MATERIA MEDICA 
FOR NURSES 
GROFF SIXTEENTH EDITION 
HUMPHREY’S 
MANUAL OF NURSING 
MEDICAL AND SURGICAL 
A complete Text-Book for Nurses, including General 
Anatomy and Physiology, Management of the Sick-Room, 
Appliances used in Sick-Room, Antiseptic Treatment, 
Bandaging, Cooking for Invalids, etc., etc. 
Sixteenth Edition. With 79 Illustrations 
BY LAWRENCE HUMPHREY, M.A., M,D. 
12M0. CLOTH. PRICE, NET, $1.00 
*** Catalogues of books on Nursing sent free to any address 
P. BLAKISTON’S SON & CO. 
IOI2 WALNUT STREET, PHILADELPHIA HANDBOOK 
OF 
MATERIA MEDICA 
FOR TRAINED NURSES 
INCLUDING SECTIONS ON THERAPEUTICS AND TOXICOLOGY 
AND A GLOSSARY OF TERMS WITH DOSE 
AND USE OF EACH DRUG 
,by 
JOHN E. GROFF, Ph.G. 
APOTHECARY IN THE RHODE ISLAND HOSPITAL, PROVIDENCE 
PHILADELPHIA 
P. BLAICISTON’S SON & CO. 
IOI2 WALNUT STREET 
1898 Copyright, 1898, by P. Blakiston, Son & Co. PREFACE. 
In preparing this work the author has endeavored to 
present the extensive subject of Materia Medica in an 
abridged form, but one sufficiently comprehensive to meet 
the requirements of the trained nurse. 
It is somewhat difficult to arrange the subject into distinct 
sections, but the plan of so doing has been followed as 
closely as possible. 
The work is intended to make the nurse acquainted with 
the numerous drugs of vegetable and chemic origin, their 
Latin and English names, the parts of the plants used, the 
names of and something about the preparations, the chemi- 
cals used as medicines, the handling of them, etc. It is a 
systematic arrangement of a subject which hitherto has been 
left for the nurse to pick up haphazard. 
The general arrangement is after the order usually taught 
in the medical and pharmaceutical colleges of the country. 
Perhaps the only point in which the book differs from all 
other text-books for nurses, with one exception, with which 
the author is familiar, is by the introduction at the end of 
each chapter of a list of exemplary questions. Many^explan- 
atory paragraphs and foot-notes have also been introduced* 
The questions are intended more for examples than as some- 
V VI 
PREFACE. 
thing to be learned by heart, for no true teacher will depend 
on set questions. 
The explanations and foot-notes will aid the nurse in more 
clearly comprehending her subject. 
It will be found that the questions are so worded and so 
placed relatively to the order of the text that answers to them 
must be thought out or searched for. 
The subject of therapeutics lies outside the scope of this 
work, and has not been touched upon except in stating, by 
name, the principal action of the drugs, describing or defining 
that name, and, in case of the common poisons, going as far 
as giving the prominent symptoms as distinguished from the 
symptoms of disease. 
A work of this kind is largely compiled, and its chief claim 
to originality is in the adaptation of well-known means to a 
new purpose. Constant use has therefore been made of the 
latest standard works on chemistry, materia medica, and 
pharmacy, and of the current pharmaceutical literature. 
John E. Groff, Ph.G. 
Providence, R. I., July, 1898. TABLE OF CONTENTS. 
SECTION I.—OFFICIAL DRUGS AND PREPARATIONS. 
PAGE 
Introductory, 9 
Weights and Measures, 12 
Apothecaries’ Weight, 12.—Fluid Measure, 14.—Approximate 
Measures, 15.—The Use of the Graduated Measure, 15.—The 
French, or Metric, System, 18.—Comparisons, 22. 
Crude Drugs, 25 
Roots, 25.—Barks, 27.—Leaves, 28.—Seeds, 29.—Gums, 30.—Opium, 
31.—Ergot, 32. 
Preparations, . 34 
Waters, 34.—Solutions, 36.—Syrups, 38.—Honeys, 39.—Mucilages, 
40.— Mixtures, 40.—Emulsions, 41.—Glycerites, 43.—Spirits, 43. 
—Elixirs, 46.—Collodions, 47.—Liniments, 48.—Oleates, 50.— 
Infusions, 50.—Decoctions, 51.—Tinctures, 53.—Poisonous Tinc- 
tures, 57.—Rule for Doses, 58.—Wines, 59.—Fluid Extracts, 60.— 
Oleoresins, 67.—Vinegars, 68. — Solid Extracts, 68.—Resins, 69.— 
Powders, 70.—Triturations, 71.—Tablets, 71.—Confections, 72.— 
Pills, 72.—Cerates, 73.—Ointments, 73.—Plasters, 73. 
Dosage, 75 
Drugs Arranged in Classes, 75.—Rule, 77.—Table of Percentage 
Strengths, 79. 
SECTION II.—CHEMISTRY. 
Introductory, Elements, Acids, 81 
Atoms, 82.—List of Elements, 83.—Oxygen, Hydrogen, and 
Nitrogen, 85.—Acids, 88. 
Alkalies, 91 
Potassium, Sodium, and Ammonium, 92.—Formation of Salts, 93.— 
Magnesium and Calcium, 94. 
VII VIII 
PAGE 
Metals, 97 
Zinc, Aluminum, and Iron, 97.—Lead and Silver, 98.—Mercury, 
99.—Arsenic, 102.—Bismuth, 103.—Antimony, 104. 
Reconsideration, 105 
Bromids, 106.—Carbonates, 107.—Iodids, 108.—Magnesium Salts, 
108.—Zinc Salts, 109.—Iron Salts, no.—Mercury Salts, in.— 
Arsenic Salts, 112. 
Organic Chemistry, 114 
Definition, 114.—Cotton, 115.—Gun-cotton and Oxalic Acid, 116.— 
Acetic Acid and Creosote, 117.—Carbolic Acid, 118.—List of Coal- 
tar Products, 119. 
Fermentation Products, 122 
Whiskey, 123.—Brandy, 123.—Alcohol, 124.—Ether, 125.—Ethyl 
Chlorid, 125.—Ethyl Nitrite, Amyl Nitrite, Chloroform, 
Chloral, and Iodoform, 126.—Paraldehyd, Gin, and Rum, 127. 
Volatile Oils, Fixed Oils, and Fats, 129 
Fried Oils and Fats, 130.—Glycerin and Soap, 131. 
Glucosides and Alkaloids, 134 
Drugs from the Animal Kingdom, 138 
Pepsin, 138.—Pancreatin and Sugar of Milk, 139.—Ox Gall, Sperma- 
ceti, Isinglass, and Musk, 140.—Lactic Acid, Cod-liver Oil, Yolk 
of Egg, Spanish Fly, and Cochineal, 141.—Wax and Leeches, 
142. 
The Thermometer, 144 
APPENDIX. 
Therapeutics 149 
Internal Remedies Affecting Nutrition, 150; Affecting Nervous and 
Muscular Systems, 151 ; Affecting Special Organs, 154.—Exter- 
nal Remedies, 155. 
Toxicology, . 157 
Definition, 157.—Antidotes, 158.—Irritant Poisons, 160.—Forms of 
Arsenic, 161.—Narcotic Poisons, 161. 
Glossary, embracing names and doses of all official drugs and 
preparations, 163 
Index 229 
TABLE OF CONTENTS. HANDBOOK 
OF 
MATERIA MEDICA. 
SECTION I. 
OFFICIAL DRUGS AND PREPARATIONS. 
CHAPTER I. 
INTRODUCTORY. 
Before entering upon the course of instruction and train- 
ing designed to fit a woman for following her chosen 
occupation as a nurse, she is required to show that she can 
“read, write, and cipher,” and that her education, such as 
she possesses, shows her to be mentally capable of accom- 
plishing the purpose before her. 
After she has finished her course and started out into the 
world, the physician in the place where she settles, in ac- 
cepting the declarations of her diploma, expects to find her 
familiar, up to a certain point, with facts relating to the 
different branches into which the study of medicine has been 
divided. 
9 10 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
She is expected to know, besides the practical points con- 
cerning the care of the sick and the injured, the technical 
names of the various parts of the body,—such as the bones, 
blood-vessels, air-passages, intestines, nerves, muscles, etc.,— 
the names and symptoms of disease, the signs of death, the 
care of the dead, etc. ; along with these and other things 
she is expected to know something about the medicines she 
handles—their origin, the drugs prepared from them, the 
measurement of them, their dosage, and the recognition of 
some of the more important of them. 
In order to gain this knowledge it is necessary that she 
should follow a systematic course of study of all these things, 
materia medica among them. It has been urged, mainly by 
physicians,—and, doubtless, through some unpleasant experi- 
ences, with some show of reason,—that a course in materia 
medica is not only unnecessary for nurses, but injurious to 
them, as tending to lead them into prescribing. There is, 
however, only apparent and no real reason for such an 
opinion. In this respect the pharmacist and the nurse are 
similarly placed and similarly misjudged. I am sure, after 
a number of years of close observation of both classes, 
that it is only the partially learned who attempt to prescribe— 
that the more nearly one approaches to a full understanding 
of materia medica, the more clearly will he or she perceive 
the utter folly of attempting prescription. 
The pharmacist, through long years of work among drugs, has 
greatly advanced that branch of the science of medicine with 
which he is connected. Many of the crude and nauseating 
drugs of former times are not now used ; the active principles 
of some of them having been discovered, are used in their 
place, while in other instances the preparations of them INTRODUCTORY. 
11 
have been made more sightly and palatable. Thus the phar- 
macist has been, and is now, an invaluable assistant to the 
physician. In like manner the nurse, by careful observation 
during her presence at the bedside of the sick patient, 
becomes, if she has been taught how to observe, an invaluable 
assistant to the physician. 
Either the pharmacist or the nurse, in order to be able to 
aid the physician, must of necessity be familiar with at least 
the elementary principles of the various branches of learning 
constituting the study of the science called medicine. 
A physician uses technical language for a number of reasons. 
Besides being the language of science the world over, by the 
use of a technical word or phrase he conveys in a moment a 
meaning which, otherwise expressed, would require whole sen- 
tences of words and occupy many minutes at a time when the 
loss of every minute tells. It is necessary also at times to 
conceal from a patient the real condition of affairs, and here 
refuge is found behind the technical term and the nurse must 
understand them. 
Broadly defined, materia medica is that branch of science 
which treats of substances and methods used in curing the 
sick and the injured. CHAPTER II. 
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 
In weighing and measuring medicines, whether they are 
simple or complex, harmless or injurious, always proceed 
carefully and allow nothing to attract your attention. 
The nurse has very little to do with weighing. Yet as 
medicines, even in fluid form, are spoken of and labeled as 
containing a certain number of grains of the drug to each 
minim, fluidram, or fluidounce, and as medicines are dosed 
in grains and fractional parts of a grain, it becomes necessary 
that she should familiarize herself with the tables of weights 
and measures in common use, the signs used to designate 
them, and the approximate domestic measures used in every 
household. 
There are two systems of weight which have always been in 
use in our country. 
They are the avoirdupois and the apothecaries’ weight. 
The avoirdupois weight is used by all buyers and sellers. 
The apothecaries’ weight is not used in buying and selling, 
but in weighing drugs to be mixed for medicinal use. 
The unit in both these systems is the grain. It is repre- 
sented by the sign gr., which is the abbreviation of the word. 
Leaving the avoirdupois system as being already familiar 
to you in all your dealings outside the medical world, we take 
the first multiple above the grain in the apothecaries’ system. 
12 WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 
13 
The scruple (9) weighs twenty grains and the sign for it is 
an arbitrary one, the origin of which, as well as those stand- 
ing for drams and ounces, is lost in antiquity. The sign is 9. 
The dram (3) weighs sixty grains and is represented by the 
sign 3. It also weighs three scruples. 
The ounce (g) weighs 480 grains and is represented by the 
sign 3. It also weighs twenty-four scruples, or eight drams. 
It will be seen that the scruple, weighing twenty grains, is 
one-third the weight of a dram; that the dram weighs three 
scruples, or sixty grains; that the dram weighing sixty grains 
is one-eighth the size of an ounce, which weighs 480 grains, 
or eight drams. 
Thus we have: 
1. The grain (sign, gr.). 
2. The scruple (sign 9), weighing twenty grains. 
3. The dram (sign 3), weighing sixty grains, or three scru- 
ples. 
4. The ounce (sign §), weighing 480 grains, or twenty- 
four scruples or eight drams. 
The Roman numerals are commonly used to indicate the 
number of grains, scruples, drams, or ounces to be used in 
writing prescriptions, and they follow the sign, thus: gr. j, 
9vj, gviij, 
The abbreviation f placed before the signs for drams or 
ounces indicates that fluid drams or fluid ounces are to be 
measured and not weighed. Thus, fgiv. 
Note.—In measuring medicines or in speaking of their doses, the word 
drop should be left out and the word minim substituted. 
Drops vary with the form and material of the container from which they 
are dropped, and also with the mobility and density or tenacity of the 
fluids. To illustrate: 14 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
6o drops of water will measure, . . 60 minims. 
50 drops of syrup of gum Arabic will measure, . . 60 minims. 
250 drops of chloroform will measure, 60 minims. 
It seems impossible to believe that twenty drops of chloroform will 
measure no more than five minims, and the nurse is recommended to try it 
and be convinced of the difference between minims and drops. 
If a physician orders five drops of chloroform and you give five minims, 
you give twenty drops instead of five. 
Alcoholic tinctures average two drops to the minim. If a physician 
orders ten minims of tincture of opium for a dose, expecting to get the effect 
of one grain of opium, and you drop ten drops, you only give one-ha/fthe 
number of minims, and consequently half as much opium as he ordered. 
As a rule, when drops must be used, in the absence of a measure : 
Watery fluids, I drop = I minim. 
Alcoholic fluids, . .... 2 drops = 1 minim. 
Ethereal fluids, 4 drops = 1 minim. 
In fluid measure we have first the minim, or standardized 
drop, with the sign np being, as with the grain, the abbrevia- 
tion of the word. 
Next higher we have the fluidram, made up of sixty 
minims and represented by the sign fg. 
The fluidounce measures 480 minims, or eight fluidrams, and 
is represented by the sign f§. 
The gill, not commonly used, measures four fluidounces 
or thirty-two fluidrams. There is no sign used. 
The pint measures four gills, or sixteen fluidounces, or 128 
fluidrams. It is represented by the sign O, standing for 
octavus, or one-eighth, in allusion to the fact that it is the 
eighth of a gallon. 
The quart measures two pints, or eight gills, or thirty-two 
fluidounces. It is represented by the sign Qt., the abbreviated 
word, and the word itself is from the Latin word quartuus, WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 
15 
meaning the fourth or quarter part, in allusion to the fact that 
it is the fourth or quarter part of a gallon. 
The gallon, represented by Cong., measures four quarts, or 
eight pints, or 128 fluidounces. The sign, Cong., is from the 
Latin word congius, meaning a gallon. 
The following approximate measures are given here in def- 
erence to the common usage of centuries: 
Approximate Measures. 
One teaspoonful equals about one fluidram. 
One dessertspoonful “ “ two fluidrams. 
One tablespoonful “ “ four fluidrams. 
One wineglassful “ “ two fluidounces. 
One teacupful “ “ four fluidounces. 
One tumblerful “ “ eight fluidounces. 
As these household measures vary greatly, they should 
be used only when circumstances render it necessary. A 
graduated glass, for measuring as high as two fluidounces, and 
another graduated in minims up to two fluidrams should 
always form a part of the equipment of the trained nurse. 
Notf..—As there are accurate and inaccurate measuring glasses in the 
market, it is well the nurse should know the name of a manufacturer of 
them whose reputation for accuracy is undoubted. Such a firm is Whitall, 
Tatum & Co., of Philadelphia. Their wares are to be found in all cities, 
and are plainly labeled or etched with their name. 
The Use of the Graduated Measuring Glass. 
While administering medicine, the nurse sliould never 
allow herself to be disturbed, and such medicines as are to 16 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
be measured should be carefully measured. The graduated 
glass should always be washed and wiped immediately after 
using, preparatory for use the next time, for, aside from the 
desirability of cleanliness as a virtue, there is positive danger 
in soiled utensils. Many medicines are decomposed by contact 
with other chemicals, and the results of such decompositions 
are quite as likely to be dangerous as otherwise. Numerous 
cases of the kind are on record, and twice it has come to the 
author’s knowledge that disastrous results have followed such 
negligence. So the habit should be formed to always wash a 
glass or a dropper immediately after using. 
On all properly made graduates the lines marking the 
measurements of fluidrams and fluidounces run entirely 
around the glass. In measuring, bring the glass to the level 
of the eye and slowly pour in the fluid to be measured 
until the surface of it is even with the line all around the 
glass. This can be much more effectively shown than told, 
and it is an important point that all senior nurses should show 
their juniors. Never allow the nervousness which frequently 
attends beginners to affect the accuracy of your work. When 
you are about to measure a dose of medicine look for your 
bottle, read its label, and then reach for it. As you raise 
the measuring glass to the level of your eye, look at the label 
again. Measure the medicine and, as you return the bottle 
to its place, again read the label. Here are three chances to 
correct a possible error—always take advantage of them. 
Finally, if in the act of measuring you happen to get in too 
much, pour it back and begin again, no matter who may be 
watching you. Never, for any consideration, let a mistake go 
uncorrected, or, having happened, never fail to report it at once 
at headquarters, and nowhere else. WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 
17 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER II. 
Name the weights used in the Apothecaries’ system. 
What sign is used to distinguish between an ounce and a fluidounce ? 
How many grains in a dram ? 
How many minims in a dram and a half? 
In a scruple and a half, how many grains ? 
How many teaspoonfuls in a wineglassful ? 
How many fluidrams in eight fluidounces ? 
How many dessertspoonful doses in a six-ounce mixture ? 
How much would remain in a twelve-ounce bottle of solution of magne- 
sium citrate after three doses had been used : One dose of half a cup- 
ful ; another dose of a wineglassful, and another of four tablespoonfuls? 
In four fluidounces, how many teaspoonfuls? 
In thirty-two fluidrams, how many dessertspoonfuls ? 
A physician prescribes a dessertspoonful of medicine at ten, two, six, and 
ten o’clock from a four-ounce mixture. In two days he calls and finds 
the bottle three-quarters full. Have his directions been followed ? 
You are ordered to make a pint of solution of carbolic acid—four drams of 
carbolic acid to the pint of water. You have nothing but household 
measures. How would you manage ? CHAPTER III. 
THE FRENCH, OR METRIC, SYSTEM OF WEIGHTS AND 
MEASURES. 
It has long been a matter of regret among scientific men 
that the systems of weights and measures used by the great 
civilized nations should differ. The French system was intro- 
duced in 1790, and has gradually been making its way into 
use among civilized nations ever since. It is taught in all 
our scientific schools and colleges. In the latest medical 
works it finds place alongside the old system, just as the 
Centigrade thermometer degrees are placed side by side with 
the Fahrenheit degrees, and for the same reason—viz., that 
we may gradually become familiar with them. 
The unit of this system originated in a measurement of the 
earth’s circumference from north, around by the south, to the 
north again—its polar circumference. That fractional part 
of it (the forty-millionth part) approaching very nearly to our 
common yard measure was selected as the unit of the measure 
of length, and was named the meter, from metron, a Greek 
word meaning measure, and from that word the name metric 
has come to be used in speaking of the system. 
This measure, or meter, is divided into fractional lengths of 
tenths, hundredths, and thousandths. 
The tenth of a meter is called the decimeter; the prefix 
deci- meaning y1^. 
The hundredth of a meter is called the centimeter; the 
prefix centi- meaning 
The thousandth of a meter is called the millimeter; the 
prefix milli- meaning T7V?r- 
18 THE FRENCH SYSTEM OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 
19 
If one-tenth of a meter is one decimeter, then ten deci- 
meters must make one meter. 
One one-hundredth of a meter being one centimeter, then 
ioo centimeters must make one meter. 
One one-thousandth of a meter is one millimeter, then 1000 
millimeters must make one meter. 
The terms expressing the multiples of the meter are: 
Ten meters make one decameter; the prefix deca- meaning 
tenfold. 
One hundred meters make one hectometer; the prefix 
hecto- meaning too fold. 
One thousand meters make one kilometer; the prefix kilo- 
meaning 1000 fold. 
Ten thousand meters make one myriameter; the prefix 
myria- meaning 10,000 fold. 
It is seen that the measurements, both multiples and subdi- 
visions, increase and decrease by tens. 
From the measure of length all others are obtained—those 
of capacity, weight, and area. 
The unit of fluid measure is derived in this way: A cube 
is constructed j of a meter, or one decimeter, in all its 
dimensions of length, breadth, and depth. This vessel is the 
unit of capacity and is called the liter. 
This unit is too large, being equivalent to about one quart, 
for use in measuring medicines, and, just as we find no use for 
gallons, quarts, and pints, but use fluidounces, fluidrams, and 
minims, so with this metric system we throw aside the liter and 
use one of its subdivisions. In place of a cube, one /for/meter 
in all its dimensions, we construct one that is one centimeter, 
or of a meter in length, breadth, and depth, and we call 
this vessel a cubic centimeter, using the abbreviated sign c.c. 20 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
The unit of weight is called the gram, and is expressed by 
gm. The weight which will exactly balance a cubic centi- 
meter vessel when filled with water gives us this unit called 
the gram. 
We have then for our units the meter, or measure of length; 
the cubic centimeter, or measure of fluid quantities; the 
gram, or measure of weight. 
The prefixes used in signifying the subdivisions and multi- 
ples of these measures of capacity and weight are just the same 
as those used to signify the subdivisions and multiples of the 
measure of length. And, as we say milli-, centi-, and deci-, or 
deca-, hecto-, and kilo meters, so we say milli-, centi-, and 
deci-, or deca-, hecto-, and kilo liters and grams. These prefixes 
are not all used in connection with the weighing and measuring 
of medicines. The “United States Pharmacopoeia ” uses 
two, the gram and the cubic centimeter, these being quite 
sufficient for the purpose. 
The following diagram may serve to show how the figures 
are placed relatively to the terms, how they may be and how 
they are read; which terms we as handlers of medicines use, 
and which we discard : 
Myria- = 10,000 
Kilo- = 1,000 
Hecto- = 100 
Deca- = 10 
Gram 
deci- = TV 
centi- = jjv 
milli- = xtsW 
M | K | H | D Gm d c m 
X X X X XX 
87654321 THE FRENCH SYSTEM OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 
21 
These figures are read as 87,654 gm. and 321 milligrams. 
All the other terms are discarded, as shown by the X mark. 
The manner of writing and the way of reading is best shown 
by exemplary or typical prescriptions. There has been much 
discussion as to the proper way of writing in the decimal sys- 
tem. In France, where the system had its origin, and in our 
latest pharmacopeia the custom of writing the figures with the 
decimal point and following them by the sign prevails. The 
German pharmacopeia uses the figures and decimal alone. 
In our own country we generally follow our own standard. 
Remembering then, that gm. stands for gram and indicates 
that something is to be weighed, and that c.c. stands for 
cubic centimeters, or something to be measured, we give the 
following prescription : 
Magnesium sulphate, 30 gm. 
Water, 60 c.c. 
Spirit of peppermint, 0.5 c.c. 
These quantities are variously written in private practice 
thus: 
Gm. or c.c. 
3°- 3° 
60. 60 
o-5 .5 
Without signs. Botli signs: one way for fluids, the 
other for solids ; fluids are to be measured 
in cubic centimeters and solids weighed 
in grams, the signs being written once 
for all at the top. 
While it may be years before this system of weights and 
measures shall entirely supersede the old system, it is believed 
that a short table of equivalents easy to remember or handy 22 
to refer to, if the necessity to do so ever should arise, will be 
fittingly inserted here. 
500 c.c. in place of one pint. 
500 gm. “ “ “ one pound avoirdupois. 
30 c.c. “ “ “ one fluidounce—f^j. 
30 gm. “ “ “ one ounce weight. 
4 c.c. “ “ “ one fluidram—f 3 j. 
4 gm. “ “ “ one dram weight. 
1 c.c. “ “ “ rr^xv. 
I gm. “ “ “ grs. xv. 
And reversing them : 
One pint in place of 500 c.c. 
One pound “ “ “ 500 gm. 
One fluidounce “ “ “ 30 c.c. 
One ounce weight “ “ “ 30 gm. 
One fluidram “ “ “ 4 c.c. 
One dram weight “ “ “ 4 gm. 
Fifteen minims “ “ “ 1 c.c. 
Fifteen grains “ “ “ 1 gm. 
The approximates of the household measures are as follows : 
One teaspoonful or f3} “ “ “ 4 c.c. 
One dessertspoonful or f 3 ij “ “ “ 8 c.c. 
One tablespoonful orfsjiv “ “ “ 16 c.c. 
One wineglassful “ “ “ 60 c.c. 
One cupful “ “ “ 120 c.c. 
One tumblerful “ “ “ 240 c.c. 
The equivalents for fractional parts of a grain are quite 
easy to obtain mentally if the equivalent of one grain is 
memorized. This equivalent is 65 milligrams, and is written 
thus: 0.065 gm-> or °f a gram. Sixty-five milligrams 
being 1 grain, then half a grain would be half of sixty-five 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. THE FRENCH SYSTEM OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 
23 
milligrams, which in round numbers would be 0.033 gm- 
(33 milligrams). 
\ grain would be \ of 0.065, or 0.016 gm. 
“ “ & of 0.065, or 0.008 gm. 
A “ “ A of °-o65, or 0.002 gm. 
A “ “ A of °-o65, or 0.001 gm. 
j °f 0.065, or 0.020 gm. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER III. 
What is the origin of the metric system of weights and measures ? 
Give the names of the units of length, capacity, and weigh*. 
Describe the origin of the cubic centimeter. 
Describe the origin of the gram. 
How many centigrams in a gram ? 
How many milligrams in a gram ? 
How many grams in a kilogram? 
How many milligrams in one grain ? 
How many milligrams in A> A> i of a grain ? 
How many cubic centimeters in f j ? in f 3 j ? in f xvj ? 
How many teaspoonfuls in 120 c.c. ? 
How many cubic centimeters in a wineglassful ? 
How many tablespoonfuls in 45 c.c. ? 
How many tablespoonful doses will be left of a 180 c.c. mixture after eight 
teaspoonful doses have been taken out ? 
How many milligrams of opium in a one-grain opium pill ? 
How many milligrams of nitroglycerin in a tablet of T-Jff of a grain ? 
The dose of strychnine being A °f a grain, is 0.030 gm. (30 milligrams) 
too much to give ? 
How would this prescription be written in figures ?— 
Potassium iodid, 650 milligrams 
Bichlorid of mercury, 1 milligram 
Water, 4 c.c. 24 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
How would this one be read ?— 
Potassium iodid, 0.650 gm. 
Bichlorid of mercury, 0.001 gm. 
Water, 4 c.c. 
» 
Note.—Let the pupil remember the true object of these equivalents. 
When the system comes into use it will be quite as easy to measure a cubic 
centimeter as a fluidram, or to weigh sixty-five milligrams as one grain. 
But it is writing in one system and dosing by teaspoonfuls, etc., which 
render it necessary to arrive, by a mental process, to the knowledge as to 
the correctness of your dose. Thus: You are directed to give ten grains 
of potassium iodid from a solution containing ten grains to each fluidram, 
and you measure out one dram and give it; but if the doctor says give 
0.650 gm., you are lost. 
Notice the following : 
Morphine, gr. j or 0.065 gm- 
Water, or 30 c.c. M. 
Dose.—Teaspoonful. 
As written first, without thinking or at least without any apparent effort, 
you know a teaspoonful to contain one-eighth of a grain of morphine and 
the dose to be safe. Not so with the second writing. But by very little 
of the right sort of practice you quickly learn that 65 milligrams are 1 
grain, that 30 c.c. are 1 fluidounce, and the figuring is done. The two 
preceding chapters should be made use of all through the succeeding pages, 
and every time a dose is stated its equivalent metric figures should be 
required instantly, or vice versa. 
Blackboard exercise will greatly aid the pupil and the teacher also. 
Exhibits of graduated glasses in the two systems will also be of great aid. CHAPTER IV. 
CRUDE DRUGS. 
There are many hundreds of substances used as medicines. 
The official list of the pharmacopeia alone contains of drugs 
and preparations almost a thousand. They are derived from 
all three of the great kingdoms of nature, the mineral, the 
vegetable, and the animal. And the earth, the sea, and the 
air are all, directly or indirectly, drawn upon for supplies. 
We will consider first those crude drugs, some of which 
come from the animal, but most of them from the vegetable, 
kingdom. 
Note.—The pharmacopeia—a word constantly used in this work—is 
the name given the book which names and describes the substances used as 
medicines, and gives standard directions for making the various prepara- 
tions of them. The things contained in it are spoken of as official, and the 
letters U. S. P. are Used to distinguish the United States from the British, 
French, German, or any other pharmacopeia. 
The following list does not include all the official drugs. 
A complete list of them will be found at the end of the volume. 
Here we will consider those only which you will be likely 
to meet with often. 
ROOTS. 
Latin Name. English Name. Medical Action. 
Aspidium, Male fern, Teniacide. 
Convallaria, Lily of the valley, . . Heart depressant. 
25 26 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
ROOTS (continued). 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Medical Action. 
Gentiana 
. Gentian, 
. Bitter tonic. 
Glycyrrhiza, . . . . 
. Licorice, 
. Expectorant. 
Aconitum, 
. Aconite, 
. Cardiac sedative. 
Hydrastis, ... 
. Golden seal, .... 
. Tonic. 
Jalapa, 
• Jalap, 
. Cathartic. 
Ipecacuanha, . . . 
. Ipecac, 
. Emetic. 
Rheum, 
. Rhubarb, 
. Cathartic and astringent. 
Sarsaparilla, . . . . 
. Sarsaparilla, .... 
. Alterative. 
Valeriana, 
. Valerian, 
. Nerve stimulant. 
Zingiber, 
. Ginger, 
. Stimulant and carmina- 
tive. 
The definitions of the words descriptive of the medicinal 
action of drugs will be given as far as possible in connection 
with the drugs and they should be learned. 
Teniacide.—Any medicine capable of destroying tape- 
worms is called a teniacide. 
Heart stimulants, or cardiac stimulants, as the name 
implies, stimulate the heart’s action—the force and frequency 
of the pulse. 
Tonics are medicines which increase the vigor and tone of 
the system by improving the appetite, favoring digestion and 
assimilation, and adding strength to the circulatory system. 
Expectorants are used to facilitate the expulsion of 
bronchial secretions and to modify the character of these 
when abnormal. 
Cardiac Sedatives.—These allay the heart’s action. 
Cathartics.—Drugs which cause evacuation of the con- 
tents of the intestinal canal. 
Emetics cause vomiting. Sometimes they act mechanic- CRUDE DRUGS. 
27 
ally by irritating the stomach; sometimes by exciting the 
nervous centers which cause vomiting. 
Astringents produce contraction of muscular fiber. They 
also coagulate albumen and lessen the secretion from mucous 
surfaces. 
Alteratives are those medicines which produce a beneficial 
change. 
Stimulants quicken the activity of the vital forces, and 
their effect is temporary. 
Carminatives are those remedies which aid in the expul- 
sion of gas from the intestines. 
A complete list of such terms, taken by permission from 
the series of lectures recently published by the “ Pharmaceu- 
tical Era” Company, and written by Professor L. E. Sayre, 
of Kansas University, will be found at the end of the volume. 
It was written for pharmacists. Pharmacists and nurses, in 
respect to therapeutics, are in the same rank. They need a 
knowledge of terms and definitions, but under no circum- 
stances should they take advantage of their knowledge by pre- 
scribing. Reasonably or unreasonably physicians are very 
jealous of their rights, and peace will not be present with a 
physician and a prescribing nurse in the house together. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Properties. 
Cinchona, .... 
. . Cinchona, or Peruvian 
bark, 
Antipyretic and tonic. 
Gossypium, . . . 
Emmenagogue. 
Prunus, 
. . Wild cherry, 
Sedative, tonic. 
Cascara, 
. . Cascara, 
Tonic, laxative. 
Viburnum, .... 
. . Black haw, 
Action specifically on 
the uterine system. 
BARKS. 28 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Antipyretics are medicines which reduce the temperature 
of the body. 
Laxatives produce gentle evacuations of the intestinal 
canal. A to?iic laxative, besides having that effect, strengthens 
the parts acted upon. 
LEAVES. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Action. 
Belladonna, . . . 
. . Deadly nightshade or 
belladonna, . . . 
Narcotic. 
Buchu, 
. . Buchu, 
Diuretic. 
Coca, 
. . Coca, 
Stimulant, local anes- 
thetic. 
Digitalis, .... 
. . Digitalis, 
Cardiac stimulant. 
Humulus, .... 
. Hops, 
Sedative, tonic. 
Hyoscyamus, . . 
. . Henbane or hyoscy- 
amus, 
Narcotic. 
Pilocarpus, . . . 
. . Jaborandi, 
Sialagogue and diapho- 
retic. 
Senna, 
Cathartic. 
Uva ursi, .... 
. . Uva ursi, 
Diuretic. 
Narcotics lessen the sensibility to pain and produce 
sleep. In poisonous doses they cause coma and death. 
Diuretics are remedies which increase the secretion of 
urine. 
Anesthetics suspend consciousness temporarily. Local 
anesthetics affect only those parts to which they are applied. 
Sialagogues are those medicines which cause an increased 
secretion and flow of saliva. 
Diaphoretics increase the action of the skin and promote 
perspiration. CRUDE DRUGS. 
29 
SEEDS. 
The fruits and seeds are distinct, botanically, but they are 
not separated here, because they are terms popularly inter- 
changeable and the separation is unnecessary. Such things 
may be easily told by the teacher. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Properties. 
Anisum, 
. Anise, 
Carminative. 
Capsicum, . . . . 
. African, or cayenne 
pepper, 
Stimulant. 
Cardamomum, . . . 
. Cardamom, .... 
. Carminative. 
Colchicum, . . . . 
. Colchicum, .... 
. Sedative. 
Ergota, 
. Ergot, 
Parturient 
Nux vomica, . . . . 
. Nux vomica, .... 
. Tonic. 
Staphisagria, . . . 
. Larkspur, 
. Antiparasitic. 
Stroplianthus, . . . 
. Strophanthus, . . . 
. Heart stimulant. 
Any of these drugs may be thus defined : 
What is aconite? It is a root, the official Latin 
and English name is aconite, and in its properties it is 
narcotic. 
What is digitalis? It is a leaf, the English name of which 
is also digitalis, and it is commonly called foxglove. It is 
used as a heart stimulant. 
What is cinchona? Cinchona is a bark. Its common 
names are Peruvian, calisaya, or Jesuits’ bark. It is a tonic 
and an antipyretic. 
What is anise? Anise is a seed, or, more correctly 
speaking, a fruit (in the text at the end of the volume 
the full official definition will be found). Its common 
name is also anise, and it is used as a carminative. 30 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
GUMS. 
There are quite a number of substances in the official 
materia medica which are commonly spoken of as gums. 
Strictly speaking but one of them is a gum, and their true 
names are assigned them in the list already referred to at the 
end of the volume and to which the pupil should constantly 
refer in study. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Properties. 
Acacia, 
. . Gum Arabic, . . . . 
. Demulcent. 
Aloe, 
. . Aloes, 
. Cathartic. 
Asafoetida, .... 
. . Asafetida, 
. Antispasmodic. 
Benzoinum, . . . 
. . Benzoin, 
. Expectorant. 
Camphora, . . . 
. . Camphor, 
Catechu, 
. Catechu, 
. Astringent. 
Guaiacum, .... 
. . Guaiacum, 
. Alterative, stimulant. 
Guarana, .... 
. . Guarana, 
. Stimulant. 
Kino, 
Kino, 
. Astringent. 
Opium, 
. . Opium, 
. Narcotic. 
Tragacantha, . . 
. . Tragacanth, . . . . 
. Demulcent. 
Note.—Guarana nor kino nor indeed any of these, except gum Arabic, 
are true gums, but they are popularly spoken of as such. 
Demulcents soothe inflamed mucous surfaces. 
Antispasmodics prevent or stop, after they have com- 
menced, violent and irregular action of both the voluntary 
and involuntary muscles. 
It will be noticed that, with few exceptions, the Latin and 
English names are alike, or at the most differing in their 
terminal syllable. Upon this plan all drugs of modern dis- 
covery have been named. The few exceptions are instances 
of drugs which acquired a world-wide commercial name before CRUDE DRUGS. 
31 
their scientific names became fully determined, and in such 
instances it has been found impossible to eradicate the old 
name. Humulus, for instance, and gossypium are known the 
world over and entirely outside the medical and scientific 
world as hops and cotton. 
These crude drugs are not usually given in their natural 
condition. But their medicinal properties are extracted from 
them by methods which vary according to the nature of the 
drugs, and it is the preparation from the drug and not the 
drug itself which we administer to the sick. 
There are a number of reasons for this. The drugs them- 
selves, uncooked, are difficult of digestion, and therefore 
slow of action. They consist largely of wholly indigestible 
woody fiber, which in the enfeebled conditions of disease 
would disturb the digestive function. The drugs themselves 
are subject to loss of medicinal strength by the action of the 
elements or the attack of insects while the preparations are 
stable. The strength of the drug varies from season to season. 
The strength of the preparation is capable of being standard- 
ized. For these and other reasons the various tinctures, 
fluid extracts, solutions, etc., have been invented, and it is 
these which are used and not the drugs themselves. 
A Special Description of Opium and Ergot.— 
Opium is the dried milk-juice of the poppy of the tropical 
countries of the far East. 
As it reaches our market it is in irregularly shaped lumps, 
which were originally globular, but which have become more or 
less misshapen by packing. The lumps are of the consistence 
of putty which become dry and grow hard on exposure to air. 
They vary in size from pieces of the size of an apple to 
pieces as large as the two fists. Externally they are of the 32 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
color of dried leaves, and, in fact, this color is given them by 
the leaves, which are wrapped around the balls when they are 
fresh and which imbed themselves in the surface and remain 
there. Broken while moist, the mass is of a dark-brown color, 
appearing like moist vegetable matter ground up. It has a 
very peculiar odor and taste, which, once recognized, will 
never leave the memory. Usually the lumps are hard, and 
when broken present a smooth fracture of a rich chocolate 
color. Its chief active principles are morphine and codeine. 
It is quite as often found in powdered form, and, in fact, the 
powdered opium is now the standard opium. It should con- 
tain fourteen percent, or fourteen grains of morphine in every 
ioo grains of opium. This is about one-seventh part, so that 
a grain of opium, if it is of standard quality, is equal to of 
a grain of morphine. But, of course, all vegetable substances 
vary in their composition, and generally opium varies. 
ERGOT. 
This was placed among the list of seeds, there being no 
others of its class. Ergot is a fungus which grows upon the 
ears of wheat, rye, and barley. It takes the place of and 
grows among the kernels. There will be, perhaps, one or as 
many as five kernels of ergot upon one ear. Some may be 
seen in almost any field of ripening grain, being easily dis- 
tinguished by their dark, almost black color. In size they are 
about twenty-five millimeters long (one inch), cylindric in 
shape, curved, smaller at the ends than in the middle; hard, 
seal-brown outside and gray within. As it is very unstable, 
the fluid extract from the new ergot is the only form in which 
it is used. CRUDE DRUGS. 
33 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER IV. 
How many drugs and preparations make up the official materia medica ? 
What is meant by the word official ? 
What is meant by the word pharmacopeia ? 
What is capsicum, hyoscyamus, gentian, wild cherry, ginger, foxglove, 
aconite, henbane, senna, ergot, digitalis? 
What are the medicinal actions of these drugs? 
Define in each instance the word expressive of that action. 
Name a diuretic drug, a stimulant, a tonic, an antipyretic, a teniacide, a 
cathartic, a carminative. 
Why are not the drugs themselves always used in medicine ? 
Note.—It is well to be uniform in defining a drug. For instance: 
What is belladonna ? The Latin name is belladonna, the English name is 
belladonna, the common name is deadly nightshade ; the part used is the 
leaf, and in its medicinal action it is a narcotic. CHAPTER V. 
THE AQUEOUS PREPARATIONS OF THE PHARMA- 
COPEIA. 
Latin Name, Aquae (a'-kwe). English Name, Waters. 
A water, in its pharmacopeial meaning, is a solution of a 
volatile substance in water. 
Explanation.—Anything is said to be volatile which, when 
left exposed to the air at ordinary temperatures, evaporates. 
Hence, all the waters if left open to the air will evaporate or 
lose their strength. 
With a few exceptions, noticed further on, the waters are 
used for flavoring purposes, in rendering bad-smelling and bad- 
tasting medicines less disagreeable. They should be freshly 
made and possess the well-defined odor of the substances 
indicated by their titles. They should be perfectly transparent 
and entirely free from stringy growths. 
The following is the complete official list. Those in the 
first section are made by simply agitating the substance with 
water until it is dissolved. All of them are medicinal. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Aqua creosoti, 
Aqua chloroformi, ..... 
. . . Chloroform water. 
Aqua amygdalae amarae, . . 
. . . Bitter almond water. 
34 AQUEOUS PREPARATIONS OF THE PHARMACOPEIA. 
35 
Note.—In case of the chloroform water, an excess is used to keep up 
the strength and is found settled at the bottom of the bottle. It is custom- 
ary on the part of the druggist to pour off the clear water so that, as it 
comes to your notice, there will be no sediment or chloroform at- the 
bottom of the bottle. 
The second section embraces those which are made by the 
following process : The oil from which the water is prepared 
is rubbed in a mortar with some inert powder and the water, 
and then filtered through paper. The oil mentioned is used 
in place of the drug from which it has been separated, because 
it is more convenient. It does not all dissolve in the water 
and is prevented from passing through the filter by the pow- 
der which is used ; that absorbing it and holding it back upon 
the filter. This act should be shown the pupil whenever 
possible. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Aqua anisi, 
. . . Anise water. 
Aqua camphorse, 
. . . Camphor water. 
Aqua cinnamomi, 
. . . Cinnamon water. 
Aqua fceniculi, 
. . . Fennel water. 
Aqua menthse piperitse, . . . 
. . . Peppermint water. 
Aqua menthse viridis, . . . 
. . . Spearmint water. 
The third section includes the waters obtained by the pro- 
cess called distillation. 
Explanation.—Distillation—When water or other fluids 
are heated they are converted into vapor. This vapor will, 
if conducted into a cooled chamber, resume its original fluid 
form again. Advantage is taken of this natural phenomenon 
to separate volatile substances, or substances which are capable 
of vaporization, from non-volatile substances which will not 
vaporize. 36 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
To perform this act three utensils are necessary: First, 
a boiler, technically called a still, to hold the substance to 
be distilled; second, a tube, technically called a worm or 
condenser, to conduct the vapor to the receiving chamber ; 
third, the receiving chamber, technically called the receiver, 
and chilled by contact on the outside by cooled water. 
Heat is applied to the still and cooled water to the receiver, 
and the distillation goes on. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Aqua aurantii florum fortior, 
. . Stronger orange-flower water. 
Aqua destillata, 
Aqua rosae fortior, 
The last section contains solutions of gases. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Aqua ammonise, 
Aqua ammonise fortior, . 
. . . Stronger ammonia water. 
Aqua hydrogenii dioxidi, . . 
. . . Water or solution of hydrogen dioxid 
or peroxid of hydrogen. 
Note.—This last one is one of the substances which requires very 
great technical shill in its preparation. Among the many brands in the 
market the author knows of but one which is permanent under all exposures 
of climate, and that is the brand made by Messrs. McKesson & Robbins, 
of New York. 
THE SOLUTIONS OF THE PHARMACOPEIA. 
Latin Name, Liquores. English Name, Solutions. 
Liquors are aqueous preparations of non-volatile substances, 
and they are distinguished from waters by that fact. 
A complete official list is given. Those of common use are 
italicized. AQUEOUS PREPARATIONS OF THE PHARMACOPEIA. 
37 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Liquor 
acidi arsenosi, 
. Solution of arsenous acid. 
Liquor 
ammonii acetatis, 
, Solution of ammonium acetate (spirit 
of mindererus). 
Liquor 
arseni et hydrargyri iodidi, 
. Solution of arsenic and mercuric 
iodid {Donovan's solution). 
Liquor 
calcis, 
. Solution of lime, or lime-water. 
Liquor 
ferri acetatis, 
. Solution of ferric acetate. 
Liquor 
ferri chloridi, 
. Solution of ferric chlorid. 
Liquor 
ferri citratis, 
. Solution of ferric citrate. 
Liquor 
ferri et ammonii acetatis, . 
. Solution of iron and ammonium ace- 
tate (Basham’s mixture). 
Liquor 
ferri nitratis, 
. Solution of ferric nitrate. 
Liquor 
ferri subsulphatis, .... 
. Solution of ferric subsulphate (Mon- 
sel’s solution). 
Liquor 
ferri tersulphatis, 
. Solution of ferric sulphate. 
Liquor 
hydrargyri nitratis, . . . 
. Solution of mercuric nitrate. 
Liquor 
iodi compositus, .... 
. Compound solution of iodin (Lugol’s 
solution). 
Liquor 
magnesii citratis, . . . . 
. Solution of magnesium citrate. 
Liquor 
plumbi subacetatis, . . . 
. Solution of lead subacetate (Goulard’s 
extract). 
Liquor 
plumbi subacetatis dilutus, 
. Diluted solution of lead subacetate. 
Liquor 
potassse, 
. Solution of potash. 
Liquor 
potassii arsenitis, .... 
. Solution of potassium arsenite (Fow- 
ler's solution). 
Liquor 
potassii citratis, 
. Solution of potassium citrate. 
Liquor 
sodas, 
. Solution of soda. 
Liquor 
sodas chloratse, ..... 
. Solution of chlorinated soda (Labar- 
raque’s solution). 
Liquor 
sodii arsenatis, 
. Solution of sodium arsenate. 
Liquor 
sodii silicatis, 
. Solution of sodium silicate. 
Liquor 
zinci chloridi, 
. Solution of zinc chlorid. 
It will be noticed that none of the liquors are of vegetable 
origin. The same is true of some other aqueous preparations. 
All, both those of vegetable and chemic origin, are given in 38 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
this chapter, and those of chemic interest will receive 
attention later. Of such are the very important arsenic 
solutions, Monsel’s solution, etc. 
Note.—When we use the word solution we imply something dissolved, 
and all solutions should therefore be clear. They may, in large vessels, be 
dark-colored and impenetrable to the eye, but in thin layers they should 
be quite transparent and never show a sediment at the bottom of the bottle. 
TIIE SYRUPS. 
These are solutions of medicinal substances in water sweet- 
ened with a large proportion of sugar. These being solutions 
should be clear, but owing to the refractory nature of the 
drugs it is sometimes difficult to make them so, and quite fre- 
quently they are cloudy. They sometimes ferment, which is 
shown by the frothing or by the odor peculiar to fermenting 
solutions, and commonly expressed by the word sour. 
Latin Name, Syrupi. English Name, Syrups. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Syrupus, 
. Syrup. 
Syrupus acacise, 
. Syrup of acacia, or gum Arabic. 
Syrupus acidi citrici, 
. Syrup of citric acid. 
Syrupus acidi hydriodici, .... 
. Syrup of hydriodic acid. 
This syrup should be colorless. 
Syrupus allii 
. Syrup of garlic. 
Syrupus althaeas, 
. Syrup of marsh-mallow. 
Syrupus amygdalae, 
. Syrup of almonds. 
Syrupus aurantii, 
. Syrup of orange. 
Syrupus aurantii fiorum, .... 
. Syrup of orange flowers. 
Syrupus calcii lactophosphatis, 
. Syrup of the calcium lactophosphate. 
Syrupus calcis, 
. Syrup of lime. AQUEOUS PREPARATIONS OF THE PHARMACOPEIA. 
39 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Syrupus ferri iodidi, 
Syrup of iodid of iron, or ferrous 
iodid. 
This syrup should be green—not brown. 
Syrupus ferri, quininae, et strych- 
ninae phosphatum, Syrup of the phosphates of ii-on, qui- 
nine, and strychnine. 
Contains of a grain of strychnine to fgj. 
Syrupus hypophosphitum, . . . . 
Syrup of the hypophosphites. 
This syrup is often prescribed under the name syrup of hypophosphites, 
U. S. P., in distinction from Fellows’ compound syrup of hypophosphites. 
The latter contains strychnine. 
Syrupus hypophosphitum cum ferro, 
Syrup of the hypophosphites with iron. 
Syrupus ipecacuanhae, 
Syrup of ipecac. 
Syrupus krameriae, 
Syrup of krameria or rhatany. 
Syrupus lactucarii, 
Syrup of lactucarium. 
Syrupus picis liquidae, 
Syrup of tar. 
Syrupus pruni virginianae, 
Syrup of wild cherry. 
Syrupus rhei, 
Syrup of rhubarb. 
Syrupus rhei aromaticus, . . . . 
Aromatic syrup of rhubarb. 
Syrupus rosae, 
Syrup of rose. 
Syrupus rubi, 
Syrup of blackberry. 
Svrupus rubi idaei 
Syrup of raspberry. 
Syrupus sarsaparillae compositus, . . 
Co??ipound syrup of sarsaparilla. 
Syrupus scillae, 
Syrup of squill. 
Syrupus scillae compositus, . . . . 
Compound syrup of squill, or hives 
syrup. 
Syrupus senegae, 
Syrup of senega. 
Syrupus sennae, 
Syrup of senna. 
Syrupus tolutanus, 
Syrup of tolu. 
Syrupus zingiberis, 
Syrup of ginger. 
THE HONEYS. 
Latin Name, Mellita. English Name, Honeys. 
A honey is a solution of a medicinal substance in honey. 40 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
It is a class of preparations used more by foreign than by 
native physicians. 
They should be clear and show no signs of fermentation. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Mel, 
Mel despumatum, .... 
Mel rosae, 
THE MUCILAGES. 
Latin Name, Mucilagines. English Name, Mucilages. 
A mucilage is a thick, viscid solution, made by dissolving 
or soaking various gums or substances of a gummy nature in 
water. They are used as demulcent drinks, and such familiar 
substances as gum Arabic, flaxseed, elm-bark, quince seed, 
etc., furnish them by simple soaking in water for a few hours 
and straining through gauze, and are largely used in domestic 
medicine. They are usually free from sediment, but are not 
perfectly transparent. They decompose readily, becoming 
sour. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Mucilago acaciae, 
Mucilago sassafras medullae, . . 
. . Mucilage of sassafras pith. 
Mucilago tragacanthae, .... 
Mucilago ulmi, 
THE MIXTURES. 
Latin Name, Mistime. English Name, Mixtures. 
Mixtures are fluid preparations containing an insoluble sub- 
stance (that is, one incapable of being dissolved by water) AQUEOUS PREPARATIONS OF THE PHARMACOPEIA. 
41 
mixed with water, and held in suspension by gum or sugar 
or some other viscid substance. A mixture is not a clear 
solution, and when left for a while undisturbed will show 
more or less sediment at the bottom of the bottle. 
Note.—The mixtures are usually made thick enough by the addition of 
gum and sugar to enable one to pour out a dose into a spoon before the 
undissolved substance has had time to settle. They should always be 
shaken in common with all medicines which are not perfectly clear. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Mistura cretse, 
. Chalk mixture. 
Mistura ferri composita, . . . . 
. Compound iron mixture (Griffith’s 
mixture). 
Mistura glycyrrhizse composita, . 
. Compound mixture of licorice (Brown 
mixture). 
Mistura rhei et sodae, 
. Mixture of rhubarb and soda. 
EMULSIONS. 
Latin Name, Emulsa. English Name, Emulsions. 
An emulsion is a mixture containing an oil or a resinous 
substance mixed with water and gum, yolk of egg, or some 
other viscid substance. 
They differ from mixtures in the simple fact that the insol- 
uble substance in an emulsion is always an oil or of an oily 
nature. 
There are no faitiiliar official emulsions, but as the official 
list is short, they are given : 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Emulsum ammoniaci, Emulsion of ammoniac. 
This name resembles ammonia, but it is a gum-resin entirely different 
from ammonia. 42 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Emulsum amygdalae, . . . 
Emulsum asafoatidse, . . . . 
Emulsum chloroformi, . . . 
The waters, liquors, syrups, honeys, mucilages, mixtures, 
and emulsions all contain water as the vehicle in which they 
are mixed. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER V. 
What is the pharmacopeial definition of a water ? 
What is meant by a volatile substance ? 
Describe the process called distillation. 
How do waters and solutions differ ? 
What are the official names of Lugol’s, Donovan’s, and Fowler’s solu- 
tions ? Of lime-water ? 
Define the word syrup. 
What would indicate that a syrup had been spoiled ? 
What is the official title of mucilage ? Of gum Arabic ? 
How are mucilages made ? 
How do mixtures and emulsions differ ? CHAPTER VI. 
PREPARATIONS—(Continued). 
Latin Name, Glycerita. English Name, Glycerites. 
THE GLYCERITES. 
These are solutions of medicinal substances in glycerin. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Glyceritum acidi carbolici, . . 
Antiseptic. 
. . Glycerite of carbolic acid. 
Glyceritum acidi tannici, . . . 
Astringent. 
. Glycerite of tannic acid. 
Glyceritum boroglycerini, . . 
Antiseptic. 
. . Glycerite of boroglycerin. 
Glyceritum hydrastis, .... 
Astringent. 
Glyceritum vitelli, 
Used for emulsifying oils. 
SPIRITS—ESSENCES. 
A spirit is a solution of a volatile substance in alcohol. 
They are used to give an aromatic odor and agreeable taste 
to mixtures, and as correctives to nausea and griping caused 
by some medicines. They are also carminative and stimulant 
to debilitated stomachs. Some of them have special physio- 
Latin Name, Spiritus. English Name, Spirits. 
43 44 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
logic action, like, for instance, spirit of niter, which is 
diuretic and diaphoretic. The following is the official list: 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Spiritus setheris, 
. . Spirit of ether. • 
Stimulant. Dose, 4 to 12 c.c. 
Spiritus setheris compositus, . . 
. . Compound spirit of ether (Hoffman’s 
Stimulant and anodyne. 
anodyne). Dose, 2 to 8 c.c. 
Spiritus aetheris nitrosi, .... 
. . Spirit of nitrous ether (sweet spirit of 
niter. 
Diuretic and diaphoretic. Dose, 2 to 8 c.c. 
Spiritus ammonise, 
. . Spirit of ammonia. 
Stimulant and antispasmodic. 
Dose, I to 4 c.c. 
Spiritus ammonise aromaticus, . 
. . Aromatic spirit of ammonia. 
Used oftener than the simple 
spirit of ammonia because of its flavor. 
Stimulant and antispasmodic. Dose, to one teaspoonful. 
Spiritus amygdalae amarse, . . 
. . Spirit of bitter almond. 
Used as a flavor. It should be sparingly used, for in large quantities it 
might prove poisonous. The oil from which it is made always contains 
hydrocyanic or prussic acid, more or less, so no more than a few drops 
may be used as a flavor. 
Spiritus anisi, 
. . Spirit of anise. 
Carminative. Dose, to 8 
c.c. 
Spiritus aurantii, 
. . Spirit of orange. 
Used as a flavor, ad lib. 
Spiritus aurantii compositus, . 
. . Compound spirit of orange. 
It is the flavor for the official aromatic elixir, which is the vehicle of all 
ordinary elixirs; medicinal substances being added to them instead of to 
water. 
Spiritus camphorse, 
. . Spirit of camphor. 
Sedative. Dose, 0.300 c c. to fgj. 
Spiritus chloroformi, 
. . Spirit of chloroform. 
Anodyne. Dose, 10 to 60 (0.600 to 4 c.c.). 
Spiritus cinnamomi, 
. . Spirit of cinnamon. 
Carminative. Dose, 10 to 20 
1*1 (20 to 40 gtl.). PREPARATIONS. 
45 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Spiritus frumenti, 
Note.—The name whisky i 
land, where it means water. 
English life, it is spoken of as . 
Stimulant. The dose varies 
s said to have been first applied in Scot- 
In old English books, or stories of old 
•strong water, 
from ig] to f j§ij. 
Spiritus gaultheriae, . . . . 
Stimulant and flavor. Dose 
, 0.6 to 2 c.c. 
Spiritus glonoini, Spirit of glonoin, ortrinitrin, or nitro- 
glycerin. 
Cardiac stimulant. Dose, 0.060 to 0.120 c.c. (1 to 2 TT). 
Note.—This is more safely given in tablet form. 
Spiritus juniperi, 
Diuretic. Dose, 2 to 4 c.c. 
Note.—This same name is given to gin. The circumstances under 
which they are ordered signify which is meant. Spirit of juniper is used 
as an adjunct to other diuretics, while gin is nothing more or less than 
whisky, flavored by the addition of fresh juniper berries during its dis- 
tillation. 
Spiritus juniperi compositus, 
Diuretic. Dose, f3 ij to fg 
. . . Compound spirit of juniper, 
iv (8 to 16 c.c.). 
Spiritus lavandulae, .... 
Stimulant and carminative. 
. . . Spirit of lavender. 
Dose, 30 ITL to {gj. 
Spiritus limonis, 
Solely as a flavor. 
. . . Spirit of lemon. 
Spiritus menthae piperitae, . . 
Stimulant and carminative. 
. . . Spirit or essence of peppermint. 
Dose, 30 VT to 4 c.c. 
Spiritus menthae viridis, . . . 
Stimulant and carminative. 
, . . Spirit or essence of spearmint. 
Dose, 60 gtt. (30 nr) to 120 gtt. (60 nr). 
Spiritus myrciae, 
Restorative when inhaled. 
. . . Spirit of myrcia, or bay rum. 
Spiritus myristicae, 
Flavor. 
. . . Spirit of nutmeg. 46 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Spiritus phosphori, 
. Spirit of phosphorus. 
Nerve stimulant—rarely used, 
phosphorus. 
Dose, io ; contains 
of a gr. of 
Spiritus vini gallici, 
Stimulant. Dose, fgj to f^j. 
. Spirit of French wine, or 
brandy. 
It will be noticed that some of the names, indicating the 
active ingredients of these spirits, are chemic names. Their 
chemic nature will be considered in its proper place, in the 
chapters devoted to chemicals. Such are the spirits of am- 
monia, ether, chloroform, niter, and glonoin. The others, 
such as orange, bitter almond, anise, cinnamon, wintergreen, 
juniper, lavender, lemon, peppermint, spearmint, bay, and 
nutmeg, are all made by dissolving the volatile oils from those 
substances in alcohol. 
ELIXIRS. 
Latin Name, Elixiria. English Name, Elixirs. 
An elixir is a solution of medicinal substances in water, 
rendered agreeable to the senses of smell and taste by the 
addition of various aromatics and a large proportion of sugar, 
besides being brought into the class of stimulants by the 
addition of one-fourth part of alcohol. 
There are only two official elixirs, but the number of 
proprietary ones is very gieat. As the official aromatic elixir 
is very extensively used as a vehicle for nauseating medicines, 
its formula is given in full: PREPARATIONS. 
47 
Latin Name. English 
Name. 
Elixir aromaticum, Aromatic elixir. 
Compound spirit of orange, consisting of the oils 
♦ 
of orange, lemon, anise, and coriander, . . . 
12 C.C. 
Syrup, . 
375 c.c. 
Alcohol, about, . . 
375 c.c. 
Water, to make 1000 c.c. 
It will be noticed the amount of alcohol is more than one- 
third. These elixirs are very popular with the public, and 
their popularity is undoubtedly due to their effect, as what 
may be called nerve-foolers. Their stimulating effect easily 
leads people into the belief that a cure is being effected, 
while the usual attendant depression, on the cessation of 
regular doses of spirit, which closely follows the use of the 
last dose of a bottle, leads to the purchase of another. And 
the author would point to not only the harm done by the 
indiscriminate and uneducated use of such things, but to the 
fact that the nurse should warn persons, ignorant of their 
pernicious effects, against their use as quickly as she would 
against the use of whisky or any other strong drink. The 
medicinal value is undoubted, but their use should, like all 
other medicines, be under the control of the physician. 
Elixir phosphori, EHxir of phosphorus. 
Nerve stimulant. Each cubic centimeter contains of a milligram of 
phosphorus (0.00025 gm.). Each fluidram contains about gb of a grain. 
Dose, fgj (4 c.c.). 
COLLODIONS. 
Latin Name, Collodia. English Name, Collodions. 
Collodion is a solution of a substance called gun-cotton, 
with ether and alcohol, and collodions to be used for special 48 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
purposes are made by dissolving the substance which it is 
desirabFe to use in collodion. 
Gun-cotton will receive attention under the proper head- 
ing in organic chemistry. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Collodium, Collodion. 
External use. 
Collodium cantharidatum, .... Cantharidal collodion. 
It is vesicant from the addition of cantharides, or Spanish fly. 
Collodium flexile, Flexible collodion. 
Made by the addition of castor oil and balsam of fir to collodion. Its 
name indicates its only advantage over collodion. Flexible collodion 
yields to the movements of the parts to which it is applied. Collodion 
does not, and, furthermore, as its sometime name of contractile collodion 
implies, contracts or draws upon the surface to w hich it is applied, produc- 
ing a feeling of discomfort. 
Definition.—Vesicants are those drugs which, upon being 
applied to the surface of the body, cause what is commonly 
called a blister. 
Collodium stypticum, Styptic collodion. 
Styptic by reason of the addition of tannic acid. 
Defitiition.—Styptics are those drugs which cause the cessa- 
tion of bleeding by clotting the blood and closing the aper- 
ture through which it may be escaping. 
LINIMENTS. 
Latin Name, Linimenta. English Name, Liniments. 
Liniments are composed of aromatic oils, resins, ammonia, 
and other stimulants, with various anodyne drugs and emol- PREPARATIONS. 
49 
lients, all mixed with oils or alcohol and intended for 
external use. 
Definition.—Emollients soothe and soften inflamed surfaces. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Linimentum ammonia;, 
Ammonia liniment (volatile liniment) 
Ammonia water, alcohol, cotton-seed oil. 
Linimentum belladonnse, 
Belladonna liniment. 
FI. ext. belladonna and camphor. 
Linimentum calcis, 
Lime liniment (carron oil). 
Lime-water and linseed oil, p. e. 
Linimentum camphorce, 
Camphor liniment. 
Camphor and cotton-seed oil. 
Linimentum chloroformi, 
Chloroform liniment. 
Chloroform and soap liniment; anodyne liniment 
Linimentum saponis, 
Soap liniment. 
Soap, camphor, oil rosemary, alcohol, water. 
Linimentum saponis mollis, . . . . 
Liniment of soft soap. 
Soft or green soap, oil of lavender, and alcohol. 
Linimentum sinapis compositum, . . 
Compound mustard liniment. 
Oil of mustard, camphor, mezereum,* castor oil, alcohol. 
Linimentum terebinthinae, .... 
Turpentine liniment. 
Resin cerate and spirit of turpentine. 
There is a soap liniment in solid form, not official, called 
opodeldoc. It is made of a peculiar form of soap, called 
curd soap, without the use of water, and solidifies after it is 
made. 
* This drug or any other not in the list already given will be found at 
the end of the volume, in the official list there given. 50 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
OLEATES. 
Latin Name, Oleata. English Name, Oleates. 
An oleate is achemic compound of the medicinal substance, 
with oleic acid. They are produced sometimes in semifluid, 
and sometimes in solid form. 
Note.—Oleic acid is one of the products of the chemic decomposition 
of oil by steam under pressure. It will receive attention further on. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Oleatum hydrargyri, 
. . Oleate of mercury. 
Oleatum veratrinse, 
Veratrine is an alkaloid which 
we shall meet again. 
Oleatum zinci, 
. . Oleate of zinc. 
INFUSIONS. 
An infusion is prepared by soaking a drug in hot or cold 
water for a specified time—an hour, more or less—and 
straining. Some drugs lose their medicinal value by the use 
of hot water. Infusions of all such drugs should be made 
with cold water. 
It will frequently happen that you have an infusion to 
make. In preparing them one ounce of drug to one pint of 
water is the approximate strength, unless made from a poi- 
sonous drug, when the quantity should be specified. The drug 
is placed in a pitcher or a bowl of proper size and material 
to resist the action of hot water, and boiling hot water is 
poured upon it. The vessel is covered and the infusion 
allowed to remain undisturbed until cold. It is then to 
be strained through gauze, without pressure. 
Latin Name, Infusa. English Name, Infusions. PREPARATIONS. 
51 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Infusum cinchonse, 
Antipyretic and tonic. Dose, f^ij. 
Infusum digitalis, 
Heart stimulant and diuretic. 
Dose, fgj to f3 iv. 
Infusum pruni virginianse, 
. . . Infusion of wild-cherry bark. 
This is one of the drugs 
destroyed by hot water. 
the medicinal value of which is entirely 
Sedative. Dose, to fg xxiv. 
DECOCTIONS. 
Latin Name, Decocta. English Name, Decoctions. 
A decoction is prepared by boiling a drug in water for a 
specified time, and straining. 
This also is one of the preparations met with in domestic 
use. One ounce of the drug is placed in a porcelain or 
a granite-ware dish and one pint of boiling water poured 
upon it. It is then covered and allowed to boil, not violently, 
for fifteen minutes. The decoction is then strained through 
gauze, without pressure, and sufficient water is run through 
the strainer to make up for whatever amount may have been 
lost in the act of straining. As there are only two decoctions 
and they are unimportant they will not be placed here. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER VI. 
What are glycerites ? 
What is a spirit ? What common name is given them ? 
What is a volatile substance ? 
What are essences used for ? 
What is the common name of compound spirit of ether ? What is its dose ? 
What are all the ethereal spirits used for ? 52 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
What is the Latin name for sweet spirit of niter ? 
Its dose is 8 c.c. ; what fractional part of a wineglassful is that? How 
many teaspoonfuls is it? How many drams? 
What is a diaphoretic ? 
What is the dose of spirit of camphor ? 
What is the official title of essence of wintergreen ? 
How do spirit of juniper and gin, sometimes called by the same name, 
differ ? 
What is an elixir? Why is its indiscriminate use objectionable? 
What is collodion made from ? 
What is flexible collodion made from ? 
What is a styptic ? 
Which of the collodions is used as a vesicant ? 
What is a liniment? 
Give the official title of carron oil. 
What is it made of? 
Official title of volatile and of anodyne liniment. 
What is the difference between soap liniment and soft soap liniment? 
What is opodeldoc ? 
What is oleic acid made from ? 
What class of preparations are made from it ? 
What are infusions and decoctions ? 
Tell how each may be made. 
What is the dose of infusum digitalis? 
Note.—The nurse, while in the hospital, should, as far as possible, make 
herself familiar with the appearance of the various preparations coming 
under her observation by smelling of them and noticing their characteristic 
appearances. CHAPTER VII. 
PREPARATIONS—(Continued). 
TINCTURES. 
Latin Na?ne, Tincturae. English Na?ne, Tinctures. 
Owing to the importance of their standing among medicinal 
preparations, the tinctures and fluid extracts will receive spe- 
cial attention in a chapter by themselves. 
A tincture is an alcoholic or a dilute alcoholic solution of 
the soluble portions of a drug, generally of vegetable origin, 
but in a few instances each, of animal or mineral origin. 
This large and important class of preparations are made in 
two ways, viz., by maceration and by percolation. 
By Maceration.—The drug is placed in a suitable container 
—usually a large bottle. The alcohol or diluted alcohol 
(usually spoken of as the menstruum) is poured upon it and 
the drug is allowed to soak, with frequent agitation, for four- 
teen days, or other specified time, dependent upon the nature 
of the drug. The medicinal principles, the coloring matter, 
and numerous inert substances are, by this act, dissolved out, 
and the whole being thrown upon a filtering paper the tinc- 
ture passes through, leaving the exhausted drug upon the filter. 
By Percolation.—A vessel called a percolator, one form of 
which is shaped like a funnel, is plugged in the neck by a 
wad of absorbent cotton, a piece of sponge, or filtering paper. 
The powdered drug is'placed in the percolator. The men- 
struum is poured upon it and allowed to slowly run through the 
53 54 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
drug. The flow is regulated to about 120 gtt. per minute, 
more or less, according to the readiness with which the drug 
yields its soluble matter, and by the time all the menstruum 
is passed through, everything in the drug capable of being 
dissolved is dissolved and carried down into the receiving 
vessel. The substance left in the percolator is inert. All its 
color, odor, taste, in fact its activity, has been removed and 
is now present in the menstruum and constitutes a tincture. 
The list here given is of official tinctures ; but the complete 
list, embracing all the tinctures, some of which are seldom 
used, will be found in the Appendix. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Tinctura aconiti, Tincture of aconite. 
Sedative. Dose, i to 3 up (0.065 to 0.195 c.c.). 
Tinctura arnicse florum, Tincture of arnica flowers. 
External use, vulnerary. 
Definition.—Vulnerary medicines are used externally to 
relieve the pain of such external injuries as bruises, etc. 
Tinctura asafoetidse, Tincture of asafetida. 
Antispasmodic. Dose, 30 tt\, to fgj. 
Tinctura belladonnse foliorum, . . . Tincture of belladonna leaves. 
Narcotic. Dose, 5 to 15 (10 to 30 gtt.). 
Tinctura benzoini composita, . . . Compound tincture of benzoin. 
Stimulant, antiseptic. Dose, 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctura calumbse, Tincture of calumba. 
Tonic. Dose, teaspoonful to a tablespoonful. 
Tinctura cannabis indicm, .... Tincture of cannabis indica. 
Narcotic. Dose, 30 rt\,, increased. 
Tinctura capsici, Tincture of capsicum. 
Stimulant. Dose, 2 c.c. to fgj. PREPARATIONS. 
55 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Tinctura cardamomi composita, . . Compound tincture of cardamom. 
Carminative. Dose, f 3 ss to f3 ij. 
Tinctura cimicifugae, Tincture of cimicifuga. 
Alterative. Dose, teaspoonful to 15 c.c. 
Tinctura cinchonae, Tincture of cinchona. 
Tonic, antipyretic. Dose, 4 to 16 c.c. 
Tinctura cinchonae composita, . . . Compound tincture of cinchona. 
Tonic, antipyretic. Dose, fgj to fgiv. 
Tinctura colchici seminis, Tincture of colchicum seed. 
Alterative, antirheumatic. Dose, 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctura digitalis, Tincture of digitalis. 
Heart stimulant. Dose, 3 to 12 up* 
This tincture contains about one grain of drug in six minims. The dose 
of the drug is l/2 to 2 grs., which quantities are represented by the above 
doses. 
Tinctura ferri chloridi, Tincture of ferric chlorid. Tincture 
of sesquichlorid of iron. 
Hematic. Dose, 10 to 30 ftp. » 
Definition.—Hematics restore the quality of the 
exerting a direct influence upon its composition. 
blood, 
Tinctura gelsemii, Tincture of gelsemium. 
Antispasmodic. Dose, 0.600 to 1.2 c.c. 
Tinctura gentianae composita, . . . Compound tincture of gentian. 
Tonic. Dose, I to 2 teaspoonfuls (4 to 8 c.c.). 
Tinctura guaiaci ammoniata,* . . . Ammoniated tincture of guaiacum. 
Alterative. Dose,fgj to (4 to 8 c.c.). 
*This word ammoniated alludes to the menstruum. Instead of using 
alcohol, we use aromatic spirit of ammonia, which is a mixture of alcohol 
and ammonia. The ammonia renders the guaiacum miscible with water. 56 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Tinctura hyoscyami, Tincture of hyoscyamus. 
Narcotic. Dose, teaspoonful (fgj) (4 c.c.). 
Tinctura iodi, Tincture of iodin. 
External use. 
Tinctura ipecacuanha et opii, . . . Tincture of ipecac and opium. 
Anodyne, diaphoretic. Dose, 10 = 1 gr. of opium and X gr. of ipecac. 
Tinctura lavandulse composita, . . . Compound tincture of lavender. 
Adjuvant and corrigent. Dose, 30 gtt. to f^j. 
Tinctura myrrhse, Tincture of myrrh. 
Mouth-wash, emmenagogue. Dose, 15 rt\, to fgss. 
Tinctura nucis vomicae, Tincture of nux vomica. 
Tonic. Dose, 20 Tt^. 
Tinctura opii, Tincture of opium, laudanum. 
Narcotic. Dose, 10 to 20 tip, or 20 to 40 gtt., or 0.650 to 1.300 c.c., 
each of these quantities representing from 1 to 2 grs. of opium. 
Tinctura opii camphorata, .... Paregoric, camphorated tincture of 
opium. 
Camphor, opium, oil of anise, benzoic acid, glycerin, and alcohol. 
Anodyne. Dose, teaspoonful, or f3 j, or 4 c.c., or 60 n\,, equaling of 
a grain of opium, or 0.016 gm. (16 milligrams). 
Tinctura opii deodorati, .... Tincture of deodorized opium. 
Note.—This was designed to displace what is known as McMunn’s 
Elixir of Opium. It differs from the ordinary tincture of opium in having 
its nauseating properties removed during the process of making. 
Narcotic. Dose, 10 to 20 equaling I to 2 grs. of opium. 
Tinctura rhei, Tincture of rhubarb. 
Cathartic and astringent. Dose, f 3 j to f 3 ij. 
Tinctura rhei aromatica, Aromatic tincture of rhubarb. 
Cathartic and carminative. Dose, fgss to {$]. 
Tinctura rhei dulcis, Sweet tincture of rhubarb. 
Cathartic for children. Dose, 1 to 3 teaspoonfuls. Latin Name. English Name. 
Tinctura strophanthi, Tincture of stroplianthus. 
Cardiac stimulant. Dose, 5 to 15 
Tinctura valerianm, Tincture of valerian. 
Nerve stimulant. Dose, f 3 j to 16 c.c. 
Tinctura veratri viridis, Tincture of veratrum viride 
Heart depressant. Dose, I to 8 TT^. 
Tinctura zingiberis, Tincture of ginger. 
Stimulant, carminative. Dose, 10 n\, to f^j. 
PREPARATIONS. 
57 
Following is a schedule of all the official poisonous tinct- 
ures, with the percentage amount of drug they contain, 
and their doses: 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Percentage 
Strength. 
Dose. 
2 
Tinctura nucis vomicae 
Tincture of nux vomica... 
2# 
5-15 m 
5 
Tinctura strophanthi 
Tincture of strophanthus.. 
5# 
10-40 1T\ 
10 
Tinctura ipecacuanhae et 
Tincture of ipecac and 
10-20 IT] 
10-20 m 
Tinctura opii deodorati 
Tincture of deodorized 
opium 
10 # 
10-20 TT\ 
15 
Tinct. belladonnae foliorum. 
Tinct. of belladonna leaves 
15# 
3-20 rtf 
Tinctura cannabis indicae... 
Tinct. of cannabis indiea.. 
15# 
3-20 IT] 
Tinctura colchici seminis... 
Tinct. of colcbicum seed.. 
15# 
3-20 IT] 
Tinctura hyoscyami 
Tincture of hyoscyamus... 
15# 
3-20 irt 
35# 
1-6 ITl 
40 
Tinctura veratri viridis 
Tincture of veratrum 
viride 
40# 
1-6 m 
Note.—There may be some apparently slight discrepancies in the doses 
of this schedule and those given under the head of all the tinctures. But 
doses to a certain extent are arbitrary. Later a rule will be given which 
will be found by every one using it to be far better than remembering the 
doses. By that rule the above list has been determined. 58 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
The following is a rule for mentally finding out the amount 
of drug in each minim of tincture. 
It will be noticed that the poisonous tinctures are 2, 5, 10, 
15, 35> and 40 per cent, in strength. Whenever we say a 
tincture is 2, 5, xo, 15, 35, or 40 per cent, in strength, we 
are to understand in this connection, and for this purpose, 
that each 100 minims contain 2, 5, 10, 15, 35, and 40 grains 
of drug, and 'that one minim will contain yjy of that 
amount. 
Thus, tincture of nux vomica is a two-per-cent, tincture. 
It, therefore, contains two grains of drug in every 100 minims. 
One minim will contain y^¥ of two grains, or T$y of a grain, 
or "STD 
Tincture of strophanthus is a five-per-cent, tincture. 
There are five grains of drug in every 100 minims of 
tincture. One minim will contain yjy of five grains, or T$y 
of a grain, or of a grain. 
Tincture of opium is a ten-per-cent, tincture. 
In each 100 minims there are ten grains of drug. In one 
minim there will be of ten grains, or of a grain, or 
y of a grain. 
Tincture of digitalis is a fifteen-per-cent, tincture. That 
is, each xoo minims contain fifteen grains of drug, and one 
minim will contain yiy of fifteen grains, or of a grain, 
or about of a grain. 
Tincture of aconite is a thirty-five-per-cent, tincture, each 
100 minims holding thirty-five grains of drug. One minim 
holds of thirty-five grains, or T3y5y of a grain, or about 
of a grain to each minim. 
Tincture of veratrum viride is forty-per-cent., or 100 minims 
contain forty grains of drug. One minim, therefore, con- PREPARATIONS. 
59 
tains of forty grains, or of a grain, or T47 of a grain 
to each minim. 
The further purpose of this rule for finding the amount of 
drug represented by each minim in a preparation will be 
shown at the end of the section on Preparations. 
Definition.—In defining a tincture of any particular drug 
the following typical form is given : 
What are tinctures of cinchona and opium ? 
Tincture of cinchona is an alcoholic or a dilute alcoholic 
solution of the soluble portions of cinchona bark. It is used 
as a tonic and an antipyretic. 
Tincture of opium is an alcoholic or dilute alcoholic solution 
of the soluble portions of opium, the concrete milk-juice of 
the Eastern, or Oriental, poppy, each minim of which con- 
tains of a grain of opium. 
Before passing on to the fluid extracts, we will consider the 
wines, which are a species of tincture. 
WINES. 
Latin Name, Vina Medicata. English Name, Medicated Wines. 
A wine, as understood in the pharmacopeia, is a solution 
in sherry wine of the soluble principles of a drug. They 
differ from tinctures only in the menstruum used for making 
them. The acid in the wine may possibly dissolve out more 
completely the soluble principles than alcohol would. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Vinum antimonii, 
Wine of antimony (contains tartar 
emetic, 2 grs. to f(fj). 
Emetic, expectorant, diaphoretic. 
Dose, expectorant and diaphoretic, 
io to 30 rr^; emetic, 2 to 4 c.c., repeated every fifteen minutes. 60 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Vinum colchici radicis, Wine of colchicum root. 
Alterative, antirheumatic. Dose, 0.650 c.c. to f^j. 
Vinum colchici seminis, Wine of colchicum seed. 
Alterative. Dose, 30 tt\, to 8 c.c. 
Vinum ergotm, Wine of ergot. 
Dose, for women in labor, from to Dose, for other purposes, 
from f 5jj to f^iv. 
Vinum ferriamarum, Bitter wine of iron. 
Tonic, antipyretic. Dose, fsjj or more, each fluidram equaling 2x/2 
grs. of ferri et quinina citratis. 
Vinum ferri citratis, Wine of ferric citrate. 
Tonic. Dose, f^j. 
Vinum ipecacuanhse, Wine of ipecac. 
Emetic. Dose, in portions of fgj every five minutes. Expecto- 
rant and diaphoretic. Dose, 10 to 30 rr^. 
Vinum opii, Wine of opium. 
Anodyne. Dose, 10 to 20 n\,, equaling 1 to 2 grs. of opium. 
FLUID EXTRACTS. 
Latin Name, Extracta Fluida. English Name, Fluid Extracts. 
A fluid extract is a concentrated alcoholic solution of the 
soluble portions of a vegetable drug. 
They are made by percolation, a description of which 
process has already been given. 
This is the most important class of all the medicinal prepa- 
rations. 
They possess two important advantages over all other 
preparations. First, they are concentrated to the smallest 
bulk possible consistent with a stable preparation. Second, PREPARATIONS. 
61 
they are all alike in strength, one cubic centimeter of the 
fluid being equal to one gram of drug, or, putting it in our 
old familiar system of expression, practically.one minim of the 
fluid extract equals one grain of the drug. 
The dosage is thus rendered easier, the number of grains 
of drug used as a dose being the same as the number of 
minims of fluid extract to be used as a dose. 
There are eighty-eight official fluid extracts, and, as a large 
number of them are very seldom used, only those commonly 
met with will be placed here, the complete list being placed 
in the appendix for reference. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Extractum aconiti fluidum, .... Fluid extract of aconite, or monks- 
hood. 
Sedative. Dose, y2 to I tr^. 
Example.—What is fluid extract of aconite? 
It is a concentrated alcoholic solution of all the soluble 
principles of aconite root, each minim of which represents 
one grain of the drug. 
Extractum aromaticum fluidum, . . Aromatic fluid extract. 
Cardamom, cassia, nutmeg, and ginger. Carminative. Dose, io to 20 
Extractum buchu fluidum, .... Fluid extract of buchu. 
Diuretic. Dose, 2 c.c. to f^j. 
Extractum calami fluidum, .... Fluid extract of calamus (sweet-flag). 
Carminative, stimulant. Dose, 5 to 15 tr^. 
Extractum cascarae fluidum, .... Fluid extract of cascara bark. 
Tonic, cathartic. Dose, 15 to 8 c.c. 
Note.—This fluid extract is official under the name of fluid extract of 62 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
rhamnus purshiana, under which title it will be found. Cascara sagrada is 
its commercial name, and the change to the scientific name is too recent 
to adopt without this precaution. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Extractum cimicifugae fluidum, 
. Fluid extract of cimicifuga, or black 
snake-root. 
Alterative. Dose, 2 to 4 c.c. 
Extractum cinchonse fluidum, . . 
. Fluid extract of cinchona, or Peruvian 
bark. 
Tonic. Dose, 5 to 10 irp. 
Extractum cocas fluidum, .... 
. Fluid extract of coca-leaves. 
Stimulant. Dose, 20 to 4 c. 
c. 
Note.—This drug, co-ca, should not be confounded in pronunciation or 
thought with the substance used as 
a beverage, known as co-coa. 
Extractum colchici radicis et seminis, Fluid extract of colchicum (both the 
root and seed). 
Alterative, antirheumatic. Dose, 2 to 8 TT^. 
Extractum convallariae fluidum, . 
. Fluid extract of convallaria, or lily of 
the valley. 
Heart sedative. Dose, 5 to 15 ftp. 
Extractum digitalis fluidum, . . . 
. Fluid extract of digitalis, or foxglove. 
Heart stimulant. Dose, to 2 
"1- 
Extractum ergotae fluidum, . . . 
. Fluid extract of ergot. 
Parturient. Dose, 2 to 15 c.c. 
Extractum eriodictyi fluidum, . . 
. Fluid extract of eriodictyon, or yerba 
santa. 
Tonic, expectorant, flavor. Dose, 20 to f^j. 
Extractum eucalypti fluidum, . . 
. Fluid extract of eucalyptus. 
Stimulant, expectorant. Dose, 
5 to 10 np. 
Extractum frangulas fluidum, . . 
. Fluid extract of frangula, or buckthorn 
bark. 
Cathartic. Dose, 10 to 20 n\,- 
Extractum gelsemii fluidum, . . . 
. Fluid extract of gelsemium (yellow 
jasmine). 
Antispasmodic. Dose, I to 3 \\. PREPARATIONS. 
63 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Extractum gentianse fluidum, . . . Fluid extract of gentian. 
Bitter tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 rtp. 
Extractum glycyrrhizse fluidum, . . Fluid extract of licorice root. 
Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 tip. 
Extractum gossypii radicis fluidum, Fluid extract of cotton-root bark. 
Emmenagogue. Dose, fgss to f^j. 
Definition.—Emmenagogues, medicines which stimulate 
the uterine muscular fiber and restore the menstrual function. 
Extractum guaranse fluidum, .... Fluid extract of guarana or paullinia. 
Stimulant. Dose, f 3 ss to f g ij. 
Extractum hydrastis fluidum, . . . Fluid extract of hydrastis, or golden- 
seal root. 
Tonic, cathartic ; it is also astringent. Dose, fgj to 8 c.c. 
Extractum hyoscyami fluidum, . . . Fluid extract of hyoscyamus, or hen- 
bane leaves. 
Narcotic, sedative. Dose, 1 to 3 rtp. 
Extractum ipecacuanhse fluidum, . . Fluid extract of ipecac root. 
Emetic. Dose, 15 to 30 tip. Expectorant. Dose, 1 to 3 rtp. 
Extractum jaborandi fluidum, . . . Fluid extract of jaborandi leaves, or 
pilocarpus. 
Diaphoretic, sialagogue. Dose, 1 to 5 rrp. 
Note.—This fluid extract, although much used, is not official under 
this name. Its active principle, pilocarpine, is much used in place of it. 
Extractum nucis vomicse fluidum, . Fluid extract of nux vomica. 
Tonic. Dose, 3 Ttp = about of a gr. of strychnine. 
Note.—This fluid extract, nux vomica, is the only one varying from the 
rule of strength adopted for fluid extracts. This drug varies very much 
from season to season in the amount of alkaloid present in it. Therefore 
its strength is based upon the amount of alkaloid present, the quantity of 
drug used being, in one sense, secondary. 64 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Extractum pilocarpi fluidum, . . 
Fluid extract of pilocarpus, or jabo- 
randi. 
Diaphoretic, sialagogue. Dose, 
1 to 5 tip. 
Extractum pruni virginianae fluidum, Fluid extract of wild-cherry bark. 
Sedative. Dose, 2 to 4 c.c. 
Extractum rhamni purshianse flu- 
idum, 
, Fluid extract of cascara bark. 
Tonic, cathartic. Dose, 15 tip to f^j. 
Extractum rhei fluidum, .... 
Fluid extract of rhubarb root. 
Cathartic, astringent. Dose, 5 tip to 2 c.c. 
Extractum sarsaparillse fluidum com 
- 
positum, 
Alterative. Dose, 30 tip to fgj. 
. Compound fluid extract sarsaparilla. 
Extractum scillse fluidum, .... 
. Fluid extract of squill-bulb. 
Expectorant. Dose, 1 to 3 tip. 
Extractum sennse fluidum, . . . 
. Fluid extract of senna-leaves. 
Cathartic. Dose, to 16 c.c. 
Extractum spigelise fluidum, . . . 
. Fluid extract of spigelia, or pink root. 
Vermifuge. Dose, with a cathartic, fgss to f^ij. 
Definition.—NtxvoSJuges expel worms from the intestinal 
canal. Vermicides destroy them. 
Extractum taraxaci fluidum, . . . 
. Fluid extract of dandelion root. 
Laxative. Dose, to fgiij. 
Extractum uvae ursi fluidum, . . 
Fluid extract of uva ursi or bearberry. 
Diuretic. Dose, to f^j. 
Extractum valerianse fluidum, . . 
Fluid extract of valerian root. 
Nerve stimulant. Dose, f^j. 
Extractum veratri viridis fluidum, 
. Fluid extract of veratrum viride root, 
or hellebore. 
Depressant, cardiac, sedative. Dose, 1 to 2 tip. 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. PREPARATIONS. 
65 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Extractum viburni prunifolii fluidum, Fluid extract of viburnum (black 
haw). 
Antispasmodic. Dose, to 4 c.c. 
Extractum zingiberis fluidum, . . Fluid extract of ginger. 
Stimulant. Dose, I to 10 rt\,. 
It is believed the preceding list includes all the fluid 
extracts that are commonly met with. Let the student 
remember that with all the classes of preparations there are 
many used which are not official. To include these is beyond 
the scope of this work. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER VII. 
What is a tincture? 
Tell how a tincture is obtained by maceration. 
Tell how a tincture is obtained by percolation. 
What is tincture of aconite ? 
What is a narcotic ? 
Belladonna tincture is dosed at 15 to 30 —how many drops would that 
be? 
What is a carminative ? 
Tincture of cinchona—what are its medicinal properties? Its dose is 4 to 
16 c.c. How many teaspoonfuls in the first dose? How many table- 
spoonfuls in the second dose ? 
What is the dose of tincture of digitalis ? What is digitalis ? Medicinal 
properties of it ? 
What are the medicinal properties of tincture of ferric chlorid ? What is 
the meaning of the term ? 
What is tincture of hyoscyamus ? Properties ? Dose ? 
Properties of tincture of ipecac and opium ? , 
What is an anodyne ? 
Properties and dose of tincture of nux vomica? 
What is tincture of opium ? Properties and dose ? 
What is opium ? How much of it in the minimum dose of the tincture? 66 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Distinguish between the two samples,—which is tincture of opium and 
which paregoric ? 
Tell how you know the difference. 
How does deodorized tincture of opium differ from laudanum ? 
What is the percentage strength of the opium tinctures, paregoric ex- 
cepted ? 
How much opium in a teaspoonful of paregoric? 
How much belladonna in a minim of the tincture ? 
How do you find out ? 
How much strophanthus in a minim of tincture ? 
How much cannabis indica in a minim of tincture ? In twelve minims 
how much ? 
What is meant by a wine ? 
Properties of wine of ipecac ? 
What is an emmenagogue ? 
Dose of wine of colchicum root is 0.650 c.c,—how many mimims is it ? 
Maximum dose is f^j,—how many c.c. is that ? 
What is the active ingredient in bitter wine of iron ? 
What is a fluid extract ? 
State why they are considered the most important class of all the prepara- 
tions. 
What is the strength of them ? 
Which of the fluid extracts vary from this rule ? 
What is the common name of fluid extract of eriodictyon, of pilocarpus, of 
rhamnus purshiana ? 
What are the Latin names of fluid extract of Peruvian bark, monkshood, 
henbane, deadly nightshade ? 
Dose of fluid extract of nux vomica? 
Dose of fluid extract of ergot, senna, valerian, opium, convallaria, buchu ? 
Properties of fluid extract of aconite, belladonna, digitalis, foxglove, 
yellow jasmine, rhubarb, golden seal ? 
After this manner the teacher and the students among themselves may vary 
these questions on every occasion by substituting the names of other drugs. CHAPTER VIII. 
PREPARATIONS—(Continued). 
OLEORESINS. 
Latin Name, Oleoresinse. English Name, Oleoresins. 
An oleoresin is a substance which has been dissolved out of 
a drug by percolating the drug with ether. Afterward the 
ether is evaporated. They are heavy fluids. 
Only two out of the six official ones are ordinarily used, 
but all are given. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Oleoresina aspidii, Oleoresin of aspidium, or male fern 
(the root). 
Teniacide. Dose, fg ss to f 3 j. 
This oil deposits on standing a greenish-white precipitate. Before 
pouring it from the bottle for use it should be thoroughly mixed by stirring, 
for the deposit is the active principle. 
Oleoresina capsici, Oleoresin of capsicum, or cayenne 
pepper. 
Stimulant, rubefacient. Dose, % to 1 TT\, (external use). 
Definition.—Rubefacients belong to the class of irritants 
which act sufficiently to redden the skin, but not to blister. 
Oleoresina cubebse, Oleoresin of cubeb (berries). 
Stimulant, special tendency to the urinary function. Dose, 5 to 30 
on sugar. 
Oleoresina lupulini, Oleoresin of lupulin (dust from hop- 
flowers). 
Tonic, narcotic. Dose, 1 to 5 on sugar. 
67 68 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Oleoresina piperis, Oleoresin of pepper (berry). 
Stimulant. Dose, % to I on sugar. 
Oleoresina zingiberis, Oleoresin of ginger (root). 
Stimulant, carminative. Dose, I to 5 on sugar. 
VINEGARS. 
Latin Name, Aceta. English Name, Vinegars. 
The official vinegars are a sort of tincture made by macerat- 
ing or percolating a drug with diluted acetic acid or vinegar. 
They are, therefore, solutions in vinegar of the soluble por- 
tions of a drug. 
Certain drugs yield up their active principles better to 
vinegar than they do to alcohol. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Acetum opii, 
Vinegar of opium. 
Narcotic. Dose, io equaling I gr. of opium. 
Acetum scillse, . . . . 
Vinegar of squill. 
Expectorant, emetic. 
Dose, 5 n\, to f^j. 
EXTRACTS—SOLID EXTRACTS. 
Latin Name, Extracta. English Name, Extracts. 
The extracts are made by carefully Evaporating the fluid 
extracts at a low heat to avoid burning until they are reduced 
to what is called a pilular consistence, which means until a 
small piece rolled into globular form will retain its shape. 
They are very apt to be more or less injured by over- 
heating, and their strength can only be determined by their 
physiologic action. As a rule, we may assume them to be PREPARATIONS. 
69 
four times the strength of the drug they represent, and there- 
fore of a grain of extract would be equal to one grain of 
drug-. They are used in pill and suppository form only, and 
as the nurse does not prepare either of these forms of medica- 
ment, they will not be listed here. For reference they will 
be found in the Appendix. 
Latin Name, Resinae. English Name, Resins. 
RESINS. 
The resins, at least the official resins, are active principles 
of the drugs they are taken from. 
They are separated from the drugs containing them by 
percolating the drug with strong alcohol. When this is 
mixed with water, the resin, which will not dissolve in water, 
is thrown out of solution and separated by filtration and 
drying. 
They are all used in pill form, but the number of them is 
small and all are listed here. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Resina copaibse, Resin of copaiba. 
Urethral stimulant. Dose, io to 20 grs. 
Resina jalapae, Resin of jalap. 
Cathartic. Dose, 2 to 5 grs. 
Resina podophylli, Resin of podophyllum. 
Cathartic. Dose, of a gr., repeated. 
Resina scammonii, Resin of scammony. 
Cathartic. Dose, 4 to 8 grs. 
Note.—These resins, with the exception of podophyllum, are not much 
used separately, but mixed with other drugs in pill form. 70 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
POWDERS. 
Latin Name, Pulveres. English Name, Powders. 
Some drugs, the dose of which is small and the taste not 
disagreeable, are conveniently given in powder form. When- 
ever a powder is compound in its makeup, consisting of two 
or more powders mixed together, they should appear, upon 
close examination, as one uniform powder, perfectly mixed 
and indistinguishable one from the other. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Pulvis antimonialis, .... 
. . . Antimonial powder, James’s powder. 
Alterative. Dose, I to io grs. 
Pulvis aromaticus, 
. . . Aromatic powder. 
Cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Carminative. Dose, I to 
io grs. 
Note.—A mixture of aromatic powder, with the addition of a small 
portion of capsicum and clove, made into the form poultice, is some- 
times applied to the epigastrium as a counterirritant in cases of nausea. 
It is called a spice poultice. 
Pulvis cretse comDositus, . . 
Chalk, gum Arabic, sugar. 
Diarrhea. Dose, 15 grs. to gj. 
Pulvis effervescens compositus, 
. . Compound effervescing powder (Ro- 
chelle powders, Seidlitz powders). 
Blue paper, . . . 
. Tartaric acid, ... 35 grs. 
White paper, . . 
f Sodium bicarbonate, 40 grs. 
\ Rochelle salt, . . . 120 grs. 
Two powders mixed constitute one dose. The Rochelle salt is the 
cathartic portion. The tartaric acid with the sodium bicarbonate causes 
the effervescence. In mixing, dissolve the contents of the blue paper in a 
tumbler one-third filled with water, and the contents of the white paper 
in another tumbler one-third filled with water. Mix the two solutions, 
and, after the violent effervescence has ceased, drink. 
Laxative. Dose, I blue and X white powder. PREPARATIONS. 
71 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Pulvis glycyrrhizse compositus, . . Compound powder of glycyrrhiza 
(compound licorice powder). 
Mother powder, German powder. Senna, sulphur, cathartics; licorice, 
sugar, sweetening; fennel-seed, carminative. Cathartic. Dose, 30 to 
60 grs. 
Pulvis ipecacuanha et opii, .... Powder of ipecac and opium (Dover’s 
powder). 
Ipecac, 1 part; opium, I part; sugar of milk, 8 parts. Diaphoretic, 
anodyne. Dose, 10 grs., equaling x gr. of opium and I gr. of ipecac. 
Pulvis jalapse compositus (pulvis pur- 
gans), Compound jalap powder. 
Jalap, cream of tartar. Cathartic. Dose, 30 to 60 grs. 
Pulvis morphinae compositus, . . . Compound powder of morphine 
(Tully’s powder). 
Morphine, camphor, licorice, chalk. Anodyne. Dose, 10 grs.; contain 
Ye of a gr. of morphine sulphate. 
Pulvis rhei compositus, Compound powder of rhubarb. 
Rhubarb, magnesia, and ginger. Cathartic. Dose, 30 to 60 grs. 
TRITURATIONS, TABLET TRITURATES. 
Latin Names, Trilurationes, Tabletae. English Names, Triturations, 
Tablets. 
Triturations may be in the form of powders, or tablets, 
which are compressed powders. They are composed usually 
of medicines the dose of which is very small and incon- 
venient to handle. They are, therefore, mixed or triturated 
with sugar of milk, an inert substance, in sufficient quantity 
to increase the size of the powder or tablet. 72 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
CONFECTIONS. 
Latin Name, Confectiones. English Name, Confections. 
Confections are powdered vegetable drugs mixed with 
honey, sugar, and spices to a pasty consistence. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Confectio rosae, 
Rose-leaves, sugar, honey, 
rose-water; used to mix unpleasant medi- 
cines with. 
Confectio sennse, 
. . . Confection of senna. 
Senna, purging cassia, figs. 
, prunes, tamarinds, coriander. Cathartic. 
Dose, 5 ij or more. 
PILLS. 
Latin Name, Pilulse. English Name, Pills. 
Only such pills as are commonly used are placed here. 
The ingredients of pills are usually indicated by their titles. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Pilulse catharticse composite, . . 
. Compound cathartic pills. 
Compound extract of colocyntli, 
Cathartic. Dose, I to 3 pills. 
calomel, extract of jalap, gamboge. 
Pilulse catharticse vegetabiles, . . 
. Vegetable cathartic pills. 
Compound extract of colocynth, extract of hyoscyamus, extract of 
jalap, extract of leptandra, resin of podophyllum, and oil of peppermint. 
Cathartic. Dose, 1 to 3 pills. 
Pilulse ferri carbonatis, 
. Pills of carbonate of iron (Blaud’s 
pills). 
Ferrous sulphate, potassium carbonate. Alterative. Dose, I pill. 
When these pills are mixed carbonate of iron is formed, from the sulphate. 
In the improved Blaud’s pills there is also of a grain of arsenous acid. Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Pilulse opii, 
Opium pills. 
Narcotic, anodyne. 
Dose, I containing I gr. 
Pilulse rhei compositse, 
Compound rhubarb pills. 
Rhubarb, aloes, myrrh, oil of peppermint. Cathartic. Dose, 3 pills. 
OLEORESINS. 
73 
Latin Name, Cerata. Latin Name, Unguenta. Latin Name, Emplastra. 
CERATES. 
OINTMENTS. 
PLASTERS. 
These consist of medicines mixed with fats, wax, resin, 
vaselin, lanolin, and oils. Sometimes with one, sometimes 
with several. 
A cerate, as distinguished from an ointment, will remain 
upon the surface of the body without melting. 
An ointment melts at the body temperature. 
A plaster is made adhesive, so that when applied to the 
body it not only does not melt, but adheres or sticks to the 
spot where it was first placed. The names usually indicate 
the active ingredient. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER VIII. 
What are oleoresins ? 
What is oleoresin of male fern used for ? 
What is a rubefacient ? Which of the oleoresins are rubefacient ? Which 
are teniacidal ? 
What is a teniacide ? 
How do vinegars differ from tinctures ? 
How are extracts obtained ? 
What is their strength? In what form are they mostly used? 
What are the medicinal properties and what is the dose of resin of 
podophyllum ? How many milligrams would represent that same dose ? 
What is aromatic powder made of? 74 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
What is a spiced poultice made of? 
What do Rochelle powders consist of? 
Give their official title. 
What is the dose of German powder ? 
What is its official name ? Its ingredients ? 
What is Dover’s powder made of? 
In what proportions are the ingredients ? 
How would you judge when the powder had been sufficiently well mixed ? 
Dose of it ? How much opium in a dose ? 
What is a narcotic ? an anodyne ? a diaphoretic ? 
What is Tully’s powder? Is 5j of it a safe dose? 
Why do you suppose oil of peppermint is used as an ingredient in com- 
pound rhubarb powder? 
How do triturations and tablets differ ? 
What is a confection ? 
What is confection of senna made of? 
What do compound cathartic pills contain ? 
How much opium in an official opium pill ? CHAPTER IX. 
DOSAGE. 
In studying the drugs and their preparations the student 
can not have failed to notice what was said in the beginning: 
that it is more often the preparation of the drug than the 
drug itself that is used ; so that the number of doses to be 
remembered is very great, and an aid to the memory is very 
acceptable. 
We may place all the vegetable drugs in three classes: 
Those of the first class are given in doses of from to 2 
grains (0.030 to 0.130 gm.). 
Those of the second class are given in doses of from 1 to 3 
grains (0.065 to 0.195 gm-)- 
And all others, constituting the majority, .in the third class, 
which are given in doses of from 5 to 30 grains (0.325 to 
2 gm.). 
The first class are seven in number and are easily committed 
to memory by a little drilling. The dose is from to 2 
grains, or 0.030 to 0.130 gm. (which is read as 30 and 130 
milligrams). 
Aconite root. 
Cantharides. 
Cochineal. 
Digitalis. 
Opium. 
Physostigma. 
Strophanthus. 
75 76 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
They have been arranged alphabetically, which is the best 
way to memorize them, being orderly. 
Class two comprises the drugs given in doses of from 
i to 3 grains, or 0.065 to °-I95 gm- 
It will not be necessary to commit this list to memory. 
After reading it over several times, if you thoroughly 
learn the first list, you will easily be able to tell the 
class to which a drug belongs, and, knowing this, you 
know the dose. 
The more common ones are designated by italics. 
Aloes. 
Belladonna [leaf and root). 
Camboge. 
Cannabis indica. 
Capsicum. 
Colocynth. 
Coniutn. 
Gelsemium. 
Hyoscyamus. 
Ipecac. 
Lobelia. 
Musk. 
Nux vomica. 
Pulsatilla. 
Rhus toxicodendron. 
Savin. 
Squill. 
Stramonium. 
Tobacco. 
, * Veratrum. 
Class three includes all other official drugs, and they are 
given in doses of from 0.325 to 2 gm., or 5 to 30 grs. ERRATUM. 
Page 77, beginning at sentence, “What is the dose 
of tincture of aconite?” For aconite read digitalis. DOSAGE. 
77 
It includes such familiar drugs as 
Gentian. 
Cinchona. 
Cardamom. 
Calumba. 
Orange-peel. 
Benzoin. 
Cinnamon. 
Guaiacum. 
Hops. 
Myrrh. 
Rhubarb. 
Tolu. 
Valerian. 
We have already been told how, by knowing the percentage 
strength of a preparation, we may find out how much of the 
drug there is to the minim ; and let us see now if we can use 
that rule in connection with the classes of drugs just given. 
What is the dose of tincture of aconite? 
It is a fifteen per cent, tincture; ioo minims of it contain 
15 grains of drug; 1 minim of it contains yiy of 15 grains, or 
of a grain, which, reduced to its smallest denomination, 
is about of a grain to a minim. 
The dose of aconite itself, belonging to our first class, is 
from l to 2 grains. One minim of the tincture contains 
of a grain; 3 minims contain | or | of a grain ; 12 minims 
contain or 2 grains. So, by our table and our rule, we find 
that the minimum dose of tincture of aconite is 3 minims 
and the maximum is 12 minims. 
Practice will quickly enable one to do this mentally with 
no perceptible effort. Sometimes we, knowing the percentage 78 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
strength of a preparation, wish to know about how much 
substance there is in a fluidounce. 
Multiply the figure representing or standing for the per- 
centage strength by 5, and the product is about the number 
of grains to the ounce. 
For instance : How much rhubarb is being given in a table- 
spoonful of the tincture? The tincture is a ten per cent, tinct- 
ure. Five times 10 are 50. The tincture contains about 50 
grains of rhubarb to 1 ounce, or 25 grains to a tablespoonful. 
According to our third class of drugs that is about the right 
dose. 
How much opium is given in a tablespoonful of paregoric ? 
It is y of 1 per cent. Five times are or 2 grains of 
opium to the ounce. This makes 1 grain of opium to each 
half ounce, or tablespoonful. Our maximum dose is 1 grain, 
and that is all right. 
Now, sometimes we know how many grains there are to an 
ounce of a preparation, and we wish to know its percentage 
strength. 
Having a solution of boric acid, for instance, made with 
4 drams to the pint, what is its percentage strength? 
Divide the number of grains to the ounce by 5. The 
quotient will be the figure standing for the percentage 
strength. 
Four drams of boric acid to a pint are 15 grains to 1 ounce. 
Divide 15 by 5 and we have 3 as representing the percent- 
age strength of our boric-acid solution. 
Let the nurse remember these are rules of approximation 
only, and they are very handy sometimes after she gets out 
into private practice, away from all kinds of measures except 
water-pails, tin dippers, and pewter spoons. No one can DOSAGE. 
79 
realize more acutely than the author does the necessity for 
accuracy, and yet we are obliged sometimes to depend upon 
our wits.* 
The following table shows the percentage strength of some 
of the more important tinctures with these rules applied : 
TABLE OF PERCENTAGE STRENGTH SHOWING THE 
APPLICATION OF THE PRECEDING RULE. 
Name. 
Strength. 
Grains to 
Ounce (Multiply 
Strength by 
5 )• 
Quantity to 
Minim (Divide 
Strength by ioo). 
Paregoric, 
nr of 1 Per 
cent. 
or 2 grs. 
Unimportant. 
Tincture nux vomica, 
2 per cent. 
IO grs. 
oV gr- 
Tincture strophanthus, .... 
5 per cent. 
25 grs. 
T§(T or nr gr- 
Tincture opium, 
Deodorized tincture of opium, . 
Compound tincture of cinchona, 
Compound tincture of gentian, . 
1 aa 
f io per cent. 
5° grs. 
tW or A gr- 
Tincture of belladonna, .... 
Tincture of cannabis indica, . . 
Tincture of colchicum, .... 
Tincture of hyoscyamus, . . . 
1 aa 
f 15 per cent. 
75 grs- 
tW or i Sr- 
Fluid extracts, 
100 per cent. 
500 grs. 
1 gr. to the 
minim. 
* According to the view of the author, it is far better in these matters to 
be governed by rule than to trust to the memory alone. 80 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER VIII. 
Name all the drugs dosed at from to 2 grains. 
What are the metric equivalents of those numbers ? 
What are the doses of ipecac, belladonna, opium, gentian, digitalis, hyos- 
cyamus, cinchona, gelsemium, jalap, nux vomica ? 
What are the doses of tincture of aconite, tincture of opium, paregoric, fluid 
extract of ergot ? 
How much opium in a teaspoonful of paregoric ? 
How much in ten minims of tinct. opii ? 
You know the dose of belladonna and of digitalis; also the percentage 
strength of tinctures and fluid extracts: then how much belladonna in 
twelve minims of the tincture and how much digitalis in thirteen 
minims of the fluid extract ? 
Give the rule for finding how much drug there is in a fluidounce of a 
preparation when you know the percentage strength. 
When you know the number of grains in an ounce of any fluid, how do 
you obtain the percentage strength ? 
Name all of the ten and all of the fifteen per cent, tinctures. SECTION II. 
CHEMISTRY. 
CHAPTER I. 
INTRODUCTORY, ELEMENTS, AND ACIDS. 
“Chemistry is that branch of science which treats of the 
composition of substances and the changes which they under- 
go ” (Webster). 
Many substances which appear to consist of one thing only, 
in reality consist of two or more substances chemically united. 
All material substance, whether gaseous, fluid, or solid, 
palpable or impalpable, is either simple or compound; that 
is, consists of a single, simple, undecomposable substance or 
of several such substances united. 
Simple substances are called elements. An element is a 
created substance which can not be decomposed by any of 
the powerful forces at the command of man. 
A substance that is simple and single only in appearance, 
may be decomposed by those forces. 
It is the peculiarity of the force called chemic force that 
the substances upon which it is exerted in uniting together 
become lost to all of our common senses and exhibit qualities 
81 82 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
differing altogether from the qualities of the substances of 
which they are composed. 
In theory, that the teacher may be able to convey and the 
pupil to receive ideas, substance is looked upon not as a 
structureless mass, but as being made up of atoms, held 
together by chemism ; like, in a manner, as the magnet and 
piece of steel are held together, or like the force of gravi- 
tation, which holds everything upon the earth to it. 
Atoms are imaginary bodies incapable of being divided 
by man. 
Note.—Pupils and, indeed, teachers also, meet with a great deal of 
difficulty in comprehending this indivisibility of a substance having size. 
But we may comprehend it with a little application. First, God is able to 
divide or destroy an atom, but man can not do so. The moon, we know, has 
appreciable size, and we know it to be divisible; but can we divide it ? 
Come closer home : could all humanity pile one-fourth part of the earth in 
a heap and force it off into space? No; it is beyond our power. Does it 
argue atoms out of existence because we can not see them, when we know 
of so many miscroscopic bodies which must have been in existence since 
creation but which even tvith our miscroscopes are invisible until stained ? 
There are good and sufficient reasons for accepting such a theory; without 
it we could not teach. Through some unexplored way, by some undis- 
covered light, we may yet see them; but even then we cannot divide them, 
for the power is not ours to handle them. 
These atoms in groups are called molecules. A molecule 
is a collection or group of two or more atoms. 
Let us consider the two substances, sulphur and water. 
Examine each as closely as possible and we should pronounce 
them to be, the one, a simple substance consisting of no other 
substance but sulphur, and the other a simple fluid consisting 
of no other substance whatever but water. INTRODUCTORY, ELEMENTS, AND ACIDS. 
83 
Light does not affect either of them. Heat melts the sul- 
phur, boils the water, finally vaporizes both, and, if the fumes 
or vapor of each are conducted into a cool chamber, both will 
be recovered again in their original forms. During the process 
each has temporarily undergone a change of form, but nothing 
further. 
Force applied does not affect the water, but the sulphur 
may be reduced to a powder of microscopic fineness; each 
particle, however, is still sulphur. 
Let us turn to our last resort. Electricity applied to 
sulphur results in no change; applied to water, we are 
astonished to see it separate into two gases, hydrogen and 
oxygen. 
Now all our force has been used up. 
We pronounce sulphur to be an element, because we can 
not find that it consists of anything else but sulphur. 
Water is a compound, made up of two elements, and we 
may separate them and discover them to be gases; but the 
two gases will not yield to our forces, so they are elements. 
The elements of interest in connection with materia medica 
are in the following list. Most of them are used in combina- 
tion with other elements, as salts. But a few are used in their 
elementary state. Those are italicized, and the manner of 
their use noted. The symbols for each are given. Symbols are 
the short-hand characters of chemicals, and save a great deal 
of time to teachers and calculators. To write out, for instance, 
how ether is formed would require a whole page of this book, 
but the same could be expressed in symbolic form in one 
line. 
Boron—B. 
Calcium—Ca. 84 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Carbon—C. (Familiar as charcoal.) 
Cerium—Ce. 
Chlorin—Cl. (As chlorin water.) 
Chromium—Cr. 
Copper—Cu. 
Gold—Au. 
Hydrogen—H 
Iodin—I. (Iodin ointment and tincture.) 
Iron—Fe. (Powdered and in pill form.) 
Lead—Pb. 
Lithium—Li. 
Magnesium—Mg. 
Manganese—Mn. 
Mercury—Hg. (Blue pill, gray powder, mercurial ointment.) 
Nitrogen—N. 
Oxygen—O. (Inhalation.) 
Phosphorus—P. (Elixir.) 
Potassium—K. 
Silicon—Si. 
Silver—Ag. 
Sodium—Na. 
Strontium—Sr. 
Sulphur—S. (Compound licorice powder, sul- 
phur and cream of tartar.) 
, Zinc—Zn. 
It is not necessary to learn these for recitation ; but become 
familiar with them so they will be recognized whenever seen. 
The order in which the chemicals will be treated, is that 
adopted by all the leading pharmaceutical colleges of the 
country. 
We will consider, first, the class of chemicals called in- 
organic. 
Note.—The division of chemicals into inorganic and organic was 
adopted because the limited knowledge of chemistry at that time admitted INTRODUCTORY, ELEMENTS, AND ACIDS. 
85 
of nothing else. Inorganic elements and compounds were derived from the 
mineral world. Organic elements and compounds from the organic world of 
vegetable and animal organisms. The division was, at the time, sharp, 
because it was supposed that the power to produce the organic compounds 
resided in the bodies where they were formed, and that they could not be 
artificially produced. Since that time the supposition has fallen, and now 
we artificially prepare many substances which at that time could not be 
prepared. The reason for the division has disappeared, yet the division is 
still retained, and is convenient in several respects. 
Owing to the important part which oxygen, hydrogen, 
and nitrogen play in the phenomenon of our existence they 
will receive attention first. 
Note.—It is, of course, advised that whenever possible the students 
should be shown these three gases, their separation in the simplest way, 
and some simple experiments to show the difference between substances 
having no difference to our common senses, and, in fact, no existence to 
them; and also to impress at the outset on the minds of the students that 
many substances appearing to be simple are in reality compound. 
The air we breathe is made up of a mechanical mixture of 
four-fifths nitrogen and one-fifth oxygen. 
The water we drink is made up, numerically speaking, of 
two parts of hydrogen and one of oxygen, chemically com- 
bined. 
By oxygen, more than by any other element, we live, 
because we use more of it, apparently, than we do of any 
other element. 
Created as we are, we could not live without it. We could 
not live upon pure oxygen. The nitrogen present with it 
serves to dilute it and to reduce it to a form acceptable to 
our lungs. 
In water the hydrogen present not only again dilutes, in 86 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
one sense, the oxygen, but in uniting with it presents it in a 
new physical form, entirely unsuited to inhale into our lungs, 
but quite as acceptable to our stomachs in the form of water 
as it is to our lungs in the form of air. 
A great deal of time and money has been spent in the 
endeavor to decompose these elements, but thus far without 
success. It is only in very recent years that they have been 
reduced first to a fluid and then to a solid form, and this under 
enormous pressure and at a temperature many degrees below 
the freezing-point. 
Oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen are colorless, odorless, 
and tasteless gases. Oxygen, in uniting with other substances, 
does not burn, but is the cause of the phenomenon called 
burning, and is, therefore, called a supporter of combustion. It 
supports life. 
Hydrogen is combustible; that is, in uniting with oxygen 
it blazes or burns. It will not support life. It is not poison- 
ous, but we should die in an atmosphere of it, because we need 
oxygen. 
Nitrogen neither burns nor supports combustion, nor does 
it support life. It is not poisonous. It serves to dilute the 
oxygen of the air, and without doubt serves some other 
beneficent purpose, none the less important for our not know- 
ing just what it is. 
It has been already stated that all chemic compounds may 
be called sails. There are some salts which, having strongly 
marked properties, are distinguished by special names, alluding 
to one of those properties. Such are the salts of hydrogen. 
They have as their distinguishing feature a sharp taste, and 
from the Latin word acer, meaning sharp, their name has been 
derived. They are called acids. INTRODUCTORY, ELEMENTS, AND ACIDS. 
87 
Generally speaking, the acids may be described by their 
physical properties. Some of them are fluid and some are 
solids. They are sour to the taste. They are more or less 
corrosive in their action upon the animal tissues and they turn 
blue vegetable colors red. 
All salts, when brought together, are prone to change and 
form new salts; but the acids possess this power of changing 
other salts in a greater degree. And so, as one of their pecu- 
liar properties, we say that they unite with other elements and 
form salts, and also they react with other salts to form new ones. 
The following list includes those medicinal acids which are 
commonly met with and about which the nurse should know 
something: 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Acidum aceticum, Acetic acid. H.(C2H302). 
This acid is made by distilling wood. When it unites with elements to 
form salts or when it decomposes other salts, the salt formed is called an 
acetate. 
Definition.—Distillation has been already defined. Here 
it is put to another use. Wood contains within its structure 
a large number of chemic compounds, and when it is heated 
they decompose one another. When wood is distilled, one of 
the products of the heating, if the temperature is maintained 
at a certain degree, is acetic acid. The form known as vine- 
gar is made by fermenting cider. It is used for culinary pur- 
poses and as a condiment. For chemic purposes and as a 
medicine that obtained from wood is used, because it is purer. 
Acidum arsenosum, . Arsenous acid. As203. 
Arsenic itself is a metal. By roasting metallic arsenic it unites with 
oxygen and becomes arsenous acid. It is a heavy white powder. It 
forms the salts called arsenites. 88 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Latin Name. Engi.ish Name. 
Acidum boricum, Boric acid. H3(B03). 
When hydrochloric acid is caused to react with borax, boric acid is 
formed. Antiseptic. 
Acidum citricum, Citric acid. H3(C6H507). 
It is obtained from lemon juice which has been clarified by chemic 
treatment and evaporating the solution. It occurs in colorless crystals. In 
chemic combination with other things it forms the salts called citrates. 
Note.—Chemic Formula.—The groups of symbols show the elementary 
substances and their proportions, which make up the compound. The 
nurse has no need to learn them. They will recall to her mind the fact 
that although substances may appear simple enough, they are nevertheless 
compound. To those who care to know, the elements within the brackets 
are the sign of the acid in question. The element on the left is the 
element with which the acid unites to form a salt. The group (C6H507) 
is present in all citrates. United with potassium, it would be written 
K3(C6H507) ; with sodium, Na3(C6H-07) ; and form potassium and sodium 
citrates. 
Note.—Evaporation.—When it is desirable to separate a substance 
from solution we evaporate the solution until a crust begins to form on the 
surface. If then the solution be set aside in a cool, quiet place, the sub- 
stance will crystallize. 
Acidum hydriodicum, Hydriodic acid. H(I). 
It is a compound made from iodin. It forms the class of salts called 
iodids. It is familiar to you in the form of syrup of hydriodic acid. 
Acidum hydrochloricum, Hydrochloric acid, or muriatic acid. 
H(C1). 
When sulphuric acid is caused to react with common salt, which is 
sodium chlorid, hydrochloric acid is one of the products of the decomposi- 
tion. When pure it is a colorless, fuming fluid. The commercial acid is 
yellow, due to the presence of iron and other impurities. It forms the class 
of salts called chlorids. 
Acidum hydrocyanicum, Hydrocyanic or prussic acid. H.(CN). 
This is the product originating from the decomposition of refuse animal 
matter with potash and scraps of iron. It is one of the most powerful 
poisons known. It is a colorless fluid having an odor resembling that of 
bitter almonds or peach meats. It forms the class of salts called cyanids. INTRODUCTORY, ELEMENTS, AND ACIDS. 
89 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Acidum nitricum, Nitric acid. H. (N03). 
When the salt called sulphuric acid is caused to act upon potassium 
nitrate (two salts acting upon each other), one of the products of the reac- 
tion is nitric acid. This is a colorless, fuming fluid. It is very corrosive 
to the skin, staining it with an ineradicable yellow stain. It is destructive 
to all vegetable colors. It forms the class of salts called nitrates. 
Acidum sulphuricum, Sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol). H2(S04). 
The fumes of burning sulphur are conducted into a chamber of steam 
and freshly formed oxygen gas. The three substances unite and sulphuric 
acid is formed. It is a heavy, oily, colorless fluid. This acid also is very 
corrosive to the skin, and if not washed off very soon will cause deep 
ulcers, very difficult to heal. 
Acidum oxalicum, Oxalic acid. H2(C204). 
This acid is formed when sawdust, potassium hydrate, and sodium 
hydrate are roasted together. It is not an official acid, but it is used very 
extensively in antiseptic surgery by operators and nurses in cleansing the 
hands. It forms the class of salts called oxalates. It occurs in transparent 
or semitransparent crystals, and great care should be observed that it be not 
mistaken for Epsom salt, which it somewhat resembles in appearance. 
Acidum tannicum, Tannic acid. 
There grows upon the leaves of different varieties of oak an excrescence 
which is called nutgall. Tannic acid is obtained by percolating these 
nutgalls with ether. The ether being evaporated to a syrupy consistence, 
the tannic acid separates after drying. It is a light, yellowish, amorphous 
powder, sometimes cohering into glistening lumps, having very slight odor 
and an astringent effect in the mouth. It forms the class of salts called 
tannates. 
Note.—Amorphous, from two Greek words meaning without and form. 
It is used to describe those substances which hav-e no apparent structural 
form ; starch is amorphous ; sugar is crystalline. 
Acidum tartaricum, Tartaric acid. H2(C4H406). 
Cream of tartar is the source of tartaric acid. It is formed or deposited 
in the casks in which grape-juice is fermented in the making of wine. 
When this cream of tartar, which is a tartrate of potassium, is changed 90 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
to tartrate of lime and is acted upon by sulphuric acid, tartaric acid is 
formed. It occurs as a white, crystalline powder, having no odor and a 
sharply acid taste. It forms the class of salts called tartrates. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER I, SECTION II. 
What is chemistry ? 
What is a simple substance ? 
What is a compound substance ? 
Name the elementary substances which are used as medicines in their 
elementary form. 
What is organic, what inorganic, chemistry ? 
State briefly the part oxygen plays in the economy of nature. 
How may an acid be generally described ? 
What is citric acid obtained from ? 
What is the official title of prussic acid ? 
What is the official title of muriatic acid ? 
What is the official title of oil of vitriol ? 
What is the source of tannic acid ? CHAPTER II. 
THE ALKALIES AND ALKALINE EARTHS. 
The following salts have not, as the acids have, those very 
apparent distinguishing features which would warrant their 
being placed by themselves, and they will be taken in their 
usual order, which is established according to certain chemic 
resemblances. 
The class coming first, although they do not possess as marked 
properties as the acids do, yet are called the alkali metals, 
because they form, as hydrates, salts which are in some respects 
what might be called the opposites to acids ; whereas acids 
turn blue litmus-paper red, alkalies restore it again to blue. 
Acids are sour; alkalies have the taste which is familiar to 
those who have tasted pure soap. The acids and alkalies 
neutralize each other, and when mixed in the proper propor- 
tions have no effect upon litmus-paper. When all these 
differences were first noted, before it was understood exactly 
what they signified, it appeared as though one were as distin- 
guished among salts as the other, and the distinguishing name 
alkali has clung to them. 
The metals constituting this group, and called the alkali 
metals, are the elements potassium, sodium, and lithium, 
and the compound ammonia. There are others, but these are 
the only ones of importance in this connection. They unite 
with all the acids to form salts. 
Source.—The potassium present in all vegetable structures 
91 92 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
is converted into potassium carbonate when the wood is 
burned. From this all the other compounds of potassium 
are obtained directly or indirectly. 
Sodium is present in sea-water as sodium chlorid, commonly 
known as salt. From this sodium chlorid all the other com- 
pounds of sodium are obtained indirectly. 
Ammonia in the form of gas is generated along with illu- 
minating gas in the distillation of coal in the manufacture of 
that substance. From it all the ammonium salts have their 
origin. 
Lithium occurs in ores in association with many of the more 
common metals. 
Potassium is an element with the symbol K, standing for the 
Latin name of potassium, which is kalium. 
Sodium is an element with the symbol Na, standing for the 
Latin name of sodium, which is natrium. 
Note.—The names potassium and sodium are of English origin. They 
have been Latinized, and in all English-speaking countries have superseded 
the old words kalium and natrium. But as the latter are used by all other 
nations, both are properly given. 
Potassium ; from pot-ash, because the accumulations of wood ashes from 
the hearth were placed in a large iron pot kept for the purpose. These 
pot-ashes, when washed with water, yield up the potash from its impurities. 
Hence the name. 
Soda-ash: from the fact that in England it was obtained by burning the 
sods of marine- or salt-water plants and yielded sod-ashes. The sub- 
stance, when washed, yields soda-ash, which has been contracted to soda, 
the same as potash has to potassa. 
Ammonium is not an element, but it was long supposed 
to be one, and, as it forms salts with acids, it has been 
allowed to remain in the class of elements. It really consists THE ALKALIES AND ALKALINE EARTHS. 
93 
of two elements, nitrogen and hydrogen, and the symbols of 
those two elements, with a number indicating the amount of 
hydrogen, constitutes the formula for ammonium, (NH4). 
Lithium is found naturally in several forms. Its symbol 
is Li. 
When these elements are caused, under the proper condi- 
tions, to unite with the various acids, they yield the corre- 
sponding salts. 
And thus we have, by the action of acetic acid, potassium, 
sodium, and ammonium acetates. 
And similarly we have the— 
Carbonates, from carbonic acid. 
Bicarbonates, from carbonic acid and water. 
Bromids, from hydrobromic acid. 
Chlorids, from hydrochloric acid. 
Citrates, from citric acid. 
Cyanids, from hydrocyanic acid. 
Hydrates, from water, or hydrogen hydrate. 
Hypophosphites, from hypophosphorous acid. 
Iodids, from hydriodic acid. 
Nitrates, from nitric acid. 
Permanganates, from manganic acid, and the 
Sulphates, from sulphuric acid. 
The more common of these salts will receive further atten- 
tion in another chapter. 
Note.—In speaking of these chemicals there is only one proper way, 
and that is the way of the pharmacopeia. In the complete list of drugs 
and chemicals to be found in the Appendix the words will be found 
syllabled and accented. 
In speaking of these salts we use the word indicating which acid has 
been used as a noun applied to a whole class of salts, and speak of the HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
94 
citrates, the bromids, the sulphates, etc. The other word—the word 
which indicates what it is that the acid has united with—is used as an 
adjective, and just as we say a porcelain cup, an iron pot, a tin kettle, a 
silver spoon, instead of a cup of porcelain, a pot of iron, a kettle of tin, or 
a spoon of silver, when speaking of cups, pots, kettles, and spoons, so, in 
speaking of the citrates, the bromids, or the sulphates, we say potassium 
citrate, sodium bromid, ammonium sulphate, instead of citrate of potas- 
sium, bromid of sodium, or sulphate of ammonium. You would not 
dream of seriously reporting a patient as suffering with a fractured tib in 
place of a fractured tibia. You do speak of typhoid instead of typhoid 
fever; but you might just as well speak of scarlet in place of scarlet fever. 
So with these chemical names, as there are many bichlorids, some poi- 
sonous and some not; as there are several caustics, each differing from the 
other, it is proper to speak of these things by their proper and unabbreviated 
names, and signify which bichlorid and which caustic is wanted. 
The ores of the second class are called the alkaline 
earths. 
Magnesium and Calcium.—Both of these elements 
are of mineral origin, and the salts of them are formed by 
combination with the various acids. 
Note.—It often happens that the salts of these substances are formed 
by a very roundabout process. One of these processes will be given here, 
to show how impossible and unnecessary it is for a nurse who has not had 
some previous instruction in chemistry to burden her mind with them, and 
then a common definition, which may be given for all, and which will suf- 
ficiently show how they are made, or, rather, what they consist of. 
To illustrate the first fact, and the second also, we will select magnesium 
oxid. Magnesium occurs native as a carbonate or as a hydrate, accom- 
panied by other substances, and to separate the magnesium from its various 
impurities and convert it into an oxid we proceed as follows: 
The ore containing lime is treated with sulphuric acid, which forms mag- 
nesium sulphate and separates the lime. This magnesium sulphate is 
converted into the carbonate by treatment with sodium carbonate, which THE ALKALIES AND ALKALINE EARTHS. 
95 
at the same time separates any iron present. This magnesium carbonate 
is heated to redness and magnesium oxid is obtained. That is very 
simply but incompletely told. Now, if a nurse were asked how magne- 
sium oxid is obtained, or what it is, she might say: It is a compound, as 
its name shows, of magnesium and oxygen, made by heating magnesium 
carbonate to redness. 
Perhaps, as the oxids, the hydrates, and the carbonates are not made by 
acids, we might use the following typical definitions. All of the common 
official oxids are made by roasting carbonates. They are compounds of 
the substance spoken of with oxygen. 
The common official hydrates are compounds made in a 
roundabout process by the union of the elements with water. 
The carbonates by burning the native salts with wood or 
charcoal. 
All other salts by causing them to react with some acid. 
To return to magnesium and calcium, they form, with 
acids, or otherwise, the— 
Carbonates, 
Chlorids, 
Citrates, 
Oxids, and 
Sulphates of Magnesium and Calcium. 
Magnesium sulphate, or Epsom salt, as has been already said, 
is easily confounded with oxalic acid ; and while the oppor- 
tunity offers during your residence in the hospital, you should 
make yourselves familiar with the necessity of caution in the 
use of them. 
Calcium or Lime.—There is calcium chlorid and chlorid 
of lime, so called. The latter is a commercial name, and as 
the two substances differ altogether, the proper names should 
be noted. 96 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Calcium chlorid is in hard, white, fragmentary lumps, very 
deliquescent. 
Chlorid of lime should be called chlorinated lime (Latin 
name, calx chlorata), and is a dry, white powder with the odor 
of chlorin. 
Magnesium carbonate is known in domestic medicine as 
“ lump” magnesia, and occurs in square or oblong pieces— 
from one-inch or two-inch cubes to blocks two inches by four 
inches. 
Magnesium oxid is commonly known as powdered mag- 
nesia ; also familiar as Henry’s or Husband’s magnesia, in one- 
ounce bottles. 
How do alkalies differ from acids ? 
What is the source of the ammonium salts ? 
What is the source of the potassium salts ? 
What is the source of the sodium sails ? 
What is potassium bromid ? sodium iodid ? ammonium carbonate ? 
magnesium sulphate ? calcined magnesia ? 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER II. CHAPTER III. 
METALS. 
The third class of elements consists of Zinc, Aluminum, 
and Iron. 
Zinc and Aluminum.—The commonly used salts of these 
elements are: 
Zinc sulphate. 
Zinc chlorid. 
Zinc oleate. 
Zinc oxid. 
Zinc stearate, and 
Zinc valerianate. 
Aluminum and Potassium sulphate, or common alum. 
Dried or burned alum, and 
Aluminum acetate (in the form of solution). 
In the use of this solution it should be borne in mind that 
cotton and linen fabrics which have been wet with it are, in 
combination with the soaps used in cleansing them, decom- 
posed and rendered rotten and worthless. Old clothing 
should, therefore, be used, and care taken that the solution is 
not unnecessarily spilled. 
Iron (Ferrum).—Iron in common with all other elements 
forms by the action of acids a corresponding class of salts. 
Iron also has the quality, peculiar to some of the elements, of 
forming two salts with each acid, one containing a greater 
proportion of iron than the other. 
97 98 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA 
We commonly have— 
Iron carbonate. 
Iron chlorid. 
Iron hypophosphite. 
Iron iodid. 
Iron lactate. 
Iron oxid. 
Iron sulphate (green vitriol or copperas). 
Iron subsulphate (Monsel’s salt). 
Iron valerianate. 
It also yields a class of salts, which, from the peculiarity of 
form indicated by the name, are called the scale salts, being 
like scales rather than crystals. They are : 
Iron and ammonium citrate. 
Iron and ammonium tartrate. 
Iron and potassium tartrate. 
Iron and quinine citrate. 
Iron and strychnine citrate. 
Note.—It should be remembered that this latter salt contains one per 
cent, of strychnine,—that is, one grain in every loo grains. One grain 
contains of that amount, or of a grain, and two grains containing 
-fa of a grain of strychnine is an ordinary dose. 
The fourth class includes Lead (plumbum) and Silver 
(argentum). They are both found as ores and often in the 
presence of each other. The official salts of each are few. 
We have— 
Lead acetate (sugar of lead). 
Lead iodid (used in the form of ointment). 
Solution of Lead subacetate (used in mixture with olive oil equal parts 
in burns); (also with an equal part of tincture of opium largely 
diluted with water, as lead and opium wash, for an evaporating 
lotion). METALS. 
99 
The silver salts are— 
Silver nitrate. (There are two forms : The crystalline and stick form; 
the crystal is used in preparing the solution.) 
Diluted or mitigated silver nitrate, which is one-third silver nitrate and 
two-thirds potassium nitrate. It is in stick form, is used as a caustic, but 
is much milder in its action than the lunar caustic. 
Note I.—It is not exposure to light which causes the decomposition of 
silver-nitrate solution, but sometimes contact with the cork and always 
by contact with organic dust in the air. A small bottle of it, right side up, 
and securely closed will not decompose in the light. While if a dark 
bottle be used, and these conditions not carried out, it will decompose. A 
camel’s-hair brush dipped into the solution will also decompose it. 
Note 2.—The stick silver is commonly known as caustic silver, or lunar 
caustic, or caustic, and inasmuch as there is another caustic, properly called 
caustic potash ; and many perverse people tvho, rather than inquire which 
of the two ways is the right way, will, in selecting, select the wrong; 
they should always be spoken of as caustic silver or caustic potash or 
caustic soda or caustic zinc, and never by the word caustic alone. 
The fifth class: Mercury (Latin, hydrargyrum). 
The mercury salts are a very important class of compounds ; 
because they not only, like iron, form two classes of each 
combination, but while one class is comparatively mild in its 
action and only slowly poisonous, the other class is very ener- 
getic in its action and rapidly poisonous in overdoses. 
The pupil will do well to learn all the various names which 
some of the compounds have. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Hydrargyrum, Mercury, Quicksilver (Hg). 
A shining, silver-white, liquid metal; very heavy, thirteen times heavier 
than water (a one-ounce bottle of it would weigh thirteen ounces). It has 
neither odor nor taste. In its metallic state it is used in the following 
forms: 
Externally, Unguentum hydrargyri (mercurial ointment). 
Internally, Massa hydrargyri (mercurial mass, blue mass). 
Hydrargyrum cum creta, Mercury with chalk ; Gray powder. 100 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Note.—A mass is the name given to a medicine when it has been mixed 
into a coherent mass preparatory to being divided into pills. In some 
instances, as in this one, it is kept in mass to prevent its hardening, and 
when blue pills are ordered, the required quantity of this blue mass is 
measured or weighed out and divided into pills. One-third of the mass is 
mercury, and therefore one-third of a pill of any weight would be metallic 
mercury. 
The Two Chlorids.—Both of these chlorids are formed by 
the indirect union with chlorin and mercury in different pro- 
portions. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Hydrargyri chloridum mite, .... Mild mercurous chlorid, Calomel, 
Subchlorid of mercury, Mild chlorid 
of mercury. Iig2Cl2. 
It occurs as a heavy, white, amorphous powder. 
Hydrargyri chloridum corrosivum, . Corrosive mercuric chlorid, Corrosive 
chlorid of mercury, Corrosive sub- 
limate, Bichlorid of mercury, Per- 
chlorid of mercury, Bichlorid. 
HgCl2. 
Occurs as white, semitransparent crystals, or a white granular powder. 
It is very heavy, has no odor, but a metallic, coppery taste. 
It will be well for the nurse to confine herself to the official 
names of Mild chlorid of mercury or Calomel, and Corrosive 
sublimate or Bichlorid of mercury, and when the other names 
are met with to never trust herself to depend upon the 
memory alone, but look them up ; because without constantly 
working with these things, one can not be justly expected to 
remember them all accurately. 
Let us consider the meaning of a number of descriptive 
words. 
In the description of chemicals we constantly meet with 
powdered, granular powder, amorphous powder, and crystal- 
line powder. METALS. 
101 
Powdered.—This means that a substance originally in large 
crystals like rock-salt, or in amorphous lumps like chalk, 
have been, by grinding and sometimes by sifting, reduced to 
a powdered form. 
A Granular Powder.—If a solution containing a chemical 
be evaporated until a crust commences to form upon the sur- 
face and then set aside in a cool, still place, the substance 
will crystallize out. If in place of setting the solution to one 
side, it be stirred constantly until all the water has been evap- 
orated, the crystals will be broken at the moment of their 
formation, and the result is a mass of broken crystals, or 
granules, or granular powder, as it is called. 
Crystalline Powders are those substances which in crystal- 
lizing do so in small rather than in large crystals. Sometimes 
they are so small as to receive the name of crystalline powders. 
Amorphous Powders.—While it is the nature of many sub- 
stances to separate from their solutions in crystalline form, 
others in separating do so in a formless powder. Such pow- 
ders, having no structural form, but showing under the mag- 
nifying glass as irregular soft fragments, are called amorphous, 
from two Greek words meaning, as has been previously stated, 
without form. 
Artificially powdered chemicals may be felt as harsh, and 
heard to crunch when held between the thumb and finger 
close to the ear and rubbed. 
Granular powders, on close inspection, may be discovered 
to consist of irregularly shaped pieces. 
Crystalline powders, subjected to the same close inspection, 
will be found to consist of minute but regularly shaped crys- 
tals. 
And amorphous powders are velvety to the touch; their 102 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
form, if they have any, being imperceptible to the sense of 
touch in breaking down. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Hydrargyri iodidum flavum, . . . .Yellow mercurous iodid. Yellow 
iodid of mercury. 
Old Names. — Hydrargyri iodidum 
viride, Green iodid of mercury. Hg2I2. 
A yellow, amorphous powder, cohering into easily broken lumps, hav- 
ing neither odor nor taste; and on exposure to air slowly turning to a 
canary-green. 
This was formerly called green iodid, because by the imperfection of 
the process a greenish-yellow powder was produced in place of the yellow 
powder produced by the perfect process used now. 
Hydrargyri iodidum rubrum, . . . Red mercuric iodid. Red iodid of 
mercury. Biniodid of mercury, 
Deutiodid of mercury. Hgl2. 
A bright, scarlet, amorphous powder. It has neither odor nor taste. 
Hydrargyri oxidum . . . Yellow mercuric oxid. Yellow oxid 
of mercury. HgO. 
A bright, yellow, amorphous powder; very difficult to distinguish by the 
eye alone from the yellow iodid. 
Hydrargyri oxidum rubrum, . . . . Red mercuric oxid. HgO. Red 
precipitate. 
A hard brick-red, crystalline powder. 
Note.—The chemic composition of these two oxids is identical. 
Their difference in color is due to their different form and consequent dif- 
ferent reflective powers. A similar difference may be shown by powdering 
red rock-candy. It will not be red, but pink, when powdered. 
The sixth class includes Arsenic, Bismuth, and Antimony. 
Arsenic (Latin, arsenicum).—The metal itself is of mineral 
origin and is not used as such. The only forms in common 
use are the several solutions and Arsenous acid in tablet form. 
In the form of solution we have: 
Fowler's Solution.—Official titles: Liquor potassii arsenitis, Solution of 
potassium arsenite. METALS. 
103 
A transparent liquid; has the odor and slight reddish color given to it 
by the addition of a small quantity of compound tincture of lavender, that 
it may not be mistaken for some harmless thing. 
Donovan's Solution.—Liquor arseni et hydrargyri iodidi, Solution of 
arsenic and mercuric iodid. 
A transparent, pale, straw-colored solution, having neither odor nor 
taste. It should be rejected, if by exposure to light it has become red. 
These arsenical solutions contain one per cent, of arsenic. 
That is, one grain of arsenic in every ioo minims of the 
solution. One minim will, therefore, contain of one 
grain. The dose of the arsenites being about yL- of a grain ; 
five minims of these solutions, containing yjj-g- of a grain, or 
gy-, would be a dose. 
Latin Name. English Name. 
Acidum arsenosum, White arsenic, or arsenous acid. 
A white powder, usually given in tablet form of of a grain each. 
Bismuth {Latin, bismuthum).—Occurs as a mineral and 
is not used in metallic form. These are the salts: 
Bismuth citrate. 
Bismuth salicylate. 
Bismuth subcarbonate. 
Bismuth subnitrate. 
Bismuth subiodid. 
Bismuth subgallate, or dermatol. 
The subnitrate and subcarbonate of bismuth are white, 
odorless, and tasteless powders, and are used internally. 
The subiodid is a red amorphous powder used externally as 
an antiseptic and stimulant in dressings. 
The salicylate, a white powder; the subgallate, a yellow 
powder,—both used in troubles of the intestines. 104 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Antimony (Latin, stibium).—The only antimony salt in 
common use is the compound of Antimony and Potassium 
tartrate, or Tartar Emetic. It is not very often given by 
itself, but is used in compound syrup of squill and the wine 
of antimony. It is also one of the active ingredients in com- 
pound licorice mixture. The mixture, not the powder. 
Tartar emetic in the compound syrup of squill and com- 
pound licorice mixture is in minute doses as an expec- 
torant. In the antimonial wine as an emetic, but not very 
often. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER III. 
What causes the decomposition of silver nitrate in solution ? 
What forms of metallic mercury are official ? 
Give all the official titles of deutiodid of mercury, red mercuric oxid, calo- 
mel, green iodid of mercury, corrosive sublimate, and yellow oxid of 
mercury. 
What particular use is there for a nurse to know these names? 
Which of the names should a nurse confine herself to ? 
Note.—The nurse should never hesitate to ask in regard to a name 
whenever she is uncertain. It is not to be expected, at least not justly 
expected, that a nurse, with all the things she must remember, should cram 
her head full of obsolete terms. 
What is mercurial mass used for ? How much mercury is there in a blue 
pill of any size ? 
What is meant by amorphous, by granular, and by crystalline powders ? 
Give the common names for solution of potassium arsenite, for solution 
of iodid of arsenic and mercury, and the Latin name for Fowler’s solu- 
tion. 
What is the color of Fowler’s solution ? What does it smell like ? 
What is the color of Donovan’s solution ? 
What official preparations are mentioned as containing antimony ? CHAPTER IV. 
RECONSIDERATION. 
Before proceeding further, let us make a summary of the 
main points considered thus far: 
First, we have learned that all material matter, whether 
solid, fluid, or gaseous, is made up of either an element or a 
number of elements. 
Second, that an element can not be decomposed by any 
force at our command. 
Third, that our common senses of sight, smell, taste, and 
touch do not make us aware of the difference between an 
element and a compound. Silver is an element. Alcohol 
is a compound of three elements. But our common senses 
would lead us, after a most careful examination, to pronounce 
both to consist—one of an unmixed solid and the other of 
an unmixed fluid. 
Fourth, that there are ways by which we may decompose 
and separate compound substances into their component 
parts ; that a silver coin, for instance, may be shown to 
consist of silver and copper, and, perchance, lead also, 
while pure silver can not be decomposed. 
Fifth, that when two or more elementary substances unite 
chemically they undergo an entire change, — losing color 
and odor, often changing their gaseous to fluid and their 
fluid to solid forms. As in potassium chlorate we have the 
solid metal potassium, the green, suffocating gas, chlorin, and 
105 106 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
the well-known fluid, water, all united into a hard, solid, 
transparent, odorless, bitter crystal,—differing altogether in 
appearance from either of its constituent elements. 
Sixth, we are taught that the ultimate form of all matter is 
the atom, having size, although invisible and incapable of 
subdivision by man. This theory can not be demonstrated, 
except relatively. Yet, being wholly comprehensible to stu- 
dents of these things, it must be accepted in order that teacher 
may convey and pupil receive ideas. 
Seventh, we learn that all compound substances are called 
salts; and that some of them having special qualities have 
been distinguished from others by being placed in a class by 
themselves. 
You will have noticed that it is with these chemicals as with 
the vegetable drugs ; you are accustomed to fluids, which you 
here learn are the solutions of the substances and not the sub- 
stances themselves. 
Let us now consider the bromids. 
Potassium Bromid is a white, crystalline solid. It 
has no odor, but a salty taste. 
Sodium bromid is a white, crystalline solid, odorless, 
and with a salty taste. 
Ammonium bromid is a white, granular powder, with- 
out odor, having a salty taste. 
These descriptions are sufficient. 
You would be entirely unable by sight, smell, or taste to tell 
one from the other. That can be done only by chemic test. 
Note.—To impress this fact on the mind of the nurse, the teacher 
would do well to show, by experiment, that the three substances, bromid, 
chlorid, and iodid of ammonium, while indistinguishable by the eye, 
really contain the three different elements—bromine, chlorine, and iodine. RECONSIDERATION. 
107 
Medical Action.—All the bromids act as hypnotics, anti- 
spasmodics, and anaphrodisiacs. 
Hypnotics induce sleep, incidentally abolishing pain with- 
out any deleterious after-effects. 
Antispasmodics prevent or allay irregular action or spasm 
of both voluntary and involuntary muscles. 
Anaphrodisiacs diminish morbid sexual desire. 
The Carbonates and Bicarbonates. 
Potassium bicarbonate occurs as translucent crystals, 
which are inclined to deliquesce in moist air. 
Sodium bicarbonate occurs as a white powder. 
The taste of these two bicarbonates is called alkaline. It is 
more of an effect than a taste. They feel soapy or smooth in 
the mouth, with a sort of cooling sensation and a slightly 
bitter taste like soap. 
Ammonium carbonate occurs in cut cubes, a little 
smaller than lumps of sugar. When fresh they are translu- 
cent, but become white. It has the odor of ammonia gas. 
Deliquescence, or melting away, is a term used to express 
the property which some chemicals have of absorbing water 
from the air, gradually becoming more and more damp until 
they finally melt. Some of the potassium salts deliquesce. 
Efflorescence, blossoming forth, expresses the property 
some chemicals have of giving up the water contained in 
them, swelling during the act, as a bud swells before bursting 
into blossom. Some of the sodium salts effloresce. 
Translucent.—A substance is said to be translucent when it 
will admit the light, but we can not see through it—like 
ground glass. 
Medical Action.—The carbonates of potassium are alka- 
line in their medicinal action. They act, first, as antacids; 108 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
second, if given before meals, they stimulate the flow of acid 
gastric juice. Ammonium carbonate is a vascular stimulant. 
Vascular Stimulant.—Medicines which dilate the peripheral 
or outlying blood-vessels and stimulate peripheral circulation. 
They also stimulate the heart’s action. 
Iodids. 
Potassium iodid occurs in white crystalline form; odor- 
less, with a bitterish alkaline taste. 
Sodium Iodid.—A white granular powder, odorless, with 
a salty, bitterish alkaline taste. 
Ammonium Iodid.—A white granular powder, odorless, 
salty, bitterish alkaline taste. 
The iodids are alteratives. 
Alteratives alter the course of morbid conditions, modify 
the nutritive processes, stimulate secretion and absorption and 
the elimination of morbid deposits, and produce a beneficial 
change generally. 
The Magnesium Salts. 
Magnesium carbonate occurs in square lumps, appear- 
ing like chalk, but whiter and lighter. It is easily broken in 
the fingers and absorbs a large amount of water; has neither 
odor nor taste. It is chiefly used as an antacid and for what 
is familiarly known as “ heartburn.” 
Magnesium citrate is used in two forms: The granular 
occurs in white, spongy granules, which effervesce on being 
thrown into water. It is a mild purgative in doses of a tea- 
spoonful to a tablespoonful. 
Solution of magnesium citrate is, as its name implies, a 
solution of the substance in water, sweetened with lemon 
syrup. It is usually placed in twelve-ounce bottles, which 
constitutes one purgative dose for an adult. RECONSIDERATION. 
109 
Approximately, two tablespoonfuls of the granular powder 
equal a bottle of the latter. The solution is a little pleasanter 
to take, because it is slightly acid. 
Magnesium oxid, or calcined magnesia, occurs as a fine, 
light, white, dusty powder; no odor ; no taste. It is used as 
a cathartic, and the heavy variety, if kept secure from the air, 
is more active than the light. 
Magnesium sulphate occurs in small colorless crystals. 
They effloresce and become white. It has no odor but a bitter 
taste. It is purgative. It is commonly called Epsom salts, 
and sometimes, in solution with sulphuric acid, super-sulphate 
of magnesia. 
The nurse should, by sight, familiarize herself with the 
slight differences in appearance between magnesium sulphate, 
zinc sulphate, and oxalic acid. 
Effervescence is the boiling which occurs when certain 
chemicals are brought together and mixed with water. They 
decompose and gases are formed, which, escaping as bubbles, 
cause what is called effervescence. A Seidlitz powder effer- 
vesces. Champagne, soda water, beer,—these effervesce. 
When the cork is removed from the bottle the pressure is 
removed and the gas escapes with effervescence. 
Zinc Chlorid.—This is used as a deodorizer and disinfec- 
tant in the form of solution. The salt itself comes in white 
fragments, very hard and exceedingly deliquescent. It is 
escharotic. 
Formula: As a disinfectant it is used in the proportion of 
four fluidounces of the official solution to one gallon of water 
with two drams of hydrochloric acid. 
This is left standing in open vessels. It is particularly use- 
ful in deodorizing and disinfecting urinals and bedpans. 110 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Liquor Zinci et Ferri Conipositus : 
B. Ferrous sulphate, 16 ozs. 
Zinc sulphate, 16 ozs. 
Naphthol, 20 grs. 
Oil of thyme, 60 ttp 
Hydrochloric acid, 120 Tty. 
Water to make five pints. 
This compound has an odor and for that reason is more 
popular; few people being able to believe that an odorless 
deodorizer will deodorize. 
Zinc Oleate and Zinc Oxid.—These are both fine white 
powders. They are used externally as absorbents and astrin- 
gents. The oxid is very much used in the form of ointment. 
Definition.—Escharotics destroy the tissues to which they 
are applied. 
Definition.—Antiseptics prevent putrefaction, either by 
destroying the micro-organisms causing it or by preventing 
their growth. 
Tincture of the Chlorid of Iron.—A bright, brownish 
liquid having a slight ethereal odor and an astringent, styptic, 
acid taste. 
Syrup of the Iodid of Iron.—A solution of iodid of 
iron in syrup. A transparent, pale-green liquid, with a sweet, 
inky taste. When brown it should be rejected. 
Sulphate of iron occurs in green crystals, efflorescing and 
turning white. Chiefly used in the form of solution as a dis- 
infectant in the proportion of four ounces to a gallon of water. 
It will stain clothing. 
Persulphate of Iron Solution, or Monsel’s Solu- 
tion.—Either as a yellowish-white powder or a dark reddish- 
brown liquid, both having an acid, styptic taste. It is used RECONSIDERATION. 
Ill 
as a styptic to arrest hemorrhage, which it does by coagu- 
lating the blood. 
Iron and Quinine Citrate. Iron and Strychnine 
Citrate. Iron Citrate.—These salts and others of their 
kind are seldom seen by the nurse, some of them being 
deliquescent and usually presented in the form of solution. 
They are all in thin, transparent scales, irregular in outline 
and size, some being greenish-yellow and some garnet-red. 
All of the salts of iron are hematics, and those containing 
quinine and strychnine are general tonics also. They all have 
a constipating effect upon the bowels. 
Definition.—Hematics, or blood tonics, restore the quality 
of the blood, exerting a direct influence on its composition. 
Tonics increase the vigor and tone of the system by improv- 
ing the appetite, favoring digestion and assimilation, and 
adding strength to the circulatory system. 
Silver nitrate has already been sufficiently considered. 
In removing the stains from the skin the following solution, if 
thoroughly rubbed into the spots, is recommended : 
R • Iodin, 3 grs. 
Potassium cyanid, gj 
Distilled water, f^j. 
Poison.—This spoils when kept long. It is easily prepared and should 
be fresh when used, or, at least, colorless, color indicating decomposition. 
Bichlorid of mercury is given internally in the form of 
tablets of °f a grain as an alterative. It is used especially 
in syphilitic disorders. In solution as an antiseptic wash it 
is very largely used. 
Perhaps the only safe way for a nurse to prepare such 
solutions, in private practice, is to use the tablets which come 112 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
for the purpose. Directions are always printed upon the 
bottle, telling just the number of tablets required to make a 
pint of solution of any required strength. 
Calomel is used as a cathartic and cholagogue. The dose 
is from to io grains. 
Definition.—Cholagogues remove bile from the duodenum. 
The red and the yellow iodids of mercury are used as 
alteratives in syphilitic disorders. Their respective doses 
differ. The dose of the red iodid is Jg- of a grain; that of 
the yellow iodid is from to one grain. 
The antidotes to mercury and arsenic are given here. 
The remaining poisons will be given in a separate chapter. 
Mercuric chlorid when swallowed produces burning heat 
in the throat, excruciating pain in the stomach and bowels, 
thirst, anxiety, nausea, diarrhea, etc. 
As an antidote, the whites of six or more eggs are first beaten 
with water and swallowed. They form with the mercury an 
insoluble compound, which must be removed from the stom- 
ach by an emetic before it has a chance to digest, which it 
will do after a while. 
Arsenic, whether used internally or externally, in over- 
doses, or by prolonged action, acts with great energy and 
sometimes destroys life in a short time. 
Free vomiting should be induced by the finger or a 
feather or by an emetic. 
The antidote is a chemic one. Every nurse should know 
its name, to be able to ask for it when needed. It is the 
freshly prepared hydrated oxid of iron. 
It is made by adding water of ammonia or calcined mag- 
nesia to a solution of tersulphate of iron. An iron-rust- 
colored precipitate is formed, and is given in tablespoonful RECONSIDERATION. 
113 
doses, as much as the patient will swallow. It forms with the 
arsenic an insoluble compound and acts as an emetic. 
What is an element ? 
What is an atom ? 
What are the medicinal effects of the bromids? 
Define a hypnotic, an antispasmodic. 
What is meant by deliquescence ? 
Name the class of salts which act as antacids. 
What is meant by efflorescence ? 
What is the general medicinal effect of the iodids ? 
Name the two magnesium salts used as purgatives. 
How much granular citrate of magnesium is equal to a twelve-ounce bottle 
of the fluid ? 
What poisonous substances closely resemble Epsom salt in appearance ? 
What is the chemic name of Epsom salt ? 
How is solution of zinc chlorid prepared for disinfecting purposes ? 
What should be the color of syrup of iodid of iron ? 
How much strychnine is present in ten grains of citrate of iron, quinine, and 
strychnine ? 
If a four-ounce prescription contains four grams of it, would a teaspoonful 
be a safe dose ? 
If a four-ounce bottle contains sixty-four grains of it, how much strychnine in 
each teaspoonful ? 
Give the chemic names of the different kinds of caustics mentioned in the 
text. 
What is the common name for solution of persulphate of iron ? 
What is the antidote for mercurial poisoning ? 
Dose of red iodid of mercury, of calomel, of corrosive sublimate, of arsenic, 
of biniodid of mercury ? 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER IV. CHAPTER V. 
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 
Organic chemistry treats of those substances found natu- 
rally within the bodies of animal or vegetable organisms. 
There are quite a number of substances used as medicines, 
which are derived from the destructive distillation of wood, 
coal, and coal oil. 
By distillation we take advantage of that natural phenom- 
enon called vaporization, to collect the vapors. All substances 
are capable of vaporization if they be heated to a sufficiently 
high degree. 
Coal has its origin in wood, so has petroleum. And when 
distilled, the resulting products show quite plainly their 
similarity in origin. 
Note.—When wood or coal is burned we have ashes left. Many 
things, however, go up the chimney,—charcoal, tar, turpentine, acids of 
various kinds, a whole series of gases and water. If the burning be per- 
fect, very little evidence of all this is to be seen. But if the chimney 
does not draw well, then we perceive by smell and sight, in what we call 
smoke, that the products of combustion are quite palpable. 
If, in place of burning these substances, we distill them, we may collect 
all of the gases, fluids, and vaporized solids. They are very numerous, 
and by treatment with all kinds of chemicals, and under various extraor- 
dinary conditions of cold, heat, vacuity, and high pressure, there is formed 
a vast variety of compounds, useful in all the arts and sciences, that of 
medicine among others. And as the coal or wood under this treatment is 
destroyed, we speak of the process as one of destructive distillation. We 
114 ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 
115 
speak of the substances so obtained, in a general way, as being products of 
the destructive distillation of wood or coal or coal oil. 
Cotton is not a product of the distillation of wood, but it 
is usually placed at the head of this section. It is the same 
substance which makes up the framework of vegetable or 
woody tissue, and it is the hair which grows on the seed of 
the cotton plant. Its Latin name is Gossypium, and it is 
official as Gossypium purificatum (purified cotton or absorbent 
cotton). This is prepared by washing ordinary cotton with 
potash or soda water to clean off the oil and dust always 
present. It is then washed in acidulated water, and finally 
rinsed in pure water and dried. 
It differs from ordinary cotton as follows : 
Ordinary cotton is yellowish-white and soiled, and being 
oily, dirt sticks to it. 
Absorbent cotton is pure white and cleaner. Being free 
from oil it remains clean. 
Ordinary cotton tastes and smells oily. Absorbent cotton 
is odorless and tasteless. 
Ordinary cotton wets with difficulty and floats upon the 
surface when thrown into water. Absorbent cotton wets 
easily and sinks beneath the surface at once when thrown into 
water. 
Absorbent cotton should neither turn blue litmus red, nor 
red litmus blue, showing the absence of acids, and potash or 
soda. 
Note.—Litmus.—This is a coloring matter obtained from a variety of 
rock moss by chemic treatment. A tincture is made from it, and pure 
white paper being dipped into it yields blue litmus paper. The blue paper 
dipped into a very dilute solution of sulphuric acid yields red litmus 
paper. This substance is very useful as an indicator of the presence of 116 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
acids and alkalies; the blue being turned red by all acids, even in 
minute quantities ; the red being turned blue by the presence of alka- 
lies, even in minute quantities. And when blue is not turned red, or red 
turned blue, the solution under test is called neutral. 
Pyroxylinum (Soluble Gun-cotton).—Gun-cotton is not 
used as such in medicine, but it is of considerable importance 
in the form of collodion. 
When cotton is treated with a mixture of nitric and sul- 
phuric acids its form remains unchanged, but it is, neverthe- 
less, changed chemically, and at the end of the operation it is 
cotton only in appearance. 
It is brittle instead of tenacious. When thrown into water 
its fibers instead of remaining interlaced break more or less 
and fall to powder. 
Cotton, when lit with a match, burns slowly, as light wood 
shavings burn. Gun-cotton takes fire and burns instantly and 
with explosive force. 
Ordinary cotton will not dissolve in alcohol or ether, nor 
in a mixture of these. Gun-cotton completely dissolves in a 
mixture of ether and alcohol, and when so dissolved, as has 
been already told, forms collodion. 
Oxalic acid has already been given sufficient consideration 
under the acids. It is an organic derivative and properly 
belongs here. 
Note.—There are quite a number of substances differing widely in 
their physiologic action but closely resembling each other in their appear- 
ance to the eye. 
Bodies having these points of agreement in form, while differing in 
properties, are called isomorphous, from two Greek words, laog and pop<pij 
meaning “equal” and “form.” 
Oxalic acid, sulphate of zinc, and Epsom salt have these points of ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 
117 
resemblance to the ordinary observer. Placed side by side to people un- 
familiar with them one might easily be mistaken for the other, and many 
cases of fatal poisoning are recorded as having resulted from such mis- 
takes. 
A quantity of oxalic acid, equal to a dose of Epsom salt, would un- 
doubtedly prove fatal anywhere except in a hospital, and an equal dose of 
zinc sulphate, if not fatal, would cause long and serious illness. The nurse 
should thoroughly familiarize herself with these facts and never administer 
them without thinking of it. 
Acetic acid also belongs in this section, being, as the 
pupil will remember, obtained by the distillation of wood at 
a low temperature. 
Creosotum (Creosote).—This is one of the compounds 
obtained by distilling wood. Tar is one of the products of 
the distillation of wood, and it contains many other sub- 
stances, among them, creosote. 
Our official creosote is obtained by distilling beechwood 
tar. 
Note.—It has doubtless been a.,source of wonder how so many things 
can be obtained by distillation of the same thing. Every substance at a 
certain temperature becomes converted into vapor. When a mixture of 
several substances is heated until vapor begins to pass over into the 
receiving chamber, the temperature is held there for a while u»til all of 
that particular vapor has passed. Then the temperature is elevated a 
little and another sort of vapor passes over, and so on until nothing more 
will pass, or until we have succeeded in obtaining the substance sought 
for. This is properly called fractional distillation. 
This is what is meant when we say a substance—like, for instance, 
acetic acid—is obtained by distilling wood at a low heat. The acetic acid 
passes into the receiving chamber, but all the other things remain in the 
wood. 
There is a great difference between wood creosote and coal-tar creosote, 
the latter on account of its cheapness, or through ignorance, being used 118 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
in place of wood creosote or to adulterate it with. The following are the 
points of difference, and they should be learned while the nurse is in the 
hospital, where both are to be seen : 
Wood creosote has an unmistakable odor, which once 
realized can not be forgotten. Coal-tar creosote has an 
entirely different odor. 
Wood creosote when mixed with collodion forms a clear 
liquid mixture. Coal creosote, mixed with collodion, forms a 
jelly. 
Wood creosote does not corrode the skin. Coal creosote 
corrodes the skin. Coal-tar creosote is a very indefinite sub- 
stance, being anything from pure to the most impure carbolic 
acid. 
Acidum Carbolicum (Carbolic Acid; Phenol).—This 
important product is one of the substances obtained by the 
fractional distillation of coal tar. 
For internal use it should be entirely colorless, with its 
own peculiar odor, which is not exactly tarry, but peculiar 
and easily remembered after once experienced. It enters the 
market in crystalline form, which, for convenience in meas- 
uring, is liquefied by heat, and rendered permanently fluid 
by the addition of five per cent, of water or glycerin. If 
glycerin be added, the acid will mix with water in all pro- 
portions. Otherwise, it will not dissolve in less than twenty 
parts of water. 
The pharmacopeia recognizes an impure acid also, which 
is a reddish-brown to black oily fluid, having the character- 
istic odor of tar, and which is very efficient as a disinfectant. 
In preparing solutions of carbolic acid, care should be 
taken to shake the solution until all the globules of acid 
are dissolved, otherwise they will settle to the bottom of ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 
119 
the bottle, and by coming into contact with a wound in 
the concentrated state cause harmful results. 
Carbolic acid quickly corrodes the skin, and many things 
have been suggested to neutralize its effects, such as sodium 
carbonate, sodium salicylate, oils, etc.; but a consideration of 
the fact that carbolic acid is not an acid, and therefore not 
neutralized in its effects by alkalies as true acids are, led the 
author to experiment with it. His results were nil. But a 
ward tender having spilled some strong acid over both hands 
and arms, on the spur of the moment, washed them freely 
with the only thing at hand, which was a pint lampful of 
alcohol. The author thinking it worth trying, tried it with 
success, and since that time has repeatedly used it, and always 
with perfect result. He recommends, therefore, with entire 
confidence that the spots be immediately and thoroughly 
washed with alcohol. If it is the hands that have been ex- 
exposed, wash well the surfaces between the fingers and let all 
creases in the skin be reached. Then if this has been 
thoroughly and slowly done, water will remove all traces. 
Following are two lists of substances derived from coal tar : 
One, the first one, is the official list. The other is unofficial, 
being either drugs of well-established value, but barred out 
of our pharmacopeia because patented, or else drugs the 
established value of which has not yet been recognized. 
The most of these drugs are made by exceedingly compli- 
cated processes, impossible of comprehension by any one not 
advanced in the science of chemistry, fully as difficult to 120 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
explain as they are to comprehend, and therefore one general 
definition will be given for all. 
To the question, What is beta-naphthol? an answer similar 
to this may be given, which will also serve for all the rest: 
It is one of the products derived from coal tar by dis- 
tillation and subsequent chemic treatment. It is given in 
doses of from one to five grains as an intestinal antiseptic. 
Official List. 
Naphthol or Beta-naphthol.—Pale, buff-colored, shining crystalline 
powder, or sometimes powdered fine. Used as an intestinal antiseptic. 
Dose, 1 to 5 grains. 
Acetanilid or Phenylacetamid or Antifebrin.—White, shining crystalline 
scales or powder, the scales resembling isinglass. Use as an antipyretic in 
doses of from 1 to 5 grains (0.065 to 0.325 gm-)- 
Resorcin.—Colorless or pinkish needle-shaped crystals. Antiseptic in 
doses of from 1 to 5 grains. 
Salicylic Acid.—White or creamy-white powder, turning pink on long 
exposure; should be white. Used as an antiseptic. Dose, 1 to 5 grains. 
Salol.—White crystalline powder; internal antiseptic. Dose, 1 to 5 
grains. 
Unofficial List. 
Antipyrin.—White powder, antipyretic. Dose, I to 5 grains. 
Benzo-beta-naphthol.—Pinkish-white powder or crystalline powder. In- 
testinal antiseptic. Dose, 0.065 to 0.325 gm. 
Guaiacol.—Colorless fluid with an odor resembling creosote. Koly- 
septic. Dose, X to 5 minims. 
Kolyseptics are those drugs which prevent the deleterious 
action of the products of disease germs, by decomposing 
them and rendering them harmless. 
Phenacetin.—A white or crystalline powder. Used as an analgesic in 
doses of from I to 10 grains. ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 
121 
Analgesics are substances which relieve pain by their effect 
upon the sensory nerve-centers. 
Salophen.—White crystalline powder. Analgesic. Dose, 5 to 15 grains. 
Sulfonal.—White crystalline powder. Analgesic. Dose, 1 to 15 grains. 
Ichthyol is placed here because there is no other place for it. It is a 
dark, peculiar-smelling fluid, its odor resembling or suggestive of burning 
sulphur matches as much as anything, and is obtained by distilling the 
fossilized remains of fishes and treating the product with sulphur and 
ammonia. It is used internally and externally for almost everything, with 
more or less beneficial results, acting as an alterative. It is largely used in 
skin diseases. Dose, 1 to 5 minims. 
What is meant by organic chemistry ? 
What is meant by destructive distillation ? 
How is absorbent cotton prepared ? 
What are the plain signs of its purity ? 
Tell how it differs from ordinary cotton. 
What is the official name of gun-cotton, and what is it used for? 
What is litmus paper made from ? 
What is meant by isomorphous ? 
Name three substances which to the ordinary observer are isomorphous. 
How would you know a sample of creosote to be wood and not coal-tar 
creosote ? 
In what proportion is carbolic acid soluble in water ? 
What substance may be added to it, if it is desirable to increase its 
solubility? 
What is best to remove the strong acid from the hands ? 
What are salol, guaiacol, phenacetin ? 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER V. CHAPTER VI. 
PRODUCTS OF FERMENTATION. 
Starch, under the influence of moisture and heat, is con- 
verted first into sugar and then into alcohol. 
Cane-sugar, under the influence of a fermenting substance 
and heat, is also converted into alcohol. 
So it happens, that when starchy grains like corn, rye, 
barley, etc., are allowed to soak in water in a warm room 
germination or sprouting commences, and that point marks 
the conversion of starch into sugar. 
Then if yeast be added we start fermentation and the 
production of an alcoholic fluid, which, when separated from 
the impurities by distillation, is known as whiskey, and con- 
sists of between fifty and sixty per cent, of alcohol. 
At the end of the germination or sprouting of the grain, 
spoken of above, if the process is stopped and the sprouting 
grain is dried at a low heat the product is malt. 
When this malt is percolated with water the product con- 
stitutes liquid malt. 
If this liquid malt is very carefully evaporated at a low 
temperature, we have the thick, molasses-like appearing fluid, 
known as extract of malt or maltine. This maltine is rich in 
a substance called diastase, which is capable of digesting 
starch. Its value as a digestant depends upon the presence of 
this diastase, and as it is easily destroyed by a few degrees too 
122 PRODUCTS OF FERMENTATION. 
123 
much of heat some care should be taken to use the product 
of reliable makers. 
Similarly to the fermentation of grains, when grape-juice 
or other fruit juices containing sugar are exposed to the action 
of a ferment and a temperature of 70° F. or 750 F., the sugar 
is decomposed and alcohol is produced. The product is 
wine, and it varies in the amount of alcohol present, accord- 
ing to the quantity of sugar present in the beginning of the 
process. 
Whiskey.—When the alcoholic fluid obtained from the 
fermentation of grain is subjected to distillation, there passes 
over into the receiving chamber a colorless fluid containing 
more than fifty per cent, of alcohol. This is whiskey, and as 
usually seen is of a clear brown color, which it acquires from 
the casks in which it is kept, or is added to it—burned sugar 
or caramel being used for this purpose. 
Brandy.—When the alcoholic fluid from the fermentation 
of grape-juice is subjected to distillation the colorless fluid 
passing into the receiving chamber is called brandy. It con- 
tains about fifty per cent, of alcohol. This, too, is colored, 
unless the cask affords coloring-matter enough. 
The difference between the flavor of whiskey and brandy is 
due to other fermentation products, peculiar in each instance 
to the grain or fruit which is fermented. 
As products originating in these two or derived from them, 
we have what are called the ethyl and the amyl compounds. 
Ethyl is a gas, and amyl a highly volatile fluid. Neither 
of them is ever used in medicine, but certain fluid salts 
derived from them are very familiar to you. 
They are members of a whole series of compounds, which 
result from the decomposition of vegetable substances; and 124 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
some of them are always being formed wherever decomposi- 
tion of vegetable matter is going on, be it natural or 
artificial. 
First we have ethyl hydrate or alcohol; deodorized alcohol, 
absolute alcohol, and diluted alcohol are different forms of 
the same thing. 
Alcohol is obtained by the fractional distillation of 
whiskey at a temperature which vaporizes the alcohol and 
leaves the water behind. 
The strongest alcohol obtainable by this process is about 
eighty-seven per cent., and this by further treatment is con- 
verted to ordinary alcohol of commerce, called ninety-five 
per cent. 
Deodorized Alcohol.—All alcohols, but more especially that 
made from potato-starch, contain fusel oil, or amylic alcohol. 
This is poisonous, and to its presence in minute quantities 
the odor of alcohol is due. 
When alcohol is mixed thoroughly with potassium perman- 
ganate and distilled, this fusel oil is removed and we have an 
alcohol without an odor. 
Absolute Alcohol.—This, as its name implies, is an alcohol 
from which every trace of water has been removed. Freshly 
burned lime absorbs water with great avidity, so also does 
calcium chlorid. Alcohol is first percolated through freshly 
burned lime, which allows the alcohol to pass through but 
absorbs almost all of the water. It is allowed to flow into a 
distilling apparatus, which has some fragments of calcium 
chlorid at the bottom. The still is now entirely exhausted by 
an air-pump of all air and the moisture which always accom- 
panies it. Heat is now applied as carefully as possible. The 
absolute alcohol distills over, and any minute portion of PRODUCTS OF FERMENTATION. 
125 
water which may have been left is retained by the calcium 
chlorid at the bottom. This alcohol is ioo per cent., but on 
exposure very quickly absorbs moisture from the air, and soon 
after being left open will be found, if examined, to be ninety- 
five per cent, more or less. It should, therefore, be kept in 
small, well-filled, and securely stoppered bottles. 
Diluted Alcohol.—This is made by mixing equal measures 
of alcohol and water. 
Ethyl Oxid, or Ether.—When alcohol is mixed with a 
small proportion of sulphuric acid and heated, one of the 
products of the decomposition is ether, which is separated by 
distillation. 
Ether for anesthetic use must be pure, and as it is not a 
part of a nurse’s duties to test the purity of her medicines 
she should be aware that it is necessary to know of a reliable 
maker. There are several such, but there is only one who 
has been in the market long enough to become widely and 
favorably known to physicians. That is Squibb,—Squibb’s 
Ether, then, is the kind the nurse should ask for, because it is 
to be found everywhere. 
Note.—The tests are simple, and should be shown by the teacher 
according to the pharmacopeia. 
Ethyl Chlorid. — By the treatment of alcohol with 
hydrochloric acid one of the products is ethyl chlorid. 
This substance is highly volatile, boiling at 5o°F., and is 
usually found in the market in sealed glass-tubes. These 
tubes have a minute needle hole bored through one end, 
through which when uncovered and held in the hand the 
boiling fluid is ejected in a fine stream. It should be securely 
covered when not in use and kept in a cool place. 126 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Ethyl Nitrite (Spiritus Nitrosi, Sweet Spirit of 
Nitre, Spirit of Nitrous Ether).—This product is formed 
when nitrous acid is caused to react with alcohol. It should 
be colorless or at most a very light straw color. It should 
not be acid to litmus paper. 
Amyl Nitrite.—When fusel oil or amylic alcohol is caused 
to react with nitrous acid, amyl nitrite is formed. 
It is a pale-yellow fluid, very volatile, and is best kept 
ready for instant use, which is always required of it, in sealed 
glass-pearls, which are easily crushed in a napkin for inhala- 
tion. 
Chloroform.—When alcohol is treated with chlorinated 
lime one of the products of the decomposition is chloroform. 
It should be kept in dark, amber-colored bottles in a cool 
place. 
Squibb’s chloroform should be used because, outside of the 
large cities, like ether, no other reliable make is certain to be 
found. 
Chloral (or more properly Chloral Hydrate).—This color- 
less, crystalline solid, having its own peculiar odor, is the 
substance which is formed when alcohol is exposed for a long 
time to the action of chlorin gas. Chloral is a fluid, chloral 
hydrate is a crystalline solid, but chloral is the official and 
commonly used name. 
Iodoform.—This substance needs no description. It 
comes in two forms. The fine granular powder is the 
most suitable for dusting into wounds, as it does not cohere 
into the little balls as the powder does. The other form is 
that of fine powder. It is made by exposing alcohol to the 
action of iodin in the presence of potassium carbonate. 
Iodoform Gauze.—There are many ways of preparing gauze PRODUCTS OF FERMENTATION. 
127 
The following may be taken as typical: Bleached gauze is first 
soaked in a solution of bichlorid of mercury i : 1000 and steril- 
ized. A mixture of iodoform powder with glycerin is prepared 
so that one fluidounce of the finished product shall contain 
one-half ounce Troy of iodoform. Sufficient water to saturate 
twenty yards of gauze (which must be ascertained by experi- 
ment, as gauzes differ) is sterilized and placed in a suitable 
jar. Two ounces of the glycerin and iodoform mixture are 
added and mixed. The gauze is now placed in the jar (the 
hands having been sterilized) and thoroughly kneaded until 
all the fluid with all the iodoform has been taken up by the 
gauze and evenly distributed through it. To do this, the jar 
must be several times larger than sufficient to hold the material. 
This method has proved very satisfactory in a great number 
of cases. The glycerin renders the iodoform miscible with 
water and retains the moisture in the gauze, preventing it 
from sticking to the wound to which it is applied. 
Paraldehyd.—When weak alcohol is exposed to the 
action of the air a substance called aldehyd is formed. 
When aldehyd is treated with sulphurous acid par-aldehyd is 
formed. It has a peculiar odor. It is a hypnotic, but 
is little used owing to the disagreeable odor and the dis- 
turbance to digestion caused by it with its attendant troubles. 
Gin. Rum.—These two liquors are not official. 
Gin is distilled from fermented grain, just as whiskey is, but 
previous to the distillation fresh juniper berries are added 
which impart to it its peculiar, distinguishing odor. 
Rum is the alcoholic fluid obtained by distilling fermented 
molasses. 128 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER VI. 
What two familiar substances are the sources of alcohol ? 
What is the name descriptive of the change ? 
What is alcohol obtained from ? 
Tell briefly how its odor is removed and how it is rendered absolute. 
What is the real strength of the so-called 95 per cent, alcohol ? 
What is the strength of absolute alcohol ? 
Why are any precautions necessary in keeping absolute alcohol ? 
What is ether made from ? 
Why is one special make to be preferred ? 
Whose make is it ? 
What is the official title of sweet spirit of nitre ? 
What is meant by official ? 
Why is granular iodoform sometimes preferred to powdered iodoform ? 
How is iodoform gauze made ? 
What is the difference between gin and whiskey ? CHAPTER VII. 
VOLATILE AND FIXED OILS. 
Volatile Oils are sometimes called distilled oils, in allu- 
sion to the manner in which they are separated from the 
plants containing them; sometimes essential oils, from the 
circumstance that they possess in a concentrated state the 
properties of the plants from which they are obtained. 
Such familiar substances as cloves, nutmegs, cinnamon, car- 
damon, orange peel, lemon peel, etc., owe their peculiar 
odors to the volatile oils contained in them. 
Some substances, such as orange and lemon peel, being soft 
and easily crushed and containing little or no cdloring-matter 
and a large proportion of oil, are subjected to hand pressure 
and the oil is pressed out. 
Most of these drugs, however, being woody in their struct- 
ure, will not yield to such treatment, and, moreover, the oil 
is present in such small proportion that although we might 
crush the wood it would not give up the oil. These drugs 
are, therefore, placed in a still with water and subjected 
to distillation, or else placed on perforated shelves in a 
specially constructed still and steam passed through them. 
The latter process is the quicker. By either process the oil 
and a portion of the water are carried into the receiving 
chamber where the oil, being lighter than the water and float- 
ing upon its surface, is easily separated. 
129 130 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Note.—This can easily be shown with a couple of glass flasks con- 
taining cinnamon bark and water, and will impress the process indelibly 
upon the mind of the nurse. 
These volatile oils are very little used in their original 
form. All the essences are alcoholic solutions of them. The 
aromatic waters also are made from them. They are used in 
flavoring the elixirs and some of the tinctures, and some are 
used externally in the form of liniments. 
A complete list of them will be found in the Appendix. 
Fixed Oils and Fats.—These oils are called fixed 
oils, because they are not volatile but permanent or fixed 
when exposed to the air. The fixed oils and fats are derived 
from both the vegetable and animal kingdoms. Commonly 
speaking, the oils are fluid, the fats solid. They are insoluble 
in water, and with one exception insoluble in alcohol; 
(castor oil being the exception). 
Fixed oils and fats are well-defined salts, and capable of 
being decomposed by contact with other salts. They are not 
as simply and as easily decomposed, however, as some of those 
hitherto studied, but require extraordinary conditions of ex- 
posure and heat. 
It is by the decomposition of these salts that glycerin and 
soap are formed. 
As the official list is short they are given here : 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Oleum amygdalae expressum, . 
. . Expressed oil of almonds. 
Oleum gossypii seminis, . . . 
Oleum olivae, 
These two oils, cotton-seed and olive, are used interchange- 
ably, one in place of the other. Chemically they are the same VOLATILE AND FIXED OILS. 
131 
thing, but they differ somewhat in point of flavor. Strictly 
speaking, there is no more reason for substituting one for the 
other than there is in any other similar instance, or rather 
there is just as little reason as there ever is. As a matter of 
principle it is wrong. 
Latin Name. 
English Name. 
Oleum lini, 
, Linseed or flaxseed oil. 
Oleum ricini, 
. Castor oil. 
Oleum tiglii, 
. Croton oil (Poison /). 
Oleum theobromatis, 
. Cocoa butter. 
This oil is solid below the body temperature of 99 ° F., and as it quickly 
melts above that temperature it is 
of suppositories. 
a convenient vehicle for the formation 
Adeps, 
, Lard. 
Sevum, . . . . 
. Suet. 
Note.—The vegetable oils are obtained by subjecting the seeds contain- 
ing them to powerful pressure. 
To understand how soaps and glycerin are obtained from 
oils and fats, it is necessary to know that oils and fats, and 
soaps and glycerin are all definite salts. There are in this 
connection two acids—oleic acid and stearic acid, both of 
which are official. 
There is, also, a substance known as glyceryl. As a rule, 
the fluid fats are oleates of glyceryl; the solid fats, stearates 
of glyceryl; while glycerin is hydrate of glyceryl. 
When an oil, or a fat of any kind, is heated with water and 
potash or soda decomposition occurs and soap and glycerin 
are formed. 
Hard soaps are made from soda; castile soap being made 
from soda and olive oil. HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
132 
Soft soaps are made from potash; the official soft soap 
being made from linseed oil and potash. 
The German soft soap, which is a better product, is made 
from fish oil and potash. 
The glycerin from this process is impure, and use is found 
for it in other and cruder arts than that of medicine. 
For medicinal use, pure oil is exposed to the decomposing 
power of steam under high pressure. One of the products of 
the decomposition is pure glycerin. 
Note.—Soaps.—Soaps are too well known to need much description. 
Their colors vary with the fats and oils from which they are made. They 
have a peculiar odor which is usually covered by a perfume. They are 
heavier than water and soluble in it, the potash soaps being more rapidly 
dissolved than the soda soaps. Acids decompose them and destroy their 
cleansing qualities. 
The metallic salts all decompose them, and the so-called hard waters 
owe their hardness to the presence of mineral salts which decompose the 
soap. For this reason the mercury salts lose their antiseptic powers when 
mixed with soap, for they become insoluble and therefore inactive. 
(The conditions under which they maybe mixed are given below.) 
The efficiency of a soap as a detergent or cleansing substance lies in its 
power of rendering greasy substances soluble in water and therefore capable 
of being washed away, along with the dirt which is imbedded in it. 
The ethereal solution of soap being a very desirable article in antiseptic 
surgery and not official,—the formula for its preparation devised by the 
author and which has long been in satisfactory use, is given. 
Tincture of green soap (U. S. P. 1880), . . 
Ether 
equal parts. 
The superior efficacy of this solution of soap lies in the fact of the pene- 
trating power of the ether, which carries the soap into more intimate con- 
tact with the skin, penetrating the interstices of it, dissolving out the fat 
in which the dirt lies imbedded, and washing it away. Those same beds of fat with the dirt in them, being by superficial washing, pressed in more 
firmly than before. 
The following concerning bichlorid of mercury soap is taken from the price 
list of Schieffelin & Co:, of New York, and speaks for itself: “ Solution of 
corrosive sublimate is colorless. Solution of pure white soap is also color- 
less. If pure white soap is especially made free front alkali it is compatible 
with corrosive sublimate and should be white; but if alkaki is present the 
soap soon becomes green, and therefore most of the corrosive sublimate 
soaps in the market become green (or else they are colored to disguise the 
fact). A test for an efficient corrosive sublimate soap may be made by 
exposing a thin slice of it to the decomposing power of strong sunlight, 
when it will turn green.” 
And the author would recommend any one wishing to use corrosive sub- 
limate soap to use that of Schieffelin & Co. It is like ether and some other 
things, in the respect that it requires more skill in its preparation than is 
usually bestowed upon it, and the product of a reliable maker should be used. 
VOLATILE AND FIXED OILS. 
133 
Where are the volatile oils obtained from ? 
What are they used for mostly ? 
By what two processes are volatile and fixed oils obtained ? 
Name some common substance containing a volatile oil. 
What class of preparations are made by dissolving volatile oils in alcohol ? 
Where does glycerin exist in its native combination ? 
IIow is soap made ? What else is made at the same time ? 
What is used to prepare the ethereal solution of soap ? 
How would you prove in a simple way the presence of bichlorid of mer- 
cury in soap ? 
What color should bichlorid of mercury soap be ? 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER VII. CHAPTER VIII. 
GLUCOSIDES AND ALKALOIDS. 
The glucosides are placed with the alkaloids because, from 
similarity in their appearance and names they might be mis- 
taken one for the other. 
There are only four official ones. They are the active 
principles of the drugs in which they are found, but are not 
as definite in their chemic properties as the alkaloids are. 
Elaterin, from the juice of the squirting cucumber. Cathartic. 
Glycyrrhizin, from licorice root. For sweetening bitter things. 
Salicin, from the willow bark. Tonic, alterative. 
Santonin, from Levant wormseed. Vermicide. 
Note.—It will be noticed that the words end with the syllable in. 
Alkaloids.—The word alkaloid is a compound word, 
meaning like an alkali, in allusion to the fact that like 
alkalies they form salts with acids. 
They are found in both the animal and vegetable king- 
doms. But as yet, those having established therapeutic value 
are derived from the vegetable kingdom. They are the 
so-called active principles of drugs, although some active 
principles are not alkaloids. Sometimes only one alkaloid is 
found in a drug, but very often more than one occur together 
in the same drug. They are all energetic in their action upon 
the animal organism, and many of them are violent poisons. 
As a class of substances they may be distinguished from 
134 GLUCOSIDES AND ALKALOIDS. 
135 
other chemicals, glucosides in particular, when their names 
are seen in print, by their terminal syllable consisting of the 
letters ine. 
There are a great many alkaloids which are never used— 
at least, not in general practice. The following embraces all 
that are usually found in a well-appointed hospital: 
By the latest list at the author’s command, nineteen dis- 
tinct alkaloids of opium have been discovered. Only two of 
them are commonly used. 
Morphine.—The sulphate, hydrochlorate, and acetate. The acetate is an 
unstable compound. Narcotics. Dose, of a grain. 
Codeine.—The sulphate and the phosphate. Sedative. Dose, to one 
grain. 
Note i .—-It is the salts of the alkaloids which are used. The alkaloids 
uncombined are insoluble in water. The salts are soluble. 
Note 2.—These alkaloids should be shown the nurse, descriptions being 
useless, as to the eye of the untrained observer they are all alike. It is 
desirable from the fact that in that state they are very dangerous, and to 
impress upon their minds the fact that the fluids which they mostly use are 
solutions only—not the alkaloids in substance. 
Apomorphine is not a natural but an artificial alkaloid, made by boiling 
together, under pressure in sealed tubes, morphine and hydrochloric acid. 
This yields a substance differing from morphine entirely in its physiologic 
action ; being, instead of a narcotic, a quick and powerfully acting emetic. 
The alkaloids of cinchona bark: 
Quinine.—The bisulphate, sulphate, hydrochlorate, hydrobromate, and 
valerianate. Dose, >4 to 5 grains. 
Cinchonidme.—The sulphate and salicylate. Dose, to 5 grains. 
Alkaloid of Nux Vomica.—Strychnine, sulphate, nitrate. Tonic, g of a 
grain. 
Alkaloids from Tea or Coffee.—Caffeine, citrated (being a mixture of 
equal parts of caffeine and citric acid). Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 10 grains. 
Those above are commonly used. Those following are 136 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
very important also, but they are seldom left with the patient, 
being administered under the direct supervision of either 
the physician or the nurse. 
From Belladonna.—Atropine sulphate. Used as a mydriatic. Dose, 
-5V of a §rain- 
From Aconite.—Aconitine sulphate. Sedative. Dose, °f a grain- 
From Digitalis.—Digitalin hydrobromate. (This is a glucosid, but is 
placed among these drugs because it is so powerful.) Cardiac stimulant. 
Dose, of a grain. 
From Hyoscyamus.—Hyoscine and hyoscyamine hydrobromate. Nar- 
cotic, sedative. Dose, of a grain. 
From Calabar Bean.—Physostigmine or eserine, salicylate and sulphate. 
Sedative, myotic. Dose, of a grain. 
These are best used and kept and transported in the form 
of hypodermic tablets. Those made by John Wyeth & Bro., 
of Philadelphia, are reliable. 
From Jaborandi.—Pilocarpine, muriate and nitrate. Dose, of a grain. 
From Scopolia (a plant closely allied to belladonna and hyoscyamus).— 
Scopolamine. Used in the eyes as mydriatic. Narcotic. Dose, of a 
grain. 
From Coca.—Cocaine, hydrochlorate. Stimulant. Dose, to I grain. 
From Scoparius.—Sparteine, sulphate. Cardiac stimulant. Dose, of 
a grain. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER VIII. 
Why is mention made of the glucosides ? 
Which of the four is used as a vermicide ? 
What is a vermicide ? 
What is an alkaloid ? Give full definition. 
Name the chief alkaloids of opium and cinchona. 
What is opium ? 
What is cinchona? GLUCOS1DES AND ALKALOIDS. 
137 
IIow do morphine and apomorphine differ in their physiologic effects? 
What alkaloid is contained in tea? 
What alkaloid is contained in belladonna ? 
What is cocaine the alkaloid of? 
What are the doses of morphine, atrophine, digitalin, apomorphine, strych- 
nine? 
What is the name of the nux vomica alkaloid ? CHAPTER IX. 
DRUGS DERIVED FROM THE ANIMAL KINGDOM. 
There remains for our consideration a few medicinal sub- 
stances derived from the animal kingdom. 
Lard and suet have been already mentioned under fats and 
oils. 
Lard is the internal fat from the abdomen of the hog. 
Suet is the internal fat from the abdomen of the sheep. 
Both are melted at a low heat, and strained to free them 
from adhering membrane. 
Pepsinum (Pepsin).—Pepsin is a digestive ferment ob- 
tained from the inner coating of the stomach of the pig. 
The membrane is cut into pieces and soaked for several days 
in a mixture of hydrochloric acid and water. After strain- 
ing, common salt is added, which causes the pepsin to 
separate from the solution and rise to the surface, whence it 
is separated and dried. When pure, it has very little odor 
and is soluble in water. It should be kept in a dry place. 
“It is largely used incases of various character in which the 
digestive powers of the stomach have failed, for the purpose 
of supplying the place of the natural digestive ferment. 
Any influence for good which it possesses is dependent upon 
its solvent power, which is a measure of its value.” If of 
good quality, one grain of pepsin should be able to digest 
3000 grains of cooked and finely-chopped egg-albumen in six 
hours, at a temperature of 104° F.; and if agitated gently but 
138 DRUGS DERIVED FROM THE ANIMAL KINGDOM. 
139 
thoroughly every fifteen minutes, this should enable ten 
grains of it to digest 30,000 grains, or more than four pounds 
avoirdupois of similar food. Quite a fair-sized meal. Unfor- 
tunately, however, theory and practice do not always agree. 
Pancreatinum (Pancreatin).—Pancreatin is the product 
of that organ of the digestive system known as the pancreas. 
It is separated from the pancreas by mincing them, soaking 
them in a mixture of hydrochloric acid and water, and add- 
ing common salt, just as in making pepsin. 
In the predigestion of fatty foods by pancreatin, five grains 
of pancreatin, if of good quality, with twenty grains of sodium 
bicarbonate in an ounce of water, may be added to a pint 
of milk and kept at a temperature of ioi° F. for one hour. 
This is a typical formula. Special methods of preparing 
foods are given in the various works on therapeutics, and 
most physicians have their own favorite methods. 
As pancreatin and pepsin both vary very much in strength, 
and as they require for their manufacture, in addition to 
knowledge, that special skill which is only obtained by long 
practice, it is well to know the name of some reliable maker 
of these substances. 
Saccharum Lactis (Sugar of Milk).—Whey is first 
purified and freed from albuminous matter. It is then evapo- 
rated and set aside, when the sugar crystallizes out in opaque 
crystals somewhat resembling rock candy, only the crystals 
are not as transparent. 
It is not medicinal but is largely used as a diluent for such 
drugs as the alkaloids, to give them bulk. The tablet triturates 
are made with sugar of milk. The homeopathic powders and 
pellets are made up of sugar of milk with some medicinal 
substance in minute quantity. 140 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Fel Bovis (Ox Gall).—The fluid contents of the gall- 
bladder of the ox are mixed with alcohol, and after being 
left to stand for a few days the solution is filtered. The al- 
cohol is carefully evaporated and the heat continued until a 
dry mass is obtained which is powdered. 
Cetaceum (Spermaceti).—This is used to harden oint- 
ments with, and is a fatty substance taken from the head of 
the sperm-whale. 
Ichthyocolla (Isinglass).—There are several forms of 
this substance. The official variety is the cleaned and dried 
swimming bladder of the fish, called the Russian sturgeon. 
As found in the market, however, it is derived from other 
fishes. It is used for making jelly. 
It is also used for making gelatin capsules to be filled with 
medicines, and is the body of the little ophthalmic discs 
for dropping into the eye, and official in the “British Phar- 
macopeia” by the name of lamellae or discs. In this con- 
nection also it may be mentioned that wafers, cachets, and 
capsules, being various devices for enfolding nauseating medi- 
cines before swallowing, are prepared from flour and water, 
which is pressed into shape between hot rollers or molded 
in hot molds. 
Note.—The method of properly filling capsules, wafers, and cachets 
should be shown to the nurse. 
Moschus (Musk).—Owing to the difficulty in being able 
at all times to obtain this valuable drug in a pure state it has 
fallen into disuse, except in large cities. Its expense, also, 
may have something to do with keeping it out of the 
market. 
It is the dried and powdered secretion from the preputial DRUGS DERIVED FROM THE ANIMAL KINGDOM. 
141 
folds of the musk deer. It possesses valuable antispasmodic 
properties. 
Acidum Lacticum (Lactic Acid).—This acid is formed 
when milk is allowed to ferment. The process of separation 
needs not to be considered. 
Oleum Morrhuae (Cod-liver Oil).—As its name implies, 
this oil is obtained from the livers of fresh cod-fish. They 
are subjected to a low-steam heat and drained. 
Vitellus (Yolk of Egg).—Its use, aside from its value as a 
food in egg-nog, etc., is confined to emulsifying oils and 
rendering them more palatable as follows: 
Yolk of egg. 
Glycerin. 
Sherry wine. 
Cod-liyer oil. 
The glycerin and the yolk of egg are first mixed, then the 
oil is added and finally the wine. 
Cantharis (Cantharides, Spanish Fly).—The whole insect 
is used. 
It is ground, mixed with wax, rosin, and lard, and used as a 
blister. 
Mixed with collodion in the form of an extract it forms 
cantharidal collodion. 
A tincture also is prepared from them which is used exter- 
nally. 
Coccus (Cochineal).—The dried female insect. Its prep- 
aration is used for coloring jellies and ices. From it car- 
min is made. It enters as one of the ingredients into an 
old-fashioned domestic remedy for whooping cough; but, 
although it is considered antispasmodic, it is also considered 142 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
dangerous and should never be used without a physician’s 
advice. A nurse should discountenance its domestic use as 
she would Mother Winslow’s Soothing Syrup. 
Cera Flava (Yellow Wax).—A substance deposited by the 
honey-bee in the form of what is called honey-comb. 
Cera Alba (White Wax).—This is yellow wax bleached 
by the power of the sun. 
Both are used in ointments, which it will be remembered 
are composed of oils, fats, wax, etc. 
The preceding pages include, it is believed, the essential 
facts of Materia Medica. It is complete as far as it goes, 
but is necessarily abridged. 
The full list of official materia medica will include by 
name everything not mentioned in the text. 
Hirudo \_heryudo] (Leech).—There are some things which 
when once seen can never be forgotten, and no false thing can 
be passed off for the true. Such is the case with leeches. 
While you are in the hospital take a good look at a genuine 
leech and fix his general physiognomy in your mind and you 
will always recognize one. But knowing one by sight, it is 
really quite difficult to describe his personal appearance. The 
leech belongs to the class of animals called worms. The 
body is soft and capable of contraction and extension length- 
wise. The body in repose varies in length from half an inch 
to two inches; from to of an inch thick in the middle, 
and tapering toward each end. 
The body lies flat on its belly, but is round on the back. 
Leeches have no eyes. They breathe through brachiae at the 
sides of the body. In sex they are hermaphrodite—male and 
female united in one body. They have no feet; they possess 
at each end of the body a sucker. By fastening themselves DRUGS DERIVED FROM THE ANIMAL KINGDOM. 
143 
by either of these suckers they move about by alternate ex- 
tensions and contractions of their bodies, their steps, so to 
speak, being measured by the distance from sucker to sucker 
when extended at full stretch. They also propel themselves 
through the water by an undulatory or wave-like movement. 
In color the background is black; there are several longitu- 
dinal stripes running along the back of a dingy iron-rust 
color, sometimes spotted and streaked with black. The belly 
is a greenish-black. Leeches, when kept in a glass-jar with 
about three inches of their native peat, and filled every day 
with river water, will live indefinitely. In removing them 
from the water they may be handled without fear, as the skin 
of the hand is too tough for them to bite quickly. 
They will attach themselves by their suckers, but are easily 
shaken or pushed off. The mouth of the leech is in the 
center of the anterior sucker, the head being the point 
which the animal advances first in its movements. The bite 
of the leech is instantaneous and felt scarcely more than the 
bite of a mosquito, and ceases instantly. Before applying, 
the skin should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm 
water, and thoroughly rinsed several times in warm water. 
Place the leech in a half-ounce narrow-mouthed bottle, invert 
it over the spot to which it is to be applied, and the leech will 
very soon bite. It will let go at its own pleasure ; but if it is 
desirable to remove one, do not forcibly pull it away, but 
sprinkle it with salt when it will let go. After use they 
should be thrown away; if placed with other leeches they will 
all die. 144 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
QUESTIONS TO CHAPTER IX. 
What is pepsin obtained from ? 
What is pancreatin obtained from ? 
Why should any special make of these substances be given the preference 
over others ? 
What use is made of sugar of milk ? 
What is it obtained from ? 
What is gelatin obtained from ? 
What substance is used in making capsules, wafers, and cachets ? 
What is the official name of the drug used to prepare blistering cerate with? 
Give a short description of what a leech should look like. 
All bodies when heated expand. 
All bodies contract when cool. 
Advantage is taken of this natural phenomenon in meas- 
uring heat. 
Mercury or colored alcohol is enclosed in a fine tube, and 
its contraction in absence of and expansion in the presence 
of heat causes it to fall or rise in the tube. This fall and 
risQ is marked by regularly placed lines, and the distance from 
line to line is called a degree. In practical use as nurses 
you have but one thermometric scale—the Fahrenheit. But 
in all the latest scientific works there is another scale 
mentioned. It is given the preference in our “ Pharmaco- 
peia ” by being mentioned first in all references to heat, 
and in some works has entirely superseded the Fahrenheit 
THE THERMOMETER. THE THERMOMETER. 
145 
scale. They are both practical applications of the same 
principle, but one is a hap-hazard and the other a scientific 
application. Either one of two fluids is used in the con- 
struction of thermometers. For most purposes mercury is 
applicable, registering a very high point without boiling and 
a very low one without freezing. It does freeze, however, at 
forty degrees below zero, and for very low temperatures alcohol 
must be used. The Fahrenheit thermometer was made in this 
way : A bulbous tube was fastened to a thin metallic plate, 
and the plate graduated off into a number of degrees from 
zero to several hundred. The instrument was then plunged 
into freezing water, and when the mercury came to a rest the 
point at which it happened was found to be marked thirty- 
two. That number was therefore adopted as the freezing- 
point. The instrument was then plunged into boiling water 
and it was found that the mercury came to a rest at 2120, 
which was selected as the boiling-point. Thus thirty-two 
happened to be the freezing-point and 212 the boiling-point 
on the Fahrenheit scale. Later, Celsius arranged a scale upon 
a scientific plan. He constructed his tube and attached it to 
an unmarked plate of metal. This was plunged into freezing 
water and the point at which the mercury came to rest was 
marked zero, or freezing. Plunged into boiling water, the 
point at which the mercury canffe to rest was called the boiling- 
point and was marked 100. And there being ioo° from 
freezing to boiling, it was called the centi- grade thermo- 
meter. xoo graduations 
The rules for translating the degrees of one scale into 
those of another are somewhat easier to remember if the 
reason is understood. They are based on the relative differ- 146 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
ence in the number of degrees between freezing and boil- 
ing. 
The two scales placed side by side are : 
Boiling-Point 
Freezing-Point 
It will be seen that from freezing to boiling, Fahrenheit, is 
i8o°; from freezing to boiling, centigrade, is ioo°. These 
numbers reduced are as 1.8 to i, so that every time a centi- 
grade thermometer rises or falls one degree, the Fahrenheit 
thermometer rises or falls degrees. 
A perfect comprehension of the rules to be given can only 
be had by oral teaching, blackboard work, and the diligent 
application of the pupil. 
To change a centigrade degree to a corresponding Fahren- 
heit degree, multiply the degree by 1.8, and if it is above 
freezing add the number to freezing Fahrenheit, which is 32. 
If it is below freezing, subtract it from the freezing-point. 
To change Fahrenheit to centigrade, first find out how far 
above or below 32 degrees you are and divide by 1.8. 
The figures 9 and 5 which are sometimes used are the two 
boiling-points reduced to their lowest whole numbers. 
To those who understand a rule-of-three sum, the rule 
becomes very plain with either set of figures. 
Centigrade to Fahrenheit: THE THERMOMETER. 
147 
C. F. 
1 : x.8 : : 10 : X — 50 
10 
1)18.0 
18. + 32 = 50 = A" 
Or— 
C. F. 
5:9:: 10 : X = 50 
10 
5)90 
18 + 32 = 5° = x 
Fahrenheit to centigrade : 
F. C. 
1.8 : 1 : : 50 : X = 10 
18 32 
1.8)18.0 18 
10 = X 
Or— 
F. C. 
9:5 : : 50 : X = 10 
18 32 
9 90 18 
10 = X 
Specific Gravity.—Specific gravity is the comparative 
weight of equal bulks, using water as the standard of com- 
parison. When we speak of the weight of bodies in their 
natural condition, we speak of them as being lighter or 148 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
heavier, bulk for bulk, than water. The most exact way to 
take the specific gravity of a fluid is by means of the specific 
gravity bottle. This should be shown as well as explained. 
The specific gravity of water is marked 1000 and is usually 
spoken of as 1000, although it should be i. A bottle is 
constructed, which when exactly filled holds 1000 grains of 
water. If this same bottle is filled with ether and weighed, 
it will be found to weigh not 1000 grains, but only 
parts of that number, and its specific gravity is represented by 
those figures and written thus, .725. It is the weight of an equal 
bulk of ether. Let us take an equal bulk of chloroform. We 
fill the bottle and find it weighs 490 grains more than the 
same bulk of water did, or 1490 grains, which number with 
three places pointed off thus, 1.490, expresses the specific 
gravity of the chloroform. 
In taking the specific gravity of urine, an instrument called 
a urinometer is almost always used. It is made of glass, in 
general form something like the tube of an ordinary ther- 
mometer. The tube is graduated and the bulb, which is 
quite large, is loaded with shot. The specific gravity of the 
urine is indicated by that figure on the tube, which is at the 
surface of the urine, when the urinometer is allowed to sink 
as far as it will. 
As nurses you are interested in the specific gravity of blood, 
urine, milk, saliva, perspiration, etc. These secretions in 
health are of an average specific gravity in all persons. A 
specific gravity higher or lower than normal indicates the 
presence or absence of certain things, and in conjunction 
with variations in alkalinity, acidity, color, transparency, 
turbidity, etc., aids the physician in determining the nature of 
disease. APPENDIX. 
THERAPEUTICS. 
Except as to its arrangement, the following definitions and 
classifications have been taken from a lecture by Prof. L. E. 
Sayre, Ph.G., Professor of Materia Medica and Pharmacy in 
the School of Pharmacy of the University of Kansas, and 
published in the ‘‘Pharmaceutical Era,” December 19, 1895. 
The nurse is trained not to prescribe. But such a knowl- 
edge of therapeutics as is given here will render her a more 
valuable assistant to the physician ; will aid in making her an 
accomplished nurse. 
Therapeutics is especially concerned with the application 
of medicinal substances and remedial agents to the treatment 
of diseased or morbid conditions of the human economy, 
with a view to its restoration to a normal and healthy condi- 
tion. 
A person who undertakes such a responsibility without 
previous knowledge, theoretic and practical, of the sciences 
which apply thereto, as a preparation for so sacred a trust, 
is well characterized as a quack. A consideration of the 
following pages will convince the nurse of the difficulties in 
placing the seat of disease and the folly of using, or rather of 
149 150 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
abusing her training in the art of nursing by attempting to 
prescribe. 
INTERNAL REMEDIES. 
DRUGS AFFECTING NUTRITION. 
Hematics restore the quality of the blood, exerting a 
direct influence on its composition. Iron and its prepara- 
tions, manganese, cod-liver oil are hematics. 
Alkalies act in the concentrated forms as caustics. Diluted 
alkalies, if given before meals, stimulate the production of the 
acid gastric juice. Liquor potassa, sodium carbonate, and bi- 
carbonate, ammonium carbonate, lime-water, milk of magne- 
sia are alkalies. Diluted they also act as antacids, when there 
is an excess of acid fluid in the stomach. 
Acids affect nutrition in a manner opposite to the alkalies. 
If administered before meals, they check hyperacidity of the 
stomach, by stimulating the production of the alkaline pan- 
creatic juice and checking that of the acid gastric juice. 
Hydrochloric acid is the one most commonly used. 
Digestants effect the solution of food in the alimentary 
canal. Pepsin, pancreatin, papoid, caroid are digestants. 
Antipyretics reduce the temperature of the body, either by • 
reducing the circulation or diminishing tissue change, or 
favoring the loss of heat through radiation and conduction. 
Quinine, aconite, antipyrine, and antimony are antipyretics. 
Alteratives alter the course of morbid conditions, modify- 
ing the nutritive processes while promoting waste, by stimu- 
lating secretion, absorption, and the elimination of morbid 
deposits. They are employed in the treatment of phthisis, APPENDIX. —THERAPEUTICS. 
151 
syphilis, gout, neuralgia, and asthma, and the preparations of 
arsenic, mercury, and iodin, and the various compounds 
called “ Spring medicines” are used as alteratives. 
DRUGS AFFECTING THE NERVOUS AND MUSCULAR 
SYSTEMS. 
1. Through the Brain. 
Cerebral excitants increase the functional activity of the 
cerebrum without causing any subsequent depression of brain 
function. Camphor, valerian, caffeine, cannabis. 
Cerebral depressants lessen the brain activity. Some of 
them are employed as hypnotics and analgesics, which see. 
Narcotics lessen the sensibility to pain and cause sleep, and 
in overdoses will produce coma, ending in death. Opium, 
belladonna, morphine, etc. 
Hypnotics induce sleep, often abolish pain, and cause 
neither deliriant nor narcotic effects. Chloral, sulphonal, 
trional, and the bromids are hypnotics. 
Analgesics relieve pain by their effect upon the sensory 
centers. 
Anesthetics suspend consciousness and temporarily destroy 
sensation. They are general in their action when taken or 
inhaled, and local when applied. Ether, chloroform, nitrous 
oxid are general; cocaine, carbolic acid, ether spray, and 
ethyl chlorid are local anesthetics. 
2. Through the Spinal Cord. 
Motor excitants increase the functional activity of the spinal 
cord and the motor apparatus, invigorating the action of the 
heart and lungs. Nux vomica, strychnine. 
Motor depressants lower the functional activity of the 152 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
spinal cord and motor apparatus. Alcohol, opium, aconite, 
belladonna are motor depressants. 
Note.—It will be noticed that the same drug is found under more 
than one heading. A classification which would embrace the physiologic 
action of all the remedial agents—one that would be entirely satisfactory— 
is impossible, because of the great variety of effects of certain individual 
remedies. 
3. Through the Nerve Center and Ganglionic 
System. 
Antispasmodics prevent or allay irregular action or spasm of 
both the voluntary and involuntary muscles. This is accom- 
plished frequently by a sedative influence upon the nerve 
centers, while others exert their influence by stimulating those 
centers. Alcohol, ether, valerian, camphor, musk, asafetida, 
the bromids. 
Tonics increase the vigor and tone of the system by im- 
proving the appetite, favoring digestion and assimilation, and 
adding strength to the circulatory system. Gentian, cin- 
chona, calumba. 
Antiperiodics are tonics which prevent or check the return 
of diseases which recur periodically. Quinine. 
4. Through the Heart and Circulatory System. 
Cardiac stimulants increase the heart’s action, the force 
and frequency of the pulse. Ether, alcohol, nitroglycerin, 
sparteine, etc. 
Cardiac sedatives allay and control palpitation and over- 
action of the heart. Aconite, veratrum, digitalis, antimony, 
etc. 
Vascular stimulants dilate the peripheral vessels and in- APPENDIX. THERAPEUTICS. 
153 
crease the peripheral circulation. Ammonia, digitalis, stro- 
phanthus. 
Vascular sedatives lessen the capillary circulation and raise 
the blood-pressure by stimulating the vasomotor center of its 
mechanism. Ergot, opium, salts of iron. 
5. Through the Excretories. 
Diuretics increase the secretion of urine, acting either 
directly on the secreting cells of the kidneys, or by raising 
the general or local arterial tension. Squill, scoparius, triti- 
cum, etc. 
Renal depressants lower the activity of the renal cells, 
thereby lessening the urinary secretion. 
Vesical tonics and sedatives act upon the bladder; in the 
one case increasing the tone of the muscular fibers, as by 
strychnine, cantharides, and belladonna ; in the other, les- 
sening the irritability of that organ, as by opium, buchu, uva 
ursi, etc. 
Urinary sedatives exert a sedative action upon the urinary 
tract. Copaiba, cubebs, etc. 
Diaphoretics and sudorifics increase the secretion of the 
skin and promote perspiration. Dover’s powder, jaborandi, 
camphor, sweet spirit of niter. 
Anhidrotics check perspiration. Atropine. 
Antilithics prevent the formation of insoluble concretions, 
or dissolve them when formed in the ducts. Salts of lithia 
and potassium, benzoic acid. 154 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
DRUGS AFFECTING SPECIAL ORGANS PARTLY THROUGH 
THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 
1. Drugs Affecting the Organs of Respiration. 
Expectorants are used to facilitate the expulsion of bron- 
chial secretions and to modify their character when abnormal. 
Ammonium chlorid, squills, tolu, licorice. 
Pulmonary sedatives allay the irritability of the respiratory 
center and the nerves of the lungs and bronchial tubes. 
Belladonna, opium, hyoscyamus, hydrocyanic acid. 
Errhines affect locally the nasal mucous membrane, pro- 
duce sneezing, and increase the nasal secretions. 
Sternutatories and errhines are similar in their action. 
Sanguinaria, veratrine. 
2. Affecting the Alimentary Canal. 
Sialagogues promote the secretion and flow of saliva from 
the salivary glands. Mezereum, the antimonials. 
Emetics cause vomiting, acting either directly on the nerves 
of the stomach or through the blood on the vomiting center, 
or by reflex irritation of the vomiting center. Mustard, zinc 
sulphate, apomorphine, ipecac, tartar emetic. 
Purgatives produce evacuation of the contents of the intes- 
tinal canal, increasing secretion along its tract and exciting 
peristaltic action. Podophyllum, colocynth, jalap, magne- 
sium sulphate. 
Astringents produce contraction of muscular fiber, and 
lessen secretions from mucous membranes. Tannic and gal- 
lic acid, alum, persulphate of iron. 
Stomachics increase the appetite and promote gastric diges- 
tion. They also check fermentation and dispel the gases in the 
stomach arising from it. Peppermint, cardamom, ginger, etc. APPENDIX. THERAPEUTICS. 
155 
3. Drugs Affecting the Liver. 
Hepatic stimulants or cholagogues excite the liver and in- 
crease the functional activity of that organ. As stimulants 
they increase the activity of the liver cells. As cholagogues 
they remove the bile from the duodenum. Podophyllum, 
aloes, jalap, calomel. 
Hepatic depressants reduce the functional activity of the 
liver. Opium, quinine, arsenic, antimony. 
4. Affecting the Generative System. 
Ecbolics or oxytoxics stimulate the pregnant uterus and 
produce contraction of that organ. Ergot, cotton-root, 
savine. 
Emmenagogues stimulate the uterine muscular fibers and 
restore the normal menstrual function. Ergot, iron. 
Aphrodisiacs excite the function of the genital organs when 
they are morbidly depressed. Phosphorus, zinc phosphid. 
Anaphrodisiacs diminish morbid sexual desire. The bro- 
mids, camphor. 
5. Affecting the Eyes (Ciliary Muscle). 
Mydriatics cause dilatation of the pupil and temporarily 
destroy accommodation by paralysis of the ciliary muscle. 
Atropine, homatropine. 
Miotics contract the pupil. Pilocarpine, eserine. 
EXTERNAL REMEDIES. 
Irritants produce effects upon the skin. As rubefacients 
they redden the skin ; as epispastics they blister; as eschar- 
otics they destroy the skin. Mustard, cantharides, caustic 
potash. 156 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Local sedatives diminish irritation when applied to the skin. 
Demulcents soothe and allay inflamed mucous surfaces. 
Emollients do the same for the skin. Mucilages of acacia, 
flax, etc., are demulcents; bland oils, etc., are emollients. 
Agents which Act upon Organisms that Infest 
the Human Body. 
Antiseptics arrest and prevent putrefaction. 
Disinfectants decompose and render noxious gases harm- 
less. 
Antizymotics arrest fermentation. 
Anthelmintics destroy the parasitic worms of the intestine. 
Santonine, spigelia. 
Tenifuges destroy tapeworms. Pumpkin seed, male fern. 
Antiparasitics destroy lice and other body vermin. Mer- 
curial ointment, tincture of larkspur seed. TOXICOLOGY. 
Toxicology is the study of that branch of medical science 
which concerns poisons and their effects. 
By a poison is meant any substance which, when intro- 
duced into the animal system, will produce painful or dan- 
gerous disorder or death. The study is more especially 
directed to the effects and antidotes to the effects of those 
drugs which, from the smallness of their fatal dose, the 
rapidity with which they act, and the difficulties encountered 
in their detection, are used with criminal intent by murderers 
and suicides, besides their occasional mistaken administra- 
tion by physicians, pharmacists, or nurses. 
Nurses are instructed to recognize certain stages in the 
rise, progress, and subsidence of diseases, and they should 
therefore be able to distinguish in a general way the symp- 
toms caused by poisoning. 
The action of a poison is sudden. The symptoms of irrita- 
tion of the stomach are violent. The disturbances to the 
heart, lungs, and brain are more profound, or else become so 
more suddenly than in the course of ordinary disease. Mus- 
cular contortions are more violent. And all the symptoms 
reach a higher point, and very much more rapidly, than they 
do in the course of ordinary disease. 
Poisons are divided into two classes—the irritants and the 
narcotics. 
The irritant poisons take effect immediately on coming in 
contact with the digestive tract. They cause burning pains 
157 158 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
in the mouth, throat, and stomach, the effects, in the case of 
a volatile poison like ammonia, extending even to the nasal 
passages. The coatings of the mouth, approaches to the 
stomach, the stomach itself, and the intestines, are partly or 
wholly destroyed. Such severe treatment of these vital 
organs causes faintness and shock. And, altogether, the ill 
effects of an irritant poison are so plainly to be seen that the 
question springs instinctively to the lips of the observer, 
“ What have you been taking? ” 
The contrary is the case with narcotic poisons. They do 
not act until they have entered the circulatory system. 
Herein lies their greatest danger, for the symptoms do not 
appear until some time after the poison has been swallowed, 
when it is too late to hope to arrest the ill effects by empty- 
ing the stomach. This, however, is always done the first 
thing. 
Narcotic poisons, besides some special effects peculiar to 
some of them, and by which we may recognize the drug used, 
produce a drowsiness which rapidly increases and passes 
beyond the control of the patient; unconsciousness, coma, 
and death following in rapid order unless relief is obtained. 
A physician is invariably to be sent for upon the discovery 
of a poisoned person. 
Antidotes are of two kinds, chemic and physiologic. In 
order to intelligently treat a poisoned person, the nature of 
the poison should be ascertained first, whenever possible. 
Many times it is impossible. The patient may be uncon- 
scious, or may not wish to tell, or, perhaps, has taken the 
poison accidentally and does not know. 
ANTIDOTES. It is the custom, except when corrosive poisons have been 
swallowed, to empty the stomach by an emetic or the stomach- 
pump. The fact that a corrosive poison has been swallowed 
may be ascertained by observing the condition of the mouth. 
It may be blistered, usually turning white, and even be de- 
stroyed and bleeding in spots. And an emetic in such a 
condition would make the injury still more serious, by reason 
of the exertions made in vomiting. 
The most common emetic, one almost always at hand, 
is mustard. A tablespoonful of it mixed with a tumbler of 
warm water and given the patient will usually cause vomiting 
soon after it has been swallowed. Large drafts of warm 
water or warm water and salt also act as emetics. If the aid 
of the patient can be secured, the finger run down the throat 
will cause vomiting. These are the only emetic substances 
and methods ordinarily at hand. Others will occur to a 
physician according to circumstances. 
If the nature of the poison is known to be chemic, and 
the particular chemical used can be found out, a chemic 
antidote may be given. By a chemic antidote is meant 
one that, when swallowed, will decompose the poisonous 
chemical and form an insoluble compound of it. By 
this act its poisonous action is arrested, for nothing of the 
kind can enter the system to its injury, unless it will dissolve 
in the fluids of the stomach. Immediately after giving the 
antidote give an emetic to remove everything from the 
stomach. As an instance : sugar of lead is poisonous. But 
if sulphate of magnesia be swallowed on top of it, it will be 
changed to the sulphate of lead, which is harmless, because it 
is insoluble and incapable of being assimilated. 
A physiologic antidote must counteract the effects which 
APPENDIX.—TOXICOLOGY. 
159 160 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
are being produced by a drug which has passed beyond the 
reach of chemic antidotes and has entered the system. And 
the administration of such antidotes, beyond the ordinary 
stimulants, is the business of the physician and concerns the 
nurse only as the faithful follower of his directions. 
The common stimulants spoken of are strong coffee, 
brandy, and ammonia. Also, untiring efforts to keep the 
patient from yielding to the irresistible drowsiness of nar- 
cotics by walking, dousing with cold water, slapping, etc. 
The following table includes the common poisons, thejr 
general symptoms, and antidotes : 
Name. 
Symptoms. 
Antidote. 
Hydrochloric acid. 
Burning pain in mouth 
Emetics not to be given. 
Nitric acid. 
and approaches to 
Milk and lime-water. 
Sulphuric acid. 
the stomach. Sur- • 
Oils. Bicarbonate of 
Oxalic acid. 
face white and de- 
soda. 
Carbolic acid. 
stroyed in patches. 
Potash. 
Pain and burning of f No emetics. Oils. Vin- 
Soda. 
stomach. Destruc- 
egar. Mdk. Fat of 
Ammonia water. 
tion of the coating of -j any kind—like but- 
Washing soda. 
the mouth and throat. 
ter, if oil is not at 
Lye. J 
hand. 
Blue vitriol. 
Pains in bowels, and 
For copper salts—iron 
Sugar of lead. 
the sudden and'severe 
filings and whites of 
Zinc salts. 
illness peculiar to 
eggs. For mercury 
Mercury salts. 
poison, never to dis- 
salts—the whites of 
Bed-bug poison. 
ease. 
eggs beaten with 
■ 
water. For lead salts 
—sulphate of mag- 
nesia. For zinc salts 
— carbonate of soda. 
All followed by 
emetic. 
IRRITANT POISONS. 
Arsenic deserves special mention. Its available forms are 
numerous and easily obtained ; it is the most frequent re- APPENDIX.—TOXICOLOGY. 
161 
course of the suicide. The nurse should know its antidote 
and demand its fresh preparation for the occasion, as it is 
otherwise of no value as an antidote. Call for the freshly 
prepared hydrate of iron. 
The following are the common forms of arsenic : 
Name. 
Symptoms. 
Antidote. 
Paris green. 
Scheele’s green. 
Pain, vomiting, great 
Stomach-pump. Hy- 
thirst. 
drate of iron and 
Green wall paper 
emetic or stomach- 
(babies swallow it). 
pump again, leaving 
some hydrate of iron 
Common arsenic. 
Ratsbane. 
in the stomach at 
Rough on rats. 
Fowler’s or Dono- 
last. 
van’s solution. J 
Phosphorus. 
Sulphur matches. 
Pain, vomiting. 
Magnesia and water. 
THE NARCOTIC POISONS, 
Opium and all its preparations: Tincture, deodorized 
tincture, paregoric, wine of opium, vinegar of opium, mor- 
phine and its salts, Dover’s powder, Tully’s powder. 
A teaspoonful of laudanum or any other of the fluid pre- 
parations is a dangerous dose. Two grains of morphine is a 
dangerous dose. 
The symptoms are : Drowsiness, pin-point pupils, slow and 
stertorous breathing with occasional cessation of breath, 
blueness of skin. 
Antidotes.—Stimulants of all kinds,—internal and ex- 
ternal. 
The following list of drugs are narcotics with irritant 
power also; they are most commonly used as tinctures or 
fluid extracts ; more than ten grains of the powdered drug, 162 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
or ten minims of the fluid extracts, or sixty minims of the 
tinctures are dangerous doses : 
Aconite, 
Belladonna, 
Cantharides, 
Digitalis, 
I lyoscyamus. 
The symptoms, to the eye accustomed to observe the 
symptoms of disease, are quickly perceived as being some- 
thing unusual and to call for the presence of the physician at 
once. He alone can determine the nature of the poison. 
The laws of the various States forbid the sale of poisonous 
drugs, except under restrictions. And for a person to sell 
or give away or to advise the use of any drug or instrument 
for the purpose of producing abortion, whether the person 
die or not, is punishable by both fine and imprisonment. 
Define toxicology. * 
Describe some of the differences between the symptoms of disease and 
poisoning. 
Into what two classes are poisons divided ? 
Describe the general symptoms produced by an irritant poison. 
Describe the general symptoms produced by a narcotic poison. 
How many kinds of antidotes are there, and what are they? 
When must we avoid giving emetics ? 
How would you prepare a common emetic? 
What is a chemic antidote? 
QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER ON TOXICOLOGY. GLOSSARY. 
A COMPLETE LIST OF ALL THE OFFICIAL DRUGS, THE PREPARA- 
TIONS OF THEM, AND THE CHEMICALS; THE LATIN NAME; 
THE ENGLISH NAME; THE SYNONYM, IF THERE IS 
ONE; THE PART OF THE PLANT USED OR 
ORIGIN IF A CHEMICAL; ITS MEDI- 
CINAL USE AND DOSE. 
AbsirVthium. Absinthium. Wormwood. The leaves and tops of the 
plant. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Aca/cia. Acacia. Gum Arabic. The gummy exudation from the tree. 
Demulcent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
AcetanilPdum. Acetanilid. Antifebrin. One of the derivatives of 
coal-tar. Antipyretic. Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm. 
Ace'tum o'pii. Vinegar of opium. Black drop. Prepared from gum 
opium. Anodyne. Dose, 10 n\, or 0.65 c.c. 
AceTum sciPlae. Vinegar of squill. Prepared from the sliced bulb. 
Expectorant; emetic. Dose, 10 to 30 or 0.65 to 2.0 c.c. 
Ac/idum aceTicum. Acetic acid. By distillation of wood. It forms 
the class of salts called acetates. Thirty-six per cent. 
Ac/idum aceTicum dilu/tum. Diluted acetic acid. Ten per cent. 
Ac/idum aceTicum glacPale. Glacial or absolute acetic acid. (These 
three are the same acids, differing in strength.) 
AcOdum arseno/sum. Arsenous acid. White arsenic. Alterative. 
Dose, to -Jjf gr., or 0.001 to 0.003 gm. 
163 164 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Ac/idum benzo'icum. Benzoic acid. Made from gum benzoin. Stimu- 
lant ; expectorant. Dose, io to 30 grs., or 0.65 to 2.0 gm. 
Ac/idum bo/ricum. Boric or boracic acid. Made from borax by the 
action of hydrochloric acid. Antiseptic. Dose, 10 to 30 grs., or 0.65 
to 2.0 gm. 
Ac/idum carboFicum. Carbolic acid. Phenol. Distilled from coal- 
tar. Used in nausea. Dose, 1 to 3 "l. or 0.065 to 0.195 c.c. 
Ac'idum carboUicum cru/dum. Crude carbolic acid. Used as a 
disinfectant. 
Ac/idum chn/micum. Chromic acid. Originates in combination as 
an ore. Escharotic. 
Ac'idum ciUricum. Citric acid. Prepared from lemon juice. Re- 
frigerant. Dose, 10 to 30 grs., or 0.650 to 2.0 gm. 
Ac/idum gaUlicum. Gallic acid. Prepared from tannic acid. Astrin- 
gent. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 0.650 gm. 
hydrobro/micum dihUtum. Diluted hydrobromic acid. 
From potassium bromid by action of sulphuric acid. Hypnotic. Dose, 
*4 to 2 drams, or 2.0 to 8.0 c.c. 
hydrochlo/ricum. Hydrochloric acid. Muriatic acid. 31.9 
per cent. From sodium chlorid by action of sulphuric acid. Tonic. 
Dose, 5 to 10 ttl, or 0.325 to 0.650 c.c. 
Ac/idum hydrochloTicum dihUtum. Diluted hydrochloric acid. 
Ten per cent. Tonic. Dose, 10 to 30 or 0.650 to 2.0 c.c. 
Ac'idum hydrocya/nicum diluTum. Two per cent. Diluted hydro- 
cyanic acid. Prussic acid. Sedative. Dose, 1 to 3 tr^. 
Ac/idum hypophosphoro/sum Diluted hypophosphorous 
acid. From phosphorus and lime, indirectly. Tonic. Dose, loto6ottU 
or 0.650 to 4.0 c.c. 
Ac/idum lacTicum. Lactic acid. From fermented milk. Used to 
dissolve membranes. 
AcTdiim nUtricum. Nitric acid. Sixty-eight per cent. From potas- 
sium nitrate by sulphuric acid. 
Ac/idum nPtricum diliUtum. Ten per cent. Diluted nitric acid. 
Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. GLOSSARY. 
165 
Ac'idum nitrohydrochlo'ricum. Nitrohydrochloric acid. Nitromu- 
riatic acid. Action between nitric and hydrochloric acids. Cholagogue. 
Dose, i to 5 rrp. 
Ac/idum nitrohydrochlo/ricum Diluted nitromuriatic 
acid. Cholagogue. Dose, 5 to 20 trp. 
Ac'idum ole'icum. Oleic acid. From oil by action of steam under 
pressure. It is used for preparing the oleates. 
Ac'idum phosphoTicum. Phosphoric acid. Eighty-five per cent. 
From phosphorus by nitric acid. Nerve tonic. Dose, 1 to 10 rtp, or 
0.065 to 0.650 c.c. * 
Ac'idum phospho/ricum dilu'tum. Ten per cent. Nerve tonic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 rrp, or 0.325 to 0.650 c.c. 
Ac'idum salicyFicum. Salicylic acid. From carbolic acid by action 
of sodium carbonate. Antiseptic. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 
0.650 c.c. 
Ac'idum stear'icum. Stearic acid. From solid fats by steam under 
pressure. For official glycerin suppositories. 
Ac/idum sulphu/ricum. Sulphuric acid. Ninety-two per cent. From 
sulphur fumes, steam, and oxygen gas. 
Ac'idum sulphu'ricum aromat/icum. Ten per cent. Aromatic 
sulphuric acid. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 10 rrp, or 0.325 to 0.650 c.c. 
Ac/idum sulphu/ricum dilu'tum. Diluted sulphuric acid. Tonic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 trp, or 0.065 to 0.650 c.c. 
Ac'idum sulphuro/sum. Sulphurous acid. Six per cent. Antiseptic. 
As a wash chiefly. 
Ac/idum tarFnicum. Tannic acid. Extracted from nut-galls. As- 
tringent. Dose, 1 to xo grs., or 0.065 to 0.650 gm. 
Ac'idum tartar'icum. Tartaric acid. From cream tartar. Refrigerant. 
Dose, xo to 30 grs., or 0.650 to 2.0 gm. 
* Minims will probably continue to be used in measuring. But these 
equivalents are easily acquired by a little practice. As has been shown, it 
is not a matter of memory, but may be figured out in each instance men- 
tally. 166 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA.' 
Aconi/tum. Aconite. Monkshood. The root. Narcotic. Dose, 
to 2 grs., or 0.030 to 0.130 gm. * 
A'deps. Lard. From the abdomen of the hog. Used for making oint- 
ments. 
A/deps benzoina/tus. Benzoinated lard. Lard impregnated with 
benzoin to preserve it. Used for making ointments. 
A/deps la'nae hydro'sus. Hydrous wool-fat. The purified fat from 
the wool of the sheep. Used for making ointments. 
Aether. Ether. zither fortior. Strong ether. Ninety-six per cent. 
From alcohol by action of sulphuric acid. Anesthetic. Dose, 5 to 
60 nu, or 0.325 to 4.0 c.c. 
./Ether ace/ticus. Acetic ether. Ninety-eight per cent. From alcohol 
by action of acetic acid. Stimulant. Dose, 10 to 30 or 0.650 to 
2.0 c.c. 
AFcohol. Alcohol. Distilled from whisky. Eighty-seven to ninety- 
one per cent. Stimulant. External use. 
AFcohol absolrFtum. Absolute alcohol. 99.9 per cent. Alcohol 
deprived of all its water. Stimulant. Dose, or 4.0 c.c. 
AFcohol deodora/tum. Deodorized alcohol. Ninety-five per cent. 
Purified alcohol. 
AFcohol diliFtum. Diluted alcohol. Equal parts of alcohol and water. 
AFlium. Garlic. The bulb of the plant. Expectorant. Used as a 
syrup. 
AFoe barbaden'sis. Barbadoes aloes. The dried juice from the leaves 
of the true plant. Cathartic. Dose, to 10 grs., or 0.033 to 0.650 gm. 
AFoe purifica/ta. Purified aloes. Aloes freed from all impurities. 
Cathartic. Dose, '/% to 10 grs., or 0.033 to 0.650 gm. 
AFoe socotrFna. Socotrine aloes. The dried juice from the leaf of 
another variety. Cathartic. Dose, to 10 grs., or 0.033 to 0.650 gm. 
* Let the nurse remember how these figures are read : 2.0 gm. is two 
grams ; 0.030 gm. is thirty thousandths of a gram, or, as we call it, thirty 
milligrams. GLOSSARY. 
167 
Aloi/num. Aloin. Abstracted from aloes. Cathartic. Dose, % to 
2 grs., or 0.016 to o 130 gm. * 
AlThea. Marshmallow. The root. Demulcent. Used as a syrup. 
Alu'men. Alum. Potash alum. From aluminum and potassium with 
sulphuric acid. Astringent. Dose, 10 to 60 grs., or 0.650 to 4.0 gm. 
AluTnen exsicca/tum. Dried alum. 1 D 
», . . -d j 1 > Both the same. 
Alu/men us'tum. Burned alum. J 
Astringent. Dose, 10 to 60 grs., or 0.65 to 4.0 gm. 
Alu/mini hy/dras. Aluminum hydrate. By decomposition of alum. 
Alu/mini suUphas. Aluminum sulphate. From aluminum by sul- 
phuric acid. Astringent wash. 
AmmonFacum. Ammoniac. A gum-resin from a plant. Stimulant; 
expectorant. Used in mixtures. 
Ammo'nii beiPzoas. Ammonium benzoate. From ammonia by 
benzoic acid. Stimulant. Dose, 10 grs., or 0.65 gm. 
Atnmo'nii bro/midum. Ammonium bromid. From ammonia by 
hydrobromic acid. Hypnotic. Dose, io to 60 grs., or 0.65 to 4.0 gm. 
Ammo'nii caUbonas. Ammonium carbonate. From ammonia by fresh 
carbonic acid. | Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 t0 °-65 gm. 
Ammo/nii chlorFdum. Ammonium chlorid. From ammonia by 
hydrochloric acid. Stimulant; expectorant. Dose, 2 to 15 grs., or 
o. 130 to 1.0 gm. 
Ammo/nii io'didum. Ammonium iodid. From ammonia by iodin. 
Alterative. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Ammo'nii nFtras. Ammonium nitrate. From ammonia by nitric acid 
Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 15 grs., or 0.325 to 1.0 gm. 
Ammo'nii vale/rianas. Ammonium valerianate. From ammonia by 
valerianic acid. Sedative. Dose, 1 to 5 grs., or 0.065 to °-325 gm- 
* It is well that the nurse be shown sets of these weights. They are 
useful object-lessons. 
f These processes are not by any means as simple as they appear by 
these statements. Nevertheless, these answers are useful and may be 
enlarged upon if the instructor so desires. 168 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Amyg/dala ama'ra. Bitter almond. The seed. Used in form of 
syrup as a vehicle. 
Amyg/dala duFcis. Sweet almond. The seed. Used in mixtures for 
a vehicle. 
A'myl nFtris. Amyl nitrite. From amylic alcohol by nitrous acid. 
Stimulant. By inhalation, 2 to 5 drops. 
Am'ylum. Starch. From corn or other grains. Externally as an 
absorbent. 
AnFsum. Anise. The fruit. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
ArFthemis. Chamomile. The flower heads. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Antimo'nii et potas/sii taCtras. Antimony and potassium tartrate. 
Tartar emetic. From antimony and potassium by tartaric acid. Ex- 
pectorant ; emetic. Dose, *4 to 5 grs., or 0.008 to 0.325 gm. 
Antimo/nii oxfldum. Antimony oxid. From antimony chlorid by 
ammonia. Alterative. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 0.065 to 0.195 gm- 
Antimo'nii suFphidum. Antimony sulpliid. Occurs native. 
Antimo'nii suFphidum purifica/tum. Purified antimony sulphid. 
Antimo/nium sulphura'tum. Sulphurated antimony. Ivermes mineral. 
Alterative. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 0.065 to 0.195 gm- 
Apoc/ynum. Canadian hemp. The root. Diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
ApomorphFnae hydrochloTas. Apomorphine hydrochlorate. From 
morphine by hydrochloric acid. Emetic. Dose, gr., or 0.006 gm. 
A'qua. Water. Natural water in its purest attainable state. 
A'qua ammo/niae. Ammonia water. A solution of ammonia gas. 
Ten per cent. 
A'qua ammo'niae for/tior. Stronger water of ammonia. Twenty-eight 
per cent. 
A'qua amyg'dalae ama'rae. Bitter almond water. Made from the 
oil. Vehicle for other medicines. 169 
GLOSSARY. 
Arqua anFsi. Anise water. Made from the oil. Carminative ad lib. 
and as a vehicle. 
A/qua auran'tii flo/rum. Orange-flower water. Equal parts of the 
strong water and distilled water. For flavoring purposes. 
A'qua auran/tii flo'rum for/tior. Strong orange-flower water. Dis- 
tilled from the flowers. 
A/qua cam'phorae. Camphor water. From the gum. Sedative. Dose, 
f gss to or 2.0 to 8.0 c.c. 
A'qua chlo/ri. Chlorine water. From hydrochloric acid. Antiseptic 
wash. 
A'qua chlorofor/mi. Chloroform water. Chloroform dissolved in 
water. Stimulant. Dose, to or 4.0 to 16.0 c.c. 
A'qua cinnamo'mi. Cinnamon water. From the oil. Carminative. 
Dose, f 3 ss to fg ij, or 2.0 to 8.0 c.c. 
A'qua creoso/ti. Creosote water. From creosote. Used in nausea 
mixtures. Dose, fg to fg ij, or 4.0 to 8.0 c.c. 
A'qua destilla/ta. Distilled water. 
A'qua fcenic'uli. Fennel water. From the oil. Carminative. Dose, 
f3ss to f g ij, or 2.0 to 8.0 c.c. 
A'qua hydrogen/ii diox'idi. Solution of hydrogen dioxid. This 
should be permanent and neutral. 
A/qua men'thas piperi'tae. Peppermint water. From the oil. Car- 
minative. Dose, f gss to f g ij, or 2.0 to 8.0 c.c. 
A'qua men/thae vir/idis. Spearmint water. From the oil. Carmina- 
tive. Dose, fg ss to f g ij, or 2.0 to 8.0 c.c. 
A'qua ro/sae. Rose water. Equal parts of the strong rose water and 
distilled water. For flavor. 
A/qua ro'sse for/tior. Strong rose water. Distilled from the flowers. 
Argen'ti cyan/idum. Silver cyanid. From silver by hydrocyanic 
acid. Sedative. Dose, to gr., or 0.001 to 0.003 gm- 
Argen/ti iod/idum. Silver iodid. From silver by iodin. Alterative. 
Dose, l/2 to 2 grs., or 0.033 to °-13° gm- 170 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Argen'ti ni/tras. Silver nitrate. From silver by nitric acid. Tonic. 
Dose, yi to y2 gr., or 0.008 to 0.033 gm- 
Argen/ti nFtras dilu/tus. Diluted silver nitrate. Mitigated caustic. 
Escharotic. 
Argen'ti nFtras fu/sus. Fused silver nitrate. Molded silver nitrate. 
Lunar caustic. Caustic silver. Escharotic. 
Argen'ti ox/idum. Silver oxid. Decomposition of the nitrate. Tonic. 
■Dose, 'fa to 2 grs., or 0.033 to 0.130 gm. 
Ar'nicae flo/res. Arnica flowers. 
Ar'nicae ra'dix. Arnica root. The flowers and root of the same plant. 
Externally for bruises, etc. 
Ar/seni iod'idum. Arsenic iodid. From arsenic by iodin. Alterative. 
Dose, jj to | gr., or 0.003 to 0.008 gm. 
Ascle/pias. Pleurisy root. Diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2.0 gm. 
Aspid'ium. Male fern. The root. Teniacide. The oil is used. 
Aspidosper/ma. Quebracho. The bark. Antiperiodic. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Assafce/tida. Asafetida. A gum resin. Sedative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
AtropUna. Atropine. Alkaloid from belladonna. Narcotic. Dose, 
gr., or 0.001 gm. 
AtropFnse suFphas. Atropia sulphate. From belladonna. Narcotic. 
Dose, to fa gr., or 0.0006* to 0.001 gm. 
Auran/tii ama'ri cortex. Bitter orange peel. Used as tincture for 
flavor. 
Auran'di duFcis cor'tex. Sweet orange peel. Used as tincture for 
flavor. 
AvUrii et so'dii chk/ridum. Gold and sodium chlorid. Alterative. 
Dose, fa to gr., or 0.004 to 0.008 gm. 
* Fractional parts of milligrams are read decimally, and this reads as 
six tenths of a milligram, the decimal point being understood. GLOSSARY. 
171 
B. 
Balsa/mum peruvia'num. Balsam of Peru. From a South American 
tree. Externally. 
Balsa/mum toluta'num. Balsam of Tolu. From the tree. Used as 
an expectorant in the form of syrup. 
Ba'rii diox'idum. Barium dioxid. For preparing hydrogen dioxid. 
Belladon/nae fo/lia. Belladonna leaves. 1 .1 , 
V from the same plant. 
Belladon'nae ra/dix. Belladonna root. J 
Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 0.065 to °-I95 gm. 
Benzi/num. Benzin. Distilled from petroleum. 
BenzoFnum. Benzoin. A gum resin. Stimulant; expectorant. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Bismu/thi cFtras. Bismuth citrate. From bismuth nitrate and citric 
acid. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 0.65 gm. 
Bismu/thi et ammo'nii cFtras. Bismuth and ammonium citrate. As- 
tringent. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 0.65 gm. 
Bismu/thi subcar/bonas. Bismuth subcarbonate. From bismuth 
nitrate and ammonia. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 
0.65° gm. 
Bismu/thi subnFtras. Bismuth subnitrate. From bismuth and nitric 
acid. 
Bro/mum. Bromin. From mineral spring waters. 
Bryo/nia. Bryony. The root. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or o 325 
to 2.0 gm. 
Bu/chu. Buchu. The leaves. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2.0 gm. 
C. 
Caffei/na. Caffeine. Alkaloid from tea and coffee. The citrate is used. 
Caffei/na citra/ta. Citrated caffeine. From the alkaloid by citric acid. 
Stimulant. Dose, 2 to 5 grs., or 0.130 to 0.325 gm. 
CaffeFna citra/ta efferves/cens. Effervescing citrated caffeine. Pre- 172 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
pared to effervesce when mixed with water. Stimulant. Dose, gj to 
3 iij, or 4.0 to 12.0 gm. 
CaFamus. Sweet flag or flag root. The root. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CaFcii bromi/dum. Calcium bromid. From lime by hydrobromic 
acid. Sedative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CaFcii car'bonas praecipita'tus. Precipitated calcium carbonate. 
Chalk. Used in tooth powders. 
CaFcii chlorFdum. Calcium chlorid. From 'lime and 
acid. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 20 grs., or 0.325 to 1.3 gm. 
CaFcii hypophos/phis. Calcium kypophosphite. From lime and phos- 
phorus. In phthisis. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CaPcii phos'phas praecipitaTus. Precipitated calcium phosphate. 
Bone ashes, purified. Used for filtering purposes. 
CaPcii snPphas exsicca'tus. Plaster-of-Paris. Dried calcium sulphate. 
Occurs as gypsum. Used for surgical purposes. 
CalendiFla. Marigold. The flowers. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CaluirPba. Calumbo. The root. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2.0 gm. 
Calx. Lime. Calcium oxid. Burned limestone. Used in the form 
of lime-water. 
Calx chlora'ta. Chlorinated lime. Dry slaked lime and chlorin gas. 
Disinfectant. Should be kept in air-tight packages. 
Calx sulphura/ta. Sulphurated lime. From calcium sulphate by hot 
charcoal. Alterative. Dose, fa to I gr., or 0.006 to 0.065 gm- 
Cambo/gia. Gamboge. A gum resin. Cathartic. Dose, 1 to 5 grs., 
or 0.065 1° 0 325 gm- 
CanFphora. Camphor. A gum, so called. Sedative. Dose, x/2 to 5 
grs., or 0.033 to 0.325 gm. 
CairPphora monobromada. Monobromated camphor. From camphor 
by bromin. Sedative. Dose, I to 5 grs., or 0.065 to 0.325 gm. GLOSSARY. 
173 
Can/nabis in/dica. Indian hemp. The flowers. Narcotic. Dose, I to 
3 grs., or 0.065 to o. 195 gm. 
CanTharis. Cantharides. Spanish flies. The whole insect. Vesicant. 
Externally. 
Cap/sicum. Cayenne or African pepper. The fruit. Stimulant. Dose, 
I to 3 grs., or 0.065 to °-195 gm- 
Carrbo anima/lis. Animal charcoal. By charring bones. 
Car'bo lig'ni. Wood charcoal. By charring wood. Used in poultices 
as an absorbent. Carminative by absorption of gas. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., 
or 0.065 to 0.195 gm. 
CardamoTnum. Cardamom. The seeds. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Ca/rum. Caraway. The seed. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CaryophyPlus. Clove. The dried, unopened flowers. Carminative. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CascariUla. Cascarilla. The bark. Aromatic tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Cas'sia fistula. Purging cassia. The fruit. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Casta/nea. Chestnut. The leaves. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CaVechu. Catechu. An extract from the wood. Astringent. Dose, 5 
to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CaulophyPlum. Blue cohosh. The root. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 
to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Ce'ra alba. White wax. Bleached honey comb. Used in making 
ointments. 
Ce/ra fla/va. Yellow wax. Honey-comb. Used in making ointments. 
Cera/tum. Cerate. White wax and lard. 
Cera/tum canYphorae. Camphor cerate. 
CeraTum cantha/ridis. Cantharides cerate. 
Cera'tum ceta/cei. Spermaceti cerate. 174 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Cera'tum plum'bi subaceta'tis. Cerate of lead subacetate. 
Cera/tum resFnae. Resin cerate. Basilicon ointment. 
Ce/rii ox'alas. Cerium oxalate. 
Ceta'ceum. Spermaceti. A deposit in the head of the sperm whale. 
Cetra'ria. Iceland moss. Demulcent. Used in decoction. 
Char/ta potas'sii nitra/tis. Nitrate of potash paper. Inhaled by burn- 
ing. It is antispasmodic. 
Char/ta sina'pis. Mustard paper. Mustard leaves. Vesicant. 
Chelido/nium. Celandine. The entire plant. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Chenopo'dium. American wormseed. The seed. Anthelmintic. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
ChimaphFla. Pipsissewa. The leaves. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Chira/ta. Chirata. The whole plant. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Chlo'ral. Chloral hydrate. From alcohol by chlorin. Narcotic. Dose, 
1 to 30 grs., or 0.065 to 2.0 gm. 
Chlorofor/mum. Chloroform. From alcohol by chlorin and slaked 
lime. Anesthetic by inhalation. Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 5 or 0.065 
to 0.325 c.c. 
ChoiPdrus. Irish moss. Carragheen. Sea moss. The whole plant. 
Demulcent. Used in decoction. 
ChrysarobFnum. Chrysarobin. From an East Indian drug commer- 
cially known as goa powder. Irritant cathartic. Dose, to gr., 
or 0.001 to 0.005 gm- 
CimiciFuga. Black snakeroot. The root. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 
to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Cincho/na. Cinchona. Peruvian bark. The bark. Antipyretic; tonic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Cincho/na ru/bra. Red cinchona. The bark. Antipyretic. Dose, 5 
to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. GLOSSARY. 
175 
Cinchonidi/nse suLphas. Cinchonidine sulphate. Alkaloid of cin- 
chona. Antipyretic. Dose, X to io grs., or 0.065 to 0.650 gm. 
CinchonEna. Cinchonine. Alkaloid from cinchona. Antipyretic. 
Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.650 gm. 
Cinchoni/nae suEphas. Cinchonine sulphate. Alkaloid of cinchona. 
Antipyretic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0-650 gm. 
Cinnamo'mum cas'sia. Cassia cinnamon. The bark. Stimulant. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Cinnamo'mum saigon'icum. Saigon cinnamon. 
Cinnarao'mum zeylan/icum. Ceylon cinnamon. 
Co/ca. Erythroxylon. The leaves. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CocaEnse hydrochlo'ras. Cocaine hydrochlorate. Local anesthetic; 
stimulant. Dose, y$ to )4 gr., or 0.008 to 0.033 gm- 
Coc'cus. Cochineal. The female insect. Anodyne. Dose, to 2 
grs., or 0.033 to 0.130 gm. 
CodeEna. Codeine. Alkaloid of opium. Anodyne. Dose, to 2 
grs., or 0.033 t0 °- r3° gm- 
CoEchici ra/dix. Colchicum root. CoEchici se/men. Colchicum seed. 
Alterative ; anti-rheumatic. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 0.065 to 0.195 gm- 
Collo/dium. Collodion. External use. 
ColloMium cantharidaTum. Cantharidal collodion. Externally; vesi- 
cant. 
Collo'dium flex/ile. Flexible collodion. External use. 
Collo'dium styp'ticum. Styptic collodion. Externally ; styptic. 
Colocyn/this. Colocynth; bitter apple. The fruit. Cathartic. Dose, 
1 to 3 grs., or 0.065 to °-195 gm- 
Confec/tio ro/sae. Confection of rose. Vehicle. 
Confec/tio sen/nae. Confection of senna. Cathartic. Dose, gjto 5jiv, 
or 4.0 to 16.0 gm. 
ConEum. Hemlock. The fruit. Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 
0.065 to o. 195 gm. 176 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Convalla'ria. Convallaria. The root. Sedative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs.} 
or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
CopaFba. Balsam of copaiba. The oleoresin from the plant. Urethral 
stimulant. Dose, f % to fgj, or 1.0 to 4.0 c.c. 
Corian'drum. Coriander. The seed. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Creoso'tum. Creosote. Distilled from beech-wood tar. Antiseptic. 
Dose, I to 5 rth, or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
Cre'ta praeparaTa. Prepared chalk. Native chalk freed from lumps. 
Antacid. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 0 gm. 
Spanish saffron. A portion of the flower. Emmenagogue. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
Cube/ba. Cubeb. The berry. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2.0 gm. 
Cu/pri suFphas. Copper sulphate. Blue vitriol. From copper by action 
of sulphuric acid. Escharotic. External use. 
Cus/so. Kousso. Brayera. The flowers. Anthelmintic. Dose, 2 to 
4 drams, or 8 to 16 gm. 
Cypripe'dium. Ladies’ slipper. The root. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 
to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
D. 
Decoc/tum cetraTise. Decoction of cetraria. Demulcent. Dose, 
ad lib. 
Decoc/tum sarsapariFlae compos/itum. Compound decoction of sar- 
saparilla. Alterative. Dose, f Jjj to iv, or 30 to 120 c.c. 
Digita'lis. Digitalis. Foxglove. The leaves. Heart stimulant. Dose, 
x/2 to 2 grs., or 0.033 to 0.130 gm< 
Dulcama/ra. Bitter-sweet. The twigs. Diuretic; diaphoretic. Dose, 
5 to 3° grs., or 0.325 to 2.° gm. GLOSSARY. 
177 
E. 
Elas/tica. Caoutchouc. India rubber. Used in preparing plasters. 
Elateri/num. Elaterin. Active principle of the squirting cucumber. 
Cathartic. Dose, fa to fa gr., or o.ooi to 0.006 gm. 
Elix/ir aromaUicum. Aromatic elixir. Used as a vehicle for other 
medicines. It is flavored with orange, lemon, anise, and coriander. 
Elix'ir phos/phori. Elixir of phosphorus. One fluidram equals fa gr. 
of phosphorus. Nerve tonic. Dose, fgj, or 4 c.c. 
Emplas/trum ammonPaci cum hydrar'gyro. * Plaster of ammoni- 
acum and mercury. Stimulant. 
Emplas/trum ar/nicse. Arnica plaster. Stimulant. 
Emplas'trum belladorPnae. Belladonna plaster. Anodyne. 
Emplas/trum cap/sici. Capsicum plaster, f Stimulant. 
Emplas/trum feUri. Iron plaster. Strengthening plaster. Stimulant. 
Emplas/trum hydraUgyri. Mercurial plaster. Alterative. 
Emplas/trum ichthyocoUlae. Isinglass plaster. Court plaster. 
EmplasTrum o/pii. Opium plaster. Anodyne. 
Emplas'trum pi'cis burgurPdicae. Burgundy pitch plaster. Stimulant. 
Emplas/trum pPcis cantharida/tum. Cantharidal or warming plaster 
Rubefacient. 
Emplas'trum plurrPbi. Lead plaster. Diachylon plaster. Vehicle 
for other plasters. 
Emplas/trum resPnae. Resin plaster. Adhesive plaster. Stimulating. 
EmplasTrum sapcPnis. Soap plaster. Stimulating. 
* This being a full and complete official list, all the preparations are 
given, whether of frequent or infrequent use, and will be found very useful 
for reference. 
f Here is an official plaster much used. Officially and homemade they 
are spread upon hid. As usually seen, they are mixed with rubber, spread 
upon muslin, and sometimes made porous. These are all spread by 
machinery and are preferable to the hand-spread plaster, being neater. 178 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Emubsum ammonbaci. Emulsion of ammoniacum. Expectorant. 
Dose, one to two tablespoonfuls, or 15 to 30 c.c. 
Emubsum amyg/dalae. Emulsion of almond. Vehicle for other 
medicines. 
Emubsum asafce'tidae. Emulsion of asafetida. Sedative. Dose, 
to fjj, or 15 to 30 c.c. 
Emubsum chlorofor/mi. Chloroform emulsion. Sedative. Dose, 
f3 iv to or 15 to 30 c.c. One fluidram contains minims, 
or 10 drops of chloroform. 
Ergo/ta. Ergot. A fungous growth upon rye. Parturient. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
EriodicTyon. Yerba santa. The leaves. Tonic, expectorant. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
EucalypTol. Eucalyptol. Obtained from the oil of eucalyptus. Ex- 
pectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus. The leaves. Antipyretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or o. 325 to 2 gm. 
Euon/ymus. Wahoo. The bark. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
EupatoTium. Eupatorium. Thorough wort or boneset. Expectorant. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2.0 gm. 
ExtracTum aconPti. Extract of aconite. From the root. Sedative. 
Dose, to % gr., or 0.006 to 0.016 gm. 
Extrac'tum aconi'ti flu'idum. Fluid extract of aconite. From the 
root. Sedative. Dose, ]/2 to 2 or 0.030 to 0.130 c.c. 
ExtracTum aPoes. Extract of aloes. From the dried juice of the 
leaves. Cathartic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 t0 0.650 gm. 
Extrac/tum apoc'yni flu/idum. Fluid extract of apocynum. From 
the root. Diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 30 Ttp, or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. * 
ExtracTum ar'nicae ra/dicis. Extract of arnica root. Alterative. 
Dose, 2 to 5 grs., or 0.130 to 0.325 gm. 
* Let the nurse observe that the dose in minims of a fluid extract is 
the same as the number of grains of the drug. See Dose Table. GLOSSARY. 
179 
Extrac/tum ar'nicae ra/dicis fluTdum. * Fluid extract of arnica root. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
ExtracTum aromat/icum flu/idum. Fluid extract of aromatic powder. 
Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
Extrac/tum asclepia/dis flu/idum. Fluid extract of asclepias. Dia- 
phoretic. Dose, 5 to 30 ITL, or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
ExtracTum aspidosperTnatis fluTdum. Fluid extract of aspidium. 
Fr?>m the bark. Antiperiodic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
ExtracTum auranTii amaTi fluTdum. Fluid extract of bitter orange 
peel. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum belladon/nae folioTum alcoholTcum. Alcoholic extract 
of belladonna leaves. Narcotic. Dose, to gr., or 0.008 to 
0.016 gm. 
ExtracTum belladon/nae ra'dicis fluTdum. Fluid extract of bella- 
donna root. Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 c.c. 
ExtracTum bu/chu fluTdum. Fluid extract of buchu. From the 
leaves. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. j- 
ExtracTum caFami fluTdum. Fluid extract of calamus. From the 
root. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
ExtracTum calum/bae fluTdum. Fluid extract of calumba. From the 
root. Bitter tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
ExtracTum can/nabis in/dicae. Extract of Indian cannabis. From 
the root. Narcotic. Dose, to 1 gr., or 0.020 to 0.065 gm- 
ExtracTum carEnabis in/dicae fluTdum. Fluid extract of Indian 
cannabis. From the root. Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 or 0.065 to 
0.195 c.c. X 
* What has just been noted regarding the similarity of dose of fluid 
extracts and the drug may not be said of solid extracts, the strength of 
which are never alike. (See article: Extracts.) 
f Notice that although the doses are very similar yet they are repeated 
in both systems every time. This is to familiarize the nurse with this 
important feature. 
j The nurse should practise reading these figures aloud. The dose of 
extract of cannabis indica is from twenty to sixty-five milligrams; of the 
fluid extract from sixty-five to one hundred and ninety-flye thousandths 
of a cubic centimeter. 180 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Extrac/tum cap'sici flu'idum. Fluid extract of capsicum. From the 
fruit (bird peppers). Stimulant. Dose, I to 3 grs., or 0.065 too. 195 gm. 
Extrac'tum casta'neae fliFidum. Fluid extract of castanea. From 
the leaves. Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 TT\,, or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
Extrac/tum chimapl/ilae flu/idum. Fluid extract of pipaissewa. The 
leaves. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2.0 c.c. 
Extrac'tum chira'tse flu/idum. Fluid extract of chirata. The entire 
plant. Bitter tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum cimiciFugae. Extract of black snakeroot. Alterative in 
asthma. Dose, 3 to 5 gr., or o. 195 to 0.325 gm. 
Extrac/tum cimiciFugae flu'idum. Fluid extract of black snakeroot. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 ffp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum cincho/nae. Extract of Peruvian bark. Tonic. Dose, 
I to 5 grs., or 0.065 to 0.325 gm. 
Extrac/tum cincho/nae flu/idum. Fluid extract of cinchona. Tonic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum co'cae flu'idum. Fluid extract of coca. From the leaves. 
Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 rr, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum coFchici ra/dicis. Extract of colchicum root. Alterative. 
Dose, X io X grs-> or °-OI6 to 0.048 gm. 
Extrac'tum coFchici ra'dicis flu'idum. Fluid extract of colchicum 
root. Alterative. Dose, I to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 c.c. 
Extrac'tum coFchici sen/inis fl/idum. Fluid extract of colchicum 
seed. Alterative. Dose, 1 to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 cc- 
Extrac/tum colocyn/thidis. Extract of colocynth. From the fruit. 
Cathartic. Dose, X to 2 grs., or 0.033 to °-I3 gm. 
Extrac'tum colocyi/thidis compos/itum. Compound extract of colo- 
cynth. Cathartic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm. 
Extrac/tum conFi. Extract of conium. Narcotic. Dose, X to X gr-> 
or 0.016 to 0.048 gm. 
Extrac/tum coni/i flu'idum. Fluid extract of conium. From the 
fruit. Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 c.c. 
Extrac'tum convalla'riae flu'idum. Fluid extract of convallaria. GLOSSARY. 
181 
From the root. Cardiac sedative. Dose, 5 to 30 tl\, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum cube/bae fluTdum. Fluid extract of cubeb. From the 
berries. Stimulant; expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum cus/so fluTdum. Fluid extract of cusso. From the 
flowers. Anthelmintic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum cypripe/dii fliFidum. Fluid extract of cypripedium. From 
the root. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 to or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum digitaTis. Extract of digitalis. From the leaves. Car- 
diac stimulant. Dose, to 1 gr., or 0.008 to 0.065 gm. 
Extrac/tum digitaTis flu/idum. Fluid extract of digitalis. Cardiac 
stimulant. Dose, to 2 H\, or 0.033 to o. 13 c.c. 
ExtracTum dulcamaTae flu'idum. Fluid extract of bittersweet twigs. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum ergoTae. Extract of ergot. From the rye fungus. Partu- 
rient. Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Extrac/tum ergoTae flu/idum. Fluid extract of ergot. Parturient. 
Dose, 5 to a tablespoonful, or 0.325 to 15 c.c. 
ExtracTum eriodic/tyi fluTdum. Fluid extract of yerba santa. From 
the leaves. Tonic expectorant.* Dose, 5 to 30 ttL, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum eucalyp/ti fluTdum. Fluid extract of eucalyptus. From 
the leaves. Febrifuge. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum euorCymi. Extract of wahoo. From the bark. Laxative. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Extrac/tum eupatoTii fluTdum. Fluid extract of boneset. From the 
leaves. Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
ExtracTum fran'gulae fluTdum. Fluid extract of buckthorn. From 
the bark. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum gelsemTi flu/idum. Fluid extract of yellow jasmine. 
From the root. Antispasmodic. Dose, 1 to 3 or 0.065 to o. 195 c.c. 
* These terms are not always complete. For instance, yerba santa is 
tonic with an especially tonic action on the pectoral muscles, and, therefore, 
a tonic expectorant. 182 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Extrac/tum gentia'nae. Extract of gentian. From the root. Tonic. 
Dose, 5 to io grs., or 0.325 to 0.65 gm. 
Extrac/tum gentia'nae flu/idum. Fluid extract of gentian. Tonic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 rrp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum gera'nii flu/idum. Fluid extract of geranium. From the 
root. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 rr\, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum glycyrrhFzae. Extract of licorice. Expectorant. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Extrac/tum glycyrrhPzse flu/idum. Fluid extract of licorice. Ex- 
pectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum 'glycyrrhFzae pu'rum.* Pure extract of licorice. Ex- 
pectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Extrac/tum gossyp'ii rardicis fliFidum. Fluid extract of cotton root. 
Emmenagogue. Dose, 5 to 30 rrp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
grinde/liae flu/idum. Fluid extract of grindelia. From 
the leaves. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 to 30 up, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum guara'nae flu'idum. Fluid extract of guarana. Stimulant. 
Dose, 5 to 30 rrp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum haematox/yli. Extract of logwood. From the wood. 
Astringent. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
Extrac/tum hamamePidis flu/idum.f Fluid extract of witch hazel. 
From the leaves. Plemostatic. Dose, 5 to 30 rrp, or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Extrac/tum hydras/tis flu/idum. Fluid extract of golden seal. From 
the root. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 Tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum hyoscy/ami. Extract of henbane. From the leaves. 
Anodyne. Dose, % to gr., or 0.016 to 0.048 gm. 
Extrac/tum hyoscy'ami fliFidum. Fluid extract of henbane. Ano- 
dyne. Dose, 1 to 3 np, or 0.065 to °-I95 c.c. 
* This pure extract and the extract are the forms which come in cylin- 
drical sticks and known as “ black ” licorice. 
f This should not be confounded with the distilled fluid extract from the 
twigs, of which Pond’s extract is the type. GLOSSARY. 
183 
Extrac/tum ipecacuaiVhse flu'idum. Fluid extract of ipecac. From 
the root. Emetic; diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum irFdis. Extract of blue flag. From the root. Stimulant; 
carminative. Dose, 1 to 10 tip, or 0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
Extrac'tum iri'dis flu/idum. Fluid extract of blue flag. Carminative 
Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum jala'pae. Extract of jalap. From the root. Cathartic. 
Dose, 1 to 5 grs., or 0.065 to °-32S gm- 
Extrac/tum juglarVdis. Extract of butternut bark. Laxative. Dose 
5 to 3° grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Extrac/tum krame/riae fliVidum. Fluid extract of krameria. Root. 
Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum lap'pae flu/idum. Fluid extract of lappa. From the root. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 rtR, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum leptan/drae. Extract of leptandra. From the root. 
Cathartic. Dose, X to 5 grs., or 0.065 to 0.325 gm. 
Extrac/tum leptan/drae flu/idum. Fluid extract of leptandra. Cath- 
artic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum lobe'liae flu'idum. Fluid extract of lobelia. From the 
leaves. Antispasmodic; emetic. Dose, 1 to 3 tip, or 0.065 to o 195 c.c. 
Extrac/tum lupulFni flu'idum. Fluid extract of lupulin. From the 
powder. Hypnotic. Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum matdco flu/idum. Fluid extract of matico leaves. Stimu- 
lant ; urinary. Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum menisper'mi flu/idum. Fluid extract of menispermum. 
From the root. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
mezeTei flu'idum. Fluid extract of mezereum. From the 
bark. Vesicant ;•stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum nu'cis vom/icae. Extract of nux vomica. From the seeds. 
Tonic. Dose, to I gr., or 0.016 to 0.065 gm- 
Extrac/tum nu'cis vom/icae flu'idum. Fluid extract of nux vomica. 
Tonic. Dose, 1 to 5 tip, or 0.065 to °-325 c c- 
Note.—f 3 j of this fluid extract is equal to about one grain of strychnine. 184 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Extrac/tum c/pii. Extract of opium. Narcotic. Dose, I gr., or 0.065 gm- 
Note.—One grain equals about \ of a grain of morphine. 
pareFrae flu/idum. Fluid extract of pareira. The root. 
Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum physostigma/tis. Extract of Calabar bean. Sedative. 
Dose, % to gr., or 0.016 to 0.048 gm. 
Extrac/tum phytolac'cae ra/dicis Fluid extract of poke 
root. Laxative. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum pilocar'pi Fluid extract of pilocarpus. From 
the leaves. Sialagogue. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum podophyFli. Extract of podophyllum. From the root. 
Cathartic. Dose, % to 5 grs., or 0.016 to 0.325 gm. 
Extrac/tum podophyFli flu'idum. Fluid extract of podophyllum. 
Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 Tt\,, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum pru/ni virginia/nae fliFidum. Fluid extract of wild 
cherry bark. Sedative. Dose, 5 rq, to ]/2 teaspoonful, or 0.325 to 
2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum quas'siae. Extract of quassia wood. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 
10grs., or 0.325 to 0.65 gm. 
ExtracTum quas'siae flu/idum. Fluid extract of quassia. Tonic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 rrL, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum rhairFni purshia/nae flu/idum. Fluid extract of cascara 
bark. Tonic ; cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 n\,, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum rhe/i. Extract of rhubarb root. Cathartic ; astringent.* 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2gm. 
Extrac/tum rhe/i flu/idum. Fluid extract of rhubarb root. Cathartic ; 
astringent. Dose, 5 iq, to yz fg , or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum rho/is gla'brae flu/idum. Fluid extract of sumach berries. 
Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 rq,, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum ro'sae flu/idum. Fluid extract of rose petals. Vehicle for 
other medicines. 
* This seems contradictory; but the fact of its being cathartic first and 
then astringent renders it exceptionally valuable among cathartics. GLOSSARY. 
185 
Extrac/tum rurbi flu'idum. Fluid extract of blackberry bark. As- 
tringent. Dose, 5 T1\, to ]/2 teaspoonful, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum ru/micis AFidum. Fluid extract of yellow dock root. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 rt\, to or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum sabFnae flu/idum. Fluid extract of savine leaves. Uterine 
stimulant. Dose, I to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 c.c. 
Extrac/tum sanguina/riae flFidum. Fluid extract of blood-root. 
Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtraFtum sarsapariFlae flu/idum. Fluid extract of sarsaparilla root. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtraFtum sarsaparil'lae flu'idum compos/itum. Compound fluid 
extract of sarsaparilla root. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 
2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum sciFlae fliFidum. Fluid extract of squill bulbs. Expec- 
torant ; emetic. Dose, I to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 c.c. 
scopa'rii flFidum. Fluid extract of broom tops. Diuretic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 TtL, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtraFtiim scutella'riae fliFidum. Fluid extract of skull-cap, the 
herb. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 3ort\,, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum serFegae flu/idum. Fluid extract of senega root. Ex- 
pectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 Rh, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum seiFnae flu'idum. Fluid extract of senna leaves. Cathar- 
tic. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum serpenta/riae flu/idum. Fluid extract of Virginia snake- 
root. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 n\,, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtraFtum spige'liae flu/idum. Fluid extract of pink root. Anthel- 
mintic. Dose, 5 to 30 TT\,, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
ExtracTum stillirFgiae flu/idum. Fluid extract of queen’s root. Al- 
terative. Dose, 5 to or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum stramo'nii senFinis. Extract of stramonium seed. Nar- 
cotic. Dose, }£ to gr., or 0.008 to 0.033 gm. 
ExtraFtum stramo'Dii senFinis fliFidum. Fluid extract of stramo- 
nium seed. Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 c c• 186 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Extrac/tum tarax/aci. Extract of dandelion root. Laxative. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Extrac'tum tarax'aci An'idum. Fluid extract of dandelion. Laxative. 
Dose, 5 to 30 rtL, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac'tum triUici flu'idum. Fluid extract of couch-grass. Diuretic. 
Dose, 5 Tip to teaspoonful, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum u/vae urrsi. Extract of bearberry leaves. Diuretic. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Extrac'tum u'vae ur'si flu'idum. Fluid extract of uva ursi. Diuretic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum valeria/nae flu'idum. Fluid extract of valerian root. 
Nerve stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 Tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
vera'tri vFridis fliUidum. Fluid extract of American 
hellebore root. Cardiac sedative. Dose, to 2 tip, or 0.033 to 0.13 c.c. 
Extrac'tum vibuUni op'uli flufidum. Fluid extract of cramp bark. 
Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 Tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
vibuUni pru/nifo/lii flu'idum. Fluid extract of black 
haw bark. Uterine stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Extrac/tum xanthox/yli flu/idum. Fluid extract of prickly ash bark. 
Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 rip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
zingib'eris flu'idum. Fluid extract of ginger root. Stimu- 
lant. Dose, 5 to 30 rtp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
F. 
Fel bo'vis. Ox-gall. 
Fel bo'vis purifica'tum. Purified ox-gall. Laxative. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Fer'ri caUbonas sacchara/tus. Sugared iron carbonate. Hematic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
FeUri chlo'ridum. Iron cblorid. Used in the form of tincture. 
FeUri cFtras. Iron citrate. Hematic. Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 
0.65 gm. GLOSSARY. 
187 
Fer'ri et ammc/nii ci/tras. Iron and ammonium citrate. Hematic. 
Dose, i to io grs., or 0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
Ferhri et ammo/nii suFphas. Iron and ammonium sulphate. Astrin- 
gent washes. 
Fer'ri et ammo/nii tar'tras. Iron and ammonium tartrate. Hematic. 
Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
Fer/ri et potas/sii tar'tras. Iron and potassium tartrate. Hematic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
Fer'ri et quinFnae cFtras. Iron and quinine citrate. Hematic; anti- 
pyretic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 t° 0-65 gm. 
Fer/ri et quinFnse cFtras solu/bilis. Soluble iron and quinine 
citrate. Hematic; antipyretic. Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm. 
Fer'ri et strychnFnae cFtras. Iron and strychnine citrate. Tonic; 
stimulant. Dose, I to 5 grs., or 0.065 to 0.325 gm. 
Note.—This salt contains one per cent, of strychnine citrate, or 
of a grain in each grain of the salt. Five grains is the maximum dose, 
and contains or °f a grain of strychnine citrate. 
The following is an illustration of an unsafe if not poisonous dose. It 
is given as an illustration also of the necessity of asking the doctor, 
whenever there is doubt, for large doses are sometimes given. This is a 
task which is often unpleasant, but should always be fearlessly done : 
R. Sodium bromid, Jj 
Iron and strychnine citrate, 5j iv 
Water, 
Syrup of hypophosphites (U. S. P.), aa q. s. ad, . f^iv. 
SlG.—One teaspoonful three times a day, a. c. 
Each teaspoonful contains about eight grains of the salt or of a grain 
of strychnine. 
Fer'ri hypophos'phis. Iron hypophosphite. Tonic in lung troubles. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm. 
Fer/ri iod/idum sacchara/tum. Sugared iron iodid.* Hematic; 
alterative. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm. 
* Sugar is added to iron preparations for its preserving effect. It pre- 
vents chemic change. 188 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Fer'ri lac/tas. Iron lactate. Hematic. Dose, I to io grs., or 0.065 
to 0.65 gm. 
FerTi ox/idum hydra/tum. Hydrated oxid of iron. Antidote in 
arsenical poisoning. Dose, iv and more, or 120 c.c. 
Fer'ri ox'idum hydraTum cum magne/sia. Hydrated oxid of iron 
with magnesia. Arsenical antidote, more quickly prepared than the one 
first given. Dose, and more, or 120 c.c. 
Fer/ri phos'phas solu'bilis. Soluble iron phosphate. Hematic and 
nerve tonic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
Fer'ri pyrophos'phas soluTnlis. Soluble iron pyrophosphate. Hem- 
atic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
FeUri suFphas. Iron sulphate. Hematic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 
to 0.65 gm. Also in solution as a disinfectant. 
Fer'ri suFphas exsicca/tus. Dried iron sulphate. Hematic. Dose, 
1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
Fer'ri suFphas granula/tus. Granulated iron sulphate. Hematic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Fer/ri valeria/nas. Iron valerianate. Hematic; nerve stimulant. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 1° 0-65 gm. 
Ferfirum. Iron. Hematic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
FerTum reduc/tum. Reduced iron or iron by hydrogen. Hematic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Note.—This is sometimes called Quevenne’s iron, and is the only form 
of metallic iron suitable for internal administration. 
Quevenne’s iron is made in France and comes in sealed packages, and 
this sort should be used. 
Fi/cus. Fig. Laxative. Used in confections. 
Fcenic/ulum. Fennel seed. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
Frangu'la. Buckthorn bark. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. GLOSSARY. 
189 
G. 
GaPla. Nutgall. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Gelsem/ium. Yellow jasmine root. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Gentia/na. Gentian root. Bitter tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
Gera/nium. Crane’s-bill—the root. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
GlycerPnum. Glycerin, Vehicle for other medicines. 
GlycerPtum ac/idi carboUici. Glycerite of carbolic acid. Antiseptic 
application. 
GlycerPtum ac/idi tanTiici. Glycerite of tannic acid. Astringent ap- 
plication. 
Glyceri'tum am/yli. Glycerite of starch. Emollient application. 
GlycerPtum boroglycerPni. Glycerite of boroglycerin. Antiseptic 
application. 
GlycerPtum hydras/tis. Glycerite of liydrastis. Astringent and anti- 
septic application. 
GlycerPtum viteFli. Glycerite of yolk of egg. Used for emulsifying 
oils. 
GlycyrrhPza. Licorice root. Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
GlycyrrhizUnum ammonia'tum. Ammoniated glycyrrhizin. The 
sweet principle from licorice root. Used for flavoring purposes. 
Gossyp'ii ra/dicis coBtex. Cotton-root bark. Emmenagogue. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Gossyp'ium purifica'tum. Purified cotton. For surgical dressings. 
Grana'tum. Pomegranate hark. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Grinde/lia. Grindelia leaves. Antispasmodic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 190 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Guaia'ci lignum. Guaiacum wood. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Guaia'ci resPna. Resin of guaiacum. Alterative; stimulant. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Guara/na. Guarana—the crushed seeds. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. _ 
H. 
H3ematox/ylon. Logwood. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
Hamame'lis. Witch-hazel leaves. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Hedeo'ma. Pennyroyal leaves. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 3° grs-» or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
HydraUgyri chloYidum comPsivum. Corrosive mercuric chlorid. 
Corrosive chlorid of mercury. Corrosive sublimate. Bichlorid of 
mercury. Perchlorid of mercury. Alterative. Dose, to of a gr., 
or 0.002 to 0.008 gm. 
HydraUgyri chkPridum mPte. * Mild mercurous chlorid. Mild 
chlorid of mercury. Calomel. Subchlorid of mercury. Cholagogue. 
Dose, X to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Hydrar'gyri cyan'idum. Cyanid of mercury. Alterative; sedative. 
Dose, fa to y% of a gr., or 0.003 to °-°o8 gm. 
HydraUgyri iod/idum fla/vum. Yellow iodid of mercury. Alterative. 
Dose, to 3 grs., or 0.033 to o. 195 gm. 
HydraUgyri iod/idum ru/brum. Red iodid of mercury. Alterative. 
Dose, to £ of a gr., or 0.004 to 0.016 gm. 
Hydrar/gyri ox'idum fla'vum, Yellow oxid of mercury. Stimulant. 
External use. 
* Under the heading Mercury Salts, it has been advised that only the 
common names corrosive sublimate and calomel be used. See text. GLOSSARY. 
191 
HydraUgyri ox'idum ru/brum. Red oxid of mercury. Red precipi- 
tate. Stimulant. External use. 
Hydrar/gyri subsuUphas fla/vus. Turpeth mineral. Yellow subsul- 
phate of mercury. Alterative. Dose, 2 to 4 grs., or 0.13 to 0.26 gm. 
Hydrargyrum. Mercury. Quicksilver. Alterative. Dose, 1 to 3 
grs., or 0.065 to 0.195 gm- 
Hydrargyrum ammoniadum. Ammoniated mercury. White pre- 
cipitate. Stimulant; alterative. External use. 
Hydrargyrum cum cre'ta. Mercury with chalk. Gray powder. 
Alterative. Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
HydrastinFnse hydrochloTas. Hydrastinine hydrochlorate. Oxy- 
tocic. Dose, to 1 gr., or 0.033 to 0-065 gm- 
Hydras/tis. Golden seal—root. Tonic ; cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
HyoscFnae hydrobro/mas. Hyoscine hydrobromate. Alkaloid from 
hyoscyamus. Sedative ; narcotic. Dose, to of a gr., or 0.0006 * 
to o.oox gm. 
HyoscyamFnae hydrobro/mas. Hyoscyamine hydrobromate. Al- 
kaloid from hyoscyamus. Narcotic. Dose, of a gr., or o.ool gm. 
HyoscyamFnae suFphas. Hyoscyamine sulphate. Narcotic. Dose 
■gL of a gr., or 0.001 gm. 
Hyoscy'amus. Hyoscyamus, or henbane leaves. Narcotic. Dose, I 
to 3 grs., or 0.065 to o. 195 gm. 
I. 
IchthyocoFla. Isinglass. Fish gelatin. Used in the preparation of 
jellies. 
IllFcium. Star anise seed. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
* There are no names for the fractional parts of a milligram ; 0.0006 is 
read of a milligram. 192 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Infu/sa. Infusions. Whenever an infusion is ordered, and the strength 
not given, use one ounce of herb to a pint of water. See in the text, 
under title of Infusions. 
Infu/sum cincho'nae. Infusion of Peruvian bark. Tonic; antipyretic. 
Dose, to ij, or 30 to 60 c.c. 
Infu'sum digitalis. Infusion of digitalis, or foxglove. Stimulant. 
Dose, fgss to 2 to 8 c.c. One fluidounce of this infusion 
equals about I gr. of the drug. 
Infu/sum pru'ni virginia/nae. Infusion of wild cherry bark. Sedative. 
Dose, to ij, or 30 to 60 c.c. 
Infu/sum sen'nae compos'itum. Compound infusion of senna. Black 
draught. Cathartic. Dose, to f£ ij, or 16 to 60 c.c. 
In/ula. Elecampane—the root. Stimulant; alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs. or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
IodofoUmum. Iodoform. Used in antiseptic dressings. 
Iodine. Used externally as an alterative. 
Ipecacuan/ha. Ipecac—the root. Emetic. D<_se, 10 to 30 grs., or 
0.650 to 2 gm. Expectorant. Dose, X to 3 grs., or 0.065 to •I95 gm. 
I/ris. Blue flag—the root. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
J- 
Jala'pa. Jalap—the root. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Jug'lans. Butternut bark. Laxative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
K. 
Kama'la. Kamala. Anthelmintic; tenicide. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
KUno. Kino; juice from the wood. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. GLOSSARY. 
193 
KrameTia. Rhatany—the root. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
L. 
Lactuca/rium. Lactucarium. The dried juice. Anodyne. Dose, 5 
to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Lap/pa. Burdock root. Laxative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 
gm. 
Leptan'dra. Culver’s root. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Limo/nis cor/tex. Lemon peel. Used as a flavor. 
Limo/nis suc/cus. Lemon juice. Refrigerant. Dose, the juice of 
one or more lemons. 
LinimerCtum ammo/niae. Ammonia liniment. Stimulant. External 
use. 
LinimeiUtum belladorUnae. Belladonna liniment. Anodyne. Exter- 
nal use. 
LinimeiUtum caUcis. Lime liniment. Carron oil. 
Note.—In view of the sudden need for this preparation in burn cases, 
this is the formula: Lime water, raw linseed oil, equal parts. 
LinimeiUtum campho/rae. Camphor liniment. Anodyne. External 
use. 
LinimeiUtum chlorofor/mi. Chloroform liniment. Anodyne. 
LinimeiUtum sapo/nis. Soap liniment. Stimulant; alterative. 
LinimenTum sapo'nis moUlis. Soft soap liniment. Stimulant; 
emollient; detergent. 
LinimerUtum sina'pis compos/itum. Compound mustard liniment. 
Rubefacient. 
LinimerUtum terebirUthinae. Turpentine liniment. Stimulant. 
Li/num. Linseed. Flax-seed. Demulcent in form of infusion. Used 
in the ground state, as flax-seed meal in poultices. 194 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Li'quor ac/idi arseno/si. Solution of arsenous acid. Alterative. 
Dose, i to 5 or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 1 °f a Sr- °f the ac^- 
Liquor ammo/nii aceta/tis. Solution of ammonium acetate. Spirit of 
mindererus. Diaphoretic. Dose, fto or 4 to 30 c.c. 
Liquor ar/seni et hydrar'gyri iod/idi. Solution of arsenic and mer- 
curic iodide. Donovan’s solution. Alterative. Dose, 1 to 5 or 
0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
Li/quor caUcis. Lime water. Antacid. Dose, fgj to fi§ ij, or 4 to 60 
c.c. 
LLquor fer'ri aceta/tis. Solution of iron acetate. Tonic. Dose, 1 to 
10 Tth, or 0.065 to 0.65 c.c. 
LLquor fer'ri chloTidi. Solution of iron chloride. Tonic. Dose, I to 
10 rth, or 0.065 to 0.65 c.c. 
Li'quor ferTi citraTis. Solution of iron citrate. Tonic. Dose, 1 to 
10 rrh, or 0.065 to 0.65 c.c. 
Li'quor fer/ri etammo'nii acetaTis. Solution of iron and ammonium 
acetate. Basham’s mixture. Diuretic. Dose, to f3 viij or 4 to 
30 c. c. 
Li/quor fer'ri Solution of iron nitrate. 
Li/quor fer'ri subsulpha/tis. Solution of iron subsulphate. Monsel’s 
solution. Styptic. Dose, 2 to 10 or 0.13 to 0.65 c.c. 
Li'quor ferTi tersulpha'tis. Solution of iron sulphate. Tonic. Dose, 
I to 5 TTL, or 0.065 to 0.65 c.c. 
LFquor hydrar/gyri nitra'tis. Solution of mercuric nitrate. 
LLquor Io'di compos/itus. Compound solution of iodine. Lugol’s 
solution. Alterative. Dose, 1 to 10 or 0.065 to 0.65 c.c. 
Li'quor magne'sii citra/tis. Solution of magnesium citrate. Cathartic. 
Dose, f Jj to or 30 to 360 c.c. 
LLquor plum'bi subaceta/tis. Solution of subacetate of lead. Used 
externally. 
LUquor plum/bi subacetaTis dilu/tus. Diluted solution of lead sub- 
acetate. Astringent. External use. GLOSSARY. 
195 
LLquor potas/sae. Solution of potassa. Antacid ; diuretic. Dose, 5 to 
30 np, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
LFquor potas/sii arsenFtis. Solution of potassium arsenite. Fow- 
ler’s solution. Alterative. Dose, I to 10 trp, or 0.065 t0 0-65 c.c. 
I tip = of a grain of potassium arsenite. 
LLquor potas'sii citra/tis. Solution of potassium citrate. Diuretic. 
Dose, to or 4 to 30 c.c. 
LLquor so/dae. Solution of soda. Seldom used uncombined. 
LLquor so'dse chlora/tse. Solution of chlorinated soda. Labarraque’s 
solution. Disinfectant. 
LLquor so/dii arsena/tis. Solution of sodium arsenate. Alterative. 
Dose, 1 to 10 Ttp, or 0.065 to 0-65 c.c. 
Li/quor so'dii silica/tis. Solution of sodium silicate. Used in surgery 
mechanically. 
LFquor zinci chlo/ridi. Solution of zinc chloride. Deodorizer and 
disinfectant. 
Lith/ii ben'zoas. Lithium benzoate. Diuretic. Dose, 10 to 30 grs., 
or o. 65 to 2 gm. 
Lith'ii bro/midum. Lithium bromide. Hypnotic. Dose, 5 to 30grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Lith/ii caUbonas. Lithium carbonate. Antacid. Dose, 5 to 15 grs., 
or 0.325 to I gm. 
Lith'ii cFtras. Lithium citrate. Antacid. Dose, 10 to 30 grs., or 
0.65 to 2 gm. 
Lithrii cFtras efferves'cens. Effervescent lithium citrate. Antacid. 
Dose, gj to gij, or 4 to 8 gm. 
Lith/ii salicyUas. Lithium salicylate. Antirheumatic. Dose, 10 to 30 
grs., or 0.65 to 2 gm. 
Lobelia. Lobelia leaves. Emetic. Dose, I to 3 grs., or 0.065 to 
0.195 gm- 
LupulLnum. Lupulin. A powder from the hop flower. Hypnotic. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 196 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Lycopo'dium. Lycopodium. A vegetable powder. Used externally 
as an absorbent. 
M. 
Ma/cis. Mace. The envelope of the nutmeg. Carminative; sedative. 
Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Magne'sia. Calcined magnesia. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 60 grs., or 
0.325 to 4 gm. 
Magne'sia pondero/sa. Heavy calcined magnesia. Cathartic. Dose, 
5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Magne/sii caHbonas. Magnesium carbonate. Antacid. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Magne/sii extras efferves/cens. Effervescent magnesium citrate. Mag- 
nesium citrate mechanically wrought into granular form. Cathartic. 
Dose, 3 j to 3 j, or 4 to 30 gm. 
Magne/sii suFphas. Magnesium sulphate. Epsom salt. From mag- 
nesium carbonate by sulphuric acid. Cathartic. Dose, £j to gviij, or 
4 to 30 gm. 
Manga/ni diox'idum. Manganese dioxide or binoxide or black oxide. 
Tonic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Manga'ni suFphas. Manganese sulphate. Hepatic stimulant. Dose, 
1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Man/na. Manna. A sugary vegetable excretion. Cathartic. Dose, 
to gj, or 4 to 30 gm. 
MarnEbium. Horehound leaves. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
Mas/sa copaEbae. Mass of copaiba. A mixture of copaiba and mag- 
nesia. 
Mas'sa ferrri carbona/tis. Mass of iron carbonate. Tonic. Dose, I to 
10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm.* 
* Massse, masses. Mass is the name given to drugs which have been 
formed into a plastic mass in readiness for division into pill form. GLOSSARY. 
197 
Mas'sa hydrar/gyri. Blue mass. Alterative. Dose, I to io grs., or 
0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
Mas/tiche. Mastic, a gum. Alterative stimulant. Dose, I to 5 grs., 
or 0.065 to °-325 gm- 
MaUico. Matico leaves. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Matrica/ria. German chamomile flowers. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Mel. Honey. Used as a vehicle. 
Mel despuma'tum. Clarified honey. Used as a vehicle. 
Mel ro/sse. Honey of rose. From rose petals and honey. Used as a 
vehicle. 
Melis/sa. Balm-leaves. Diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
MenispeHmum. Canadian moonseed. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
MerCtha piperUta. Peppermint leaves. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
MerFtha viUidis. Spearmint leaves. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Men'thol. Menthol. A crystalline substance from oil of peppermint. 
Chief use as a local anesthetic. 
Me'thyl salicy'las. Methyl salicylate. Artificial oil of wintergreen. 
Alterative in rheumatic affections. Dose, I to 5 or 0.065 to 
0.325 c.c. 
Meze/reum. Mezereum bark. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. Also externally as a vesicant. 
Mistu/ra cre/tae. Chalk mixture. Chalk, gum Arabic, sugar, cinnamon 
water. Astringent. Dose, fgj to fgiv, or 4 to 15 c.c. 
MistuTa feUri compo/sita. Compound iron mixture. Iron, myrrh, 
spirit of lavender, and rose water. Tonic. Dose, to fgiv, or 4 to 
15 c.c. 198 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Mistu/ra glycyrrhFzae compos'ita. Compound licorice mixture. Pare- 
goric, wine of antimony, spirit of niter, sugar, licorice, water. Expec- 
torant. Dose, to fgiv, or 4 to 15 c.c. Each tablespoonful or 
or 15 c.c. contains of a grain of opium. 
Mistu'ra et so/dae. Mixture of rhubarb and soda. Rhubarb, 
ipecac, essence of peppermint, glycerin, sodium bicarbonate. Stomachic ; 
carminative. Dose, fgj to or 4 to 15 c.c. 
MorphPna. Morphine. Alkaloid from opium. Narcotic; anodyne. 
Dose, to gr., or 0.004 to 0.016 gm. 
MorphPnae ac'etas. Morphine acetate. From morphine by acetic acid. 
Anodyne. Dose, Tag to % gr., or 0.004 to 0.016 gm. 
MorphPnae hydrochlo'ras. Morphine hydrochlorate. From morphine 
by hydrochloric acid. Anodyne. Dose, Tg to gr., or 0.004 to 0.016 
gm. 
MorphFnse suFphas. Morphine sulphate. From morphine by sul- 
phuric acid. Anodyne. Dose, to gr., or 0.004 to 0.016 gm. 
Mos'chus. Musk. A secretion from the musk deer. Antispasmodic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Mucila/go aca'ciae. Mucilage of gum Arabic. Demulcent drink. 
Mucila/go sas'safras meduPlae. Mucilage of sassafras pith. Domes- 
tic medicine as an eye-wash. 
Mucila'go tragacan'thae. Mucilage of tragacanth. 
Mucila/go uFmi. Mucilage of elm bark. Demulcent drink. 
Myris/tica. Nutmeg—the seed. Sedative ; carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Myr'rha. Myrrh—the gum. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 c.c. 
N. 
NaphtalFnum. Naphtalene. One of the coal-tar products. Anti- 
septic. Dose, X to io grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. Naph/tol. Beta-naphtol. One of the coal-tar products. Antiseptic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Nux vom/ica. Nux vomica ; seed. Tonic. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 0.065 
to 0.195 gm- 
GLOSSARY. 
199 
o. 
Olea'tum hydrar'gyri. Oleate of mercury. From oxid of mercury by 
oleic acid. Alterative ; stimulant. For external use. 
Olea'tum veratrLnae.* Oleate of veratrine. From veratrine and oleic 
acid. Irritant. External use. 
01ea/tum zin/ci. Oleate of zinc. From zinc oxid and oleic acid. 
Absorbent. External use. 
OleoresUna aspid/ii. Oleoresin of male fern. Prepared from the 
root. Tenicide. Dose, f g ss to f g j, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
OleoresLna cap/sici. Oleoresin of capsicum. Prepared from the fruit. 
Stimulant. Dose, to 1 Ttp, or 0.016 to 0.065 c.c. 
OleoresFna cube'bae. Oleoresin of cubeb. Prepared from the berry. 
Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 ttp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
OleoresFna lupulUni. Oleoresin of lupulin. Prepared from the powder. 
Hypnotic. Dose, I to 10 Tip, or 0.065 t0 c-c- 
OleoresPna pUperis. Oleoresin of black pepper. Prepared from the 
berries. Stimulant. Dose, % to 2 tip, or 0.016 to 0.130 c.c. 
OleoresFna zingibe'ris. Oleoresin of ginger. Stimulant. Dose, 
to 2 ttp, or 0.033 to 0.130 c.c. 
0/leum ad/ipis. Lard oil. Expressed from cold lard. 
0/leum aethe'reum. Ethereal oil. From alcohol by sulphuric acid. 
0/leum amyg/dalae ama'rae.f Oil of bitter almond. 
0/leum amyg'dalae expres/sum. Expressed oil of almonds. Laxa- 
tive. Dose, f gj to fsjiv, or 4 to 16 c.c. 
* Veratrine is an alkaloid obtained from a seed called sabadilla seed, 
f Unless otherwise expressed, these volatile oils are used as flavors. 200 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Odeum anEsi. Oil of anise. Carminative. Dose, I to 5 or 0.065 
to 0.325 c.c. 
Odeum auran/tii cordicis. Oil of orange peel. 
Odeum aurarEtii flo'rum. Oil of orange flowers. 
Odeum bergamotdse. Oil of bergamot. 
Odeum betudae volatdle. Volatile oil of betula. Substitute for oil 
of wintergreen. Alterative. Dose, I to 5 or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
0/leum cadi/num. Oil of cade. Stimulant. External use. 
Odeum cajupu/ti. Oil of cajuput. Stimulant. External use. 
Odeum cadi. Oil of caraway seed. Carminative. Dose, 1 to 5 
or 0.065 to °-325 c.c. 
Odeum caryophyldi. Oil of cloves. Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 5 or 
0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
0/leum chenopo'dii. Oil of American wormseed. Anthelmintic. 
Dose, 3 to 10 Bb, or 0.195 to 0.65 c.c. 
Odeum cinnamo'mi. Oil of cinnamon. Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 10 
or 0.065 to c.c. 
Odeum copaEbae. Oil of copaiba. Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 10 or 
0.065 t0 0.65 c.c. 
Odeum coriaiEdri. Oil of coriander seed. Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 5 
Ttb, or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
Odeum cube'bae. Oil of cubeb berries. Stimulant. Dose, 1 to 5 
or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
0/leum erigeron/tis. Oil of fleabane. Stimulant. Dose, I to 5 
or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
Odeum eucalypdi. Oil of eucalyptus. Expectorant. Dose, 1 to 10 
rtb, or 0.065 to 0-65 c.c. 
Odeum fcenic'uli. Oil of fennel seed. Carminative. Dose, 1 to 5 
or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
Odeum gaulthediae. Oil of wintergreen. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 
Tib, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Odeum gossypdi semdnis. Oil of cotton seed. For external use. GLOSSARY. 
201 
0/leum hedeo'mae. Oil of pennyroyal. Stimulant. Dose, I to 5 rtp, 
or 0.065 to 0-325 c.c. 
0/leum junip'eri. Oil of juniper berries. Diuretic. Dose, 1 to 10 Tip, 
or 0.065 to 0-65 c.c. 
0/leum lavandulae florum. Oil of lavender flowers. Stimulant. 
External use. 
0/leum limo'nis. Oil of lemon peel. 
O'leum lEni. Oil of linseed or flaxseed. External use. 
O'leum men/thae piperEtse. Oil of peppermint leaves. Carminative. 
Dose, 1 to 5 TtD, or 0.065 to °-325 c.c. 
0/leum men/thae vir/idis. Oil of spearmint leaves. Carminative. 
Dose, 1 to 5 rtp, or 0.065 t0 °-32S c.c. 
0/leum morrhu/se. Cod-liver oil. Tonic. Dose, to fg iv, or 4 to 
16 c.c. 
0/leum myr/cise. Oil of bay leaves. Stimulant. External use. 
0/leum myris/ticae. Oil of nutmeg. Sedative. Dose, 1 to 5 tip, or 
0.065 to °-325 c.c. 
0/leum oEivse. Oliveoil. Laxative. or4to 16 c.c. 
0/leum phosphora/tum. Phosphorized oil. Tonic. Dose, I to 5 tip, 
or 0.065 to °-325 c.c. One minim contains of a gr. of phosphorus. 
0/leum pi/cis liq'uidae. Oil of tar. Stimulant. External use. 
0/leum pimen/tse. Oil of allspice berry. Carminative. Dose, I to 
5 Tip, or 0.065 t0 °-32S c.c. 
0/leum ric'ini. Castor oil. Cathartic. Dose, fgj to or 4 to 
30 c.c. 
0/leum ro'sae. Oil of rose petals. 
O'leum rosmarEni. Oil of rosemary leaves. Stimulant. External use. 
0/leum sabEnse. Oil of savine. Uterine stimulant. Dose, 1 to 5 Tip, or 
0.065 t0 °-325 c.c. 
0/leum santa/li. Oil of sandalwood. Stimulant. Dose, 10 to 30 tip, 
or 0.65 to 2 c.c. HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
202 
CPleum sas'safras. Oil of sassafras bark. Stimulant. Dose, I to 5 rrp, 
or 0.065 to 0.325 c.c. 
0/leum ses/ami. Teel oil. Benne oil. Laxative. Dose, to fgiv, 
or 4 to 16 c.c. 
0/leum sina/pis volatile. Volatile oil of mustard. Rubefacient. Ex- 
ternal use. 
0/leum terebirPthinae. Oil of turpentine. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 trp, 
or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
O'leum terebirPthinae rectifica'tum. Rectified oil of turpentine. 
0/leum theobromaTis. Cacao butter. Used for making suppositories. 
O'leum thy/mi. Oil of thyme. Stimulant. Dose, I to 5 Tip, or 0.065 
to 0.325 c.c. 
O'leum tigTii. Croton oil. Violent cathartic. Poison. Dose, ]/2 to 
2 rtp, or 0.033 to °-I3 c-c- 
0/pii puFvis. Powdered opium containing 14 per cent, of morphine— 
about } of a grain of morphine to each grain of opium. Narcotic. 
Dose, l/2 to 2 grs., or 0.033 to 0.13 gm. 
CFpium. Gum opium. The concrete milk-juice from the Eastern poppy ; 
varying in the amount of alkaloid present. Narcotic. Dose, y2 to 2 
grs., or 0.033 to 0.13 gm. 
0/pium deodora'tum. Deodorized opium. Opium from which the 
narcotine has been removed. It is less nauseating than native opium. 
Narcotic. Dose, y to 2 grs., or 0.033 to 0.13 gm. 
P. 
Pancreati/num. Pancreatin. A digestive ferment from the pancreas 
of the calf. 
Paraldehy/dum. Paraldehyd. A product of the decomposition of alco- 
hol. Hypnotic. Dose, I to 3 or 0.065 to 0.195 c.c. 
ParePra. Pareira brava—root. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. GLOSSARY. 
203 
Pepo. Pumpkin seed. Tenicide. Dose, % to 2 oz., or 15 to 60 gm. 
PepsPnum. Pepsin. A digestive ferment from the stomach of the hog. 
Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
PepsPnum sacchara/tum. Saccharated pepsin. One part pepsin, ten 
parts sugar of milk. 
Petrolatum liq/uidum. Liquid petrolatum. Distilled from petroleum. 
Petrolatum molte. Soft petrolatum. Distilled from petroleum. 
Petrolatum spis'sum. Hard petrolatum. Distilled from petroleum. 
These are used as ointments, other substances being added to them for 
medication. Vaselin is similar to petroleum ; so is cosmoline. 
Phosphorus. Phosphorus. Obtained from bones. Stimulant. Dose, 
-gtj of a gr., or 0.001 gm. 
Physostig/ma. Calabar bean. Sedative. Dose, to 2 grs., or0.033 
to o. 13 gm. 
Physostigmitiae salicytas. Physostigmine salicylate. Sedative. Dose, 
Th of a gr-> or 0-0005 gm. 
PhysostigmPnae sulphas. Physostigmine sulphate. Sedative. Dose, 
rh of a gr- > or 0.0005 gm- 
Phytolac/cae fruc/tus. Poke berries. Laxative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Phytolac/cae ra/dix. Poke root. Laxative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Picrotox/inum. Picrotoxin. Active principle of fish berry. Tonic; 
antispasmodic. Dose, -fo of a gr., or 0.001 gm. 
PilocarpPnae hydrochkPras. Pilocarpine hydrochlorate. Diaphoretic. 
Dose, of a.gr., or 0.006 gm. 
Pilocarpus. Jaborandi leaves. Diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
PiPulae aPoes. Pills of aloes. Cathartic. Dose, I to 5 pills (2 grs. 
each). 
PiPulse aPoes et asafceTidse. Pills of aloes and asafetida. Cathar- 
tic ; anodyne. Dose, 1 to 5 pills. 204 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
PiPulae aPoes et fer'ri. Pills of aloes and iron. Tonic; cathartic. 
Dose, i to 3 pills. 
PiPulae al'oes et mas/tiches. Pills of aloes and mastic. Laxative. 
Dose, I to 5 pills. 
PiPulae aFoes et myr/rhae. Pills of aloes and myrrh. Stimulant; 
cathartic. Dose, I to 5 pills. 
PiPulae antimo'nii compos/itae. Compound pills of antimony. Altera- 
tive. Dose, 1 to 3 pills. 
PiPulae asafce'tidae. Pills of asafetida. Sedative. Dose, 1 to 5 
pills. 
PiPulae cathar7ticae compos'itae. Compound cathartic pills. Calomel, 
gamboge, colocynth, and jalap. Cathartic. Dose, 1 to 5 pills. 
PiPulae cathaPticae vegetables. Vegetable cathartic pills. Cathar- 
tic. Dose, I to 5 pills. 
PiPulae fePri carbona'tis. Blaud's pills. Pills of iron carbonate. 
Tonic. Dose, I to 5 pills. 
PiPulae fePri iod'idi. Pills of iron iodide. Tonic ; alterative. Dose, 
I to 3 pills. 
PiPulae o7pii. Pills of opium (1 gr). Narcotic. Dose, 1 or 2 pills. 
PiPulae phos'phori. Pills of phosphorus of a gr.). Tonic. Dose, 
I or 2 pills. 
PiPulae rhe/i. Pills of rhubarb. Cathartic; astringent. Dose, 1 to 5 
pills. 
PiPulae rhe'i compos'itae. Compound rhubarb pills. Cathartic. Dose, 
1 to 5 pills. 
PimeiPta. Allspice fruit. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0,325 
to 2 gm. 
PPper. Black pepper fruit. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
PiperFnum. Piperin. Active principle from pepper. Stimulant. Dose, 
x to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0-65 gm. 
Pix burguiPdica. Burgundy pitch. A resinous exudation. Stimulant. 
External use as a plaster. GLOSSARY. 
205 
Pix liq/uida. Tar. An oleoresin from pine wood. Stimulant. Used 
in the form of syrup of tar. 
Plum/bi ac'etas. Lead acetate. Sugar of lead. From lead by acetic 
acid. Astringent; sedative. Dose, ]/2 to 3 grs., or 0.033 to 0.195 gm- 
Plum/bi car/bonas. Lead carbonate. From lead by carbonic acid gas. 
Used externally. 
Plum'bi iod/idum. Lead iodide. From lead nitrate and potassium* 
iodid. When given internally—dose, to 3 grs., or 0.033 t0 °-195 gm- 
Plum/bi nFtras. Lead nitrate. Used for preparing the iodide. 
PlunUbi ox'idum. Lead oxide. Used for preparing lead plaster. 
PodophyFlum. Podophyllum or May apple—root. Cathartic. Dose, 
5 t0 3° grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Potas/sa. Caustic potash, Potassium hydrate. Made from potassium 
carbonate and lime. Used as a caustic. 
Potas'sa cum caFce. Potash with lime. By mixing lime and potash 
together in powder. Used as a caustic. 
Potas'sa sulphura'ta. Sulphurated potash. By heating sulphur and 
potassium carbonate. Alterative. Dose, 1 to 5 grs., or0.065 too.325 gm. 
Potas/sii ace/tas. Potassium acetate. By the action of acetic acid upon 
potassium carbonate. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 20 grs., or 0.325 to 1.3 gm. 
Potas'sii bicaUbonas. Potassium bicarbonate. By causing potassium 
carbonate, water, and carbonic acid gas to unite. Antacid. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Potas/sii bichro/mas. Potassium bichromate. Obtained from a native 
chromate of iron. Alterative. Dose, 3 of a gr., or 0.012 gm. 
Potas'sii bitar/tras. Potassium bitartrate. Cream of tartar. A product 
deposited in wine casks. Refrigerant; laxative. Dose, gj to or 
4 to 15 gm. 
Potas/sii bromFdum. Potassium bromide. By uniting the element 
bromine with potassium. Hypnotic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Potas'sii caUbonas. Potassium carbonate. Washed out from wood 
ashes. Antacid. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 0.65 gm. 206 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Potas/sii chlo/ras. Potassium chlorate. By a process which brings fresh 
chlorine gas into contact with potassium hydrate. Prophylactic. Mainly 
as a wash for the throat. 
Potas/sii cPtras. Potassium citrate. Citric acid when mixed with potas- 
sium carbonate forms potassium citrate. Diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 20 
grs., or 0.325 to 1.3 gm. 
Potas/sii cPtras efferves/cens. Effervescing potassium citrate. Potas- 
sium bicarbonate and citric acid with sugar are mixed in a dry state and, 
when thrown into water, effervesce, forming a pleasing drink. 
Potas/sii cyarPidum. Potassium cyanide. By hydrocyanic upon 
potassium carbonate, by a roundabout process. Sedative. Dose, of a 
gr., or 0.008 gm. 
Potas/sii et So'dii tar'tras. Rochelle salt. Potassium and sodium 
tartrate. By mixing cream tartar and sodium carbonate. Laxative. 
Dose, to or 4 to 15 gm. 
Potas/sii ferrocyarPidum. Potassium ferrocyanide. A compound 
combining potassium, iron, and hydrocyanic acid. Used chiefly in test- 
ing in chemic analysis. 
Potas/sii hypophos/phis. Potassium hypophosphite. By mixing potas- 
sium carbonate w’ith calcium hypophosphite, potassium hypophosphite is 
formed. Used in conjunction with other hypophosphites as an altera- 
tive in phthisis. Dose, 10 grs., or 0.65 gm. 
Potas/sii iod/idum. Potassium iodide. From iodine and potassa. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 grs. to §j, or 0.325 to 30 gm. 
Potas/sii nPtras. Potassium nitrate. Found native in the soil of East 
India. Diuretic. Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
Potas/sii perman'ganas. Potassium permanganate. Tonic. Dose, 1 
or 2 grs., or 0.065 to °-I3 gm- 
Potas/sii suPphas. Potassium sulphate. By sulphuric acid upon 
potassium carbonate. Used as a diluent for other pow'ders. 
Pru/num. Prunes—the fruit. Laxative. One of the ingredients in 
confection of senna. ' GLOSSARY. 
207 
PnPnus virginia'na. Wild cherry—bark. Sedative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
PulsatiPla. Pulsatilla—the herb. Diaphoretic. Dose, I to 3 grs., or 
0.065 to °-195 gm. 
PuPvis antimonia'lis. Antimonial powder. James’ powder. A 
mixture of antimony oxide, and calcium phosphate. Diaphoretic. 
Dose, 3 to 5 grs., or 0.195 to °-32S gm- 
PuPvis aromaPicus. Aromatic powder. Cardamom, ginger, cinna- 
mon, and nutmeg. Carminative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 
gm. 
PuPvis cre'tae compos,'itus. Compound chalk powder. Prepared 
chalk, sugar, and gum Arabic. Antacid ; astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 
grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
PuPvis efferves/cens compos'itus. Compound effervescing powder. 
Seidlitz powders. Rochelle powders. The blue paper contains 35 grs. 
of tartaric acid. The white paper contains 40 grs. of sodium bicar- 
bonate, and 120 grs. of Rochelle salt. Laxative. Dose, 2 powders in 
water. 
PuPvis glycyrrhPzae compos/itum. Compound licorice powder. 
German powder. Licorice, senna, sulphur, sugar, oil of fennel. Cathar- 
tic. Dose, 5 ss to 5 ij, or 2 to 8 gm. 
PuPvis ipecacuarPhae et CPpii. Powder of ipecac and opium. 
Dover’s powder. Anodyne; diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 
to 0.65 gm. 
PuPvis jala/pae compos/itus. Compound powder of jalap. Pulvis 
purgans. Jalap and cream of tartar. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
PuPvis morphPnae compos/itus. Compound powder of morphine. 
Tully’s powder. Morphine, camphor, licorice, chalk. Anodyne. 
Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 0.65 gm. Each grain equals of a gr. 
of morphine. 
PuPvis rhe'i compos/itus. Compound powder of rhubarb. Rhubarb, 
magnesia, and ginger. Cathartic. Dose, 10 grs. to gij, or 0.65 to 8 
gm. 208 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Pyre/thrum. Pyrethrum—root. Sialagogue. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
PyrogaPlol. Pyrogallic acid. Made by heating gallic acid. Used ex- 
ternally. 
PyroxylPnum. Pyroxylin. Soluble guncotton. By the action of nitric 
acid upon cotton. 
Quas/sia. Quassia—the wood. Bitter tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Quer'cus aPba. White oak—bark. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Quilla'ja. Quillaia—the bark. Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
QuinidPnse suPphas. Sulphate of quinidine. A cinchona alkaloid. 
Tonic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
Quini/na. Quinine. Alkaloid of Peruvian or cinchona bark. Tonic; 
antipyretic. Dose, 1 to 15 grs., or 0.065 1° 1 gm. 
QuinPnae bisuPphas. Quinine bisulphate. 
QuinPnae hydrobro/mas. Quinine hydrobromate. 
QuinPnae hydrochlo'ras. Quinine hydrochlorate. 
QuinPnae suPphas. Quinine sulphate. 
QuinPnae valeria/nas. Quinine valerianate. 
These are salts, made by combining the alkaloid quinine with the acids 
indicated in the titles,—viz., sulphuric, hydrobromic, hydrochloric, and 
valerianic. All are antipyretic, the last mentioned being also a nerve 
tonic. The doses are the same as quinine, also, with the exception of the 
last, which is I to 3 grs., or 0.065 to 0.195 gm. 
Q- 
Resi/na. Resin, or rosin. Derived from the resinous exudation of the 
Southern pine. Used in making cerates and plasters. 
R. GLOSSARY. 
209 
ResFna copaFbae. Resin of copaiba. A product derived from balsam 
of copaiba. Urethral stimulant. Dose, X to io grs., or 0.065 to 
0.65 gm. 
ResFna jala'pae. Resin of jalap. Obtained from jalap root. Cathar- 
tic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
ResFna podophyFli. Resin of podophyllum. From the root. Cathar- 
tic. Dose, y% to I gr., or 0.008 to 0.065 gm. 
Resi'na Resin of scammony. From the root. Cathartic. 
Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
ResorcFnum. Resorcin. One of the products from coal-tar. Antisep- 
tic. Dose, I to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm> 
RhanUnus purshia/na. Cascara—the bark. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Rhe/um. Rhubarb—the root. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
Rhus gla'bra. Rhus glabra. Sumac—the fruit. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Rhus toxicoden/dron. Poison ivy—the leaves. Rubefacient. External 
use. 
Ror sa centifo'lia. Pale rose. Used to flavor confections. 
Ro/ sa gaUlica. Red rose. Used in confections. 
Ru/bus. Blackberry—bark of root. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Ru/bus idae/us. Raspberry fruit. Used in form of syrup as a flavor. 
Yellow dock—root. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
S. 
SabFna. Savine—leaves. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Sac/charum. Sugar. The refined product of the sugar-cane. 210 
Sac'charum lac'dis. Sugar of milk. Evaporating whey and allowing 
it to crystallize. Used as a diluent for other substances. 
SalicUnum. Salicin. A glucoside obtained from the willow. Tonic. 
Dose, I to io grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Sa'lol. Salol. One of the coal-tar products. Antiseptic. Dose, 1 to 
10 grs., or 0.065 to °-65 gm. 
SaUvia. Sage—leaves. Astringent. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Sambu/cus. Elder—the flowers. Diaphoretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Sanguina/ria. Bloodroot. Emetic; expectorant. Dose, 5 grs. to 3ss, 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
SaiUtalum ru/brum. Red saunders—the wood. Used as a color. 
Santon'ica. Levant wormseed. Anthelmintic. Dose, 5 grs. to g ss, or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
SantonUnum. Santonin. An active principle from wormseed. Anthel- 
mintic. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 0.065 to 0.195 gm. 
Sarpo. Soap—white Castile. A compound made from olive oil and soda. 
Used as a detergent. 
Sa7po moUlis. Soft soap. Green soap. Made from various oils and 
potassa. Detergent. 
SarsapariLla. Sarsaparilla—root. Alterative. Dose, 5 grs. to 3 ss, or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Sas/safras. Sassafras—bark of root. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Sassafras meduUla. Sassafras-pith. Emollient. Used in eye- 
washes. 
Scammo/nium. Scammony, a resin. Cathartic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
SciUla. Squill—the bulb. Expectorant. Dose, I to 3 grs., or 0.065 to 
0.195 gm. 
Scopa'rius. Broom-tops. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 
gm. 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. glossary. 
211 
Scutellaria. Scullcap—the herb. Antispasraodic. Dose, 5 grs. to gss, 
or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Sen/ega. Senega—root. Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Sen/na. Senna—leaves. Cathartic. Dose, 5 grs. to gss, or 0.325 to 2 
gm. 
Serpenta/ria. Virginia snakeroot. Tonic. Dose, 5 grs. to Q iss, or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Se/vum. Suet from the sheep. Used in ointments. 
Sina'pis aUba. White mustard-seed. 
Sina/pis nUgra. Black mustard-seed. Emetic in form of powder mixed 
with water to form a cream, and given until vomiting occurs. Exter- 
nally in the form of plaster or poultice as an irritant or vesicant. 
SoMa. Soda; caustic soda. Used as a caustic. 
So/dii ac/etas. Sodium acetate. Formed when sodium carbonate and 
acetic acid are brought together. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
So/dii aUsenas. Sodium arsenate. By bringing together sodium bi- 
carbonate and white arsenic. Alterative. Dose, to of a gr., or 
0.003 to 0.008 gm. 
So/dii berUzoas. Sodium benzoate. Action of benzoic acid upon so- 
dium carbonate. Alterative; diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
So/dii bicaUbonas. Sodium bicarbonate. By injecting carbonic acid 
gas into a solution of sodium carbonate. Antacid. Dose, 5 grs. to gj, 
or 0.325 to 4 gm. 
So'dii bisuDphis. Sodium bisulphite. Sulphurous acid forms it when 
brought into contact with sodium bicarbonate. Antiseptic ; prophylactic. 
Dose, 5 grs. to gss, or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
So/dii bo'ras. Sodium borate. Borax. Found native in California and 
Southern Europe. Antacid; diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
212 
So'dii bromi/dum. Sodium bromide. By acting upon hydrobromic acid 
with sodium carbonate. Hypnotic. Dose, 5 1° 3° grs-j or °-325 t° 
2 gm. 
So'dii caUbonas. Sodium carbonate. From common salt by a compli- 
cated process involving the use of sulphuric acid and coal. Antacid. 
Dose, 5 grs. to gss, or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
So'dii car'bonas exsicca/tus. Dried sodium carbonate. 
So'dii chlo'ras. Sodium chlorate. From sodium tartrate and potassium 
chlorate. Prophylactic. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to gm- 
So/dii chlorFdum. Sodium chloride. From sea-water. 
So'dii hypophos'phis. Sodium hypophosphite. Tonic in lung troubles. 
Dose, 5 to 15 grs., or 0.325 to r gm. 
So/dii hyposuUphis. Sodium hyposulphite. Alterative; antiseptic. 
Dose, 5 to 15 grs., or 0.325 to 1 gm.* 
So'dii iod/idum. Sodium iodide. By acting upon soda with iodine. 
Alterative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
So/dii nFtras. Sodium nitrate. Found native in South America. Altera- 
tive. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
So/dii nFtris. Sodium nitrite. Used in preparing spirit of niter. 
So'dii phos'phas. Sodium phosphate. From bone-ash and sodium car- 
bonate. Cathartic. Dose, or more, or 4 gm. or more. 
So/dii pyrophos/phas. Sodium pyrophosphate. Used for chemic 
purposes. 
So'dii salicyUas. Sodium salicylate. By acting upon sodium carbonate 
with salicylic acid. Alterative in rheumatism. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
So/dii suUphas. Sodium sulphate. Glauber’s salt. It is a by-product 
in the making of hydrochloric acid. Cathartic. Dose, to gj, or 4 
to 30 gm. 
* Whenever, as in these two cases, the statement as to the origin is 
omitted, it is on account of the complication of the process. GLOSSARY. 
213 
So/dii suFphis. Sodium sulphite. By the action of sodium carbonate 
and sulphurous acid. Prophylactic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
SparteFnae suPphas. Sparteine sulphate. An alkaloid from the broom. 
Diuretic. Dose, )/% to 1 gr., or 0.008 to 0.065 gm- 
Spige'lia. Pinkroot—root. Vermifuge. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Spir'itus setheVis. Spirit of ether. A mixture of ether and alcohol. 
Stimulant. Dose, 10 to 20 or 0.65 to 1.3 c.c. 
Spir'itus aethe/ris compos'itus. Hoffman’s anodyne, or compound 
spirit of ether. Anodyne. Dose, 10 to 60 or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
Spir/itus aethe/ris nitro'si. Sweet spirit of niter, or spirit of nitrous 
ether. Diuretic ; diaphoretic. Dose, 15 to gij, or X to 8 c.c. 
Spir/itus ammo'niae. Spirit of ammonia. A 10 per cent, alcoholic 
solution of ammonia gas. Stimulant. 0056,10103011^,0x0.651020.0. 
SpiUitus ammo'Dise aromaPicus. Aromatic spirit of ammonia. 
Flavored with oil of lemon, lavender, and nutmeg. Stimulant. Dose, 
yz to 3 ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Spir/itus amyg/dalae ama/rae. Spirit of bitter almond. Used as a 
flavor. 
SpiUitus anPsi. Spirit of anise. Carminative. Dose, 10 to f3 j, or 
0.65 to 4 c.c. 
SpiPitus auraiPtii. Spirit of orange. Used as a flavor. 
SpiPitus auran'tii compos'itus. Compound spirit of orange Oil of 
orange, lemon, anise, and coriander with alcohol. Used as a flavor. 
SpiPitus canPphorse. Spirit of camphor. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 
rru, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
SpiPitus chlorofoPmi. Spirit of chloroform. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 
60 TTL, or 0.325 to 4 c.c. 
SpiPitus cinnamo/mi. Spirit of cinnamon. Carminative. Dose, 15 
to f3 ij, or 1 to 8 c.c.| 
SpiPitus frumeiPti. Whisky. Stimulant. Dose, fgj to f^ij, or 4 to 
60 c.c. 214 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Spir/itus gaultheTiae. Spirit of wintergreen. Carminative ; antiseptic. 
Dose, to ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Spir/itus glonoDni. Spirit of glonoin. Spirit of nitroglycerin (1 per 
cent.). Stimulant. Dose, I 1TL, or 0.065 c.c. 
SpiUitus junip'eri. Spirit of juniper. Diuretic. Dose, 15 to 60 m_, 
or I to 4 c.c. 
SpiUitus junip/eri compos/itus. Compound spirit of juniper. Oil 
juniper, oil caraway, oil fennel seed. Diuretic. Dose, 15 to 60 or 
1 to 4 c.c. 
SpiCitus lavan'dulae. Spirit of lavender. Stimulant. Externally as 
lotion. 
Spir/itus limoiUis. Spirit of lemon. Used as a flavor. 
SpiUitus men/thae pipeUitae. Spirit of peppermint. Carminative. 
Dose, 3ss to gj, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Spir'itus men/thae vir'idis. Spirit of spearmint. Carminative. Dose, 
£ss to or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Spir'itus myUciae. Bay rum. External stimulant. 
Spir/itus myris/ticae. Spirit of nutmeg. Used as a flavor. 
SpiUitus phos/phori. Spirit of phosphorus. For making the elixir. 
SpiUitus vi/ni gaUlici. Spirit of French wine or brandy. Stimulant. 
Staphisa/gria. Stavesacre ; larkspur seed. Used externally to destroy 
lice, etc. 
Stillin/gia. Queensroot. Alterative. Dose, 5 grs. to 3 ss, or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Stramo'nii fo/lia. Stramonium leaves. Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., 
or 0.065 to °- J95 gm. 
Stramo/nii se'men. Stramonium seed. Narcotic. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., 
or 0.065 to 0.195 gm. 
Stron/tii bromi/dum. Strontium bromid. The salt formed by the 
action when hydrobromic acid and strontium carbonate are brought 
together. Sedative. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 0.65 gm. GLOSSARY. 
215 
Stron/tii iod/idum. Strontium iodid. The strontium carbonate with 
hydriodic acid gives the iodid. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 
0.325 to 0.650 gm. 
Stron/tii lac/tas. Strontium lactate. Lactic acid with strontium car- 
bonate yields the lactate. Alterative. Dose, 5 to 10 grs., or 0.325 to 
0.65 gm. 
Strophan'thus. Strophanthus seed. Heart stimulant. Dose, 1 to 3 
grs., or 0.065 to 0.195 gm- 
StrychnFna. Strychnine. Insoluble, and therefore little used. The 
alkaloid from nux vomica seeds. 
StrychnFnae suFphas. Strychnine sulphate. Sulphuric acid and 
strychnine unite and yield strychnine sulphate. Tonic. Dose, -fa to 
fa of a gr., or 0.001 to 0.003 gm-* 
Sty/rax. Storax. A resinous substance from a tropical tree. Stimulant. 
Used in the form of tincture. 
SulphuTis iod/idum. Sulphur iodid. By melting together sulphur 
and iodin. Alterative. Dose, I to 5 grs., or 0.065 to 0.325 gm. 
Sul'phur loTum. Washed sulphur. 
SuFphur praecipita/tum. Precipitated sulphur. 
SuFphur sublima/tum. Sublimed sulphur. These three are different 
forms of the same thing. Alterative. Dose, gssto or 2 to 15 
gm. 
Sum'bul. Sumbul or musk-root. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
SuppositoTia. Suppositories. Any substance mixed with melted cocoa 
butter, run into suitably-shaped molds and cooled. They are formed 
for insertion into the rectum and the male and female urethra. 
SuppositoTia glycerFni. Glycerin suppositories. 
Syru/pus. Syrup. Sugar dissolved in water. 
* In stating the doses of poisons it is customary to give the largest safe 
dose. When the case can be watched by the physician, much larger 
doses may be and are given. But in stating a dose, caution must be 
observed. 216 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
SynUpus aca'ciae. Syrup of gum arabic. By mixing mucilage and 
syrup together. Demulcent. Used as a vehicle. 
Syru/pus ac'idi cDtrici. Syrup of citric acid. A mixture of citric acid, 
essence of lemon, and syrup, designed to take the place of syrup of lemon 
as a flavor. 
Syru'pus ac'idi hydriod/ici. Syrup of hydriodic acid.* Alterative. 
Dose, 30 to 60 TTD, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus aUlii. Syrup of garlic. Expectorant. Dose, fg ss to fg ij, or 
2 to 4 c. c. 
Syru/pus aUtheae. Syrup of marshmallow. Sugar is dissolved in an 
infusion of the root. Used as a vehicle for other things. 
Syru/pus amyg/dalse. Syrup of almond. A mixture of bruised al- 
monds, water, and sugar. Used as a vehicle. 
Syru'pus auran'tii. Syrup of orange. A mixture of the tincture of 
orange peel and syrup. Used as a vehicle. 
SynUpus auran'tii Bo'rum. Syrup of orange flower. Distilled orange- 
flower water and sugar. 
Syru/pus caUcii lactophospha/tis. Syrup of lactophosphate of lime. 
Tonic. Dose, to fgij, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus caUcis. Syrup of lime. Antacid. Dose, to or 2 
to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus fer'ri iod/idi. Syrup of ferrous iodid. Tonic; alterative. 
Dose, 10 hb to gj, or 0.650 to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus ferTi quinDnae et strychnUnae phospha'tum. Syrup of 
phosphate of iron, quinine, and strychnine. Tonic. Dose, to fgj, 
or 2 to 4 c.c. fgj = about fa of a gr. of strychnia. 
Syru'pus hypophosphUtum. Syrup of hypophosphites. Tonic. Dose, 
f3ss to f3 ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Syru'pus ipecacuan'hae. Syrup of ipecac. Expectorant. Dose, 5 to 
30 TTb, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
* When the ingredients are not further indicated, the title itself serves 
that purpose. As here, a mixture of the substance named, with syrup. GLOSSARY. 
217 
Syru/pus krame/rise. Syrup of rhatany. The tincture is added to 
syrup. Astringent. Dose, fgss to fg ij, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Syru/pus lactuca'rii. Syrup of lactucarium. From the tincture with 
syrup. Sedative. Dose, f £ss to fg ij, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus pi'cis liq'uidae. Syrup of tar. Stimulant. Dose, fgss to 
fg ij, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus pru'ni virginia'nse. Syrup of wild cherry bark. Made by 
adding the infusion to syrup and glycerin. Sedative. Dose, 3 ss to 
or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Syru/pus rhe'i. Syrup of rhubarb. The fluid extract is added to simple 
syrup. Cathartic. Dose, gj to sjiv, or 4 to 15 c.c. 
Syru'pus rhe'i aromat'icus. Aromatic syrup of rhubarb. The tinc- 
ture is added to simple syrup. Cathartic. Dose, g ss to g iv, or 2 to 15 
c.c. 
Syru'pus ro'sae. Syrup of rose. Flavor. 
Syru'pus ru'bi. Syrup of blackberry. The fluid extract added to syrup. 
Astringent. Dose, gj to giv, or 4 to 15 c.c. 
Syru'pus ru'bi i'daei. Syrup of raspberry. Used as a flavor. 
Syru'pus sarsaparil'lse compos'itus. Compound syrup of sarsapar- 
illa. Fluid extract is added to syrup. Alterative. Dose, gj to g iv, or 
4 to 15 c.c. 
Syru'pus scil'lae. Syrup of squill. The vinegar of squill with sugar. 
Expectorant. Dose, g ss to g j, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus scil'lae compos'itus. Compound syrup of squill. Fluid 
extract of squill, senega, and tartar emetic with syrup. Expectorant. 
Dose, g ss to g j, or 2 to 4 c.c. One fg = 1 gr. of tartar emetic. 
Syru'pus sen'egae. Syrup of senega. The fluid extract is added to 
syrup. Expectorant. Dose, g ss to gj, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Syru'pus sen'nae. Syrup of senna. The infusion with sugar and 
aromatics. Cathartic. Dose, g j to g iv, or 2 to 15 c.c. 
Syru'pus toluta'nus. Syrup of tolu. The tincture with sugar and 
water. Vehicle for other things. 218 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
SyriDpus zingib/eris. Syrup of ginger. The tincture with sugar and 
water. Carminative. 
T. 
Tab/acum. Tobacco leaves. Used chiefly as a poultice. 
TamariiUdus. Tamarind—the pulp. Laxative. Dose, gj to 3 iv, or 
4 to 15 gm. 
TanaceTum. Tansy—the leaves. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Tarax/acum. Dandelion—the root. Laxative. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
Terebe/num. Terebene. A fluid made from turpentine. Expectorant. 
Dose, 1 to 10 TT, or 0.065 to c.c. 
TerebirUthina. Turpentine. An exudation from the pine tree. Used 
for the preparation of spirit of turpentine. 
TerebirUthina canaderUsis. Canada turpentine. Balsam of fir. A 
natural exudation from a species of fir tree. 
TeUpini hy'dras. Terpene hydrate. A crystalline substance made 
from turpentine. Expectorant. Dose, 1 to 10 grs., or 0.065 to 0.65 gm. 
Thy/mol. Thymol. Obtained from the herb, thyme. Used in anti- 
septic washes. 
Tinctu/ra aconUti. Tincture of aconite. Sedative. Dose, 1 to 5 
or 0.65 to 0.325 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra aUoes. Tincture of aloes. Cathartic. Dose, 3j to 3D, or 
2 to 15 c.c. 
TinctrUra aUoes et myrrh/se. Tincture of aloes and myrrh. Stimu- 
lant ; cathartic. Dose, 3 ss to 3ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra aUnicae flo/rum. Tincture of arnica flowers. Used exter- 
nally for bruises, etc. 
Tinctu/ra aUnicae raMicis. Tincture of arnica root. Stimulant. 
Dose, 10 to 30 TT, or 0.65 to 2 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra asafce'tidae. Tincture of asafoetida. Nervine. Dose, f3 j 
to f 3 ij, or 4 to 8 c.c. GLOSSARY. 
219 
Tinctu/ra auran/tii arma/ri. Tincture of bitter orange. Used as a 
flavor. 
TinctuTa auranTii duUcis. Tincture of sweet orange-peel. Used for 
flavoring purposes. 
TinctuTa belladonTise folioTum. Tincture of belladonna leaves. 
Narcotic; antispasmodic. Dose, 5 to 30 trp, or 0.325 to 1 c.c. 
TinctiUra benzoin'i. Tincture of benzoin. Stimulant. Dose, 10 to 30 
tip, or 0.65 to 2 c.c. 
TinctuTa benzoinT compos'ita. Compound tincture of benzoin. 
Stimulant. Dose, 15 to 60 tip, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra bryoTiise. Tincture of bryony. Cathariic. Dose, g j to gi], 
or 4 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa calendulas. Tincture of calendula. Stimulant. Dose, 5 
to 30 Tip, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
TinctuTa caluirFbae. Tincture of columbo. Tonic. Dose, 10 tip to 
5j, or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
TinctuTa can/nabis in/dicae. Tincture of cannabis. Narcotic. Dose, 
5 to 20 rrp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra canthar'idis. Tincture of cantharides. Vesicant. Used 
externally. Uterine stimulant. Dose, 1 to 10 tip, or 0.065 t0 c c- 
TinctuTa cap'sici. Tincture of capsicum. Stimulant. Dose, 10 to 
60 tip, or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra cardamo/mi. Tincture of cardamom. Carminative. Dose, 
g ss to gj, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra cardamo/mi compos'ita. Compound tincture of cardamom. 
Carminative. Dose, fg] to fgij, or 4 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra cat/echu compos/ita. Compound tincture of catechu. 
Astringent. Dose, g ss to g ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa chira/tse. Tincture of chiretta. Tonic. Dose, 30 tip to g ij, 
or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa cimiciFugae. Tincture of cimicifuga. Alterative. Dose, 
60 tip to f g ij, or 4 to 8 c.c. 220 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
Tinctu'ra cincho'nae. Tincture of cinchona. Tonic. Dose, to 
g ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa cincho/nae compos'itae. Compound tincture of cinchona. 
Bitter tonic. Dose, gj to g ij, or 4 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa cinnamo/mi. Tincture of cinnamon. Stimulant. Dose, g ss 
to gj, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
TinctuTa coFchici serrCinis. Tincture of colchicum seed. Alterative. 
Dose, 10 to 60 n\,, or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra cro'ci. Tincture of saffron. Emmenagogue. Dose, g ss to 
g ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa cube'bae. Tincture of cubeb. Stimulant; expectorant. 
Dose, g ss to g ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa digitalis. Tincture of digitalis. Heart stimulant. Dose, 5 
to 15 irp, or 0.325 to 1 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra herba/rum recen/tium. Tincture of fresh herbs. There 
are none official. The typical formula is ten parts of drug to loo parts 
of strong alcohol. They are used to supersede the homeopathic mother 
tinctures. 
TinctuTa fer'ri chlo'ridi. Tincture of chlorid of iron. Tincture of 
sesqui-chlorid of iron. Tonic. Dose, 5 to 30 TrL> or °-325 to 2 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra gaElae. Tincture of nutgall. Astringent. Dose, gssto g), 
or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra gelsem/ii. Tincture of gelsemium. Antispasmodic. Dose, 
5 to 15 rrp, or 0.325 to 1 c.c. 
TinctuTa gentia/nae compos'ita. Compound tincture of gentian. 
Tonic. Dose, gss to gij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa guaia'ci. Tincture of guaiac. Stimulant. Dose, 
or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra guaia'ci ammoniada. Ammoniated tincture of guaiacum. 
Stimulant. Dose, g ss to gj, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
TinctuTa hu'muli. Tincture of hops. Sedative. Dose, gj to 
or 4 to 15 c.c. GLOSSARY. 
221 
Tinctu/ra hydras/tis. Tincture of golden seal. Tonic; cathartic. 
Dose 30 rr to 3 j, or 2 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra hyoscy/ami. Tincture of hyoscyamus. Tincture of henbane. 
Hypnotic. Dose, 5 to 15 Rb, or 0.325 to 1 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra io7di. Tincture of iodin. Used externally. 
Tinctu/ra ipecacuan'hse et o/pii. Tincture of ipecac and opium. 
Anodyne ; diaphoretic. Dose, I to 10 Rb, or 0.065 to 0.65 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra ki/no. Tincture of kino. Astringent. Dose, gssto gij, or 
2 to S c.c. 
Tinctu/ra krame/riae. Tincture of rhatany. Astringent. Dose, g ss to 
3ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra lactuca/rii. Tincture of lactucarium. Sedative. Dose, 10 
to 60 ttl, or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra lavan'dulae compos'ita. Compound tincture of lavender. 
Stimulant. Dose, f3ss to fgij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra lobe'lise. Tincture of lobelia. Emetic. Dose, 10 to 60 Rb, 
or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra maUico. Tincture of matico. Urethral stimulant. Dose, 
3 ss to 3 ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra mos/chi. Tincture of musk. Antispasmodic. Dose, gss 
to 3 ij, or 2 fo 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa myrUhae. Tincture of myrrh. Stimulant. Dose, 10 to 
60 Rb, or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
TinctuTa nu/cis vom/icae. Tincture of nux vomica. Tonic. Dose, 
5 to 20 Rb, or 0.325 to 1.3 c.c. 
TinctuTa o/pii. Tincture of opium. Narcotic. Dose, 10 Rb, or 0.65 
c.c., equaling I gr., or 0.065 gm- °f opium. 
Tinctu'ra o/pii camphora/ta. Paregoric; camphorated tincture of opium. 
Sedative. Dose, 10 Rb to 3 j, or 0.65 to 4 c.c.; 3 j, or 4 c.c. — % gr., 
or 0.016 gm. of opium. 
Tinctu/ra o/pii deodora'ti. Deodorized tincture of opium. Narcotic. 
Dose, 10 or 0.65 c.c. 222 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MED1CA. 
Tinctu/ra physostigma'tis. Tincture of physostigma. Sedative. 
Dose, 5 to io rq, or 0.325 to 0.65 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra pyre/thri. Tincture pellitory. Sialagogue. Used chiefly 
externally. 
TinctiVra quas/siae. Tincture of quassia. Tonic. Dose, 3 ss to gij, 
or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctuTa Tincture of quillaja or soap bark. Stimulant. 
Dose, 10 to 30 rq, or 0.65 to 2 c.c. 
TinctuTa Tincture of rhubarb. Cathartic. Dose, 3] to 3 iv, 
or 4 to 15 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra rhe/i aromaTica. Aromatic tincture of rhubarb. Cathartic. 
Dose, 5J j to 3 iv, or 4 to 15 c.c. 
TinctuTa rhe'i duDcis. Sweet tincture of rhubarb. Cathartic. Dose, 
3 j to 3 iv, or 4 to 15 c. c. 
TinctuTa sanguina'riae. Tincture of blood-root. Expectorant. Dose, 
10 to 30 rq, or 0.65 to 2 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra sciUlse. Tincture of squill. Emetic; expectorant. Dose, 
5 to 30 rq, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra serpenta/riae. Tincture of Virginia snakeroot. Alterative. 
Dose, 3 ss to 3 ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
TinctiVra stramo'nii sem/inis. Tincture of stramonium seed. Nar- 
cotic. Dose, 5 to 10 rq, or 0.325 to 0.65 c.c. 
TinctuTa strophanThi. Tincture of strophanthus. Stimulant. Dose, 
1 to 10 tq, or 0.065 t0 °-65 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra sumbul. Tincture of sumbul. Antispasmodic. Dose, 10 to 
60 rq, or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra toluta/na. Tincture of tolu. Used chiefly as an aromatic. 
TinctuTa valeria/nae. Tincture of valerian. Stimulant. Dose, fgss 
to fgij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctu/ra valeria/nae ammoniada. Ammoniated tincture of valerian. 
Stimulant. Dose, to ij, or 2 to 8 c.c. 
Tinctu'ra vaniUlae. Tincture of vanilla. Used as a flavor for other 
medicines. GLOSSARY. 
223 
Tinctu/ra vera'tr vi/ridis. Tincture of veratrura viride. Sedative. 
Dose, i to 5 lip, or 0.065 to °-325 c-c- 
TinctuTa zingib/eris. Tincture of ginger. Stimulant. Dose, 10 to 
60 Tip, or 0.65 to 4 c.c. 
Tragacan/tha. Tragacanth. A gum used for preparing demulcent 
drinks. 
TriPicum. Couch-grass. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. 
Trituratio'nes. Triturations. Powders, prepared by rubbing in a 
mortar nine parts of sugar of milk with one part of medicinal substance. 
Tritura'tio elaterPni. Trituration of elaterin. Cathartic. Dose, yz 
gr., or 0.033 gm. 
Trochis'ci ac'idi tarPnici. Tannic acid troches. Astringent in throat 
troubles. 
Trochis/ci ammo/nii chloTidi. Chlorid of ammonium troches. Stim- 
ulant in throat and lung troubles. 
Trochis/ci caPechu. Catechu troches. Astringent. 
Trochis/ci cre/tae. Chalk troches. Antacid. 
Trochis/ci cube'bae. Cubeb troches. Expectorant. 
Trochis/ci fer/ri. Iron troches. Tonic. 
Trochis/ci glycyrrhPzae et Licorice and opium troches. Seda- 
tive ; expectorant. Each contains of a grain of opium. 
Trochis/ci ipecacuarPhae. Ipecac troches. Expectorant. 
Trochis/ci krame'riae. Krameria troches. Astringent. 
Trochis/ci men/thae piperPtse. Peppermint troches. Carminative. 
Trochis/ci morphPnse et ipecacuarPhae. Morphin and ipecac troches. 
Anodyne ; expectorant. Each contains of a grain of morphin. 
Trochis/ci potas'sii chlora'tis. Potassium chlorate troches. Antiseptic 
in throat troubles. 
Trochis/ci santonPni. Santonin troches. Vermifuge. 
Trochis/ci so'dii bicarbona/tis. Sodium bicarbonate troches. Antacid. 
Trochis/ci zingib/eris. Ginger troches. Carminative. 224 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
u. 
Ul'mus. Elm-bark. Used for demulcent drink. 
Unguen/tum. Ointment. Lard and yellow wax. 
Unguen/tum ac'idi carboEici. Carbolic acid ointment. Five per 
cent, of carbolic acid with ointment. 
UnguenTum ac'idi tarEnici. Tannic acid ointment. Twenty per 
cent, of tannic acid. 
UngueiEtum a/quse ro'sse. Rose-water ointment, or cold cream. 
White wax, spermaceti, oil of almonds, rose-water, and borax. 
UnguerEtum belladoiEnae. Belladonna ointment. Ten per cent, of 
extract of belladonna. 
UngueiEtum chrysaro/bini. Chrysarobin ointment. Five per cent, of 
chrysarobin. 
UngueiEtum diachylon. Diachylon ointment. Lead plaster, olive 
oil, and oil of lavender. 
Unguen/tum gaElae. Nutgall ointment. Twenty per cent, of powdered 
nutgalls. 
UnguenTum hydrar/gyri. Mercurial or blue ointment. Mercury, 
mercury oleate, lard, and suet. Fifty per cent, of mercury. 
hydrar/gyri ammonia/ti. Ammoniated mercury oint- 
ment. Ten per cent, of ammoniated mercury. 
UnguenTum hydrar'gyri nitraTis. Nitrate of mercury ointment. 
Mercury, nitric acid, lard oil. 
UnguenTum hydrar/gyri ox7idi fla'vi. Yellow oxid of mercury 
ointment. Ten per cent, of yellow oxid of mercury. 
UnguenTum hydraUgyri ox'idi ru/bri. Red oxid of mercury oint- 
ment. Ten per cent, of red oxid of mercury. 
Unguen/tum io'di. Iodin ointment. Four per cent, of iodin, one per 
cent, of potassium iodid. 
Unguen'tum iodofoEmi. Iodoform ointment. Ten per cent, iodoform. 
UnguenTum pEcis liq/uidae. Tar ointment. Fifty per cent, of tar. GLOSSARY. 
225 
Unguen'tum plum/bi caHbonatis. Carbonate of lead ointment. Ten 
per cent, of lead carbonate. 
Unguen/tum plum/bi iod/idi. Lead iodid ointment. Ten per cent, 
of lead iodid. 
Unguendum potas'sii iod/idi. Potassium iodid ointment. Twelve per 
cent, of potassium iodid. 
Unguen'tum stramo/nii. Stramonium ointment. Ten per cent, of 
the extract of stramonium. 
Unguen'tum sulphu/ris. Sulphur ointment. Thirty per cent, of sulphur. 
Unguendum veratrPnae. Veratrine ointment. Four per cent, of vera- 
trine. 
Unguendum zin/ci ox/idi. Zinc oxid ointment. Twenty per cent, of 
zinc oxid. 
U' va ur/si. Bearberry leaves. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 
to 2 gm. 
Valeria/na. Valerian root. Nerve stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
VaniPla. Vanilla bean. Flavor. 
VeratrFna. Veratrine. An alkaloid from sabadilla seed. Heart 
depressant. Dose, fa to of a grain, or 0.002 to 0.006 gm. 
Vera/trum vFride. American hellebore root. Depressant. Dose, 1 to 
3 grs., or 0.065 1° °-i95 gm- 
VibuHnum Cramp-bark. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
VibuHnum prunifo'lium. Black haw. Tonic; diuretic. Dose, 5 to 
30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
VPnum akbum. Sherry-wine. The fermented juice of the grape-pulp. 
Vknum antimo/nii. Wine of antimony. Expectorant. Dose, 10 to 30 
or 0.65 to 2 c.c. 
VPnum colchFci ra/dicis. Wine of colchicum root. Alterative in 
rheumatism. Dose, 5 to 15 Ttp, or 0.325 to 1 c.c. 
V. 226 
HANDBOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 
VFnum colchPci senUinis. Wine of colchicum seed. Alterative. 
Dose, 5 to 30 rtp, or 0.325 to 2 c.c. 
VFnum ergo/tae. Wine of ergot. Uterine stimulant. Dose, g] to giij, 
or 4 to 12 c.c. 
Vi/num feUri ama/rum. Bitter wine of iron. Tonic. Dose, to g ij> 
or 4 to 8 c.c. 
Vi/num fer'ri citra/tis. Wine of iron. Hematic. Dose, gj to g ij, 
or 4 to 8 c.c. 
VFnum ipecacuan'hae. Wine of ipecac. Emetic. Dose, gssto g ij, 
or 2 to 8 c.c. 
VUnum o'pii. Wine of opium. Narcotic. Dose, 10 ITU or 0.65 c.c., 
equaling 1 gr., or 0.065 gm- 
Wnum ru/brum. Red wine. Fermented juice of grape-pulp and skin. 
ViteUlus. Yolk of egg. Used to form emulsions with oils. 
X. 
Xanthox'ylum. Prickly ash bark. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 
0.325 to 2 gm. 
z. 
Zera. Corn silk. Diuretic. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 2 gm. 
Zin'ci ac'etas. Zinc acetate. Formed by acting upon zinc with acetic 
acid. Astringent. Dose, ]/2 to 2 grs., or 0.033 to 0.13 gm- 
Zin/ci bromFdum. Zinc bromid. By combining zinc oxid with 
hydrobromic acid. Sedative. Dose, 1 to 2 grs., or 0.065 to °-13 gm- 
Zin/ci ca 7bonas praecipita'tus. Precipitated zinc carbonate. By 
reaction between zinc sulphate and sodium carbonate. Used externally 
as ointment. 
ZirFci chlo'ridum. Zinc chlorid. By acting upon zinc with hydro- 
chloric acid. Used as an escharotic. 
Zin/ci iod/idum. Zinc iodid. Alterative. Dose, y2 to 2 grs., or 
0.033 to 0.13 gm. GLOSSARY. 
227 
Zin'ci ox'idum. Zinc oxid. By burning zinc. External; astringent. 
Zin'ci phos'phidum. Zinc phosphid. Nerve-tonic. Dose, to 
of a grain, or 0.004 to 0.033 gm- 
Zin/ci sul'phas. Zinc sulphate. Astringent. Dose, 1 to 3 grs., or 
0.065 to 0-195 gm- Emetic. Dose, 10 to 60 grs., or 0.65 to 4 gm. 
Zinc'd valeria'nas. Zinc valerianate. Nerve-tonic. Dose, y2 to 2 grs., 
or 0.033 to °- x3 gm- 
Zin'cum. Zinc. For preparing zinc salts. 
Zin/giber. Ginger root. Stimulant. Dose, 5 to 30 grs., or 0.325 to 
2 gm. INDEX. 
A. 
Accurate graduates, 15 
Aceta, 68 
Acetanilid, 120 
Acetic acid, 87 
how obtained, 117 
Acids defined, 87 
Acidum aceticum, 87 
arsenosum, 87 
boricum, 88 
carbolicum, 118 
citricum, 88 
hydriodicum, 88 
hydrocyanicum, 88 
lacticum, 141 
nitricum, 89 
oxalicum, 89 
sulphuricum, 89 
tannicum, 89 
tartaricum, 89 
Aconitine, 136 
Alcohol, absolute, 124 
deodorized, 124 
diluted, 125 
formation of, 124 
Alkali metals, 91 
properties of, 91 
Alkalies, 91 
Alkaline earths, 91 
Alkaloids, 134 
notes on, 135 
Alteratives, 27, 108 
Aluminum, 97 
salts, list of, 97 
Ammonium, source of, 92 
Amorphous, definition of, 89 
powder, 101 
Amyl, 123 
nitrite, 126 
Analgesics, 121 
Anaphrodisiacs, 107 
Anesthetics, 28 
Animal drugs, 138 
Antidotes, 158 
chemic, 159 
physiologic, 159 
stimulating, 160 
Antifebrin, 120 
Antimony, 104 
and potassium tartrate, 104 
Antipyretics, 28 
Antipyrin, 120 
Antiseptics, no 
Antispasmodics, 30, 107 
Apomorphine, 135 
Apothecaries’ weight, 12 
Approximate measures, 15 
Approximates of household meas- 
ures in cubic centimeters, 22 
Aqueous preparations, 34 
Arsenic, 102 
acid, 87 
antidote for, 161 
Arsenical antidote, 1x2 
poisons, list of, 161 
229 230 
INDEX. 
Arsenical solutions, strength of, 103 
Astringents, 27 
Atoms, 82 
Atropine, 136 
Avoirdupois weight, 12 
B. 
Barks, 27 
Benzo-beta-naphtol, 120 
Beta-naphtol, 120 
Bicarbonates, 107 
Bichlorid of mercury, 100, III 
soap, 133 
Biniodid of mercury, 102 
Bismuth, 103 
salicylate, 103 
salts, 103 
subcarbonate, 103 
subgallate, 103 
subiodid, 103 
subnitrate, 103 
Blaud’s pills, improved, 72 
Blister of Spanish fly, 141 
Blue mass, 99 
Borates, 88 
Brandy, formation of, 123 
Bromids, 106 
C. 
Caffeine, 135 
Calcium, 94 
chlorid, 95 
Calomel, 100, 112 
Calx chlorata, 96 
Cantharidal collodion, 141 
Cantharis, 141 
Carbolic acid, 118 
Carbonates, 95, 107 
Carminatives, 27 
Cathartics, 26 
Caustic potash, 99 
silver, 99 
soda, 99 
zinc, 99 
Centigrade thermometer, 145 
Centimeter, definition of, 18, 19 
Cera alba, 142 
flava, 142 
Cetaceum, 140 
Chemical force, 81 
formulae, 88 
Chemicals, organic and inorganic, 
84 
Chemistry, 81 
Chloral, 126 
hydrate, 126 
Chlorid of lime, 95 
Chlorinated lime, 96 ' 
Chloroform, 126 
water, note, 35 
Cholagogue, 112 
Cinchonidine, 135 
Citric acid, 88 
Coal-tar creosote described, 118 
products defined, 120 
Coca vs. Cocoa, 62 
Cocaine, 136 
Coccus, 141 
Cochineal, 141 
Codeine, 135 
Cod-liver oil, 141 
Collodions, 47 
Confections, 72 
Corrosive sublimate, 100 
Cotton, 115 
absorbent, 115 
features of, 115 
Creosote, 117 
Creosotum, 117 
Crude drugs, 25 
Crystalline powder, 100 
Cubic centimeter, origin of, 19 
centimeters, approximates, 22 
Cyanids, 88 INDEX. 
231 
D. 
Decimeter, definition of, 18, 19 
Decoctions, 51 
rule for making, 51 
Deka-, meaning of, 19 
Deliquescence, 107 
Demulcents, 30 
Destructive distillation, 114 
Deutiodid of mercury, 102 
Diagram of metric system, 20 
Diaphoretics, 28 
Diastase, 122 
Digitalin, 136 
Distillation, 35 
Diuretics, 28 
Donovan’s solution, 103 
Dosage, 75 
Doses, calculation of, 77 
first class, 75 
rule for determining, 58 
second class, 75 
table of, 79 
third class, 77 
Dram, definition of, 13 
Drops, 13 
Drugs acting through excretories, 
153 
spinal cord, 151 
affecting alimentary canal, 154 
eyes, 155 
ganglionic system, 152 
generative system, 155 
heart, 152 
nutrition, 150 
respiration, 154 
the brain, 151 
the liver, 155 
defined, 29 
for external use, 155 
E. 
Effervescence, 109 
Efflorescence, 107 
Element, 81 
Elements and symbols, 83 
described, 82 
list of, 83 
Elixirs, 46 
Emetics, 26 
Emmenagogues, 63 
Emollients, 49 
Emulsions, 41 
Epsom salt, 95 
care in handling, 95 
Equivalents of grains in grams, 23 
Ergot, description of, 32 
Escharotics, no 
Essences, 43 
Ether, 125 
special makes of, 125 
Ethereal soap, formula for, 132 
Ethyl, 123 
chlorid, 125 
hydrate, 124 
nitrite, 126 
oxid, 125 
Evaporation, note on, 88 
Examples in writing metric system, 
20 
Expectorants, 26 
Extracts, fluid, 60 
F. 
Fahrenheit thermometer, 145 
Fats, 130 
Fel bovis. 140 
Fermentation described, 122 
of fruit-juices, 123 
of starch, 122 
of sugar, 122 
products, 122 
Ferrum, 97 
Fixed oils, 129, 130 
Fluid extracts, 60 
definition of, 61 
dose of, 61 232 
INDEX. 
Fluid measure, 14 
Fluidounce explained, 14 
Fluidrams explained, 14 
Fowler.’s solution, 102 
Fractional distillation, 117 
G. 
Gallon explained, 15 
Gill explained, 14 
Gin, 127 
Glossary, 162 
Glucosides, 134 
Glycerin, 131 
Glvcerites, 43 
Glyceryl hydrate, 131 
Gossypium purificatum, 115 
Graduate, the use of the, 15 
Grain, definition of, 13 
Granular powder, 101 
Gray powder, 99 
Green iodid of mercury, 102 
soap, 132 
Guaiacol, 120 
Gums, 30 
Gun-cotton, how made, 116 
H. 
Hecto-, meaning of, 19 
Hematics, 55, III 
Hirudo, 142 
Honeys, 39 
Household measures, 15 
Ilydrargyri chloridum corrosivum, 
100 
mite, 100 
iodidum flavum, 102 
rubrum, 102 
oxidum flavum, 102 
rubrum, 102 
Hydrargyrum, 99 
cum creta, 99 
Hydrates, 95 
Hydriodic acid, 88 
Hydrocyanic acid, 88 
Hydrogen, 86 
Hyoscine, 136 
Hyoscyamine, 136 
Hypnotics, 107 
I. 
Ichthyocolla, 140 
Ichthyol, 121 
Infusions, 5° 
common rule for, 50 
Introductory, 9 
Iodids, 88, 108 
of mercury, red and yellow, 
112 
Iodoform, 126 
gauze, 126 
Iron, 97 
and quinine citrate, ill 
and strychnine citrate, 111 
strength of, 98 
chlorid, tincture of, 1x0 
iodid, syrup of, no 
persulphate, solution of, 110 
salts of, 98 
scale, salts of, 98 
sulphate, 110 
Isinglass, 140 
Isomorphous, note on, 1x6 
K. 
Kalium, 92 
Kilo-, meaning of, 19 
Kolyseptics, 120 
L. 
Lactic acid, 141 
Lard, 138 INDEX. 
233 
Laxatives, 28 
Lead, salts of, 98 
Leaves, 28 
Leeches, 142 
Liniments, 48 
Liquor arseni et hydrargyri iodidi, 
103 
potassii arsenitis, 102 
zinci et ferri compositus, no 
Liquors, 36 
Liter, origin of, 19 
Lithium, 92 
Litmus, note on, 115 
Lump magnesia, 96 
Lunar caustic, 99 
M. 
Maceration, 53 
Magnesia, 96 
Henry’s, 96 
Husband’s, 96 
Magnesium, 94 
carbonate, 108 
citrate, 108 
oxid, 109 
sulphate, 95, 109 
Malt, liquid, 122 
Mass, note on, 100 
McMunn’s elixir, 56 
Mellitse, 39 
Mercurial ointment, 99 
Mercuric chlorid, antidote for, 112 
Mercury, 99 
salts, 99 
two chlorids of, loo 
with chalk, 99 
Meter, definition of, 18 
Metric system, 18 
Mild mercurous chlorid, 100 
Millimeter, definition of, 18, 19 
Minims explained, 14 
vs. drops, 14 
P 
Misturse, 40 
Mixtures, 40 
caution, 41 
Molecules, 82 
Monsel’s solution, no 
Morphine, 135 
Moschus, 140 
Mucilages, 40 
Musk, 140 
Myria, meaning of, 19 
N. 
Names, proper speaking of, 93 
Naphtol, 120 
Narcotics, 28 
antidotes for, 161 
Natrium, 92 
Nitrates, 89 
Nitric acid, 89 
Nitrogen, 86 
Nux vomica, note on extract of, 63 
O. 
Oil of vitriol, 89 
Oils, 129 
how obtained, 129 
list of, 130 
Ointments, 73 
Oleates, 50 
Oleoresins, 67 
Oleum morrhuse, 141 
Opium, description of, 31 
Opodeldoc, 49 
Organic chemistry defined, 114 
Ounce, definition of, 13 
Oxalates, 89 
Oxalic acid, 89 
caution, 89 
Ox-gall, 140 
Oxygen, 85 234 
INDEX. 
P. 
Pancreatin, 139 
Paraldehyd, 127 
Pepsin, 138 
Percolation, 53 
Pharmacopeia, 25 
Phenacetin, 120 
Phenol, 118 
Phenylacetamid, 120 
Physostigmine, 136 
Pills, 72 
Pilocarpine, 136 
Pint explained, 14 
Poisons, irritant, 157 
list of, 160 
law against sale of, 162 
narcotic, 158, 161 
Potash, origin of word, 92 
Potassium, source of, 91 
Powdered defined, 101 
Powders, 70 
Prussic acid, 88 
Pulveres, 70 
Pyroxylinum, 116 
Q- 
Quart explained, 14 
Quicksilver, 99 
Quinine, 135 
R. 
Reconsideration, 105 
Red iodid of mercury, 102 
mercuric iodid, 102 
oxid, 102 
precipitate, 102 
Resins, 69 
Resorcin, 120 
Roots, 25 
Rubefacients, 67 
Rule for determining doses, 58 
Rum, 127 
S. 
Saccharum lactis, 139 
Salicylic acid, 120 
Salol, 120 
Salophen, 121 
Salts, formation of, 93 
note on formation of, 94 
what they are formed from, 93 
Scopolamine, 136 
Scruple, definition of, 13 
Sedatives, cardiac, 26 
Seeds, 29 
Seidlitz powders, how mixed, 7'o 
Sialagogues, 28 
Signs, 13 
Silver nitrate, 99 
to remove stains of, III 
salts, 99 
effect of light and dust 
upon, 99 
Soap, “ bichlorid,” 133 
ethereal solution of, 132 
German soft, 132 
soft, 131 
Soaps, 131 
hard, 131 
note on, 132 
Soda, origin of word, 92 
Sodium, source of, 92 
Solid extracts, 68 
strength of, 68 
Soluble gun-cotton, 116 
Solution of arsenic and mercuric 
iodid, 103 
of potassium arsenite, 102 
Solutions, 36 
Spanish fly, 141 
Sparteine, 136 
Specific gravity, 147 
Spermaceti, 140 
Spice-poultice, 70 INDEX. 
235 
Spirits, 43 
Stimulant, vascular, lo8 
Stimulants, 27 
cardiac, 26 
Strychnine, 135 
Styptics, 48 
Subchlorid of mercury, loo 
Suet, 138 
Sugar of lead, 98 
of milk, 139 
Sulfonal, 121 
Sulphates, 89 
Sulphuric acid, 89 
Symbols defined, 83 
Syrups, 38 
T. 
Tablet triturates, 71 
Tannates, 89 
Tannic acid, 89 
Tartar emetic, 104 
Tartaric acid, 89 
Tartrates, 89 
Teniacide, 26 
Therapeutics, 149 
Thermometer described, 144 
rules, 146 
Tincture, definition of, 59 
Tinctures, 53 
list of most important, 54 
poisonous, 57 
Tonics, 26, in 
Toxicology, 157 
Translucent, 107 
Triturations, 71 
V. 
Vermicides, 64 
Vermifuges, 64 
Vesicants, 48 
Vinegars, 68 
Vitellus, 141 
Volatile oils, 129 
substances, 34 
Vulnerary, 54 
W. 
Waters, 34 
Wax, white, 142 
yellow, 142 
Weights and measures, 13 
Whiskey, formation of, 123 
White arsenic, 103 
Wines, 59 
Wood-creosote described, 118 
Y. 
Yellow iodid of mercury, 102 
mercuric oxid, 102 
Yolk of egg, 141 
emulsion, 141 
Z. 
Zinc, 97 
chlorid, 109 
solution of, 109 
oleate, no 
oxid, no 
salts, list of, 97 Catalogue No. 5. 
MARCH, 1899. 
BOOKS Hr NURSES. 
FOR NURSES AND ALL ENGAGED 
IN ATTENDANCE UPON THE SICK, 
OR THE CARE OF CHILDREN. 
Dealing exclusively in books on medicine 
and collateral subjects, we are able to give special 
attention to supplying books for nurses. We have 
a large stock of works on Nursing, Hygiene, 
Popular Medicine, etc., Temperature Charts, etc. 
Catalogues of Books on Medicine, Dentistry, 
Pharmacy, Chemistry, etc., free, upon application. 
Special attention given to orders to be forwarded 
to a distance, by mail or express. Upon receipt of 
the price, any book will be delivered, free, to any 
address. Money should be forwarded by Post- 
Office Order, Draft, or Registered Letter. 
P. Blakiston’s Son & Co., 
1012 WALNUT STREET, PHILADELPHIA. 
>8®* The prices as given in this catalogue are net. 
No discount can be allowed retail purchasers. A HANDBOOK OF 
MATERIA MEDICA 
Including Sections on Therapeutics and Toxicology, and 
a very complete Glossary of Terms with 
Dose and use of each Drug. 
SPECIALLY PREPARED FOR TRAINED NURSES. 
By JOHN E. GROFF, Ph.G., 
Apothecary in the Rhode Island Hospital, Providence. 
235 PAGES. 12M0. HANDSOMELY BOUND IN CLOTH, $1.25. 
*** In preparing this work the author has endeavored to present 
the extensive subject of Materia Medica in a systematic form, suffi- 
ciently comprehensive to meet the requirements of the trained nurse. 
The work is intended to make the nurse acquainted with the 
numerous drugs of vegetable and chemic origin, their Latin and 
English names, the parts of the plants used, the names of and some- 
thing about the preparations, the chemicals used as medicines, the 
handling of them, etc. A set of questions follow each chapter, and 
there are many explanatory foot-notes and paragraphs. 
From the Medical Record, New York. 
“ It will undoubtedly prove a valuable aid to the nurse in securing a knowl- 
edge of drugs and tbeir uses.” 
From Philadelphia Medical Journal. 
“ The task of abridging the subject of materia medica for the use of trained 
nurses is far from an easy one, as it is necessary to use good judgment in 
putting in what it would be well and helpful for her to know without leaving out 
the necessary part. Moreover, to arrange the subject in a practical and sys- 
tematic manner for the purpose of teaching and ready reference is a difficult 
matter. The author of this book has succeeded admirably in doing this, and 
the work is sure to be in great demand by nurses.” HUMPHREY’S 
MANUAL OF NURSING. 
MEDICAL AND SURGICAL. 
A complete Text-Book for Nurses, including General Anatomy 
and Physiology, Management of the Sick-Room, Appliances used 
in Sick-Room, Antiseptic Treatment, Bandaging, Cooking for 
Invalids, etc., etc. 
Sixteenth Edition. With 79 Illustrations. 
BY LAWRENCE HUMPHREY, M.A., M.D. 
12MO. CLOTH. PRICE $1.00. 
St. Joseph’s Hospital, 
Seventeenth and Girard Avenue, 
Philadelphia, March 15, 1893. 
Messrs. P. Blakiston, Son Co. :— 
Please send us six more copies of Manual of Nursing, by Humphrey. We 
do not know of any book that more completely meets the requirements of a 
Training Class than Dr. Humphrey's able Lectures, for they are at once clear, 
concise, and thoroughly practical. Sisters of Charity. 
From British Medical Journal, London. 
“Nursing literature is expanding, and, what is more to the purpose, it shows 
manifold signs of improvement with its growth. In the fullest sense, Dr. 
Humphrey’s book is a distinct advance on all previous manuals. It is, in point 
of fact, a concise treatise on medicine and surgery for the beginner, incorporat- 
ing with the text the management of childbed and the hygiene of the sick-room. 
Its value is greatly enhanced by copious wood-cuts and diagrams of the bones 
and internal organs, by many illustrations of the art of bandaging, by tempera- 
ture charts indicative of the course of some of the most characteristic diseases, 
and by a goodly array of sick-room appliances, with which every nurse should 
endeavor to become acquainted The systematic arrangement af 
subjects adopted by the author is excellent.” 
THE BEST GENERAL TEXT-BOOK. NURSING IN 
ABDOMINAL SURGERY 
AND 
DISEASES OF WOMEN. 
A Series of Lectures Delivered to the Pupils of the Training School 
for Nurses Connected with the Woman’s Hospital of 
Philadelphia, comprising their Regular Course 
of Instruction on such Topics. 
BY ANNA M. FULLERTON, M.D., 
Physician-in-Charge of and Obstetrician and Gynecologist to the Woman's 
Hospital of Philadelphia, etc. 
SECOND EDITION, REVISED. 
12mo. 300 Pages. 70 Illustrations. Cloth, $1.50. 
***The immediate success of Dr. Fullerton’s “Handbook of 
Obstetric Nursing,” a fourth edition of which has just been pub- 
lished, has encouraged her to prepare this manual on another and 
very important branch of the science and art of nursing Dr. 
Fullerton has demonstrated that she not only knows what to say, 
but that she has the happy faculty of saying it in a plain, practical 
style that interests as well as instructs. 
Synopsis of Contents.—The Surgical Nurse—The Germ Theory 
of Disease—Asepsis and Antisepsis—Abdominal Section—The Pre- 
paration of the Room—The Preparation of Sponges—Sterilization 
of Instruments, etc.— Preparation of the Patient — Preparation of 
Operator and Assistants—The Nurse’s Duties During Operation— 
The Nurse’s Duties After Operation and During Convalescence— 
Management of Complications—The Pelvic Organs in Women— 
Diseases of Women—General Nursing in Pelvic Diseases—Pre- 
parations for Gynaecological Examinations—Preparation for Gynae- 
cological Operations—Preparation of Patient, Operator and Assist- 
ants— Duties of Nurse During Operation — Special Nursing in 
Gynaecological Operations—Diet for the Sick—Supporting Treat- 
ment of Abdominal Sections—Index. A HANDBOOK 
4 
OF 
OBSTETRIC NURSING. 
Comprising the Course of Instruction in Obstetric Nursing 
given to the Pupils of the Training School for Nurses 
connected with the Woman’s Hospital of Philadelphia. 
BY ANNA M. FULLERTON. M.D., 
Demonstrator of Obstetrics in the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsyl- 
vania; Physician-in- Charge and Obstetrician and Gynecologist to the 
Woman’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Superintendent of the 
Nurse Training School of the Woman’s Hospital of Philadelphia. 
41 Illustrations. 12mo. Handsome Cloth, $1.00. 
FIFTH EDITION-REVISED. 262 PAGES. JUST READY. 
Synopsis of Contents.—The Pelvis and Genital Organs— 
Signs of Pregnancy—Management of Pregnancy—Accidents of 
Pregnancy—Germs and Antisepsis—Application of Antisepsis to 
Confinement Nursing—Preparations for the Labor—Signs of 
Approaching Labor and the Process of Labor—Duties of the Nurse 
during Labor—Accidents and Emergencies of Labor—Care of the 
New-born Infant—Management of the Lying-in—Characteristics of 
Infancy in Health and Disease—The Ailments of Early Infancy— 
Index. 
“ It is a book that I have recommended since I first saw it, and we are using 
it for our nurses at the N. Y. Infirmary, where we have a branch of our School, 
our nurses going there for instruction in obstetrics.”—Mrs. L. W. Quintard, 
Supt. Connecticut Training School /or Nurses, New Haven, Conn. 
“ It is the most modern and complete book I have ever read for the care of 
obstetrical patients. I shall take pleasure in recommending it to this school for 
study.”—E. L. Warr, Supt. Training School /or Nurses, City Hospital, St. 
Louis, Mo. 
“ I have looked it over and read it with care, and think it is the best book I 
have ever seen on the subject. It is practical, with plain instructions, nothing 
superfluous. A good book for nurses and teachers of nurses.”—MISS Anna 
G. Clement, Supt. o/ Nurses, The Henry W. Bishop Memorial Training 
School/or Nurses, Pittsfield, Mass. 
“ I consider the book excellent in every particular. Would recommend it to 
every nurse, whether she did obstetrical nursing or not.”—Gertrude Mont- 
fort, Supt ofi Nurses, New England Hospital /or Women and Children 
Boston, Mass. 
“ What is to be learned in a maternity training school is the way to nurse as a 
profession. * * * Can recommend it as a valuable manual.”—From the Amer- 
ican Journalo/ Medical Sciences. BOOKS ON NURSING. 
SHAWE. Notes for Visiting Nurses, and all 
those Interested in the Working and Organization of 
District, Visiting, or Parochial Nurse Societies. By 
Rosalind Gillette Shawe, District Nurse for the 
Brooklyn Red Cross Society. With an Appendix 
explaining the Organization and Workings of various 
Visiting and District Nurse Societies, by Helen G. 
Jenks, of Philadelphia. 121110. Cloth, $1.00 
“A sensibly written, useful little manual is the ‘ Notes for Visiting Nurses,’ 
by Rosalind Gillette Shawe, a district nurse for the Red Cross Society in Brook- 
lyn. Compact, concise, practical, the advice in every detail is most excellent. 
The book is written for two classes of readers—the district nurse, who is in need 
of timely cautions and hints, and for those who would willingly uphold the hands 
of the workers did they but understand what the work really is. A valuable 
appendix gives information concerning the organization of societies for district 
nursing, and brief descriptions of those already in operation.”—The Christian 
Advocate, New York. 
CULLINGWORTH. A Manual of Nursing, 
Medical and Surgical. By Charles J. Cul- 
lingworth, m.d., Physician to St. Mary’s Hospital, 
Manchester, England. Third Edition. With 18 
Illustrations. i2mo. Cloth, .75 
BY THE SAME AUTHOR. 
A Manual for Monthly Nurses. Third Edi- 
tion. 32mo. Cloth, .40 
“ This small volume is written as a supplement to the author’s well-known 
work on nursing. It treats only of the conditions of pregnancy and labor. It 
is clear in its statements, and will prove of great value to those whose duty it 
is to care for women during and after confinement.”—N. Y. Medical Journal. 
DOMVILLE. Manual for Nurses and Others 
Engaged in Attending to the Sick. By Ed. J. Dom- 
ville, m.d. Eighth Edition. With Directions for 
Bandaging, Preparing and Administering Enemata, 
Fomentations, Poultices, Baths, etc., Recipes for 
Sick-room Cookery, Tables of Weights, and a Com- 
plete Glossary of Medical Terms. Cloth, .75 BOOKS ON NURSING. 
CANFIELD. The Hygiene of the Sick-Room. 
A Book for Nurses and Others, being a Brief Consid- 
eration of Asepsis, Disinfection, Bacteriology, Im- 
munity, Heating and Ventilation, and Kindred Sub- 
jects, for the use of Nurses and Other Intelligent 
Women. By Wm. Buckingham Canfield, a.m., 
m.d., Lecturer on Clinical Medicine, and Chief of 
Chest Clinic, University of Maryland, Visiting Phy- 
sician to Bay View Hospital, etc. i2mo. 247 pages. 
Handsome Cloth Binding, $1.25 
*** This book is the outcome of a series of lectures delivered by 
Dr. Canfield at the University of Maryland Training School for 
Nurses. It contains much valuable information not included in the 
regular text-books, but which of necessity the nurse should be ac- 
quaint ea with. 
“We recommend it to the attention, not only of sick-nurses, but also all other 
persons, of either sex, who desire a knowledge of the behavior of disease, as it 
concerns infection ; and the manner in which foulness, either of wounded sur- 
faces, or of the sick-room, or of the dwelling-house, may be prevented. 
“ Each disease is taken up in turn (typhoid fever, consumption, diphtheria, 
etc.) and the methods of management of the discharges, etc , are described in 
detail. The formulae for the preparation of disinfecting solutions, for clothing, 
utensils, privies, etc., are clearly set forth; such details as one may search his 
■ ibrary in vain for are here given in a compact form. 
“ The prevention of blindness in infants receives lull attention. Ventilation 
is duly considered, and a chapter is given to the thoughtful discussion of immu- 
nity and protection from disease. The book closes with some remarks upon 
the diet of the sick-room. We congratulate Dr. Canfield on his work. It is 
well worth the moderate price.’’—Maryland Medical Journal. 
WESTLAND. The Wife.and Mother. A 
Medical Guide to the Care of her Health and the 
Management of her Children. By Albert West- 
land, m.d. i2mo. Illustrated. Cloth, $1.50 
From The Medical News. 
“ . . . Altogether the book fulfils the objects for which it was written, 
and will materially assist the young married woman in the intelligent perform- 
ance of new duties.” 
From The Nurse, Boston. 
“ The style is easy and fascinating. It should be in the hands of every nurse 
and married woman.” BOOKS ON MASSAGE. 
KLEEN. Handbook of Massage. Cloth, $2.25 
By Dr. Kleen, of Stockholm and Carlsbad. Translated 
by Edward M. Hartwell, a.m. m.d., Director of Physi- 
cal Education, Boston Public Schools, late of Johns Hop- 
kins University, Baltimore. With an introduction by S. 
Weir Mitchell, m.d., of Philadelphia. Illustrated by a 
series of Handsome Engravings, made from fine Pen-and- 
ink Drawings after original photographs made for the pur- 
pose. *** This is the American Edition of “Kleen’s Hand- 
book,” which is well known among teachers and experts 
as the most comprehensive and perfect on the subject. 
Several changes and additions have been made at the 
author’s suggestion, notably among the latter the set of 
illustrations made from photographs taken by him for this 
edition. No pains have been spared to make this the best 
of standard works upon massage. 
MURRELL. Massotherapeutics. Fourth Edi- 
tion. Or Massage as a Mode of Treatment. By Wm. 
Murrell, m.d., f.r.c.p., Lecturer on Pharmacology and 
Therapeutics at Westminster Hospital, Examiner at Uni- 
versity of Edinburgh, Physician to Royal Hospital for Dis- 
eases of the Chest. Fifth Edition. Revised and Enlarged. 
Illustrated. i2mo. Cloth, 1.25 
» 
“Dr. Murrell particularly dwells on the importance of discrimination in the 
selection of cases and on the special qualifications of a competent manipulator. 
In a word, this essay may be said to convey in a short space most of the infor- 
mation that is at present available in regard to this popular therapeutic agent. ’’ 
—From the London Practitioner. 
“ This little volume sets forth clearly all the advantages and disadvantages 
of massage at the present day, and should be in the hands of every Masseuse 
or nurse intending to take up the art. The numerous illustrations of the move- 
ments will prove a great aid. ”—From the Trained Nurse. BOOKS ON MASSAGE. 
Massage and the Original Swedish Move- 
ments. Illustrated. And Their Application to 
Various Diseases of the Body. A Manual for Students, 
Nurses, and Physicians. By Kurre W. Ostrom, 
from the Royal University of Upsala, Sweden; In- 
structor in Massage and Swedish Movements in the 
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and in 
the Philadelphia Polyclinic and College for Graduates 
in Medicine, etc. Illustrated by ninety-three ex- 
planatory Wood Engravings. Third Edition, Revised 
and Enlarged. i2mo. Cloth, $1.00 
“ Mr. Ostrom presents to the English public this excellent, systematic manual, 
showing, by illustrations, the various movements and the mode of application to 
all parts of the body. The writer tells for what diseases such movements are 
indicated, with some remarks on the physiology of the movement treatment." 
—From The Philadelphia Public Ledger. 
“ In this volume the author gives an excellent description of the methods of 
massage and Swedish movement, together with their applicability to various 
diseased conditions of the body. The methods are rapidly becoming popular- 
ized in our own country, and the perusal of such a book as Mr. Ostrom has 
written will be of great advantage to physicians, for whose use it is mainly in- 
tended."—From the Journal of the American Medical Association. 
WARD. Notes on Massage; Including Ele- 
mentary Anatomy and Physiology. By Jessie 
M. Ward, Instructor in Massage in the Pennsylvania, 
Philadelphia, Jefferson, and Woman’s Hospitals; 
Clinical Lecturer at Philadelphia Polyclinic. 121110. 
Interleaved. Paper cover, $1.00 SURGICAL NURSING. 
BY BERTHA M. VOSWINKEL, 
Graduate of the Episcopal Hospital, Philadelphia ; late Nurse-in-Charge of 
Children’s Hospital, Columbus, O. 
INCLUDING COMPLETE CHAPTERS ON 
BANDAGING, DRESSINGS, 
SPLINTS, ETC. 
SECOND EDITION—ENLARGED. JUST READY. 
112 Illustrations. i2mo. 206 Pages. Cloth, $1.00. 
Synopsis of Contents.—I. Introductory Remarks, Care of 
Patient, Beds, etc.—II. Qualifications of Surgical Nurse—III. Anti- 
septics and Antiseptic Surgery—IV. An- 
tiseptic Dressings—V and VI. Gynecol- 
ogic Nursing—VII and VIII. Hemor- 
rhages— IX. Wounds and their Com- 
plications— X. Fractures, Dislocations, 
Sprains—XI. Nursing in Special Cases 
—XII. Bandaging—XIII. Fixed Dress- 
ings— XIV. Splints and Braces—XV. 
Massage—Appendix A. Invalid Cookery 
—Appendix B. Enemas, Ice Poultice, 
Excessive Perspiration, Weights and 
Measures, Bichlorid Table, Poisons — 
Appendix C. Preparation of Patient for 
Transfusion, Normal Salt Solution, 
Preparation of Rubber Tissue, Kronig’s Method of Sterilizing 
Sample Illustration from 
Vosivinkel’s Surgical 
Nursing. 
From The Chicago Medical Recorder. 
“ The book is eminently practical and concise. The author’s style and 
methods are excellent.” BOOKS FOR NURSES. 
HORWITZ’S Surgery. Minor Surgery and 
Bandaging. Fifth Edition. 167 Illustrations. 
A Compend of Surgery, including Minor Surgery, 
Amputations, Fractures, Dislocations, Surgical Dis- 
eases, Antiseptic Rules, Formulae, etc., with Differen- 
tial Diagnosis and Treatment, and a Complete Section 
on Bandaging. By Orville Horwitz, b.s., m.d., 
Professor of Genito-Urinary Diseases; late Demonstra- 
tor of Surgery, Jefferson Medical College, etc. Fifth 
Edition. 324 pages. 121110. Cloth, .80 
The new Section on Bandaging and Surgical Dress- 
ings consists of 34 Pages and 40 Illustrations. Every 
Bandage of any importance is Figured. 
POTTER’S Anatomy. Sixth Edition. 117 
Illustrations and 16 Lithograph Plates. A 
Compend of Human Anatomy. By Saml. O. L. 
Potter, m.a , m.d., m.r.c.p. (Lond.), Professor of 
the Practice of Medicine, Cooper Medical College, 
San Francisco. i2mo. Cloth, .80 
POTTER’S Materia Medica, Therapeutics, 
and Prescription Writing. Sixth Edition. 
Compend of Materia Medica, Therapeutics, and Pre- 
scription Writing. With special reference to the Phy- 
siological Action of Drugs. By Samuel O. L. Potter, 
m.a., m.d.,. m.r.c.p. (Lond.), late A. A. Surgeon, 
U. S. Army; Professor of the Practice of Medicine, 
Cooper Medical College, San Francisco. 121110. 
Cloth, .80 
BRUBAKER’S Physiology. Ninth Edition, 
Enlarged and Improved. Illustrated. A Com- 
pend of Physiology, including Embryology. By 
A. P. Brubaker, m.d., Demonstrator of Physiology 
at Jefferson Medical College ; Professor of Physiology, 
Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery, Philadelphia. 
28 Illustrations. i2mo. Cloth, .80 NEW EDITION. 
ACCIDENTS and EMERGENCIES. 
A Manual for the treatment of Surgical and other Injuries, 
Poisoning and various Domestic Emergencies, in the absence of the 
Physician. 
By CHARLES W. DULLES, M.D., 
Surgeon to the Out-Door Department of the University and Presbyterian 
Hospitals, Philadelphia. 
Fifth Edition, Enlarged. New illustrations. 12mo. . . Cloth, $1.00 
ILLUSTRATED. 
SHORT LIST OF CONTENTS. 
Preliminary Remarks. 
Obstructions to Respiration. 
Foreign Bodies in the Eye, Nose and 
Ear. 
Fits or Seizures. 
Injuries to the Brain. 
Effects of Heat and Cold. 
Electricity, Accidents caused by. 
Sprains. 
Dislocations. 
Fractures. 
Wounds of all kinds, including the 
bites of Dogs, Cats, Snakes, Insects, 
etc. 
Railroad and Machinery Accidents. 
Hemorrhage—Bleeding. 
Special Hemorrhages. 
Transportation of the Injured. 
Poisons and their Antidotes. 
Domestic Emergencies, includes Chol- 
era Morbus, Vomiting, Diarrhoea, 
Nervous Attacks, Earache, Tooth- 
ache, Asthmatic Attacks, Croup, 
etc., etc. 
Signs of Death. 
Supplies for Emergencies. 
The Surgical and Medicine Case, 
their contents and use, Bandaging, 
Poultices, etc. 
Index. 
*** This book should be in the possession of every head of a 
family, Nurse, Manufacturer, Police Lieutenant, Sea Captain, Hos- 
pital Steward, School Teacher, Druggist, etc. etc. 
“ Several attempts have been made to prepare a volume which would serve 
as a handy manual for reference in the time of need, in the absence of a doctor, 
but none have succeeded better than the present little work. It should be in the 
hands of all officers charged with the public conveyance of passengers, to be 
read, in preparation for emergencies, and afterward to serve as a book of refer- 
ence.” —North Carolina Medical Journal. 
“ This little manual contains simple directions for the preliminary treatment 
of accidents to all parts of the body and of such diseases as persons are suddenly 
seized with. Without profuseness or an unintelligible vocabulary, it contains in 
a small space a deal of useful information.”—New York World. 
“ This is a revised and enlarged edition, with new illustrations, of the manual, 
explaining the treatment of surgical and other injuries in the absence of the phy- 
sician. The simple and practical suggestions of this little book should be known 
to every one. Accidents are constantly occurring, and a knowledge of what 
should be done in an emergency is very valuable. Such a handbook should be 
in every home, placed where it can always be found readily.—Boston Journal 
of Education. NURSES’ CHARTS. 
GRIFFITH’S Temperature Charts. A concise, 
complete Record of Pulse, Respiration, Temperature, 
etc. Packets of fifty, 50 cents 
KEEN’S Clinical Charts. A Series of Outline 
Drawings of the Human Body, on which may be 
marked the Course of Disease, Fractures, Operations, 
etc. Pads of fifty, $1.00 
SCHREINER’S Diet List. Arranged in the Form 
of a Chart, on which Articles of Diet may be indi- 
cated for any Disease. Pads of fifty, 75 cents 
BROWN. 
ELEMENTARY PHYSIOLOGY 
FOR NURSES, 
BY FLORENCE HAIG-BROWN, 
St. Thomas’ Hospital, London. 
21 Illustrations. 12mo. Cloth, 75 Cents. 
Based upon the Lectures given to nurses by the Medical Officers 
of St. Thomas’ Hospital. 
LECTURES ON MEDICINE 
TO NURSES, 
BY HERBERT CUFF, M. D., 
Assistant Medical Officer Southwestern Fever Hospital, London. 
Second Edition. 12mo. Illustrated. Cloth, $125. 
Synopsis of Contents. — Infection—Use of Stimulants — 
Feeding—The Pulse—Inflammation—Pneumonia—Enteric Fever— 
Scarlet Fever—Diphtheria—Measles—Whooping Cough—Paralysis 
—Hysteria—Internal Hemorrhages — Massage—Precautions in In- 
fectious Disease. THE 
American Health Primers. 
EDITED BY W. W. KEEN, M.D., 
Professor of Surgery in the Jefferson Medical College, Fellow of the College 
of Physicians of Philadelphia, etc. 
12 Vols. 32mo, Attractive Cloth Binding, each 40 Cents. 
This Series of Health Primers is prepared to diffuse as widely and 
cheaply as possible, among all classes, a knowledge of the elementary facts of 
Preventive Medicine. They are intended incidentally to assist in curing dis- 
eases, and to teach people how to form correct habits of living, and take care 
of themselves, their children, employees, etc. 
I. HEARING AND HOW TO KEEP IT. With Illustrations. By Chas. 
H. Burnett, m.d., of Philadelphia, Aurist to the Presbyterian HospitaL 
II. LONG LIFE AND HOW TO REACH IT. By J. G. Richardson, m.d., 
of Philadelphia, late Professor of Hygiene in the University of Pennsyl- 
vania. 
III. THE SUMMER AND ITS DISEASES. By James C.- Wilson, m.d., 
of Philadelphia, Professor of the Practice of Medicine, Jefferson Medical 
College. 
IV. EYESIGHT AND HOW TO CARE FOR IT. With Illustrations. By 
George C. Harlan, m d., of Philadelphia, Surgeon to the Wills (Eye) 
11 ospital. 
V. THE THROAT AND THE VOICE. With Illustrations. By J. Solis 
Cohen, m.d , of Philadelphia, Lecturer on Diseases of the Throat in Jef- 
ferson Medical College, and on the Voice in the National School of Oratory. 
VI. THE WINTER AND ITS DANGERS. By Hamilton Osgood, m.d., 
of Boston, Editorial Staff Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. 
VII. THE MOUTH AND THE TEETH. With Illustrations. By J. W. 
White, m.d., d.d.s., of Philadelphia, Editor of the Dental Cosmos. 
VIII. BRAIN WORK AND OVERWORK. By H. C. Wood, Jr., m.d., of 
Philadelphia, Clinical Professor of Nervous Diseases in the University of 
Pennsylvania. 
IX. OUR HOMES. With Illustrations. By Henry Hartshorns, m.d , 
of Philadelphia, formerly Professor of Hygiene in the University of Penn- 
sylvania. 
X. THE SKIN IN HEALTH AND DISEASE. With Illustrations. By 
L. D. Bulklky, m.d., of New York, Physician to the Skin Department 
of the New York Hospital. 
XI. SEA AIR AND SEA BATHING. With Illustrations. By John H. 
Packard, m.d., of Philadelphia, Surgeon to the Pennsylvania Hospital. 
XII. SCHOOL AND INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE. By D. F. Lincoln, m.d., 
of Boston, Mass., Chairman Department of Health, American Social 
Science Association. 
“ The series of ‘American Health Primers’ deserves hearty commendation. 
These handbooks of practical suggestions are prepared by men whose profes- 
sional competence is beyond question, and, for the most part, by those who 
have made the subject treated the study of their lives.”—A’em York Sun. 
*<,* Each Volume 40 Cents, in Attractive Cloth Binding. THE 
Hygiene of the.Nursery. 
INCLUDING THE GENERAL REGIMEN AND FEEDING OF INFANTS 
AND CHILDREN AND THE DOMESTIC MANAGEMENT 
OF THE ORDINARY EMERGENCIES OF 
EARLY LIFE. 
BY LOUIS STARR, M. D., 
Clinical Professor of Diseases of Children in the Hospital of the University 
of Pennsylvania; Physician to the Children’s Hospital, Phila. 
Sixth Edition. Enlarged and improved. 
WITH TWENTY-FIVE ILLUSTRATIONS. 
i2mo. 280 Pages. Cloth, $1.00. 
*x_* This book contains very complete directions for the proper 
feeding of infants: 1st, From the maternal breast. 2d. By wet- 
nurse, including rules for choosing the woman. 3d, Artificial 
Feeding. This part of the subject is elaborated carefully, so as to 
include everything of importance, and will be found of great service 
to the monthly nurse. General and specific rules for feeding are 
given, and Diet Lists from the first week up to the eighteenth 
month, with various recipes for artificial foods, peptonized milk, etc. 
Directions for the sterilization of milk, substitutes for milk, prepara- 
tion of food for both well and sick children, nutritious enemata. 
etc., and the general management of the Nursery. 
“ Dr. Starr’s experience as Clinical Professor of Diseases of Children in the 
University Hospital and as physician to the Children’s Hospital, with his 
eminence in private practice among juvenile patients, is ample warranty for the 
satisfaction and instruction to be found in this book. The dedication “ To my 
Little Patients,” shows the sympathy with which the writer enters upon the 
important discussion. The volume is entirely in the modern lines of preventive 
medicine-more important in the nursery than at any other time of life ; because 
constitution building is going on then and there. In this admirable treatise, so 
clearly written that no mother need be deterred by fear of medical terms from 
making its teaching her own, Dr. Starr carries out the highest ideal of the 
modern physician, so to regulate the lives of his professional clients that the 
occasions are less frequent when he need be called in to act for serious compli- 
cations. * * * * With the numerous good treatises on the subject that 
Philadelphia publications include, this intelligent work is the most distinguished, 
as it is also the latest work on complete Hygiene of the Nursery.”—The Led- 
ger, Philadelphia.. A NEW EDITION, JUST READY. 
GOULD’S POCKET MEDICAL LEXICON. 
21,000 MEDICAL WORDS 
PRONOUNCED AND DEFINED. 
A Pronouncing Lexicon of Medical Words Specially Adapted for 
Nurses, Including Many Useful Tables and a Dose List. 
BY GEORGE fll. GOULD, M.D., 
Author of " An Illustrated Dictionary of Medi- 
cine, Biology, and Allied Sciences“ The 
Student’s Medical Dictionaryetc. 
Pocket Size. 522 Pages. Gilt Edges, 
Full Morocco. Price $1.00; with 
a Thumb Index, $1.25. 
OVER 85,000 COPIES OF GOULD’S 
DICTIONARIES HAVE BEEN SOLD. 
“ Gould’s Dictionary, Pocket Edition, is the most complete and convenient I 
have seen.”—Marion E. Smith, Head Nurse, Philadelphia Hospital, Phila. 
" The Pocket Dictionary is a little gem.”—L. J. Gross, Head Nurse, Buffalo 
General Hospital. . 
“ I have examined Gould’s Dictionary, and consider it the best dictionary in 
a small compass that I have seen. The price, too, is most reasonable I shall 
recommend it to all our nurses.”—F. Hutcheson, Head Nurse, Flower Mission 
Training Schoolfor Nurses, Indianapolis, Ind. 
“ 1 shall certainly have the nurses each send for a copy of the dictionary . It 
is just what they need, and is a nice size to carry.”—Harriet Sutherland, Head 
Nurse, Margaret Pillsbury Hospital, Concord, N. H. f 
4HF* Every nurse should have a copy of this little book in order 
to intelligently pursue her studies and to thoroughly understand 
the physician’s directions. It furnishes a vast amount of informa- 
tion not to be obtained in the regular text-books.