, 10 to
30 grains.
_Concluding Remarks._ On the large scale the decomposition of the tartar
is usually effected in a copper boiler, and that of the tartrate of lime
in a leaden cistern. This part of the process is often performed by mere
digestion for a few days, without the application of heat. Leaden or
stoneware vessels are used as crystallisers. Good cream of tartar requires
26% of chalk and 28·5% of dry chloride of calcium for its perfect
decomposition. Dry tartrate of lime requires 75% of oil of vitriol to
liberate the whole of its tartaric acid. A very slight excess of sulphuric
acid may be safely, nay, advantageously, employed. Some manufacturers
bleach the coloured solution of the first crystals by treating it with
animal charcoal; but for this purpose the latter substance should be first
purified by digesting it in hydrochloric acid, and afterwards by
edulcorating it with water, and exposing it to a dull red heat in a
covered vessel. The general management of this manufacture resembles that
of citric acid. To obtain a large product, care must be taken that the
whole of the tartrate of lime be thoroughly decomposed, a matter not
always effected by clumsy manipulators, who do not adapt their quantities
or practice to the circumstances before them.
=TAR′TRATE.= A salt of tartaric acid.
=TARTS.= These may be regarded as miniature pies, consisting of fruit,
either fresh or preserved, baked or spread on puff-paste.
=TARTS.= To make an apple tart take about 2 lbs. of apples, peel them, cut
each into four pieces, and remove the cores; then let each of the quarters
be subdivided into two or three pieces, according to the size of the
apple. Having done this, put half the pieces into a pie-dish, press them
evenly down, and sprinkle over them two ounces of brown sugar; then add
the remaining apples, and afterwards another 2 oz. of sugar, so that the
apples shall form a kind of dome, the centre of which is about two inches
above the sides, now add a wineglassful of water, and cover the top over
with short paste. Let bake in a moderately heated oven from half to three
quarters of an hour.
The quantity of sugar must depend upon the quality, and the degree of
sweetness, or the reverse, of the apples used. If they are of the sweet
kind or very ripe, use less sugar, but a double quantity of water; in the
latter case a little of the juice of lemon will improve the flavour.
Chopped lemon-peel, or cinnamon, or cloves, may also be added to the tart
with advantage.
On making green rhubarb or greengage tarts it will be necessary to use a
little more sugar, and to proceed as for apple tart, taking care, however,
to omit the lemon juice and peel, cinnamon, or cloves. Tarts of ripe
currants, raspberries, cherries, damsons, and mulberries, may be made in
the same manner as rhubarb tart. Pink rhubarb does not require peeling.
=TAU′RIN.= C_{2}H_{7}NSO_{3}. Obtained when purified bile is boiled for
some hours with an excess of hydrochloric acid. By filtration,
evaporation, and dissolving the dry residuum in about 6 parts of boiling
alcohol, nearly pure taurin crystallises out as the solution cools. It
forms with crystalline needles, which are soluble in water, and sparingly
soluble in alcohol. It is remarkable for containing fully 25% of sulphur.
=TAUROCHOLAL′IC ACID.= See CHOLEIC ACID.
=TAW′ING.= In the preparation of the TAWED LEATHER used for gloves,
housings, &c., the skins are first soaked, scraped, and hung in a warm
room until they begin to exhale an ammoniacal odour, and the wool readily
comes off; they are then de-haired, and soaked in water with some
quicklime for several weeks, the water being changed two or three times
during that period; they are then again beamed, smoothed, and trimmed,
after which they are rinsed, and resoaked in a vat of bran-and-water,
where they are kept in a state of gentle fermentation for some weeks (in
this state they are called ‘pelts’); the skins are next well worked about
in a warm solution of alum and salt, again fermented in bran-and-water for
a short time, and are then stretched on hooks, and dried in a stove-room;
they are, lastly, again soaked in water and trodden or worked in a pail or
tub containing some yolks of eggs beaten to a froth with water, after
which they are stretched and dried in a loft, and are smoothed with a warm
smoothing-iron. Sometimes the process is shortened by soaking the skins in
the following mixture after the first steep with bran:——Common salt, 3-1/2
lbs.; alum, 8 lbs.; boiling water, q. s.; dissolve, add of wheaten flour,
21 lbs.; yolks of 9 dozen eggs; make a paste. For use, a portion is to be
largely diluted with water.
CHAMOIS or SHAMMY LEATHER is generally prepared from either sheep or
doe-skins, which, after dressing, liming, &c., are well oiled on the grain
side, then rolled into balls, and thrown into the trough of the
fulling-mill, where they are beaten for 2, 3, or 4 hours. They are next
aired, and again oiled and fulled, and this is repeated a third time, or
oftener, as circumstances may direct. The oiled skins are then exposed to
a fermenting process, or heating in a close chamber, and are afterwards
freed from redundant oil by being scoured in a weak alkaline lye. They
are, lastly, rinsed in clean water, wrung at the peg, dried, and
‘finished’ at the stretcher-iron.
TAWED LEATHER differs from TANNED LEATHER in yielding size or glue under
the influence of heat and moisture, in nearly the same way as the raw
skins.
=TAXIDERMY, Practical.= The following review on the excellent work on this
subject is from ‘The Bazaar,’ ‘Practical Taxidermy; a manual of
instruction to the amateur in collecting, preserving, and setting up
Natural History Specimens of all kinds. By Montagu Browne.’
“The author of this little book begins at the beginning, and, before
detailing the process of skinning, preserving, and mounting any given
vertebrate, he starts with a chapter on ‘Trapping and Decoying Birds and
Animals.’ In this chapter descriptions are given of various forms of
springs, snare, ‘figure-4 trap,’ clap-net, glade-net, bow-net, and box
trap; and some wrinkles are imparted which may be useful to wildfowl
shooters, to say nothing of gamekeepers, whose livelihood depends on their
success in destroying what they are pleased to regard as ‘vermin.’ Chapter
3 is devoted to ‘Necessary Tools,’ of which not only descriptions, but
figures are given, and those who have no knowledge of taxidermy will
probably be surprised to learn how few tools are really necessary for the
purpose.
“On the subject of preservative soaps and powders, Mr Browne has a good
deal to say, and gives no less than seventeen different receipts. Many of
these, however, are only noticed to be condemned, for the author has been
a great experimentalist, and has tested the efficiency or otherwise of all
the preparations he names, with a view of ascertaining the best, and at
the same time that which is most harmless to the operator. For the
preservation of birds he pins his faith to the fourth formula (p. 46),
which is a preservative soap for the inside of the skin, composed of 1-1/2
lb. whiting or chalk, 1 lb. of soft soap, and 2 oz. of chloride of lime,
finely pounded. These ingredients are boiled together in a pint of water,
and the mixture, when properly applied, is said to be so efficacious as to
completely supersede arsenical paste or soap. Presuming that it is used
only for such specimens as are to be immediately cased up in air-tight
cases, nothing further is needed; but as regards such specimens as are
left exposed or uncased, ‘a wash of benzoline liberally applied from time
to time——say twice a year——to the outside,’ is recommended.
“We have long since proved the efficacy of this fluid, not only in
repelling the attacks of moths, and the larvæ of destructive beetles such
as _Dermestes lardarius_, but in killing them in skins that have been
already attacked by them. We can therefore indorse Mr Browne’s remarks,
and may supplement them by a ‘wrinkle’ which he has probably discovered by
this time, although he does not refer to it. It is this. If the amateur in
search of benzoline applies to the nearest chemist for it, he will be
served with the ‘rectified’ fluid, and will be asked three shillings or
three and sixpence for an ordinary medicine bottlefull. If he proceeds,
however, to an oil and colour shop, and asks for it as supplied for
burning in the sponge lamps, he may get a pint for about a tithe of the
cost.
“The best way to apply it is to pour some out in a saucer, saturate a
pinch of cotton wool with it, and dab it on all over the fur or feathers.
The great advantage about it is that, while killing or repelling insects,
it does not in the least injure the specimen to which it is applied. We
have seen a mounted specimen of a bird almost saturated with it, so that
the feathers looked quite draggled; but as soon as the moisture had
evaporated, the feathers all resumed their former shape and glossy
appearance. Care should be taken not to use it by candle light, as the
vapour is inflammable.
“Amongst the seventeen receipts for ‘preservatives’ of different kinds, we
do not see a very simple powder which we have used with success for very
small bird skins, which were almost too delicate to stand the application
of a brush and paste, or soap. It is composed of burnt alum and sugar of
lead, and mixed in the proportion of two thirds of the former to one third
of the latter. The alum dries, the sugar of lead preserves, and if the
specimen while being skinned be dusted with this mixture, it will absorb
all moisture as it arises, for which purpose plaster of Paris is usually
employed. A very little goes a long way, and it is desirable not to apply
too much, lest the astringent nature of the alum should cause the skin to
become brittle and crack.
“Possibly Mr Browne has not referred to this mixture on account of the
poisonous nature of the sugar of lead. He justly remarks that too much
care cannot be exercised in the employment of poisonous preservatives, and
we fully agree with him.
“On the subject of his instructions for skinning birds we have not much
criticism to offer, except perhaps as regards his mode of filling out the
skin after the preservative has been applied, and before the skin is sewn
up. We have found by experience that, after the artificial neck of tow or
cotton wool has been inserted, and the wing bones tied inside, the skin is
much better filled by degrees with little bits of cotton wool inserted
piecemeal, instead of with an artificial body ‘as nearly as possible
shaped to the original body of the bird.’ The advantage of the former plan
is that it is much more quickly executed, and a nice soft skin is the
result, instead of a comparatively hard one. By introducing the wool
piecemeal, too, scarcely any portion of the skin is left without support
on the inside, as is often the case when a ‘made body’ is inserted. This
is material; for if there be any want of inside support at a given point,
pressure upon that point from the outside will cause the skin to crack.
These remarks, however, must be taken to apply only to such specimens as
are intended to be preserved as skins, and are not to be set up.
“Few amateurs, probably, give much time to mounting their specimens, for
they can get them so well done by professional taxidermists, at prices
varying to suit all purses. The art of skinning wild animals and birds,
however, and curing or dressing animal hides, should be acquired by every
sportsman and naturalist who intends to travel and collect and bring home
trophies. To such a one we may specially recommend the chapters which are
devoted to this portion of the subject. In this, as in other respects, Mr
Browne’s book is a ‘practical’ manual of taxidermy.”
=TAXINE.= A poisonous alkaloid present in the leaves and seeds of the yew
(_Taxus faccata_).
=TEA.= _Syn._ THEA, L. The dried leaves of the Chinese tea plants (_Thea
Bohea_ and _Thea viridis_).
It was formerly supposed that BLACK TEAS could only be obtained from _T.
Bohea_, and GREEN TEAS from _T. viridis_, but Fortune and others have
proved that both sorts may be made from either species, and that the
differences in colour and flavour depend chiefly on the age of the leaves
and the treatment they undergo in the drying process. Another species,
named _Thea Assamica_, furnishes ASSAM TEA.
Mulder gives the following as the composition of tea:
Black Green
Tea. Tea.
Essential oil 0·60 0·79
Chlorophyll 1·84 2·22
Wax 0·00 0·28
Resin 3·64 2·22
Gum 7·28 8·56
Tannin 12·88 17·80
Theine 0·46 0·43
Extractive matter 21·36 22·80
Colouring substances 19·19 23·60
Albumen 2·80 3·00
Fibre 28·33 17·80
Ash (mineral substances) 5·24 5·56
Dr Walter Blyth, commenting upon the above, says, the amount of theine is
certainly understated.
_Pur._ The chief adulteration of tea which is extensively practised at the
present day is mixing it with a certain portion of exhausted tea-leaves,
which have been redried and curled. The collection and preparation of
these occupy several hundred persons, chiefly women and children, in and
about London. The leaves which have been found in the possession of the
manufacturers of imitation tea are those of the sloe tree, ash tree, elder
bush, and white thorn. According to Mr Warrington, a most extensive system
of adulterating tea is practised in China. Many samples directly imported
from that country, examined by him, did not contain a single grain of tea,
being made up entirely of other leaves. The ordinary green teas he found,
for the most part, spurious, being manufactured out of the cheaper black
teas. These are ‘faced up’ or ‘painted’ with various colouring substances,
powdered porcelain, clay, &c., which are readily perceived under the
microscope, and even admit of being separated, and chemically examined.
It is a general practice among the grocers in this country to impart what
they call a ‘bloom’ to their green teas by ‘rouncing’ them up with a
little calcined magnesia, or finely powdered talc or French chalk. The
quantity that adheres to the tea is very trifling, but it, greatly
improves its appearance. Black teas are ‘faced,’ in a similar manner, with
finely powdered plumbago or black-lead.
Pure China tea is not turned black by being put into water impregnated
with sulphuretted hydrogen gas, nor does it tinge a solution of ammonia
blue. The infusion is amber-coloured, and is not reddened by the addition
of an acid. The ashes left from the combustion of genuine tea are white,
and do not exceed 5 to 5-1/2%. If they exceed this they may be chemically
examined with the usual tests for alumina, chromate of lead, copper,
cyanide of potassium, gypsum, lime, magnesia, &c. Many of these substances
may be detected by simply agitating the tea with a little cold water, when
they will be detached from its surface, and render the water turbid, or,
by their gravity, sink to the bottom.
Mr A. H. Allen[225] arranges the adulteration of tea under four heads,
giving at the same time directions for their detection:
[Footnote 225: ‘Chemical News,’ xxix, 123, 167, 189, 221; and xxx, 2.]
1. _Mineral additions for increasing weight or bulk_: (_a_) Magnetic
matter. Detected by drawing a magnet under a weighted portion of the tea
spread upon paper, whereby the magnetic matter is separated from the tea
and may be weighed.
(_b_) Siliceous matter. The ash must be estimated by igniting a weighed
portion of the tea. The ash of genuine tea varies from 5·24 to 6·0 per
cent. The ash is then boiled with water, the insoluble part again treated
with hydrochloric acid, and the silica collected and weighed. Genuine tea
does not contain, on an average, more than 0·30 per cent. of ash insoluble
in acid; adulterated teas sometimes contain as much as 10 per cent.
2. _Organic adulterations for increasing weight or bulk_: (_a_) Exhausted
tea leaves. Best detected by estimating the tannin, gum, soluble ash,
insoluble matter, &c.
α. Tannin. 5 gr. of lead acetate are dissolved in 1 litre of water, and
the solution filtered after standing; 5 mgms. of pure potassium
ferricyanide are dissolved in 5 c.c. of water, and an equal bulk of strong
ammonia solution is added. The lead solution is standardised by diluting
10 c.c. to 100 c.c. with boiling water, and adding to it from a burette a
solution of 0·1 pure tannin in 100 c.c. of water, until a few drops, when
allowed to fall through a filter on to a drop of the ferricyanide
solution, spotted on a slab, produce a pink colour. A solution of the tea
is made by repeatedly boiling about 2 grams of the finely-powdered sample
with 80 c.c. of water, until it is completely exhausted. The solution is
filtered and made up to 250 c.c., and used as already described.
The amount of tannin in genuine black tea averages about 10 per cent. A
small quantity of tannin, about 2 per cent., remains in the exhausted
leaves. The percentage of exhausted leaves, E, in a sample may be
estimated, when the per cent. of tannin, T, is known by the equation:
E = (10 - T) / 8 × 100.
β. Insoluble matter is best estimated by boiling the pounded sample
repeatedly with water, and drying the residue at 120° C., until the weight
is constant. The insoluble matter in black tea varies from 46·7 to 53·6
per cent., while in previously infused leaves it varies between 72 to 75
per cent.
γ Gum. The aqueous decoction is evaporated nearly to dryness, the residue
treated with methylated spirit, filtered, washed with spirit, rinsed off
the filter with hot water, the liquid evaporated at a steam heat, weighed,
ignited, and weighed again. The loss represents gum.
δ. Soluble ash. The aqueous solution of the ash is evaporated, _gently_
ignited, and weighed. Genuine tea contains not less than 3 per cent. of
soluble ash, while in exhausted leaves this item falls as low as 0·52 per
cent. If S represents the percentage of soluble ash, the percentage of
exhausted leaves E may be approximately found in the absence of foreign
leaves by the equation:
E = (6 - 2S) × 20.
(_b_) Foreign leaves. The presence of leaves, other than those of the tea
plant, may be detected with some accuracy by estimating the insoluble
matter, tannin, gum, and ash; but the microscope must decide this
question.
[Illustration: Leaves and stalks of best tea brought from China (1861) by
private hand. Natural size. Generally in commercial tea the leaves are
much larger and thicker, and often are cut transversely into two or three
parts. Some stalks and remains of flowers are found in all tea, even the
best.]
[Illustration]
[Illustration: Leaves used in the adulteration of tea——the sloe, willow,
oak, beech, elder, and hawthorn, have been nature-printed and then
lithographed. The drawings of the chloranthus inconspicuus and the
camellia sasanqua, which are said to be used by the Chinese, are copied
from Hassall. The leaves of the elm, poplar, and plane are said to be
sometimes used in England. Falsification with any kind of leaf is,
however, now decidedly uncommon in this country.]
3. _Adulterants for imparting a fictitious strength._ (_a_) Extraneous
tannin matters, such as catechu, &c., are detected by an unusually high
percentage of tannin, as indicated by the lead process. Tea, adulterated
with catechu, gives an infusion which quickly becomes muddy on cooling. 1
gram of the sample and 1 gram of pure tea are each infused in 100 c.c. of
water, and the solutions poured off from the leaves are precipitated,
while boiling, with a slight excess of neutral lead acetate, filtered, and
tested as follows:——About 20 c.c. of the pure tea infusion, when gently
heated with a few drops of silver nitrate, gives a slight cloudiness only;
while tea, containing catechu, gives a copious brownish precipitate, and
the liquid acquires a distinct yellow tinge. One drop of ferric chloride
gives a light green colour if catechu is present, and a greyish-green
precipitate on standing; the solution from pure tea gives a reddish colour
with ferric chloride, due to acetate, and no precipitate on standing.
These tests are applicable only when catechu is present in tolerably large
quantities.
(_b_) Lie tea, when thrown into hot water, falls to powder, because the
gum or starch used to keep it in a compact form is dissolved. The liquid
may be acidified with sulphuric acid, decolourised with permanganate, and
tested for starch. The ash of lie tea is often as high as 30 or 40 per
cent.
(_c_) Caper tea is made into little glossy masses by the aid of gum or
starch; it is usually much adulterated. The insoluble matter is usually
much less than in genuine tea; the gum amounts to 15 or 20 per cent. The
soluble ash often falls below 2 per cent.
(_d_) Soluble iron salts are added to give an appearance of strength by
the formation of tannate of iron. They are detected by shaking the
powdered leaves with cold dilute acetic acid, filtering, and testing for
iron, in the filtrate.
(_e_) Alkaline carbonates are sometimes added to tea. The soluble ash
gives the yellow sodium flame, if sodium salts have been added; the
alkalinity may also be determined in the soluble ash. The average amount
of potash (K_{2}O) in tea is about 1·62 per cent.
4. _Facing and colouring materials._ These may be detected under the
microscope, or the leaves may be washed with warm water, the colouring
matter collected and examined. Indigo is best detected by the microscope;
Prussian blue, by boiling with caustic alkali, filtering, and testing for
ferrocyanide by ferric chloride. The residue, insoluble in alkali, is
fused with alkaline carbonate, evaporated to dryness with hydrochloric
acid; the residue tested for silica, and the filtrate tested for lime and
magnesia.
Moisture varies from 6 to 8 per cent.
Among domestic substitutes for tea are——the leaves of speedwell, wild
germander, black currant, syringa or mock orange, purple-spiked willow
herb, winter green, sweetbriar, cherry tree, sloe, &c., all of which are
used for tea, either singly or mixed. The addition of a single bud of the
black currant to the infusion of ordinary black tea imparts to it a
flavour closely resembling that of green tea.
The brownish-coloured powder vended under the name of ‘la veno beno’ is a
mixture of 2 parts of tea-dust with 5 parts of powdered catechu or terra
japonica. A few grains of this substance thrown into the teapot are
described in the advertisements as being capable of more than doubling the
strength of the beverage.
=Tea, Lie.= Of this compound, Dr Hassall says:——“It is so called because
it is a spurious article and not tea at all. It consists of dust of tea
leaves, sometimes of foreign leaves and sand made up by means of starch or
gum into little masses, which are afterwards painted and coloured, so as
to resemble either black or green gunpowder. The skill exhibited in the
fabrication of this spurious article is very great, and we have met with
at least a dozen varieties of it, differing from each other in the size
and colouring of the little masses.”
The once notorious ‘PARAQUAY PLANT,’ sold in packets, was simply new
meadow-hay that had been wetted with a strong infusion of catechu, then
dried, chopped small, and strongly compressed. See THEINE and CAFFEINE.
=Tea.= “The tea is not a meal; when it is properly used, it should not be
a meal; but it has a special purpose to fulfil, which I will now explain.
Tea——and under the generic term tea I include coffee——tea is usually taken
three hours after dinner. This is the moment which corresponds with the
completion of digestion, when, the food having been conveyed away from the
stomach, nothing remains behind but the excess of the acid juices employed
in digestion, these acid juices create an uneasy sensation at the stomach,
and a call is made for something to relieve the uneasiness; tea fulfils
that object.” “On the same principle, after the business of the
dining-room, the antacid and refreshing beverage, either in the shape of
tea or coffee, is prepared in the drawing-room. In taking either, the
nearer they approach to the simple infusion the better; little milk or
cream, and less sugar, should be the principle. But, seeing the purpose of
tea, how unreasonable to make it the excuse for a meal, to conjoin with it
toast, muffins, bread and butter, and _id genus omne_.” “Three meals a day
may be taken as the standard of habit and custom; tea and coffee having a
specific place and purpose as a beverage, but none as a meal.” (Eras.
Wilson.) See MEALS, &c.
Although tea is undoubtedly prejudicial to children and to adults of
nervous and irritable temperament, there can be no question that, if its
use be not abused, it possesses valuable physiological properties. On the
nervous system it acts as a pleasant stimulant and restorative, its
moderate use not being followed by depression. Dr Parkes says these
effects are in some measure due to the warmth of the infusion. According
to the same authority its use is followed by very little quickening of the
pulse, whilst there is an increase in the amount of perspiration, and a
slightly diminished action on the bowels. Cases, however, are not uncommon
in which this latter effect is reversed.
Dr Edward Smith says that tea increases the excretion of pulmonary
carbonic acid. The contention that the elimination of urea is lessened,
does seem to have been not satisfactorily established. If so, the
diminution is very trifling. Sir Ranald Martin says tea is most useful
against excessive fatigue, especially in hot climates. The traveller in
the Australian bush speaks highly of its renovating effects at the end of
a long day passed in the saddle.
A cup of strong green tea without milk or sugar is a popular and
frequently by no means inefficient remedy for a severe nervous headache.
According to Liebig, tea and coffee resemble soup in their effect on the
system. Lehmann’s experiments seem to show that they lessen the waste of
tissue in the human body. Tea taken too continuously, or in excess,
produces indigestion, flatulence, and constipation, besides rendering its
votaries anæmic and depressed in spirits.
It is a fallacy to suppose that soft water makes the best tea. It
certainly yields a darker infusion than that made from moderately hard
water, but this is owing to the soft water taking up a large quantity of
bitter, physiologically inert, extractive matter from the tea, the
delicate flavour of which becomes thereby greatly impaired. This is why
connoisseurs object to an infusion of too dark a colour. Moderately hard
_boiling_ water, on the contrary, fails to dissolve this objectionable
ingredient, and hence produces a beverage in which the characteristic
taste of the pleasant aromatic principle of the tea is not masked by the
bitter substance. London water, which, when boiled, has a hardness of
about 5 degrees (equal to 5 grains of lime salts to the gallon), makes
excellent tea——better, in fact, than a water of half the hardness, the
latter yielding a slightly bitter infusion. In the use of moderately hard
water, it is essential that it should be allowed to remain on the tea
sufficiently long. The Chinese never employ either very soft or
immoderately hard water, but _a water of medium hardness_.
“Experimentally it is found that infusions of tea and coffee are strong
enough when the former contains 0·6 per cent. of extractive matter, and
the latter 3 per cent., so that a moderate-sized cup (5 oz.) should
contain about 13 grains of the extract of tea, or 66 grains of coffee.
These proportions will be obtained when 263 grains of tea (about 2-1/2
teaspoonfuls) or 2 oz. of freshly-roasted coffee are infused in a pint of
boiling water; and the amounts of the several constituents dissolved are
about as follows:——
“Constituents. Tea. Coffee.
grs. grs.
Nitrogenous matters 17·2 44·0
Fatty matter —— 3·0
Gum, sugar, and extractive 31·7 103·2
Mineral matters 9·1 22·8
———— ——————
Total extracted 58·8 173·0
“So that tea yields, to a pint of fresh water, about 22 per cent. of its
weight, and coffee about 20 per cent. Lehmann found that only 15-1/2 per
cent. of tea was dissolved by water, whereas Sir Humphry Davy estimated it
at 33-1/2 per cent. No doubt the quality of the water, as well as that of
the tea, affects the results, for cold distilled water will extract from
40 to 44 per cent. of black tea, and nearly 50 per cent. of green; but,
for all this, about 22 per cent. is a good average with boiling
water.”[226]
[Footnote 226: Letheby, ‘Lectures on Food.’ Longmans.]
Dr Edward Smith has shown in the following table that, when the usual
custom of measuring tea into the teapot by the spoonful is followed, very
varying weights of tea are employed. Thus he found that the weight of a
spoonful of tea was for——
_Black Teas._
Oolong 39 grains.
Congou (inferior) 52 ”
Flowery Pekoe 62 ”
Souchong 70 ”
Congou (fine) 87 ”
_Green Teas._
Hyson 66 grains.
Twankay 70 ”
Fine Imperial 90 ”
Scented Caper 103 ”
Fine Gunpowder 123 ”
The attempt to make good tea will prove a failure unless the water
employed is _boiling_. Previously to making the infusion, the teapot
should always be warmed up by means of boiling water. The kettle should be
filled from the _tap_, and not the boiler. It should also be borne in mind
that neither good tea nor coffee can be obtained if they are made with
water that has been in the kettle for many hours. The tea is ready to be
drank after the boiling water has stood on it for five minutes.
=Tea, Beef.= _Syn._ INFUSUM CARNIS BUBULÆ, JUSCULUM CUM CARNE BOVIS, L.
This is merely a very concentrated soup formed of lean beef. According to
the common plan, lean beef, 1 lb., is gently simmered in water, 1 quart,
for about 1/2 an hour, when spices, salt, &c., are added, and in a few
minutes the whole is strained for use. The following are other formulæ:
1. (Dr A. T. Thomson.) Take good rump steak, 1/2 lb.; cut it into thin
slices, spread these over a hollow dish, sprinkle a little salt on them,
add a pint of boiling water, and place the dish (covered) near the fire
for 1/2 an hour; then remove the whole to a saucepan, and boil it gently
for 15 minutes; lastly, strain through a hair sieve.
2. (Prof. Liebig.) Beef, free from fat, 1 lb., is to be minced very small,
mixed with an equal weight of cold water, and, after digestion and
agitation in the cold for about 1/2 an hour, heated slowly to boiling;
when it has boiled for a minute or two, strain it through a cloth. It may
be coloured with roasted onion or burnt sugar, and spiced and salted to
taste.
_Obs._ Similar preparations are ordered in some foreign Pharmacopœias from
calves’ lights, crayfish, frogs, mutton, pullets, snails, tortoise, veal,
&c. In the Ph. L. 1746 a form was given for viper broth (JUSCULUM
VIPERINUM). See ESSENCE OF BEEF, EXTRACT OF MEAT, &c.
=TEETH (The).= _Syn._ DENTES, L. An object very subservient to health, and
which merits due attention, is the preservation of the teeth; the care of
which, considering their importance in preparing the food for digestion,
is, in general, far from being sufficiently appreciated. Comparatively
very few persons wash their mouth and clean their teeth even once a day; a
feat which ought always to be practised at the conclusion of a meal, when
either animal food or vegetables are eaten; for the first is apt to leave
behind it a rancid acrimony, and the other an acidity, both of them
hurtful to the teeth. Those who abhor a fetid breath, rotten teeth, and
the toothache, would do well to invariably clean their teeth before
retiring to rest. With smokers, this practice is almost obligatory.
Washing the mouth frequently with cold water is not only serviceable in
keeping the teeth clean, but in strengthening the gums, the firm adhesion
of which to the teeth is of the greatest importance in preserving them
sound and secure. Some persons think it serviceable to add a few drops of
spirit or essence of camphor to the water thus employed, a plan we
certainly approve of. See BREATH, DENTIFRICES, PASTES, POWDERS, TOOTH
CEMENTS, WASHES, &c.
=Teeth, Stoppings for.= See DENTISTRY.
=TEETH′ING.= _Syn._ DENTITION. Children are sometimes born with one or
more teeth; but, in general, the teeth, at birth, consist of mere pulpy
rudiments buried in the gum. Their development is gradual. About the third
or fourth month they begin to assume shape and hardness. At this period
children become fretful, the saliva flows copiously, the gums grow turgid,
and there is a fondness of biting hard cold objects. In nearly all cases
there is more or less fever, frequently a cough or diarrhœa, and a rash
commonly appears, which is called by nurses the ‘red gum.’ These symptoms
generally abate after a fortnight or three weeks, and the child remains
undisturbed until the seventh or eighth month. About this period the gums
again become red, tender, and swollen, and often extremely sensitive, and
painful. The upper part of the gum gradually becomes attenuated and pale,
and, just before the tooth appears, even covered with a blister. These
changes are usually attended by an increased flow of saliva, or
‘drivelling,’ and a lax state of the bowels, both of which are regarded as
favorable symptoms. Sometimes, however, the diarrhœa is excessive, when it
may be cautiously restrained by a dose or two of rhubarb-and-magnesia,
with a little dill or peppermint water; or, better, by the daily use of a
little arrow-root, to which a few drops of pure port wine may be added.
Sometimes the local irritation is considerable, or there are spasms or
convulsions, in which case the practice is to lance the gums. When there
is drowsiness, stupor, or oppressed respiration, one or two leeches may be
applied to the temples, and a small blister to the back of the neck, or
behind the ear. Sluggishness of the bowels may be removed by a little
castor oil; or, when there is actual constipation, by a little calomel or
mercurial powder and rhubarb. Excessive irritability, without other marked
symptoms, is best combated by a drop or two of tincture of hops in
sweetened water. Throughout the whole period of dentition the use of warm
dry clothing, freedom from tight bandages, with thorough ventilation, good
nursing, exercise, fresh air without undue exposure, abundance of crawling
on the carpet, and frequent warm baths, will be found most advantageous.
Indeed, the last, without other treatment, are often sufficient to subdue
the most distressing convulsions and the most obstinate diarrhœa, and in
no case can they do harm. See NURSING, STROPHULUS, &c.
=TELEPHONE.= Within the memory of the present generation Sir Charles
Wheatstone made some experiments on the transmission of sound, which were
subsequently repeated and enlarged upon by Professor Henry in America.
Connecting together by means of a bar of wood the sounding boards of two
pianos placed in houses on opposite sides of the street, Henry found that
when the piano on one side of the street was played upon the musical
sounds it gave out were reproduced by that on the other side. The next
research in this direction was that of Page, in 1837, who, setting up
vibrations in bars of iron, by rapidly magnetising and demagnetising them
elicited from them musical notes corresponding with the velocity of the
vibration. Similar effects, but more marked in character, were produced by
De la Rive, in 1843, by means of a succession of electric currents
transmitted through a copper wire stretched through a cylinder made of
insulated copper wire.
In 1861 Reiss, of Freidrichsdorf, perfected an instrument which, by means
of the vibrations of a diaphragm alternately completing and breaking the
continuity of a galvanic circuit, reproduced musical sounds in an iron bar
at a distance.
Varley, in 1870, obtained similar results to Reiss by the rapid charging
and discharging of a condenser.
In the first of these experiments——viz. Henry’s——the sound was
mechanically conducted along the bar of wood from the strings of one piano
to those of the other, which, being thrown into similar vibratory
movements gave rise to similar sounds.
In the other experiments, on the contrary, the sounds were not due to the
chemical conduction at all, but to currents of electricity. It has been
explained that Reiss’ instrument was capable of reproducing musical sounds
at a distance from their origin. Reiss’ may, therefore, be regarded as the
original telephone. But, although able to reproduce a musical note or
sound originating at a distance, this instrument failed altogether in the
case of a word or a sentence, for the simple reason that the current of
electricity which passes through the wires is an intermittent one. Musical
sounds differ in tone, in intensity, and quality. The tone depends upon
the number of vibrations produced in the air per second; when these are
less than sixteen no sound is produced. The intensity is due to the extent
or amplitude of the vibrations; and the quality or _timbre_, to the form
of the undulations made by the vibrating particles of the atmosphere. Now,
of all these qualities or varieties of sound, the first only, or the tone,
can be reproduced by a current of intermittent electricity, so that Reiss’
is a _tone_ telephone, and as such is only capable of redelivering a
number of musical notes. To Professor A. Graham Bell alone belongs the
merit of having invented an _articulating_ or _speaking_ telephone, or an
apparatus by means of which not only tone, but intensity and _timbre_ of
sound——in short, speech in its entirety can be electrically conveyed from
one point to another, no matter how distant. The practical result of this
is that a conversation can be carried on, the distance by which the
speakers may be separated being of no import. To the particular species of
electricity by which this is accomplished Professor Bell has given the
name ‘undulatory,’ in contradistinction to ‘intermittent’ or ‘pulsatory.’
The annexed plate, which is half the actual size of Bell’s articulating
telephone, represents that instrument in section.
[Illustration]
_m m_ is a permanent bar-magnet, to the upper end of which is attached a
soft iron core, which becomes magnetised by the permanent magnet.
Surrounding the iron core is a coil of very fine insulated copper wire
(_b_), the two ends of which are carried to the terminals (_t t_), by
means of which one is connected with the line wire, and the other with the
earth, _d_ is a disc of thin iron plate, either tinned or japanned, about
the size of a crown piece, and _c_ is the cavity or mouth-piece. Upon
applying the lips to this and speaking into it, the iron disc (_d_)
vibrates towards the soft iron core, the result being that a current of
induced electricity is set up in the coil (_b_), Which, being in
connection by means of the telegraph wire with a precisely similar
arrangement at the other end of the line, reproduces there the spoken
words by means of a corresponding disc. The magnet with its attachments
are enclosed in a wooden case (_a a_, _a a_, _a a_); _n n_ are screws
which secure the iron disk (_b_); _s_ is a screw for adjusting the
distance between the polo of the magnet and the disk (_b_).
The extreme simplicity of Professor Bell’s telephone was the outcome of
several antecedent experiments, worked out by forms of apparatus gradually
diminishing in complexity.
The German physicist Helmholtz had previously shown that by the agency of
a current of intermittent electricity passed through a tuning-fork, he
could produce simultaneous vibrations in a number of other forks connected
with the first by a wire, and that by varying the loudness of these
vibrations by means of resonators, so as to combine the musical notes in
different proportions, the resulting sound was an imitation of certain
vowel sounds, or a copy of the _timbre_ of sound.
Professor Bell’s first telephone was an extension of Helmholtz’s device
for producing vowel or composite sounds. A number of steel wires of
different pitch were made into a harp, and connected by a powerful
permanent magnet, the same arrangement being repeated at the other end of
the circuit. In the magnetic field of the permanent magnet was an
electro-magnet. When a permanent magnet is vibrated in the neighbourhood
of an electro-magnet, this latter will have a current of electricity
generated in it, the intensity of which will vary with the velocity of the
vibrations in the permanent magnet, whilst it will be either positive or
negative according to the direction of these same vibrations. So that a
vowel sound, if produced by causing a number of the rods of the harp to
vibrate at the same time, can be transmitted by a current of electricity,
and will be reproduced by the harp at the other end of the connecting
wire. If a piano were sung into whilst the pedal was down, not only would
the pitch of the voice be echoed back, but an approach to the quality of
the vowel would also be obtained. And theory teaches that if the piano had
a very much larger number of strings to the octave, we should get not only
an approximation to, but an exact vocal reproduction of the vowel. If,
therefore, in the harp there were a large number of steel rods to the
octave, and you were to speak in the neighbourhood of such a harp, the
rods would be thrown into vibration with different degrees of amplitude,
producing currents of electricity, and would throw into vibration the rods
at the other end with the same relative amplitude, and the _timbre_ of the
voice would be reproduced.
The effect when you vibrate more than one of these rods simultaneously is
to change the shape of the electrical undulation, and a similar effect is
produced when a battery is included in the circuit. In this case the
battery current is thrown into waves by the action of the permanent
magnets. Hence you will see that the resultant effect on the current of a
number of musical-tones, is to produce a vibration which corresponds in
every degree to the moving velocity of the air. Suppose, for instance, you
vibrate two rods in the harp, you have two musical notes produced, but of
course if you pay attention to a particle of air, it is impossible that
any particle of air can vibrate in two directions at the same time; it
follows the resultant form of vibration. One curve would show the
vibration of a particle of air for one musical tone, the next one for
another, and the third the resulting motion of a particle of air when both
musical tones are sounded simultaneously. You have by the harp apparatus
the resultant effect produced by a current of electricity, but the same
resultant effect could be produced in the air. There is an instrument
called the phonantograph. It consists of a cone which, when spoken into,
condenses the air from the voice. At the small end of the cone there is a
stretched membrane which vibrates when a sound is produced, and in the
course of its vibration it controls the movement of a long style of wood,
about one foot in length. If a piece of glass with a smoked surface is
rapidly drawn before the style during its movement, a series of curves
will be drawn upon the glass. I myself uttered the vowels _e_, _ay_, _eh_,
_ah_, _aah_. These vowels were sung at the same pitch and the same force,
but each is characterised on the glass by a shape of vibration of its own.
In fact, when you come to examine the motion of a particle of air, there
can be no doubt that every sound is characterised by a particular motion.
It struck me that if, instead of using that complicated harp, and
vibrating a number of rods tuned to different pitches, and thus creating
on the line of wire a resultant effect, we were at once to vibrate a piece
of iron, to give to that piece of iron not the vibration of a musical
tone, but to give it the resultant vibration of a vowel sound, we could
have an undulatory current produced directly, not indirectly, which would
correspond to the motion of the air in the production of a sound.
The difficulty, however, was how to vibrate a piece of iron in the way
required.
The following apparatus gave me the clue to the solution of the problem in
the attempt to improve the phonantograph. I attempted to construct one
modelled as nearly as possible on the mechanism of the human ear, but on
going to a friend in Boston, Dr Clarence J. Blake, an aurist, he suggested
the novel idea of using the human ear itself as a phonantograph, and this
apparatus we constructed together. It is a human ear. The interior
mechanism is exposed, and to a part of it is attached a long style of hay.
Upon moistening the membrane and the little bones with a mixture of
glycerin and water, the mobility of the parts was restored, and on
speaking into the external artificial ear a vibration was observed, and
after many experiments we were enabled to obtain tracings of the vibration
on a sheet of smoked glass drawn rapidly along. This apparatus gave me the
clue to the present form of the telephone. What I wanted was an apparatus
that should be able to move a piece of iron in the way that a particle of
air is moved by the voice.[227]
[Footnote 227: From Professor Bell’s lecture at the Society of Arts, Nov.
28th, 1877, published in the Journal of the Society, vol. 26, p. 17.]
We need not follow Professor Bell through the various stages by which he
arrived at his most successful solution of this problem further than to
state that the simplicity of construction exhibited in the present form of
instrument did not characterise the earlier articulatory telephones.
Amongst the causes contributing to this simplicity may be mentioned the
abandonment of an animal membrane attached to the iron plate, the
diminution of the coil of insulated wire, and the substitution for the
galvanic battery which formerly formed part of the circuit, of the
permanent magnet.
Professor Bell records the curious fact that hardly any difference is
observable in the results by varying the size, thickness, and force of the
permanent magnet, and that beyond a remarkable effect in the quality of
the voice, distinct articulations might be obtained from iron plates of
from 1 inch to 2 feet in diameter and from 1/64th to 1/4th inch in
thickness. With plates of uniform thickness, but of varying diameter, he
obtained the following results. With a plate of small diameter the
articulation was perfectly distinct, but the sound emitted was as if a
person were speaking through the nose. By gradually enlarging the diameter
of the plate this nasal effect as gradually disappeared, until when a
certain diameter was attained a very good quality of voice manifested
itself.
By continuing to enlarge the diameter, a coarse, hollow, drum-like effect
was produced, until when the diameter became very large, the sound
resembled that one hears when the head is inside a barrel, and was
accompanied with a reverberating sound. By reversing the above
conditions——that is, by keeping the diameter constant, and varying the
thickness——it was found that with a very thin plate the drum-like sound
was produced; by gradually increasing the thickness this effect passed
off; then followed distinct articulation, until at a certain increase of
thickness the peculiar nasal quality again developed itself.
In practice it has been found desirable, in establishing speaking
communication between two distant places, to employ two telephones instead
of a single one; one being applied to the mouth and the other to the ear
during a conversation.
With one telephone it was no unusual occurrence for confusion to arise in
consequence of the two speakers talking or listening at the same time.
So faithful is the transmission by the telephone of every variety of
sound, that Mr Preece states, when in telephonic communication with Prof.
Bell, through a quarter of a mile he has heard him “laugh, sneeze, cough,
and, in fact, make any sound the human voice can produce.” It must be
borne in mind, however, that the transmitted speech can only be distinctly
heard in the immediate vicinity of the receiving apparatus; the keenest
hearing fails to detect it at the distance of little more than a foot
away. Hence, when a message is expected, the recipient has to place his
ear to the mouthpiece of the instrument, and use it as an ear-trumpet.
A circumstance tending to impair the satisfactory working of Bell’s
telephone is, that the line wire to which the ends of the coil are
attached becomes inductively affected by the currents of electricity
passing through the parallel and contiguous telegraph wires, the effect,
on a line where there is an active transmission of telegraphic messages,
being that the telephone “emits sounds that are very like the pattering of
hail against a window, and which are so loud as to overpower the effects
of the human voice.”[228]
[Footnote 228: Preece.]
This inconvenience can, however, it is stated, be remedied.
If all the arrangements of the instrument were perfect, there should be no
limits to the distance through which speech could be conveyed by the
telephone. Professor Bell says that in laboratory experiments “no
difficulty has been found in using an apparatus of this construction
through a circuit of 6000 miles;” and that he had found it act efficiently
between New York and Boston, a distance of 258 miles, subject to the
condition that the neighbouring telegraph wires were not in action.
Mr Preece has carried on conversations between Dublin and Holyhead, a
distance of 100 miles.
Two useful applications of the telephone are recorded by Professor Bell,
the one its employment in connection with the diving bell; the other as a
means of communication between those above and below ground in mines. It
has been largely adopted in extensive factories and in commercial houses
both in America and in this country, supplementing, because of its much
greater simplicity and easy application, the electric telegraphs
previously in use in such establishments.
We extract the following from the ‘Journal of the Society of Arts,’[229]
[Footnote 229: Vol. 26, p. 887.]
“THE TELEPHONE AND THE TORPEDO.
“A novel application of the Bell telephone is one which has been made in
connection with torpedoes by Captain C. A. M’Evoy, of 18, Adam Street,
Adelphi. The torpedoes to which the telephone has been applied are those
of the buoyant contact class——that is, floating torpedoes, which are used
for the protection of rivers and harbours. These torpedoes are held in
position beneath the surface of the water by mooring lines and anchors,
and it is necessary to ascertain from time to time that these deadly
agents are in active working order. They are, of course, connected to the
shore by electric wires by which they may be exploded. They are also
arranged so that they may be exploded electrically by contact with passing
vessels. For this latter purpose they are fitted with what is known as a
circuit closer, which is placed in the middle of the charge within the
torpedo. The testing is ordinarily performed by sending a current of
electricity through the torpedo and fuse; but, in order that the fuse may
not be fired, and the torpedo consequently exploded during the process of
testing, an extremely weak current has to be used in connection with a
sensitive galvanometer. The consequence is that the indications received
are so very delicate that they are not always to be relied on. Now, what
Captain M’Evoy does is to supplement the electrical test by the test of
sounds, and to this end he encloses an ordinary Bell telephone in each
torpedo. The telephone is so placed that the vibrating diaphragm is in a
horizontal plane, and upon it are laid a few shot or particles of metal,
and these are boxed in. Every motion of the torpedo causes the shot to
shift their position upon the face of the diaphragm and to cause a slight
noise, which is distinctly heard in the receiving telephone on shore. Thus
each torpedo two or three miles away, in the restless waters of a channel,
is continually telling the operator on shore of its own condition in
language sometimes excited, according to the state of calmness or
agitation of the water at the time. Should the torpedoes be sunk, they
would lie motionless on the bottom, and the silence of the telephone would
indicate the fact of their inoperativeness. The telephones are connected
to the ordinary electric wires of the torpedoes, but this does not prevent
them from being tested in the usual way from the battery on shore.”
=TELLU′RIUM.= A rare greyish-white elementary substance, found only in
small quantities, associated with gold, silver, lead, and bismuth, in the
gold mines of Transylvania. It has often been described as a metal, but is
now commonly classed with the non-metals.
1. Tellurium may be obtained from the bismuth ore (the telluride of
bismuth) by strongly heating the ore with a mixture of carbonate of potash
and charcoal. A potassium telluride is formed which dissolves in water,
forming a solution of a purplish-red colour, from which the tellurium
deposits on exposure of the liquid to the atmosphere.
2. Schrötter gives the following method for the obtainment of metallic
tellurium:——The raw material is treated with dilute hydrochloric acid as
long as carbon dioxide is evolved, then with strong acid until all
sulphuretted hydrogen is driven off.
The liquid is decanted from the residue, which is washed with hydrochloric
acid and hot water, then boiled with aqua regia until the insoluble matter
is white. From the aqua regia solution any gold that may be present is
precipitated by means of ferrous sulphate, and afterwards zinc is added to
precipitate the tellurium. The precipitate on the zinc is washed, dried,
and heated to redness, treated with sulphuric acid to remove any silver,
and the remaining tellurium is then collected.
Tellurium bears a great resemblance to bismuth in appearance, having a
pinkish metallic lustre; it further resembles bismuth in being crystalline
and brittle.
Below a red heat it enters into a state of fusion; at a high temperature
it becomes converted into a yellow vapour. It burns in air, when strongly
heated, with a blue flame having a green rim, and giving off white fumes
that have a peculiar odour. When taken internally, even in very minute
quantities, tellurium imparts to the breath an offensively powerful odour
of garlic. Tellurium dissolves in cold concentrated sulphuric acid, to
which it imparts a rich purple-red colour. If the acid solution be diluted
with water the tellurium precipitates unchanged. There are two oxides of
tellurium: the dioxide (TeO_{2}) and the trioxide (TeO_{3}), the first of
which corresponds to sulphurous, and the second to sulphuric anhydride.
_Tellurous acid_ (H_{2}TeO_{3}) is obtained by pouring a solution of
tellurium on nitric acid of 1·25 into water, when the tellurous acid is
precipitated as a bulky hydrate. This hydrate is slightly soluble in water
and reddens litmus. It forms salts called tellurites.
_Telluric acid_ (H_{2}TeO_{4}). When tellurium or tellurous acid is gently
heated with nitre a potassic tellurate is formed, this being decomposed by
a salt of barium, whilst the resulting barium tellurate is in its turn
decomposed, and the telluric acid separated by sulphuric acid. The
telluric acid occurs in hexagonal prismatic crystals, which, when heated
usually to redness, becoming converted into telluric anhydride, which then
assumes an orange-yellow colour. This telluric anhydride (TeO_{3}) is
entirely insoluble in water, nitric and hydrochloric acids, and alkaline
solutions. Although it has but a feeble attraction for bases, telluric
acid forms salts which are called tellurates. There are two chlorides of
tellurium: the dichloride (TeCl_{2}) and the tetrachloride (TeCl_{4}).
They may both be obtained by the direct action of chlorine on tellurium.
_Telluretted hydrogen, or dihydric telluride_. (H_{2}Te). This compound
presents a striking analogy to seleniuretted and sulphuretted hydrogen.
Like both of these it is gaseous, but resembles the latter in smell more
than the former. It burns with a blue flame, reddens litmus, and when
fused into water forms a colourless solution, which becomes brown by
exposure to the air, owing to the oxidation of hydrogen and the deposition
of tellurmin. The salts of most of the metals are decomposed when a
current of telluretted hydrogen is passed through these solutions, from
which the metals are then thrown down as tellurides. These tellurides
present a close resemblance to the corresponding sulphides. The tellurides
of the alkali metals, like the sulphides, are soluble in water.
_Tests._ The most distinctive character of tellurium compounds is the
reddish-purple solution of potassium telluride they furnish when fused
with potassic carbonate and charcoal and treated with water.
=TEM′PERATURE.= In English pharmacy it is customary to measure the degree
of heat by Fahrenheit’s thermometer. When a boiling heat is directed, 212°
is meant. A gentle heat is that which is denoted by any degree between 90°
and 100° Fahr.
Whenever specific gravity is mentioned, the substance spoken of is
supposed to be of the temperature of 62° Fahr. (Ph. L.)
In the B. P., Ph. E., & D., and in chemical works in this country
generally, the specific gravities of bodies are taken at, or referred to,
the temperature of 60° Fahr. See THERMOMETERS.
The following data may be of use to the pharmacist:
_Degree of Fahr._
2786 Cast iron melts (Daniell).
2016 Gold melts (Daniell).
1996 Copper melts (Daniell).
1873 Silver melts (Daniell).
1750 Brass (containing 25% of zinc) melts (Daniell).
1000 Iron, bright cherry red (Poillet).
980 Red heat, visible in daylight (Daniell).
941 Zinc begins to burn (Daniell).
773 Zinc melts (Daniell).
644 Mercury boils (Daniell), 662 (Graham).
640 Sulphuric acid boils (Marignac), 620 (Graham).
630 Whale oil boils (Graham).
617 Pure lead melts (Rudberg).
600 Linseed oil boils.
518 Bismuth melts (Gmelin).
442 Tin melts (Crichton).
380 Arsenious acid volatilises.
356 Metallic arsenic sublimes.
315 Oil of turpentine boils (Kaure).
302 Etherification ends.
257 Saturated sol. of sal ammoniac boils (Taylor).
256 Saturated sol. of acetate of soda boils.
239 Sulphur melts (Miller), 226 (Fownes).
238 Saturated sol. of nitre boils.
221 Saturated sol. of salt boils (Paris Codex).
220 Saturated sol. of alum, carb. soda, and sulph. zinc, boil.
218 Saturated sol. of chlorate and prussiate potash, boil.
216 Saturated sol. of sulph. iron, sulph. copper, nitrate of lead, boil.
214 Saturated sol. of acetate lead, sulph. and bitartrate potash, boil.
213 or (213·5) Saturated sol. of water begins to boil in glass.
212 Water boils in metal, barometer at 30°.
211 Alloy of 5 bismuth, 3 tin, 2 lead, melts.
201 Alloy of 8 bismuth, 5 lead, 3 tin, melts (Kane).
207 Sodium melts (Regnault).
145 White of egg begins to coagulate.
185 Nitric acid 1·52 begins to boil.
180 (about) Starch forms a gelatinous compound with water.
176 Rectified spirit boils, benzol distils.
173 Alcohol (sp. gr. ·796 to ·800) boils.
151 Beeswax melts (Kane), 142 (Lepage).
150 Pyroxylic spirit boils (Scanlan).
141·8 Chloroform, and ammonia of ·945, boil.
44·5 Potassium melts (Bunsen).
132 Acetone (pyroacetic spirit) boils (Kane).
122 Mutton suet and styracin melt.
116 Bisulphuret of carbon boils (Graham).
115 Pure tallow melts (Lepage), 92 (Thomson).
112 Spermaceti and stearin of lard melt.
111 Phosphorus melts (Miller).
98 Temperature of the blood.
95 Ether (·720) boils.
95 Carbolic acid crystals become an oily liquid.
88 Acetous fermentation ceases, water boils _in vacuo_.
77 Vinous ferm. ends, acetous ferm. begins.
64·4 Oil of anise liquefies.
59 Gay Lussac’s _Alcoomètre_ graduated at.
55 Syrups to be kept at (P. L.).
30 (about) Olive oil becomes partially solid.
32 Water freezes.
·5 Cold produced by snow 2 parts and salt 1 part.
-37·9 Mercury freezes.
=TENT.= A piece of lint, or compressed sponge, used to dilate openings,
wounds, &c.
=TERBIUM.= A rare metal found by Prof. Mosander, associated with erbium
and yttrium in ordinary yttria. See ERBIUM and YTTRIUM.
=TER′RA.= [L.] Earth. TERRA JAPONICA, catechu; TERRA PONDEROSA, sulphate
of baryta, &c.
=TER′RA COT′TA.= Literally, baked clay; a term applied to statues,
architectural ornaments, &c., made of pure white clay, fine sand, and
powdered potsherds, slowly dried, and baked to a strong hardness.
=TEST.= _Syn._ REAGENT. Any substance employed to determine the name or
character of any other substance, or to detect its presence in compounds.
=TEST SOLUTIONS.= The test solutions here given are those of the British
Pharmacopœia, which are used for determining the strength of various
Pharmacopœial preparations by volumetric analysis. In the Pharmacopœia it
is stated: The processes for volumetric estimations may be performed
either with British or with metrical weights and measures, and the
solutions are so arranged that they will be of the same strength, and the
same indications will be obtained in using them, whichever system is
employed, without the necessity of altering any of the figures by which
the quantities of the substances tested or of the test solutions required
in the process are expressed.
According to the British system, the quantities of the substances to be
tested are expressed in grains by weight, whilst the quantities of the
test solutions employed in testing are expressed in grain-measures, the
grain-measure being the volume of a grain of distilled water.
According to the metrical system, the quantities of the substances to be
tested are expressed in grammes by weight, whilst the quantities of the
test solutions employed in testing are employed in cubic centimètres, the
cubic centimètre being the volume of a gramme of distilled water.
As the cubic centimètre bears the same relation to the gramme that the
grain-measure bears to the grain, the one system may be substituted for
the other, with no difference in the results excepting that, by the
metrical system, all the quantities will be expressed in relation to a
weight (the gramme) which is more than fifteen times as great as the
British grain.
In practice it will be found convenient in substituting metrical for
British weights and measures, to reduce the values of all numbers to
one-tenth by moving the decimal points, and this has been done in the
tables appended to the descriptions of the volumetric solutions. The
quantities indicated in the Pharmacopœia, which in grains and
grain-measures can be conveniently used, would be found inconveniently
large if the same numbers of grammes and cubic centimètres were employed.
The following apparatus is required in the preparation and use of these
solutions.
For British weights and measures:
1. A flask, which, when filled to a mark on the neck, contains exactly
10,000 grains of distilled water at 60°. The capacity of the flask is
therefore 10,000 grain-measures.
2. A graduated cylindrical jar which, when filled to O, holds 10,000
grains of distilled water, and is divided into 100 equal parts.
3. A burette. A graduated glass tube which, when filled to O, holds 1000
grains of distilled water, and is divided into 100 equal parts. Each part
therefore corresponds to 10 grain-measures.
For metrical weights and measures:
1. A glass flask which, when filled to a mark on the neck, contains 1
litre, or 1000 cubic centimètres.
2. A graduated cylindrical jar which, when filled to O, contains 1 litre
(1000 cubic centimètres), and is divided into 100 equal parts.
3. A burette. A graduated tube which, when filled to O, holds 100 cubic
centimètres, and is divided into 100 equal parts.
(One cubic centimètre is the volume of one gramme of distilled water at 4°
C.[230], 1000 cubic centimètres equal 1 litre).
[Footnote 230: It is customary to make the measurements with metrical
apparatus at 60° Fahr.]
Volumetric solutions, before being used, should be shaken in order that
they may be throughout of uniform strength. They should also be preserved
in stoppered bottles. All measurements should be made at 60°.
VOLUMETRIC SOLUTION OF BICHROMATE OF POTASH (Bichromate of potash,
KO,2CrO_{3} = 147·5, or K_{2}Cr_{2}O_{7} = 295).
Take of——
Bichromate of potash 147·5 grains.
Distilled water a sufficiency.
Put the bichromate of potash into the 10,000 grain flask, and, having half
filled the flask with water, allow the salt to dissolve; then dilute the
solution with more water, until it has the exact bulk of 10,000
grain-measures: 1000 grain-measures of this solution contain 14·75 grains
of the bichromate (1/10th of K_{2}CrO_{3}, or 1/20th of K_{2}Cr_{2}O_{7}
in grains), and, when added to a solution of a protosalt of iron,
acidulated with hydrochloric acid, are capable of converting 16·8 grains
(1/10th of 6Fe, or 1/20th of 6Fe in grains) from the state of protosalt to
that of persalt grammes, and cubic centimètres may be employed instead of
grains and grain-measures; but for convenience 1/10th of the numbers
should be taken. Thus, 14·75 grammes of bichromate of potash should be
made to form 1000 cubic centimètres of solution. 100 cubic centimètres of
this solution contain 1·475 grammes of the bichromate (1/100th of
KO,2CrO_{3}, or 1/200th of K_{2}Cr_{2}0_{7} in grammes), and, when added
to a solution of protosalt of iron acidulated with hydrochloric acid, are
capable of converting 1·68 grammes of iron (1/100th of 6Fe, or 1/200 of
6Fe, in grammes) from the state of protosalt to that of persalt.
This solution is used for determining the proportion of protoxide of iron
in the following preparations. It is known that the whole of the protosalt
has been converted into a persalt when a minute drop of the liquid, placed
in contact with a solution of red prussiate of potash on a white plate,
ceases to strike with it a blue colour.
British Weights Metrical Weights
and Measures. and Measures.
/-----------/\-------------\ or /---------/\--------\
Grains weight = Grain measures Grams weight = C. C. of
of substance. of vol. sol. of substance. vol. sol.
Ferri arsenias 20 = 170 or 2·0 = 17·0
” carb. sacch. 20 = 330 ” 2·0 = 33·0
” oxid. magn. 20 = 83 ” 2·0 = 8·3
” Phosphas 20 = 250 ” 2·0 = 25·0
VOLUMETRIC SOLUTION OF HYPOSULPHITE OF SODA (hyposulphite
of soda crystallised, NaO_{1}S_{2}O_{2} + 5HO = 124, or
Na_{2}H_{2}S_{2}O_{4}.4H_{2}0 = 248).
Take of——
Hyposulphite of soda, in crystals 280 grains.
Distilled water a sufficiency.
Dissolve the hyposulphite of soda in 10,000 grain-measures of water. Fill
a burette with this solution and drop it cautiously in 1000 grain-measures
of the volumetric solution of iodine until the brown colour is just
discharged. Note the number of grain-measures (_n_) required to produce
this effect; then put 8000 grain-measures of the same solution into a
graduated jar, and augment this quantity by the addition of distilled
water until it amounts to (8000 × 1000) / _n_ grain-measures. If, for
example, _n_=950, the 8000 grain-measures of solution should be
diluted to the bulk of (8000 × 1000) / 950 = 8·421 grain-measures.
1000 grain-measures of this solution contains 24·8 grains of the
hyposulphite (1/10th of 2(NaO,S_{2}O_{2} + 5HO), or 1/10th of
=Na_{2}H_{2}S_{2}O_{4},4H_{2}O= in grains), and therefore corresponds
to 12·7 grains of iodine (1/10th of an equivalent).
Grammes and cubic centimètres may be employed instead of grains and
grain-measures, but for convenience 1/10th of the numbers should be taken.
100 cubic centimètres of this solution contain 2·48 grammes of the
hyposulphite (1/100 of 2(NaO,S_{2}O_{2}+ 5HO), or 1/100th of
Na_{2}H_{2}S_{2}O_{4}.4H_{2}O in grammes), and therefore corresponds to
1·27 grains of iodine (1/100th of an equivalent).
This solution is used for testing the following substances. In each case,
except that of iodine, a solution of iodide of potassium and hydrochloric
acid are added to the substance, and the amount of iodine so liberated is
indicated by this solution:
British Weights Metrical Weights
and Measures. and Measures.
/------------/\------------\ or /---------/\---------\
Grains weight = Grain-measures Grams weight = C. C. of
of substance. of vol. sol. of substance. vol. sol.
Calx Chlorata 10·0 = 850 or 1·00 = 85·0
Iodum 12·7 = 1000 ” 1·27 = 100·0
Liq. calc. chloratæ 60·0 = 500 ” 6·00 = 50·0
Liq. chlori 439·0 = 750 ” 43·90 = 75·0
Liq. Sodæ chloratæ 70·0 = 500 ” 7·00 = 50·0
VOLUMETRIC SOLUTION OF IODINE (iodine, I = 127, or I = 127).
Take of iodine 127 grains.
Iodide of potassium 180 ”
Distilled water a sufficiency.
Put the iodide of potassium and the iodine into the 10,000 grain flask,
fill the flask to about two thirds its bulk with distilled water, gently
agitate until solution is complete, and then dilute the solution with more
water, until it has the exact volume of 10,000 grain-measures. 1000
grain-measures of this solution contain 1/10th of an equivalent in grains
(12·7 grains) of iodine, and therefore correspond to 1·7 grains of
sulphuretted hydrogen, 3·2 grains of sulphurous acid, and 4·95 grains of
arsenious acid.
Grammes and cubic centimètres may be employed instead of grains and
grain-measures, but for convenience 1/10th of the numbers should be taken.
100 cubic centimètres contain 1·27 grammes of iodine, and correspond to
0·17 grammes of sulphuretted hydrogen, 0·32 grammes of sulphurous, and
0·495 grammes of arsenious acid. This solution is for testing the
following substances. It is dropped from the burette into the liquid to be
tested, until free iodine begins to appear in the solution.
British Weights Metrical Weights
and Measures. and Measures.
/------------/\------------\ or /---------/\--------\
Grains weight = Grain-measures Grams weight = C. C. of
of substance. of vol. sol. of substance. vol. sol.
Acid. arsenios 4·0 = 808 or 0·40 = 80·8
Acid. sulphurosum 34·7 = 1000 ” 3·47 = 100·0
Liquor arsenicalis 441·5 = 808 ” 44·15 = 80·8
Liquor arsenici }
hydrochloricus} 441·5 = 810 ” 44·15 = 81·0
VOLUMETRIC SOLUTION OF NITRATE OF SILVER (nitrate of silver, AgO, NO_{5} =
170, or AgNO_{3}* = 170).
Take of nitrate of silver 170 grains.
Distilled water a sufficiency.
Put the nitrate of silver into the 10,000 grain flask, and having filled
half the flask with water, allow the salt to dissolve; then dilute the
solution with more water until it has the exact bulk of 10,000
grain-measures.
The solution should be kept in an opaque stoppered bottle. 1000
grain-measures of this solution contain 1/10th of an equivalent in grains
of nitrate of silver (or 1·70 grains). Grammes and cubic centimètres may
be employed instead of grains and grain-measures, but for convenience
1/10th of the numbers should be taken. 100 cubic centimètres contain
1/10th of an equivalent in grammes of nitrate of silver (or 1·7 grammes).
It is used in testing the following substances.
British Weights Metrical Weights
and Measures. and Measures.
/------------/\------------\ or /--------/\---------\
Grains weight = Grain-measures Grams weight = C. C. of
of substance. of vol. sol. of substance. vol. sol.
Acid. hydrocyan. 270 = 1000 or 27·0 = 100·0
Potass. bromid. 10 = 840 ” 1·0 = 84·0
Sodæ arsenias (dry) 10 = 1613 ” 1·0 = 161·3
VOLUMETRIC SOLUTION OF OXALIC ACID (crystallised oxalic acid, 2HO,
C_{4}H_{6} + 4HO = 126, or H_{2}C_{2}O_{4}2H_{2}O = 126). Take of——
Purified oxalic acid in }
crystals, quite dry, but } 630 grains.
not effloresced }
Distilled water a sufficiency.
Put the oxalic acid into the 10,000 grain flask, fill the flask to about
two thirds of its bulk with water, allow the acid to dissolve, and then
dilute the solution with more water until it has the exact volume of
10,000 grain-measures. 1000 grain-measures of this solution contain half
an equivalent in grains (63 gr.) of oxalic acid, and are therefore capable
of neutralising an equivalent in grains of an alkali or alkaline
carbonate. Grammes and cubic centimètres may be employed instead of grains
and grain-measures, but for convenience 1/10th of the numbers should be
taken. 100 cubic centimètres contain 1/20th of an equivalent in grammes
(6·3 grammes) of oxalic acid, and will neutralise 1/10th of an equivalent
in grammes of an alkali. The following substances are tested with this
solution:
British Weights Metrical Weights
and Measures. and Measures.
/-------/\-------\ or /--------/\--------\
Grains = Grain- Grams = C. C. of
weight of measures weight of vol. sol.
substance. of vol. sol. substance.
Ammoniæ carb. 59·0 = 1000 or 5·90 = 100·0
Borax 191·0 = 1000 ” 19·10 = 100·0
Liq. ammon. 85·0 = 500 ” 8·50 = 50·0
Liq. ammon. fort. 52·3 = 1000 ” 5·23 = 100·0
Liq. calcis 4380·0 = 200 ” 438·00 = 20·0
Liq. calcis sacchar 460·2 = 254 ” 46·02 = 25·4
Liq. plumbi subacet. 413·3 = 810 ” 41·33 = 81·0
Liq. potassæ 462·9 = 482 ” 46·29 = 48·2
Liq. potassæ efferves. 4380·0 = 150 ” 438·00 = 15·0
Liq. sodæ 458·0 = 470 ” 45·80 = 47·0
Liq. sodæ efferves. 4380·0 = 178 ” 438·00 = 17·8
Plumbi acetas 38·0 = 200 ” 3·80 = 20·0
Potassa caustica 56·0 = 900 ” 5·60 = 90·0
Potassæ bicarb. 50·0 = 500 ” 5·00 = 50·0
Potassæ carb. 83·0 = 980 ” 8·30 = 98·0
Potassæ citras 102·0 = 1000 ” 10·20 = 100·0
Potassæ tartras 113·0 = 1000 ” 11·30 = 100·0
Potassæ tartras acida 188·0 = 1000 ” 18·80 = 100·0
Soda caustica 40·0 = 900 ” 4·00 = 90·0
Soda tartarata 141·0 = 1000 ” 14·10 = 100·0
Sodæ bicarb. 84·0 = 1000 ” 8·40 = 100·0
Sodæ carb. 143·0 = 960 ” 14·30 = 96·0
VOLUMETRIC SOLUTION OF SODA (hydrate of soda, NaO, HO = 40, or NaHO = 40).
Take of solution of soda a sufficiency.
Distilled water a sufficiency.
Fill a burette with the solution of soda, and cautiously drop this into 63
gr. of purified oxalic acid, dissolved in about 2 oz. of water, until the
acid is exactly neutralised as indicated by litmus.
Note the number of grain-measures (_n_) of the solution used, and having
then introduced 9000 grain-measures of the solution of soda in a graduated
jar, augment this quantity by the addition of water until it becomes
9000 × 1000 / _n_ grain-measures =
If, for example, _n_ = 930, the 9000 grain-measures should be augmented to
9000 × 1000 / 930 = 9,677 grain-measures.
One thousand grain-measures of this solution contain one equivalent in
grains (40 gr.) of hydrate of soda, and will therefore neutralise one
equivalent in grains of any monobasic acid.
Grammes and cubic centimètres may be employed, instead of grains and
grain-measures; but for convenience 1/10th of the numbers should be taken.
1000 cubic centimètres contain 1/10th of an equivalent in grammes (4
grammes) of hydrate of soda, and will neutralise 1/10th of an equivalent
in grammes of an acid.
This solution is used for testing the following substances:
British Weights Metrical Weights
and Measures. and Measures.
/--------/\-------\ or /--------/\--------\
Grains = Grain- Grams C. C. of
weight of measures weight of = vol. sol.
substance. of vol. substance.
sol.
Acetum 445·4 = 402 or 44·54 = 40·2
Acid. acet. 182·0 = 1000 ” 18·20 = 100·0
Acid. acet. dil. 440·0 = 313 ” 44·40 = 31·3
Acid. acet. glac. 60·0 = 990 ” 6·00 = 99·0
Acid. citric 70·0 = 1000 ” 7·00 = 100·0
Acid. hydrochloric 114·8 = 1000 ” 14·48 = 100·0
Acid. hydrochloric dil. 345·0 = 1000 ” 34·50 = 100·0
Acid. nitric 90·0 = 1000 ” 9·00 = 100·0
Acid. nitric dil. 361·3 = 1000 ” 36·13 = 100·0
Acid. nitro-hydrochlor. dil. 352·4 = 920 ” 35·24 = 92·0
Acid. sulph. 50·6 = 1000 ” 5·06 = 100·0
Acid. sulph. arom. 304·2 = 830 ” 30·42 = 83·0
Acid. sulph. dil. 359·0 = 1000 ” 35·90 = 100·0
Acid. tart. 75·0 = 1000 ” 7·50 = 100·0
=TE′TANUS.= Spasm with rigidity. When it affects the under jaw, it is
called TRISMUS, or locked-jaw; when the body is drawn backward by the
contraction of the muscles, it is called OPISTHOTONOS; when the body is
bent forward, EMPROSTHOTONOS; and when the body is drawn to one side,
PLEUROSTHOTONOS.
The cause of tetanus, in temperate climates, is generally irritation of
the nerves, arising from local injuries, especially punctured or lacerated
wounds. Of these the most trivial are occasionally sufficient to produce
locked-jaw. In hot climates the disease is occasionally produced by
exposure to cold, or by suddenly suppressed perspiration. The last variety
is curable; the former one scarcely ever so. The proper treatment is a
matter still undetermined. Sedatives, antispasmodics, and powerful
stimulants, have each had their advocates. Large doses of wine and
spirits, in conjunction with opium, have occasionally been administered
with success. Electricity and the vapour bath have also proved useful. In
all cases the bowels should be moved by active aperients, either by the
mouth or per anum. Dr Shrimpton[231] recommends the Chinese mode of
treating tetanus, which is as follows:——From four to five grains of solid
opium are mixed with tea-leaves, or dried roses, and carefully beaten
together with molasses. The patient smokes this mixture, and endeavours to
draw the smoke into the lungs, leaving off when the narcotic effects are
produced. These last generally from three to four hours. The same
operation should be repeated whenever there are any signs of returning
spasms.
[Footnote 231: ‘Lancet,’ 1871, vol. ii, page 547.]
=TET′TERS.= The popular name of several cutaneous diseases, the treatment
of which can only be properly undertaken by the experienced medical man.
=THAL′LIUM.= Tl. [Eng., L.] A heavy metal, belonging to the mercury,
silver, and lead group, discovered by Crookes in the early part of 1861,
and displayed by him as “a new metallic element” at the opening of the
International Exhibition, on the 1st of May, 1862. Thallium is a
widely-diffused metal, being found in many minerals, particularly in iron-
and copper-pyrites and native sulphur. It has recently been obtained in
comparatively large quantities from the dust of the flues leading to
sulphuric acid chambers. The spectrum of thallium consists of a single
most characteristic line of a beautiful green colour. The spectrum
produced when the metal is burnt in the electric arc is, however, more
complicated, and consists of several green, blue, and other lines.
Thallium melts at 550° Fahr., and at a less heat may be readily welded, a
property that has hitherto been regarded as peculiar to iron and platinum.
Its specific gravity varies from 11·8 to 11·9, according to the mode of
preparation. When freshly cut it has a dull white colour, destitute of the
brilliancy of polished silver. Exposed to the air, it tarnishes rapidly, a
straw-coloured oxide making its appearance on the surface. The oxide is
alkaline and caustic to the taste, and much more soluble than the oxides
of silver and lead. The metal is remarkable for its strongly marked
diamagnetic characters, resembling bismuth in this respect. The alloys of
thallium are very remarkable. Copper, alloyed with only one half per cent,
of thallium, becomes quite brittle; but the alloy with tin is malleable.
Mr Crookes has prepared a great number of the salts of this interesting
metal. These need not be described here, as they have not yet been applied
to any use in the arts. See SULPHURIC ACID.
=THALLOGENS.= Thallogens or Thallogenous plants are structurally the
simplest of the acotyledonous, or flowerless plants, consisting simply of
a collection of cellular tissue, called a _thallus_. They are entirely
destitute of woody fibre. The _Algæ_, _Characeæ_, _Fungi_, and Lichens are
thallogenous plants.
=THEBA′INE.= C_{19}H_{21}NO_{3}. _Syn._ THEBAIA, PARAMORPHIA. A
crystalline substance obtained by Thibourméry from an infusion of opium
that has had its morphia extracted by acting on it by an excess of lime.
=THE′INE.= C_{8}H_{10}N_{4}O_{2}. _Syn._ THEINA. An alkaloid extracted
from tea. It is identical with caffeine, and may be obtained from tea in
the same manner as that substance is from coffee. The best ‘gunpowder tea’
contains fully 6% of theine, about one half of which is lost in the
present careless mode of making infusion of tea for the table.
Mr Lewis Thompson, M.R.C.S., in a contribution to the ‘Medical Times and
Gazette’ for 1871, directs attention to the value of theine as a
therapeutic agent, as well as gives an easy method for its preparation. He
writes as follows:——“I wish to direct the attention of the medical
profession to a valuable agent which has hitherto escaped notice, although
its powers are most unquestionable, and its cost price very trivial. The
article to which I allude is theine, a substance existing in tea and
coffee, and, as I believe, in many other vegetable products.
“As a medicine, theine is powerfully tonic and stimulant, and appears to
possess the tonic virtues of the disulphate of quinia united to the
stimulating power of wine, but with this difference, that the stimulus
from theine is not followed by depression, as in the case of wine and
alcohol.
“Theine seems to act chiefly on the great sympathetic or ganglionic
system of nerves, and but slightly on the brain. I have used it in doses
of from 1 to 5 grams, with very marked advantage, in the low stage of
typhoid fevers, confluent smallpox, and that form of mortification of the
toes which is so singularly fatal to old people. But, in addition to this,
different medical friends of mine have found it useful in hemicrania,
neuralgia, and what has been called relapsing fever; and in the case of an
overdose of opium, it appeared to relieve the narcotic symptoms speedily.
“With regard to the cost of this medicine, I have discovered that in the
ordinary process of roasting coffee, the whole of the theine is driven off
before the torrefaction of the coffee is completed; and thus theine may be
cheaply collected by making the axis of the coffee roaster tubular. If,
instead of a solid axis, we employ at one end of the roasters a tube
passing away to the distance of about three feet, the theine is condensed
in this tube by the refrigerating power of the atmosphere, and may
afterwards be easily dissolved out by a little water, and purified in the
manner about to be indicated.
“As the result of much experience, I have obtained on an average, 75
grains of theine from the roasting of 1 lb. of raw coffee; and when we
reflect that in Great Britain alone, there are more than 13,000 tons of
coffee roasted annually, we see that about 140 tons of theine are wasted
and lost every year by sheer ignorance. It may, perhaps, be thought that
the saving of the theine will damage the flavour of the coffee, but from
experience I know that it has no such effect; and, in point of fact, it is
an advantage to the flavour of the coffee to make both the axes of the
roaster tubular, and to cause a gentle current of air to pass through the
apparatus during the roasting of the coffee, so as to expel the
empyreumatic products that are formed. I will now relate the fact upon
which the purification of theine depends, and when this is once clearly
understood, the manufacture of theine from either tea or coffee becomes an
extremely simple matter. Theine is absolutely insoluble in a concentrated
solution of the carbonate of potash, and thus we may precipitate it from
its admixture with sugar, mucilage, and vegetable extract. If, then, by
means of the subacetate of lead, we have removed from a vegetable infusion
the tannin, malic acid, &c., we have only to evaporate the filtered
solution to a small bulk, and add to it its own weight of dry carbonate of
potash, and the whole of the theine becomes at once insoluble; so that
having collected this insoluble product, and boiled it in rectified
spirits of wine, we have a solution of pure theine, which, after
distilling off the spirit, furnishes crystals fit for immediate use. In
conclusion, I will merely mention a distinctive test for theine,
sufficiently delicate to detect the one thousandth of a grain of that
substance. Dissolve the theine in a small quantity of water, and pass
through this a stream of euchlorine, then allow the fluid to evaporate at
a steam heat; a blood-coloured substance will remain, which, on the
application of a few drops of cold water, forms a beautiful scarlet
solution like red ink. It is, I apprehend, almost unnecessary for me to
say that euchlorine gas is formed by the action of hydrochloric acid upon
the chlorate of potash.
“I ought, perhaps, to add that theine collected as a waste product of
coffee, and purified by myself, has cost me less than threepence per ounce
troy.”
=THENARD’S BLUE.= See ULTRAMARINE (Cobaltic).
=THEOBROMÆ OLEUM.= _Syn._ CACAO BUTTER. A concrete oil, obtained by
expression and heat from the ground seeds of _Theobroma Cacao_. Occurs in
cakes of a yellowish colour, of a pleasant cacao odour. Does not become
rancid from exposure to air. Contained in all the suppositories.
_Not official._——The following form good bases for
suppositories:——Theobroma oil, when melted, begins to solidify at 72°
Fahr.; stearine of cocoa-nut oil at 75° Fahr.; 4 of stearine and 2 of
mutton fat at 77° Fahr.; 4 of stearine and 1 spermaceti at 80° Fahr.
Stearine alone is, perhaps, a better substance than cacao butter for
making suppositories. It begins to solidify at 78° Fahr., but there is
stearine that solidifies at 120° Fahr.; this will not answer for
suppositories.
=THEOBRO′MINE.= A peculiar principle, closely resembling caffeine or
theine, found by Woskresensky in the seed of the _Theobroma Cacao_, or the
nuts from which chocolate is prepared. Its form is that of a light, white,
crystalline powder, which is rather less soluble than caffeine. It is
obtained like caffeine. See COCOA.
=THERI′ACA.= A name given in ancient pharmacy to various compound
medicines, chiefly electuaries or confections, employed as antidotes to
poisons or infection. The THERIACA ANDROMACHI, Ph. L. 1746, contained
above 60 ingredients. Mithridate and Venice treacle are examples of this
class. See TREACLE.
=THERMOM′ETERS.= FAHRENHEIT’S scale is the one generally employed in
England, while that of CELSIUS, or the CENTIGRADE scale, is principally
used on the Continent. REAUMUR’S is another scale occasionally employed.
DE LISLE’S thermometer was formerly used in Russia, and some other parts
of the north of Europe. As references to these scales are frequently met
with in books, it is useful to know their relative value, and the method
of reducing the one to the other. The boiling point of water is indicated
by 212° on Fahrenheit’s scale, 100° on the Centigrade scale, 80° on that
of Reaumur, and O° on that of De Lisle; the freezing point of water marks
32° Fahrenheit, and 0°, or zero, on the Centigrade and Reaumur, and 150°
on the scale of De Lisle. The 0°, or zero of Fahrenheit, is 32° below the
freezing point of water.
1. To reduce Centigrade degrees to those of Fahrenheit, multiply them by
9, divide the product by 5, and to the quotient add 32; that is——
Cent.° × 9 / 5 + 32 = Fahr.°
2. To reduce Fahrenheit’s degrees to Centigrade:
(Fahr.° - 32) × 5 / 9 = Cent.°
3. To reduce Reaumur’s to Fahrenheit’s:
Reau.° × 9 / 4 + 32 = Fahr.°
4. To convert Fahrenheit’s to Reaumur’s:——
(Fahr.° - 32) × 4 / 9 = Reaumur.°
Thermometers intended to register extreme degrees of heat are called
PYROMETERS (which _see_)
=THIBANT’S BALSAM.= FOR WOUNDS. Digest flowers of St John’s wort, one
handful in 1/2 pint of rectified spirit; then express the liquor, and
dissolve in it myrrh, aloes, and dragon’s blood, of each 1 dr., with
Canada balsam, 1/2 oz.
=THO′RIUM.= Th. _Syn._ THORINUM. A very rare element, belonging to the
group of earthy metals. Metallic base of thoria. It is obtained by the
action of potassium on the chloride of thorium, and washing the resulting
mass in water.
=THORN-APPLE.= See DATURA.
=THROAT AFFECTIONS.= We intend here only to allude to those arising from
exposure or cold. The list is, therefore, a short one. CROUP, one of the
most important, has been already briefly noticed.
QUINSY, or INFLAMMATORY SORE THROAT, commonly commences with stiffness and
pain on one side of the throat, and swelling of the tonsils, attended by
febrile symptoms, which increase as tumefaction advances, and sometimes
become extreme. There is great restlessness and anxiety, considerable
difficulty in swallowing even liquids, the respiration is painful and
laborious, and the speech obstructed. When the inflammation is not
resolved, these symptoms rapidly increase in severity, the patient suffers
the greatest misery, the tumour suppurates rapidly, the abscess bursts,
and with the rupture comes almost immediate relief. It occasionally
happens that the other side of the throat then becomes affected, and goes
through the same stages; but in general this is not the case, and the
patient rapidly recovers, a few detergent gargles and a light nutritious
diet being all that is required. Sometimes, at the very commencement of
the attack, the inflammation may be resolved by the patient sucking a
lozenge or powder, every hour or two, containing 1/4 or 1/2 grain of
tartarised antimony carefully triturated with about 20 gr. of lump sugar,
so as to keep up a constant state of nausea or vomiting for hours.
MALIGNANT SORE THROAT is marked by the inflammation of the tonsils being
more superficial; but no sooner does it occur than it passes into small
ulcers of varied colours and appearance, extending to the pharynx, and
spreading over the whole fauces into the nostrils, and even around the
glottis and down the œsophagus. These ulcers rapidly slough, and the
febrile symptoms of a typhoid character, which are present throughout,
become more or less severe. In this way the disease often hastens to a
fatal termination, and, being highly contagious, often extends itself to
all, or nearly all, the members of a family. The treatment must be similar
to that adopted for typhus fever. Stimulating gargles, containing
capsicum, the mineral acids, or port wine, are useful local remedies. See
DIPHTHERIA.
=THRUSH.= _Syn._ APHTHA, L. A disease of infancy, which, in its common
form, is marked by small white ulcers upon the tongue, palate, and gums.
In some cases it extends through the whole course of the alimentary canal,
and, assuming a malignant form, proves fatal. The treatment consists of a
gentle emetic of ipecacuanha wine, followed by an occasional dose of
rhubarb and magnesia, to keep the bowels clear, and to arrest diarrhœa.
The ulcerations may be touched with a little honey or borax; and if they
assume a dark colour, or there be much debility, astringents and tonics
should be had recourse to. In all cases the diet should be light, but
supporting, as imperfect nutrition is a common cause of the disease.
_In Animals._ Topical applications of alum or borax, glycerine, Condy’s
fluid; laxatives. The food should be cooling and digestible.
=THYMOL.= _Syn._ THYMIC ACID, C_{10}H_{14}O. This substance is the
oxygenated constituent of the essential oils of thyme (_Thymus vulgaris_),
horse mint (_Monarda punctata_), and (_Ptychotis ajowan_) a common
umbelliferous plant growing in India. Thymol is isomeric with cymilic
alcohol, and homologous with phenyl.
Thymol may be procured from either of the above sources by treatment with
caustic potash or soda, as described below, or by submitting the essential
oils to a low temperature for some days. When prepared by the first
process thymol occurs as an oily fluid; and when by the second, as a
crystalline solid.
The following are the details of the preparation of the liquid variety of
thymol as given by the Paris Pharmaceutical Society in their formulæ for
new remedies published in 1877:——
“Treat essential oil of thyme with an equal volume of an aqueous solution
of potash or soda, and shake several times to facilitate combination. The
thymol dissolves, forming a soluble compound, whilst the thymene, a
carbide of hydrogen, that accompanies it in the essence, does not combine
with the alkali and separates. Filter the solution obtained and treat with
an acid——hydrochloric acid, for example——which sets free the thymol. The
product should be purified by washing, dried, and distilled. Thymol was
obtained in fine tubular crystals by Flückiger and Hanbury, who exposed
oil of ajowan to a temperature of 0° C.; the oil so treated yielded 35 per
cent. of its weight of crystallised thymol. Mr Gerrard says it is stated
that oil of thyme yields as much as 50 per cent.
“As found in commerce, thymol consists of irregular broken crystals,
nearly transparent and colourless; the taste is burning and aromatic, sp.
gr. 1·028, but lighter than water when fused; its melting point is about
44° C. When once completely fused and allowed to cool to the ordinary
temperature, it will maintain itself in the fluid condition for several
days, but the contact of a crystal will at once cause it to crystallise.
It is freely soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, benzol, carbon
bisulphide, fats, and oils, and but sparingly in water and glycerin. The
alkaline hydrates of potash and soda are powerful solvents of thymol;
ammonia dissolves it but sparingly.
“The potash and soda solutions are spoken of by some authors as chemical
combinations; but the following test will demonstrate them otherwise. When
shaken with ether the thymol can be entirely removed, and obtained as a
neutral volatile residue.”[232]
[Footnote 232: “Thymol and its Pharmacy,” by A. W. Gerrard, F.C.S., ‘Ph.
Journ.,’ vol. viii, 3rd series, 645.]
With sulphuric acid thymol forms crystallisable colugated acid, the thymol
sulphuric having the formula HC_{10}H_{13}SO_{4}. Undiluted thymol is an
energetic caustic. According to Bucholz, thymol possesses ten times the
septic power of carbolic acid, over which it also has the advantage of
being non-poisonous, and of giving off an agreeable odour. Although
considerably dearer than carbolic acid, the much smaller quantity required
to produce an equivalent effect nearly equalises it in point of cost. It
is said to have been successfully employed in the antiseptic treatment of
wounds in destroying the fœtor arising from ulcerated surfaces and carious
bones; in the form of spray during surgical applications, as well as for
certain throat affections, and as an ointment and lotion in psoriasis and
other skin diseases. When thymol is to be used for lotions, injections,
inhalations, or spray solutions, the Paris Pharmaceutical Society
recommends 1 part of thymol to be dissolved in 4 parts of alcohol at 90°,
and this to be added to 995 parts of distilled water.
Dr Crocker, of University College Hospital, strongly recommends thymol
lotion to be prepared with glycerin, which, he says, obviates the drying
effect upon the skin produced by aqueous or spirituous solutions of the
thymol alone. According to Mr Gerrard, this lotion is prepared by
dissolving 1 part of thymol in 120 parts of glycerin, and reducing by
water to 600 parts. Dr Symes says he finds milk to be an excellent solvent
for thymol, of which it will take up readily to nearly 10 per cent. of its
weight. In cases, therefore, in which solutions are required of greater
strength than aqueous ones, he recommends the employment of the fluid.
An ointment varying in strength from 1 to 5 parts of thymol to 100 of
lard, is said by Mr Gerrard to be employed in our hospitals. In the
preparation of this ointment, it is of importance to first dissolve the
thymol in a few drops of spirits, and then to mix it with the lard. The
neglect of this precaution causes the undissolved particles of thymol
present in the ointment to act as a caustic irritant on the skin, and to
eat little holes in it. Mr Gerrard found vaseline an unsuitable and
objectionable vehicle for the application of thymol, since, after a few
days, an ointment prepared with it had its surface covered with minute
crystals of thymol.
The ‘Medical Times’ contains the following formula for the preparation of
thymol gauze for dressing wounds:——“Bleached gauze, 1000 parts;
spermaceti, 500; resin, 50; thymol, 16 parts.” This is said to yield an
extremely soft and pliant preparation, excellently adapted for wounds,
fitting accurately to them, and absorbing at the same time the blood and
secretions from them like a sponge would do. Dr Ranke has pointed out
that, in consequence of the great reduction in the amount of secretion
from wounds caused by the use of thymol, the consequent consumption of
bandages becomes so much less as to more than compensate for the great
difference in price between thymol and carbolic acid.
Another advantage possessed by thymol over carbolic acid is that the
redness, vesication, and eczema, frequently induced when dressings of the
latter agent are used, does not follow the application of thymol
dressings.
Mr Squire prepares an antiseptic adhesive plaster, containing 1 part of
thymol to a 1000 of plaster.
Mr Gerrard in operating upon nine different samples of commercial oil of
thyme (so-called oil of origanum) by means both of caustic soda and
refrigeration, states, that except in one doubtful case, he was unable to
obtain the slightest trace of thymol. From this circumstance Mr Gerrard
infers that thymol is not present in the English oils of thyme of
commerce, from which it must have been removed in the countries where it
is produced, the residual cymene and thymene being sent us is an oil of
thyme.
Large quantities of thymol are prepared in Germany, principally from the
seeds of the _Ptychotis ajowan_. One firm of chemical manufacturers
residing in Leipzig is reported to have sent out during the months of
September and November last year more than a ton of it. Thymol wadding is
also in extensive demand.
=TIC DOULOUREUX′.= [Fr.] According to a writer in one of the medical
periodicals, a solution of atropia, 2 gr., in water, 1 fl. dr., to which
nitric acid, 1 drop (minim), has been previously added, applied as a
paint, by means of a camel-hair pencil, to the part of the face over the
spot affected, immediately and completely subdues the pain, or, at all
events, within 3 to 5 minutes, in all accidental cases, and affords
considerable relief in others. The application is to be continued until
some relief is experienced. The solution, being very poisonous, must not
be taken internally, nor applied to the skin when broken. See ATROPIA and
NEURALGIA.
=TIN.= Sn. _Syn._ STANNUM (Ph. E. & D.), L. This metal has been known from
the most remote antiquity, being mentioned in the books of Moses (Numb.
xxxi, 22), and by Homer (‘Iliad,’ x, 25), and other early writers. The
ancients obtained it principally, if not solely, from Cornwall. The
Phœnicians traded with England for this metal at least 1000 years before
the birth of Christ.
Tin occurs in nature in the state of oxide, and, more rarely, as sulphide
(TIN PYRITES). In Cornwall it is found under the form of peroxide
(MINE-TIN, TIN-STONE), associated with copper ore, in the slate and
granite rocks, and as an alluvial deposit (STREAM-TIN) in the beds of
rivers.
_Prep., &c._ The ore is first reduced to powder in stamping-mills, washed
to remove earthy matter, and then roasted to expel arsenic and sulphur; it
is next deoxidised or reduced by smelting it with about 1-6th of its
weight of powdered culm, and a little slaked lime; it is, lastly, refined
by ‘liquation,’ followed by a second smelting of the purer portion, which,
after being treated in a state of fusion, for some time with billets of
green wood, or ‘tossed,’ as the workmen call it, is allowed to settle, and
is then cast into large blocks, which, after being assayed, receive the
stamp of the duchy. Two varieties of commercial tin are known, called
respectively grain tin and bar tin. The first is the best, and is prepared
from the stream ore.
_Prop._ Tin approaches silver in whiteness and lustre; in hardness it is
intermediate between gold and lead; it is very malleable when pure, but
the presence of a very small quantity of any other metal, particularly
lead, deprives it of this property; when rubbed it evolves a peculiar
odour, and when bent backwards and forwards it emits a peculiar crackling
noise; it melts at 442° Fahr.; volatilises at a white heat; and when
heated above its melting-point, with free access of air, is speedily
converted into a yellowish-white powder, which is the peroxide, or the
‘putty powder’ of polishers. Sp. gr. 7·29 to 7·31.
_Pur._ It is almost entirely dissolved by hydrochloric acid, yielding a
colourless solution; the precipitate thrown down by hydrate of potassium
is white, and soluble in excess of the precipitant. If it contain arsenic,
brownish-black flocks will be separated during the solution, and
arseniuretted hydrogen evolved, which may be inflamed and tested in the
usual manner. The presence of other metals in tin may be detected by
treating the hydrochloric solution with nitric acid, sp. gr. 1·16, first
in the cold, and afterwards with heat, until all the tin is thrown down in
the state of insoluble stannic oxide. The decanted acid solution from pure
tin leaves no residuum on evaporation. If, after all the acid has been
dissipated by heat, dilution with water occasion a heavy white
precipitate, the sample contained bismuth; if, after dilution, a solution
of sulphate of ammonium or of sodium produce a similar white precipitate
(sulphate of lead), it contained lead; if ammonia, added in excess,
occasion reddish-brown flocks, or if ferricyanide of potassium give a blue
precipitate, it contained iron; and, if the clear supernatant liquid leave
a residuum on evaporation, copper.
_Tests._ The stannous salts are characterised as follows:——1. Hydrate of
potassium gives a bulky white precipitate, readily soluble in excess of
the precipitant; on concentrating the solution, the precipitate is changed
from stannous hydrate into stannic hydrate, which remains in solution, and
metallic tin, which separates in brown flakes.——2. Ammonia, and the
carbonates of potassium, sodium, and ammonium, give white precipitates,
insoluble in excess.——3. Sulphuretted hydrogen gives, in neutral and acid
solutions, a dark brown precipitate, which is soluble in hydrate of
potassium, in the alkaline sulphides (especially when they contain an
excess of sulphur), and in strong hot hydrochloric acid; and insoluble in
nitric acid, even when boiling.——4. Sulphide of ammonium produces a like
brown precipitate, soluble in excess of the precipitant, provided the
latter contains an excess of sulphur.——5. Terchloride of gold gives, in
the cold, on the addition of a little nitric acid, a precipitate of the
purple of Cassius.——6. Mercuric chloride gives a black precipitate, but in
excess it produces a white one.
=Stannous Chloride.= SnCl_{2}. _Syn._ PROTOCHLORIDE OF TIN. _Prep._
(ANHYDROUS.) Distil a mixture of tin and mercuric chloride. Grey,
resin-like, solid, fusible, and volatile.
(HYDRATED; TIN SALT.) Boil an excess of tin in hydrochloric acid. A
powerful deoxidising agent. It is somewhat extensively used as a mordant
in dyeing.
=Stannous Hydrate.= Sn(HO)_{2}. _Syn._ HYDRATED OXIDE OF TIN. _Prep._
Precipitate stannous chloride with carbonate of potassium, well wash, and
dry under 196°. Greyish-white powder, soluble in acids and alkaline
hydrates, except ammonia.
=Stannous Iodide.= SnI_{2}. _Syn._ PROTIODIDE OF TIN. Heat tin and iodine
together. A fusible brownish-red, translucent substance, soluble in
water.
=Stannous Oxide.= SnO. _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF TIN. _Prep._ Ignite the hydrate
in an atmosphere of carbonic anhydride. Black powder, inflammable in air,
and insoluble in acids.
=Stannous Sulphide.= SnS. _Syn._ PROTOSULPHIDE OF TIN. A brittle
bluish-grey substance, obtained by heating tin and sulphur.
The stannous salts behave with reagents as follows:——1. Hydrate of
potassium, ammonia and alkaline carbonates, give a white precipitate,
which is freely soluble in an excess of hydrate of potassium and in acids,
sparingly soluble in excess of ammonia, only very slightly soluble in
excess of carbonate of potassium, and insoluble in excess of carbonate of
ammonium.——2. Sulphuretted hydrogen gives, in acid neutral solutions, a
golden-yellow precipitate, either at once or on heating the liquid, which
is readily soluble in pure hydrate of potassium, the alkaline sulphides,
and boiling hydrochloric acid; less soluble in ammonia, and insoluble in
nitric acid.——3. A plate of metallic zinc throws down metallic tin, under
the form of grey scales or a spongy mass, from solutions free from nitric
acid; and from those containing free nitric acid, white stannic
hydrate.——4. Mercuric chloride gives a white precipitate.——5. Ferrocyanide
of potassium gives no precipitate at first, but after a time the whole
forms a thick jelly.
_Assay._ Each grain of stannic oxide (see _above_), after being washed and
gently ignited, is equivalent to ·78365 gr. of pure tin. The loss of
weight represents the impurities. Each gr. of sulphate of lead, so
treated, is equiv. to ·683 gr. of metallic lead (nearly).
_Uses._ The uses of tin in the arts are well known. In medicine, 1 to 3
dr. of the filings or powder, made into an electuary with treacle, are
sometimes given in tapeworm, for 2 or 3 successive mornings, followed by
an aperient.
=Stannic Chloride.= SnCl_{4}. _Syn._ BICHLORIDE OF TIN, TETRACHLORIDE OF
TIN, PERCHLORIDE OF TIN, PERMURIATE OF T.†; STANNI BICHLORIDUM, STANNI
PERMURAS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Liebig.) By dissolving grain tin in a mixture of
hydrochloric acid, 2 parts; nitric acid and water, of each 1 part (all by
volume); observing to add the tin by degrees, and to allow one portion to
dissolve before adding another, as without this precaution the action is
apt to become violent, and stannic oxide of tin to be deposited.
2. (ANHYDROUS; LIBAVIUS’S FUMING LIQUOR.) By heating stannous chloride in
chlorine gas; or, by distilling a mixture of powdered tin, 1 part, with
corrosive sublimate, 3 parts (5 parts——Fownes). A very volatile,
colourless, mobile liquid, which fumes in the air, and boils at 248°
Fahr.; when mixed with 1-3rd of its weight of water, it solidifies to a
crystalline mass.
_Obs._ Solution of stannic chloride is much used by dyers, under the
names of ‘SPIRITS OF TIN,’ ‘DYERS’ SPIRITS,’ ‘TIN MORDANT,’ &c., the
proportions of the ingredients and the state of dilution being various,
according to circumstances or the caprice of the manufacturer. A process,
which has been highly recommended, and which seems preferable to all
others, is to prepare a simple solution of the stannous chloride, and to
convert it into a solution of the stannic chloride, either by the addition
of nitric acid and a gentle heat, or by passing chlorine through it. See
TIN MORDANTS.
=Stannic Hydrate.= Sn(HO)_{4}. _Syn._ HYDRATED PEROXIDE OF TIN, STANNIC
ACID. _Prep._ By adding hydrate of potassium or an alkaline carbonate to a
solution of stannic chloride. Soluble in acids and pure alkalies. Its
compound with the latter are sometimes called STANNATES.
=Stannic Iodide.= SnI_{4}. By dissolving stannic hydrate in hydriodic
acid. Yellow, silky crystals.
=Stannic Oxide.= SnO_{2}. _Syn._ BINOXIDE OF TIN, PEROXIDE OF TIN. _Prep._
By the action of nitric acid on metallic tin, the resulting white powder
being well washed with water; or, by heating metallic tin above its
melting-point, in the air. Yellow; anhydrous; insoluble.
_Obs._ Frémy has given the name of METASTANNIC ACID to the oxide prepared
by the action of nitric acid on metallic tin; the hydrate he calls STANNIC
ACID. See POLISHERS’ PUTTY.
=Stannic Sulphide.= SnS_{2}. _Syn._ BISULPHIDE OF TIN, BRONZE POWDER,
MOSAIC GOLD; AURUM MUSIVUM, AURUM MOSAICUM, STANNI BISULPHURETEM, L.
_Prep._ 1. To pure tin, 12 oz., melted by a gentle heat, add of mercury, 6
oz.; to the powdered mass, when cold, add of chloride of ammonium, 6 oz.;
flowers of sulphur, 7 oz; and after thorough admixture place the compound
in a glass flask or matrass, and gradually heat it, imbedded in sand, to
low redness, and continue the heat for several hours, or until white fumes
cease to be disengaged; the ‘aurum musivum’ remains at the bottom of the
vessel, under the form of soft and very brilliant gold-coloured flakes.
2. (Berzelius.) Stannic oxide and sulphur, of each 2 parts; chloride of
ammonium, 1 part; mix, and expose it to a low red heat, in a glass or
earthenware retort, until sulphurous fumes cease to be evolved.
Used as a metallic gold colour, or substitute for powdered gold, in
bronzes, varnish work, sealing-wax, &c.
=TIN FI′LINGS.= See TIN POWDER (_below_).
=TINFOIL, Lead in.= Tinfoil very rarely consists of pure tin; generally it
contains more or less lead. According to the recent analysis of August
Vogel, who has examined a great number of samples from very different
sources, it contains from 1 to 19 per cent. of lead. There are, however,
specimens of tinfoil which contain so little lead that it hardly gives a
reaction with the appropriate tests.
Since tinfoil is so much used for covering articles of diet, or of
confectionery, or of perfumery, it was a matter of some interest to
determine whether or not there was any danger of transference of lead from
the wrapper to the contents. A number of experiments upon soap, chocolate,
and different kinds of dry sugar, which had been enveloped in tinfoil very
highly charged with lead, showed that there was no contamination with
lead. Cheese, on the other hand, on account of its being moist, and being
closely in contact with the foil, did take up lead.
Of course the lactic acid of the cheese would also favour the taking up of
the metal. A point worthy of being recorded in connection with this matter
is the rapid diminution of the lead toward the centre of the cheese. Often
plenty of lead was found in the rind, and none a little way in the
cheese.[233]
[Footnote 233: ‘Repertorium für Pharmacie,’ Von Buchnee.]
=TIN GLASS†.= See BISMUTH.
=TIN MOR′DANTS.= _Syn._ DYERS’ SPIRIT, SOLUTION OF TIN, SPIRIT OF T.,
NITROMURIATE OF T.† These, as noticed above, vary greatly in their
composition and character.
_Prep._ 1. Take of aquafortis, 8 parts; sal ammoniac or common salt, 1
part; dissolve, and add, very gradually, of grain tin, 1 part; and, when
dissolved, preserve it in stoppered bottles from the air. This is the
common ‘SPIRIT OF TIN’ of the dyers.
2. (Berthollet.) Nitric acid, at 30° Baumé, 8 parts; sal ammoniac, 1 part;
dissolve, then add by degrees, of tin, 1 part; and when dissolved, dilute
the solution with 1-4th of its weight of water.
3. (Dambourney.) Hydrochloric acid, at 17° Baumé, 4 parts; nitric acid, at
30° Baumé, 1 part; mix, and add by degrees, of Molucca tin, 1 part.
4. (Hellot.) Nitric acid and water, of each 1 lb.; sal ammoniac, 1 oz.;
nitre, 1/2 oz.; dissolve, then add, by degrees, of granulated tin, 2 oz.
5. (Poerner.) Nitric acid and water, of each 1 lb.; sal ammoniac, 1-1/2
oz.; dissolve, then add, by very slow degrees, of pure tin. beaten into
ribands, 2 oz.
6. (Schoeffer.) Nitric acid and water, of each 2 lbs.; sal ammoniac, 2
oz.; pure tin, 4-1/2 oz.; as last. All the above are used chiefly for
dyeing scarlet, more particularly with cochineal.
7. (LAC SPIRIT.) From grain tin, 1 lb, slowly dissolved in hydrochloric
acid (sp. gr. 1·19), 20 lbs. Recommended as a solvent for lac dye. For
use, 3/4 to 1 lb. of the liquid is digested on each lb. of the dye for 5
or 6 hours, before adding it to the dye bath.
8. Hydrochloric acid, 6-3/4 lbs.; aquafortis, 1/2 lb.; grain tin,
gradually added, 1 lb. Recommended for lac dye.
=TIN-PLATE.= Iron-plate covered with a coating of tin, by dipping it into
a bath of that metal.
=TIN POW′DER.= _Syn._ TIN FILINGS, TIN DUST; STANNI PULVIS (Ph. E & D.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Melt grain tin in an iron vessel, pour it into an
earthenware mortar heated a little above its melting-point, and triturate
briskly as the metal cools; lastly, sift the product, and repeat the
process with what remains in the sieve.
2. (Ph. D.) Melt grain-tin in a black-lead crucible, and, whilst it is
cooling, stir it with a rod of iron until it is reduced to powder; let the
finer particles be separated by means of a sieve, and when, after having
been several times in succession shaken with distilled water, the decanted
liquor appears quite clear, let the product be dried for use.
_Obs._ Powdered tin is also prepared by filing and rasping.——_Dose_, 2 to
4 dr., as a vermifuge. POLISHERS’ PUTTY, coloured with ivory black, is
frequently substituted for this powder, and hence arises the ill effects
that sometimes follow its use.
=TIN′NING.= _Proc._ 1. Plates or vessels of brass or copper, boiled with a
solution of stannate of potassa, mixed with turnings of tin, become, in
the course of a few minutes, covered with a firmly attached layer of pure
tin.
2. A similar effect is produced by boiling the articles with tin filings
and caustic alkali or cream of tartar.
_Obs._ By either of the above methods chemical vessels made of copper or
brass may be easily and perfectly tinned.
3. The following method for tinning copper, brass, and iron in the cold,
and without apparatus, is by F. Stolba.[234]
[Footnote 234: ‘The Pharmacist,’ iv, 86.]
The requisites for accomplishing this object are:——1st. The object to be
coated with tin must be entirely free from oxide. It must be carefully
cleaned and care be taken that no grease spots are left; it makes no
difference whether the object be cleaned mechanically or chemically. 2nd.
Zinc powder; the best is that prepared artificially by melting zinc, and
pouring it into an iron mortar. It can be easily pulverised immediately
after solidification; it should be about as fine as writing sand. 3rd. A
solution of protochloride of tin containing 5 or 10 per cent., to which as
much pulverised cream of tartar must be added as will go on to the point
of a knife. The object to be tinned is moistened with the tinned solution,
after which it is rubbed hard with the zinc powder. The tinning appears at
once. The tin-salt is decomposed by the zinc, metallic tin being
deposited. When the object tinned is polished brass or copper, it appears
as beautiful as if silvered, and retains its lustre for a long time. 4th.
(C. Paul.)[235] The zinc or iron articles are immersed in a mixture of 1
part sulphuric or nitric acid with 10 parts of water; a solution of copper
sulphate or acetate is then slowly added. After the deposition of a thin
layer of copper, the articles are removed, washed, moistened with a
solution of 1 part ‘tin crystals,’ in 2 parts water and 2 parts
hydrochloric acid, and then shaken up with a mixture of fine chalk and
copper. Ammonium sulphate, which is prepared by dissolving 1 part of
copper sulphate in 16 parts of water, and adding ammonia until a clear
dark blue liquid is obtained.
[Footnote 235: Dingl. Polyt, J., ccviii, 47-49, ‘Journ. Chem. Soc.’]
The articles may now be tinned by immersion in a solution of 1 part of tin
crystals with 3 parts white argol in water. Brass, copper, or nickel
goods, also iron and zinc articles which have been copper-plated, may be
silvered by treatment (after thorough cleansing), with a solution of 14
grams silver in 26 grams of nitric acid, to which is added a solution of
120 grams of potassium cyanide in 1 litre water, and also 28 grams of
finely powdered chalk.
=TINS, To Clean.= All kinds of tins, moulds, measures, &c., may be cleaned
by being well rubbed with a paste made of whiting and water. They should
then be rubbed with a leather, and any dust remaining on them should be
removed by means of a soft brush. Finally, they must be polished with
another leather. Always let the inside of any vessel be cleaned first,
since in cleaning the inside the outside always becomes soiled. For very
dirty or greasy tins, grated bath-brick and water must be used.
=TINC′TURE.= _Syn._ TINCTURA, L.; TEINTURE, Fr. Tinctures (TINCTURÆ;
ALCOOLÉS, ALCOOLATURES) are solutions of the active principles of bodies,
obtained by digesting them in alcohol more or less dilute. ETHEREAL
TINCTURES (TINCTURÆ ÆTHEREÆ; ETHÉROLÉS, ETHÉROLATURES) are similar
solutions prepared with ether.
_Prep._ “Tinctures are usually prepared by reducing the solid ingredients
to small fragments, coarse powder, or fine powder, macerating them for 7
days, or longer, in proof spirit or rectified spirit, straining the
solution through linen or calico (or paper), and finally expressing the
residuum strongly, to obtain what fluid is still retained in the mass.
They are also advantageously prepared by the method of displacement or
percolation.” (Ph. E.) “All tinctures should be prepared in closed glass
(or stoneware) vessels, and be shaken frequently during the process of
maceration.” (Ph. L.) Cooper’s patent jars are very convenient for the
preparation of tinctures, as they are made with wide mouths large enough
to admit the hand, and yet may be closed in an instant, with as much ease
and certainty as an ordinary stoppered bottle.
Tinctures are better clarified by repose than by filtration, as in the
latter case a considerable portion is retained by the filtering medium,
and lost by evaporation. The waste in this way is never less than 10% of
spirit. In all ordinary cases, it is sufficient to allow the tincture to
settle for a few days, and then to pour off the clear supernatant portion
through a funnel loosely choked with a piece of sponge or tow; after which
the remaining foul portion of the liquid may be filtered through bibulous
paper in a covered funnel. The filtration should be conducted as rapidly
as possible, for the double purpose of lessening the amount lost by
evaporation and the action of the air on the fluid. Tinctures which have
been long exposed to the air frequently lose their transparency within a
few days after being filtered, owing to the oxidisement and precipitation
of some portion of the matter previously held in solution, a change which
occurs even in stoppered bottles. Resinous and oily tinctures, as those of
myrrh, tolu, and lavender (comp.), may be generally restored to their
former brightness by the addition of a quantity of rectified spirit, equal
to that which they have lost by evaporation; but many tinctures resist
this mode of treatment, and require refiltering.
Ethereal tinctures are best prepared by percolation, and should be both
made and kept in stoppered bottles.
Mr Umney says:——It must always be remembered that the quantity of spirit
required to make the measure of tinctures to a given bulk, will only be
strictly uniform, in so far as the operators proceed under precisely the
same circumstances.
No causes will be found to influence results more than the manufacture of
tinctures upon a small, as compared with a large, scale, and the use of
the screw as compared with the hydraulic press, in the final removal of
the spirit from the mare; even the temperature of summer and winter may
cause a variation in the results.
_Qual._ The tinctures of the shops are usually very uncertain and inferior
preparations, owing to their manufacture being carelessly conducted, and
refuse drugs and an insufficient quantity of spirit being employed in
their production. It is a general practice among the druggists to
substitute a mixture of equal parts of rectified spirit and water, or a
spirit of about 26 u. p., for proof spirit; and a mixture of 2 galls. of
water with 5 galls. of rectified spirit, for rectified spirit. In some
wholesale drug-houses all the simple tinctures (except those that are of a
very active or valuable kind, as LAUDANUM, for instance) are made with 1
lb. of the dry ingredient to the gall. of spirit, irrespective of the
instructions in the Pharmacopœia. Appearance is the object which is alone
aimed at, without reference to quality. If the tincture be perfectly
transparent, and has a good colour, the conscience of the seller and the
stomach of the consumer are alike satisfied.
_Assay._ 1. The RICHNESS in ALCOHOL may be readily determined by Brande’s
method of alcoholometry; but more accurately by the method of M.
Gay-Lussac (see ALCOHOLOMETRY). That of tinctures containing simple
extractive, saccharine, or like organic matter, in solution, may be
approximately found from the boiling-point, or from the temperature of the
vapour of the boiling liquid.
2. The QUANTITY of SOLID MATTER per cent. may be ascertained by
evaporating to dryness 100 grains-measure, in a weighed capsule, by the
heat of boiling water.
3. The QUANTITY of the INGREDIENTS used in the preparation of tinctures
may be inferred from the weight last found, reference being had to the
known per-centage of extract which the substances employed yield to spirit
of the strength under examination. When the ingredients contain alkaloids,
or consist of saline or mineral matter, an assay may be made for them.
_Uses, &c._ Tinctures, from the quantity of alcohol which they contain,
are necessarily administered in small doses, unless in cases where
stimulants are indicated. The most important and useful of them are those
that contain very active ingredients, such as the tincture of opium,
foxglove, hemlock, henbane, &c. In many instances the solvent, even in
doses of a few fluid drachms, acts more powerfully on the living system
than the principles it holds in solution; and, when continued for some
time, produces the same deleterious effects as the habitual use of ardent
spirits. When the action of a substance is the reverse of stimulant, it
cannot with propriety be exhibited in this form, unless the dose be so
small that the operation of the spirit cannot be taken into account, as
with the narcotic tinctures. Hence, this class of remedies are in less
frequent use than formerly.
The following list embraces all the formulæ of the tincturæ of the London,
Edinburgh, Dublin, and British Pharmacopœias, with a few others likely to
be useful to the reader. These will furnish examples for the preparation
of others in less general use, care being had to proportionate the
ingredients with due reference to the proper or usual dose of tinctures of
that class.
=Tincture of Ac′etate of I′ron.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FERRI ACETATIS (B. P.,
Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Solution of persulphate of iron, 5; acetate
of potash, 4; rectified spirit, q. s.; dissolve the acetate of potash in
20 of water and add 16 of spirit to the solution of iron; mix the two
liquids, and shake well occasionally for an hour, then filter, and add to
the filtered liquid sufficient rectified spirit to make up 40.——_Dose_, 5
to 30 minims.
2. (Ph. D.) To water, 9 fl. oz., add of pure sulphuric acid, 6 fl. dr.;
and in the mixture, with the aid of a gentle heat, dissolve sulphate of
iron, 8 oz.; next add of pure nitric acid, 1/2 fl. oz., previously diluted
with water, 1 fl. oz., and evaporate the resulting solution to the
consistence of a thick syrup; dissolve this in rectified spirit, 1 quart;
also dissolve of acetate of potash, 8 oz., in another quart of rectified
spirit; and having thoroughly mixed the solutions, by frequent agitation
in a large bottle, filter the whole, with expression, first through
calico, and then through paper. Sp. gr. ·891.——_Dose_, 15 to 60 drops, in
water, in the same cases as in the other chalybeates.
=Tincture of Acetate of Zinc.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ZINCI ACETATIS, L. _Prep._
(Ph. D. 1826.) Acetate of potash and sulphate of zinc, of each 1 oz.; rub
them together, then add of rectified spirit, 16 fl oz.; macerate for a
week, and filter. Astringent. Diluted with water, it is used as a
collyrium and injection.
=Tincture of Ac′onite.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ACONITI (Ph. L.), TINCT. ACONITI
RADICIS (B. P., Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Powdered root, 1; rectified
spirit to percolate, 8; macerate for 48 hours with three fourths of the
spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator and let it drain,
then pour on the remaining spirit; when it ceases to drop, press the marc
and add spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 5 to 15 minims, twice or thrice a
day.
2. (Ph. L.) Take of aconite root, coarsely powdered, 15 oz. (20 oz.——Ph.
D.); rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days, press, and filter.
_Obs._ These tinctures differ materially in strength.——_Dose._ Of the Ph.
L., 5 to 10 drops; of the Ph. D., 3 to 6 drops, two or three times daily
(carefully watching its effects); in rheumatism, gout, syphilis, &c.,
where a narcotic sedative is indicated. Diluted with water, it forms an
excellent embrocation in rheumatism, neuralgia, &c. It should be applied
by means of a small sponge, tied to the end of a stick or glass rod. The
Ph. D. formula is nearly the same as that for Dr Turnbull’s concentrated
tincture of aconite root, and that given by Dr Pereira. The TINCTURA
ACONITI FOLIORUM of the Ph. U. S. is made with 1 oz. of the dried leaves
to 8 fl. oz. of rectified spirit.
=Tincture of Aconite, Ethereal.= _Syn_. TINCTURA ACONITI ÆTHEREA. (P.
Cod.) _Prep._ Powdered aconite, 4 oz.; sulphuric ether, 16 oz. (by
weight). It is best prepared by percolation.
=Tincture of Ailanthus Bark.= _Syn._ TINCTURA AILANTHI CORTICIS. _Prep._
Take Of ailanthus bark, bruised, 1-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint; macerate
for seven days in a closed vessel with occasional agitation, then strain,
press, filter, and add sufficient spirit to make 1 pint.——_Dose._ From 1/2
to 2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Al′oes.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ALOËS (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Socotrine aloes, 1; extract of liquorice, 3; proof
spirit, 40; macerate seven days, press, and wash the marc with spirit to
make 40.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Socotrine or hepatic aloes, coarsely powdered, 1 oz.; extract
of liquorice, 3 oz.; water, 1-1/2 pint; rectified spirit, 1/2 pint;
macerate for 7 days, and filter. The formula of the Ph. E. is nearly
similar. Purgative and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1/4 to fl. oz.
=Tincture of Aloes, Alkaline.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ALOËS ALKALINA. (Swediaur.)
_Prep._ Aloes, 1/2 oz.; extract of liquorice, 1-1/2 dr.; cinnamon water, 8
oz.; proof spirit, 8 oz.; carbonate of soda, 1 oz. Digest, and
strain.——_Dose_, 1 dr. to 4 dr.
=Tincture of Aloes (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF ALOES AND MYRRH;
TINCTURA ALOËS COMPOSITA (Ph. L.), TINCTURA ALOËS ET MYRRHÆ (Ph. E.),
ELIXIR ALOËS†, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. & E.) Socotrine or hepatic aloes,
coarsely powdered, 4 oz.; hay saffron, 2 oz.; tincture of myrrh, 1 quart;
macerate for 7 days, with occasional agitation, and strain. The Dublin
College (1826) omits the saffron.
2. (Wholesale.) From aloes, 1 lb.; myrrh, 3/4 lb.; hay saffron, 2 oz.;
rectified spirit, 5 pints; water, 3 pints; as the last. Purgative,
stomachic, and emmenagogue.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Amber.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SUCCINI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Amber, in
fine powder, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 6 oz. Digest for 6 days and
filter.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 drops.
=Tincture of Amber, Alkaline.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SUCCINI ALKALINA. (Ph. E.
1744.) _Prep._ Rub 2 oz. of amber with a sufficient quantity of carbonate
of potash to form a soft paste; dry this, and digest it in 16 oz. of
rectified spirit for 8 days.
=Tincture of Ambergris.= _Syn._ TINCTURA AMBERGRISEÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Ambergris, 1 part; rectified spirit, 10 parts. Macerate 10 days.
=Tincture of Ammo′′nia (Compound.)= _Syn._ TINCTURA AMMONIÆ COMPOSITA (Ph.
L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Mastic, 2 dr.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. dr.;
digest until dissolved, decant, add, of oil of lavender, 14 drops;
stronger solution of ammonia, 1 pint; and mix well.
2. (Ph. L. 1836; AQUA LUCIÆ; EAU DE LUCE.) As the last, but adding 4 drops
of oil of amber along with the oil of lavender.
_Obs._ This preparation is reputed antacid, antispasmodic, and
stimulant.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 drops, in water; in hysteria, low spirits,
&c. In the East Indies, eau de luce is regarded almost as a specific for
the bite of the cobra di capello and other venomous reptiles.
=Tincture of Ammo′′nia-chlo′′ride of I′ron.= _Syn._ AMMONIATED TINCTURE OF
IRON, MYNSIGHT’S A. T. OF I.; TINCTURA FERRI AMMONIO-CHLORIDI (Ph. L.).
TINCTURA FERRI AMMONIATI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Ammonio-chloride of iron, 4
oz.; proof spirit and distilled water, of each 1 pint; dissolve.——_Dose_,
20 to 60 drops, or more; as a stimulant, chalybeate tonic. “A fl. oz. of
this, on potassa being added, yields 5·8 gr. of sesquioxide of iron.” (Ph.
L.)
=Tincture of Ammoniacum.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GUMMI AMMONIACI. (P. Cod.)
_Prep._ Gum ammoniacum, 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 20 oz. (by weight).
Digest 10 days, and strain.
=Tincture of Angelica.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ANGELICA. (Aust. Ph.) _Prep._
Dried angelica root, 1 oz.; proof spirit, 6 oz. Digest, and
filter.——_Dose_, 1 dr.
=Tincture of Angostu′ra.= Tincture of cusparia.
=Tincture, Antiscorbutic.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ANTISCORBUTICA, TINCTURA
ARMORACUE COMPOSITA. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Fresh horseradish root, 8 oz.;
black mustard seed, 4 oz.; muriate of ammonia, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 16 oz.
(by weight); compound spirit of scurvy grass, 16 oz. (by weight). Macerate
10 days.
=Tincture of Ants.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FORMICARUM. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Ants
recently collected, cleaned, and bruised, 2 oz.; rectified spirit, 3 oz.
(by weight). Digest 8 days.
=Tincture of Ar′nica.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ARNICAE, T. A. FLORUM, L. _Prep._
(Ph. Bor. and Hamb. Cod.) Flowers of _Arnica montana_, 1-1/2 oz.; spirit,
sp. gr. ·900 (15-1/2 o. p.), 1 lb.; digest for 8 days, and strain, with
expression.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops; in diarrhœa, dysentery, gout,
rheumatism, paralysis, &c.
=Tincture of Arnica Root.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ARNICAE (B. P.), TINCTURA
ARNICÆ RADICIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Bruised root, 1; rectified spirit to
percolate, 20; macerate forty-eight hours with 15 of the spirit, agitating
occasionally; pack in a percolator, and, when it ceases to drop, pour on
the remaining spirit, let it drain, wash the marc, press, filter, and make
up to 20——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. From arnica root, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint; as the last.
=Tincture, Aromatic.= _Syn._ TINCTURA AROMATICA. (Gr. Ph.) _Prep._
Cinnamon, 4 oz.; cardamoms, 1 oz.; cloves, 1 oz.; galangal root, 1 oz.;
ginger, 1 oz.; all in coarse powder; proof spirit, 3 lbs. 2 oz. (by
weight). Macerate 8 days, and strain.
=Tincture, Aromat′ic.= Compound tincture of cinnamon.
=Tincture of Artichoke.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CYNARÆ. _Prep._ Fresh artichoke
leaves, bruised, 2 lbs.; rectified spirit, 1 lb. Digest for 7 days,
express and filter.
=Tincture of Assafœtida.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ASSAFŒTIDÆ (Ph. L., E., & D.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Assafœtida (small fragments), 1; rectified spirit,
8; macerate seven days, strain, filter, and add spirit to make 8.——_Dose_,
1/2 dr. to 1 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Assafœtida (small), 5 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate
for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D), and filter. “It cannot be made by percolation
with delay.” (Ph. E.)
3. (Wholesale.) Assafœtida, 2-1/2 lbs.; boiling water, 2 quarts; dissolve,
add of rectified spirit, 1-1/2 gall.; agitate well for 3 or 4 days, then
let it settle, and decant the clear portion.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.;
in hysteria, flatulent colic, &c.
=Tincture of Assafœtida (Ammo′′niated).= See FETID SPIRIT OF AMMONIA.
=Tincture of Assafœtida, Ethereal.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ASSAFŒTIDÆ ETHEREA.
(P. Cod.) _Prep._ Assafœtida, 1 part; alcoholised ether, 5 parts (by
weight). Macerate for 10 days. The ether is made by mixing equal weights
of ether and rectified spirit.
=Tincture, Asthmat′ic.= Compound tincture of camphor.
=Tincture, Astringent.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ASTRINGENS. (Dr Copland.) _Prep._
Catechu, 1/2 oz.; myrrh, 1/2 oz.; Peruvian bark, 2 dr.; balsam of Peru,
1-1/2 dr.; spirit of horseradish, 1-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 oz.
Digest. For sponginess of the gums.
=Tincture, Balsamic.= _Syn._ TINCTURA BALSAMICA. (P. E. 1744.) _Prep._
Copaiba, 1 oz.; balsam of Peru, 3 dr.; balsam of Tolu, 2 dr.; benzoin, 1/2
dr.; saffron, 1 scruple; rect. spirit, 16 oz.; digest 4 days in a sand
bath, and strain.
=Tincture, Balsam of Copaiba.= _Syn._ TINCTURA BALSAMI COPAIBÆ.
(Guibourt.) _Prep._ One part of copaiba to 8 of alcohol. Digest and
filter.
=Tincture of Balsam of Gilead.= _Syn_. TINCTURA BALSAMI GILEADENSIS.
(Guibourt.) _Prep._ One part of balsam to 8 of rectified spirit.
=Tincture of Bal′sam of Peru.= _Syn._ TINCTURA BALSAMI PERUVIANI, L.
_Prep._ (Ph. L. 1788.) Balsam of Peru, 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 16 fl.
oz.; dissolve. Pectoral, stimulant, and fragrant.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops.
=Tincture of Balsam of Tolu.= Tincture of Tolu.
=Tincture of Bark.= Tincture of cinchona.
=Tincture of Belladon′na.= _Syn._ TINCTURA BELLADONNÆ (B. P., Ph. L. &
D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) The dried leaves in coarse powder, 1; proof
spirit, 20; macerate forty-eight hours in 15 of the spirit, agitating
occasionally; pack in a percolator, and when it ceases to drop, add the
remaining spirit, let it drain, wash and press the marc; filter and make
up 20.——_Dose_, from 5 to 20 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Dried leaves of belladonna, 4 oz. (5 oz. in coarse powder——Ph.
D.); proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days (14——Ph. D.), press, and
filter.
3. (Wholesale.) From the dried leaves, 1 lb.; proof spirit, 1 gall.;
macerate 14 days.——_Dose_, 5 to 10 drops, gradually increased; also
externally, diluted with water.
=Tincture of Benzoin.= _Syn._ TINCTURA BENZOINI. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Benzoin,
2 oz.; rectified spirit, 10 oz. (by weight). Digest for 8 days, frequently
shaking; then filter.
=Tincture of Ben′zoin (Compound.)= _Syn._ FRIAR’S BALSAM, TRAUMATHC B.,
BALSAM FOR CUTS, COMMANDER’S BALSAM, VERVAIN’S B., WOUND B., JESUITS’
DROPS, WADE’S D.; TINCTURA BENZOINI COMPOSITA (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), TINCT.
BENZOËS COMP., BALSAMUM TRAUMATICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Benzoin, 8;
prepared storax, 6; balsam of Tolu, 2; socotrine aloes, 1-1/2; rectified
spirit, 80; macerate seven days, filter, and wash the marc with spirit to
make up 80.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr., triturated with mucilage or yolk of
egg.
2. (Ph. L.) Gum benzoin, coarsely powdered, 3-1/2 oz.; prepared storax,
2-1/2; balsam of Tolu, 10 dr.; Socotrine or hepatic aloes, in coarse
powder, 5 dr.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate, with frequent
agitation, for 7 days, and strain.
3. (Ph. E.) Benzoin, 4 oz.; balsam of Peru, 2-1/2 oz.; East Indian
(hepatic) aloes, 1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart.
_Obs._ Either of the above formulæ produces a most beautiful tincture,
truly balsamic. The following is, however, very generally employed by the
wholesale druggists, and the product, though possessing a very rich
colour, is thin and watery.
4. (Wholesale.) From gum benzoin, 4 lbs.; aloes (lively coloured), 1-1/4
lb.; liquid storax, 1 lb.; balsam of Tolu, 1/4 lb.; powdered turmeric
(best), 9 oz.; rectified spirit, 5-1/2 galls.; digest with frequent
agitation for 10 days, then add of hot water, 1-1/2 gall., again digest
for 4 days, and, after 24 hours’ repose, decant the clear portion.
_Dose_, 10 drops to 2 fl. dr.; as a stimulating expectorant, in chronic
coughs, and various breath affections. It is also employed to stop the
bleeding from cuts, &c., and promote their healing.
=Tincture, Bitter.= _Syn._ TINCTURA AMARA (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Unripe oranges,
2 oz.; centaury, 2 oz.; gentian root, 2 oz.; zedoary root, 1 oz.; proof
spirit, 35 oz. (by weight). Digest 8 days, and strain.
=Tincture, Bitter Stomach′ic.= Tincture of gentian.
=Tincture of Black Snake-root.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CIMICIFUGÆ, TINCTURA ACTÆÆ
RACEMOSÆ. _Prep._ Bruised root of black snake-root, 4 oz.; proof spirit,
16 oz.——_Dose_, 1 dr. to 2 dr.
=Tincture of Blessed Thistle.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CARDUI BENEDICTI. (Ph.
Bruns) _Prep._ Blessed thistle, 6 oz.; rectified spirit, 2 pints.
=Tincture of Blood Root.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SANGUINARIÆ. (Ph. U. S.) _Prep._
Blood root in moderately fine powder, 4 oz.; proof spirit, 32 oz.; made by
percolation.——_Dose._ As a stimulant and alterative, 30 to 60 drops; as an
emetic, 3 to 4 dr.
=Tincture, Brandish’s.= Alkaline tincture of rhubarb.
=Tincture of Buchu.= _Syn._ TINCTURA DIOSMÆ, T. BUCKU (Ph. E.), T. BUCHU
(B. P., Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Buchu bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8;
macerate for forty-eight hours with 3/4 of the spirit, pack in a
percolator and let it drain, then pour on the rest of the spirit; when it
ceases to drop, press and wash the marc, filter and make up to 8.——_Dose_,
1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. E.) Buchu leaves, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate 7 days
(14 days——Ph. D.); or proceed by the method of percolation.——_Dose_, 1 to
4 fl. dr.; as a tonic, sudorific, and diuretic. It is inferior to the
fresh infusion.
=Tincture of Calum′ba.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CALUMBÆ (B. P., Ph. L. &. E.), T.
COLOMBÆ (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Bruised calumba, 1; proof spirit,
8; macerate forty-eight hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating
occasionally; pack in a percolator, and let it drain, then pour on the
remaining spirit; when it ceases to drop, press, and wash the marc with
spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Calumba root, finely sliced, 3 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate a week (14 days.——Ph. D.), press, and filter. “Or, more
conveniently, by percolation, allowing the calumba, in moderately fine
powder, to first soak in a little spirit for 6 hours.” (Ph. E.)
_Obs._ This tincture is commonly made with 1 lb. of calumba root to the
gallon of a mixture of equal parts of rectified spirit and water.——_Dose_,
1 to 2 fl. dr.; as a stomachic bitter and tonic, usually joined with soda
or chalybeates.
=Tincture of Cam′phor.= _Syn._ SPIRIT OF WINE AND CAMPHOR, CAMPHORATED
SPIRIT; TINCTURA CAMPHORÆ; (Ph. E. & D.), SPIRITUS CAMPHORÆ (Ph. L.),
SPIRITUS CAMPHORATUS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Camphor, 2-1/2 oz.; rectified
spirit, 1 quart; dissolve. This is only one half as strong as the Ph. L.
preparation.
2. (Ph. D.) Camphor, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 8 fl. oz. Stimulant and
anodyne.——_Dose_, 10 to 60 drops. Also as a liniment for sprains, bruises,
chronic rheumatism, &c. For the Ph. L. formula, see SPIRIT.
=Tincture of Camphor (Compound).= _Syn._ CAMPHORATED TINCTURE OF OPIUM
ASTHMATIC ELIXIR, PAREGORIC E., ASTHMATIC TINCTURE; TINCTURA CAMPHORÆ
COMPOSITA (B. P., Ph. L.), TINCTURA OPII CAMPHORATA (Ph. E. & D.), ELIXIR
PAREGORICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Opium, in coarse powder, 40 gr.;
benzoic acid, 40 gr.; camphor, 30 gr.; oil of anise, 1/2 dr.; proof
spirit, 20 oz.; macerate seven days, strain, wash the marc with spirit,
and filter 20 oz.——_Dose_, 15 to 60 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Camphor, 50 gr.; powdered opium and benzoic acid, of each 72
gr.; oil of aniseed, 1 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7
days, and filter. The formulæ of the Ph. E. & D. are nearly similar. The
oil of aniseed, probably one of the most useful and characteristic of the
ingredients, was omitted in the Ph. L. 1824, but was restored in that of
1836.
3. (Wholesale.) From powdered opium, 3 oz.; benzoic acid, camphor, and oil
of aniseed, of each 2 oz.; rectified spirit and water, of each 3 galls.;
as before.
_Obs._ This tincture is a popular and excellent pectoral and anodyne,
where there are no inflammatory symptoms.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.; in
troublesome coughs, &c. 1/2 fl. oz. contains about 1 gr. of opium.
=Tincture of Canthar′ides.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CANTHARIDIS (B. P., Ph. L.,
E., & D.), TINCTURA LYTTÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Cantharides, in coarse
powder, 1; proof spirit, 80; macerate, agitating occasionally, for seven
days, in a closed vessel, strain, press, filter, and add sufficient proof
spirit to make up 80.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Powdered cantharides, 4 dr. (1/2 oz.——Ph. D.), and strain,
with expression.
3. (Wholesale.) From powdered cantharides, 2-1/4 oz.; rectified spirit and
water, of each 1/2 gall.; as the last.——_Dose_, 10 drops, gradually raised
to 1 fl. dr., in any bland liquid; in fluor albus, gleets, incontinence of
urine, lepra, &c. It should be used with caution. The Ed. College
recommends it to be prepared by displacement.
=Tincture of Cantharides (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA CANTHARIDIS ETHEREA.
(P. Cod.) _Prep._ Powdered cantharides, 1 oz.; acetic ether, 10 oz. (by
weight). Macerate for 10 days in a stoppered bottle, express, and filter.
=Tincture of Capsicum.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF CAYENNE PEPPER; TINCTURA
CAPSICI (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Capsicum,
bruised, 1; rectified spirit, 27; macerate 48 hours with three fourths of
the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, and let it
drain, then pour on the remaining spirit; as soon as it ceases to drop,
wash the marc with spirit to make up 27.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Capsicum, bruised, 10 dr.; proof spirit, 1 quart; digest 14
days (or percolate,——Ph. E.).——_Dose_, 10 to 60 drops; in atonic
dyspepsia, scarlet fever, ulcerated sore throat, &c. It is also made into
a gargle.
3. (Ph. D.) Cayenne pods, bruised, 1-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint;
macerate for 14 days. This is of fully twice the strength of the
preceding.
=Tincture of Capsicum (Concentrated).= See ESSENCES.
=Tincture of Capsicum with Veratria.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CAPSICI CUM
VERATRIA. (Dr Turnbull.) _Prep._ Dissolve 4 gr. of veratria in 1 oz. of
concentrated tincture of capsicum.
=Tincture of Card′amoms.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CARDAMOMI (Ph. E.), TINCT. AMOMI
REPENTIS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1836.) Cardamom seeds, 3-1/2 oz. (4-1/2
oz.——Ph. E.); proof spirit, 1 quart; digest for 14 days (or percolate——Ph.
E.).
_Obs._ The shells should be sifted from the seeds before maceration, and
the latter are preferably ground in a pepper-mill instead of being bruised
in a mortar. Aromatic and carminative.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl. dr., as an
adjunct to purgative mixtures.
=Tincture of Cardamoms (Compound).= _Syn._ STOMACHIC TINCTURE; TINCTURA
CARDAMOMI COMPOSITA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D), TINCTURA STOMACHICA, L.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Cardamom seeds, freed from their pericarps, bruised, 1;
caraway, bruised, 1; raisins, freed from their seeds, 8; bruised cinnamon,
2; cochineal, in powder, 1/2; proof spirit, 80; macerate 48 hours with 3/4
of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, and let it
drain, pour upon it the remainder of the spirit, and, when it ceases to
drop, press, wash the marc with spirit to make up 80.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2
dr.
2. (P. L.) Cardamoms (without the shells), caraways, and cochineal, of
each, bruised, 2-1/2 dr.; cinnamon, bruised, 5 dr.; raisins, stoned, 5
oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate 7 days, then strain, with expression.
3. (Ph. E., and Ph. L. 1836.) As the last, but using only 1 dr. of
cochineal, and macerating 14 days; or, “it maybe prepared by the method of
displacement.” (Ph. E.)
4. (Wholesale.) From cardamoms and caraway seeds, of each 4 oz.; cochineal
(s. g.), 6 oz.; cassia, 8 oz.; sultana raisins, 5 lbs.; proof spirit, 4
galls. (or rectified spirit and water, of each, 2 galls.); macerate, &c.,
as before.
_Obs._ The Dublin College omitted the cochineal and raisins in their Ph.
of 1826, but have restored them in their new one. The order of the London
College to stone the raisins is seldom adopted in practice; by which the
tincture is rendered unfit to be employed in dispensing prescriptions
containing quinine or other alkaloids. When pharmaceutists are too lazy to
follow the instructions in their Pharmacopœia, they had better use sultana
raisins, which have no stones.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.; as a cordial and
stomachic, but chiefly as an adjunct, for its colour and flavour.
=Tincture of Cascaril′la.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CASCARILLÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E.,
& D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Cascarilla, bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8;
macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally; pack in a
percolator, let it drain, and pour on the remainder of the spirit, and,
when it ceases to drop, wash the marc, press, filter, and make up
8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Cascarilla, bruised, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate
for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or percolate——Ph. E.). An excellent tonic and
stomachic; chiefly employed as an adjunct to mixtures, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
fl. dr.
=Tincture of Cas′sia.= _Syn._ TINCTURE CASSIÆ (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph.
E.) Cassia, 3-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days, or
percolate. Stomachic and carminative.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Castor.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CASTOREI (B. P., Ph. L. & E.),
TINCT. CASTOREI ROSSICI, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Castor, in coarse powder,
1; rectified spirit, 20; macerate seven days, strain, and wash the marc
with spirit sufficient to make up to 20.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Castor, bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 7 days (or percolate——Ph. E.).
_Obs._ The Dublin College ordered Russian castor in their Ph. of 1826; but
the scarcity and high price of that variety, we fear, too often precludes
its use. The tincture of the shops is usually made with only 8 oz. of
castor to the gall. of proof spirit. Nervine and antispasmodic.——_Dose_,
20 drops to 2 fl. dr.; in hysteria, epilepsy, &c.
=Tincture of Castor (Ammo′′niated).= _Syn._ ELIXIR FŒTIDUM, TINCTURA
CASTOREI COMPOSITA, T. C. AMMONIATA (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Castor,
bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; assafœtida, in small fragments, 10 dr.; spirit of
ammonia, 1 quart; digest 7 days in a well-closed vessel. Stimulant and
antispasmodic.——_Dose_ and _uses_, as the last. With the addition of 1/2
oz. of opium, it forms the Elixir Uterinum, or Elixir Castorei Thebaicum
of foreign Pharmacopœias.
=Tincture of Castor (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA CASTOREI ÆTHEREA. (P.
Cod.) _Prep._ Castor, in powder, 1 oz.; alcoholised ether (see ETHEREAL
TINCT. OF ASSAFŒTIDA), 10 oz. (by weight).
=Tincture of Castor Oil Seeds.= _Syn._ TINCTURA RICINI. Castor oil seeds
bruised are digested with five times their weight of rectified spirit.
This tincture is stated to be 4 times the strength of the oil.
=Tincture of Cat′echu.= _Syn._ COMPOUND TINCTURE OF CATECHU; TINCTURA
CATECHU COMPOSITA (Ph. L.), T. CATECHU (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(B. P.) Pale catechu, in coarse powder, 2-1/2; cinnamon, bruised, 1; proof
spirit, 20: macerate for seven days with agitation, strain, press, and
filter, and add spirit to make up 20.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Catechu, in powder, 3-1/2 oz. (4 oz.——Ph. D.); cinnamon,
bruised, 2-1/2 oz. (2 oz.——Ph. D.); proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7
days (or percolate——Ph. E.).
3. (Wholesale.) From catechu, 2 lbs.; oil of cassia, 3 fl. dr.; rectified
spirit and water, of each 1 gall.; macerate for 10 days.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
fl. dr., as a warm astringent; in diarrhœa, &c., either alone, or combined
with chalk.
=Tincture of Cevadilla.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SABADILLÆ. (Dr Turnbull.) _Prep._
Digest the seeds of cevadilla (freed from their capsules), and bruised,
for ten days in as much rectified spirit as will cover them; express and
filter. For external use only in rheumatism.
=Tincture of Chamomile.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ANTHEMIDIS. (Aust. Ph.) Dried
chamomile flowers, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint.
=Tincture of Chiret′ta.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CHIRAYTÆ (B. P.), TINCTURA
CHIRAYTA, T. CHIRETTÆ (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (B. P.) Chiretta, cut small and
bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit,
agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, and let it drain, then pour
on the remaining spirit; when it ceases to drop, press, and wash the marc
with spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 15 to 60 minims; B. Ph. dose 1/2 to 2
dr.
2. (Ph. D.) Chiretta or chirayta (bruised), 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 14 days. Tonic and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Chloroform (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA CHLOROFORMI
COMPOSITA. (B. P.) _Prep._ Mix 2 fl. oz. of chloroform with 8 fl. oz.
of rectified spirit and 10 fl. oz. of compound tincture of
cardamoms.——_Dose_, 20 to 40 minims.
=Tincture of Cinchona.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF BARK; TINCTURA CINCHONÆ (B. P.,
Ph. L., E., & D.), T. CORTICIS PERUVIANI, T. C. P. SIMPLEX, L. _Prep._ 1.
(B. P.) Yellow cinchona bark, in coarse powder, 4; proof spirit, 20;
macerate 48 hours with 15 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a
percolator and let it drain, then pour on the remaining spirit, and when
it ceases to drop, press, and wash the marc with spirit to make
30.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Yellow cinchona bark (bruised), 8 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 14 days (or percolate——Ph. E.).
_Obs._ The Dublin College orders pale bark, and the Edinburgh either
species, according to prescription.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 fl. dr.; as a tonic,
stomachic, and febrifuge.
=Tincture of Cinchona (Ammoniated).= _Syn._ TINCTURA CINCHONÆ AMMONIATÆ.
(Ph. L. 1824.) _Prep._ Peruvian bark, 4 oz.; aromatic spirit of ammonia,
32 fl. oz. Macerate for 10 days.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 1 dr.
=Tincture of Cinchona (Compound).= _Syn._ COMPOUND TINCTURE OF BARK,
HUXHAM’S T. OF B., FEVER TINCTURE; TINCTURA CINCHONÆ COMPOSITÆ (B. P.),
TINCTURA CINCHONÆ COMPOSITÆ (Ph. L., E., & D.), TINCT. CORTICIS PERUVIANI
COMPOSITA, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Pale cinchona bark, in coarse powders;
bitter orange peel, cut small and bruised, 2; serpentary, bruised, 1;
saffron, 1/4; cochineal, 1/8; proof spirit, 40: macerate 48 hours with 30
of spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator and let it drain,
then pour on the remainder of the spirit; when it ceases to drop, press,
and wash the marc with spirit to make up 40.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Pale bark, bruised, 4 oz.; dried bitter orange-peel, 3 oz. (2
oz.——Ph. D.); serpentary root, bruised, 6 dr.; hay saffron, 2 dr.;
cochineal, in powder, 1 dr.; macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or
percolate——Ph. E.); press, and filter.
3. (Wholesale.) From pale bark, 3-1/2 lbs.; dried orange peel, 2 lbs.;
serpentary root, 4 oz.; hay saffron, 1 oz.; cochineal, 1/2 oz.; proof
spirit, 4 galls. (or rectified spirit and water, of each 2 galls.);
macerate for 14 days.
_Obs._ in the Ph. E. yellow bark is ordered.——_Dose_ and _use_, as the
last.
=Tincture of Cinchona (Pale).= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF PALE BARK; TINCTURA
CINCHONÆ PALLIDÆ (Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ From pale bark, as the last.
=Tincture of Cinna′mon.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CINNAMOMI (B. P., Ph. L. & E.),
L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Cinnamon, in coarse powder, 1; proof spirit, 8;
macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a
percolator and let it drain, then pour on the remaining spirit; when it
ceases to drop, press, and wash the marc with spirit to make up 8.
2. (Ph. L.) Cinnamon, bruised, 3-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate
for 7 days (or percolate——Ph. E.). In the shops cassia is usually
substituted for cinnamon, and spirit 26 u. p. for proof spirit.——_Dose_, 1
to 4 fl. dr.; as a cordial, aromatic, and stomachic.
=Tincture of Cinnamon (Compound).= _Syn._ AROMATIC TINCTURE; TINCTURA
CINNAMOMI COMPOSITA (Ph. L., E., & D.), T. AROMATICA, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
L.) Cinnamon, bruised, 1 oz.; cardamoms (bruised, without the shells), 1/2
oz.; long pepper and ginger, of each 2-1/2 dr.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
digest for 7 days (or percolate——Ph. E.). The Ph. E. omits the ginger, and
uses 1/2 oz. more cardamoms.
2. (Ph. D.) Cinnamon, 2 oz.; cardamoms, 1 oz.; ginger, 1/2 oz.; proof
spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days. The following form is current in
the wholesale houses.
3. Cassia, 1 lb.; cardamoms, 6 oz.; long pepper and ginger, of each
1/4 lb.; oil of cassia, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 4 galls, (or
rectified spirit and water, of each 2 galls.). Cordial, aromatic,
stomachic.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl. dr.; in atonic gout, debility,
flatulence, &c.
=Tincture of Cloves.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CARYOPHYLLI. (Guibourt.) _Prep._
Cloves, 2 oz.; rectified spirit, 16 oz. Macerate 10 days.
=Tincture of Coch′ineal.= _Syn._ TINCTURA COCCI CACTI (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Cochineal, in powder, 1; proof spirit, 8: macerate 7 days;
strain, and wash the marc with spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 30 to 90
minims twice a day. Used chiefly for colouring medicines.
2. (Ph. D.) Cochineal, in fine powder, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint.
Antispasmodic and sedative; but chiefly employed for its colour.——_Dose_,
1/2 to 2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Cochineal (Ammoniated).= _Syn._ TINCTURA COCCI AMMONIATA. (Dr
Eberle.) _Prep._ Cochineal, 1/2 oz.; water of ammonia, 1/2 oz.; rectified
spirit, 8 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 5 drops in hooping-cough.
=Tincture of Col′chicum.= _Syn._ GOUT TINCTURE, TINCTURE OF MEADOW
SAFFRON; TINCTURA COLCHICI SEMINUM (B. P.); TINCTURA COLCHICI (Ph. L., &
E.), T. SEMINUM COLCHICI (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. Colchicum seed, bruised,
1; proof spirit, 8: macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating
occasionally, pack in a percolator, and let it drain, then pour on the
remainder of the spirit; when it ceases to drop, wash the marc with spirit
to make up 8.——_Dose_, 15 to 30 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Seeds of meadow saffron (_Colchicum autumnale_), bruised
(finely ground in a coffee-mill——Ph. E.), 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or percolate——Ph. E.); then press,
and filter.——_Dose_, 15 to 20 drops to 1 fl. dr.; in gout, &c.
=Tincture of Colchicum Bulbs.= _Syn._ TINCTURA COLCHICI E RADICE. (P.
Cod.) _Prep._ Macerate 1 part of the bulbs in 5 parts (by weight) of proof
spirit, for 10 days.
=Tincture of Colchicum (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA COLCHICI COMPOSITA
(Ph. L.), SPIRITUS COLCHICI AMMONIATUS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Colchicum
seeds, bruised, 5 oz.; aromatic spirit of ammonia, 1 quart; digest for 7
days, then press, and filter.——_Dose_, 20 drops to 1 fl. dr.; in gout, &c.
=Tincture of Colchicum Flowers.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FLORUM COLCHICI; EAU
MEDICINALE D’HUSSON. (Dr Wilson.) _Prep._ Take of the fresh juice of
colchicum flowers, 2 parts; French brandy (or proof spirit), 1 part; mix,
and in a few days decant, or filter, and preserve it in small bottles in a
cool place.
=Tincture of Colocynth.= _Syn._ TINCTURA COLOCYNTHIDIS. (Ph. G.)
Colocynth, 1 part; rectified spirit, 10 parts. _Dose_, 6 to 20 drops.
=Tincture of Contrayerva.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CONTRAYERVÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Contrayerva root, 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint.
=Tincture of Copai′ba (Alkaline).= _Syn._ TINCTURA COPAIBÆ ALKALINE, L.
_Prep._ (Lewis Thompson.) Dissolve carbonate of potassa, 2 oz., in water,
1 pint, and add to this balsam of copaiba, in a thin stream, constantly
stirring, until the mixture, at first white and milky, becomes clear, like
jelly or amber, which will generally take place when about a pint of
balsam has been added; set the mixture aside for two or three hours, then
pour in of rectified spirit, 1 quart, and mix the whole together. Sweet
spirit of nitre may be substituted for spirit of wine, provided it does
not contain free acid.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls.
=Tincture of Croton.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CROTONIS. _Prep._ Croton seed, 1
part; rectified spirit, 5 parts. (Beasley.)
=Tincture of Cu′bebs.= _Syn._ ESSENCE OF CUBEBS; TINCTURA CUBEBÆ (B. P.,
Ph. L. & D.), TINCTURA PIPERIS CUBEBÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Cubebs, in
powder, 1; rectified spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit,
agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator and let it drain; pour on the
remaining spirit, and when it ceases to drop, wash the marc with spirit to
make up 8.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Cubebs (bruised or ground in a pepper-mill), 1 lb.; proof
spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days, press out the liquor, and
filter.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 fl. dr., three or four times a day; in
gonorrhœa, &c.
3. (Ph. D., & Ph. L. 1836.) Cubebs, 5 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart
(proof spirit——Ph. D. 1826); macerate for 14 days.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl.
dr.
=Tincture of Cuspa′′ria.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CUSPARIÆ (Ph. E.), T. ANGOSTURÆ,
L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Angostura bark or cusparia, 4-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1
quart; digest or percolate. Tonic, stimulant, and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1 to
2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Deadly Nightshade.= Tincture of belladonna.
=Tincture, De Coetlogon’s.= Haffenden’s tincture.
=Tincture of Digita′lis.= Tincture of fox-glove.
=Tincture of Elaterium.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ELATERII. _Prep._ Extract of
elaterium, 8 gr.; rectified spirit, 8 fl. oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 2 dr.
=Tincture of Elecampane′.= _Syn._ TINCTURA INULÆ, T. HELENII, L. _Prep._
(P. Cod.) Powdered elecampane, 4 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint; macerate for
15 days. Tonic, deobstruent, and expectorant.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.;
in dyspepsia, palsy, dropsies, uterine obstructions, &c.
=Tincture of Er′got.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SECALII CORNUTI, TINCTURA ERGOTÆ (B.
P., Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Ergot, bruised, 1; proof spirit, 4;
macerate 48 hours with 3 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a
percolator, let it drain, then pour on the remaining spirit; when it
ceases to drop, wash the marc with the spirit to make up 4.——_Dose_, 15 to
60 minims.
2. (Apothecaries’ Hall.) Ergot (ground in a coffee-mill), 2-1/2 oz.; proof
spirit, 1 pint; digest for 7 days.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful; to excite the
action of the uterus in labour.
3. (Ph. D.) Ergot, 8 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days, and
strain, with expression.——_Dose_, 20 drops to 1 fl. dr.; as the last.
=Tincture of Ergot (Ammoniated).= _Syn._ TINCTURA ERGOTÆ AMMONIATA.
(Gore.) _Prep._ Bruised ergot, 4 oz.; aromatic spirit of ammonia, 10 oz.;
macerate for a month, express, and filter.——_Dose_, 30 drops every 10
minutes till it excites uterine contractions.
=Tincture of Ergot (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA ERGOTÆ ÆTHEREA (Ph. L.),
L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Ergot, bruised, 15 oz.; ether, 1 quart; macerate for 7
days, press, and filter.——_Dose_, 10 drops to 1 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Eucalyptus.= _Syn._ TINCTURA EUCALYPTI GLOBULI. (Dorvault.)
_Prep._ Eucalyptus (globulus) leaves, cut, 1 part; alcohol (80 per cent.),
5 parts. Digest 5 days, and filter.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
=Tincture of Euphorbium.= _Syn._ TINCTURA EUPHORBII. (Ph. G.) _Prep._
Euphorbium, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 10 oz. (by weight). Digest 8 days.
=Tincture, Febrifuge.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FEBRIFUGA. (Dr Clutton.) _Prep._
Febrifuge spirit, 1/2 pint; angelica root, 1-1/2 dr.; serpentary, 1-1/2
dr.; cardamom seeds, 1-1/2 dr. Digest and filter.
=Tincture of Flea-bane.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ERIGERONIS. _Prep._ Dried Canada
flea-bane (_Erigeron Canadense_), 4 oz.; proof spirit, 16 oz. Macerate,
express, and filter.
=Tincture of Foxglove.= _Syn._ TINCTURA DIGITALIS (Ph. L., E., & D.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Dried foxglove leaves, 4 oz. (5 oz.——Ph. D.); proof
spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or percolate——Ph.
E.); then press, and strain.
2. (B. P.) Digitalis leaves in coarse powder, 2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1
part. Proceed as for tincture of aconite. (B. P.)
_Obs._ This tincture is a powerful sedative, diuretic, and narcotic. The
commencing dose should be 10 drops, gradually and cautiously increased to
30, or even 40; in asthmas, dropsies, fevers, phthisis, &c. “If 40 fl. oz.
of spirit be allowed to pass (percolate) through the sp. gr. will be ·944;
and the solid contents of 1 fl. oz. will amount to 24 gr.” (Ph. E.)
=Tincture of Galanga.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GALANGÆ. (Ph. Amst.) _Prep._
Galangal root, 1 oz.; proof spirit, 6 oz.——_Dose_, 30 to 60 drops.
=Tincture of Gal′banum.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GALBANI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.
1826.) Galbanum, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 32 fl. oz.; digest 7 days. Stimulant
and antispasmodic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 fl. dr. “If less nauseous than tincture
of assafœtida, it is also less powerful.” (Dr A. T. Thomson.)
=Tincture of Galls.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GALLÆ (B. P., Ph. L. & D.), TINCTURA
GALLARUM (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1 (B. P.) Galls, bruised, 1; proof spirit,
8; macerate for 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally,
pack in a percolator, let it drain, and then pour on the remaining spirit;
when it ceases to drop, wash the marc with spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_,
1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Galls, in powder, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7
days (14 days——Ph. D.; or percolate——Ph. E.); then express the liquid, and
filter it. Astringent and styptic.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr. It is chiefly
used as a test for iron.
=Tincture of Garden Marigold.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CALENDULÆ. _Prep._ A
saturated tincture of the leaves and flowers of the garden marigold is
prepared with whisky, and is reputed to be of service as an application
for lacerated wounds.
=Tincture of Garden Nightshade (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA SOLANI
ÆTHEREA. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Powdered leaves of garden nightshade, 4 oz.;
sulphuric ether, 16 oz. (by weight). Make by percolation.
=Tincture of Gentian (Ammo′′niated).= _Syn._ TINCTURA GENTIANÆ AMMONIATÆ,
L.; ELIXIR ANTISCROFULEUX, Fr. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Gentian, 1 oz.;
sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 1/4 oz.; proof spirit, 32 fl. oz. As the last;
but preferred in acidity and low spirits.
=Tincture of Gen′tian (Compound).= _Syn._ BITTER STOMACHIC TINCTURE;
TINCTURA GENTIANÆ COMPOSITA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), TINCTURA AMARA, L.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Gentian, bruised, 1-1/2; bitter orange peel, bruised,
3/4; cardamom seeds, bruised, 1/4; proof spirit, 20; macerate for 48 hours
with 15 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, let
it drain, and then pour on the remaining spirit; when it ceases to drop,
wash the marc with spirit to make up 20.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Gentian root, sliced and bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; dried orange
peel, 10 dr.; cardamoms, bruised, 5 dr.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate
for 7 days (or percolate——Ph. E.). The Edinburgh College substitutes
canella for cardamoms, and adds of cochineal, 1/2 dr.
3. (Ph. D.) Gentian root, 3 oz.; dried bitter orange peel, 1-1/2 oz.;
cardamoms, 1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days.
4. (Wholesale.) Gentian, 2-1/2 lbs.; dried orange peel, 1-1/4 lb.; bruised
cardamoms, 2-1/2 lbs.; proof spirit, 4 galls. (or rectified spirit and
water, of each 2 galls.); digest as last.
_Obs._ This is an excellent and popular stomachic bitter and
tonic——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl dr.; in dyspepsia, loss of appetite, &c.
=Tincture of Geranium.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GERANII. _Prep._ Dried roots of
_Geranium maculatum_, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 2 pints. Astringent. Used
chiefly in gargles.
=Tinc′ture of Gin′ger.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ZINGIBERIS (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.). _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Ginger, bruised, 1; rectified spirit, 8; macerate
the ginger 48 hours in 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally; pack in a
percolator, let it drain, pour on the remaining spirit, and when it ceases
to drop press, filter, and add spirit to make 8.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Ginger, bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 7 days (or percolate——Ph. E.).
3. (Wholesale.) Coarsely powdered unbleached Jamaica ginger, 1-1/4 lb.;
rectified spirit (or spirit distilled from the essence), 1-1/2 gall.;
water, 1/2 gall.; digest as above. Stimulant and carminative.——_Dose_, 1
to 2 fl. dr.
_Obs._ The formula of the Ph. D. 1826 resembles the above; that of the
last Ph. D. orders 8 oz. of ginger to 1 quart of rectified spirit. The
product is, consequently, of fully 3 times the strength of that of the
others, and is similar to the common ESSENCE OF GINGER of the shops.
=Tincture of Ginger (Stronger).= _Syn._ TINCTURA ZINGIBERIS FORTIOR. (B.
P.) Pack tightly in a percolator, ginger in fine powder, 10 oz., and pour
over it carefully 1/2 pint of rectified spirit. After two hours more add
more spirit, and let it percolate slowly until 1 pint of tincture has been
collected.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 minims.
=Tincture of Gold-Thread.= _Syn._ TINCTURA COPTIS. (Dr Wood.) _Prep._
Gold-thread, 1 oz.; proof spirit, 16 oz.——_Dose_, 1 dr. Tonic.
=Tincture, Gout.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ANTARTHRITICA, L. _Prep._ 1. (Dr.
Graves’s.) Take of dried orange peel and powder of aloes and canella, of
each 2 oz.; rhubarb, 1 oz.; French brandy (or proof spirit), 1 quart;
digest a week, and strain, with expression.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls
night and morning.
2. (Dr Wilson’s.) Tincture of colchicum flowers.
3. Tincture of colchicum.
=Tincture of Green Hellebore Root.= _Syn._ TINCTURA VERATRI VIRIDIS. (B.
P.) _Prep._ Green hellebore root, in coarse powder, 4 oz.; rectified
spirit, 1 pint. Prepared as tincture of aconite. (B. P.)
=Tincture of Gua′iacum.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GUAIACI (Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._
(Ph. E. & Ph. L. 1836.) Guaiacum resin (powdered), 7 oz. (8 oz.——Ph. D.);
rectified spirit, 1 quart; digest for 14 days, and filter. An excellent
sudorific; in chronic gout and rheumatism.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 fl. dr., taken
in milk.
=Tincture of Guaiacum (Alkaline).= _Syn._ TINCTURA GUAIACI ALKALINI. (Dr
Dewees.) _Prep._ Guaiacum, 5 oz.; carbonate of potash or of soda, 3 dr.;
pimento, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 2 pints.——_Dose._ A teaspoonful 3 times a
day in dysmenorrhœa.
=Tincture of Guaiacum (Compound).= _Syn._ AMMONIATED TINCTURE OF GUAIACUM,
VOLATILE T. OF G., RHEUMATIC DROPS; TINCTURA GUAIACI COMPOSITA (Ph. L.),
T. G. AMMONIATA (B. P., Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Guaiac resin, in
fine powder, 4; aromatic spirit of ammonia, 20; macerate 7 days, filter,
and wash the filter with the spirit to make up 20.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr.,
with 1 dr. of mucilage or yolk of egg, to form an emulsion.
2. (Ph. L.) Guaiacum, in coarse powder, 7 oz.; aromatic spirit of ammonia
(spirit of ammonia——Ph. E.), 1 quart; digest for 7 days, and decant or
filter. A powerful, stimulating sudorific and emmenagogue; in chronic
rheumatism, gout, amenorrhœa, &c.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl. dr. in milk, or some
viscid liquid.
=Tincture of Guaiacum Wood.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GUAIACI LIGNI. (P. Cod.)
_Prep._ One part of the rasped wood to 5 parts by weight of proof spirit.
Digest 10 days and strain.
=Tincture of Guarana.= _Syn._ TINCTURA PAULLINIÆ. (Dorvault.) _Prep._
Alcoholic extract of guarana, 1 oz.; proof spirit, 16 oz. Dissolve.
=Tincture, Haffenden’s Balsam′ic.= _Syn._ DE COETLOGON’S BALSAMII
TINCTURE. This is a nostrum, of many virtues, prepared from tincture of
serpentary (of double strength), 1-1/2 fl. oz.; compound of tincture of
benzoin, 1 fl. oz.; tinctures of Tolu and opium, of each 1/2 fl. oz.; with
rectified spirits, q. s. to render the mixture ‘bright,’ should it turn
milky. (‘Anat. of Quackery.’)
=Tincture, Hatfield’s.= _Prep._ From gum guaiacum and soap, of each 2 dr.;
rectified spirit, 1 pint; digest for a week. Used as TINCTURE OF GUAIACUM;
also externally.
=Tincture of Hedge-Hyssop.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GRATIOLÆ. (Reece.) _Prep._
Dried hedge-hyssop, 4 oz.; proof spirit, 32 oz.
=Tincture of Hel′lebore.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF BLACK HELLEBORE; TINCTURA
HELLEBORI (Ph. L.), L. TINCTURA HELLEBORI NIGRI. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) Black
hellebore root, bruised, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate 7 days,
then strain, with expression.
_Obs._ This tincture is a powerful emmenagogue, and was a favourite remedy
with Dr Mead in uterine obstructions and certain cutaneous
affections.——_Dose_, 20 drops to 1 fl. dr. See TINCTURE OF VERATRUM.
=Tincture of Hem′lock.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CICUTÆ, T. CONII (Ph. L. & E.), T.
CONII MACULATI, L. _Prep._ 1, (Ph. L.) Dried hemlock leaves, 5 oz.; proof
spirit, 1 quart; digest a week, press, and filter. In the Ph. L. 1836,
cardamom seeds, 1 oz., was added.
2. (Ph. E.) Fresh hemlock leaves, 12 oz.; express the juice, bruise the
residuum, and treat it, by percolation, first with tincture of cardamoms,
10 fl. oz., and next with rectified spirit, 1-1/2 pint; mix the liquids,
and filter. Deobstruent and narcotic.——_Dose_ of the Ph. L., 20 to 60
drops; that of the Ph. E. tincture is less, it being a much stronger and
certain preparation. See HEMLOCK.
3. (B. P.) Hemlock fruit, bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint.
Proceed as for tincture of aconite (B. P.).
=Tincture of Hemp.= Tincture of Indian Hemp.
=Tincture of Hen′bane.= _Syn._ TINCTURA HYOSCYAMI (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.). _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Hyoscyamus leaves, dried and bruised, 1; proof
spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, pack in a percolator,
and when it has drained pour on the remaining spirit, and when it ceases
to drop, press, and wash the marc with spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 15 to
60 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Dried leaves of henbane, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or percolate——Ph. E.), then press,
and filter. Anodyne, sedative, soporific, and narcotic.——_Dose_, 20 drops
to 2 fl. dr.
_Obs._ This, as well as the TINCTURES OF FOXGLOVE, HEMLOCK, HOPS, JALAP,
LOBELIA INFLATA, RHATANY, SAVINE, SQUILLS, SENNA, VALERIAN WORMWOOD, &c.,
is usually prepared by the druggists with 1 lb. of the dried leaves (or
dried drugs) to each gall. of a mixture of equal parts of rectified spirit
and water.
=Tincture of Hops.= _Syn._ TINCTURA LUPULI (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), TINCTURA
HUMULI, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Hop, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours
in 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, let it
drain, add the remaining spirit, and when fluid ceases to drop, wash the
marc, filter, and make up 8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. E.) Hops, 6 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; digest 7 days, then press,
and filter. Anodyne, sedative, and soporific.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.
For the formula of the Ph. E. and D., see TINCTURE OF LUPULIN.
=Tincture of Hops (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA LUPULI COMPOSITA, LIQUEUR
DES TEIGNEUX. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Hops, 1 oz.; smaller centaury, 1 oz.;
orange peel, 2 dr.; carbonate of potash, 12 gr.; proof spirit, 18 oz. (by
weight).
=Tincture of Horse-Chestnut.= _Syn._ TINCTURA HIPPOCASTANEI. _Prep._
Horse-chestnut bark, 4 oz.; proof spirit, 2 pints. Macerate for 10 days,
and filter.
=Tincture, Hudson’s.= Tooth tincture.
=Tincture, Huxham’s.= Compound tincture of cinchona.
=Tincture of Indian Hemp.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CANNABIS INDICÆ (B. P.),
TINCTURA CANNABIS, T. C. INDICÆ (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (B. P.) Extract of
Indian hemp, 1; rectified spirit, 20; dissolve.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 minims
with 1 dr. of mucilage, adding 1 oz. of water.
2. (Ph. D.) Purified extract of Indian hemp, 1/2 oz.; rectified spirit,
1/2 pint; dissolve. 21 drops (minims) contain 1 gr. of the extract.
_Obs._ The formula of O’Shaughnessy and the Bengal Ph. are
similar.——_Dose_, 10 drops every 1/2 hour in cholera; 1 fl. dr. every 1/2
hour in tetanus till the paroxysms cease, or catalepsy is induced.
=Tincture of Indian Tobac′co.= Tincture of lobelia.
=Tincture of I′odine.= _Syn._ TINCTURA IODINEI (Ph. E.) TINCTURA IODINII,
L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Iodine, 2-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart;
dissolve, and preserve it in well-closed bottles.——_Dose_, 5 to 30 drops,
twice or thrice daily, where the use of iodine is indicated. Externally,
as a paint, &c.
_Obs._ The formulæ of Magendie, the Ph. U. S., and the Paris Codex, are
similar.
=Tincture of Iodine (Colourless).= _Syn._ TINCTURA IODI DECOLORATA. (Ph.
G.) _Prep._ Iodine, 10 oz.; hyposulphite of soda, 10 oz.; distilled water,
10 oz. Digest with gentle heat, occasionally shaking; and, when the
solution is completed, add liquor ammoniæ (·960), 16 oz. (by weight),
shake together, and add rectified spirit, 75 oz. (by weight).
=Tincture of Iodine (Compound).= _Syn._ ANTISCROFULOUS DROPS; TINCTURA
IODI (B. P.), TINCTURA IODINII COMPOSITA (Ph. L. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1.
Iodine, 1/2; iodide of potassium, 1/4; rectified spirit, 20;
dissolve.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 minims. Also an excellent application to the
throat in diphtheria.
2. (Ph. L. & D.) Iodine, 1 oz.; iodide of potassium, 2 oz.; rectified
spirit, 1 quart; dissolve.——_Dose_, &c., as the last.
=Tincture of Iodine (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA IODINII ÆTHEREA. _Prep._
Iodine, 2 scruples, sulphuric ether, 1-1/2 fl. oz.
=Tincture, Iodoform (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA IODOFORMI ÆTHEREA. (Odin
& Lemaire.) _Prep._ Crystallised iodoform, 15 gr.; ether at 60° Baumé, 1
dr. (by weight).
=Tincture of Ipecacuan′ha.= _Syn._ TINCTURA IPECACUANHA, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
Bor.) Ipecacuanha (coarsely powdered), 1 oz.; spirit, sp. gr. ·897 to
·900 (16 to 17 o. p.), 8 oz.; macerate for 8 days. The tincture of the P.
Cod. has twice its strength.——_Dose_, 10 or 12 drops to 2 fl. dr.,
according to the intention.
=Tincture of Jaborandi.= _Syn._ TINCTURA JABORANDI. (‘Ph. Journ.’) _Prep._
Powdered jaborandi leaves, 10 oz.; rectified spirit, q. s. Percolate until
a pint of tincture is obtained.——_Dose_, 10 minims to 1 or 2 dr.
Mr Shuttleworth, the Editor of the ‘Canadian Pharmaceutical Journal,’ thus
utilises the residue left after making tincture of myrrh. He says “that,
from fifty-two pounds of the residue of percolation, dissolved in boiling
water, strained and allowed to deposit, he obtained twelve gallons of
mucilage, forming an excellent substitute for paste, and possessing
unlimited keeping qualities. Although scarcely so adhesive as gum Arabic,
this latter property may be obtained by the addition of a little
molasses.”
=Tincture of Jal′ap.= _Syn._ TINCTURA JALAPÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Jalap, in coarse powder, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate
for 48 hours in six of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a
percolator, and when the fluid ceases to pass, pour on the remaining
spirit, press, filter, and add spirit to make 8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Jalap, coarsely powdered, 5 oz. (10 oz.——Ph. L. 1836; 7
oz.——Ph. E.); proof spirit, 1 quart (1-1/2 pint——Ph. D.); macerate for 7
days (or percolate——Ph. E.), then press, and filter. Cathartic.——_Dose_, 1
to 4 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Jalap (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA JALAPÆ COMPOSITA. (Ph. E.
1744.) _Prep._ Jalap root, 6 dr.; black hellebore root, 3 dr.; juniper
berries, 1/2 oz.; guaiacum shavings, 1/2 oz.; French brandy, 24 oz.;
digest for 3 days, and strain. The _Eau de Vie Allemande_ of the Paris
Codex is: Jalap, 8 oz.; turpeth root, 1 oz.; scammony, 2 oz.; proof
spirit, 96 oz. (by weight).——_Dose_, 4 dr.
=Tincture of Ki′no.= _Syn._ TINCTURE KINO (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Kino, in powder, 1; rectified spirit, 10; macerate 7 days,
filter, and make up 10.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Powdered kino, 3-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate
for 7 days (or percolate——Ph. E.), and filter. Astringent.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
fl. dr., combined with chalk mixture; in diarrhœa, &c.
A writer in the ‘American Journal of Pharmacy’ says the following formula
will yield a tincture which has no tendency to gelatinise like the simple
tincture of the B. P.:
Kino, in fine powder, 1-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 8 fl. oz.; water, 4
oz.; glycerin, 4 fl. oz. Mix the alcohol, water, and glycerin together,
and having mixed the kino with an equal bulk of clean sand, introduce in a
percolator, and pour on the menstruum.
Mr Haselden says, that for some years past he has preserved tincture of
kino from gelatinising by keeping it in bottles holding 2 oz. only.
=Tincture of Lactu′′carium.= _Syn._ TINCTURA LACTUCARII, L. _Prep._ (Ph.
E.) Powdered lactucarium, 4 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; digest or
percolate. Anodyne, soporific, antispasmodic, and sedative.——_Dose_, 20 to
60 drops; in cases for which opium is unsuited, 10 drops (minims) contain
1 gr. of lactucarium.
=Tincture of Larch.= _Syn._ TINCTURA LARICIS. (B. P.) _Prep._ Larch bark,
in coarse powder, 2-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint. Macerate the bark
for 48 hours in 15 oz. of the spirit in a closed vessel, agitating
occasionally; then transfer to a percolator, and when the fluid ceases to
pass, continue the percolation with the remaining 5 oz. of spirit.
Afterwards subject the contents of the percolator to pressure, filter the
product, mix the liquid, and add rectified spirit, q. s. to make 1
pint.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 minims.
=Tincture of Lav′ender (Compound).= _Syn._ RED LAVENDER, RED LAVENDER
DROPS, RED HARTSHORN; TINCTURA LAVENDULÆ COMPOSITA (B. P., Ph. L. & D.),
SPIRITUS LAVANDULÆ COMPOSITUS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) English oil
of lavender, 90 minims; English oil of rosemary, 10 minims; cinnamon,
bruised, 150 gr.; nutmeg, bruised, 150 gr.; red sandal wood, 300 gr.;
rectified spirit, 40 oz.; macerate the cinnamon, nutmeg, and red sandal
wood in the spirit for 7 days, then press out and strain; dissolve the
oils in the strained tincture, and add sufficient rectified spirit to make
40 oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Cinnamon and nutmegs, of each, bruised, 2-1/2 dr.; red sanders
wood, sliced, 5 dr.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days, then
strain, with expression, and dissolve in the strained liquid, oil of
lavender, 1-1/2 fl. dr., oil of rosemary, 10 drops.
3. (Ph. L. 1836.) Spirit of lavender, 1-1/2 pint; spirit of rosemary, 1/2
pint; red sanders wood (rasped), 5 dr.; cinnamon and nutmegs (bruised), of
each 2-1/2 dr.; macerate for 14 days.
4. (Ph. E.) Spirit of lavender, 1 quart; spirit of rosemary, 12 fl. oz.;
cinnamon, 1 oz.; nutmeg, 1/2 oz.; red sanders, 3 dr.; cloves, 2 dr.; as
No. 1.
5. (Ph. D.) Oil of lavender. 3 fl. dr.; oil of rosemary, 1 fl. dr.;
cinnamon, 1 oz.; nutmegs, 1/2 oz.; cloves and cochineal, of each 1/4 oz.;
rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days.
6. (Wholesale.) From oil of cassia, 3/4 fl. oz.; oil of nutmeg, 1 fl. oz.;
oils of lavender and rosemary, of each 4-1/2 fl. oz.; red sanders
(rasped), 3 lbs.; proof spirit, 6 galls., (or rectified spirit and water,
of each 3 galls.); digest 14 days. Should it be cloudy, add a little more
proof spirit.
_Obs._ Compound tincture of lavender is a popular stimulant, cordial, and
stomachic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 teaspoonfuls (1/2 to 2 fl. dr.); in lowness of
spirits, faintness, flatulence, hysteria, &c.
=Tincture of Lem′ons.= _Syn._ TINCTURA LIMONUM (Ph. L.), TINCTURA LIMONIS
(B. P., Ph. D., Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Fresh lemon peel, sliced
thin, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate for 7 days in a closed vessel with
occasional agitation, strain, press, filter, and make up with spirit to
8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. Fresh lemon peel, 3-1/2 oz. (cut thin, 5 oz.——Ph. D.); proof spirit, 1
quart; macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.), then express the liquid, and
filter it. An aromatic bitter and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Lobe′′lia.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF INDIAN TOBACCO; TINCTURA
LOBELIÆ INFLATÆ, TINCTURA LOBELIÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(B. P.) Lobelia, dried and bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours
with 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, and
let it drain, pour on the remaining spirit, and when it ceases to drop,
press and wash the marc with spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 10 to 30
minims, but 1 dr. may be given for dyspnœa; 4 dr. as an emetic.
2. (Ph. L.) Dried and powdered lobelia inflata, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1
quart; macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or percolate——Ph. E.), press,
and filter.——_Dose._ As an expectorant, 10 to 60 drops; as an emetic and
antispasmodic, 1 to 2 fl. dr., repeated every third hour until it causes
vomiting. It is principally employed in spasmodic asthma, and some other
pulmonary affections.
=Tincture of Lobelia (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA LOBELIÆ ÆTHEREA (B. P.,
Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._ 1. Lobelia, dried and bruised, 1; spirit of
ether, 8; macerate 7 days, press, and strain 8.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims
as an antispasmodic.
2. (Ph. L.) Indian tobacco, powdered, 5 oz.; ether, 14 fl. oz.; rectified
spirit, 26 fl. oz.; macerate 7 days, press, and filter.
3. (Ph. E.) Dry lobelia, 5 oz.; spirit of sulphuric ether, 1 quart; by
digestion for 7 days, or by percolation.——_Dose_, 6 or 8 drops to 1 fl.
dr.
4. (Whitlaw’s.) From lobelia, 1 lb.; rectified spirit and spirit of
nitrous ether, of each 4 pints; sulphuric ether, 4 oz.——_Dose_, &c., as
the last.
TINCTURE OF LU′PULIN. _Syn._ TINCTURE OF HOPS; TINCTURA LUPULI (Ph. E.),
TINCTURÆ LUPULINÆ (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.) Lupulin (the
yellowish-brown powder attached to the scales of hops, separated by
friction and sifting), 5 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14
days (or proceed by displacement——Ph. E.), press, and filter.——_Dose_, 1/2
to 2 fl. dr. See TINCTURE OF HOPS.
=Tincture of Malate of Iron.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FERRI MALATIS; TINCTURA
FERRI POMATA. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Extract of malate of iron (see EXTRACT OF
APPLES), 2 oz.; spirituous cinnamon water, 18 oz. Dissolve and
filter.——_Dose_, 15 to 30 minims.
=Tincture of Mastic.= _Syn._ TINCTURA MASTICHES. _Prep._ Mastic, 2 oz.;
rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz. Used in making Eau de Luce. If required for
stopping hollow teeth, double the quantity of mastic must be used.
=Tincture of Mat′ico.= _Syn._ TINCTURA MATICO (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ (Ph.
D.) Matico leaves, in coarse powder, 8 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 14 days, and strain, with expression.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl.
dr., as an internal astringent or hæmostatic. It is a very feeble remedy,
as matico leaves are destitute of either tannin or gallic acid, and derive
their power of stopping local bleeding from the peculiar mechanical
construction of their surface.
=Tincture of Mea′dow Saf′fron.= Tincture of colchicum.
=Tincture of Mone′sia.= _Syn._ TINCTURA MONESIÆ, L. _Prep._ From monesia,
2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint; macerate a week. Astringent.——_Dose_, 1/2
to 2 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Musk.= _Syn._ TINCTURA MOSCHI, L. _Prep._ (Ph. D. 1826.)
Musk, 2 dr.; rectified spirit, 16 fl. oz.; digest 7 days. Antispasmodic;
but principally used as a perfume, being too weak for medical use.
=Tincture of Musk (Artificial).= _Syn._ TINCTURA MOSCHI ARTIFICIALIS. (Van
Mons.) _Prep._ Artificial musk, 1 dr.; rectified spirit, 2 oz.
=Tincture of Musk Seed.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ABELMOSCHI SEMINUM. (Dr Reece.)
_Prep._ Musk seed, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 16 oz. Digest seven days, and
strain.——_Dose_, 1 fl. dr.
=Tincture of Myrrh.= _Syn._ GOLDEN TOOTH-DROPS; TINCTURÆ (B. P., Ph. L.,
E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Myrrh, in coarse powder, 1; rectified
spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally,
pack in a percolator, and when it ceases to drop, pour on the remaining
spirit, wash the marc, press, and make up to 8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr. More
frequently used mixed with water to form a gargle.
2. (Ph. L.) Myrrh, in powder, 3 oz. (3-1/2 oz., Ph. E.; 4 oz.——Ph. D.);
rectified spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days (14 days,——Ph. D.; or by
displacement——Ph. E.), and filter.
3. (Wholesale.) Myrrh (in coarse powder), 2-1/4 lbs.; rectified spirit, 2
galls.; water, 1 gall.; as the last.
_Obs._ Tincture of myrrh is tonic and stimulant.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 fl.
dr., as an adjuvant in mixtures, gargles, &c. Chiefly used diluted with
water, as a dentifrice or wash for ulcerated and spongy gums.
=Tincture of Myrrh (Alkaline).= _Syn._ TINCTURA MYRRHÆ ALKALIZÆ. (Ph. E.
1744.) _Prep._ Powdered myrrh, 1-1/2 oz.; solution of carbonate of potash,
a sufficient quantity; mix into a soft paste, dry it, and add rectified
spirit, 1 pint. Digest for 6 days, and strain.
=Tincture of Myrrh (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA MYRRHÆ COMPOSITA, L.
_Prep._ From myrrh and socotrine aloes, of each 2 lbs.; rectified spirit,
3 galls.; water, 2 galls.; digest for 14 days. This is frequently
substituted for ‘COMPOUND TINCTURE OF ALOES’ in the wholesale trade.
=Tincture of Nux Vomi′ca.= _Syn._ TINCTURA NUCIS VOMICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. Nux
vomica, 1; rectified spirit, 10; soften the nux vomica by steam, dry
rapidly, and reduce to fine powder. Macerate 48 hours in three fourths of
the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, let it drain,
pour on the remaining spirit, and when it ceases to drop, press, filter,
and make up to 10.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.
2. (Ph. D. 1826.) Nux vomica (ground in a coffee-mill), 2 oz.; rectified
spirit, 8 fl. oz.; macerate 7 (14) days.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 drops; in
paralysis, &c. It is poisonous.
=Tincture of Nux Vomica (Ethereal).= _Syn._ TINCTURA NUCIS VOMICÆ ÆTHEREA.
(Ph. G.) _Prep._ Coarsely powdered nux vomica, 1 oz.; spirits of ether, 10
oz. (by weight). Macerate for 8 days.
=Tincture, Odontalgic.= _Syn._ TOOTHACHE TINCTURE; TINCTURA ODONTALGICA,
L. _Prep._ 1. Tincture of opium, 1 fl. dr.; ether, 2 fl. dr.; oil of
cloves, 15 drops.
2. Rectified spirit, 3 fl. dr.; chloroform, 2 dr.; creasote, 1 dr.; mix.
3. (Collier.) Pellitory of Spain, 4 dr.; camphor, 3 dr.; opium, 1 dr.; oil
of cloves, 2 fl. dr.; rectified spirit, 16 fl. oz.; digest for a week.
4. (Niemann.) Digest 60 or 80 common lady-birds (_Coccinella
septempunctata_——Linn.) in rectified spirit, 1 fl. oz. for 8 days, and
strain.
_Obs._ The above are commonly applied, on a small piece of lint, in
toothache. For other formulæ see DROPS, TINCTURES OF MYRRH and PELLITORY,
&c.
=Tincture of O′pium.= _Syn._ LAUDANUM, LIQUID, L., ANODYNE TINCTURE,
THEBAIC T.; TINCTURA OPII (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), THEBAICA, LAUDANUM
LIQUIDUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Opium, in coarse powder, 1-1/2; proof
spirit, 20; macerate 7 days, strain, express, filter, and add spirit to
make 20.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Powdered opium, 3 oz. (3 oz.——Ph. D.); proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.), and strain, with expression.
3. (Ph. E.) Opium, sliced, 3 oz.; boiling water, 13-1/2 fl. oz.; digest,
with heat, for 2 hours, break down the opium with the hand, strain, and
express the infusion; then macerate the residuum for about 20 hours in
rectified spirit, 1 pint 7 fl. oz.; next strain, press, mix the watery and
spirituous infusions, and filter.
_Obs._ This preparation has a deep brownish-red colour, and the
characteristic odour and taste of opium. 14 minims or measured drops of
the London, and about 15 minims of the Edinburgh and Dublin tinctures, are
equivalent to 1 gr. of dry opium, or 1·12 gr. of ordinary opium. 14 minims
of this tincture are equal to about 25 drops of it poured from a bottle.
Its sp. gr. is ·952 (Phillips).——_Dose_, 10 to 60 drops; as an anodyne,
sedative, or hypnotic. The following form is substituted for that of the
Pharmacopœia by many of the wholesale drug houses:——Take of Turkey opium,
2-1/2 lbs.; boiling water, 9 quarts; digest till dissolved or
disintegrated, cool; add of rectified spirit, 2 galls.; and, after repose
for 24 hours, decant the clear portion. _Prod._ 4 galls.
=Tincture of Opium (Ammo′′niated).= _Syn._ AMMONIATED TINCTURE OF OPIUM,
SCOTCH PAREGORIC; TINCTURA OPII AMMONIATA (B. P., Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(B. P.) Opium, in powder, 100 gr.; saffron, cut small, 180 gr.; benzoic
acid, 180 gr.; oil of anise, 60 minims; strong solution of ammonia, 4 oz.;
rectified spirit, 16 oz.; macerate 7 days in a closed vessel, with
occasional agitation, strain, and add sufficient rectified spirit to make
up 20 oz.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr.
2. (Ph. E.) Benzoic acid and hay saffron, of each 6 dr.; opium, sliced, 4
dr.; oil of aniseed, 1 dr.; spirit of ammonia (Ph. E.), 1 quart; digest
for a week, and filter. Stimulant antispasmodic, and anodyne.——_Dose_, 20
to 80 drops; in hysteria, hooping-cough, &c.
_Obs._ This preparation is called ‘PAREGORIC,’ or ‘PAREGORIC ELIXIR,’ in
Scotland, but should be carefully distinguished from the compound tincture
of camphor, which passes under the same names in England; as the former
contains about 4 times as much opium as the latter. 80 minims, or 145
poured drops, contain about 1 gr. of opium.
=Tincture of Opium (Cam′phorated).= Compound tincture of camphor.
=Tincture of Opium (Ecard’s, or Bamberg’s).= _Syn._ TINCTURA OPII ECARDI,
ECARD’S or BAMBERG’S THEBAIC TINCTURE. _Prep._ Opium, 2 oz.; cloves, 1
dr.; cinnamon water, 8 oz.; rectified spirit, 4 oz. Digest in a warm room
for 6 days, and strain.
=Tincture of Opium (Fetid).= _Syn._ TINCTURA OPII FŒTIDA. (Ph. Fulda.)
_Prep._ Castor oil, 4 oz.; assafœtida, 2 oz.; salt of hartshorn, 1 oz.;
dry opium, 4 dr.; rectified spirit, 32 oz.——_Dose_, 15 minims to 1 dr.
=Tincture of Opium (Odourless).= _Syn._ TINCTURA OPII DEODORATA. (Ph. U.
S.) _Prep._ Opium dried, and in moderately fine powder, 2-1/2 troy oz.;
ether, rectified spirit, of each 8 oz. (o. m.); water, a sufficient
quantity. Macerate the opium with 1/2 pint of the water for 24 hours, and
express. Repeat this operation twice with the same quantity of water, mix
the express liquids and evaporate to 4 oz. (o. m.); let cool, and shake
repeatedly in a bottle with the ether. When it has separated by standing,
pour off the ethereal solution, and evaporate the remaining liquid till
all the ether has disappeared. Mix the residue with 20 oz. (o. m.) of
water, and filter. When the liquid has ceased to pass, add enough water to
make the filtrate measure 1-1/2 pint (o. m.). Lastly, mix in the spirit.
=Tincture of Or′ange Peel.= _Syn._ TINCTURA AURANTII (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.), T. CORTICIS AURANTII, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Dried bitter orange peel,
cut small and bruised, 1; proof spirit, 10; macerate for 7 days in a
closed vessel with occasional agitation, then strain, press, and filter,
add sufficient proof spirit to make 10.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Dried orange peel, 3-1/2 oz. (4 oz.——Ph. D.); proof spirit, 1
quart; digest for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or by percolation——Ph. E.),
press, and filter. A grateful bitter stomachic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 fl. dr.;
chiefly as an adjuvant in mixtures, &c.
=Tincture of Orange Peel (Fresh).= _Syn._ TINTURA AURANTII RECENTIS. (B.
P.) _Prep._ Bitter orange, rectified spirit, of each a sufficient
quantity. Carefully cut from the orange the coloured part of the rind in
thin slices, and macerate 6 oz. of this in 1 pint of spirit for a week,
with frequent agitation; then pour off the liquid, press the dregs, mix
the liquid products, and filter; finally, add sufficient spirit to make 1
pint.——_Dose_, 1 dr. to 2 dr.
=Tincture of Orange, with Iron.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FERRI AURANTIACA. (Ph.
Wurt.) _Prep._ Iron filings, 4 oz,; Seville oranges deprived of their
seeds, no. 4. Beat them together, leave them for 2 days; then add Madeira
wine, 10 oz.; spirits of orange peel, 2 oz. Digest, express, and filter.
=Tincture of Orris Root.= _Syn._ TINCTURA IRIDIS. _Prep._ Freshly powdered
orris root, 1 part; proof spirit, 5 parts. Sold as _Esprit de Violette_.
=Tincture of Ox-gall.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FELLIS BOVINI. _Prep._ Inspissated
ox-gall, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint. Digest until dissolved.
=Tincture of Paracress.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SPILANTHI COMPOSITA. _Prep._
Paracress, dried and bruised, 2 oz.; pyrethrum root in coarse powder, 2
oz.; spirit, 10 oz. (by weight). Digest 8 days. Sialagogue.
=Tincture of Pareira Brava.= _Syn._ TINCTURA PAREIRÆ BRAVÆ. (Brodie).
_Prep._ Pareira brava root, 2 oz.; French brandy, 1 pint. Digest for 7
days.
=Tincture of Pel′litory.= _Syn._ TOOTHACHE TINCTURE; TINCTURA PYRETHRI (B.
P.) _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Pellitory root, in coarse powder, 4; rectified
spirit, 20; macerate for 48 hours with 15 of the spirit, agitating
occasionally, then pack it in a percolator, let it drain, and pour on the
remaining spirit; when it ceases to drop, press, filter, and make up to
20.
2. Pellitory of Spain (bruised), 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 1/4 pint; digest
a week. In the P. Cod. a tincture is ordered prepared with spirit about 41
o. p., and another prepared with spirit of sulphuric ether.
3. (COMPOUND.——Brande.) Pellitory root, 4 dr.; camphor, 3 dr.; oil of
cloves, 2 dr.; opium, 1 dr.; rectified spirit, 6 fl. oz.; digest for eight
days. Both the above are used for the toothache. See TINCTURE, ODONTALGIC.
=Tincture of Pepper (Stomachic).= _Syn._ TINCTURA PIPERIS STOMACHICA;
ESSENTIA STOMACHICA POLYCHRESTA (Spielman.) _Prep._ Capsicum, 1 oz.; black
pepper, 2 dr.; long pepper, 2 dr.; white pepper, 2 dr.; solution of
acetate of potash, 6 oz.; spirit of ammonia, 1 oz. Digest and filter.
=Tincture of Perchloride of Iron.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FERRI PERCHLORIDI. (B.
P.) _Prep._ Mix 5 fl. oz. of strong solution of perchloride of iron with
15 fl. oz. of rectified spirit.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.
=Tincture of Phos′phorus (Ethereal).= _Syn._ ÆTHER PHOSPHORATUS, TINCTURA
PHOSPHORI ÆTHEREA, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. Hann. 1831.) Phosphorus (powdered by
agitation with rectified spirit), 16 gr.; ether, 2 oz.; macerate, with
agitation, for 4 days, then decant the clear portion, and preserve it in a
stoppered bottle, in a cool dark situation.
2. (P. Cod.) Phosphorus, cut small, 1 part; ether, 50 parts; digest with
occasional agitation for 1 month, and decant the clear.——_Dose_, 5 to 15
drops, in any bland vehicle, thrice daily; in impotency, low sinking
conditions of the system, &c.
=Tincture of Poplar Buds.= _Syn._ TINCTURA POPULI. (Van Monc.) _Prep._
Poplar buds, 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 24 oz. Macerate and filter.
=Tincture of Quas′sia.= _Syn._ TINCTURA QUASSIÆ (B. P., Ph. E), L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Quassia in chips, 3/4; proof spirit, 20; digest 7 days; filter,
and make up to 20.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. E.) Quassia, in chips, 10 dr.; proof spirit, 1 quart; digest 7
days. Bitter, tonic.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.; in dyspepsia, &c.
=Tincture of Quassia (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA QUASSIÆ COMPOSITA (Ph.
E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Cardamoms and cochineal, of each, bruised, 1/2
oz.; powdered cinnamon and quassia chips, of each 6 dr.; raisins, 7 oz.;
proof spirit, 1 quart; digest for 7 days (or by percolation), then press,
and filter. Aromatic and tonic.——_Dose_ and _use_, as the last.
=Tincture of Quinine (Ammoniated).= _Syn._ TINCTURA QUININÆ AMMONIATA. (B.
P.) _Prep._ Sulphate of quinine, 160 gr.; solution of ammonia, 2-1/2 fl.
oz.; proof spirit, 17-1/2 oz.; dissolve the quinine in the spirit with a
gentle heat, and add the solution of ammonia.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr. to 2 dr.
=Tincture of Quinine (Compound).= _Syn._ FEVER DROPS; TINCTURA QUINÆ (B.
P.); TINCTURA QUINÆ COMPOSITA (Ph. L.) _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Sulphate of
quinia, 1; tincture of orange peel, 60; dissolve with a gentle heat,
digest for 3 days with occasional agitation and strain.——_Dose_, 1 to
1-1/2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Sulphate of quinine, 5 dr. 1 scrup. (or 320 gr.); tincture of
orange peel, 1 quart; digest, with agitation, for 7 days, or until
solution is complete.
_Obs._ Unless the tincture employed as the solvent be of the full
strength, some of the disulphate remains undissolved. It is an excellent
medicine when faithfully prepared.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.; in debility,
dyspepsia, &c.
=Tincture of Red Gum.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GUMMI RUBRI. (Mr Squire.) _Prep._
Red gum, 1 part; rectified spirit, 4. Digest and strain.——_Dose_, 20 to 40
minims.
=Tincture of Red Lav′ender.= Compound tincture of lavender.
=Tincture of Rhat′any.= _Syn._ TINCTURA KRAMERIÆ (B. P., Ph. D.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Rhatany, bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours
in 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator; when it
ceases to drop, pour on the remaining spirit, and wash the marc with
spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. D.) Rhatany root, in coarse powder, 8 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 14 days, then press, and filter. Astringent.——_Dose_, 1 to 2
fl. dr. The formula of the Ph. U. S. is similar.
=Tincture of Rhododendron.= _Syn._ TINCTURA RHODODENDRI. (Niemann.)
_Prep._ Leaves of _Rhododendron Chrysanthum_, 2 oz.; French brandy, 1/2
lb.; sherry, 1/2 lb. Digest for 15 days.
=Tincture of Rhu′barb.= _Syn._ TINCTURA RHEI (B. P., Ph. E.), L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Rhubarb, bruised, 2; cardamom seeds, bruised, 1/4; coriander,
bruised, 1/4; saffron, 1/4; proof spirit, 20; macerate for 48 hours with
15 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator, and when
it ceases to drop pour on the remaining spirit, press and wash the marc,
and add spirit to make up 20.——_Dose._ As a stomachic, 1 to 2 dr.; as a
purgative, 1/2 to 1 oz.
2. (Ph. E.) Powdered rhubarb, 3-1/2 oz.; cardamom seeds, bruised, 1/2 oz.;
proof spirit, 1 quart; digest, or proceed by the method of displacement.
3. (Ph. L. 1824.) Rhubarb, 2 oz.; cardamoms, 4 dr.; saffron, 2 dr.; proof
spirit, 32 fl. oz. Both the above are cordial, stomachic, and
laxative.——_Dose_, 1 fl. dr, to 1 fl. oz.
=Tincture of Rhubarb (Aqueous).= _Syn._ TINCTURA RHEI AQUOSA. (Ph. G.)
_Prep._ Rhubarb, 10 oz.; borax, 1 oz.; carbonate of potash, 1 oz.; boiling
water, 85 oz. Infuse for 1/4 hour, then add rectified spirit, 10 oz. (by
weight); let stand 2-1/2 hours, and add cinnamon water, 15 oz.
=Tincture of Rhubarb (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA RHEI COMPOSITA (Ph. L. &
D.). _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Rhubarb, sliced, 2-1/2 oz.; liquorice root,
bruised, 6 dr.; ginger (bruised) and hay saffron, of each 3 dr.; proof
spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days, then press, and filter.
2. (Ph.) Rhubarb, 3 oz.; cardamoms, 1 oz.; liquorice root, 1/2 oz.;
saffron, 1/4 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days.
3. (Ph. L. 1824.) Rhubarb, 2 oz.; liquorice root, 4 dr.; ginger and
saffron, of each 2 dr.; proof spirit, 16 fl. oz.; water, 12 fl. oz.
_Obs._ This tincture is a popular remedy in diarrhœa and colic, and is an
especial favourite with drunkards.——_Dose_, as a stomachic, 1 to 3 fl.
dr.; as a purgative, 1/2 to 1-1/2 fl. oz. The tincture of rhubarb of the
shops is mostly inferior, being generally deficient both in rhubarb and
spirit. The following forms we have seen extensively employed in the
wholesale trade:——East Indian rhubarb, 20 lbs.; boiling water, q. s. to
cover it; infuse for 24 hours, then slice the rhubarb, and put it into a
cask with moist sugar, 14 lbs.; ginger, bruised, 3-1/2 lbs.; hay saffron,
1 lb.; carbonate of potash, 1/2 lb.; bruised nutmegs, 1/4 lb.; rectified
spirit, 19 galls.; water, 21 galls.; macerate with frequent agitation for
14 days, decant the clear portion, and press and filter the bottoms. Those
houses that adhere to the Ph. L. for 1824 substitute cardamom seeds, 5
lbs., for the ginger. For the corresponding Ph. E. formula see the last
article.
=Tincture of Rhubarb (Brandish’s Al′kaline).= _Syn._ TINCTURA RHEI
ALKALINA BRANDISHII, L. _Prep._ From rhubarb, in coarse powder, 1-1/2 oz.;
Brandish’s alkaline solution, 1 quart; macerate for a week. In the
original formula only 1/2 oz. of rhubarb is ordered.——_Dose_, 20 drops to
2 fl. dr., in any bland liquid, not acidulous; in acidities, dyspepsia,
&c.
=Tincture of Rhubarb and Aloes.= _Syn._ SACRED ELIXIR†; TINCTURA RHEI ET
ALOËS (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. D.) Rhubarb, in powder, 1-1/2 oz.;
Socotrine or East Indian aloes, 6 dr.; cardamom seeds, bruised, 5 dr.;
proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate 7 days, or percolate. A warm stomachic
purgative.——_Dose_, 1/2 fl. oz. to 1 fl. oz.
=Tincture of Rhubarb and Gen′tian.= TINCTURA RHEI AMARA, TINCTURA RHEI ET
GENTIANÆ (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Rhubarb, 2 oz.; gentian, 1/2 oz.;
proof spirit, 1 quart; proceed as for the last. Stomachic, tonic, and
purgative.——_Dose_, 1 fl. dr. to 1 fl. oz.
=Tincture of Rhubarb and Sen′na.= _Syn._ WARNER’S GOUT CORDIAL; TINCTURA
RHEI ET SENNÆ (Ph. U. S.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. U. S.) Rhubarb, 1 oz.; senna
and red sanders wood, of each 2 dr.; coriander and fennel seed, of each 1
dr.; saffron and extract of liquorice, of each 1/2 dr.; stoned raisins, 6
oz.; proof spirit, 2-1/2 pints; macerate for 14 days. A popular stomachic
and laxative.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1-1/2 fl. oz.
=Tincture (Riemer’s Nervous).= _Prep._ From oil of juniper, 1 part;
volatile liquor of hartshorn, 4 parts; rectified spirit, 16
parts.——_Dose_, 1 teaspoonful in water.
=Tincture of Rose.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ROSÆ. _Prep._ Dried red rose, 4 oz.;
proof spirit, 1 pint. Digest for 10 days.
=Tincture of Rosemary.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ROSMARINI. (Ph. Bruns.) _Prep._
Flowering tops of rosemary, 1-1/2 oz.; spirit of rosemary, 6 oz. Digest,
express, and filter.
=Tincture, Ruspini’s.= See TINCTURE, TOOTH.
=Tincture of Saf′fron.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CROCI (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), T. C.
SATIVÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Saffron, 1; proof spirit, 20; macerate 48
hours with 15 of the spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator,
let it drain, and then pour on the remaining spirit; when it ceases to
drop, wash the marc with spirit to make up 20.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. E.) Hay saffron, 2 oz. (2 oz.——Ph. D.); proof spirit, 1 quart (1
pint——Ph. D.); proceed either by maceration (for 14 days——Ph. D.) or by
displacement. Stimulant, and emmenagogue.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl. dr. Chiefly
used for its colour and flavour.
=Tincture of Saponin.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SAPONINI. _Prep._ Bark of _Quillai
Saponaria_, 1 part; alcohol (90 per cent.), 4 parts. Heat to ebullition
and filter.
=Tincture of Sarsaparilla (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA SARZÆ COMPOSITA,
LIQUEUR DÉPURATIVE. (François.) _Prep._ Sarsaparilla, guaiacum, china
root, sassafras, of each 1 oz.; proof spirit, 16 oz.
=Tincture of Savine.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SABINÆ. (B. P.) _Prep._ Savine tops,
dried, and coarsely powdered, 2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint. Proceed as
for tincture of aconite.
=Tincture of Scammony.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SCAMMONII. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Scammony, 4 oz.; rect. spirit, 20 oz. (by weight).
=Tincture of Senega.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SENEGÆ. (B. P.) _Prep._ Senega,
bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint. Prepared as tincture of aconite.
=Tincture of Senna (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF SENNA, ELIXIR OF
HEALTH†; TINCTURA SENNÆ (B. P.), TINCTURA SENNÆ COMPOSITÆ (Ph. L., E., &
D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Senna, broken small, 5; raisins, freed from
seeds, 4; caraway, bruised, 1; coriander, bruised, 1; proof spirit, 40;
macerate the ingredients 48 hours in three fourths of the spirit,
agitating occasionally; pack in a percolator, and when it ceases to drop,
pour on the remaining spirit; press, filter, and make up 40.——_Dose_, 2 to
8 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Senna, 3-1/2 oz.; caraway seeds, bruised, 3-1/2 dr.; cardamom
seeds, bruised, 1 dr.; stoned raisins, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart;
macerate for 7 days, press, and filter.
3. (Ph. E.) Senna and stoned raisins, of each 4 oz.; sugar, 2-1/2 oz.;
corianders, 1 oz.; jalap, 6 dr.; caraways and cardamoms, of each 5 dr.;
proof spirit, 1 quart; digest, or proceed by percolation.
4. (Ph. D.) Senna, 4 oz.; caraway and cardamom seeds, of each, bruised,
1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days.
5. (Wholesale.) From senna, 6 lbs.; treacle, 2 lbs.; caraways, 3/4 lb.;
cardamoms, 1/4 lb.; rectified spirit and water, of each 4 galls.; as
before. Carminative, stomachic, and purgative.——_Dose_, 1/4 to 1 fl. oz.
_Obs._ “If Alexandrian senna be used for this preparation, it must be
freed from cynanchum (argol) leaves, by picking.” (Ph. E.)
=Tincture of Ser′pentary.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF VIRGINIAN SNAKE ROOT;
TINCTURA SERPENTARIE (B. P., Ph. L., & E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.)
Serpentary, bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours, with 6 of the
spirit, agitating occasionally, pack in a percolator and let it drain;
pour on the remaining spirit, and when it ceases to drop, press, and wash
the marc to make up 8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Serpentary, bruised, 3-1/2 oz. (cochineal, 1 dr.——Ph. E);
proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days (or by percolation——Ph. E.),
strain, and filter. Stimulant, tonic, and diaphoretic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 fl.
dr.
=Tincture of Sesquichloride of Iron.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF MURIATE OF IRON,
TINCTURE OF STEEL, STEEL DROPS; TINCTURA FERRI PERCHLORIDI (B. P.),
TINCTURA FERRI SESQUICHLORIDI (Ph. L. & D.), T. FERRI MURIATIS (Ph. E.),
FERRI MURIATIS LIQUOR, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Strong solution of
perchloride of iron, 1; rectified spirit, 3; mix.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims
in water.
2. (Ph. L.) Sesquioxide of iron, 6 oz.; hydrochloric acid, 1 pint; mix,
and digest in a sand bath, frequently shaking (with a gentle heat, for a
day——Ph. E.), until solution is complete, then add, when cold, of
rectified spirit, 3 pints, and (in a short time) filter. Sp. gr. ·992. “1
fl. oz., potash being added, deposits nearly 30 gr. of sesquioxide of
iron.” (Ph. L.)
3. (Ph. D.) Iron wire, 8 oz.; pure hydrochloric acid, 1 quart; distilled
water, 1 pint; mix, and dissolve by a gentle heat; next add, in successive
portions, of pure nitric acid, 18 fl. dr.; evaporate by a gentle heat to a
pint, and, when cold, mix this in a bottle with rectified spirit, 1-1/2
pint; lastly, after 12 hours, filter. Sp. gr. 1·237.
_Obs._ This tincture is an active ferruginous tonic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30
drops, gradually increased, taken in water, ale, or wine. In the old
tinctura martis, Ph. L., iron filings, and in the T. ferri muriatis, Ph.
E. 1817, black oxide of iron, were used instead of the sesquioxide or
carbonate. ‘Bestuchef’s nervine tincture’ of the P. Cod. is prepared by
dissolving 1 dr. of dry sesquichloride of iron in 7 dr. of spirit of
sulphuric ether. See GOLDEN DROPS.
=Tincture of Sesquini′trate of Iron‡.= _Syn_. TINCTURA FERRI
SESQUINITRATIS, L. _Prep._ (Onion.) Iron filings, 1/2 oz.; nitric acid
(1·5), 2-1/4 oz.; dissolve, add of hydrochloric acid (1·16), 6 dr., simmer
for 2 or 3 minutes, cool, add of rectified spirit, 8 oz., and filter.
Proposed as a substitute for the last preparation, but the name
misrepresents its chemical constitution.
=Tincture of Soap.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SAPONIS. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ White soap,
3 oz.; carbonate of potash, 1 dr.; proof spirit, 5 oz. (by weight).
Dissolve.
=Tincture of Soap with Turpentine.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SAPONIS
TEREBINTHINATA. BAUMÉ DE VIE EXTERNE. _Prep._ White soap, 3 oz.; oil of
turpentine, 3 oz.; spirit of wild thyme, 2 lb.; white of ammonia, 2 oz.
=Tincture of Squills.= _Syn._ TINCTURA BECHICA, TINCTURA SCILLÆ (B. P.,
Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Dried squill, bruised, 1; proof
spirit, 8; macerate for 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating
occasionally, pack in a percolator, let it drain, and pour on the
remaining spirit; when it ceases to drop, press, filter, and make up to
8.——_Dose_, 15 to 30 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Squills, recently dried and sliced (or in coarse powder), 5
oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or by
percolation——Ph. E.), press and filter. A stimulating expectorant and
diuretic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops; in chronic coughs, and other bronchial
affections.
=Tincture of Squills (Alkaline).= _Syn._ TINCTURA SCILLÆ ALKALINA. (Ph.
G.) _Prep._ Squill, 8 parts; caustic potash, 1 part; rectified spirit, 50
parts; macerate, 8 days.
=Tincture of Stavesacre (Concentrated).= _Syn._ TINCTURA STAPHISAGRIÆ
CONCENTRATA. (Dr Turnbull.) _Prep._ Digest stavesacre seeds in twice their
weight of rectified spirit. For external use in neuralgic and rheumatic
affections, as a substitute for solution of delphinia.
=Tincture, Stomach′ic.= Compound tincture of cardamoms. Compound tincture
of gentian is also, occasionally, so called.
=Tincture of Stramo′′nium.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF THORN-APPLE; TINCTURA
STRAMONII (B. P., Ph. D. & U. S.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Stramonium seeds,
bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate 48 hours with 6 of the spirit,
agitating occasionally; pack in a percolator, let it drain, and pour on
the remaining spirit. When it ceases to drop, press, filter, and add
spirit to make 8.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 minims.
2. (Ph. D.) Stramonium or thorn-apple seeds (bruised), 5 oz.; proof
spirit, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days (or by displacement——Ph. U. S.),
then press, and filter. Anodyne.——_Dose_, 10 to 20 drops; in neuralgia,
rheumatism, &c. Said to be superior to laudanum.
=Tincture, Styptic.= _Syn._ TINCTURA STYPTICA. (Ph. L. 1746.) _Prep._
Calcined sulphate of iron, 1 dr.; French brandy, coloured by the cask, 2
lbs.
=Tincture, Sudorific.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SUDORIFICA. (Ph. E. 1744.) _Prep._
Serpentary root, 5 dr.; cochineal, 4 dr.; castor oil, 1 dr.; saffron, 2
scruples; opium, 1 scruple; spirit of Mindererus, 16 oz. Digest for 3
days and strain.
=Tincture of Sum′bul.= _Syn._ TINCTURA SUMBULI (B. P.) _Prep._ 1. (B. P.)
Sumbul, bruised fine, 1; proof spirit, 8; digest 7 days and
filter.——_Dose_, 15 to 30 minims.
2. From sumbul, bruised, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate for a
week, and strain, with expression. Stimulant and tonic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30
or 40 drops.
=Tincture of Tartrated Iron.= _Syn._ TINCTURA MARTIS TARTARIZATA. _Prep._
Pure iron filings, 100 parts; cream of tartar, 250, rectified spirit, 50
parts (by weight). Put the filings and tartar into an iron kettle with
sufficient water to form a paste, leave them for 24 hours, add 3000 parts
of soft water and boil for 2 hours, stirring constantly and supplying the
waste of water. Decant and filter the liquor, and evaporate it till it has
the density of 1·286, and add the spirit.——_Dose_, 3 to 6 drops.
=Tincture of Thorn-apple.= Tincture of stramonium.
=Tincture of Thuja.= _Syn._ TINCTURA THUJÆ. Fresh leaves of thuja, 1 part;
spirit (90 per cent.), 10 parts. Macerate for 10 days, and
filter.——_Dose_, 10 drops in water. The leaves of thuja are collected in
June and July. Those of the _T. orientalis_ and _T. occidentalis_, have
the reputation in Belgium of curing smallpox.
=Tincture of Tobac′co.= _Syn._ TINCTURA NICOTIANÆ, TINCTURA TABACI, L.
_Prep._ From pure manufactured tobacco, 1-1/4 oz,; proof spirit, 1 pint;
macerate for 7 days. Compound spirit of juniper is often used instead of
proof spirit. Sedative and narcotic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 drops. A tincture
is also made from the fresh leaves. See VEGETABLE JUICES and TINCTURES
(Ethereal).
=Tincture of Tol′u.= _Syn._ TINCTURA TOLUTANUS (B. P.), TINCTURA TOLUTANA
(Ph. L. & D.), T. BALSAMI TOLUTANI, T. TOLUIFERÆ BALSAMI, L. _Prep._ 1.
(B. P.) Balsam of Tolu, 1; rectified spirit, 8; dissolve, filter, and make
up to 8.——_Dose_, 15 to 30 minims, mixed with mucilage or syrup.
2. (Ph. L.) Balsam of Tolu, 2 oz. (3-1/2 oz.——Ph. E.); rectified spirit, 1
quart (1 pint——Ph. D.); dissolve (by the aid of a gentle heat——Ph. E. &
D.), and filter.
_Obs._ This tincture is reputed pectoral and expectorant; but it is
chiefly used as an adjuvant in mixtures, on account of its
flavour.——_Dose_, 10 to 60 drops.
=Tincture, Tooth.= _Prep._ 1. (Greenhough’s.) From bitter almonds, 2 oz.;
Brazil wood, cinnamon, and orris root, of each 1/2 oz.; alum, cochineal,
and salt of sorrel, of each 1 dr.; spirit of scurvy grass, 2 fl. oz.;
proof spirit, 1-1/2 pint; macerate a week.
2. (Hudson’s.) From the tinctures of myrrh and cinchona, and cinnamon
water, equal parts, with a little arquebusade and gum Arabic.
3. (Ruspini’s.) From orris root, 8 oz.; cloves, 1 oz.; ambergris, 20 gr.;
rectified spirit, 1 quart; digested for 14 days. The above are used as
cosmetics for the teeth and gums. The last has long been a popular
dentifrice.
=Tincture, Toothache.= Odontalgic tincture. See also DROPS, ESSENCE, &c.
=Tincture of Turmeric.= _Syn._ TINCTURA CURCUMÆ. (Dr Wood.) _Prep._
Turmeric, 1 oz.; proof spirit, 6 oz.
=Tincture of Turpentine.= _Syn._ TINCTURA TEREBINTHINÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._
Venice turpentine, 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint.
=Tincture of Tuyaya.= _Syn._ TINCTURA TUYAYÆ. _Prep._ Tuyaya root, in
powder, 12 oz.; proof spirit, 36 oz.; macerate for 14 days. If for
internal use it must be diluted with four times its volume of
spirit.——_Dose_, 1 to 10 minims. In syphilis.
=Tincture of Vale′rian.= _Syn._ TINCTURA VALERIANÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E., &
D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Valerian bruised, 1; proof spirit, 8; macerate
the valerian 48 hours with 6 of the spirit, agitating occasionally; pack
in a percolator, let it drain, pour on the remainder of the spirit; when
it ceases to drop, press and filter, washing the marc with spirit to make
up 8.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Valerian root, bruised, 5 oz.; proof spirit, 1 quart; macerate
7 days (14 days——Ph. D.; or by percolation——Ph. E.), press, and filter.
Tonic and antispasmodic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 fl. dr.; in hysteria, epilepsy,
&c.
=Tincture of Valerian (Compound).= _Syn._ AMMONIATED TINCTURE OF VALERIAN,
VOLATILE T. OF V.; TINCTURA VALERIANÆ COMPOSITA (Ph. L.), T. V. AMMONIATA
(B. P., Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Valerian, bruised, 1; aromatic
spirit of ammonia, 8; macerate the valerian 7 days, press, filter, and add
spirit to make up 8.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Valerian root, bruised, 5 oz.; aromatic spirit of ammonia
(simple——Ph. E.), 1 quart; macerate for 7 days (or by percolation——Ph.
E.), then press, and filter. Stimulant, tonic, and antispasmodic.——_Dose_
and _use_, same as those of the simple tincture, than which it is thought
to be more powerful. The tincture of the shops is generally made with only
1 lb. of the root to the gallon.
=Tincture of Vanilla.= _Syn._ TINCTURA VANILLÆ. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Vanilla
pods, 1 part; rectified spirit, 5 parts. Macerate 8 days.
=Tincture of Veratria.= _Syn._ TINCTURA VERATRIÆ. (Magendie.) _Prep._
Veratria, 4 gr.; rectified spirit, 1 dr.
=Tincture of Vera′trum.= _Syn._ TINCTURE OF WHITE HELLEBORE; TINCTURA
VERATRI VIRIDIS; TINCTURA HELLEBORI ALBI, T. VERATRI (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._
1. (B. P.) Green hellebore root, in coarse powder, 4; rectified spirit,
20; macerate the powder with 15 of the spirit 48 hours, agitating
occasionally, pack it in a percolator, let it drain, pour on the remainder
of the spirit, when it ceases to drop, press, filter, wash the marc with
spirit to make up 20.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 minims.
2. (Ph. E.) White hellebore, 4 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint; digest or
percolate.——_Dose_, 10 drops, 2 or 3 times a day, gradually increased; in
gout, rheumatism, &c., as a substitute for colchicum; also, externally.
=Tincture of Virginian Snake Root.= Tincture of serpentary.
=Tincture of Vittie-vayr.= _Syn._ TINCTURA VETIVERIÆ, L. _Prep._ From
vittie-vayr (roots of _Andropogon muricatis_), 2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1
pint; macerate a week. Stimulant, tonic, and sudorific.——_Dose_, 15 to 30
drops.
=Tincture, Vulnerary.= _Syn._ TINCTURA VULNERARIA. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Fresh
leaves of wormwood, angelica, basil, calamint, fennel, hyssop, marjoram,
balm peppermint, origanum, rosemary, rue, savory, sage, wild thyme, St
John’s wort tops, lavender tops, of each 1 oz. (all cut up); rectified
spirit, 20 oz. (by weight). Digest 10 days.
=Tincture of Walnuts.= _Syn._ TINCTURA INGLANDIS. (Ph. Dan.) _Prep._ Green
shells of walnut, 6 oz.; proof spirit, 24 oz. Digest for 6 days.
=Tincture of Walnut Leaves.= _Syn._ TINCTURA INGLANDIS FOLIORUM. (Mr
Ince.) _Prep._ Dried walnut leaves, 16 oz.; macerated for 7 days in a
gallon of proof spirit.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls. To prevent sickness,
or to cover the taste of cod-liver oil.
=Tincture, Warburg’s Fever.= _Syn._ TINCTURA FEBRIFUGA WARBURGII. The
composition was for a long time kept secret; but in 1875 Dr. W. published
the following formula for it, through Prof. Maclean:——Aloes (Soc.), lb. j;
Rad. Rhei, Sem. Angelic., Conf. Damocrat. āā ℥iv; Rad. Helenii, Croci
Sat., Sem. Fœnic., Cretæ ppt. āā ℥ij; Rad. Gent., Rad. Zedoar., Pip.
Cubeb., Myrrhæ, Camphoræ, Boleti laric., āā ℥j. Digest with 500 oz. of
proof spirit in a water-bath for 12 hours; express, and add quinin.
disulph. ℥x. Then replace in water-bath until the quinine is dissolved.
Filter when cool. _Dose_, 1/2 oz. (undiluted) after an aperient.
=Tincture of Wild Cherry Bark.= _Syn._ TINCTURA PRUNI VIRGINIANÆ. _Prep._
Wild cherry bark, bruised, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 pint. Digest 14 days,
press, and filter. May also be made by percolation.
=Tincture of Winter Cherry.= _Syn._ TINCTURA PHYSALIS ALKIKENGÆ. _Prep._
Take of the whole plant, dried, 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint. Digest
for 10 days, strain, and filter. Diuretic and febrifuge.——_Dose_, 1/2 dr.
to 1 dr.
=Tincture of Wormwood.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ABSINTHII. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Dried
wormwood, 6 oz.; proof spirit, 30 oz. (by weight.); macerate for 8 days,
and strain.——_Dose_, 1 dr.
=Tincture of Wormwood (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA ABSINTHII COMPOSITA.
(P. Cod.) _Prep._ Dried wormwood tops, 1 oz.; gentian, bitter orange peel,
of each 1 oz.; germander, 1 oz.; rhubarb, 3/4 oz.; aloes, 2 dr.;
cascarilla, 2 dr.; proof spirit, 2 pints.
_Loss of Spirit in making Tinctures by the British
Pharmacopœia._[236]——MR UMNEY gives the following
table, as embodying the result of his experience:——
[Footnote 236: ‘Pharm. Journ,’, 3rd series, 1, 321-379.]
------------------------------+------------+------------+--------+--------
|Alcohol ·838|Alcohol ·920| Loss |Gain
Quantity|to make |to make |p. c. by|p. c. by
made. |up measure. |up measure. |volume. |volume.
------------------------------+------------+------------+--------+--------
Galls. | Pints. | Pints. | |
Tinct. aconit 4 | 2·5 | ... | 7·9 |
Tinct. arnicæ 10 | 3·0 | ... | 3·8 |
Tinct. aurantii 10 | ... | 5·0 | 6·3 |
Tinct. belladonnæ 2 | ... | ·7 | 4·1 |
Tinct. benz. comp. 5 | ... | ... | ... | 10·0
Tinct. buchu 2 | ... | 1·0 | 6·3 |
Tinct. calumbæ 5 | ... | 3·0 | 7·1 |
Tinct. camphor, comp. 10 | ... | ·5 | ·7 |
Tinct. cantharid 4 | ... | ·6 | 1·9 |
Tinct. capsici 5 | 1·0 | ... | 2·5 |
Tinct. cardam. co. 20 | ... | ... | ... | 2·5
Tinct. cascarillæ 5 | ... | 2·0 | 5·0 |
Tinct. castor 2 | ·5 | ... | 3·2 |
Tinct. catechu 5 | ... | No loss. | ... |
Tinct. chirettæ 2 | ... | 2·0 | 12·5 |
Tinct. cinchonæ 10 | ... | 12·0 | 15·0 |
Tinct. cinchonæ co. 10 | ... | 9·0 | 11·3 |
Tinct. cinnam. 5 | ... | 4·0 | 10·0 |
Tinct. cocci 1 | ... | ·25 | 3·1 |
Tinct. colchici sem. 2 | ... | 1·5 | 9·4 |
Tinct. conii 2 | ... | ·75 | 4·6 |
Tinct. croci 1 | ... | ·60 | 7·5 |
Tinct. cubebæ 2 | ·5 | ... | 3·2 |
Tinct. digitatis 5 | ... | 3·0 | 7·5 |
Tinct. ergotæ 2 | ... | 2·0 | 12·5 |
Tinct. ferri acet. 1 | 1·2 | ... | 15·0 |
Tinct. gallæ 1 | ... | ·4 | 5·0 |
Tinct. gent. co. 10 | ... | 7·0 | 8·7 |
Tinct. hyoscyami 10 | ... | 6·0 | 7·5 |
Tinct. jalapæ 5 | ... | 2·0 | 5·0 |
Tinct. kino 1 | No loss. | ... | ... |
Tinct. krameriæ 5 | ... | 2·0 | 5·0 |
Tinct. lavand. comp. 20 | 2·0 | ... | 1·3 |
Tinct. limonis 2 | ... | 1·5 | 9·4 |
Tinct. lobeliæ 3 | ... | 2·5 | 10·5 |
Tinct. lobeliæ æther. 3 | 3·5[237]| ... | 14·5 |
Tinct. lupuli 5 | ... | 4·0 | 10·0 |
Tinct. myrrhæ 5 | 2·5 | ... | 6·2 |
Tinct. nuc. vom. 4 | ·0 | ... | 6·2 |
Tinct. opii 10 | ... | ·75 | 1·0 |
Tinct. opii ammon. 2·5 | ·5 | ... | 2·5 |
Tinct. pyrethri 1 | 1·0 | ... | 12·5 |
Tinct. quassiæ 1 | ... | ·7 | 8·7 |
Tinct. rhei 10 | ... | 4·0 | 5·0 |
Tinct. sabinæ 2 | ... | ·8 | 5·0 |
Tinct. scillæ 5 | ... | 3·0 | 7·5 |
Tinct. senegæ 1 | ... | ·75 | 9·3 |
Tinct. sennæ 10 | ... | 2·0 | 2·5 |
Tinct. serpentar 1 | ... | ·9 | 10·9 |
Tinct. stramon. 1 | ... | ·5 | 6·3 |
Tinct. sambul 3 | ... | 1·0 | 4·2 |
Tinct. valer. ammon. 5 | 3·5[238]| ... | 4·4 |
Tinct. valerian 5 | ... | 2·3 | 5·7 |
Tinct. veratri virid. 2 | 2·5 | ... | 15·6 |
Tinct. zingiber 5 | 2·5 | ... | 6·3 |
Tinct. zingiber fort. 10 | 3·6 | ... | 37·5 |
------------------------------+------------+------------+--------+--------
[Footnote 237: Sp. æther. sulph.]
[Footnote 238: Sp. ammon. aromat.]
=Tincture of Yellow Jasmine.= _Syn._ TINCTURA GELSEMII SEMPERVIRENS.
_Prep._ Yellow jasmine, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint.——_Dose_, 20 to 40
minims.
=Tincture of Zedoary.= _Syn._ TINCTURA ZEDOARIÆ. (Ph. Amst.) _Prep._
Zedoary root, 1 part; rectified spirit, 8 parts. Digest and filter.
=Tincture of Zedoary (Compound).= _Syn._ TINCTURA ZEDOARIÆ COMPOSITA;
WEDEL’S ESSENTIA CARMINATIVA. _Prep._ Zedoary, 4 oz.; calamus, galangal,
of each 2 oz.; chamomile, aniseed, caraway seed, of each 1 oz.;
bay-berries and cloves, of each 6 dr.; orange-peel and mace, of each 4
dr.; peppermint water and rectified spirit, of each 24 dr. In 6 days
strain, and add hydrochloric ether, 4 oz.
=TINCTURES (Concentrated).= _Syn._ TINCTURÆ CONCENTRATÆ HAENLI, L. _Prep._
(Ph. Baden.) Digest 8 parts of the vegetable powder in 16 of spirit of the
sp. gr. ·857 (45 o. p.), for 4 days, at 72° Fahr., with occasional
agitation, then press, and filter; to the marc or residuum add as much
spirit as it has absorbed, and again press, and filter; the weight of the
mixed liquors should be 16 parts. In this way are prepared concentrated
tinctures of aconite leaves; arnica and chamomile flowers; belladonna,
digitalis, hemlock, henbane, peppermint, and savine leaves; ipecacuanha
and valerian roots, &c.
=TINCTURES (Cu′linary).= See ESSENCES, SPIRITS, &c.
=TINCTURES (Ethe′′real).= _Syn._ TINCTURÆ ÆTHEREÆ, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.)
From the vegetable substance, 1 oz.; sulphuric ether, 4 oz. (or 6 fl.
oz.); by maceration, for 4 days, in a well-closed vessel; or, preferably,
by percolation in a cylindrical glass vessel furnished with a stopper, and
terminating at the lower end in a funnel, obstructed with a little cotton.
The powder being introduced over the cotton, pour on enough ether to
moisten it, put in the stopper, fix the tube into the neck of a bottle,
and leave it for 48 hours; then add, gradually, the remaining portion of
the ether, and, lastly, enough water to displace the ether absorbed. In
this manner are prepared the ethereal tinctures of aconite leaves, arnica
flowers, belladonna, hemlock, foxglove, tobacco, pellitory, solanum,
valerian, stramonium, &c., of the Paris Codex.
The ethereal tinctures of amber, ambergris, assafœtida, cantharides
(acetic ether), castor, musk, tolu, &c., are prepared by maceration only.
=TINCTURES (Odorif′erous).= These are prepared from odoriferous substances
by the usual processes of digestion or percolation. See SPIRITS.
=TINCTURES from Recent Vegetables.= See VEGETABLE JUICES.
=TIN′DER (German).= See AMADOU.
=TISANE.= [Fr.] _Syn._ PTISAN; PTISANA, L. This form of medicine is much
used in France. Tisanes may be readily prepared by slightly medicating
barley, rice, or tamarind water, lemonade, &c. See DECOCTION, INFUSION,
JULEP, PTISAN, &c., and below.
=Tisane, Antimonial.= (Brera.) Lemonade, 2 pints; tartar emetic, 2 gr.;
sugar, q. s.
=Tisane, Antiscorbutic.= An infusion of buckbean and the fresh roots of
horseradish.
=Tisane, Antivenereal.= Various compound decoctions of sarsaparilla are
known by this name.
=Tisane of Arnica.= (P. Cod.) As elder flower tisane.
=Tisane of Arnica Flowers.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Arnica flowers, 1/2 oz.;
boiling water, 6 pints. Infuse half to an hour and filter through paper.
Prepare in the same manner saffron tisane.
=Tisane of Asparagus.= (P. Cod.) Asparagus root, 3/4 oz.; boiling water, 2
pints. Infuse 2 hours, and strain. Tisanes are prepared in the same way
from the roots of elecampane, comfrey, strawberries, rhatany, soap-wort,
spruce-fir buds, Peruvian bark, dulcamara and burdock root.
=Tisane of Bread.= _Syn._ DECOCTUM ALBUM. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Prepared
hartshorn, 1 oz.; bread crumb, 2 oz.; gum Arabic, 1 oz.; water, sufficient
quantity to yield 5 pints; boil for 1/2 hour, strain through a coarse
sieve, and add white sugar, 6 oz.; orange-flower water, 1 oz.
=Tisane of Cassia.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Extract of cassia, 1 oz.; dissolve
in 5 pints of water at 140° F.
=Tisane, Common.= A decoction of pearl-barley and couch-grass, flavoured
with liquorice root.
=Tisane of Couch Grass.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Root of couch grass, sliced, 6
dr. Boil for 1/2 hour with water sufficient to yield 2 pints.
=Tisane of Elder Flowers.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Elder flowers, 1 dr.; boiling
water, 1-1/4 pint. Macerate for 1/2 hour, and strain.
=Tisane of Gentian.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Gentian, sliced, 1/2 oz.; cold
water, 5 pints. Infuse 4 hours, and strain. In the same manner prepare
tisanes of quassia, simaruba, and rhubarb.
=Tisane of Groats.= From groats, as tisane of pearl barley.
=Tisane of Guaiacum Wood.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Guaiacum shavings, 1-3/4 oz.
Boil for 1 hour with sufficient water to yield 2 pints, and strain.
=Tisane of Gum.= _Syn._ EAU DE GOMME. _Prep._ Bruised gum Arabic, 1 oz.;
water, 2-1/2 pints. Dissolve without heat, and strain.
=Tisane of Iceland Moss.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Just boil 2-1/2 dr. of Iceland
moss in a little water and throw away the first decoction, then wash the
remaining moss with cold water; then add a fresh quantity of water, and
boil for 1/2 hour, so as to obtain 2 pints.
=Tisane of Irish Moss.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Wash 90 gr. of carrageen in cold
water; then, after boiling ten minutes, add water in sufficient quantity
so as to yield 2 pints.
=Tisane of Liquorice.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Sliced liquorice, 1 oz.; boiling
water, 5 pints. Infuse 2 hours, and strain. Prepare in the same manner
(but infusing for 1/2 hour) tisanes from the dried leaves of borage,
wormwood, holy thistle, chicory, fumitory, ground ivy, pellitory, wild
pansy, soapwort, scabious, from the cones of the hop, aniseed, red-rose
leaves, lesser centaury tops, and linseed.
=Tisane of Mezereon.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Mezereon bark, 2 dr.; water, 2-1/2
pints; boil to 1-3/4 pint, and strain.
=Tisane of Orange Leaves.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Leaves of the orange tree,
1/2 oz.; boiling water, 5 pints; infuse 1/2 hour, and strain. Prepare in
the same manner tisanes from the leaves of wormwood, maiden-hair, hyssop,
balm, mint, and sage; and from the flowers of white mullein, chamomile,
red poppy, mallow, marshmallow, lime, coltsfoot, and violet.
=Tisane of Pearl Barley.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Wash 3/4 oz. of pearl barley
in cold water; strain off water, and boil in a sufficient quantity of
water, so as to yield 2 pints. Tisanes of groats and rice are made in the
same manner.
=Tisane, Pectoral.= An infusion of the roots of liquorice and marshmallow,
Canadian maidenhair, and the flowers of the red poppy and coltsfoot, in a
decoction of rice.
=Tisane of Rice.= (P. Cod.) Prepared in the same manner as tisane of pearl
barley.
=Tisane of Rice, with Lemon.= (Augustin.) _Prep._ Washed rice, 1 oz.;
water, 4 lbs.; boil, strain, add barley sugar, 1/2 dr.; lemon juice, 1 oz.
=Tisane of Roses with Milk.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Conserve of roses, 1 oz.;
new milk, 1 pint. Rub together, and strain.
=Tisane, Royal.= From senna, fresh chervil, and sulphate of soda, of each
4 dr.; aniseed and cinnamon, of each 1 dr.; 1 lemon, sliced; cold water,
1-3/4 pint; macerate for 24 hours, stirring occasionally, then press and
filter. Aperient.——_Dose._ A wineglassful, or more, repeated every
half-hour, until it operates.
=Tisane of Salep.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Boil 1 dr. of salep in 16 oz. of
water, and strain.
=Tisane of Senega.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Senega, 1 oz.; boiling water, 5
pints. Infuse for 2 hours, and strain. Prepare in the same manner tisanes
of the roots of marshmallow and valerian.
=Tisane of Sulphuric Acid.= (P. Cod.) LIMONADE SULFURÏQUE. _Prep._
Sulphuric acid (1·84), 72 minims; water, 4-1/2 pints; syrup, 10 oz. (by
weight); mix s. a. Prepare in the same manner nitric and phosphoric acid
lemonade; the first with acid of sp. gr. 1·42; the second with acid of sp.
gr. 1·45.
=Tisane of Tamarinds.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Pulp of tamarind, 1 oz.; boiling
water, 2 pints. Infuse 1/2 hour.
=Tisane, Tartaric.= (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Syrup of tartaric acid, 2 oz.;
water, 18 oz. Prepare in the same manner with their respective syrups,
lemonades of citric acid, gooseberries, cherries, and raspberries.
=TIS′SUE (Blis′tering).= See VESICANTS.
=TITA′NIUM.= A rare metal, discovered by Klaproth in 1794, and examined by
Wollaston in 1822. It is occasionally found at the bottom of the smelting
furnaces of iron works, in combination with nitrogen and cyanogen, under
the form of minute crystals, having a coppery lustre.
=TOAD-IN-THE-HOLE.= One to six ounces of flour, break the contents of one
egg, and stir in by degrees one pint of milk, taking care to keep the
mixture free from lumpiness. Place meat or ox kidney cut in slices in a
greased pie dish or tin; then pour the batter over the meat after adding a
pinch of salt, and let it bake for an hour to an hour and a quarter. The
batter should be allowed to stand before being cooked.
=TOAST (Essence of).= This is liquid burnt sugar or spirit colouring. Used
to make extemporaneous toast-and-water (3 or 4 drops to the glass), and to
flavour soups, gravies, &c.
=TOAST AND WATER.= Toast a crust of bread, taking care not to char it, and
put it into a pint of cold water, in a covered vessel. After standing half
an hour it will be ready for use.
=TOBAC′CO.= _Syn._ TABACUM (Ph. L., E., & D.), L.; TABAC, Fr. The prepared
leaf of _Nicotiana Tabacum_ (Linn.), or other species of the same genus.
The name was given to this herb by the Spaniards, because it was first
seen by them at Tabasco, or Tabaco, a province of Yucatan, in Mexico.
The tobacco of commerce is chiefly obtained from Virginia, and other parts
of the United States, and recently from Japan and California, but the
finest varieties are imported from Havannah and from the East. The plants
are gathered when mature, during hot dry weather, and are hung up in
pairs, in sheds, to dry. When sufficiently dry, the leaves are separated
from the stems, bound up in bundles, and these are formed into bales, or
packed in hogsheads, for exportation.
_Prep._ To impart to the dried leaves the characteristic odour and flavour
of tobacco, and to render them agreeable to smokers and snuffers, it is
necessary that they should undergo a certain preparation, or kind of
fermentation. If a fresh green leaf of tobacco be crushed between the
fingers, it emits merely the herbaceous smell common to most plants; but
if it be triturated in a mortar along with a very small quantity of
quicklime or caustic alkali, it will immediately exhale the peculiar odour
of manufactured tobacco. This arises from the active and volatile
ingredients being liberated from their previous combination, by the
ammonia developed by fermentation, or the action of a stronger base.
Tobacco contains a considerable quantity of chloride of ammonium, and
this substance, as is well known, when placed in contact with lime or
potassa, immediately evolves free ammonia. If we reverse the case, and
saturate the excess of alkali in prepared tobacco by the addition of any
mild acid, its characteristic odour entirely disappears. In the
preparation of tobacco previously to its manufacture for sale, these
changes are effected by a species of fermentation. Pure water, without any
addition, is quite sufficient to promote and maintain the perfect
fermentation of tobacco. The leaves soon become hot and evolve ammonia;
during this time the heaps require to be occasionally opened up and turned
over, lest they become too hot, take fire, or run into the putrefactive
fermentation. The extent to which the process is allowed to proceed
varies, for different kinds of snuff or tobacco, from one to three months.
_Qual., &c._ Tobacco is a powerful narcotic, sedative, and emetic; and is
also cathartic and diuretic; but the last in a weaker degree than either
squills or foxglove. Its action is violently depressing and relaxing,
producing fainting and even death, in comparatively small quantities.
Toxicologists rank it among the more active narcotico-acrid poisons; and
physicians, when they wish to produce sudden physical prostration, in
accidents or spasmodic diseases, order an enema of the infusion or smoke
of tobacco. Its deleterious properties depend on the presence of
narcotine, one of the most frightful vegetable poisons known, of which
ordinary Virginia tobacco contains from 6 to 7%.
“The chief sources of tobacco in Europe are Germany, Holland, Salonica,
Hungary, and Russia; in Asia, the principal are China, Japan, the East
Indies, Latakia, and other parts of Asiatic Turkey, Persia, Java, Syria,
and Manilla; in Africa, Algiers; in South America, Varinas, Brazil,
Uruguay, New Grenada, Paraguay, Cumana, and other fields are most
productive; while the great tobacco districts of North America are the
United States, Mexico, Cuba, Hayti, and Porto Rico. The extent to which
these and others are severally laid under contribution by the
manufacturers of this country is shown by the following partial analysis
of the imports of 1873 and 1874:”[239]
[Footnote 239: ‘British Manufacturing Industries,’ Sandford.]
+------------------------------------------+------------+------------+
| From | 1873. | 1874. |
+------------------------------------------+------------+------------+
| | lb. | lb. |
| Germany | 687,720 | 856,646 |
| Holland | 5,429,511 | 7,356,798 |
| France | 1,436,985 | 1,712,839 |
| Greece | 330,712 | 84,161 |
| Turkey | 1,430,572 | 696,132 |
| British India | 3,068,109 | 2,359,987 |
| Philippine Islands | 171,803 | 780,098 |
| China | 2,136,637 | 1,398,467 |
| Japan | 4,846,892 | 2,948,036 |
| Spanish West India Islands | 295,654 | 242,304 |
| New Grenada (United States of Columbia) | 2,199,885 | 1,617,573 |
| Argentine Republic | 340,787 | 663,940 |
| United States of America | 57,593,826 | 53,567,555 |
| Other countries | 1,404,640 | 1,890,679 |
| +------------+------------+
| | 81,382,733 | 76,175,215 |
+------------------------------------------+------------+------------+
Most of the so-called Havannah cigars which arrive in England are shipped
from German ports. It appears that a higher price is obtainable for dark
than for light-coloured cigars, the demand for the former being about
three times as large as for the latter. Unfortunately, however, owing in a
great measure to the partial failure of the tobacco crops of late years,
light-coloured tobacco is much more common than dark. In order, therefore,
to render the cigars made of light-coloured tobacco saleable at a higher
price, and also to improve the appearance of old and faded cigars, if we
are to believe a pamphlet recently published at Bremen, where there are
several of these manufactories, various infusions have of late been
prepared and largely sold, under the name of “Havanna brown,” “sap brown,”
and “condensed sauce.” All these preparations are now openly advertised,
and directions given for using them. None of these infusions contain
anything particularly injurious, most of them consisting of brown
vegetable dyes; nevertheless, they enable the manufacturer to give to
cigars made of old and faded leaves the appearance of good Havannah
cigars. A German paper states that if a piece of white blotting paper,
saturated with diluted sal ammoniac, is passed a few times lightly over
the cigar, the colouring matter, if any has been used, will come off on
it, whereas the natural brown of the tobacco leaf will remain.
=Tobacco Adulteration.=——The popular belief that bad cigars are made of
cabbage leaves is not justified by the last official report on tobacco
adulteration. This document contains a tabulated account of the seizures
of spurious tobacco made in the United Kingdom since 1864; and in the
whole paper there is no mention whatever of the much-suspected vegetable.
Its place in the black list is supplied by a variety of ingredients large
enough to rejoice the heart of any member of the Anti-Tobacco League. The
dishonest dealer in things smokeable is shown by the report to make use of
three different sorts of materials besides that which he professes to
employ. The first sort is required for the actual substance of the cigar;
the second for improving its outward appearance; and the third for
imparting to it what is supposed to be a better taste. In the former
category the favourite substances seem to be the leaves of the lime tree,
the husks of wheat and oats, cotton, yarn, and tonquin bean. But there are
numerous cases where the ingredients have been much more curiously
selected, and have included cocoa-nut fibre, small seeds, cotton, wood,
and bread. At one establishment 50 lbs. of ‘tobacco dust’ were found and
analysed, when it was shown to contain string, wood, nails, grindings of
tobacco-pipe, dirt, and all sorts of refuse. Another large class of
materials is apparently used for securing the adhesion and consistency of
the cigar when made. Amongst these starch is the most prominent; but it
includes gum and amidine, blue, gum Arabic, glue, glycerin, and essential
oils. The colour of the fabrication is the next thing to be attended to,
and for this purpose resort is had to yellow ochre, red sandalwood,
logwood, lampblack, and Venetian red. As for the flavour of the cigar, it
is varied to suit the most diverse tastes; but the usual object seems to
be to impart to it a pleasing sweetness of tone. Accordingly saccharine
matter, and especially treacle, is very largely pressed into the service.
For those who like a rather more decided taste, liquorice, salt, logwood,
glycerin, and aniseed are used. It is in Dublin where the latter
ingredient is most fashionable, while Edinburgh is fondest of treacle and
sugar, and East London is addicted to liquorice. (‘Pall Mall Gazette.’)
=Tobacco, British.= _Syn._ HERB TOBACCO; TABACUM ANGLICUM, SPECIES
STERNUTORIÆ, L. _Prep._ Take of thyme, marjoram, and hyssop, of each 2
oz.; betony and eyebright, 3 oz.; rosemary and lavender, of each 4 oz.;
coltsfoot, 1 lb.; mix, press them together, and cut the mass in imitation
of manufactured foreign tobacco. Some asthmatic subjects add 5 or 6 oz. of
stramonium or thorn-apple leaves; and others add 1/2 lb. of genuine
tobacco.
=Tobacco, Indian.= See LOBELIA.
=TOD′DY.= Obtained from various species of palms, by cutting off the end
of the flowering bud, and collecting the sap. Used, fresh, as a cooling
beverage; and, after fermentation, as an intoxicating one. Sweetened grog
is so called in Cornwall, and in some other parts of England.
=TOF′FY.= _Syn._ EVERTON TOFFY. A sweetmeat prepared by heating brown
sugar, in a saucepan or skillet, with about one half its weight of fresh
butter, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a ‘little of it dropped into cold
water forms a lump that breaks crisply,’ it is then poured into a little
buttered tin mould.
=TOM′BAC.= An alloy consisting of copper, 16 lbs.; tin, 1 lb.; zinc, 1 lb.
Red tombac is composed of copper, 10 lbs.; zinc, 1 lb.
=TON′ICS.= Medicines that increase the tone of the muscular fibre, and
impart vigour to the system.
=TON′QUIN REMEDY.= _Syn._ PULVIS TRUNCHINENSIS, P. ALEXIPHARMICUS
SINENSIS, L. _Prep._ From valerian, 20 gr.; musk, 16 gr.; camphor, 6 gr.;
mix. Antispasmodic and alexiterial, in doses of 6 to 12 gr., in
hooping-cough, &c.; 1 dr., in hydrophobia, exanthemata, and mania.
=TOOTH′ACHE.= _Syn._ ODONTALGIA, L. This annoying affection frequently
arises from sympathy with a disordered stomach. In such cases a saline
purgative should be administered, and an emetic, if required. When cold is
the cause, an excellent remedy is a hot embrocation of poppy-heads,
followed by the use of flannel and diaphoretics. When it arises from a
hollow or decayed tooth, the best application is a piece of lint moistened
with creasote, or a strong spirituous solution of creasote, and closely
rammed into the cavity of the tooth. Laudanum, the essential oils of
cloves, caraway, and cajeput, and essence or tincture of pellitory of
Spain, are also used in the same way. To prevent the recurrence of the
latter kind of toothache, the cavity should be filled with an amalgam of
gold, or with mineral marmoratum, or some other good cement. In many
cases, chewing a piece of good ginger, or, still better, a small piece of
pellitory, will afford relief in a few minutes. The celebrated John Wesley
recommended a ‘few whiffs’ at a pipe containing a little caraway seed
mixed with the tobacco. A slight ‘shock’ from a voltaic battery will often
instantly remove the toothache after all other means have failed. See
DROPS, ESSENCE, TINCTURE, &c.
=TOOTH CEMENTS.= See DENTISTRY.
_Obs._ It is absolutely necessary for success that the teeth be well
cleaned out, and wiped dry, before applying any of the above stoppings or
cements.
=TO′PAZ.= See GEMS.
=TOR′MENTIL.= _Syn._ TORMENTILLÆ RADIX; TORMANTILLA (Ph. L. & E.), L. The
root or rhizome of _Potentilla Tormentilla_, It is astringent and
febrifuge, without being stimulant.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 gr.; in agues,
diarrhœa, &c.; also, formerly, in syphilis.
=TORTOISE-SHELL, to Polish.= Dip a soft linen rag into rouge powder, and
rub the tortoise-shell with it, and finish off with the hand.
Tortoise-shell combs will not lose their polish if they are rubbed with
the hand, after removal from the hair.
=TOUCH-NEEDLES.= See ASSAYING.
=TOUCH-WOOD.= See AMADOU.
=TOUS-LES-MOIS.= The fecula of the roots of _Canna edulis_ (Ph. D.);
intended as a substitute for arrow-root. To the naked eye, it closely
resembles the finest quality of potato-starch, but under the microscope
its granules are found to be oblong, oval, with a concentric structure,
and larger than those of the potato tuber.
[Illustration: Microscopic appearance of Tous-les-mois.]
=TOXICOL′OGY.= See POISON.
=TRAG′ACANTH.= See GUM.
=TRANSPA′′RENCIES.= Water-colour pictures on paper, linen, or calico, if
executed in non-opaque or glazing colours, may be converted into
transparencies by simply brushing over their backs with Canada balsam,
thinned down, when necessary, with a little oil of turpentine. For coarse
work, boiled oil may be employed.
=TRAPS, HOUSE.= With few exceptions, the endless varieties of traps
advertised for house-drains are all modifications of the older forms of
the syphon, the midfeather and the ball-trap. The syphon trap consists of
a bent tube with a deep curve, in which the water lies and acts as an
hydraulic valve.
The following conditions are essential for its proper action. The curve
must be of such a depth as to ensure a height of not less than 3/4 inch of
water always standing above the highest level of the water in the curve.
The outlet pipe attached to the trap should not be too small nor have too
sudden a fall as it leaves the trap, otherwise when ‘running full’ of
water, all the water will be sucked out of it by the pipe beyond, owing to
the too narrow bore and too perpendicular inclination of this latter.
The midfeather trap consists of a round or square box or receptacle, into
the upper part of which, on one side, an inlet pipe discharges, whilst at
a corresponding height on the opposite side there is an outlet pipe. The
upper part of the box is divided by a partition, which dips at least 3/4
inch below the surface of the water, always standing in the receptacle, at
the level of the outlet pipe. The principle, therefore, of the midfeather
is similar to the syphon trap. The receptacle is so arranged that any
heavy substances collected at the bottom can from time to time be removed.
A useful variety of the midfeather is ‘Dean’s patent drain-trap,’
manufactured by Edwards, of Ruabon.
The ball-trap is not in very general use. By this arrangement the drain is
trapped by means of a hollow ball, which rises with the water in the drain
until it is carried against and closes an orifice.
The common ball-trap is stated to be inefficient and unsatisfactory. The
facility with which it can be removed or placed out of gear often leads,
in the hands of careless servants, to the untrapping of the drain
altogether. A good description of common sink trap is Antel and Lock’s,
shown in the accompanying engraving, which explains itself.
[Illustration]
Amongst the circumstances that impair the efficiency of house-traps may be
included the neglect to allow the passage of water through them
sufficiently often, and with force enough to flush and cleanse the trap,
and renew the water in it. The results are, that the water becomes
saturated with sewage exhalations, which escape into and contaminate the
air in the house; and that the trap becomes either dry or choked up.
Another contingency to which house-traps are exposed when the drains are
made to form a continuous and disconnected system with the sewers, is that
of the water being sucked out of the trap, owing to the combined effect of
the pressure of sewer air and the aspirating power of the house, into
which the sewer-gas would then pass unchecked.
In our articles DRAINAGE and SINKS, we have pointed out the peril
attaching to the intimate connection between the house-drains and sewers,
and given in the former practical directions for its avoidance.
To rest in the belief that the danger can be removed (although the risk
may be slightly diminished) by the use of traps alone, is to entertain a
very false sense of security.
=TRAUMAT′IC BALSAM.= Compound tincture of benzoin is known by this name.
See TINCTURE.
=TRAUMAT′ICINE.= This article, as manufactured by the Gutta Percha
Company, is simply a solution of white and dry unmanufactured gutta percha
in bisulphuret of carbon. A small portion dropped on a wound, or raw
surface, almost instantly forms a pliable, waterproof, and air-tight
defensive covering to the part. The only objection to the preparation is
the fetid odour of the menstruum, which, however, is lost in a few
seconds, or may be obviated by employing chloroform as the solvent.
=TREA′CLE.= _Syn._ MOLASSES; THERIACA (B. P.), THERIACA, SACCHARI FÆX (Ph.
L. & E.), L. The viscid, brown, uncrystallisable syrup which drains from
moist sugar during its formation (molasses), and from the sugar-refining
moulds (sugar-house molasses). The last, according to Dr Ure, has
generally the sp. gr. 1·4, and contains about 75% of solid matter.
Treacle is more laxative than sugar, and always contains more or less free
acid. It is used as the vehiculum in some of the pill-masses of the Ph. L.
See SUGAR.
=Treacle, German.= _Syn._ THERIACA GERMANIÆ, L. An evaporated infusion or
decoction of juniper berries. It is sweet-tasted, aromatic, and diuretic.
=Treacle, Venice.= _Syn._ LONDON TREACLE; THERIACA, T. ANDROCHI, L. The
theriaca of the Ph. L. 1746 consists of 61 ingredients, and contains 1 gr.
of opium in 75 gr.; that of the Paris Codex consists of 72 ingredients,
and contains 1 gr. of opium in 72 gr.; that of the Ph. E. 1744 consists of
10 ingredients, and contains 1 gr. of opium in every 100 gr. It is
prepared as follows:——Take of serpentary root, 6 oz.; valerian and
contrayerva roots, of each 4 oz.; aromatic powder, 3 oz.; guaiacum resin,
castor, and nutmeg, of each 2 oz.; saffron and opium (dissolved in a
little wine), of each 1 oz.; clarified honey, 75 oz.; reduce all the dry
ingredients to fine powder, then mix them. The confections or electuaries
of catechu and opium are the representatives of the above polypharmic
compounds in the modern British Pharmacopœias.
=TRI-=, TRIS-. See NOMENCLATURE.
=TRIBASIC PHOSPHATE OF LIME.= _Syn._ TRICALCIC PHOSPHATE.
(Ca_{3}(PO_{4})_{2}.) Tricalcic phosphate occurs nearly pure in the
mineral known as OSLEOLITE. See CALCIUM PHOSPHATE for its artificial
preparation.
=TRIMETHYLAMINE.= _Syn._ TRIMETHYLIA.
{ CH_{3} }
C_{3}H_{9}N, or { CH_{3} } n.
{ CH_{3} }
An ammonia found in large quantities in the roe of the herring. It also
occurs in putrefying flour and urine, and is the ingredient which gives to
the _Chenopodium vulvaria_ its peculiar and disagreeable odour. It may
also be obtained by distilling ergot of rye with caustic potash.
Trimethylia is a volatile fluid, with a very pungent and unpleasant fishy
smell. It boils at about 41° F. It is metameric with propylamine.
=TRIPE.= This is the paunch, or first portion of the ruminant stomach of
the ox. It is nutritious and easy of digestion, except when very fat.
Letheby gives the following as its composition:
Nitrogenous matter 13·2
Fat 16·4
Saline matter 2·4
Water 68·0
——————
100·0
=Tripe, Fried in Batter.= “Tripe is cut into pieces about three inches
square, and dipped into a batter made of six ounces of flour, one
tablespoonful of oil, or one ounce of butter, and half a pint of tepid
water. Mix the oil with the flour, add the water by degrees, whip the
whites of two eggs to a stiff froth, stir into the batter, dip the tripe
in, throw it into a saucepan of boiling fat, let it fry three or four
minutes, take it out, and drain.”[240]
[Footnote 240: Tegetmeier’s ‘Scholar’s Handbook of Cookery, &c.,’ Macmillan
& Co.]
=TRIP′OLI.= _Syn._ ROTTEN STONE; ALANA, TERRA CARIOSA, L. A mineral
employed as a polishing powder, originally imported from Tripoli, in
Barbary. It consists almost entirely of silica, and is composed of the
skeletons of minute infusoria, the precise character of which is readily
distinguishable under the microscope.
=TRIS′MUS.= See TETANUS.
=TRITURA′TION.= _Syn._ TRITURA, TRITURATIO, L. The act of rubbing a solid
body to powder. See PULVERISATION.
=TRO′CHES.= See LOZENGES.
=TRO′NA.= A native carbonate of soda, found on the banks of the soda-lakes
of Sokena, in Africa.
=TROPH′AZOME.= A concentrated infusion of minced lean meat mixed with the
fluid obtained from the residuum after being heated for 20 minutes in a
water bath, and flavoured with salt and spices, the whole being, lastly,
simmered for a few minutes. Excellent for convalescents.
=TROUT.= The _Salmo furio_ of Linnæus, a highly-esteemed fish, found in
most of the rivers and lakes of this country. Other members of the genus
_salmo_ are also so called, as, _S. eriox_, the bull or grey trout; _S.
ferox_, the great grey or lake trout; _S. trutta_, the salmon trout, &c.
All of these varieties are in the finest condition from the end of May to
late in September.
The trout contains about 6 per cent. of fat. It is desirable to cook this
fish as soon as convenient after taking it.
=TRUSSING.= This is a well-known operation performed on poultry or game
previous to their being roasted or boiled. It simply consists in _drawing_
or removing the intestines and other objectionable parts. In doing this,
care must be taken to avoid rupturing the gall-vessel, which, if broken,
would impart a very bitter flavour to the poultry, &c., extremely
difficult of removal.
The cook should never take for granted that poultry or game, when it comes
from the dealer, has been thoroughly cleansed inside, out, in order to be
safe in this matter, should always make a point of cleansing it herself.
=TULUOLE.= _Syn._ TULUOL; BENZOENE (C_{7}H_{8}.) One of the hydrocarbons
homologous with benzol, with which it occurs associated with xylol and
isocumole, in the light oil obtained from the distillation of coal tar. It
is also one of the products of distillation of balsam of Tolu, and would
seem to be identical with the _retinaptha_ obtained by Pelletier and
Walter from the distillation of rosin. If oxidised by means of chromic
acid it yields benzoic acid. Its boiling point is 230° F., and its sp. gr.
0·87.
=TUMOURS.= Tumours, of which there are a great variety, are abnormal
growths, occurring in different parts of the body. Sir Jas. Paget
describes them as belonging to the class of overgrowths or hypertrophies,
their most constant distinctive characters being——1. Their deviations,
both in respect to size and shape, from the normal type of the body in
which they are found. 2. Their apparently inherent power and method of
growth. 3. Their development and growth being independent of those of the
rest of the body, and continuing with no evident purpose, when the rest of
the body is only being maintained in its normal type.
Tumours are divided by pathologists into _malignant_ and _innocent_ or
_benign_.
In the former division is included cancer. The most common varieties
belonging to the second division are _cutaneous cysts_, _fatty tumours_,
and _fibro-cellular tumours_. Cutaneous cysts, which may occur under any
part of the skin, are most frequently met with in the scalp. They mostly
arise from “the morbid growth of natural ducts or follicles, or by the
enormous growth of elementary structures, which increase from the form of
cells or nuclei, and become closed sacs with organised walls capable of
producing other growths.”[241]
[Footnote 241: ‘Chambers’ Cyclopædia.’]
The most commonly occurring tumour is the fatty one. It usually develops
itself on the bodies of persons of from forty to fifty years of age. It
seldom occasions inconvenience, and appears to be in no way prejudicial to
health; occasionally, however, these tumours are very unsightly and
unpleasant to look upon. The fat of which they are composed appears to
differ in no respect from ordinary human fat. The uterus is the principal
seat of the fibro-cellular tumour. It occurs also in the scrotum, the
bones and the subcutaneous tissue. These tumours sometimes attain great
size, and grow very rapidly. They are sometimes met with exceeding 40 lbs.
in weight. Certain polypi belong to this class of tumour.
A pseudo tumour is occasionally met within surgical practice, which may
often be mistaken for a real one, by the unwary or inexperienced
practitioner. This, which is known as a _phantom tumour_, appears to be
caused by muscular contraction. Sir Jas. Paget, writing on this subject,
says: “The abdominal muscles of hysterical women are most often affected,
sometimes with intentional fraud. The imitation of a tumour may be so
close as to require great tact for its detection; but chloroform, by
relaxing the muscles, dissipates the swelling. Occasionally the apparent
tumours move.
=TUNG′STEN.= W. _Syn._ TUNGSTENUM. WOLFRAMIUM, L. A heavy, grey, brittle
metal, discovered by Delhuyart.
The word _tungsten_, in Swedish, signifies ‘heavy stone’ (_tung-sten_),
the name being applied to the element because the source from which it is
obtained is a heavy mineral called _Wolfram_. Wolfram may be regarded as a
variable double tungstate of iron and manganese, and the tungsten occurs
in this. A native tungstate of copper has been discovered in Chili.
Tungsten is also found in the mineral _scheelite_, a tungstate of lime.
From this latter compound it may be procured by digesting finely-powdered
scheelite in hydrochloric acid. Chloride of calcium is formed, together
with insoluble tungstic acid. Upon heating the acid to bright redness in a
stream of hydrogen gas, the metal is left behind. When thus procured it is
of a dark-grey colour, but under the burnisher it may be made to assume a
metallic lustre. Metallic tungsten may also be obtained by the reduction
of tungstic acid, by means of charcoal at a white heat. When procured by
this method it is unaffected by hydrochloric or diluted sulphuric acid,
although it becomes reconverted into tungstic by the action of nitric
acid.
When tungsten occurs in the pulverulent form, it burns easily into
tungstic anhydride, when heated in the air; and is oxidised and dissolved
when boiled with the caustic alkalies or their carbonates in solution. An
alloy, possessed of extreme hardness, may be procured when tungsten is
combined with steel, in the proportion of 1 part of tungsten to 10 parts
of steel.
There are two known oxides of tungsten, viz. a dioxide (WO_{2}) and a
trioxide (WO_{3}). According to Wöhler there is a third oxide, having the
composition (WO_{2}WO_{3}).
=Dioxide, or Binoxide of Tungsten.= (WO_{2}.) This is an indifferent
oxide, and is obtained by treating tungstic acid with hydrogen at a low
red heat. It occurs as a brown powder, which absorbs oxygen greedily from
the air, and is dissolved by boiling with solution of caustic potash,
hydrogen being evolved and potassium tungstate being formed.
=Trioxide of Tungsten.= (WO_{3}.) _Syn._ TUNGSTIC ANHYDRIDE. This may be
obtained by decomposing wolfram with aqua regia, and evaporating to
dryness. The resulting tungstic acid is dissolved in ammonia, and the
ammonic tungstate purified by crystallisation. When this ammonic tungstate
is heated in the air, it loses ammonia and water, pure tungstic trioxide
being left behind.
=Tungstic Acid.= (H_{2}WO_{4}.) This compound may be procured by adding an
excess of hydrochloric acid to a boiling solution of the trioxide in any
of the alkalies. It occurs as a yellow powder.
=Tungstic Chloride.= (WCl_{6}.) This may be obtained by heating tungsten
in chlorine, when it sublimes in bronze-coloured needles, which are
decomposed by water. When gently heated in hydrogen, this chloride becomes
converted into tetrachloride (WCl_{4}).
=Bisulphide of Tungsten.= (WS_{2}.) By heating a mixture of bitungstate of
potash with sulphur, and washing the product with hot water, a black
crystalline substance, having the above composition, may be obtained,
resembling plumbago in appearance.
Of the salts of tungsten, tungstate of baryta has been used as a
substitute for white lead in painting; but the most important of these is
the tungstate of soda, described below. See also TUNGSTIC GLUE.
=TUNGSTATE OF SODIUM.= Na_{2}WO_{4}. This salt is used for rendering
linen, cotton, and other fabrics uninflammable; also as a substitute for
stannate of sodium as a mordant in dyeing. It may be prepared by adding 9
parts of finely-powdered tungsten to 8 parts of fused carbonate of sodium,
and continuing the heat for some time; on boiling the cooled and
pulverised mass with water, evaporating the filtrate to dryness, and
treating the residue with luke-warm water, the salt dissolves out. Muslin
steeped in a 20% solution of this salt is perfectly uninflammable when
dry, and the saline film left upon its surface is so smooth that the
muslin may be ironed without difficulty.
=TUNGSTIC GLUE.= Tungstic glue has been suggested as a substitute for hard
india rubber, as it can be used for all the purposes to which this latter
is applied. It is thus prepared:——Mix together a thick solution of glue
with tungstate of soda and hydrochloric acid. A compound of tungstic acid
and glue is precipitated, which, at a temperature of 86° to 104° F., is
sufficiently elastic to be drawn out into very thin sheets.
=TUNNY FISH, a la Parisienne.= As a rule tunny fish is very indigestible,
and may be described as “neither fish, flesh, fowl, nor good red herring;”
nevertheless, some of our readers may come across this fish, and will be
glad to hear of a way in which to make it palatable and digestible. Take
three or four pounds of fresh tunny fish, lard it with bacon as you would
veal; cook it gently in its own gravy for three hours, with salt, pepper,
sweet herbs, little onions, and a small quantity of water. When well
cooked, tunny fish makes a nice dish cold for breakfast.
=TUR′BOT.= The _Rhombus maximus_ (Cuvier), said to be the best, and
excepting the halibut, the largest of our flat fishes. Dutch turbots are
the most esteemed.
_Composition of the turbot_:
Nitrogenous matter 18·1 per cent.
Fat 2·9 ”
Saline matter 1·0 ”
Water 78·0 ”
——————
100·0
=TUR′KEY.= See POULTRY.
=TUR′MERIC.= _Syn._ CURCUMA (Ph. L. & D.), L. The rhizome of _Curcuma
longa_. The best is imported from Ceylon. It is stimulant and carminative,
but is chiefly used in dyeing yellow, and as an ingredient in curry
powder; also as a test for alkalies. It gives a fugitive golden yellow
with wold, and an orange tinge to scarlet. It dies wool and silk,
mordanted with common salt, or sal ammoniac, a fugitive yellow.——_Dose_,
10 to 30 gr. See CURCUMINE.
_Composition of an average sample of Curcuma longa_:
Water 14·249
Curcumin 11·000
Turmeric 12·075
Volatile oil 1·000
Gum 8·113
Starch 3·627
Extractive 3·388
Woody fibre 46·548
Ash, included in above weights [5·463]
————————
100·000
Under the microscope turmeric presents a very characteristic structure,
viz. “a cellular tissue containing large, loose, yellow cells, with here
and there small, but very distinct, starch granules, similar in shape and
size to those of _Curcuma arrowroot_, and some woody fibre and dotted
ducts. The yellow granular cells can readily be identified whenever they
occur.[242]
[Footnote 242: Dr Winter Blyth.]
=TURNBULL’S BLUE.= _Syn._ FERRICYANIDE OF IRON; FERRI FERRICYANIDUM, L.
_Prep._ Precipitate a solution of protosulphate of iron with another of
red prussiate of potash (ferricyanide of potassium.)
_Obs._ This is a variety of Prussian blue, remarkable for its beautiful
colour, and may be distinguished from the ordinary Prussian blue of
commerce by its action on the yellow prussiate of potash. When boiled in a
solution of the latter it is decomposed, a portion is dissolved, and a
grey residue remains.
=TURNER’S YELLOW.= See YELLOW PIGMENTS.
=TURNIP.= The _Brassica napus_. This vegetable possesses but little
nutritive value, as will be inferred from the annexed description of its
composition given by Letheby:
Nitrogenous matter 1·2
Starch 5·1
Sugar 2·1
Salt 0·6
Water 91·0
——————
100·0
Turnips should always be thoroughly cooked, otherwise they are very liable
to produce indigestion.
=TURN′SOLE.= See LITMUS.
=TUR′PENTINE.= _Syn._ TURPENTIN; TEREBINTHINA. (Ph. L., E., D.), L. “An
oleo-resin flowing from the trunk, the bark being removed, of _Pinus
palustris_ (pitch or swamp pine) and _Pinus Tœda_ (loblolly or old field
pine).” (Ph. L.) “From _Pinus sylvestris_ (the Scotch fir).” (Ph. D.)
“From various species of _Pinus_ and _Abies_.” (Ph. E.) It is viscid, of
the consistence of honey, and transparent; by distillation it is resolved
into oil of turpentine, which passes over into the receiver; and into
resin, which remains in the still.
=Turpentine, Bordeaux.= _Syn._ FRENCH TURPENTINE. From the _Pinus
maritima_, or cluster pine. Solidifies with magnesia. (Lindley.)
=Turpentine, Chian.= _Syn._ CHIO TURPENTINE, CYPRUS T., SCIO T.;
TEREBINTHINA CHIA (Ph. L. & E.), L. “An oleo-resin flowing from the
incised trunk of _Pistachia terebinthus_” (Linn.). (Ph. L.) It is pale,
aromatic, fragrant, and has a warm taste, devoid of acrimony or
bitterness. It is much adulterated. A factitious article (terebinthina
Chia factitia), made as follows, is also very generally sold for
it:——Black resin, 7 lbs.; melt, remove the heat, and stir in of balsam of
Canada, 7 lbs.; oils of fennel and juniper, of each 1 fl. dr.
=Turpentine, Venice.= _Syn._ TEREBINTHINA VENETA (Ph. E.), L. Liquid
resinous exudation from the _Abies Larix_, or larch tree. It is sweeter
and less resinous-tasted than common turpentine, but is now scarcely ever
met with in trade. That of the shops is wholly a factitious article, made
as follows:——Black resin, 48 lbs.; melt, remove the heat, and add of oil
of turpentine, 2 galls.
=TUR′PETH MINERAL.= Basic sulphate of mercury.
=TURRET OF CHESTNUTS.= A ‘Turret of Chestnuts’ (_Tourelle de Marrons_) is
the name of a most toothsome dish. Take rather over two pounds of
chestnuts, peel, and cook them in water, with a pinch of salt therein,
then put them, whilst hot, into a colander. Beat into a paste, with a
little milk, sugar, and vanille. Put the mixture into a mould in the form
of a turret, about an inch thick; when quite firm, open the mould and turn
out the contents carefully, glaze with syrup. Fill the middle with
whipped cream, flavoured with chocolate or vanille.
=TUR′TLE.= _Syn._ GREEN TURTLE. The _Testuda midas_ (Linn.), a chelonian
reptile, highly esteemed for its flesh, eggs, and fat.
=TUSSILA′GO.= See COLTSFOOT.
=TU′TENAG.= A name sometimes applied to German silver; at others, to pale
brass and bell metal. “In India zinc sometimes goes under this name.”
(Brande.)
=TUT′TY.= _Syn._ TUTIA, TUTHIA, IMPURE OXIDE OF ZINC. The sublimate that
collects in the chimneys of the furnaces in which the ores of zinc are
smelting. Drying; astringent. Used in eye-waters and ointments.
=TYPE METAL.= An alloy formed of antimony, 1 part; lead, 3 parts; melted
together. Small types are usually made of a harder composition than large
ones. A good stereotype metal is said to be made of lead, 9 parts;
antimony, 2 parts; bismuth, 1 part. This alloy expands as it cools, and,
consequently, brings out a fine impression.
=TYPHOID FEVER.= _Syn._ GASTRIC FEVER, ENTERIC or INTESTINAL FEVER, LOW
FEVER, COMMON CONTINUED FEVER, INFANTILE REMITTENT, ENDEMIC FEVER,
PYTHOGENIC FEVER. Although the term ‘typhoid’ expresses the fact that this
particular form of fever resembles typhus, the researches of later
pathologists, including Perry, Lombard, Stewart, and Jenner, have
satisfactorily demonstrated that the two diseases are altogether distinct.
“Typhus and typhoid fevers differ,” says Sir Thomas Watson, “notably and
constantly in their symptoms and course, in their duration, in their
comparative fatality, in the superficial markings which respectively
belong to them, and which warrant our classing them among the exanthemata,
in the internal organic changes with which they are severally attended,
and (what is the most important and the most conclusive) in their exciting
causes.”
About the beginning of the present century, the French practitioners,
after several _post-mortem_ examinations, were the first to point out that
the specifically distinguishing feature of this disease was an internal
exanthema. This salient characteristic, coupled with the highly infectious
nature of typhoid fever, have caused it to be defined by pathologists as
“a contagious eruptive fever occurring on the mucous membrane of the
intestines, and therefore removed from view.”
The morbid appearance presented by the intestinal mucous membrane, varies
with the time that elapses between the period of seizure and death. If the
patient dies within the week, the follicles on the membrane present a
thickened appearance, and are raised above it, whilst they are seen to be
filled with a yellowish, cheesy-looking substance. The result of these
details is to give the bowels the appearance of being covered with
pustules.
When death has occurred at a later period ulceration more or less
extensive has been observed to have set in.
The influence of age in predisposing to typhoid fever is forcibly
illustrated in the following table extracted from Dr Walter Blyth’s
‘Dictionary of Practical Hygiène’:
Years
of Age. Per cent.
Under 5 0·98
From 5 to 9 9·44
” 10 ” 14 18·16
” 15 ” 19 26·86
” 20 ” 24 19·69
” 25 ” 29 10·15
” 30 ” 34 5·36
” 35 ” 39 3·40
” 40 ” 44 2·09
” 45 ” 49 1·08
” 50 ” 54 0·60
” 55 ” 59 0·33
” 60 ” 64 0·33
” 65 ” 69 0·08
” 70 ” 79 1·33
Dr Murchison asserts that those under thirty are more than four times as
liable to be attacked by typhoid fever as persons over that age. The
practical bearing of the above figures is obvious. Typhoid patients should
only be nursed by the middle aged.
The season of the year also exercises an influence over the development
and spread of this disease. In most countries it prevails with the
greatest violence, and is most general, in Autumn, and much more
frequently follows a very hot and dry summer than a damp one. The carriers
of the typhoid poison are the alvine and possibly the cutaneous and other
excretions. The disease may therefore be conveyed by contact with the
hands or skin of an infected patient, by his urine, by his body linen, the
bed clothes, or by dissemination from these into the surrounding air. But
the most fertile and unquestionable cause of propagation is the
contamination of drinking water by matter derived from the fœcal
discharges of typhoid patients, which having soaked into the soil from the
privy into which they had found their way, filtered from thence into a
neighbouring well, or by means of drains proceeding from a privy or
cesspool, into a stream. We can easily understand that the disease when
traced to potable water, should always assume so virulent and frequently
fatal a character. The fever poison is thus directly conveyed into the
stomach, and hence easily reaches the intestines, whence the disease
originates. This will also account for the very small quantity of infected
water which it has found communicates the disease.
The outbreak of typhoid fever in Marylebone, in 1874, which attacked some
500 persons, was traced to the milk vended by a certain company; this milk
having been placed in cans that had merely been washed out and cooled with
water obtained from a well into which it was discovered the excreta from
a typhoid patient had percolated from an adjoining privy. After the
statement of these facts, the thorough and efficient disinfection of all
the excretions, immediately they leave the body of the patient, as well as
of his body and bed linen, mattresses, &c., and also of the sick
apartment, will be obvious.
The best method of effecting this will be to follow the instructions given
by Dr William Budd, for the prevention of the propagation of this disease,
which are as follows:
“The means by which typhoid fever may be prevented from spreading are very
simple, very sure, and their cost, next to nothing.
“They are founded on the discovery that the poison by which this fever
spreads is almost entirely contained in the discharges from the bowels.
“These discharges infect (1) the air of the sick room; (2) the bed and
body linen of the patient; (3) privy and the cesspool, or the drains
proceeding from them.
“In these various ways, including the contamination of drinking water,
already described, the infection proceeding from the bowel discharges
often spreads the fever far and wide. The one great thing to aim at,
therefore, is to disinfect these discharges on their very escape from the
body, and before they are carried from the sickroom. This may be perfectly
done by the use of disinfectants. One of the best is made of green
copperas.
“This substance, which is used by all shoemakers, is very cheap, and may
be had everywhere. A pound and a half of green copperas to a gallon of
water is the proper strength. A teacupful of this liquid put into the
night-pan every time before it is used by the patient renders the bowel
discharge perfectly harmless. One part of Calvert’s liquid carbolic acid
in fifty parts of water is equally efficacious.
“To disinfect the bed and body linen, and bedding generally, chloride of
lime, or Macdougal’s, or Calvert’s powder is more convenient.
“These powders should be sprinkled by means of a common dredger on soiled
spots on the linen, and about the room to purify the air.
“All articles of bed and body linen should be plunged, immediately on
their removal from the bed, into a bucket of water containing a
tablespoonful of chloride of lime, or Macdougal’s or Calvert’s powder, and
should be boiled before being washed; a yard of thin white gutta percha,
placed beneath the blanket, under the breech of the patient, by
effectually preventing the discharges from soaking into the bed is a great
additional safeguard. The privy or closet, and all drains communicating
with it, should be flushed twice daily with the green copperas liquid, or
with carbolic acid diluted with water.[243]
[Footnote 243: See SPOROKTON.]
“In towns and villages where the fever is already prevalent, the last
rule should be put in force for all the houses, whether there be fever in
them or not, and for all public drains.
“In the event of death, the body should be placed as soon as possible in a
coffin sprinkled with disinfectants. Early burial is on all accounts
desirable.
“As the hands of those attending on the sick often become unavoidably
soiled by the discharges from the bowels, they should be frequently
washed.
“The sick room should be kept well ventilated day and night.
“The greatest possible care should be taken with regard to the drinking
water. When there is the slightest risk of its having become tainted with
fever poison, water should be got from a pure source, or should at least
be boiled before being drunk.
“Immediately after the illness is over, whether ending in death or
recovery, the dresses worn by the nurses should be washed or destroyed,
and the bed and room occupied by the sick should be thoroughly
disinfected. These are golden rules.
“Where they are neglected the fever may become a deadly scourge; where
they are strictly carried out it seldom spreads beyond the person first
attacked.”
No part of the globe appears to be exempt from the visitations of typhoid
fever, since it occurs not only in all the older countries of Europe and
Asia and Africa, but in those also included in the North and South
American Continents, as well as in Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand.
It would appear also to have prevailed in the earliest ages, since it is
evidently alluded to in the works of Hippocrates, Galen, and others. Later
writers, including Sydenham and Hoffman, also constantly refer to it under
a different name.
Pathologists differ as to the time that this disease lies dormant in the
system before developing itself. Some practitioners contend that the usual
period is from ten to fourteen days, whilst others think it is much less
than this, and, in some instances, that it may not exceed one or two days.
The late Dr Murchison entertained the latter opinion. The symptoms, when
they show themselves, are as follows:——An irritable condition of the
stomach, accompanied by sickness or vomiting; pain, with more or less
tenderness, about the abdomen; sometimes the patient suffers from great
constipation, at others from diarrhœa; he also experiences great
prostration of strength, has a feeble pulse, and a brown furred tongue; he
is extremely restless, and at night frequently delirious; the lower limbs
are frequently cold; he passes but little urine, and that of an offensive
smell; the stools are dark, offensive, and very frequently bloody, this
latter being a very characteristic accompaniment of typhoid fever.
Bleeding from the nose sometimes occurs. The perspiration has a sour and
fetid odour. After seven or eight days, small rose-coloured spots or
_petechiæ_ make their appearance on the skin.
_Treatment._——The abdomen should be leeched, and mustard poultices
applied. If not too prostrated, the patient should be given a hot bath;
but if he be not sufficiently strong to venture upon this, ablution of the
whole of the body with hot water and soap should be had recourse to, the
operation being performed by means either of a sponge or a flannel.
An effervescing draught, consisting of twenty grains of carbonate of
ammonia, dissolved in water, to which a tablespoonful of lemon-juice
should be added, ought to be administered, and drunk whilst effervescing,
every three or four hours. The diet should consist of beef tea, nutritious
broth, milk, and eggs.
The necessity of thorough ventilation of the patient’s apartment, together
with the methods of disinfection of the bodily discharges, the linen, &c.,
have been already emphasised in the directions given by Dr Budd for the
prevention of the propagation of this fever.
It is, perhaps, needless to state that the outline of treatment given
above is intended only for adoption by the emigrant, or of any one so
unfortunately situated with regard to locality as to be unable to secure
the services of a medical practitioner. Where these are obtainable the
patient or his friends should use all speed in procuring them.
_Horses._——Horses are occasionally attacked with typhoid fever, the
symptoms of which bear a general resemblance to those which characterise
the disease in the human subject. The appearances presented after death
are also very similar, particularly in the lesions observable in the
mucous membrane of the intestines. As in man, the disease is greatly
aggravated by insanitary surroundings and depressing external agencies,
and by the animals partaking of water containing decaying organic matters.
Upon the commencement of the attack give a few doses of calomel or
laudanum, or of tincture of aconite, and if the bowels are costive two or
three drachms of aloes, afterwards keeping up the laxative effect by mild
clysters and mashes. Afterwards administer, three or four times a day, a
drachm each of chlorate of potash and chloride of ammonium, adding to
these an ounce of oil of turpentine or ether, or sweet spirit of nitre, if
the animal exhibit dulness or weakness. If there is tenderness or pain
about the abdomen, apply hot fomentations constantly, and should there be
much flatulence give occasional drenches of ammonia, carbonate of ammonia,
or whiskey and water.
The food of the animal must be nutritive and generous. He should be kept
in a loose box, his legs should be bandaged in flannel, and warm rugs
should envelop his body. Rest and quiet are essential. During
convalescence let him have small doses of gentian, chloride of iron, with
ale.[244]
[Footnote 244: Finlay Dun.]
=TYPHUS FEVER.= This fever is known under various names, such as SPOTTED
TYPHUS, JAIL FEVER, SHIP FEVER, CAMP FEVER, MILITARY FEVER, IRISH AGUE,
FAMINE FEVER, BRAIN FEVER, PESTILENTIAL FEVER, MALIGNANT FEVER, OCHLOTIC
FEVER, TYPHO-RUBEOLOID.
“1. Typhus prevails for the most part in great and wide-spread epidemics.
“2. The epidemics appear during seasons of general scarcity and wants, or
amidst hardships and privations arising from local causes, such as
warfare, commercial failures, and strikes among the labouring population.
The statement that they always last for three years and then subside is
erroneous.
“3. During the intervals of epidemics, sporadic cases of typhus occur,
particularly in Ireland, and in the large manufacturing towns of Scotland
and England.
“4. Although some of the great epidemics of this country have commenced in
Ireland, and spread thence to Britain, appearing first in those towns on
the west coast of Britain where there was the freest intercourse with
Ireland, it is wrong to imagine that all epidemics have commenced in
Ireland, or that typhus is a disease essentially Irish. The disease
appears wherever circumstances favorable to its development are present.
“5. In many epidemics typhus has been associated with relapsing fever, and
the relative proportion of the two fevers has varied greatly.
“6. From the earliest times, typhus has been regarded as a disease of
debility, forbidding depletion, and demanding support and stimulation.
“7. The chief exception to the last statement originated in the erroneous
doctrines taught in the early part of this century, according to which the
disease was looked upon as symptomatic of inflammation or congestion of
internal organs.
“8. The success believed at one time to follow the practice of venesection
was only apparent. It was due to the practice, for the most part, having
been resorted to in cases of relapsing fever and acute inflammations, and
to the result having been compared with those of the treatment by
stimulation of the much more mortal typhus.
“9. Although typhus fever varies in its severity and duration at different
times, and under different circumstances, there is no evidence of any
change in its type or essential characters. The typhus of modern times is
the same as that described by Fracastorius and Cordames. The period during
which epidemic fever was said to present an inflammatory type was that in
which relapsing fever was most prevalent, and the times in which the type
has been described as adynamic have been those in which relapsing fever
has been scarce or absent.” (Murchison.)
In the article ‘Typhoid fever’ it has been stated that its propagation was
mainly due, and had been very clearly traced, to the drinking of water
contaminated by the alvine discharges of typhoid patients; in the
dissemination of typhus, on the contrary, the air in the neighbourhood of
the infected person appears to be the great medium for the conveyance of
the disease, the poison, it is conceived, being disseminated into the
surrounding atmosphere from the surface of the body or the lungs of the
patient, or from the cloths, body linen, &c., worn and discarded by him.
Hence it is we find, as we should expect, in the past no less than in the
present, that the spread and degree of virulence of the malady have always
been associated with overcrowding and bad ventilation. Although amongst
the causes that predispose and induce susceptibility to its attacks, as
shown above, are poverty and consequent deficiency of food and clothing,
and squalor, it has been demonstrated that, with all these unfavorable
conditions, patients may often recover from typhus provided they are
supplied with a sufficiency of fresh air.
The fact that of late years typhus has rarely visited the inmates of our
prisons, barracks, or shops, and that their comparative immunity from it
has been coincident with improved ventilation and the avoidance of
overcrowding, can lead to no other deduction than that previous to this
reform these sanitary conditions were altogether neglected. We may narrate
some of these outbreaks of typhus that have taken place previous to the
application of hygienic principles to the treatment of the disease. During
an assize held at Cambridge in 1522, the disease which had broken out
amongst the prisoners, spread to the justices, the bailiffs, and other
officers, as well as to many people frequenting the court-house, with the
result that many of those so seized died.
Another outbreak of a very malignant character occurred at Exeter in 1586.
Some Portuguese were captured at sea, and (the words of the old historian
who records the fact clearly indicate the cause of the virulent nature of
the malady) were “cast into the deep pit and _stinking dungeon_.” When
brought into court they imparted the contagion to those around them. The
judge and eleven out of the twelve jurymen who were thus attacked died,
whilst the disease spread through and devastated the whole country.
A fourth case is recorded by Howard “at the Lent assizes in Taunton in
1730. Some prisoners who were brought there from Ivilchester Jail infected
the court, and Lord Chief Baron Pengelly, Sir James Shepherd, serjeant,
John Pigot, Esq., sheriff, and some hundreds besides, died of the jail
distemper.”
Another eruption, which broke out during an assize held at the Old Bailey
in 1750, resulted in the contraction of the disease by the Judge, the
Lord Mayor, and the Alderman, and caused the death of forty persons who
were present in the close and narrow court-house during the judicial
proceedings. One circumstance recorded in connection with this last attack
needs no comment. It is to the effect that “a hundred prisoners were put
into two rooms measuring fourteen feet by eleven feet, and seven feet
high.” The instances above quoted explain why it was this disease acquired
the name of _jail fever_.
During the present century six different epidemics of typhus have broken
out amongst the convicts on board the Toulon Galleys. They occurred in
1820, 1829, 1833, 1845, 1855, and 1856. Although the above statement of
facts indisputably points to the intimate connection existing between the
prevalence and violent character of typhus and overcrowding, and
consequent contamination and vitiation of the air breathed by the patient,
it is still a moot point with pathologists whether the disease can be
generated _de novo_ by these conditions, or whether they merely assist to
disseminate and intensify it. Dr Parkes, writing on this subject,
says:——“With reference to the particular kind of fever in Metz, it may be
noticed that an important argument against the production of exanthematic
typhus from simple overcrowding has been drawn from the experience both of
Metz and Paris. In both places during the sieges there was overcrowding,
wretchedness, and famine, particularly at Metz; yet, as pointed out by
Professor Chauffard to the Académie de Médicine, there was scarcely any or
no typhus, as there had been in the wars of the first Napoleon. There was
typhus in the German besieging force, but so strict was the blockade that
it was not imported into Metz, and was not generated there.”[245]
[Footnote 245: Blyth.]
The mortality which has been caused in large armies by the ravages of
typhus has been enormous. During the ‘thirty years’ warfare that desolated
Germany from 1619 to 1648, innumerable soldiers fell victims to it, the
Bavarian army alone having lost 20,000 men from this cause. Typhus also
committed appalling havoc among the legions of the first Napoleon, the
Bavarian contingent of the French army in the Campaign in 1812, lost
nearly 26,000 men from this cause; whilst in Mayence 25,000 of Napoleon’s
soldiers in garrison perished from the same cause in six months. More
lately, viz. during the Crimean campaign (in 1856), typhus slew more than
17,000 French soldiers.
It frequently infested the German armies during the Franco German war of
1869-70, and committed great havoc both amongst the hosts of Russia and
Turkey in the late war between those countries.
When we turn to the civil population, we find that typhus has been no
less ruthless, and has slain its myriads of these also. Confining our
attention to our own country, we find it to have especially devastated
Ireland, which has suffered from no less than eleven violent outbreaks of
typhus within the last 130 years.
In one of these visitations, viz. that of 1840, 80,000 people are
estimated to have died from the disease. The largest recorded epidemic of
typhus within our islands during the present century was that of 1846. It
extended over the whole of the British islands, and the number of persons
attacked by it were nearly 1,400,000, out of which 1,000,000 occurred in
Ireland. “The Irish flocked to England in thousands, bringing the
pestilence with them. It therefore was extremely prevalent in Liverpool,
no less than 10,000 persons dying of typhus in that city.”[246] The latest
outbreaks in England have been in 1862 and 1869; they were principally
confined to London.
[Footnote 246: Blyth.]
Dr Murchison says that 14,000 persons were admitted to the London Fever
Hospital during the two epidemics, and that amongst them a small number
only were Irish.
All European countries, as well as North America and some parts of Asia,
suffer from the ravages of this alarming disease. Africa, however, as well
as Australia and New Zealand, are said to be exempt from it.
_Symptoms._——The symptoms of typhus are thus described by Dr
Murchison:——“More or less sudden invasion, marked by rigors or chilliness;
frequent compressible pulse; tongue furred, and ultimately dry and brown;
bowels in most cases constipated; skin warm and dry; a rubeloid rash
appearing between the fourth and seventh days, the spots never appearing
in successive crops, at first slightly elevated, and disappearing on
pressure, but after the second day persistent, and often becoming
converted into true petechiæ; great and early prostration; heavy flushed
countenance; injected conjunctivæ; wakefulness and obtuseness of the
mental faculties, followed, at the end of the first week, by delirium,
which is sometimes acute and noisy, but oftener low and wandering;
tendency to stupor and coma, tremors, subsultus, and involuntary
evacuations, with contracted pupils. Duration of the fever from ten to
twenty-one days, usually fourteen. In the dead body no specific lesion,
but hyperæmia of all the internal organs, softening and disintegration of
the heart and voluntary muscles, hypostatic congestion of the lungs,
atrophy of the brain, and œdema of the pia mater, are common.”
_Treatment._——The following remarks, bearing on this branch of the
subject, are suggested for adoption by the non-medical reader, in the
event of his being precluded by circumstances from calling in the aid of
the medical practitioner. The most important points to be observed are the
isolation of the patient and the thorough ventilation of his apartment by
the continuous admission into it of fresh air without stint or hindrance.
Dr Parkes recommends the patient to be put in the top room of the house or
hospital, since there is strong evidence to show that the contagious virus
is volatile and ascends through the atmosphere.
The forms of disinfection best suited for adoption in this disease,
together with the method of employing them, will be found fully described
in the article ‘DISINFECTANTS,’
The body of the patient should also be frequently sponged with Condy’s
fluid, properly diluted, or covered with olive oil, to which has been
added a small quantity of carbolic acid.
As internal remedies, dilute hydrochloric or nitro-hydrochloric acids have
been highly commended. Chlorate of potash, in large doses, was formerly
much employed.
These remedies may be supplemented by the use of saline medicines,
sudorifics, and moderate purgatives. The diet should consist largely of
milk and water, beef tea, broth, and such like digestible and nutritious
food.
=UDDER, Inflammation of.= _Syn._ GARGET MAMMITIS. Amongst domestic
animals, cows are the most frequently subject to this affection. It is
most common amongst those cows that have lately calved or have been
thoroughly milked. Heifers and even young cows that have never had a calf,
however, are not exempt from it, and occasionally suffer from its attacks.
The inflammation varies in intensity, in some cases only showing itself in
a dryness, tenseness, heat and tenderness of the skin of the udder, whilst
in others it is much more serious, and extends to the interior parts and
vessels; in the latter case, giving rise to hard lumps amongst the softer
texture of the udder.
Inflammation of the udder appears to result from various
causes——indigestion, over driving, the too long retention of the milk in
the udder, and cold; it is also very frequently associated with murrain,
rheumatism, and swelling of the joints.
_Treatment._——If the disease be constitutional, as indicated by the
suddeness of the attack, the best course will be to administer at once a
good dose of Epsom or Glauber salts combined with a little ginger, and to
give copious doses of nitre. A modified form of this treatment should be
kept up for some little time by means of gentle aperients, and smaller
doses of nitre. In the milder form of inflammation, viz. in that confined
to the exterior of the udder, it will be best to have recourse to spirit
lotions or refrigerant applications, such as ice water, or a mixture of
chloride of ammonium and nitre applied immediately after mixing with
water. The udder should be kept constantly cool by means of these. When
the inflammation is deeper seated, as evidenced by the presence of lumps
in the udder, the continuous application of warm water is advisable.
Whether the cold or hot treatment be indicated, it should be diligently
kept up for a day at least. In the adoption of either the cold or hot
local remedies, above specified, they should be combined with some means
of support (by the agency of a proper bandage) to the udder. It is also
important to have the milk removed every three or four hours; if the
milking operation cause pain, a syphon should be used. The hard lumps will
be found to disperse best under gentle friction applied by the hand twice
a day, for an hour each time, the hand being previously anointed with
lard. When the surface pits or becomes soft, and very hot, it may be
assumed that suppuration has set in, in which case the confined pus must
be liberated by means of the lancet.
=ULCERATED SORE THROAT.= This form of sore throat, in which ulcers develop
themselves upon the tonsils, is a very frequent accompaniment of
scarlatina, syphilis, and other diseases, in which cases to prescribe the
method of treatment would be beyond our province. For ordinary ulcerated
sore throat arising from cold, chronic inflammation of the part, or a low
state of health, the best course will be to gargle the throat four or five
times daily with either of the following gargles: 1. Alum, 30 gr.;
infusion of rose, 6 oz. 2. Sulphate of zinc, 30 gr.; distilled water, 6
oz. 3. Hydrochloric acid, 1 dr.; water, 6 oz. Should these fail, touch the
ulcers every morning with a solution of nitrate of silver, containing ten
grains of the nitrate to an ounce of distilled water.
=ULCERS.= These are open sores, mostly accompanied by a discharge of pus,
or serous matter. They differ from ordinary wounds by the edges showing no
disposition to unite. When they extend or deepen, it is by a process of
absorption; while they heal by granulation, whereby they become filled up
with little granular growths of flesh. Ulcers may appear on all parts of
the body, but they most frequently attack the legs and arms.
In enfeebled states of the body, wounds, boils, and abscesses may
degenerate into ulcers; they are also a consequence of enlarged or
varicose veins, or the result of some specific poison in the system.
Ulcers may be classed into simple, irritable, indolent, and specific.
_Treatment._——When an ordinary wound or sore shows a disinclination to
heal, but on the contrary, extends or deepens, it should be poulticed with
bread and water or linseed meal. Should these remedies be ineffectual, an
old fashioned but useful one, viz. a carrot poultice, may be applied. When
the ulceration is irritable or painful, the poultices may be supplemented
by the frequent use of a lotion consisting of four parts of water to one
of tincture of opium, or of a warm decoction of poppy heads applied by
means of a linen rag. Filling the cavity with prepared chalk has been
recommended.
It sometimes happens that during poulticing, _proud flesh_ may form in an
ulcer. When this is the case, a little sugar in powder may be sprinkled
over the unhealthy excrescence, or some red precipitate ointment be
applied to it. Taking care not to use too much of either. When the ulcer
has a bad or fetid odour, it should be washed with a lotion composed of
one part of solution of chlorinated soda to sixteen parts of water; or it
may be sprinkled over with charcoal powder; or with a mixture of starch
and salicylic acid. The best application to bad smelling ulcers caused by
varicose veins is a lotion consisting of nitric acid considerably diluted
with water. Directions are given for the treatment of varicose veins,
under VARIX, further on. If the veins be ulcerated, the ulcers should be
dressed with acetate of lead ointment previous to the application of the
bandage. Very irritable ulcers are often greatly relieved by the gentle
application to them of lunar caustic, and indolent ones by dressing with
yellow basilicon ointment, or by the judicious use of black wash. The
general health should be attended to by the administration of tonics
consisting of the mineral acids, gentle aperients, and a digestible and
nourishing diet. Small ulcers on the mucous membrane of the mouth or on
the gums may be made to disappear instantly upon touching them with a
piece of lunar caustic. Where any difficulty is experienced in the healing
of an ulcer, or if it be at all of a serious nature, the medical
practitioner should be consulted.
=UL′MIN, ULMIC ACID.= By boiling sugar in dilute sulphuric acid for a long
time, a brownish-black substance is produced. Boullay and Malaguti state
that this is a mixture of two distinct bodies——ulmin (sacchulmin——Liebig)
and ulmic acid (sacchulmic acid——Liebig). The first is insoluble in
solutions of the alkalies; the latter dissolves in them freely. A number
of black uncrystallisable substances, produced by the action of powerful
chemical agents upon vegetable matter, have been confounded under these
names.
=ULTRAMARINE′.= _Syn._ LAPIS-LAZULI BLUE, ULTRAMARINE B.; CÆRULEUM
ULTRAMONTANUM, L. This beautiful pigment is obtained from the blue mineral
azure stone, lazulite, or lapis lazuli, the finest specimens of which are
brought from China, Persia, and Great Bucharia.
_Prep._ Pure lapis lazuli (reduced to fragments about the size of a pea,
and the colourless pieces rejected), 1 lb., is heated to redness, quenched
in water, and ground to an impalpable powder; to this is added, of yellow
resin, 6 oz.; turpentine, beeswax, and linseed oil, of each 2 oz.;
previously melted together; the whole is next made into a mass, which is
kneaded in successive portions of warm water, as long as it colours it
blue; from these it is deposited on repose, and is then collected, well
washed with clean water, dried, and sorted according to its qualities. The
first water, which is usually dirty, is thrown away; the second gives a
blue of the first quality; and the third, and following ones, yield
samples of less value. The process is founded on the property which the
colouring matter of azure-stone has of adhering less firmly to the
resinous cement than the foreign matter with which it is associated. When
azure-stone has its colour altered by a moderate heat, it is reckoned bad
or factitious.
_Obs._ Ultramarine is the most costly, but at the same time the most
splendid and permanent, of our blue pigments, and works well in oil.
=Ultramarine, Artificial.= _Syn._ AZURE BLUE, MEISSNER ULTRAMARINE, PARIS
B., VIENNA B.; CÆRULEUM ULTRAMONTANUM FACTITIUM, L. From the researches of
Clement, Desormes, and Robiquet, it has been inferred that the colour of
ultramarine depends on the presence of sulphuret of sodium in a peculiar
state of combination with the silicates of soda and alumina; but,
according to Elsner and Tirnmon, a minute quantity of sulphuret of iron is
also an essential ingredient. It is by heating mixtures of this kind that
the artificial ultramarine of commerce is prepared. The finer specimens,
thus obtained, are quite equal in durability and beauty of colour to those
prepared from lazulite, while they are very much less expensive.
_Prep._ 1. Kaolin, 37 parts; sulphate of soda, 15; carbonate of soda, 22;
sulphur, 18; charcoal, 8; intimately mixed and heated from 24 to 30 hours,
in large crucibles; the product is then heated again in cast-iron boxes,
at a moderate temperature, till the required tint is obtained; it is,
finally, pulverised, washed, and dried.
2. (Gmelin.) Sulphur, 2 parts; dry carbonate of soda, 1 part; mix well;
gradually heat them in a covered crucible to redness, or till the mixture
fuses, then sprinkle in, by degrees, another mixture of silicate of soda
and ‘aluminate of soda’ (containing 72 parts of silica and 70 parts of
alumina), and continue the heat for an hour. The product contains a little
free sulphur, which may be separated by water.
3. (Robiquet.) By exposing to a low red heat, in a covered crucible, as
long as fumes are given off, a mixture of pure kaolin, 2 parts; anhydrous
carbonate of soda and sulphur, of each 3 parts. Some manufacturers who
adopt this process use 1-3rd less carbonate of soda.
4. (Tirnmon.) Take of crystallised carbonate of soda, 1075 gr.; apply a
gentle heat, and, when fused in its water of crystallisation, shake in of
finely pulverised orpiment, 5 gr., and, when partly decomposed, add as
much gelatinous hydrate of alumina as contains 7 gr. of anhydrous
alumina; finely sifted clay, 100 gr., and flowers of sulphur, 221 gr., are
next to be added, and the whole placed in a covered crucible, and at first
gently heated, to drive off the water; but as soon as this is effected,
raised to redness, the heat being so regulated that the ingredients only
‘sinter’ together, without actually fusing; the mass is then to be cooled,
finely pulverised, suspended in river water, and brought upon a filter;
the product has now a very beautiful delicate green or bluish colour, but
on being heated in a covered dish, and stirred about from time to time,
until the temperature reaches that of dull redness, at which it must be
kept for 1 or 2 hours, it changes to a rich blue. If the heat of the first
calcination has been properly regulated, the whole of the mass taken from
the crucible will have uniform colour; but if too little heat has been
used, and the ingredients have not been properly mixed, there will be
colourless parts, which should be rejected; if too much heat has been
used, or the mass allowed to fuse, brown parts will appear, especially if
the crucible is of a bad kind, or easily destroyed; these must also be
rejected. (‘Compt. Rend.,’ 1842.)
=Ultramarine Ashes.= _Syn._ SAUNDER’S BLUE. Obtained from the resinous
mass from making ultramarine, by melting it with fresh oil, and kneading
it in water containing a little potash or soda; or, by burning away the
wax and oil of the mass and well grinding and washing the residue with
water. Very permanent, but much less brilliant than ultramarine.
=Ultramarine, Cobal′tic.= _Syn._ CHINESE BLUE, COBALT B., LOUISA B.,
HÖFFNER’S B., THÉNARD’S B. A very rich blue pigment, with many synonymes,
prepared by slowly drying and heating to dull redness a mixture of freshly
precipitated alumina (freed from water as much as possible), 8 to 10
parts; arseniate or phosphate of cobalt, 1 part. By daylight it is of a
pure blue, but by artificial light the colour turns on the violet. For
other formulæ see BLUE PIGMENTS.
=U′PAS.= The Javan name for several deadly poisons. ‘Bohun upas’ is a
gum-resin obtained from the bark of the _Antiaris toxicaria_. (See
ANTIARINE.) The ‘upas tieuté’ is obtained from the _Strychnos Tieuté_, and
owes its fatal power to strychnine. They are both used to poison arrows
and other deadly weapons.
=URA′′NIUM.= U. A rare metal, discovered by Klaproth in 1789. It occurs in
the pitchblende of Saxony, and the uranite of Cornwall. The chief oxides
of uranium are the protoxide and the sesquioxide, or uranic oxide.
=Uranic Oxide= (U_{2}O_{3}) may be obtained in the anhydrous state by
heating the hydrated sesquioxide to a temperature of 572° Fahr. The
sesquioxide is capable of acting both as an acid and a base. The uranic
salts are yellow.
=Uranous Oxide.= (UO.) This may be procured by igniting uranium oxalate in
a closed vessel, or in a stream of hydrogen gas. Acids are without action
upon this oxide. When, however, it is obtained as an hydrate (which it may
be by treatment of its chloride with ammonia) this latter is easily acted
upon by acids, and gives rise to salts having a green colour, which
rapidly absorb oxygen. Peligot proposed to call this oxide _Uranyl_ (UO.),
from the tendency it showed to follow the deportment of a metal when it
combined with elementary bodies.
=Chlorides of Uranium.= Uranium forms two chlorides, U_{2}Cl_{3} and
UCl_{2}.
_Uses._ Its ores and oxides are occasionally used to colour glass and
enamels.
=U′RATES.= Salts of uric acid.
=U′REA.= COH_{4}N_{2}. _Syn._ CYANATE OF AMMONIUM (Anomalous). A
crystalline, colourless, transparent substance, discovered by Fourcroy and
Vauquelin in urine, and by Wöhler as the first organic compound
artificially produced.
Urea generally occurs in slender, striated, colourless prisms, as shown on
next page. It is slightly deliquescent. It has a neutral reaction and a
bitterish taste. It is extremely soluble in water and in hot alcohol, but
very slightly so in ether. At about 248° Fahr. it melts. At a little
higher temperature it becomes decomposed into ammonia, carbonate, cyanate
of ammonium, and cyanuric acid; this latter being left in the retort.
The ammoniacal odour acquired by urine after a few days is due to the
conversion of the urea into carbonate of ammonia, as shown by the
following equation:
Urea. Water. Carb. Ammonia.
CH_{4}ON_{2} + 2H_{2}O = (NH_{4})_{2}CO_{3}.
This change is effected by the mucus of the bladder present in the urine.
A solution of pure urea may be kept at ordinary temperature, or even
boiled, without undergoing alteration.
Urea occurs as an essential component of the urine of man and animals,
being more particularly abundant in the urinary excretion of the
flesh-eating mammalia; nor is it altogether absent from the urine of birds
and amphibia. According to Bischoff and Voit, urea is the result of tissue
metamorphosis. The greater number of inquirers, however, hold an opposite
opinion, and believe that it is derived from the albuminous constituents
of the food, when these preponderate over the quantity required for the
nutrition of the body. Dr Lionel Beale says his “own researches render it
probable that all pabulum entering the system must, before its elements
can he applied to the nutrition of the tissues, or removed by the organs
of respiration or secretion, be first of all taken up by cells
(chyle-corpuscles, white blood-corpuscles), and become living or
_germinal matter_, which, after passing through certain definite stages of
existence, becomes serum of the blood, and the _formed_ matter of the red
blood-corpuscles.
[Illustration: The whole of the cuts illustrating “Urea,” “Urinary
diseases,” and “Urine” are taken from Dr Beale’s work on ‘Kidney Diseases,
Urinary Deposits, and Calculous Deposits,’ by that gentleman’s kind
permission.]
“The products resulting from the disintegration of this formed matter may
be taken up by the germinal matter of the tissues, and at length become
tissue, or by that of secreting cells, in which case it is removed in the
form of the constituents of various excretions from the body altogether.”
About an ounce and a quarter of urea is daily excreted by a healthy man,
although of course there will be a variation in this amount principally
depending upon the quantity of animal food and active exercise taken
during the twenty-four hours. As might be anticipated a smaller quantity
of urea is excreted by women than by men, since they are unable to indulge
to the same extent in muscular exercise. A diminished quantity also
results from breathing impure air, and from a diseased and unhealthy
condition of the lungs or of the circulation, and also, as might be
expected, from an insufficiency of food.
_Prep._ (Thénard.) Fresh urine, gently evaporated to the consistence of a
syrup, is treated with its own volume of nitric acid of sp. gr. 1·19; the
mixture is shaken and immersed in an ice bath, to solidify the crystals of
nitrate of urea (p. 1689); these are washed with ice-cold water, drained,
and pressed between sheets of blotting paper; they are next dissolved in
water, and the solution is decomposed and precipitated with carbonate of
potassium (or carbonate of barium); the whole is then gently evaporated
nearly to dryness, and the residuum is exhausted with pure alcohol, which
dissolves the urea, which crystallises out as the solution cools.
=Urea, Factitious.= Mix 28 parts of well-dried ferrocyanide of potassium
with 14 of black oxide of manganese (both in fine powder), and heat them
to dull redness on an iron plate. Lixiviate with cold water, add 22-1/2
parts of dry sulphate of ammonia, concentrate by evaporation with a heat
not exceeding 212° F., decant the concentrated liquid, treat it with
rectified spirit, and crystallise. This is intended as a cleanly
substitute for the preceding.
=Urea, Ni′trate of.= _Syn._ UREÆ NITRAS, L. _Prep._ From urine, as
described above; or it may be prepared by saturating artificial urea with
nitric acid. Diuretic.——_Dose_, 2 to 5 gr. twice or thrice daily; in
dropsy.
=U′RIC ACID.= C_{5}H_{4}N_{4}O_{3}. _Syn._ LITHIC ACID; ACIDUM LITHICUM,
A. URICUM, L. A substance discovered by Scheele, and peculiar to the urine
of certain animals, and the excrement of serpents and several birds. The
fæces of the boa constrictor consist of little else than urate of
ammonium. It constitutes one of the commonest varieties of urinary
calculi, and of the red gravel or sand which is voided in certain morbid
states of the urine. Guano derives its principal value as a manure from
the presence of urate of ammonium. The gouty concretions of the joints,
popularly known as chalk-stones, consist chiefly of urate of sodium.
_Prep._ Dissolve the chalk-like excrement of serpents, reduced to fine
powder, in a solution of caustic potassa, by boiling; then add
hydrochloric acid in excess, again boil for 15 minutes, and well wash the
precipitate with water.
_Prop., &c._ Brilliant, very minute, white and silky scales, which are
tasteless, inodorous, slightly soluble in boiling water, and dissolve in
strong sulphuric acid, but are again precipitated by water. It forms salts
with the bases called urates, all of which are very sparingly soluble. The
characteristic reaction of uric acid is, that when moistened with nitric
acid and heated, it dissolves, and by evaporation yields a red compound,
which, upon the addition of a drop or two of solution of ammonia, assumes
a magnificent crimson colour, being converted into murexide.
Uric acid is a constituent of healthy human urine, in which it exists
combined with bases in the form of urates, which, being in small quantity,
are soluble in the urine. 1000 grains of the urine contain from 1/2 grain
to 1 grain of the acid. Drs Beale and Thudichum respectively estimate the
amount of uric acid excreted in twenty-four hours by a healthy adult man
at from 5 to 8 grains. To determine the amount of uric acid in urine
proceed as follows:——To a certain weight of the urine, hydrochloric or
nitric acid is added, and the urine set aside for some hours, at the end
of which time, the insoluble crystals of uric acid which are formed, are
washed, dried, and weighed.
With the exception of the urates, uric acid is one of the deposits most
frequently met with in abnormal urine, wherein it occurs as a small
reddish powder adhering to the bottom or sides of the containing vessel.
As a urinary deposit, uric acid assumes a great variety of forms, that of
most frequent occurrence being the rhombic, modified in many of the
crystals by the rounding of two of the angles, as shown in the engraving
on next page.
[Illustration: Uric acid. (Beale.)]
=URINARY DISEASES.= This class of disorders, which in general terms may be
said to embrace affections of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, &c.,
comprises diseases of these parts varying greatly in character and
pathological importance.
The most serious forms of kidney disease are CONGESTION of the kidney, a
very frequent accompaniment of heart or lung disease; PYELITIS, or
inflammation of the pelvis of the kidney; SUPPURATIVE NEPHRITIS, or
inflammation of the substance of the kidney, which ends in suppuration;
ACUTE NEPHRITIS, or ACUTE BRIGHT’S DISEASE, acute inflammation of the
kidney, frequently arising from scarlatina or cold; CHRONIC NEPHRITIS, or
CHRONIC BRIGHT’S DISEASE, a formidable and incurable variety of kidney
affection, giving rise to dropsy, and, owing to the disintegration of the
organ, to poisoning of the blood by urea. In advanced cases of this
disease the urine contains a large quantity of albumen and casts of the
urinary tubes.
CALCULUS OF THE KIDNEY. The most dangerous diseases of the bladder are
those caused by the deposition in it of earthy and other concretions,
known as URINARY CALCULI, which are described in the present work under
CALCULUS. The presence of these calculi is indicated by acute pain in the
bladder and urinary passages, extending to the adjacent parts, the pain
being excruciating immediately after passing the urine. Sometimes during
the act of excretion the stream of water is suddenly stopped.
Inflammation is another dangerous disease of the bladder, calling for the
prompt summoning of the medical practitioner wherever possible.
The following particulars as to its symptoms and treatment are offered for
adoption to emigrants and others so placed as to be beyond the means of
medical succour.
Inflammation of the bladder commences with pain in the region of that
organ, the pain becoming continuous and increasing in violence, and being
accompanied with a sense of burning heat and of tenderness on pressure.
The urine is frequently voided. The inflammation is sometimes so acute as
to give rise to suppuration and the consequent discharge of pus with the
urine. Sometimes the disease assumes a chronic character.
In the acute form of the disease recourse should be had to leeches, hot
fomentations, and warm baths; a dose of calomel, to be followed by a
brisk dose of castor oil, should likewise be administered. Alcoholic
drinks of any kind must be carefully avoided, the patient being allowed to
drink only cool demulcent beverages. With these should be combined
effervescing draughts, frequently repeated, and small doses of Dover’s
powder. Great relief will also be derived from the use of enemas of gruel
containing laudanum. Where inflammation of the bladder arises from gout or
rheumatism, it must be treated as for these diseases. A suppository,
consisting of two grains of opium, combined with twenty grains of soap, is
frequently of great benefit.
Should the disease become chronic, the best method of treatment will be
the repeated use of mild aperients, the combined employment of uva ursi in
infusion or powder, with either tincture of perchloride of iron, or the
mineral acids. Spirituous liquors of any kind must be avoided. Demulcent
drinks form the best beverage, and a farinaceous or milk diet the most
desirable food.
NEURALGIA OF THE BLADDER. The pain which attends this disease is
unaccompanied either by inflammation or irritation, and is recurrent in
character. It may generally be arrested by tincture of perchloride of
iron, or of iron and quinine, administered three times a day.
IRRITATION OF THE BLADDER. The patient affected with this disorder
gratifies the frequent desire he has to pass his urine, the operation
being accompanied with pain and forcing, the most severe pain being
experienced after the excretion has taken place. The tincture of
perchloride of iron will also be found the best remedy for this disorder.
It should be given in conjunction with the infusions of uva ursi, Pareira
brava, or buchu.
Mucilaginous drinks should also be had recourse to.
CATARRH OF THE BLADDER. The symptoms of this disease are irritation, and
the presence of much mucus in the urine. The same treatment may be adopted
as recommended for irritation of the bladder. If there be an absence of
pain, spirits of nitre and copaiba balsam in moderate doses frequently
afford relief.
STRANGURY. Constant micturition, only a few drops of urine passing at the
time, occasioning burning and cutting pains around the parts. Strangury is
generally due to some irritating cause, which should, if possible, be
discovered and removed. Cantharides taken either internally, or applied
externally, as in the form of a blister, will sometimes give rise to it.
The patient should drink copiously of mucilaginous beverages, such as
linseed tea, slippery elm bark, barley water, with gum Arabic dissolved in
it. An injection consisting of thirty or forty drops of laudanum in a
spoonful of gruel will be found to afford immediate relief. If the above
means fail, a pill containing a grain of camphor in five grains of extract
of henbane should be given, and a warm bath taken. See GRAVEL.
=U′RINE.= The density of the urine varies from 1·005 to 1·030;[247] the
average, in health, being 1·020, when it contains about 380 gr. of solid
matter in the pint. According to Berzelius, the proportion is about
6-3/4%, the rest being pure water. It exhibits a decidedly acid reaction,
and is never alkaline, except during disease, or the use of large
quantities of alkaline salts of the vegetable acids. The average quantity
secreted during 24 hours may be taken at 2 pints to 3 pints; as might be
supposed, a larger quantity is passed during the summer than in the winter
months.
[Footnote 247: From 1·015 to 1·025, Beale.]
Miller gives the following as the composition of healthy urine:——
In 100
Specific gravity 1·020 parts of
solid
Water 956·80 matter.
{ { Urea 14·23 33·00
{ { Uric acid 0·37 0·86
{ Organic matters, 29·79 { Alcoholic extract 12·53 29·03
{ { Watery extract 2·50 5·80
{ { Vesical mucus 0·16 0·37
{
{ { Sodic chloride 7·22 16·73
A { { Phosphoric anhydride 2·12 4·91
{ { Sulphuric anhydride 1·70 3·94
{ Fixed salts, 13·35 { Lime 0·21 0·49
{ { Magnesia 0·21 0·28
{ { Potash 1·93 4·47
{ { Soda 0·09 0·12
{
Loss 0·03
—————— ——————
1000·00 100·00
A = Solid matters, 43·2.
The presence of bile in urine, or other like fluids, may be detected as
follows:——Put a small quantity of the suspected liquid into a test-tube,
and add to it, drop by drop, strong sulphuric acid, until it becomes warm,
taking care not to raise the temperature above 122° Fahr.; then add from 2
to 5 drops of syrup (made with 5 parts of sugar to 4 of water), and shake
the mixture. If the liquid contain bile, a violet coloration is observed.
Acetic acid may be substituted for sugar.
Another test for bile consists in pouring a little of the suspected urine
into a test tube, and adding to it a few drops of tincture of iodine, when
if bile be present the fluid becomes distinctly green. Rosenbach says that
urine containing bile, when passed through white filtering paper, imparts
a yellow or brown colour to the paper. On allowing one drop of strong
nitric acid to run down the side of the moist filter it leaves a yellow
streak, soon changing to orange, with a violet border, on the outside of
which blue and emerald-green zones may be observed. These colours remain
visible for some time.
Dark-coloured urine, owing to substances other than bile, does not produce
this play of colours.
The reagents most generally employed for detecting the presence of sugar
in urine are Trommer’s (_see_ SUGAR) and Fehling’s solutions. For the
effective application of Fehling’s test, Dr Roberts[248] advises the
following method of procedure:——Pour some of the Fehling’s solution into a
narrow test tube to the depth of 3/4 of an inch; heat until it begins to
boil; then add 2 or 3 drops of the suspected urine. If the sugar be
abundant, a thick yellow opacity or deposit of yellow suboxide are
produced (and this changes to a brick-red at once if the blue colour of
the test remains dominant). If no such reaction ensue, go on adding the
urine until a bulk nearly equal to the test employed has been poured in;
heat again to ebullition, and no change occurring, set aside without
further boiling. If no milkiness is produced as the mixture cools, the
urine may confidently be pronounced free from sugar, or, at any rate, it
contains less than 1/40th percent.
[Footnote 248: ‘Urinary and Renal Diseases,’ by Dr W. Roberts.]
If the quantity of sugar is very small, viz. from a 1/2 to 1/40th per
cent., the precipitation of the yellow or cuprous oxide does not take
place immediately, but occurs after some time as the liquid cools, and the
manner of the change is peculiar. First, the mixture loses its
transparency, and passes from a clear bluish green to a light greenish
opacity, just as if some drops of milk had fallen into the tube. This
green milky appearance is quite characteristic of sugar.
Before using the Fehling’s solution it should be always examined
previously to the addition of the urine, by being first boiled alone, when
if it remains clear it may be pronounced in fit condition. On the
contrary, should the preliminary boiling give a deposit, the solution must
be discarded, and some freshly made employed instead.
Böttger has proposed the following quantitative test for the presence of
sugar in urine:
He first adds some potash to the sample of urine, and then a small
quantity of subnitrate of bismuth, and boils the mixture. If sugar is
present, the suboxide is reduced, and metallic bismuth being liberated is
precipitated as a black powder.
Another method of applying the bismuth test is as follows:——One part of
crystallised carbonate of soda is dissolved in three parts of water, and
added to an equal quantity of the urine. A small quantity of basic nitrate
of bismuth is then added to the mixture, which is then heated to the
boiling point. A black precipitate is formed if the urine contains sugar.
Horsley’s test consists in boiling with the suspected urine a mixture of
equal parts of neutral chromate of potash and solution of potash, when, if
sugar be present, a green colour will be produced, owing to the formation
of the sesquioxide of chromium.
M. Luton’s, which is a modification of Horsley’s test, a solution of
bichromate of potash is decomposed by excess of sulphuric acid, and upon
the urine being boiled with the mixture, a splendid green colour is
imparted to it. Urea, albumin, and the urates do not interfere with this
reaction.
Vidau has observed that a mixture of equal parts of hydrochloric acid and
oil of brune (oil of sesame), either in the cold, or when slightly heated,
assumes a distinct rose colour in the presence of cane or grape sugar,
provided 0·001 gramme of sugar is present for every c.c. of mixture.
One of the best methods for the accurate and quick estimation of the
amount of sugar in urine is, perhaps, the volumetric, devised by Fehling,
who employed a standard copper solution, known as ‘Fehling’s solution,’ of
the following composition:
Sulphate of copper 90-1/2 grains.
Neutral tartrate of potash 364 ”
Solution of caustic soda, sp. gr. 1·12 4 fl. oz.
Add water to make up exactly 6 ”
Of this solution 200 grains are exactly decomposed by one grain of sugar.
The following is the mode of performing the analysis given by Dr
Roberts[249]:——Measure off 200 grains of the above standard solution in a
200-grain tube, pour this into a flask, and add about twice its volume of
water; then place over a spirit lamp to boil. While the copper solution is
being heated the urine to be analysed should be diluted with water to a
known degree. In the case of ordinary diabetic urines the best dilution is
one in ten. This is obtained by carefully filling a 6-ounce measure with
water to the depth of 4-1/2 ounces, and then adding urine so as to make up
exactly 5 ounces. The mixture will then contain exactly one tenth of urine
(when the quantity of sugar in the urine is very small, a dilution of one
in five, or even the undiluted urine may be employed). The next step is to
fill a burette (which must be graduated to grains) with the diluted urine
to 0. Then proceed to add it in successive small portions to the boiling
copper solution until the blue colour has entirely disappeared. After each
fresh addition from the burette, the mixture should be raised to the
boiling point, and then allowed to stand a few seconds, so that the
precipitated copper may subside, and the observer may see, by holding the
flask between the eye and the light, whether the mixture still retains any
blue colour.
[Footnote 249: ‘Urinary and Renal Diseases,’ by Dr W. Roberts.]
As soon as the blue colour has disappeared the analysis is complete, and
the quantity of diluted urine may be read off. The percentage of sugar in
the urine can now be readily calculated. Suppose 125 grains had been added
from the burette, this represents one tenth, or 12·5 grains of undiluted
urine, and contains exactly one grain of sugar; by dividing 12·5 into 100
the per-centage of sugar is obtained, or 100/12·5 = 8; the urine contains
8 per cent. of sugar.
Another process for the quantitative determination of sugar in urine,
called by its author, Dr Roberts, “the differential density method,” is
based upon the loss of density, experienced by diabetic urine, after all
the sugar has been removed by fermentation. Dr Roberts says repeated
examples derived from diabetic urine so treated, together with
corresponding experiments made with solutions of sugar of known strength
in normal urine, and in pure water, as well as theoretical calculation
have warranted the conclusion, _that the number of degrees of density so
lost indicates as many grains of sugar per fluid ounce_.
The method, which is extremely simple, is thus performed:——Into a 12-ounce
bottle measure 4 fluid ounces of the diabetic urine, and drop into it a
piece of fresh German yeast, about as large as a cobnut or walnut; insert
a cork in the bottle, and let the cork have a nick cut in the side, to
allow of the escape of the carbonic acid. Then fill an ordinary 4-ounce
bottle with the same sample of urine, omitting to add any yeast, and cork
it in the ordinary manner. Place both bottles in a warm situation, where
the temperature is about 80° or 90° Fahr., for twenty or twenty-four
hours; at the end of which time, the fermentation being over, the scum
will either have cleared off or subsided. The fermented urine is then
poured into a proper urine-glass, and its specific gravity ascertained.
The specific gravity of the unfermented companion portion is also taken,
and by comparing the two results the loss of density is thus arrived at.
Before the respective densities are taken it is best to remove the two
samples to a cool place, where they should remain for two or three hours,
in order that they may acquire the temperature of the surrounding air.
The two following examples may serve as illustrations of the method.
I. II.
Density before fermentation 1053 1038
Density after fermentation 1004 1013
Degrees of density lost 49 25
———— ————
Grains of sugar per fluid ounce 49 25
If it be desired to bring out the result as so much per cent., this is
accomplished by multiplying the number indicating the “density lost” by
the coefficient 0·23. Thus, in the first of the above examples, 49 ×
0·23 = 11·27; and in the second 25 × 0·23 = 5·69, which are amounts of
sugar respectively per 100 parts.[250]
[Footnote 250: Roberts.]
In taking the densities Dr Roberts advises the operator to employ a
urinometer having a long scale, since the degrees are much further apart
than in the scales of the short-stemmed instruments, and are therefore
more distinct and can be more easily read off.
The following are examples of diabetic urine:
No. 1 (Simon).
Specific gravity 1018·
Water 957·00
Solid constituents 43·00
Urea Traces.
Uric acid Traces.
Sugar 39·80
Extractive matter and }
soluble salts } 2·10
Earthy phosphates 0·52
Albumen Traces.
No. 2 (Dr Percy).
Specific gravity 1042·
Water 894·50
Solid constituents 105·50
Urea 12·16
Uric acid 0·16
Sugar 40·12
Extractive matter, and}
soluble salts } 53·06
No. 3 (Bouchardat).
Water 837·58
Solid constituents 162·42
Urea 8·27
Uric acid Not isolated.
Sugar 134·32
Extractive matters, and }
soluble salts } 20·34
Earthy phosphates 0·38
“Diabetic urine usually possesses a peculiar smell, which has been
compared with that of violets, apples, new hay, whey, horses’ urine, musk,
and sour milk. Such comparisons serve only to show how difficult it is to
give by description a correct idea of a particular odour. The colour of
diabetic urine is generally pale. Sometimes, but not usually until after
two or three days, the surface becomes coloured with a whitish film, owing
to the development of the _sugar fungus_, and the _penicillium glaucum_,
and gradually the urine becomes opalescent in consequence of these fungi
multiplying in great numbers in every part of the fluid. See URINARY
DEPOSITS (FUNGI).
“Diabetic urine has a sweet taste, and often numbers of flies are
attracted to it, which fact sometimes leads the patient to suspect that
the urine is not healthy.”[251]
[Footnote 251: ‘Kidney Diseases, Urinary Deposits,’ &c., Dr Lionel Beale.]
White merino, that has been wet with a solution of bichloride of tin, is
also said to form a ready test for sugar in urine.
Albumen in urine may be detected by the nitric acid, or by the heat test.
The nitric acid test is performed as follows.——Fill a test tube to about
an inch with the urine, then incline the tube and pour in strong nitric
acid down the side of the tube, so that the acid sinks to the bottom and
displaces the urine, which by reason of its smaller specific gravity rests
above it. Let the acid be added till it forms a stratum about a quarter of
an inch thick at the bottom.
If the urine contain albumen three layers will be perceptible——one,
perfectly colourless, of nitric acid at the bottom; immediately above this
an opalescent zone of the coagulated albumen; and, on the top, the
unaltered urine.
In his work, ‘Kidney Diseases and Urinary Deposits,’ Dr Lionel Beale
directs attention to the very important fact that “two or three drops of
nitric acid to about a drachm of albuminous urine in a test tube will
produce a precipitate of albumen which will be _dissolved on agitation_,
while, on the other hand, about half as much strong nitric acid as there
is of urine will redissolve the precipitate of albumen, unless the
quantity present be excessive. Albumen precipitated by nitric acid is
_soluble in weak nitric acid_, and in a considerable excess of urine, and
it is also _soluble in strong nitric acid_. _It is therefore necessary in
employing the nitric acid test to add from ten to fifteen drops of the
strong acid to about a drachm of the urine suspected to contain albumen._”
Dr Roberts gives the following directions for applying the heat test:——If
the urine have its usual acid reaction it becomes turbid on boiling when
it contains albumen, and this turbidity persists after the addition of an
acid. There are two points to be remembered on using heat alone as a test
for albumen. First, that albumen is not coagulated by heat when the urine
is alkaline; in such cases, therefore, it is necessary before boiling to
restore the acidity by a few drops of acetic acid (carefully avoiding
excess). Secondly, when the urine is neutral or very feebly acid, it may
become turbid on heating, from precipitation of the earthy phosphates, but
turbidity from this cause is easily distinguished from albumen by a drop
of nitric or acetic acid, which instantly causes the phosphates to
disappear. It may sometimes happen that the patient whose urine is to be
submitted to examination for albumen may be taking large doses of nitric
or hydrochloric acid. Under these circumstances Dr Bence Jones recommends
the addition of ammonia to the urine, nearly to the point of
neutralisation.
Mr Louis Siebold proposes a modification of Dr Roberts’s method of
applying the heat test in acid states of the urine, which is as
follows:——Add solution of ammonia to the urine until just perceptibly
alkaline, filter, and add diluted acetic acid very cautiously until the
urine acquires a faint acid reaction, avoiding the use of a single drop
more than is necessary. Now place equal quantities of this mixture into
two test tubes of equal size, heat one of them to ebullition, and compare
it with the cold sample contained in the other test tube. The least
turbidity is thus distinctly observed, and gives absolute proof of the
presence of albumen, the error of confounding phosphates with albumen
being out of the question, as they are precipitated by the ammonia and
removed by filtration.
M. Galipe[252] says the following is a delicate as well as trustworthy
test for albuminous urine. A few drops of the urine are carefully added to
a solution of picric acid contained in a small conical test glass. If
albumen be present a well-marked turbidity will be produced at the point
of contact between the two liquids. On applying heat the albumen
agglutinates, and rises to the surface. Phosphates and urates are said not
to interfere with this test.
[Footnote 252: ‘Pharm. Zeitung for Russland,’ xiv, 48 (‘Pharm. Journ.’).]
In order to determine the quantity of albumen in urine proceed as
follows:——Add a little acetic acid to the urine, and then heat it in a
water bath until it boils. Or the albuminous urine may be dropped into
boiling water acidulated with acetic acid. In either case collect the
precipitate on a weighed filter, wash it well, dry it, and weigh it. The
albumen must afterwards be incinerated, and the resulting residue, which
consists of earthy salts, must be deducted from the dried precipitate.
Stolnikow[253] adopts the following method for the quantitative estimation
of albumen in urine:——The urine is diluted with water until a sample
poured upon some nitric acid contained in a test tube produces still a
faint white ring at the point of contact after the lapse of forty seconds.
The number of volumes of water added to the volume of urine (which may be
taken as one) is divided by 250, and the quotient will be the percentage
of albumen in the urine. This relation has been established and confirmed
by gravimetric determinations.
[Footnote 253: ‘Chem. Central.’ (‘Pharm. Journ.’).]
It is sometimes desirable to remove the albumen from the urine before
proceeding to search for other substances. There are several methods of
accomplishing this. If the urine be boiled the albumen will become
coagulated, but in many cases it may happen, owing to the urine being
slightly alkaline or neutral, that a small quantity may remain in
solution. Hence it will be advisable to add a little acetic acid to the
urine before applying heat to it, to remove the precipitated matters by
filtration, and to exactly neutralise the acid in the filtrate. If a few
crystals of sulphate of soda be heated with albuminous urine, the albumen
and allied matters may be entirely removed without injury to other organic
matters dissolved, and without interfering with the employment of other
reagents. When it is desirable to free the urine from albumen previous to
testing for sugar, this latter method will be found the best and most
convenient.
The following analyses represent the amount of albumen present in the
urine of two patients suffering from Bright’s disease:
No. 1 (Simon).
Specific gravity 1014·
Water 966·10
Solid constituents 33·90
Urea 4·77
Uric acid 0·40
Fixed salts 8·04
Extractive matters 2·40
Albumen 18·00
No. 2 (Dr Percy).
Specific gravity 1020·
Water 946·82
Solid constituents 53·18
Urea 7·68
Uric acid, and indeterminate }
animal matter } 17·52
Fixed soluble salts 5·20
Earthy phosphates 0·14
Albumen 22·64
Dr Parkes records the case of a patient suffering from albuminuria, who
excreted 545 grains of albumen in twenty-four hours. See URATES.
Urine frequently contains an abnormally large quantity of urea. Such urine
is of high specific gravity——1·030 or more. When present in large excess
the urea becomes deposited in ‘sparkling crystalline lamellæ’ of the
nitrate, if it be mixed with an equal quantity of strong nitric acid in
the cold.
The crystals vary slightly in character, according to the amount of nitric
acid employed and the degree of concentration of the urine. Urine which
thus yields, without previous concentration, the nitrate, is said to
contain an excess of urea. See page 1689.
The quantity of urea present in urine is best determined by a process
invented by Liebig. When a solution of pernitrate of mercury is added to
one of pure urea the urea and mercuric salt unite and form an insoluble
compound, of undetermined constitution. If, however, the chlorides of the
alkalies and alkaline earths are present, this combination does not take
place, owing to the decomposition of the mercuric nitrate, and the
formation of bichloride of mercury, and a nitrate of the alkali or
alkaline earth, both of which are soluble. When, however, the
decomposition of the chloride has been completed, the urea may be entirely
precipitated, provided a sufficient quantity of mercuric nitrate be added
to the solution. In estimating the amount of urea in urine, therefore, it
is only necessary to add to the urine a solution of the mercuric salt of
known strength, since from the quantity of this latter which has been
employed in throwing down the urea, this can easily be calculated.
In performing this analysis, three special solutions are requisite:
1. A solution consisting of one part by measure of a cold saturated
solution of barium nitrate with two parts (also by measure) of saturated
baryta water. This serves for the removal of the phosphates and sulphates,
the presence of which in the urine would interfere with the analysis.
2. The standard solution of mercuric nitrate, which is made as
follows:——772 grains of red oxide of mercury placed in a beaker are
dissolved in a sufficient quantity of nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·20) by a
gentle heat, and evaporated over a water bath until all _excess of free
acid_ is driven off. This may be known by the liquid becoming dense and
syrupy in appearance. It is then poured into a properly graduated vessel
and diluted to 10,000 grain-measures. Of this solution, 10
grain-measures = 0·1 grain of urea.
3. A solution of carbonate of soda in distilled water, 20 grains to the
ounce. This solution is employed to indicate when the titration is
complete, and to show the operator that all the urea has been precipitated
by the mercuric salt.
The operation is thus performed:
(_a._) 400 grain-measures of the clear urine are mixed with 200
grain-measures of the baryta solution, No. 1. The mixture is poured into a
filter, and of the clear filtrate which passes through 150 grain-measures
are carefully measured off, and poured into a small beaker. This quantity
of course contains two thirds, or 100 grain-measures of wine.
(_b._) A graduated burette (each division of which equals a grain-measure
of water) is next filled with the solution (No. 2) of mercuric nitrate,
which is then dropped into the beaker containing the filtered urine, until
the mixture becomes turbid. The quantity of solution that has been
required to just reach the point of turbidity is then noted down; it shows
that all the chloride of sodium has been decomposed, and that the urea is
now beginning to precipitate.
(_c._) The solution (No. 2) is now added more liberally, and thoroughly
mixed with the contents of the beaker by means of a glass rod; a copious
white precipitate is being formed. The operation is completed, when, of
course, no more precipitate is thrown down.
(_d._) This point is ascertained by means of the solution of carbonate of
soda (No. 3), to a few isolated drops of which dotted about a white plate,
or slab, or placed on a watch glass, give, when mixed by means of the
stirring rod with a drop of the turbid mixture from the beaker, a yellow
tinge, owing to the formation of hydrated oxide of mercury.
(_e._) The quantity of solution of mercuric nitrate that it has taken to
produce the above reaction is then noted down, and from this the portion
used before the occurrence of the turbidity is deducted, the remainder, of
course, being the amount required to precipitate the urea. By bearing in
mind the statement already made that 10 grain-measures of the mercurial
solution indicate 0·1 grain of urea, the quantity excreted in 24 hours may
be arrived at by a very easy and obvious calculation.
_Dr Davy’s method of estimating Urea._ This consists in the decomposition
of a known quantity of urine by sodium hypochlorite, the amount of urea
being calculated from the resulting nitrogen. A glass tube, 12 or 14
inches in height, and graduated to tenths and hundredths of a cubic inch,
is filled to more than a third of its length with mercury; a measured
quantity of urine, varying from a quarter of a drachm to a drachm, is next
poured into the tube, which is then filled up with a solution of sodium
hypochlorite (the liquor sodæ chlorinatæ of the Dublin Pharmacopœia). This
latter must be poured in quickly, and the open end of the tube immediately
closed with the thumb. The tube is then shaken to ensure admixture between
the urine and hypochlorite, and stood with the open end downwards in a cup
filled with a saturated solution of common salt; the mercury escapes into
the tube, its place being filled by the solution of salt, which being
heavier than the mixture of urine and hypochlorite, retains them in the
upper part of the tube. The urine becomes soon decomposed, the carbonic
acid, which is one of the products of its decomposition, being absorbed by
the excess of chloride of sodium present, whilst the liberated nitrogen
bubbles up to the top of the tube. When no more evolution of gas takes
place, the volume of nitrogen is read off, and from its amount the
quantity of urea present in the amount of urine experimented upon is
calculated: one-fifth of a grain of urine = 0·3098 parts of a cubic inch of
nitrogen at 60° Fahr. and 30” barometric pressure.
_Haughton’s method of estimating Urea from the specific gravity of the
Urine._ After having measured the urine voided during 24 hours, and
determined the specific gravity of the whole collected amount, and then
consulting the accompanying table, compiled by Professor Haughton, the
number of grains of urea excreted per diem is immediately ascertained.
This quantity will be shown by the figures which stand at the points where
the lines running respectively from the number of fluid ounces and the
‘specific gravity’ intersect each other. Thus, suppose the daily amount of
urine to have been 30 ounces, and the specific gravity 1006, the number of
grains of urea contained in it will be 85. This method is inserted for
urines containing sugar and albumen.
_Determination of the Water._ The amount of water in any sample of urine
may be determined by weighing 1000 grains of the recently excreted urine
into a counterpoised platinum or porcelain dish, and ascertaining the loss
it has undergone after evaporation to dryness. The operation should be
performed as speedily as possible. The best plan is to concentrate the
urine in a water bath, the evaporation should be continued _in vacuo_ over
strong sulphuric acid, until the weight of the residue remains constant.
By way of control, another sample of the same urine, consisting of 500
grains, may be operated upon at the same time, and under the same
conditions.
URINARY DEPOSITS, &c. These differ from the albumen, sugar, bile, &c.,
previously described, in being insoluble in abnormal urine. Sometimes
they are diffused throughout the whole body of the urine, when they give
it an opaque appearance. Sometimes they may be met with floating on its
surface; at others they are only partially diffused through the fluid,
frequently in the form of a transparent or opaque cloud, when they occupy
a considerable space; whilst very often they occur in a crystalline or
granular form, deposited sometimes at the bottom and sometimes at the
sides of the vessel holding the urine.
Of the numberless insoluble substances met with in urine, both in health
and disease, our limits will only permit us to notice those which are most
important, and of frequent occurrence.
For the detection of the generality of these the microscope is
indispensable. An instrument magnifying 200 to 220 diameters (1/4 of inch
objective) will generally be found sufficiently powerful, and in some
instances an inch objective, magnifying 40 diameters (as in the larger
forms of crystalline deposit) will answer all the purposes.
Some of the varieties of these deposits admit of a double examination,
viz. a microscopical and chemical one. When this is the case, the
particulars applying to each kind of investigation will be given.
_Mucus._ Mucus is always present in small quantity in healthy urine, in
which it shows itself within a few hours after the urine has been excreted
in the shape of a transparent cloud towards the bottom of the vessel
containing the urine.
_Pus._ The presence of pus in urine is indicated by an opaque, more or
less bulky, cream-like deposit at the bottom of the vessel holding the
urine, to which some separated pus globules, finding their way to the
supernatant liquid, give an appearance of slight turbidity. By shaking the
vessel the whole of the liquid becomes turbid, owing to the equal
dissemination through it of the pus globules. The pus again deposits on
standing. A small quantity of albumen is always met with in the clear part
of urine which contains pus; the albumen being derived from the _liquor
puris_, the liquid by which the pus-corpuscles are surrounded.
Whenever it can be obtained in sufficient quantity, pus should always be
examined chemically, as follows:——The supernatant urine being decanted,
the suspected sediment is shaken up with liquor potassæ, when if it become
converted into a gelatinous, viscid substance, incapable of being dropped
from the tube, and when poured from it running as a slimy and almost
continuous mass, it may be pronounced pus. This same gelatinous viscid
mass is met with in alkaline urines containing pus, adhering to the sides
of the vessel in which the urine is placed, where it has been formed by
the action of the carbonate of ammonia (caused by the decomposition
of the urea) upon the pus. The reaction upon the pus is the same as that
which takes place when liquor potassæ is employed. The stringy viscid
substance due to the last cause is frequently, but erroneously, termed
_mucus_.
Professor HAUGHTON’S _Table for the Estimation of the
Daily Excretion of Urea from the Specific Gravity_.
-------+-----------------------------------------------------------
Fluid | Specific
Ounces.| Gravity.
+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----
|1003|1004|1005|1006|1007|1008|1009|1010|1011|1012|1013|1014|1015
-------+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----
20| 35| 36| 43 | 57 | 71 | 85 | 100| 103|106 | 119| 130| 136| 142
22| 38| 40| 47 | 62 | 78 | 95 | 110| 113|116 | 130| 149| 142| 156
24| 42| 43| 51 | 68 | 85 |101 | 120| 123|127 | 142| 156| 163| 170
26| 45| 47| 55 | 73 | 92 |110 | 130| 131|137 | 153| 169| 176| 184
28| 48| 50| 59 | 79 | 99 |118 | 140| 144|148 | 165| 182| 190| 198
30| 52| 54| 64 | 85 |106 |127 | 150| 155|159 | 177| 195| 204| 213
32| 55| 57| 68 | 90 |113 |135 | 160| 165|169 | 188| 208| 217| 227
34| 58| 61| 72 | 96 |120 |144 | 170| 175|180 | 200| 221| 231| 241
36| 61| 64| 76 |102 |127 |153 | 180| 185|191 | 212| 234| 244| 255
38| 65| 68| 80 |108 |134 |161 | 190| 195|201 | 224| 247| 258| 269
40| 69| 72| 85 |114 |142 |170 | 200| 206|212 | 236| 260| 272| 284
42| 74| 75| 89 |119 |148 |178 | 210| 216|222 | 247| 273| 285| 298
44| 76| 79| 93 |125 |156 |186 | 220| 226|233 | 259| 286| 299| 312
46| 80| 82| 96 |130 |163 |195 | 230| 236|243 | 271| 299| 312| 326
48| 84| 86|101 |136 |170 |203 | 240| 246|254 | 283| 312| 326| 340
50| 87| 90|106 |142 |178 |212 | 250| 257|265 | 295| 325| 340| 355
52| 90| 94|110 |147 |185 |220 | 260| 267|276 | 307| 338| 353| 369
54| 94| 98|114 |153 |192 |229 | 270| 277|286 | 319| 351| 367| 383
56| 96| 100|119 |159 |199 |238 | 280| 288|297 | 331| 364| 380| 397
58| 100| 104|123 |165 |206 |246 | 290| 298|308 | 343| 377| 394| 411
60| 104| 108|128 |171 |213 |255 | 300| 309|310 | 355| 391| 408| 426
62| 108| 110|132 |176 |220 |263 | 310| 319|329 | 404| 421| 440| 468
64| 110| 114|136 |182 |227 |271 | 320| 329|340 | 378| 417| 435| 454
66| 114| 118|140 |187 |234 |280 | 330| 340|351 | 390| 431| 448| 468
68| 116| 122|144 |193 |240 |288 | 340| 350|361 | 402| 443| 462| 482
70| 120| 126|149 |199 |248 |297 | 350| 361|372 | 414| 456| 476| 497
72| 122| 128|153 |204 |255 |305 | 360| 371|382 | 425| 469| 489| 511
74| 126| 132|157 |210 |262 |314 | 370| 381|393 | 437| 482| 503| 525
76| 130| 136|161 |216 |269 |323 | 380| 391|404 | 449| 595| 516| 539
78| 134| 140|165 |222 |276 |331 | 390| 401|414 | 461| 508| 530| 553
80| 139| 144|170 |228 |284 |340 | 400| 412|445 | 473| 521| 544| 568
——+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----
-------+-----------------------------------------------------------
Fluid | Specific
Ounces.| Gravity.
+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----
|1016|1017|1018|1019|1020|1021|1022|1023|1024|1025|1026|1027|1028
-------+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----
20| 151| 160| 196| 233| 241| 249| 257| 265| 274| 276| 278| 279| 280
22| 166| 176| 215| 257| 265| 274| 282| 292| 301| 303| 305| 306| 308
24| 181| 192| 235| 280| 289| 299| 308| 319| 329| 331| 333| 334| 336
26| 196| 208| 254| 303| 313| 324| 334| 346| 356| 359| 360| 362| 364
28| 221| 224| 274| 326| 337| 349| 360| 372| 383| 386| 388| 390| 392
30| 226| 240| 294| 349| 361| 374| 386| 399| 411| 414| 416| 418| 420
32| 241| 256| 313| 373| 385| 398| 411| 425| 438| 442| 443| 446| 448
34| 256| 272| 333| 396| 409| 423| 437| 451| 466| 469| 471| 474| 476
36| 271| 288| 352| 419| 433| 448| 462| 477| 493| 497| 499| 502| 504
38| 286| 304| 372| 442| 457| 473| 488| 503| 520| 524| 527| 530| 532
40| 302| 320| 392| 465| 484| 498| 514| 530| 548| 552| 555| 558| 560
42| 317| 336| 411| 489| 506| 523| 540| 557| 575| 580| 582| 585| 588
44| 332| 352| 431| 512| 530| 548| 556| 584| 603| 607| 610| 613| 616
46| 347| 368| 450| 535| 554| 573| 592| 611| 630| 635| 638| 641| 644
48| 362| 384| 470| 558| 578| 598| 618| 637| 657| 662| 666| 669| 672
50| 377| 400| 490| 581| 602| 623| 644| 665| 685| 690| 694| 697| 700
52| 393| 416| 509| 605| 626| 648| 669| 692| 711| 718| 721| 724| 728
54| 408| 432| 529| 628| 650| 673| 695| 718| 740| 745| 749| 752| 756
56| 423| 448| 548| 651| 674| 698| 720| 745| 767| 772| 776| 780| 784
58| 438| 464| 568| 674| 698| 723| 746| 772| 794| 800| 804| 808| 812
60| 453| 480| 588| 697| 722| 748| 772| 798| 822| 828| 832| 836| 840
62| 496| 607| 719| 746| 772| 797| 824| 849| 856| 859| 864| 864| 868
64| 483| 512| 627| 742| 770| 797| 823| 851| 877| 883| 887| 862| 896
66| 498| 528| 646| 766| 794| 822| 849| 877| 904| 911| 915| 920| 924
68| 513| 544| 666| 790| 818| 847| 875| 904| 931| 939| 943| 948| 954
70| 528| 560| 686| 814| 843| 872| 901| 930| 959| 966| 971| 976| 980
72| 544| 576| 705| 838| 867| 896| 926| 956| 986| 994| 998|1004|1008
74| 558| 592| 725| 861| 891| 921| 951| 982|1014|1021|1026|1032|1036
76| 573| 608| 745| 884| 915| 946| 977|1008|1041|1049|1054|1060|1064
78| 588| 624| 765| 907| 939| 971|1002|1034|1068|1076|1082|1088|1092
80| 604| 640| 785| 930| 964| 996|1028|1060|1096|1104|1110|1116|1120
——+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----+----
In urines containing pus, the clear portion should always be examined for
albumen, since where this is found, except in small amount, some form of
kidney disease may be suspected.
But it sometimes happens that the pus is present in such small quantity in
the urine as to preclude its chemical examination. Under these
circumstances, recourse must be had to the microscope. Dr Lionel Beale
says, “Pus-globules, which have been long removed from the body, always
have a granulated appearance in the microscope, and, when fresh, do not
always exhibit a well-defined nucleus; the outline is usually distinct and
circular, but it is finely crenated. Upon the addition of acetic acid the
globule increases somewhat in size, becomes spherical, with a smooth,
faint outline, and from one to four nearly circular bodies are developed
in the centre of each. If the pus-corpuscles have lain some days in the
urine they will have undergone complete disintegration.”
_Epithelium._ A great many varieties of epithelium, derived from different
parts of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, vagina, &c., are more or
less present in urine. A few of these are given in the accompanying
engraving. In the various diseases peculiar to the urinary and
genito-urinary organs the quantity of epithelium present in the urine is
frequently considerable, and as in some cases it presents itself in an
imperfect or disintegrated form, its identification, except to the
experienced microscopist and physiologist, becomes a matter of great
difficulty.
_Casts._ Casts or moulds which have been formed in the tubes of the
kidneys, or in the uterus and vagina, are constantly finding their way
into the urine of persons affected with acute or chronic renal diseases
and uterine affections. They are very varied both in character and
appearance, and difficult of recognition, except by the skilled
microscopist and pathologist.
_Blood-corpuscles._ These, when present in quiescent urine, occur as a
sediment at the bottom of the vessel. Some few globules, however, are
diffused throughout the supernatant urine, and impart to it a smoky
appearance, if the fluid have a marked acid reaction; whereas if the
reaction be alkaline the corpuscles assume a bright red colour.
In the accompanying plate the three upper groups represent
blood-corpuscles taken from the human body; the three lower those found in
urine. Of these latter some will be seen to have lost their circular
outline, and to have become jagged or crenated. In some cases, on the
contrary, they swell and become much enlarged. These changes in appearance
take place when the blood has remained for some time in the urine, and
appear to be due to the forces of endosmose and exosmose.
[Illustration: (Beale.)]
_Fungi._ The chief vegetable organisms found in urine are the _sugar
fungus_ and the _Penicillium glaucum_. The sugar fungus is precisely the
same as the yeast plant (the _Torula cerevisiæ_). The _Penicillium_ is
very frequently present in albuminous urine, with an acid reaction, as
well as in diabetic.
_Uric acid._ See back.
_Urates._——According to Bence Jones the soluble urates met with in healthy
urine consist of uric acid, potassium, ammonium, and sodium.
In abnormal urine the urates of ammonium and sodium sometimes occur, the
latter, which are the more general, presenting under the microscope the
appearance shown below.
[Illustration: (Beale.)]
Urate of sodium is, however, much more common in the urine of children
than of adults, when it presents itself in the form of spherical crystals.
In both cases the urates are associated with uric acid (resulting from
their partial decomposition), represented by the small spiked crystals
protruding from the spheres in the form of needle-shaped crystals. Urate
of sodium occurs as the concretions known as ‘chalk stones’ in gout. But
by far the most abundant kind of urates met with in abnormal urine is that
known as _amorphous urates_, which constitute the most common variety of
urinary deposits.
[Illustration: Urate of soda in a globular form commonly found in the
urine of children.]
Heintz states that they are a mixture of urate of sodium with small
quantities of the urates of ammonium, lime, and magnesium. They are very
frequently seen in the urine of persons in excellent health, in which,
owing perhaps to too abundant or nitrogenous diet and an insufficiency of
muscular exercise, being in excess, they are thrown down when the urine
cools.
An excess of the amorphous urates in urine, like the presence of pus and
phosphates, is indicated by the bulky precipitate more or less diffused
throughout the vessel containing the urine. A very easy test will decide
as to which of the three classes of substances (if only one of them be
present) the precipitate belongs. The supernatant fluid being decanted
from the deposit, about an equal bulk of liquor potassæ is added to the
latter, when one of three results will ensue:
1. If it be _pus_, and become viscid, it will exhibit the qualities
already mentioned under the description of that substance.
2. If _phosphates_, no alteration will ensue.
3. If _amorphous urate_, it will at once dissolve.
When amorphous urates are uniformly distributed throughout the urine they
give it a milky appearance, which may sometimes lead to its being mistaken
for _chylous_ urine, or urine throughout which fatty particles of chyle
are diffused. This latter doubt, however, may be easily set at rest by
gently heating it. If the turbidity is owing to the urate it will
disappear; if to chyle it will remain.
If the amorphous urate be decomposed by a little hydrochloric acid, it
will yield uric acid, easily recognised by its characteristic form under
the microscope, or when treated with nitric acid and ammonia, will answer
to the murexed test.
It sometimes happens that in testing an acid urine suspected to contain
albumen, the urine may contain so large an amount of uric acid in solution
that, upon adding a drop of nitric acid to it, a bulky precipitate of uric
acid, exactly resembling albumen, is thrown down, and it may be
erroneously regarded as this substance if examined under the microscope
immediately upon its formation. Upon being allowed, however, to stand some
time, and then placed under the microscope, the well-known crystals of the
acid will reveal themselves.
In such urine no precipitate takes place when the liquid is heated,
another essential feature in which it diverges from albumen.
_Phosphates._——The urinary earthy phosphates occur under two varieties,
viz. the phosphate of ammonia and magnesia, known as the triple phosphate,
and the phosphate of lime.
In the engravings below, the principal crystalline forms of the triple
phosphate are shown.
[Illustration: FIG. 1.——Crystals of triple phosphate with spherules of
urate of soda. (Beale.)]
[Illustration: FIG. 2.——Crystals of triple phosphate with triangular
prisms, with truncated extremities. (Beale.)]
Of these the triangular prismatic, with the truncated extremities, is the
most common. In some cases the prisms are so much reduced in length as to
resemble the octahedral crystals of oxalate of lime, for which they are
sometimes mistaken by the inexperienced. When any doubt exists on this
point it must be set at rest by having recourse to the chemical tests
given further on. The triple phosphate is rarely met with alone, urate of
ammonia, and sometimes uric acid and oxalate of lime, being present,
although generally occurring in neutral or alkaline urine. The triple acid
is sometimes found in that which is acid.
When ammonia is added to fresh urine the triple phosphate is precipitated,
and if it be then examined by the microscope it will be found to consist
of beautiful stellate crystals, and to form a most attractive object. The
presence of phosphoric acid can be demonstrated by the ordinary reagents.
Phosphate of lime dissolves in strong acids without effervescence. The
presence of lime, as well as of phosphoric acid, can easily be verified by
the usual tests.
_Oxalate of lime._ The principal crystalline forms of oxalate of lime,
when it occurs as a urinary deposit, are the octahedral and the dumb-bell.
Of these the most common is the octahedral. These octahedra (which have
one axis much shorter than the other two) vary considerably in size, but
there is reason to believe that the diversity in appearance which they
exhibit is due to crystals of precisely the same shape occupying
different positions as to the direction of their axes, when examined by
the microscope. There are a great many diversities of the dumb-bell form
of oxalate of lime, which seem to be derived from circular and oval
crystals. The subjoined cuts illustrate the varieties of crystalline
oxalates the most generally met with. When the crystals of oxalate are
extremely minute, they are very liable to be overlooked, since they then
appear as almost opaque cubes, and may not unnaturally be taken for urate
of soda, to which they bear no slight resemblance; but from which they
differ by being insoluble in potash or acetic acid, and not dissolving on
the application of heat. We have already alluded to their resemblance to
the dumb-bells of the earthy phosphates. Another distinctive feature is
that the oxalates rarely sink to the bottom of the vessel, but are
diffused through the mucous cloud, which forms in urine after a short
time.
[Illustration: Oxalate of lime. (Beale.)]
[Illustration]
_Cystine._ Cystine is an occasional ingredient in urine, when it occurs as
a whitish precipitate crystallised in hexagonal plates. At other times,
but not so frequently, it is met with dissolved in the urine. It may be
separated from the urine holding it in solution by the addition of an
excess of acetic acid. Under the microscope cystine bears somewhat of a
resemblance to uric acid, from which, however, it differs when under
treatment with ammonia. When ammonia is added to cystine the cystine
dissolves, but by the spontaneous evaporation of the ammonia remains
behind in its original form; whilst, if the ammonia be allowed to escape
under the same circumstance from the urate of ammonia which has been
formed, this remains behind as an amorphous mass. Ammonia, therefore,
dissolves the cystine without entering into chemical union with it. Potash
also readily dissolves cystine, as do also oxalic acid and the strong
mineral acids. It is, however, insoluble in boiling water, in weak
hydrochloric acid, and, as we have seen, in acetic acid.
_Obs._ In the examination of urine it is important that the investigation
should be conducted upon a portion taken from _the whole of the urine
excreted during twenty-four hours_, and not on an isolated quantity voided
at any particular time.
The compiler of the present article has to acknowledge his indebtedness to
Dr Lionel Beale’s very valuable and exhaustive work, ‘Kidney Diseases,
Urinary Deposits, &c.,’ as well as to Dr W. Roberts’s excellent book,
‘Urinary and Renal Diseases,’ to both of which volumes the reader,
desirous of further and more explicit information on the subject, is
referred.
=URINOM′ETER.= An hydrometer adapted to determining the density of urine.
That of Dr Prout is the simplest and best. Urinometers should always be
tested by placing them in distilled water at 60° Fahr. from 1·015 to 1·025
Beale.
=URN POWDER.= Crocus martis, or jeweller’s rouge.
=URTICAR′IA.= See RASH.
=US′QUEBAUGH.= _Syn._ ESCUBAC. Literally, mad water, the Irish name of
which, ‘whisky,’ is a corruption. At the present time it is applied to a
strong cordial spirit, much drunk in Ireland, and made in the greatest
perfection at Drogheda.
_Prep._ 1. Brandy or proof spirit, 3 galls.; dates (without their kernels)
and raisins, of each, bruised, 1/4 lb.; juniper berries, bruised, 1 oz.;
mace and cloves, of each 3/4 oz.; coriander and aniseed, of each 1/2 oz.;
cinnamon, 1/4 oz.; macerate, with frequent agitation, for 14 days, then
filter, and add of capillaire or simple syrup, 1 gall.
2. Pimento and caraways, of each 3 oz.; mace, cloves, and nutmegs, of each
2 oz; aniseed, corianders, and angelica root, of each 8 oz.; raisins,
stoned and bruised, 14 lbs.; proof spirit, 9 galls.; digest as before,
then press, filter, or clarify, and add of simple syrup, q. s. Should it
turn milky, add a little strong spirit, or clarify it with alum, or filter
through magnesia.
_Obs._ Usquebaugh is either coloured yellow with saffron (about 1/4 oz.
per gall.), or green with sap-green (about 1/2 oz. per gall.); either
being added to the other ingredients before maceration in the spirit.
=UVA URSI.= The _Arctostaphylus Uva Ursi_ (the Bearberry) is an indigenous
plant, the leaves of which are employed in medicine. Bearberry leaves
contain a large percentage of tannic acid, with a small quantity of gallic
acid, some resin, and a little volatile oil and extractive, together with
a crystallisable principle named _arbutin_, which is said to be a very
powerful diuretic. Another crystallisable resinous body named _arbutin_
has also been discovered in them. Bearberry leaves either in the form of
powder, infusion, or extract, are chiefly used in chronic diseases of the
bladder, in which there is an abnormal secretion of mucus, such as
_catarrhus vesicæ_, but neither acute nor active inflammation.
=VACCINA′TION.= See COW-POX. (POX.)
=VAC′CINE MATTER.= _Syn._ LYMPHA VACCINIÆ, L. This is collected either
upon the points of lancet-like pieces of ivory, or by opening the pustule,
and applying a small glass ball and tube (like those called by the boys in
London candle-pops, or fire-pops) to the orifice, expelling part of the
air in the ball by bringing a lighted taper near it; then, withdrawing the
taper, the matter is sucked into the ball, in which it may be sealed up
hermetically or cemented, and thus kept for a length of time. It is,
however, now generally preserved between two small pieces of glass, or in
straight capillary glass tubes. It is said that cotton thread is a
convenient and efficient vehicle. The matter may be liquefied with a
little clean water before application. A degree of heat scarcely higher
than that of the blood lessens its efficacy.
=VAC′UUM.= Empty space; a portion of space void of matter. For
experimental and manufacturing purposes, a sufficient vacuum is produced
either by means of the air-pump, or by filling an inclosed space by steam,
which is then condensed by the application of cold. Evaporation proceeds
much more rapidly, and liquids boil at much lower temperatures in an
exhausted receiver than when exposed to the air. Thus, under ordinary
circumstances, in the air, ether boils at 96°, alcohol at 177°, and Water
at 212° Fahr.; but in vacuo water boils at about 88°, alcohol at 56°, and
ether at -20° Fahr. In the best vacuum obtainable by a powerful air-pump,
water placed over oil of vitriol, to absorb the aqueous vapour as it
forms, will often enter into violent ebullition whilst ice is in the act
of formation on its surface. The reduction of the boiling-point with
reduced pressure is practically taken advantage of by the pharmaceutist in
the preparation of extracts, by the sugar refiner in the evaporation of
his syrups, by the distiller in the production of certain liqueurs, and by
the chemist in a variety of processes of interest or utility. See
EXTRACTS, EVAPORATION, REFRIGERATION, &c.
=VALE′′RIAN.= _Syn._ VALERIANÆ RADIX (B. P.), VALERIANÆ RADIX, VALERIANA
(Ph. L. E. & D.), L. “The root of the wild plant _Valeriana officinalis_
(Linn.), or wild valerian.” (Ph. L.) An excitant, antispasmodic, tonic,
and emmenagogue, not only acting on the secretions, but exercising a
specific influence over the cerebro-spinal system, and in large
quantities producing agitation, mental exaltation, and even
intoxication.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 or 40 gr., thrice daily; in hysteria,
epilepsy, headache (affecting only one side), morbid nervous sensibility,
&c. Even the odour of it exerts a species of fascination over cats.
=VALERIAN′IC ACID.= HC_{5}H_{9}O_{2}. _Syn._ VALERIC ACID; ACIDUM
VALERIANICUM, A. VALERICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. A mixture of potato oil or
corn-spirit oil (hydrated oxide of amyl) with about 10 times its weight of
quicklime and hydrate of potassa in equal proportions, placed in a glass
flask, is kept heated to about 400° Fahr., for 10 or 12 hours, by means of
a bath of oil or fusible metal; the nearly white solid residuum is mixed
with water, an excess of sulphuric acid added to the mixture, and the
whole subjected to distillation; the distillate is supersaturated with
potassa, evaporated nearly to dryness, to dissipate any undecomposed
potato oil, and then mixed with weak sulphuric acid in excess; a light
oily liquid (terhydrated valerianic acid) separates, which by cautious
rectification, yields at first water containing a little acid, and
afterwards pure monohydrated valerianic acid, which is perfectly identical
with that prepared from valerian root.
2. (Ph. D.) See VALERIANATE OF SODIUM. This is a most economical process.
_Prop., &c._ A limpid oily liquid, smelling strongly of valerian root; it
has an acid taste and reaction, and leaves a sensation of sweetness and a
white spot on the tongue; is inflammable; boils at 347°; is freely soluble
in alcohol and ether; dissolves in 30 parts of water, and forms salts
called valerianates, most of which have a sweetish taste, are soluble, and
uncrystallisable; sp. gr. ·937; placed in contact with water, it absorbs a
portion of it, and is converted into the terhydrated acid, with increase
of sp. gr., and reduction of the boiling-point.
=VALE′′RIC ACID.= See VALERIANIC ACID.
=VALO′NIA.= The cup of a large species of acorn, imported from the Levant.
Used in tanning leather.
=VANAD′IC ACID.= V_{2}O_{2}. _Syn._ VANADIC ANHYDRIDE, TEROXIDE OF V.;
ACIDUM VANADICUM, L. _Prep._ (Johnston.) From the native vanadate of lead,
by dissolving it in nitric acid, passing sulphuretted hydrogen through the
solution, to throw down lead and arsenic, filtering, and evaporating the
resulting blue liquid to dryness; the residuum is then dissolved in a
solution of ammonia, and a piece of sal ammoniac, considerably larger than
can be dissolved, introduced; as the latter dissolves, a pulverulent
precipitate of vanadate of ammonium is formed, which must be washed, first
in a solution of sal ammoniac, and then in alcohol of ·860; by exposing
this salt, in an open platinum crucible, to a heat a little below redness,
and keeping it constantly stirred, until it acquires a dark red colour,
pure vanadic acid is obtained.
_Prep., &c._ Vanadic acid is orange coloured, scarcely soluble in water,
and forms, with the alkaline bases, soluble salts called vanadates; and
with the other bases sparingly soluble salts. All of these have an orange
or yellow colour. “Vanadate of ammonia mixed with solution of galls forms
a black fluid, which is the best writing ink hitherto known. The quantity
of salt required for this purpose is very small; the writing is perfectly
black, and not obliterated by alkalies, acids, chlorine, or other
reagents,” (Ure.)
=VANA′DIUM.= V. A rare metal discovered by Sefstom, in 1830. in some
Swedish iron extracted from an iron mine near Jönköping. It has since been
found in a Vanadinite lead ore met with in Scotland, Zimpanan in Mexico,
and Chili, and in the iron slag of Staffordshire. Of late years a more
abundant source of Vanadium has been discovered by Professor Roscoe in the
cupriferous stratum of the New Red Sandstone at Alderley Edge in Cheshire.
There are four, and possibly five oxides of this element.
=Vanadic oxychloride.= _Syn._ VANADIC OXYTRICHLORIDE. (VOCl_{3}.) Roscoe
states there are several oxychlorides of vanadium, which, however, have
not been studied. The most interesting of them is the oxytrichloride,
which corresponds to the phosphorous oxychloride. This oxytrichloride is a
yellow fuming liquid, which is instantly decomposed by water into vanadic
and hydrochloric acids. The oxytrichloride may be obtained by heating
vanadic anhydride and charcoal (mixed together) in a current of hydrogen,
after which it is heated in a current of dry chlorine. An easier method is
by passing dry chlorine over the sesquioxide of vanadium.
=Vanadic pentoxide.= _Syn._ VANADIC ANHYDRIDE (V_{2}O_{5}.). At a red hot
heat this oxide fuses, and on cooling, crystallises in rhombic prisms. It
is but little soluble in water; the aqueous solution, which is of a yellow
tint, is strongly acid, and produces a marked reddening effect on litmus.
Vanadic anhydride forms both normal and acid salts. The ammonic vanadiate
(Roscoe’s meta vanadiate) is the chief source of the acid. This salt may
be obtained by adding pieces of sal ammoniac to a crude solution of
potassic vanadiate, the resulting ammonic vanadiate being insoluble in a
saturated solution of sal ammoniac, is deposited in small crystalline
grains. The vanadic anhydride may be obtained from the ammonic vanadiate
by heating an aqueous solution of the salt in the open air, when the
ammonia is driven off, and the vanadic anhydride is left behind. The acid
ammonic vanadiate, mixed with tincture of galls, makes a very durable
writing ink, unacted upon either by alkalies or chlorine. Acids turn such
blue without, however, destroying it.
=Vanadic triox′ide.= (V_{2}O_{2}.), is the _Vanadyl_ of Roscoe, who
obtained it in the form of a grey metallic-looking powder, by the
transmission of a current of dry hydrogen charged with the vapours of
oxychloride of Vanadium, through a tube containing ignited charcoal. It
dissolves in dilute acids, with evolution of hydrogen. Solutions of its
salts are lavender coloured. Berzelius regarded this oxide as a metal.
_Tests._ The vanadiates mostly occur of a red or yellow colour. When
treated with sulphuretted hydrogen, they yield a solution of a fine blue
colour, a reaction that distinguishes them from the chromates, which,
under similar treatment, would give a green liquid. When mixed with borax
and exposed to the reducing flame of the blowpipe, compounds containing
vanadium give a green glass, which turns to yellow in the oxidizing flame.
Professor Roscoe, to whose researches we are indebted for all the chemical
knowledge we possess respecting vanadium, says:——“All the main facts now
established in connection with the chemical department of this element
proved it to bear a strong analogy to the elements phosphorus and arsenic;
in fact, it occupied a previously vacant place in a well-defined group of
triad, or, as some chemists prefer to consider them, pentad elements.
There was a property of vanadium in virtue of which it might ultimately
obtain considerable importance in the arts, though in the present infancy
of the history of the metal it was difficult to foretell this with any
certainty. This property was the power of forming a permanent black for
dyeing purposes. The black produced by the action of vanadium had the
advantage over copper and aniline blacks, viz. that it was permanent,
whereas the latter were liable to turn green. This application of an
element that was first introduced into notice as a chemical curiosity
furnished one more example of the importance of original scientific
investigation. However far a newly discovered substance might seem to be
removed from purposes of practical utility, we never know at what moment
it might be turned to account for the benefit of the human race.”
=VANIL′LA.= _Syn._ VANILLE, Fr. The dried pods of various species of
Vanilla, a genus of the natural order _Orchidaceæ_. It is chiefly used in
the manufacture of chocolate and perfumery. As a medicine it is much
employed on the Continent as an aromatic stimulant and neurotic.——_Dose_,
6 to 12 gr.; in asthenic fevers, hysteria, hypochondriasis, impotency, &c.
Vanilla is reduced to powder (PULVIS VANILLÆ; POUDRE DE VANILLE) by
slicing it, and triturating the fragments with twice or thrice their
weight of well-dried lump sugar. For SUCRE DE VANILLE, 11 parts of sugar
are employed.
The following table given by Messrs Tieman and Harmann, in the _Journal of
the Berlin Chemical Society_, represents the quantities of Vanillin (the
aromatic principle of Vanilla) contained in that substance, as obtained
from different sources:——
Vanillin
per Cent.
Mexican Vanilla (1873, harvest) 1·69
Mexican Vanilla (1874, harvest) 1·86
Mexican Vanilla Medium quality 1·32
Bourbon, best quality (1874-75) 1·91
Bourbon, (1874-75) 1·97
Bourbon, (1874-75) 2·90
Bourbon, Small medium (1874-75) 1·55
Java, best quality (1873) 2·75
Java, best quality (1874) 1·56
=VANILLIN.= A crystallised substance obtained from pine juice by Messrs
Tiemann and Harmann. It has been shown to be identical with the aromatic
principle of Vanilla.
In a paper read before the Royal Society the authors have described the
process by which vanillin was artificially prepared by them. They state
that the sap of the cambium of coniferous trees contains a beautiful
crystalline glucoside coniferine, which was discovered by Kartig, and
examined some years ago by Rubel, who arrived at the formula
C_{24}H_{32}O_{12} + 3 Aq. A minute study of this compound leads us to
represent the molecule of coniferine by the expression, C_{16}H_{22}O_{3}
× 2 Aq., the per centages of which nearly coincide with the theoretical
values of Kubel’s formula.
Submitted to fermentation with emulsine, coniferine splits into sugar, and
a splendid compound, crystallising in prisms, which fuse at 73°. This body
is easily soluble in ether, less so in alcohol, almost insoluble in water;
its composition is represented by the formula C_{10}H_{12}O_{3}. The
change is represented by the equation——
C_{16}H_{22}O_{8} + H_{2}O = C_{6}H_{12}O_{6} + C_{10}H_{12}O_{3}.
Under the influence of oxidising agents, the product of fermentation
undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis. On boiling it with a mixture of
potassium bichromate and sulphuric acid, there passes with the vapour of
water in the first place ethylic aldehyd, and subsequently an acid
compound soluble in water, from which it may be removed by ether. On
evaporating the ethereal solution, crystals in stellar groups are left
behind, which fuse at 81°. These crystals have the taste and odour of
vanilla.
An accurate comparative examination has proved them to be identical with
the crystalline substance which constitutes the aroma of vanilla, and
which is often seen covering the surface of vanilla pods.
On analysis, the crystals we obtained were found to contain
C_{8}H_{8}O_{3}. This is exactly the composition which recent researches
of Carles have established for the aromatic principle of vanilla. The
transformation of the crystalline product of fermentation into vanillin is
represented by the following equation:
C_{10}H_{12}O_{3} + O = C_{2}H_{4}O + C_{8}H_{8}O_{3}.
To remove all doubt regarding the identity of artificial vanillin with the
natural compound, we have transformed the former into a series of salts,
which have the general formula, C_{8}H_{7}MO_{3}, and into two
substitution products, C_{8}H_{7}BrO_{31}, and C_{8}H_{7}TO_{3}, both of
which had previously been prepared by Carles from the natural compound.
=VAN SWIETEN’S SOLUTION.= Contains 1/1000th part of its weight of
corrosive sublimate; or 1/2 gr. per fl. oz.
=VAPOUR.= Vapours are really gases, and amenable to substantially the same
physical laws; as ordinarily understood, however, the difference between a
gas and a vapour is the following:——A gas is a form of matter which
exists, at ordinary temperatures and pressures, in a state of vapour;
whilst a vapour has been formed by the application of heat to a body
usually existing in the solid or liquid form; gases, therefore, differ
from vapours only in being derived from bodies which, in the solid or
liquid form, boil at very much lower temperatures.
=Vapour of Ammonia.= _Syn._ VAPOR AMMONIÆ. (St Th. Hosp.) Solution of
ammonia (·959), water, equal parts. A teaspoonful in a pint of water at
80° F. for each inhalation. In chronic laryngitis and functional aphonia.
=Vapour of Benzoin.= _Syn._ VAPOR BENZOINI. (St Th. Hosp.) Compound
tincture of benzoin, 1 oz. A teaspoonful to 1 pint of water at 140° F. In
acute inflammation of the pharynx and larynx.
=Vapour of Carbolic Acid.= _Syn._ VAPOR ACIDI CARBOLICI. (St Th. Hosp.)
Carbolic acid, 420 gr.; water, 1 dr.; 20 drops of this in 1 pint of water,
at 140° F., for each inhalation. For syphilitic and carcinomatous
ulcerations.
=Vapour of Chlorine.= _Syn._ VAPOR CHLORI. (B. P.) Put chlorinated lime, 2
oz., into a suitable apparatus, moisten it with cold water, and let the
vapour that arises be inhaled.
=Vapour of Conia.= _Syn._ VAPOR CONIÆ. (B. P.) Mix extract of hemlock, 60
gr.; solution of potash, 1 dr.; and distilled water, 9 dr. Put 20 minims
of the mixture on a sponge, in a suitable apparatus, that the vapour of
hot water passed over it may be inhaled.
=Vapour of Creosote.= _Syn._ VAPOR CREOSOTI. (B. P.) Mix creosote, 12
minims, and boiling water, 8 oz., in an apparatus so arranged that air may
be inhaled through the solution.
=Vapour of Hop.= _Syn._ VAPOR LUPULI. (St Th. Hosp.) Oil of hops, 6
minims; light carbonate of magnesia, 10 gr.; water, 1 oz. A teaspoonful in
1 pint of water, at 140° F., for each inhalation. Sedative.
=Vapour of Hydrocyanic Acid.= _Syn._ VAPOR ACIDI HYDROCYANICI. (B. P.) Mix
from 10 to 15 minims of diluted hydrocyanic acid with 1 dr. of cold water
in a suitable apparatus, and let the vapour that arises be inhaled.
=Vapour of Iodine.= _Syn._ VAPOR IODI. Mix tincture of iodine, 1 fl. dr.,
and water, 1 oz., and, having applied a gentle heat, let the vapour that
arises be inhaled.
=Vapour of Lactic Acid.= _Syn._ VAPOR ACIDI LACTICI. (St Th. Hosp.) Lactic
acid, 20 minims; distilled water, 1 oz.; mix. For spray inhalation.
Dissolves the membranous exudation in diphtheria,
=Vapour of Oil of Juniper.= _Syn._ VAPOR OLEI JUNIPERI. (St Th. Hosp.)
English oil of juniper, 20 minims; light carbonate of magnesia, 10 gr.;
water, 1 oz. A teaspoonful to 1 pint of water at 140° F. for each
inhalation. For vocal weakness.
=Vapour of Oil of Mountain Pine.= _Syn._ VAPOR PINI PLUMILIONIS. (St Th.
Hosp.) Oil of mountain pine, 1/2 dr.; light carbonate of magnesia, 15 gr.;
water, 1 oz.; 1 dr. to 1 pint of water at 140° F. for each inhalation. In
chronic laryngitis.
=Vapour of Oil of Myrtle.= _Syn._ VAPOR OLEI MYRTI. (St Th. Hosp.) Oil of
myrtle, 6 minims; light carbonate of magnesia, 6 gr.; water, 1 oz. A
teaspoonful in a pint of water at 140° F. for each inhalation. In acute
tonsillitis.
=Vapour of Nitrite of Amyl.= _Syn._ VAPOR AMYL NITRITIS. (St Th. Hosp.)
Nitrite of amyl, 8 minims; rectified spirit, 1 oz. A teaspoonful in a pint
of water at 100° F. for each inhalation. In asthma and spasm of the
glottis.
=Vapour of Scotch Pine.= _Syn._ VAPOR PINI SYLVESTRIS. Oil of Scotch pine
(fir-wood oil), 40 minims; light carbonate of magnesia, 20 gr.; water, 1
oz.; 1 dr. to 1 pint of water at 140° F. for each inhalation. In chronic
laryngitis.
=Vapour of Sulphurous Acid.= _Syn._ VAPOR ACIDI SULPHUROSI. (St Th. Hosp.)
Sulphurous acid, 15 minims; water, 1 oz. For spray inhalation. Stimulant
and antiseptic.
=Vapour of Thymol.= _Syn._ VAPOR THYMOLIS. Thymol, 6 gr.; rectified
spirit, 1 dr.; light carbonate of magnesia, 3 gr.; water, 1 oz. 1 dr. to 1
pint of water at 140° F. for each inhalation. In pharyngitis and
laryngitis when associated with exanthemata.
=VARICOSE VEINS.= See VARIX.
=VARIX.= The permanent unequal dilation of a vein or veins, which are then
said to be ‘varicose.’ It is known by the presence of a soft tumour, which
does not pulsate, and often assumes a serpentine figure. Varicose veins of
the groin and scrotum generally form a collection of knots. The treatment
consists of cold applications, and pressure from bandages. Some cases are
relieved by ligature. When occurring in the legs, much standing or walking
should be avoided, and the use of the elastic stockings made for the
purpose will be proper.
=VAR′NISH.= _Syn._ VERNIS, Fr. Any liquid matter, which, when applied to
the surface of a solid body, becomes dry, and forms a hard glossy
coating, impervious to air and moisture.
Varnishes are commonly divided into two classes——FAT or OIL VARNISHES and
SPIRIT VARNISHES. The fixed or volatile oils, or mixtures of them, are
used as vehicles or solvents in the former, and concentrated alcohol in
the latter.[254] The sp. gr. of alcohol for the purpose of making
varnishes should not be more than ·8156 (= 67 o. p.), and it should be
preferably chosen of even greater strength. A little camphor is often
dissolved in it, to increase its solvent power. The oil of turpentine,
which is the essential oil chiefly employed for varnishes, should be pure
and colourless. Pale drying linseed oil is the fixed oil generally used;
but poppy oil and nut oil are also occasionally employed. Among the
substances which are dissolved in the above menstrua are——amber, animé,
copal, elemi, lac, mastic, and sandarach, to impart body and lustre;
benzoin, on account of its agreeable odour; annotta, gamboge, saffron,
socotrine aloes, and turmeric, to give a yellow colour; dragon’s blood and
red sandal wood, to give a red tinge; asphaltum, to give a black colour
and body; and caoutchouc to impart toughness and elasticity.
[Footnote 254: Methylated spirit is now generally used for making spirit
varnishes, in place of duty-paid alcohol.]
In the preparation of spirit varnishes care should be taken to prevent the
evaporation of the alcohol as much as possible, and also to preserve the
portion that evaporates. On the large scale, a common still may be
advantageously employed; the head being furnished with a stuffing-box, to
permit of the passage of a vertical rod, connected with a stirrer at one
end and a working handle at the other. The gum and spirit being
introduced, the head of the still closely fitted on and luted, and the
connection made with a proper refrigerator, heat (preferably that of steam
or a water bath) should be applied, and the spirit brought to a gentle
boil, after which it should be partially withdrawn, and agitation
continued until the gum is dissolved. The spirit which has distilled over
should be then added to the varnish, and after thorough admixture the
whole should be run off, as rapidly as possible, through a silk-gauze
sieve, into stone jars, which should be immediately corked down, and set
aside to clarify. On the small scale, spirit varnishes are best made by
maceration in closed bottles or tin cans, either in the cold or by the
heat of a water bath. In order to prevent the agglutination of the resin,
it is often advantageously mixed with clean siliceous sand or pounded
glass, by which the surface is much increased, and the solvent power of
the menstruum greatly promoted.
To ensure the excellence of oil varnishes, one of the most important
points is the use of good drying oil. Linseed oil for this purpose should
be very pale, perfectly limpid or transparent, scarcely odorous, and
mellow and sweet to the taste.——100 galls. of such an oil is put into an
iron or copper boiler, capable of holding fully 150 galls., gradually
heated to a gentle simmer, and kept near that point for about 2 hours, to
expel moisture; the scum is then carefully removed, and 14 lbs. of finely
pulverised scale litharge, 12 lbs. of red lead, and 8 lbs. of powdered
umber (all carefully dried and free from moisture), are gradually
sprinkled in; the whole is then kept well stirred, to prevent the driers
sinking to the bottom, and the boiling is continued at a gentle heat for
about 3 hours longer; the fire is next withdrawn, and, after 30 to 40
hours’ repose, the scum is carefully removed, and the clear supernatant
oil decanted from the ‘bottoms,’——The product forms the best boiled or
drying oil of the varnish maker.——Another method is to heat a hogshead of
the oil gradually for 2 hours, then to gently simmer it for about 3 hours
longer, and, after removing the scum, to add, gradually, 1 lb. of the best
calcined magnesia, observing to mix it up well with the oil, and,
afterwards to continue the boiling pretty briskly for at least an hour,
with constant agitation. The fire is then allowed to die away, and, after
24 hours, the oil is decanted as before. The product is called ‘clarified
oil,’ and requires to be used with driers. It should be allowed to lay in
the cistern for 2 or 3 months to clarify.
In the preparation of oil varnishes, the gum is melted as rapidly as
possible, without discolouring or burning it; and when completely fused,
the oil, also heated to nearly the boiling point, is poured in, after
which the mixture is boiled until it appears perfectly homogeneous and
clear, like oil, when the heat is raised, the driers (if any are to be
used) gradually and cautiously sprinkled in, and the boiling continued,
with constant stirring, for 3 or 4 hours, or until a little, when cooled
on a palette knife, feels strong and stringy between the fingers. The
mixture is next allowed to cool considerably, but while still quite fluid,
the turpentine, previously made moderately hot, is cautiously added, and
the whole thoroughly incorporated. The varnish is then run through a
filter or sieve into stone jars, cans, or other vessels, and set aside to
clarify itself by subsidence. When no driers are used, the mixture of oil
and gum is boiled until it runs perfectly clear, when it is removed from
the fire, and, after it has cooled a little, the turpentine is added as
before.
It is generally conceived that the more perfectly the gum is fused, or
run, as it is called, the larger and stronger will be the product; and the
longer the boiling of the ‘gum’ and oil is continued, within moderation,
the freer the resulting varnish will work and cover. An excess of heat
renders the varnish stringy, and injures its flowing qualities. For pale
varnishes as little heat as possible should be employed throughout the
whole process. Good body varnishes should contain 1-1/2 lb.; carriage,
wainscot, and mahogany varnish, fully 1 lb.; and gold size and black
japan, fully 1/2 lb. of gum per gall., besides the asphaltum in the
latter. Spirit varnishes should contain about 2-1/2 lbs. of gum per gall.
The use of too much driers is found to injure the brilliancy and
transparency of the varnish. Copperas does not combine with varnish, but
only hardens it; sugar of lead, however, dissolves in it to a greater or
less extent. Boiling oil of turpentine combines very readily with melted
copal, and it is an improvement on the common process, to use it either
before or in conjunction with the oil, in the preparation of copal varnish
that it is desired should be very white. Gums of difficult solubility are
rendered more soluble by being exposed, in the state of powder, for some
time to the air.
Varnishes, like wines, improve by age; and should always be kept as long
as possible before use.
From the inflammable nature of the materials of which varnishes are
composed, their manufacture should be only carried on in some detached
building of little value, and built of uninflammable materials. When a pot
of varnish, gum, or turpentine catches fire, it is most readily
extinguished by closely covering it with a piece of stout woollen
carpeting, which should be always kept at hand, ready for the purpose.
An excellent paper, by Mr J. W. Niel, on the manufacture of varnishes,
will be found in the ‘Trans. of the Soc. of Arts,’ vol. xlix. See also the
articles ALCOHOL, AMBER, COPAL, OILS, &c., in this work.
=Varnish, Am′ber.= _Prep._ 1. Take of amber (clear and pale), 6 lbs.; fuse
it, add of hot clarified linseed oil, 2 galls.; boil until it ‘strings
well,’ then let it cool a little, and add of oil of turpentine 4 galls, or
q. s. Nearly as pale as copal varnish; it soon becomes very hard, and is
the most durable of the oil varnishes; but it requires some time before it
is fit for polishing, unless the articles are ‘stoved.’ When required to
dry and harden quicker, drying oil may be substituted for the linseed oil,
or ‘driers’ may be added during the boiling.
2. Amber, 4 oz.; pale boiled oil, 1 quart; proceed as last. Very hard.
3. Pale transparent amber, 5 oz.; clarified linseed oil or pale boiled
oil, and oil of turpentine, of each 1 pint; as before.
_Obs._ Amber varnish is suited for all purposes where a very hard and
durable oil varnish is required. The paler kind is superior to copal
varnish, and is often mixed with the latter to increase its hardness and
durability. The only objection to it is the difficulty of preparing it of
a very pale colour. It may, however, be easily bleached with some
fresh-slaked lime.
=Varnish, Balloon.= See VARNISH, FLEXIBLE (_below_).
=Varnish, Bessemer’s.= This consists of a pale oil copal varnish, diluted
with about 6 times its volume of oil of turpentine, the mixture being
subsequently agitated with about 1-30th part of dry slaked lime, and
decanted after a few days’ repose. Five parts of the product mixed with 4
parts of bronze powder forms ‘Bessemer’s gold paint.’
=Varnish, Black.= _Prep._ 1. (BLACK AMBER VARNISH.) From amber, 1 lb.;
fuse, add, of hot drying oil, 1/2 pint; powdered black resin, 3 oz.;
asphaltum (Naples), 4 oz.; when properly incorporated and considerably
cooled, add of oil of turpentine, 1 pint. This is the beautiful black
varnish of the coachmakers.
2. (IRONWORK BLACK.) From asphaltum, 48 lbs.; fuse, add of boiled oil, 10
galls.; red lead and litharge, of each 7 lbs.; dried and powdered white
copperas, 3 lbs.; boil for 2 hours, then add of dark gum amber (fused), 8
lbs.; hot linseed oil, 2 galls.; boil for 2 hours longer, or until a
little of the mass, when cooled, may be rolled into pills, then withdraw
the heat, and afterwards thin it down with oil of turpentine, 30 galls.
Used for the ironwork of carriages, and other nice purposes.
(3. BLACK JAPAN, BITUMINOUS VARNISH.)——_a._ From Naples asphaltum, 50
lbs.; dark gum animé, 8 lbs.; fuse, add of linseed oil, 12 galls.; boil as
before, then add of dark gum amber, 10 lb., previously fused and boiled
with linseed oil, 2 galls.; next add of driers q. s., and further proceed
as ordered in No. 2. Excellent for either wood or metals.
_b._ From burnt umber, 8 oz.; true asphaltum, 4 oz.; boiled linseed oil, 1
gall.; grind the umber with a little of the oil; add it to the asphaltum,
previously dissolved in a small quantity of the oil by heat; mix, add the
remainder of the oil, boil, cool, and thin with a sufficient quantity of
oil of turpentine. Flexible.
4. (BRUNSWICK BLACK.)——_a._ To asphalt, 2 lbs., fused in an iron pot, add
of hot boiled oil, 1 pint; mix well, remove the pot from the fire, and,
when cooled a little, add of oil of turpentine, 2 quarts. Used to blacken
and polish grates and ironwork. Some makers add driers.
_b._ From black pitch and gas-tar asphaltum, of each 25 lbs.; boil gently
for 5 hours, then add, of linseed oil, 8 galls.; litharge and red lead, of
each 10 lbs.; boil as before, and thin with oil of turpentine, 20 galls.
Inferior to the last, but cheaper.
=Varnish, Body.= _Prep._ 1. From the finest African copal, 8 lbs.; drying
oil, 2 galls.; oil of turpentine, 3-1/2 galls.; proceed as for AMBER
VARNISH. Very hard and durable.
2. Pale gum copal, 8 lbs.; clarified oil, 2 galls.; dried sugar of lead,
1/2 lb.; oil of turpentine, 3-1/2 galls.; proceed as before, and mix the
product, whilst still hot, with the following varnish:——Pale gum animé, 8
lbs.; linseed oil, 2 galls.; dried white copperas, 1/4 lb.; oil of
turpentine, 3-1/2 galls.; the mixed varnishes are to be immediately
strained into the cans or cistern. Dries in about 6 hours in winter, and
in about 4 hours in summer. Used for the bodies of coaches and other
vehicles.
=Varnish, Bookbinder’s.= _Prep._ Take of pale gum sandarach, 3 oz.;
rectified spirit, 1 pint; dissolve by cold digestion and frequent
agitation. Used by binders to varnish morocco leather book-covers. A
similar varnish is also prepared from very pale shell-lac and wood
naphtha.
=Varnish for Boots and Shoes.= See BOOTS and SHOES.
=Varnish, Cabinet-maker’s.= French polish is occasionally so called.
=Varnish, Carriage.= _Prep._ 1. (SPIRIT.) Take of gum sandarach, 1-1/4
lb.; very pale shell-lac, 3/4 lb.; very pale transparent resin, 1/2 lb.;
rectified spirit of ·8221 (64 o. p.), 3 quarts; dissolve, and add of pure
Canadian balsam, 1-1/2 lb. Used for the internal parts of carriages, &c.
Dries in 10 minutes or less.
2. (OIL.)——_a._ (Best pale.) Take of pale African copal, 8 lbs.; fuse, add
of clarified linseed oil, 2-1/2 galls.; boil until very stringy, then add
of dried copperas and litharge, of each 1/4 lb.; again boil, thin with oil
of turpentine, 5-1/2 galls.; mix, whilst both are hot with the following
varnish, and immediately strain the mixture into a covered vessel:——Gum
animé, 8 lbs.; clarified linseed oil, 2-1/2 galls.; dried sugar of lead
and litharge, of each 1/4 lb.; boil as before, thin with oil of
turpentine, 5-1/2 galls. Dries in 4 hours in summer, and 6 in winter. Used
for the wheels, springs, and carriage parts of coaches, and other
vehicles, and by house painters, decorators, &c., who want a strong,
quick-drying, and durable varnish.
_b._ (Second quality.) From gum animé (‘sorts’), 8 lbs.; clarified oil, 3
galls.; litharge, 5 oz.; dried and powdered sugar of lead and white
copperas, of each 4 oz.; boil as last, and thin with oil of turpentine,
5-1/2 galls. Used as the last.
=Varnish, Chinese.= _Prep._ From mastic and sandarach, of each 2 oz.;
rectified spirit (64 o. p.), 1 pint; dissolve. Dries in 6 minutes. Very
tough and brilliant.
=Varnish, Copal.= _Prep._ 1. (OIL.)——_a._ From pale hard copal, 2 lbs.;
fuse, add of hot drying oil, 1 pint; boil as before directed, and thin
with oil of turpentine, 3 pints, or q. s. Dries hard in 12 to 24 hours.
_b._ From clear and pale African copal, 8 lbs.; pale drying oil, 2 galls.;
rectified oil of turpentine, 3 galls.; proceed as before and immediately
strain it into the store can or cistern. Very fine, hard, and durable.
2. (SPIRIT.)——_a._ From coarsely powdered copal and glass, of each 4 oz.;
alcohol of 90% (64 o. p.), 1 pint; camphor, 1/2 oz.; heat the mixture,
with frequent stirring, in a water bath, so that the bubbles may be
counted as they rise until solution is complete, and, when cold, decant
the clear portion.
_b._ From copal (which has been melted, dropped into water, and then dried
and powdered), 4 oz.; gum sandarach, 6 oz.; mastic, 2 oz.; pure Chio
turpentine, 3 oz.; powdered glass, 5 oz.; spirit of 90%, 1 quart; dissolve
by a gentle heat. Dries rapidly.
3. (TURPENTINE.) To oil of turpentine, 1 pint, heated in a water bath, add
in small portions at a time, of powdered copal (prepared as above), 3 to 4
oz.; dissolve, &c., as before. Dries slowly, but is very pale and durable.
4. (JAPANNER’S COPAL VARNISH.) From pale African copal, 7 lbs.; pale
drying oil, 1/2 gall.; oil of turpentine, 3 galls.; proceed as in No. 1.
Dries in 20 to 60 minutes, and may be polished as soon as hard,
particularly if stoved. See JAPANNING.
_Obs._ All copal varnishes, when properly made, are very hard and durable,
though less so than those of amber; but they have the advantage over the
latter of being paler. They are applied on coaches, pictures, polished
metal, wood, and other objects requiring a good durable varnish. Animé is
frequently substituted for copal in the copal varnishes of the shops. See
VARNISHES, BODY, CARRIAGE, and COPAL, &c.
=Varnish, Crystal.= _Prep._ 1. From genuine pale Canada balsam and
rectified oil of turpentine, equal parts. Used for maps, prints, drawings,
and other articles of paper, and also to prepare tracing paper, and to
transfer engravings.
2. Mastic, 3 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint; dissolve. Used to fix pencil
drawings.
=Varnish, Drying.= Spirit copal varnish.
=Varnish, Dutch.= Lac and toy varnishes are often so called.
=Varnish, Etch′ing.= See ETCHING.
=Varnish, Fat.= See OIL VARNISH.
=Varnish, Flexible.= _Syn._ BALLOON VARNISH, CAOUTCHOUC V., INDIA-RUBBER
V. _Prep._ 1. From india rubber (cut small), 1-1/2 oz.; chloroform, ether
(washed), or bisulphuret of carbon, 1 pint; digest in the cold until
solution is complete. Dries as soon as it is laid on. Pure gutta percha
may be substituted for india rubber.
2. India rubber, in shavings, 1 oz.; rectified mineral naphtha or benzol.
1 pint; digest at a gentle heat in a closed vessel, and strain. Dries very
badly, and never gets perfectly hard.
3. India rubber, 1 oz.; drying oil, 1 quart; dissolve by heat. Very tough;
dries in about 48 hours.
4. Linseed oil, 1 gall.; dried white copperas and sugar of lead, of each 3
oz.; litharge, 8 oz.; boil, with constant agitation, until it strings
well, then cool slowly, and decant the clear portion. If too thick, thin
it down with quick-drying linseed oil. The above are used for balloons,
gas bags, &c. See BALLOON, CAOUTCHOUC, &c.
=Varnish, Furniture.= A solution of pure white wax, 1 part, in rectified
oil of turpentine, 4 parts, frequently passes under this name. See
VARNISHES, BODY, CARRIAGE, and COPAL, &c.
=Varnish, Gilder’s.= _Prep._ (Watin.) Pale gum-lac in grains, gamboge,
dragon’s blood, and annotta, of each 12-1/2 oz.; saffron, 3-1/4 oz.;
dissolve each resin separately in 5 pints of alcohol of 90%, and make two
separate tinctures of the dragon’s blood and annotta, with a like quantity
of spirit; then mix the solutions in the proper proportions to produce the
required shade. Used for gilded articles, &c.
=Varnish, Glass.= A solution of soluble glass. Used to render wood, &c.,
fire-proof.
=Varnish, Gun-barrel.= _Prep._ From shell-lac, 1-1/2 oz.; dragon’s blood,
3 dr.; rectified spirit, 1 quart. Applied after the barrels are ‘browned.’
=Varnish, Hair.= _Prep._ From hog’s bristles (chopped small), 1 part;
drying oil, 10 parts; dissolve by heat. Said to be used to give cotton or
linen cloth the appearance of horse-hair.
=Varnish, India-rubber.= VARNISH. See FLEXIBLE (_above_).
=Varnish, Italian.= _Prep._ Boil Scio turpentine until brittle, powder it,
and dissolve this in oil of turpentine. Used for prints, &c.
=Varnish, Japan.= Pale amber or copal varnish. Used for japanning tin,
papier mâché, &c.
=Varnish, Lac.= _Prep._ 1. Pale seed-lac (or shell-lac), 8 oz.; rectified
spirit, 1 quart; dissolve.
2. Substitute lac bleached with chlorine for seed-lac. Both are very
tough, hard, and durable, but quite inflexible. Wood naphtha may be
substituted for spirit. Used for pictures, metal, wood, or leather, and
particularly for toys.
=Varnish, Lac (Aqueous).= _Prep._ From pale shell-lac, 5 oz.; borax, 1
oz.; water, 1 pint; digest at nearly the boiling point until dissolved;
then strain. Equal to the more costly spirit varnish for many purposes; it
is an excellent vehicle for water colours, inks, &c.; when dry, it is
waterproof.
=Varnish, Lac (Coloured).= _Syn._ LACQUER, BRASSWORK VARNISH. _Prep._ 1.
Take of turmeric (ground), 1 lb.; rectified spirit, 2 galls.; macerate for
a week, strain, with expression, and add to the tincture, gamboge, 1-1/2
oz.; pale shell-lac, 3/4 lb.; gum sandarach, 3-1/2 lbs.; when dissolved,
strain, and further add of good turpentine varnish, 1 quart. Gold
coloured.
2. Seed-lac, 3 oz.; turmeric, 1 oz.; dragon’s blood, 1/4 oz.; rectified
spirit, 1 pint; digest for a week, frequently shaking, then decant the
clear portion. Deep gold coloured.
3. Spanish annotta, 3 lbs.; dragon’s blood, 1 lb.; gum sandarach, 3-1/4
lbs.; rectified spirit, 2 galls.; turpentine varnish, 1 quart; as before.
Red coloured.
4. Gamboge, 1 oz.; Cape aloes, 3 oz.; pale shell-lac, 1 lb.; rectified
spirit, 2 galls.; as before. Pale brass coloured.
5. Seed-lac, dragon’s blood, annotta, and gamboge, of each 1/4 lb.; gum
sandarach, 2 oz.; saffron, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 gall. Resembles the
last.
_Obs._ Lacquers are used upon polished metals and wood, to impart to them
the appearance of gold. Articles in brass, tin plate, and pewter, or which
are covered with tinfoil, are more especially so treated. As lacquers are
required of different depths and shades of colour, it is best to keep a
concentrated solution of each of the colouring ingredients ready, so that
it may be added, at any time, to produce any desired tint.
=Varnish, Mahogany.= _Prep._ From gum animé (‘sorts’), 8 lbs.; clarified
oil, 3 galls.; litharge and powdered dried sugar of lead, of each 1/4 lb.;
proceed as for body varnish, and thin with oil of turpentine, 5 galls., or
q. s.
=Varnish, Mastic.= _Syn._ PICTURE VARNISH, TURPENTINE V., TINGRY’S ESSENCE
V. _Prep._ 1. Take of pale and picked gum mastic, 5 lbs.; glass (pounded
as small as barley, and well Washed and dried), 3 lbs.; finest newly
rectified oil of turpentine (lukewarm), 2 galls.; put them into a clean
4-gall. tin bottle or can, bung down securely, and keep rolling it
backwards and forwards pretty smartly on a counter, or any other solid
place, for at least 4 hours, when, if the gum is all dissolved, the
varnish may be decanted, strained through muslin into another bottle, and
allowed to settle; if the solution is still incomplete, the agitation must
be continued for some time longer, or the gentle warmth applied as well.
Very fine.
2. (Second quality.) From mastic, 4 lbs.; oil of turpentine, 2 galls.;
dissolve with heat.
_Obs._ Mastic varnish is much used for pictures, &c.; when good, it is
tough, hard, brilliant, and colourless. It greatly improves by age, and,
when possible, should never be used before it has been made at least a
twelve-month. Should it get ‘chilled,’ 1 lb. of well-washed siliceous sand
should be made moderately hot and added to each gallon, which must then be
well agitated for 5 minutes, and afterwards allowed to settle.
=Varnish, Oak.= _Syn._ WAINSCOT VARNISH, COMMON TURPENTINE V. _Prep._ 1.
Clear pale resin, 3-1/2 lbs.; oil of turpentine, 1 gall.; dissolve.
2. To the last add of Canada balsam, 1 pint, Both are cheap and excellent
common varnishes for wood or metal.
=Varnish, Oil.= The finer qualities are noticed under AMBER, BODY,
CARRIAGE, and COPAL VARNISH; the following produces the ordinary oil
varnish of the shops:——Take of good clear resin, 3 lbs.; drying oil, 1/2
gall.; melt, and thin with oil of turpentine, 2 quarts. A good and durable
varnish for common work.
=Varnish, Painter’s.= See CARRIAGE, COPAL, MAHOGANY, OAK, OIL, and other
varnishes; the selection depending greatly on the colour and quality of
the work.
=Varnish, Patent Leather.= This is carefully prepared drying oil. The
skins being stretched on a board, and every trace of grease being removed
from them by means of a mixture of fullers earth and water, they are ready
to receive the varnish, which is then spread upon them, very thinly, by
means of a species of scraper. The first coat varnish consists of pale
Prussian blue (that containing some alumina), 5 oz.; drying oil, 1 gall.;
boiled to the consistence of single size, and, when cold, ground with a
little vegetable black; it is stoved and afterwards polished with
fine-grained pumice——the second coating resembles the first, excepting in
having a little pure Prussian blue mixed with it;——the third coat varnish
consists of a similar mixture, but the oil is boiled until it strings
well, and a little more pure Prussian blue and vegetable black are
added;——the last coat varnish, or finish, is the same as the third, but
must contain 1/2 lb. of pure dark-coloured Prussian blue, and 1/4 lb. of
pure vegetable black per gall., to which a little oil copal or amber
varnish is often added; each coat being duly stoved and pumiced before the
next is applied. The heat of the stove or oven is commonly 120° Fahr. for
‘enamelled skins,’ as those of the calf and seal, intended for ‘uppers,’
and 175° to 180° for stout ‘japan leather,’ the exposure in the stove is
commonly for 6 to 10 hours. The skins are next oiled and grained. The
‘graining’ of the ‘enamelled skins’ is done by holding the skin in one
hand, and with a curved board lined with cork (graining stick), lightly
pressed upon the fleshy side, working it up and down until the proper
effect is produced.
=Varnish, Picture.= Several varnishes, especially mastic varnish, are
called by this name. Pale copal or mastic varnish is generally used for
oil paintings, and crystal, white hard spirit, or mastic varnish, for
water-coloured drawings on paper.
=Varnish, Printer’s.= Diluted with twice its volume of oil of turpentine,
it forms a good common varnish.
=Varnish, Sealing-wax.= Black, red, or any coloured sealing-wax, broken
small, with enough rectified spirit (or methylated spirit) to cover it,
digested till dissolved. A most useful varnish for wood-work of electrical
or chemical apparatus, for tops of corks, &c.
=Varnish, Spirit.= _Prep._ 1. (BROWN HARD.)——_a._ From gum sandarach, 3
lbs.; pale seed-lac or shell-lac, 2 lbs.; rectified spirit (65 o. p.), 2
galls.; dissolve, and add of turpentine varnish, 1 quart; agitate well,
strain (quickly) through gauze, and in a month decant the clear portion
from the sediment. Very fine.
_b._ From seed-lac and yellow resin, of each 1-1/2 lb.; rectified spirit,
5 quarts; oil of turpentine, 1-1/4 pint; dissolve. Inferior to the last.
2. (WHITE HARD.)——_a._ From gum sandarach (picked), 5 lbs.; camphor, 2
oz.; washed and dried coarsely pounded glass, 3 lbs.; rectified spirit (65
o. p.), 7 quarts; proceed as in making mastic varnish; when strained, add
of pure Canada balsam, 1 quart. Very pale, durable, and brilliant.
_b._ From gum sandarach and gum mastic, of each, picked, 4 oz.; coarsely
powdered glass, 8 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; dissolve, and add of
pure Strasburg turpentine, 3 oz. Very fine.
3. (SOFT BRILLIANT.) From sandarach, 6 oz.; elemi (genuine), 4 oz.; animé,
1 oz.; camphor, 1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; as before.
4. (SCENTED.) To the preceding add some gum benzoin, balsam of Peru,
balsam of Tola, oil of lavender, or the essence of musk or ambergris. The
first two can only be employed for dark varnishes.
_Obs._ The above varnishes are chiefly applied to articles of the
toilette, as work-boxes, card-cases, &c.; but are also suitable to other
articles, whether of paper, wood, linen, or metal, that require a
brilliant and quick-drying varnish. They dry almost as soon as applied,
and are usually hard enough to polish in 24 hours. They are, however, much
less durable, and more liable to crack, than oil varnishes.
=Varnish, Stopping-out.= _Syn._ PETIT VERNIS, Fr. From lampblack, made
into a paste with turpentine. Used by engravers. See ETCHING.
=Varnish, Tingry’s.= MASTIC VARNISH.
=Varnish, Toy.= Similar to common spirit varnish, but using carefully
rectified wood naphtha as the solvent. See VARNISHES, LAC and SPIRIT.
=Varnish, Transfer.= _Syn._ MORDANT VARNISH. _Prep._ From mastic (in
tears) and sandarach, of each 4 oz.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 pint;
dissolve, and add of pure Canada balsam, 1/2 pint. Used for transferring
and fixing engravings or lithographs on wood, and for gilding, silvering,
&c. See VARNISH, CRYSTAL.
=Varnish, Turpentine.= See VARNISHES, MASTIC, and OAK.
=Varnish, Wainscot.= See VARNISH, OAK.
=Varnish, Wax.= _Syn._ MILK OF WAX; EMULSIO CERÆ SPIRITUOSA, L. _Prep._ 1.
Take of white wax (pure), 1 lb.; melt it with as gentle a heat as
possible, add of warm rectified spirit, sp. gr. ·830 (60 o. p.), 1 pint;
mix perfectly, and pour the liquid out upon a cold porphyry slab; next
grind it with a muller to a perfectly smooth paste, adding more spirit as
required; put the paste into a marble mortar, make an emulsion with water,
3-1/2 pints, gradually added, and strain it through muslin. Used as a
varnish for paintings; when dry, a hot iron is passed over it, or heat is
otherwise evenly applied, so as to fuse it, and render it transparent,
after which, when quite cold, it is polished with a clean linen cloth.
The most protective of all varnishes.
2. Wax (pure), 5 oz.; oil of turpentine, 1 quart; dissolve. Used for
furniture. See VARNISH, SEALING-WAX.
=Varnish, White.= See VARNISH, SPIRIT, 2, _a_ and _b_.
=VAR′NISHING.= To give the highest degree of lustre to varnish after it is
laid on, as well as to remove the marks of the brush, it undergoes the
operation of polishing. This is performed by first rubbing it with very
finely powdered pumice stone and water, and afterwards with an oiled rag
and tripoli, until the required polish is produced. The surface is, last
of all, cleaned with soft linen cloths, cleared of all greasiness with
powdered starch, and then rubbed bright with the palm of the hand.
In varnishing great care must be taken that the surface is free from
grease or smoke; as, unless this be the case, the best oil or turpentine
varnish in the world will not dry and harden. Old articles are usually
washed with soap and water, by the painters, before being varnished, to
prevent any misadventure of the kind alluded to.
=VASELINE.= See COSMOLINE.
=VEAL.= “The grain should be close, firm, and white, and the fat of a
pinkish white, not a dead white, and the kidneys well covered with a thick
white fat.” (Soyer.)
Veal, like pork, requires to be well dressed, to develop its nutritive
qualities. It should also be eaten fresh, as a peculiar principle is
generated in it when improperly kept, which acts as a malignant poison.
See ROASTING, &c.
=VEG′ETABLE AL′KALI†.= Potassa.
=VEGETABLE JUICES.= See _below_.
=VEGETABLES.= Vegetables are organic beings, which are distinguished from
animals by a number of characteristics, but, like them, are composed of
certain proximate principles, or compounds, which possess a high degree of
scientific interest, and in many cases are invaluable to man. Among the
most important of these are——albumen, gluten, gum, lignin, starch, sugar,
tannin, wax, the fixed and volatile oils, the resins, and gum-resins, the
alkaloids, and innumerable forms of extractive matter. Several of these
substances are noticed under their respective names.
The method of propagating plants from their seeds, depending on their
simple exposure, at the proper season, to warmth and moisture, under the
protection of the soil, is well known; that by propagation from ‘slips’
and ‘cuttings,’ which will doubtless prove interesting to the amateur
gardener, are noticed below.
The choice of slips and cuttings should be made from the side shoots of
trees and plants, and, when possible, from such as recline towards the
grounds, observing, when they are removed by the knife, to leave a little
wood of a former year or season’s growth attached to them, as such are
found to take root more readily than when they are wholly composed of new
wood. The time to take slips or cuttings is as soon as the sap gets into
full motion. Before setting them the latter should be cut across, just
below an eye or joint, with as smooth a section as possible, observing not
to injure the bud. The superfluous leaves may be removed, but a sufficient
number should be left on for the purposes of vegetation. The common
practice of removing all or nearly all the leaves of cuttings is
injudicious. In some cases leaves alone will strike root. When cuttings
are set in pots, they should be so placed as to reach to the bottom and
touch the sides throughout their whole length, when they will seldom fail
to become rooted plants. In the case of tubular-stalked plants it is said
to be advantageous to insert both ends into the soil, each of which will
take root, and may then be divided, when two plants will be produced
instead of one. An equable temperature, a moist atmosphere, a shady
situation, and a moderate supply of water, are the principal requisites to
induce speedy rooting. Excess of any of these is prejudicial. When the
size of the cuttings admit, it is better to place them under a hand- or
bell-glass, which will preserve a constant degree of heat, and prevent
evaporation from the surface of the leaves, which is the most common cause
of their dying, especially in hot, dry weather.
_Qual._ The vegetable kingdom furnishes by far the larger portion of the
food of man, and indirectly, perhaps, the whole of it. The great value of
culinary vegetables and fruit in a mixed diet need not be insisted on,
since it is a fact which is almost universally known and appreciated.
In the choice of culinary vegetables observe, that if they are stiff and
break freely and crisply, they are fresh, and fit for food; if, on the
contrary, they have a flabby appearance, or are soft or discoloured, they
are stale, and should be rejected.
The dose of the generality of vegetable substances that exercise no very
marked action on the human frame is about 1/2 to 1 dr. of the powder,
night and morning; or 1 oz., or q. s. to impart a moderately strong colour
or taste, may be infused or boiled in 1 pint of water, and a wine-glassful
or thereabouts taken 2 or 3 times a day.
_Collection and Pres._ The following general directions are given in the
London Pharmacopœia for the collection and preservation of vegetable
substances——(vegetabilia, Ph. L.):——
“Vegetables are to be collected in dry weather, and when neither wet with
rain nor dew; they are to be collected annually, and are not to be kept
beyond a year.
“Barks are to be collected at that season in which they can be most easily
separated from the wood.” Spring is the season here alluded to; as at this
time, after the sap begins to ascend, the bark is, in general, very
easily separated.
“Flowers are to be collected recently blown.” The red rose, however, must
be gathered before the buds are expanded.
“Fruits and seeds are to be collected when ripe.
“Herbs and leaves are to be gathered after the flowers have expanded, and
before the seeds are mature.
“Roots and rhizomes (underground stems), for the most part, are to be dug
up after the old leaves and stalks have fallen, and before the new ones
appear.” (“Roots, which are required to be preserved fresh, should be
buried in dry sand.”——Ph. L. 1836.)
“Seeds are to be collected when they are ripe, and before they drop from
the plant.” (“They ought to be preserved in their seed vessels.”——Ph. L.
1836.)
“The different parts of vegetables are to be kept dried for use, except
where we shall otherwise direct. Expose those you wish to dry, within a
short time after they have been gathered, in shallow wicker baskets, to a
gentle heat, in a dark place, and where there is a current of air. Then,
the moisture being driven off, gradually increase the heat to 150° Fahr.,
in order that they may be dried. Finally, preserve the more delicate
parts, viz. flowers and leaves, in black glass vessels, well closed, and
keep the rest in proper vessels, preventing the access of light and
moisture.”
Fruits, culinary vegetables, and vegetable juice, of every class, may be
preserved for any length of time by several of the methods described under
PUTREFACTION. On the small scale the following method is often
adopted:——The substances to be preserved are put into strong glass or
stoneware bottles, with necks of a proper size, which are then corked with
the greatest care, tied or wired, and lined with a mixture of lime and
soft cheese, or with a paste formed of linseed meal and water, spread on
rags; or tin cases are employed, and are soldered up instead of being
corked. The bottles are then placed in an oven, the temperature of which
is cautiously raised to fully 212° Fahr.; or they are enclosed,
separately, in canvas bags, and put into a copper of water to which some
salt has been added, which is then gradually heated until it boils, and
thus kept for 15 or 20 minutes; the whole is next left to cool, when the
bottles are taken out and carefully examined before being laid by, lest
they should have cracked or the lute have given way.
Herbs and flowers are now generally preserved for distillation by means of
common salt. The objection which is raised against the use of fresh
aromatic plants is thus obviated, whilst the odours of the distilled
products are rendered superior to those obtained from either the recent or
dried plant, fruit, or flower, without the great loss, inconvenience, or
trouble attending the common methods. Besides, many aromatic and odorous
substances almost entirely lose their properties by drying; while most of
them yield more oil, and that of a finer quality, in the fresh than in the
dried state. The odours of roses, elder flowers, and a variety of others
are vastly improved by this treatment, and these flowers may thus be
preserved with ease and safety from season to season, or even longer, if
required. The process simply consists in intimately mixing the flowers or
other vegetables, soon after being gathered, with about 1/4 their weight,
or less, of good dry salt, and ramming down the mixture as tightly as
possible in strong casks. The casks are then placed in a cold cellar, and
covered with boards, on which heavy weights are put, to keep the mass
tight and close. See FRUITS, PUTREFACTION, &c.
=Vegetables, Juices of.= 1. (EXPRESSED VEGETABLE JUICE, SIMPLE V. J.;
SUCCI EXPRESSI, L.) These are obtained by bruising the fresh leaves, or
other vegetable matter, in a marble mortar, or in a mill, and expressing
the liquid portion by means of a powerful screw press. After defecation
for 12 or 14 hours in a cold situation, the juice is either decanted or
filtered from the feculous sediment, and is next heated for some minutes
to about 185° Fahr., to coagulate albuminous matter. The clear portion is
subsequently separated as before, and the product preserved for use in
well-closed and well-filled bottles, in a cool situation. Some plants, as
borage, cabbage, &c., require the addition of 1/8 of water before being
pressed. The expression of the juice of lemons, oranges, quinces, &c., is
facilitated by previously mixing the pulp with clean chopped straw.
Buckthorn berries, mulberries, &c., after being crushed between the hands,
are commonly left for 3 or 4 days to undergo a slight fermentation before
pressing them.
The expression of the juices of the narcotic plants, and of some other
vegetables, has lately assumed considerable interest, from these juices
being now extensively used in pharmacy for the preparation of extracts and
the preserved juices, noticed below. It appears that the juice of young
plants just coming into flower yield only 2/3 the amount of extract which
may be obtained from the same quantity of juice expressed from the matured
plant, or when the flowers are fully blown, and the strength of the
product is also inferior; the case appears to be best met by selecting the
plants when more than half the flowers are fully blown. The leaves alone
should be preferably employed, and should be exclusively of the second
year’s growth, when the plants are biennials. (Squire.) The homœopathists
commonly employ the whole flowering herb.
The INSPISSATED VEGETABLE JUICES (SUCCUS SPISSATIS) are now included among
the extracts.
The principal simple vegetable juices of commerce are——
BUCKTHORN JUICE (SUCCUS RHAMNI——Ph. L.), from the fruit of _Rhamnus
catharticus_, or buckthorn berries.
CITRON JUICE (SUCCUS CITRI), chiefly imported from Italy in large casks.
LEMON JUICE (SUCCUS LIMONUM), Ph. L. from lemons that spoil before they
can be sold; also imported.
MULBERRY JUICE (SUCCUS MORI——Ph. L.), from the fruit of the mulberry.
ORANGE JUICE (SUCCUS AURANTII), obtained from the same source as that of
lemons.
CONCENTRATED ORANGE JUICE (SUCCUS SPISSATIS AURANTII vel AURANTIORUM) and
CONCENTRATED LEMON JUICE (SUCCUS SPISSATUS LIMONUM) are prepared by
evaporating the fresh juices of oranges and lemons, either alone or mixed
with sugar, and are employed as substitutes for the fruit, where the
latter cannot be obtained.
2. (ALCOHOLISED VEGETABLE JUICES, PRESERVED V. J.; TINCTURES OF RECENT
PLANTS; SUCCI ALCOHOLATI, L.; ALCOOLATURES, Fr.) _Prep._ _a._ The juice,
obtained by powerful pressure, in the manner noticed above, is allowed to
remain for 24 hours in a cold place, when the clear portion is decanted
from the feculous matter which has subsided, and is then agitated with one
half its volume of rectified spirit (56 o. p.); after another 24 hours the
clear portion is again decanted and, if necessary, filtered through
bibulous paper or linen. In this way are now generally prepared the
preserved juices of aconite, belladonna, colchicum (corms), hemlock,
henbane, foxglove, elaterium, lactuca virosa, taraxacum, &c., sold in this
country.
_b._ (P. Cod.) To the fresh leaves, bruised in a marble mortar, is added
an equal weight of rectified spirit, and after maceration for 15 days the
whole is pressed, and the resulting tincture filtered. In this manner are
prepared tinctures of the fresh leaves of aconite (tinctura aconiti cum
foliis recentibus), belladonna, foxglove, hemlock, henbane, strong-scented
lettuce (_Lactuca virosa_), stramonium, trailing poison oak (_Rhus
toxicodendron_), mugwort (_Artemisia vulgaris_), colchicum (corms),
squirting cucumber, white poppy, taraxacum, &c., of the Paris Codex.
_Obs._ These tinctures are much more powerful, and more certain in their
operation, than those prepared from the dried plants. The commencing dose
is from 2 to 5 drops, the effects of which should be carefully watched.
The products of the first of the above formulæ keep as well as the
ordinary tinctures, and there is less waste of spirit than with the
second. That of the P. Cod. is, however, preferred by M. Soubeiran, as
affording more uniform products; an opinion which is questionable. Béral
orders equal weights of juice and spirit; Mr Squire recommends 1/2 part;
Messrs Bentley & Davenport 1/4 part (both by volume), and Mr Gieseke only
1/5 part (by weight), of spirit to 1 part of the expressed juice. The
homœopathists generally go with M. Béral. “Our own experience, which has
been very considerable, and extends over upwards of 16 years, leads us to
prefer the proportions given in formula _a_, which are similar to those of
Mr Squire. If less spirit be employed, the product is apt to suffer rapid
deterioration when kept in a warm shop or surgery.” (Cooley.)
3. (ETHERIZED VEGETABLE JUICES; SUCCI ÆTHERIZATI,——L.; ETHÉROLATURES, SUCS
ÉTHÉRES, Fr.) For these we are indebted to M. Bouchardat. They are
prepared as follows: Ether is gradually added to the depurated freshly
expressed juice, until, after active agitation, a thin layer of it rises
to the surface on the mixture being allowed to repose for a minute or two;
the whole is then set aside for 24 hours, when the supernatant ether is
expertly removed by means of a pipette or syringe, and the juice is
filtered; lastly, the decanted ether is returned to the filtrate, and the
etherised juice is at once put into well-stoppered bottles. For use, one
of the bottles is reversed, and the dose taken from the lower part, so
that the ether remains behind. We find, in practice, that decantation,
carefully conducted, may be substituted for filtration; thus not only
rendering the process less costly, but ensuring a more uniform product.
The etherised juices are said to retain their active properties for an
indefinite period. The method has been successfully applied to the juices
of aconite, anemone, black hellebore, and hemlock, and is probably
applicable to many others; but, we think, not to the juices of all the
narcotic plants, as has been asserted.
=Vegetable Fibres.= The following method for the identification of
vegetable fibres is intended to supplement the information previously
given on this subject. Its originator, M. Vetillard, applies it for
distinguishing the fibres of linen, hemp, cotton, jute, China grass, and
New Zealand flax. The following extract descriptive of the process is from
the ‘Journal of Applied Chemistry’:——
“If a woven or spun fibre is to be examined it must first be disintegrated
into the single fibres, and any colour or finish must be removed as
completely as possible. Vertical and longitudinal microscopic sections are
next made. These are rendered transparent by glycerin or chloride of
calcium, and treated with tincture of iodine, made by simply dissolving
iodine in a solution of iodide of potassium. The excess of this tincture
is removed, a drop of dilute sulphuric acid added, and the sections
examined by the aid of the microscope.
_Linen Fibre._——Bundles of similar fibres, with a fine canal in the
centre, long, uniformly thick, and pointed at the ends. Longitudinal
section; the fibres are coloured blue, the canal yellow. Cross section:
regular polygons, loosely connected, coloured blue; centres yellow.
_Hemp._——Fibres aggravated; each fibre covered with a thin skin; coloured
yellow. They are thick and less uniform than the linen fibres. The ends
are thick and of the shape of spatulas, and become blue or greenish blue
with iodine. Cross section: irregular polygons, firmly connected; rim
yellow, the mass blue, the centre colourless.
_Cotton._——Longitudinal section: single fibres, spirally wound on their
own axis, with a central canal and broad ends; coloured blue by iodine.
The cross sections are rounded in the shape of kidneys, and coloured blue,
with yellow spots interspersed.
_China Grass._——Longitudinal section: fibres separated lengthwise, of
varying thickness. The interior canal is often filled with a yellow
granular substance, which is coloured brown by iodine. The fibre is turned
blue by iodine. Cross section: irregular, with re-entrant angles, and
little cohesion. The fibres are stouter than all other fibres, and are
turned blue by iodine.
_Jute._——Fibres strongly coherent, the ends undulating and difficult to
separate. Central canal wide, empty, and gently rounded at the ends;
coloured yellow. Cross section: polygons strongly coherent and regular,
much like those of hemp, but the central opening is larger; coloured
yellow, darker at the rim.
_New Zealand Flax._——Bundles of cells of the leaves, easily separated with
a needle into stiff little fibres, provided with a canal of uniform width.
The sides are rolled inwards, coloured yellow. The cross section resembles
that of jute, but the corners of the polygons are rounded off. They are
coloured yellow by iodine tincture.
=VEGETA′TION.= Vegetation (which is here employed in the sense of plants
in general) is very unequally distributed over the earth’s surface. Thus,
towards the poles plants are found, not only in diminished numbers
compared to their occurrence in warmer and more temperate regions, but
also of much smaller size or stunted growth. No plants at all are met in
the regions of eternal frost and snow, whilst in equatorial climes they
attain to the most gigantic proportions, and are possessed of the most
exquisite colours and perfumes, and yield the finest fruits. The habitat
of a plant will, of course, be that on which it finds the conditions
favorable to its existence and growth, in the shape of soil, climate,
moisture, geographical position, &c.
=VEGETATION (Metallic).= This name has been fancifully applied to the
following:——
LEAD TREE; ARBOR SATURNI. Take of sugar of lead, 1 oz.; distilled water,
1-1/2 pint; acetic acid, a few drops; dissolve, place the liquid in a
clear white glass bottle, and suspend a piece of zinc in it, by means of a
fine thread.
SILVER TREE; ARBOR DIANÆ. From nitrate of silver, 20 gr.; water, 1 fl.
oz.; dissolve in a phial, and add about 1/2 dr. of pure mercury.
TIN TREE; ARBOR JOVIS. From chloride of tin, 3 dr.; nitric acid, 10 to 15
drops; distilled or rain water, 1 pint; dissolve in a white glass bottle,
and hang in it, by a thread, a small rod of zinc.
_Obs._ In the above experiments the metals are precipitated in a very
beautiful arborescent form. It is curious to observe the laminæ shoot out,
as it were, from nothing, assuming forms resembling real vegetation. This
phenomenon results from voltaic action being set up between the liquid and
the metal.
=VEGETO-AL′KALI.= See ALKALOID.
=VEL′LUM.= A fine kind of parchment prepared from the skins of calves,
kids, and lambs. The skins are limed, shaved, washed, and stretched in
hoops or other frames, where they are scraped and trimmed with the
currier’s fleshing-knife, and next carefully rubbed down with pumice
stone; they are, lastly, polished with finely powdered chalk or
fresh-slaked lime, and then dried. A green colour is given with a solution
of crystallised verdigris, to which a little cream of tartar and nitric
acid has been added; and a blue colour, with a solution of indigo. The
surface is often finished off with white of egg, and subsequent friction.
The skins of sheep are commonly used for parchment; those of he-goats and
wolves for drum-heads; and those of the ass for battledores. The species
of vellum used for church services by binders is said to be prepared from
pig-skins. See POUNCE.
=VEL′VET COLOURS.= _Syn._ MAP STAINS, PAPER S.; LACCA FLUIDA, L. _Prep._
1. (BLUE.)——_a._ Dissolve litmus in water, and add 1/3 of spirit of
wine.——_b._ Dilute Saxon blue or sulphate of indigo with water. If
required for delicate work, neutralise the acid with chalk.——_c._ To an
aqueous infusion of litmus add a few drops of vinegar, until it turns of a
full blue.
2. (GREEN.)——_a._ Dissolve crystallised verdigris in water.——_b._ Dissolve
sap green in water, and add a little alum.——_c._ Add a little salt of
tartar to a blue or purple solution of litmus, until it turns green.——_d._
Dissolve equal parts of crystallised verdigris and cream of tartar in
water.
3. (PURPLE.)——_a._ Steep litmus in water, and strain the solution.——_b._
Add a little alum to a strained decoction of logwood.——_c._ Add a solution
of carmine (red) to a little blue solution of litmus or Saxon blue.
4. (RED.)——_a._ Macerate ground Brazil wood in vinegar, boil a few
minutes, strain, and add a little alum and gum.——_b._ Add vinegar to an
infusion of litmus until it turns red.——_c._ Boil or infuse powdered
cochineal in water containing a little ammonia or sal volatile.——_d._
Dissolve carmine in liquor of ammonia, or in weak carbonate of potash
water; the former is superb.
5. (YELLOW.)——_a._ Dissolve gamboge in water, and add a little alum.——_b._
Dissolve gamboge in equal parts of proof spirit and water. Golden
coloured.——_c._ Steep French berries in boiling water, strain, and add a
little alum.——_d._ Steep turmeric, round zedoary, gamboge, or annotta, in
a weak ley of subcarbonate of soda or potash.
_Obs._ The preceding, thickened with a little gum, are used as inks for
writing, as colours to tint maps, foils, paper, artificial flowers, &c.,
and to paint on velvet. Some of them are very beautiful. Those containing
litmus are, however, fugitive. It must be observed that those made with
strong spirit do not mix well with gum water, unless somewhat diluted with
water. Any other transparent colours or stains may be employed for
painting on velvet, as well as the above.
=VELVET LEAF.= _Syn._ PAREIRA BRAVA, PAREIRA (Ph. L., E., & D.) L. “The
root of _Cissampelos pareira_” (Ph. L.), white pareira or velvet leaf. It
is tonic, aperient, and diuretic.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 grains; in chronic and
purulent inflammation and extreme irritability of the bladder; in
leucorrhœa, dropsy, ulceration of the kidney, &c.
=VENESECTION.= The practice of venesection, bloodletting, or phlebotomy,
as it is variously denominated, has within the last thirty or forty years
been nearly banished from medical practice. It seems very evident that
prior to the above period medical practitioners were in the habit of
resorting to venesection to an unwise extent, and in cases which the
progress of modern pathology has shown it to be wholly inapplicable.
There are, we believe, some practitioners who, whilst admitting the evils
arising from its misapplication and abuse, still advocate its occasional
and judicious employment.
Because of the dangers that beset the operation when performed by a tyro,
we forbear to give any particulars as to the method of carrying it out.
The veins of the arm are those always invariably opened in venesection,
although the operation may be performed on many other superficial veins.
=VEN′ISON.= The flesh of several species of deer. That from good land,
killed at the proper season, and eaten in a moderately fresh state, is
most easily digestible, and, perhaps, the most wholesome, of all the red
meats; but when it is ‘high,’ or in a state of incipient putrefaction, it
is far from wholesome, and often poisonous.
=VENO BENO (La).= See TEA.
=VENOM.= Drs Brunton and Fayrer, who have devoted many years to the study
of the nature and physiological action of snake poisons, state that there
appears to be some resemblance in the action of the venom or virus of the
cobra, _Naja tripudians_, and of curara, the arrow-poison of the Indians;
both poisons causing death by paralysing the respiratory organs.
Dr Armstrong, who has analysed the cobra poison, has not been enabled to
isolate from it any crystalline principle. From its reactions he concludes
that its chief ingredient is an albuminoid substance.
Dr Armstrong obtained a white precipitate from the poison by treating it
with absolute alcohol, and also prepared an alcoholic extract from it.
He gives the following as the composition of the three substances. The
albumen is appended for comparison:——
Crude Alcoholic Alcoholic Albumen.
Poison. Precipitate. extract.
Carbon 43·55 45·76 43·04 53·5
Nitrogen 43·30 14·30 12·45 15·7
Hydrogen ... 6·60 7·00 7·1
Sulphur ... 2·50 ... ...
Ash ... Traces.
“But although there is little difference between the composition of the
alcoholic precipitate and extract, there is an immense difference between
their physiological action, the extract being a virulent poison, the
precipitate almost inert. This is notably different from what has been
stated by Dr Weir Mitchell respecting the poison of the rattlesnake, viz.,
that the alcoholic precipitate is active, whilst the extract is
inert.”[255]
[Footnote 255: “Royal Society’s Proceedings,” ‘Pharm. Journ.’]
=VENTILA′TION.= The proper ventilation of our habitations, as well as of
other buildings in which we pass any considerable portion of our time, is
quite as necessary to health as food and clothing. Lavoisier, writing in
the middle of the last century, remarks——“It is certain that mankind
degenerate when employed in sedentary manufactures, or living in crowded
houses, or in the narrow lanes of large cities; whereas they improve in
their nature and constitution in most of the country labours which are
carried on in the open air.” Yet many persons, by the care which they take
to shut out fresh air, and to prevent the escape of that which their own
bodies, by pulmonary and surfacial respiration, have contaminated, would
seem to hug to themselves the discomfort of breathing over and over again
an impure and unrefreshing atmosphere, and to be anxious to finish their
career by lingering suicide. The almost universal indifference to the
subject, considering its importance, is unaccountable.
The first step towards effecting and maintaining a liberal supply of fresh
air is either by means of ventilators or by regularly opening the windows
for stated periods daily. During the colder portions of the year, when
fires are kept burning, and there is an up-current in the chimney, nothing
is so simple and effective as the well-known chimney-valve of Dr Arnott;
and, indeed, without this, open fires are powerful instruments of
ventilation. In cold weather, where expense is not an object, the
apartments may be supplied with air that has been previously warmed by
passing through a heated chamber, on the principle recommended by Dr Reid;
but care must be taken that, in warming the air, we do not overheat it,
nor contaminate it.
A sufficient supply of light, another powerful sanitary agent, is now
regarded as nearly as essential as thorough ventilation, and the two are
commonly treated of together. According to Palladio, the opening of
windows should not exceed a fourth, nor be less than a fifth, of the
length of the side of a room, and should be in height two and one sixth
times the width. Mr Gwilt, another high authority on this subject, has
given as a definite rule, that we should allow 1 square foot of glass to
every 100 cubic feet of space in any apartment or inclosure. A great deal
must, however, depend on the shape of the apartment; but, in all cases,
care should be taken that the windows are placed at the longest side of
the room, and not at the narrowest, or the end of it. A southern aspect
affords the most light and heat; a northern one the most diffused and
least variable light, and is hence usually chosen by artists for their
studios.
=VERA′TRINE.= C_{32}H_{52}N_{2}O_{8} _Syn._ VERATRIA, VERATRINA,
SABADILLINE; VERATRIA (B. P., Ph. L., & E.), L. An alkaloid discovered by
Pelletier and Caventou, in the seeds of _Asagreæ officinalis_ (sabadilla),
and in the rhizomes of _Veratrum album_ (white hellebore).
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Digest sabadilla seeds in boiling water for 24 hours,
then squeeze them, dry them thoroughly by a gentle heat, beat them in a
mortar, and separate the seeds from the capsules by agitation in a deep
and narrow vessel; next grind the seeds in a coffee-mill, and exhaust them
by percolation with rectified spirit; concentrate the resulting tincture
by distillation, so long as no deposit forms, and pour the residuum,
whilst still hot, into 12 times its volume of cold water; then filter
through calico, and wash the residuum on the filter as long as the
washings yield a precipitate with ammonia; unite the filtered liquid with
the washings, add ammonia in excess, collect the precipitate on a filter,
wash it slightly with cold water, and dry it first by imbibition with
filtering paper, and then in the vapour bath. “The product is not pure,
but sufficiently so for medical use. From this coloured substance it may
be obtained white, but at considerable loss, by solution in very weak
hydrochloric acid, decolorisation with animal charcoal, and
reprecipitation with ammonia.”
2. (Ph. L. 1836.) This is the same in principle as the last; a tincture is
formed by boiling the seeds in rectified spirit, which is then evaporated
to a syrup, dissolved in very dilute sulphuric acid, the veratrine
precipitated with, magnesia, redissolved in very dilute acid, treated
with animal charcoal, the filtrate again evaporated to a syrup, and
precipitated with ammonia; it is, lastly, washed and dried.
3. By means of ether, as noticed under ALKALOID and ACONITINE. This is by
far the best method.
4. (B. P.) Cevadilla, 2 lbs.; distilled water, q. s.; rectified spirit,
q. s.; solution of ammonia, q. s.; hydrochloric acid, q. s.; purified
animal charcoal, 60 gr. Macerate the cevadilla with half its weight of
boiling distilled water in a covered vessel for 24 hours. Remove the
cevadilla, squeeze it, and dry it thoroughly with a gentle heat. Beat it
now in a mortar and separate the seeds from the capsules by brisk
agitation in a deep narrow vessel, or by winnowing it gently on a table
with a sheet of paper.
Grind the seeds in a coffee mill, and form them into a thick paste with
rectified spirit.
Pack this firmly in a percolator, and pass rectified spirit through it
till the spirit ceases to be coloured. Concentrate the spirituous solution
by distillation, so long as no deposit forms, and pour the residue, while
hot, into 12 times its volume of cold distilled water. Filter through
calico, and wash the residue on the filter with distilled water, till the
fluid ceases to precipitate with ammonia. To the united filtered liquid
add the ammonia in slight excess, let the precipitate completely subside,
pour off the supernatant fluid, collect the precipitate on a filter, and
wash it with distilled water till the fluid passes colourless. Diffuse the
moist precipitate through 12 oz. of distilled water, and add gradually,
with diligent stirring, sufficient hydrochloric acid to make the fluid
feebly but persistently acid.
Then add the animal charcoal, digest at a gentle heat for 20 minutes,
filter, and allow the liquid to cool. Add ammonia in slight, excess, and
when the precipitate has completely subsided, pour off the supernatant
liquid, collect the precipitate on a filter, and wash it with cold
distilled water till the washings cease to be affected by nitrate of
silver accidental with nitric acid. Lastly, dry the precipitate, first by
imbibition, with filtering paper, and then by the application of a gentle
heat.
_Prop._ Pure veratrine is perfectly white; but as usually met with, it is
a yellowish or greenish-white powder; it is highly acrid;
uncrystallisable; scarcely soluble in water, soluble in ether, and freely
soluble in hot alcohol; heated to about 125° Fahr., it fuses like wax, and
solidifies, upon cooling, to a transparent yellow mass. With the dilute
acid it forms salts, which are either amorphous or difficulty
crystallisable. The smallest possible portion of its powder causes violent
sneezing.
_Tests._ 1. Potassa, ammonia, and their carbonates, give flocculent white
precipitates which at first are not crystalline under the microscope, but
which, after some minutes, assume the appearance of small scattered
clusters of short prismatic crystals; they are insoluble in excess of
potassa and its carbonate, and only very slightly so in excess of
ammonia.——2. With sulphuric acid it strikes an intense red colour,
changing afterwards to crimson, and finally to violet.——3. A dilute acetic
solution of veratrine is turned to a superb red by strong sulphuric acid.
Veratrine is distinguished from brucine and the other alkaloids by its
fusibility——by the crystalline form of its precipitate with potassa,
and——by its reaction with oil of vitriol.
_Uses, &c._ “As an external application, it has been efficaciously
employed by Magendie in France, and by Dr Turnbull in this country; but
the extravagant eulogies of the latter have not tended to confirm the
reputation of this remedy.” (Dr A. T. Thomson.) From 6 to 12 gr.,
dissolved in 1 fl. oz. of rectified spirit, as a liniment; or 30 gr.,
mixed with 1 dr. of olive oil, and 1 oz. of lard, as an ointment, have
been occasionally found very serviceable in neuralgia, and other like
painful affections, and in gouty and rheumatic paralysis. As an internal
remedy it possesses no advantage, as it merely acts as a violent and
depressing cathartic.——_Dose_, 1/24 to 1/16 gr. In larger doses it acts as
a powerful irritant poison. For antidotes, &c., see ALKALOID.
=VERA′TRUM.= See WHITE HELLEBORE.
=VER′DIGRIS.= _Syn._ ÆRUGO, L.; VERT-DE-GRIS, Fr. This is a mixture of
several basic acetates of copper which have a green or blue colour. It is
obtained in the wine districts of the south of Europe, by the action of
refuse grapes, from which the juice has been expressed, on thin sheets of
copper. When pure it should dissolve, almost entirely, and without
effervescence, in dilute sulphuric acid. It is very poisonous; for
antidotes, see COPPER.
An inferior quality of verdigris is now prepared from pommage, or apple
marc, in the cider districts of England.
=Verdigris, Distilled.= _Syn._ CRYSTALLISED VERDIGRIS. This name is
applied to the normal acetate of copper, which is prepared in the wine
districts by dissolving ordinary verdigris, 1 part, in good distilled
vinegar, 2 parts; the operation being performed in a copper vessel by the
aid of a gentle heat and agitation; the solution is afterwards slowly
evaporated until a pedicle begins to form on the surface, when it is
transferred into glazed earthen pans (‘oulas’), in each of which are
placed 2 or 3 cleft sticks, and it is then left in a warm apartment for 14
or 15 days to crystallise.
A spurious article is often prepared by adding a solution of sulphate of
copper, 12-1/2 lbs. to a solution of sugar of lead, 19 lbs., or q. s.,
and filtering, evaporating, and crystallising the mixture.
There is an acetate of copper and lime which resembles distilled verdigris
in colour. It was manufactured pretty extensively in Scotland some years
ago, and fetched a high price, till Dr Ure published an analysis of it in
the ‘Edin. Phil. Trans.’ It is much inferior for all uses in the arts.
Pure distilled verdigris is entirely soluble in water, and is not
precipitated on the addition of sulphuric acid or of ammonia in excess.
=Verdigris, English.= _Prep._ Blue vitriol, 24 lbs.; white vitriol, 16
lbs.; sugar of lead, 12 lbs.; alum, 2 lbs. (all coarsely powdered); mix,
and heat them in a pot over the fire until they unite into a mass. Sold by
fraudulent dealers for foreign verdigris.
=VER′DITER.= _Syn._ BLUE VERDITER, REFINER’S VERDITER; CENDRES BLEUES, Fr.
A blue pigment, obtained by adding chalk, whiting, or milk of lime, to a
solution of copper in nitric acid; or, by triturating recently
precipitated and still moist carbonate of oxide of copper with hydrate of
lime.
_Prep._ A quantity of whiting or milk of lime is put into a tub, and upon
this the solution of copper is poured; the mixture is stirred every day
for some hours together, until the liquor loses its colour; it is then
poured off, and more solution of copper added; this is repeated until the
whiting or lime has acquired the proper colour; the whole is then washed
with water, drained, spread on chalk stones, and dried in the sun.
_Obs._ The cupreous solution employed in the above process is made by
neutralising the nitric solution obtained from the refiners of gold and
silver, by heating it along with metallic copper. For the finer qualities
of verditer the lime should be of the purest kind, and the cupreous
precipitate should be carefully triturated with it, after it is nearly
dry, by which a fine velvety appearance is produced. The ‘cendres bleues
en pâtes’ of the French differ from the above mainly in a solution of
chloride of copper being employed, and in the resulting green precipitate
being turned blue by the action of carbonate of potassa. Verditer is made
into crayons whilst moist, or dried into a powder, or it is used as a
water colour in the moist state.
=Verditer, Green.= _Syn._ BREMEN GREEN. The process for refiner’s verditer
frequently miscarries, and a green colour is produced instead of a blue
one. It may also be obtained directly by omitting the ‘blueing up’ with
carbonate of potassa, mentioned above.
=VER′JUICE.= _Syn._ AGRESTA, OMPHACIUM, L. The expressed juice of unripe
grapes. The term is also often extended to the expressed juice of the wild
or crab apple. It was formerly used as an astringent and refrigerant in
medicine; but it is now principally employed as an ingredient in sauces,
ragoûts, &c.
=VERMICEL′LI.= This, like macaroni, is prepared from a stiff paste made
of a peculiar fine kind of granular wheat flour, called semoule, which is
mixed up with hot water, and, after being well kneaded, is formed into
small ribands, cylinders, or tubes, by being placed in a vertical cylinder
press, the bottom of which is filled with proper-shaped holes, through
which it is driven by an iron plate or ‘follower’ being forced down by a
powerful screw. The pieces that protrude are broken off, twisted into any
desired shape upon paper, and dried. Those in the form of fillets or
ribands are called ‘lazagnes.’ Vermicelli contains a large amount of
gluten, and is extremely nutritious, although slightly less digestible
than the ordinary wheaten foods. See MACARONI.
=VER′MIFUGES.= _Syn._ ANTHELMINTICS; ANTHELMINTICA, HELMINTHAGOGA,
VERMIFUGA, L. Medicines employed to destroy or expel intestinal worms.
Some of these, as coarsely powdered tin and iron filings and cowhage, act
as mechanical agents, by irritating the worms; others have a specific
action upon worms, as male fern, kousso, santonin, &c.; others, again, owe
their power to their action as purgatives, as calomel, gamboge, jalap, &c.
See WORMS.
=VERMIL′ION.= _Syn._ FACTITIOUS CINNABAR, RED SULPHIDE OF MERCURY, RED
SULPHURET OF MERCURY. This article may be prepared both in the moist and
dry way; that of commerce is almost entirely obtained by the latter.
_Prep._ 1. By sublimation. Take of pure mercury, 202 parts; pure sulphur,
33 parts; fuse them together by a gentle heat, observing not to allow the
mass to take fire; when fused, cover over the vessel, and, when the whole
has become cold, powder the mass, and sublime it in a closed vessel, so
placed in a furnace that the flame may freely circulate and play upon it
to about half its height, the heat being at first gradually applied, and
afterwards augmented until the lower part of the subliming vessel becomes
red hot; the cold sublimate is broken into pieces, ground along with water
to a fine powder, elutriated, passed through a sieve, and dried. _Prod._
Fully 112% of the weight of the mercury employed.
2. In the humid way. (Brunner.) Take of pure quicksilver, 300 parts; pure
sublimed sulphur, 114 parts; triturate them together for several hours,
until a perfect ‘ethiops’ is formed, add gradually of caustic potassa, 75
parts, (dissolved in) water, 450 parts; continue the trituration for some
time longer, then gently heat the mixture in an iron vessel, at first
constantly stirring, but afterwards only from time to time, observing to
keep the beat at about 113°, or, at all events, under 122° Fahr., and to
add fresh water, to compensate for the portion evaporated. When the colour
begins to redden, great caution is requisite to preserve the mixture at
the lower temperature, and to keep the sulphuret of mercury perfectly
pulverulent; as soon as the colour becomes nearly ‘fine,’ the process must
be conducted with increased caution, and at a lower heat for some hours,
or until a rich colour is produced, when the newly-formed vermilion must
be elutriated with water, to separate any particles of metallic mercury,
and carefully dried. _Prod._ 332 parts of vermilion, equal in brilliancy
to the finest Chinese.
_Obs._ It has been said that the rich tone of Chinese vermilion may be
imitated by adding to the materials 1% of sulphuret of antimony, and by
digesting the ground sublimate, first in a solution or sulphuret of
potassium, and next in diluted hydrochloric acid, after which it must be
well edulcorated with water, and dried. Our own belief is, that the finer
qualities of vermilion owe their superiority of shade more to the care
bestowed on their sublimation, and the extent to which their division is
carried, than to anything else.
Vermilion is a beautiful and permanent red pigment, and works and covers
well both in oil and water.
=VERMIN.= This term has rather a large application, since, although it is
generally understood to be applied to rats, mice, and certain parasitic
insects infesting the dwellings and sometimes the bodies of men, it is
extended by the farmer, the gardener, and the breeder of game, to those
creatures from the depredations of which these three classes suffer
pecuniary loss. Hence it embraces not only foxes and polecats, but
weasels, stoats, hedgehogs, owls, hawks, kites, carrion crows, magpies,
wood-pigeons, hares, rabbits, rooks, moles, and small birds.
Whilst the attempted partial destruction of any of the classes of animals
or birds above specified may be regarded as of doubtful value, there can
be no question about the practice when it is carried to the verge of
extermination.
In this latter case the balance of nature is interfered with, and the
system of checks which she has established for the prevention of the undue
preponderance of one tribe of the animal kingdom over the other being
interfered with, the result will be the undue propagation of particular
species inimical to the operations of the husbandman, &c.
As illustrating this, we may mention the destruction to various crops in
France caused some years ago by the ravages of certain grubs and insects,
the unusual increase in the numbers of which was clearly traced to the
foolish practice, amongst French farmers, of shooting all the small birds.
See BUG, LOUSE, RATS.
=VERT′IGO.= Dizziness and swimming of the head. In its more serious forms
there is more or less mental confusion, the objects around the patient
appear in motion, the ears are oppressed with strange sounds, and visible
illusions are experienced, whether the eyes be closed or open, and in
darkness as well as in the light. The causes are fulness of the vessels of
the head, nervous derangement, general debility, hæmorrhage, the use of
narcotics, an overloaded stomach, and, in some cases, an empty one. It is
also frequently symptomatic of fevers and inflammations, and of a
condition threatening apoplexy. The treatment must be varied, according to
the cause and the peculiar habit or condition of the patient.
=VES′ICANTS.= _Syn._ EPISPASTICS; EPISPASTICA, VESICANTIA, L. Substances
which vesicate or raise blisters. Among these are the cantharis or
blistering fly, mezereon, croton oil, boiling water, &c.; the first only
of which is now in common use in England.
“It is a principle sufficiently established with regard to the living
system, that, where a morbid action exists, it may often be removed by
inducing an action of a different kind, in the same or a neighbouring
part. On this principle is explained the utility of blisters in local
inflammation and spasmodic action, and it regulates their application in
pneumonia, gastritis, hepatitis, phrenitis, angina, rheumatism, colic, and
spasmodic affections of the stomach——diseases in which they are employed
with the most marked advantage. A similar principle exists with respect to
pain; exciting one pain often relieves another. Hence blisters often give
relief in toothache, and some other painful affections. Lastly, blisters,
by their operation, communicate a stimulus to the whole system, and raise
the vigour of the circulation. Hence, in part, their utility in fevers of
the typhoid kind, though in such cases they are used with still more
advantage to obviate or remove local inflammation.” (‘Med. Lex.’)
Blisters are commonly prepared with cantharides plaster, or with some
other preparation of cantharides; and, in the former case, are usually
lightly covered with the powdered fly. In order to prevent the action of
the cantharides upon the mucous membrane of the bladder, blistering
plasters are often sprinkled with a little powdered camphor, or, better
still, are moistened with camphorated ether, which leaves a thin layer of
camphor. In all these cases the layer should not be too thick, for in that
case the plaster would not take effect.
When it is not wished to maintain a discharge from the blistered part, it
is sufficient to make a puncture in the vesicle, to let out the fluid; but
when the case requires the blister to be ‘kept open,’ as it is called, the
whole of the detached cuticle is carefully removed with a pair of
scissors, and the part is dressed with either the ointment of cantharides
or of savine, at first more or less diluted with lard, or simple ointment,
with an occasional dressing of resin cerate. According to Mr Crowther, the
blistered surface is best kept clean by daily fomentation with warm water.
Of late years, to obviate the unpleasant effects occasionally arising
from the common blister, various compounds having cantharides for their
base have been brought before the public. Of these, the vesicating
collodion noticed under COLLODION is the most convenient and effective.
The following also deserve notice:——
1. Take of cantharides, in fine powder, 2 parts; spermaceti, 2 parts;
olive oil, 4 parts; white wax, 8 parts; water, 10 parts; simmer, with
constant agitation, for 2 hours, strain through flannel, separate the
plaster from the water, gently remelt it with common turpentine, 1 part,
and spread the mass whilst still fluid. This nearly resembles the form
recommended by MM. Henry and Guibourt.
2. (P. Cod.) Distil off the ether from a concentrated ethereal tincture of
cantharides, melt the oily residue with twice its weight of white wax, and
spread the mixture on thin oiled silk, or on cloth, prepared with wax
plaster.
3. (Oettinger.) Cantharidal ether (prepared from cantharides, l part;
ether 2 parts), and sulphuric ether, of each 10 dr.; turpentine and black
resin, of each 2-1/2 dr.; mix, dissolve, and apply it to the surface of
stretched silk or taffeta which has been previously prepared with two
coatings of a solution of isinglass.
4. (CHARTA EPISPASTICA, B. P.). Digest 4 oz. of white wax, 1-1/2 oz.
spermaceti, 2 oz. fluid of olive oil, 3 oz. of resin, 1 oz. of cantharides
in powder, and distilled water 6 oz., in a water bath for two hours,
stirring constantly, strain, and separate the plaster from the watery
liquid. Mix 1/4 oz. fl. of Canada balsam with the plaster, melted in a
shallow vessel, and pass strips of paper over the hot liquid, so that one
surface of the paper shall receive a thin coating of plaster. It may be
convenient to employ paper, ruled in square inches.
5. (CHARTA SINAPIS, B. P.) Black mustard seeds, in powder, 1 oz.; solution
of gutta percha, 2 oz., or q. s. Mix so as to make a semi-fluid, and
having poured this into a shallow flat-bottom vessel, such as a dinner
plate, pass strips of cartridge paper ever its surface, so that one side
of the paper shall receive a thin coating of the mixture. Then lay the
paper on a table, with the coated side upwards, and let it remain exposed
to the air until the coating has hardened. Before being applied let the
mustard paper be immersed for a few seconds in tepid water.
6. (VESICATING SPARADRAP, P. Cod.) Gum elini, 1 oz.; olive oil, 1/2 oz.;
basilicon ointment, 2-1/4 oz.; resin, 1 oz.; yellow wax, 3-3/4 oz.;
cantharides, in fine powder, 4-1/4 oz. Melt the first five substances
together, and stir in the cantharides; when sufficiently cold, and well
mixed, spread on waxed strips of linen.
_Obs._ The above compounds are spread on leather, linen, paper, silk,
oiled silk, taffeta, &c., and then form the numerous compounds vended
under the names of——blistering tissue, rannus vesicatorius, papier
epispastique, sparadrapum vesicatorium, taffetas vesicans, tela
vesicatoria, &c.
Acetic extract of cantharides, croton oil, or extract of mezereon, is
sometimes substituted for the ethereal extract ordered in the above
formulæ.
The ‘papier epispastique’ of Vée is prepared of three strengths, which are
respectively distinguished by the colours white, green, and red. The
composition is made by boiling powdered cantharides for an hour with
water, lard, and green ointment, or with lard coloured with alkanet root,
adding white wax to the strained fats, and spreading the mixture whilst
fluid:——No. 1 is made with 10 oz. of cantharides to 4 lbs. of lard; No. 2
of 1 lb. of cantharides to 8 lbs. of green ointment; and No. 3, of 1-1/2
lb. of flies to 8 lbs. of reddened lard. To each are added 2 lbs. of white
wax. (Dorvault.)
The magistral blister of Valleix is a revival of the vesicating epithem.
See BLISTER, CANTHARIDES, COLLODION, &c., and _below_.
=VESICA′TION.= The formation of a blister is a vital process, and its
success may be taken as a proof of the presence of life. Hence a French
physician, Dr Mandl, has suggested such a stimulation of the skin as would
ordinarily cause a blister as a test of life, in those cases of
long-continued trance which we occasionally hear of, where all the
functions of life seem to be extinct. Dr Mandl’s plan is to apply a stick
of lunar caustic. The application of a little strong vinegar of
cantharides, or other cantharidal blister, of the size of a sixpenny
piece, or of two or three spoonfuls of boiling water by means of a bent
tube of like diameter, is however, more certain and satisfactory.
=VESICA′TORIN.= _Syn._ CANTHARIDIN, CANTHARIDINA, CANTHARIDES CAMPHOR. The
blistering principle of Spanish flies, discovered by M. Robiquet.
_Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Exhaust powdered cantharides with concentrated
alcohol by percolation; distil off the spirit from the filtered tincture,
and leave the residuum to deposit crystals; these may be purified by
dissolving them in boiling alcohol, digestion with animal charcoal,
filtration whilst hot, and crystallising by refrigeration.
2. (Thierry.) Macerate cantharides (in coarse powder) for several days in
ether, in a closed displacement apparatus; then, after the whole of the
soluble matter has been extracted by the addition of fresh portions of
ether, pour on sufficient water to displace the retained ether; next
distil off the ether, dissolve the remaining extract in boiling alcohol,
filter while hot, and abandon the filtrate to spontaneous evaporation.
_Prod._ ·5%.
3. Digest the aqueous extract of cantharides in hot alcohol, filter,
evaporate to dryness, digest the residuum in sulphuric ether, evaporate,
and slightly wash the resulting crystals with cold alcohol.
_Prop., &c._ Micaceous plates resembling spermaceti; fusible; vaporisable;
insoluble in water; soluble in ether, oils, acetic acid, and hot alcohol;
powerfully vesicant and poisonous. Its vapour, even at ordinary
temperatures, frequently produces temporary blindness. The 1-100th part of
a grain, placed on a piece of paper, and applied to the edge of the lower
lip, caused small blisters in 15 minutes, which, when rubbed with a little
simple cerate, extended over a large surface, and covered both lips with
blisters. (Robiquet.)
=VETCH.= The common name of various leguminous plants of the genera
_Vicia_ and _Ervum_, now much cultivated as green fodder for milch cows
and working stock. The seeds (tares) were formerly reputed detersive and
astringent. Those of “the Canadian variety make good bread.” (Lindley.)
=VET′ERINARY MEDICINES.= The common form of medicine for horses is that
popularly known as horse balls. They are usually prepared by mixing the
dry ingredients, in the state of powder, with a sufficient quantity of
treacle, or syrup bottoms, to give the mass a proper consistence for
rolling into balls; adding, when necessary, linseed meal, or any other
simple powder, to increase the bulk. The usual practice among the
veterinary druggists is to keep a compound known in the trade as
‘ball-mass,’ or ‘common mass,’ ready prepared to give form and bulk to
more active ingredients. This is usually made of about equal parts of
linseed meal and treacle, together with a little palm or lard, thoroughly
incorporated by kneading with the hands; and it is kept in a cool
situation, tied over to prevent it drying and hardening. For use, the
ball-masses are either rolled or moulded into small cylinders of about
1-1/2 to 1-3/4 oz. in weight; and in size, from 2 to 2-3/4 inches long,
and from about 1/2 to 7/8 of an inch in diameter; and they are wrapped in
soft paper, which is administered with them. Those for dogs are commonly
formed into large boluses or nut-like pieces. The common practice in some
houses of adding a little salt of tartar or acetate of potassa to
ball-masses kept in stock, for the purpose of preserving them in a soft
state, is not to be commended, since these articles decompose many of the
saline and mineral compounds which are subsequently added to them.
Medicines for neat cattle are always administered in a liquid form,
popularly called drenches. A similar plan is adopted with small cattle, as
sheep and goats. For these, however, the quantity should seldom exceed 1/4
pint. In all cases, drenches should be very slowly administered.
The following are a few useful horse-balls:
=Alterative Balls.=——1. Levigated sulphide of antimony, sulphur, and
linseed meal, of each 3 oz.; nitre, 4 oz.; palm oil, q. s. to form a
mass; for 12 balls. One to be taken every day, or every other day.
2. (Bell.) Sulphide of antimony, nitre, sulphur, and Æthiops mineral, of
each 3 oz.; soft soap, 10 oz.; oil of juniper, 1/2 oz.; for 12 balls. As
the last.
3. (White.) Sulphide of antimony, caraways, and treacle, of each 1/4 oz.;
for one ball. As the last.
CORDIAL BALLS.——1. (Blaine). Coriander seed, caraway, and gentian, of each
8 oz.; ginger, 4 oz.; oil of aniseed, 1/2 oz.; honey or palm oil, q. s. to
form a mass. Cordial, warming, and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1-1/2 oz.
2. (Hill.) Anise, caraway, and cumin seed, of each 4 lbs.; ginger, 2 lbs.;
treacle, q. s.; divide into 1-3/4 oz. balls. _Prod._ 21 lbs.
COUGH BALLS.——1. (Blaine.) Ipecacuanha, 1 dr.; camphor 2 dr.; honey, q. s.
to form a ball. One night and morning.
2. (B. Clark.) Emetic tartar and benzoin, of each 2 dr.; squills, 4 dr.;
spermaceti and balsam of copaiba, of each 1 oz.; elecampane and sulphur,
of each 2 oz.; syrup of poppies, q. s. to mix; for 8 balls. As the last.
DIURETIC BALLS.——1. (Bracy Clark.) Nitre and common turpentine, of each 1
lb.; Castile soap, 1/2 lb.; barley meal, 2-1/2 lbs., or q. s. For
common-sized balls.
2. (Morton.) Digitalis 1 oz.; aloes, 2 oz.; liquorice, 13 oz.; honey or
Barbadoes tar, q. s. to mix; for 1-oz. balls. One, twice a day with care.
PHYSIC BALLS, PURGING B., CATHARTIC B.——1. Aloes and hard soap, of each 5
oz.; salt of tartar and cayenne pepper, of each 1 oz.; melt together. For
8 balls.
2. (Vet. Coll.)——_a._ (Common physic ball.) Aloes, 8 oz.; treacle, 3 oz.;
olive oil, 1 oz.; melted together.——_Dose_, 1 to 1-1/2 oz.
_b._ (Stronger ball.) To each dose of the last, add of croton oil, 4 to 8
drops.
=Obs.= The _dose_ of the above is 1 ball, fasting in the morning, preceded
by a bran mash, on one or two successive nights, and followed by gentle
exercise until the ball begins to operate.
WORM BALLS.——1. Barbadoes aloes, 5 dr.; calomel and ginger, of each 2 dr.;
oil of cloves, 12 drops; treacle, q. s. for a ball.
2. (J. Bell & Co.) Barbadoes aloes, 5 to 8 dr.; powdered tin,Æthiops
mineral, and ginger, of each 2 dr.; oils of aniseed and savine, of each 20
drops; treacle, q. s. for a ball.
3. (Clater.) Sulphur and emetic tartar, of each 1 dr.; linseed meal, 4
dr.; palm oil, q. s. to form a ball. One every morning, having prepared
the animal with a physic ball containing 1 dr. of calomel. See BALLS; also
Tuson’s ‘Veterinary Pharmacopœia.’
=VIN′EGAR.= _Syn._ ACETUM, L.; VINAIGRE, Fr. Dilute acetic acid, more or
less contaminated with gum, sugar and vegetable matter.
1. MALT VINEGAR; ACETUM, BRITISH VINEGAr (B. P.); ACETUM BRITTANNICUM
(Ph. L. & E.), L. This is the ordinary coloured vinegar consumed in this
country, and is correctly described in the Ph. L. as “impure (dilute)
acetic acid, prepared by fermentation from an infusion of malt
(malt-wort).”
In the manufacture of MALT VINEGAR a mixture of malt and barley is mashed
with hot water, and the resulting wort fermented, as in the common process
of brewing. The liquor is then run into barrels, placed endways, tied over
with coarse canvas, and arranged side by side in darkened chambers,
moderately heated by a stove, and freely supplied with air. Here it
remains till the acetous fermentation is nearly complete, which usually
occupies several weeks, or even months. The newly formed vinegar is next
run off into two large tuns, furnished with false bottoms, on which some
‘rape’ (the pressed cake from making domestic wines, or the green twigs or
cuttings of vines) is placed. One of these vessels is wholly, and the
other only about 3-4ths, filled. The fermentation recommences, and the
acetification proceeds more rapidly in the latter than in the former tun,
and the liquor it contains consequently matures the sooner. When fit for
sale, a portion of the vinegar is withdrawn from the smaller quantity, and
its place supplied with a like quantity from the full tun, and this in its
turn is refilled from the barrels before noticed. This process is carried
on with a number of tuns at once, which are all worked in pairs.
_Prop., &c._, The general properties of malt vinegar are well known. Its
pleasant and refreshing odour is chiefly derived from acetic acid and
acetic ether. Its strength is distinguished by the makers as Nos. 18, 20,
22, and 24; the last of which, also called ‘proof vinegar,’ is the
strongest, and usually contains about 4·6% of real or about 5% of glacial
acetic acid. Its density varies according to the quantity of foreign
matter which it contains. Sp. gr. 1·017 to 1·019——B. P. This vinegar
usually contains a small quantity of sulphuric acid. The presence of
1-1000th part of this acid is allowed by law.
_Pur._ “Brownish; of a peculiar odour. Its sp. gr. is 1·019. 1 fl. oz. of
the acid is saturated by 1 dr. of the crystals of carbonate of soda. If,
after 10 minims of solution of chloride of barium have been added to the
same quantity, more of the chloride be poured into the filtered acid,
nothing further is thrown down. The colour is not changed by the addition
of hydrosulphuric acid.” (Ph. L.)
2. WINE VINEGAR, FRENCH V.; ACETUM GALLICUM (Ph. E. & D.), A. VINI, L.;
VINAIGRE D’ORLEANS, Fr. This is prepared, in wine countries, from grape
juice and inferior new wines, worked up with wine-lees, by a nearly
similar process to that adopted for malt vinegar. That prepared from white
wine (WHITE-WINE VINEGAR) is the most esteemed. It is purer and pleasanter
than malt vinegar. Sp. gr. 1·014 to 1·022——Ph. E.; 1·016——Phillips. It
usually contains from 5 to 6% of acetic acid. “100 parts of good Orleans
vinegar should require 10 parts of dry carbonate of potassa for
saturation.” (Soubeiran.)
3. GERMAN, OR QUICK-METHOD OF MAKING VINEGAR; PROCESS OF HAM. This method
is based upon the fact, that acetification is the mere oxidation of
alcohol in contact with organic matter. Hence, by employing dilute
alcohol, or liquors containing it, and by vastly enlarging the surface of
the liquid exposed to the air at a proper temperature, we may reduce the
period occupied in acetification from weeks to as many hours. In practice
this is effected by causing the dilute spirit, previously mixed with
1-1000th part of sugar or malt extract, or the fermented and clarified
malt-wort, to slowly trickle down through a mass of beech shavings steeped
in vinegar, and contained in a vessel called a vinegar generator
(essigbilder), or graduation vessel. This is an oaken tub, narrower at the
bottom than at the top, furnished with a loose lid or cover, below which
is a perforated shelf (colander or false bottom), having a number of small
holes, which are loosely filled with packthread about 6 inches long, and
prevented from falling through by a knot at the upper end. The shelf is
also perforated with four open glass tubes, as air-vents, each having its
ends projecting above and below the shelf. This arrangement is repeated a
second and a third time, or even oftener, according to the size of the
vessel. The tube or graduator at its lower part is pierced with a
horizontal row of eight equidistant round holes, to admit atmospheric air.
One inch above the bottom is a syphon-formed discharge pipe, whose upper
curvature stands one inch below the level of the air-holes in the side of
the tub. The floors or partitions of the tub or generator being covered
with birch twigs or beech chips to the depth of a few inches, the
alcoholic liquor (first heated to between 75° and 83° Fahr.,) is
introduced at the upper part of the apparatus. This immediately commences
trickling slowly down through the holes by means of the packthreads,
diffuses itself over the chips or twigs forming the respective strata,
slowly collects at the bottom of the tub, and then runs off by the
syphon-pipe. The air enters by the circumferential holes, circulates
freely through the tub, and escapes by the glass tubes. As the
acetification proceeds, the temperature of the liquid rises to 100° or
105° Fahr., and remains stationary at that point while the action goes on
favorably. The alcoholic solution or wort requires to be passed three or
four times through the cask before acetification is complete, which is, in
general, effected in from 24 to 36 hours.
_Obs._ For the production of a superior vinegar by this process, it is
necessary that the spirit employed be sufficiently pure not to contaminate
the product with its flavour or odour, and that the malt-wort should be
fermented and treated with all the care usually employed in the production
of beer. The best English manufacturers who have adopted this process are
in the habit of filtering or clarifying their fermented wash, and also of
storing it away for several months before they subject it to acetification
in the graduator. The most favorable temperature for the process is about
90° Fahr., and this should be preserved, as much as possible, by
artificial means. _Prod._ A malt-wort of the sp. gr. 1·072, or, in
“technical language, weighing about 26 lbs. per barrel, afforded a vinegar
containing 5·4% of pure acetic acid, and a residuary extract of 10 lbs.,
for 36 galls. The former of these would indicate 35 lbs. of sugar, or 13·7
lbs. per barrel of gravity; whilst the latter shows 3·8 lbs. per barrel;
the two united being only 17·5 lbs., instead of 26, the original weight.
The loss, therefore, has been 8·5 lbs., or from a sp. gr. of 1·072 to less
than 1·050.” (Ure.) Thus, about one third of all the extractive matter of
the malt is lost or dissipated during the processes of fermentation and
acetification. According to Knapp, a mixture of about 80 galls, of water,
9 galls. of spirit of from 44 to 45% Tralles (18 or 20 u. p.), and 3
galls. of vinegar containing 3·5% of real acid, forming together 92
galls., yield, on an average, an almost equal quantity of vinegar, or
about from 90 to 91 galls. of the above stated strength.
4. WOOD VINEGAR. See PYROLIGNEOUS ACID.
5. OTHER VARIETIES OF VINEGAR, of minor importance; chiefly domestic, and
commonly ‘worked’ as malt vinegar,——ALE VINEGAR, ALEGAR; ACETUM CEREVISIÆ.
From strong pale ale which has soured.——ARGOL VINEGAR; ACETUM EX TARTARO.
From white argol or cream of tartar, 1 lb.; dissolved in boiling water, 2
galls.; with the addition, when cold, of proof spirit of whiskey, 3
pints.——CRYSTAL VINEGAR. Pickling vinegar, discoloured with fresh burnt
animal charcoal.——CIDER VINEGAR. From cider, worked as malt
vinegar.——GERMAN HOUSEHOLD VINEGAR. From soft water, 7-1/2 galls.; honey
or brown sugar, 2 lbs.; cream of tartar, 2 oz.; corn spirit or whiskey, 1
gall.——GOOSEBERRY VINEGAR. From bruised gooseberries and brown sugar, of
each 1-1/4 lb.; water, 1 gall. Other fruits may be substituted for
gooseberries.——PICKLING VINEGAR. The strongest pale malt vinegar——RAISIN
VINEGAR. From the marc left from making raisin wine, 1 cwt. to every 12 or
15 galls. of water, along with a little yeast.——SUGAR VINEGAR. From brown
sugar, 4 lbs. to each gallon of water.——WHISKEY VINEGAR. From whiskey, 1
pint; sugar, 2 oz.; yeast, a dessert-spoonful.
_Pur., Tests, and Assay._ These are, for the most part, rather fully
noticed under ACETIC ACID, ACETIMETRY, and above. The following additional
tests, &c., may, however, be useful:——1. Paper written on or smeared with
pure vinegar is not charred when strongly warmed before the fire; if it
is, the sample examined contained fully 2% of oil of vitriol.——2. A small
porcelain capsule, or china cup, dipped into a solution of sugar in 30
times its weight of water, and then heated to a temperature equal to that
of boiling water, is not materially discoloured when a drop of pure
vinegar is poured on it; but a spot of an intensely brown or black colour
is formed if the sample contains only 1-300th part of sulphuric acid; if
it contains only 1-1000th part, the spot is olive green; and if a less
quantity, then only of a pale green colour.——3. The heavy white
precipitate given with chloride of barium (see _above_) shows the presence
of sulphuric acid; each grain, after being dried, and gently ignited,
represents ·344 gr. of dry sulphuric acid. If the precipitate from 1000
gr. of the vinegar exceeds 2-1/2 gr., it contains an illegal quantity of
this acid.——4. If a solution of nitrate of silver gives a cloudy white
precipitate, hydrochloric acid is present.——5. If, after the addition of 2
or 3 gr. of carbonate of potash, and evaporation of the sample to dryness,
the residuum deflagrates when ignited, the sample under examination
contains nitric acid.——6. If the vinegar be blackened by sulphuretted
hydrogen or hydrosulphuret of ammonia, it contains either lead or copper.
If it gives a yellow precipitate with iodide of potassium or chromate of
potash, the metal is lead. If ferrocyanide of potassium gives a
bronze-brown coloured precipitate, or a little olive oil, when agitated
with some of the vinegar, be turned green, the metal is copper.——7. If a
small sample, gently evaporated to dryness, leaves more than 1% of
residuum, and this has a sweet taste, it is undecomposed sugar. The
presence of acrid substances, as capsicum, chillies, grains of paradise,
mustard seed, pellitory of Spain, pepper, &c., may be detected by
neutralising the acidity of the vinegar with carbonate of soda, when the
acrid taste of the adulterant will be readily perceived.
=Vinegar, Anti′hysteric.= _Syn._ ACETUM ANTI′HYSTERICUM. _Prep._ Castor, 2
dr.; galbarium, 4 dr.; rue, 1 oz.; vinegar, 3 lbs.; macerate and strain.
=Vinegar, Aromat′ic.= _Syn._ ACETUM AROMATICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. Glacial
acetic acid, 1 lb.; oil of cloves, 1-1/2 dr.; oil of rosemary, 1 dr.; oils
of bergamot, cinnamon, pimento, and lavender, of each 1/2 dr.; neroli, 20
drops; camphor, 2-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. oz.; mix. Very fine.
2. (Henry’s.) From glacial acetic acid, strongly scented with the oils of
cloves, lavender, rosemary, and _Calamus aromaticus_ to which the usual
quantity of camphor is added. This is the formula adopted at Apothecaries’
Hall.
3. (Extemporaneous.) From acetate of potash (dry), 1 dr.; oil of vitriol,
20 drops; oils of lemon and cloves, of each 3 drops.
_Obs._ Aromatic vinegar is used as a pungent and refreshing perfume, in
faintness, &c. For this purpose it is generally dropped on a small piece
of sponge placed in a stoppered bottle or a vinaigrette. It is highly
corrosive, and should therefore be kept from contact with the skin and
clothes.
=Vinegar, Camp.= _Prep._ Take of sliced garlic, 8 oz.; Cayenne pepper,
soy, and walnut ketchup, of each 4 oz.; 36 chopped anchovies; vinegar, 1
gall.; powdered cochineal, 1/2 oz.; macerate for a month, strain, and
bottle.
=Vinegar, Cam′phorated.=
=Vinegar of Canthar′ides.= _Syn._ BLISTERING VINEGAR; ACETUM CANTHARIDIS
(B. P., Ph., L. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Cantharides, in powder, 2
oz.; acetic acid, 1 pint; macerate, with agitation, for 8 days, then
press, and strain.
2. (Ph. E.) Cantharides, 3 oz.; euphorbium, 1/2 oz.; acetic acid, 5 fl.
oz.; pyroligneous acid, 15 fl. oz.; macerate a week.
3. (Ph. D.) Spanish flies, 4 oz.; strong acetic acid, 4 fl. oz.;
commercial acetic acid (sp. gr. 1·044), 16 fl. oz.; macerate, as before,
for 14 days.
4. (B. P.) Cantharides, in powder, 2; glacial acetic acid, 2; acetic acid
(28 per cent.), 18, or a sufficiency: add the glacial acetic acid to 13 of
acetic acid, and in this mixture digest the cantharides for two hours at a
temperature of 200° F.; when cold, place them in a percolator, and when
the liquid ceases to drop, pour over the residuum the remaining 5 of
acetic acid, and when the percolation is finished, press and make the
whole liquid up to 20.
_Uses, &c._ As a counter-irritant, and to raise blisters. For the last
purpose it is applied on a piece of lint, evaporation being prevented with
a piece of oiled skin or thin sheet gutta percha. The last is the best,
and, indeed, the only effective form; the others being too weak. “If the
acetic acid be strong, a blister will be as rapidly raised without the
cantharides as with them.” (Dr A. T. Thomson.)
=Vinegar of Capsi′cum.= _Syn._ ACETUM CAPSICE. _Prep._ Capsicum, 1 oz.;
vinegar, 24 oz. Used as gargle.
=Vinegar of Col′chicum.= _Syn._ ACETUM COLCHICI (Ph. L. E. & D.), L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Dried corms of colchicum or meadow saffron, 3-1/2 dr.;
dilute acetic acid, 1 pint; macerate for 3 days, then press out the
liquor, and, after defecation, add to the strained liquid proof spirit,
1-1/2 fl. oz.
=Vinegar, Cur′rie.= _Prep._ From currie powder, 1/2 lb.; vinegar, 1 gall.;
infuse for a week. Used as a flavouring. Other like vinegars may be made
in the same way.
=Vinegar of Gar′lic.= _Syn._ ACETUM ALLII. _Prep._ Fresh garlic, 1 oz.;
distilled vinegar, 12 oz.
2. (Ph. E.) Fresh colchicum bulbs (dried), 1 oz.; distilled vinegar, 16
fl. oz.; proof spirit, 1 fl. oz.
3. (Ph. D.) Dried colchicum bulbs, 1 oz.; acetic acid (1·044), 4 fl. oz.;
distilled water, 12 fl. oz.; as before, but prolonging the maceration for
7 days.
_Obs._ Vinegar of colchicum is chiefly used in gout. _Dose_, 20 drops to 1
fl. dr. The Dublin preparation is about three times as strong as the
others, and the dose must therefore be proportionately less.
=Vinegar, Distil′led.= _Syn._ ACETUM DESTILLATUM (Ph. L. & E., and Ph. D.
1826), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Vinegar, 1 gall.; distil in a sand bath, 7
pints. Sp. gr. 1·0065.
2. (Ph. E.) Vinegar (preferably French), 8 parts; distil over with a
gentle heat, 7 parts; and dilute the product, if necessary, with distilled
water, until the sp. gr. is 1·005.
_Pur., &c._ “1 fluid oz. is saturated by 57 gr. of crystallised carbonate
of soda.” (Ph. L.) 100 gr. are saturated by 13 gr. of crystallised
carbonate of soda. It contains about 4·6% of real acetic acid. If a pewter
worm is used, a portion of lead is dissolved, and the product becomes
cloudy and poisonous. Distilled vinegar is more agreeable than pure dilute
acetic acid of the same strength.
=Vinegar of Fox′glove.= _Syn._ ACETUM DIGITALIS. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Dried
foxglove, 1 oz.; vinegar, 9 oz. (by weight); rectified spirit, 1 oz. (by
weight). Macerate for 8 days, press and filter.——_Dose_, 30 minims.
=Vinegar of Lav′ender.= _Syn._ ACETUM LAVANDULÆ. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Digest
1 troy oz. of dried lavender flowers with 12 oz. of vinegar for 10 days.
The vinegars of other flowers are made in the same manner.
=Vinegar of Lobelia.= _Syn._ ACETUM LOBELIÆ. _Prep._ Lobelia in moderately
coarse powder, 4 troy oz. Diluted acetic acid, 2 pints (o. m.). Macerate
for 7 days.
=Vinegar, Marseilles.= _Syn._ VINEGAR OF THE FOUR THIEVES, PROPHYLACTIC
VINEGAR; ACETUM PROPHYLACTICUM, A. ANTISEPTICUM, A. THERIACALE, A. QUATUOR
FURUM, L.; VINAIGRE DES QUATRE VOLEURS, Fr. _Prep._ Take of the summits of
rosemary and flowers of sage (dried), of each 4 oz.; dried lavender
flowers, 2 oz.; cloves, 1 dr.; distilled vinegar, 1 gall.; digest for 7
days, press, and filter. Used as a corrector of bad smells, and formerly
as a prophylactic against the plague, and other contagious diseases. It is
said to have been a favourite preventive with Cardinal Wolsey, who always
carried some with him. The original formula also contained, of garlic, 1/4
oz.; fresh rue, 1-1/2 oz.; and camphor, dissolved in spirit, 1 oz.
=Vinegar of Mus′tard.= _Syn._ ACETUM SINAPIS (Beral). _Prep._ Mustard, 1
oz.; vinegar, 12 oz.; distil 8 oz. For outward use, as a counter-irritant.
=Vinegar of O′′pium.= _Syn._ ACETUM OPII (Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph.
E.) Opium, sliced, 4 oz.; distilled vinegar, 16 fl. oz.; macerate for 7
days, press, and filter.——_Dose_, 5 to 20 drops.
2. (Ph. D.) Opium, in coarse powder, 1-1/2 oz.; dilute acetic acid, 1
pint; macerate for 7 days.——_Dose_, 10 or 12 to 60 drops.
_Obs._ These were intended to supersede the old ‘black drop,’ which they
closely resemble in their action.
=Vinegar, Rasp′berry.= _Syn._ ACETUM RUBI IDÆI, L.; VINAIGRE FRAMBOISE,
Fr. _Prep._ 1. Bruised ripe raspberries and white wine vinegar, of each 3
pints; macerate for 3 days, press, strain, and to each pint add of white
sugar, 1 lb.; boil, skim, cool, and at once bottle. Some persons add 2 fl.
oz. of brandy to each pint.
2. (P. Cod.) Fresh raspberries, picked from their calices, 3 lbs.; (1
lb.——Ph. Bor.); good vinegar, 2 lbs.; macerate, in glass, for a fortnight,
then strain, without pressure.
_Obs._ In a similar manner may be made cherry vinegar, strawberry vinegar,
and the vinegars of all other like fruits.
=Vinegar of Rue.= _Syn._ ACETUM RUTÆ. (Ed. Ph. 1744). _Prep._ Rue, 1 lb.
troy; vinegar, 1 gall.
=Vinegar of Squills.= _Syn._ ACETUM SCILLÆ (Ph. L. E. & D.), ACEUM
SCILLITICUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Take of squills, recently dried and
bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; dilute acetic acid, 1 pint; macerate with a gentle
heat in a covered vessel for 3 days, then press out the liquor, and, after
defecation, add to the strained liquid, proof spirit, 1-1/2 fl. oz. The
Edinburgh and Dublin Colleges direct cold maceration for 7 days in a glass
vessel, and the Dublin omits the spirit.
2. (Wholesale.) From squills, 7 lbs.; distilled vinegar, 6 galls.;
macerate in the cold for 10 days, press, and filter. Expectorant and
diuretic.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1-1/2 fl. dr.; in chronic pulmonary affections,
dropsies, &c.
=Vinegars (Cul′inary).= _Prep._ 1. BLACK PEPPER VINEGAR, CAPER V.,
CAPSICUM V., CELERY-SEED V., CHILLIE V., CRESS-SEED V., GARLIC V., GINGER
V., HORSERADISH V., ONION V., RED-ROSE V., SEVILLE-ORANGE-PEEL V., SHALLOT
V., TRUFFLE V., WHITE PEPPER V., with several others of a like kind, are
made by steeping about an oz. of the respective articles in a pint of good
vinegar for 14 days, and straining.
2. BASIL V., BURNET V., CELERY V., CHERVILLE V., ELDER-FLOWER V.,
GREEN-MINT V., TARRAGON V., with several others from like substances, are
prepared from 2 to 3 oz. of the leaves to each pint of vinegar; the whole
being frequently shaken for 14 days, then strained and bottled. They are
used in cookery. The culinary vinegars may also be prepared in the same
manner as the ‘culinary spirits’ and ‘tinctures,’ by simply substituting
strong pickling vinegar for the spirit.
=Vinegars (Perfumed).= _Syn._ ACETA ODORIFERA, L. _Prep._ From the dried
flowers, 1 to 2 oz., or the fresh flowers, 2 to 4 oz.; strongest
distilled vinegar, 1 pint; digest for a week, strain with pressure, and
repeat the process with fresh flowers if necessary. They may also be made
by adding 15 to 20 drops, or q. s., of the respective essential oils to
the vinegar. In a similar way are prepared the vinegars of clove-gilly
flowers, elder flowers, lavender f. (vinaigre distillé de lavande), musk
roses, orange flowers (fresh), Provins roses, red roses (vinaigre de rose;
acetum rosatum), rosemary flowers (vinaigre de rosmarin; acetum
anthosatum), tarragon flowers, &c. &c. Another excellent plan is to add 1
fl. oz. of glacial acetic acid to each pint of the respective perfumed
spirits. This answers admirably for acetic eau de Cologne and like
perfumes.
=VI′NOUS FERMENTATION.= _Syn._ ALCOHOLIC FERMENTATION. The peculiar change
by which sugar, in solution, is converted into carbonic acid, which is
eliminated, and into alcohol, which remains in solution in the fermented
liquor.
The presence of a ‘ferment’ is essential to excite the vinous
fermentation, as a solution of absolutely pure sugar remains unaltered,
even though exposed to the conditions most favourable to its accession. In
the juices of the sweet fruits, and in those vegetable solutions that
spontaneously run into a state of fermentation, the ferment is supplied by
nature, and is intimately associated with the saccharine matter. In the
juice of those grapes which produce the more perfect wines, the relative
proportions of the exciters of fermentation and the sugar are so
accurately apportioned, that the whole of the former are decomposed, and
nearly the whole of the latter is converted into alcohol; so that the
liquid (wine) is left in a state but little liable to future change. An
infusion of malt, however, in which the nitrogenised matters (gluten,
vegetable albumen, &c.) are absent, or at least present in too small
quantities to vigorously excite the vinous fermentation, undergoes a mixed
species of decomposition, with the formation of products widely different
from those that result from the true vinous fermentation; or, in other
words, the liquid becomes spoiled. But if a ferment (yeast) be added to
this infusion of malt under the above circumstances, and in the proper
proportion to the sugar present, the true vinous fermentation speedily
commences, and the liquid becomes converted into beer. This is what
actually takes place in the process of brewing, and the scientific brewer
endeavours to employ a proper quantity of ferment to decompose the whole
of the saccharine matter of his wort; but, at the same time, as equally
endeavours to avoid the use of an excess.
The chief product of the vinous fermentation is alcohol, but there are
other substances simultaneously produced, and which remain associated with
the fermented liquor. Among the principal of these are œnanthic acid,
œnanthic ether, fusel oil (oil of potato spirit, oil of grain), &c.; none
of which exist previously to fermentation, and are generally supposed to
result from the action of the nitrogenised matters of the solution on the
sugar. Under certain circumstances these extraneous products are formed in
much larger quantities than under others; and as these substances injure
the value of the alcohol with which they are associated, a knowledge of
the peculiar circumstances favourable and unfavourable to their production
is a desideratum to the brewer and distiller.
According to MM. Colin and Thénard, Frémy, Rousseau, and others, the
essential condition of a ferment, to be able to excite the pure vinous
fermentation, is to be sufficiently acidulous to act on coloured
test-paper; and this acidity should arise from the presence of certain
vegetable acids and salts, capable of conversion into carbonic acid and
carbonates by their spontaneous decomposition. Those acids and salts which
are found to pre-exist in fermentable fruits and liquors, as the tartaric,
citric, malic, and lactic acids, and their salts should be chosen for this
purpose; preference being given to the bitartrate of potassa, on account
of its presence in the grape. The addition of any of these substances to a
saccharine solution renders its fermentation both more active and
complete. The favorable influence of cream of tartar on fermentation was
first pointed out by Thénard and Colin, and the addition of a little of
this article has been adopted in practice, with manifest advantage, by the
manufacturers of British wine.
There is good reason for supposing that each variety of sugar which is
susceptible of the alcoholic fermentation is first converted into grape
sugar by contact with the ferment, and that this variety of sugar is alone
capable of yielding carbonic acid and alcohol.
The circumstances most favorable to this fermentation are, a certain
degree of warmth, a sufficient quantity of active ferment, and its due
distribution through the liquor. The temperature of from 68° to 77° Fahr.
is usually regarded as the most propitious for the commencement and
progress of fermentation; but it has been ably shown by Liebig that, at
this temperature, the newly formed alcohol slowly undergoes the ‘acetous
fermentation,’ forming vinegar, by which the vinous character of the
liquor is lessened. This conversion of alcohol into vinegar proceeds most
rapidly at a temperature of 95° Fahr., and gradually becomes more languid,
until, at about 46° to 50° Fahr. (8 to 10 Cent.), it ceases altogether,
while the tendency of the nitrogenous substances to absorb oxygen at this
low temperature is scarcely diminished in a perceptible degree. “It is
therefore evident that if wort (or any other saccharine solution) is
fermented in wide, open, shallow vessels, as is done in Bavaria, which
afford free and unlimited access to the atmospheric oxygen, and this in a
situation where the temperature does no exceed 46° to 50° Fahr., a
separation of the nitrogenous constituents, _i. e._ the exciters of
acidification, takes place simultaneously on the surface, and within the
whole body of the liquid.” (Liebig.) By this method wine or beer is
obtained, which is invariably far superior in quality to that fermented in
the usual manner. See FERMENTATION.
The symptoms of a perfect fermentation of malt wort, according to the
usual English system with top yeast (_oberhefe_), have been thus described
by a well-known practical writer on brewing: 1. A cream-like substance
forms round the edges of the gyle tun, which gradually extends itself, and
ultimately covers the whole surface of the liquor. 2. A fine curly or
cauliflower head in a similar way extends itself over the surface, and
indicates to the experienced brewer the probable quality of the
fermentation. 3. The ‘stomach,’ or ‘vinous odour,’ is next evolved, and
continues to increase with the attenuation of the wort. The peculiar
nature of this odour is also an indication of the state of the
fermentation.——4. The cauliflower head changes, or rises to a fine ‘rocky’
or ‘yeasty’ head, and ultimately falls down.——5. In this stage the head
assumes a peculiar ‘yeasty’ appearance, called by brewers ‘close-yeasty,’
and the gas is evolved in sufficient quantity to blow up little bells or
bubbles, which immediately burst, and are followed by others, at intervals
depending on the activity and forwardness of the fermentation. These bells
should be bright and clear; as, if they appear opaque or dirty, there is
something the matter with the wort. (Black.)
It is often of the utmost importance to brewers, wine merchants, sugar
refiners, druggists, &c., to be able to lessen the activity of the vinous
fermentation, or to stop it altogether, or to prevent its accession to
syrups and other saccharine and vegetable solutions. Whatever will still
the motion of the molecules of the nitrogenous matter forming the ferment
will render them inoperative as exciters of fermentation. Among the
simplest means of effecting this object, and such as admit of easy
practical application, may be mentioned exposure to either cold or heat.
At a temperature below about 50° Fahr., the acetous fermentation is
suspended, and the alcoholic fermentation proceeds with diminished
activity as the temperature falls, until at about 38° Fahr. it ceases
altogether. In like manner, the rapid increase of the temperature of a
fermenting liquid arrests its fermentation, and is preferable to the
action of cold, as it is of easier application, and perfectly precipitates
the ferment in an inert state. For this purpose a heat of about 180° Fahr.
is sufficient: but even that of boiling water may be employed with
advantage. In practice fluids are commonly raised to their boiling point
for this purpose, or they are submitted to the heat of a water bath
(207-1/2° Fahr.). In this way the fermentation of syrups and vegetable
solutions and juices is commonly arrested in the pharmaceutical
laboratory.
Among substances that may be added to liquids to arrest fermentation the
most active are——the volatile oil of mustard, coarsely powdered mustard
seed, or pure flour of mustard, sulphurous acid or the fumes of burning
sulphur, sulphuric acid, sulphite of lime, tincture of catechu, strong
spirit, strong acetic acid, chlorate of potassa, sugar of milk, bruised
horseradish, garlic, and cloves, and their essential oils, and all the
other volatile oils that contain sulphur, and most of the salts that
readily part with their oxygen. These substances arrest fermentation by
rendering the yeast inoperative, and they possess this power nearly in the
order in which they stand above. In practice, mustard, the fumes of
burning sulphur, sulphite of lime, and chlorate of potassa, are those most
adapted for beer, cider, wines, syrups, &c.; but some of the others are
occasionally used, though less active. For arresting or preventing the
fermentation of the vegetable juices and solutions, and the medicated
syrups employed in pharmacy, mustard seed, either alone or combined with a
little bruised cloves, may be safely used, as the addition of acids or
salts would lead to the decomposition of their active principles. For this
reason such liquids should be kept in a sufficiently low temperature to
prevent fermentation; and should they pass into that state it should be
preferably arrested by the application of heat or cold, as above
explained. Sugar of milk is also very effective for certain syrups, if not
all of them.
To prevent, or rather to lessen, the production of fusel oil, it has been
proposed to add a certain quantity of tartaric acid or bitartrate of
potassa to the wort, or to arrest the fermentative process somewhat before
the liquid has reached its utmost degree of attenuation. The best means of
depriving the spirit of this and other substances of a similar nature is
to largely dilute it with water, and to redistil it at a gentle heat.
Agitation with olive oil, decantation, dilution with a large quantity of
water, and redistillation, have also been recommended. An excellent method
is filtration through newly burnt and coarsely powdered charcoal. This
plan succeeds perfectly with moderately diluted spirit. On the Continent,
the addition of about 10% of common vinegar, and a very little sulphuric
acid, followed by agitation, repose for a few days, and redistillation is
a favourite method. A solution of chloride of lime is also employed for
the same purpose, and in the same way. In both these cases a species of
ether is formed, which possesses a very agreeable odour. In the first,
acetate of oxide of amyl (essence of jargonelle) is produced; and in the
other, chloride of amyl, which also possesses a pleasant ethereal smell
and taste. The affinity of the hydrated oxide of amyl (fusel oil) for
acetic acid is so great, that they readily unite without the intervention
of a mineral acid. (Doebereiner). Thus, the oil of vitriol mentioned
above, though always used in practice, might be omitted without any
disadvantage.
According to Messrs Bowerbank, the distillers quoted by Dr Pereira, 500
galls. of corn-spirit yield about one gall. of corn-spirit oil. See
ACETIFICATION, ALCOHOL, BREWING, DISTILLATION, FERMENTATION, FUSEL OIL,
SPIRIT, VINEGAR, VISCOUS FERMENTATION, YEAST, &c.
=VI′OLET.= _Syn._ PURPLE VIOLET, SWEET V.; VIOLA (Ph. L. & E.), L. “The
recent petals of _Viola odorata_, Linn.” (Ph. L.) It is chiefly used on
account of its colour. See SYRUP.
=VIOLET DYE.= Violet, like purple, is produced by a mixture of red and
blue colouring matter, applied either together or in succession. The
‘aniline colours’ are now almost exclusively used for obtaining violet on
silk and wool (see ANILINE, PURPLE, and TAR COLOURS). With the old dye
stuffs, violet may thus be obtained:——A good violet may be given to silk
or wool by passing it first through a solution of verdigris, then through
a decoction of logwood, and, lastly, through alum water. A fast violet may
be given by first dyeing the goods a crimson with cochineal, without alum
or tartar, and, after rinsing, passing them through the indigo
vat.——Linens and cottons are first galled with about 18% of gall-nuts,
next passed through a mixed mordant of alum, iron liquor, and sulphate of
copper, working them well, then through a madder bath made with an equal
weight of root, and, lastly, brightened with soap or soda. Another good
method is to pass cloth, previously dyed Turkey red, through the blue vat.
Wool, silk, cotton, or linen, mordanted with alum and dyed in a logwood
bath, or a mixed bath of archil and Brazil, takes a pretty, but false,
violet.
=VIS′COUS FERMENTATION.= _Syn._ MUCILAGINOUS FERMENTATION, MUCOUS F. The
peculiar change by which sugar, in solution, is converted into gummy
matters, and other products, instead of into alcohol.
When the expressed juice of the beet is exposed to a temperature of 90° to
100° Fahr., for a considerable time, the sugar it contains suffers this
peculiar kind of fermentation. Gases are evolved which are rich in
hydrogen, instead of being exclusively carbonic acid, and when the sugar
has, for the most part, disappeared, mere traces of alcohol are found in
the liquid, but, in place of that substance, a quantity of lactic acid,
mannite, and a mucilaginous substance, resembling gum Arabic, and said to
be identical with gum in composition. By boiling yeast or the gluten of
wheat in water, dissolving sugar in the filtered solution, and exposing it
to a tolerably high temperature, the viscous fermentation is set up, and a
large quantity of the gummy principle generated, along with a ferment of a
globular texture, like that of yeast, but which is capable of producing
only the viscous fermentation, in saccharine solutions.
The peculiar cloudy, stringy, oily appearance of wine and beer, called by
the French ‘graisse,’ and the English ‘ropiness,’ depends on the accession
of the viscous fermentation. The mineral acids and astringent substances,
especially the sulphuric and sulphurous acids, and tannin, precipitate the
viscous ferment, and are, hence, the best cures for this malady of
fermented liquors. It is the large amount of tannic acid in the red wines
and well-hopped beer which is the cause of their never being attacked with
‘graisse,’ or ‘ropiness.’ See VINOUS FERMENTATION, WINES, &c.
=VI′′SION.= The following means of preserving and restoring the sight may
be appropriately inserted here:——
For NEAR-SIGHTEDNESS.——Close the eyes and press the fingers very gently,
from the nose outward, across the eyes. This flattens the pupil, and thus
lengthens or extends the angle of vision. This should be done several
times a day, or at least always after washing the face, until
shortsightedness is overcome.
For LOSS OF SIGHT BY AGE, such as require magnifying glasses, pass the
fingers or towel from the outer corners of the eyes inwardly, above and
below the eyeballs, pressing very gently against them. This rounds them
up, and preserves or restores the sight.
It is said that many persons, by this last means, have preserved their
sight so as to read fine print at 80 years of age; others, whose sight has
been impaired by age, by carefully manipulating the eyes with their
fingers, from their external angles inwardly, have restored their sight,
and been able to dispense with glasses, and have since preserved it by a
continuance of the practice. To be successful, or safe, these practices
must be applied with great gentleness and caution. Many persons seriously
damage their eyes by forcibly rubbing them when drowsy, especially on
awaking in the morning.
The ‘Lancet’ remarks, that “there is good reason to believe that chicory
(the coffee of the Londoners), from its narcotic character, exerts an
injurious effect on the nervous system. So convinced of this is Professor
Beer, of Vienna, a most celebrated German oculist, that he has enumerated
chicoried coffee among the causes of amaurotic blindness.”
To strengthen the eyes, to relieve them when swollen or congested, and to
remove chronic ophthalmia, purulent discharges, &c., nothing is equal to
frequently bathing them with water, at first tepid, but afterwards lowered
in temperature to absolute coldness.
=VIT′RIOL.= A common name for sulphuric acid and for several of its salts.
(See _below_.)
=Vitriol, Blue.= _Syn._ ROMAN VITRIOL. Commercial sulphate of copper.
=Vitriol, Green.= Commercial sulphate of iron.
=Vitriol, White.= Commercial sulphate of zinc.
=VITTIE VAYR.= _Syn._ VETIVER. The Tamool name of the odorous and fibrous
roots of the _Andropogon muricatus_ sold by the perfumers.
=VOLTA′IC ELECTRICITY.= _Syn._ GALVANIC E., GALVANISM, VOLTAISM. That
branch of electrical science which has reference to the phenomena
attendant on the development of electricity by chemical action.
Electricity thus developed may be made to show itself in the ‘static’
condition, so as to produce the effects of frictional electricity, but it
is much more easily obtained in the ‘dynamic’ condition——in other words,
as a ‘voltaic current’——when it is especially remarkable for its chemical
and magnetic effects. If a plate of zinc and a plate of platinum be
immersed in dilute sulphuric acid, and connected outside the liquid by a
wire, a current of electricity will immediately be set up, and will
continue as long as the conducting circuit is complete and the action of
the acid on the zinc goes on. The current of ‘positive’ electricity passes
from the zinc, through the liquid, to the platinum, and thence through the
wire to the zinc. The arrangement of two dissimilar metals immersed in a
liquid which acts upon one of them is called a voltaic couple. By uniting
a number of couples together in regular order, a voltaic pile or battery
is formed.
The older forms of the voltaic battery, viz., VOLTA’S PILE, CRUIKSHANK’S
TROUGH, and WOLLASTON’S BATTERY, are now but little used. They all consist
of a series of couples of zinc and copper, excited by an acid liquid,
generally a mixture of water with 1/40th of its bulk of sulphuric acid,
and 1/60th of nitric acid.
[Illustration:
_A._ A copper cylinder, filled with a saturated solution of sulphate of
copper.
_B._ A smaller porous cylinder (earthenware or membrane), containing a
mixture of 1 measure of strong sulphuric acid, and about 8 measures of
water.
_C._ A rod of amalgamated zinc, supported in the smaller cylinder by the
cross-piece (_i_).
_D._ A shelf full of small holes, for supporting crystals of sulphate of
copper, to keep up the strength of the solution.
_e_ and _f._ Screws and caps to connect the wires _g_ and _h_ with the
battery.
_g._ The negative wire, connected with the zinc.
_h._ The positive wire, connected with the copper.]
One of the most useful forms of the voltaic battery is that proposed by
the late Prof. Daniell, and commonly known by his name. Its peculiar
advantages arise from its action continuing without interruption for a
long time; hence the name of ‘constant battery’ that has been applied to
it. The foregoing figure will explain the construction of each couple.
One of these couples is sufficient for electro-typing; six of them form a
circle of considerable power, and about 20 produce one sufficiently strong
for most experiments of demonstration and research.
In arranging these, as well as other batteries, when intensity, or
travelling power, is desired, the metallic communication is made between
the opposite metals (the zinc of one couple being united with the copper
of another); but when simple quantity without intensity is required, the
zinc of one battery is united with the zinc of the other, and the copper
of the one with the copper of the other——an effect which is equally
attainable with a single battery of enlarged dimensions.
Another useful apparatus is GROVE’S BATTERY, in which the positive metal
consists of amalgamated zinc immersed in sulphuric acid, diluted with 10
times its bulk of water; and the negative metal of platinum immersed in
strong nitric acid. The two liquids are kept separate by the use of porous
vessels, as in ‘Daniell’s battery.’ This is an extremely powerful
arrangement, but not so constant as Daniell’s, owing to the reduction of
the nitric acid to lower oxides of nitrogen. After this battery has been
in action for about an hour, copious red nitrous fumes are given off,
which cause great annoyance.
In place of platinum, compact charcoal or coke, prepared by a rather
troublesome process, may be used, and the arrangement then constitutes a
BUNSEN’S BATTERY. Other substitutes for the costly platinum have been
proposed, as lead coated with gold or platinum, and iron rendered
‘passive’ by immersion in strong nitric acid. Callan has obtained very
good results with amalgamated zinc and cast iron immersed in diluted
sulphuric acid, without the use of nitric acid (MAYNOOTH BATTERY).
In SMEE’S BATTERY, which is much used in the arts, pairs of amalgamated
zinc and platinised silver (or platinised platinum) are immersed in dilute
sulphuric acid (1 part acid to 7 parts water). The plates of zinc are
usually bent double, and the platinised plates interposed between the two
surfaces formed by the bend. See PLATINISING (p. 1337).
In every voltaic combination the passage of the electricity (_i. e._ the
positive modification of the force) in the liquid is from the active
element to the inactive element; in the case of a simple zinc-and-copper
couple, for instance, it is from the zinc to the copper. If this simple
fact be borne in mind, it will decide in every case the question which
confuses so many, namely, which is the positive, and which the negative
end of a battery? The positive is the end where the electricity leaves the
battery; the negative where it re-enters it. For further information
connected with the subject of voltaic electricity, see articles on
ELECTRICITY, ELECTROLYSIS, ELECTROTYPE, ETCHING, &c.
=VOLUME′TRIC ANALYSIS.= Quantitative chemical analysis by measure. This
method of analysis “consists in submitting the substance to be estimated
to certain characteristic reactions, employing for such reactions liquids
of known strength, and from the quantity of the liquid employed
determining the weight of the substance to be estimated by means of the
known laws of equivalence.” As an example of this method we give the
following from the Introduction in Mr Sutton’s excellent ‘Handbook of
Volumetric Analysis,’——“Suppose that it is desirable to know the quantity
of pure silver contained in a shilling. The coin is first dissolved in
nitric acid, by which means a bluish solution, containing silver, copper,
and probably other metals, is obtained. It is a known fact that chlorine
combines with silver in the presence of other metals to form chloride of
silver, which is insoluble in nitric acid. The proportions in which the
combination takes place are 35·46, of chlorine to every 108 of silver;
consequently, if a standard solution of pure chloride of sodium is
prepared by dissolving 58·46 grains of the salt (_i. e._ 1 equiv. sodium =
23, 1 eq. chlorine = 35·46 = 1 eq. chloride of sodium 58·46) in so much
distilled water as will make up exactly 1000 grains by measure; every
single grain of this solution will combine with ·108 grain of pure silver
to form chloride of silver, which precipitates to the bottom of the vessel
in which the mixture is made. In the process of adding the salt solution
to the silver, drop by drop, a point is at last reached when the
precipitate ceases to form. Here the process must stop. On looking
carefully at the graduated vessel from which the standard solution has
been used, the operator sees at once the number of grains which have been
necessary to produce the complete decomposition. For example, suppose the
quantity used was 520 grains; all that is necessary to be done is to
multiply ·108 grain by 520, which shows the amount of pure silver present
to be 56·16 grains.” The volumetric method is much less troublesome than
the ordinary method of analysis (by separating the constituents of a
mixture and weighing them), and is admirably adapted for the examination
of substances used in arts and manufactures. Most of the processes
described under ACIDIMETRY and ALKALIMETRY are examples of this method.
See those articles, also EQUIVALENTS, TEST SOLUTIONS, &c.
=WADE’S DROPS.= Compound tincture of benzoin.
=WA′FER PAPER.= See WAFERS, in Cookery (_below_).
=WA′FERS.= Thin adhesive discs, used for securing letters or sticking
papers together.
_Prep._ 1. (WAFERS, FLOUR W.) The finest; wheaten flour is mixed with
water, either pure or coloured, to a smooth pap or batter, which, after
being passed through a sieve, to remove clots or lumps, is poured into the
‘wafer-irons’ (previously warmed and greased with butter or olive oil),
and in this state exposed to the heat of a clear charcoal fire; the whole
is then allowed to cool, when the irons are opened, and the thin cake,
which has become hard and brittle, is cut into wafers by mean of sharp
annular steel punches made exclusively for the purpose.
2. (GELATINE WAFERS, TRANSPARENT W.) Good gelatine or glue is dissolved,
by the heat of a water bath, in just sufficient water to form a consistent
mass on cooling; it is then poured, whilst hot, upon the surface of a warm
plate or mirror glass, slightly oiled, and surrounded with a border of
card paper (laid flat); a similar plate, also warmed and oiled, is next
laid upon the gelatine, and the two plates pressed into as close contact
as is permitted by the card paper; when quite cold the thin sheet of
gelatine is removed, and cut into wafers with punches, as before. 1 to 2
oz. of sugar is commonly added to each lb. of gelatine.
3. (MEDALLION WAFERS.) A sheet of metal or glass, having designs sunk in
it corresponding to the raised part of seals, being provided, the hollows
are filled up with a mixture formed of any appropriate coloured powder,
made into a paste with gum water or size, leaving the flat part clear;
melted coloured glue is then poured on the plate, and the process is
otherwise conducted as before. For use, the paper is wetted where the
wafer is to be applied.
_Obs._ Care must be taken that no poisonous colours be employed. For
gelatine wafers, transparent colours only can be used. Those noticed under
LIQUEURS and STAINS (Confectioner’s) are appropriate. To these may be
added plumbago, sesquioxide of iron (crocus martis), smalts, levigated
vegetable charcoal, and vermilion.
=Wafers.= (In Cookery.) _Prep._ Make fine flour, dried and sifted, into a
smooth thin batter with good milk, or a little cream-and-water; add about
as much white wine as will make it thick enough for pancakes, sweeten it
with a little loaf sugar, and flavour it with powdered cinnamon. When thus
prepared have the wafer-irons made ready, by being heated over a charcoal
fire; rub them with a piece of linen cloth dipped in butter; then pour a
spoonful of the batter upon them, and close them almost immediately; turn
them upon the fire, and pare the edges with a knife, if any of the batter
oozes out. A short time will bake them, when the irons are perfectly
heated. The wafers must be curled round whilst warm when they are for
ornaments. ‘Wafer paper’ is prepared in a similar way to the above; but
when intended to be kept for some time, the milk must be omitted. Used by
cooks, &c.; and, recently, as an envelope for nauseous medicines.
=Wafers, Da Silva’s.= These nostrums were introduced to the public some
time ago, as though they were prepared from the formulæ of a celebrated
physician whose name was affixed to them.[256] There are three varieties,
which are said to be prepared as follows:
[Footnote 256: For an exposition of the Da Silva quackery, with Or
Locock’s letter on the subject, see the ‘Anat. of Quackery,’ or the ‘Med.
Cir.,’ ii, 106-126.]
1. APERIENT OR ANTIBILIOUS WAFERS. From sugar and extract of liquorice
(Spanish juice), equal parts; senna and jalap, of each in fine powder,
about 1/2 dr. to every oz. of sugar employed; made into a mass with a
concentrated infusion of senna, and divided into 12-gr. lozenges or
squares with the corners rounded off.
2. FEMALE WAFERS. From sugar, horehound candy (or honey), and aperient
wafer mass, equal parts; beaten to a proper consistence with weak gum
water, to which a little orange-flower water has been added, and divided
into 8 gr. tabellæ, as before.
3. PULMONIC WAFERS. From lump sugar and starch, of each in powder, 2
parts; powdered gum, 1 part; made into a lozenge-mass with vinegar of
squills, oxymel of squills, and ipecacuanha wine, equal parts, gently
evaporated to 1-6th their weight, with the addition of lactucarium in the
proportion of 20 to 30 gr. to every oz. of the dry powders, the mass being
divided into half-inch squares, weighing about 7-1/2 gr. each (when dry),
as before.
=WAL′NUT.= The _Juglans regia_, a tree of the natural order _Juglandaceæ_.
The sap yields sugar; the fruit is the walnut; the kernels of the latter
are eaten and pressed for their oil; the peel or husks are used for
‘rooting’ or dyeing brown; the unripe fruit is pickled, and its juice is
used as a hair dye; the leaves are reputed diaphoretic and antisyphilitic;
and the wood is esteemed for cabinet work.
=WARBURG’S FEVER DROPS.= See TINCTURE, WARBURG’S FEVER.
=WARD’S RED DROP.= A strong solution of emetic tartar in wine.
=WARTS.= _Syn._ VERRUCÆ, L. These chiefly attack the hands, and may be
removed by the daily use of a little nitrate of silver, nitric acid, or
aromatic vinegar, as directed under CORNS. The first of the above
applications produces a black stain, and the second a yellow one; both of
which, however, wear off after the lapse of some days. Acetic acid
scarcely discolours the skin. Erasmus Wilson, the eminent surgeon and
talented author of several works on the skin, mentions the case of a
gentleman who removed an entire crop of warts from his knuckles and
fingers by subjecting them to a succession of sparks from one of the poles
of an electrical machine. “He was in the habit, as is usual, of trying the
amount of electric fluid collected in his machine by placing his knuckle
near the brass knob, and receiving a spark. Observing that an odd
sensation was produced whenever the spark struck a wart, he was tempted
for amusement to give them a round of discharges. When his attention was
next directed to his hands he found, to his surprise and satisfaction,
that all the warts had disappeared.” Dr Peez, of Wiesbaden, recommends the
internal use of carbonate of magnesia in cases of warts.
The papular eruption which covers the hands of some persons, and which is
occasionally called ‘soft warts,’ is best removed by the daily use of
Gowlard’s lotion.
=WASH.= The fermented wort of the distiller.
=WASH-BALLS.= See SAVONETTES.
=WASH-BOTTLE.= The principle of this very common and indispensable
laboratory utensil, by which precipitates are washed, will be readily
understood by reference to No. 1 of the engravings below.
The bottle being two thirds filled with distilled waters by blowing into
the shorter tube, _b_, a small jet of water is forced through the nozzle
of the longer tube, _c_. We give the following directions for the
construction of a WASH-BOTTLE, from Mr Clowes’ excellent little manual,
entitled ‘An Elementary Treatise on Practical Chemistry,’[257]——“A thin,
flat-bottomed flask is chosen, of 16 or 18 ounces capacity; the neck must
not be less than an inch in diameter. Procure a sound cork, which is
slightly too large to enter the neck, soften the cork by placing it upon
the floor and rolling it backwards and forwards under the foot with gentle
pressure; when thus softened the cork must fit tightly into the
flask.[258] Two pieces of glass tubing rather longer than would be
required for the tubes _a_ and _b_ are then bent into the form shown in
Fig. 1. The ends of the tubes are, if necessary, cut off to the right
length, and their sharp edges rounded by holding them in the Bunsen flame,
or the tip of the blowpipe flame.
[Footnote 257: J. and A. Churchill, New Burlington Street.]
[Footnote 258: “A vulcanized india-rubber stopper is much more durable for
this and most other chemical processes. It is perforated by a sharp,
well-wetted cork bore, or by a wetted round file.”]
[Illustration: FIG. 1, FIG. 2. and FIG. 3.]
“Two parallel holes are then bored in the cork by means of a round file,
or by a proper size cork-borer: the holes must be rather smaller than the
glass tubes, and must not run into one another, or to the outside of the
cork. They are slightly enlarged, if necessary, by the round file. Into
these holes the tubes _a_ and _b_ are then pushed with a twisting motion;
if the holes have been made of the proper size the tubes must enter
somewhat stiffly, but without requiring much pressure. Upon the upper end
of a is fitted a small piece of india-rubber tubing, about an inch and a
half in length, and into the other end of this is a finished short jet
(_c_) made by drawing out a piece of glass tubing in the flame; its nozzle
may be constructed, if necessary, by holding it perfectly dry in the flame
for some time. The neck of the bottle should then be bound round with
twine, like the handle of a cricket-bat, or tightly covered with a piece
of flannel. This prevents the fingers from being burnt when the bottle
contains boiling water.”
We append below some varieties of washing bottles. The round-bottomed are
in more general requisition than the flat-bottomed description; although
this latter presents the advantage of standing more firmly, and, if
boiling water be required, of furnishing it more quickly than the bottle
with the round base.
In some laboratories earthenware bottles are in use. These are not so
easily broken as those made of glass, but, unlike these latter, water
cannot be boiled in them, neither can we see whether they be full or
empty.
=WASHERWOMAN’S SCALL.= See PSORIASIS.
=WASHES.= The familiar name of lotions, more especially of those employed
as cosmetics. See FRECKLES, LOTION, MILK OF ROSES, SKIN COSMETICS, &c.,
and the following page.
=Washes, Hair.= _Prep._ 1. From rosemary tops, 2 oz.; boiling water, 1
pint; infused together in a teapot or jug, either with or without the
addition of rectified spirit, 1 fl. oz. (or rum, 2 fl. oz.) to the cold
strained liquor.
2. Box leaves, a small handful; boiling water, 1 pint; digest for an hour,
simmer 10 minutes, and strain. Both are used to improve the growth of and
to strengthen the hair.
3. To clean the ‘partings,’ remove scurf, &c.——_a._ (ANTIPITYRIENNE.) From
sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 1 oz.; spirit of rosemary, 1/2 pint; rose of
elder-flower water, 1-1/2 pint.
_b._ (DETERGENT ESSENCE.) From honey, 2 oz.; borax, 1 oz.; cochineal
(bruised), 1/4 oz.; camphor, 1 dr.; (dissolved in) rectified spirit, 2 fl.
oz.; soft water, 3/4 pint; oil of rosemary, 20 drops.
_c._ (VEGETABLE EXTRACT.) Take of salt of tartar, 1 oz.; rosemary water, 1
pint; burnt sugar, q. s. to tinge it brown; dissolve, filter, and add of
essence of musk, 10 drops.
4. To darken the hair.——_a._ From pyrogallic acid, 1/4 oz.; distilled
water, orange-flower water, and rectified spirit, of each 1-1/4 fl. oz.
_b._ (LA FOREST’S COSMETIC LOTION or LIQUID HAIR DYE.) Boil, for a few
minutes, chloride of sodium, 1 dr., and sulphate of iron, 2 dr., in red
wine, 1 lb.; then add of verdigris, 1 dr.; in 2 or 3 minutes remove it
from the fire, and further add of powdered galls, 2 dr.; the next day
filter. For use, moisten the hair with the liquid; in a few minutes dry it
with a cloth, and afterwards wash the skin with water.
5. To prevent the hair falling off.——_a._ (AMERICAN SHAMPOO LIQUID.) Take
of carbonate of ammonia, 1/2 oz.; carbonate of potash, 1 oz.; water, 1
pint; dissolve, and add the solution to a mixture of tincture of
cantharides, 5 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint; good rum, 3 quarts. Used
to strengthen the hair and to remove dandruff, by moistening it with the
mixture, rubbing so as to form a lather, and then washing with cold water.
_b._ (BALM OF COLUMBIA.) As the last, omitting the potash, quadrupling the
carbonate of ammonia, and adding some perfume.
_c._ (Eras. Wilson.) Eau de Cologne (strongest), 8 fl. oz.; tincture of
cantharides, 1 fl. oz.; oils of rosemary and lavender, of each 1/2 fl. dr.
_d._ (Dr LOCOCK’S LOTION.) From expressed oil of mace (nutmeg), 1 oz.,
liquefied, at a gentle heat, with olive oil, 1/2 oz.; and, when cold,
formed into an emulsion by agitation, with rose water, 1/4 pint; spirit of
rosemary, 2-1/2 fl. oz.; stronger liquor of ammonia, 1-1/2 fl. dr. For
other formulæ, see BALDNESS, HAIR DYES, LOTION, &c.
=Washes, Medicinal.= See LOTION, &c.
=Washes, Mouth.= _Syn._ TOOTH WASHES; COLLUTORIA, L. _Prep._ 1. Take of
camphor (cut small), 1/4 oz.; rectified spirit, 2 fl. oz; dissolve. A few
drops to be added to a wine-glassful of water, to sweeten the breath and
preserve the teeth.
2. Chloride of lime, 1/2 oz.; water, 2 fl. oz.; agitate well together in a
phial for 1/2 an hour, filter, and add, of rectified spirit, 2 fl. oz.;
rose or orange-flower water, 1 fl. oz. Used, highly diluted with water, as
the last, by smokers and persons having a foul breath.
3. Mastic (in powder), 2 dr.; balsam of Peru, 1/2 dr.; gum, 2 dr., or
q. s.; orange-flower water, 6 fl. oz.; tincture of myrrh, 2 fl. dr.; for
an emulsion. In loose teeth, &c.
4. Tannin, 1/2 dr.; tincture of tolu, 2 fl. dr.; tincture of myrrh, 6 fl.
dr.; spirit of horseradish, 2 fl. oz.; mix. In spongy gums, scurvy, &c.;
diluted with tepid water.
5. (Swediaur.) Borax, 1/4 oz.; water and tincture of myrrh, of each 1 fl.
oz.; honey of roses, 2 oz. In tender or ulcerated gums.
6. Balsam of Peru, 2 dr.; camphor, 1/2 dr.; essence of musk and liquor of
ammonia, of each 1/2 fl. dr.; tincture of myrrh, 3 fl. dr.; spirit of
horseradish, 1-1/2 fl. oz. To sweeten and perfume the breath; a
teaspoonful in 1/2 wineglassful of tepid water to rinse the mouth with.
=Washes for the Nose.= _Syn._ NASAL DOUCHES, COLLUNARIA. The following
formulæ medicinally employed for the purpose of washing or rinsing out the
nostrils are from the ‘Pharmacopœia of the Throat Hospital.’
In applying them it is directed that “not more than twenty ounces of fluid
should ever be used for a nasal douche, and ten ounces are generally
sufficient. If an apparatus on the syphon principle be applied, it should
be placed only just above the level of the patient’s head, in order to
avoid too great force of current. The temperature of the fluid should be
about 90° F.”
NASAL DOUCHE OF TANNIC ACID. _Syn._ COLLUNARIUM ACIDI TANNICI. _Prep._
Tannic acid, 3 grams; water, 1 oz.; dissolve.——_Use._ Astringent
NASAL DOUCHE OF ALUM. _Syn._ COLLUNARIUM ALUMINIS. _Prep._ Alum, 4 grams;
water, 1 oz.; dissolve.——_Use._ As a mild astringent.
NASAL DOUCHE OF PERMANGANATE OF POTASH. _Syn._ COLLUNARIUM POTASSÆ
PERMANGANATIS. _Prep._ Solution of permanganate of potash (B. P.), 6
minims. Water to 1 oz.; mix.——_Use._ Detergent.
NASAL DOUCHE OF QUININE. _Syn._ COLLUNARIUM QUINIÆ. _Prep._ Sulphate of
quinine, 1/2 grain; water, 1 oz. Dissolve by the aid of a gentle heat.
This solution is occasionally useful in hay-fever. It is generally
sufficient to place a little in the palm of the hand and draw it up
through the nose.
NASAL DOUCHE OF SULPHO-CARBOLATE OF ZINC. _Syn._ COLLUNARIUM ZINCI
SULPHO-CARBOLATIS. _Prep._ Sulpho-carbolate of zinc, 2 grams; water, 1
oz.; dissolve.——_Use._ Antiseptic.
=Washes, Tooth.= See _above_.
=WASHING (as applied in Chemistry).= In the chemical laboratory the
washing of precipitates is an operation of constant occurrence, and as the
accurate result of the quantitative analysis in which the process of
precipitation is had recourse to, essentially depends upon the manner in
which the washing has been carried out, we have thought it desirable in
the interest of the worker commencing practical chemistry to amplify under
the present section the remarks which occur under the article
‘Precipitation.’ In washing a precipitate the object is, of course, to
entirely free it from all extraneous matter, so as to ensure, after proper
drifting, its being weighed in an absolutely pure and uncontaminated
state. To arrive at a correct knowledge as to when a precipitate has been
properly washed, the operator must never trust to guesswork, but to
_ocular demonstration_, by testing a minute portion, such as a drop or so
of the washings, from time to time.
This may be done, either by adding——1. A very minute quantity of the
proper precipitant[259] to the washings; or——2. By evaporating a drop of
the latter on a platinum knife, or a piece of platinum foil; when, if in
the former case no turbidity is caused and in the latter no fixed residue
remain, the precipitate may be pronounced perfectly washed. The operator,
however, instead of not sufficiently washing his precipitate, is
frequently liable to fall into another dilemma, which consists not so much
in overwashing it as in washing it with an unsuitable liquid, or one in
which the precipitate is, to a greater or lesser extent, soluble.
[Footnote 259: See PRECIPITATE]
It may not unfrequently happen that the best available precipitant may be
one in which the precipitate is soluble to some small extent. Under these
circumstances, before throwing down the precipitate, the liquid should, as
far as practicable, be removed by evaporation.
Many precipitates which are not altogether insoluble in water may, by the
addition of some other liquid to the water, be rendered much less so.
Thus, the double chloride of platinum and ammonium which is incompletely
thrown down in water is perfectly precipitated if alcohol be added to the
water, as are also chloride of lead and sulphate of lime, whilst the basic
phosphate of magnesium and ammonium may be rendered insoluble in water by
the addition of ammonia to the water. The precipitate having subsided to
the bottom of the fluid in which it was suspended, the supernatant liquid
may be removed from it either by filtration or decantation. In some cases
both processes are had recourse to. To wash a precipitate which has been
separated by filtration, and which in a moist condition more or less fills
the paper-filter inserted in a proper funnel, the wash-bottle described
below is employed. In using this apparatus the jet of water that is made
to issue from the bottle should be denoted upon the sides of the filter,
and never in the centre, since this would cause a splashing and a
consequent loss of the precipitate. The same contingency would be liable
to follow it the waters were propelled too violently from the bottle. On
no account must the wash-water be allowed to reach to the top of the
filter. Another precaution to be guarded against is the formation in the
precipitate of fissures or channels; if these are not prevented, the water
will not permeate all the parts of the precipitate, and it will be only
very insufficiently washed. When such channels form, it will be best to
stir up the precipitates with a glass rod or a platinum spatula, taking
care, however, to avoid tearing or making a hole in the filter.
Precipitates that are washed by decantation ought to consist of such
substances as readily subside from the liquid in which they are suspended
and are practically insoluble in water, since a very much larger quantity
of this menstruum has to be employed than when filtration is had recourse
to. The process is generally carried out in deep vessels. The supernatant
liquid being removed, the vessel is filled up with water, and the
precipitate well stirred up with a glass rod; after it has again fallen
down fresh water is added, and the process is continued until the washings
cease to show the presence of any soluble matter. The several washings
being collected, are let stand some 12 or 24 hours; after which time,
should no precipitate show itself, they are thrown away. Should any
deposits form in the washing, it is carefully removed either by filtration
or decantation, and its amount being determined, the result is added to
that obtained from the bulk of the precipitate. Where the nature of the
precipitate is in no way influenced by hot water, this latter should
always be used in washing precipitates, as it greatly facilitates and
expedites the operation. Many precipitates require to stand a long time
before they entirely subside from the fluid in which they are suspended.
Most gelatinous, pulverulent, and crystalline precipitates are of this
nature. The separation of the precipitate should not be attempted until
after the liquid containing the precipitate has stood several hours.
=WASHING FLU′IDS.= Solutions of carbonate of soda, rendered caustic with
quicklime.
=WASHING POW′DERS.= See POWDERS.
=WATCH′FULNESS.= _Syn._ SLEEPLESSNESS. AGRYPNIA, L. The common causes of
watchfulness are thoughtfulness or grief, disordered stomach or bowels,
heavy and late suppers, and a deficiency of outdoor exercise. The best
treatment, in ordinary cases, simply consists in an attention to these
points. The method of producing sleep recommended by a late celebrated
hypnotist consists in merely adopting an easy recumbent position,
inclining the head toward the chest, shutting the eyes, and taking several
deep inspirations with the mouth closed. Another method, recommended by
an eminent surgeon, and which appears infallible if persevered in with
proper confidence, and which is suitable either to the sitting or
recumbent posture, consists in tying a decanter cork with a bright
metallic top, a pencil-case, or any other bright object on the forehead,
in such a position that the eyes must be distorted or strained to be
capable of seeing it. By resolutely gazing in this way for a short time,
without winking, with the mind fully absorbed in the effort, the muscles
of the eyes gradually relax, and the experimenter falls asleep. Gazing in
a similar manner on any imaginary bright spot in the dark, as at night,
exerts a like effect. A tumblerful of cold spring water, either with or
without a few grains of bicarbonate of potash in it, taken just before
lying down, will frequently succeed with the dyspeptic and nervous, when
all other means fail.
The following valuable advice to those who suffer from unnatural
wakefulness is abridged from the late Dr Tanner’s valuable work on the
‘Practice of Medicine.’[260]
[Footnote 260: ‘The Practice of Medicine,’ by Thos. Hawkes Tanner, M.D.,
Renshaw, London.]
As his starting point Dr Tanner enjoins the practice of taking a proper
amount of exercise daily. A digestible diet, such as is not liable to
cause acidity or flatulence, must also be adopted, and tea and coffee must
be abstained from in the after part of the day. Early dinners and light
suppers are also recommended. The reading of any thrilling work of fiction
previous to retiring to rest is also prohibited. The patient is advised to
seek his bed at an early and regular hour, and it is desirable to have his
sleeping chamber well ventilated, and if the weather be chilly the bedroom
fire should be lighted. Feather beds should be abandoned for mattresses;
there should not be too many blankets on the bed, the pillows should be
firm and high, and no curtains or hangings should be allowed. Should the
above means fail to produce the required sleep, before going to bed the
patient is advised to try a tumbler of port-wine negus, or of mulled
claret, or of white-wine whey, the last thing. The aged are recommended
(should the above methods be unsuccessful) to imbibe a glass of spirit and
water, which is said to be all the more effective if drunk when in bed. In
some cases, attended by a hot or dry skin, a glass of cold water has been
found useful. Another remedy is the use of a bath, for about three or five
minutes, just before getting into bed, at a temperature varying from 90°
to 96° F.
Rapid sponging of the body with tepid water is also recommended, as also
the use of a warm foot bath, at a temperature of 100° F., or of a
hot-water bottle in the bed, or putting the feet in cold water for a
minute, and then vigorously rubbing them.
For those whose sleeplessness is caused by their prosecuting literary
work till a late hour a short brisk walk, just before retiring to bed, is
recommended.
If the wakefulness can be traced to any bodily ailment, this, of course,
must be removed by the proper means. Constipation, which is not at all an
unfrequent cause of insomnia, must be combated by the methods described
under that article. If there be headache it will be best removed by
applying a rag dipped in cold water to the scalp, or a bladder containing
ice.
Should the adoption of any of the above suggestions fail all kinds of
mental labour and excitement during the day must be greatly diminished,
and physical exercise must replace them. Sedatives should be had recourse
to with great caution, and under medical supervision only. Because of the
hazard attending their use, and of the ready tendency their adoption has
to degenerate into a pernicious ineradicable habit, we have forebore to
specify the medicinal agents Dr Tanner prescribes for sleeplessness,
strongly recommending the patient, before he has recourse to them, to
exhaust the category of suggestions given by Dr Tanner, and, should these
unhappily be found to fail, and he is drawn to soporifics, we again
reiterate, let him take them only under medical supervision.
Another method, adopted by professional hypnotists, consists in gently
moving, in opposite directions, a finger of each hand over the forehead,
just above the eyebrows. A soothing and drowsy effect is said to be
thereby produced, which ends in tranquil slumber.
Dr Ainslie Hollis contributes some excellent hints on the treatment of
wakefulness to the practitioner. He classifies the treatment under two
heads——first, the induction of natural sleep, and, secondly, the
production of narcosis or artificial rest. The application of mustard
plasters to the abdomen generally brings about the first result,
producing, according to Schuler, first dilatation, and subsequently
contraction of the vessels of the pia mater. Dr Pleyer, of Jena, on the
supposition that sleep may be induced by the introduction of the fatigue
products of the body, advocates the administration of a solution of
lactate of soda. When sleeplessness is the result of brain exhaustion Dr
Hollis advocates a tumbler of hot claret negus. The alkalies and alkaline
earths, says the ‘Boston Journal of Chemistry,’ are useful when acid
dyspepsia is associated with the insomnia. In hot weather, sprinkling the
floor of the sleeping apartment with water lessens the irritant properties
of the air, adding much to the comfort of the sleepers; possibly the
quantity of ozone is at the same time increased. When sleep is broken by
severe pain, opium or morphia is of value, bringing not only relief, but
producing anæmia of the cerebral vessels; when neuralgia is the cause an
injection of morphia under the skin, near the branch of the affected
nerve, will have more effect than by administering it by the mouth.
Again, when wakefulness is due to defective cardiac power, digitalis may
be useful. Chloral hydrate is supposed to owe its hypnotic effect to its
power of diminishing the amount of blood in the brain, and therefore it
may be used when sleeplessness arises from the pains of muscular spasm.
The bromides, although undoubtedly sedatives, possess very doubtful
hypnotic properties. See SUPPER, &c.
=WA′TER.= H_{2}O. _Syn._ OXIDE OF HYDROGEN, PROTOXIDE OF H.; AQUA, L.;
EAU, Fr.; WASSER, Ger.; ὑδωρ, Gr. The ancients regarded water as a simple
substance, and as convertible into various mineral and organic products.
Earth, air, fire, and water were at one time conceived to be the
elementary principles or essences of matter from which all form and
substance derived their existence. The true constitution of water was not
discovered until about the year 1781, when Cavendish and James Watt,
independently and nearly simultaneously, showed it to be a compound of
hydrogen and oxygen. Five years, however, before this time (1776), the
celebrated Macquer, assisted by Sigaud de la Fond, obtained pure water by
the combustion of hydrogen in the air. It has since been satisfactorily
demonstrated that hydrogen and oxygen exist in water in the proportion of
1 to 8 by weight, or 2 to 1 by volume; the sp. gr. of hydrogen being to
that of oxygen as 1 to 16. One cubic inch of perfectly pure water at 62°
Fahr., and 30 inches of the barometer, weighs 252·458 gr.; by which it
will be seen that it is 770 times heavier than atmospheric air. Its sp.
gr. is 1·0, it being made the standard by which the densities of all solid
and liquid bodies are estimated. The sp. gr. of frozen water (ice) is
·9175, water being 1·0 (Dufour); that of aqueous vapour (steam), ·6252,
air being 1·0. Water changes its volume with the temperature; its greatest
density is about 39-1/2° Fahr., and its sp. gr. decreases from that point,
either way. Water is nearly incompressible. By subjecting water to a
pressure of 705 atmospheres, Cailletet found the compressibility to be at
the rate of ·0004451 for each atmosphere. Water evaporates at all
temperatures; but at 212° under ordinary circumstances, this takes place
so rapidly that it boils, and is converted into vapour (steam), whose bulk
is nearly 1700 times greater than that of water.
_Var._ Of these the following are the principal:
DISTILLED WATER; AQUA DESTILLATA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. Obtained by
the distillation of common water through a block-tin worm, rejecting the
first and last portions that come over. The still employed for this
operation should be used for no other purpose; and when great nicety is
required, the distillation should be performed in glass or earthenware. It
remains limpid on the addition of lime water, chloride of barium, nitrate
of silver, oxalate of ammonium, or hydrosulphuric acid. It is the only
kind of water that should be employed in chemical and pharmaceutical
operations. When distilled water is not at hand, clean filtered or
clarified rain water is the only kind that can be successfully
substituted.
NATURAL WATERS. In respect of wholesomeness, palatability, and general
fitness for drinking and cooking, natural waters may be classified in
orders of excellence as follows (‘Rivers Pollution Commissioners’ Sixth
Report’):——
{1. Spring water } Very palatable.
_Wholesome_ {2. Deep-well water }
{3. Upland surface water } Moderately palatable.
{4. Stored rain water }
_Suspicious_ {5. Surface water from cultivated lands }
{6. River water to which sewage gains } Palatable.
_Dangerous_ { access }
{7. Shallow well water }
The average composition of the four classes of unpolluted waters is given
by the same authorities as follows. Their estimations are in parts per
100,000, but may be converted in grains per gallon by multiplying by 7 and
dividing by 10:
--------------+------+-------+--------+-----+--------+--------
| | | | |Nitrogen|Total
|Total |Organic|Organic |Ammo-| as |combined
|solid |Carbon |Nitrogen| nia |nitrates|nitrogen
|im- | | | | and |
|purity| | | |nitrites|
--------------+------+-------+--------+-----+--------+--------
Rain water | 2·95| ·070 | ·015 | ·029| ·003 | ·042
Upland surface| | | | | |
water | 9·67| ·322 | ·032 | ·002| ·009 | ·042
Deep-well | | | | | |
water | 43·78| ·061 | ·018 | ·012| ·495 | ·522
Spring water | 28·20| ·056 | ·013 | ·001| ·383 | ·396
--------------+------+-------+--------+-----+--------+--------
--------------+---------+--------+-----------------
|Previous | | Hardness
|sewage | +-----+-----+-----
|or animal|Chlorine|Temp-|Perm-|Total
|contamin-| |orary|anent|
| ation | | | |
--------------+---------+--------+-----+-----+-----
Rain water | 42 | ·22 | ·4| ·5 | ·3
Upland surface| | | | |
water | 10 | 1·13 | 1·5| 4·3 | 5·4
Deep-well | | | | |
water | 474 | 5·11 | 15·8| 9·2 |25·
Spring water | 3559 | 2·49 | 11·0| 7·5 |18·5
--------------+---------+--------+-----+-----+-----
RAIN WATER contains, among natural waters, the smallest amount of solid
matter in solution. From the columns headed “Organic Carbon” and “Organic
Nitrogen” it will be seen that even rain collected with special
precautions, away from any large town, is by no means free from organic
matter. Rain water collected from roofs and stored in underground tanks is
often very impure.
SURFACE WATERS form the main supply of rivers. If collected from high
uncultivated districts they are usually unpolluted with animal matter. The
organic matter is usually peaty, is sometimes very small, but is liable to
considerable variations with the season, and is occasionally present in
excessive quantities, discolouring the water and rendering it unpalatable.
From their softness these waters are admirably adapted for manufacturing
purposes. The amount of solid matter in solution ranges from 2 to 7 grains
per gallon.
SURFACE WATER from _cultivated land_, contains on an average less organic
matter than upland surface water, but the pollution, being derived from
manure and other objectionable matter, is more harmful.
RIVER WATER consists of the above, aided by springs, and most frequently
the drainage of towns on its banks. The amount of solid matter varies from
10 to 30 grains per gallon. In Thames water there are on the average about
20 grains.
WELLS, if _shallow_, are usually a most undesirable supply. Unless far
from any house they are contaminated by drainage, and sometimes, from
proximity to cesspools, contain more animal matter than ordinary town
sewage. They are, as a class, hard waters, the polluted ones excessively
so.
Wells of 100 feet deep and upwards are, as a class, very superior waters,
the filtration and oxidation of so great a depth of soil having removed
the greater part of the organic matter. The hardness varies with the
strata, but, as a class, the deep wells are softer than the shallow.
SPRING WATER greatly resembles deep well water, possessing all its good
qualities in a higher degree. Spring and deep well water are very uniform
in quality, and little affected by climatic changes.
SEA WATER. The characteristic of this variety is its saltness. Its density
is about 1·0274, and the average quantity of saline matter which it
contains is about 3-1/2 per cent., of which about 27/35 are chloride of
sodium, and the remainder chiefly chloride of magnesium and sulphate of
magnesium.
The average proportion of organic carbon and nitrogen in 23 samples of sea
water was ·278 carbon, ·165 nitrogen, as compared with Thames water
averages of ·203 parts carbon, ·033 nitrogen, in 100,000 parts of water.
_Analysis of sea water_ (British Channel), by Dr Schweitzer, of
Brighton:——
1000 gr. contained—— Grains
Water 963·745
Chloride of sodium 28·059
Chloride of potassium 0·766
Chloride of magnesium 3·666
Bromide of magnesium 0·029
Sulphate of magnesium 2·296
Sulphate of calcium 1·406
Carbonate of calcium 0·033
————————
1000·
_Pur._ Pure water is perfectly transparent, odourless, and colourless, and
evaporates without residue, or even leaving a stain behind. The purest
natural water is that obtained by melting snow or frozen rain, that has
fallen at some distance from any town. Absolutely pure water can only be
obtained by the union of its gaseous constituents; but water sufficiently
pure for all purposes may be procured by the careful distillation of
common water.
Among the methods adopted for improving the quality of water are:
(_a_) _For reducing the amount of organic and suspended matter._——1.
Filtration through or agitation with coarsely powdered, freshly burnt
charcoal, either animal or vegetable, but preferably the former. When in
good condition a filter of animal charcoal will not only remove suspended
matter in water, but will considerably reduce the amount of organic
matter, and also the calcareous and gaseous impurities held in solution;
but it, however, loses its power of removing lime in a week or two, and of
abstracting the organic matter in about three to four months, and then
becomes foul, and requires to be recharged. Spongy metallic iron is more
energetic in its action than charcoal, and remains serviceable for a
twelvemonth. 2. Free exposure to the action of the air, by which the
organic matters become oxidised and insoluble, and speedily subside. This
may be easily effected by agitating the water in contact with fresh air,
or by forcing air through it by means of bellows. 3. The addition of a
little sulphuric acid has a like effect; 15 or 20 drops are usually
sufficient for a gallon. This addition may be advantageously made to water
intended for filtration through charcoal, by which plan at least 2/3 of
the latter may be saved. (Lowitz.) 4. An ounce of powdered alum
(dissolved), well agitated with a hogshead or more of foul water, will
purify it in the course of a few hours, when the clear portion may be
decanted. When the water is very putrid about 1/2 dr. (or even 1 dr. per
gall.) may be employed; any alum that may be left in solution may be
precipitated by the cautious addition of an equivalent proportion of
carbonate of sodium. 5. A solution of ferric sulphate acts in the same way
as alum; a few drops are sufficient for a gallon. 6. Agitation with about
1/2 to 1 per cent. of finely powdered black oxide of manganese has
similar effect to the last. 7. The addition of a little aqueous chlorine,
or chlorine gas, to foul water, cleanses it immediately. This method has
the advantage of the water being perfectly freed from any excess of the
precipitant by heat.
(_b_) _For reducing amount of inorganic matter._——1. Distillation
separates all non-volatile matter, including organised bodies. It is used
to obtain a potable water from sea water. The waste heat of the cook’s
galley is amply sufficient for this purpose. There are several patent
contrivances for the distillation of water on ship board. 2. Hard water
may be softened by adding carbonate of soda to the water so long as it
turns milky. The precipitation of the hardening ingredients, lime and
magnesia, is most rapid when the water is heated. The water cannot be used
for drinking purposes, from the unpleasant flavour of the carbonate of
soda. When used on a hard water intended for washing, it effects a saving
of soap equal to about fifteen times its own cost. Sea water can be made
fit for washing by this means. It removes both the “temporary” hardness,
due to carbonates of calcium and magnesium, and the “permanent,” due to
the sulphates, chlorides, and nitrates of these metals. 3. Hard water may
be both aerated and softened by the addition of a few grains of
bicarbonate of potassium per gallon, followed by half as much lime juice
or tartaric acid as is sufficient to saturate the alkali in the carbonate
thus added. 4. The “temporary” hardness may be nearly removed by
ebullition, or, as recommended by Professor Clarke, by mixing the hard
water with lime water, when the calcium combines with the excess of
carbonic acid, which previously rendered the carbonate of calcium soluble,
and is precipitated as carbonate (chalk), together with the carbonate
originally present. This method removes, at the same time, much of the
organic matter, and carries down suspended matter. The water is often made
more palatable than before. The directions are:——For every degree of
hardness on Clarke’s scale each 1000 gallons of water to be softened
requires one ounce of quicklime. Slake the lime and work up to a thin
cream with water and pour into the cistern, which already contains at
least 50 gallons of water to be softened. Then add the remainder of the
1000 gallons in such a way as to stir up and mix uniformly with the
contents of the cistern. In about three hours the milky water is clear
enough for washing. After twelve hours’ rest the water is fit to drink. If
the exact hardness of the water is not known, water may be added to the
milk of lime till, on adding a drop of nitrate of silver to a cupful of
the cistern water, the brown tint indicative of an excess of lime is
replaced by a very faint yellow. 5. To save boilers from scaling, water
intended for steam purposes is sometimes treated with lime to remove
carbonates, and then the sulphate of calcium (which forms a very tenacious
scale) is decomposed with baric chloride (Haen’s process). The
precipitated mineral matter may also be prevented from forming a scale or
fur by adding organic substances, such as potatoes, sound or otherwise,
swedes, mangolds, or other vegetable. Oak bark, spent tan, sawdust; and
their decoctions are efficacious on account of the tannic acid they
contain, but they attack the boiler plates at the same time. Zinc
suspended in the water is said to answer well. It has been recommended to
polish the inside of the boiler plates with black lead or coat it with
linseed oil and dissolved india rubber. Numerous chemical preparations,
most of which do more harm than good, are also sold.
_Tests (Physical)._——1. To observe colour, stand in tall colourless glass
cylinder on white ground. If very turbid allow to settle, and examine
sediment by microscope for evidence of sewage contamination (linen fibres,
hairs, epithelium) and for moving organisms. Slight turbidity is best
noted by filling a clean quart flask and holding it towards the light with
some dark object as a window pane between. Taste and odour most marked
when the water is made lukewarm. 2. For poisonous metals add one drop of
strong colourless ammonium sulphide to about 1000 grains of water in glass
cylinder, and observe if liquid darkens. If the coloration or precipitate
disappears on adding acid, it is iron; if it remains, lead or copper is
present, either of which condemns the water. 3. For chlorine add couple of
drops of nitric acid to a little of the water and a crystal or drop of
solution of nitrate of silver. If the water turns very milky it is a bad
sign; make, if possible, a comparative experiment with water of known
composition. 4. The residuum, if any, of evaporation is impurity; if it be
organic matter, smoke and a peculiar odour will be evolved, as the residue
becomes dry and charred. 5. Neither litmus, syrup of violets, nor turmeric
are discoloured or affected when moistened with pure water; if the first
two are reddened it indicates an acid; if the litmus is turned blue or the
turmeric is turned brown, an alkali is present. 6. If a precipitate is
formed or a fur or crust deposited on the vessel during ebullition it
indicates the presence of carbonates of calcium, magnesium, or iron. 7.
Calcium salts produce a white precipitate with oxalate of ammonium. 8. The
liquid filtered off from 7, on standing with phosphate of sodium and
ammonium (microcosmic salt), gives a white precipitate if magnesium be
present. 10. Tincture or infusion of galls turns water containing iron
black. When this takes place both before and after the water has been
boiled, the metal is present under the form of sulphate; but if it only
occurs before boiling, then ferrous carbonate may be suspected, and it
will be precipitated as a reddish powder by exposure to air and heat. 11.
Ferrocyanide of potassium gives a dark blue precipitate in water
containing a ferric salt; and a white one, turning blue by exposure to the
air, in water containing a ferrous salt. 12. If sulphuric acid be run into
water and allowed to cool, and a crystal of sulphate of iron dropped into
the water, a dark brown cloud round the crystal indicates nitrates; the
bleaching of indigo added to the hot mixture of equal parts water and pure
oil of vitriol also indicates the presence of these salts. 13. Sulphuric
acid or sulphates is indicated by a soluble salt of barium throwing down a
white precipitate insoluble in nitric acid.
_Water, Quantitative Analysis of._——The quantitative analysis of potable
water is confined to the following: total residue, hardness temporary and
permanent, chlorine, ammonia, nitrates and nitrites, and organic matter.
Of these, all but the first two are intended to throw light on the organic
contamination of the water. Chlorine, ammonia, and nitrates and nitrites
are in themselves innocuous substances, but are estimated because they
supplement the somewhat imperfect information obtained from the organic
matter itself. A sewage-polluted supply being an agent in propagating
zymotic diseases, a knowledge of the source of the organic matter in a
water is of the highest importance.
Before passing to the mode of estimating the above items it may be
desirable to explain the object of each analysis and the interpretation
which may be placed on the results.
_Total solid residue_ includes all the substance, organic or mineral,
dissolved in the water. Everything beyond the two gases which enter into
the combination of the water being useless, the ‘residue’ of a water is
sometimes called the ‘total solid impurity.’ The less residue left by a
water on evaporation the better, but a water need not be objected to for
drinking purposes till the residue reaches 40 grains per gallon. For
raising steam a water should not contain more than 20 grains, and should
be, if possible, much less.
_The hardness_, or soap-wasting power of a water, is chiefly determined on
economic grounds. Unless the hardness is very excessive, the hardness or
softness of the water does not appear to materially affect the health of
the consumer. Hardness is caused by salts of lime and magnesia. If the
property of hardness be caused by the presence of bicarbonates of the
above substances, the water is said to be ‘temporarily’ hard, for by
boiling or adding lime as above described, the hardness may be reduced
without affecting the potability of the supply; but when the hardness is
due to calcium or magnesium sulphates it is called ‘permanent’ hardness,
for it is not then practicable to remove the hardening ingredients without
adding some more objectionable substance. The average hardness of the
four classes of pure water is shown in the analyses given above. Thames
water has a total hardness of 15°, Loch Katrine water, as supplied to
Glasgow, 0·70, on Clarke’s scale.
_Chlorine._——Except in places near the sea, or in salt-bearing strata, an
unpolluted water does not contain more than the merest trace of chlorine.
Sewage, however, contains a large quantity of chlorine as sodic chloride
(common salt) derived from the salt used in cooking, &c. Hence a mixture
of sewage with water becomes known by the quantity of chlorine present. It
is not safe to drink a water containing such an excessive quantity of
chlorine as 4 grains per gallon. The chlorine in Ullswater and Thames
water is ·7 and 1·1 grains per gallon respectively. Sewage has about 8
grains on the average.
_Ammonia._——This determination acquires significance because it is one of
the early substances produced by the decomposition of animal matter. It
therefore indicates, when present in large quantities, _recent_
contamination by sewage. Rain always contains a small amount of ammonia,
and deep wells occasionally show ammonia derived from the reduction of
nitrates by the oxygen-seeking organic matter. The above inferences must,
therefore, be applied with caution.
_Nitrates and Nitrites_ result from the oxidation of animal matter.
Vegetable substances, under like conditions, yield none or but mere traces
of these compounds. The presence of nitrates is a most unfavorable sign in
a shallow well or river water, because the conditions to which these
waters are subjected are so variable that there is a constant liability of
the purifying processes diminishing, and allowing the sewage, now only
represented by innoxious nitrates, to appear in its dangerous, unoxidised
condition.
Dr Frankland takes the sum of the nitrogen existing in the water as
ammonia and as nitrites and nitrates, as a sort of measure of the minimum
amount of animal or sewage matter destroyed. The amount due to sewage or
animal matter is considered to be all over ·032 part per 100,000 (or ·022
gr. per gallon), which is the average of ‘inorganic nitrogen’ natural to
unpolluted rain water. Dr Frankland also expresses this ‘previous sewage
or animal contamination,’ in terms of London sewage containing 10 parts of
nitrogen in 100,000 parts of liquid, by multiplying the above-named
corrected sum by 10,000. Thus, a water containing 1 part per 100,000 (·7
gr. per gall.) of ‘inorganic nitrogen’ would have a ‘previous sewage or
animal contamination’ of 9680 parts per 100,000, for it would have
required 100,000 {(1 - ·032)/10} = 9680 parts of London sewage to produce
an amount of nitrogen equal to that found by analysis. A water which
contains over 20,000 parts of previous sewage contamination (1·5 grains
of inorganic nitrogen) is said to be dangerous. All other waters
containing more inorganic nitrogen than in rain are said to be ‘doubtful’
except springs and deep well waters containing less than 10,000 parts of
previous sewage contamination per 100,000, and such shallow wells and
running water which from their source may be taken to be free from sewage.
_Organic matter._——There is no method by which the actual weight of
organic matter can be determined, still less is it possible to say how
much is likely to be actually injurious organic matter, but there are
several means of measuring the proportionate amount of organic
contamination.
Dr Frankland determines the amount of carbon and nitrogen in the organic
matter. The smaller the amount of these elements the better the water, and
the less the amount of nitrogen, especially in proportion to organic
carbon, the less chance of _animal_ matter. A good drinking water will not
have more than ·2 parts in 100,000 (·14 gr. per gall.) of carbon, or ·03
part of organic nitrogen in 100,000 parts (·02 gr. per gall.) of the
water. The amount of putrescent matter may be estimated by the amount of
oxygen consumed in destroying it. Dr Tidy (‘Chem. Soc. Jour.,’ January,
1879) considers that, speaking generally, waters requiring ·05 part per
100,000 (·035 gr. per gall.) to be of great organic purity; ·15 part (·1
gr. per gall.) waters of medium purity; waters of doubtful purity, from
·15 to ·21 part per 100,000 (·15 gr. per gallon). Impure waters, all above
·15 gr. per gall.
The proportion of albuminous substances present is measured by Mr Wanklyn
by the amount of ammonia set free by alkaline permanganate. A water
containing over ·15 part per million albuminoid ammonia condemns a water
absolutely (‘Wanklyn’s Water Analysis,’ 4th edit., p. 54); ·10 part per
million with little free ammonia, or ·05 part albuminoid ammonia with much
free ammonia, is ‘suspicious.’ A water with less than ·05 part albuminoid
ammonia belongs to the class of very pure waters.
Of course the above data are not hard and fast lines, but serve as aid to
a judgment which may be modified by other circumstances connected with the
analysis, and the source of the water.
_Methods of Analysis. Total solid residue._——1000 grains are evaporated to
dryness in a platinum dish over a water bath and residue dried in an oven
at 212° F. for an hour, or until the weight is constant. The increase in
weight of the platinum vessel multiplied by 70 gives the number of grains
of total solid residue per gallon.
_Hardness_ is determined by a solution of soap of which 320 grain-measure
will soften a water of 16° of hardness. Each degree of hardness represents
an amount of soap-destroying matter equivalent to 1 grain of chalk per
gallon. 1000 measured grains of the water are measured into a
narrow-mouthed six or eight ounce stoppered bottle, then well shaken, and
the air sucked out by means of a piece of glass tube. The standard soap
solution is now run in 10 grains at a time, shaking well between each
addition until there is formed over the whole surface a lather which, when
the bottle is placed upon its side, shall last just five minutes. The
number of grain-measures used will indicate the hardness of the water by
reference to Table A. Should, however, the permanent lather not be formed
before 320 measures of soap solution have been added, a second trial must
be made, in which only 500 grain-measures of the water are taken, to which
a like amount of recently-boiled distilled water is added. The degree of
hardness now obtained must be multiplied by 2. With very hard waters it is
necessary to dilute still further, say 250 grains to 750 of distilled, and
multiplying the result by 4. If the number of soap-measures does not
correspond with any degree on the table, observe which numbers it falls
between. The degree corresponding to the lower of these soap volumes will
be the whole number in the answer; the fraction will be the difference
between the observed number of measures and the next lower on the table,
divided by the difference (given in column 3) between the figure above and
below it. Thus, if 14 measures were used the hardness would be 6·2°, 13·6
measures being equivalent to 6 degrees, and the fraction being {14 -
13·6}/{13·6 - 11·6} = 4/20 = ·2.
The hardness of the water in the natural state is the ‘total hardness.’ By
boiling for an hour and making up loss by evaporation with boiled
distilled water and again determining the hardness, the ‘permanent
hardness’ is found. That which has been removed by the boiling is the
temporary hardness.
TABLE A.
Soap test measures corresponding to one thousand measures of water of each
degree of hardness.
Degree of Soap test Difference.
hardness. measures.
0 14 18
1 32 22
2 54 22
3 76 20
4 96 20
5 116 20
6 136 20
7 156 19
8 175 19
9 194 19
10 213 18
11 231 18
12 249 18
13 267 18
14 285 18
15 303 17
16 320 ——
The standard water of 16° of hardness is thus made:——Pure carbonate of
calcium (Iceland spar) is weighed out into a porcelain or platinum dish in
the proportion of 16 grains for a gallon of solution. It is dissolved in
weak hydrochloric acid, and the whole cautiously evaporated to dryness
over a water bath, then re-dissolved in water and again evaporated to
drive off any excess of acid. The dish is covered with a glass during the
operation to prevent loss by spirting. The resulting neutral chloride of
calcium is dissolved in a gallon of pure distilled water if 16 grains were
weighed out, or a proportionate quantity in other cases. The soap solution
can be made by dissolving good curd soap in weak methylated spirit in the
proportion of one ounce of soap to the gallon. A potash soap made as
follows is, however, less liable to change: 150 grains of lead plaster
(Emplastrum plumbi, B. P.) and 40 grains of dry potassic carbonate are
rubbed together in a mortar and repeatedly extracted with small portions
of methylated spirit, triturating the mass meanwhile, till about a pint of
spirit has been used; filter and add an equal bulk of recently boiled
distilled water. Whichever method is followed the clear solution has now
to be standardised by the ‘water of 16° of hardness.’ 1000 grains of the
water of 16° of hardness are placed into a bottle, and this soap solution
is run in from a burette until a permanent lather is formed. The soap
solution must be fortified by strong soap solution or diluted with alcohol
till 320 measures produce a lather permanent for five minutes in 1000
grain-measures of water of 16° of hardness.
_Chlorine._ To 1000 grains of the water add a drop or two of neutral
chromate of sodium, so as to tinge the water yellow; run in standard
nitrate of silver till the liquid acquires a very faint red tinge, showing
that all the chlorine has been precipitated and that red silver chromate
is beginning to be formed. The number of grains of standard solution
divided by 100 will give the grains of chlorine in one gallon of the
water.
The standard solution is prepared by dissolving pure nitrate of silver in
the proportion of 47·90 grains to one gallon of distilled water.
_Ammonia_ is always carried out as described in the account of Messrs
Wanklyn and Chapman’s process.
_Nitrate and Nitrites._——These substances can be most expeditiously
estimated by the indigo process as follows: 200 grain-measures of the
water are placed in a flask and a little of a standard solution of indigo
added thereto; twice the volume of pure sulphuric acid is then suddenly
poured in from a measuring cylinder, and the whole shaken. The temperature
rises immediately to about 270° Fahr., and the blue colour will probably
be immediately discharged; more indigo, therefore, must be rapidly run in
till a brown-green tint shows itself. This gives the trial estimation,
but the maximum amount of indigo is only used up when all the indigo is
added previous to the addition of acid; hence a second experiment is now
started, and an amount equal to that previously used run in at once, and
on it is poured exactly twice as much sulphuric acid as there is water and
indigo in solution. The second result will be somewhat higher than the
first. If the solutions below mentioned be used, the amount of indigo
required by the 200 grains of water divided by the number of grains of
indigo required to bleach 200 c.c. of standard nitre represents the
grains per gallon of nitrogen as nitrates and nitrites. The standardising
of the indigo with the nitrate solution is performed exactly as for an
actual water. The requisites are a solution of pure potassium nitrate of
known strength, say 14·442 gr. of nitre (equivalent to 2 gr. of nitrogen
or 9 gr. of nitric acid) in a gallon of distilled water. 2. A solution of
indigo made by dissolving soluble indigo carmine in distilled water in
such a proportion that 200 gr. is about equal to 200 gr. of nitre
solution. 3. Strong pure oil of vitriol; it must be free from nitrous
compounds, not become turbid when diluted, and its specific gravity not be
less than 1·84. It is important to maintain the same proportion of acid,
and not to allow the temperature to fall below 250° F. throughout the
experiment.
Messrs Wanklyn and Chapman’s aluminium method is also a very convenient
process. 2000 grains of the water are placed in a retort and half as much
of a solution of 10 per cent. soda added. The soda solution is made from
sodium soda and the absence of nitrates is secured by boiling the liquid
with a piece of aluminium. Half the contents of the retort are distilled
over and the residue cooled. A piece of aluminium foil of about six square
inches area is tied to a piece of clean glass rod and sunk in the liquid.
The neck of the retort is guarded by a tube containing fragments of glass
moistened with hydrochloric acid; it is sloped, so that any liquid spurted
into the neck will flow back into the retort. After resting several hours
the neck of the retort is washed down with pure water, the contents of the
tube are transferred to the retort, and the contents distilled over, down
to about an ounce in two or three ounces water placed as a receiver. The
contents of the receiver are made up to 200 grains and the ammonia is
estimated in one half by Nessler’s test as below described.
An exceedingly accurate eudiometric method has also been devised by Dr
Frankland, based on Crum’s observations, that a highly concentrated
solution of nitrates, when vigorously agitated with mercury and an excess
of concentrated pure sulphuric acid, yields all its nitrogen from the
nitrates and nitrites, as nitric oxide, a compound occupying twice the
volume of the nitrogen as nitrates. The weight of gas is easily calculated
from the volume measured (‘Journal Chem. Soc.,’ March, 1868).
_Organic Contamination; means of estimating._——Messrs Wanklyn and
Chapman’s method is most generally employed. It depends on the conversion
of the nitrogen of the organic matter into ammonia and the employment of
Nessler’s test to estimate this ammonia.
_Nessler’s Test._ 500 gr. of iodide of potassium are dissolved in a small
quantity of hot distilled water, and to this is gradually added a cold
saturated solution of mercuric chloride till the precipitate produced
ceases to be dissolved upon stirring. To render this alkaline, add 2000
gr. of potassic hydrate and dilute the volume to 10,000 grain measures. A
little more saturated mercuric chloride is added, and the whole allowed to
settle, and the clear liquid decanted off. The test should have a slightly
yellowish tint. If colourless, it is not sensitive, and more mercuric
chloride must be added.
_Standard Ammonia Solution._——Dissolve 27·164 gr. of pure sulphate of
ammonium in 1 gall. of distilled water. For use dilute 100 gr. to 1000 gr.
It will then contain 1 gr. of ammonia in 100,000 of water.
In order to estimate ammonia several six-ounce tall glass cylinders, free
from colour, are graduated at 1000 grains. One of these is filled up to
the graduation mark with the ammonia to be estimated, and about 30 gr. of
Nessler’s reagent added from a pipette. The coloration produced is noted,
a second cylinder is filled nearly to the mark with distilled water, and
what is thought sufficient ammonia to produce a similar colour to the
first run in, and the whole made up to 1000 gr., and 30 gr. of Nessler
added; if after standing five minutes the colour in the second is the same
as in the water examined, the quantity of ammonia they contain will be
equal; but if this is not the case a second trial must be made, using more
or less standard ammonia as the intensity of colour is greater or less
than the first. After a little experience, more than two trials are rarely
necessary.
_Examination._ (_a_) _Free Ammonia._ 7000 grains (a deci-gallon) of the
water to be analysed is placed in a tabulated retort, and to it is added
half an ounce of a supersaturated solution of carbonate of soda, made by
dissolving ignited carbonate of soda in water free from ammonia. The
contents are distilled over in two portions of 1000 grains each, and the
second Nesslerised; if it contains no ammonia, the distillation may be
stopped; if it does, the distillation must be continued and tested in
portions of 500 grains till the ammonia no longer can be detected. If
there is much ammonia in the cylinder of the second 1000 grains the first
will probably contain too much to be conveniently estimated, and therefore
an aliquot part diluted to 1000 grains with distilled water free from
ammonia should be used. The sum of the ammonia in these different portions
multiplied by 10 gives grains per gallon.
(_b_) _Albuminoid Ammonia._ To the retort, after all the free ammonia has
been driven off, one ounce of a solution of hydrate and permanganate of
potassium of a strength of 2000 gr. of hydrate of potassium and 80 gr. of
permanganate to 10,000 gr. of water is added, and the distillation
continued until no more ammonia comes over, collecting the distillate in
portions of 1000 c.c. as before. The sum is the albuminoid ammonia derived
from the nitrogenous organic matter.
It is of course essential that the utmost care be taken to remove by
rinsing or distillation all traces of ammonia from apparatus employed.
Water which has been distilled till free from ammonia should alone be used
in estimations and preparations of solutions, and the alkaline
permanganate should lie boiled for a short time when made to expel
ammonia.
_“Oxygen” Process._ This is a useful process when comparing waters of
similar origin. It is probably a more reliable measure of the _putrescent_
matter present than the _total_ organic contamination. It is essential
that the oxidizing agent potassium permanganate be added in excess and
allowed to stand three hours. The following method is very delicate
(_vide_ Dr Tidy on Potable Waters, ‘Chem. Soc. Journ.,’ January, 1879.)
Cleanse with sulphuric acid and with tap water two flasks and place in one
500 septems (1/20 gall.) of the water, in the other an equal quantity of
distilled water. Add to each 20 septems (140 gr.) of sulphuric acid (1
part pure acid to 3 of distilled water) and 20 septems of potassium
permanganate and allow to rest for 3 hours. Then add to each flask a
couple of drops of an aqueous solution of potassic iodide (1 in 10) when
iodine is liberated equivalent to the amount of permanganate unacted on by
the waters. Observe the amount of a sodic hyposulphite solution (5·4 gr.
in 7000 gr.) which must be added to each to remove this free iodine
(judging of the exact spot by adding towards the end of the experiment a
few drops of starch).
The strength of the potassic permanganate solution is 2 gr. of the salt in
7000 gr. to 1/10 gall.; therefore the 20 septems will contain ·04 gr.
permanganate, equivalent to ·01 of available oxygen. The experiment (A)
with the amount of hyposulphite used up for the blank distilled water
shows the amount of hyposulphite equivalent to 20 septems or ·01 gr. of
oxygen. Therefore the amount of oxygen unconsumed in the water (B) to be
examined was (B/A) × ·01 and the amount (C) actually used up was (A - B)/A
× ·01 for 500 septems (1/20th gall). Then the oxygen consumed per gallon
would be A-B x ·2 / A. It is necessary to perform this standardising of
hyposulphite with every series of experiment on account of its tendency to
change. Dr Tidy recommends that in addition to the three hours’ experiment
one of a single hour duration be executed. The higher the proportion of
oxygen consumed in one hour to the oxygen consumed in three hours the
worse the water.
Nitrites, sulphuretted hydrogen, and ferrous salts interfere with this
test, and there appears to be a different ratio between the oxygen
consumed and the amount of organic matter according to the amount of
oxidation that has already taken place. The organic matter of deep wells
is proportionately least acted upon.
_Combustion methods._——The “Frankland and Armstrong process” consists in
burning with oxide of copper in vacuo the residue left on evaporating the
water, and collecting and measuring in a suitable gas apparatus the
carbonic acid, and nitrogen, and nitric oxide proceeding from the organic
matter. From these estimations are calculated the organic carbon and
nitrogen.
This method, though forming the most accurate means of measuring organic
contamination, is not in general use in consequence of the difficulties
attending Dr Frankland’s method of analysis. Professor Dittmar and Drs
Dupré and Hake have lately introduced processes by which the same results
may be obtained without necessitating the use of expensive gas apparatus.
_Dittmar’s Carbon._——Concentrate a suitable quantity (say 10,000 gr.) in a
pear-shaped flask, and, after adding some saturated solution of sulphurous
acid to expel carbonates and nitrates, evaporate to dryness in a glass
dish on a water bath. Transfer the residue from the dish to a porcelain or
platinum boat, and introduce it into the tail end of a combustion tube,
filled three fourths of its length with oxide of copper, and having a roll
of silver gauze in the front part of the tube. Previous to the boat being
put in, this tube is heated to redness, and a stream of air, freed from
carbonic acid, passed through it till the gas which comes out no longer
renders clear baryta water turbid. The combustion tube has attached in
front a small V-Shaped tube charged with chromic acid, dissolved in 60 per
cent. sulphuric acid. To it is permanently fixed a small tube filled with
calcic chloride, and in front of all is a small-weighed U-tube the first
three fourths of which is filled with soda lime, and the other fourth with
calcic chloride. On turning the gas on gradually from the front to the
tail the residue is at last reached, and burnt in the stream of pure air.
The carbonic acid given off, after being freed from sulphurous anhydride
by passing through the chromic acid solution and of moisture by the
calcic chloride, passes into the soda lime tube and is absorbed. The
increase in weight multiplied by 3/11 gives the amount of carbon in the
amount of water taken.
_Dittmar’s Nitrogen._ An amount of water, about half that taken for the
carbon, is evaporated in a similar way. The residue is transferred to a
large copper or silver boat, and mixed with about 50 grains of soda made
from pure sodium, or with a mixture of soda and baryta, and burnt in a
stream of hydrogen in a short combustion tube, which is closed in front by
a nitrogen absorption bulb charged with exceedingly weak acidulated water.
The amount of ammonia given off is estimated by the Nessler test as
described under “Ammonia.” Subtracting the amount of inorganic ammonia the
residue multiplied by 14/17 yields the quantity of organic nitrogen in
that volume of water.
A few blank experiments must be made to observe and allow correction for
the amount of experimental error.
_Carbon method of Drs Dupré and Hake._[261]——This method appears to be
very accurate, but it necessitates a number of minute precautions, which
cannot here be particularised. A residue is obtained by evaporating the
water either in the ordinary hemispherical glass dish, or in an
exceedingly thin silver one, which after being ignited is supported in a
platinum hemisphere of convenient size. At the close of the evaporation
this dish is crumpled up without being handled and introduced into a
combustion tube, similar to that described under Dittmar’s process. The
carbonic acid is absorbed in bright baric hydrate solution, and the
precipitated baric carbonate is, with suitable precautions to prevent
access of impure air, collected on a filter and washed. It is dried and
weighed. The result divided by 19·4 gives the weight of organic carbon. As
another method of estimating the carbon the authors propose to compare the
turbidity produced by the carbonic acid evolved from the combustion of the
residue in solutions of basic acetate of lead with that produced by known
quantity of carbonic acid.
[Footnote 261: ‘Chem. Soc. Journ.,’ March, 1879.]
_Pres._ The preservation of rain water in a state of purity necessitates
the greatest care in constructing the tanks, especially if the latter are
underground. Of eight samples of stored rain water examined by the River
Commissioners only one was fit for domestic use, the others were all
polluted by animal matter. Storage room sufficient to hold 120 days’
supply will be found sufficient for the driest district. The small
cisterns for service water should not be placed in positions where it can
receive the emanation of water closets or sleeping apartments. They should
be frequently cleaned out. The best are made of enamelled slate or
properly painted iron. Wherever possible a water service should be on the
constant supply system.
For wells the chief precaution necessary is to keep out surface and
drainage water by maintaining the walls water-proof for a considerable
depth. On shipboard water is preserved in iron tanks or in casks well
charred on the inside. Water cannot be safely kept in copper or leaden
vessels, and it receives a calcareous impregnation by contact with lime,
mortar, slate, or stone containing lime. The addition of 1/2 to 1 per
cent. of finely powdered binoxide of manganese materially promotes
preservation, especially at sea, where the motion of the vessel and the
subsequent agitation of the water increases the points of contact. Water
never putrefies in iron vessels or when some fragments of metallic iron
are immersed in it. Distilled water should be preserved in glass bottles
or carboys. See LOTION, SPIRITS, WATER, DISTILLED EYE WATER, PERFUMED
WATER, and the articles below.
=Water, Soda.= Each bottle of this liquid should contain at least 15
grains of carbonate of sodium, but that of the shops is usually nothing
else but water highly charged with carbonic anhydride. Not a particle of
soda enters into its composition, on which account it cannot be
substituted for the preparation of the Pharmacopœias.
To produce a superior article of soda water, the possession of a powerful
aërating and bottling machine is absolutely necessary. The water employed
must also be of the purest quality, the carbonic anhydride well washed
with water, and the corks so prepared that they will not impart their
peculiar flavour to the beverage. See POWDERS, SOLUTION, WINES, and LEAD
IN AERATED WATER.
=Water, Tar.= See INFUSION OF TAR.
=WATERS (Distilled).= _Syn._ AROMATIC WATERS, ODORIFEROUS W., PERFUMED W.;
AQUÆ (Ph. L.), AQUÆ DESTILLATÆ (Ph. E. & D.), L. Pure water, charged, by
distillation, with the volatile, odorous, and aromatic principles of
plants.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.)——_a._ 2 galls, of water are put into the still along
with the vegetable matter (bruised, if necessary), but only 1 gall. is
drawn over. In the Ph. L. 1836, 7 fl. oz. of proof spirit were added
before distillation.
_b._ Take of the essential oil of the plant, 2 fl. dr.; powdered silex, 2
dr.; triturate them diligently together, and then with distilled water, 1
gall., gradually added; lastly (after briskly agitating the whole for some
time), strain the solution.
2. (Ph. E.) As 1, _a_, but adding of rectified spirit, 3 fl. oz., before
distillation.
3. (Ph. D.). From the respective essences (Ph. D), 1 fl. oz.; distilled
water, 2 quarts; agitated well together, and then filtered through paper.
The following are the AQUÆ DESTILLATÆ of the British Colleges, with some
others, the quantities referring to a product of 1 gall., to be prepared
as above when not otherwise directed.
ANGELICA WATER; AQUA ANGELICÆ (P. Cod.). Bruised seed, 1 lb.; water,
q. s., distil 4 lbs.
ANISEED WATER; AQUA ANISI (P. Cod.). From seeds, as AQUA ANGELICÆ.
BALM WATER; AQUA MELISSÆ (P. Cod.), L. Fresh tops, 12 lbs.
BERGAMOT WATER; AQUA BERGAMII (L. 1746). Bergamot peel, 5 oz.
BITTER-ALMOND WATER; AQUÆ AMYGDALÆ AMARÆ, AQUA AMYGDALARUM AMABARUM (P.
Cod.), L. Bitter-almond cake (from which the oil has been expressed), 5
lbs.; macerate for 24 hours, and filter the distilled product through
paper previously wetted with pure distilled water. Poisonous.——_Dose_, 10
to 60 drops, as a substitute for hydrocyanic acid.
BLACK MUSTARD-SEED WATER; AQUA SINAPIS NIGRÆ (Guibourt). Mix 1 part of
ground black mustard seed with 8 of water; macerate for 12 hours, and
distil 4 parts, by means of steam conducted by a tube from a boiler to the
bottom of the still. Filter through moistened paper to separate the oil.
Used externally as a rubefacient.
BORAGE WATER; AQUA BORAGINIS (P. Cod.), L. Fresh leaves, 12 lbs.
CAMPHOR WATER; AQUA CAMPHORÆ (B. P.) MISTURA CAMPHORÆ. Enclose 1/2 oz. of
camphor, broken into pieces, in a muslin bag, and attach this to one end
of a glass rod, to keep it at the bottom of a bottle containing 1 gall, of
distilled water. Macerate for 2 days, then pour off the solution as
required.
CARAWAY WATER; AQUA CARUI (B. P., Ph. L. & D.). Caraway, bruised, 1;
water, 20; distil 10.
CASCARILLA WATER; AQUA CORTICIS CASCARILLÆ (P. Cod.), L. Cascarilla,
bruised, 3 lbs.
CASSIA WATER; AQUA CASSIÆ (Ph. E.), L. Cassia, bruised, 1-1/2 lb.
CASTOR WATER; AQUA CASTOREI. Castor, 4 oz.
CHAMOMILE WATER; AQUA ANTHEMIDIS (Ph. G.). Dried chamomile flower, 2 lbs.;
water, q. s.; distil 20 lbs.
CHERRY-LAUREL WATER; AQUA LAURO-CERASI (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), L. _Prep._ 1.
(B. P.) Fresh leaves of common laurel, 16, water, 50; chop the leaves,
crush them in a mortar, and macerate them in the water for twenty-four
hours; distil 20 of the liquid, shake the product, filter through paper,
and preserve in a stoppered bottle——2. (Ph. E.) Fresh leaves, chopped, 10
lbs. (10 lbs.——Ph. D.). To the product add of compound spirit of lavender,
8 fl. oz,; agitate well, and, if milky, filter it (through wet paper——Ph.
D.& P. Cod.).——_Dose_, 10 to 60 drops, as a substitute for hydrocyanic
acid. It is commonly imitated in trade by dissolving 75 drops (minims) of
the oil of bitter almonds in 2-1/2 fl. oz. of rectified spirit, agitating
the mixture with warm distilled water, 1 gall., and filtering.
CINNAMON WATER; AQUA CINNAMOMI (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. 1. Cinnamon,
bruised, 18 oz.; or oil, 2 fl. dr.——2. (B. P.) Cinnamon, bruised, 1;
water, 16; distil 8.
CLOVE WATER; AQUA CARYOPHYLLI (P. Cod.), L. Cloves, bruised, 3 lbs.
CORIANDER WATER; AQUA CORIANDRI. As Angelica water.
DILL WATER; AQUA ANETHI (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), L. 1. Bruised seed, 1-1/2
lb.; or essential oil, 2 fl. dr.——2. (B. P.) Bruised fruit, 1; water, 20;
distil 10.
DISTILLED WATER; AQUA DESTILLATA (B. P.). Take of water, 10 galls, distil
from a copper state, connected with a block-tin worm; reject the first 1/2
gall., and preserve the next 8 galls. It should remain clear on the
addition of either lime water, chloride of barium, nitrate of silver,
oxalate of ammonia, or hydrosulphuric acid (sulphuretted hydrogen).
ELDER-FLOWER WATER; AQUA SAMBUCI (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), L. 1. Fresh elder
flowers, 10 lbs.——2. (B. P.) Fresh elder flowers, separated from the
stalks, 1; water 2; distil 1.
FENNEL WATER; AQUA FŒNICULI (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.) L. As DILL WATER.
HYSSOP WATER; AQUA HYSSOPI (P. Cod.), L. Fresh tops, 12 lbs.
EUCALYPTUS WATER. _Syn._ AQUA EUCALYPTI. _Prep._ Dry leaves, 1 part; add
sufficient water to yield 4 parts of product.
HYSTERIC WATER; AQUA HYSTERICA. Compound of spirit of bryony, omitting the
bryony.
JUNIPER WATER; AQUA BACCÆ JUNIPERI (P. Cod.), L. Berries, bruised, 3 lbs.
LAVENDER WATER; AQUA LAVENDULÆ (P. Cod.), L. Flowering tops, 3 lbs.
LEMON-PEEL WATER; _Aqua limonis_ (E., 1817). Fresh lemon peel, 2 lbs.;
water, q. s.; distil 10 lbs.
LETTUCE WATER; AQUA LACTUCÆ (P. Cod.), L. Fresh lettuces, bruised, 12 lbs.
LIME-TREE-FLOWER WATER; AQUA TILLIÆ. From lime flowers, as melilot water.
LILY WATER; AQUA LILIORUM CONVALLIUM (Ph. Bruns.). Flowers of lily of the
valley, 1 lb.; water, 4 lbs.; distil 2 lbs.
MELILOT WATER; AQUA MELLIOTI (P. Cod.), L. Dried flower, 3 lbs.
MINT WATER, SPEARMINT W.; AQUA MENTHÆ VIRIDIS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.).
L. 1. Dried herb, 2 lbs.; or fresh herb, 4 lbs.; or essential oil, 2 fl.
dr.——2. (B. P.) English oil of spearmint, 1-1/2 dr.; water, 1-1/2 gall.;
distil 1 gall.
MYRTLE-FLOWER WATER; AQUA MYRTI. Myrtle flowers, 3 lbs.; water, q. s.;
distil 1 gall.
OPIUM WATER; AQUA OPII (Ph. G). Opium, sliced and dried, 1 oz. Put into a
glass retort with 10 oz. of. water, and distil 5 oz.
ORANGE-FLOWER WATER; AQUA AURANTII FLORIS (B. P., Ph. L.), A. FLORUM
AURANTII, L. “Water distilled from the flowers of _Citrus Bigaradia_,
Risso, and _Citrus Aurantium_, D. C.” (Ph. L.) Orange flowers, 10 lbs.;
proof spirit, 7 fl. oz. (Ph. L. 1836.)
ORANGE-PEEL WATER; AQUA CORTICIS AURANTII (L. 1746). Rind of oranges, 5
oz.
ORIGANUM WATER; AQUA ORIGANI (P. Cod.), L. Dried flowers, 3 lbs.
PEACH WATER; AQUA PERSICÆ (P. Cod.), L. Fresh leaves, chopped small, 12
lbs.; as CHERRY-LAUREL WATER.
PEACH-LEAF WATER; AQUA PERSICÆ (P. Cod.). Fresh peach leaves, cut small, 2
lbs.; water, 4 lbs. Distil gently 3 lbs.
PARSLEY-SEED WATER; AQUA PETROSELINI (P. Cod.). From parsley seed, as
angelica water.
PENNYROYAL WATER; AQUA PULEGII (Ph. L. & E.), AQUA MENTHÆ PULEGII (Ph.
D.), L. As MINT WATER (_above_).
PEPPERMINT WATER; AQUA MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. As
MINT WATER (_above_).
PIMENTO WATER; AQUA PIMENTÆ: (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.). L. 1. Pimento,
bruised, 1 lb.; or oil, 2 fl. dr.——2. (B. P.) Pimento, bruised, 1; water,
23, nearly; distil one half.
PLANTAIN-LEAF WATER; AQUA PLANTAGINIS (P. Cod.). From fresh plantain
leaves, as lettuce water.
RASPBERRY WATER. Fresh raspberries, 6 lbs.
RED-ANT WATER; AQUA FORMICARUM. Distilled from red ants with water, q. s.
RHODIUM WATER; AQUA RHODII. Rhodium wood, 1 part; water, 8; macerate, and
distil 4 parts.
ROSEMARY WATER; AQUA ROSMARINI, AQUA ANTHOS. Rosemary, in flower, 1 lb.;
infuse 24 hours; distil 1 gall.
ROSE WATER; AQUA ROSÆ (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. Damask or
hundred-leaved rose, 10 lbs. (Ph. L. & E.).——Otto 40 drops. (Ph.
D.)——Fresh cabbage-rose petals, 1; water, 2; distil 1 (B. P.).
RUE WATER; AQUA RUTÆ. Fresh rue, 1 lb.; macerate 24 hours; distil 1 gall.
SAGE WATER; AQUA SALVIÆ (P. Cod.), L. As LAVENDER WATER (_above_).
SASSAFRAS WATER; AQUA LIGNI SASSAFRAS (P. Cod.), L. Sassafras chips, 3
lbs.
SASSAFRAS WATER; AQUA SASSAFRAS (P. Cod.). From sassafras, as melilot
water.
SCURVY-GRASS WATER; AQUA COCHLEARIÆ (P. Cod.). Fresh scurvy grass, 8 lbs.
SPEARMINT WATER. See MINT WATER.
SPIRITUOUS WATERS. Many of the distilled spirits were formerly termed
waters.
SPRUCE FIR WATER; AQUA ABIRTIS (P. Cod.). Bruised buds of spruce fir, 2
lbs.
STINKING GOOSE-FOOT WATER; AQUA CHENOPODII VALVARIÆ. Stinking goose-foot,
1 lb.; water, 6 lbs.; distil 3 lbs.; 1 to 2 oz. in hysteria.
STRAWBERRY WATER; AQUA FRAGARIÆ. Strawberries, 3 lbs.; water, q. s.;
distil 3 lbs.
TANSY WATER; AQUA TANACETI (P. Cod.), L. Flowering tops, 6 lbs.
THYME WATER; AQUA THYMI (P. Cod.), L. As the last.
VALERIAN WATER; AQUA VALERIANÆ, A. RADICIS V. (P. Cod.), L. Root bruised,
3 lbs.
VANILLA WATER; AQUA VANILLÆ, L. Vanilla, coarsely powdered, 1 lb.; salt, 5
lbs.; water 2-1/2 galls.; macerate for 24 hours in a covered vessel, then
distil 1 gall.
VIOLET WATER; AQUA VIOLÆ. Violets, 1 part; water, 4; after 6 hours distil
2 parts.
WORMWOOD WATER; AQUA ABSINTHII (P. Cod.). Wormwood tops, 4 lbs.
_Uses, &c._ Distilled waters are mostly employed as vehicles or perfumes.
A few, as bitter-almond, cherry-laurel, and peach water, are poisonous in
doses larger than a few drops. The dose of the aromatic or carminative
waters, as those of dill, caraway, peppermint, pennyroyal, &c., is a
wine-glassful, _ad libitum_.
_Concluding Remarks._ In the preparation of distilled waters for medical
purposes the utmost care should be taken to prevent contamination from
contact with either copper, lead, or zinc, since these metals are
gradually oxidised and dissolved by them. In preparing them from the
essential oils, silica, in impalpable powder, is the best substance that
can be employed to promote the division and diffusion of the oil, as
directed in the Ph. L. Magnesia and sugar, formerly used for the purpose,
are objectionable; as the first not; only decomposes a portion of the oil,
but the water is apt to dissolve a little of it, and is hence rendered
unfit to be used as a solvent for metallic salts, more especially for
corrosive sublimate and nitrate of silver; whilst the other causes the
water to ferment and acetify.
In the distillation of waters intended for perfumery the utmost care is
requisite to produce a highly fragrant article. The still should be
furnished with a high and narrow neck, and the heat of steam, or a
salt-water bath, should alone be employed. The first 2 or 3 fl. oz. of the
runnings should be rejected, except when spirit is used, and the remainder
collected until the proper quantity be obtained, when the whole product
should be mixed together, as distilled waters progressively decrease in
strength the longer the process is continued. When a very superior article
is desired, the waters may be redistilled by a gentle heat, the first two
thirds only being preserved. The herbaceous odour of recently distilled
waters is removed by keeping them for some months, loosely covered in a
cold cellar.
When distilled waters have been carefully prepared, so that none of the
liquor in the still has ‘spirted’ over into the condensing worm, they keep
well, and are not liable to change; but when the reverse is the case, they
frequently become ropy and viscid. The best remedy for this is to redistil
them. Waters which have acquired a burnt smell in the ‘stilling’ lose it
by freezing. Distilled waters may be prevented from turning sour by
adding a little calcined magnesia to them, and those which have begun to
spoil may be recovered by adding 1 gr. each of borax and alum to the pint.
The doctoring is not, however, to be recommended, and should never be
adopted for those used in medicine. A drop of solution of terchloride of
gold added to these waters shows whether they contain any uncombined
essential oil, by forming, in that case, a fine metallic film on the
surface. After distilled waters have acquired their full odour, they
should be carefully preserved in well-stopped bottles. Such houses keep a
separate still for each of the more delicate perfumed waters, as it is
extremely difficult to remove any odour that adheres to the body of the
still and worm. The addition of the small quantity of spirit ordered in
the Ph. E. and Ph. L. 1836, in the preparation of their waters, in no way
tends to promote their preservation.
In general, the druggist draws off 2 galls., or more, of water from the
quantities of the herbs, barks, seeds, or flowers, ordered in the
Pharmacopœias; hence the inferior quality of the waters of the shops. They
do, however, very well for vehicles. The perfumers, on the contrary, use
an excess of flowers, or at least reserve only the first and stronger
portion of the water that distils over, the remainder being collected and
used for a second distillation of fresh flowers.
The most beautiful distilled waters are those prepared in the south of
France, and which are imported into England under the French names. Thus
eau de rose, eau de fleurs d’oranges, &c., are immensely superior to the
best English rose or orange-flower water, &c. The water that distils over
in the preparation of the essential oils is usually of the strongest and
finest class. See ESSENCE, OILS (Volatile), SPIRITS (Perfumed),
VEGETABLES, &c.
=WATERS (Eye).= _Syn._ COLLYRIA, L. _Prep._ 1. From distilled vinegar, 1
fl. oz.; distilled water 1/2 pint. Half a fl. oz. of rectified spirit, or
1 fl. oz. of brandy, is often added. In simple chronic ophthalmia, blear
eyes, &c., also to remove particles of lime from the eyes.
2. Sugar of lead, 10 gr.; pure vinegar, 1/2 teaspoonful; distilled water,
1/2 pint. In ophthalmia, as soon as active inflammation ceases; also as
the last.
3. Wine of opium, 2 fl. dr.; sulphate of zinc, 20 gr.; distilled water,
1/2 pint. Astringent and anodyne; in painful ophthalmia and extreme
irritability.
4. Opium, 15 gr.; boiling water, 8 fl. oz.; when cold, add of solution of
acetate of ammonia, 2-1/2 fl. oz., and filter. As the last.
5. Sulphate of zinc, 20 gr.; distilled water, 1/2 pint; dissolve. Au
excellent astringent water in chronic ophthalmia, weak and irritable,
eyes, &c.
6. Sulphate of copper, 10 gr.; camphor mixture (julep), 1/2 pint;
dissolve. In the purulent ophthalmia of infants.
I. TABLE _exhibiting the Composition of several of
the more celebrated_ MINERAL WATERS.
16 fl. oz. in the following Ingredients:——
+---------------+--------+---------+-------------+---------+---------+---------+--------+--------»
| |Nitrogen|Carbonic |Sulphuretted |Carbonate|Carbonate|Carbonate|Sulphate|Sulphate
| |in cubic|anhydride|hydrogen in |of |of |of |of |of mag-
| WATERS. |inches. |in |cubic inches.|sodium |magnesium|calcium |sodium |nesium in
| | |cubic | |in |in |in |in |grains.
| | |inches. | |grains. |grains. |grains. |grains. |
+---------------+--------+---------+-------------+---------+---------+---------+--------+--------»
|CARBONATED. | | | | | | | |
|Seltzer | | 17· | | 4· | 5· | 3· | |
|Pyrmont | | 26· | | | 10· | 4·5 | | 5·5
|Spa | | 13· | | 1·5 | 4·5 | 1·5 | |
|Carlsbad | | 5· | | 5· | | 1·5 | 8·5 |
|Pouges | | 30· | | 10· | 1·2 | 12· | |
|Saint Parize | | 22· | | | 0·5 | 11·5 | |
+---------------+--------+---------+-------------+---------+---------+---------+--------+--------»
|CHALYBEATE. | | | | | | | |
|Tunbridge | 0·59 | 1· | {trace } | | | 0·03 | |
|Cheltenham | | | { of } | | | | |
| Chalybeate | | 2·5 | {oxygen} | 0·5 | | | 22·7 | 6·
|Brighton | | 2·2 | | | | | |
+---------------+--------+---------+-------------+---------+---------+---------+--------+--------»
|SALINE. | | | | | | | |
|Seidlitz | | | | | 2·5 | 0·8 | | 180·
|Cheltenham | | | | | | | 15· | 11·
| Pure Saline | | | | | | | |
|Bristol | | 3·5 | | | | 1·5 | 1·5 |
|Buxton | 0·2 | | | | | 1·3 | |
|Bath | | 1·2 | | | | 0·8 | 1·5 |
|Scarborough | | | | | |a trace | 20· |
|Barèges | | | uncertain | 2·5 | | ditto | |
|Plombières | | | | 2·2 | | 0·3 | 2·3 |
|Kilburn | | 3·5 | 8·54? | | 0·5 | 1· | 12· | 37·
|Leamington | | | | | | | |
| New Bath | 0·4 | a trace | a trace | | | | 19· |
|Leamington | | | | | | | |
| Old Bath | 0·3 | ditto | | | | | 7·5 | 7·
+---------------+--------+---------+-------------+---------+---------+---------+--------+--------»
|SULPHUROUS. | | | | | | | |
|Harrogate | 0·8 | 1· | 2·3 | | 0·7 | 2·5 | | 1·3
|Moffat | 0·5 | 0·6 | 1·2 | | | | |
|Aix-la-Chapelle| | | 5·5 | 12· | | 4·2 | |
|Cheltenham | | | | | | | |
| Sulph. Spring| | | 1·5 | | | | 23·5 | 5·
+---------------+--------+---------+-------------+---------+---------+---------+--------+--------»
»---------------+--------+--------+---------+----------+-------+-------+-------+---------+------------+
| |Sulphate|Chloride|Chloride |Chloride |Ferric |Silica.|Temper-|Total of |AUTHORITY. |
| |of |of |of magne-|of calcium|Oxide. | |ature. |saline | |
| WATERS. |calcium |sodium |sium in |in | | | |contents.| |
| (Repeated.) |in |in |grains. |grains. | | | | | |
| |grains. |grains. | | | | | | | |
»---------------+--------+--------+---------+----------+-------+-------+-------+---------+------------+
|CARBONATED. | | | | | | | | | |
|Seltzer | | 17· | | | | | Cold | 29· |Bergman. |
|Pyrmont | 8·5 | 1·5 | | | 0·6 | | ditto | 30·6 | Ditto. |
|Spa | | 0·2 | | | 0·6 | | ditto | 8·3 | Ditto. |
|Carlsbad | | 4·5 | | |a trace| 0·3 | 165° | 19·8 |Klaproth. |
|Pouges | | 2·2 | | | 2·5 | 0·5 | Cold | 28·4 |Hassentratz.|
|Saint Parize | 13·5 | | | | | | ditto | 25· | Ditto. |
»---------------+--------+--------+---------+----------+-------+-------+-------+---------+------------+
|CHALYBEATE. | | | | | | | | | |
|Tunbridge | 0·17 | 0·30 | 0·03 | 0·05 |0·28 | | ditto | 0·86 | Scudamore. |
|Cheltenham | | | | | | | | | Parkes |
| Chalybeate | 2·5 | 41·3 | | |0·8 | | ditto | 73·8 | & Brande.|
|Brighton | 4· | 3· | 0·75 | |1·4 | 0·14 | ditto | 9·29 | Marcet. |
»---------------+--------+--------+---------+----------+-------+-------+-------+---------+------------+
|SALINE. | | | | | | | | | |
|Seidlitz | 5· | | 4·5 | | | | ditto |192·8 | Bergman. |
|Cheltenham | 4·5 | 50· | | | | | | | Parkes |
| Pure Saline | | | | | | | ditto | 80·5 | & Brande.|
|Bristol | 1·5 | 0·5 | 1· | | | | 74° | 6· | Carrick. |
|Buxton | 0·3 | 0·2 | | | 0·03 | | 82° | 1·83 | Pearson. |
|Bath | 9· | 3·3 | | |a trace| 0·2 | 116° | 14·8 | Phillips. |
|Scarborough | 9· | | | | ditto | | Cold | 29· | Saunders. |
|Barèges |a trace | 0·5 | | | | | 120° | 3· | Ditto. |
|Plombières | | 1·5 | | | | 0·3 | ? | 6·6 | Vanquelin. |
|Kilburn | 5·5 | 2·5 | 5·5 | 0·2 |a trace| | Cold | 64·2 | Schmeisser.|
|Leamington | | | | | | | | | |
| New Bath |14· | 53· | 1·5 | | 0·8 | | ditto | 88·3 | Lambe. |
|Leamington | | | | | | | | | |
| Old Bath |18· | 41· | | | | | ditto | 73·5 | Ditto. |
»---------------+--------+--------+---------+----------+-------+-------+-------+---------+------------+
|SULPHUROUS. | | | | | | | | | |
|Harrogate | | 77· | 11· | 1·5 | | | ditto | 94· | Garnet. |
|Moffat | | 4·5 | | | | | ditto | 4·5 | Ditto. |
|Aix-la-Chapelle| | 5· | | | | | 143° | 21·2 | Bergman. |
|Cheltenham | | | | | | | | | Parkes |
| Sulph. Spring| 1·2 | 35· | | | 0·3 | | Cold | 65· | & Brande.|
»---------------+--------+--------+---------+----------+-------+-------+-------+---------+------------+
II. TABLE _exhibiting the Composition of the
principal_ MINERAL WATERS of GERMANY, _and of the_
SARATOGA CONGRESS SPRING _of_ AMERICA, _re-arranged
expressly for this work._
+--------------------------+---------------------------------------------------------------»
| Grains of anhydrous |Adelheids-Quelle. | | |Fachingen. |
| ingredients in | |Auschowitz. Ferdinands-Brunnen.| |Kissengen. Ragozi.
| one pound troy. | | |Carlsbad. | | | |Krenznach.
| | | | |Eger. Franzens-Brunnen.| |Elizen-
| | | | | |Ems. | | |Brunnen.
+--------------------------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------»
| | | | | | | | |
|Carbonate of Soda | 5·2443| 4·5976| 7·2712| 3·8914| 8·0625|12·3328| ... | ...
|Carbonate of Lithia | 0·0902| 0·0507| 0·0150| 0·0282| 0·0405| ... | ... | ...
|Carbonate of Baryta | 0·0024| ... | ... | ... | 0·0022| ... | ... | ...
|Carbonate of Strontia | 0·0387| 0·0040| 0·0055| 0·0023| 0·0080| ... | 0·0592| ...
|Carbonate of Lime | 0·4703| 3·0085| 1·7775| 1·3501| 0·8555| 1·8667| 4·8180| 0·2058
|Carbonate of Magnesia | 0·2980| 2·2867| 1·0275| 0·5040| 0·5915| 1·2983| 1·3185| 1·1812
|Carbonate (Proto) Manganese 0·0012| 0·0692| 0·0048| 0·0322| 0·0028| ... | 0·0121| 0·0072
|Carbonate of (Proto) Iron | 0·0121| 0·2995| 0·0208| 0·1762| 0·0120| ... | 0·1397| 0·1495
|Sub-Phos. of Lime | ... | ... | 0·0012| 0·0172| ... | 0·0061| ... | ...
|Sub-Phos. of Alumina | ... | 0·0040| 0·0019| 0·0092| 0·0014| ... | ... | ...
|Sulphate of Potassa | 0·0066| ... | ... | ... | 0·4050| ... | 1·2540| ...
|Sulphate of Soda | ... |16·9022|14·9019|18·3785| ... | 0·1267| ... | ...
|Sulphate of Lithia | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ...
|Sulphate of Lime | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 5·5485| ...
|Sulphate of Strontia | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ...
|Sulphate of Magnesia | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ...
|Nitr. of Magnesia | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ...
|Chlor. of Ammonium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·0364| ...
|Chlor. of Potassium | 0·1845| ... | ... | ... | 0·0338| ... | ... | 0·7287
|Chlor. of Sodium |28·4608| 6·7472| 5·9820| 6·9229| 5·7255| 3·2337|39·3733|54·6917
|Chlor. of Lithium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·0562
|Chlor. of Calcium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 9·7358
|Chlor. of Magnesium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 3·6599| ...
|Chlor. of Barium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·2366
|Chlor. of Strontium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·5494
|Bromide of Sodium | 0·3060| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·3331| 0·2304
|Iodide of Sodium | 0·1500| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·0024
|Fluoride of Calcium | ... | ... | 0·0184| ... | 0·0014| ... | ... | ...
|Alumina | 0·0166| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·0086
|Silica | 0·1922| 0·5023| 0·4329| 0·3548| 0·3104| 0·0657| 0·1609| 0·2355
+----------------------------------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------»
|Total Saline contents |35·4739|34·4719|31·4606|31·6670|16·0525|18·9300|56·7136|68·0190
|Carbonic Acid Gas in 100} | 10 | 154 | 58 | 154 | 51 | 135 | 96 | 12
| cubic inches } | | | | | | | |
| { | | Spru. 165° | | | |
| { | | Neub. 138° Kess. 117° | |
|Temperature, Fahr. { | 58 | 49° Mühl. 128° 54° Krán. 84° 50° | 53°| 47°
| { | | Ther. 122° | | | |
|Authorities | A | B | C | C | A | D | A | A
+----------------------------------+---------------------------------------+-------+-------»
»--------------------------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+
| Grains of anhydrous | | | Pyrmont. | | | |Spa Pouhon.
| ingredients in | | | |Saratoga Congress Spring. | |
| one pound troy. | | | | |Schlesischer. Obersalz-Brunnen.|
| |Marienbad. Kreuzbr. | | |Seidschutz. | |
| | |Püllna.| | | | |Selters. |
»--------------------------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+
| | | | | | | | | |
|Carbonate of Soda | 5·3499| ... | ... | 0·8261| 7·6211| ... | 4·6162| 0·5531|
|Carbonate of Lithia | 0·0858| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Carbonate of Baryta | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·0014| ... |
|Carbonate of Strontia | 0·0028| ... | ... | 0·0672| 0·0170| ... | 0·0144| ... |
|Carbonate of Lime | 2·9509| 0·5775| 4·7781| 5·8531| 1·5464| 5·1045| 1·4004| 0·7387|
|Carbonate of Magnesia | 2·0390| 4·8045| ... | 4·1155| 1·5496| 0·8235| 1·5000| 0·8421|
|Carbonate (Proto) Manganese 2·0288| ... | 0·0364| 0·0202| 0·0026| 0·0032| ... | 0·0389|
|Carbonate of (Proto) Iron | 0·1319| ... | 0·3213| 0·0173| 0·0356| 0·0095| ... | 0·2813|
|Sub-Phos. of Lime | ... | 0·0026| ... | ... | ... | 0·0117| 0·0007| 0·0102|
|Sub-Phos. of Alumina | ... | ... | 0·0110| ... | ... | 0·0088| 0·0020| 0·0064|
|Sulphate of Potassa | ... | 3·6000| 0·0314| 0·1379| 0·3160| 3·6705| 0·2978| 0·0593|
|Sulphate of Soda |28·5868|92·8500| 1·6092| ... | 2·5106|17·6220| ... | 0·0281|
|Sulphate of Lithia | ... | ... | 0·0067| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Sulphate of Lime | ... | 1·9500| 5·0265| ... | ... | 1·1287| ... | ... |
|Sulphate of Strontia | ... | ... | 0·0154| ... | ... | 0·0347| ... | ... |
|Sulphate of Magnesia | ... |69·8145| 2·3684| ... | ... |62·3535| ... | ... |
|Nitr. of Magnesia | ... | ... | ... | 0·1004| ... | 5·9302| ... | ... |
|Chlor. of Ammonium | ... | ... | ... | 0·0326| 0·0164| ... | ... | ... |
|Chlor. of Potassium | ... | ... | ... | 1·6256| ... | ... | 0·2685| ... |
|Chlor. of Sodium |10·1727| ... | ... |19·6653| 0·8682| ... |12·9690| 0·3371|
|Chlor. of Lithium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Chlor. of Calcium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Chlor. of Magnesium | ... |14·7495| 0·8450| ... | ... | 1·2223| ... | ... |
|Chlor. of Barium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Chlor. of Strontium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Bromide of Sodium | ... | ... | ... | 0·1613| 0·0051| ... | ... | ... |
|Iodide of Sodium | ... | ... | ... | 0·0046| ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Fluoride of Calcium | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·0013| ... |
|Alumina | 0·0023| ... | ... | 0·0069| ... | ... | ... | ... |
|Silica | 0·2908| 0·1320| 0·3727| 0·1112| 0·2423| 0·0900| 0·2265| 0·3739|
»--------------------------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+
|Total Saline contents |51·6417|88·4806|15·4221|32·7452|14·7309|98·0133|21·2982| 3·2691|
|Carbonic Acid Gas in 100} | 105 | 7 | 160 | 114 | 98 | 20 | 126 | 136 |
| cubic inches } | | | | | | | | |
| { | | | | | | | | |
| { | | | | | | | | |
|Temperature, Fahr. { | 53°| 58°| 56°| 50°| 58° | 58°| 58°| 58°|
| { | | | | | | | | |
|Authorities | C | A | A | E | A | A | A | A |
»--------------------------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+-------+
Authorities: A Struve. B Steinm. C Berzelius. D Bischoff. E Schweitz.
7. Camphor julep, 5 fl. oz.; solution of acetate of ammonia and rose
water, of each 2-1/2 fl. oz.; mix. For weak or swollen eyes, particularly
after ophthalmia.
8. Chloride of barium, 30 gr.; distilled water, 1/2 pint. In the
ophthalmia of scrofulous and syphylitic habits.
9. (Bate’s.) From blue vitriol, 15 gr.; camphor, 4 gr.; hot water, 1/4
pint; agitate in a corked bottle, and, when cold, make it up to 4 pints,
and filter. In purulent ophthalmia and blear eyes.
10. (Goulard’s.) From solution of diacetate of lead, 16 drops; distilled
water, 1/2 pint; mix. As No. 2.
11. (Krimer.) Hydrochloric acid, 20 drops; mucilage, 1 dr.; water, 2 fl.
oz. To remove particles of iron or lime from the eye.
12. (Marshall’s ‘EYE-DROPS,’) Nitrate of silver, 2 gr.; dilute nitric
acid, 2 drops; pure soft or distilled water, 1 fl. oz.; dissolve; add
powdered gum, 15 gr.; agitate until dissolved, and the next day decant the
clear portion.
13. (P. Cod.) Extract of opium, 4 gr.; rose water, 1 fl. oz.; dissolved.
In painful ophthalmia.
=WATERS (Mine′ral).= _Syn._ SALINE WATERS; AQUÆ MINERALES, L. Our space
will not permit a description of these individually. The tables given on
pages 1746-7, exhibiting their composition, will, however, enable the
reader, with a little attention, to produce artificial waters more closely
resembling the natural ones than can be done by adopting any of the
numerous formulæ published for the purpose. The ‘aerated waters’ are
charged with 5 or 6 times their volume of carbonic acid gas, by means of
the apparatus employed by the soda-water manufacturers. On the small scale
the gas is often produced by the reaction of the ingredients on each
other, in which case, on the introduction of the latter, the bottle must
be instantly closed and inverted. Distilled water, or filtered rain water,
should alone be employed in their composition; and for the chalybeated and
sulphuretted waters it should be first boiled, and allowed to cool out of
contact with the air.
In addition to the tables it may be remarked that traces of iodine have
been found in the water of Cheltenham (old well), traces of bromine in the
water of Epsom, and traces of both bromine and iodine in that of
Leamington (royal pump). Manganese has been found in the waters of
Tunbridge, Carlsbad, Spa, Pyrmont, Marienbad, Saidschüts, &c. Traces of
phosphoric and fluoric acid have also been found in some mineral waters.
It is the opinion of many high authorities that the medicinal virtues of
these waters depend more on the minute quantities of the above substances,
and the high state of dilution in which they are held, than on their more
abundant saline ingredients.
=WATER (Perfumed′).= _Syn._ AQUÆ ODORIFERÆ, L. The simple distilled
waters of the perfumer have been already noticed (see page 1745). They may
be prepared from any substances which imparts its fragrance to water by
distillation. The compound waters (eaux) employed as perfumes consist of
very pure rectified spirit, holding in solution essential oils, or other
odorous matter, and resemble the esprits, essences, and spirits, before
noticed. They differ from extraits in being mostly colourless, or nearly
so, and in being generally prepared by distillation, or by the addition of
the pure essential oils or essences to carefully rectified and perfectly
scentless spirit; whereas the extraits are mostly and preferably prepared
by macerating the flowers, &c., in the spirit, or by digesting the spirit
with the oils, in the manner noticed under SPIRITS (Perfumed). Extraits
are preferred to eaux and esprits as the basis of good perfumery, where
the colour is not objectionable.
The following are a few additional formulæ and remarks:——
ANGEL WATER, PORTUGAL W. From orange-flower and rose water, of each 1
pint; myrtle water, 1/2 pint; essence of ambergris, 1/2 fl. oz.; essence
of musk, 1/4 fl. oz.; shake them well together for some hours, then filter
the mixture through paper.
EAU D’ANGE, Fr.; AQUA MYRTI, L. From myrtle flowers, 3-1/2 lbs.; water, 2
galls.; distil a gallon. A pleasant perfume.
EAU D’ANGE BOUILLÉE, Fr. From rose water and orange-flower water, of each
3 pints; benzoin, 1/2 lb.; storax, 1/4 lb.; cinnamon, 1 oz.; cloves, 1/2
oz.; 3 fresh-emptied musk bags; digest in a securely covered vessel, at
nearly the boiling heat, for 2 hours, then allow it to cool; strain off
the clear, press the remainder, and filter for use. Very fragrant.
EAU D’ANGE DISTILLÉE, Fr. From benzoin, 4 oz.; storax, 2 oz.; cloves, 1/2
oz.; calamus and cinnamon, of each 1/4 oz.; coriander seeds, 1 dr. (all
bruised); water, 3 quarts; distil 2 quarts. Eau d’Ange distillée et
musquée is made by adding a little essence of musk to the distilled
product. Both are highly fragrant.
EAU DE LAVANDE, LAVANDER WATER. See SPIRITS (Perfumed).
EAU DE NAPHRE, EAU LE NAPHE, Fr.; AQUA NAPHÆ, L. This article is distilled
in Languedoc from the leaves of the bigarade, or bitter-orange tree, but
the preparation sold in England under this name is often prepared as
follows:——Orange flowers, 7 lbs.; fresh yellow peel of the bigarade or
Seville orange, 1/2 lb.; water, 2 galls.; macerate 24 hours, and distil 1
gall. In many cases ordinary orange-flower water is sold for eau de naphe.
ROSE WATER. From otto of roses, 3 dr.; rectified spirit (warm), 1 pint;
dissolve, add of hot water, 10 galls.; mix in a 12-gallon carboy, cork,
and well agitate the whole until quite cold. This makes the ordinary rose
water of the shops, and is really excellent, but it is better for
distillation. See WATERS (Distilled).
UNPARALLELED WATER; EAU INCOMPARABLE, Fr. From oil of lemon, 4 dr.; oil of
bergamot, 2-1/2 dr.; oil of cedrat, 2 dr.; rectified spirit, 3-1/2 pints;
Hungary water, 1/2 pint; mix, and distil all but 9 oz. (Guibourt.)
SUPPLEMENTARY TABLE OF MINERAL WATERS.
APOLLINARIS BRUNEN.
Carbonate of soda 9·65 grains.
Carbonate of magnesia 3·39 ”
Carbonate of lime 0·45 ”
Chloride of sodium 3·57 ”
Sulphate of soda 2·30 ”
Oxide of iron }0·15 ”
Alumina }
Silica 0·06 ”
——————
19·59
Carbonic acid 47·04
(BISH.)
The above are the contents of 16 oz. Temp. Fahr. 70°.
BADEN-BADEN. In 16 oz.
Chloride of sodium 16·520 gr.
Bicarbonate of lime 1·273 ”
Bicarbonate of magnesia 0·042 ”
Bicarbonate of protoxide of iron 0·037 ”
Bicarbonate of protoxide of manganese traces
Bicarbonate of ammonia 0·050 ”
Sulphate of lime 1·556 ”
Sulphate of potash 0·017 ”
Phosphate of lime 0·021 ”
Arseniate of iron traces
Chloride of magnesium 0·097 ”
Chloride of potassium 1·258 ”
Bromide of sodium traces
Silica 0·914 ”
Alumina 0·008 ”
Nitrates traces
————————
22·093 gr.
Free carbonic acid 0·299 ”
(Bunsen.)
FRIEDRICHSHALL. In 16 oz.
Sulphate of soda 46·51 gr.
Sulphate of magnesia 39·55 ”
Chloride of sodium 61·10 ”
Chloride of magnesium 30·25 ”
Bromide of magnesium 0·37 ”
Sulphate of potash 1·52 ”
Sulphate of lime 10·34 ”
Carbonate of lime 0·11 ”
Carbonate of magnesia 1·16 ”
Silica 0·33 ”
——————
190·25 gr.
Carbonic acid 5·32 c. i.
(LIEBIG.)
TOEPLITZ. 16 oz. Temp., 14° Fahr.
Sulphate of potash 0·098 gr.
Sulphate of soda 0·290 ”
Carbonate of soda 2·635 ”
Phosphate of soda 0·014 ”
Floride of silicium 0·351 ”
Chloride of sodium 0·433 ”
Carbonate of lime 0·330 ”
Carbonate of strontia 0·027 ”
Carbonate of magnesia 0·088 ”
Carbonate of protoxide of iron 0·019 ”
Carbonate of protoxide of manganese 0·021 ”
Sulphate of alumina 0·020 ”
Silica 0·443 ”
Crenic acid 0·034 ”
——————
4·804
(WOLF.)
VICHY (Grand Grille). Temp. 106° Fahr. In a litre.
Carbonic acid 0·908
Bicarbonate of soda 4·883
Bicarbonate of potash 0·352
Bicarbonate of magnesia 0·303
Bicarbonate of strontia 0·003
Bicarbonate of lime 0·434
Bicarbonate of protoxide of iron 0·004
Bicarbonate of protoxide of manganese a trace
Sulphate of soda 0·291
Phosphate of soda 0·130
Arseniate of soda 0·002
Borate of soda a trace
Chloride of sodium 0·534
Silica 0·070
Organic matter, bituminous a trace
————————
grammes 7·914
WOODHALL (Lancashire).
Iodine and bromine, with chlorides of calcium, magnesium, potassium; more
than 1/2 grain of bromide of sodium and 1/4 grain of iodine of sodium.
190 grains in 20 oz. Strongly impregnated with carbonic acid.
=WATERBRASH.= See PYROSIS.
=WATER-CLOSET.= There are a number of conditions necessary to be observed
in the construction and arrangement of the water-closet if we wish to
prevent its becoming a nuisance and a source of danger to the health of
the inmates of a dwelling-house. 1. As regards situation there can be no
doubt that, upon strict sanitary principles, the closet, instead of
forming part of the house, should, whilst within easy access to it, be
entirely detached. Owing to various causes, however, this isolation is
frequently impossible.
Under such circumstances the closet, whilst forming part of the dwelling,
should be built out from it, so as to have as little connection as
possible with the rooms, corridors, &c. To still further accomplish this
end the approach to the closet should be through a small vestibule or
passage connecting the closet with the corridor, and opening into the
latter by means of a door. Where there are more than one closet, they
should be built upon the plan just proposed, and one over the other. The
basement of a house is a particularly objectionable locality for a
water-closet, since the warm house acts as an aspirator, and thus draws
any fetid and poisonous gases there may be in the closet into the house,
and causes them to be diffused throughout it. The water-closet should,
therefore, always be placed in the higher parts of a building. 2. As
regards construction, &c., it would be impossible for us to attempt to
canvass the merits or the reverse of the numerous designs, patents, &c.,
that relate to this part of our subject. We shall indicate, therefore,
only the more important desiderata, which are——That the pan should be
nearly cone-shaped, and not round, like a half-circle. It is mostly made
of earthenware, sometimes of metal and occasionally of enamelled iron. The
preferable substance is earthenware: the pan should always be ventilated,
and there should likewise be a sufficient flow and force of water to sweep
everything out of it, and thoroughly cleanse it.
The cistern supplying the closet should be kept solely for this purpose,
and not, as is sometimes the case, be taken from the house cistern, as
this latter practice may lead to the contamination of the drinking water,
owing to the gases rising from the closet.
The bottom of the pan is attached to the soil-pipe which discharges into
the drain. The soil-pipe is mostly trapped by means of a syphon valve; and
it is important that the points of junction between the pipe and the
syphon valve and the pipe and the main drain should be thoroughly secure
and air-tight. Furthermore it is imperative, if we wish to prevent an
influx into the pan of the gases and foul air which rise through the
syphon as the water runs off, that the soil-pipe should be ventilated.
This may be effected by attaching a small pipe having connection with the
outer air to the discharge-pipe just below the syphon, and carrying it up
to the top of the house. Another advantage arising from ventilating the
soil-pipe, besides the prevention of the escape of sewer-gas into the
house, is that there is no danger of its corrosion (if it be of lead) by
the action of the pent-up sulphuretted vapours. The seat, which is mostly
of wood, should be so arranged as to be easily movable, and thus allow of
easy inspection of the different parts should they get out of order.
The seat as well as the closet should always be ventilated. A good and
simple method for the ventilation of the latter is to carry a tube from
the top of the closet into the outer air. “If the closet is in a bad
situation it should be heated by a gas jet.”[262]
[Footnote 262: Parkes.]
The lid attached to the seat should have a hole cut in it, so as to allow
of the handle being pulled up when the pan is covered, which, strange to
say, in perhaps ninety-nine cases out of every hundred it never is, after
being used. Of course, in the absence of the ventilation of the pan and
soil-pipe, the result of keeping the seat covered over would only be to
fill the pan with malodorous and more or less dangerous gases, which would
escape into the closet when the lid was again raised.
3. Precautions.——The use of unduly large pieces of paper, such as cause
stoppage and obstruction in the discharge-pipe, should be particularly
avoided. Any defect or impediment in the working of the closet should be
remedied at once. As a general rule, servants are very careless in all
matters connected with the water-closet; so much so that the masters of
many houses are themselves compelled to exercise supervision over it.
During very hot weather, or the prevalence of an infectious disease in a
dwelling-house or in the neighbourhood of the house, some disinfectant
should be added to the water that supplies the closet. A substance that
will very satisfactorily answer this purpose is the commercial sulphate of
iron known as green vitriol. A pound of it should be put into the tank
when filled with water.
The same disregard of sanitary obligations so frequently shown in the
construction, site, &c., of water-closets is more obvious in the case of
privies. The Public Health Act not only renders unlawful the erection or
rebuilding of any dwelling-house without “a sufficient water-closet,
earth-closet, or privy and an ash-pit, furnished with proper doors and
coverings;” but also requires that, “If a house within the district of a
local authority appears to such authority by the report of their surveyor
or inspector of nuisances to be without a sufficient water-closet,
earth-closet, or privy and ashpit, furnished with proper doors and
coverings, the local authority shall, by written notice, require the owner
or occupier of the house within a reasonable time therein specified, to
provide a sufficient water-closet, earth-closet, or privy and an ashpit
furnished as aforesaid, or either of them, as the case may require.”
Although in many large towns and cities a more or less effectual
supervision may be exercised by the sanitary inspector in the above
direction, as every one’s experience of the usual outdoor privy of a small
English country town or village, will suggest to them the extreme
toleration prevailing amongst the sanitary authorities in many provincial
and rural districts in this particular. Ventilation is as essential for
the privy as the water-closet, so also is the thorough trapping of the
exit-pipe from the pan, as well as the cleansing and flushing of this
latter by water directly after it has been used. Yet how rarely do we find
not only all, but not even one of these conditions fulfilled in the
arrangement of the ordinary privy; but instead an untrapped, immovable pan
(and in some cases even this is wanting) covered with filth, and no
contrivance of any kind for a constant water supply.
No wonder, therefore, that the atmosphere of an ordinary privy should be
so foul and noisome as it invariably is.
The following specification for a useful description of privy is published
by Messrs Knight & Co., 90, Fleet Street, London:——
_Specification._——The privy and dust-bin to be built of 4-1/2-inch
brickwork, in well-ground mortar of approved quality. Two rows of 4-1/2
and 3-inch bond timber to be built in at back of privy for securing
ventilating-shafts. The ventilating-shafts to be 7 by 4-1/2 inches, inside
measurement, of best red deal boards 1 inch thick, closely put together
with strong white lead paint, and well nailed and carefully seamed to the
4-1/2 inch and 3 inch bond timber. These shafts to have coats of boiled
tar both inside and out.
The lid of refuse-bin to be of best 1-inch red deal boards, with two
strong ledges or battens across them; to be hung with three strong
band-hinges to the sides of the ventilating-shafts, and the making-up
piece between the same. A circular orifice to be made in centre of lid,
between the battens 10 inches wide. The lid to have two coats of boiled
tar both inside and out. A 4-1/2-inch and 3-inch frame of red deal to be
securely fixed on top of the dust-bin, as a seat for the lid. A lid over
the privy seat to be hinged on at the back, with a child’s seat over
centre of large one. The larger seat to be provided with an earthenware
circular rim beneath. The earth-compartment to be without lid, and
provided with a pint scoop for each occupant to throw in a pint of the
stored dry earth or dry ashes through the seat into the galvanised iron
pail, the contents of which must be scattered over the garden or put in
the dust-bin before the pail becomes full. A loose foot-block may be
furnished where there are young children.[263]
[Footnote 263: The Earth-closet is described under “Sewage Removal of.”]
The dust-bin may be placed at side of the privy if required. The floor of
dust-bin to be at the ground level, slightly inclined outwards, and paved
with brick. See SEWAGE, REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL OF, DRAINS, TANKS, CESSPOOLS.
=WATER-COLOUR CAKES.= These are prepared from any of the ordinary pigments
that work well in water, made into a stiff and perfectly smooth paste with
gum water, or isinglass size, or a mixture of the two, and then compressed
in polished steel moulds, and dried. See PAINTING, and the respective
pigments.
=WATERCRESS.= The _Nasturtium officinale_, a well-known plant of the
natural order _Cruciferæ_. It is alterative and antiscorbutic, and was
formerly used in medicine, but now chiefly as a salad, or a refreshing
relish at breakfast.
=WATER-GAS.= By forcing steam through fireclay, or iron retorts filled
with red-hot charcoal or coke, the steam is decomposed into a mixture of
hydrogen, carbonic oxide, and carbonic anhydride.[264]
[Footnote 264: Possibly a small quantity of marsh gas is also
present.——ED.]
To this mixture, after it has been purified, the name of “water-gas,”
owing to the source from whence it has been derived, has been given.
According to some chemists the purified gas (obtained by passing the crude
gaseous product sometimes over lime, sometimes over crystallised carbonate
of soda) consists solely of hydrogen gas. Langlois’ analysis, however, has
led to the conclusion that it is a compound of hydrogen and carbonic oxide
gases. Water gas, obtained as above, possesses no illuminating power. This
is imparted to it, by impregnating the gas with the vapour of certain
hydrocarbons, a plan suggested by Jobbard, of Brussels, in 1832. Another,
but less usual method, originating with Gengembre and Gillard, is to place
on the burners which consume the gas small platinum cylinders. When these
become white hot a strong and brilliant light is produced. See PLATINUM
GAS.
=WATER-POX.= See (POX). CHICKEN-POX.
=WATERPROOF′ING.= Cloth is ‘waterproofed’ as follows:——
1. Moisten the cloth, on the wrong side, first with a weak solution of
isinglass, and, when dry, with an infusion of nut-galls.
2. As the last, but substitute a solution of soap for isinglass, and
another of alum for galls.
3. (Hancock’s Patent.) By spreading the liquid juice of the caoutchouc
tree upon the inner surface of the goods, and allowing them to dry in the
air. Absolutely chimerical.
4. (Potter’s Patent.) The cloth is first imbued on the wrong side with a
solution of isinglass, alum, and soap, by means of a brush; when dry, it
is brushed on the same side against the grain, and then gone over with a
brush dipped in water. Impervious to water, but not to air.
5. (Sievier’s Patent.) By applying first a solution of India rubber in oil
of turpentine, and afterwards another india rubber varnish, rendered very
dry by the use of driers. On this, wool or other material of which the
fabric is made, cut into proper lengths, is spread, and the whole passed
through a press, whereby the surface acquires a nap or pile.
6. A simple method of rendering cloth waterproof, without being airproof,
is to spread it on any smooth surface, and to rub the wrong side with a
lump of bees wax (perfectly pure and free from grease), until it presents
a light, but even, white or greyish appearance; a hot iron is then to be
passed over it, and the cloth being brushed whilst warm, the process is
complete. When the operation has been skilfully performed, a candle may be
blown out through the cloth, if coarse, and yet a piece of the same,
placed across an inverted hat, may have several glassfuls of water poured
into the hollow formed by it, without any of the liquid passing through.
Pressure or friction will alone make it do so. “We have shown this to
numerous cloth-manufacturers, waterproofers, tailors, and others, several
of whom have adopted the method very extensively, and with perfect
success.” (Cooley.)
7. About the year 1862 a patent was taken out by Dr Stenhouse for
employing paraffin as a means of rendering leather waterproof, as well as
the various textile and felted fabrics; and in August, 1864, an additional
patent was granted to him for an extension of and improvement on the
previous one, which consisted chiefly in combining the paraffin with
various proportions of drying oils, it having been found that paraffin
alone, especially when applied to fabrics, became to a considerable extent
detached from the fibre of the cloth after a short time, owing to its
great tendency to crystallise. The presence, however, of even a small
quantity of drying oil causes the paraffin to adhere much more firmly to
the texture of the cloth, from the oil gradually becoming converted into a
tenacious resin by absorption of oxygen.
In the application of paraffin for waterproofing purposes it is first
melted along with the requisite quantity of drying oil and cast into
blocks. This composition can then be applied to fabrics by rubbing them
over with a block of it, either cold or gently warmed, or the mixture may
be melted and laid on with a brush, the complete impregnation being
effected by subsequently passing it between hot rollers. When this
paraffin mixture has been applied to cloth such as that employed for
blinds or tents, it renders it very repellant to water, although still
pervious to air.
Cloth paraffined in this manner forms an excellent basis for such articles
as capes, tarpaulins, &c., which require to be rendered quite impervious
by subsequently coating them with drying oil, the paraffin in a great
measure preventing the well-known injurious effect of drying oil on the
fibre of the cloth. The paraffin mixture can also be advantageously
applied to the various kinds of leather. One of the most convenient ways
of effecting this is to coat the skins or manufactured articles, such as
boots, shoes, harness, pump-buckets, &c., with the melted composition, and
then to gently heat the articles until it is entirely absorbed. When
leather is impregnated with the mixture, it is not only rendered perfectly
waterproof, but also stronger and more durable. The beneficial effects of
this process are peculiarly observable in the case of boots and shoes,
which it renders very firm without destroying their elasticity. It
therefore not only makes them exceedingly durable, but possesses an
advantage over ordinary dabbing in not interfering with the polish of
these articles, which, on the whole, it rather improves.
The superiority of paraffin over most other materials for some kinds of
waterproofing consists in its comparative cheapness, in being easily
applied, and in not materially altering the colour of fabrics, which in
the case of light shades and white cloth is of very considerable
importance.
8. A waterproof packing cloth which does not break may be made by covering
the fabric with the following varnish:——2 lbs. of soft (potash) soap is
dissolved in water and mixed with an aqueous solution of sulphate of iron.
The washed and dried soap is dissolved in 3 lbs. of linseed oil, in which
1/5 lb. of caoutchouc has been previously dissolved.
=WATERPROOF LIQUID.= _Prep._ 1. India rubber, in fragments, 1 oz.; boiled
oil, 1 pint; dissolve by heat, carefully applied, then stir in of hot
boiled oil, 1 pint, and remove the vessel from the fire.
2. Boiled oil, 1 pint; beeswax and yellow resin, of each 2 oz.; melt them
together.
3. Salad oil, 1 pint; mutton suet, 1/4 lb.; white wax and spermaceti, of
each 1 oz.; as the last. For ‘ladies’ work.’
4. Bisulphide of carbon, 2 oz.; gutta percha, 1/2 oz.; asphaltum, 2 oz.;
brown amber, 1/2 oz.; linseed oil, 1 oz. Mix. Dissolve the gutta percha in
the bisulphide of carbon, the asphalte and amber in the oil, and mix well.
_Obs._ The above are used for boots, shoes, harness, leather straps,
leather trunks, &c., applied warm before the fire.
=WAX.= _Syn._ BEESWAX, YELLOW W.; CERA (Ph. L.), CERA FLAVA (B. P., Ph. E.
& D.), L. The substance which forms the cells of bees; obtained by melting
the comb in water, after the honey has been removed, straining the liquid
mass, remelting the defecated portion, and casting it into cakes.
Pure beeswax has a pleasant ceraceous odour, a pale yellowish-brown
colour, and the sp. gr. ·960 to ·965. It is brittle at 32°, softens and
becomes plastic at 88 or 90°, and melts at 154 to 155° Fahr. “It becomes
kneadable at about 85°, and its behaviour while worked between finger and
thumb is characteristic. A piece the size of a pea being worked in the
hand till tough with the warmth, then placed upon the thumb, and forcibly
stroked down with the forefinger, curls up, following the finger, and is
marked by it with longitudinal streaks.” (B. S. Proctor.) It is very
frequently adulterated with farina, resin, and mutton suet or stearin. Dr
Normandy met with a sample containing 23% of effloresced sulphate of soda.
The first may be detected by oil of turpentine, which dissolves only the
wax,——the second, by its solubility in cold alcohol, and by its
terebinthinate taste,——the third and fourth, even when forming less than
2% of the wax, may be detected by it affording sebacic acid on
distillation. When greasy matter is present in any considerable quantity,
it may also be detected by the suspected sample having an unctuous feel
and a disagreeable taste. A spurious beeswax met with in the American
markets, is described in ‘New Remedies’ for 1877, and is said to have been
a very clever imitation externally of the genuine substance, which it
closely resembled in appearance, colour, fracture, bitterness, pliability,
and odour. Upon analysis it was found to be composed of 60 parts of
paraffin and 40 parts of yellow resin covered with a thin coating of true
beeswax. The specific quantity of the counterfeit article was identical
with that of many samples of genuine beeswax. Saline matter may be
detected by the loss of weight, when a weighed quantity of the wax is
boiled in water. Heavy substances, as chalk, plaster of Paris, white lead,
oxide of zinc, &c., may also be thus separated, since they subside, owing
to their superior gravity, to the bottom of the vessel. The rough mealy
fracture of pure wax is rendered finer grained, smoother, and duller, by
the addition of lard or spermaceti, and becomes sparkling and more
granular by the addition of resin. (Proctor.)
[Note: ‘Chem. Central,’, 1872, No. 29.]
[Transcriber’s Note: The publisher omitted the corresponding tag in the
text.]
=Wax, Bleached.= See WAX, WHITE (_below_).
=Wax, Carnauba.=[265] The leaves of the Carnauba tree (_Copernicia
cerifera_), a South American palm, have lately become a very important
source for the supply of large quantities of vegetable wax. Carnauba wax
is extensively used in the manufacture of candles. Mr Consul Morgan, in a
paper laid before Parliament in 1876, on the trade and commerce of Brazil,
states “that the exportation of this wax is calculated at 871,400 kilos;
exceeding in value reis 1,500,000, or £162,500.”
[Footnote 265: ‘Ph. Journal,’ vol. vi, 3rd series, p. 745.]
=Wax, Etching.= See ETCHING GROUND and VARNISH.
=Wax, Facti′′tious.= _Syn._ CERA FLAVA FACTITIA, L. A spurious compound,
sold by the farriers’ druggists for veterinary purposes.
_Prep._ 1. From yellow resin, 16 lbs.; hard mutton suet or stearin, 8
lbs.; palm oil, 2-1/2 lbs.; melted together.
2. As last, but substituting turmeric, 1 lb., for the palm oil.
3. Best annotta, 6 oz., or q. s.; water, 1 gal.; boil; add, of hard mutton
suet or stearin, 35 lbs.; yellow resin, 70 lbs.; again boil, with constant
agitation, until perfectly mixed and of a proper colour, and, as soon as
it begins to thicken, pour it out into basins to cool. When cold, rub each
cake over with a little potato starch.
=Wax, Gilder’s.= See GILDING.
=Wax, Mod′eling.= _Prep._ Take of beeswax, lead plaster, olive oil, and
yellow resin, equal parts; whiting, q. s. to form a paste; mix well, and
roll it into sticks. Colours may be added at will.
=Wax, Refined.= Crude wax, especially that imported, is generally loaded
with dirt, bees, and other foreign matter. To free it from these
substances, it undergoes the operation of ‘refining.’ This is done by
melting the wax along with about 4 or 5% of water in a bright copper or
stone-ware boiler, preferably heated by steam, and, after the whole is
perfectly liquid, and has boiled for some minutes, withdrawing the heat,
and sprinkling over its surface a little oil of vitriol, in the proportion
of about 5 or 6 fl. oz. to every cwt. of wax. This operation should be
conducted with great care and circumspection; as, when done carelessly,
the melted wax froths up, and boils over the sides of the pan. The acid
should also be well scattered over the whole surface. The melted wax is
next covered over, and left for some hours to settle, or until it becomes
sufficiently cool to be drawn off for ‘moulding.’ It is then very gently
skimmed with a hot ladle, baled or decanted into hot tin ‘jacks,’ and by
means of these poured into basins, where it is left to cool. Great care
must be taken not to disturb the sediment. When no more clear wax can be
drawn off, the remainder in the melting-pan is allowed to cool, and the
cake, or ‘foot,’ as it called, is taken out, and the impurities (mostly
bees) scraped from its under surface. The scraped cake is usually reserved
for a second operation; but if required, it may be at once remelted, and
strained through canvas into a mould.
Much of the foreign wax has a pale, dirty colour, which renders it, no
matter however pure, objectionable to the retail purchaser. Such wax
undergoes the operation of ‘colouring’ as well as ‘refining.’ A small
quantity of the best roll annotta, cut into slices (1/4 lb., more or less,
to wax, 1 cwt., depending on the paleness of the latter), is put into a
clean boiler with about a gallon of water, and boiled for some time, or
until it is perfectly dissolved, when a few ladlefuls of the melted wax
are added, and the boiling continued until the wax has taken up all the
colour, or until the water is mostly evaporated. The portion of wax thus
treated has now a deep orange colour, and is added, in quantity as
required, to the remainder of the melted wax in the larger boiler until
the proper shade of colour is produced when cold; the whole being well
mixed, and a sample of it cooled now and then, to ascertain when enough
has been added. The copper is next brought to a boil, and treated with oil
of vitriol, &c., as before. Some persons add palm oil (bright) to the wax,
until it gets sufficient colour, but this plan is objectionable from the
quantity required for the purpose being often so large as to injure the
quality of the product; besides which the colour produced is inferior, and
less transparent and permanent than that given by annotta.
Another method of refining crude wax, and which produces a very bright
article, is to melt it in a large earthen or stoneware vessel, heated by
steam or a salt-water bath, then to cautiously add to it about 1% of
concentrated nitric acid, and to continue the boiling until nitrous fumes
cease to be evolved, after which the whole is allowed to settle, and is
treated as before.
_Obs._ The great art in the above process is to produce a wax which shall
at once be ‘bright,’ or semi-translucent in thin places, and good
coloured. The former is best ensured by allowing the melted mass to settle
well, and by carefully skimming and decanting the clear portion without
disturbing the sediment. It should not be poured into the moulds too warm,
as, in that case, it is apt to ‘separate,’ and the resulting cakes to be
‘streaky,’ or of different shades of colour. Again, it should be allowed
to cool very slowly. When cooled rapidly, especially if a current of air
fall upon its surface, it is apt to crack, and to form cakes full of
fissures. Some persons, who are very nice about their wax, have the cakes
polished with a stiff brush when quite cold and hard. It is absolutely
necessary that the ‘jacks’ or cans, ladles, and skimmers, used in the
above process, be kept pretty hot, as without this precaution the wax
cools, and accumulates upon them in such quantity as to render them
inconvenient, and often quite useless, without being constantly scraped
out.
=Wax, Seal′ing.= _Prep._ 1. (RED.)——_a._ Take of shell-lac (very pale), 4
oz.; cautiously melt it in a bright copper pan over a clear charcoal fire,
and when fused, add of Venice turpentine, 1-1/4 oz.; mix, and further add
of vermilion, 3 oz.; remove the pan from the fire, cool a little, weigh it
into pieces, and roll them into circular sticks on a warm marble slab by
means of a polished wooden block; or it may be poured into moulds whilst
in a state of fusion. Some persons polish the sticks with a rag until
quite cold.——_b._ From shell-lac, 3 lbs.; Venice turpentine, 1-1/4 lb.;
finest cinnabar, 2 lbs.; mix as before Both the above are ‘fine,’——_c._ As
the last, but using 1/2 less of vermillion. Inferior.——_d._ Resin, 4 lbs.;
shell-lac, 2 lbs.; Venice turpentine and red lead, of each 1-1/2 lb.; as
before. Common.
2. (BLACK.)——_a._ From shell-lac, 60 parts; finest ivory black, reduced to
an impalpable powder, 30 parts; Venice turpentine, 20 parts. Fine.——_b._
Resin, 6 lbs.; shell-lac and Venice turpentine, of each 2 lbs.; lampblack,
q. s. Inferior.
3. (GOLD-COLOURED.) By stirring gold-coloured mica spangles or talc, or
aurum musivum, into the melted resins just before they begin to cool.
Fine.
4. (MARBLED.) By mixing 2 or 3 different coloured kinds just as they begin
to grow solid.
5. (SOFT.)——_a._ (Red.) Take of beeswax, 8 parts; olive oil, 5 parts;
melt, and add, of Venice turpentine, 15 parts; red lead, to colour.——_b._
(Green.) As the last, but substituting powdered verdigris for red lead.
Both are used for sealing official documents kept in tin boxes; also as a
cement.
6. (BOTTLE WAX.)——_a._ (Black.) From black resin, 6-1/2 lbs.; beeswax, 1/2
lb.; finely powdered ivory black, 1-1/2 lb.; melted together.——_b._ (Red.)
As the last, but substitute Venetian red or red lead for ivory black.
_Obs._ All the above forms for ‘fine’ wax produce ‘superfine’ by employing
the best qualities of the ingredients; and ‘extra superfine,’ or
‘scented,’ by adding 1% of balsam of Peru or liquid storax to the
ingredients when considerably cooled. The ‘variegated’ and ‘fancy coloured
kinds,’ are commonly scented with a little essence of musk or ambergris,
or any of the more fragrant essential oils. The addition of a little
camphor, or spirit of wine, makes sealing-wax burn easier. Sealing-wax
containing resin, or too much turpentine, runs into thin drops at the
flame of a candle.
=Wax, White.= _Syn._ BLEACHED WAX; CERA ALBA (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L.
_Prep._ From pure beeswax, by exposing it in thin flakes to the action of
the sun, wind, and rain, frequently changing the surface thus exposed, by
remelting it, and reducing it again to thin flakes. Used in making
candles, and in white ointments, pommades, &c., for the sake of its
colour. Block white wax (CERA ALBA IN MASSIS) is the above when cast into
blocks; the best foreign is always in this form. Virgin wax (CAKE WHITE
WAX; CERA ALBA IN OFFIS) should be the last made into round flat cakes;
but this is seldom the case, the mixture sold under the name generally
containing from 1-3rd to 1-2nd its weight of spermaceti. The ‘white wax’
supplied by certain wholesale druggists to their customers is often
totally unfit for the purposes to which it is applied. Spermaceti is
constantly added to the white wax of commerce, to improve its colour. Mr
B. S. Proctor states that wholesale houses of the highest reputation
supply an article, as white cake wax, which is in many cases half
spermaceti, and in some as much as two thirds spermaceti to one of
wax.[266]
[Footnote 266: See articles on “Adulteration of Wax,” and “Substitutes for
Wax,” in ‘Chemist and Druggist,’ vol. iv, 1863.]
=WEATHER, Effects of, on Health.= The ‘Medical Press and Circular’
says:——“We are in the midst of a severe winter (1878), and as hygiene is
the order of the day, we cannot be too particular in impressing upon the
public certain facts which are too often disregarded. Few are aware of
the killing powers of intense cold and great heat, even in this
comparatively temperate climate. Those who have been in the habit, as we
have, of watching the returns of the Registrar-General, well know how
quickly the death-rate rises during even a short continuance of cold
weather. Now that the increase in the mortality affects chiefly the young
and the old, as well as those who are either suffering from, or are
predisposed to, affections of the chest and throat, indicates the class of
people who should be especially careful to protect themselves against the
inclemency of the weather. With regard to children, the system of
‘hardening’ them, by allowing them to go thinly clad, and exposing them to
all sorts of weather, is a delusion from which the minds of some parents
are even now not altogether free. It is thought that if their chest is
kept warm, there is no need of caring about their arms and legs. But that
is a great mistake. In proportion as the upper and lower extremities are
well clothed will the circulation be kept up and determined to the surface
of those parts, and in proportion to the quickness and equable
distribution of the circulation will be the protection against those
internal congestions which are but the first stage of the most fatal
diseases of infancy and childhood. The same observation holds good with
respect to grown-up people who are predisposed to pulmonary complaints.
There is no exaggeration in saying that the mortality from these and other
affections would be considerably diminished were people to avoid that
‘catching cold,’ of which they so often and so lightly speak; and it is a
matter of surprise to us that this fact, of which most of us are aware,
does not lead to more precautions being taken by those who are anxious
about either their own health or that of others. To take care that the
body is thoroughly warm and well-clothed just before going out in very wet
or very cold weather——to keep up the circulation and warmth of the body
rather by exercise of some kind than by sitting over great fires or in
overheated rooms——to be sure that the temperature of the sleeping
apartments is not ever so many degrees below that of the
sitting-room——these are three golden maxims, attention to which would
prevent thousands from catching that ‘chill’ or ‘cold’ to the results of
which so many valuable lives have been prematurely sacrificed.”
=WEIGHT.= The quantity of a body determined by means of a balance, and
expressed in terms having reference to some known standard; the measure of
the force of gravity, from which the relative quantity of a body is
inferred. The relation between the weight and volume of a body, compared
to a given standard taken as unity, constitutes its specific gravity.
For the purpose of weighing, a balance or lever is required, which, when
accurately suspended in a state of equilibrium, will be affected, in
precisely an equal manner, by like weights applied to its extremities.
Hence, the construction of such an instrument is not more difficult than
its application is important in chemical and philosophical research.
Oertling, the most celebrated maker of the chemical balance, constructs
this important instrument in seven different varieties, more or less
elaborate. The largest of these, with a 16-inch beam, will carry 2 lbs. in
each pan, and yet turn with 1/100th of a grain. A balance with arms of
unequal length or weight will weigh as accurately as another of the same
workmanship with equal arms, provided the substance weighed be removed and
standard weights placed in the same scale until the equilibrium be again
restored, when the weights so employed, being exactly in the same
condition as the substance previously occupying the scale, will, of
course, indicate its proper weight. A knowledge of this fact is useful, as
it enables any one to weigh correctly with unequal scales, or with any
suspended lever.
Small weights may be made of thin leaf brass, or, preferably, of platinum
foil. Quantities below the 100th of a grain may be either estimated by the
position of the index, or shown by actually counting rings of wire, the
value of which has been previously determined. The readiest way to
subdivide small weights consists in weighing a certain quantity of very
fine wire, and afterwards cutting it into such parts, by measure, as are
desired; or the wire may be wrapped close round two pins, and then cut
asunder with a knife. By this means it will be divided into a great number
of equal lengths, or small rings.[267]
[Footnote 267: An elaborate essay on the BALANCE, in Watt’s ‘Dict. of
Chemistry,’ gives minute directions for weighing, with rules for the
elimination of errors. See BALANCE.]
The following tables represent the values of the weights legally employed
in this country for the sale of gold, silver, and articles made thereof,
as well as platinum, diamonds, and other precious metals and stones; also
for drugs when sold by retail (See WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ACT, 1879; and
MEASURES).
1. _Troy Weight._
+---------+---------------+----------+----------+
| Grains. | Pennyweights. | Ounces. | Pound. |
| gr. | dwt. | oz. |lb. or ℔ |
+---------+---------------+----------+----------+
| 24 | 1 | | |
| 480 | 20 | 1 | |
| 5760 | 240 | 12 | 1 |
+---------+---------------+----------+----------+
⁂ The standard of the above measure is 1 cubic inch of distilled water,
which, at 62° Fahr. and 30 inches of the barometer, weighs 252·458 troy
grains.
The carat used in weighing diamonds is 3-1/6 grains (nearly). Troy weight
is employed in weighing gold, jewelry, &c., and, under a somewhat modified
form, in prescribing and dispensing medicines. (See _below_.)
2. _Apothecaries’ Weight._
(Modified Troy Weight.)
+---------+---------+--------+---------+---------+
| | | | | |
| Grains |Scruples.|Drachms.| Ounces. | Pounds. |
|(_Troy_).| ℈ | ʒ | ℥ | ℔ |
| gr. | | | | |
+---------+---------+--------+---------+---------+
| | | | | |
| 1· | ·05 | ·01666| ·002083| ·0001736|
| 20· | 1· | ·3333 | ·0416 | ·003472 |
| 60· | 3· | 1· | ·1250 | ·0104166|
| 480· | 24· | 8· | 1· | ·0833333|
| 5760· | 288· |96· |12· |1· |
+---------+---------+--------+---------+---------+
+---------+---------+---------+------------+------------+
| | |Equiv. in| | |
| Grains | Eqiv. in|Minims or| Equiv. in | Equiv. in |
|(_Troy_).| French |measured | cubic |Avoirdupois.|
| gr. | grammes.| drops. | inches. | weight. |
+---------+---------+---------+------------+------------+
| | | | | |
| 1· | ·06475| 1·09 | ·003961055| 1· gr.|
| 20· | 1·295 | 21·94 | ·07922109 | 20· gr.|
| 60· | 3·885 | 65·82 | ·23766329 | 60· gr.|
| 480· | 31·08 | 526·62 | 1·90130635 |1 oz 42·5 gr.|
| 5760· |372·96 | 6319·54 |22·81567609 |13 oz 72·5 gr.|
+---------+---------+---------+------------+------------+
⁂ Apothecaries’ weight is employed in prescribing and dispensing medicines
according to the Ph. L., E., and U. S. But in the last Ph. D. and the new
Brit. Ph. it has been superseded by avoirdupois weight.
Troy _Avoirdupois._
1 ℔ is equivalent to 0·822857 lb.
1 oz. ” 1·097143 oz.
=WEIGHTS, FOREIGN.=
_Binary Weights._ (Système usuel.) _French._
+-------+--------+-----+-----+------+-------+
| | | | | | |
|French | | | | | Kilo- |
|Grain. |Scruple.|Gros.|Once.|Livre.|gramme.|
+-------+--------+-----+-----+------+-------+
| | | | | | |
| 1·| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
| 24·| 1· | ... | ... | ... | ... |
| 72·| 3· | 1·| ... | ... | ... |
| 576·| 24· | 8·| 1· | ... | ... |
| 9216·| 384· | 128·| 16· | 1· | ... |
| 18432·| 768· | 256·| 32· | 2· | 1· |
+-------+--------+-----+-----+------+-------+
+-------+---------+------------+-------------------+
| |Equiv. in|Round number| Equiv. in |
|French | grammes |of the Codex| Avoirdupois |
|Grain. |metrique.| in grammes.| weight. |
+-------+---------+------------+-------------------+
| | | |_lb._ _oz._ _gr._ |
| 1·| ·0542| ·05 | ... ... 0·837|
| 24·| 1·30 | 1·30 | ... ... 20·1 |
| 72·| 3·906 | 4· | ... ... 60·284|
| 576·| 81·25 | 32· | ... 1 45· |
| 9216·| 500· | 500· | 1 1-1/2 61· |
| 18432·|1000· | 1000· | 2 3-1/4 13· |
+-------+---------+------------+-------------------+
⁂ The old French grain is equal to ·820 of an imperial troy grain; hence 1
troy grain is equal to 1·21 old French grains. The gros, once, and other
multiples of the grain, are, of course, proportionate. The new French
grain (of 1812) is equal to ·0542 gramme, or ·8365228 gr. troy. It is
said, in some works, to be equal to ·878 gr. troy, or, in round numbers,
·9, but this is much too high.
CONTINENTAL MEDICINAL WEIGHTS, _in Troy Grains_.
(From Dr Christison’s ‘Dispensatory.’)
+-----------+------+------+-------+---------------------+-------+
| | | | |Scruple consisting of| |
| Country. |Pound.|Ounce.|Drachm.+----------+----------+ Grain.|
| | | | | 24 med. | 20 med. | |
| | | | | grs. | grs. | |
+-----------+------+------+-------+----------+----------+-------+
|French |5670·5|470·50| 59·10 | 19·7 | ... | 0·820 |
|Spanish |5326·3|443·49| 55·14 | 18·47 | ... | 0·769 |
|Tuscan |5240·3|436·67| 54·58 | 18·19 | ... | 0·758 |
|Roman |5235·0|436·25| 54·58 | 18·17 | ... | 0·757 |
|Austrian |6495·1|541·25| 67·65 | ... | 22·5 | 1·127 |
|German |5524·8|460·40| 57·55 | ... | 19·18 | 0·960 |
|Russian |5524·8|460·40| 57·55 | ... | 19·18 | 0·960 |
|Prussian |5415·1|451·26| 56·40 | ... | 18·80 | 0·940 |
|Dutch |5695·8|474·64| 59·33 | ... | 19·78 | 0·988 |
|Belgian |5695·8|474·64| 59·33 | ... | 19·78 | 0·988 |
|Swedish |5500·2|458·34| 57·29 | ... | 19·09 | 0·954 |
|Piedmontese|4744·7|395·39| 49·45 | ... | 16·48 | 0·824 |
|Venetian |4661·4|388·45| 48·55 | ... | 16·18 | 0·809 |
+-----------+------+------+-------+----------+----------+-------+
=WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ACT, 1878.= On the 1st of January, 1879, there came
into force an act to consolidate throughout the United Kingdom the law
relating to weights and measures. Legislation on this subject had been
long rendered necessary from the extreme inconvenience and friction to
commerce of all kinds arising from the adherence to local standards of
weight or measurements; and from the divergent values in different parts
of the kingdom, and in places more or less contiguous to each other, of
weights and measures often bearing the same name. Thus, previous to the
passing of the above Act, there were twelve different markets in this
country in which when corn was sold by the bushel, the weight of the
bushel varied in each; and six different localities in which the same
thing occurred when vended by the quarter and the load. In some places a
score of grain would imply 20 lbs. but often less, whilst in others it was
not an infrequent transaction for wheat to be sold by one measure,
delivered by another, and eventually paid for by weight. And the same
perplexing and arbitrary conditions attached to the sale of numberless
other commodities.
We give below the most important sections of the Weights and Measures Act
of 1878:
LAW OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.
_Uniformity of Weights and Measures._
The same weights and measures shall be used throughout the United Kingdom.
_Standards of Measure and Weight._
The bronze bar and the platinum weight, more particularly described in the
first part of the First Schedule of this Act, and at the passing of this
Act, deposited in the Standards Departments of the Board of Trade, in the
custody of the Warden of the Standards, shall continue to be the imperial
standard of measure and weight, and the said bronze bar shall continue to
be the imperial standard for determining the imperial standard yard for
the United Kingdom, and the said platinum weight shall continue to be the
imperial standard for determining the imperial standard pound for the
United Kingdom.
_Imperial Measures of Length._
The straight line or distance between the centres of the two gold plugs or
pins (as mentioned in the First Schedule to this Act),[268] in the bronze
bar by this Act declared to be the imperial standard for determining the
imperial standard yard, measured when the bar is at the temperature of
sixty-two degrees of Fahrenheit’s thermometer, and when it is supported on
bronze rollers placed under it in such a manner as best to avoid flexure
of the bar, and to facilitate its free expansion and contraction from
variations of temperature, shall be the legal standard measure of length,
and shall be called the imperial standard yard, and shall be the only unit
or standard measure of extension from which all measures of extension,
whether linear, superficial, or solid shall be ascertained.
[Footnote 268: See further on.]
One third part of the imperial standard yard shall be a foot, and the
twelfth part of such foot shall be an inch, and the rod, pole, or perch in
length shall contain five such yards and a half, and the chain shall
contain twenty-two such yards, and the furlong two hundred and twenty such
yards, and the mile one thousand seven hundred and sixty such yards.
The rood of land shall contain one thousand two hundred and ten square
yards according to the imperial standard yard, and the acre of land shall
contain four thousand eight hundred and forty such square yards, being one
hundred and sixty square rods, poles or perches.
_Imperial Measures of Weight and Capacity._
The weight in vacuo of the platinum weight (mentioned in the First
Schedule to this Act), and by this Act declared to be the imperial
standard for determining the imperial standard pound, shall be the legal
standard measure of weight, and of measure having reference to weight, and
shall be called the imperial standard pound, and shall be the only unit or
standard measure of weight from which all other weights and all measures
having reference to weight shall be ascertained.
One sixteenth part of the imperial standard pound shall be an ounce, and
one-sixteenth part of such ounce shall be a dram, and one seven thousandth
part of the imperial standard pound shall be a grain.
A stone shall consist of fourteen imperial standard pounds, and a hundred
weight shall consist of eight such stones, and a ton shall consist of
twenty such hundredweights.
Four hundred and eighty grains shall be an ounce troy.
All the foregoing weights except the ounce troy shall be deemed to be
avoirdupois weights.
The unit or standard measure of capacity from which all other measures of
capacity, as well as for liquids as for dry goods, shall be derived, shall
be the gallon containing ten imperial standard pounds weight of distilled
water weighed in air against brass weights, with the water and air at the
temperature of sixty-two degrees of Fahrenheit’s thermometer, and with the
barometer at thirty inches.
The quart shall be one fourth part of the gallon, and the pint shall be
one-eighth part of the gallon.
Two gallons shall be a peck, and eight gallons shall be a bushel, and
eight such bushels shall be a quarter, and thirty-six such bushels shall
be a chaldron.
A bushel for the sale of any of the following articles, namely, lime,
fish, potatoes, fruit, or any other goods and things which before (the
passing of the Weights and Measures Act, 1835, that is to say) the ninth
day of September, one thousand eight hundred and thirty five, were
commonly sold by heaped measure, shall be a hollow cylinder having a plane
base, the internal diameter of which shall be double the internal depth,
and every measure used for the sale of any of the above-mentioned articles
which is a multiple of a bushel, or is a half bushel or a peck, shall be
made of the same shape and proportion as the above-mentioned bushel.
In using an imperial measure of capacity, the same shall not be heaped,
but either shall be stricken with a round stick or roller, straight, and
of the same diameter from end to end, or if the article sold cannot from
its size or shape be conveniently stricken, shall be filled in all parts
as nearly to the level of the brim as the size and shape of the article
will admit.
_Metric Equivalents of Imperial Weights and Measures._
The table in the Third Schedule to this Act shall be deemed to set forth
the equivalents of imperial weights and measures and of the weights and
measures therein expressed in terms of the metric system, and such table
may be lawfully used for computing and expressing, in weights and
measures, weights and measures of the metric system.
_Use of Imperial Weights and Measures._
Every contract, bargain, sale, or dealing, made or had in the United
Kingdom for any work, goods, wares, or merchandise, or other thing which
has been or is to be done, sold, delivered, carried, or agreed for by
weight or measure, shall be deemed to be made and had according to one of
the imperial weights or measures ascertained by this Act, or to some
multiple or part thereof, and if not so made or had shall be void; and all
tolls and duties charged or collected according to weight or measure shall
be charged and collected according to one of the imperial weights or
measures ascertained by this Act, or to some multiple or part thereof.
Such contract, bargain, sale, dealing, and collection of tolls and duties
as is in this section mentioned is in this Act referred to under the term
‘trade.’
No local or customary measures, nor the use of the heaped measure, shall
be lawful.
Any person who sells by any denomination of weight or measure other than
one of the imperial weights or measures, or some multiple or part thereof,
shall be liable to a fine not exceeding forty shillings for every such
sale.
All articles sold by weight shall be sold by avoirdupois weight; except
that——
(1) Gold and silver, and articles made thereof, including gold and
silver thread, lace, or fringe, also platinum, diamonds, and
other precious metals or stones, may be sold by the ounce troy or
by any decimal parts of such ounce; and all contracts, bargains,
sales, and dealings in relation thereto shall be deemed to be
made and had by such weight, and when so made or had shall be
valid; and
(2) Drugs, when sold by retail, may be sold by apothecaries’ weight.
Every person who acts in contravention of this section shall be liable to
a fine not exceeding five pounds.
A contract or dealing shall not be invalid or open to objection on the
ground that the weights or measures expressed or referred to therein are
weights or measures of the metric system, or on the ground that decimal
sub-divisions of imperial weights and measures, whether metric or
otherwise, are used in such contract or dealing.
Nothing in this act shall prevent the sale, or subject a person to a fine
under this Act for the sale, of an article in any vessel, where such
vessel is not represented as containing any amount of imperial measure,
nor subject a person to a fine under this Act for the possession of a
vessel where it is shown that such vessel is not used nor intended for
use as a measure.
Any person who prints, and any clerk of a market or other person who
makes, any return, price list, price current, or any journal or other
paper containing price list or price current, in which the denomination of
weights and measures quoted or referred to denotes or implies a greater or
less weight or measure than is denoted or implied by the same denomination
of the imperial weights and measures under this Act, shall be liable to a
fine not exceeding ten shillings for every copy of every such return,
price list, price current, journal, or other paper which he publishes.
Every person who uses or has in his possession for use for trade a weight
or measure which is not of the denomination of some Board of Trade
standard, shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five pounds, or in the
case of a second offence ten pounds, and the weight or measure shall be
liable to be forfeited.
_Unjust Weights and Measures._
Every person who uses or has in his possession for use for trade any
weight, measure, scale, balance, steelyard, or weighing machine which is
false or unjust, shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five pounds, or
in the case of a second offence ten pounds, and any contract, bargain,
sale, or dealing made by the same shall be void, and the weight, measure,
scale, balance, or steelyard shall be liable to be forfeited.
Where any fraud is wilfully committed in the using of any weight, measure,
scale, balance, steelyard, or weighing machine, the person committing such
fraud, and every person party to the fraud, shall be liable to a fine not
exceeding five pounds, or in the case of a second offence ten pounds, and
the weight, measure, scale, balance, or steelyard shall be liable to be
forfeited.
A person shall not wilfully or knowingly make or sell, or cause to be made
or sold, any false or unjust weight, measure, scale, balance, or weighing
machine.
Every person who acts in contravention of this section shall be liable to
a fine not exceeding ten pounds, or in the case of a second offence fifty
pounds.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Every inquisition which, in pursuance of any Act hereby repealed, has been
taken for ascertaining the amount of contracts to be performed or rents to
be paid in grain or malt, or in any other commodity or thing, or with
reference to the measure or weight of any grain, malt, or other commodity
or thing, and the amount of any toll rate or duty payable according to any
weight or measure in use before the passing of the said Act, and has been
enrolled of record in Her Majesty’s Court of Exchequer, shall continue in
force, and may be given in evidence in any legal proceeding, and the
amount ascertained by such inquisition shall, when converted into imperial
weights and measures, continue to be the rule of payment in regard to all
such contracts, rents, tolls, rates, or duties.
_Standards and Definitions._
Nothing in this Act shall affect the validity of the models of gas holders
verified and deposited in the Standards Department of the Board of Trade,
in pursuance of the Act of the session of the twenty-second and
twenty-third years of the reign of Her present Majesty, chapter sixty-six,
entituled “An Act for regulating measures used in sales of gas,” and of
the Acts amending the same, and the provisions of this Act with respect to
Board of Trade standards shall apply to such models; and the provisions of
this Act with respect to defining the amount of error to be tolerated in
local standards when verified or reverified, shall apply to defining the
amount of error to be tolerated in such copies of the said models of gas
holders as are provided by any justices, council commissioners, or other
local authority in pursuance of the said Acts.
Nothing in this Act shall extend to prohibit, defeat, injure, or lessen
the rights granted by charter to the master, wardens, and commonalty of
the mystery of the Founders of the City of London.
Nothing in this Act shall prohibit, defeat, injure, or lessen the rights
of the mayor and commonalty and citizens of the City of London, or of the
Lord Mayor of the City of London for the time being, with respect to the
stamping or sealing of weights and measures, or with respect to the
gauging of wine or oil, or other gaugeable liquors.
APPLICATION OF ACT TO SCOTLAND.
This Act shall apply to Scotland with the following modifications:
In the application of this Act to Scotland the expression ‘rents and
tolls’ includes all stipends, feu duties, customs, casualties, and other
demands whatsoever, payable in grain, malt, or meal, or any other
commodity or thing.
The fair’s prices of all grain in every county shall be struck by the
imperial quarter, and all other returns of the prices of grain shall be
set forth by the same, without reference to any other measure whatsoever.
APPLICATION OF ACT TO IRELAND.
This Act shall apply to Ireland with the following modifications:
In Ireland every contract, bargain, sale, or dealing——
For any quantity of corn, grain, pulses, potatoes, hay, straw, flax,
roots, carcasses of beef or mutton, butter, wool, or dead pigs, sold,
delivered, or agreed for:
Or for any quantity of any other commodity sold, delivered, or agreed for
by weight (not being a commodity which may by law be sold by the troy
ounce or by apothecaries’ weight), shall be made or had by one of the
following denominations of imperial weight; namely, the ounce avoirdupois;
the imperial pound of sixteen ounces; the stone of fourteen pounds; the
quarter hundred of twenty-eight pounds; the half hundred of fifty-six
pounds; the hundredweight of one hundred and twelve pounds; or the ton of
twenty hundredweight; and not by any local or customary denomination of
weight whatsoever, otherwise such contract, bargain, sale, or dealing
shall be void:
Provided always, that nothing in the present section shall be deemed to
prevent the use in any contract, bargain, sale, or dealing of the
denomination of the quarter, half, or other aliquot part of the ounce,
pound, or other denomination aforesaid, or shall be deemed to extend to
any contract, bargain, sale, or dealing relating to standing or growing
crops.
In Ireland every article sold by weight shall, if weighed, be weighed in
full net standing beam; and for the purposes of every contract, bargain,
sale, or dealing the weight be ascertained shall be deemed the true weight
of the article, and no deduction or allowance for tret or beamage, or on
any other account, or under any other name whatsoever, the weight of any
sack, vessel, or other covering in which such article may be contained
alone excepted, shall be claimed or made by any purchaser on any pretext
whatever under a penalty not exceeding five pounds.
SCHEDULES.
FIRST SCHEDULE.
PART I.
IMPERIAL STANDARDS.
The following standards were constructed under the direction of the
Commissioners of Her Majesty’s Treasury, after the destruction of the
former imperial standards in the fire at the Houses of Parliament.
The imperial standard for determining the length of the imperial standard
yard is a solid square bar, thirty-eight inches long, and one inch square
in transverse section, the bar being of bronze or gun-metal; near to each
end a cylindrical hole is sunk (the distance between the centres of the
two holes being thirty-six inches) to the depth of half an inch, at the
bottom of this hole is inserted in a smaller hole a gold plug or pin,
about one tenth of an inch in diameter, and upon the surface of this pin
there are cut three fine lines at intervals of about the one hundredth
part of an inch transverse to the axis of the bar, and two lines at nearly
the same interval parallel to the axis of the bar; the measure of length
of the imperial standard yard is given by the interval between the middle
transversal line at one end and the middle transversal line at the other
end, the part of each line which is employed being the point midway
between the longitudinal lines; and the said points are in this Act
referred to as the centres of the said gold plugs or pins; and such bar is
marked “copper 16 oz., tin 2-1/2, zinc 1. Mr Baily’s metal. No 1 standard
yard at 62°·30 Fahrenheit. Cast in 1845. Troughton and Simms, London.”
DENOMINATIONS OF STANDARDS OF APOTHECARIES’ WEIGHT
AND MEASURE.
1. _Apothecaries’ Weight._
+------------------------+---------------------------+
| | Weight in grains in terms |
| | of the Imperial Standard |
| Denomination. | Pound which contains |
| | 7000 such grains. |
+------------------------+---------------------------+
|Ounces. 10 ounces. | 4800 |
| 8 ounces | 3840 |
| 6 ounces | 2880 |
| 4 ounces | 1920 |
| 2 ounces | 960 |
| 1 ounce | 480 |
| | |
|Drachms. 4 drachms |} |
| or half |} 240 |
| an ounce |} |
| 2 drachms | 120 |
| 1 drachm | 60 |
| | |
|Scruples. 2 scruples | 40 |
| 1-1/2 scruples|} |
| or half a |} 30 |
| drachm |} |
| | |
| 1 scruple | 20 |
| half a scruple| 10 |
| 6 grains | 6 |
| 5 grains | 5 |
| 4 grains | 4 |
| 3 grains | 3 |
| 2 grains | 2 |
| 1 grain | 1 |
| half a grain | 0·5 |
+------------------------+---------------------------+
2. _Apothecaries’ Measure._
+--------------------------+-----------------------------+
| |Containing the following |
| |weight, of distilled water. |
| Denomination. |Temperature = 62° Fahr. |
| |Barometer = 30 inches. |
| |Imperial Pound = 7000 gr. |
+--------------------------+-----------------------------+
|A fluid ounce and the |} One fluid ounce contains |
| multiples thereof |} 437·5 grains |
| from 1 to 40 fluid |} weight, or 1/160 imperial|
| ounces. |} gallon. |
|Half a fluid ounce |} |
| | |
|A fluid drachm and the |} One fluid drachm |
| multiples thereof |} equals 1/8 fluid |
| from 1 to 16 fluid |} ounce. |
| drachms |} |
|Half a fluid drachm |} |
| | |
|A minim and the |} One minim equals |
| multiples thereof from 1|} 1/60 fluid drachm. |
| to 60 minims |} |
+--------------------------+-----------------------------+
The imperial standard for determining the weight of the imperial standard
pound is of platinum, the form being that of a cylinder nearly 1·35 inch
in height and 1·15 inch in diameter, with a groove or channel round it,
whose middle is about 0·34 inch below the top of the cylinder, for
insertion of the points of the ivory fork by which it is to be lifted; the
edges are carefully rounded off, and such standard pound is marked, P.S.
1844, 1 lb.
The following new and additional denominations of standards of
apothecaries’ weights and measures, were created under the Weights and
Measures Act, by an Order in Council, dated the 14th August, 1879.[269]
[Footnote 269: Published in the ‘London Gazette,’ August, 15th, 1879.]
THIRD SCHEDULE.
PART I.——METRIC EQUIVALENTS.
Table of the values of the principal denominations of measures and weights
on the metric system, expressed by means of denominations of imperial
measures and weights, and of the values of the principal denominations of
measures and weights of the imperial system, expressed by means of metric
weights and measures.
_Measures of Length._
-------------------------------+--------------------------------------
Metric Denominations and Values| Equivalents in Imperial Denominations
-------------------------------+------+------+-----+------------------
| Metres. |Miles.|Yards.|Feet.| Inches. Decimals.
--------------------+----------+------+------+-----+------------------
| | | | |
Myriametre | 10,000 |{ 6 | 376| 0 | 11·9
| |{ or |10,936| 0 | 11·9
Kilometre | 1000 | ... | 1093| 1 | 10·79
Hectometre | 100 | ... | 109| 1 | 1·079
Decametre | 10 | ... | 10| 2 | 9·7079
Metre | 1 | ... | 1| 0 | 3·3708
Decimetre | 1/10 | ... | ...| ... | 3·9371
Centimetre | 1/100 | ... | ...| ... | 0·3937
Millimetre | 1/1000 | ... | ...| ... | 0·0394
--------------------+----------+------+------+-----+------------------
_Measures of Surface._
----------------------------------+------------------------
Metric Denominations and Values. | Equivalents in Imperial
| Denominations.
--------------------------+-------+------+-----------------
|Square |Acres.|Square Decimals.
|Metres.| |Yards.
--------------------------+-------+------+-----------------
Hectare, _i.e._ 100 Ares |10,000 |{ 2 | 2280·3326
| |{ or | 11960·3326
Decare, _i.e._ 10 Ares | 1000 | ... | 1196·0333
Are | 100 | ... | 119·6033
Centiare, _i.e._ 1/100 Are| 1 | ... | 1·1960
--------------------------+-------+------+-----------------
_Measures of Capacity._
+---------------------------------------+-----------------------------+
| Metric Denominations and Values. | Equivalents in Imperial |
| | Denominations. |
+------------------------------+--------+---+---+---+---+---+---------+
| | | | | | | | |
| | Cubic | Q | | | | | D |
| |Metres. | u | B | | | | e |
| | | a | u | | G | Q | c |
| | | r | s | P | a | u | P i |
| | | t | h | e | l | a | i m |
| | | e | e | c | l | r | n a |
| | | r | l | k | o | t | t l |
| | | s | s | s | n | s | s s |
| | | . | . | . | . | . | . . |
+------------------------------+--------+---+---+---+---+---+---------+
|Kilolitre _i.e._ 1000 Litres | 1 | 3| 3| 2| 0| 0|0·77 |
|Hectolitre, _i.e._ 100 Litres | 1/10|...| 2| 3| 0| 0|0·077 |
|Decalitre, _i.e._ 10 Litres | 1/100|...|...| 1| 0| 0|1·6077 |
|Litre | 1/1000|...|...|...|...|...|1·76077 |
|Decilitre, _i.e._ 1/10 Litre | 1/10000|...|...|...|...|...|0·176077 |
|Centilitre, _i.e._ 1/100 Litre|1/100000|...|...|...|...|...|0·0176077|
+------------------------------+--------+---+---+---+---+---+---------+
+--------------------------------+-----------------------------------------+
|Metric Denominations and Values.| Equivalents in Imperial Denominations. |
+-------------------+------------+-----+-------+-------+-------+-----------+
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | D D |
| | Grams. |Cwts.|Stones.|Pounds.|Ounces.| r e |
| | | | | | | a c |
| | | | | | | m . |
| | | | | | | s |
| | | | | | | . |
+-------------------+------------+-----+-------+-------+-------+-----------+
|Millier | 1,000,000 | 19 | 5 | 6 | 9 |15·04 |
|Quintal | 100,000 | 1 | 7 | 10 | 7 | 6·304 |
|Myriagram | 10,000 | ... | 1 | 8 | 0 |11·8304 |
|Kilogram | 1,000 |{... | ... | 2 | 3 | 4·3830 |
| | |{ (or 15432·3487 grs.) | |
|Hectogram | 100 | ... | ... | ... | 3 | 8·4383 |
|Decagram | 10 | ... | ... | ... | ... | 5·6438 |
|Gram | 1 | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·56438 |
|Decigram | 1/10 | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·056438 |
|Centigram | 1/100 | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·0056438 |
|Milligram | 1/1000 | ... | ... | ... | ... | 0·00056438|
+---------+---------+------------+-----+-------+-------+-------+-----------+
_Measures of Length._
+-------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| | Equivalents in Metric Measures. |
|Imperial Measures. |-----------+----------+------------+-----------+
| |Millimetre.|Decimetre.| Metre. | Kilometre.|
+-------------------+-----------+----------+------------+-----------+
|Inch |= 25·39954 | | | |
|Foot or 12 inches | ... |= 3·04794 |= 0·30479| |
|Yard, or 3 feet, | | | | |
| or 36 inches | ... | ... |= 0·91428| |
|Fathom, or 2 yards,| | | | |
| or 6 feet | ... | ... |= 1·82877| |
|Pole or 5-1/2 yards| ... | ... |= 5·02911| |
|Chain, or 4 poles, | | | | |
| or 22 yards | ... | ... |= 20·11644| |
|Furlong, 40 poles, | | | | |
| or 220 yards | ... | ... |= 201·16437| = 0·20116 |
|Mile, 8 furlongs, | | | | |
| or 1760 yards | ... | ... |= 1609·31493| = 1·60931 |
+-------------------+-----------+----------+------------+-----------+
_Measures of Surface._
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| | Equivalents in Metric Measures. |
|Imperial Measures. +------------------+---------------+----------+----------+
| |Square Decimetres.| Square Metres.| Ares. |Hectares. |
+--------------------------------+------------------+---------------+----------+----------+
|Square inch | = 0·06451 | | | |
|Square foot, or 144 square | | | | |
| inches | = 9·28997 | = 0·092900 | | |
|Square yard, or 9 square feet, | | | | |
| or 1296 square inches | = 83·60971 | = 0·836097 | | |
|Pole or perch, or 30-1/4 square | | | | |
| yards | ... | = 25·291939 | | |
|Rood, or 40 perches, or 1210 | | | | |
| square yards | ... | ... |=10·116776| |
|Acre, or 4 roods, or 4840 square| | | | |
| yards | ... | ... | ... |= 0·40467 |
|Square mile or 640 acres | ... | ... | ... |=258·98945|
+--------------------------------+------------------+---------------+----------+----------+
_Measures of Capacity._
+---------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| | Equivalents in Metric Measures. |
|Imperial Measures. +-----------+----------+-----------+------------+
| |Decilitres.| Litres. |Decalitres.|Hectolitres.|
+---------------------+-----------+----------+-----------+------------+
|Gill | = 1·41983 | = 0·14198| | |
|Pint or 4 gills | = 5·67932 | = 0·56793| | |
|Quart or 2 pints | ... | = 1·13587| | |
|Gallon or 4 quarts | ... | = 4·54346| | |
|Peck or 2 gallons | ... | = 9·08692| = 0·90869 | |
|Bushel, or 8 gallons,| | | | |
| or 4 pecks | ... | ... | = 3·63477 | |
|Quarter or 8 bushels | ... | ... | ... | = 2·90781 |
+---------------------+-----------+----------+-----------+------------+
_Cubic Measure._
+-------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| | Equivalents in Metric Measures. |
|Imperial Measures. +------------+-----------+----------+
| | Cubic | Cubic | Cubic |
| |Centimetres.|Decimetres.| Metres. |
+-------------------------------+------------+-----------+----------+
|Cubic inch | 16·38618 | | |
|Cubic foot or 1728 cubic inches| ... | 28·31531 | |
|Cubic yard or 27 cubic feet | ... | ... | 0·76451 |
+-------------------------------+------------+-----------+----------+
_Weights._
+---------------------------+-----------------------------------------------+
| | Equivalents in Metric Weights. |
|Imperial Weights. +-----------+----------+------------+-----------+
| | Grams. |Decagrams.| Kilograms. |Millier or |
| | | | |Metric Ton.|
+---------------------------+-----------+----------+------------+-----------+
|Grain |=0·06479895| | | |
|Dram |=1·77185 | | | |
|Ounce, avoirdupois, or | | | | |
| 16 drams, or 437·5 grains|=28·34954 |= 2·83495| | |
|Pound, or 16 ounces, or 256| | | | |
| drams, or 7000 grains |=453·59265 |= 45·35927|= 0·45359| |
|Hundredweight or 112 lbs. | ... | ... |= 50·80238| |
|Ton or 20 cwt. | ... | ... |= 1016·04754|= 1·01605 |
|Ounce, troy, or 480 grains |=31·103496 |= 3·11035| | |
+---------------------------+-----------+----------+------------+-----------+
=WELD.= _Syn._ WOALD. The _Reseda luteola_ (Linn.), an herbaceous annual
employed by the dyers. A decoction of the stems and leaves gives a rich
yellow to goods mordanted with alum, tartar, or muriate of tin. See YELLOW
PIGMENTS.
=WELSH RARE′BIT.= _Prep._ Cut slices of bread, toast and butter them; then
cover them with slices of rich cheese, spread a little mustard over the
cheese, put the bread in a cheese-toaster before the fire, and in a short
time serve it up very hot.
=WEN.= The popular name of pulpy, encysted, and fleshy tumours of the face
and neck.
=WET (to keep out from Gun Locks).= In giving hints to sportsman going to
Norway, Mr. Lock, in his book on ‘Sport in Norway,’ gives some capital
advice on this subject, which would be equally serviceable in wet weather
in England. Sportsmen will do well, he says, to remove the locks from
their rifle and gun, oil them with a little Rangoon oil, lay them on the
hob of the fireplace until they are quite hot, and then wipe them as dry
as possible with a little cotton waste, so that there will be no
superfluous oil left to clog the works. While the locks are getting hot
get a little beeswax and melt it in a cup, and with the tip of a penknife
carefully pay, as though you were using putty to place in a pane of glass,
though more sparingly, the wooden ledges where the lock-plates rest when
in their places, in such a manner that none of the wax gets into the
places hollowed out to receive the works of the lock. When the warm locks
are put back in their places, and screwed up tight, the wax will adhere to
the edge of the lock-plates and the wood wherein they bed, and effectually
render them impervious to wet. The sportsman can afterwards, when
stalking, push his rifle through wet grass, and use his fowling-piece when
the water, after a shower, drops from the trees upon him as he forces his
way between the wet branches, without fear of the wet making its way into
the locks.
=WHEAT.= _Syn._ TRITICUM, L. The ripe seed or fruit of several varieties
of _Triticum vulgare_ (Linn.), of which the principal are _Triticum
œstivum_, or spring wheat, _Triticum hybernum_, or winter wheat, and
_Triticum turgidum_, or turgid wheat, the last two of which include
several red and white sub-varieties. Of all the cereal grains wheat
appears to be that best adapted for bread corn, not merely on account of
its highly nutritious character, but also on account of the power it
possesses from its richness in gluten, of forming a light and agreeable
loaf by the process of fermentation.
According to Sir H. Davy, good English wheat contains of gluten, 19%;
starch, 77%; soluble matter, 4 to 5%.
The average weight of good wheat per bushel is from 58 to 60 lbs.; and its
average yield of flour is fully 12-1/2 lbs. for every 14 lbs. The weight
of the straw is said to be about double that of the grain. The produce per
acre varies from 12 to 60, or even 64, bushels an acre. See FLOUR, STARCH,
&c.
=Buckwheat.= _Syn._ FAGOPYRUM. The seed of _Fagopyrum esculentum_, a plant
of the natural order _Polygonaceæ_. It makes excellent cakes, crumpets,
and gruel. In North America, buckwheat cakes, or rather fritters, are in
general use at breakfast, eaten with molasses. In England, buckwheat is
cultivated as food for pheasants.
=Wheat, Indian.= See MAIZE.
=Wheat, Steeps for.= Quicklime, sulphate of zinc, or white vitriol,
sulphate of copper or blue vitriol, and arsenious acid or white arsenic,
are the substances chiefly employed for this purpose. About 5 lbs. of the
first (slaked and made into a milk with water), 1-1/4 lb. of the second, 1
lb. of the third, and 3 or 4 oz. of the last, are regarded as sufficient
for each sack of seed. The method of applying them is either to dissolve
or mix them with just sufficient water to cover the seed, which is then to
be soaked in the mixture for a few hours, or a less quantity of water is
employed, and the more concentrated solution is, at intervals, well
sprinkled, by means of a ‘watering pot,’ over the seed wheat spread upon
the barn floor, the action being promoted by occasional stirring.
_Obs._ The first two substances above named have been separately proved to
be amply sufficient to destroy the ‘smut’ in seed wheat, and are perfectly
harmless in their effects, which renders them greatly preferable to
arsenic, or even to sulphate of copper. Nearly all the numerous advertised
‘anti-smuts,’ or nostrums to prevent the smut in wheat, contain one or
other of the last three of the above substances.
=WHEY.= _Syn._ SERUM LACTIS, L.; PETIT LAIT, Fr. The liquid portion of
milk after the curd has been separated. It consists chiefly of water,
holding in solution 3 or 4% of sugar of milk. A pound of milk mixed with a
tablespoonful of proof spirit allowed to become sour, and the whey
filtered from the sediment, yields, in the course of a few weeks, a good
vinegar (whey vinegar), free from lactic acid (Scheele). Skimmed milk may
be used.
=Whey, Al′um.= _Syn._ SERUM LACTIS ALUMINATUM, L. _Prep._ Take of powdered
alum 1 dr.; hot milk, 1 pint; simmer a few seconds, let it repose for a
short time, and strain the whey from the coagulum. Used in diarrhœa, &c.;
a wine-glassful after every motion. Acid whey (SERUM LACTIS ACIDUM) may be
prepared in a similar manner by substituting 1/2 dr. of tartaric or citric
acid for the alum. Orange whey and lemon whey are prepared from the juice
of the respective fruits, with a little of the yellow peel to impart
flavour.
=WHEY POWDER.= _Prep._ 1. From whey gently evaporated to dryness, and
powdered along with about 1-3rd of its weight of lump sugar.
2. Sugar, 7 oz.; sugar of milk, 2 oz.; gum Arabic, 1 oz. (all in fine
powder); mix well. 1 oz. dissolved in 1-1/4 pint of water forms
extemporaneous whey.
=WHIS′KY.= Dilute alcohol obtained from the fermented wort of malt or
grain. That from the former is the most esteemed. The inferior qualities
of this spirit are prepared from barley, oats, or rye, a small portion
only of which is malted, or from potatoes mashed with a portion of barley
malt, the resulting wash being carelessly fermented and distilled, and
purposely suffered to burn, to impart the peculiar empyreumatic or smoky
flavour so much relished by the lower orders of whisky drinkers. The malt
whisky, sold as such, of the principal Scotch and Irish distillers is
fully equal in quality to London gin, from which it merely differs in
flavour. The peculiar flavour of whisky may be imitated by adding a few
drops each of pure creosote and purified fusel oil to 2 or 3 gallons of
good London gin; and the imitation will be still more perfect if the
liquor be kept for some months before drinking it.
We are indebted to ‘Land and Water’ for the following interesting
particulars relating to Irish whiskey:
“Genuine unadulterated Irish whisky has, of late years, become a great
desideratum as a wholesome and agreeable beverage, and in the article
produced by the large and successful company whose premises and business I
am about to describe, the consuming public have every guarantee of its
excellence and purity, as far as can be insured by the use of the very
best materials, great skill and care in the manufacturing processes, and
the valuable and extensive buildings in which the spirit is stored until
it attains the maturity and mellowness which age alone can confer.
“No blending process of new whiskies can effect this, no distiller who has
not very extensive bonded warehouses is to be trusted. Acre after acre of
cellars, vault after vault, corridor after corridor, each and all dim,
damp, and dark, and guarded by the exciseman’s talismanic padlock——all
these are necessary for the soundness of the distillery. For to secure age
and quality, the effect of several years storage in these vaults is
required. If you wish to see such store-rooms to perfection, go to Cork,
which may be considered the capital of the Irish whisky trade. Even
Dublin, with its Jamiesons, its Powers, and its Roes, must bow down before
it.
“But what is most singular of all, one company represents that important
branch of manufacture, and have therefore a good right to their title of
‘Cork Distilleries Company.’ A little over a quarter of a century ago
there were five distilleries in Cork——Wise’s, Hewett’s, Daly’s, Murphy’s,
and Waters’. In 1867, however, an amalgamation took place, and the present
company was started, and the work of the five distilleries was
concentrated into three——the North Mall, still known as Wise’s (that
proprietor wisely allowing himself to be bought out, after having made one
of the largest private fortunes in Ireland); the Midleton, situated at a
pretty village of that name, about ten miles from Cork, and the
Watercourse, in the north-western suburb of the city. The three
distilleries are capable of producing 1,000,000 gallons each per annum,
which represents an annual duty of one million and a half pounds sterling.
Their paid-up capital is a quarter of a million, and a very large rest
fund. Their works and property are insured for over three-quarters of a
million sterling, and they find employment for about 1000 men.
“_The Brewing Process._——I shall have occasion to describe each of these
three distilleries during the course of this paper, but it would perhaps
be as well to run hurriedly through the several processes of whisky
distillation. It may be divided roughly into brewing and distilling. Malt
and barley, are, of course, the ingredients used. Barley as it comes from
the market is distinguished by the appellation ‘green.’ This is either
steeped and converted into malt, or kiln-dried and ground. It is then
removed to the mash-tuns, where water is added, and the whole mixed by
revolving machinery. After some hours’ steeping, the water has soaked all
the desired properties from the grain, and is known as wort. This is led
away or pumped by a complicated series of pipes to the top of the
manufactory, where it undergoes a cooling process. When of the desired
temperature it is conducted to the fermenting vats——vast wooden vessels of
imposing appearance ranged in rows. The brewing processes end with this
fermentation.
“_The Distilling Processes._ When this is done, which generally takes five
days, the fermented liquor is conducted to the ‘wash’ charger, and from
thence pumped to the intermediate charger, where it is heated before
undergoing the first process of distillation, which now takes place. The
still is a vast copper vessel, shaped exactly like an inverted funnel,
with the pipe leading to the roof. The ‘wash’ or liquor from the charger
is conducted into this vessel. Beneath it are two furnaces, which soon
raise the temperature of the vessel to boiling point. When evaporation
commences the steam (which is the spirit, and is technically known as ‘low
wines’) is conducted up the copper pipe into a refrigerator, known as the
‘worm.’ This worm is, in reality, a continuation of the pipe of the still
twisted into regular coils in and about a vessel filled with the coldest
water obtainable. By this means the steam is converted into liquor. This
liquor passes into the close safe, a glass vessel somewhat like an
aquarium tank. The distiller stands by and watches the running liquor, and
his practised eye and educated palate immediately detects any fault in the
distillation. He is not allowed to open his tank, however, except by
notice in the presence of the excise officer, one or more of whom are
always present in every distillery. Through this tank it runs into ‘low
wines’ receiver, a large tank placed below, and from these it again passes
to ‘feints chargers’ _en route_ to the ‘low wines still,’ where the second
distillation takes place. I forgot to say that the refuse liquor left
after the first distillation is much valued by farmers for its
milk-producing qualities, and is bought up by them for cow food. The
refuse liquor from the second distillation, however, is only water, and
the refuse liquor from the third and final distillation is water also.
“The second distillation is like the first——the same process of ‘worm’
cooling, conducting, and charging is carried on. The third still is known
as the spirit still. The spirit is now considered perfect, and is led off
to the large vats in the spirit stores, where it is reduced to desired
strength, racked off into casks, and removed to bonded warehouses for
maturity. Such are the processes carried on here——such are the processes
carried on by all honest distillers during the last century; but modern
science has discovered that many very common——tasteless, I grant, but
easily flavoured——vegetables will yield ardent spirits, and there are not
wanting those who will take advantage of the discovery.
“_Within a Distillery._ But the distillery itself, who can describe
it——its story upon story of granaries——its kilns, floored with perforated
tiles——its steeping vats and its low-roofed malting sheds——its roaring
mills——its terrible and mysterious tanks——its inextricable machinery——its
innumerable rafters and false roofs——its ladders perched up in
inaccessible places——its bewildering passages——and far away, above all,
its immense chimneys towering up to the sky? But this is not all——the
bonded warehouses have to be gone through. The excise officer has to be
called, and the sealed lock has to be broken, and you enter into the vast
cool place. Black as night is everything around you; the lamps which the
attendants hold are utterly incapable of dissipating the darkness, and
only cast a strong orange glare upon the faces of the men who hold them.
To show one the dimensions of the place a man is sent to the opposite end.
Away he goes, only traceable by the lamp he bears, and before he waves it
to show that the opposite end of the vault is reached, it has become a
scarcely discernible glimmer. As we become more used to the darkness we
see straight passages leading in every direction, and lined on every side
by barrels piled almost to the ceiling.
“_The North Mall._ The first of the Cork distilleries I visited was the
one at North Mall, formerly, and, in fact, still known as Wise’s. It is in
a western suburb of the town out among the meadows. The Lee winds its
silvery course between tall alders close by it, and a branch stream is
made to do much of the work of the immense manufactory. On approaching it
it has a picturesque effect. It lies underneath a tall bank, over which
the road to Sunday’s Well leads. Looking down from this road the whole of
its vast dimensions can be taken in at a glance. The extensive yard, where
one would imagine enough coal was stored to supply the whole city, is
being raised from the adjoining fields. I was looking over an old history
of Cork, published by a certain Dr Smith, over a century ago, and I find
that formerly on this spot a Franciscan monastery stood. Such discipline
was preserved here that it was called the Mirror of Ireland, and their
sacerdotal character was so great that they had the power of curing sore
eyes. The only remains of this ancient edifice now visible is a carved
stone built into the wall of the great bonded warehouses in the Sunday’s
Well Road. It was here that the noted water oozed out of the red-stone
rock Whether it is ever now used in making the agreeable beverage
manufactured from the old whisky stored below I did not ascertain. These
old Franciscan fathers had, doubtless, a good cellar of their own; but
what would they have said of the vast, well-filled vaults which now are
found upon perhaps the identical spot? But, large as these are, they are
not large enough for the requirements of the distillery, and other
extensive premises have been secured in Leitrim Street, which are now used
as bonded warehouses.
“The whisky produced at this distillery is, if possible, still better now
than it was in Wise’s time; the same distiller who worked the concern for
him for twenty years is still there, and none but the very finest
description of malt and barley (a large proportion of the former) is used.
Its production, as well as those of the other two distilleries of the
company, gained a first-class medal last year at Philadelphia, and the
jurors described it as ‘very fine, full flavour, and good spirit.’ As a
natural consequence, there is a demand for this whisky all over the world,
and there are very few large towns in either hemisphere where it is not
represented by an agent.
“_The ‘Watercourse,’_ By-the-bye these lie on our way to the celebrated
Watercourse Distillery, the second of those used by this great firm.
Entering through the broad portals, long ranges of old-fashioned buildings
spread out on every side. Here is the mill, gaunt and square and stolid;
those jealously guarded doors to the right are the bonded warehouses; the
buildings across the yard are devoted to the coopers’ and smiths’ work,
which in all three distilleries is done on the premises.
That tall black and white building far away on the opposite side is the
grain store; this, nearer to you, with the irregular roofs, the
complicated piping and open walled structures running away overhead, is
the distillery proper. This distillery is about of equal size to that at
North Mall. It has an older and more venerable appearance. It turns out as
good and extensive work, and, like it, is not satisfied with the extensive
storing facilities at its command, but must needs go abroad to an old,
unused distillery, further in the suburbs, where it hides most of its rich
and treasured productions. A picturesque old place is this; the ruins of
the old works are still standing, and their architecture is such that it
only requires a mantle of ivy to transform it into a remnant of feudal
savagery.
“_The Midleton Distillery._ The company have handsome and extensive
offices on Morrison’s Island, in the centre of the city, and close to the
water’s edge. Here the directors sit day after day, and the scores of
clerks attend to the interests of 4000 customers. But I cannot linger
here, for I have another distillery to visit. Another, the brightest of
all, far out in the beautiful country, at the town of Midleton, situate at
the north-east extremity of Cork’s magical harbour. Approaching the
distillery from the town, it has somewhat the appearance of a fortress. A
massive stone gateway bars the entrance, and heavy walls encompass it. But
when once admittance is gained the sternness of the approach vanishes.
Great buildings loom aloft, but they have all a bright look; trees are on
every side, and handsome garden plots, and clinging ivy, relieve the
monotony of the high square structures. Here, I believe, is the largest
still in the world——certainly the largest in Ireland. No work was in
progress at the time of my visit, save the work of repairs and the storage
of coal. Here, as at North Mall, water gives considerable aid in driving
the machinery, a canal having been raised after considerable engineering
difficulties and much expense. The vast works of Midleton Distillery cover
over eight acres. It was a hot July day when I paid my visit, not at all
the day to attempt remarkable pedestrian feats. Will it be forgiven me,
therefore, if I forsook Irish whisky for Irish hospitality? Under the very
shadow of the tall manufactory, yet altogether hidden from it, there is a
luring lawn, a cool shrubbery, and an elegant villa radiant with flowers.
Is it not more pleasant to lounge through conservatories than to climb
staircases, to drink iced claret cup than to sip raw spirit, or to examine
the points of a horse than to note the intricacies of machinery? Beyond
the garden and the tennis court and the conservatory is a grotto, so
cunningly placed that none but the initiated can find it; the air there is
deliciously cool, a luxuriant growth of honeysuckle and dog rose and fern
surrounds you, and at your feet is a spring of as pure water as ever
mortal tasted. With pleasant society, and chat and gossip to while away
the time, will it be deemed strange that I stayed there until it was
impossible to see more of the distillery, and that it would only be
possible to catch my last train by a hard and almost break-neck gallop?”
See GIN, SPIRITS, and USQUEBAUGH.
=WHITE AR′SENIC.= ARSENIOUS ACID.
=WHITE-BAIT.= The _Clupea Latulus_ (_Clupea alba_, Yarrell), a very small
and delicate fish, common in the brackish waters of the Thames from April
to September. When fried in oil it is esteemed a great luxury by epicures.
=WHITE COPPER.= See GERMAN SILVER and PACKFONG.
=WHITE HEL′LEBORE.= _Syn._ VERATRUM (Ph. L. & E.); VERATRI ALBI RADIX, L.
“The rhizome of _Veratrum album_, Linn., or white hellebore.” (Ph. L.) A
powerful acrid cathartic, emetic, and sternutatory. It is now seldom
exhibited internally, and its external use over a large or ulcerated
surface is not unaccompanied with danger.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 gr. of the
powder, made into a pill; in gout, mania, &c.; or 1 to 3 gr., carefully
triturated with 12 or 15 gr. of liquorice powder, as an errhine, in
amaurosis, &c.
=WHITE LEAD.= _Syn._ FINE WHITE, FLAKE W., CARBONATE OF LEAD, CERUSE,
MAGISTERY OF LEAD; CERUSSA, PLUMBI CARBONAS (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), L. Made
by suspending rolls of thin sheet lead over malt liquor, or pyroligneous
acid, in close vessels, the evaporation from the acid being kept up by the
vessels being placed in a heap of dung, or a steam bath.
_Obs._ Commercial carbonate of lead, however prepared, is not the pure
carbonate of lead, but always contains a certain proportion of hydrate. It
is generally largely adulterated with native sulphate of baryta (‘heavy
spar’), and sometimes with chalk. The former may be detected by its
insolubility in dilute nitric acid, and the latter by the nitric solution
yielding a white precipitate with dilute sulphuric acid, or a solution of
oxalic acid or oxalate of ammonia, after having been treated with
sulphuretted hydrogen, or a hydrosulphuret, to throw down the lead. “Pure
carbonate of lead does not lose weight at a temperature of 212° Fahr.; 68
gr. are entirely dissolved in 150 minims of acetic acid diluted with 1 fl.
oz. of distilled water; and the solution is not entirely precipitated by a
solution of 60 gr. of phosphate of soda.” (Ph. E.) The solution in nitric
acid should not yield a precipitate when treated with a solution of
sulphate of soda.——Used as a superior white paint, and, in medicine, as an
external astringent, refrigerant, and desiccant. The particles of
carbonate of lead prepared by precipitation, or by any of the quick
processes, are in a somewhat crystalline and semi-translucent condition,
and hence do not cover so well as that just noticed. The following are
some of the varieties of ‘white lead’ found in commerce:
1. (DUTCH WHITE LEAD.)——_a._ (Finest.) From flake white, 1 cwt.; cawk, 3
cwt.——_b._ (Ordinary.) Flake white, 1 cwt.; cawk, 7 cwt. These form the
best white lead of the shops.
2. (ENGLISH WHITE LEAD.) Flake white lowered with chalk. Covers badly, and
the colour is inferior to the preceding.
3. (FRENCH WHITE LEAD; BLANC DE PLOMB, Fr.) From litharge dissolved in
vinegar, and the lead thrown down by a current of carbonic acid gas from
coke. Does not cover so well as flake white.
4. (GRACE’S WHITE LEAD.) Made from sheet lead, with the refuse water of
the starch-maker’s, soured brewer’s grain, &c.
5. (HAMBURG WHITE, HAMBURG WHITE LEAD.) From flake white, 1 cwt.; cawk, 2
cwt. Also sold for best Dutch white lead.
6. (VENETIAN WHITE, VENETIAN WHITE LEAD; CERUSA VENETA, L.) From flake
white, or pure white lead and cawk, equal parts. (_See below._)
=White Precip′itate of Lead.= _Syn._ MINIATURE PAINTER’S WHITE, SULPHATE
OF LEAD. From an acetic or nitric solution of litharge, precipitated by
adding dilute sulphuric acid, and the white powder washed and dried. The
clear liquid decanted from the precipitate is poured on fresh litharge,
when a second solution takes place; and this may be repeated for any
number of times. Used in miniature painting, being a beautiful and durable
white.
=Whi′′ting.= The same as prepared chalk, but prepared more carelessly, in
horse-mills.
=White, Wilkinson’s.= From litharge ground with sea water until it ceases
to whiten, and then washed and dried.
=White, Zinc (Hubbuck’s).= A hydrated oxide of zinc. It possesses the
advantage of being innocuous in use, and not being blackened by
sulphuretted hydrogen, like white lead.
=WHITE PIG′MENTS.= _Syn._ PIGMENTA ALBA, L. The following list embraces
the more important white pigments of commerce:
=White, Alum.= _Syn._ BAUMÉ’S WHITE. Take of powdered Roman alum, 2 lbs.;
honey, 1 lb.; mix, dry, powder, calcine in a shallow dish to whiteness,
cool, wash, and dry. A beautiful and permanent white, both in oil and
water.
=White, Derbyshire.= From cawk or heavy spar, by grinding and elutriation.
=White, Flake.= The finer kinds of white lead are so called.
=White, Min′eral.= Precipitated carbonate of lead.
=White, Newcastle.= White lead made with molasses vinegar.
=White, Nottingham.= White lead made with alegar. Permanent white is now
commonly sold for it.
=White, Pearl.= _Syn._ FARD’S SPANISH WHITE. Trisnitrate of bismuth.
=White, Per′manent.= Artificial sulphate of baryta, prepared by
precipitating chloride of barium with dilute sulphuric acid, or a solution
of glauber salts. A good fast white, unchanged by sulphurous fumes. Used
to mark jars and bottles for containing acids or alkalies, as it is
affected by very few substances; also to adulterate white lead.
=White, Spanish.= _Syn._ BLANC D’ESPAGNE, BLANC DE TROYES, Fr. The softest
and purest white chalk, elutriated, made into balls, and well dried. Used
as a cheap white paint.
=WHITE SWEL′LING.= _Syn._ HYDRARTHRUS, L. A variety of indolent,
malignant, scrofulous tumours, attacking the knee, ankle, wrist, and
elbow, especially the first.
=WHITES (Sharp).= _Prep._ 1. From wheaten flour and powdered alum, equal
parts, ground together.
2. (STUFF; BAKER’S STUFF.) From alum, ground to the coarseness of common
salt, 1 lb.; common salt, 3 lbs.; mix together. Both the above are used by
bakers for the purpose of clandestinely introducing alum into their bread.
=WHITE′WASH.= Whiting is made into a milk with water, and a small quantity
of melted size or dissolved glue added. It is applied to walls or
ceilings with a broad, flat brush, worked in a uniform direction. Should
the surface have been previously whitewashed, it is requisite first to
remove the dirt by washing it with a brush and abundance of clean water.
“LIME-WASHING is, from the cleansing action of the quicklime, much the
more effectual mode of purification, but is less frequently had recourse
to, from the general ignorance respecting the proper mode of preparing the
lime-wash. If glue is employed, it is destroyed by the corrosive action of
the lime, and, in consequence, the latter easily rubs off the walls when
dry. This is the case also if the lime be employed, as is often absurdly
recommended, simply slaked in water, and used without any fixing material.
Lime-wash is prepared by placing some freshly-burned quicklime in a pail,
and pouring on sufficient water to cover it; ‘boiled oil’ (linseed) should
then be immediately added, in the proportion of a pint to a gallon of the
wash. For coarser work, any common refuse fat may be used instead of the
boiled oil. The whole should then be thinned with water to the required
consistency, and applied with a brush. Care should be taken not to leave
the brush in the lime-wash for any length of time, as it destroys the
bristles.” (W. B. Tegetmeier.)
=WHI′′TING.= See WHITE PIGMENTS.
=WHITING.= The _Gadus merlangus_ (Linn.), a member of the cod family of
fishes. It is a very light and nutritious fish, and well adapted to
dyspeptics and invalids; but it has too little flavour to be a favourite
with gourmands.
=WHIT′LOW.= _Syn._ WHITLOE; PARONYCHIA, L. A painful inflammation, tending
to suppuration and abscess, at the ends of the fingers, and mostly under
or about the nails. Emollient poultices are useful in this affection;
extreme tension and pain may be relieved by an incision, so as to allow
the exit of the pus or matter from under the nail. The treatment must also
be directed to establish the general health, as without this local
remedies often fail.
=WHOOP′ING-COUGH.= _Syn._ CHIN-COUGH, HOOPING-C., KIN-C.; PERTUSSIS, L. A
convulsive strangling cough, characterised by peculiar sonorous or
whooping inspirations, from which its popular name is taken. It comes on
in fits, which are usually terminated by vomiting. It is infectious,
chiefly attacks children, and, like the small-pox, only occurs once during
life.
The treatment of whooping-cough consists, chiefly, in obviating
irritation, and in exciting nausea and occasional vomiting. For the first,
aperients and sedatives (hemlock or henbane), in small doses, may be
given; for the second intention, an extremely weak sweetened solution of
tartarised antimony, or a mixture containing squills or ipecacuanha, may
be administered in small doses every hour or two, according to the effect
produced. In full habits, blisters and leeches may be resorted to; and in
all cases opiate and stimulating embrocations may be applied to the chest
and spine with advantage. Whenever the head is affected, the use of
narcotics is contra-indicated. The hot bath is often serviceable. “A
mixture of cochineal and carbonate of potassa is by some regarded as
almost a specific for this disease; but our own observations lead us to
look with more favour on anatomical nauseants and emetics.” (Cooley.)
Other medicinal agents employed in pertussis are alum, bromide of
ammonium, sulphate of zinc, belladonna, tincture of myrrh, carbolic acid,
and lobelia. See ANTIMONIALS, DRAUGHTS, MIXTURE, OXYMEL, SYRUP, WINES, &c.
=WHOR′TLEBERRY.= (Bear’s). _Syn._ UVÆ URSI FOLIA (B. P.), UVA URSI (Ph.
L., E., & D.), L. The leaf of _Arctostophylos Uva Ursi_, trailing arbutus,
or Bearberry, Astringent.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr. of the powder, thrice
daily. See DECOCTION and EXTRACT.
=WIK′ANA.= _Syn._ WACAKA DES INDS, Fr. _Prep._ (Guibourt.) Roasted
chocolate nuts (ground), 2 oz.; powdered cinnamon, 2 dr.; powdered
vanilla, 1/2 dr.; ambergris, 3 gr.; musk, 1-1/2 gr.; sugar, 6 oz.; well
mixed together. A teaspoonful is boiled with 1/2 pint of milk, or
arrow-root, as a stimulating diet for convalescents.
=WILD CHERRY.= The _Prunus Virginiana_, a beautiful tree, growing wild in
the western states of America. The inner bark (wild-cherry bark) is
officinal in the Ph. U. S., and is a valuable sedative tonic. It is
specially adapted for the alleviation of the distressing cough which is so
harassing to patients with pulmonary disease. See INFUSION.
=WILD′FIRE RASH.= _Strophulus volaticus._
=WILLOW.= _Syn._ SALIX, L. The barks of _Salix alba_ or white willow,
_Salis fragilis_ or crack willow, and _Salix Caprea_ or great round-leaved
willow (WILLOW BARKS; SALICIS CORTICIS——Ph. E.), were officinal in the Ph.
D. 1826; and, with that of _Salix Russelliana_, and other species, are
rich in salicin, and hence possess considerable febrifuge power.——_Dose_,
1/2 to 1 dr., either in powder or made into a decoction; as a substitute
for Peruvian bark, in agues, hectics, debility, dyspepsia, &c.
=WIN′DOWS.= A prismatic or crystalline appearance may be imparted to
windows by several expedients:
1. Mix a hot solution of sulphate of magnesia (Epsom salt) with a clear
solution of gum Arabic, and lay it on hot. For a margin, or for figures,
wipe off the part you wish to remain clear with a wet towel as soon as the
surface has become cold and hard. The effect is very pretty, and may be
varied by substituting oxalic acid, red or yellow prussiate of potash, or
any other salt (not efflorescent), for the sulphate of magnesia. Sulphate
of copper gives a very beautiful crystallisation of a blue colour.
2. Evenly cover the surface of the glass with a layer of thin gum water,
and sprinkle any of the saline crystals before noticed over it whilst wet.
The gum water may be tinged of any colour to vary the effect.
A blinded appearance, more or less resembling ground glass, may be given
as follows:
1. By evenly dabbing the surface with a piece of soft glazier’s putty.
2. A coating of stained rice jelly, laid on with a painter’s brush (sash
tool), and afterwards dabbed with a duster brush, applied endways.
3. Tissue paper, either white or coloured, applied by means of clear gum
water or some pale varnish. The pattern may be lined with a pencil, and,
when the whole is somewhat dry, but not hard, the lines may be cut
through, and the pattern stripped off with the flat point of a knife.
4. The surface of the glass being coated with mucilage, or any pale
varnish, as before, coarsely powdered glass or quartz, reduced to a
uniform state of grain by a sieve, may be sprinkled over it; when dry, the
loose portion should be removed with a soft brush.
=WINE.= _Syn._ VINUM, L.; VIN, Fr. The fermented juice of the grape. The
general characters and quality of wine are principally influenced by
climate, soil, and aspect, the nature and maturity of the grape, and the
method of conducting the fermentation. The sp. gr. of the ‘must’ varies
from 1·063 to 1·285, from which the proportion of saccharine matter and
the ultimate alcoholic richness of the wine resulting from its
fermentation may be inferred. That of Rhenish grapes seldom exceeds 1·095
to 1·100. Want of space compels us to confine our remarks chiefly to the
properties, uses, and management of grape juice after it has passed
through the stage of fermentation, or, in reality, become wine.
_Officinal Wine._ The only wine ordered by the British Colleges is sherry
(WHITE WINE; VINUM XERICUM——B. P., Ph. L.; VINUM ALBUM——Ph. E.; VINUM
HISPANICUM——Ph. D.); but several other wines are employed in medicine, as
tonics, stimulants, antispasmodics, and restoratives, according to the
circumstances of the case or the taste of the patient. In pharmacy, the
less expensive Cape or marsala, or even raisin wine, is usually
substituted for sherry in the preparation of the medicated wines of the
Pharmacopœias.
_Varieties, characteristics, &c._ The following Tables will convey much
useful information on this subject in a condensed form.
I. TABLE _of the Quantity of Alcohol in Wine_. By DR.
CHRISTISON
------------------------------------------+-----------+----------
| Alcohol | Proof
Name, &c. | of ·7937 | spirit
| per cent. | per cent.
| by weight | by volume
------------------------------------------+-----------+----------
{ Weakest | 14·97 | 31·31
{ Mean of 7 samples | 16·20 | 34·91
Port { Strongest | 17·10 | 37·27
{ White | 14·97 | 31·31
| |
{ Weakest | 13·98 | 30·84
{ Mean of 13 wines, excluding } | 15·37 | 33·59
{ those very long kept in cask } | |
Sherry { Strongest | 16·17 | 35·12
{ Mean of 9 wines long kept in } | 14·72 | 31·30
{ cask in the East Indies } | |
{ Madre da Xeres | 16·90 | 37·06
| |
{ Long kept in cask in } Strongest | 16·90 | 37·06
Madeira{ the East Indies } Weakest | 14·09 | 30·86
| |
Teneriffe (long in cask at Calcutta) | 13·84 | 30·21
Cercial | 15·45 | 33·65
Lisbon (dry) | 16·14 | 34·71
Shiraz | 12·95 | 28·30
Amontillado | 12·63 | 27·60
Claret (a first growth of 1811) | 7·72 | 16·95
Chateau-Latour (ditto 1825) | 7·78 | 17·06
Rosan (second growth of 1825) | 7·61 | 16·74
Ordinary Claret (Vin Ordinaire) | 8·99 | 18·96
Rivesaltes | 9·31 | 22·35
Malmsey | 12·86 | 28·17
Rüdesheimer. 1st quality | 8·40 | 18·44
Rüdesheimer. Inferior | 6·90 | 15·19
Hambacher. Superior quality | 7·35 | 16·15
------------------------------------------+-----------+----------
II. _Quantity of Alcohol_ (sp. gr. ·825[270] at 60°
Fahr.) _in 100 parts of Wine by volume_.
[Footnote 270: Alcohol of ·825 contains 92·6% of real or anhydrous
alcohol; or, in the language of the Excise, is about 62-1/2% o.p., and in
round numbers may be said to be of about twice the strength of brandy or
rum, as usually sold.]
+-----------------------+----------------------+------------------+
| Names of Wines. | Alcoholic content. | Authority. |
+-----------------------+----------------------+------------------+
| Alba Flora | 17·26 | Brande. |
| Barsac | 13·86 | do. |
| Bucellas | 18·49 | do. |
| Burgundy (average) | 14·57 | do. |
| Ditto | 12·16 | Prout. |
| Calcavella (average) | 18·69 | Brande. |
| Cape Madeira (do.) | 20·51 | do. |
| Cape Muschat | 18·25 | do. |
| Champagne (average) | 12·61 | do. |
| Ditto | 12·20 | Fontenelle. |
| Claret (average) | 15·10 | Brande. |
| Colares | 19·75 | do. |
| Constantia (White) | 19·75 | do. |
| Ditto (Red) | 18·92 | do. |
| Ditto (average) | 14·50 | Prout. |
| Côte Rôtie | 12·32 | Brande. |
| Currant | 20·55 | do. |
| Elder | 8·79 | do. |
| Frontignac (Rivesalte)| 12·79 | do. |
| Gooseberry | 11·84 | do. |
| Grape (English) | 18·11 | do. |
| Hermitage (Red) | 12·32 | do. |
| Ditto (White) | 17·43 | do. |
| Hock (average) | 12·08 | do. |
| Lachryma Christi | 19·70 | do. |
| Lisbon | 18·94 | do. |
| Lissa (average) | 25·41 | do. |
| Ditto (do.) | 15·90 | Prout. |
| Lunel | 15·52 | Brande. |
| Madeira (average) | 22·27 | do. |
| Ditto (do.) | 21·20 | Prout. |
| Malaga | 17·26 | Brande. |
| Ditto | 18·94 | do. |
| Malmsey Madeira | 16·40 | do. |
| Marsala (average) | 25·09 | do. |
| Ditto (do.) | 18·40 | Prout. |
| Nice | 14·63 | Brande. |
| Orange (average) | 11·26 | do. |
| Port (do.) | 20·64 | Prout. |
| Ditto (do.) | 22·96 | Brande. |
| Raisin (do.) | 25·41 | do. |
| Ditto (do.) | 15·90 | Prout. |
| Red Madeira (do.) | 20·35 | Brande. |
| Roussillon (do.) | 18·13 | do. |
| Sauterne | 14·22 | do. |
| Shiraz | 15·52 | do. |
| Sherry (average) | 19·17 | do. |
| Ditto (do.) | 23·80 | Prout. |
| Syracuse | 20·00 | do. |
| Ditto | 15·28 | Brande. |
| Teneriffe | 19·79 | do. |
| Tent | 13·30 | do. |
| Tokay | 9·88 | do. |
| Vidonia | 19·25 | do. |
| Vin de Grave | 13·94 | do. |
| Zante | 17·05 | do. |
+-----------------------+----------------------+------------------+
_Composition._ The constituents of wine are——alcohol, which is one of its
principal ingredients, and on which its power of producing intoxication
depends; sugar, which has escaped the process of fermentation, and which
is most abundant in the sweet wines, as tokay, tent, frontignac, &c.;
extractive, derived chiefly from the husk of the grape, and is extracted
from it by the newly formed alcohol; tartar, or bitartrate of potassa,
which constitutes the most important portion of the saline matter of wine;
odoriferous matter, imparting the characteristic vinous odour, depending
chiefly upon the presence of œnanthic acid and ether; bouquet, arising
from essential oil or amyl-compounds, probably existing under the form of
ethers. Besides these, small quantities of tannin, gum, acetic and malic
acid, acetic ether, lime, &c., are found in wine. The specific gravity of
wine depends on the richness and ripeness of the grapes used in its
manufacture, the nature of the fermentation and its age. It varies from
about ·970 to 1·041.
_Purity._ The most frequent species of fraud in the wine trade is the
mixing of wines of inferior quality with those of a superior grade. In
many cases the inferior kinds of foreign wines are flavoured and
substituted for the more expensive ones. This is commonly practised with
Cape wines, which, after having a slight ‘nuttiness’ communicated to it by
bitter almonds or peach kernels, a lusciousness or fulness by honey, and
additional strength by a little plain spirit or pale brandy, is made to
undergo the operation of ‘fretting in,’ and is then sold for ‘sherry.’
Formerly, it was a common practice of ignorant wine-dealers to add a
little litharge or acetate of lead to their inferior wines to correct
their acidity, but it is believed that this highly poisonous substance is
now never employed in this country, ‘salt of tartar’ being made to perform
the same duty. The lead which is frequently detected in bottled wine, and
which often causes serious indisposition, may be generally traced to shot
being carelessly left in the bottles, and not to wilful fraud. Sherry is
commonly coloured in Spain by the addition of must boiled down to 1/5 of
its original volume; and in England, by burnt brown sugar, or spirit
colouring. Amontillado (a very nutty wine) is frequently added to sherries
deficient in flavour. Various other ingredients, as the essential oil of
almonds, bitter almonds in substance, cherry-laurel leaves, cherry-laurel
water, &c., are also employed for a like purpose. In Portugal the juice of
elderberries is very commonly added to port wine to increase its colour,
and extract of rhatany for the double purpose of improving its colour and
imparting an astringent taste. In England beet-root, Brazil wood, the
juices of elderberries and bilberries, the pressed cake of elder wine,
extract of logwood, &c., are frequently added to port to deepen its
colour; and oak sawdust, kino, alum, and extract of rhatany, to increase
its astringency. But the most common adulterant of port wine, both in
Portugal and this country, is ‘jerupiga,’ or ‘geropiga,’ a compound of
elder juice, brown sugar, grape juice, and crude Portuguese brandy. That
imported here contains about 45% of proof spirit, and is allowed by the
Custom-house authorities to be mixed with port wine in bond. A factitious
bouquet is also commonly given to wine by the addition of sweetbriar,
orris root, clary, orange flowers, elder flowers, esprit de petit grain,
&c.
_Tests._ These, for the most part, are applicable to all fermented
liquors:
1. Richness in alcohol. This may be found by any of the methods noticed
under ALCOHOLMETEY, PORTER, and TINCTURE.
2. SACCHARINE and EXTRACTIVE MATTER. The sp. gr. corresponding to the
alcoholic strength, last found, is deducted from the real sp. gr. of the
sample, the difference divided by ·0025, or multiplied by 400, gives the
weight of solid matter (chiefly sugar) in oz. per gallon (nearly).
3. NARCOTICS. These may be detected in the manner noticed at page 1630.
4. LEAD. The presence of lead or litharge in wine may be readily detected
by sulphuretted hydrogen, or a solution of any alkaline sulphydrate, which
will, in that case, produce a black precipitate. See WINE-TESTS.
5. POTASSA or SODA improperly present. A portion of the wine is evaporated
nearly to dryness, and then agitated with rectified spirit; the filtered
tincture, holding in solution acetate of potassa, is then divided into two
portions, one of which is tested for acetic acid, and the other for the
alkali.
6. ALUM. A portion of the wine is evaporated to dryness, and ignited; the
residuum is then treated with a small quantity of hydrochloric acid, the
mixture evaporated to dryness, again treated with dilute hydrochloric
acid, and tested with liquor of potassa. If a white bulky precipitate
forms, which is soluble in an excess of caustic potassa, and which is
reprecipitated by a solution of sal ammoniac, the sample examined
contained alum.
7. OIL OF VITRIOL.——_a._ A drop or two of the suspected wine may be poured
upon a piece of paper, which must then be dried before the fire. Pure wine
at most only stains the paper, but one containing sulphuric acid causes it
to become charred and rotten. The effect is more marked on paper which has
been previously smeared with starch paste.
_b._ According to M. Lassaigne, pure red wine leaves, by spontaneous
evaporation, a violet or purple stain on paper; whilst that to which
sulphuric acid has been added, even in quantity, only equal to 1/2000 to
1/3000th part, leaves a pink stain in drying.
8. SPURIOUS COLOURING-MATTER.——_a._ Genuine red wine yields greenish-grey
precipitates with sugar of lead, and greenish ones with potassa; but
those coloured with elderberries, bilberries, litmus, logwood, and
mulberries, give deep blue or violet precipitates, and those coloured with
Brazil wood, red sanders wood, or red beet, give red ones.
_b._ Pure red wine is perfectly decoloured by agitation with recent
hydrate of lime.
_c._ Dissolve a piece of caustic potash in a small quantity of the liquid
to be experimented upon. If no deposit is formed, and the wine assumes a
greenish shade, there is no artificial coloration. A violet-coloured
deposit indicates the presence of elderberries or mulberries, a red one
indicates the presence of beetroot for Brazil wood, red violet that of
logwood. If the deposit is blue violet, privet berries have been employed;
and if of a pale violet the coloration is due to litmus.
_d._ For the detection of the principal colouring matters employed in the
sophistication of wines, M. Chancel proceeds as follows:——He takes 10 c.
c. of wine, and adds 3 c.c. of a dilute solution of subacetate of lead,
allowing the mixture to subside for a few minutes to make sure that the
precipitation is complete. If this is not the case a slight excess of the
reagent is added.
After stirring and heating for a few moments it is thrown on a very small
filter, the filtrate collected in a test-tube, and the precipitate washed
three or four times in hot water. If the filtrate is coloured magenta is
present, and may be sought for by the aid of the spectroscope. But if the
wine contains a mere trace of this colour, it is retained in the
precipitate, and is sought for in the manner directed below. To discover
the colouring matter which may be contained in the plumbic precipitate, it
is treated upon the filter with a few c.c. of a solution of carbonate of
potassa (2 parts of the dry salt to 100 of water), taking care to repass
_the same solution_ several times through the precipitate. Any magenta
present is thus extracted, along with carminamic (ammoniacal cochineal)
and sulphindigotic acid. The colouring matters of logwood and of alkanet
remain undissolved.
With a genuine wine the alkaline liquid takes a very faint yellow, or
greenish-yellow tint. For the detection of magenta the filtrate is mixed
with a few drops of acetic acid, and it is then shaken up with amylic
alcohol. The magenta dissolves in this alcohol with a fine rose tint, and
its presence is proved by spectroscopic examination. Carminamic and
sulphindigotic acids remain in the aqueous solution, and are decanted off.
A couple of drops of sulphuric acid are added, and the mixture is again
shaken up with amylic alcohol, which now dissolves the ammoniacal
cochineal. It may be detected by the spectroscope. The sulphindigotic acid
remains undissolved in the amylic alcohol, and may be found in the blue
aqueous residual liquor by means of the spectroscope. Logwood is most
conveniently sought for in a fresh portion of the wine by digestion with a
little precipitated carbonate of lime, adding a few drops of lime-water,
and filtering. In a natural wine the filtrate has a faint greenish-yellow
colour, but if logwood is present it takes a fine red shade, and the
absorption bands of logwood may be detected with the spectroscope. On
treating the lead precipitate above mentioned with an alkaline sulphide,
washing with boiling water, and then treating with alcohol, the colouring
matter of alkanet, if present, is dissolved, and may be detected by
spectroscopic examination.[271]
[Footnote 271: ‘Comptes Rendus’, February 19th, 1877 (‘Chem. News’, xxxv,
106).]
_e._ (Dr Dupré.) The colouring matter of pure red wine does not pass
through the dialyser. The dialysate from pure wine is therefore
colourless, or shows but a slight purplish coloration, such as water would
assume on the addition of a small quantity of the wine. A yellow or
brownish-yellow dialysate indicates an adulteration with logwood, Brazil
wood, or cochineal, the colouring matters of which may be identified by
the chemical and optical tests employed for this purpose. The ammoniacal
solution of the colouring matter of cochineal yields three well-marked
absorption bands.
_f._ For the detection in wine of fuchsine only, the following methods are
given by M. E. Jacquemin: 1. A small quantity of gun cotton is heated for
a few minutes in 10-20 c.c. of the wine, and then washed with the water.
The nature of the coloration (if any) imparted to the cotton is now
identified by means of solution of ammonia, which decolorises rosaniline,
but turns archil violet.
2. 100 c.c. of the wine are boiled to expel the alcohol, and then boiled
for some time with white Berlin wool, previously moistened with water. The
colour imparted to the wool by fuchsine is retained after washing, and may
be distinguished from archil by ammonia.
3. 100-200 c.c. of the wine are boiled to expel the alcohol, then allowed
to cool, mixed with ammonia in excess, and shaken with ether. By immersing
white wool in the ethereal solution, and evaporating the latter, the wool
acquires the characteristic colour of fuchsine.
9. ARTIFICIAL FLAVOURING. This can only be detected by a discriminating
and sensitive palate,
10. ARTIFICIAL BOUQUET. The substances added for this purpose may often be
readily detected by a comparison of the sample with another of known
purity.
_Uses._ The uses of wine as a beverage are too well known to require
description. As a medicine, port wine is most esteemed as an astringent
and tonic; and sherry and Madeira as stimulants and restoratives, in
diseases where the acidity of the former would be objectionable;
champagne is reputed diuretic and excitant, but its effects are not of
long duration; and the Rhenish wines are regarded as refrigerant,
diuretic, and slightly aperient. Claret, Rhenish, and Moselle wines are
said to be the most wholesome. In _pharmacy_, wine is used as a menstruum.
MANAGEMENT OF WINE.
_Age._ The sparkling wines are in their prime in from 18 to 30 months
after the vintage, depending on the cellaring and climate. Weak wines, of
inferior growths, should be drunk within 12 or 15 months, and be preserved
in a very cool cellar. Sound, well-fermented, full-bodied still wines are
improved by age, within reasonable limits, provided they be well preserved
from the air, and stored in a cool place, having a pretty uniform
temperature. See _Maturation_ (_below_).
_Bottling._ The secret of bottling wine with success consists in the
simple exercise of care and cleanliness. The bottles should be all sound,
clean, and dry, and perfectly free from the least mustiness or other
odour. The corks should be of the best quality, and immediately before
being placed in the bottles should be compressed by means of a
‘cork-squeezer.’ For superior or very delicate wines, the corks are
usually prepared by placing them in a copper or tub, covering them with
weights to keep them down, and then pouring over them boiling water
holding a little pearlash in solution. In this state they are allowed to
remain for 24 hours, when they are well stirred about in the liquor,
drained, and re-immersed for a second 24 hours in hot water, after which
they are well washed and soaked in several successive portions of clean
and warm rainwater, drained, dried out of contact with dust, put into
paper bags, and hung up in a dry place for use. The wine should be clear
and brilliant, and if it be not so, it must undergo the process of
‘fining’ before being bottled. In fact, it is a common practice with some
persons to perform this operation whether the wine require it or not; as,
if it had been mixed and doctored, it “amalgamates and ameliorates the
various flavours.” The bottles, corks, and wine, being ready, a fine clear
day should be preferably chosen for the bottling, and the utmost
cleanliness and care should be exercised during the process. Great caution
should also be observed to avoid shaking the cask so as to disturb the
‘bottoms.’ The remaining portion that cannot be drawn off clear should be
passed through the ‘wine-bag,’ and, when bottled, should be set apart as
inferior to the rest. The coopers, to prevent breakage and loss, place
each bottle, before corking it, in a small bucket, having a bottom made of
soft cork, and which is strapped on the knee of the bottler. They thus
seldom break a bottle, though they ‘flog in’ the corks very hard. When the
process is complete the bottles of wine are stored in a cool cellar, and
on no account upright, or in damp straw, but on their sides, in sweet,
dry sawdust, or sand.
_Bouquet._ See _Flavouring_ and _Perfuming_.
_Brandying._ Brandy is frequently added to weak or vapid wines, to
increase their strength or to promote their preservation. In Portugal, one
third of brandy is commonly added to port before shipping it for England,
as without this addition it generally passes into the acetous fermentation
during the voyage. A little good brandy is also usually added to sherry
before it leaves Spain. By the regulation of the Customs of England, 10%
of brandy may be added to wines in bond, and the increased quantity is
only charged the usual duty on wine. The addition of brandy to wine
injures its proper flavour, and hence it is chiefly made to port, sherry,
and other wines, whose flavour is so strong as not to be easily injured.
Even when brandy is added to wines of the latter description, they require
to be kept for some time to recover their natural flavour. To promote this
object, the wine-doctors employ the process called ‘fretting in,’ by which
they effect the same change in 3 or 4 weeks, as would otherwise require
some months, at the very least.
_Cellaring._ A wine-cellar should be dry at bottom, and either covered
with good hard gravel or be paved with flags. Its gratings or windows
should open towards the north, and it should be sunk sufficiently below
the surface to ensure an equable temperature. It should also be
sufficiently removed from any public thoroughfare, so as not to suffer
vibration from the passing of carriages. Should it not be in a position to
maintain a regular temperature, arrangements should be made to apply
artificial heat in winter, and proper ventilation in summer.
_Colouring._ Wines are as commonly doctored in their colour as their
flavour. A fawn-yellow and golden-sherry yellow are given by means of
tincture or infusion of saffron, turmeric, or safflower, followed by a
little spirit colouring, to prevent the colour being too lively. All
shades of amber and fawn, to deep brown and brandy colour, are given by
burnt sugar. Cochineal (either alone or with a little alum) gives a pink
colour; beet-root and red sanders give a red colour; the extracts of
rhatany and logwood, and the juice of elderberries, bilberries, &c., give
a port-wine colour.
_Crusting._ To make port wine form a crust on the inside of the bottles, a
spoonful of powdered catechu, or 1/2 a spoonful of finely powdered cream
of tartar, is added to each bottle before corking it, after which the
whole is well agitated. It is also a common practice to put the crust on
the bottle before putting the wine into it, by employing a hot saturated
solution of red tartar, thickened with gum and some powdered tartar.
_Deacetification._ This is effected by the cautious addition of either
salt of tartar or carbonate of soda. Wine so treated soon gets insipid by
exposure and age; and, without care, the colour of red wines is thus
frequently spoiled.
_Deacidification._ See _Detartarization_ (_below_).
_Decanting._ This only refers to small quantities of wine, ready for
consumption. In decanting wine, care must be taken not to shake or disturb
the crust when moving it about or drawing the cork, particularly of port
wine. Never decant wine without a wine-strainer, with some clean fine
cambric in it, to prevent the crust and bits of cork going into the
decanter. In decanting port wine, do not drain it too close; as there are
generally two thirds of a wine-glassful of thick dregs in each bottle,
which ought to be rejected. In white wine there is not much settling; but
it should nevertheless be poured off very slowly, the bottle being raised
gradually.
_Decolouring._ The colour of wine is precipitated by age and by exposure
to the light. It is also artificially removed by the action of skimmed
milk, lime water, milk of lime, and fresh burnt charcoal. Wine merchants
avail themselves of this property for the purpose of whitening wines that
have acquired a brown colour from the cask, or which are esteemed pale;
and also for turning ‘pricked’ red or dark-coloured wines into white
wines, in which a small degree of acidity is not so much perceived. In
this way brown sherry is commonly converted into pale or gold-coloured
sherry. For the latter purpose, 2 to 3 pints of skimmed milk are usually
sufficient; but to decolour red wine 2 to 3 quarts or more will be
required, according to the nature and intensity of the colour, or the
shades of paleness desired. Charcoal is seldom used, as it removes the
flavour as well as colour, but a little milk of lime may sometimes be
advantageously substituted for milk, when the wine has much acidity, more
particularly for red wines, which may even be rendered quite colourless by
it.
_Detartarization._ Rhenish wines, even of the most propitious growths, and
in the best condition, besides their tartar, contain a certain quantity of
free tartaric acid, on the presence of which many of their leading
properties depend. The excess of tartar is gradually deposited during the
first years of the vatting, the sides of the vessels becoming more and
more encrusted with it; but, owing to the continual addition of new wine
and other causes, the liquid often gains such an excess of free tartaric
acid as to acquire the faculty of redissolving the deposited tartar, which
thus again disappears after a certain period. The taste and flavour of the
wine are thus exalted, but the excess of acid makes the wine less
agreeable in use, and probably less wholesome. Amateurs and manufacturers
should therefore welcome a means of taking away the free tartaric acid
without altering, in any respect, the quality of the wine. This is pure
neutral tartrate of potash. When this salt, in concentrated solution, is
added to such a fluid as the above, the free acid combines with the
neutral salt, and separates from the liquid under the form of the
sparingly soluble bitartrate of potash. “If to 100 parts of a wine which
contains one part of free tartaric acid we add 1-1/2 part of neutral
tartrate of potash, there will separate on repose at 70° to 75° Fahr., 2
parts of crystallised tartar; and the wine will then contain only 1/2 part
of tartar dissolved, in which there are only ·2 part of the original free
acid; ·8 part of the original free acid having been withdrawn from the
wine.” (Liebig’s ‘Annalen.’) This method is particularly applicable to
recent must and to wines which do not contain much free acetic acid; but
when this last is the case, so much acetate of potash is formed as
occasionally to vitiate the taste of the liquor.
_Fining._ Wine is clarified in a similar manner to beer. White wines are
usually fined by isinglass, in the proportion of about 1-1/2 oz.
(dissolved in 1-1/2 pint of water, and thinned with some of the wine) to
the hogshead. Red wines are generally fined with the whites of eggs, in
the proportion of 15 to 20 to the pipe. Sometimes hartshorn shavings, or
pale sweet glue, is substituted for isinglass.
_Flatness._ This is removed by the addition of a little new brisk wine of
the same kind; or by rousing in 2 or 3 lbs. of honey; or by adding 5 or 6
lbs. of bruised sultana raisins, and 3 or 4 quarts of good brandy, per
hogshead. By this treatment the wine will usually be recovered in about a
fortnight, except in very cold weather. Should it be wanted sooner, a
table-spoonful or two of yeast may be added, and the cask removed to a
warmer situation.
_Flavouring._ Various ingredients are added to inferior wines, to give
them the flavour of others more expensive, and to British wines, to make
them resemble those imported. Substances are also added in a similar
manner to communicate the aroma of the high-flavoured grape wines. Among
the first are bitter almonds, almond cake, or the essential oil of
almonds, or, preferably, its alcoholic solution, which are used to impart
a ‘sherry’ or ‘nutty’ taste to weak-flavoured wines, as poor sherry, white
cape, and malt, raisin, parsnip, and other similar British wines; rhatany,
kino, oak sawdust and bark, alum, &c., to convey astringency,
and——tincture of the seeds of raisins, to impart a ‘port wine’ flavour.
Among the substances employed to communicate the bouquet of the finer
wines, may be mentioned——orris root, eau de fleurs d’oranges, neroli,
essence de petit grain, ambergris, vanilla, violet petals, essence of
cedrat, sweet briar, clary, and elder flowers, quinces, cherry-laurel
water, &c. By the skilful, though fraudulent use of the above flavouring
substances and perfumes, the experienced wine-brewer manages to produce,
in the dark cellars of London, from white cape, currant, gooseberry,
raisin, rhubarb, parsnip, and malt wine, very excellent imitations of
foreign wine, and which pass current among the majority of English
wine-drinkers as the choicest productions of the grape, “genuine as
imported.”——A grain or two of ambergris, well rubbed down with sugar and
added to a hogshead of claret, gives it a flavour and bouquet much
esteemed by some connoisseurs.
_Fretting-in._ See _Sweating-in_ (_below_).
_Improving._ This is the cant term of the wine trade, under which all the
adulteration and ‘doctoring’ of wine is carried on. A poor sherry is
improved by the addition of a little almond flavour, honey, and spirit; a
port deficient in body and astringency, by the addition of some red tartar
(dissolved in boiling water), some rhatany, kino, or catechu, and a little
honey or foots, and brandy. See _Mixing_ (_below_).
_Insensible Fermentation._ See _Maturation_ (_below_).
_Insipidity._ See _Flatness_ (_above_).
_Maturation._ The natural maturation or ‘ripening’ of wine and beer by age
depends upon the slow conversion of the sugar which escaped decomposition
in the ‘gyle tun,’ or fermenting vessel, into alcohol. This conversion
proceeds most perfectly in vessels which entirely exclude the air, as in
the case of wine in bottles; as when air is present, and the temperature
sufficiently high, it is accompanied by slow acetification. This is the
case of wine in casks, the porosity of the wood allowing the very gradual
permeation of the air. Hence the superiority of bottled wine over draught
wine, or that which has matured in wood. Good wine, or well-fermented
beer, is vastly improved by age when properly preserved; but inferior
liquor, or even superior liquor, when preserved in improper vessels or
situations, becomes acidulous, from the conversion of its alcohol into
vinegar. Tartness or acidity is consequently very generally, though
wrongly, regarded by the ignorant as a sign of age in liquor. The peculiar
change by which fermented liquors become mature or ripe by age is termed
the ‘insensible fermentation.’ It is the alcoholic fermentation impeded by
the presence of the already formed spirit in the liquor, and by the
lowness of the temperature. See _Ripening_ (_below_).
_Mixing._ Few wines are sold without admixture. It is found that the
intoxicating properties of wine are increased by mixing them with other
wines of a different age and growth. In many cases the flavour is at the
same time improved. Thus, a thin port is improved by the addition of a
similar wine having a full body, or by a little Malaga, Teneriffe, or rich
sherry; and an inferior old sherry may be improved by admixture with a
little full-bodied wine of the last vintage. In this consists the great
art of ‘cellar management,’ and to such an extent is this carried, both
abroad and in England, that it may be confidently asserted that few wines
ever reach the consumer in an unmixed or natural state.
_Mustiness._ This may generally be removed by violently agitating the wine
for some time with a little of the sweetest olive oil or almond oil. The
cause of the bad taste is the presence of an essential oil, which the
fixed oil seizes on, and rises with to the surface, when it may be skimmed
off; or the liquor under it may be drawn off. A little coarsely powdered
fresh-burnt charcoal, or even some slices of bread toasted black, will
frequently have a like effect. A little bruised mustard seed is also
occasionally used for the same purpose.
_Perfuming._ This is chiefly performed on British wines for family use.
For its application to foreign wine, see Flavouring (_above_). Wines may
be perfumed by the simple addition of any odorous substances previously
well mixed with a little of the wine, or dissolved in a few fluid ounces
of rectified spirit.
_Racking._ This should be performed in cool weather, and preferably early
in the spring. A clean syphon, well managed, answers better for this
purpose than a cock or faucet. The bottoms, or foul portion, may be
strained through a wine-bag, and added to some other inferior wine.
_Ripening._ To promote the maturation or ripening of wine, various plans
are adopted by the growers and dealers. One of the safest ways of
hastening this, especially for strong wines, is not to rack them until
they have stood 15 or 18 months upon the lees; or, whether ‘crude’ or
‘racked,’ keeping them at a temperature ranging between 50° and 60° Fahr.,
in a cellar free from draughts and not too dry. Another method is to
remove the corks or bungs, and to substitute bladder tied or fastened
air-tight over the openings. Bottled wine, treated in this way, ripens
very quickly in a temperate situation. Some dealers add a little dilute
sulphuric acid to the coarser wines for the same purpose; but a small
quantity of concentrated acetic acid or tartaric acid would be preferable,
since these acids are found in all wines. 4 or 5 drops of the former,
added to a bottle of some kinds of new wine, immediately give it the
appearance of being 2 or 3 years old.
_Ropiness, viscidity; Graisse._ This arises from the wine containing too
little tannin or astringent matter to precipitate the gluten, albumen, or
other azotised substance, occasioning the malady. Such wine cannot be
clarified in the ordinary way, because it is incapable of causing the
coagulation or precipitation of the finings. The remedy is to supply the
principle in which it is deficient. M. François, of Nantes, prescribes the
bruised berries of the mountain ash (1 lb. to the barrel)__ for this
purpose. A little catechu, kino, or, better still, rhatany, or the bruised
footstalks of the grape, may also be conveniently and advantageously used
in the same way. For pale white wines, which are the ones chiefly attacked
by the malady, nothing equals a little pure tannin or tannic acid
dissolved in proof spirit. See VISCOUS FERMENTATION, MALT LIQUORS, &c.
_Roughening._ See Flavouring (_above_).
_Second fermentation; La-pousse._ Inordinate fermentation, either primary
or secondary, in wine or any other fermented liquor, may be readily
checked by sulphuration, or by the addition of mustard seed or sulphite of
lime. 1 oz. of brimstone, 3/4 to 1 lb. of bruised mustard seed, and about
4 to 8 oz. of sulphite of lime, are fully sufficient for a hogshead. This
substance seldom fails of arresting the fermentation.——In addition to the
above remedies, a little sulphuric acid is sometimes employed, and the use
of black oxide of manganese, or chlorate of potash, has been proposed on
theoretical grounds.
_Souring._ This is either occasioned by the wine having been imperfectly
fermented, or from its having been kept in too warm a cellar, where it has
been exposed to draughts of air or to continual vibrations, occasioned by
the passage of loaded vehicles through the adjoining thoroughfare. The
remedy commonly recommended in books for this purpose is to saturate the
acid with chalk, milk of lime, or calcined oyster shells; but such
additions, made in sufficient quantity to effect this object, destroy the
character of the wine, and render it sickly and vapid. The best and only
safe remedy is a little neutral tartrate of potash, cautiously added; or
it may be mixed with a considerable portion of full-bodied new wine of its
class, adding at the same time a little brandy, and in two or three weeks
fining it down, when it should be either at once put into bottles, or
consumed as soon as possible. See Deacetification and Detartarisation.
(_above_).
_Sparkling, creaming, and briskness._ These properties are conveyed to
wine by racking it into closed vessels before the fermentation is
complete, and while there still remains a considerable portion of
undecomposed sugar. Wine of this description, which has lost its
briskness, may be restored by adding to each bottle a few grains of white
lump sugar or sugar candy. This is the way in which champagne is treated
in France. The bottles are afterwards inverted, by which means any
sediment that forms falls into the necks, when the corks are partially
withdrawn, and the sediment is immediately expelled by the elastic force
of the compressed carbonic acid. If the wine remains muddy, a little
solution of sugar and finings are added, and the bottles are again placed
in a vertical position, and, after two or three months, the sediment is
discharged, as before.
_Sweating-in._ The technical terms ‘sweating-in’ and ‘fretting in’ are
applied to the partial production of a second fermentation, for the
purpose of mellowing down the flavour of foreign ingredients (chiefly
brandy), added to wine. For this purpose 4 or 5 lbs. of sugar or honey,
with a little crude tartar (dissolved), are commonly added per hogshead;
and when the wine is wanted in haste, a spoonful or two of yeast, or a few
bruised vine leaves, are also mixed in, the cask being placed in a
moderately warm situation until the new fermentation is established, when
it is removed to the wine cellar, and, after a few days, ‘fined down.’
_Taste of Cask._ The remedies for this malady are the same as those for
mustiness.
⁂ For further information connected with the nature and management of
wines, and other fermented liquors, see BREWING, FERMENTATION, MALT
LIQUORS, PORTER, SUGAR, SYRUP, VINOUS FERMENTATION, VISCOUS F., WORT,
YEAST, &c., and _below_.
=Wine, British.= The various processes in British wine-making depend upon
the same principles, and resemble those employed for foreign wine.
The FRUIT should be preferably gathered in fine weather, and not until
mature, as evinced by its flavour; for if it be employed whilst unripe,
the resulting wine will be harsh, disagreeable, and unwholesome, and a
larger quantity of sugar and spirit will be required to render it
palatable. The common practice of employing unripe gooseberries for the
manufacture of British champagne arises from a total ignorance of the
scientific principles of wine-making. On the other hand, if ordinary
British fruit be employed in too ripe a state, the wine is apt to be
inferior, and deficient in the flavour of the fruit.
The FRUIT, being gathered, at once undergoes the operation of picking or
garbling, for the purpose of removing the stalks and unripe or damaged
portions. It is next placed in a tub, and is well bruised, to facilitate
the solvent action of the water. Raisins are commonly permitted to soak
about 24 hours previously to bruising them, but they may be advantageously
bruised or minced in the dry state. The bruised fruit is then put into a
vat or vessel with a guard placed over the tap-hole, to keep back the
husks and seeds of the fruit when the must, juice, or extract is drawn
off. The water is now added, and the whole is allowed to macerate for 30
to 40 hours, more or less, during which time the magma is frequently
roused up with a suitable wooden stirrer. The liquid portion is next drawn
off, and the residuary pulp is placed in hair bags, and undergoes the
operation of pressing, to expel the fluid which it contains. The sugar,
tartar (in very fine powder or in solution), &c., are now added to the
mixed liquors, and the whole is well stirred or ‘rummaged’ up for some
time. The temperature being suitable, the vinous fermentation soon
commences, when the liquor is frequently skimmed (if necessary), and well
‘roused’ up, and, after 3 or 4 days of this treatment, it is run into
casks, which should be quite filled, and left purging at the bung-hole. In
about a week the flavouring ingredients, in the state of coarse powder,
are commonly added, and well stirred in; and in about another week,
depending upon the state of the fermentation, and the attenuation of the
must, the brandy or spirit is added, and the cask is filled up, and bunged
down close. In four or five weeks more the cask is again filled up, and,
after some weeks, (the longer the better), it is ‘pegged’ or ‘spiled,’ to
ascertain if it be fine or transparent; if so, it undergoes the operation
of racking; but if, on the contrary, it still continues muddy, it must be
either again bunged up, and allowed to repose for a few weeks longer, or
it must pass through the process of fining. Its future treatment is
similar to that already noticed under FOREIGN WINE. (See _above_.)
The must of many of the strong-flavoured fruits, as black currants,
mulberries, &c., is improved by being boiled before being made into wine.
The flavour and bouquet of the more delicate fruits are either greatly
diminished or utterly dissipated by boiling.
_General Formulæ_ for the _Preparation_ of BRITISH WINES:
1. From ripe saccharine fruits. Take of the ripe fruit, 4 to 6 lbs.; clear
soft water, 1 gall.; sugar, 3 to 5 lbs.; cream of tartar (dissolved in
boiling water), 1-1/4 oz.; brandy, 2 to 3% flavouring, as required. If the
full proportions of fruit and sugar are used, the product will be good
without the brandy, but better with it. 1-1/2 lb. of raisins may be
substituted for each pound of sugar.
In the above way are made the following wines:——Gooseberry wine (‘British
champagne’);——currant wine (red, white, or black);——mixed fruit wine
(currants and gooseberries, or black, red, and white currants, ripe
black-heart cherries, and raspberries, equal part), a good family
wine;——cherry wine;——colepress’s wine (from apples and mulberries, equal
part); elder wine;——strawberry wine;——raspberry wine;——mulberry wine (when
flavoured, makes ‘British port’);——whortleberry wine (bilberry wine),
makes a good factitious ‘port’;——blackberry wine;——damson wine (makes good
factitious ‘port’);——morella wine;——apricot wine;——apple wine;——grape
wine, &c.
2. From dry saccharine fruit (as raisins). Take of the dried fruit, 4-1/2
to 7-1/2 lbs.; clear soft water, 1 gall.; cream of tartar (dissolved), 1
oz.; brandy, 1-1/2 to 4%. Should the dried fruit employed be at all
deficient in saccharine matter, 2 to 3 lbs. of it may be omitted, and half
that quantity of sugar, or two thirds of raisins added. In the above way
are made——date wine,——fig wine,——raisin wine, &c.
3. From ACIDULOUS, ASTRINGENT, or SCARCELY RIPE FRUITS, or those which
are deficient in saccharine matter. Take of the picked fruit, 2-1/2 to
3-1/2 lbs.; sugar, 3-1/2 to 5-1/2 lbs.; cream of tartar (dissolved), 1/2
oz.; water, 1 gall.; brandy, 2 to 6%.
In the above way are made——gooseberry wine (‘British champagne’);——bullace
wine (which makes an excellent ‘factitious port’);——damson wine, &c.
4. From FOOTSTALKS, LEAVES, CUTTINGS, &c. By infusing them in water, in
the proportion of 3 to 6 lbs. to the gall., or q. s. to give a proper
flavour, or to form a good saccharine liquor; and adding 2-1/2 to 4 lbs.
of sugar to each gall. of the strained liquor, 1-1/2 lb. of raisins may be
substituted for each lb. of sugar.
In the above way are made——grape wine (from the pressed cake of
grapes);——English grape wine;——rhubarb wine (‘Bath champagne,’ ‘patent
c,’), from garden rhubarb;——celery wine, &c.
5. From SACCHARINE ROOTS and STEMS OF PLANTS. Take of the bruised, rasped,
or sliced vegetable, 4 to 6 lbs.; boiling water, 1 gall.; infuse until
cold, press out the liquor, and to each gall. add of sugar 3 to 4 lbs.;
cream of tartar, 1 oz.; brandy, 2 to 5%. For some roots and stems the
water must not be very hot, as they are thus rendered troublesome to
press.
In the above way are made——beet-root wine (‘British Roussillon’);——parsnip
wine (‘British malmsey’);——turnip w., &c.
6. From FLOWERS, SPICES, AROMATICS, &c. These are prepared by simply
infusing a sufficient quantity of the bruised ingredient for a few days in
any simple wine (as that from sugar, honey, raisins, &c.) after the active
fermentation is complete, or, at all events, a few weeks before racking
them.
In the above way are made——clary wine (‘muscadel’), from flowers, 1
quart to the gall.;——cowslip wine (flowers, 2 quarts to the
gall.);——elder-flower wine (‘Frontignac’), flowers of white-berried elder,
3/4 pint, and lemon juice, 3 fl. oz., to the gall.;——ginger wine (1-1/4
oz. of ginger to the gall.);——orange wine (1 dozen sliced oranges per
gall.);——lemon wine (juice of 12 and rinds of 6 lemons to the
gall.);——spruce wine (1/4 oz. of essence of spruce per gall.);——juniper
wine (berries, 3/4 pint per gall.);——peach wine (4 or 5 sliced, and the
stones broken, to the gall.);——apricot wine (as peach wine, or with more
fruit);——quince wine (12 to the gall.); rose clove gillyflower, carnation,
lavender, violet, primrose, and other flower wines (distilled water, 1-1/2
pint, or flowers, 1 pint to the gall.);——balm wine (balm tops, 4 oz. per
gall.) &c.
7. From SACCHARINE JUICES, or INFUSIONS, or from fermented liquors. Take
of the juice or liquor, 1 gall.; honey or sugar, 2 to 3 lbs. (or raisins,
3 to 5 lbs.); cream of tartar, 1-1/4 oz.; brandy, 2 to 4%.
In this way are made——English grape wine;——mixed fruit wine——pine-apple
wine;——cider wine;——elder wine;——birch wine (from the sap, at the end of
February or beginning of March); sycamore wine (from the sap);——malt wine
(‘English Madeira’), from strong wort;——and the wines of any of the
saccharine juices of ripe fruit.
8. From SIMPLE SACCHARINE MATTER. Take of sugar, 3 to 4, lbs.; cream of
tartar, 1/2 oz.; water, 1 gall.; honey, 1 lb.; brandy, 2 to 4%. A handful
of grape leaves or cuttings, bruised, or a pint of good malt wort, or mild
ale, may be substituted for the honey. Chiefly used as the basis for other
wines, as it has little flavour of its own; but makes a good ‘British
champagne.’
_Obs._ In all the preceding formulæ lump sugar is intended when the wines
are required very pale, and good Muscovado sugar when this is not the
case. Some of the preceding wines are vastly improved by substituting good
cider, perry, or pale ale or malt wort, for the whole or a portion of the
water. Good porter may also be advantageously used in this way for some of
the deep-coloured red wines. When expense is no object, and very strong
wines are wanted, the expressed juices of the ripe fruits, with the
addition of 3 or 4 lbs. of sugar per gall., may be substituted for the
fruit in substance, and the water.
Examples of BRITISH IMITATIONS OF FOREIGN WINES:
AMERICAN HONEY WINE. From good honey, 21 lbs.; cider, 12 galls.; ferment,
then add, of rum, 5 pints; brandy, 2 quarts; red or white tartar
(dissolved), 6 oz.; bitter almonds and cloves, of each, bruised, 1/4 oz.;
powdered capsicum, 3 dr. This is also called ‘mead wine.’ With the
addition of 3 oz. of unbleached Jamaica ginger (finely grated), it forms
the best American ginger wine.
BRITISH BURGUNDY. By adding a little lemon juice, and a ‘streak’ of orris
or orange-flower water, to ‘British port,’ the ingenious wine-brewer
converts it into ‘British Burgundy.’ It is also made by mixing together
equal parts of ‘British port’ and claret.
BRITISH CAPE. 1. (White.) Raisin wine, well attenuated by fermentation,
either alone or worked up with a little cider and pale malt wort.
2. (Red.) British white cape, sound rough cider and mulberry wine, equal
parts; well mixed and fined down.
BRITISH CHAMPAGNE. 1. From stoned raisins, 7 lbs.; loaf sugar, 21 lbs.;
water, 9 galls.;. crystallised tartaric acid, 1 oz.; cream of tartar, 1/2
oz.; Narbonne honey, 1 lb.; sweet yeast, 1/4 pint; ferment, skimming
frequently, and, when the fermentation is nearly over, add, of coarsely
powdered orris root, 1 dr.; eau de fleurs d’oranges, 1/4 pint; and lemon
juice, 1 pint; in 3 months fine it down with isinglass, 1/4 oz.; in 1
month more, if not sparkling, again fine it down, and in another fortnight
bottle it, observing to put a piece of double-refined white sugar, the
size of a pea, into each bottle; lastly, wire down the corks, and cover
them with tin-foil, after the manner of champagne.
2. As the preceding, but substituting 32 lbs. of double-refined sugar for
the sugar and raisins therein ordered, with the addition of 3 galls. of
rich pale-coloured brandy.
3. From amber hairy champagne gooseberries, English grape juice, or the
stalks of garden rhubarb, and lump sugar; with a little sweetbriar, orris,
or orange-flower water, to impart a slight bouquet. The last forms what is
known as ‘patent’ or ‘Bath champagne.’
4. (Pink.) To either of the preceding add red currant juice, q. s. to
colour; or 1 oz. of coarsely powdered cochineal to each 10 or 12 galls. at
the time of racking.
_Obs._ It is notorious that two bottles of wine out of every three sold
for ‘genuine champagne’ in England is of British manufacture. “We have
ourselves seen sparkling gooseberry, rhubarb, and white sugar wines, sold
for imported champagne, at 7s. 6d. per bottle, and the fraud has passed
undetected, even by habitual wine drinkers. (Cooley.)
BRITISH CLARET. 1. Rich old cider or perry and port wine, equal parts.
2. To each gall. of the last add of cream of tartar (genuine), 3 dr., with
the juice of 1 lemon. Sometimes 1/4 pint of French brandy is also added.
_Obs._ If these mixtures are well fined down, and not bottled for at least
a month or 5 weeks, they closely resemble good ‘Bordeaux.’ A mixture of 4
parts of raisin wine, with 1 part each of raspberry and barberry or damson
wine, also forms, when so treated, an excellent factitious ‘claret.’
BRITISH CYPRUS. From the juice of white elderberries, 1 quart, and Lisbon
sugar, 4 lbs., to water, 1 gall.; together with 1/2 dr. each of bruised
ginger and cloves. When racked, add minced raisins and brandy, of each 2
oz.
BRITISH HOCK, BRITISH RED HOCK. From cream of tartar, 1-1/4 oz.; tartaric
acid, 1/2 oz. (both in extremely fine powder); juices of the purple plum,
ripe apples, and red beet, of each (warmed), 5 pints; lemon juice, 1 pint;
with white sugar, 2-1/2 lbs. per gall.
BRITISH MADEIRA. From very strong pale malt wort, 36 galls., sugar candy,
28 lbs., and cream of tartar, 3 oz.; fermented with yeast, 2 lb., adding,
when the fermentation is nearly finished, raisin wine, 2-1/2 galls.;
brandy and sherry wine, of each 2 galls.; rum and brandy, of each 3 pints;
after 6 or 9 months, fine it down, and in another month bottle it. See
BRITISH SHERRY (_below_).
BRITISH MALMSEY. From sliced or grated parsnips, 4 lbs.; boiling water, 1
gall.; when cold, press out the liquor, and to each gallon add of cream of
tartar, 1/2 oz., and good Muscovado sugar, 3 lbs.; ferment, rack, and add
of brandy, 3 to 5%. Good Malaga raisins may be substituted for the sugar.
BRITISH RED MOSELLE. The last, coloured with clarified elderberry juice.
BRITISH SPARKLING MOSELLE. From rich cider apples (carefully peeled and
garbled), pressed with 1-4th of their weight of white magnum-bonum plums
(previously stoned), and the juice fermented with 2-1/2 lbs. of
double-refined sugar per gall., as champagne.
BRITISH MUSCADEL. As ‘British sparkling Moselle,’ with some infusion of
clary, or of the musk plant, to flavour it.
BRITISH PORT, LONDON P., SOUTHAMPTON P. 1. From red cape, 2 galls.; damson
or elder wine, 1 gall.; brandy, 1/2 pint; powdered kino, 1/2 oz.
2. Strong old cider, 6 galls.; elderberry juice, 4 galls.; sloe juice, 3
galls.; sugar, 28 lbs.; powdered extract of rhatany, 1 lb.; at the time of
racking add, brandy, 1/2 gall.; good port wine, 2 galls.
3. Good port, 12 galls.; rectified spirit, 6 galls.; French brandy, 3
galls.; strong rough cider, 42 galls.; mix in a well-sulphured cask.
(‘Publican’s Guide.’)
4. Port wine, 8 galls.; brandy, 6 galls.; sloe juice, 4 galls.; strong
rough cider, 45 galls.; as the last. (‘Licensed Victuallers’ Companion.’)
5. Cider, 24 galls.; juice of elderberries, 6 galls.; sloe juice, 4
galls.; rectified spirit, 3 galls.; brandy, 1-1/2 gall.; powdered rhatany.
7 lbs.; isinglass, 4 oz., dissolved in a gall. of the cider; bung it down;
in 3 months it will be fit to bottle, but should not be drunk until the
next year; if a rougher flavour is required, the quantity of rhatany may
be increased, or alum, 5 or 6 oz. (dissolved), may be added.
BRITISH SHERRY. 1. From cape or raisin wine, slightly flavoured with a
very little bitter-almond cake, or, what is more convenient, a little of
the essential oil dissolved in alcohol (essence of bitter almonds). A mere
‘streak’ or ‘thread’ of sweet-briar, eau de fleurs d’oranges, or orris, is
occasionally added by way of bouquet; but care must be taken not to overdo
it.
2. To each gallon of strong raisin must, add, when racking, 1 Seville
orange, and 3 or 4 bitter almonds, both sliced. By omitting the almonds,
and adding 1 green citron to each 2 or 3 gallons, this forms ‘British
madeira.’
3. Very strong pale malt wort, 36 galls.; finest Muscovado sugar, 1 cwt.;
yeast, 1 pint; ferment; on the third day add of raisins, stoned, 14 lbs.,
and in another week add, of rectified spirit, 1 gall., rum, 1/2 gall., and
bitter almonds, grated, 1-1/4 oz.; bung down for 4 months, then draw it
off into another cask, add of brandy, 1 gall., and in 3 months bottle it.
4. Teneriffe, slightly flavoured with cherry-laurel or bitter almonds,
forms an excellent ‘British sherry,’ either alone or diluted with an
equal quantity of cape or raisin wine, or good perry.
BRITISH TOKAY. To good cider, 18 galls.; add, of elderberry juice, 1/2
gall.; honey, 28 lbs.; sugar, 14 lbs.; red argol (powdered), 3/4 lb.;
crystallised tartaric acid, 3 oz.; mix, boil, ferment, and, when the
active fermentation is complete, add of brandy, 1 gall., and suspend in
the liquor, from the bung-hole, a mixture of cassia and ginger, of each
1/2 oz.; cloves and capsicum, of each 1/4 oz.; the whole bruised, and
loosely enclosed in a coarse muslin bag. It will be ripe in 12 months.
_Obs._ Some of the preceding formulæ, by skilful management, produce very
good imitations of some of the imported wines; but (prejudice aside) many
of the British fruit wines possess an equally agreeable flavour, and are
frequently more wholesome. All British wines require to be kept at least a
year, to ‘mellow.’ Much of the superiority of foreign wines arises from
its age.
=WINES (Culinary).= _Syn._ WINES FOR KITCHEN USE. These are prepared in a
similar manner to the MEDICATED WINES noticed below.
=Wine, Basil.= _Prep._ From green basil leaves, 4 or 5 oz.; sherry, cape,
or raisin wine, 1 pint; digest for 10 days, press, and strain. Used to
give a turtle flavour to soups and gravies. In a similar way may be made
the wines of celery leaves, celery seed, sage, shallots, and the various
green and dried herbs used in cookery.
=Wine, Cayenne.= _Prep._ From capsicum or cayenne, 1 oz.; cape, 1 pint;
steep for a fortnight, and strain.
_Obs._ In a similar way may be made currie (powder), ragout (spice), and
several other similar wines used in the kitchen.
=WINES (Medicated).= _Syn._ IMPREGNATED WINES; VINA MEDICATA, L. The
medicated wines of pharmacy are prepared by cold maceration, in
well-closed vessels, in precisely the same way as the tinctures. In the
Ph. L. of 1824, a diluted spirit was substituted for wine, without
altering the name of the preparation; but the use of wine (sherry) was
restored in that of 1836. The druggists commonly use cape or raisin wine
as a menstruum, from its being cheaper than sherry, and, perhaps, scarcely
less power as a solvent. The ‘vinum’ of the Ph. U. S. was formerly
Teneriffe. Dr B. Lane’s process for preparing medicated wines by
fermentation is noticed at the end of the alphabetical list given below.
“Medicated wines should be kept in stoppered glass vessels, and be
frequently shaken during maceration.” (Ph. L.)
The following are the principal medicated wines at present in use:
=Wine of Acetate of Iron.= _Syn._ VINUM FERRI ACETATIS. (Soubeiran.)
_Prep._ Acetate of iron, 32 gr. white wine, 16 oz.
=Wine, Alkaline Diuretic.= _Syn._ VINUM ALKALINUM DIURETICUM; (Sydenham).
_Prep._ Ashes of broom, 12 oz.; Rhenish wine, 4 pints.——_Dose_, 3 oz.
twice a day.
=Wine of Al′oes.= _Syn._ VINUM ALOËS (B. P., Ph. L. & E.), TINCTURA
SACRA†, TINCT. HIERÆ PICRƆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Socotrine aloes, 1-1/2
oz.; ginger, in coarse powder, 80 gr.; cardamom seeds, bruised, 80 gr.;
sherry, 40 oz.; digest seven days, strain, and make it up to 40.——_Dose_,
1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Powdered Socotrine or hepatic aloes, 2 oz.; powdered canella,
1/2 oz.; sherry, 1 quart; macerate for 14 days, and filter. In the Ph. E.
cardamoms and ginger, of each 1-1/2 dr., are substituted for
canella.——_Dose._ As a purgative, 1/2 to 2 fl. oz.; as a stomachic, 1 to 2
fl. dr.
=Wine of Aloes (Al′kaline).= _Syn._ VINUM ALOËS ALKALINUM, L. _Prep._ (Dr
A. T. Thomson.) Carbonate of soda, 3 oz.; myrrh and extract of aloes, of
each 6 dr.; sesquicarbonate of ammonia, 4-1/2 dr.; sherry, 24 fl. oz. (say
1-1/4 pint); macerate, as before. In dyspepsia, chlorosis, &c.——_Dose._ As
the last.
=Wine, Antimo′′nial.= _Syn._ TARTAR EMETIC WINE; WINE OF POTASSIO-TARTRATE
OF ANTIMONY; VINUM ANTIMONII POTASSIO-TARTRATIS (Ph. L.), V. ANTIMONIALE
(B. P., Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Tartarated antimony, 2 gr.; sherry,
1 oz.——_Dose_, 10 to 60 minims. (In consequence of the insolubility of the
tartarated antimony in the sherry, Squire recommends it to be dissolved in
about ten times its weight of hot water, and that the wine be added to the
solution.)
2. (Ph. L. & E.) Potassio-tartrate of antimony, 40 gr.; sherry, 1 pint;
dissolve. Each fluid oz. contains 2 gr. of emetic tartar.——_Dose._ As a
diaphoretic and expectorant, 10 to 30 drops, frequently; as a nauseant, 1
to 2 fl. dr.; as an emetic, 2 to 4 fl. dr. The corresponding compound of
the Ph. D. is ANTIMONII TARTARIZATI LIQUOR. See SOLUTION OF
POTASSIO-TARTRATE OF ANTIMONY.
=Wine, Antiscorbutic.= _Syn._ VINUM ANTISCORBUTICUM (P. Cod.). _Prep._
Fresh horseradish root, 3 oz.; scurvy-grass, 1-1/2 oz.; watercress leaves,
1-1/2 oz.; buckbean, 1-1/2 oz.; mustard seed, 1-1/2 oz.; chloride of
ammonium, 5-1/2 dr.; wine, 5 pints; compound spirit of scurvy-grass, 1-3/4
oz.
=Wine, Aromatic.= _Syn._ VINUM AROMATICUM. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Aromatic
species, 1 oz.; vulnerary tincture, 1 oz.; red wine, 10 oz. For outward
use. M. Ricord sometimes adds from 1 to 6 per cent. of tannin.
=Wine of Bark.= _Syn._ VINUM CINCHONÆ (P. Cod.) Yellow bark, 3 oz.; proof
spirit, 6 oz. (by weight). Macerate 24 hours and add, red wine, 5 pints.
Macerate for 10 days, shaking it occasionally; strain with expression, and
filter.
=Wine of Bark (Compound).= _Syn._ VINUM CINCHONÆ COMPOSITUM. (P. Cod.)
_Prep._ Yellow bark, 1 oz.; bitter orange peel, 44 gr.; chamomiles, 44
gr.; alcohol, (·864) 1 oz. (by weight); white wine, 9 oz. (by weight).
Macerate for 10 days.
=Wine of Bark, Muriated.= _Syn._ VINUM CINCHONÆ MURIATUM. _Prep._
Ammonio-citrate of iron, 1/2 oz.; wine of pale Peruvian bark, 5 pints
(made with double the quantity of bark contained in the yellow); dissolve
the ammonio-citrate in twice its weight of distilled water, and add to the
wine.
=Wine of Bitter Sweet.= _Syn._ VINUM DULCAMARÆ (Dr Currie). _Prep._
Dulcamara stalks and leaves, 1 lb.; sherry, 2 pints. Macerate for 14 days,
and strain.
=Wine of Buchu.= _Syn._ VINUM BUCHU (Brandes). _Prep._ Buchu leaves, 2-1/2
oz.; white wine, 1 pint.
=Wine of Cachina.= _Syn._ VINUM CACINÆ. _Prep._ Cachina, bruised, 1 oz.;
Malaga wine, 16 oz. Macerate for 6 days, and strain.
=Wine, Camphorated.= _Syn._ VINUM CAMPHORATUM. (Ph. G.) Camphor and gum
acacia in powder, of each 1/2 oz. Mix accurately and gradually. Add 24 oz.
(by weight) of white wine.
=Wine of Cascarilla.= _Syn._ VINUM CASCARILLÆ (Bernardeau). _Prep._
Cascarilla, 1 oz.; Malaga wine, 1 pint.——_Dose_, 1 oz., twice a day in
consumption.
=Wine of Catechu.= _Syn._ VINUM CATECHU (Soubeiran). _Prep._ Tincture of
catechu, 1 part; red wine, 12-1/2 parts. Mix, and after a few days,
filter.
=Wine of Centaury (Compound).= _Syn._ VINUM CENTAURII COMPOSITUM.
HOFFMAN’S ELIXIR VISCERALE. _Prep._ Centaury, orange peel, extract of
blessed thistle, gentian, myrrh, cascarilla, each 1 dr.; sherry, 2 pints.
=Wine, Chalyb′eate.= See WINE OF IRON.
=Wine of Cinnamon.= _Syn._ VINUM CINNAMOMI (Beral). _Prep._ Cinnamon, 1
oz.; alicant wine, 16 oz.; macerate and filter. Sugar is sometimes added.
=Wine of Citrate of Iron.= _Syn._ VINUM FERRI CITRATIS. (B. P.) Dissolve
140 grains of citrate of iron and ammonia in 1 pint of orange wine; let
the solution remain for 3 days in a closed vessel, shaking occasionally;
then filter.
=Wine of Col′chicum.= _Syn._ WINE OF COLCHICUM ROOT; VINUM COLCHICI (B.
P.); VINUM RADICIS COLCHICI (Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Colchicum
corms, dried and sliced, 4; sherry, 20; macerate seven days and
strain.——_Dose_, 20 to 30 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Dried corms of meadow saffron (sliced), 8 oz.; sherry wine, 1
quart; macerate 7 days, and strain (press strongly the residuum and filter
the mixed liquor——Ph. E.). A powerful sedative and purgative.——_Dose_, 1/2
to 1 fl. dr.; in gout, acute rheumatism, and other painful and
inflammatory and nervous affections.
_Obs._ The celebrated EAU MÉDICINALE of M. Husson (AQUA MEDICINALES
HUSSONII) resembles, in composition and action, the above preparation in
every point except its strength, which, we believe, is much above that of
the wine of the British Colleges.
=Wine of Colchicum Seed.= _Syn._ VINUM SEMINIS COLCHICI, V. SEMINUM C., L.
_Prep._ (Ph. U. S. & Dr Williams.) Seeds of meadow saffron (preferably
ground in a coffee-mill), 2 oz.; sherry, 16 fl. oz.; macerate for 14
days.——_Dose_, 1 to 1-1/2 fl. dr.; in gout, &c.
=Wine, Emet′ic.= See ANTIMONIAL WINE, WINE OF IPECACUANHA, &c.
=Wine of Colocynth.= _Syn._ VINUM COLOCYNTHIDIS (Van Mons). _Prep._
Colocynth, 2 oz.; white wine, 24 oz. Macerate for 8 days, and filter.
=Wine of Elecampane.= _Syn._ VINUM INULÆ. As wine of wormwood.
=Wine of Ergot.= _Syn._ VINUM ERGOTÆ (Ph. U. S.) _Prep._ Fluid extract of
ergot (Ph. U. S.), 2 oz. (o. m.); white wine, 14 oz. (o. m.). Mix and
filter.
=Wine of Foxglove.= _Syn._ VINUM DIGITALIS. (Ph. Port.) _Prep._ Dried
foxglove, 1 oz.; good white wine, 32 oz. Macerate for 4 days, and strain.
=Wine of Gen′tian.= _Syn._ BITTER WINE, TONIC W.; VINUM AMARA, V. GENTIANÆ
(Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.) Gentian, in coarse powder, 1/2 oz.; yellow
bark (do.), 1 oz.; dried orange peel, 2 dr.; canella, in coarse powder, 1
dr.; proof spirit, 4-1/2 fl. oz.; digest for 24 hours, then add of sherry
1 pint and 16 fl. oz., and further digest for 7 days. Tonic and
stomachic.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 3/4 fl. oz.
=Wine of Hedge Hyssop.= _Syn._ VINUM GRATIOLÆ (Niemann). _Syn._ Hedge
hyssop, 2 dr.; white wine, 16 dr. Digest at a gentle heat for 4 hours, and
strain.——_Dose_, 1 oz.; frequently in hypochondriasis.
=Wine of Hel′lebore.= See WINE OF WHITE HELLEBORE.
=Wine of Holly.= _Syn._ VINUM ILICIS (Rousseau). Powdered holly leaves, 2
dr.; white wine, 6 oz. Infuse for 12 hours.
=Wine of Iodide of Iron.= _Syn._ VINUM FERRI IODIDI (Pierquin). _Prep._
Iodide of iron, 4 dr.; Bordeaux wine, 1 pint.
=Wine of Ipecacuan′ha.= _Syn._ EMETIC WINE; VINUM IPECACUANHÆ (B. P., Ph.
L., E., & D), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Ipecacuanha, bruised, 1; sherry, 20;
macerate seven days, shaking occasionally, strain, and make up to
20.——_Dose._ As an expectorant, 5 to 40 minims; as an emetic, 3 to 6 dr.
2. Ipecacuanha root, bruised, 2-1/2 oz.; sherry, 1 quart; macerate for 7
days (14 days, and strain, with, expression——Ph. D.). This is a mild and
excellent preparation.——_Dose._ As a diaphoretic and expectorant, 10 to 40
drops, in coughs, diarrhœa, dysentery, dyspepsia, &c.; as an emetic, 2 fl.
dr. to 1 fl. oz., in divided doses; as an emetic for infants and young
children, 1/2 teaspoonful every 10 or 15 minutes until it operates.
=Wine of I′ron.= _Syn._ CHALYBEATE WINE, STEEL W.; VINUM FERRI (B. P.,
Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Fine iron wire (No. 35), 1 oz.; sherry, 20
oz.; digest thirty days with frequent agitation. The bottle to be corked,
but the wire not wholly immersed.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 dr.
2. (Ph. L.) Iron wire, 1 oz.; sherry, 1 quart; digest, with frequent
agitation, for 30 days, and strain. Each fl. oz. contains less than 1-1/2
gr. of metallic iron.
3. Ammonio-tartrate of iron (Aikin’s), 1-1/2 dr.; sherry, 1 pint;
dissolve. Frequently substituted for the last, especially when the
preparation is required in a hurry.——_Dose_, 1 to 5 fl. dr.; as a mild
chalybeate.
_Obs._ The formula for WINE OF IRON was modified in the Ph. L. 1824,
omitted in that of 1836, and restored, in its original character, in that
of 1851.
=Wine of Liquorice.= _Syn._ VINUM GLYCYRRHIZÆ, FULLER’S SWEET TINCTURE.
_Prep._ Liquorice (Italian juice), 1 oz.; cochineal, 2 scruples; canary
wine, 2 pints. Sometimes 1 drachm of saffron is added.
=Wine of Malate of Iron.= Iron wire steeped in cider.
=Wine of Mea′dow Saf′fron.= WINE OF COLCHICUM.
=Wine of Olive.= _Syn._ VINUM OLIVÆ (Louis). _Prep._ Fresh olive leaves, 2
oz.; white wine 32 oz. Half a glass twice a day.
=Wine of Onion.= _Syn._ VINUM CEPÆ. _Prep._ Two onions, sliced; white
wine, 1-1/2 pint. Digest and strain. For gravel.
=Wine of O′′pium.= _Syn._ SYDENHAM’S LIQUID LAUDANUM†; VINUM OPII (B. P.,
Ph. L., E., & D.), TINCTURA, THEBAICA†, LAUDANUM LIQUIDUM SYDENHAM†, L.
_Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Extract of opium, 1 oz.; cinnamon bark, 75 gr.; cloves,
75 gr.; sherry wine, 20 oz.; macerate for seven days and filter.——_Dose_,
10 to 40 minims.
2. (Ph. L.) Extract of opium (Ph. L.), 2-1/2 oz.; cinnamon and cloves, of
each, bruised, 2-1/2 dr.; sherry, 1 quart; macerate for 7 days (14
days——Ph. D.), and filter. In the Ph. E., opium, 3 oz., and in the Ph. D.,
opium, in coarse powder, 3 oz., are ordered, instead of extract of opium.
The Dublin College also omits the aromatics.
3. (Wholesale.) From extract of opium, 11 oz.; oil of cassia, 25 drops;
oil of cloves, 20 drops; wine, 1 gall. (or rectified spirit, 1-1/2 pint;
water, 6-1/2 pints; colouring, q. s.); digest, with agitation, until
dissolved. Milder than the tincture.——_Dose_, 10 to 40 drops; as an
anodyne and hypnotic.
=Wine of Opium (Fermented).= _Syn._ ROUSSEAU’S LAUDANUM, BLACK-DROP; VINUM
OPII FERMENTATIONE PARATUM, GUTTA NIGRA, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Opium, 4
oz.; boiling water, 5 lbs.; dissolve, add of honey, 1 lb.; yeast, 2 dr.;
keep it at 86° Fahr. for a month, or until the fermentation is complete;
then press, filter, distil off 16 oz., and evaporate the residuum to 10
oz.; distil the 16 oz. of spirit obtained above until 12 oz. have passed
over, and from this, by a third distillation, obtain 4-1/2 oz., which add
to the evaporated solution (10 oz.), and filter. About four times as
strong as tincture of opium. See DROP, BLACK.
=Wine of Orange.= _Syn._ VINUM AURANTII (B. P.) _Prep._ Made in Britain by
the fermentation of a saccharine solution, to which the fresh peel of the
bitter orange has been added, contains 12 per cent. of alcohol, and is but
slightly acid to test-paper.
=Wine of Pepsin.= _Syn._ VINUM PEPSINI (Ph. G.). _Prep._ Remove by hard
scraping, by means of a bone knife, the pepsin from the mucous membrane of
a previously washed, freshly killed, pig’s or ox’s fourth stomach, and mix
10 drams of it with 5 drams (by weight) of glycerin diluted with 5 drams
of water; put into a large flask and shake up vigorously with 13-1/2 oz.
(by weight) of white wine, and 1/2 dr. (by weight) of hydrochloric acid.
Macerate for 3 days at 68° Fahr., frequently shaking, and filter.
=Wine of Potas′sio-tartrate of Antimony.= See WINE, ANTIMONIAL (_above_).
=Wine of Quinine.= _Syn._ VINUM QUINLÆ (B. P.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.)
Sulphate of quinina, 20 gr.; citric acid, 30 gr.; orange wine, 20 oz.;
dissolve the citric acid and then the sulphate of quinia in the wine;
digest three days and filter.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 oz.
2. (Magendie.) Sulphate of quinine, 14 gr.; sherry, 1 quart; agitate
frequently for some time. “The sulphate of quinine requires to be
dissolved in a little dilute sulphuric acid before it is added to the
wine.” (Dr Hayes.)——_Dose_, 1 wine-glassful, as a tonic and stomachic.
=Wine of Quinine, Aromatic.= _Syn._ VINUM QUINIÆ AROMATICUM. DR COLLIER’S
AROMATIC QUININE WINE. _Prep._ Disulphate of quinine, 18 gr.; citric acid,
15 gr.; sound orange wine, 1 bottle (24 fl. oz.).
=Wine of Rhu′barb.= _Syn._ VINUM RHEI (B. P., Ph. E. & D.), L. TINCTURA
RHÆI VINOSA. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Rhubarb, in coarse powder, 1-1/2; canella
bark, 1/8; sherry, 20; macerate seven days, filter, and make up to
20.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.
2. (Ph. B.) Rhubarb, in coarse powder, 5 oz.; canella, in coarse powder, 2
dr.; proof spirit, 5 fl. oz.; sherry, 1-3/4 pint; macerate for 7 days,
press, and filter.
3. (Ph. D.) Rhubarb, 3 oz.; canella, 2 dr.; sherry, 1 quart; macerate 14
days. Weaker than the last.——_Dose._ As a stomachic, 1 to 3 fl. dr.; as a
purgative, 1/2 to 1 fl. oz., or more. It does not keep well.
=Wine of Sarsaparilla.= _Syn._ VINUM SARSAPARILLÆ (Beral). _Prep._
Alcoholic extract of sarsaparilla, 1 oz.; white wine, 16 oz.
=Wine of Senna.= _Syn._ VINUM SENNÆ (Ph. Swed.). _Prep._ Senna, 4 oz.;
coriander seed, 2 dr.; fennel seed, 2 dr.; sherry, 2-1/2 lbs. Digest for
3 days, add stoned raisins, 3-1/2 oz. Macerate for 24 hours, and strain
with expression.
=Wine of Squills.= _Syn._ VINUM SCILLÆ (P. Cod.). _Prep._ Dried squills, 3
oz.; Malaga wine, 2-1/2 pints. Macerate for 10 days.
=Wine of Squills, Bitter.= _Syn._ VINUM SCILLITICUM AMARUM (P. Cod.). Pale
Peruvian bark, 6 oz.; winter’s bark, 6 oz.; lemon peel, 6 oz.;
swallow-wort, 1-1/2 oz.; angelica root, 1-1/2 oz.; squill, 1-1/2 oz.;
wormwood, 3 oz.; balm, 3 oz.; jumper berries, 1-1/2 oz.; mace, 1-1/2 oz.;
white wine, 2-1/2 galls.; proof spirit, 1 pint. Macerate for 10 days.
=Wine of Squills, Compound.= _Syn._ VINUM SCILLÆ COMPOSITUM (Richter).
_Prep._ Dried squill, 1 oz.; orange peel, 3 dr.; juniper berries, 2 dr.;
white wine, 2-1/2 pints. Digest for 3 days, filter, and add 2 oz. of
oxymel of squills.
=Wine of Stramonium.= _Syn._ VINUM STRAMONII (Ph. Bat.). _Prep._
Stramonium seeds, 2 oz.; Malaga wine, 8 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 oz.
Digest and filter.
=Wine of Tobac′co.= _Syn._ VINUM TABACI (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ (Ph. E.)
Tobacco, 3-1/2 oz.; sherry, 1 quart; digest 7 days, strain, with strong
pressure, and filter. A powerful sedative and diuretic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30
drops; in dropsy, lead colic, ileus, &c.
=Wine of Vipers.= _Syn._ VINUM VIPERINUM (Ph. L., 1746). _Prep._ Dried
vipers, 2 oz.; white wine, 3 lbs. Macerate for 7 days.
=Wine of White Hel′lebore.= _Syn._ VINUM VERATRI (Ph. L.), TINCTURA
VERATRI ALBI†, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L.) White hellebore, sliced, 8 oz.; sherry
wine, 1 quart; digest for 7 days, press, and filter.——_Dose_, 10 drops,
gradually increased to 25 or 30; as a substitute for colchicum, in gout
and rheumatism, &c. It is less manageable than wine of colchicum, and is
now seldom employed.
=Wine of White Hellebore (Opiated).= _Syn._ MOORE’S EAU MÉDICINALE; VINUM
VERATRI OPIATUM, L. _Prep._ From wine of white hellebore, 3 fl. dr.;
tincture of opium, I fl. dr.——_Dose._ As the last.
=Wine of Wormwood.= _Syn._ VINUM ABSINTHII (P. Cod.). _Prep._ Dried
wormwood leaves, 3 oz.; white wine, 5 pints; proof spirit, 6 oz. Macerate
the leaves in the spirit, in 24 hours add the wine, macerate for 10 days,
and strain.
=Wines, Medicated (Dr B. Lane’s).= _Syn._ VINOUS ESSENCES; ESSENTIÆ
VINOSÆ, LIQUORES VINOSI, L. _Prep._ From an infusion or solution of the
drug, of about 3 or 4 times the usual strength, fermented with a little
yeast, and about 3 or 4 lbs. of sugar per gallon; the fermented liquor
being afterwards set in a cool cellar until fit for bottling. Compounds of
CALUMBA, CASCARILLA, GENTIAN, OPIUM, RHUBARB, SENNA, and VALERIAN, have
been thus prepared. That of OPIUM is made of only twice the strength of
the common tincture.
=WINE-STONE.= CRUDE TARTAR or ARGOL.
=WINE TESTS.= _Prep._ 1. (Hahnemann’s.) From quicklime, 1 oz.; flowers of
sulphur, 1-1/2 oz.; mix, and heat them in a covered crucible for 5 or 6
minutes; put 2 dr. of the product and an equal weight of tartaric acid
(separately powdered), into a stoppered bottle, with a pint of water, and
shake them well; let the liquid settle, pour off the clear portion, and
add of tartaric acid, 1-1/2 dr.
2. (Dr Paris’s.) From sulphide of calcium and cream of tartar, of each (in
powder), 1/2 oz.; hot water, 1 pint; agitate, &c., as before; decant the
cold clear liquid into 1-oz. phials, and add 20 drops of hydrochloric acid
to each of them.
_Obs._ The above tests will throw down the least quantity of lead from
wines, as a very sensible black precipitate. As iron might be accidentally
contained in the wine, the hydrochloric acid is added to the last test, to
prevent the precipitation of that metal.
=WIN′TER-GREEN (American).= _Syn._ PIPSISSEWA; CHIMAPHILA (Ph. L. & E.).
PYROLA (Ph. D.), L. The herb of _Chimaphila umbellata_. It is astringent,
diuretic, tonic, and stomachic; and has been successfully administered in
loss of appetite, dyspepsia, dropsy, chronic affections of the urinary
organs, scrofula, &c. It must not be confounded with ordinary winter-green
(box berry, chequer b., partridge b., mountain tea), which is the
_Gaultheria procumbens_, a plant belonging to the _Ericaceæ_, whilst the
former plant belongs to a genus of the _Pyrolaceæ_. See DECOCTION,
EXTRACT, and OILS (Essential).
=WIREWORM.= The Editor is indebted to Dr Spencer Cobbold, F.R.S., for the
following communication on this subject:——“Dear Prof. Tuson,——You asked me
about the remedies for wireworm. Although a great deal has been said on
the subject, yet it is not easy to advise. I believe the _best plan_ is to
‘catch-’em-alive’ by means of sliced potatoes, turnips, or carrots laid in
rows, women and children being employed every morning to pick up the
slices, and brush off the larvæ into a jar (the slices being replaced). Mr
Hogg (the Ettrick Shepherd) found lettuce leaves very serviceable when
laid as a bait in a similar way. Pheasants are very destructive to them.
As agriculturists do not like the trouble and expense of this baiting
method (by far the best if persevered in) some have recommended deep
ploughing, &c. The following extract taken from the ‘Journal of the
Agricultural Society, of Victoria,’ bears on the question at issue.
Trusting it may be found useful, believe me, yours faithfully, T. SPENCER
COBBOLD.”
“_Remedy for Wireworm._——Having seen in your issue of the 24th ult. that
‘B,’ would be glad if any one could give any information as to a remedy
for the ravages of the wireworm, which plays such havoc in our corn fields
during the early part of the growth of our cereal crops, I beg to offer a
few observations on the subject. I have for years paid particular notice
as to any remedy or preventive, and it is with regard to the latter that I
shall chiefly confine my remarks, as there is positively no known remedy
when once the insects have attacked the crop. Some persons recommend the
application of lime or salt, but it is a well-known fact that if either of
these is applied in such quantity as to destroy the worm, it will likewise
destroy vegetation, and consequently the crop will be entirely lost; and
not alone this crop, but the soil will be poisoned to such an extent as to
injure succeeding crops. What I have found most successful is deep
ploughing, not what is ordinary called deep ploughing, 7 or 8 inches, but
to the depth of at least 10 or 12, where the soil will admit of it. The
wireworm lives not more than 4 inches below the surface, and by burying it
10 or 12 inches it is found that it cannot again make its way to the
surface, and consequently can do no injury to surface-rooted plants, such
as the grain crops. The operation of ploughing should be performed as
follows: a strong skim coulter is attached to the beam of an ordinary
strong plough, which is drawn by three horses. The skim coulter pares off
the surface, which is buried underneath the sod turned over by the
mould-board. Or it is sometimes performed in a different way. A small
plough, drawn by one horse, precedes the ordinary plough, skimming off the
surface exactly the same as the skim coulter. So much for a preventive. As
to remedy, what I have found most effectual is heavy rolling, using, if
possible, such a roller as that called the Crosskill, which crushes the
insects, killing some, and preventing others doing much damage until the
crop is sufficiently far advanced as not to be affected by the
insect.——JOHN THOMAS, 32, Capel Street, Dublin.”
=WITCH MEAL.= _Syn._ VEGETABLE SULPHUR, LYCOPODIUM. The spores of
_Lycopodium clavatum_, or club moss.
=WOAD.= _Syn._ DYER’S WOAD; PASTEL, Fr. The _Isatis tinctoria_. To prepare
them for the dyer, the leaves are partially dried and ground to a paste,
which is made into balls; these are placed in heaps, and occasionally
sprinkled with water, to promote the fermentation; when this is finished,
the woad is allowed to fall down into lumps, which are afterwards reground
and made into cakes for sale. On mixing the prepared woad with boiling
water, and, after standing for some hours in a closed vessel, adding about
1-20th its weight of newly slaked lime, digesting in a gentle warmth, and
stirring the whole together every 3 or 4 hours, a new fermentation begins;
a blue froth rises to the surface, and the liquor, though it appears
itself of a reddish colour, dyes woollens of a green, which, like the
green from indigo, changes in the air to a blue. This is said to be one
of the nicest processes in the art of dyeing, and does not well succeed
on the small scale. Woad is now mostly used in combination with indigo. 50
lbs. of woad are reckoned equal to 1 lb. of indigo.
=WOL′FRAM.= See TUNGSTEN.
=WOLFS′BANE.= See ACONITE.
=WOOD= is polished by carefully rubbing down the grain with fine glass
paper, or pumice-stone, and then rubbing it, first with finely-powdered
pumice-stone and water, and afterwards with tripoli and linseed oil, until
a proper surface is obtained. For common purposes, glass paper, followed
by a metal burnisher, is employed.
Wood is stained by the application of any of the ordinary liquid dyes
employed for wool or cotton. They sink deeper into the wood when they are
applied hot. When the surface is properly strained and dried, it is
commonly cleaned with a rag dipped in oil of turpentine or boiled oil,
after which it is either varnished or polished with beeswax. Musical
instruments, articles of the toilette, &c., are usually treated in this
way.
Wood is preserved by any agents which destroy the tendency to putrefaction
of the matter within its pores, or which enables it to resist the attacks
of insects, or renders it unsuited to the growth of minute fungi. See
DRY-ROT.
=WOOD NAPH′THA.= See SPIRIT (Pyroxylic).
=WOOD OIL.= See BALSAM, GURGUN.
=WOODY FIBRE.= See LIGNIN.
=WOODY NIGHT′SHADE= BITTER-SWEET, _Solanum dulcamara_.
=WOOL.= _Syn._ LANA, L. Wool is a fine, soft, elastic variety of hair,
cellulated in its structure. Its filaments are cylindrical, like those of
silk; but the surface is covered with thin scales or epidermic cells. In
the finer qualities, these filaments vary in thickness from 1/1100 to
1/1500 of an inch; and under a good microscope distinctly exhibit, at
intervals of about 1/300 of an inch, a series of serrated rings,
imbricated towards each other, “like the joints of equisetum, or, rather,
like the scaly zones of a serpent’s skin.” These appearances render it
almost impossible to mistake wool for silk, linen, or cotton. From
experiments made by different competent authorities, it is found that wool
is one of the worst conductors of heat known. This property renders
woollen fabrics particularly adapted for clothing in cold, damp, and
changeable climates, since it enables them to maintain the surface of the
body at a proper and equable temperature. Wool, sometimes, however, proves
too irritative for highly sensitive skins, and, moreover, disturbs the
electricity of the cutaneous surface, on friction, even more than silk. On
these accounts there are persons who find it unpleasant to wear woollen
garments, of any description, next the skin; in which cases all the
advantages that can be derived from their use may be obtained by wearing
them outside one of linen or cotton. According to Erasmus Wilson, this
method “is preferable in warm weather, since the linen absorbs the
perspiration, while the woollen garment preserves the warmth of the body,
and prevents the inconvenience resulting from its evaporation.” See
FLANNEL.
_Identif._ 1. By the microscope. (See _above_.)
2. Its fibres, when inflamed, shrivel up, and burn with difficulty, and
evolve the peculiar and characteristic odour of hair when similarly
treated, leaving a bulky charcoal; whereas cotton and linen burn rapidly,
leave no charcoal, and evolve little or no odour. Silk acts in nearly the
same manner as wool.
3. Nitric acid, picric acid, and gaseous chlorine, stain the fibres of
wool and silk yellow. Dr J. J. Pohl recommends an aqueous or alcoholic
solution of picric acid as well adapted for a test——After immersion of a
small portion of the fabric or yarn for from 5 to 10 minutes in the
solution, it is to be taken out, and washed in warm water. The linen and
cotton in it will then appear white, but the wool, silk, or other animal
fibre, will retain its yellow colour. In stuffs, cloths, flannel, &c., the
mixed threads may be readily observed by means of a pocket lens, and their
relative numbers may be ascertained by means of a ‘thread counter.’ This
test acts best with white, but is also applicable to many other colours.
For dark colours nitric acid is preferable.
4. A square inch of the fabric or a small portion of the yarn, is boiled
for a short time in a solution of caustic soda or potassa, and then
withdrawn and washed. If it be of pure wool, it will be dissolved, and
wholly disappear; if any threads or fibres are left undissolved, they
consist of either cotton or linen; of these, such as have acquired a dark
yellow tinge, are linen, whilst those which have retained their whiteness,
or which are only slightly discoloured, are cotton. The relative
proportion of the adulteration may be ascertained as before. See COTTON,
LINEN, and SILK.
Wool and woollen goods exhibit a greater affinity for colouring matter
than either cotton or linen, and in many cases this exceeds even that of
silk. The most difficult dye to impart to wool is a rich, deep, and
permanent black. See DYEING, MORDANTS, &c.
Woollen goods are cleaned and scoured in the manner noticed under
BLEACHING and SCOURING.
=Wool, Spanish.= Rouge-crepons.
=Wool, Styptic.= Dr. Erie, of Isny, prepares this by boiling the finest
carded wool for half an hour or an hour in a solution containing 4 per
cent. of soda, then thoroughly washes it out in cold spring water, wrings
it; and dries it. The wool is thus effectually purified, and is now
capable of imbibing fluids uniformly. It is then to be dipped two or
three times in fluid chloride of iron diluted with one-third of water,
expressed and dried in a draught of air, but not in the sun or by the aid
of high heat; finally, it is carded out. Thus prepared, it is of a
beautiful yellowish-brown colour, and feels like ordinary dry cotton wool.
As it is highly hygroscopic, it must be kept dry, and when required to be
transported, must be packed in caoutchouc or bladder. Charpie may be
prepared in a similar manner, but on account of its coarser texture, is
not so effective as cotton wool, presenting a less surface for producing
coagulation. When the wool is placed on a bleeding wound, it induces
moderate contraction of the tissue, coagulation of the blood that has
escaped, and subsequently coagulation of the blood that is contained
within the injured vessels, and thus arrests the hæmorrhage. The
coagulating power of the chloride of iron is clearly exalted by the
extension of its surface that is in this way affected. The application of
the prepared wool is not particularly painful, whilst by sucking up the
superfluous discharge, and preventing its decomposition, it seems to
operate favorably on the _process of the wound_.[272]
[Footnote 272: ‘Lancet.’]
=Wool Work, Woollen Shawls, &c., to clean.=——Boil a large piece of soap in
rain-water. Put it into an earthenware pan and add a teacupful of ox-gall,
which any butcher will supply. Put in the work to be cleaned, and rub it
briskly, as you would a pocket handkerchief, lifting it up and down. Wash
in two waters, if very dirty; then rinse quickly in cold water, lay a
cloth over it, and fold it tightly. Iron it immediately on the wrong side
with hot, heavy irons.
=WOORA′RA.= _Syn._ OURARI, WOURALI. A deadly poison employed in Guiana,
obtained from the _Strychnos toxifera_. See UPAS.
=WOOTZ.= The Indian name of steel; applied in this country to the steel
imported from Bengal.
=WORM BARK.= _Syn._ CABBAGE-TREE BARK, or GEOFFRÆYA INERMIS, L. The bark
of _Andira inermis_ (_Geoffræya i._ of some botanists). A powerful
astringent, purgative, anthelmintic, and narcotic.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr.
In larger doses, or if cold water be drunk during its action, it is apt to
occasion sickness, vomiting, and delirium. The remedy for this is copious
draughts of warm water.
=WORM SEED.= _Syn._ SEMEN CONTRA, SEMEN CINÆ, L. The broken peduncles,
mixed with the calyces and flower-buds, of several species of _Artemisia_
imported from the Levant.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr., in powder; as a
vermifuge. See SANTONIN.
=WORMS (Intes′tinal).= _Syn._ VERMES, INTESTINALIA (Cuvier), ENTOZOA
(Rudolphi), L. The principal parasites which are generated and nourished
in the human intestinal canal are the——_Ascaris lumbricoides_ (Gmelin), or
long round-worm, found in the small intestines, and which is generally of
the thickness of a goose-quill, and varies in length from 10 to 15
inches;——_Ascaris vermicularis_ (Gmelin), maw, or thread-worm, which is
thread-like in appearance, varies from 1-1/2 to 5 lines in length, and
confines itself chiefly to the rectum;——_Tricocephalus hominis_ (Gmelin),
or long thread-worm, varying from 1-1/4 to 2 inches in length, and found
chiefly in the cæcum;——_Tænia solium_ (Gmelin), or common tapeworm, having
a flattened riband-like appearance, varying in length from 3 or 4 to 15 or
20 feet, and occupying the small intestines;——_Bothriocephalus latus_, or
broad tapeworm, a variety seldom found in this country, but common in
Switzerland and the north of Europe; and, _Tænia mediocanellata_, another
large species, described by Küchenmeister.
_Causes._ A debilitated state of the digestive organs, improper food,
sedentary, habits, impure air, bad water, and, apparently, an occasional
hereditary tendency to worms.
_Symp._ Griping pains, especially about the navel; acid eructations; slimy
stools; occasional nausea and vomiting, without any manifest cause; heat
and itching about the anus; tenesmus;, emaciation; disturbed dreams;
grinding of the teeth during sleep; pallor of countenance; discoloration
round the eyes; feverishness; headache; vertigo, &c. In many cases these
symptoms are often highly aggravated, and mistaken for primary diseases.
The only absolutely positive evidence of the existence of worms is,
however, their being seen in the fæces.
_Treat._ In common cases, an occasional moderately strong dose of calomel
overnight, followed by a smart purgative the next morning, is an excellent
remedy, where the use of mercurials is not contra-indicated. Cowhage, made
into an electuary with honey or treacle, is also an excellent vermifuge.
Oil of turpentine is useful against nearly every variety of worms, and,
when taken in sufficient doses to reach the rectum, is almost specific in
ascarides (thread-worms). When this is inconvenient, an occasional enema
of oil of turpentine is even more effective. Enemas of aloes are also very
useful in such cases. Scammony, under the form of basilic powder, has long
been employed to expel worms in children. Aloes, castor-oil, worm-seed,
tin-filings, and sulphur, are likewise popular remedies. Cabbage-tree bark
is a powerful anthelmintic; but its use requires caution. Most of the
quack vermifuges contain either aloes or gamboge, or calomel and jalap.
The substances which have been most highly extolled for the destruction or
expulsion of tapeworm (tænia) are kousso, oil of turpentine, male fern,
pomegranate, and tin-filings. The first two are those on which the most
dependence may be placed. Madame Nouffer’s celebrated ‘Swiss remedy’ for
tapeworm, for which Louis XVI gave 18,000 francs, consisted of 2 or 3 dr.
of powdered male fern, taken in 1/4 pint of water, in the morning,
fasting, followed in 2 hours by a bolus made of calomel and scammony, of
each 10 gr.; gamboge, 6 or 7 gr. ‘Swain’s vermifuge’ is prepared from
worm-seed, 2 oz.; valerian, rhubarb, pink-root, and white agaric, of each
1-1/2 oz.; boiled in water, q. s. to yield 3 quarts of decoction, to which
30 drops of oil of tansy, and 45 drops of oil of cloves, dissolved in a
quart of rectified spirit, are added. All purgatives may be regarded as
vermifuges. Besides our efforts to destroy and expel the worms, the tone
of the primæ vitæ should be raised by the use of stomachics and tonics, by
which the tendency to their equivocal generation will be either removed or
lessened. See ASCARIS LUMBRICOIDES, DECOCTION, ENEMA, PILLS, PATENT
MEDICINES, VERMIFUGES, &c.; and also the several vermifuges under their
respective names.
_Obs._ Parasitic worms as existing in animals are so remarkably prevalent
and so widely diffused that probably no creature can be said to be secure
against their attack. Among domestic animals, sheep often suffer to a most
serious extent from these parasites, and more especially from the
nematoid, known as _Strongylus bronchialis_. In some years lambs are lost
by hundreds from the complications of disease which attend upon the
presence of these worms within the windpipe and the bronchial tubes. Their
existence is marked by great wasting of the body, hurried breathing, and
distressing cough. After a time diarrhœa sets in, which quickly carries
off the animal. It has been found that lambs fed on clover, and other
allied plants, which had been pastured the year previously with sheep,
suffer the most, and are far more likely to be affected than those which
are differently managed. Remedial measures too often prove ineffectual,
especially when structural disease of the lungs has followed as a
consequence. The exhibition of oil of turpentine in doses of about half an
ounce, mixed with an equal quantity of linseed oil, is sometimes found to
be beneficial; but it must be conjoined with a corn diet, the free use of
salt, and also sulphate of iron mixed with the manger food, tincture of
assafœtida, and the essential oil of savin, in small doses, are remedies
greatly extolled by some persons. The inhalation of diluted chlorine gas
or of sulphurous acid gas is often exceedingly beneficial; but remedies of
this kind ought always to be confided to the superintending care of the
veterinary surgeon.
=WORM TEA.= A preparation sold in the shops of the United States, and much
used, consisting, according to Brande, of spigelia or pink-root, savin,
senna, and manna.
=WORM′WOOD.= _Syn._ ABSINTHIUM (Ph. L. & E.), L. The flowering herb of
_Artemisia Absinthium_, a well-known plant, indigenous to this country,
and largely cultivated for medicinal purposes. It is a bitter tonic and
stomachic, and also anthelmintic.——_Dose_, 20 to 40 gr. of the dried herb,
either in powder or made into a tea or infusion; in dyspepsia, dropsy,
scurvy, sympathetic epilepsy, &c. See ABSINTHINE and ABSINTHIC ACID.
=WORT.= The technical name for the fermentable infusion of malted grain.
The strength of worts is ascertained by means of an instrument termed a
saccharometer. “Brewers, distillers, and the excise, sometimes denote by
the term ‘gravity’ the excess of weight of 1000 parts of a liquid by
volume above the weight of a like volume of distilled water, so that if
the specific gravity be 1045, 1070, 1090, &c., the gravity is said to be
45, 70, or 90; at others, they thereby denote the weight of saccharine
matter in a barrel (36 galls.) of wort; and again, they denote the excess
in weight of a barrel of wort over a barrel of water equal to 36 gallons,
or 360 lbs. This and the first statement are identical, only 1000 is the
standard in the first case, and 360 in the second.” (Ure.) The last is
that commonly adopted by the brewers.
According to Dr Ure, the solid dry extract of malt, or ‘saccharine,’ has
the specific gravity 1·264, and the specific volume ·7911; “that is, 10
lbs. of it will occupy the volume of 7·911 lbs. of water. The mean sp.
gr., by computation of a solution of that extract in its own weight of
water, is 1·116; but by experiment, the sp. gr. of that solution is 1·216,
showing considerable condensation of volume in the act of combination with
water.” The quantity of solid saccharine or sugar in a wort may be
determined in the manner mentioned under SYRUP.
“According to the compilers of the tables accompanying Field’s
alcoholometer, 1·8 lb. of saccharine is decomposed for the production of
1% of proof spirit; but according to our experiments, the proportion of
saccharine named is rather below the true equivalent.” (Cooley.)
The rapid cooling of worts is an important object with the brewer and
distiller. On the large scale, the old system in which shallow coolers are
employed, with all its numerous inconveniences and accidents, is now for
the most part abandoned, being supplanted by the method introduced by Mr
Yandall, nearly 40 years ago. This consists in the use of a
‘refrigerator,’ which is an apparatus so constructed that any hot liquid
may be cooled by about its own volume of cold water, in a very short space
of time. The principle is that of passing the two fluids through very
shallow and very long passages, in opposite directions, being essentially
that of a ‘Liebig’s condenser’ on a gigantic scale. The apparatus may
consist of zigzag passages, flattened tubes or convoluted curves, of any
convenient shape, so that they possess little capacity in one direction,
but great breadth and length. A refrigerator, having the passages for the
fluids 1/8 of an inch thick, is said to require a run of about 80 feet.
The success of this method is such as to leave nothing more to desire. See
BREWING, FERMENTATION, MALT, &c.
=WOUND.= _Syn._ VULNUS, L. A solution of continuity in any of the soft
parts of the body, arising from external violence.
Wounds are distinguished by surgeons into CONTUSED WOUNDS, INCISED W.,
LACERATED W., POISONED W., PUNCTURED W., &c.; terms which explain
themselves. Sword-cuts are incised wounds; gun-shot wounds, lacerated and
contused ones. Slight wounds, and, indeed, all those not demanding
material surgical assistance, after dirt and foreign substances have been
removed, may be treated in the manner noticed under CUTS and ABRASIONS.
=WOUND BAL′SAM.= See TINCTURE OF BENZOIN.
=WRIT′′ING=, executed in the ordinary tanno-gallic ink, and which has been
rendered illegible by age, may be restored by carefully moistening it, by
means of a feather, with an infusion of galls, or a solution of
ferrocyanide of potassium slightly acidulated with hydrochloric acid,
observing to apply the liquid so as to prevent the ink spreading.
=WRITING FLU′IDS.= A term commonly applied, of late years, to easy flowing
inks, adapted for metallic pens; in contradistinction to the old
tanno-gallic compounds at one time exclusively employed for writing.
_Prep._ 1. Dissolve pure basic or soluble Prussian blue in pure distilled
water, and dilute the resulting solution with pure water until the desired
shade of colour is obtained. Very permanent and beautiful. It is not
affected by the addition of alcohol, but is immediately precipitated by
saline matter. The precipitate, however, still possesses the property of
dissolving in pure water.
2. From the soluble ferrocyanide of potassium and iron, dissolved in pure
water. Resembles the last, but it is precipitated from its solution by
alcohol.
3. Powdered Prussian blue, 1 oz.; concentrated hydrochloric acid, 1-1/2
fl. oz.; mix in a matrass or glass bottle, and, after 22 or 30 hours,
dilute the mass with a sufficient quantity of water.
4. Dissolve sulphindylate of potassa or ammonia in hot water, and, when
cold, decant the clear portion. It is an intense blue, and dries nearly
black; is perfectly incorrosive, and very permanent and easy flowing.
5. (Horning.) Perchloride of iron, 4 parts; water, 750 parts; dissolve,
add of cyanide of potassium, 4 parts, dissolved in a little water; collect
the precipitate, wash it with several effusions of pure water, allow it to
drain until it weighs about 200 parts, then add of oxalic acid, 1 part;
and promote solution by agitating the bottle or vessel containing it.
6. (Mohr.) Pure Prussian blue, 6 parts; oxalic acid, 1 part; triturate
with a little water to a perfectly smooth paste, then dilute the mass
with a proper quantity of soft water. The product resembles Stephen’s
‘patent blue ink.’
7. (Rev. J. B. Reade——patented.)——_a._ A solution of his patent soluble
Prussian blue in distilled water. Blue.
_b._ Prepared by adding to good gall ink a strong solution of his soluble
Prussian blue. This addition “makes the ink, which was previously proof
against alkalies, equally proof against acids, and forms a writing fluid
which cannot be erased from paper by any common method of fraudulent
obliteration without the destruction of the paper.” This ink writes
greenish blue, but afterwards turns intensely black. Stephen’s ‘patent
ink,’ which does the same, is a similar compound.
8. (Prof. Runge——CHROMIC INK.) Logwood, in fine chips, 1/4 lb.; boiling
water, 3 pints; digest for 12 hours, then simmer the liquid down gently to
1 quart, carefully observing to avoid dust, grease, and smoke; when cold,
decant the decoction, and add to it of yellow chromate of potash, 20 gr.;
dissolve by agitation, after which it will be fit for use. Cheap and good.
It resists the action of all ordinary destructive agents better than the
tanno-gallic inks; it may be washed after use with a wet sponge, or
steeped for twenty-four hours in water, or even tested with dilute acids,
and yet preserve its original blackness. It is perfectly liquid, it
scarcely thickens by age, and neither deposits a sediment nor corrodes
steel pens.
9. (Ure.) From vanadate of ammonia decomposed with infusion of galls. It
is of a perfectly black hue, flows freely from the pen, is rendered blue
by acids, is unaffected by dilute alkaline solutions, and resists the
action of chlorine.
_Obs._ The preceding formulæ, under proper management, produce excellent
products, all of which are extremely mobile, and most of them of a more or
less beautiful colour. The blue ones, when concentrated, dry of a blue
black, whilst two or three of the others, though at first pale, rapidly
pass into a deep black, when exposed to the air. Care must be taken in all
cases that the ingredients be pure. The Prussian blue, except when
directly prepared for the purpose, should be washed in dilute hydrochloric
acid before attempting its solution by means of oxalic acid. Unless these
precautions are attended to, success is unlikely. A little gum may be
added, if required, to prevent the fluid spreading on the paper; but in
most cases the addition is no improvement. Most of the blue fluids may be
used as ‘indelible ink’ to mark linen, and will be found very permanent,
provided the part be first moistened with alum water, and dried.
=XYLOID′IN.= When starch is immersed in concentrated nitric acid (sp. gr.
1·45 to 1·50), it is converted, without disengagement of gas, into a
colourless, tremulous jelly, which, when treated with an excess of water,
yields a white, curdy, insoluble substance, which after being edulcorated
with pure water, until every trace of acid is removed, is xyloidin. Paper,
sugar, gum, mannite, and several other substances, treated in the same
manner, become in great part changed to xyloidin or analogous compounds.
_Obs._ Pure xyloidin differs but slightly from pyroxylin, or pure
gun-cotton.
=XYL′OL.= A hydrocarbon, homologous to benzol, found in wood-tar and
coal-gas naphtha.
=YAWS.= _Syn._ FRAMBŒSIA, L. A peculiar disease of the skin, common in the
Antilles and some parts of Africa. It is characterised by mulberry-like
excrescences, which discharge a watery humour. The treatment chiefly
consists in alleviating urgent symptoms (if any), and the adoption of a
temperate diet and regimen, until the eruptions, having run their course,
begin to dry, when tonics and alteratives, as cinchona bark, quinine, and
sarsaparilla, with occasional small doses of mercurials, generally prove
advantageous. The master (or principal) yaw, which frequently remains
troublesome after the others have disappeared, may be dressed with the
ointment of red oxide of mercury, or of nitrate of mercury, diluted with
an equal weight of lard.
The yaws is not a dangerous, although a very disgusting, disease. It is
contagious by contact, and, like the smallpox, only occurs once during
life.
=YEAST.= _Syn._ BARM, FERMENT, ZUMINE; FERMENTUM, L. Yeast, which consists
almost entirely of minute vegetable cells, termed _Torula cerevisiæ_, is
either the froth or the deposit of fermenting worts, according to the
character of the fermentation.
The top yeast, or superficial ferment, which covers the surface of
fermenting worts, is called ‘_oberhefe_’ by the Germans; and the bottom
yeast, or the ferment of deposit, is termed ‘_unterhefe_,’ The first is
the common yeast of the English brewer; the other, that used in Bavaria
for the fermentation of worts from below (untergärung). Both varieties
yield their own kind under proper conditions. Wort fermented with top
yeast, at from 46° to 50° Fahr., yield both varieties, and each of these
furnishes its own kind, nearly pure, by a second fermentation. See
BREWING, FERMENTATION, &c.
_Pres._ 1. Ordinary beer yeast may be kept fresh and fit for use for
several months, by placing it in a close canvas bag, and gently and
gradually squeezing out the moisture in a screw press until the remaining
matter acquires the consistence of clay or soft cheese, in which state it
must be preserved in close vessels, or wrapped in waxed cloth. This is the
method generally adopted for the best Flanders and German yeast.
2. Whisk the yeast until it forms a uniform liquid mass, and then lay it
with a clean and soft painter’s brush evenly and thinly on flat dishes, or
any convenient surface, on which it can be exposed to the sun or air; this
operation must be repeated as soon as the first coat is sufficiently
solid, and so on, until the layers acquire a proper thickness, when it
must be detached and preserved as before. If rendered quite dry, its power
of exciting fermentation will be destroyed.
3. By employing strips of clean new flannel (well washed), as above, and,
when sufficiently dry, rolling these up, and covering them with waxed
cloth or paper, or placing them in tin canisters or boxes. For use, a few
inches of one of the strips is cut off, and soaked in lukewarm water, when
the barm leaves the flannel, and mixes with the water, which may then be
stirred up with the flour.
=Yeast, Artifi′′cial.= “Although the conversion of a small into a large
quantity of yeast is a very easy thing, yet to produce that substance from
the beginning is very difficult.” (Berzelius.) Both cases are met in the
formulæ below.
_Prep._ 1. (_Without a ferment._)——_a._ (Fownes.) Wheat flour is to be
mixed with water into a thick paste, which is to be slightly covered, in a
moderately warm place; about the third day it begins to emit a little gas,
and to exhale a disagreeable sour odour; about the sixth or seventh day
the smell changes, much gas is evolved, accompanied by a distinct and
agreeable vinous odour, and it is then in a state to excite either to
vinous or panary fermentation, and may be either at once employed for that
purpose or formed into small and very thin cakes, dried in the air and
preserved for future use. Wort fermented with it in the ordinary way
yields a large quantity of yeast, of excellent quality, which is found at
the bottom of the vessel. “This is a revival of a method which, although
Mr Fownes seems to regard it as new, is to be found in the ‘Chemistry’ of
Boerhaave” (‘Lancet.’) It is, indeed, a mere modification of the mode of
preparing leaven, as practised from the most remote ages of antiquity; but
is not the less valuable on that account.
2. (_With a ferment._)——_a._ Take of bean flour, 1/4 lb.; water, 6 quarts;
boil for 1/2 an hour, pour the decoction into any suitable vessel, add of
wheat flour, 3-1/2 lbs.; stir the whole well together, and, when the
temperature reaches 55° Fahr., add of beer yeast, 2 quarts; mix well, and
in 24 hours after the commencement of the fermentation add of barley or
bean flour, 7 lbs.; make a uniform dough by thorough kneading, form it
into small cakes, as above, and then preserve these in a dry situation.
For use, one of these discs is to be broken into pieces, laid in tepid
water, and set in a warm place during 12 hours, when the soft mass will
serve the purpose of beer yeast.
_b._ (PATENT YEAST.) Take of hops, 6 oz.; water, 3 galls.; simmer for 3
hours, strain, and in 10 minutes stir in of ground malt, 1/2 peck; next
reboil the hops in water, as before, and let the strained liquor run into
the first mash, which must then be well stirred up, covered over, and left
for 4 hours; after that time drain off the wort, and, when the temperature
has fallen to 90° Fahr., set it to work with yeast (preferably patent), 1
pint; after standing for 20 to 24 hours in a warm place, take off the
scum, strain it through a coarse hair sieve, and it will be fit for use. 1
pint is said to be enough for 1 bushel of bread.
_Obs._ The preparation of artificial yeast, and substitutes for yeast, has
long engaged the attention of both the scientific chemist and the
practical tradesman. The subject is, undoubtedly, of great importance to
emigrants and voyagers. The above processes, by good management, yield
products which are all that can be desired.
=YEL′LOW DYES.= The following substances impart a yellow to goods, either
at once or after they have been mordanted with alumina or tin:——annotta,
barberry root, dyer’s broom, French berries, fustic, fustet, quercitron
bark, and turmeric. Goods mordanted with acetate of lead, and afterwards
passed through a bath of chromate of potash, acquire a brilliant
chrome-yellow colour;——solution of sulphate or acetate of iron, followed
by immersion in potash or lime water, gives a buff or orange;——orpiment,
dissolved in ammonia water, imparts a golden yellow. (See the above-named
substances, in their alphabetical places.) An aniline yellow
(chrysaniline) has recently been obtained by Mr Nicholson, which is said
to be a most valuable dye-stuff, comparable, indeed, with the aniline reds
and purples.
=YELLOW FE′′VER.= The bilious remittent fever of hot climates. It is very
common in the West Indies and the Southern States of America. New Orleans
has been several times nearly depopulated by it.
=YELLOW PIG′MENTS.= Of these the principal are——
=Brown Pink.= _Prep._ Take of French berries and pearlash, of each 1 lb.;
fustic chips, 1/2 lb.; water, 2 galls.; boil in a tin or pewter vessel,
and strain the decoction through flannel whilst hot; then dissolve alum,
1-1/2 lb. in hot water, 2-1/2 galls.; add the solution to the strained
decoction as long as a precipitate falls, which must afterwards be washed,
drained, and dried. Some manufacturers omit the fustic. A good glazing
colour, when ground in linseed, and used with drying oil.
=Yellow, Chrome.= _Syn._ CHROMATE OF LEAD, YELLOW C. OF L.; PLUMBI
CHROMAS, PLUMBI CHROMAS FLAVUM, L. The preparation of the pure salt is
noticed under CHROMIUM and LEAD; that of the commercial pigment is as
follows:
1. Add a filtered solution of nitrate or acetate of lead to a like
solution of neutral chromate of potash as long as a precipitate falls;
then collect this, wash it well with clean soft water, and dry it out of
the reach of sulphuretted vapours.
2. To the lye of chromate of potash, prepared by roasting the chrome ore
with nitre, and lixiviation with water, add a solution of acetate of lead,
and otherwise proceed as before.
3. Dissolve acetate of lead in warm water, and add of sulphuric acid,
q. s. to convert it into sulphate of lead; decant the clear liquid
(vinegar), wash the residuum with soft water, and digest it, with
agitation, in a hot solution of neutral (yellow) chromate of potash,
containing 1 part of that salt to every three parts of sulphate of lead
operated on; afterwards decant the liquid, which is a solution of sulphate
of potash, and carefully drain, wash, and dry the newly formed pigment.
The product contains much sulphate of lead, but covers as well, and has as
good a colour, as pure chromate of lead, whilst it is much cheaper. The
shade may be varied by increasing or lessening the quantity of the
chromate.[273]
[Footnote 273: Armengaud’s ‘Génie Industriel,’ April, 1853.]
_Obs._ Four shades of this beautiful pigment are met with in the shops,
viz. pale yellow or straw colour, yellow, deep yellow, and orange. The
former are made by adding a little alum or sulphuric acid to the solution
of the chromate before mixing it with the solution of lead; the last, by
the addition of a little subacetate of lead (tribasic acetate), or by
washing the precipitate with a weak alkaline lye. The darker colour
appears to arise from a little ‘dichromate’ being thrown down intimately
mixed with the neutral chromate, and the paler shades from a slight excess
of acid, or from the presence of water-sulphate of lead, and,
occasionally, alumina. The colour is also influenced by the temperature of
the solutions at the time of admixture. Anthon has found that, when hot
solutions of equal equivalents of acetate of lead (190 parts) and chromate
of potash (100 parts, both neutral and in crystals) are mixed, the yellow
precipitate, when dried, is anhydrous; but when the mixture is made at
ordinary temperatures, the precipitate has a paler yellow, and when dried
contains 1 eq., or nearly 5-1/4% of water. (‘Buch. Rept.’) It thus appears
that the shades of colour of chrome yellow may be varied, without any
foreign addition. In practice, the third formula will be found very
satisfactory. See ORANGE CHROME and CHROME RED.
=Dutch Pink.= _Prep._ Take of French berries, 1 lb.; turmeric, 1/2 lb.;
alum, 1/2 lb.; water, 1-1/2 gall.; boil 1/2 an hour, strain, evaporate to
2 quarts, adding of whiting, 3 lbs., and dry by a gentle heat. Starch, or
white lead, is sometimes employed instead of whiting, to give it a body.
Golden yellow. Used as a pigment; but will not glaze like brown pink.
=English Pink.= _Syn._ LIGHT PINK. As the last, but using 5 lbs. of
whiting.
=Indian Yellow.= See PURREE.
=King’s Yellow.= Factitious tersulphuret of arsenic.
=Naples Yellow.= _Syn._ MINERAL YELLOW. _Prep._ 1. Take of metallic
antimony, in powder, 3 lbs.; red lead, 2 lbs.; oxide of zinc, 1 lb.; mix,
calcine, well triturate the calx, and fuse it in a covered crucible; the
fused mass must be reduced to an impalpable powder by grinding and
elutriation.
2. Flake white, 1-1/2 lb.; diaphoretic antimony, 1/4 lb.; calcined alum, 1
oz.; sal ammoniac, 2 oz.; calcine in a covered crucible with a moderate
heat for 3 hours, so that at the end it may be barely red hot. More
antimony and sal ammoniac turn it on the gold colour.
3. (Guimel.) Washed diaphoretic antimony, 1 part; pure red lead, 2 parts;
grind them to a paste with water, and expose this mixture to a moderate
red heat for 4 or 5 hours, as before. Used in oil, porcelain, and enamel
painting. Chrome has now nearly superseded it for ordinary purposes.
=Patent Yellow.= _Syn._ CASSEL YELLOW, MONTPELLIER Y., TURNER’S Y. _Prep._
Take of dry chloride of lead, 28 parts; pure carbonate of lead, 27 parts;
grind them together, fuse, and powder.
2. Common salt, 1 part, and litharge, 4 parts, are ground together with
water, and digested at a gentle heat for some time, water being added to
supply the loss by evaporation; the carbonate of soda formed is then
washed out with more water, and the white residuum heated until it
acquires a fine yellow colour. Works well in oil. Chiefly used in
coach-painting. See OXYCHLORIDE OF LEAD.
=Weld Yellow.= Prepared from a decoction of weld brightened with a little
alum, in the same manner as Dutch pink. Used chiefly for paper hangings.
=YTTRIUM. Y.= The oxide of this metal (yttria), a rare, white earth, was
discovered by Gadolin, in 1794, in a mineral from Ytterby, in Sweden,
since called gadolinite. Yttrium was obtained by Wöhler in 1828, as a
brittle, dark-grey metal, made from the chloride by the action of sodium.
Its salts have in general a sweetish taste, and the sulphate and several
others an amethystine colour. Its solutions are precipitated by pure
alkalies, but alkaline carbonates, especially carbonate of ammonium,
dissolve it in the cold. They are distinguished from glucinium salts by
the colour of the sulphate by being insoluble in pure alkalies, and by
yielding a white precipitate with ferrocyanide of potassium. Yttria may be
obtained from gadolinite by a similar process to that by which glucina is
extracted from the beryl.
According to Professor Mosander, ordinary yttria is a mixture of the
oxides of not less than three metals——yttrium, erbium, and terbium. These
metals differ from each other in many important particulars. The first is
a powerful base, and the others are said to be weak ones. They are
separated with extreme difficulty, and are only interesting in a
scientific point of view.
=ZAF′FRE.= _Syn._ SAFFRA, SAFFLOR, ZAFFER. Crude oxide of cobalt, obtained
by roasting cobalt ore, reduced to an impalpable powder, and then ground
with 2 or 3 parts of very pure quartzose or siliceous sand. Used as a blue
colour by enamellers and painters on porcelain and glass. Chiefly imported
from Saxony. See SMALTS.
=ZE′′RO.= See THERMOMETER.
=ZESTS.= See POWDERS, SAUCE, SPICE, &c.
=ZINC.= Zn. _Syn._ ZINK, SPELTER; ZINCUM. (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. This
metal was first noticed by Paracelsus, in the 16th century, who called it
‘zinetum,’ but its ores must have been known at a much earlier period, as
the ancients were acquainted with the manufacture of brass.
_Prep._ The zinc of commerce is obtained from the native sulphide (zinc
blende), or carbonate (calamine), by roasting those ores, and distilling
the calx with carbonaceous matter in a covered earthen crucible, having
its bottom connected with an iron tube, which terminates over a vessel of
water situated beneath the furnace. The first portion that passes over
contains cadmium and arsenic, and is indicated by what is technically
called ‘brown blaze,’ but when the metallic vapour begins to burn with a
bluish-white flame, or the ‘blue blaze’ commences, the volatilised metal
is collected.
The following method, by which several pounds of chemically pure zinc may
be obtained in about 1/4 of an hour, will be found very useful:——Melt the
zinc of commerce in a common crucible, and granulate it by throwing it
into a tolerably deep vessel of water, taking care that the metal be very
hot at the time; dry the metallic grains, and dispose them by layers in a
Hessian crucible with 1/4 of their weight of nitrate of potassium, using
the precaution to place a slight excess at the top and at the bottom;
cover the crucible, and secure the lid, then apply heat; after the vivid
deflagration which occurs is over, remove the crucible from the fire,
separate the dross with a tube, and, lastly, run the zinc into an ingot
mould. This zinc, tested in Marsh’s apparatus during entire days, has
never given any stain, and in solution the most sensitive reagents, such
as hydro-sulphocyanic acid, have never indicated the least atom of iron.
(‘Journ. de Pharm.’)
_Prop._ Zinc is a bluish-white metal, having the sp. gr. 6·8 to 7·2; tough
(under some circumstances, brittle) when cold, ductile and malleable at
from 250° to 300° Fahr.; brittle and easily pulverised at 400°; fuses at
773° (Daniell); at a white heat it boils, and sublimes unchanged in close
vessels; heated to whiteness (941° Daniell) in contact with the air, it
burns with a brilliant green light, and is converted into oxide. It is
very soluble in dilute sulphuric and hydrochloric acid, with the evolution
of hydrogen gas. It is little acted on by the air, even when moist. The
salts of zinc are colourless.
_Pur._ Commercial zinc is never pure. Its specific gravity is 6·86. It is
soluble in nitric, hydrochloric, and dilute sulphuric acids.
_Tests._ 1. The solutions of zinc give a gelatinous white precipitate with
the alkalies and carbonate of ammonium, which is completely redissolved by
an excess of the precipitant.——2. The carbonates of potassium and sodium
give a white precipitate of carbonate of zinc. All the above precipitates
acquire a lemon-yellow colour when dried and heated, but again become
white on cooling.——3. Sulphide of ammonium gives, in neutral solutions, a
white precipitate, insoluble in excess of the precipitant, or in solutions
of hydrate of potassium or ammonium, but freely soluble in the dilute
mineral acids.——4. Sulphuretted hydrogen, in neutral and alkaline
solutions, also gives a like white precipitate.——5. Ferrocyanide of
potassium gives a gelatinous white precipitate.
_Estim., &c._——_a._ 100 gr. are digested in dilute hydrochloric acid in
excess, and the insoluble portion, which is chiefly carbon, dried and
weighed.
_b._ The acidulous solution (see _a_) is next treated with a current of
sulphuretted hydrogen until it smells very strongly of that gas; the whole
is then left for some time in a warm situation. The precipitate which
subsides consists of the sulphides of arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, &c.,
if any of these metals were present in the sample.
_c._ The filtrate from _b_, after being boiled, is treated with a little
nitric acid, after which it is again boiled, and, when cold, is
precipitated with carbonate of barium added in excess; the precipitate
(ferric hydrate) is then collected, dried, ignited, and weighed. The
weight, in grains, multiplied by ·7, gives the percentage of iron in the
sample examined.
_d_. The filtrate from _c_ is next precipitated with dilute sulphuric
acid, and solution of carbonate of sodium is added in excess to the
filtered liquid; the whole is then boiled, after which the new precipitate
is washed, dried, gently ignited for some time, and then cooled and
weighed. The weight, in grains, multiplied by ·80247, gives the percentage
of pure zinc in the sample.
_Uses, &c._——Zinc is used to form galvanic plates; in fireworks, and in
medicine. Of late years it has also been extensively used in the
manufacture of vessels of capacity, tubing, sheets for roofing, and other
things that require lightness and durability.
=Zinc, Amalgamated=, which is employed for voltaic batteries, is prepared
as follows:——The plates, having been scoured with emery, are immersed for
a few seconds in dilute sulphuric acid, then rinsed in clean soft water,
and, after the loose water has drained from their surface, dipped into a
strong solution of either mercuric nitrate or chloride, or into equal
parts of a mixture of saturated solutions of mercuric chloride and acetate
of lead; the plates are, lastly, dipped into water, and then rubbed with a
soft cloth. Another and simpler method is to rub mercury over the plates
while wet with dilute sulphuric acid.
=Zinc, Granulated.= _Syn._ ZINCUM GRANULATUM (B. P.). Fuse commercial zinc
in a crucible, pour it in a very thin stream into a bucket of cold water,
and afterwards dry the zinc.
=Zinc, Ac′etate of.= Zn(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ ZINCI ACETAS, L.
_Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.) Acetate of lead, 1 lb., is dissolved in distilled
water, 2-1/2 pints, and the solution being placed in a cylindrical jar,
sheet zinc, 4 oz., rolled into a coil, is immersed therein; after 24 hours
the liquid is decanted, evaporated to 15 oz., and solution of hypochlorite
of calcium added drop by drop, until a reddish precipitate ceases to form;
the liquid is then filtered, acidulated by the addition of a few drops of
acetic acid, reduced by evaporation to 10 fl. oz., and set aside to
crystallise; the crystals are dried on bibulous paper set on a porous
brick, and then preserved in a well-stopped bottle. More crystals may be
obtained from the mother-liquor.
2. (B. P.) Add 2 oz. of carbonate of zinc in successive portions to 3 fl.
oz. of acetic acid, previously mixed with 6 fl. oz. of distilled water, in
a flask; heat gently, add by degrees 2 fl. oz. of acid, or q. s., till the
carbonate is dissolved; boil for a few minutes, filter while hot, and set
it aside for two days to crystallise. Decant the mother liquor, evaporate
to one half, and again set it aside for two days to crystallise. Place the
crystals in a funnel to drain, then spread them on filtering paper on a
porous tile; and dry them by exposure to the air at ordinary temperatures.
_Prop., &c._ Efflorescent, white, hexagonal plates, having a powerful
styptic taste; very soluble in water; less soluble in alcohol; decomposed
by heat. It is tonic, antispasmodic, and emetic.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 gr.; as
an emetic, 10 to 20 gr.; externally, 2 or 3 gr. to water, 1 fl. oz., as an
astringent lotion or injection.
=Zinc, Bro′mide of.= ZnBr_{2}. _Syn._ ZINCI BROMIDUM, L. Prepared like the
corresponding salt of iron.
=Zinc, Car′bonate of.= ZnCO_{3}. _Syn._ ZINCI CARBONAS PURUM, ZINCI
CARBONAS (B. P., Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. D.) Solution of chloride of
zinc (Ph. D.), 1 pint is added, in successive portions, to a solution of
crystallised carbonate of sodium of commerce, 2 lbs., dissolved in boiling
distilled water, 6 pints, and the whole is boiled until gas ceases to be
evolved; the precipitate is then washed, and dried, at first on
blotting-paper, and, finally, by a steam or water heat.
2. (B. P.) Dissolve 10-1/2 oz. carbonate of soda with 1 pint of boiling
water in a capacious porcelain vessel, and pour into it 10 oz. of sulphate
of zinc, also dissolved in 1 pint of water, stirring diligently. Boil for
15 minutes after effervescence has ceased, and let the precipitate
subside. Decant the supernatant liquor, pour on the precipitate 3 pints of
boiling distilled water, agitating briskly; let the precipitate again
subside, and repeat the process of affusion of hot distilled water and
subsidence till the washings are no longer precipitated by chloride of
barium. Collect the precipitate on calico, let it drain, and dry it with a
gentle heat.
=Zinc, Chlo′′ride of.= ZnCl_{2}. _Syn._ BUTTER OF ZINC, MURIATE OF Z.†;
ZINCI CHLORIDUM (B. P., Ph. L.), Z. MURIAS†, L. _Prep._ 1. By heating
metallic zinc in chlorine.
2. (Ph. L.) Hydrochloric acid, 1 pint; water, 1 quart; and zinc (in small
pieces), 7 oz.; when the effervescence is nearly finished, apply heat
until bubbles cease to be evolved; decant the clear, and evaporate to
dryness; fuse the resulting mass in a lightly covered crucible, by a red
heat, pour it out on a flat smooth stone, and, when cold, break it into
small pieces, or cast it into rods in iron moulds, and preserve it in a
well-stoppered bottle.
3. (B. P.) Put 16 oz. of granulated zinc into a porcelain basin, add by
degrees 44 fl. oz. of hydrochloric acid previously mixed with 1 pint of
distilled water, and aid the action by gently warming it on a sand-bath,
until gas is no longer evolved. Boil for half an hour, supplying the water
lost by evaporation, and allow it to stand on the cool part of the
sand-bath for 24 hours, stirring frequently. Filter the product into a
gallon bottle, and pour in solution of chlorine q. s. by degrees, with
frequent agitation, until the fluid acquires a permanent odour of
chlorine. Add 1/2 oz. or a sufficient quantity of carbonate of zinc, in
small quantities at a time, and with renewed agitation, until a brown
sediment appears. Filter through paper into a porcelain basin, and
evaporate until a portion of the liquid, withdrawn on the end of a glass
rod and cooled, forms an opaque white solid. Pour it out now into proper
moulds, and when the salt has solidified, but before it has cooled, place
it in closely-stoppered bottles.
4. (In SOLUTION).——_a._ (LIQUOR ZINCI CHLORIDI——Ph. D.) Hydrochloric acid
and water, of each 2-1/2 pints; sheet zinc, 1 lb.; dissolve, filter
through calico, add of hypochlorite of calcium, 1 fl. oz., and evaporate,
by boiling, to a pint; when cold, pour it into a bottle, add of prepared
chalk, 1 oz., and water, q. s. to make the whole measure 1 quart; agitate
occasionally for 24 hours, decant or filter, and preserve the liquid in a
stoppered bottle. Sp. gr. 1·593. See SOLUTIONS.
_b._ (E. Parrish.) Granulated zinc, 4 lbs.; hydrochloric acid, 4 lbs., or
q. s.; water, 9 quarts; dissolve, avoiding excess of acid. The solution
contains 1 in 12 of chloride of zinc. Recommended as of the proper
strength for a disinfectant.
_Prop., &c._ When pure, a colourless, amorphous mass or crystals;
generally a whitish-gray, semi-transparent mass, having the consistence of
wax; fusible; volatile at strong heat, condensing in acicular crystals;
freely soluble in alcohol, ether, and water; highly deliquescent;
coagulates albumen and gelatin, and corrodes animal substances. The
solution possesses the same properties in a minor degree.
_Pur._ From the aqueous solution, hydrosulphuric acid or ferrocyanide of
potassium being dropped in, a precipitate is thrown down. What is thrown
down by ammonia or hydrate of potassium from the same solution is white,
and is redissolved by either precipitant in excess. The precipitate thrown
down by the carbonate of either ammonium or potassium is (also) white, but
is not redissolved when these are added in excess.
_Uses, &c._ Dry chloride of zinc is chiefly used as a caustic, for which
it is highly recommended by Voght, Canquoin, and others. It is more
powerful than chloride of antimony, and its action extends deeper than
does nitrate of silver, whilst it exercises an influence over the vital
actions of neighbouring parts. The sore is generally healthy after the
separation of the eschar, and no constitutional disorder ensues. It has
been given in scrofula, epilepsy, chorea, &c.; and, combined with
hydrocyanic acid, in facial neuralgia.——_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 2 gr.;
externally, as a lotion, 2 to 3 gr. to water, 1 oz. In large doses it is
poisonous.
The solution is also used as a caustic, but chiefly as a disinfectant and
deodorizer, _e.g._ as Sir Wm. Burnett’s Fluid and Professor Tuson’s
‘Sporokton,’ of which it is one of the very best, possessing, as it does,
the power of rapidly decomposing sulphide of ammonium and of rendering
inert the virus of infectious diseases.
=Zinc, Cy′anide of.= ZnCy_{2}. _Syn._ CYANURET OF ZINC; ZINCI CYANIDUM,
ZINCI CYANURETUM, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) Add a solution of cyanide of
potassium to another of pure sulphate of zinc; wash, and dry the
precipitate.——_Dose_, 1/8 to 1 gr., twice a day; in epilepsy, hysteria,
and other nervous affections, heartburn, worms, &c.; and as a substitute
for hydro-cyanic acid.
=Zinc, Ferrocy′anide of.= Zn_{2}FeCy_{6}. _Syn._ ZINCI FERROCYANIDUM, L.
_Prep._ By adding a hot solution of ferrocyanide of potassium to a hot and
strong solution of pure sulphate of zinc, and washing, and drying the
precipitate. White.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 gr.; in the same cases as the last.
=Zinc, I′odide of.= ZnI_{2}. _Syn._ HYDRIODATE OF ZINC†; ZINCI IODIDUM,
ZINCI HYDRIODAS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Duflos.) Iodine, 2 parts; granulated zinc,
1 part; water, 4 parts; proceed as for ferrous iodide, only employing a
glass or porcelain vessel.
2. (Magendie.) Iodine, 17 parts; zinc (in powder), 20 parts; mix, and
sublime in a matrass.
_Prop., &c._ Deliquescent. Chiefly used externally; 15 gr. to water, 6 fl.
oz., as a collyrium in scrofulous inflammation of the eye (Poulet); 1 dr.
to lard, 1 oz., as a powerful resolvent in scrofulous and other glandular
swellings, rubbed on the part twice a day. (Ure.)
=Zinc, Lac′tate of.= Zn(C_{3}H_{5}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ ZINCI LACTAS, L.
Prepared from zinc in the same way as ferrous lactate is from iron.
=Zinc, Ox′ide of.= _Syn._ PROTOXIDE OF ZINC; ZINCI OXYDUM (B. P., Ph. L.,
E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Sulphate of zinc (pure), 1 lb.;
carbonate of ammonium, 6-1/2 oz.; dissolve each separately in 6 quarts of
water, filter, mix the solutions, well wash the precipitate with water,
and calcine it for 2 hours in a strong fire. The Ph. E. is nearly similar.
2. (Ph. D., B. P.) Place carbonate of zinc in a covered clay crucible, and
expose it to a very low red heat, until a portion taken from the centre of
the mass ceases to effervesce on being dropped into dilute sulphuric acid.
_Prop., &c._ A white, tasteless powder; insoluble in water; freely soluble
in acids, the solution yielding colourless and easily crystallisable
salts; strongly basic.
_Uses, &c._ It is tonic and antispasmodic, and has been advantageously
used in chorea, epilepsy, and other nervous and spasmodic
affections.——_Dose_, 1 to 6 gr., twice a day. It is also used as a dusting
powder, and to make an ointment. It has been proposed as a substitute for
white lead in painting, than which it covers better, but dries slower, and
hence requires the addition of dried white vitriol. This oxide is the only
compound which zinc forms with oxygen.
=Zinc, Phosphide.= Fragments of pure distilled zinc are introduced into a
tubulated stoneware retort, so as to occupy about one fourth of its
capacity; the retort is placed in an ordinary furnace, and a current of
dry carbonic acid is passed into it through the neck. Over the tubulure is
placed a crucible cover, so as to close the orifice incompletely, and
allow the carbonic acid, after traversing the retort, to escape. When the
zinc enters into ebullition, small fragments of previously-dried
phosphorus are successively thrown in through the tubulure. The cover is
removed and returned after each addition to prevent loss of phosphorus.
From time to time it is necessary to break the crust of phosphorus formed,
in order to expose a new layer of metal to the action of the phosphorus.
The operation is terminated by increasing the heat strongly——a precaution
that is indispensable, in order to separate as completely as possible the
zinc phosphide from the metallic button of nearly pure zinc, which
collects at the bottom of the retort. Further, the zinc phosphide should
be reduced to very fine powder, and the fragments which resist the action
of the metal, however slightly, should be reserved for another operation.
The product pulverises the more readily in proportion as it approaches
more closely the formula P_{2}Zn_{3}. In this state it resembles iron
reduced by hydrogen, and only thus should it be used by pharmaceutists. It
is completely soluble in hydrochloric acid.[274]
[Footnote 274: From ‘Formulæ for New Medicaments,’ adopted by the Paris
Pharmaceutical Society.]
=Zinc, Sulphate of.= ZnSO_{4}. _Syn._ WHITE COPPERAS*; WHITE VITRIOL*;
ZINCI SULPHUS (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Granulated
zinc, 5 oz.; diluted sulphuric acid, 1 quart; dissolve, filter. Evaporate
to a pellicle, and set it aside to crystallise.
2. (Ph. D.) Zinc (laminated or granulated), 4 oz.; sulphuric acid, 3 fl.
oz.; water, 1 pint; mix in a porcelain capsule, and, when gas ceases to be
evolved, boil for 10 minutes, filter through calico, and evaporate the
filtrate to dryness; dissolve the dry salt in water, 1 pint; frequently
agitate the solution, when cold, during 6 hours, with prepared chalk, 1/4
oz.; next filter, acidulate the filtrate with nitric acid and dilute
sulphuric acid, of each 1 fl. dr.; evaporate until a pellicle forms on the
surface, and set it aside to crystallise; dry the crystals on bibulous
paper, without heat, and preserve them in a bottle. More crystals may be
obtained from the mother-liquor.
3. (B. P.) Pour 12 fl. oz. of sulphuric acid, previously mixed with 4
pints of distilled water, on 16 oz. of granulated zinc contained in a
porcelain basin, and when effervescence has nearly ceased, aid the action
by a gentle heat. Filter the fluid into a gallon bottle, and add,
gradually, with constant agitation, solution of chlorine until the fluid
acquires a permanent odour of chlorine. Add now, with continued agitation,
1/2 oz. or q. s. of carbonate of zinc, until a brown precipitate appears;
let it settle, filter the solution, evaporate till a pellicle forms on the
surface, and set aside to crystallise. Dry the crystals by exposure to air
on filtering paper placed on porous tiles. More crystals may be obtained
by again evaporating the mother-liquor.
4. The common sulphate of zinc of commerce frequently contains copper,
cadmium, lead, iron, and manganese, and nearly always one or more of them.
By digesting its concentrated solution for some time with metallic zinc,
it may be freed from copper, lead, and cadmium, for these metals are all
reduced and precipitated in a metallic state; or, the acidulated solution
may be treated with sulphuretted hydrogen as long as any precipitate
forms. In order to separate the iron, chlorine gas may be passed into the
solution, by which the iron is converted into the ferrous chloride; if
this solution be exposed to the air for a length of time, it absorbs
oxygen, and oxide of iron is deposited as a yellow powder, from which the
solution must be filtered. When the sulphate contains manganese, which is
not very often the case, the solution must be boiled up a few times with
purified charcoal, filtered, and evaporated. (‘Jour. für prakt. Chem.’)
The product of each of the above formulæ is nearly chemically pure.
5. (_Commercial._) The crude sulphate of zinc (white copperas, or white
vitriol, of the shops) is prepared by roasting native sulphide of zinc
(zinc blende) in a reverberatory furnace, exposing the calcined mass to
the air and humidity for some time, then lixiviating it, and evaporating
the resulting solution until it forms a white semi-crystalline mass on
cooling.
_Prop._ Pure sulphate of zinc forms inodorous, colourless, transparent,
quadrangular prisms, closely resembling in appearance those of Epsom salt,
which effloresce slightly in the air, and contains 7 equiv. of water; it
has a slightly acidulous and very styptic metallic taste; the crystals
dissolve in 2-1/2 parts of cold and in less than their own weight of
boiling water; they are insoluble in alcohol. The crude sulphate of zinc
of commerce (white vitriol) occurs in irregular granular masses, which
somewhat resemble loaf sugar.
When a solution of this salt, in 6 of water, is boiled with a little
nitric acid, and a solution of ammonia is then added until the oxide of
zinc at first precipitated is all redissolved, no yellow precipitate
remains, or a trace only, and the solution is colourless.
_Uses._ In medicine, as a tonic, antispasmodic, &c.; in doses of 1 to 2
gr., twice daily; as an emetic, 10 to 30 gr. In large doses it is
poisonous. It has been employed with benefit in dyspepsia, fluor albus,
chorea, epilepsy, hooping-cough, and other convulsive and nervous
affections, generally combined with bitters, foxglove, hemlock, henbane,
or opium. As an emetic, it acts almost immediately, and is therefore well
suited to empty the stomach at the commencement of a fit of ague, and in
cases of poisoning, &c. It is also extensively used externally, to form
astringent and repellant collyria, injections and lotions.
=Zinc, Sulpho-carbolate.= The acid prepared as in sulpho-carbolate of soda
(which _see_) is saturated by aid of a gentle heat with oxide of zinc,
filtered, and crystals allowed to form. The crystals should be dried by
exposure to the air.
=Zinc, Vale′′rianate of.= Zn(C_{5}H_{9}O_{2})_{2}. _Syn._ ZINCI VALERIANAS
(B. P., Ph. D.) _Prep._ (Ph. D.) Valerianate of sodium, 2-1/2 oz., and
sulphate of zinc, 2 oz. 7 dr., are each separately dissolved in distilled
water, 1 pint; the solutions are then heated to 200° Fahr., mixed, and the
resulting crystals skimmed off; the liquid is next evaporated at a
temperature not higher than 200°, until it measures 4 fl. oz., the
crystals, as they form, being removed from the surface; the salt thus
obtained is steeped, for an hour, in distilled water, just sufficient to
cover it, after which the whole is transferred to a paper filter, on which
it is at first drained, and then dried at a heat not exceeding 100°.
_Prop., &c._ Brilliant white, pearly scales; very light; astringent;
smells strongly of valerianic acid; only slightly soluble in cold water,
more so in hot water, and freely soluble in alcohol and ether; exposure to
heat rapidly decomposes it; exposure to the air also decomposes it, but
more slowly. It is regarded as powerfully antispasmodic and
tonic.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr., thrice daily, made into pills; in neuralgia,
tic douloureux, nervous headaches (more particularly hemicrania),
hysteria, palpitation of the heart, vertigo, chorea, epilepsy, &c.
_Obs._ Butyrate of zinc, scented with valerianic acid, which is often sold
for the above compound, may be detected by distilling it with sulphuric
acid; the distillate, tested with a strong solution of acetate of copper,
gives a bluish-white precipitate if it contains butyric acid. The
valerianate is distinguished from the other salts of zinc by its extreme
lightness.
=ZINC-E′THYL.= Zn(C_{2}H_{5})_{2}. A curious liquid body, discovered by Dr
Frankland, and formed, along with iodide of zinc, when iodide of ethyl is
heated with pure zinc in a sealed glass tube. The mixed white product, by
distillation in a current of hydrogen, yields pure zinc-ethyl. It is a
highly volatile liquid, having a rather disagreeable odour, and so rapidly
decomposed by contact with the air that it takes fire. Water resolves it
into hydride of ethyl, and other products.
=ZINC-ME′THYL.= Zn(CH_{3})_{2}. Obtained by the action of zinc upon iodide
of methyl, as zinc-ethyl. It takes fire on coming in contact with the air.
=ZINC′ING.= _Syn._ ZINKING. Vessels of copper and brass may be covered
with a firmly adherent layer of pure zinc, by boiling them in a solution
of chloride of zinc, pure zinc turnings being at the same time present in
considerable excess. The same object may be effected by means of zinc and
a solution of chloride of ammonium or hydrate of potassium.
The variety of zinced iron commonly known by the name of ‘galvanised iron’
is prepared by immersing the sheets of metal, previously scoured and
cleaned with dilute hydrochloric acid, in a bath of melted zinc covered
with powdered sal ammoniac, and moving them about until they are
sufficiently coated.
=ZINCOG′RAPHY.= An art closely resembling lithography, in which plates of
zinc are substituted for slabs of stone.
=ZIR′CON.= See GEMS.
=ZIRCONIUM.= Zr. _Syn._ The oxide of this metal, a white pulverulent
earth, discovered in the mineral gargon or zircon of Ceylon, by Klaproth,
in 1789. It has since been found in the hyacinth.
_Prep._ The stone is calcined and thrown into cold water, and then
powdered in an agate mortar; the powder is mixed with 9 parts of pure
hydrate of potassium, and the mixture projected, by spoonfuls, into a
red-hot crucible, care being taken that each portion is fused before
another is added; after fusion, with an increased heat, for an hour and a
half, the whole is allowed to cool; the calcined mass is next powdered,
and boiled in water; the insoluble portion is then dissolved in
hydrochloric acid, and the solution heated, that the silicic acid may fall
down, after which the zirconia is precipitated with hydrate of potassium;
or, the zirconia may be precipitated with carbonate of sodium, and the
carbonic acid expelled by heat.
From this, metallic zirconium is obtained by heating in a glass tube, with
a spirit lamp, a mixture of potassium and the double fluoride of zirconium
and potassium, carefully dried; the product is washed with water, and
digested for some time in dilute hydrochloric acid.
_Prop., &c._ A black powder; it acquires a feeble metallic lustre under
the burnisher, and takes fire when heated in the air. It has not been
thoroughly examined.
Oxide of zirconium, or zirconia, ZrO_{2}, has neither taste nor odour, is
insoluble in water, and forms salts with the acids. It is distinguished
from all the other earths, except thorina, by being precipitated when any
of the neutral salts of zirconium are boiled with a saturated solution of
sulphate of potassium. The salts of zirconium are distinguished from those
of aluminium and glucinium by being precipitated by all the pure alkalies,
and by being insoluble when they are added in excess. The precipitated
hydrate and carbonate are readily soluble in acids.
WORKS REFERRED TO IN THIS EDITION.
Acton’s Cookery. Royal Agricultural Society’s Journal. Analyst. Artisan
Cookery. Blyth’s Dictionary of Hygiène. British Pharmacopœia. Beasley’s
Pocket Formulary and Druggists’ General Receipt Book. British Medical
Journal. Beeton’s Cookery. Beale’s (Dr L.) Disease Germs; How to Work with
the Microscope; Kidney Diseases, Urinary Deposits, &c. Bloxam’s Chemistry.
British Manufactures and Industries (Stamford). Chavasse’s Counsel to a
Mother and Aphorisms for Parents. Crooke’s Practical Handbook of Dyeing
and Calico Printing. Calvert’s Dyeing and Calico Printing (edited by
Stenhouse and Groves). Chambers’ Cyclopædia. Chemist and Druggist.
Chemical News. Chemical Society, Journal of. Chemistry, Theoretical,
Practical, and Analytical (Reissue of Muspratt’s Dictionary), MacKenzie.
Cassell’s Family Magazine. Carpenter’s Human Physiology. Dun’s (Finlay)
Veterinary Medicines. Dental Hospital Pharmacopœia. Dorvault’s L’Officine.
Daily Telegraph. Encyclopædia Britannica. Eassie’s Healthy Houses.
Fresenius’ Qualitative Analysis; do., Quantitative. Field. Fitzwygram’s
Horses and Stables. Gardner’s (Dr) Household Medicine. Garrod’s Materia
Medica and Therapeutics. Hanbury and Flückiger’s Pharmacologia. Handbook
for Emergencies (Cassell). Hughes’ Principles and Practice of Photography.
Hartley’s Water, Air, and Disinfectants. Kingzett’s Alkali Trade. Knap’s
Chemical Technology (Richardson and Watts). Letheby’s Lectures on Food.
Lancet. Land and Water. Miller’s Chemical Physics; Organic and Inorganic
Chemistry. Medical Times and Gazette. Meyer’s Procrustes ante Portas (J.
T. Craig). Nature. New Remedies. Pharmaceutical Journal. Parkes’ Practical
Hygiène. Payen’s Industrial Chemistry (edited by Dr Paul). Pareira’s
Materia Medica. Pepys’ Diary. Roscoe’s Elementary Chemistry. Roberts’ (Dr
T. J.) Theory and Practice of Medicine. Royle’s Materia Medica and
Therapeutics. Roberts’ (Dr W.) Renal Diseases, &c. Smith’s (Dr Angus) Air
and Rain. Spon’s Workshop Receipts. Society of Arts Journal. Sanitary
Record. Squire’s Companion to the Pharmacopœia. Tegetmeier’s Household
Cookery. Ure’s Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures, and Mines (edited by
Hunt). Wagner’s Chemical Technology (edited by Crookes). Wood and Bache’s
United States Dispensatory. Wanklyn’s Water Analysis and Milk Analysis.
Year Book of Pharmacy.
A LIST
OF
J. & A. CHURCHILL’S
WORKS
ON
CHEMISTRY, MATERIA MEDICA,
PHARMACY, BOTANY,
THE MICROSCOPE,
AND
OTHER BRANCHES OF SCIENCE
LONDON, 11, NEW BURLINGTON STREET,
OCTOBER, 1889.
INDEX
Allen’s Commercial Organic Analysis, vi
Armatage’s Veterinarian’s Remembrancer, xi
Baily’s Physician’s Pharmacopœia, ix
Beasley’s Pocket Formulary, x
Do. Druggist’s Receipt Book, x
Do. Book of Prescriptions, x
Bentley’s Manual of Botany, xii
Do. Structural Botany, xii
Do. Systematic Botany, xii
Bentley and Trimen’s Medicinal Plants, xii
Bernay’s Analytical Chemistry, v
Binz’s Elements of Therapeutics, vii
Bloxam’s Chemistry, iii
Do. Laboratory Teaching, iii
Bowman’s Practical Chemistry, iv
B. P. C. Unofficial Formulary, ix
Brown’s Practical Chemistry, iv
Cameron’s Oils, Resins, Varnishes, vii
———— Soaps and Candles, vii
Carpenter’s Microscope and its Revelations, xiii
Chauveau’s Comparative Anatomy, xiii
Churchill’s Technological Handbooks, vii
Clowes’ Practical and Analytical Chemistry, iv
Cook’s Organic Analysis, iv
Cooley’s Cyclopædia of Receipts, v
Draper’s Medical Physics, xiv
Dunglison’s Medical Lexicon, xv
Ewart’s Poisonous Snakes of India, xiii
Fayrer’s Poisonous Snakes of India, xiii
Flückiger’s Cinchona Barks, vi
Fownes’ and Watts’ Chemistry, iii
Fox’s Ozone and Antozone, xv
Frankland and Japp’s Inorganic Chemistry, iv
Fresenius’ Chemical Analysis, iv
Gardner’s Brewer, Distiller, &c., vii
Do. Bleaching, Dyeing, &c., vii
Do. Acetic Acid, Ammonia, &c., vii
Greene’s Tables of Zoology, xiv
Hardwich’s Photography, by Taylor, xv
Hehner’s Alcohol Tables, vii
Hehner and Angell’s Butter Analysis, vii
Hoffmann and Power’s Chemical Analysis, v
Huxley’s Anatomy of Vertebrates, xiv
Do. Anatomy of Invertebrates, xiv
James’s Guide to the New B. P., x
Johnson’s Analysts’ Companion, iv
Kay-Shuttleworth’s Modern Chemistry, iv
Kohlrausch’s Physical Measurements, xiv
Lee’s Microtomist’s Vade Mecum, xiii
Lescher’s Recent Materia Medica, viii
Marsh’s Section Cutting, iii
Martin’s Microscopic Mounting, xiii
Mayne’s Medical Vocabulary, xv
Microscopical Journal (Quarterly), xii
Mill’s and Rowan’s Fuel, vi
Morley’s Organic Chemistry, v
Ord’s Comparative Anatomy, xiv
Owen’s Manual of Materia Medica, viii
Pereira’s Selecta è Prescriptis, ix
Pharmaceutical Journal and Transactions, xi
Phillips’ Materia Medica, viii
Price’s Photographic Manipulation, xv
Proctor’s Practical Pharmacy, ix
Rodwell’s Natural Philosophy, xv
Royle’s Materia Medica, viii
Shea’s Animal Physiology, xiv
Smith’s Pharmaceutical Guide, xi
Southall’s Materia Medica, viii
Squire’s Companion to the Pharmacopœia, ix
Squire’s Hospital Pharmacopœias, ix
Steggall’s First Lines for Chemists, xi
Stillé and Maisch’s National Dispensatory, vii
Stowe’s Toxicological Chart, x
Sutton’s Volumetric Analysis, vi
Taylor on Poisons, x
Thorowgood’s Materia Medica, viii
Tirard’s Prescriber’s Pharmacopœia, x
Tuson’s Veterinary Pharmacopœia, xi
Vacher’s Primer of Chemistry, iii
Valentin’s Qualitative Analysis, v
Do. Chemical Tables, v
Wagner’s Chemical Technology, vi
Wahltuch’s Dictionary of Materia Medica, viii
Watts’ Inorganic Chemistry, iii
Do. Organic Chemistry, iii
Williams’ Veterinary Medicine, xii
Do. Veterinary Surgery, xii
Wilson’s Zoology, xiv
Wittstein’s Pharmaceutical Chemistry, xi
Year Book of Pharmacy, xi
⁂ _The Works advertised in this Catalogue may be obtained through any
Bookseller in the United Kingdom, or direct from the Publishers, on
Remittance of their cost._
A LIST OF
_J. & A. CHURCHILL’S WORKS_
ON SCIENCE
_C. L. Bloxam_
CHEMISTRY, INORGANIC and ORGANIC. With Experiments. By CHARLES L.
BLOXAM, late Professor of Chemistry in King’s College, London, and
in the Department for Artillery Studies, Woolwich. Sixth Edition.
With 288 Illustrations. 8vo, 18s.
_By the same Author_
LABORATORY TEACHING: Or, Progressive Exercises in Practical Chemistry.
Fifth Edition. With 89 Engravings. Crown 8vo, 5s. 6d.
_H. Watts and W. A. Tilden_
WATT’S MANUAL OF CHEMISTRY, THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL (based on FOWNES’
MANUAL).
Vol. I.——PHYSICAL AND INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. Second Edition (Fourteenth
of Fownes’). By WILLIAM A. TILDEN, D.Sc., F.R.S., Professor of
Chemistry in the Mason College, Birmingham. With Coloured Plate
of Spectra, and 122 Wood Engravings. Crown 8vo, 8s. 6d.
Vol. II.——CHEMISTRY OF CARBON COMPOUNDS; or, ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. By
HENRY WATTS, B.A., F.R.S. Second Edition (Fourteenth of Fownes’).
By WILLIAM A. TILDEN, D.Sc., F.R.S., Professor of Chemistry in the
Mason College, Birmingham. With Engravings. Crown 8vo, 10s.
_F. Clowes_
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TRANSCRIBER’S AMENDMENTS
Transcriber’s Note:
Blank pages have been deleted.
Some illustrations have been moved.
Footnotes have been moved to follow the referencing paragraph.
When the author’s preference can be determined, we have rendered
consistent on a per-word-pair basis the hyphenation or spacing of such
pairs when repeated in the same grammatical context.
The publisher’s inadvertent omissions of important punctuation have been
corrected.
Some wide tables have been re-formatted to narrower equivalents. Some
table headings have been replaced with keys and a key table. Some ditto
marks have been replaced by the word(s) represented.
The following list indicates any additional changes made. The page number
represents that of the original publication and applies in this etext
except for footnotes and illustrations since they may have been moved.
Key: {}[]<>:
Page Change
900 the anterior extremity of a {doube}[double] medullary cord;
902 _{Prep.}[Prop.], &c._ Iodic acid is a crystalline solid,
904 a cork and {and }[]delivery tube are then
908 the {sequi}[sesqui] or persalts of iron,
914 =Ferrous Acetate.= {F}[Fe](C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2}.
915 PROTOCITRATE {}[OF ]IRON,
915 FERRI CARBONAS {SACCARATA}[SACCHARATA], B. P.;
917 ferrous chloride and {mercurious}[mercurous] sulphide,
918 {}[2. ]Crystallised potassium tartrate, 132 parts;
918 to produce {at}[a] 10 per cent. solution.
922 restores {it}[its] softness and pliancy
924 juice of the {Gummut}[Gummuti] palm
924 sprinkled over with a {nuber}[number] of white dots.
925 _Semecarpus {Anarcardium}[Anacardium]_, and species of
925 ODOROUS PRINCIPLE OF {JALAP}[JALAP].
927 to yield a strong solution; {stain}[strain], decant the clear
928 in fresh soft water until it becomes {transparet}[transparent];
929 (called juniperin) ·37 {Pectine}[Pectin]
929 {Brought forward 32·21}[]
929 LEMON AND KALI, {LEMONIATED}[LEMONATED] K.
933 salt (abraumsalz) of {Stassfurt}[Stassfurth],
933 which yields on cooling crystalline {callic}[calcic] kinate.
942 made directly from a {decotion}[decoction] of cochineal
946 ={LANDANINE}[LAUDANINE].= C_{20}H_{25}NO_{3}.
946 See _engr._, {p. 947}[below].
953 {Pb(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2} 2Pb O.}[Pb(C_{2}H_{3}O_{2})_{2} 2PbO.]
953 LEMON YELLOW, {LEIPSIC}[LEIPSIG] YELLOW,
954 gives up half its oxygen at a {read}[red] heat;
956 tobacco deprived of {nicotin}[nicotine], by soaking them
956 is imported from Bordeaux, Lisbon, and {Hamburgh}[Hamburg].
956 the following figures were obtained:——{}[“]
962 contributes to the {well-ding}[well-doing] of the patient.
964 {}[“]In the lamp which it is preferred to use
964 {}[“]In the latest form of construction of the
964 {}[“]The dimensions, weight, number of revolutions
965 {}[“]The action of the lamp is as follows:——The
965 {}[“]This wheel is the first of a train of wheels
965 points with perfect automatism.{}[“]
970 the hydrometer cannot be {dedended}[depended] upon.
973 chlorine, or the ordinary {bleading}[bleaching] powder
974 The domestic {mangement}[management] of linen may here receive
975 fl. oz.; oil {}[of] turpentine, 1/2 fl. oz.
976 7 fl. oz.; {miz}[mix] by agitation.
981 {}[“]If oxygen or pure carbonic oxide be enclosed
981 and at a {temperature}[pressure] of about 300 atmospheres,
986 caracca-cacao nuts (cut small), 1 lb., and {vanila}[vanilla],
987 colour the liquid by steeping in it of {hay}[bay] saffron,
989 _Syn._ LIQUOR {ANTISORICUS}[ANTIPSORICUS],
993 L. {ARGENTEUM}[ARGENTUM], L. ARGYRITIS
994 sodium {bircarbonate}[bicarbonate], 50 grams;
1008 =Lozenges, Gum.= _Syn._ {TROSCHISCI}[TROCHISCI]
1008 _Prep._ 1. Black-currant {lozenze-mass}[lozenge-mass],
1013 {spinkle}[sprinkle] with a little salt;
1014 evening, or night I have always found it good.{}[“]
1017 it is malleable; fusible at a {read}[red] heat,
1019 and is {vitrefied}[vitrified] at a strong red heat.
1022 in the arts of brewing and {distilation}[distillation].
1023 {DISTILATION}[DISTILLATION], FERMENTATION, &c.
1023 covered with sheets of paper to keep {}[out ]the flies and dust,
1023 sugar left {it}[in] it,
1025 As prepared by {Delville}[Deville], metallic manganese has a
1026 =Manganate of Sodium.= {M}[Na]_{2}MnO_{4}.
1027 blue precipitate with red prussiate {or}[of] potash,
1028 The _Beta {vulgarit}[vulgaris]_, var. _campestris_,
1028 boiled with water, {filled}[filtered] through asbestos,
1032 various pomades and other {cosmeties}[cosmetics], on
1037 {quarts}[quart] = 69·3185
1038 “that it is evidently too low.{}[”]
1039 _{osmozome}[osmazome]_, and which is concentrated gravy. The
1041 {}[“]One of the principal and by far the most
1045 | 18·56| 16·00| 17·06 | 16·50 | {24 49}[24·49]
1052 oils, and solutions of the acids and {alkakies}[alkalies].
1056 1. (Pb. L. {1S36}[1836].) Ferric ferrocyanide
1057 By saturating hot {dilnte}[dilute] nitric acid with
1058 2. (Basic.) {HgSO_{4}._2HgO.}[HgSO_{4}.2HgO.] _Syn._
1058 until the latter is {wholy}[wholly] converted into a heavy
1059 {Hg(C_{2}H_{3}GO_{2})}[Hg(C_{2}H_{3}GO_{2})].
1059 _Prod._ 117 {of}[or] 118% of the weight of mercury employed.
1059 SULPHURET OF {MERURY}[MERCURY], SULPHIDE OF M.,
1062 {HYDRAGYRI}[HYDRARGYRI] TARTRAS. Made by adding
1064 METHYLIA. {CH_{31}H_{2}N}[CH_{3}H_{2}N].
1064 TRIBASIC PHOSPHATE {OP}[OF] SODIUM AND AMMONIUM.
1065 become white vesicles, dry up, peel {of}[off],
1067 {trituration}[titration] with a standard copper solution.
1067 combined casein and {posphate}[phosphate] of sodium,
1068 I do not, however, claim a high {degreee}[degree] of accuracy
1068 The common {frands}[frauds] practised by the milk-dealers
1069 and plants of the cabbage or onion {famishes}[families],
1070 {Nutritous}[Nutritious]; but apt to offend delicate stomachs.
1070 he has examined the {principals}[principal] brands of preserved
1070 This process, which {it}[is] very old,
1071 | Sugar | {1 80}[1·80] | ... | 1·46
1071
1077 _Prep._ Horeradish[Horseradish] root, 1/2 oz.; mustard seed,
1077 15 drops; simple {sprup}[syrup] (pure),
1080 63 {)}[divide into] 37 13 6
1082 The cloth is {subsequent y}[subsequently] aired,
1085 _Syn._ MORPHIÆ {HYDRYIODAS}[HYDRIODAS], L.
1089 _Syn._ MUCILAGO {ALTHEÆ}[ALTHÆÆ].
1090 A disease affecting {neat}[meat] cattle,
1093 MOSCHUS ARTIFICIALIS, M. {FACITITIUS}[FACTITIUS],
1094 fresh parsley, {chevril}[chervil], celery, and tarragon,
1096 until the residuum in the still {kegins}[begins] to char,
1099 in his or her particular {ease}[case].
1104 {Ag.NO_{3}}[AgNO_{3}], nitrate of silver
1106 {0 2525}[0·2525] milligramme of potassium nitrate.
1108 =Nitrogen, I′odide of.= {Ni_{2}}[NI_{2}].
1108 excepting {fulminatiny}[fulminating] silver:
1111 ( ” _{perchloricnm}[perchloricum]_) HClO_{4}
1113 injurious to health, or so {overcrowed}[overcrowded]
1115 Loss {4}[4·0]
1119 omits to disclose, or wilfully {mistates}[misstates]
1119 production. It averages from 0·76 to {90}[0·90], but
1120 (Batavian——Cadet de {Gassicourt}[Gassincourt].)
1134 _Syn._ OLEUM OLIVÆ {OYYGENATUM}[OXYGENATUM]
1136 It is generally coloured with {verdigis}[verdigris],
1142 and this is generally {affected}[effected] by mixing the two
1152 a peculiar {cystallisable}[crystallisable] substance,
1152 of the {plum-treee}[plum-tree], the bruised kernels of cherries,
1153 (B. P.), OLEUM {CAJAPUTI}[CAJEPUTI]
1156 OLEUM {ERIGERONTIS}[ERIGERONIS] CANADENSIS.
1156 It closely {resemble}[resembles] that of sweet fennel
1156 the oil a like solution of the {cholride}[chloride]
1157 _Cochlearia {aramoracia}[armoracia]_ (Linn.),
1157 oils of hyacinths, jonquil, {tuborose}[tuberose] violets,
1162 oil of rosemary (O. {ROSEMARINI}[ROSMARINI],
1163 _Mentha viridis_ (Linn.) or garden {or}[] spearmint.
1163 FRESH RHIZOMES, 3/4 TO 1%; DRIED (RECENT), 1 TO 1·25{°}[%].
1163 FRESH, ·25% TO {5%}[·5%]; DRIED (RECENT), 3/4 TO 1%(FULLY).
1175 _Syn._ {INGUENTUM}[UNGUENTUM]
1175 _Syn._ {UUGUENTUM}[UNGUENTUM] IPECACUANHÆ
1175 then {gradully}[gradually] add of ointment of white wax,
1176 (softened by heat), 1 lb., with oils {or}[of] aniseed,
1176 a dressing to indolent ulcers and {issnes}[tissues].
1185 and stir the mixture briskly {unil}[until] it concretes.
1199 within our recollection {wa}[was] 4-1/2 gr.
1207 artificial base _{thiosinnemine}[thiosinamine]_
1207 produced by artificial means{ (which _see_)}[ ].
1208 _Water_ = {9·11112}[0·11112] ” _Hydrogen_
1208 {(see figure _below_)}[(See middle figure _above_)].
1214 Rhubarb tarts and {tomatos}[tomatoes],
1216 a strength of 9° {Beaumé}[Baumé] is poured thereon,
1216 about 3 cubic {metrès}[mètres] of oxygen.
1224 {(C_{10}H_{16}O_{1}H_{2}O)}[C_{10}H_{16}O.H_{2}O].
1226 The most {apropriate}[appropriate] and only safe situation
1228 old masters had been in {posssesion}[possession] of colours,
1229 {}[“]4. White and other quick-drying opaque
1229 an easily soluble mastich or {lammar}[dammar] varnish
1231 (11·8——{Woollaston}[Wollaston]; 12·14——Vauquelin).
1233 {Se}[See] SYMPATHETIC INK.
1237 This remarkable {hydrocabon}[hydrocarbon] is one of the several
1238 Oxyuris vermicularis, ” {Pentastroma}[Pentastoma] constrictum,
1239 The flesh of cattle fed on the {parnsip}[parsnip] is also
1241 =Paste, Flour.= _{Sgn}[Syn]._ COLLE DE PÂTE
1242 _Prep._ {Prom}[From] blanched Jordan almonds,
1242 beat in 2 squares of {Windor}[Windsor] soap
1244 ({Foutanier}[Fontanier].) Paste, 8 oz.; oxide of cobalt,
1246 {Salazzi}[Solazzi] juice, 4 oz.;
1249 ={Herrendschwand’s}[Herrenschwand’s] Specific.=
1252 0·042{]}[ ]
1252 is procured from {n}[a] fresh-water shell-fish
1267 ·25 {-}[to] ·5 lbs. binoxide of manganese-cullet.
1271 several {allotrophic}[allotropic] forms.
1271 extreme {prostation}[prostration] of the nervous powers,
1271 provided the {mateterials}[materials] had not been well
1271 the temperature being {two}[too] low,
1272 water resolves it {in}[into] phosphoric acid
1274 By strongly heating common {or}[orthophosphate] of sodium.
1276 decomposition of the urea by the bladder {mucous}[mucus],
1280 in which the pigmented gelatin alone {remain}[remains],
1290 was about 33 per {per }[ ]cent. of the average
1297 the flour might {flavour}[favour] some decomposition
1301 PILULÆ {ANTICHLORITICÆ}[ANTICHLOROTICÆ], L.
1305 Gamboge, aloes {bods} [pods], and compound cinnamon powder,
1321 upon evaporation of the {chloform}[chloroform] solution.
1330 See PLASTER OF {EUPHOBIUM}[EUPHORBIUM].
1343 a rise of bodily temperature from 103° to {195°}[ 105°].
1348 Mix well in a {wedgewood}[wedgwood] mortar, using a wooden
1349 even by the most thirsty votaries of malt {liqnor}[liquor].
1351 {tarred}[tared] glass cylinder capable of containing ten times
1353 at {Stassfurt}[Stassfurth], near Madgeburg, in Prussia.
1354 POTASSIUM {DYHYDRIC}[DIHYDRIC] ARSENIATE;
1356 as in No. 1, {wnen}[when] 35 to 40 lbs.
1363 used in chemistry as a reagent, and {deoxydiser}[deoxidiser].
1369 Bruised groundsel (_{Senicio}[Senecio] vulgaris_)
1375 {_Syn._}[ ]_Prep._ Belladonna, 1 to 3 gr.;
1376 {PUVIS}[PULVIS] ELATERII COMPOSITUS.
1376 Round birthwort, gentian, tops of lesser {centuary}[centaury],
1382 {LIMONDUM}[LIMONADUM] SICCUM, PULVIS PRO LIMINADO
1382 For 5 pints:——One each {change}[charge] of 2 and 3 pints.
1391 The specimen {on the next page}[below]
1391
1400 and is then {rednced}[reduced] to powder.
1402 powder must be preserved in {close}[closed] vessels
1408 a dye possessing greater colorific {powder}[power]
1409 _Cinchona succirubra_, cultivated at {Darjiling}[Darjeeling],
1411 the determination inaccurate.”{}[[1]]
1417 and opening _{z}[y]_ the juice is admitted
1417 the union is {affected}[effected] by simple agitation;
1418 It is a highly nutritious {serial}[cereal],
1421 and its {occurence}[occurrence] in appreciable quantity
1422 diameter of the gauge should {not}[]range between 4 and 8 inches.
1423 few, if any, chimneys to {distub}[disturb] the air currents,
1425 Instead of orange flowers, {neuroli}[neroli],
1441 {Ru_{2}O3_{3}, 8H_{2}O}[Ru_{2}O_{3},8H_{2}O], is thrown down.
1444 with the {flowrets}[flowerets] of safflower,
1456 the jurisdiction of a joint {sewarage}[sewerage] board,
1457 such a mansion as is {pourtrayed}[portrayed] by Mr Collins
1460 the urine {immediates}[immediately] assumes a fine
1463 {renewin}[renewing] the water from time to time.
1471 it is capable of assuming three {allatropic}[allotropic] forms
1478 The table {on next page}[below],
1481 and the sooner the middens are abolished the better.{}[“[2]]
1487 assigned the formula {2SiO_{21}3H_{2}O.}[2SiO_{2},3H_{2}O.]
1490 result of the researches of {Her}[Herr] Tycho Tulburg,
1493 best quantity to be taken for cupellation {in}[is] 500 gr.
1495 can possibly either remain or get between {then}[them].
1497 said to bear a close {resembance}[resemblance] to silver
1499 {Gowlland’s}[Gowland’s] lotion, which has long been
1503 supported by the most {eckless}[reckless] statements
1506
1506 add the {ley}[lye] to the oil
1506 acid used indicates {0·053 Na_{2}Co_{3}}[0·053 Na_{2}CO_{3}]
1507 acid, {palmatin gives palmatic}[palmitin gives palmitic] acid,
1510 The soap is usually coloured with {caramal}[caramel].
1512 directly into soda or its {carbonated}[carbonate].
1513 {NaHC_{2}O_{3} + MgCO_{2} = NaHCO_{3} + MgC_{2}O4}
[NaHC_{2}O_{4} + MgCO_{3} = NaHCO_{3} + MgC_{2}O_{4}]
1517 beautiful oblique rhombic prisms, of the {formulæ}[formula]
1518 a portion of the {sulphovenic}[sulphovinic] acid
1521 Cupri {ammonati}[ammoniati]
1526 _Prep._ {Iodureted}[Ioduretted] waters, Nos. 1, 2, and 3;
1528 _Syn._ LIQUOR POTASSÆ {EFFEREVESCENS}[EFFERVESCENS]
1530 AQUA {POSASSAE}[POTASSÆ] SULPHURETI
1530 a few beef bones, 6 large {carrrots}[carrots], 2 large onions,
1534 =Species, Bitter.= _Syn._
1535 is {alway}[always] taken at 60° Fahr,
1535 Leaves and tops of wormwood, betony, bugle, {culamint}[calamint],
1541 aloes, 1/2 oz.; bay berries, 1 oz.; {gallanga}[galanga] root,
1543 They are {chlefly}[chiefly] employed
1544 LIQUOR {OR}[OF] SPIRITUS VOLATILIS CORNU CERVI,
1546 savory, thyme, {rosmary}[rosemary], calamint,
1551 the mixture has {besome}[become] perfectly dry
1553 to the third and last, which {contain}[contained] 6·19 acres.
1558 and of {carring}[carrying] away any prejudicial excess
1563 by the purchaser of modern {jewellery}[jewelry].
1564 {Coffee’s}[Coffey’s] still
1564 that of Siemens’ (see page {1567}[1566]), much employed
1572 sometimes, {sursounded}[surrounded] by a slight redness.
1573 it is boiled for half {and}[an] hour,
1594 (shown at C{,}[ in the plate below])
1596 (620·6°, Odling; 620°, {Hardwick}[Hardwich] and Fownes; 617°,
1602 The {rhizone}[rhizome] (‘root’) is an aromatic stimulant
1605 will be perfectly {tranparent}[transparent],
1606 temperature of 212° is 1·260 to 1·261, or 30{'}[°] Baumé.
1606 and become {ascescent}[acescent]; but of the two this
1607 _Prep._ (Ph. D.) Solution of {actetate}[acetate] of morphia,
1611 after gently {heat}[heating] in a porcelain capsule
1621 some {disinfectan}[disinfectant] substance
1626 indigo is converted into {sulpindigotic}[sulphindigotic] acid,
1628 in exactly the same manner as {benzol }[benzol, it ]is converted
1639 follow Professor {Ball}[Bell] through
1639 From Professor {Ball’s}[Bell’s] lecture at
1641 tetrachloride ({TeCl_{2}}[TeCl_{4}]).
1642 Sulphuric acid boils ({Magrignac}[Marignac]),
1649 a neutral volatile residue.”{}[[1]]
1651 is equiv. to {683}[·683] gr. of metallic lead (nearly).
1654 =Tincture of Ac′etate of I′ron.= _{Spn}[Syn]._
1656 =Tincture of {Angustu′ra}[Angostu′ra].=
1656 Dried leaves of {balladonna}[belladonna],
1657 as a stomachic bitter and {tonie}[tonic],
1660 and add to this balsam of {capaiba}[copaiba],
1662 (Ph. E. & Ph. L. 1836.) {Gruaiacum}[Guaiacum] resin
1664 black {hellibore}[hellebore] root, 3 dr.;
1668 {TINCTURE}[TINCTURA] RHODODENDRI.
1675 partial analysis of the imports of 1873 and 1874:”{}[1]
1678 its peculiar {aBd}[and] disagreeable odour.
1680 FERRI {FERRIDCYANIDUM}[FERRICYANIDUM], L. _Prep._
1686 as indicated by the {suddenness}[suddeness] of the attack,
1695 ‘Chem. {Centralb}[Central],’ (‘Pharm. Journ.’).
1699 yeast plant (the _Torula {cerivisiæ}[cerevisiæ]_).
1701 In the engravings {on next page}[below] the principal
1715 The practice of {vensection}[venesection], bloodletting,
1716 then {sqeeze}[squeeze] them, dry them
1719 but {weasles}[weasels], stoats, hedgehogs,
1720 have been {wrought}[brought] before the public.
1723 ACETIC ACID, {ACEDIMETRY}[ACETIMETRY],
1731 little manual, {entiled}[entitled]
1735 compressibility to {beat}[be at] the rate of
1735 addition of {lim}[lime] water,
1739 which {number}[numbers] it falls between
1741 of available {oxyyen}[oxygen]. The experiment
1742 the others were all polluted by animal {mattter}[matter].
1743 AQUA {ANTHENIDIS}[ANTHEMIDIS] (Ph. G.).
1744 Fresh peach {loaves}[leaves], cut small, 2 lbs.;
1744 Put into a glass {relort}[retort] with 10 oz. of. water,
1750 in a dwelling-house or in {in }[]the neighbourhood
1751 a compound of {hyrogen}[hydrogen] and carbonic oxide gases.
1753 Wax, {Carnanba}[Carnauba]
1764 The seed of _{Fagogprum}[Fagopyrum] esculentum_,
1765 become a great {disideratum}[desideratum] as a wholesome
1765 Acre after acre of {cellers}[cellars], vault after vault,
1766 distinguished by the {appelation}[appellation] ‘green.’
1770 | 9·31 | 22·35 {Malmsley}[Malmsey]
1772 solution of any alkaline {sulphhydrate}[sulphydrate],
1774 Wines are as commonly {doctered}[doctored] in their colour
1778 rose {clovegillyflower}[clove gillyflower], carnation,
1783 VINUM {STRAMMONII}[STRAMONII] (Ph. Bat.).
1785 under a good {microsope}[microscope] distinctly exhibit,
1789 fermentation of worts from below ({untergährung}[untergärung]).
1789 by {blacing}[placing] it in a close canvas bag,
1791 colour of the {sulbhate}[sulphate]
1791 1 part, and litharge, 4 {barts}[parts], are ground together
1794 through the {tubu- re}[tubulure]
Catalog i {Catalogue D.}[]
Catalog v Pharmaceutical {aad}[and] Medical Students.
* * * * *
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