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THE

AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF THE

PHILADELPHIA COLLEGE OF PHARMACY.

EDITED BY

JOHN M. MAISCH.

PUBLISHING COMMITTEE FOR 1876 :

HENRY N. RITTENHOUSE, THOMAS S. WIEGAND,

JAMES T. SHINN, CHARLES BULLOCK,

AND THE EDITOR.

VOLUME XLVIII.
FOURTH SERIES, VOL. VI.

PHILADELPHIA :
MERRIHEW & SON, PRINTERS.
1876.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

JANUARY, 1876.

THE ALKALOIDS OF VERATRUM VIRIDE AND ALBUM— HISTORY,
PREPARATION AND RECOVERY FROM COMPLEX
MIXTURES AND THE BLOOD.

BY THEO. G. WORMLEY, M. D.

Chemical History. — Much discrepancy has existed among observers
in regard to the exact nature of the active principle or principles of
Veratrum Viride.

Thus, in 1838, Mr. H. Worthington announced that he had obtained
from the plant uan alkaloid substance identical with veratria."

And, in 1857, Mr. J* Richardson, after an elaborate examination
of the subject, concluded that "not only in its physical characters, but
also in its chemical actions, the alkaloid of veratrum viride is identical
with veratria of the Veratrum sabadilla." (Amer. Journ. Pbar., 1857,
p. 209.)

In 1862, Mr. G. J. Scattergood announced that in addition to vera-
trin, the plant contained another substance, similar in nature to that
alkaloid, but insoluble in ether, and also a third substance, a resin to
which the sedative action of the drug was chiefly due. (Ibid., 1863,

P- 740

So also, in 1864, Prof. S. R. Percy extracted from the plant an
alkaloid, which he concluded had all the chemical properties of veratrin,
from Veratrum sabadilla. (Prize Essay.)

On the other hand, in 1865, Mr. Chas. Bullock claimed (Amer.
'Journ. Pbar., 1865, p. 321,) that the alkaloid in question was not
identical with veratria, as it did not respond to the sulphuric and hydro-
chloric acid tests for that alkaloid; that the resin of Scattergood owed
its activity to the presence of another alkaloid ; and that these two
principles exhibited the same reactions with the mineral acids and with
liquid reagents, the chief difference being in their fusing points and in
that one was soluble while the other was insoluble in ether. Prof. Geo.
B. Wood named these substances respectively veratroidia and viridia.

2 Alkaloids of Veratrum Viride and Album. {Xm'^\^rm'

In 1872, Dr. Peugnet [Med. Rec, May, 1872, p. 121) also concluded
that the veratroida of Bullock was distinct from veratria, as it did not
respond to the sulphuric acid test for that base, although it did to
Trapp's test (hydrochloric acid). And he was the first to announce
that Bullock's viridia was identical with Simon's jervia of Veratrum
album.

So, in 1874, Mr. C. L. Mitchell (Proc. Am. Phar. Asso., 1874, p.
436,) obtained from this plant a base readily soluble in ether, which
failed to fully respond both to the sulphuric and hydrochloric acid tests
for veratria, and he therefore concluded that it was a distinct principle.
Mr. Mitchell confirmed Dr. Peugnet's announcement of the identity
of viridia and jervia.

Much the same confusion has existed in regard to the principal alkaloid
of Veratrum album. Thus, in 18 19, Pelletier and Caventou announced
that the alkaloid of the plant was identical with veratria from sabadilla
seeds ; whilst, in 1872, Dr. Peugnet claimed that the alkaloid was not
veratria, but identical with veratroidia of Veratrum viride ; whilst still
later, Mr. C. L. Mitchell claimed that it differed from both alkaloids,
and proposed for it the name veratralbia.

The question as to the identity, or otherwise, of these principles
being a matter of considerable importance, especially in toxicological
examinations, we have given the subject very careful study, and, as the
result of repeated experiments, we find that both veratrum viride and
veratrum album contain an alkaloid, which, when pure, in its behavior with
the mineral acids and with liquid precipitants, fully responds to all the
reactions of veratria or veratrin.

Thus in the solid state, under the action of concentrated sulphuric
acid, the alkaloid from both plants assumes a yellow color, and slowly
dissolves to a yellow or reddish-yellow solution, which after a time
becomes orange red and finally deep crimson with a purplish hue. If
the mixture be gently warmed, the crimson coloration manifests itself
at once.

If the alkaloid is impure, at least, if it contains an apparently oily
matter which adheres most tenaciously, it will strike a more or less red
color with sulphuric acid and quickly dissolve to a reddish-yellow solu-
tion, which after a time acquires a more or less brownish-red color,
but fails to assume the crimson coloration of the pure alkaloid. The
presence of pure jervia in very minute quantity does not appear to
materially interfere with the normal reaction of the alkaloid with this
acid.

Am'ja°nUri8P76arm'} Alkaloids of Veratrum Viride and Album. 3

The claims, as we have already seen, that the alkaloid in question
from the three different veratrums was not the same, has been based
chiefly upon the behavior of the product obtained with concentrated
sulphuric acid ; and also in part upon its behavior with hydrochloric
acid.

It may here be stated, that several years since we received of Dr.
Percy, of New York, a small sample of the alkaloid prepared by Mr.
Scattergood, of Philadelphia, from veratrum viride, which yields color
reactions with sulphuric and hydrochloric acids, identical with those of
pure veratria, when compared side by side with that alkaloid.

It has also been claimed that " veratralbia " differed from "veratria
and veratroidia," in that its solution failed to yield a precipitate with
chloride of platinum. But we find that solutions of each of the
so-called different principles, when of the same strength and under
like conditions, if not too dilute, will yield precipitates that in no way
can be distinguished.

Preparation of the Alkaloids : — For the preparation of the alkaloids of
veratrum viride, a fluid extract of the root, prepared by Sharp & Dohme,
of Baltimore, was employed throughout our examinations. After a
number of experiments the following method was adopted :

The fluid extract, acidulated with acetic acid in the proportion of
fifteen minims per fluidounce, is added with constant stirring, to eight
volumes of pure water, — the mixture allowed to stand 24 hours, or at
least until the precipitate has completely subsided, and the liquid then
filtered. The clear, yellowish filtrate is concentrated on a water-bath
to something less than, or even to one half, the volume of the fluid
extract employed, when it is allowed to cool and again filtered.

The filtrate thus obtained is treated with slight excess of carbonate
of sodium, which will throw down a voluminous precipitate of the
mixed alkaloids. This mixture is agitated with about its own volume
of ether, which will readily take up the precipitate. After decantation
of the ether, the alkaline fluid is washed with a small quantity of fresh
ether, which in its turn is decanted.

Although jervia in its pure state, when precipitated, is only very
sparingly soluble in ether, yet under the above conditions, it is very
freely soluble in this liquid, 100 fluidgrains of the liquid readily
taking up between two and three grains of the mixed alkaloids. In
its crystalline state, the alkaloid appears to be wholly insoluble in this
menstruum.

4

Alkaloids of Veratrum Viride and Album. {Am- jZ'Ifr™'

The ether employed in most of the present examinations was of sp.
gr. 0.725.

The ether employed for the above extractions, is allowed to evapo-
rate, small portions at a time, in a rather deep, thin glass capsule, and
the resulting residue dried in a water-oven.

The outer or upper portion of
the residue thus obtained, will con-
sist chiefly of the veratria, in the
form of a transparent, more or less
yellowish, vitreous mass, in which,
under the microscope, may be
found some scattered crystals of
jervia : in drying, this portion of
the deposit generally separates, in
part at least, from the sides of the
capsule, in the form of transparent
scales. The central or inner por-
tion of the deposit will consist

FIG. I. JERVIA, FROM ETHERIAL SOLU- ...

tion. 30 diam. chiefly of the jervia, in the form

of bold groupes of crystals. Fig. 1. About two grains or something
more of residue will be obtained for each fluid ounce of the fluid
extracts employed.

For the separation of the alkaloids, the dried residue is treated with
a little water strongly acidulated with hydrochloric acid (1:10), which
will readily dissolve the veratria, whilst the jervia will be converted
into the insoluble chloride. The quantity of acidulated water thus
employed may be in the proportion of about a fluid drachm for every
two grains of residue.

This mixture is transferred to a small, moistened filter, and, if
necessary, the filtrate returned to the capsule until the whole of the
insoluble matter is transferred to the filter, which is finally washed
with a little acidulated water, and reserved for the recovery of the
jervia.

The alkaloid in the filtrate may be further purified by washing the
acid solution with ether, precipitating by sodium carbonate, and then
either taking up the precipitate by ether or collecting it on a filter and
washing, these operations being repeated, if necessary. On precipitating
with sodium carbonate, a notable quantity of the alkaloid remains in
solution, and may be recovered in a quite pure state, by extracting the

Am'jrz8P76arm"} Alkaloids ofVeratrum Viride and Album. 5

filtrate with ether. In its pure state, as left by ether and pulverized,,
the alkaloid forms a pure white, sparkling powder.

For the recovery of the jervia, left on the filter in the form of
chloride, the deposit, being first pulverized, is boiled for some time, with
a solution of carbonate of sodium, the mixture transferred to a filter,
and the residue washed with a little water. The washed residue is
treated on the filter with a little water strongly acidulated with acetic
acid, by which the liberated alkaloid will be dissolved. The filtrate
thus obtained will usually be more or less turbid ; but by returning it
to the filter, it may be obtained clear.

The jervia is now thrown down form the filtrate by slight excess
of carbonate of sodium, and the precipitate extracted by agitating the
mixture with chloroform, which on evaporation will leave the alkaloid
in the form of a hard, transparent, amorphous deposit. On moistening
this residue with a few drops of water, containing a drop or two oi
alcohol, it will quickly be converted into a white mass of groups of
crystals of the pure alkaloid.

A portion of both alkaloids is retained by the resinous matter separ-
ated from the original aqueous mixture of the fluid extract, and may be
recovered by boiling the powdered mass with water strongly acidulated
with acetic acid.

The alkaloids from veratrum album were obtained by extracting the
powdered root with water containing acetic acid, treating the concentrated
solution with carbonate of sodium, and taking up the precipitate by ether,
in the manner already described. The ether extract of the mixed
alkaloids left the jervia in the same crystalline form as obtained from
veratrum viride.

Reactions of Jervia : — Sulphuric acid causes pure jervia to assume a
yellow color, and slowly dissolves it to a yellow or faintly reddish-yel-
low solution, which after some minutes acquires a beautiful bright
green color. A very minute quantity of the alkaloid will exhibit this
coloration. After a few hours, the green color thus produced disap-
pears, and a dirty white or brownish precipitate separates.

This acid produces similar results with the chloride, sulphate, and
acetate of the alkaloid, when in the solid state ; but it dissolves the
nitrate with the production of an orange -red color, which is permanent
for at least some hours.

Nitric acid quickly dissolves the alkaloid to a colorless solution, which
after a time acquires a more or less rose or pinkish hue.

Alkaloids of Veratrum Viride and Album. {^^iw**™'

Hydrochloric acid fails to produce any marked coloration or to dissolve
the pure alkaloid, immediately converting it into the chloride, which is
insoluble in the presence of the free acid, although somewhat soluble
in pure water.

The foregoing mineral acids occasion the following reactions with
one grain of a i-iooth solution of the alkaloid, in the form of acetate :

I. Sulphuric acid, dilute (1:5),
produces an immediate turbidity,
and in a few moments a dense
dull-white amorphous precipitate,
which soon becomes more or less
granular. After a time, the de-
posit consists of more or less cir-
cular, nodular masses, and espe-
cially along the margin of the de-
posit, fine groups of long, very
delicate crystalline needles. Fig. 2.
These circular masses generally
appear, under the microscope, of a
75 diam. brownish color. The reaction of

this acid is quite peculiar to this alkaloid.

2. Nitric acid of sp. gr. 1.20,
occasions an immediate, copious
precipitate, which in a little time
becomes converted into nodular
masses, some of which are spinated.

If the jervia solution contains
excess of free acetic acid, espe-
cially if a minute drop of this acid
be added after the reagents, the
precipitate soon becomes convert-
ed into a mass of crvstals of the
forms illustrated in Fig. 3.

Nitrate of Potassium* produces

J r FIG. 3. I-IOO GRAIN JERVIA -}- NITRIC

with a neutral (i-iooth) solution acid. 75 diam.

FIG. I. I-IOO CRAIN JERVIA -f- SULPHURIC
ACID

This reagent has been proposed as a valuable test for the alkaloid by Mr. Chas.
Bullock, in a paper in the October number of this Journal, which came to hand
about the time we had completed our examinations.

Am'jan.risP76?rm"} Alkaloids of Veratrum Viride and Album. 7

of the alkaloid, an immediate turbidity, and after a little time, a quite
good deposit of granules and crystalline masses. In the presence of
free acetic acid, this reagent produces much the same results as free
nitric acid.

3. Hydrochloric acid produces an immediate, copious, dull-white
amorphous precipitate, which becomes more or less granular.

4. Bromine in bromohydric acid throws down from solutions of the alka-
loid, a dense, curdy, yellow precipitate, which is readily soluble in alcohol.
On spontaneous evaporation of the alcoholic liquid, the deposit is left
in the granular form.

5. Platinic chloride produces a deep yellow precipitate, which
becomes lighter in color, and more or less granular.

6. Auric chloride occasions a light yellow, curdy precipitate.

Jervia is also precipitated by other liquid reagents, but the reaction,
like the last three mentioned, are common to a large class of substances.

Recovery of the Alkaloids from complex mixtures. — The following
experiments were made in order to determine in how far the alkaloids
could be individually recovered from complex mixtures :

Exp. 1. Cat. — Two drachms of the fluid extract of veratrum viride
were administered to a half-grown cat. The animal was immediately
rendered prostrate, and was dead in about one minute after the adminis-
tration. As a quantity of the fluid extract escaped from the mouth of
the animal, we have doubts if more than one drachm reached the
stomach.

The Stomach. — The contents of the stomach, with the cut-up tissue
of the organ, were strongly acidulated with acetic acid, the whole made
into a liquid mass with water containing its own volume of alcohol, and
the mixture digested at a moderate heat for half an hour. The liquid
was then strained, concentrated, again strained, and finally reduced to a
small volume and filtered.

This filtrate was treated with slight excess of carbonate of sodium, and
the mixture extracted with ether. The deposit left on evaporating the
ether, contained a large number of groups of crystals of jervia, and
the margin was of a resinous character, and also contained small
crystals.

The residue was treated with a little water containing hydrochloric
acid, and the alkaloids separated in the manner already described, the
chloride of jervia being collected in a small filter.

8 Alkaloids of Veratrum Viride and Album. {Km']°™^™'

The second ether extract of the veratria furnished the alkaloid in a
sufficiently pure state to yield very satisfactory results with the sulphuric
acid test.

The final residue of the jervia, consisted of a mass of crystals of the
alkaloid.

The Blood. — Seven drachms of blood were recovered from this
animal. This fluid was treated with six drops acetic acid, its own
volume of alcohol and a somewhat larger quantity of water, and the
whole violently agitated for some minutes in a bottle.

The mixture, transferred to a dish, was digested at a moderate heat,
then strained, and the solids washed. The strained liquid was concen-
trated, again strained, and these operations repeated until the liquid was
reduced to about half a fluidounce, when it was filtered.

The filtrate, after addition of carbonate sodium, was extracted with
about an equal volume of ether, and this liquid evaporated, small
portions at a time, in a small capsule. A careful examination of the
residue left by the ether, failed to discover any crystals. But on treat-
ing the residue with a few drops of diluted alcohol, and gently evapo-
rating the liquid, a number of small crystals and crystalline groups, of
the forms shown in the lower portion of Fig. I, were found in the
resinous or outer portion of the deposit.

The central portion of the deposit was now dissolved by treating it
with a very small quantity of water acidulated with acetic acid, — care
being taken not to disturb the resinous portion of the deposit. For
detaching and effecting solution of the deposit in this operation, a small
feather, or, better still, a small flattened pencil of rubber in a glass
handle, will be found useful. The quantity of the alkaloids present
under these conditions, is too minute to permit of separation in the
manner previously described. But as the jervia is rather readily taken
up by the acidulated water, whilst the veratria, as deposited, is but
slowly acted upon by the liquid — they may in very great part be thus
separated.

The liquid, which now contained the greater part of any jervia
present, was decanted, treated with a little carbonate sodium, and the,
mixture extracted with ether, which on evaporation left an amorphous
residue. On moistening this with a few drops of diluted alcohol, and
evaporating the liquid, the residue, distributed over a space nearly an
inch in diameter, was found to consist of a mass of small crystals of
iervia, of the forms and as thickly distributed as shown in Fig. 4.

Am'jja°nuri876.arm'} Alkaloids of Yeratrum Viride and Album.

FIG. 4.

JERVIA, FROM BLOOD OF CAT.
75 DIAM.

On further purifying the resin-
ous matter left in the capsule, it
furnished, under the action of con-
centrated sulphuric acid, very good
evidence of the presence of vera-
tria.

Exp. 2. Dog. — Between two
and three drachms of the fluid ex-
tract were administered to a dog,
weighing about thirty-five pounds.
The animal was soon seized with
violent vomiting and retching, suc-
ceeded by purging and discharge of
urine. Two hours after the admin-
istration, there still being very active symptoms, the animal was killed
by a blow upon the head. The stomach of this animal was not exa-
mined.

The Blood. — Three ounces of blood carefully taken from the femoral
artery of this animal, were acidulated with acetic acid, violently agitated
with a mixture of water and alcohol, and the mixture treated in the
same manner as the blood from the cat, — the final solution being
reduced to 375 fluidgrains.

This solution, after addition of carbonate sodium, was extracted
with 200 fluidgrains of ether, and finally washed with a little of that
liquid.

Ten fluidgrains of the ether first employed, when allowed to evapo-
rate, left a residue containing a large number of minute crystals of jervia.
On evaporation of the whole of the ether employed, another crop of
crystals was obtained, and the margin of the residue was of a resinous
character.

On separating the different portions of the residue by acidulated
water and treatment in the manner already described, perfectly satis-
factory evidence of the presence of both alkaloids was obtained.

The quantity of veratria recovered in this instance seemed to be
greater than in the case of the cat, whilst that of the jervia seemed to
be less.

Of all the alkaloids, there is none, according to our experience, so
readily recovered in its crystalline state from the blood, when carried

io Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. {Km'jltr;^m'

there by absorption, as jervia. We have elsewhere (Micro chemistry
of poisons) cited some cases in which we recovered veratria from the
blood of animals killed with the commercial alkaloid.
Columbus, O., Oct. 20th, 1875.

THE RELATIONS OF PHARMACISTS TO PHYSICANS AND

NOSTRUMS.

BY FREDERICK HOFFMANN, PH. D.

It is with much reluctance that I have accepted an invitation to pre-
pare a brief rejoinder to recent articles in some medical journals on the
mutual relation of physicians and pharmacists, and on the nostrum
traffic, which more or less bear the traditional stamp of disregard or
misconception of the real relations existing between these two comple-
mentary professions at this time, when the rapid strides in the advance,
as well as in the application, of their constituent sciences are more and
more shaping their true scope and sphere in the health service.

On the surface of these articles there are three main points of dis-
pute, namely : the sale of nostrums, the alleged prescribing by phar-
macists, and " the propriety for physicians of sending prescriptions. "

1. The nostrum traffic has attained such dimensions that, according
to reliable statistics,* two-thirds of the total quantity of medicines an-
nually consumed in the United States, are dispensed in the form of
nostrums. When we inquire for the causes of this remarkable fact, in a
country which can boast of one regular practitioner of medicine to
every 600 inhabitants, looking aside from those thinly-settled regions
whose population is scattered widely apart, where medical aid cannot
be had readily and at all seasons of the year, and where for want of
recognized family medicines or generally approved formulas for house-
hold remedies, the people as yet have recourse largely to nostrums ;
there are three alternatives obvious : first, that a large number of
the nostrums really possess so much merit and have secured so much
credit, as to offer, in all ordinary cases, a satisfactory substitute for
average medical skill, as it can be obtained at present ; or, secondly,
that this latter is largely regarded as so far inferior or disproportionate
in price to the actual or fancied benefit derived from nostrums, that
experience and fact have secured for the " infallible " cure-all a greater

*" Boston Medical and Surgical Journal," August, 18745 and "Amer. Journ.
Pharm September, 1874, p. 445.

Am j™J%;rm } Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. u

confidence than is felt in the fallible doctor ; or, thirdly, that the
public, who annually spend so many millions of dollars more for nos-
trums than for doctors, must greatly lack in common sense and
judgment.

The pharmacist, as far as the nostrum traffic is concerned, is but a
merchant ; he occupies a neutral ground, and cannot, if he would,
regulate it. His personal inclination or preference has just as little to
do with the merits or demerits of nostrums as it has with those of the
doctor ; nor have pharmacists, in general, any influence upon the
choice of the public between either of them, although their preferences
as well as material interests are certainly in favor of the latter ; and,
moreover, they suffer by the alleged degeneration of their profession
into a mere trade, much more than the physicians do, or than is gener-
ally known. It is not in their power, however, to change the law of
demand and supply, nor can this be accomplished by statutes, forbid-
ding or endeavoring to control the sale and use of nostrums, or the
choice of remedies, doctors, or methods of treatment, by the people, any
more than it is possible to protect the community in that way from the
evidently large numbers of insufficiently educated, incompetent " and
unskilled, yet regularly-graduated, physicians,"* nor restrain these from
experimenting on the health and life of the afflicted, who, in many
cases, have no chance to obtain an approximately correct estimate of
the qualification of the physician or to discriminate between the edu-
cated one and the pretender, and, still less, have any means of detect-
ing incompetency and malpractice until, perhaps, it is too late, and a
valuable life has been sacrificed. f

So long as medicines in the form of nostrums and specialties are
bought and used, it is, no doubt, safer that they should at least pass
through the hands of a trade which is competent to exercise a kind of
control over the character of that particular class of ready-made medi-
cines. As long as pharmacy can uphold its present scope, its legitimate
business should continue to embrace the dispensation to the public of
all those products of nature, manufacture or art, which serve as remedies
or are used for sanitary or domestic application, no matter what so-called
school of medicine employs them, or in what shape or preparation they

* Dr. H. C. Wood, Jr., " Medical Education in the United States/1 in " Lippin-
cotfs Magazine, 11 December, 1875, P- 7°3 3 an(1 "Philadelphia Medical Times,11
January 23d, 1875.

f" New York Daily Times,11 July 17th, 1875.

12 Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. {Am j{°ur^rm

are called for and retailed. If pharmacists should drop the nostrum
traffic, as unwisely insisted upon by some medical journals, or should
deliberately deliver to other branches of trade the sale of natural or
artificial mineral waters, the keeping of homoeopathic pellets or other
articles which by long usage, have been associated with the drug trade
as it has developed, outside of pharmacy proper, and, perhaps, against
the preference and interests of the pharmacist, the result would certainly
not be a decrease in the demand and use of nostrums, mineral waters,
sugar pellets, fancy medicines, including elixirs, tonics, medicated candies,
etc. ; — their sale would only pass into less qualified hands. The nostrums
and kindred specialties would pass from the show-windows and shelves
of the drug stores to those of the grocer, fancy-dealer, confectionery
store, etc., and would there, but with greater eclat, bear evidence of the
fact how much more confidence a large part of the American people
place in their familiar cure-all nostrums than in the skill of the average
physician.

Unbecoming and discreditable, as is the association of the nostrum
trade with pharmacy, yet, generally speaking, the choice of the smaller
evil from the two alternatives forced upon the pharmacist, justifies him,
in the interest of the public, in retaining, and, as far as possible, controling
the trade in medicines, in whatever legitimate form they may appear in
the market. The correctness of this view is sustained by the fact,
that it is practically applied in countries whose sanitary regulations are
very strict and are regarded as models of wise and adequate legislation.
With the increase of travel, the American quack medicines have fol-
lowed the large annual exodus of our substantial classes to Europe, and
many of our popular nostrums, in consequence of the great demand,
have been introduced on the continent of Europe and in Germany,,
where medicines are not admitted to patent-rights ; but no sooner had
the demand called forth their importation, than the Imperial govern-
ment promptly enacted a statute, confining the exclusive trade in this
kind of " Yankee notions " to the apothecaries, in order to submit
them, as far as practicable, to the control of a competent and critical
profession.

For the present, therefore, it may be safest for pharmacy to embrace
in its scope every legitimate system and mode of dispensing and reta il
ing medicines, while the attainments and character of the pharmacist
should ever remain a criterion and a safeguard both to the public and
the physician, and should prevent him from countenancing imposture

km'j™*ilt£rm'} Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. 13

or fraud. On the other hand, as already stated, it should fairly be
taken into consideration that the nostrum-traffic has been forced upon
him, and that he, as a rule, takes an adverse position, only supplying
the demand ; as also, that the pharmacist has no right to influence the
choice of the customer between the physician — allopath or homoeopath
— or the familiar nostrum, unless called upon for his opinion.

Moreover, every well-informed person knows that the nostrum traf-
fic cannot effectually be restrained merely by the favor or disfavor of
pharmacists any more than by that of physicians, and that the use of
nostrums is by no means confined to the non-educated portion of the
community, but that it prevails largely among the wealthy classes, both
at home and abroad ; as also, that among the patrons of this class of
medicine, as the prescription file of the drug stores throughout the
country will testifv, may be numbered not a few physicians of good
standing.

But when we come to the bottom of the question, and inquire with-
out bias for the primary cause of the origin and great success of the
nostrums in our country, we cannot but lay a very great part of it at
the door of the medical profession at large, or, perhaps, attribute it,
ultimately, to the want of adequate laws for the regulation of the meth-
ods and standard of medical education and the requisite qualification for
admission to the practice of medicine by physicians. The fact is that
nostrums, to a very large extent, have supplied an actual want, in con-
sequence of lack of trustworthy medical aid and of confidence, on the
part of the community, in the qualification of a large number of physi-
cians. This want has opened many a door to nostrums in preference
to the doctor, and has contributed much to raise this traffic to its pres-
ent extent, almost exactly in proportion with the increase in numbers
and the decrease in qualification and public trust in the average doctors,
a large portion of whom " have attained and still acquire their training
and engage in practice under the absurd notion that a medical education
can be acquired in two winters, and in many cases, even without
a preliminary grammar school education. "* It is therefore no wonder
that in the choice between the cure-all nostrums, or the pellet and drops
of the homoeopath, or a multitude of unqualified practitioners, not to
speak of the pretenders and impostors, the public frequently give pref-
erence or a first trial to the harmless sugar pellet or the familiar nostrum,
and that two-thirds of the entire amount of drugs and medicines annually
consumed in our country, are bought and used in the form of nostrums.
*Dr. H. C. Wood, Jr., " Lippincott's Magazine," December, 1875, P- 7°5-

14 Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. { Am- jJa0n.r;8^6frri1'

Nor is it strange that among the large class of educated, conscientious
and high-minded physicians, who have more or less to suffer * by the
iniquities of unworthy competitors, and who keenly feel the disgrace
which these reflect upon the profession at large as well as among the
public, the demand for adequate legislation f is increasing, in order
" to check the unbridled license of the lower class of practitioners, and
to protect the community against the disastrous activity of a multitude
of untrained and reckless, yet regularly graduated, practitioners."!

That the public apply to the pharmacist for their supply of medicines
of their own selection, is but an evidence of the superior trust which he
possesses in the general regard of the people, who are well aware of
the fact that American pharmacy, by its own exertion and energy, has,
of late, raised its status much nearer to the European standard. Nor
is that all ; it is still advancing quietly and without any presumption,
indeed, but with such success that empiricism and incompetency, so
largely prevailing, and, as generally admitted, on the increase, among
physicians, are more and more falling into oblivion among pharmacists.

Under these circumstances, medical writers should exercise due
regard and discretion in criticising pharmacists in their legitimate
attempt to check and relieve an evil, whose magnitude is largely the
consequence of the shortcomings of a great part of the physicians of
the land. The present move on the part of pharmacists to counteract
the use of nostrums, by instructing the people, by means of an annual
almanac,§ in regard to their composition and danger is, perhaps, the
wisest method. It has been successful in other countries, and is, at
least, worth a trial here ; while in regard to the before-mentioned
causes of the success which the nostrums have attained in our
country, as substitutes for medical aid, it is certainly the most discreet
and forbearing means within the reach of the pharmacists. They, of
course, are well aware of the incompleteness of their effort, as they
cannot expect a sweeping change so long as the shortcomings and
disqualification of so large a portion of practitioners continue to

* Dr. Wm. T. Edgar, President's Address before the Medical Editors' Association.
" St. Louis Medical and Surgical Journal," May, 1875, P- 23x-

f Dr. Stephen Smith. " Public Health Service and Medical Education ;v an ad-
dress before the American Public Health Association. " New York Daily Times,"
November 13th, 1874.

X Dr. H. C. Wood, Jr., " Lippincott's Magazine," December, 1875, p. 711.

\ The Popular Health Almanac, edited by Fred. Hoffmann.

AmjJa°riiri876harm'} Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. I 5

diminish confidence in the unexceptional qualification of the medical proT
fession at large, and tend to drive the public to other means of relief, and
among them, especially,to nostrums.

2. The charge upon pharmacists of the alleged practice of prescrib-
ing, or advising and dispensing medicines on their own account and
responsibility, when called upon to do so, is one which medical men
occasionally like to indulge in, and in which they draw largely on
their own imagination, and put all the real or* fancied facts deliberately
to one side. The fact is, that the choice of the methods or agents to
be employed in the maintenance or restoration of health, and the
inquiry for, as well as the imparting of advice as to remedies and their
application or use, as well as the sale of unobjectionable commercial
drugs and medicines, with the exception of a few whose sale is
restricted for their poisonous character, by State or local laws, and
the compounding of physicians' prescriptions, is entirely optional to
every individual in this land, as well as, more or less so, elsewhere.
This principle, right or wrong, has lately asserted its validity in regard
to the practice of medicine, even in Germany,* notwithstanding its
rigid statutes and thoroughly educated body of physicians it, unfortu-
nately, leaves a wide and precarious range to license, which, however,
under the present constitutional privileges of every individual, evidently
cannot effectually be met otherwise than by the jurisdiction of the penal
code in the courts, as the ultimate safeguard and recourse in cases of
injury by malpractice. Beyond this alternative and the fundamental exi-
gency in this country, to raise and establish by statutes, and subsequently
to maintain, the standard of education and qualification in the professions,
no other tribunal can be had for the present, unless that moral one
which culminates in a proper and sound sense of responsibility, char-
acter and honor in the individual, and which pharmacists, not less than
the physicians, individually as well as a class, should possess and deserve
par excellence.

Far from sanctioning or countenancing imposition or licence by
unqualified or unprincipled persons, inside or outside the professions,
although they, to a very large extent, are admitted by. the laws and
customs of the land, it may, in regard to pharmacists, be but proper to
take into consideration, on the other hand, how much good they do,
in the way of preventing misapplication or omission, and how many a

* "American Journal of Pharmacy," July, 1874, p. 321.

16 Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. {^'jSH'HSf^

valuable life they may save, by their intelligent and conscientious action,
and by wise counsel in impressing upon the minds of their customers or
the afflicted the advantage or necessity of abstaining from experiments,
at least with domestic remedies, sugar pellets or nostrums, and of resorting
in time to medical aid.

The truth is that, in this respect, no complaint on the part of the
community against the Dharmacists appears to be on record ; and it
may safely be said that American pharmacy, notwithstanding its many
wants, especially in regard to the general culture in the individual,
which it has in common with the other professions, evidently enjoys,
at present, to a large extent, the public confidence, and meets all rea-
sonable expectations to general satisfaction. Whenever there has been
any just demand, the profession has shown the spirit and energy to
redress and improve any shortcoming, while in its schools it has con-
tinually been raising the standard of education and qualification,
although they, perhaps, may have, in time, to face the same danger which
so deplorably has lowered the status of qualification in so large a por-
tion of American physicians, arising from the excessive and reckless
multiplication of rival schools, many of which are said to confer the
degree of M. D. indiscriminately "on the veriest boor, almost without
expense, and upon an examination which is little or nothing more than
a farce," and in this way " annually to let loose upon the community a
multitude of doctors who are totally unfit for the momentous duties
with which they, by such a diploma, are legally entrusted."*

Under such circumstances, where the fundamental requisites for
confidence and reliance in the physician are so much and so widely
wanting, in a great number even of regular practitioners throughout the
land, and where evils are so openly known to exist and call for reform,
evils which are of no small magnitude to the profession, but of infi-
nitelv greater consequence to the community, the advancing of impu-
tations, like the above-mentioned one, on the part of medical journals,
is at least untimely and impolitic, as it is also uncalled for, and recalls
forcibly the application of the old adage : " Those who live in glass
houses should not throw stones."

3. uWe might suggest the propriety of sending our prescriptions to such
pharmacists as do not vend patent medicines" Although none more than

*Dr. H. C. Wood, Jr., in " Lippincott's Magazine," December, 1875, pp. 707

708 and 709.

Am'jJanUr'i8P76arm'} Pharmacists, Physicians and Nostrums. 17

pharmacists would hail the day when, in consequence of the restored
universal trust in the physician, doctors* prescriptions and the exclusive
demand for legitimate medicines would take the place of every sale of
a nostrum, and the latter pass into oblivion, yet they cannot admit the
logic as construed and applied in the above assertion, cited from an
editorial in the New York " Medical Record :"* they share with the
majority of well-informed and accomplished physicians and the intelli-
gent part of the community in the opinion that the time has passed by,
when reliable and competent pharmacists were at a premium, and that
at present the large body of educated pharmacists to be found through-
out the country, no matter if they sell nostrums or not, are both
qualified and trustworthy in their business, however it may be desig-
nated by some doctors "as a profession or a trade. "f If physicians
cannot make this discrimination, the public can, and will more and
more act on their own judgment in the choice of a pharmacist, just as
in that of a doctor. People of culture cannot but feel it an impropri-
ety in a physician, unless in exceptional cases, to direct or dictate to a
patient where to go in order to get his prescription compounded, and
such insinuation would reveal a want either of tact or of good sense
in the physician, and would possibly suggest the traditional suspicion of
a special interest of the latter in the profits which he confers upon a
pharmacist. %

In leaving this unpleasant subject, which it is unwarrantable for
medical writers to advance as a menace, § and in relation to an attempt on
the part of pharmacists as to the best and most efficient methods in
dealing with the nostrum traffic, it is proper to state, as expressing the
sentiment of the pharmaceutical profession and to a large extent that
of the intelligent public too, that pharmacists are fully justified in
sharply repelling any such unbecoming insinuation, from whatever side
it may come, whether by caprice or by want of respect, or under the
obsolete notion that physicians have the prerogative of exercising a
tutelage over the practice of pharmacy, a profession which, in the
United States, too, has reached its majority, and become competent to
take care of its own affairs and to stand on its own merits.

When we balance the present status of medicine and pharmacy in

* October, 1875, P- 729-

f New York " Medical Record," October, 1875, P- 682-
% "American Journal of Pharmacy," September, 1874, p. 444.
I New York " Medical Record," October, 1875, P- 729*

2

1 8 Researches upon Buchu. {Am' jZ'^e!m'

our land, the latter need not shrink before a critical but equitable and
just comparison, both in its accomplishments and its share of applica-
tion and usefulness in the health service. Both professions present a
wide and constantly increasing sphere for scientific acquirement and
practical skill, requiring for adequate qualification, a superior prelimi-
nary training of the intellect, and a large amount of proficiency and
knowledge, while both have in common their measure of deficiencies
and wants, and their drawbacks. When thoughtful and high-minded
men are conscious of these, and keenly feel shortcomings and abuses,
and call for improvement and reform, they should, when confronting
so great evils, bear with real or fancied or overrated minor wants,
avoid and discountenance unavailing antagonism, and gain and
cherish strength by advancing friendly and auspicious mutual relations
between physician and pharmacist. They certainly will meet, in their
honest and well-directed efforts, with due appreciation, encouragement
and support. In consideration, however, of the privileges equally
secured by our national constitution to every individual, and conceding
a wide scope for licence, all that can be aimed at and realized, in order
to remedy and counteract the consequences, may be the legislative
enactment and subsequent maintenance of an adequate standard of
qualification in every individual inside of the professions.

Upon the relations between medicine and pharmacy well informed
men need, on this occasion, no further comment, while the personal
relations between physician and pharmacist invariably rest on the level
of education, culture and character in the individual. For short-
comings in this respect the professions, of course, cannot be held re-
sponsible.

RESEARCHES UPON BUCHU.

BY PROF. E. S. WAYNE.

Buchu from the examinations of previous analysts has been shown
to contain an ethereal oil in small quantity, and also that this oil con-
tained a camphor which could be separated from it by exposure to cold.
No other proximate principle peculiar to the drug has been proven to
exist in it.

In handling large quantities of this drug in a manufacturing way, I
have noticed some facts and peculiarities not mentioned by others, and
find that the essential oil above mentioned, is not always so simple a
body as stated.

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
Jan. 1876. j

Researches upon Buchu.

l9

Some time since, having occasion to distill off the remaining alcohol
from a partially exhausted lot of buchu, I obtained in the last runnings
of the still a quantity of oil of buchu, in all, about twelve ounces^
and, upon examining it in various ways, I found that upon treatment with
strong liquor sodae, nearly one-half of the oil dissolved to a clear solu-
tion ; this solution was separated from the oil unacted upon, and then
neutralized by hydrochloric acid, which caused the separation of a
white solid crystalline mass ; this was thrown into a beaker glass and
washed with water, then dissolved in boiling water, and set aside for
results. Upon examining the same some time afterwards, I found
that the whole had assumed a highly crystalline state, was colorless,
and resembled salicylic acid in form; and upon examining them furthur,
found that they were in fact that acid, and gave all the reactions for
that substance, and with ferric chloride gave the beautiful color reaction,
a deep purplish red. I was very much astonished at the result of my
examination, and read a paper upon the same at a college meeting some
six months ago, and should have published the same then, but wished
to verify the above by further experiments, and since then have made
several examinations, but not with the same results.

My next experiment was to distill with water 20 pounds of buchu ;
(in all these experiments the short variety was used) the oil collected
and treated with soda as in the former experiment. I found that the
oil obtained from this lot did not dissolve, or lose the same volume
that the former did, but that a part formed a clear solution, which, upon
being separated and neutralized with hydrochloric acid, became milky
turbid in appearance ; this was set aside over night, and in the morning
the same was found almost transparent, and filled with a mass of long
needle-shaped crystals — these were separated by filtration, washed with
cold water, and suffered to dry on the filter — they were tested in solu-
tion in water, with negative results, except with nit. silver and ferric
chloride ; that of the ferric chloride was very marked and decided; upon
addition of this reagent to the colorless solution it caused an intense
blueish black color even in very dilute solutions, as decided as that of
salicylic acid with this reagent, but of a different color.

Failing in this experiment to obtain the same results as in the former,
and thinking over the matter, thought that probably the alcohol might
have caused some change in the former ; a quantity of fluid extract of
buchu, about six pints, was distilled with the addition of water. I
obtained only a small quantity of oil, which, in every respect, gave the

20

Researches upon Buchu.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

same reactions as with that obtained by distilling the buchu with water.
With this experiment the investigation was left at rest, until this
Fall, when it was again taken taken up, and whilst engaged in it, Mr,
Wm. M. Thompson, of W. H. Merrell & Co., brought me as curios-
ity a few crystals of a substance that he said was obtained in attempting
to distill off the alcohol from a lot of buchu magma. I immediately
recognized them as being the same substance I found in the two last
experiments ; and learning from him that the whole was just about the
same as the mass that I had originally distilled, and found salicylic acid
in the oil, I made a request of Messrs. W. H. Merrell & Co., through
him, that the same be placed at my disposal, to which they kindly con-
sented. I received a barrel about three-fourths full of the magma, and
distilled it with water. I obtained from it a portion or all of the alco-
hol, and by continuing the distillation and cohobating the watery distillate
obtained six gallons of a milky distillate, but only slight traces of oil
floating upon it. This distillate was set aside over night, and upon
examining the same in the morning, found there had formed nearly two
inches deep upon the bottom of the vessel holding the liquid, a mass
of long needle-shaped crystals, some an inch and a half long ; the
supernatant liquid was syphoned off, and the crystals then collected on
a filter. These were tested as the former, and with ferric chloride gave
the same dark bluish-black color. The water syphoned off also gave
the same, and the alcohol distilled from the magma gave the same
result. I obtained no oil to test for salicylic acid, and could not detect
it in any of the distillates. From this lot of buchu I have obtained
nearly three ounces of this crystalline body, in long needle-shaped
colorless crystals, having an odor indicative of their origin, yet different
What it is, I am not yet able to say, but shall examine it more fully
and report at some future time.

Buchu, from what has been shown, evidently contains some sub-
stance, that by its chemical change, will yield salicylic acid, and proba-
bly it is the crystalline body I have found in the three last experiments.
This is sparingly soluble in water at ordinary temperatures, freely at
the boiling-point ; which solution upon cooling, becomes turbid from
separation of oil drops, which afterwards turn to crystals soluble in
alcohol and ether ; and the aqueous solution with ferric chloride forms
an intense, I may say, inky blue color, so intense as to render the
solution opapue even in a test tube half an inch in diameter.

Nitrate of silver also occasions a precipitate of a purplish color,
deeper than that of chloride silver, exposed to the action of light.
Cincinnati, Dec, 1875.

t

Arn,jJa0nrx8P76arm*} Molybdic in Sulphuric Acid as a test. 2 1

ON SOLUTIONS OF MOLYBDIC IN SULPHURIC ACID AS A
REAGENT FOR ORGANIC PRINCIPLES *

BY HENRY S. WELLCOME, PH. G.

Dr. Regnald Southey, Physician to St. Bartholomew's Hospital,
London, in his report for 1874, (vol. x, p. 303), announces, as a new
test for opium, a solution of molybdic acid in sulphuric acid. The
following is an abstract of his statement : " A new test for opium ; a
color test, at once so characteristic and intense, of such easy applica-
bility and such extreme delicacy, that it needs only to be more
generally known in order to be often employed ; molybdic acid
dissolved in pure sulphuric acid is the testfluid ; a saturated, or, at all
events, a strong solution should be made. Th,e reaction is produced
by mDrphia in opium, not by the meconic acid ; the latter undergoes
no change with the reagent ; the former, in minutest quantities, at once
furnishes characteristic reaction. The best mode of proceeding is to
place a drop of the suspected fluid side by side with a drop of the
test fluid, by means of a glass rod; at once, if morphia, or any of its
salts, be present, a beautiful deep maroon color will be presented, when
the fluids are brought in contact ; the color changes after a while,
becoming, first deep purple, and then gradually losing its red element,
and becoming dark, and later, a brighter blue. In evidence of the
minuteness of this test I may adduce the following facts : The re-
action is distinctly obtained with a single drop of pharmacopoeial tinct.
opii, as also with the compound tincture of camphor.

" The presence of a good deal of impurity, and of alien organic matter,
does not interfere much with it. Of this I feel confident, that the busy
practitioner will hail this new discovery, which enables him to detect lauda-
num or morphia in the dregs of bottles, brought to him to test, and in
fluids vomited, and to swear to its presence with positive security. I was
enabled to detect the grain of morphia, as presented in the
morphia lozenge of our pharmacopoeia."

It is an error that such tests are published, especially for determining
the presence of so important a principle and so common a poison as
morphia, and with the commendation of one whose position should
warrant authority and reliability. We should be sorry to learn of Dr.
Southey's swearing to the presence of opium or morphia, his findings
based upon this test alone, in a chemico-legal poison case, where a

* Read, December 7th, before the Monthly Meeting of the New York Alumni
Association of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy.

22 Molybdic in Sulphuric Acid as a test. {AmjI™s*lA™'

person's life or liberty was depending upon his testimony. The test is
not characteristic ; there are many other organic bodies which yield the
same color with the reagent, and the presence of other organic matter
does materially interfere with the reaction, varying according to its
character. He states that he was able to produce the reaction with a
single drop of tinct. opii or tinct. opii camph., he could as well pro-
duce the same reaction with any other tincture, and even with pure
alcohol ; but they give a bright purple color, changing to blue, and not
the maroon, which is produced by pure morphia, and similar bodies.

Mr. Buckingham, in " American Journal of Pharmacy," 1873, P-
150, proposed a solution of molybdate of ammonium, eight grains, in
sulphuric acid, two drachms, as a test for some organic bodies, giving
a table, showing the changes of color produced by the most important
alkaloids, and, while his results show that his experiments were con-
ducted with care, yet he overlooked the fact that those colors vary
according to the condition under which the test is applied. Prescott,
in his new and valuable little work on proximate organic analysis, p.
144, devotes much space to Frcehde's reagent, which is a solution of
molybdate of sodium, O'Oi grain, in concentrated sulphuric acid, 10 cc,
and gives a table showing the reaction with the reagent, and with pure
sulphuric acid. I do not think that the indications wnich he presents
there were proven with proper care ; he states that morphia is colorless
with concent, sulphuric acid — it gives a wine-red color. These test
solutions of molybdic acid, or molybdates in sulphuric acid, all give
like reactions, (varying slightly in intensity of color). My experiments
prove them to be unreliable, and therefore worthless, for determining
the presence of the alkaloids ; for instance, pure quinia gives little or
no color, but some of its salts at once yield a reaction ; bromide and
iodide, deep blue ; ferrocyanide, red ; tannate, red-brown.

The maroon color which Dr. Southey produced with morphia, and
is produceable with other bodies, is caused by the red color, given with
the sulphuric acid, blending with the blue hydrate of molybdenum,
which is formed by the reduction of molybdic acid and the molybdates,
when brought in contact with certain organic matters ; the variable
green color is produced by blending with the yellow color given to
many organic bodies by the action of sulphuric acid, and when these
solutions produce a red, yellow or brown coloration, with an organic
principle, the reaction is simply with the sulphuric acid, the molybdates
taking no part in it.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

Laboratory Notes.

Solution of the proto-salts of tin, zinc or copper, yield a deep blue
color with the molybdates.

There is no more need of molybdic acid, or molybdates, in these
test solutions than for the presence of any other blue coloring matter,
which will blend with the color produced by sulphuric acid, and
produce tints which, while pleasing to the eye, confuse the analyst.

LABORATORY NOTES.

BY E. S. WAYNE.

Damiana. — A quantity of this new remedy, purchased in New York,
and similar to that figured as No. 3 in the November (1875) ''Journal
of Pharmacy" (page 578), was made into fluid extract. The drug
was exhausted with 76 per cent, alcohol. The filtered extract, upon
standing for several days in a glass vessel, deposited all over that part
of the vessel filled with it, a crystalline crust. The extract was poured
from the bottle and crystals removed, which upon examination were
found to be, not a proximate principle, as I expected, but chloride of
potassium.

Eucalyptus globulus. — In the preparation of the fluid extract of this
substance, I have not been able to obtain a preparation that would not
in a short time form a copious precipitate, supposed to be chlorophyll.
The green appearance of it warranted that opinion, but when separat-
ing it from the extract, and examining it, I found that chlorophyll
formed only a small part of the mass. I dissolved the precipitate in
alcohol, filtered it through bone black, and obtained a light-colored
solution, free from the green chlorophyll. This was then treated with
an alcoholic solution of plumbic acetate, which was added as long as it
gave a precipitate ; this was filtered, and sulphydric acid passed into
the nitrate, to remove excess of lead. After removing the sulphide of
lead, the filtrate was placed in a loosely covered vessel, to evaporate
spontaneously. As the alcohol evaporated, crystals began to form on
the sides of the bottle, and by slow evaporation a confused crystalline
mass was obtained, retaining the peculiar odor of the substance. I
could not make out the crystalline form, but removed the crystals and
reduced them to a powder, the color a pale ochre tint. The substance
is soluble in ether and chloroform ; its alcoholic solution gives, with
ferric chloride, a dark brownish-red color. The precipitate conse-
quently contains, besides chlorophyll and tannic acid, a peculiar crys-
tallizable acid resin, which gives a brown-red reaction with ferric
chloride.

24

A loin.

Am. Jour Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

ALOIN.

BY CHARLES L. MITCHELL, PH. G.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, Dec- i\st, 1875.)

The subject of aloin having lately been again brought to the notice
of the pharmaceutical world by the experiments of Mr. Tilden, it
occured to the writer to undertake some experiments on aloin, in order
to ascertain if a good article could not be prepared by some reliable pro-
cess, not too difficult for general adoption.

The grades of aloin, as found in the market, have occasioned much
distrust of its value as a medicine, on account of the unreliability and
uncertainty attending their use, very often being almost inert. Aloin,
when of a good character, is a very safe and efficient cathartic and
purgative, acting freely in doses of from 1 to 3 grs. It affords a conve-
nient and efficacious method of obtaining the remedial effects of aloes
in a concentrated form.

In making these experiments the process of Mr. Tilden (Am. "Jour.
Pharm. 187 1.) was followed. " One pound of good Barbadoes aloes
was broken up and dissolved with heat in 1 gal. water, acidulated with
f^ss sulphuric acid, and after perfect solution, was set aside for twenty-
tour hours to cool. The supernatant, clear liquid was poured ofF from
the resin (which is comparatively inert), and evaporated by a gentle heat
to about 2 pints, and then set aside for several days. On examining
the liquid at the expiration of that time, a heavy crystalline deposit of
a yellow color was found on the bottom and sides of the vessel. This
was collected on a filter, washed with a little ice-cold water to remove
coloring matter, well drained and dried. This aloin is rather impure.
It can be rendered quite pure by dissolving it in warm water, decolor-
ing with animal charcoal, and again evaporating and crystallizing.

Aloin, thus obtained, is of a yellow color, crystalline, and of an
extremely bitter, aloetic taste. It is slightly soluble in cold water, very
soluble in hot water, and soluble in alcohol. The yield was about 600
grains.

Some of this aloin was made up into pills, and it purged actively in
doses of 2 grs.

The liquid from which the crystalline deposit had been separated
was evaporated to extract consistence, yielding about 10 ounces of a
very good article of extractum aloes.

The main point to be considered in the preparation of a reliable
article of aloin, is the selection of a good grade of aloes. Barbadoes

Am. Tour. Pharm. )
Jan. 1876. J

Wafer Capsules.

aloes is generally the best, on account of the aloin obtained from it,
being much more easily separated and more active, than that obtained
from the other varieties of aloes. Natal aloes, lately quite prevalent
in the market, also affords an extremely handsome " looking " article
of aloin, but unfortunately it, as well as the aloes itself, is very weak
in its action ; 15 and 20 grs. of the aloin having been taken with the
result of only a slight purgative action.

The writer also examined an article of aloin prepared from a grade
of aloes, called Curagoa ; but this was also quite weak in its action.

The best means of detecting the nataloin is by its reaction with
strong sulphuric acid, and the vapor of nitric acid, as proposed by
Histed. Add a few grains of the suspected aloin to several drops of
strong sulphuric acid, and then pass a glass rod, moistened with strong
nitric acid, gently just over its surface. The presence of nataloin
will be indicated by the blue color which immediately results. Barb-
aloin can be detected by its reaction with strong nitric acid, giving a red
color.

WAFER CAPSULES AS A MEANS OF ADMINISTRATION OF

MEDICINES.

BY WILLIAM MciNTYRE, PH. G.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, December zist.)

In the "American Journal of Pharmacy," 1873, Pa&e I9°-> an^ 1875,
page 213, notices have appeared describing such wafer envelopes or
capsules.

Recently attention has been specially directed to the advantages of
this method, and there have appeared in the market wafer discs and
presses to enable the druggist to dispense them. The want of infor-
mation as to their production and the expense attending upon the press
has proven a barrier to their general introduction.

The plan consists in having two small concave wafer discs to fit
each other in such manner that when joined a perfectly sealed envelope
or capsule is formed, thus rendering feasible the administration of such
medicines as are free from moisture, in a tasteless and odorless manner,
also allowing the presentation in one envelope of two substances, sep-
arated by a middle leaf of wafer paper, with the intention that they
unite in the stomach, and form a salt in the nascent state.

It is possible to secure all these advantages bv means of apparatus

26

Wafer Capsules.

/Am. Jour. Pharm.
1 Jan. 1876.

and wafer discs that can be prepared by any one at a very trifling out-
lay.

To prepare the capsules, the mode of proceeding is as follows :
Procure wafers in sheets such as are used by fancy-cakes-bakers. Cut
them into circular pieces by means of a hollow punch. One of these
is slightly dampened by placing it between wet muslin cloths, removed
and inserted between two tin plates which have been prepared of the
desired shape of the finished disc ; after pressing together the plates,
the wafer will have received the desired impression and is ready to
receive whatever suitable combination the physician may desire to pre-
scribe.

I have, however, found wafer sheets which could not be moistened
and worked to advantage in this way ; but these can be managed with-
out this treatment, if the tin plates are heated, the flat wafer inserted,
and pressure applied as before.

These latter have a highly polished surface, and can be manufactured
with greater rapidity than the former.

The use of the press is to seal the wafers. This is accomplished
by properly moistening the internal surface of the rim of one wafer,
upon which has previously been placed the medicine, and covering this
with another, and submitting to pressure. This moistening is done by
an apparatus formed by taking two hollow metallic cylinders, differing
in diameter, enclosing one within the other and filling the intervening
space with round lampwick or flannel cloth, which is allowed to slightly
project. This is moistened by applying it to a piece of flannel which
has been previously wetted ; or one of the discs may be pressed upon
a moistened cloth until the rim is in such condition that when applied
to the filled disc it will adhere.

Our fellow-member, E. M. Boring, has devised a press which

answers all requirements, and is yet so simple in its construction that
any one can, in a short time, with comparatively no expense, make one.
It consists of two pieces of one-and-a-half-inch hardwood board,

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

Vinegar Bitters.

^7

two inches wide and nine inches long, joined together at one end with
a good hinge. The pressing surfaces consist of concave pieces of
brass or metal, having a rim corresponding to the various sizes of wafer
discs sunk to a proper level and fastened into the body of the press.
For these, buttons for stair-rods answer every purpose.

The medicated capsule is now ready for the patient, who will be thus
enabled to take such bitter substances as quinia, aloes, &c, without
perceiving the least taste whatever, and requiring very little effort to
swallow, all that is requisite being to dip the wafer for a moment in
cold water, place it upon the tongue, and swallow with a very small
drink of water.

VINEGAR BITTERS.

BY OTTMAR EBERBACH.

{Abstract of a paper presented to and published by request of the American Pharma-
ceutical Association, Sept. 1875.)

The appearance of this compound reminds one very forcibly of a
mud-hole in clayey soil, for it looks as if it was taken from such a
depository and bottled ; this,' probably, explains why the proprietors
have their wrappers so firmly fixed over their unsightly mixture. On
opening the boctle it gives a slight report, indicating the presence of
some gas ; its odor is that of a mixture of oil of anise and aloes., its
taste sour, very bitter, with an anise flavor.

To determine the composition of this nostrum, the author subjected
the contents of a bottle to distillation, passing the gas through an am-
moniacal solution of barium chloride, in which a white precipitate was
produced (carbonic acid). The distilled liquid was found to contain
oil of anise, acetic acid and alcohol, the presence of the latter being
proven by the acetic ether and iodoform tests.

The balance of the contents of the bottle was neutralized with am-
monia, evaporated to dryness, and the residue exhausted with absolute
alcohol ; insoluble portion marked A, soluble portion, B. The latter
was exhausted with cold water ; the solution, after long-continued boil-
ing with dilute sulphuric acid, yielded to ether paracumaric acid, recog-
nized by its solubility and the golden yellow color produced with ferric
chloride ; the presence of aloes was thus proven.

The portion of B, which was insoluble in cold water, was partly sol-
uble in chloroform ; the remainder, dissolving in solution of carbonate
of sodium, was free from the resins of colocynth and jalap, and con.

28 Gleanings from Foreign Journals, {Am-&876.rm'

sisted of resin of aloes. The chloroformic solution left, on evapora-
tion, a residue which was soluble in boiling solution of sodium carbon-
ate, and reprecipitated by sulphuric acid as dirty yellowish flakes, which
were indifferent to carbon bisulphide (absence of gamboge), but dis-
solved in alcohol, and then yielded with ferric chloride, chlorine water
and bichromate of potassium the characteristic green coloration of
guaiac.

In the residue A, the presence of sulphuric acid and soda was easily
proven. A portion of it was dissolved in water and precipitated by
strong alcohol. In a portion of this the presence of sugar was indi-
cated by Trommer's test ; another portion of the watery solution was
turned milky bv oxalic acid and gelatinized by concentrated solution of
ferric chloride ; presence of gum arabic.

Summing up the results, we find that this humbug is composed of
the following rare native herbs of the West, as collected by such
Indians and associates as Dr. J. Walker, viz., Cape aloes, Glauber's
salt, gum arabic, gum guaiac, acetic acid, carbonic acid, alcohol and oil
of anise.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Citrate of Lithium^ prepared in accordance with the British Pharma-
copoeia (ioo parts of carbonate of lithium and 180 parts of citric acid),
has, according to C. Umney, a distinct alkaline reaction, while that
made by the United States formula ( I oo carbonate of lithium to 200 citric
acid) is strongly acid, ioo parts of pure carbonate of lithium will be
required to neutralize 189*2 parts of citric acid, the product of anhy-
drous lithium citrate being identical with the amount of citric acid
employed. If commercial carbonate of lithium of fine quality contain
98 5 per cent, of real carbonate, then the proportions would be 100 parts
of carbonate and 186*5 parts of citric acid. Lithium citrate, prepared
from these proportions and rendered anhydrous, was neutral to test-
paper. A solution of specific gravity 1*230 when set aside produced
crystalline citrate of lithium, which appears to have the formula Li3C6
Hf)07+4H20 at 1000 C. (21 2° F.) ; this salt loses three molecules of
water, the fourth being given off at 1150 (2390 F.), leaving about 73
per cent, of anhydrous citrate. Ten commercial samples were exa-
mined ; they left, when dried at ioo° C, residues varying in weight
between 76*5 and 85*2 per cent., and at 1150 C. from 72*9 to 83*8

Am >nuri8^6.arm' } Gleanings from Foreign Journals. 29

per cent, of anhydrous citrate. Mr. Umney advocates the adoption of
the crystallized salt, which is thoroughly definite and reliable and whose
appearance would guarantee its uniformity. The definition of "delin-
quescent," applied by the two pharmacopoeias, is inaccurate. — Pharm,
Jour, and Trans., 1875, Sept. 11.

Bromide of Lithium is prepared by Yvon by mixing 37 grams of car-
bonate of lithium, 200 grams of distilled water and 80 grams of bro-
mine, and passing a current of sulphuretted hydrogen through the
mixture until the color of bromine has disappeared. A slight heat is
then applied to drive off excess of sulphuretted hydrogen and to agglu-
tinate the sulphur. After filtration, the liquor is concentrated and
finally crystallized by desiccating it under a glass over sulphuric acid.

It may also be obtained by double decomposition. Sulphate of lithium
is first formed by treating 37 grams of carbonate of lithium with 49
grams of monohydrated sulphuric acid, diluted with its own volume of
water. On the other hand, 119 grams of potassium bromide are dis-
solved in the smallest possible quantity of water. When the two
solutions are mixed, an abundant precipitate of potassium sulphate is
produced and increased by the addition of a little alcohol. The whole
is evaporated to dryness, finishing the operation on a water-bath, and
the residue is treated with alcohol which removes only bromide of
lithium and deposits it again on evaporation. The bromide may then
be crystallized from water or kept in solution of known strength. —
Ibid., Sept. 18.

Combinations of glacial acetic acid with oils. — As a continuation of his
paper on the solubility of alkaloids in oil ("Am. Jour. Pharm.," 1875,
p. 540), Mr. J. B. Barnes communicates the following results of his
experiments.

The minimum combining proportions of the following five commer-
cial samples of oil are, for one volume of glacial acetic acid, almond
oil 7 vol., olive oil, 8 vol., codliver oil, 7 vol., linseed oil 7 vol., and
oil of rhodium 4 vol.

The maximum combining proportions of the next five are, for one
volume of the acid, oil of turpentine, \ vol., oil of lemon, 2 vol., oil
lemon grass, 2 vol., oil of lemon grass, 2 vol., oil of copaiba, ^ vol.,
oil of juniper, 1 vol.

The following 41 oils will mix with glacial acetic acid in all propor-
tions : castor, cloves, croton, caraway, rosemary, sandal, cajeput,

30 Gleanings from Foreign Journals. {Am,jan.ri8>76arm'

orange, bergamot, anise, almonds (bitter), origanum, chamomile, euca-
lyptus, sage, cinnamon, cassia, lavender, myrtle, marjoram, pennyroyal,
citronella, pimento, sassafras, calamus, spearmint, wormwood, neroli
cubebs, coriander, cumin, peppermint, geranium, male fern, citron,
fennel, rue, savin, amber, nutmeg and essential oil of mustard. — Ibid.

Preservation of Hydrocyanic Acid. — Mr. John Williams has continued
his experiments on the preservative influence of glycerin upon hydro-
cyanic acid (see "Am. Jour. Phar.," 1874, p. 487). Two samples, of
ten fluidounces each, and containing respectively 4*5 and 2 per cent,
of acid, were put in pint bottles, glass stoppered, but not tied over or
inverted ; each contained 20 per cent, of Price's pure glycerin. The
bottles were opened after six and twelve months, and the acids were
found not to have diminished in strength or altered in appearance.
German glycerin was found to assume a yellow color with hydrocyanic
acid. — Ihid., Sept. 25.

Syrup of Tolu. — Regarding the resin of tolu as the main or sole act-
ive principle, Henrotte is in favor of retaining it in the syrup, and
effects its permanent emulsion in the following manner: 10 grams of
finely-powdered tragacanth are triturated with sufficient simple syrup
to form a mucilage ; 40 grams of tincture of tolu are added and an
emulsion made, to which enough simple syrup is added to make the
whole weight 1,000 grams. — four, de Phar. d'Anvers, 1875, p. 337—

339-

Administration af Raw Meat. — Dr. Lailler proposes to mix 100 grs.
of grated raw meat with 40 grs. of powdered sugar, adding afterwards
20 grs. of Bagnols wine (sparkling ?) and 3 grams of tincture of cin-
namon. This mixture has an agreeable taste and is easily digested. —
four, de Phar. et de Chim., 1 875, Nov., p. 367.

Solubility of Borax in Glycerin — According to Gandolphe, glycerin
dissolves, at the ordinary temperature, its own weight of borax by tri-
turating them in a mortar, or more rapidly by applying the heat of a
water-bath. This solution which keeps unaltered is well adapted for
mouth washes after the addition of some clarified honey or honey of
roses. 100 parts of water dissolve only 8*33 parts of borax. Boracic
acid is likewise more soluble in glycerin than in water, but not to the
same degree as borax. — Ibid., from Union Phar.

Test for Sulphocarbonates. — A. Mermet proposes for this purpose an

AmjJa0nUri876harm'} Development of the Chemical Arts. 31

ammoniacal solution of sulphate or chloride of nickel, diluted with
water until it appears colorless. A few drops of a solution of sulpho-
carbonate will produce with the reagent a very characteristic currant
color ; while liver of sulphur, which is occasionally sold as sulphocar-
bonate, produces a yellow, and the alkaline monosulphides a brown or
black color. — Ibid,, p. 352.

Devorative Capsules. — Under this name, the chemical factory of Hel-
fenberg, near Dresden, has introduced capsules which are made of a
material similar to sheet wafers, but rolled out very thin like vellum
paper. It is -used like ordinary powder paper, except that after the
powder has been put upon it the length margin is moistened with water
by means of a hair pencil ; it is then folded in the usual way, the ends
being likewise fastened by the aid of moisture. The entire capsule
with contents is swallowed after having been dipped in water and, if
necessary, rolled up. — Phar. Centr. Halle, 1875, No. 42.

REPORT ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHEMICAL ARTS
DURING THE LAST TEN YEARS *

BY DR. A. W. HOFMANN.

(Continued from page 559 of last volume.)

Hydrogen.

Of the three properties to which the industrial applications of hydrogen are appli-
cable two are of so striking a nature that they cannot have escaped the earliest
observers. To them it appeared as the combustible principle, the "volatile sul-
phur ^'f subsequently, it was regarded as the long-sought-for phlogiston, % or as the
" inflammable air," of which all combustible gases were mere varieties. In modern
times, this previously vague knowledge has been rendered definite, recognizing in
hydrogen the greatest heat of combustion, and consequently the property of produc-
ing the highest degrees of heat and light, properties which met with a practical
application at an early date.

The low specific gravity of hydrogen did not escape the earliest observers. Being
scarcely ponderable, it excited the idea of imponderable bodies, and its specific light-
ness, as well as its great heat of combustion, soon met with a striking application.

A third attribute is of a less manifest nature. Occasionally destroying colors,

but often obtained without any brilliant and striking phenomena, hydrogen in its

nascent state is capable of entering into many combinations, of which it is incapable

when pre-existing in a free state. It liberates chlorine, oxygen, and other elements

from their compounds, and takes their place j or it is deposited in compounds not

fully saturated, and fills up the vacancies. This attribute is most weighty for the

* " Berichte fiber die Entwickelung der Chemischen Industrie Wahrend des Letzten J ahrzeheEds."
f Lemery, " Memoires de l'Academie," 1700.
J Cavendish, 1766.

3 2 Development of the Chemical Arts. { j4mjJa°nur;8 £6harm

most recent developement of chemistry, as well as of great technological importance.
Unawares, this property has been made use of for ages. Upon it depends the trans-
mutation of indigo-blue in the vat into indigo-white, and, consequently, one of the
oldest and most important branches of the art of dyeing.

In 1842, Zinin succeeded in converting nitrobenzol into anilin by the action of
nascent hydrogen, and thus opened out an industrial region of unimagined extent.
The era of the artificial dyes followed. It was soon perceived that many of these
substances shared with indigotin the property of being decolorised by hydrogen, and
thus zinc-powder was introduced into calico-printing as a discharging agent, which,
developing hydrogen in patterns where it is printed on, remove artificial coloring
matters, e.g., magenta.*

A series of interesting observations showed, however, that the manner in which
hydrogen is evolved is not without influence on hydrogenisation. Whilst ammonium
sulphide, and whilst acids under the influence of metals give up so much hydrogen
to nitrobenzol as to form anilin ; if other sources of hydrogen are employed the
reaction is arrested half-way, and intermediate products are generated. Herewith,
therefore, nascent hydrogen escapes from our general consideration, and its technical
application will be described in future parts of this report.

We return, therefore, to its applications as a source of heat and light. It has been
briefly described in the section on oxygen how the oxyhydrogen blast was evolved
from the experiments of Saron between 1780 and 1790, and how it was introduced
in the manufacture of platinum in the middle of the present century by Deville and
Debray. Since 1838! Desbassains de Richemont found in hydrogen mixed with air
the means for the autogenous soldering of sheets of lead, and thus supplied the sul-
phuric acid manufacture with the fundamental condition of its growth, i.e., perma-
nent lead chambers of any desired magnitude. If, in places where coal-gas is readily
procurable, this combustible is substituted for hydrogen in soldering lead, many
sulphuric acid chambers are not near gas-works, and in them hydrogen is still
necessary for soldering. The same must be said on the application of hydrogen for
the autogenous soldering of other metals and alloys, a process for which Winckler,
in his convincing essay already quoted, predicts a great future. More recently, lead
pans soldered in this manner have been introduced in the manufacture of boracic
acid in Italy. Numerous conflagrations, especially that of Canterbury Cathedral in
1 871, and that of the Alexandra Palace on Muswell Hill in 1873, demonstrably due
to the braziers full of fire used in soldering the leaden spouts, have led, in England,
to the proposal to solder leaden roofing and spouting with hydrogen.

How far hydrogen is superior to other kinds of fuel appears from the following
table. According to the experiments of Favre and Silbermann, 1 grm. of the follow-
ing bodies, when burnt in water, gave the appended number of calorics, f. <?., it
raised, by i°, the temperature of the given number of centigrams of water.J

* The transformation of the colored salts of rosanilin into the colorless salts of leucanilin by means of
zinc and hydrochloric acid, was discovered by A. W. Hofmann, in i860, — Proc. Roy. See, vol. xii., p. 2.
The above application is due to Durand. See Schutzenberger, " Traite des Matieres Colorantes," vol.
i, p. 491.

I Karmarsch, " Geschichte der Technologie," 380.

J A. Witrtz, " Dictionnaire de Chimie," vol. i, pp. 825, 826.

*j5K8$"m'} Development of the Chemical Arts.

Hydrogen, . . . . . . 34*462

Carbonic oxide, . . , . . 2-403

Oil of turpentine, ..... 10*852

Stearic acid, . . . . . 9*7 1 6

Alcohol, ...... 7*814

Marsh-gas, ..... 13*063

Wood charcoal (burnt to carbonic acid), . . . 8*080

Ethylen, . . . . . . 11-858

Ether, . . . . . . 9*028

The temperature of the flame does not, however, depend exclusively on the heat
of combustion. The density of the burning body and the specific heat of the prod-
ucts of combustion must also be taken into account. Hence it comes that the tem-
perature of the hydrogen flame in pure oxygen is about 68000, in air about 26000;
the temperature of the flame of carbonic oxide in oxygen amounts to 70000, in air
about 30000 ;* further according to calculation 1 vol. of hydrogen = 1 grin, is
capable of fusing 205 grms. of platinum, whilst the same volume of carbonic oxide
can fuse 238 grms, of platinum (melting-point, 20000). In practice, however, even
under the most favorable conditions, as Deville and Debray determined in their
researches on platinum, about half the heat is lost by conduction to the furnace and
other surrounding matter, and the above authorities with 120 litres of hydrogen and
60 of oxygen succeeded in fusing only 1 kilo, of platinum instead of double the
amount as calculated. Platinum can also be smelted and refined under similar cir-
cumstances with coal-gas. But for the more infusible metals of the platinum group,
iridium, ruthenium, and their alloys, the hydrogen flame must be retained, which, if
costlier than coal-gas, is cheaper than carbonic oxide.

In the use of gases as fuel, the metal itself can be brought in contact with the
flame, which is impracticable in case of carbon, and thus the great loss of heat is
avoided which ensues when the crucible is heated from without. Their application
renders it also possible to inspect the condition of the metal at any moment. In the
metallurgy of the common metals these two advantages do not come into consider-
ation. Carbon, moreover, is not only the cheapest but the most productive fuel,f
and the application of hydrogen as a source of heat seems therefore limited to auto-
genous soldering and to the fusion of the most refractory platinum metals.

The property of platinum-black to ignite hydrogen, of which Dobereiner made
a well-known and widely utilized application in his hydrogen lamp in 1823, has lost
its practical importance owing to the discovery of friction matches.

The more intense and permanent was the interest which hydrogen created as a
source of light.

As the luminous power depends on the temperature at which a solid ignited body
is maintained, the suggestion was near at hand to produce an intense light by means
of this gas, in which an incombustible body was heated to whiteness. To this end
the Scotch military engineer Drummond used in 1826 cylinders of caustic lime
heated in the oxyhydrogen flame. The Drummond light has been widely employed,

* Debray " Sur la Production des Temperatures Elevees et sur la Fusion de la Platine." Lecons de
Chimie en 1861, 65 ; Paris, 1861.

f The calculated temperature of the flame of carbon in oxygen is io,ooo°, from which has to be deducted
the unknown amount of heat which at this temperature is lost by dissociation. See Debray, opus citat,

3

34 Development of the Chemical Arts. {Am' j^^m'

not merely in geodetic measurements and in lighthouses, which the inventor had
principally in view, but also for projections of microscopic objects and photographic
images on glass, or drawings upon gelatin for demonstration in lecture-halls,* for
dissolving views, and chromatropes. In the American civil war it was used in sieges
to light up forts. f The English war department has tried it in barracks, in large
halls and courts, in whichj it is said to have proved cheaper than coal-gas, whilst the
smallest characters could be read at a distance of 90 metres from the source of
light.

Since lime partially loses its luminous power by continued use, platinum-wire,
magnesia, and latterly zirconia, have been employed in its stead. g

The above-mentioned application of the hydrogen lamps are, however, of a very
limited nature. To utilize it on the large scale for street lighting, the simultaneous
use of oxygen has been laid aside, and cheaper methods of preparation have been
sought for. For this purpose advantage was taken of Felice Fontana's method of
decomposing water by means of ignited iron and ignited carbon, as proposed in
1780.ll On the latter scheme Donovan founded his industrial preparation of
hydrogen gas in Dublin, in 1830. His process has been repeatedly described with
modifications, referring in part to the needful apparatus, and in part to the
diminution of the proportion of carbonic oxide. The presence of this poisonous
gas was at first justly urged as an argument against the use of the " water gas."
Langlois found that the mixture obtained — on allowing steam to pass over iron
retorts filled with red hot coke in Kirkham's apparatus — had the tolerably constant
composition of 58 to 60 per cent, of hydrogen, 19 to 26 carbonic oxide, and 15 to 20
carbonic acid.

It was subsequently, however, discovered^ that at higher temperatures carbonic
oxide is oxidized by watery vapor to carbonic acid, so that if the steam is in excess
a gas may be obtained relatively free from carbonic oxide, as shown in the reaction
— C-j-2H20=4.H-|-C02. In the water-gas prepared at Narbonne, where the gas on
issuing from the retorts is conducted through ignited tubes along with fresh
quantities of superheated steam, Verver** found in 1858, 3*54 per cent, of carbonic
oxide. According to other, observers the amount ranged from 2*5 to 5 per cent.
In the water-gas at Passy, Payen found 6 per cent, of carbonic oxide, whilst in
ordinary coal-gas he found an average of no less than 14 per cent. The above-
mentioned objection, therefore, no longer holds good.

The carbonic acid is removed by milk of lime, or, perhaps, more economically,
according to the suggestion of Heurtebiseff by soda, which is thereby converted
into bicarbonate, a readily saleable substance.

FayesJ| constructed for lighting the town of Narbonne an apparatus which he

:i; This Report, Nov., 1875, p. 509 ; also H. Vogel, " Ber. d. Chem. Gesell.," iii, 901.

f Wagner, " Lehrbuch der Technologic" 9th edit , ii, p. 377.

j" Journal of Gas-lighting," 1869.

§ See the work of Phillips, quoted above.

j| Mem. Soc. Hal., xv.

«j[Bromeis, Zeitsch. d. Ver. deutsch. Ing., iii. 82, and Dingier Polyt. J., clxiv. 33, 1859.
** B. Verver. " L'eclairage au gaz a" l'eau a Narbonne et l'eclairage au gaz Leprince." Leiden 1858.
See Bromeis, opus citat.

ft Heurtebise, Dingl. Pol. J , cxxcvi. (?), 393, 1867.

tX Fayes, Genie industries 1868, 329. Dingl. Pol. J,, clix. 47.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

Varieties.

35

named gasogen, which furnished in twenty-four hours 1,000 to 1,200 cubic metres
of purified gas, the cost of which, independent of labor, and of the cost and
depreciation of plant, he calculates as follows : —

For 100 Cubic Metres of Gas.

f. c.

75 kilos of coke at 0*03 franc . . . . 2 25

55 " coal at 0*025 " . . .137

82 " lime . . . . .82

4 44

The material costs, therefore, 4J centimes per cubic metre.

Instead of decomposing water by carbon, certain other processes have recently
come into use, and require notice.

Lenoir's process,* suggested in 1867, is of very limited applicability. He
decomposed barium sulphide with water, obtaining sulphate of baryta and
hydrogen — BaS-f-4H20=BaS04-f-4H2. This process is only practicable where the
manufacture of barium sulphate (permanent white) is the main object, and the
hydrogen a by-product, as was the case with Lenoir. — Chem. Nevus, Sept. 17 to Oct. 8.

VARIETIES.

Vegetable Mucilage. By W. Kirchner and B. Tollens. — The authors, after
a critical review of the various investigations that have been made in connection
with this subject, describe their process for the purification of the mucilage, which
is very similar to Schmidt's. The mucilage, after the addition of hydrochloric acid,
is precipitated by alcohol and, when the operation has been repeated six or eight
times, the product is repeatedly washed with absolute alcohol, and finally with ether.
By this means the ash is reduced to a minimum, and the mucilage, when dried, is
obtained as a porous mass, and not in hard lumps.

Quince mucilage was obtained principally from quince seeds, by digesting them in
water for four hours, then rubbing them through a hair sieve, boiling, and straining
through linen. After purification it is greyish-white and swells up, when soaked in
water, to a gelatinous mass, forming a mucilaginous solution only on the addition
of a small quantity of potassium hydrate. It still contains 4 to 5 per cent, of min-
eral matter, and on analysis gives numbers corresponding with the formula C18H28Ou.
When it is boiled with dilute sulphuric acid, white flocks are precipitated, and sugar
and dextrin or gum are produced. From the results of numerous carefully con-
ducted quantitative experiments, it would seem that the flocculent precipitate of
cellulose is nearly constant after the first half-hour, however long the boiling may be
continued, but the percentage of gum gradually decreases, whilst that of the sugar
increases within certain limits, showing the conversion of the former into the latter.
The gum polarizes laevorotary ; the sugar, which reduces cupric solution, dextro-

* Lenoir, Wagn. Jahresbcr., 1867, 219, 259.

36

Varieties.

J Am. Jour. Pharrn:
\ Jan. 1876.

rota j y. The flocculent precipitate, amounting to about 36 per cent., gives the reac-
tions of cellulose with iodine, but in the analysis the carbon comes out slightly
higher than that required by the formula C6H10O5. This is probably due to the
presence of some impurity similar to the compound found in fir-wood by J. Erd-
mann.

Linseed Mucilage. — Linseed treated in a manner similar to that above described
gave numbers corresponding with the formula C6H10O5, or the same as that of cellu-
lose. When boiled with dilute sulphuric acid, it decomposes like quince mucilage^
but with much greater difficulty, gum and sugar being formed, and the former being
gradually converted into the latter by long-continued boiling The insoluble resi-
due is very much smaller than with quince mucilage, being only about 4 per cent.

Fleabane Mucilage. — This has the formula C36H58029. Boiled with acid, it decom-
poses like the other mucilages, yielding gum and sugar, but in this instance the gum
is completely converted into dextrorotary sugar by long-continued boiling.

From these results the authors infer that in quince mucilage the cellulose exists in
combination with the gum, since no cellulose can be distinguished as such by micro-
scopical examination, and as the two substances exist in the ratio 1 : 2, it is most
probably a true chemical compound :

C6H10O5 + 2C6H10O5 = C18H28014 + H20.
Cellulose. Gum. Mucilage.

It has yet to be determined whether the other two mucilages are distinct, or
whether they are compounds of cellulose and gum in the proportion 1 : 2, mixed
with excess of gum : the different behavior of the fleabane mucilage when treated
with acid from that of the quince would, however, seem to preclude this view.

The concluding portion of the paper is occupied with theoretical speculations as
to the manner in which the carbohydrates may become transformed, the one into
the other — Jour. Chem. Soc. [Lond.], Nov., 1875, from Annalen der C/iemie, clxxv,
205—226.

Mutual Displacement of Acetic and Formic Acids. By H. Lescceur. —
It is generally known that formic acid can expel acetic acid from its combinations,
but inversely acetic acid has been found also to displace formic acid. When a
mixture of acetic acid and sodium formate is distilled, a very considerable quantity
of formic acid is found in the distillate, but even with a large excess of acetic acid
complete decomposition of the formate was never obtained.

The majority of the formates soluble in acetic acid are decomposible in like man-
ner, some indeed without even the application of heat ; thus, potassium formate dis-
solves in acetic acid, and if allowed to evaporate spontaneously, gives a residue con-
sisting mainly of potassium acetate. There would appear, therefore, to be an
equilibrium established between the quantity of formic acid set at liberty, and
acetate formed in a manner similar to that which has been noticed in many other
instances b*y different operators.

When one part of sodium formate is dissolved with heat in five parts of mono-
hydrated acetic acid, crystals are obtained on cooling, which were found to have
the composition, NaC2H302.2C2H402 -+- NaCH02.2CH202.— Journ. Chem. Soc,
November, 1875, fr°m Bull. Soc. Chim. [2], xxiii. 259.

'■'fcsjfc } Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. 37

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

The third regular meeting of the session was held December 21st, 1875, Dr. W
H. Pile in the chair. Number in attendance, sixty. The minutes of the previous
meeting were read and approved.

Prof. Maisch presented to the library, on behalf of J. C. Rumph, a catalogue
and price list of Materia Medica, " Catalogus et Valor Materiae Medicae, seu
medicamentorum simpiicium et compositorum in officinis Molhusinis prostantium,"
printed in 1715. Besides much curious information, it contains the oaths, as
administered to apothecaries and physicians in the beginning of last century.
Charles Bullock thought the disposition to present such works ought to be
encouraged ; they would be valuable for our library, as giving the antiquities
of our business. Prof. Remington called attention to the suggestion that had
been made by W. C. Bakes, of making a collection of pharmaceutical books
and apparatus possessing historical interest. Wm. Mclntyre presented a copy
of " The Popular Health Almanac," and a press for sealing wafer capsules.

Prof. Remington read a paper on aloin, by Charles L. Mitchell, (see page 24).
Prof. Maisch asked for further information, concerning the extract described as
being made from the mother liquid after the separation of the crystals of aloin.
Prof. Remington said it had the appearance of a good extract. Some members,
however, thought that it should not be used for the extract of aloes, as officinal in
some European pharmacopoecias. I. J. Grahame believed the results claimed for
the administration of aloin, as a substitute for aloes, had not been realized. The
thereapeutic effect of the various aloins is different ; it is sold at a high price, and
requires to be given in comparatively large doses. On the other hand, aloes is used
more frequently as a laxative than as a cathartic, and with a good article, the dose
is not large.

Wm. Mclntyre read a paper on wafer capsules, as a means of administration of
medicines (see page 25). Prof. Maisch said wafers in sheets, had long been in
use in Europe for this purpose. The introduction of the wafer capsules, by
Limousin, had at first materially increased this mode of medication ; but it appeared
that their use there was already on the decline, and he believed their apparent
advantages would not supplant the American methods now in use. R. V. Mattison
had become familiar with them two years ago, while in the West, where their use
had greatly diminished j he regarded them as an elegant novelty. James Kemble
related an incident, showing that sheet wafers had been used in Pennsylvania years
ago, for the administration of powders, the wafer being rendered pliable by dipping
it into water. Prof. Remington had used the capsules to a great extent, found them
to answer a good purpose and claimed for them rapidity of action. Prof. Maisch
suggested that a solution would act with still greater rapidity. Charles Bullock did
not believe that a greater amount of action could be claimed by the choice of one
form of administration over another. The effect of a pill is equal to that of a
powder, it may require a little more time 5 but will frequently cause the medicine to
be retained when the stomach would reject the same medicines when given in
some other form. J. B. McElroy had used the French wafers, and considered them

38 Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. {Am7aT;8P76?rm*

very neat. E. C. Jones claimed the use of a press as unneccessary, having seen the
rim of two turned wood boxes used as a substitute. Prof. Remington said that
two empty morphia bottles had been used by some in place of a press.

On motion, the papers read were referred to the publication committee.

Prof. Maisch exhibited a series of botanical models, made by Robert Brendel, of
Berlin, Germany, which have been recently imported, to be used for the illustration
of the lectures on botany and Materia Medica. These models are faithful
representations of the flowers and other parts of plants belonging to different
natural orders, magnified to such an extent that the different parts can be readily
seen at sOme distance ; they are painted in the natural colors of the organs which
they represent, and many of them can be taken apart so as to exhibit their internal
structure. Amongst the models shown were those of Aconitum Napellus, Viola
tricolor, Conium maculatum, Hypericum perforatum, Maruta cotula, Digitalis purpurea,
Colchicum autumnale, Atropa belladonua, the flowers of the potato, strawberry,
apple, cherry and others, the entire series comprising sixty-five numbers, of which
twenty-five consist of from two to four distinct models.

E. M. Boring directed the attention of the meeting to the following prescription :

Jfc Quiniae sulphatis, ....... gr.xvi

Tinct. ferri chloridi, ...... f5iss

Acidi phosphorici diluti, " . . . . . foi

Syrupi, ....... fSiss

Aquae, q.s. ad. ...... fSiv

A white precipitate being formed, the ingredients were mixed in various ways,,
and the quinia dissolved in the necessary quantity of dilute muriatic acid, with the
effect merely of delaying the appearance of the precipitate. The phosphoric acid
used had been made of phosphorus, and the precipitate, having been found to be
ferric phosphate, several other samples of dilute phosphoric acid were procured and
tested with solution of ferric chloride containing no free acid, by adding 3 drops of
the former and 2 drops of the iron solution to one drachm of water, when precipi-
tates would occur. Upon reversing the proportions, using 2 drops of acid and 3 of
iron, two of the samples gave precipitates, one became opalescent and two remained
clear. One of the latter had been made by Prof. Markoe's process. On mixing the
acid with an equal quantity of tincture of iron, diluting this with water, as directed
in the prescription, one-half the quantity of the quinia was added, and the solution
remained perfectly clear, while the whole quantity of quinia ordered almost imme-
diately caused the appearance of a precipitate. The inference drawn from his ex-
perience was, that testing with neutral chloride of iron some definite proportion
should be given, because if carried to very dilute solution the resulting phosphate
of iron would not remain in solution. This was not so readily observed in using the
tincture of chloride of iron, which contains free hydrochloric acid.

I. J. Grahame had met with the difficulty as early as 1868. He had been able to
prepare an acid from the glacial acid that would mix clear with tincture of chloride
of iron by prolonging the time of heating. The details of the " Pharmacopoeia "
he regarded as not specific enough in this case.

Dr. Pile said all the glacial phosphoric acid that had lately been examined was
found to contain phosphate of sodium, and no means of getting rid of this contami-
nation had been presented R. V. Mattison thought that if we are aware of this.

Am'jja°nuri8^6.arm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 39

adulteration, it would not be proper to prepare the medicinal acid from it. There
is some difficulty in getting rid of the nitric acid, and too high a heat will generate
pyrophosphoric acid.

Prof. Remington suggested, that if an acid which would not at first mix clear
with the tincture, were allowed to stand some time, a change would take place \ and
said that an acid could not be made from the glacial acid that would answer for
this purpose unless free nitric acid was purposely left in it. Prof. Maisch
did not agree in this statement. Like Prof. Grahame, he had observed glacial phos-
phoric acid containing sodium compound to be completely converted into ortho-
phosphoric acid ; it is an old method, practiced in analytical laboratories, to con-
vert pyrophosphates into orthophosphates, by boiling them with nitric acid. He
had pointed out, three years ago, to a number of persons, the cause of the difficulty
with the dilute phosphoric acid made from glacial acid. J. W. Worthington had
avoided this difficulty by preparing the acid from phosphorus, procured from the
manufactory on the Rancocas, which he believed was the only one of the kind in
the country.

Dr. Pyle had tested the acid prepared by Prof. Markoe's process for ammonia,
by saturating with caustic soda, but did not perceive any odor of ammonia. A
sample of an acid, prepared by the same process by A. P. Brown, was tested by
Prof. Maisch, and found to contain some ammonia.

Dr. A. W. Miller read the following note on " Substitution of Gentiana catesbaei C

kl Mr. M. E. Hyams, of Statesville, N. C, in a recent communication to the writer, states it as his
firm belief that no true root of Gentiana catesbaei is to be found in the market. Mr. Hyams states, that
among the gatherers in the South the Triosteum fierfoliatum is known as American gentian, and there-
fore invariably sent out as blue gentian, although there is a marked difference in the appearance of the
two roots, as well as in that of the plants.

"The term 'horse gentian' is given by Gray as a synonym for the triosteum. According to Mr.
Hyams, none of the gatherers in his vicinity are acquainted with the true Gentiana catesbaei."

Prof. Maisch had, some years ago, tried to get specimens of the two roots for his
cabinet, but could find none in the market. The two have no resemblance what-
ever, the subterraneous portion of Triosteum being a knotty, horizontal rhizome,
with long woody roots, while the gentian has a true root, resembling that of Genti-
ana lutea, but being much smaller and lighter in color.

Dr. Miller suggested, that as the gatherers were bringing it in, there must be
purchasers for it somewhere.

A. P. Brown presented two specimens of spirit of nitrous ether ; one a commer-
cial article, the other made in his store. In addition to containing the proper
amount of nitrous ether, about 5 per cent., it makes a transparent mixture with
copaiba, which the commercial article fails to do.

Adjourned to meet on January 18, at 8 o'clock P. M.

WILLIAM McINTYRE, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

New York Alumni Association of Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. —
The regular monthly meeting was held in Plimpton Hall, Tuesday evening, Decem-
ber 7th.

40 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {Am jJaa.r"i8P76arm'

Mr. Thos. D. McElhenie read the following paper :

Linimentum Iodoformi. — Having frequent occasion lately to dispense iodoform for topical applica-
tion, I made some experiments to ascertain the best solvent. Without detailing all the results, the follow-
ing is offered. Almond oil was selected, as its blandness fits it for application to inflamed throats :

Take of Iodoform

Camphor aa Si 3i

01. sassafras 5i

01. amygdali dulc §iv

Powder the iodoform and camphor, introduce into a dry vial, add the oils, and heat in a water-bath,
shaking frequently until dissolved. The camphor has the property of increasing the solubility of iodo-
form in oils, but not in alcohol, and, with the essential oil, serves to cover the odor to which some persons
object.

Mr. Wellcome read a paper on the action of solutions of molybdic acid and mo-
lybdates in sulphuric acid, as tests for determining the presence of certain organic
bodies. He demonstrated by experiments that such tests were unreliable (see page
21 ). He also presented some specimens of Grindelia squarrosa, which he had
received from Dr. Bundy, of California. Another species, Grindelia robusta, has
received some attention as an antidote for poisoning by Rhus toxicodendron^ and on
account of the hypnotic properties ascribed to it j it formed the subject of a paper
by Mr. Steele at the last meeting of the American Pharmaceutical Association.
Grindelia squarrosa is distinguished from that plant by the flower-head being more
compact, with the scalesmore firm, and terminating in hard, slender and spreading
tips. Its medicinal properties are said to be similar to those of Gr. robusta.

Some discussion ensued regarding the wafer capsules (cachet de pain), which are
being introduced as the model medium for administering nauseous powders. All
who had used them spoke of them as a pleasing thing in theory, but practically a
nuisance rather than a boon. They were first introduced into Paris about three
years ago, and seem to have met with but little favor in Europe, and to deserve the
same here.

Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain — At the pharmaceutical meet-
ing held November 3d, President T. H. Hills in the chair, a paper on the analysis
of cinchona bark was read by Mr. Edward L. Cleaver, in which several processes
recommended for this purpose were criticized, and a new process suggested, the
essential features of which are that a paste of 100 grams of powdered bark and 25
grams of slaked lime is carefully dried and then exhausted with hot methylated
spirit,- the liquor is acidulated with sulphuric acid, the spirit distilled off, the
remaining liquid filtered and evaporated to dryness with pure carbonate of barium,
the residue being exhausted with alcohol, which, on evaporation, leaves the total
amount of mixed alkaloids ; these are exhausted with ether, the solution evaporated,
the alkaloids dissolved in dilute sulphuric acid, the solution heated to boiling, and
rendered faintly alkaline by caustic soda, when, on cooling, sulphate of quinia crys-
tallizes out ; the mother-liquor retains one part of the same salt for every 300 parts,
by measure, of the liquid.

In the discussion following, Dr. Paul, Messrs. Linford and Umney, Prof. Red-
wood and Attfield took part, some sources of inaccuracies being pointed out.

Mr. Nelson T. Carrington read a paper on the chemical formula of commercial
molybdate of ammonium, which, from his analyses, he assumes to be NH4HMo04.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

Editorial.

4i

Mr. Thos. Greenish read an interesting paper on Pharmacy in Portugal, in which,
among other valuable information, it is stated that Portuguese physicians frequently
prescribe foreign nostrums, which are largely imported from France, America and
England.

British Pharmaceutical Conference — At the meetings of the Executive
Committee, held in November and December, £75 was granted, in sums ranging
from £5 to £20, to eight gentlemen, to aid them in undertaking researches on spe-
cial subjects, the results to be communicated to the next annual meeting, at Glas-
gow, September 5th and 6th.

The Secretaries announced that the " Year-book " for 1875 was m type, that it
would extend to six huudred and fifty pages, that it would be published on or about
the nlh of December, and that a copy would be sent, post-free, to every member
who had paid his annual subscription.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The Forty-eighth Volume of this Journal begins with the present number,
and fully half a century has passed by since the first number of what has subsequently
been called the preliminary volume was issued, in 1825, its regular and uninter-
rupted publication, however, dating from the year 1829, since which time a volume
has been issued every year. From a quarterly the Journal became a bi-monthly,
and, finally, a monthly publication, and its usefulness has made it a welcome visitor
to many who are interested in pharmacy, here and abroad. For this we are, in
a great measure, indebted to our contributors, who communicated the results of
their observations or researches, and we are pleased that the present volume opens
so propitiously, with a large amount of original matter from different contributors.
It is true that the pharmacist, actively engaged in business, has little leisure for
literary labor, but it is equally true that, " where there is a will, there is also a way."
The occasions for observations are numerous, even while following the daily routine of
business, and if these were noted down and published, they would add to the gen-1
eral stock of knowledge. Amongst the contributors to our last volume, we had the
pleasure of welcoming several for the first time, and we take this occasion to invite
our readers generally to join the list of those who, for a longer or shorter period,
have contributed to these pages, and to record therein their practical observations,

well as their scientific researches.

Postal Matters. — Our special thanks are due to our friends in New York, who
kindly informed us that the post-office in that city had demanded the payment of
double letter postage on the December number, on account of the " Special notice
to Subscribers " stitched into it, ruling the same to be an enclosure. The matter
was at once referred, through the Postmaster of Philadelphia, to the Post-office De-
partment in Washington, from which, under date of December 14th, 1875, tne
following reply was received :

42

Reviews, etc.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

" Sir; — The publications and letter, submitted with your two letters of 8th Dec, are herewith re-
turned, with the information that the New York office has been advissd that printed matter, stitched into
the body of a magazine, and having reference to the business of its publishers, is held to be an integral
part thereof, and not of the character of matter referred to in Section 142 Laws, or 91 of the Regulations.
" I am, &c,

(Signed) J. W. MARSHALL, 1st Asst. P. M. Genl.
' " GEO. W, FAIRMAN, Esq., Postmaster, Philadelphia, Pa."

The Postmaster of New York has informed the Business Editor that the detained

Journals had been delivered immediately after the above decision had been received.

Lead in Muriatic Acid. — Messrs. G. Mallinckrodt & Co , of St. Louis, Mo ,
have submitted to us a letter from Mr. Fred. Reppert, of Muscatine, Iowa, in which
it is stated that the solution of chloride of iron examined by him, and found to con-
tain lead (see December number, 1875, p 575), had not been obtained from that
manufacturing house.

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

The Popular Health Almanac for 1876. Edited by Frederick Hoffmann. New
York: E. Steiger. iamo, pp. 44.

Tasclxenbuch der Geheimmittellehre. Eine kritische Uebersicht aller bis jetzt unter-
suchten Geheimmittel, zunachst fur Aerzte und Apotheker, dann zur Belehrung
und Warnung fiir Jedermann. Herausgegeben von Dr G. C. Wittstein. Vierte
sehr stark vermehrte Auflage. Nordlingen : C. H. Beck'scheBuchhandlung. 1876,
12VO, pp. 301.

Compendium of Secret Medicines. A critical review of all secret medicines an-
alyzed up to the present time. For physicians and pharmacists, also for the in-
struction and warning of everybody. Edited by Dr. G. C. Wittstein. Fourth
edition, much enlarged.

The tendency of the above two works is the same in their aim, to expose the
frauds and dangers connected with the manufacture or with the use of the secret or
so-called patent medicines. Dr. Wittstein's work was introduced to our readers
some years ago, when we published a number of formulas contained in the third
edition (see "Amer. Journ. Pharm.," 1871, p. 111). That in less than ten years —
the first edition appeared in 1866 — four editions have become necessary, proves the
usefulness of the work, and that the labor of its editor as a compiler and analyst is
well appreciated. The present volume contains the composition of about 800 or
more nostrums, cosmetics, disinfectants, etc., the composition of which has been
kept secret by the inventors and manufacturers. Amongst that number we find the
United States well represented, considering that the volume is in the first line in-
tended to find its field of usefulness on the continent of Europe. There is, how-
ever, evidently much room for greater activity in the way of exposing the compo-
sition of the numerous nostrums, whether patented or not, with which we are blessed
on this side of the Atlantic, and which are imported from the other side to supply
any possible deficiency as to variety of style and composition 5 and we would im-

Am. Jour Pharm. )
Jan. 1876. j

Reviews, etc.

43

press the young pharmacists, particularly those who are in quest of subjects for their
thesis, not to neglect this promising and important field of original investigation and
research.

" The Popular Health Almanac," to which repeated allusion has been made in
our last volume, pursues rather a didactic course, by giving useful information on
all subjects connected with health matters. In its present garb, it is intended for
gratuitous distribution by the pharmacist, whose business card is printed on the
cover j but those who would desire to make a nominal charge for it, could, we
suppose, have the words, " Presented by," altered to " From." As to the contents
of the almanac, we find an admirably written " Introductory," four brief articles on
"Applied Health Knowledge," three on " First help in Accidents and Emergen-
cies," and on " Nostrums and their Composition," an enumeration of "Popular
works on the subject of health," a number of " Statistical tables," and various other
valuable information. Both editor and publisher are deserving of praise for the
manner in which this first number has been prepared. May it be the forerunner of
a long series of annual publications which, in the beginning, promise to fulfill an
important missson in the distribution, among the people, of sound information on
the various subjects affecting the health of the individual as well as of the public.

We take great pleasure in recommending both the above works, Dr. Wittstein's.
book more particularly to those who are familiar with the German language, the
" Health Almanac " to everyone of our readers ; and it is our belief that the phar-
macist engaged in business will be amply repaid for the small outlay incurred in
procuring this publication (250 copies for $10) for the use of his customers. It
certainly possesses an intrinsic value which is not foun4 in all the nostrum almanacs
combined.

Proceedings of the American Pharmaceutical Association at the Twenty-third Annual
Meeting, held in Boston, Mass., September, 1875. Philadelphia : Sherman & Co.,
printers. 1875. 8vo, pp. 899. Price, in paper covers, $7.00, bound, cloth,
$7.50.

This is the largest, and we believe also, the most interesting volume issued by the
Association, for which it was deemed desirable to use a more calendered paper than
for the previous issues. About 460 pages are occupied by the " Report on the
Progress of Pharmacy," 70 pages by reports of committees, 180 pages by original
papers, and the remainder by the minutes, constitution, roll of members, etc. An
excellent likeness of the late Professor Edward Parrish, printed from a steel-plate
engraving, and over 60 wood-cuts embellish the work.

The volume is now in the hands of the binder, and will be issued to all entitled
during the present month. Copies of it, or of complete sets of the proceedings, may
be obtained by addressing the Permanent Secretary, Prof. J. M. Maisch, Philadelphia.

A Text- Book of Human Physiology j designed for the use of Practitioners and Stu -
dents of Medicine. By Austin Flint, Jr., M. D. New York : D. Appleton &
Co., 1876. 8vo, pp. 978.

The completion of the author's large treatise on "The Physiology of Man" has
been noticed on page 494 of our volume for 1874; the work before us is a conden-
sation of those five volumes into one, to render it more adapted for fhe daily wants

44

Reviews, etc.

J Am. Jour. Pharm.
( Jan. 1876.

of the student and practitioner. It is illustrated by three lithographic plates and
313 woodcuts, many of which are exact reproductions from the works of celebrated
Investigators. The work will be found a valuable addition to the library of the
medical student and practitioner.

The reception of the following publications is hereby acknowledged:

The Chemists and Druggists" Diary for 1876. 4to. It is presented to every annual
subscriber of the " Chemist and Druggist." 4.

Transactions of the i^th Anniversary Meeting of the Illinois State Medical Society,
held May, 1875. Chicago, 1875. 8vo, pp. 288.

Manitou, Colorado, U. S. A., its Mineral Waters and Climate. By S. Edwin Solly,
M. R. C. S. 1875. St. Louis: J. McKittrick & Co. 8vo, pp. 40.

Battefs Operation. By Dav. W. Yandell, M. D., and Ely McClellan, M. D,
Louisville, 1875. 8vo> PP- l6- Reprinted from the "American Practitioner,"
for October, 1875.

Untersuchungen uber den Einfluss der Temperatur auf BakterienlVegetation. Von
Leonid Bucholtz, Stud. Med. Investigations on the Influence of Temperature
upon the growth of Bacteria. The experiments were made in Prof. Dragen-
dorfPs laboratory at Dorpat.

Cactus, its History, Classification, Proving, and Therapeutical Application. By Rich.
E. Kunze, M. D., of New York. Albany, 1875. 8vo, pp. 33. Read before
the New York Eclectic Medical Society.

OBITUARIES.

Heinrich Hermann Hlasiwetz was born at Reichenberg, Bohemia, April 7th,
1825. After studying chemistry in Jena, he became assistant at the chemical labor-
atory at Prague, and in 185 1 Professor of Chemistry at Insbruck. Subsequently
he accepted a call to Vienna, where he labored in a like capacity until the time of
his death, which occurred, suddenly, on the morning of October 8th, by apoplexy.
The deceased was widely known as an earnest and careful investigator, many of his
researches having been undertaken in conjunction with Rochleder.

r R. P. Clayton, of Dover, Del., died, suddenly, last October, in this city, where
he was learning the apothecary business. He was a promising young man, and
intended to graduate here next spring. In respect to his memory, his classmates
will wear a badge of mourning at the next commencement.

Correction. — On page 536 of our last number, line 3 from top, read salt for
solution, and on page 563, line 19 from top, reader, ct. in place of pint.

Am. Jour. Pharm. <
Jan. 1876. J

Catalogue of the Class.
CATALOGUE

OF THE

Class of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy

FOR THE FIFTY-EIFTH SESSION, 1875-6.

With a List of their Preceptors and Localities.

Matriculants.

Touun\or County.

Ahl, William Frank.
Ainsworth, Frank Kenley.
Allen, John Reese.
Anstett, Zachary Taylor.
Appenzeller, Gustav.
Armstrong, Thomas Swain.
Bache, Benjamin Franklin.
Baker, Walter Sheron.
Ball, William Amos.
Barnes, Thomas.
Barr, john Rufus.
Barr, Samuel Earnest.
Barton, Charles Edwin.
Baum, Franklin Derr.
Baur, Hugo Franklin.
Behlar, John.
Bissell, Emery Gilbert.
Bley, Alphonso Albert Willits
Bobb, Edwin George.
Bobb, Wallace Geary,
Bodinhorn, Adam.
Boeiner, Emil Louis.
Boileau, Wm. Norwood K.
Boisnot, Frederick Styker.
Bond, Charles Mahlon.
Botsford, Chipman.
Bowen, Daniel Albert.
Bowman, Chas. Alexander.
Boyer, Edward Dayton.
Boyer, Hiram.
Brennecke, Robert Henry.
Brenton, Willis.
Brotherline, Chas. Augustus.
Brown, David Howard.
Brown, George Walbridge.
Brown, Joseph John.
Buchanan, Andrew.
Bullock, John Griscom.
Burge, James Oscar.
Burns, Simon Snowden.
Busch, Wm. Carl Assuns.
Byerly, Chas. Henry.
Cahoon, Charles Thomas.
Carbonell, Louis Phillip.
Carmany, Aaron Washington
Carmichael, Henry.
Case, Flavius Saunders.
Chabot, Washington Jackson
Chambers, John Roberts.
Chardavoyne, Wm. Simpson.
Childs, Walter Foss.
Cook, Thomas Penrose.
Corbyn, Theophilus Niblow.
Cotzhausen, Louis von.
Cowperthwaite, Marshall S.
Cox, Harry.
Cox, John Custis.
Coxey, Joseph Clarence.
Craighead, Thomas.

York,

Woodstock.

Wilmington,

Coopersburg,

Carlsruhe,

Phillipsburg,

Bristol,

Philadelphia,

Youngstown,

Philadelphia,

Chester City,

Mount Yernon,

Mansfield,

Reading,

Milwaukee,

Washington,

Waterville,

Philadelphia,

Hollidaysburg,

Philadelphia,

Annville,

Iowa City,

Newportville,

Franklin Park,

Fort Wayne,

St. John, New Brun.

W. Bridgeton,

Nashville,

Allentown,

Bethlehem,

Watertown,

Pittston,

Lebanon,

Middletown,

Jamestown,

Greenville,

Chester,

Wilmington,

Bowling Green,

Minersville,

Davenport,

Lock Haven,

Philadelphia,

Santiago de Cuba,

Annville,

Davenport.

Logan,

Philadelphia,

Burlington,

Hamburgh,

Norristown,

Philadelphia,

Milwaukee,

Burlington,

Philadelphia,

Columbus,

Camden,

Philadelphia,

State

Pa.
Vt.
Del.
Pa.

Germany.

N.J.

Pa.

Pa.

Ohio.

Pa.

Pa.

Ohio.

Ohio.

Pa.

Wis.

D. C,

N. Y.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Iowa.

Pa.

N.J.

Ind.

Canada.

N.J.

Tenn.

Pa.

Pa.

Wis.

Pa.

Pa.

N. Y.

N. Y.

Ohio.

Pa.

Del.

£y-

Pa.

Iowa.

Pa.

Pa.

Cuba.

Pa.

Iowa.

Ohio.

Pa.

N. J.

N. J.

Pa.

Pa.

Wis.

N. J.

Pa.

N.J.

N. J.

Pa.

Preceptor.

Dr. David Ahl.
Sturtevant Bros.
James Kemble.
P. J. L. Carberry, M. D.
R. Opperman.
James T. Shinn.
Bullock & Crenshaw.
James Jones, M. D.
J. L. Patterson & Bro.
Mackeown, Bower & Ellis
John H. Kerlin.

E. P. Camp.

W. W. Moorhead.

P. M. Zeigler.

C. C. Spannagel.

G, A. Bachmann, M. D.

W. J. Bissell.

John Bley.

J. Ritz.

V. H. Smith & Co.

Dr. D. H. Leslie.

Wm.C. Bakes.

Clarence T. Smith, M, D.

Willard M. Reil.

C. E. Cady,M. D.

Hance Bros. & White.

Geo. H. Whipple.

Haddox & Ford.

Dr. C.K. Christman.

F. G- Thoman.
Samuel Campbell.
Powers & Weightman.
Francis Zerman, M. D.
Lancaster Bros.
A.C Hembold.

Jos. P. Remington.
M. H. Bickley.
Bullock & Crenshaw.
John H. Smith.
Wm. Bowen.
Henry Ditzen.
Mortimer H. Eayer.
W. S.Radcliff.
J. P. Remington.
M. L. Gates, M. D.
Prof. G. Hendricks.

E. B. Garrigues & Co .
J. F. Hillary.

W. L. Jasner.
A.F.Stull.

F. B. Poley.
Powers & Weightman.
Aschenbach & Miller.
Henry Biroth.

John A. Vandegrift.
Wm. E. Lee.

G. W. Ouram.

H. W. Miller.
Geo. S. Craighead.

Catalogue of the Class.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

Matriculants.

Tow 71 or County.

Creighton, Benjamin Thomas
Crowl, Frank Mercer.
Daniel, Charles Albert.
Davidson, Abraham.
Davis, Isaac.

Davis, Theodore Garrison.
Dembinski, Louis.
DePuy, Casper Edward.
Dickerson, William Eunice.
Dilg, Philipp Henry.
Diller, Isaac Roland.
Dilworth, Edwin Thatcher.
Dranconrt, Samuel.
Durborow, Chas. Maney C.
Eisner, Moritz.
Emanuel, Louis.
Endicott, John Franklin.
Evans, John Henry.
Farwell, Charles Darius.
Fisher, Henry.
Fleming, Wm. Fullerton.
Fraser, Robert Peden.
Frishell, George.
Friih, Ernest.
Friih, Gustav Adolph.
Fry, Wilbur Winthrop.
Fulton, Joseph Miller.
Funk, Christian Lawson.
Gatchel, Rudolph Edmund.
Geiger, Geo. Lambert.
Gentsch, Daniel Conrad.
Gerling, John Miller.
Gingrich, Ezra Heisey.
Goess, Geo. Conrad, Jr.
Graber, Leon Joseph K.
Graham, Geo. Harris.
Gray, Geo. Washington.
Griffin, Louis Franklin.
Griffith, Charles.
Groves, John Dowling.
Guckes, Philip.
Hallberg, Carl Swante X.
Harris, Chas. Greene.
Harris, Park.
Harris, Wm.
Hartzell, Alfred Kerr.
Hayhurst, Henry Tower.
Hendershott, Jos. Newton.
Herrmann, Ernest Wm.
Higgins, W. R.
Hill, Edward,
Holden, George Blake.
Hooper, Oliver Pascall.
Hooven, Wilbur Thos.
Hoguet, William.
Hornberger, Chas. Eugene.
Hudgin, Edward Leo.
Huntzinger, Jno. Franklin.
Huston, Thos. Albert.
Jackson, Geo. Henry.
Johnson, Jno. Geo.
Jones, Theodosia.
Kay, Joseph Jr.
Keeney, Wm. Reynolds.
Keller, Alvin Henry,
Keneagy, John.
Kernan, Jos. Halbert.
Kilbride, Jas. Jackson.
Kimmel, Wm. Alexander.
Kindig, Isaiah Henry S.
Kinport, Philip Stein.
Klopp, Eli Leinbach.
Koehler, Otto Furchtegott.
Koehler, Walter Newcombe.
Kolp, Jacob Loudenslager.
Kompel, Robert August.
Kram, Geo. Washington.
Kramer, Howard Samuel.

Somerton,

Oxford,

Germantown,

Helmarshausen,

Philadelphia,

Bridgeton,

Philadelphia,

Iowa Falls,

Media,

Milwaukee,

Springfield,

Wilmington,

Paris,

Altoona,

Philadelphia,

Alleghany,

Philadelphia,

Brandon,
Philadelphia,
Ottawa,
Pictou,

Philadelphia,

Wilkesbarre,
New London,
Hagerstown,

Virginia,

New Philadelphia,

Cleveland,

Annville,

Philadelphia,

Bethlehem,

Philadelphia,

Houston,

Johnstown,

Philadelphia,

Helsingborg,

Davenport,

West Chester,

Ashland,

Allentown,

Burlington,

Bloomsburg,

Philadelphia,

Glassboro,

Wilkesbarre,

Haverhill,

East New Market,

E.Mauch Chunk,

Bristol,

Speier,

Galesburg,

Fairfield,

Mount Vernon,

Mahanoy City,

Minneapolis,

Philadelphia,

Haddonfield,

Philadelphia,

Rinnersburg,

Bristol,

Carlisle,

White Deer Mills,

Sommerset,

Harleysville,

Annville,

Stoudsburg,

Greitz,

Germantown,

Philadelphia,

Bavaria,

Bethlehem,

Allentown,

State.

Ohio.

Pa.

Pa.

Germany.

Pa.

N.J.

Pa.

Iowa.

Pa.

Wis.

Illinois.

Del.

France.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Vt.

Pa.

Canada.
Nova Scotia.

Pa,
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Md.
Md.

Ohio.

Ohio.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Texas.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.

Sweden.

Iowa.

Pa,

Pa.

Pa.

Iowa,

Pa.

Pa.

N. J.

Pa.

Mass.

Md.

Pa.

Pa.

Germany.

Illinois.

Iowa,

Ohio.

Pa.

Minn.

Pa.

N.J.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Germany.

Pa.

Pa.

Germany.

Pa.

Pa.

Preceptor.

D. P Pancoast.

Geo. Cook.

D. Augustus Jones.

G. A. Steer.

G. H. Davis.

Chas. F. Dare.

A. Opperman.
Fister & Hoag.

Dr. W. T. Dickerson,
Kirst & Gerhardy.
R. W. Diller.
L. M. England.
Wyeth & Bro.

B. F. Johnson.
Cramer & Small.
P. Walter, Jr.

D. L. Stackhouse.
Dr. David Harrison.

C. H. Warren,
W. H. Walling.
Dr. J. A. Cantrell.

J. D. B. Fraser & Son.
Cramer & Small.
Carl D. S. Friih.

Dr. James Fulton.
H. C. Blair's Sons,
W. B. Webb.
Dr. E. Worrall.
Geo. F. Gentsch.
Vaupel & Hoare.
Asa Jones.
Val Smith & Co.
Hess & Snyder.
Israel J. Graham.
Isaac Tull.
Chas. B. Evans.

C. F. Frazer.
Dr. M. F. Groves.

S. M. Sellers.
E. S. Ballard & Co.
Jos. S. Evans.
Robert Howarth.
Henry Hartzell, M. D.

D. B. Colby.

N. J. Hendershott.
H. Frasch.
Wm. Greene, M. D.
Wordle Ellis.

C. H. Robinson.
W. H. Wallace.
Louis A. Hoguet.
C. E. Haenchen,
Isaac W, Smith.
R. J. Mohr, M. D.
Caleb R. Keeney.

E. E. Hazlett.

C. Smith, M. D.
Howard Hospital.
J. A. Braddock.
Caleb R. Keeney.
Caleb H. Needles.
J. R. Hamilton.
T. J. Husband, Jr.
Geo. J, Kilbride.
E. H. Marshall.

D. S. Wiltberger.
Clement B. Lowe.
Samuel Gerhard.
Chas. W. Gmelin.
Chas. E. Davis.
C. Henry Kolp.
Weatherley.

Van Buskirk & Apple.
Martin & Weigner.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jan. 1876.

Catalogue of the Class.

Matriculants. Tot

Kratz, Mahlon.
Kiogman, Joseph Francis.
Krupp, Louis.
Kuhlman, William.
Laciar, Henry Jacob
Lamhofer, Edward.
Landschiitz, Peter.
Lardner, William Shepard.
Lashell, Charles Ludwig.
Latham, Jr., Daniel Henry.
Layer, Philip Jacob.
Laws, Edward Mortimer.
Lehman, John Wesley.
Lewis, Chas. Henry.
Lewis, John Jones.
Lewis, William Thompson.
Linn, Jacob.
Lins, Frank Pierce.
Linthicum, Theodric.
Lippincott, Charles Drum.
Lits, Walter Rulp.
Llewllyn, William Harry.
Lock, John Herman.
Logan, Harry Weaver.
Loper, Lorenzo Dow.
Louderbough, Frank Pierce.
Loy, Edgar Turner.
Lustig, pjmil.
McFerren. Jeremiah Dull.
McKeehan, Geo. Henry.
McMullin, Albert.
McMullin, Andrew.
McNeil, Robert, Jr.
Mackenson, Alonzo Geo.
Marquardt, Carl Heinrich.
Marshall, Clara.
Martin, Geo. Jr.
Martin, John Albert.
Martin, John Chrysostom.
Mebus, Fred'k Leonard.
Merritt, Joseph Wayne.
Miller, Sylvester Edwin.
Miller, Wm. Leland.
Mitsch, George Joseph.
Moenkemoeller, Chas.
Moore, Frank.
Moore, Richard Jesse.
Moser, John Hendricks.
Mu'lins, Michael Martin A.
Murray, Francis Marion.
Myers, Edwin.
Oleson, Martin Olaf.
O'Neill, George.
Pabst, Otto.

Parker, Frederick Henry.
Phillips, Jocob Franklin.
Phillips, Thos. Jefferson W.
Podolski, Louis Adolph.
Poley, Francis Henry.
Poole, William.
Porter, Andrew Richard.
Porter, Geo. Cooper.
Pursell, Stacy Brown.
Quinn, John William.
Railey, Irwin.
Reber, William Worrall.
Reid, Charles Milnor.
Rigg, Morton.
Righter, William H., M. D.
Risk, Clarence Henderson.
Ritter, John.

Robbins, William Henry.
Robinson, William Duffield.
Roe, Thomas Coombs.
Roepper, Francis Abraham.
Rogers, Joseph Collin.
Rosenthal, David Abraham,
Rosenwasser, Nathan.
Ross, David Hamilton.

Wfi or County.

State.

Preceptor.

Perkasie,

Pa.

R. W. Cuthbert.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Benjamin Falkenberg,

Bremen,

Germany,

H. Opperman.
jAmes T. White.
C. F. Goodman

Bethlehem,

Pa.

Grand Island,

Nebraska.

Philadelphia,

Pa,

Jos. Landschiitz.

Niles,_

Mich.

Hansell & Bro.

Catawissa.

Pa;

W. B. Webb.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Wm. C. Bakes.

Mansfield,

Ohio.

John S. Erben.

Milford,

Del.

A. L. Lamb.

Barren Hill,
Mahanoy City,

Pa.

Barker, Moore & Mein.

Pa.

Dr. B. H. Davis.

Mt. Carmel,

Pa.

Harry C. Fernsler.

Bridgeton,
Philadelphia,

N.J.

Joseph P. Balton.
C. H. Kolp.

Pa.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

John M. Thomas.

Helena,

Ark.

J. W. Cage.

Williamsport,1!

Pa.

Milton Huber.

Frankford,

Pa.

E. W. Chipman.

Phcenixville,

Pa.

E. Frank Stoner.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Dr. L. U. Hilderbrand.

Williamsport,

Pa.

Ellis, Son & Co.

Bridgeton,

N. J.

H. A. Vogelbach.

Dover,

Del.

Jas. L. Shind.

Morris,

111.

I. U. Bean.

Pittsburgh,

Pa.

J. C. Longe.

F. G. Williams & Co.

Chambersburg,

Pa.

Pa.

Isaac Tull.

Philadelphia,
"

Pa.

A. M. Wilson.

Pa.

W. H. Pile & Sons.

4

Pa.

John B. Ferguson.

Middletown,

Pa.

Chas. M. Morell.

LaCrosse,

Wis.

A. W. Test.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Israel J. Graham.

Pa.

A. H. Yarnall & Co.

"

Pa.

Walter B. Abell.

Alleghany City,

Pa.

R. M. Snodgrass,

Easton,

Pa.

D. E. Becker.

Woodbury,

N.J.

Bullock & Crenshaw.

Lehighton,

Pa.

N. B. Reber, M. D.

St. Louis,

Mo.

St. Paul,

Minn.

Dreir & Mitsch.

Wheeling,
North East,

W. Va.

Geo. R. Vernon, M. D.

Md.

Aug. Hohl.

Springfield,

Ohio

Thos. J. Casper.

Norristown,

Pa.

A. R. Slemmer.

Gloucester,

N. J.

Michael Mullins.

Bluffton,

Ohio,

Yoder & Hauenstein.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

P. P. Fox.

Fort Dodge,

Iowa.

Prindle & Youst.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Powers & Weightman.

Thuringen,

Germany,

Guenther Pabst.

Auburn,

N. Y.

John Butler.

Ashland,

Pa.

M. Goldsmith.

Deerfield,

N.J.

J. L. Bispham.
Geo. C. Evans.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Norristown,

Pa.

F. B Poley, M. D.

Wilmington,

Del.

E. Bringhurst & Co.

Vevay,

Indiana.

J. L. Thiebaud & Son.

Kennett Square,

Pa.

Thomas Taylor, M. D.

Bristol,

Pa.

Howard Pursell.

Hillsboro,

Ohio.

Charles Shivers.

Versailles,

Ky.

J. B. Weaver.

Lehighton,
Conshohocken,

Pa.

N. B. Reber, M. D.

Pa.

C. H. Reid.

Norristown,

Pa.

Powers & Weightman.

Wilmington,

Del.

H. R. Bringhurst.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Van Buskirk & Apple,

Philadelphia,
, Chambersburg,

Illinois.

Thoiricis Br3,un.

Pa.

A. Robbins.

Pa.

C. H. Cressler.

Camden,

Del.

. Bethlehem,

Pa.

Simon Rau & Co.

Frenchtown,

N. J.

C. J. Nice, M. D.

. Philadelphia,

Pa.

Dr. Toboldt.

Cleveland,

Ohio.

W. H. Spieth.

Philadelphia,

Pa.

Bullock & Crenshaw.

48

Catalogue of the Class.

Am. Jour. Pharrn.
Jan. 187G.

Matriculants.

Town or County.

Ruff, William.
Ryerson, Henry Ogden.
Sandt, Geo. Lewis.
Schimminger, Geo. William.
Scheehle, George Philip.
Schlosser, Gerhard.
Schools, George William.
Schroeder, Henry.
Schwartz, Arthur.
Selinger, John Anthony.
Semple, George Miller.
Sheridan, James Henry.
Shinn, Howard Granville.
Sides, Howard Buckman.
Smith, Albert Henry.

ith, Clayton Kerper.
Smith, Joseph Stahel.
Smith, William Harrold.
Sommers, Richard Miller.
Sonnick, John William.
Spenceley,Cornelius Ederson.
Spengler, Allen.
Steuben, Milton Richard.
Stevenson, Richard Graham.
Stewart, Frank Edward.
Stewart, James Tait.
Stinson, William James.
Stockton, William Wood.
Strickler, Jacob.
Suess, Paul John.
Sweitzer, Morris Kemerer.
Taylor, Walter Adolphus.
Taylor, Winfield Scott.
Terrill, George Morton.
Thorn, Albert Livingston.
Tobey, Charles William.
Tomlinson. Wm. H.
Toulson, Milbourn Asbury.
Trimble, Henry.
Trout, Wm. Wesley.
Trupp, Louis.
Unangst, Eugene Peter.
Van Gorder, Albert Hapgood.
Walker, Henry Crawford.
Walker, John William, Jr.
Wallace, Ellerslie.
Warfield, John Francis.
Warrington, Charles W.
Watson, Charles Henry.
Watt, Harry Calvin.
Webb, Morrison Wright.
Webber, Joseph Leroy.
Weber, Jeremiah.
Weis, William.
Wetser, William Puffer.
Werckshagen, Otto.
Wells, Eben^zer Miller.
Wetherell, Wm. Henry.
Wheaton, Theodore Corson.
White, Andrew Allison.
White, Hugh.
Whiteside, William Elder.
Wicker, Fred. Collins.
Williams, Luther Thomas.
Williams, Thomas Davis.
Williams, William Chapman.
Wilson, Alexander.
Wilson, James Alexander.
Witmcr, John Alfred.
Witsil, George Edward.
Wittkamp, Henry Louis von.
Woolston, Wm. Norton Shinn
Worley, George Melville.
Wright, Frank Elisha.
Wright, John Lewis.
Zacharias, Isidore.
Zelley, William Henry.
Ziebach, Edwin Robert.

Sandusky,

Newton,

Easton,

Philadelphia,

Wheeling,

Baden,

Lebanon,

Chicago,

Philadelphia,

Pottstown,

Easton,

So. Bethlehem,

Burlington,

Philadelphia,

Warren,

Philadelphia,

Camden,

Buffalo,

Philadelphia,

Easton,

Bethlehem,

Camden,

Homer.

Philadelphia,

Macomb

Mount Holly,

New Bloomfield,

So. Bethlehem,

Bethlehem,

Atlanta,

Camden,

Salem,

Boidentown,

Troy,

Harrodsburg,

Chestertown,

Chester,

Carlisle,

Philadelphia,

Bethlehem,

Warren,

Wilmington,

Martins burg,

Philadelphia,

Columbia,

Morristown,

Philadelphia,

Indiana,

Salem,

Springfield,

Philadelphia,

Reading,

York,

Philadelphia,

Raymond,

Philadelphia,

Seaville,

Philadelphia,

Chicago,
Centreville,
Minersville,
Havre de Grace,
Philadelphia,

Lancaster,

Beverly,

Philadelphia,

Mt. Holly,

Covington,

Batavia.

Warrenton.

Savannah,

Hartford,

Fremont,

State.

Ohio.
N.J.
Pa.
Pa.

W. Va.

Germany

Pa.

Illinois.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

N. J.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa

N.J.

N. Y.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

N. J.

N. Y.

Pa.

111.

N.J.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Ga.

N.J.

Va.

N. J.

Ohio.

Ky.

Md.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Ohio.

Del.

W. Va.

Pa.

Tenn.

N.J.

Pa.

Pa.

Ohio.

Mass.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

Miss.

Pa.

N. J.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

111.

Md.

Pa.

Md.

Pa.

Pa.

Pa.

N. J.

Pa.

N.J.

Ohio.

N. Y.

Geo.

Ga.

N.J.

Pa.

Preceptor.

Charles Shivers.
Samuel Campbell."
R. W. Richie, M. D.
J. W. Dallam & Co.
W. C. Bakes.
Dr. Rizer.

Jas. A. Armstrong, M.'jD.

Gale & Blocke.

J. J. Cumming, M. D.

John Oddy, M. D.

H. B. Semple.

G. C Boyer.

H. Hutchison.
Samuel Gerhard.
Herm. Vogelbach.
Samuel Campbell.

J. R. Stevenson, M. D.
J. P. Remington.
C. M. Schellenger.
Rieffenstahl Bros.
W. A. Musson.
W. Notson, M. D.
H. A. Bower.
W. R. Warner & Co.
H. C. Blair's Sons.
Robb R. Stewart.
G. D. Keefer & Bro.
J. Whitelock Smith.
M. B. Strickler.
William Stahler.
Hess A Snyder.
J. A. Taylor.
Bullock & Crenshaw.

G. H. Landon & Co.
Henry Schmidt.

E. F. Rinehart.

B. N. Bethel, M. D.
S. M. McCollin.

H. C. Blair's Sons.
J. Wendell, Jr.
Herman Gerhard.
Wm. Hapgood.
Smith & Painter.
J. L. W. Bakerr.

R. H. Frierson.
S. M. McCollin.
Wetherill & Bro.
H. C. Blair's Sons.
Chas. L. Cumming.
J. T. Webber & Co.
M. Coombs.
M. J. Cumming.
A. P. Brown.

C. A. Werckshagen.
J. M. Boyle, M. D.
Wetherill & Bro.
Jas. N. Marks.

Bullock & Crenshaw.

P. S. P. Whiteside, M. D.

Geo. O. Guy.

H. R. Warner & Co.

J. B. Moore.

K. M. Rocke.

John Moffett.

Powers & Weightman.

S. S. Bunting.

H. L. Wittkamp, M. D.

Barker, Moore & Mein.

C. H. Dwyer.

Thos. A. Worley.

J. T. Shinn.
J. Lippman & Bro.
C. Ellis' Son & Co.
J. H. Shultz.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

FEBRUARY, 1876.

RAIZ DEL INDICO.

BY RUDOLHH F. G. VOELCKER, PH. G.

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

This name is applied by the natives of Mexico to a plant growing
along the Rio Grande, the root of which they use as an astringent.
The plant produces fleshy, fusiform roots, several of which grow
together from a short head. They are nearly circular, one to two inches
in diameter, and about two and one-half to three inches long. The
corky bark is covered with a brownish, wrinkled layer, and is separated
by a dark cambium line from the pithless internal substance, which is of
a yellowish -brown or pinkish color. A transverse section of it shows
one or sometimes two yellow concentric rings, and many dark resinous
spots, arranged so as to form radiating lines.

A quantity of fresh roots were procured in July, 1874, and several
of them planted. In a short time they produced some leaves, which
when full grown were petiolate, with a stipule at the base of the petiole,
entire, twelve to thirteen inches long by two and one-half to three
inches wide, oblanceolate, acute, smooth, shining, juicy and of light-
green color. The plants have not flowered yet, and, as I was unable
to procure any flowers from Mexico, it was impossible to classify the
plant, but from its chemical composition and microscopic structure it
might be inferred that it belongs to the natural order of Polygo-
naceae.

Treatment with Ether. — The powdered root was exhausted with
ether, and the dark-red solution evaporated. Strong ether dissolved
nearly all, water only a portion. The residue was of a yellow color,
and had but little taste ; cold alcohol dissolved a portion of it, the resi-
due consisting of wax, which was partially soluble in boiling alcohol.
The solution in cold alcohol, when evaporated left moss-like crystal-

4

5°

Raiz del Indico,

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

line groups, of an orange-colored principle, which by the following
behavior was proven to be chrysophanlc acid : It was readily soluble in
amylic alcohol, ether, benzol, glacial acetic acid and coal naphtha ;
nearly insoluble in cold water ; sparingly in boiling water, imparting to
it a reddish color ; soluble in sulphuric acid and reprecipitated on the
addition of water % soluble in ammonia and the fixed alkalies, with a
deep red color. The ammoniacal solution yielded with acetate of lead
a lilac-colored and with subacetate of lead a yellow precipitate, the
latter becoming carmine-red on the addition of water, and cinnabar-red
when dried. The watery solution of the etherial extract was free
from oxalic acid, but contained tannin, which was obtained as a brown-
ish mass by precipitating with acetate of lead, exhausting the precipi-
tate with acetic acid, neutralizing with ammonia, and decomposing the
precipitate suspended in alcohol with sulphuretted hydrogen. It was
precipitated by gelatin, black by ferric chloride, but did not yield pyro-
gallic acid.

Treatment with Alcohol. — The root, exhausted by ether, was treated
with strong alcohol, the tincture concentrated and then treated with
water, which produced a brownish precipitate, becoming black and
glossy on drying. Strong alcohol dissolved it in part only, the remain-
ing portion being black and friable, insoluble in water, very sparingly
soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform and benzol, burning upon platinum
foil without melting, yielding with alkalies a brown color, and forming
oxalic acid when treated with boiling nitric acid. This behavior proves
it to be aporetin.

The portion soluble in strong alcohol yielded with ether a yellow
solution, and a brown, insoluble substance corresponding in behavior with
phaoretin : when heated it melted and gave off yellow fumes ; it is with
difficulty soluble in water, coloring it yellow, yields yellow solutions
with alcohol and acetic acid, and red-brown solutions with alkalies ; its
solution in sulphuric acid, when diluted with water, gives a yellow pre-
cipitate, and its ammoniacal solution a violet-red precipitate with lead
acetate.

The yellow etherial solution yielded on evaporation erythroretin,
which was found to be insoluble in cold water, to become soft and
sparingly soluble in boiling water, to melt on being heated, and give off
yellow fumes, to yield with sulphuric acid a brown solution which is pre-
cipitated by water, to be soluble in alcohol, ether, acetic acid, and with a
purple-red color in alkalies from which acids precipitate yellow flocks.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Feb. 1876. i

Factitious Balsam Tolu.

The aqueous solution of the alcoholic extract was treated with
acetate of lead. The precipitate contained tannin, but no oxalic acid,
while in the filtrate glucose was proven by Trommer's test.

Treatment with Water. — The root exhausted with ether and alcohol
yielded to cold water some albumen, a trace of tannin, considerable
gum, but no glucose. Boiling water subsequently took up much
starch.

Treatment with Hydrochloric Acid. — The residuary powder from the
above operations was treated with dilute hydrochloric acid, in which,
by appropriate tests, the presence of oxalate of calcium and the absence
of phosphoric acid was proven.

The estimation of tannin was accomplished with a standard solution of
gelatin, which indicated 23*16 per cent.

The leaves of the plant were found to contain malic and oxalic acids
in combination with lime.

FACTITIOUS BALSAM TOLU.

BY RICH. V. MATTISON, PH. G.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting.)

Having recently occasion to purchase some Balsam Tolu, a small
quantity was ordered of a house well known for the high standard of
drugs sent out by them; the article was received in lib jars, bearing the
label of the house which had placed it in the same.

The sample, upon examination, was found to be of a light brown
color, with a pronounced odor of the drug, but in consistence rather
softer than as usually met with in the market.

Upon the addition of alcohol to a portion of the mass, it was dis-
covered to be but partially soluble in that menstruum, the drug, upon
being washed several times successively with warm alcohol and these
washings filtered and evaporated, yielding but 26 per cent, of soluble
matter.

To a portion of this residue oil of turpentine was added without
any observable effect.

To another portion water was added, and the mixture boiled ; with a
like result.

To another portion ether was added, the whole slightly warmed, the
solution filtered and the residue washed upon the filter with ether, the
filtrate, upon being evaporated, yielded 63 per cent, of " a balsam pre-

52 The Importance of Garbling Drugs. {Am^e°bur'i8P76arm'

pared from the bark of Liquidambar Orientale" which, upon being
treated with hot petroleum benzin, yielded a copious deposit of crys-
tals of styracin upon cooling. The residue upon the filtrate was then
examined, and found to consist almost entirely of bark and charred
ligneous matter, amounting to nearly n per cent, of the drug.

The high price of this article, at present, leads us to be careful in
the selection of this drug, the sample under inspection costing $3.90
per ft), and consisting in greater part, about 75 per cent., of charcoal
and a drug costing less than a tenth of the price of Balsam Tolu.

The moral it points is two-fold : First, that wholesale druggists
should be careful in selecting drugs, which afterward go to the retail
trade or manufacturers, with their label attached. Second, that the
retailer must not rely implicitly upon any house offering drugs, but
examine for himself such articles as may be offered from time to time,
before they are allowed to go into the preparations of the Pharma-
copoeia. Indeed, a wholesome system of drug garbling is sadly needed
before such drugs as are to be found generally averaging the market,
are fit for the dispensing counter.

In the present instance, the extreme price only makes it more
aggravating to the consumer, yet, doubtless, makes this particular
article more tempting to the importer.

Philadelphia, First month \%th, 1876.

THE IMPORTANCE OF GARBLING DRUGS.

BY J. J. BROWN.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, Jan. i$th, 1876.)

Among the multitude of little things that, in the aggregate, form our
profession, none, I believe, are so generally overlooked as that of the
garbling of our drugs. That this is an important duty, I think anyone
who doubts will find a convincing proof in going over his own stock of
goods, and carefully separating the good from the bad, for no matter
what precautions we may take in the selection of drugs, sophistications
and impurities are bound to creep in. As a student, I have found this
kind of employment particularly interesting and instructive, as it affords
a means of becoming familiar with the appearance of drugs and their
adulterants that could not be obtained by any number of observations
of an isolated specimen. The impression among pharmacists often
is, I am sorry to say, to feel that after having made purchases from

Am FJe0bu.ri876.arm' } The Importance of Garbling Drugs. . 5 3

none but reliable houses, that our whole duty has been discharged in
the selection of material for our preparations and prescriptions ; but this
precaution alone will not answer, for there is seemingly a constant ten-
dency in drugs to become contaminated with foreign substances.

Goat-skins and aloes have an almost inseparable friendship for each
other.

Rhubarb is sometimes associated with neatly-dusted stones, and
though they grind hard, we make them up into extracts and powders,
and dispense them under a printed guarantee of purity. Hydrastis and
serpentaria experience a sort of endosmosis, and genuine tapioca takes
out naturalization papers in New York city.

Not long since, I examined a package of serpentaria (about 2 lbs.),
which, to a casual observer, was of remarkably fine appearance, but on
a more intimate acquaintance was found to contain not only serpen-
taria, but also fruit of ground cherry, capsules of an unknown plant,
stems and leaves of serpentaria, onion-husks, charcoal, snail-shells, bits
of wood, glue, ginseng and gravel. I fear an infusion from such an
article would scarcely be in accordance with the letter of the " Phar-
macopoeia."

In another instance, one pound of sarsaparilla root on being garbled,
produced the following medley : nut-galls, matico stems, bay, bella-
donna and digitalis leaves, paper, unknown bark, straw, ipecac and
May-apple roots. Whether such a mixture would heighten the alter-
ative effect of sarsaparilla is exceedingly questionable. How such an
aggregation of substances so entirely different could take place, is not
a question of difficult solution, when we consider how carelessly the
covers of bins, barrels and boxes are adjusted in some of our whole-
sale houses.

A source of greater trouble than this, is in the fact that drugs are
too often collected with seemingly but little regard to the medicinal
portion thereof, as for instance, valerian and aconite roots are rarely
found with less than 25 per cent, of stems attached, which, inasmuch
as they contain no therapeutical virtue, are worse than useless.

Pith of sassafras is occasionally accompanied with a goodly share of
the woody structure ; in fact, one specimen which I possess is entirely
composed of ligneous matter. Many of the leaves are collected with
large quantities of stems and petioles, as in senna, buchu, digitalis, etc.
Seeds are very generally found contaminated with stems and seed-
vessels. Barks, especially our indigenous ones, are too frequently

54

A New Ink.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

found with their inner surface coated with wood and the outer one
well protected by inert, dead corky matter.

Our profession is, as a general thing, our source of financial income,
and here, again, comes the importance of garbling drugs. You ask,
What does Mrs. A. know about dirty and sophisticated drugs, when
they are dispensed to her in a handsomely-prepared prescription ? I
answer, Not anything ; but it is not alone from the mysterious liquids
that trickle from our retorts, or the brilliant crystals that are born in
our evaporating dishes, by which we are to be judged. There is, at
the present day, and we may be proud of the fact, a spirit of rivalry
among pharmacists as to who shall send out the most elegant prepara-
tions ; but sparkling tinctures, inviting elixirs and palatial soda-fountains
will not blind the eye of our censurious, invalid customer to the dirt
existing in a package of gum arabic which has been purchased as a
selected article. Cachets de pain and electro-plated dragees will not
hide the sand, shells and star-fish that lurk in Irish moss any more
than a bottle of palatable cod-liver oil will enhance the flavor of a
porridge made from animated oat-meal.

A NEW INK.

BY M. S. BIDWELL.

The French inkstand, sold under the name of Encrier Magique,
also called perpetual inkstand, in its most approved form, consists of a
shallow japanned metal tray, about five inches in diameter, on which
is fastened a receptacle of a flattened globular form, about i\ inches
in diameter and \\ inches high. On the top is an opening closed by a
screw cap, and communicating with a cavity about the size of a large
thimble. To use it, a little water is poured into this cavity and the
ink is at once ready for use ; it is nearly jet black, with a slight purplish
tinge, flows beautifully from the pen and is said not to be injured by
freezing. When the ink is exhausted, or if it becomes too thick, it is
renewed by adding a few drops of water. The excellent quality of
this ink, and the extreme convenience of its preparation, make it very
desirable ; but the inkstands are brought from Europe and are quite
expensive, so that some more economical substitute seemed desirable.
The rapidity of solution and the fluidity of the ink naturally suggested
an anilin compound as the probable coloring agent. Acting upon this
suggestion, some of the best anilin black (trade name, Nigrosine), was

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

A New Ink.

55

procured, and a solution made in the proportion of six grains to the
ounce of water, this ratio seeming the most successful after several
trials. Cold water dissolves it readily, the solution being ready for use
in a minute or two. The resulting fluid resembles very closely that
produced in the Encrier Magique, being, perhaps, a little less intense
in color ; in their other properties the two seem to be identical. At
the retail price of the black, the ink would cost about 25 or 30 cents
a pint. It is bleached by chlorine, but is unaffected by nitric, hydro-
chloric or sulphuric acids (the dilute acids of the U. S. P. were used
in the trial), and is but slightly blurred by soaking in water. Con-
trary to expectation, it is found to be unaffected by alcohol, which is
said to remove the ordinary colored anilin inks from the paper readily
and entirely. Writing, executed with this ink, has been soaked in
alcohol four days without appreciable change. These somewhat unex-
pected results encourage the hope that it may prove less liable to fade,
by exposure, than other inks of a similar nature ; but further trials,
during much longer time, will be necessary to determine this point.
The only absolutely permanent inks yet made, aside from the use of
acids to carbonize the paper, seem to be those made of lamp-black, or
some other form of carbon, India ink being the type of the class.
These are valuable for records that are to be kept for centuries, but
are undesirable for common use, because they are more or less thick,
do not flow readily and clog up the pen with insoluble matter. For
ordinary purposes, this nigrosine ink can be recommended as combin-
ing, perhaps, more advantages than any other yet tried. It is not
expensive, is very conveniently made from portable materials, has a
good deep color, flows beautifully, does not corrode steel pens and is
not injured by freezing. Unless some unforeseen objection should be
developed by further trial, it will win the favor of all who use it.
The experience of the many who, like the writer, have been first
delighted and afterwards disgusted with the logwood and chromate of
potassium ink of Prof. Runge, warns us not to be too sanguine in
our expectations, but this nigrosine is certainly well worth a trial.
One word of caution, there are many things called anilin black,
and many of them are worthless ; the kind recommended is called
nigrosine.

Elmira, N. V., December, 1875.

Note by the Editor. — The ink recommended in the above

56 New Process for Phosphorus Pills. {Am^\l%™-

paper appears to be the same as the one to which reference was made
on page 88, of our last volume.

ON A NEW PROCESS FOR PHOSPHORUS PILLS.

BY ELI LILLY.

Finding serious objections to all the processes brought forward for
phosphorus pills, I was induced to search for a process which should be
at once safe, easily managed, protecting the phosphorus from oxidation
during the operation, and insure solubility of the pill when taken into
the stomach.

I present the following formula, which I think covers all these
points, my opinion being based on the manufacture of many thousands
of these pills during the last four or five months, with favorable re-
ports from many pharmacists and physicians.
Take of

Syrup U. S. P., 260 parts.

Wh eaten flour, . . . 340 parts.

Phosphorus, . . .6 parts.

Weigh the syrup in a stout, sound bottle of sufficient capacity to hold
one-fourth more than the amount of syrup used. Place the bottle in
a water- bath, and raise the temperature to 1500 F. Drop the phos-
phorus into the warm syrup, and, as soon as melted, close the bottle
with a close-fitting cork ; take it from the bath, and, holding it up-
right, give it a gently-whirling motion until the phosphorus is divided
into small globules, when it must be violently shaken till cold. Having
the flour finely sifted and placed in a mortar, pour in the mixture of
syrup and phosphorus, and rapidly form the mass, which, when com-
pleted, may be packed down in small, glazed earthen jars, and tin foil
placed under the covers to retain the moisture and exclude the air.

Pills made from this mass weighing 1 grain will contain grains
phosphorus, and 2 grains -fa grain phosphorus.

A portion of the flour in the above formula may be replaced with
extract nux vomica, sacch. carb. iron, etc., if such combinations are
to be made, of course observing to mix them in fine powder with the
flour before adding the syrup.

It is necessary, if small quantities are to be made, to return the bottle
containing the phosphorus and syrup to the water-bath two or three
times during the shaking, before finally allowing if to cool ; but with
12 troy ounces or more of syrup it is unnecessary.

%eb.uri876.arm'} Formulas of so-called Elegant Preparations. 57

The advantages of this process consist in the practically perfect sub
division of the phosphorus at a low temperature, which insures safety
with ordinary care, producing a mass easily worked, a pill rapidly dried
and firm for coating, with so small an amount of oxidation throughout
as to be insignificant. The pills, on being powdered in the dark, ex-
hibit uniform luminosity, showing the thorough distribution of the
phosphorus.

Finally, let the operator who proposes to test this process for him-
self, adhere to the directions I have endeavored to make plain, and I
believe he will find, as I have, a simple way out of his phosphorus pill
troubles.

Indianapolis , Ind., January 14-th, 1876.

SOME FORMULAS OF THE SO-CALLED ELEGANT PREPARA-
TIONS.

BY JOHN W. WATTS.

It is evident to almost every careful observer that a large number of
the above-mentioned preparations are not exactly what the manufac-
turers would have the physicians and druggists to believe, though they
may in a measure substitute those preparations which they are intended
to represent. It is the opinion of the writer that it is nothing more
nor less than a mere imposition to bestow upon preparations names
which they are not justly entitled to. Would it not be of more in-
terest to the physician, as well as to the pharmacist, to have these
preparations fairly represented, and not displayed with circulars, etc.,
as if they were patent medicines which some manufacturers seem wont
to do ? Below will be found a few formulas which are used to no
little extent, viz :

Syrup of the phosphates of iron, quinia and strychnia :

Sulphate of iron (pure), . . . ^iv and grs. 16

Sulphate of quinia, ... ^ii and grs. 8

Strychnia, ..... grs. iv

Phosphate of sodium, . . . J5viii and grs. 32

Phosphoric acid (dilute), . . . ^viii

Powdered sugar, ....

Hydrochloric acid, . . . . ad q. s.

Dissolve the sulphate of iron and phosphate of sodium each in 4 ozs.
boiling water separately, pour together, collect the precipitate and

58 Formulas of so-called Elegant Preparations. {Am-/e0br'i?7h6arm'

wash ; dissolve the sulphate of quinia in the same quantity of cold
water by the aid of hydrochloric acid, precipitate with ammonia water,
collect and wash ; add the precipitates and the strychnia to the dilute
phosphoric acid in a mortar, stirring, and dissolve any remaining pre-
cipitate with hydrochloric acid, filter, then add sufficient powd. sugar
to make one pint.

Syrup of lacto-phosphate of lime :

Phosphate of calcium, .... giv and 16 grs.

Phosphoric acid (dil.) . . . ^vii

Lactic acid (dil.), . . . . - 5l

Hydrochloric acid, ....

Sugar, powdered, . . . . . ad q. s.

Dissolve the calcium phosphate in 4 ozs. of water with hydrochloric
acid, precipitate with ammonia water, collect and wash the precipitate
and add it to the dilute lactic and phosphoric acids in a mortar ; tritur-
ate, dissolve any remaining precipitate with hydrochloric acid, filter and
add sufficient powdered sugar to make one pint.

The wine of lacto-phosphate of lime may be made in the same way,
by using sherry wine in place of the sugar.

The amount of hydrochloric acid necessary to insure permanent
solutions will amount to a little less than 6 drachms in the former and
4 drachms in the latter, though one-half of this quantity would be
sufficient to form a solution, but the preparations would scarcely keep
longer than two or three months without precipitation, unless the whole
quantity of acid be used. From this it will be seen that the amount
of hydrochloric acid used will be sufficient, or nearly so, to convert all
of the phosphates contained in these preparations into chlorides.

Baltimore, January, 1876.

Note by the Editor. — The formula given above for the syrup of
the phosphates of iron, quinia and strychnia differs from Aitken's for-
mula, published in uAmer. Jour. Phar.," 1867, p. 178, in containing a
somewhat larger quantity of iron and less phosphoric acid. The pre-
cipitate occurring in the syrup after some time is ferric phosphate (see
"Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1867, p. 387), and may be prevented by using
a stronger phosphoric acid, or, as suggested by the author, by the addi-
tion of a sufficient amount of muriatic acid.

For other formulas for syrup of lacto-phosphate of calcium, we would
refer our readers to "Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1873, pp. 105, 221 and 234.

AmFe°buri8P76arm'} Frcehdes Reagent a Test for Morphia. 59

NOTE ON FRCEHDE'S REAGENT AS A TEST FOR MORPHIA.

BY ALBERT B. PRESCOTT.

On page 21 (Jan. No.) of the present volume of this Journal, Mr.
Wellcome brings to notice and refutes certain preposterous claims
made, in St. Bartholomew's Hospital Reports of 1874, for a saturated
solution of molybdic acid in sulphuric acid, as a test for morphia,
namely : that this reagent distinguishes traces of that alkaloid, when it
is directly applied to opium tinctures, lozenges and other mixtures. It
certainly should not be taken as evidence of anything in particular, that
there should be a lively play of colors, when a strong solution of molyb-
dic acid in concentrated sulphuric acid, is brought upon aqueous,
alcoholic or saccharine mixtures containing unclassified organic matter.
As Mr. Wellcome well explains, a large number of deoxidizing agents
reduce molybdic acid to blue compounds (molybdic molybdates). But
the experiments which Mr. W. reports fail to sustain the extreme
scepticism of his conclusion, that " there is no more need of molybdic
acid or molybdates in these test solutions than for the presence of any
other blue coloring matter, which will blend with the color produced
by sulphuric acid, and produce tints which, while pleasing to the eye,
confuse the analyst."

In 1866, Froehde reported* the identification of morphia by the
reagent which bears his name — a fresh solution of five milligrams of
sodium molybdate in one cubic centimeter of pure concentrated sul-
phuric acid (1 part to 368 parts) — a violet color being obtained.

In 1868, Alm£n, f after investigation, stated that Froehde's test was
much more certain and delicate than any of the old reactions for mor-
phia, except that with iodic acid, and more characteristic than that by
sulphuric with nitric acid (Erdmann's).

Kauzmann, in 1869, found J that 0*05 of a milligram of morphia,
if pure and solid, could be recognized by this test. Neubauer, in 1870,
found § the test delicate and distinguishing for morphia in presence of
strychnia. J. H. Buckingham, || in 1873, usmg a fresh solution of 8

*"Archivder Pharm.," Bd. 126, p. 54; " Zeitschr. f. anal. Chemie," v, 214
" Proc. Am. Phar. Asso.," xv, 241.

f " Neues Jahrbuch f. Pharm.," Bd. 30, p. 87. " Zcitsch. f. anal. Chem.,,,j
viii, 77.

X "Zeitsch. f anal. Chemie," viii, 105.
$ " Zeitsch. f. anal, Chemie," ix, 241.

|| "Amer. Jour. Phar.," xlv, (1873) H9 5 " Polytechn. Notizblatt " (1874), 77 ;
" Chem. Cent." (1873), 797 > "Jour. Chem. Soc." (1874), 715 ; "Zeitsch. an. Ch.,"
xiii, 234.

60 Frcehdes Reagent a Test for Morphia. {Am-FJe°bur;876harm'

grains ammonium molybdate in 2 drachms sulphuric acid (i part to 15),
extended the results, positive and negative, by this test to over twenty
alkaloids and glucosides. And, about the same time, DragendorfF,
using fresh solutions of 1 milligram sodium molybdate in one cub.
cent, of concentrated sulphuric acid (1 part in 1840 parts),* obtained
and reported results, positive and negative, with 50 alkaloids and glu-
cosides.f

For morphia, Dragendorff names Frcehde's test first. J In his very
valuable " Untersuchungen," ii, 233, Hager gives a table of the re-
actions which Dragendorff determined, using the 1 to 1840 molybdic
solution. I know of no better authority in proximate analysis than
the indefatigable Dorpat professor Dragendorff. His thorough research
in the separation of alkaloids gives good assurance of the purity of those
with which he experiments. For my own satisfaction, I have tried
the larger number of the tests he reports with Froehde's reagent, and I
have found his results verified with all that I have tried.

It it very true that the reduction of molybdic acid produces blue pro-
ducts of various shades (hydrated molybdic molybdates), and also by
further reduction a brown product (molybdic hydrate) and that numer-
ous reducing agents — inorganic and especially organic — effect these
reductions. Indeed, a solution of molybdic acid in sulphuric acid is
deoxidized to a blue precipitate by heat alone, at the temperature of
incipient vaporization of the sulphuric, that being an approved test for
molybdenum. §

Now a large proportion of the most certain tests for organic com-
pounds are made by application of oxidizing agents which serve to
reveal the reducing power of these compounds : the degree and
kind of the reducing power being within certain limits characteristic of
each reducing agent tested for. Trommer's test for sugars, the " fad-
ing purple" test for strychnia, and the " thalleioquin test" for quinia,
are examples : the old tests for morphia by nitric and iodic acids,
and probably that by ferric chloride, are of the same kind. In the
greater number of these tests, chemists have not ascertained what are

* For " o*oi grain," at middle of page 22 this vol. of this Journal, read " o-oi
gram."

f " Beitrage zur gericht. Chemie einzelner organischer Gifte," St. Petersburg,
1872.

X " Die chem. Werthbestimmung starkwirlcender Droguen," p. 81.
§ Schonn : " Zeitsch. f. analyt. Chemie," viii, (1869), 379.

AmFe°buri8P76arm:} Frcehdes Reagent a Test for Morphia. 61

the organic products of the oxidation, and this has been the case with
some so definite as to have a quantitative application (such as the use
of the potassic cupric tartrate). No one of these tests is good for any-
thing unless applied to carefully classified material. Thus, Froehde's
reagent is directed to be applied to alkaloids, " absolutely free from
impurities, not alkaloids." Salts of alkaloids with acids which, liberated
by the sulphuric acid, will act as oxidizing, or reducing, or coloring
agents, are, of course, unsuitable forms for the test. So it is not
strange that Mr. Wellcome obtained the colors he names, with
bromide, iodide, ferrocyanide and tannate, of quinia.

The extreme dilution of the molybdic acid in DragendorfPs use of
Froehde's reagent, shows the intensity of that elective reducing power
possessed by some alkaloids, and renders this form of the reagent much
more reliable than the form used by Buckingham (the strength first
proposed by Froehde, being intermediate). Stannous chloride solution
quickly colors ordinary molybdate solutions blue, but this and most
other inorganic reducing agents fail to affect the solution when it is of
the strength that DragendorfF uses.

There yet remains to consider a statement in Mr. Wellcome's
paper, concerning a point of much importance in the identification of
morphia, a point having some practical relations generally overlooked.
Referring to the table of reactions with Froehde's reagent given in
" Outlines of Proximate Organic Analysis," and to the statement there
that morphia with concentrated sulphuric acid alone is colorless, he reports
that "it gives a wine-red color." If the latter statement is correct, it
certainly greatly weakens the evidence of the violet color obtained
when the trace of molybdate is present. And, if my reader leaves this
discussion to try the test for himself, with the first materials at his
hand, he may, probably, find in a few minutes the result (even in the
cold) which Mr. Wellcome found. If so, and he is sure that his
sulphuric acid is absolutely pure, and his morphia or its sulphate pure,
so much the worse for Froehde's reagent and its authorities ; while, if
he is not sure of the absolute purity of his materials, the result suggests
caution in use of the test, and inquiry as to impurities and their influence.

The authorities are nearly uniform in the statement that morphia is
not colored by concentrated sulphuric acid (in the cold and without

62 Frcehdes Reagent a Test for Morphia. {Am'^r\^6arm'

standing). In the hand-books, Fresenius,* Otto,f Wormley,J Heppe,§
and others, agree in this, — Wittstein, on the other hand, giving as
result a yellowish coloration. || Hager^[ and Heppe, (as just quoted) —
both as compilers — state that, by heating the sulphuric acid solution to
100° to 1500 C, a "faint violet-red" or " red " color is obtained.

A trace of nitric with sulphuric acid greatly effects its reaction with
morphia, — a mixture of the two acids furnishing a much more delicate
test for that alkaloid than nitric acid alone. In 1861, Erdmann, dur-
ing some fruitful researches in the identification of alkaloids** fixed
upon a mixture containing little more than one hundredth of one per
cent, of nitric acid of spec. grav. 1*25, ft referred to as Erdmann's re-
agent giving with morphia a violet color. Now how minute a trace of
nitric acid will enable sulphuric acid to color notable quantities of
morphia reddish, I do not know. As to the purity of the " chemically
pure " sulphuric acid of the market, most analysts find occasionally lots
which reveal nitric acid, even by the ferrous sulphate test, and, still
more often, the brucia test or the anilin sulphate test shows the im-
purity, jj Query : how does the delicacy of a morphia test for nitric

" Qual. Chem. Anal.," Johnson's Edition from 14th German, (1875), p. 392.
t " Detection of Poisons," New York, 1862, p. 146.
% " Micro-Chemistry of Poisons," (1869), " Tabular View."
>/. "Die Chemischen Reactionen," Leipzig, 1875, P« 24^-
|| "Analyse v. Pflanzen u. Pflanzentheilen," 1868, p 156.
\ " Untersuchungen," ii, 161.

** " Annal d. Chemie u. Pharm.," Bd. 120, p. 188. " Zeitsch. f. analyt. Chemie,"
i, 224, — (Neubauer's Report).

ff Six drops of nitric acid of sp. gr. 1*25 are mixed with 100 c. c. water, and ten
drops of this mixture are mixed with 20 grams concentrated sulphuric acid. Ot
this reagent, 8 to 20 drops are added to 1 or 2 milligrams of the solid to be tested,
and after \ to \ hour the color is noted. The heat developed by a drop or two of
water increases the delicacy of the reaction — a violet color. Erdmann reported
color tests by this reagent with four other alkaloids, viz. : narcotina, strychnia,
brucia and veratria.

Shortly after the introduction of Erdmann's reagent, Husemann (" Annal. d.
Chem. u. Pharm.," Bd. 128, p. 303) ascertained, that if the sulphuric acid solution
of morphia (colorless, he states, in the cold) be heated above ioo° C. but not as high
as 1500 C, and then treated with a few drops of nitric acid of sp. gr. 1*2, a dark
violet color will give evidence of morphia, the test being more delicate than Erd-
mann's, revealing 0*00001 gram alkaloid. This test of Husemann is given in the
recent manuals of Fresenius, Hager and Heppe.

% % Bedford : " Proc. Am. Phar. Asso.," 1874, 429. Dickinson: (Contribu-
tions Chem. Lab. Univ. Mich.) "Am. Chemist," 1875, Aug., p. 43.

Am-Fe°bur;8^6arm'} Frcehdes Reagent a Test for Morphia. 63

acid in sulphuric acid compare with the delicacy of tests in use for
that purpose ?

I have not made any investigations toward the answer of this
query, and therefore am not prepared to report as to the effect of
absolutely pure sulphuric acid upon morphia. I have found that the
best obtainable sulphuric acid of the chemical market, with the purest
morphia easily obtained (purified, as presently to explain), give in the
cold but a barely perceptible shade of dull reddish color, — the tint being
too faint to clearly define. But all of these samples (taken dry, of
course), when heated on the water-bath, promptly turn perceptibly violet
or purple — and after standing, become brown. With some samples of
sulphuric acid the shade is some lighter than it is with others, but the
color of the faintest shades obtained can be defined well enough.

On the other hand, some of the samples of morphia which I have
tried give (after the heating) a little different color from others, vary-
ing from light violet (or rose) toward the purple, though the shade is of
nearly the same depth with all the morphia samples. But the samples
of morphia sulphate as found in the market, gave a little more color
with the sulphuric acid in the cold than is reported above. Before
those results were obtained, the samples of sulphate were dissolved in a
little water, the solution washed in a test tube, once, with the best
chloroform, and the water solution evaporated to dryness, when the
cold residue was tested. I have not investigated the chloroform
extract : to do which doubtless larger quantities should be used.
Several laboratory preparations of the base morphia, and a P. &
sample of " morphia, pure," taken without purification, gave with
sulphuric acid in the cold the nearly negative result above stated. It
will be recollected that a number of the opium alkaloids are reported to
give bright colors with sulphuric acid. Papaverina is colored deep
violet, according to Merck ; only after heating, according to Hesse*.
Narcotina, according to Dragendorff, is colored yellow after a few
moments' contact, later turning reddish yellow ; according to Huse-
mann, after warming, purple. Thebaina, (Dragendorff, Hager's Unter-
such.) gives a blood-red color ; (according to Couerbe, a blood-red
color when the sulphuric acid contains a trace of nitric). Narceina
was given in my Prox. Org. Anl. as presenting with sulphuric acid a
brown to yellow color, after Dragendorff and Wormley ; in Hager's
Untersuchungen, p. 172, the statement is given that the deep-red
* " Heppe's Chemische Reactionen, p. 267.

64 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {Am'FJe°buri8^6.arm'

color, to blue color, usually obtained, is due to impurity. Cryptopia
gives a blue color. Now from water solution of sulphates, chloroform
dissolves and extracts papaverina, narcotina and thebaina, (narceina ?), —
leaving the morphia in the water solution.

In connection with the inquiry as to the effect of concentrated
sulphuric acid upon morphia, it is interesting to note the remarkable
power which cane sugar has, as a third body, in this reaction.
Schneider's test* gives a purple-violet color of such intensity that it is
not exceeded in delicacy by any other test, (others being probably more
characteristic). As to the organic products of these reactions, having
stated that chemists were generally unacquainted with the products of
oxidation of organic compounds as they occur in the " color tests," I
ought to refer to at least one research upon morphia, doubtless in the
direction of the light desired. C. R. A. Wright has not labored so
patiently among the alkaloids, in the service of synthesis, without some
benefit to analysis, as well. Thus, he gives the formula (not fully
confirmed) of the blood red liquid formed by action of nitric acid and
silver nitrate upon morphia, as C2iH20N3O13.t

University of Michigan^ January \ 1876.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Examination of Olive Oil. — E. Kopp calls attention again to the
following simple method, which depends upon the conversion of the
oil into solid elaidin by means of nitrous acid. Ten volumes of the
oil and one volume of ordinary nitric acid are poured into a test-glass,
and a few pieces of copper wire are added, whereby nitric oxide is
evolved, which, with the nitric acid, yields nitrous acid. As soon as
the gas bubbles passing through the oil become numerous, the acid and
oil are intimately mixed by stirring with a glass rod. After about five
minutes, the mixture is again made by continuous stirring, and then set
aside in a cool place of 120 to 150 C. (540 to 590 F.) The oil sepa-
rates again from the acid, with a blue color from the presence of cop-
per nitrate, but soon begins to congeal, the more rapid in proportion
to the purity of the olive oil, the elaidin being not only solid, but like-

* "Am. Journ. Phar.," xlv, (1873), 545 5 xlvi, (1874), 558. " Zeitsch. f. analyt.
Chemie," xii, (1873), 2l8-

f "Jour. Chem. Soc," 1873, p. 1088.

Am' ja0n.ri8P76.arm' } Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 65

wise quite white. If mixtures with other oils are thus tested, solidifi-
cation will take place much slower, and the elaidin will be usually soft,
and of a more or less yellowish or brownish color. — Chem. Centralbl.,
1875, No. 47, from Musterzeitung.

Removal of Silver Stains from Clothes. — The following method is
particularly successful with clothes that had been previously washed.
The soiled piece is for a few minutes immersed in a concentrated solu-
tion of chloride of copper, and the stain is then rubbed with a crystal
of sodium hyposulphite, previously dipped into ammonia which has been
diluted with an equal bulk of water. If the copper chloride has been
quite neutral, the color of the fabric will not be affected. This process
may, if necessary, be repeated several times. — Ibid., No. 48, from Phot.
Arch.

Quercitrin and Quercetin. — Jul. Loewe has experimented with quer-
citrin prepared by himself from quercitron bark, and found it not to be
a glucoside, as usually assumed. He found the formula of quercitrin
dried over sulphuric acid to be C15H1609 ; when fused at 1300 C.
(2660 F.), it was C15H14Os ; the yellow lead compound had the formula
C15H14OsPbO ; the orange-colored lead compound, the formula
C15H12072PbO, and the formula of quercetin was found to be C15H12Or
The latter is therefore quercitrin from which the elements of water have
been removed, and robinin and rutinin are probably quercitrin combined
with water ; the analyses of the last-named compound, by various
authors, agree well with the formula C15H18O10. — Zeitschr. f. Analyt.
Chem., 1875, 233-241.

To Detect Free Hydrochloric Acid in the Presence of a Chloride. — J. Lb-
wenthal boils the liquid with peroxide of lead, which becomes lighter in
color, chlorine being liberated, and the reaction completed in five
minutes. Peroxide of lead does not act upon the chlorides having the
formula MCI, nor upon pure aluminic chloride ; but ferric chloride is
strongly acted upon and stannic chloride is completely decomposed by
boiling with lead peroxide. — Ibid., p. 306.

Detection of Resin in Wax. — Recently several apothecaries and drug-
gists of Berlin were cheated with beeswax which had been adulterated
with 20 per cent, of resin. The specific gravity of pure wax being
between -960 and '963, it will float in officinal ammonia water (spec,
gr. -960,) while a sample adulterated with resin will sink in the same

66 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals, \Am 'Y°^r\^rm'

liquid, the resin having a higher specific gravity. — Phar, Zeitung, 1875,
No. 102.

Salicylate of ammonium is recommended by^ Martenson for internal
use. It is readily prepared by neutralizing salicylic acid diffused in
water, with ammonia or carbonate of ammonium, whereby a solution
of any desirable strength may be obtained. Evaporated upon a water-
bath, some ammonia escapes, and the liquid becomes acid ; if suffi-
ciently concentrated, and, if necessary, again neutralized, the salt will
crystallize, on cooling, in shining needles, which are readily soluble in
water and alcohol. The aqueous solution keeps unaltered for a long
time, has a sweetish, insipid taste, and, when mixed with mineral or
organic acids, deposits salicylic acid. The salt is given dissolved in
aromatized water, or in the form of syrup ; combination with fruit-
syrups must be avoided. — Ibid.

Detection of Carbolic Acid in Oil of Cloves. — Jacquemin recommends
to add to the oil the fraction of a drop of anilin, and then to shake it
with 5 to 6 times its quantity of water, to which subsequently a few
drops of chlorinated soda solution are added. Pure oil of cloves will
produce a purplish-violet color, which gradually becomes fainter ; in
the presence of carbolic acid a bright-blue coloration is produced in a
few minutes, if agitation is avoided after the last addition. One per
cent, of phenol may thus be detected in one drop of the oil. — Ibid.,
from four, de Phar. et de Chim.

Preparation of E?nulsions of Gum Resins. — The difficulty of preparing
emulsions of ammoniac and other gum resins during the summer time,
is overcome, according to E. Gasser, by manipulating as follows : 2 or

4 grams of ammoniac are triturated in a mortar as well as possible ;
then 2 grams of water are added, and afterwards 2 grams of alcohol.
The latter is ignited, and when the flame is extinguished 2 grams of
powdered gum arabic are added to the warm mixture, and the whole
rapidly agitated, after which the emulsion is finished by the gradual
addition of the excipient. The above is a modification of the process
proposed by Oppermann in his " Cours de Pharmacies — Ibid., No.
103, from four, de Phar. d? Als.-Lorr.

Glycerol of Tar. — Ch. Peyronnet obtains a perfectly homogeneous
preparation, of the consistence of an ointment, by operating as follows :

5 grams of starch are well mixed with the same quantity of water j

Am' fer-x876!rm-} Pharmacy of Salicylic Acid. 67

30 grams of glycerin are added, and the mixture is heated, with con-
stant agitation, until it has acquired the proper consistence, when 10
grams of purified tar are added and well mixed. — D Union Pharm.,
l$75, p. 324-

Cauterizing Pencils of Sulphate of Copper. — Schoull reduces the crys-
tals of copper sulphate to a coarse powder, which is heated in a porce-
lain capsule to about 1500 C. (3020 F.). When it has lost nearly all
its water of crystallization, the heat is discontinued and the mass
allowed to cool somewhat ; it is powdered finely and the water again
added in small quantities, and well incorporated with the aid of a pestle.
On combining again with its water of crystallization, the salt becomes
hot, and finally acquires a pilular consistence, when it is rolled out into
cylinders of suitable thickness, which gradually become quite hard.
Should the water have been added somewhat in excess, the addition of
a little finely powdered effloresced copper sulphate will impart the
necessary consistence. — Ibid., p. 326. (See, also, Amer. four. Phar.,
I^7S-> P- 267 and 504.)

Collodion for Freckles [Collodion antephtlique). — In place of mercuric
chloride and cyanide, which are usually recommended for the removal
of freckles, the " Phar. Zeitschr. f. Russl." recommends the following
preparation, as being effectual without possessing the dangers of the
former : One gram of sulphocarbolate of zinc is reduced to a very
fine powder, and then incorporated by trituration with one gram of
essence of lemon (or other flavor) ; 5 grams alcohol and 45 grams of
collodion. — Ibid.

THE PHARMACY OF SALICYLIC ACID.

BY M. MAURY.

The author, who is a pharmacien residing at Lyons, has made a
compilation of different formulae for the administration of salicylic
acid, which he read before the Pharmaceutical Association of that city
at its October meeting. The paper is published in the " Repertoire de
Pharmacie" (Oct. 25, p. 609), and we are indebted to it for the fol-
lowing extracts :

External use. — Dr. Wagner recommends that a thin layer of finely
powdered salicylic acid should be spread upon calico and applied by
means of a bandage to wounds.

68

Pharmacy of Salicylic Acid.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

Pommade. — Dr. Wagner gives the following formula :

Salicylic Acid . . . . . 15 parts.

Alcohol . . . . . . 30 "

Lard . . . . . $ • • 150 " *

It is important to use the alcohol as a solvent, the direct mixture of
the acid with the lard does not give the same good effects.

Dentifrices. — M. Paulcke, a pharmacien at Leipzig, prepares as a
dentifrice a powder in which salicylic acid is incorporated ; also an
u elixir dentifrice" from a solution of the acid aromatized with oil of
wintergreen.

Foot Powder. — It is stated that salicylic acid removes the odor of
sweat from feet, without preventing the sweating, its action being to
prevent the formation of butyric, valerianic and other acids of the same
family, which injure the feet. M. Paulcke therefore prepared with
salicylic acid, soap, talc and starch, a powder for the feet, which, whilst
rendering them firm, is said to induce an agreeable softness and to re-
move all unpleasant smell.

Mixture. — The following formula is attributed to Professor Wunder-

lich: - •

Salicylic Acid ...... 1 gram.

Oil of Sweet Almonds . . . . 20 "

Gum Arabic . . . . . . 10 "

Syrup of Almonds . . . . 25 "

Orange Flower Water . . . . . 45 "

A teaspoonful to be taken every hour when children are sufficiently

old to use a gargle. Dr. Fontheim says it may be so administered

every hour.

Solution in Glycerin and Water. — M. Muller, a pharmacist at Breslau,
gives the following :

Salicylic Acid ...... 1 gram.

Glycerin . . . . . . 20 "

Distilled Water . . . . . 80 «

First treat the acid with the glycerin, and then add the water.
In Switzerland, salicylic acid has been used in typhoid and paludian
fevers, etc. It has been noticed that it has a very remarkable cumula-
tive action ; for, after having obtained the desired remission by a first
dose of 4 to 8 grams, it has been found that a dose of one-half, or one-
fourth that quantity on the following days is sufficient to keep the
temperature within good limits. Dr. De Cerenville recommends that
these doses should be administered in water, flavored with liquorice
juice.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

Pill Coating.

69

The following formulae are due to M. Maury.

Antiseptic Mouth Paste.
Rectified Salicylic Acid ..... 2 grams.

Honey . . . . . . 34 "

Compound Powder for Extemporaneous Antiseptic Mouth Paste.
Rectified Salicylic Acid .... 2 grams.

Powdered Sugar, or some other inert powder . 20 "

Mix. To be applied to the sore parts of the mouth by means of a
brush previously moistened with water.

Lozenges. — Salicylic acid, with sufficient gum and sugar for each
lozenge to contain 25 milligrams of the acid.

• Salicylic Syrup. — Pure salicylic acid, with sufficient syrup of orange
flowers for 20 grams to contain 5 centigrams of the acid.

Mixture.

Pure Salicylic Acid .... 1*50 grams.

Powdered Gum Arabic .... io-oo "

Sugar . . - . . . . icoo "

Orange Flower Water .... 20*00 "
Distilled Water . . . . 100*00 "
F. s. a. — Shake the bottle before each dose. A teaspoonful every
two hours for children.

Salicylic Wine.

Pure Salicylic Acid ..... 2 grams

Muscat Wine ...... 100 " F. s. a.

Wine of Cinchona and Salicylate of ~>uinia.

Calisaya Bark . . . . . 30 grams.

Salicylate of Quinia . . . . . 1 "

Madeira Wine . . . . . 1000 " F. s. a

Injection. — A solution of 1 part of salicylic acid in 300 parts of water
has been used as an injection in fluor albus. — The Pharm. Journ. and
Tram., November 13, 1875.

PILL COATING.

BY F. M. GOODMAN.

We all dislike the modern method of keeping a full line of ready-
made pills on hand, comprising from 200 to 250 different formulae ;
not only this, but we must be able to dispense pills of A, B and C's
manufacture, according to the notions of the physician, necessitating
the carrying of an immense stock, some of which remains on our shelves
a long time before being called for a second time. Apparently, the

7o

Pill Coating.

f ^m. Jour. Pharm
1 Feb. 1876.

only way of avoiding and abating this nuisance, is to be able to coat
the pills ourselves, and do it as nicely as the manufacturers.

Having tried a great many experiments in coating pills with sugar
and French chalk, my experience may be of interest and benefit to the
readers of " The Pharmacist."

In coating with sugar, I find it advantageous, though not necessary,
to coat the pills first with a resinous substance ; for this purpose I
prefer mastic, as it is not sticky when drying. Pills, when thus pro-
tected, may be washed if necessary, to remove a subsequent coating
not successfully applied.

To apply this resinous coat, take a patch box, or earthen jar of con-
venient size, moisten the inside of box and cover with glycerin, in-
troduce the pills, and for every hundred of pills add ten drops of a
saturated solution of mastic in ether, adjust the cover, and rotate very
rapidly for a few moments, then scatter the pills thinly over a plate of
glass that has been previously rubbed with glycerin ; when dry, if not
thoroughly coated, return to the box and proceed as before ; if satis-
factory, moisten with mucilage of gum arabic — 1 part gum to 5 of
water — care being taken not to use too much mucilage, yet the pills
must be thoroughly moistened ; this can be quickly done by placing the
pills in the box used for coating, dropping the mucilage upon them, and
rolling them around till moistened ; then transfer to another jar or
box containing dusted sugar (known as confectioners' sugar), here the
pills are rolled around with the fingers, using a gentle pressure ; when
covered, roll them around in a fine sieve to remove the superfluous
sugar, then transfer to a clean damp box or jar, rotate rapidly, avoiding
a throwing motion ; if the coating does not become smooth, again
dampen the box or jar, and rotate as before, observing not to let the
coating become dry till smooth. It will probably take some practice
to be able to obtain an even, white coating.

French chalk, as a coating, was suggested fully fifteen years ago.
In the "Am. Journ. Pharm.," 1874, Mr. Cope calls attention to it
again, and gives very simple instructions for its application, as follows :

" Moisten the pills with mucilage and transfer to a gallipot contain-
ing the powdered chalk ; when thoroughly coated, turn into a pill-tray
and let them remain a short time ; they are then put into another galli-
pot to polish and shake off the loose powder."

For coating pills extemporaneously, I generally make them very
moist with mucilage, so that they will absorb a thick coat of chalk j

Am,Febri8P76arm"} Extemporaneous Coating of Pills. 71

when well covered they are gently rotated in a clean 4 ounce patch
box. As the quantity of mucilage used was sufficient to keep this
coating quite soft and moist, a quantity of dusted sugar is added, and
the agitation continued. This gives a sugar-coated pill, very white
and smooth, and is easily done.

In coating pills with French chalk, in order to have a good coating,
care should be used in selecting the chalk ; only fine, white pieces
should be taken. These can be readily powdered by rubbing on fine
sand-paper tacked to a smooth board. It should be sifted through a
very fine sieve. The commercial powder is dark-colored and gritty,
thus rendered unfit for coating.

In making and coating our own pills, there is not only the satisfac-
tion of knowing that they are correctly made and contain what the
label calls for, but the difference in cost will amply repay one for the
time he may spend upon them. Thus, pills of iodoform and iron, of
1 grain, quoted at one dollar per hundred, net, can be made for thirty-
five cents ; compound pills of quinia, quoted at ninety-three cents per
hundred, can be made for sixty cents ; 5 grain blue mass pills, quoted
at twenty-five cents, can be made for eight cents, etc. This difference
in cost alone ought to induce dispensing pharmacists to prepare their
own pills, then the wholesale pill makers might go on making their
elongated, compressed or any other pill that pleases them. — The Phar-
macist, January, 1876.

EXTEMPORANEOUS COATING OF PILLS.

BY A. F W. NEYNABER, NEW YORK.

Why can pills, as they are made in the retail prescription department, not
be coated there also with sugar, gelatin or some such-like suhstance ?

They can easily be coated with gelatin, according to the directions
given in the old edition of " Griffith's Formulary," (also third edition,
p. 643), or in " Wood and Bache's U. S. Dispensatory," 12th or 13th
edition, with a little expeience of the pharmaceutist.

Pills can also be coated in the retail prescription department with
sugar.

The success in coating pills rests chiefly with the first process in
mixing the mass. The state of dryness of the pills has the most influ-
ence on the operation of coating with sugar as well as with gelatin, and
pills can be thoroughly dried only if they have been prepared with the

j 2 Extemporaneous Coating of Pills. {Am^eburi^6.ara'

proper excipients. Here we come to the most important part in making
pills, the excipients used. The success of the "manufacturer" of
pills is mainly due to the employment of the proper excipients, enabling
him to dry the pills thoroughly.

A pill may be soft and yet be not as soluble as a hard pill. If we
have gum-resins or resinous extracts, and add a little spirit we will pro-
duce a pill of softness and plasticity, but when we take such a pill
between our fingers and try to mix it with water, we will find that it
may adhere to the skin, and cannot be well washed off without using
alcohol or some other solvent of resin. On the other hand, if we take
compound cathartic pills, prepared strictly as the " United States Phar-
macopoeia " directs, by using the different substances in the form of
powders, and having beaten them into mass with water, we shall have
a pill which will fall into powder again when put into water. The
excipient should be such as will not combine much with the resinous or
other ingredients, but form rather a layer between the powders employed.
A layer of soluble substances between powders less soluble in water
(such as gum-resins or resinous extracts), will produce a pill that can
be dried to become perfectly hard, and yet that will fall into powder
when put into water, the water washing out the layer. Soft pills are
apt to lose shape \ and pills containing moisture cannot be kept in well-
closed bottles, lest they become mouldy.

The success in making pills is based on the excipient used.

Pills which have been thoroughly dried can be coated with sugar, as
follows: Boil 32 ounces of best white sugar, with 12J ounces of
distilled water, to a syrup, and use enough of this syrup (temp. 1200 to
1500) to moisten the pills, in a small copper kettle or pan, exposing it
to a heat sufficient to dry the pills while kept in motion and worked
with the hand. After this first coat is dry, the operation is repeated
until the pill is covered with sugar sufficiently. A very soluble coating
for pills is the following composition : 1 ounce of flaxseed, \ ounce of
Irish moss ; boil with 8 fluidounces of water, strain, add 4 ounces of
sugar, boil and use in the same manner as a solution of gelatin is used
for coating pills.

If pills in very small quantities are to be made and coated with
sugar or gelatin, in a retail prescription department, the mass should be
made as hard as it possibly can be made, and allow cutting ; after being
cut it should be exposed to a draft of dry air so long as time will allow.
Thus pills can be made and coated in small quantities within an hour
or less time. — Druggists' Circular, January, 1876.

AmFJe0bur'J7h6?rm'} Determination of Mixed Oils. 73

DETERMINATION OF MIXED OILS.

The testing of mixed oils is far from being a certain operation. The
following, however, are the principal means of determining the pres-
ence of mixtures :

ist. The determination

of its specific g

ravity at 150

C. and its

parison, with the following

table :

Density. Degrees

011 alcoholometer.

Weight of 1 h<

Tallow oil (olein)

900*3

73*0

88-40

Colza (winter strained)

915-0

59*8

91*50

Colza (summer strained)

qi6'o

\y j

cq-8

J 7

91*67

Rape-seed (winter strained)

QI f '1

CO* C

J y J

y j t

Rape-seed (summer strained)

91 5*7

59*2

91*57

Groundnut (Arachis oil)

.917-0

58*5

91*70

Olive

917-0

58'5

91*70

Almond

918*0

58*0

91*80

Beechnut

920*7

57'5

92*07

Sesame

923"5

56 O

92'35

Whale

924*0

55-0

92*40

Poppy

9^5*3

54'5

92*53

Hemp-seed

927*0

53'5

92*70

Cod-liver

927*0

53*5

92*70

Cotton-seed

9306

52*0

93*06

Linseed

935'°

50*0

•93-5o

2d. Chlorine turns animal oils brown and vegetable oils white. The
former are soluble, and the latter insoluble in ether.

3d. To discover an adulteration by oil of sesame, shake five grams
of sulphuric acid with five grams of nitric, and ten grams of the
suspected oil ; if mixed, a grass-green color is immediately developed.

4th. To find if olive oil is mixed with any unknown oil, mix fifty
centimetres of the oil with ten centimetres of sulphuric acid. If the
olive oil is pure, there will be a rise of 420 ; if mixed, the temperature
will be 580 for oil of colza, 650 for beechnut, 68° for sesame, 980 for
hemp-seed, 130 for linseed.

5th. The production of a black hue in the lower part of the test-
tube, after agitating twenty drops of an alcoholic solution of nitrate of
silver with ten grams of oil and twenty grams of ether, the flask being
kept in the dark, shows the presence of rape-seed oil.

6th. The most difficult adulteration to be detected is that of olive
and groundnut oil. These oils have the same density, congeal at the
same temperature, and are acted on by sulphuric acid in a similar man-
ner. They can, however, be distinguished as follows :

74 Growth and Uses of Benzoin. {A%fcP7£arm*

Dissolve, cold, twelve grams of mercury in fifteen grams of nitric
acid of 380. Mix this with ninety grams of the suspected oil, and
agitate often during two hours. If the olive oil is pure, the mixture
will become homogeneous ; if not, and especially if the mixture be-
comes filled with carboniferous streaks, the presence of the groundnut
oil may be reported. — Moniteur des Produits Ghimiques, from four. Ap.
Science, 1875, December.

THE GROWTH AND USES OF BENZOIN.

The benzoin, or frankincense, in commercial parlance called " Ben-
jamin," is a more common article of commerce than camphor. Al-
though in general request for the ceremonies of the Romish, Ma-
homedan, Hindu and Chinese worship, there is no evidence that the
Greeks or Romans, or even the early Arabian physicians, had any
acquaintance with benzoin ; nor is the drug to be recognized among
the commodities which were conveyed to China by the Arab and
Persian traders between the tenth and thirteenth centuries, although
the camphor of Sumatra is expressly named. The first mention of
benzoin occurs in the " Travels of Ibn Batuta," who, having visited
Sumatra during his journey through the East, A.D. 1325-49, notes
that the island produces Java Frankincense and camphor. There is
no further information about the drug until the latter half of the fol-
lowing century, when it is recorded that in 146 1 the Sultan of Egypt
sent to Pasquale Malipiero, Doge of Venice, amongst other articles, a
present of 30 rotoli of Benzoi. Agostino Barberigo, another Doge of
Venice, was presented in similar manner, by the Sultan of Egypt, with
35 rotoli of aloes wood, the same quantity of benzin, and 100 loaves of
sugar. The occurrence of benzoin in Siam is noted in the journal of
the voyage of Vasco de Gama, and the Portuguese traveler Barbosa,
who visited Calicut, on the Malabar coast, in 151 1, mentions benzin
among the more valuable items of export. In the early part of the
seventeenth century there was direct commercial intercourse between
England and both Siam and Sumatra. An English factory existed at
Siam until 1623, and benzoin was doubtless one of the commodities
exported.

The tree which produces this so-called gum does not attain to any
considerable size. It is an inhabitant of the hot plains, and nourishes
best in the rich, moist lands fitted for the cultivation of marsh rice.

Am. Tour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

Growth and Uses of Benzoin.

IS

The plants are propagated from a seed, which resembles a small, brown
nut, and but little care is required except to keep the shrubs clear from
weeds. Before the sixth or seventh year the gum is obtained by mak-
ing incisions in the bark, when the substance exudes, and is scraped off
in like manner as the opium poppy. The first juice is the purest and
most fragrant, and hardens on exposure to the air, when it becomes
brittle and transparent. The resin is white and transparent, and about
three pounds are given by each tree. The white Benjamin is termed
cowrie luban in India, and is a superior kind. Afterwards a browner
description is extracted, and finally, when the tree has become ex-
hausted and has been cut down, an inferior kind is obtained from the
scraping of the wood. The three different varieties ascordingly bear
relative values in commerce. The resin which exudes during the first
three years is said to be fuller of white tears, and therefore of finer
quality than that which issues subsequently, and it is termed by the
Malays Head benzoin. That which flows during the next 7 or 8 years
is browner in color and less valuable, and is known as Belly benzoin ;
while the third sort, obtaided by splitting the tree and scraping the
wood, is called Foot ; this last is mixed much with bark and refuse.
Benzoin is brought for sale to the ports of Sumatra in large cakes,
called Tampangs, wrapped in matting. These have to be broken, and
softened either by the heat of the sun or by that of boiling water, and
then packed into square cases, which the resin is made to fill. A
variety of the Sumatra benzoin is distinguished by the London drug-
gists as Penang Benjamin, or Storax-smelling Benjamin. The quality is
very fine, full of white tears, some of them two inches long, the inter-
vening resin being greyish. The odor is very agreeable and perceptibly
different from the Siam, or the usual Sumatra sort.

The only account of the collection of Siam benzoin is that given by
Sir R. N. Schomburgk, for some years British Consul at Bangkok.
He represents that the bark is gashed all over, and that the resin which
exudes collects and hardens between it and the wood, the former of
which is then stripped off. This account is confirmed by the aspect
ot some of the Siam benzoin of commerce, as well as by that of pieces
ot bark ; but it is also evident that all the Siam drug is not thus ob-
tained. Schomburgk adds that the resin is much injured and broken
during its conveyance in small baskets on bullocks' backs to the navi-
gable parts of the Lenam, whence it is brought down to Bangkok.
The most esteemed sort is that which consists entirely of flattened

y6 Growth and Uses of Benzoin. {Am'&?#w'

tears or drops, an inch or two long, of an opaque, milk-like white resin,
loosely agglomerated into a mass. More frequently the mass is quite
compact, consisting of a certain proportion of white tears of the size of
an almond downwards, imbedded in a deep, rich, amber-brown trans-
lucent resin. Occasionally the translucent resin preponderates, and
the white tears are almost wanting. In some packages the tears of
white resin are very small, and the whole mass has the aspect of a
reddish-brown granite. There is always a certain admixture of bits of
wood, bark and other accidental impurities. The white tears, when
broken, display a structure with layers of greater or less translucency.
By keeping, the white, milky resin becomes brown and transparent on
the surface. It is very brittle, the opaque tears showing a slightly
waxy, the transparent a glassy fracture. It easily softens in the mouth,
and may be kneaded into the teeth like mastic. It has a delicate
balsamic, vanilla-like fragrance, but little taste. When heated, it
evolves a more powerful fragrance, together with the irritating fumes
of benzoic acid ; its fusing point is 750 C. The presence of benzoic
acid may be shown by the microscopical examination of splinters of
the resin under oil of turpentine. Siam benzoin is imported in cubic
blocks, which take their form frrm the wooden cases in which they are
packed while the resin is still soft. The Sumatra kind is imported in
cubic blocks, exactly like the Siam, from which it differs in its gener-
ally greyer tint. The mass, however, when the drug is of good quality,
contains numerous opaque tears, set in a translucent, greyish-brown
resin, mixed with bits of wood and bark. When less good, the white tears
are wanting, and the proportion of impurities is greater. In odor, it is
both weaker and less agreeable than the Siam drug, and generally falls
short of it in purity and handsome appearance, and hence commands
a much lower price.

The medicinal properties of benzoin are very slight, but it is em-
ployed for many different purposes. The Java chiefs are fond of
smoking it with tobacco, and the worst kind is more esteemed by the
Arabs than their own best olibanum or frankincense. In perfumery,
it enters into a large number of preparations, such as fumigatory pas-
tilles, Poudre a la Marechale, etc. ; the alcoholic tincture, mixed with
20 parts of rose-water, forms the cosmetic virginal milk. In certain
varnishes on snuffboxes and walking sticks, when heated in the hand,
the agreeable odor of benzoin is emitted, and it is added to the spir-
ituous solution of isinglass, with which court-plaster is made. The

Am'£T J76arm } Alkaloids of the Aconite Roots. 77

use of benzoin for religious observances amongst nations in various
stages of civilization, and the steady demand for it in all ages, declare
that it is one of those commodities the taste for which is inherent in
our nature, and not the result of a particular caprice with any individual
people, as in the case of Malay camphor with the Chinese. — The
Chemist and Druggist, December 15, 1875.

THE ALKALOIDS OF THE ACONITE ROOTS.

BY G. H. BECKETT AND C. R. ALDER WRIGHT.

The authors have analyzed various alkaloids and their salts prepared
from aconite roots by Mr. J. B. Groves (Weymouth) in the following
way : The ground roots were treated with alcohol acidulated with
hydrochloric acid, and the extract thus obtained was boiled down to a
small bulk ; by precipitation with ammonia and agitation with ether,
a mixture of bases was then obtained from this liquor.

Roots of Aconitum ferox (Nepaul aconite) thus treated yielded an
etherial extract from which a base crystallized by spontaneous evapo-
ration ; this base yielded salts so difficultly crrystallizable, that hitherto
they have been obtained only as varnishes ; it has been termed by Mr.
Groves "pseudaconitina," which name the authors provisionally retain,
hoping hereafter to be able to elucidate its true relationship to other
bodies, but abstaining from renaming it till this is done. After several
purifications by crystallization from ether and alcohol, this base gave
numbers agreeing best with the formula C36H49NOn, the free base
and the gold salt being examined ; the platinum salt is somewhat readily
soluble in water and alcohol, and does not crystallize readily.

By converting this substance into iodomercurate (by precipitation
with mercuric iodide dissolved in potassium iodide), and regeneration
by means of sulphuretted hydrogen (to remove mercury) and plumbic
acetate (to eliminate iodine) in alcoholic solution, more or less change
seems to be produced. One specimen prepared thus by Mr. Groves
crystallized in well-defined rhombohedrons, which showed a diminished
percentage of carbon as compared with the original "pseudaconitina " ;
the quantity of these crystals, however, was insufficient for the com-
plete determination of the formula. Other specimens prepared in this
way from " pseudaconitina " by the authors exhibited the same kind of
action, the percentage of gold in the gold salt being somewhat raised,
and hence apparently the molecular weight of the base being lowered ;

7 8 Alkaloids of the Aconite Roots. { Am'fcl^m

these specimens, however, did not crystallize in the well-defined
rhombohedrons exhibited by the other substance. All these specimens
appeared to be eminently toxic : besides " pseudaconitia," amorphous
or difficultly crystallizable alkaloids were obtained from the alcoholic
extract ; but as yet these have not been fully examined.

Roots of Aconitum Napellus^ when treated in the same way, yielded a
mixture of at least two alkaloids, forming readily crystallizable salts,
besides other amorphous bases. Of these two bases, one partially
separated as a hydrochloride at a certain stage during the working up
of the etherial solution ; this hydrochloride, when purified by succes-
sive crystallizations, yielded numbers agreeing best with the formula
C31H45NO10.HCl.iiH2O, the formula of the free base being C31H45NO10,
and that of the gold salt C31H45NO10. HC1. AuCl3. The platinum salt
of this base is also somewhat readily soluble. Although the salts (e. g.,
the nitrate and hydrochloride) of this base crystallize with great facility,
it was not found practicable to obtain the free base in a crystalline
form ; from all solvents tried, it separated only as a varnish. Com-
paratively speaking, this base is inert ; its salts do not produce the
tongue-prickling characteristics of aconite roots, but have a pure bitter
taste ; Mr. Groves found that half grain doses taken by himself pro-
duced no noticeable effects.

The liquor from which this hydrochloride separated contained,
besides a large quantity of this non crystallizable base, a second
alkaloid separating from the etherial solution of the mixed bases by
spontaneous evaporation in anhydrous crystals ; after several crystalli-
zations from ether, numbers were obtained leading to the formula
C33H45NOn, the air-dry hydrochloride being C33H45NOn,HCl,3H20.
This substance agrees in physiological and physical characters with the
" aconitia " of Duquesnel and others ; Duquesnel, however, attributed
to crystallized "aconitia" from A. Napellus the formula C27H40NOl0
(" Compt. rend.," Ixxiii, 207), which requires very different numbers
from those found by the authors ; his mode of preparation, however,
was somewhat different from that adopted by Mr. Groves, alcoholic
tartaric acid being employed instead of alcoholic hydrochloric acid, and
the extract being evaporated at a temperature not exceeding 6o°.
Putting the alkaloid through the mercuric iodide process seems to
lower its molecular weight.

It seems highly probable, on comparing the above results with those
of others who have worked on the subject, that the aconite roots con

AmFe0bur-x8P76arm-} Development of the Chemical Arts. 79

tain various alkaloids, or else that the alkaloid present is extremely
alterable. Duquesnel has suggested that " aconitia " is probably a
glucoside ; this view is quite in harmony with the results obtained,
different specimens being not improbably mixtures of the glucoside and
the product of its deglucosation. " Pseudaconitina," when left in con-
tact with water and emulsin, emits an unpleasant fermentative odor, and
partially dissolves, the solution containing a salt giving ajeddish colora-
tion with ferric chloride, presumably an acetate ; no glucose, however,
could be detected in the liquid at any stage of the action. — Journ. Chem.
Soc. [Lond.], Dec, 1875, from Tear-book of Pharmacy and Pharm. Con/.
Trans., 1875.

REPORT ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHEMICAL ARTS DUR-
ING THE LAST TEN YEARS.*

BY DR. A. VV. HOFMANN.

(Continued from p. 35.)

Tessie du Motay and Marechalf have introduced a valuable modification into
practice, as they require no steam-boiler for the manufacture of the water-gas, and
thus economise fuel, whilst the wear of the simplified apparatus is considerably re-
duced. They heat coal with soda, hydrate of lime or of baryta in iron retorts, and
thus decompose the combined water of these bases, which is then freed from car-
bonic acid in the ordinary manner This procedure has been adopted by the New
York Oxygen Company, who, in the manner described above, sell water-gas at the
enormous price of 2 cents per cubic foot, or 1 cubic metre for 3s. 6&.% The mix-
ture of lime and anthracite is heated in retorts, such as those described above under
Tessie du Motay 's method of preparing oxygen. The decomposition takes place
at a red-heat, according to the equation — C-r-Ca0-f2H20=CaC03-r-2H2, and lasts
about fifteen minutes. Thereupon hydrate of lime is reformed by passing steam
over the heated mass. The carbon is not exhausted until after three weeks, and is
then replaced by a fresh supply of anthracite.

That coal-gas contains large quantities (30 to 50 per cent.) of free hydrogen, and
that the proportion of this ingredient rises, the higher the temperature of the retorts
in preparing the gas, has long been known. Tessie du Motay and Marechal, whilst
introducing the above-described procedure, have taken advantage of this circum-
stance, and have passed coal-gas over lime in order to resolve it into carbon, hydro-
carbons boiling at high temperatures, and large quantities of hydrogen. At the
same time E. Vial$ adopted the same method, and has doubled, and even trebled,
the yield of gas by " decarburation." Schinz|| doubts the industrial value of this
process, on account of the outlay for fuel, and calculates that the decompostion of

* " Berichte uber die Entwickelung der Chemischen Industrie Wfihrend des Letzten Jahrzehends."

f "Bull Soc Chim.," 1868, i., 334.

% H. Vogel, " Ber. Chem. Ges.," iii., 901.

§ Vial, "Genie Industrie!," 1869. " Ding!. Pol. J.," cm'., 382.
|| Schinz, " Dingl. Pol. J.," cii., 388.

80 Development of the Chemical Arts. {Am-FJe0bur;8P76arm-

water by means of coal yields a luminous gas for half the cost of coal-gas. Here,
however, as we shall presently see, the depreciation of the plant has not been taken
into account.

If we now inquire in what manner the hydrogen, however obtained, is rendered
luminous, we find two essentially different methods. The one depends on mixing
the water-gas with hydrocarbons. As early as 18 34* Selligue employed, at Prais,
the oils obtained by distilling the marl-shales of Autun in order to saturate the
water-gas with gaseous hydrocarbons. White subsequently passed the water-gas
through retorts in which rosin or coal was converted into luminous gas, and his pro-
cess was carefully examined in 1851 by Frankland,f who concludes a laudatory
report with certain propositions, of which the following are the most important:

1. The production of gas from given weights of common coal or of cannel is
increased by 46 to 290 per cent., according to the quality of the material employed.

2. The luminous power is increased by 12 to 108 per cent., the more when coals
are employed which produce gas of a highly luminous power.

3. The quality of the residual tar is lowered, a part of it being converted into
gas of a strong luminous power.

It must be remarked that tar had not at that time the value which it has subse-
quently reached.

White's process recurs, with trifling modifications, under a variety of names.

As the " systeme Leprince/' or "gas mixte Leprince," it was introduced into in-
dustrial concerns at Liege, adopted by the town of Mastricht, and by some depart-
ments of the Vieille Montagne at Verviers, and was critically described by Verver
in 1848 in his work above quoted. Four years afterwards a similar procedure was
elaborated by Baldanus and Griine,J for which Schaffer and Walcker obtained a
patent in Prussia. Their process consisted in passing steam through retorts in which
coal-shales, turf, and other combustibles were heated to redness. It differs, there-
fore, from White's process herein that the production of hydrogen and its carbura-
tion are effected in the same retort. An ordinary gas retort 8 \ feet in length, is
said to yield, in twenty-four hours 8,000 to 9,000 cubic feet of this gas j and in
* Wagemann's manufactory at Benel, near Bonn, where this process has been intro-
duced, 1 cwt. of coal-shale was consumed per 1,000 cubic feet of gas.

Essentially different is the second method of employing hydrogen for lighting, as
carried out in 1846 by Gillard, at Passy, near Paris. He fixed on the burners,^
from which the water-gas issued, baskets of platinum wire, which, on the ignition
of the gas, were heated to brilliant whiteness. Hence it was called platinum gas
(gaz platine). The immobility of the light, even in a strong wind, the dispensing
with lamp-glasses, which, according to Verver, absorb 22 per cent of the light, and
the brilliance obtained on this principle, must be considered as advantages, although
the intensity is not free from objections. Its use was not continued at Passy, but it
was introduced by the celebrated firm of Christofle & Co., into their electro-plating
works at Paris, || and was employed to light the streets of Narbonne. The hourly

* Dumas, " Handbuch der Chemie," vii.

f Frankland, " Ann. Chem. Pharm.," lxxxii., 48.

% "Journal fur Gasbeleuchtung," 1862, p. 63.

g Report by O. Henry, " Journ. Pharmacie " [3], xvii., 105; Dingler's Journal, cxvi., 222; and the
Reports of Bromeis and Ververs.

U Wagner, " Handbuch der Technologie," 1873, ii., 371.

Am FJe°burx8P7h6arm } Development of the Chemical Arts. 81

consumption of gas being 3*234 cubic feet (=o-i cubic metre), the light was equal
to that of 5-22 normal candles, and, though the lamps at Narbonne were placed at
intervals of 50 metres, Verver pronounced the lighting of the streets as perfect.

Latterly, since the preparation of hydrogen has been improved by Tessie du
Motay and Marechal, new attempts have been made in Paris to light up large
squares and streets with " platinum gas." Spectators, however, may find justifica-
tion for the caricatures in the Parisian comic journals of that time, which represent
the passengers in the streets, and even infants in arms, and the very dogs in the
gutters, equipped with eye-shades to preserve their sight.

Technical literature has the peculiarity that it records the introduction of novel-
ties, but leaves us in the dark concerning their practical verification. It keeps a
tolerably exact register of the births of inventions, but gives a very imperfect account
of their career in life and of their deaths. Thus, with a single exception, we are
left in the dark as to the permanent results of lighting with hydrogen.

The experiments made with water-gas at the town Elizabeth, in New Jersey,
yielded unsatisfactory results, as made known in 1865* Great depreciation of
plant, heavy working expenses, and disproportionate consumption of fuel were the
causes of failure.

It was, therefore, the more desirable to ascertain in how far the process had proved
successful in Europe, and, thanks to the kindness of several correspondents, we have
succeeded in obtaining information. The fate of the method in Belgium appears
from an extract from a letter which M. L. de Koninck, Professor of Chemistry at
the University of Liege, kindly forwarded to the present writer :

The systlme Leprince, which consists in the introduction of small quantities of
water into the retorts in which coal is distilled, had for a short time a certain success
[une certaine vogue), depending mainly on numerous reclamations by which it was
helped out. Its chief advantage was supposed to lie in the fact that it drove the gas
out of the retort, a purpose for which an exhauster or aspirator is now preferred.
The system has never been employed for public purposes in Belgium, but merely in
certain manufactories. Since the death of the inventor, which took place some
years ago, it is no longer spoken of, and has been generally, if not universally,
abandoned. This has been the case at Vieille-Montagne.

In a letter dated March 18, 1874, M Landolt, Professor of Chemistry at the
Polytechnic School of Aachen, confirms these statements. The use of water-gas is
continued only in CockeriU's works at Seraing. At Simoni's cloth-works at Ver-
viers, the process never advanced beyond the stage of unsatisfactory experiments,
although certain technological papers have asserted to the contrary. In Maestricht,
where the water-gas was used for some time for public purposes, it has, as Professor
Landolt has been informed, failed to give lasting satisfaction, and has been replaced
by coal gas two years ago (1872). Direct inquiries addressed to the municipal
authorities have remained unanswered.

The above statement of the introduction of the Drummond light in English mili-
tary establishments led to an inquiry being addressed to the Chemist to the War
Department, Mr. Abel, of Woolwich, from whom the following courteous reply
was received, under date April 20, 1874: "As regards your inquiry concerning

* Wagner, " Jahresberichte," 1865, 758.

6

8 2 Development of the Chemical Arts. { Am' fc^1"'

the introduction of the lime-light in military premises, I have to communicate that
at the period you mention, experiments were made for a short time in two of our
establishments, but that the question of its formal introduction has never been
seriously entertained."

The illumination of the galvano-plastic works of Christofle with water-gas was
likewise of brief duration, and the process has been long ago abandoned. We are
indebted to this firm for the following communication under date April 21, 1874:
"In reply to your letter of the 17th, we have to state that the use of hydrogen in
our works came to an end in 1853 on account of certain difficulties. {inconevmietiti)
which presented themselves, and that we have no longer preserved the documents-
bearing upon the matter."

It only remained to ascertain the fate of the so-called platinum gas at Narbonne.
To do this with certainty, there appeared no other method than to appeal to the
courtesy of the municipal authorities. The Mayor of Narbonne had the kindness
to comply fully with our request, and to sign the following instructive and character-
istic letter, dated March 16: "The relations of Prussia and France since the war
impose upon me the greatest caution as regards inquiries. As the question, how-
ever, is one of a purely scientific nature, I have handed over your letter to the Abbe
Prax, chemist to the Agricultural Society of Narbonne, who has for a long time
occupied himself with the subject. I have the honor to enclose a copy of the
memoir which he placed in my hands."

Account of the Water-gas in Narbonne from 1855 to 1865.

"In May, 1855, I was sent to Paris by the municipality to test the water-gas of
Passy. My report was dated June 8, 1855. The town adopted this method of
lighting and heating, and came to an agreement with the company called the 1 Nar-
bonnaise/

"From 1856 the Passy system was in use in Narbonne. We modified the burners
in several respects, as those of Passy were not sufficiently lasting. The high tempera-
ture of the retorts occasioned from time to time the loss of a furnace, and after
many losses the system of retorts was abandoned in favor of another apparatus, the
' Cubilot' (Faye's apparatus). Towards the end of 1858 it was heated with wood
charcoal, which soon gave place to coke on account of its costliness. At the same
time we made important changes in the burners and platinum baskets, the latter of
which were suspended instead of resting upon the former.

" The illumination with hydrogen is brilliant but sensitive [delicat). The lamps
in the streets must be well closed, as a gust of wind distorts the ignited platinum
wick. The dust introduces sand, which forms a silicide of platinum, and this metal
ultimately assumes an injurious crystalline structure, and is even partially volatilized.

"In Narbonne all care was wanting towards the end of the career of the com-
pany Narbonnaise. The manager, M. Crouzet, became a wine merchant in Paris.
All superintendence was withheld, and the lighting became at last intolerable. In
June, 1865, therefore, coal gas was introduced. As far as heating is concerned,
nothing can, in my opinion, compete with water-gas in convenience and cheapness."

Prax, Chemist to the Agricultural Society.

Narbonne, March 15, 1874.

On the evidence of these documents, the procedures for illumination with hy-

AmF™-J7h6*rm \ Development of the Chemical Arts. 83

drogen, hitherto employed, must be condemned if anything further is desired than
the display of objects and transparencies for the lecture-room or the stage.

Hydrogen lighting was not represented at the Vienna Exhibition — a further in-
direct evidence that it had not found any wider application.

An objection, long known, depends on the high coefficient of diffusion of hy-
drogen, and its consequent ready escape through the pores and fine chinks of the
mains, a circumstance the more dangerous, as hydrogen is not, like coal-gas, at once
detected by its odor. The diffusion-coefficients of gases, according to Graham's ex-
periments, are inversely as the square roots of their specific gravities.

But if lightness is a disadvantage for the delivery of hydrogen through pipes, we
have now to consider the advantages springing from the same attribute. In Novem-
ber, 1782, a dream long cherished seemed on the point of fulfilment. The Brothers
Etienne and Joseph Montgolfier sent up the first balloon at Avignon by means of
hot air.*

With natural enthusiasm the populace of Annonay applauded them when, on
June 4, they repeated the experiment of the previous year on a larger scale, and'
king, court and capital congratulated the inventors when they repeated it soon after-
wards at Versailles. The dominion of the air seemed won for mankind, to whom*
space had now no limits. To day we look back upon the invention with a cooler
glance, as, in spite of the lapse of ninety years, it has remained in its infancy. Wc
are still unable to speak of aerial navigation, since the balloon, incapable of being
steered, has remained the plaything of the air instead of becoming its ruler. One
step, indeed, towards the desired end was taken when Charles, Professor of Physics
at the Conservatoire des Arts et Metiers, at Paris, substituted hydrogen for the
heated air in the balloon. On August 27, 1783, Charles, in concert with the
Brothers Robert, skillful mechanicians, accomplished the ascent of the first hydrogen
balloon in the Champs-Elysees, his invention being known as the Charliere in con-
tradistinction to the Montgolfiere. Both systems were used for the first aerial voy-
age, the one in November and the other in December of the same year. Previously
the balloons had been sent up empty, or only tenanted by some animal. The first
aerial navigator, Pilatre de Rozieres, conceived the idea of combining both systems,
which was the occasion of his death. The fire in the Mongolfiere was communi-
cated to the hydrogen in the Charliere, and on June 15, 1785, balloon and aeronaut
fell shattered on the limestone rocks of the coast, near Boulogne.

The motive for this unfortunate combination was the wish to raise or lower the
balloon by stirring up or extinguishing the fire — a plan which makes ballast super-
fluous, and which has been revived in a recent essayf by Captain Gaede (of the
Military School at Hanover), and with due precautions would be doubtless practica-
ble. Since the time of Pilatre de Rozieres 3,700 balloon ascents have been under-
taken, and only sixteen fatal accidents have been heard of, J due chiefly to montgol-
fieres, though the sea has been repeatedly crossed by aeronauts. Not long after the
discovery of balloons they were used both for practical and for scientific purposes.

* The historical details concerning aeronautics, where no other authorities are given, are taken from
the excellent summary of Louis Figuier in " Merveilles de la Science," ii., 426-626. See also Marion,
" Les Ballons," Paris, 1867; and Fonvielle, " La Science en Ballon," Paris, 1869.

t Gaede, :' Ueber den Bau Gefesselter und Lenkbarer Luftschiffe." Berlin : Mittler, 1873.

% Stephan, " Weltpost und LuftschifTahrt." Berlin : 1874.

♦

S4 Development of the Chemical Arts {Am-fc8P76frm-

Coutelle used them for military reconnoitering, and, according to Carnot's testimony,
contributed essentially to the result of the battle of Fleurus. On the other hand,
Captain Gaede considers the results attained by means of balloons, especially in
reconnoitering fortified places, both in earlier campaigns and in the Franco-Prussian
war of 1870-71, as insignificant. Napoleon I. regarded the military efficiency of the
balloons of his time not more favorably. After his return from Egypt — where the
attempt to convince the natives of the superiority of Europeans by means of a
balloon ascent had failed, owing to their fatalistic indolence — he closed the military-
aerostatic school which had been founded at Meudon under the management of
Coutelle and Conti, evidently holding its military results as unimportant.

Ballooning has been made subservient to the purposes of meteorology and
physics before it was enlisted in the service of the war-spirit. Charles utilized his
expedition for scientific purposes. On July 18, 1803, he was imitated by Robert-
son, who ascended from Hamburg to the height of 7,400 metres, and who imagined
that he perceived at this altitude a decrease in the intensity not merely of terrestrial
magnetism, but also of fractional electricity. These statements induced the great
physicists, Biot and Gay-Lussac, to undertake two ascents the next year. They
refuted the above-mentioned views of Robertson, remarked the decrease of atmos-
pheric moisture with increasing altitude, and made numerous and valuable meteor-
ological observations. From the greatest height which they attained, 6,500 metres,
Oay-Lussac brought back a specimen of air, and found that it had the same
composition as the air of lower regions — a result, at that time, of capital importance.
The last-mentioned ascents were all made with hydrogen gas. As the use of gas-
lighting became more and more general the greater power which the lightest of all
known bodies offers was sacrificed to the convenience which coal-gas afforded. In
France, Barral and Bixio made their scientific ascent, in 1850, with the aid of coal-
gas. In England, Glaisher adopted the same plan in 1864, and the numerous
balloon voyages which have been made for the amusement of the public, from the
love of adventure or for some especial purpose, have been undertaken with the
same material. With coal-gas Green traveled in sixteen hours from London to
Weilburg, in Nassau, in 18365 Flammarion and Godard, in 1867, from Paris to
Solingen, performing 70 German miles in twelve and a half hours. Nader, who
hoped to take photographic maps whilst floating in the air, had filled his balloon,
" Le Geant," with 6,000 cubic metres of coal-gas, on his somewhat dangerous
journey from Paris to Hanover, October 18, 1863. More recently aeronauts have
returned to the use of hydrogen. But even in those four months of the greatest
siege of a metropolis of which history bears record, when Paris depended exclu-
sively, for its intercourse with the outer world, upon carrier pigeons and balloons,
which had never before been called to so important a service, even then necessity
compelled the use of coal-gas, because it was procurable with the least difficulty.*
65 balloons went up from Paris between September 28 and January 22, carrying 91
passengers, 363 pigeons and 2^ million letters, and for the most part with success.
Only five balloons fell into the hands of the German armies : one descended in
Munich ; another at Wetzlar ; one disappeared entirely, perhaps in the sea,- whilst
the fragments of another were found, in the autumn of 1873, clinging to a tree at

* Saint-Edme, " La Science pendant le Siege de Paris," 1871, 62.

Am^Kr;sP76"rm'} 'Development of the Chemical Arts. 85

Port Natal, in South-eastern Africa. All the others descended safely beyond the
radius of the besieging army in France, or upon neutral territory : one in Belgium ;
three in Holland ; and one upon a snowfield in Norway, 60 (German) miles to the
north of Christiana, and 180 from Paris, which had been traversed in fifteen
hours. *

At that time, the power of steering balloons was more than ever felt to be
necessary. Many of Montgolfier's contemporaries, including well-known physicists
and mathematicians, such as Meusnier, Monge, Lelande, Sec, had pronounced this
problem to be practicable. Fruitless and partially absurd attempts at its solution
were not wanting. The celebrated inventor of the injector, Henry Giffard, was
not deterred from carrying out new experiments in this direction in the year 1852,
and the most recent attempts are based upon his ideas and those of Meusnier.
Instead of the ordinary form, Giffard gave his balloon the fish-like shape of a ship,
for the convenience of steering. A steam engine, with its chimney turned down-
wards to obviate the risk of fire, and whose steam was simultaneously employed to
maintain the draught, turned a screw sufficient to turn the balloon, but certainly too
weak to overcome the strong wind which, on September 25th, drove Giffard's aerial
ship before it. Public opinion then turned in favor of a project of aerial navigation
opposed to all previous methods. Ponton d'Amecourt, De la Landell and Nader
wished to attempt by mere mechanical force, without the aid of light gases, to
navigate the air in all directions. The authority of Babinet supported this scheme,
which, however, according to Helmholtz,f had no sound physical basis, and which,
when carried into execution, proved a failure.

When the Paris Exhibition of 1867 drew general attention to every industrial
advance, Giffard received a commission to make aeronautics available for the
" million " by means of a hydrogen balloon. He constructed a balloon of 5,000
cubic metres capacity, the inflation of which, with hydrogen, generated by iron and
sulphuric acid in wooden casks, cost 5,000 francs. The gas was subsequently
prepared by him for a twentieth part of the cost of conducting steam over ignited
charcoal, a method of which Coutelle had made use in 1794. The balloon was
attached to a wire rope 300 metres in length, and was very skillfully secured. A
steam engine of 50 horse power uncoiled the rope, and drew down the balloon
with its passengers when the permitted height had been reached. This height was
not great enough to occasion any danger from the expansion of the gas, hence
Giffard was able to close the balloon with valves instead of leaving it open below.
Thus, the loss of gas by diffusion did not exceed 15 cubic metres daily, and was
easily replaced at intervals of three days.

The next impulse to aeronautics was given, not by festivity, but by the terrors of
war and the siege of Paris. The Academie des Sciences commissioned one of its
members, Dupuy de Lome, to make experiments on steering balloons, and the
government furnished the requisite means. Dupuy gave his balloon the fish shape,;!:
and, in order to render its shape stable in the wind, he fitted it with an internal
secondary balloon {ballonet), containing more or less air, and equal in bulk to one-
tenth part of the main balloon. The air could be let out of this inner balloon by
valves, or driven in again by means of a bellows in the car, according to a plan

*Stephan, " Weltpost und Luftschiffahrt." Berlin, 1874.

fHelmholtz, "Berl. Akad. Ber. u. Verhand. d. Ver. fiir Gewerbfleiss in Preussen," 1873, 326.
% Dupuy de Lome, " Note sur 1' Aerostat." Paris: Gautier-Villars. 1872.

86 Development of the Chemical Arts. {Am-FJe°buri8P76arm-

which Meusnier had devised as early as 1783 to supercede the use of ballast.
Dupuy's balloon was further distinguished by a very firm method of suspending the
car, and by the use of a varnish impermeable to gases, and made of gelatin and
tannin dissolved in pyroligneous acid. The propelling screw was not turned by a
steam engine, but by eight men in the car. The balloon, containing 3,450 cubic
metres, was filled with hydrogen obtained from iron and sulphuric acid, and went
up at Vincennes on February 1st, 1872, carrying fourteen persons. After a flight of
two hours it was let down at Noyon, a distance of 106 kilometres. By means of an
anemometer, Dupuy was able to determine the independent speed of the balloon at
2*82 metres per second, whilst that of the wind was 16 to 17 metres, and the course
of the balloon made an angle of 120 with the direction of the wind. The problem
of steering had, therefore, been solved, though only to a very slight degree — suffi-
cient for a calm, but insufficient for overcoming even moderate winds. The speed
attained was slight. Both conditions of success depend on the employment of
stronger sources of mechanical power, and this, again, requires an increase of its
power of ascent, i. e., of its relative levity with an enlarged volume.

The calculations which Helmholtz * has lately put forward concerning the re-
spective ratio of bulk to resistance and to speed in ships and balloons are therefore
of great value. According to him the speed of Dupuy's balloon nearly attained the
maximum possible for its size. In order to proceed slowly against a fresh breeze,
with the sources of mechanical power at present available, the volume of the balloon
must be three and a-half times larger than that of the largest ship of the line. This
demands of the tissue with which the balloon is to be constructed a degree of
strength scarcely possible. In fajt, the expectations of the inventors did not go be-
yond the hope of steering the balloon when the air is tranquil. If the screws or
paddle-wheels are enlarged they must also be made thicker and stronger, in order to
preserve the necessary firmness. " We can only work sparingly with slowly-moving
propellers of large surface, and to produce these of the requisite size without burden-
ing the balloon too much, will constitute one of the greatest practical difficulties."

With this sentence Helmholtz concludes his memoir, and the prospects to which
he points fall very far short of the enthusiastic prophecies of such as are guided by
their wishes rather than by sober scientific considerations.

The problem of steering balloons turns on three conditions : the production of
balloons of the lowest specific gravity 5 the construction of propellers, light, but
capable of resistance, and of sources of power at once light and capable of perform-
ing a high duty. In how far chemistry has prepared the way towards the fulfilment
of the last condition, e. g., by means of aluminium, the future must decide. The
first condition she has accomplished ninety years ago, by means of hydrogen, as is
now fully recognized.

Upon the consideration of hydrogen and oxygen should follow an account of the
industrial applications of water. These, however, are so many-sided, not to say
omnipresent, that they escape our reach. The most important will be considered in
especial chapters.

The elements oxygen and hydrogen form, however, as is well known, a second
compound, peroxide of hydrogen, H202, which has latterly begun to acquire a cer-
tain industrial importance. — Chem. News, Oct. 15-Dec. 3.

To be continued.
-* Helmholtz, "Berl. Akad. Ber.," 1873. 501.

Am-fc!7h6arm-} Varieties. 87

VARIETIES.

The Constitution of Phosphorous Acid. By A. Michaelis. — The author
defends his formula for phosphorous acid, HPO.(HO)2, and he considers that Zim-
mermanns trisodium phosphite contains one atom of sodium united with the phos-
phorus ; hence its unstability.

When phosphorous trichloride is dropped into boiling water, no phosphorus
separates, but, if cold water is employed, a clear liquid is obtained, which soon be-
comes milky from separation of phosphorus. This is explained by assuming that
In the case of cold water, an acid containing P(OH)3 is first formed, and that the
bulk of this soon changes into its isomeride, phosphorous acid, HPO(HO)2, but at
the same time a portion splits up into phosphoric acid and free phosphorus. — Deut.
Chem. Ges. Ber., viii, 504-506.

A new metal. — M. Lecocq de Boisbaudran has announced the discovery, by
means of the spectroscope, of a new chemical element, which he calls " gallium," and
which he affirms to be allied to zinc. The spectroscope character of gallium is two
violet lines, one corresponding to wave length 417, and the other to 404, but fainter.
A commission of the French Academy has been appointed to report on the discovery.
Gallium is said to be found in a special blende from Pierrefite mining works, in the
Argeles Valley. — The Amer. Gas-Light Jour., Jan. 3, 1876.

Preservation of Fruit. — Fruit is kept in Russia by being packed in creosot-
ized lime. The lime is slaked in water in which a little creosote has been dissolved,
and is allowed to fall to powder. The latter is spread over the bottom of a deal
box, to about one inch in thickness. A sheet of paper is laid above, and then the
fruit. Over the fruit is another sheet of paper, then more lime, and so on until the
box is full, when a little finely powdered charcoal is packed in the corners, and the
lid tightly closed. Fruit thus enclosed will, it is said, remain good for a year. —
The Amer. Gas-Light Jour., Nov. 2, 1875.

Cucurbitaceous Anthelmintics — Some investigations have recently been
made by M. Heckel into the active part of pumpkin seeds. These seeds have been
much used of late for the expulsion of the tapeworm, for which purpose they were
employed in the early part of the last century. The mode of their administration
has hitherto been to give the bruised seeds in large quantities suspended in water,
the outer envelope only having been removed. About two ounces of the seed was
the ordinary dose. It is probable that so large a quantity contains much inert
matter. Some recent observations apparently indicate that the active principle is
contained only in the embryo. To ascertain whether this is the case was the chief
object of M. Heckel's observations. He first administered, in two cases of taenia,
about six ounces of the perisperm, tegumentum and testa, a purgative of castor oil
having first been administered. The tapeworm was not expelled in any case. In
two other cases the membrane surrounding the embryo was given — about an ounce
— preceded and followed by a dose of castor oil. In each case the tapeworm was

88

Minutes of the College.

( Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ Feb. 1876

expelled entire. Subsequent experiments yielded the same result. This membrane
was then carefully examined, and found to consist of two membranes separable by
maceration in water. The outer membrane contained a resin in small quantities
(one in seventeen), which M. Heckel believes to be the active agent. He believes
that the castor oil acts not only by its purgative effect, but by dissolving the resin
and rendering it active. The second membrane contained more chlorophyll than
resin. It must not be forgotten that these seeds contain a fixed oil, to which their
qualities have been ascribed, and which may be obtained by cold expression from
the seeds in the proportion of half an ounce to a pound. This oil has been used
with success, in repeated half-ounce doses, in cases of taenia. — Lancet, Sept. 25^
1875, from Mon. Abst. of. Med. Science, Nov. 1875.

Pharmacopceia of the Philadelphia Hospital. —

R

Charta Arsenicalis Composita.

■r. xcvi

Belladonnae foliae,

Hyoscyami foliae,

Stramonii folia?,

Extracti opii,

Tabaci foliae,

Aquae,
Fiat infusum, et adde —

Potassii nitratis,

Potassii arsenitis,
Fiat solutio.

Saturate bibulous paper, and dry for

ad gr. xlviii
gr iv
gr. lxxx
Oi

gr clx
gr. cccxx

Glycerita 01 ei Ricini.

Olei cinnamomi,
Olei ricini,
Glycerina3,
Misce.

gtt. XXIV

da f^iv

R

Infusum Senna Compositum.

;vm
Ovi

Sennae foliae,

Pulveris jalapse,

Potassii bitartratis,

Aquae bullientis,
Macera per horas duas, cola, et adde —

Tincturae sennae compositae, Oii
Misce. Signa — Dose, a tablespoonful.

Linimentum Chloroformi Compositum.
R

Chloroformi, f3jii
Tincturae aconiti radicis,
Aquae ammoniae, da f^ss

Olei olivae, f^v
Fiat linimentum.

R

Linimentum Saponis Viridis.

Saponis viridis, £1
Alcoholis, q. s. ut fiat solutio.

Liquefac cum leni calore.

Misce et filtra.

(To be continued.)

MINUTES OF THE COLLEGE.

Philadelphia, December 27th, 1875.

A stated meeting of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy was held this after-
noon at the College Hall.

Dillwyn Parrish, President, occupied the chair, and fifteen members registered
their names.

The minutes of the meeting held in September were read and approved.

The minutes of the Board of Trustees, since September, were read by Wm. C
Bakes, Secretary of the Board, and on motion adopted

Mr. Bullock, on behalf of the Committee on the Centennial, reported progress.
He and Mr. Shinn urged upon all the members the importance of assisting the Com-

AmVJe0buri8P76arm'} Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. 89

mittee in their labors, as it was desirable to have the Hall put in order in time to be
ready for the entertainment of such persons as may visit us in the Spring.

Prof. Remington, on behalf of the Committee on the Cabinet, reported the cases
about one-half filled, with many other specimens promised.

Prof. Maisch alluded to the cases which had been prepared for the Herbarium,
lately presented to the College by Daniel B. Smith, as being in readiness to receive
the books of specimens; their arrangement will soon be completed.

There being no further business, on motion, adjourned.

William J. Jenks, Secretary.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

The fourth regular meeting of the session was held January 18, 1876, Charles A.
Heinitsh in the chair. Number in attendance, thirty. The minutes of the previous
meeting were read. Dr. Pile inquired if the examination for Ammonia in Phos-
phoric acid, prepared by Prof. Markoe's process, was performed at the meeting.
Prof. Maisch explained that it was commenced there with the understanding, if com-
pleted in time, it should be incorporated in the minutes, which were then approved.

The Registrar presented to the library, from the National College of Pharmacy,
a copy of "Formulas of non-officinal Preparations, District of Columbia, 1875"
they being the result of a joint committee of the medical society and that college.

Prof. Maisch presented, on behalf of the Executive Committee of the American
Pharmaceutical Association, " Proceedings of the American Pharmaceutical Associa-
tion, 1875, volume 23»" This is the largest volume yet issued, containing 899 pages of
interesting matter. The Professor also read a letter from Mr. Prats Grau, Barcelona,
and presented from him the first part of a work, entitled " Tradato Pharmacia Opera-
toria," written by Dr. Fors Cornet, this second edition being edited by Mr. Grau. He
also presented to the cabinet a specimen of Grindelia squarrosa, from Dr. J. H-
Bundy, of Calusa, California, who is investigating its medical properties.

J. W. Worthington exhibited Phosphorus of very handsome appearance, made at
the RancOcas works, N. J. R. V. Mattison read a paper on " Factitious Balsam
Tolu," (see page 51). Storax being the adulterant, Prof. Maisch said that styracin
could be readily obtained in white crystals, from its solution in hot petroleum benzin ;
it is slightly, but cinnamic acid freely, soluble in cold alcohol.

J. J. Brown read a paper on "the importance of Garbling Drugs," (see page 52).
Prof. Maisch was glad to see the young men active in calling attention to these
matters, and from personal observation, confirmed many of the statements, but said
that most of these admixtures could not be regarded as adulterations, but were the
result of careless handling. Dr. Pile and others had met with instances in which
packages had been sent out incorrectly labeled, and while we should have charity
for the wholesale dealer who had difficulty in obtaining garbled crude diugs, it was
no excuse for the retailer, who aimed to purchase at low figures, and whose duty it
was to examine every article. Prof. Maisch observed that the bad articles were not
all found in America.

9° Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, {Am-FJeburI87h6arm

On motion, thanks were returned for the donations, and the papers read were re-
ferred to the publication committee.

A. P. Keller desired to know if the sale of alcohol on Sunday was a violation of
the "Sunday Liquor Law." While difficult to answer this question legally, it is
quite readily done when a desire to satisfy a clear conscience is the selling motive.

J. W. Worthington exhibited so-called Magnetic Fountain Water from Slater-
ville, New York. It is claimed to have the property of rendering steel magnetic.
The sample present did not substantiate this.

E. M. Boring exhibited Gluten pearls containing liquids and solids, and wished
to know as to how they are filled. Also, Syrupus Scillse Compositus, in good con-
dition, although made two years ago. (See " Am. Jr. Ph.," 1871, p. 101).

J. W. Worthington exhibited a dropper for counter use, invented by Chas. A.
Bowman, of Nashville, Tenn. It consists of an ^ ounce of sulphate of morphia
vial, having a hole drilled in its shoulder through which a bent tube is passed ; over
the neck is slipped a finger cot, having its end indented, and the cavity filled with a
cork.

Dr. Pile exhibited " The Pharmacopoeia of the Dispensary of the University of
Pennsylvania." Many of the formulas have been prescribed out of the hospital, and
a desire was expressed that they be published in the Journal.

J.- T. Shinn had found Basham's mixture prescribed, and there was a difference
in the recipe as obtained from different sources. Twenty minims of Tincture of
Chloride of Iron and one fluidounce of solution of Acetate of Ammonium are
the proper proportions.

Adjourned, to meet on February 15th, 1876, at 8 o'clock P. M.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS,

Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association. — At the annual meeting the
following officers were elected for the ensuing year: President, Albert L. Calder,
of Providence ; Vice-President, James H. Taylor, of Newport ; Secretary, Francis
J. Phillips, of Providence ; Treasurer, William H. Blanding, of Providence ; Stand-
ing Committee, Norman N. Mason, of Providence ; Ferdinand Smith, of Providence}
Charles H. Congdon, of East Greenwich.

The Treasurer, Mr. Wm. B Blanding, presented his annual report of receipts
and expenditures for the year, showing a generous balance in the treasury.

A committee was appointed, with instructions to inquire into the reported in-
fractions of the pharmacy law, and report what action, if any, is advisable or neces-
sary for the Association to take to secure a better enforcement of the law.

Several matters of interest to the profession were introduced and appropriately
discussed by the members generally.

Mr. N. N. Mason read a very interesting extract from Tomlinson's translation of
Renoda's " Dispensatory of Pharmacy," published 1657, giving a quaint descrip-
tion of " what an apothecary should be."

Adjourned to second Monday in April.

Am/db.ri8^rrm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations 91

The New York Alumni Association of the Philadelphia College of
Pharmacy met at Plimpton Hall, January 4th.

Mr. Plummer presented a paper on " Chloro-phosphide of arsenic," and exhibited
a specimen. He stated that this compound had recently appeared in this market,
claiming to be prepared after the formula of Dr. Rauth, which consists in bringing
phosphorus and arsenic, in a finely-divided state, together in the presence of hydro-
chloric acid, the operation to be conducted with great care, and the presence of iron
to be avoided, the liquid to be diluted with water so that 1 fluidounce of the solu-
tion represents 1 grain of arsenic and one-sixth grain of phosphorus. The specimen
presented was colorless, of a very slight phosphatic odor, and of a rather pleasant
taste. He stated that he was unable to produce a like preparation by the process
which, perhaps, is not correctly given, and thought that a combination of phos-
phorus and arsenic, in a stable and soluble form, would result in a valuable neurotic
compound, citing the reports of Dr. Hammond regarding the more definite action
of phosphorus when combined with metallic bases, and which has been corroborated
in the experience of other prominent physicians. Arsenic is known to exhibit an
action upon the human economy somewhat similar to that of phosphorus j it seems
an important subject for the attention of chemists.

Mr. Wellcome read a paper on " Eriodyction Californicum^ a drug which has
long been in use by the Spaniards and Indians of Mexico and California as a specific
for chronic lung diseases, and as a certain cure for consumption. He exhibited some
very handsome specimens of the plant. Prof. Maisch had received a specimen,
which he presented at the College meeting last May.*

Other matters of minor interest were discussed. Next meeting will be held Tues-
day evening, February 1st.

Cincinnati Collece of Pharmacy. — At the regular meeting, held January
1 2th, the following officers were elected to serve for the ensuing year: President,
F. L. Eaton 5 Recording Secretary, A. W. Bain ; Corresponding Secretary, Louis
Schwab; Treasurer, W. H. Negley ; Board of Trustees — Chas. Faust, H. H.
Koehnken, John Weyer, Chas. Schmidt.

The reports of the retiring officers gratifyingly indicated the progressive condition
of the College.

The retiring President, Prof. E. S. Wayne, in a neat and appropriate speech,
thanked the members for their attention and the kind assistance they had tendered
him in the conduct of the duties that he had attempted judiciously to discharge in
the past year, and earnestly hoped a continuance of the same for his successor.

The newly elected President, Mr. Eaton, on being conducted to the chair by
Messrs. Negley and Schmidt, spoke feelingly of the honor thus suddenly conferred
upon him 5 promising, to the best of his ability, to serve his term in such a manner
that no regret on the part of the members should ever be suffered for having elected
him. Louis Sghwab, Cor. Sec.

*The statement on page 279,, "Amer. Jour. Pharm.," 1875, that the leaves of Eriodyction glutinosum,
Benth., have an intensely bitter taste, is an error, which we omitted to correct before. — Editor.

92 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations.

The British Pharmaceutical Society held a pharmaceutical meeting Dec.
ist, the President, Mr. T. H. Hills, in the chair. Mr. Louis Siebold read a paper
on " The Preparation of Pure Chemicals," in which the autnor treated on the diffi-
culty of obtaining absolutely pure chemicals, such as might be supposed were
intended by the "British Pharmacopoeia" by the tests given in certain cases. In
others, the " Pharmacopoeia " allowed some impurities, without giving their quan-
tity or the limits of the reactions indicating the impurities. The paper treated of
oxalic acid, sodium and potassium carbonates and nitrates, potassium permanganate,
sodium chloride and the subnitrate, subcarbonate and oxide of bismuth.

In the discussion following, it was stated that the "Pharmacopoeia" rarely con-
templated the absolute purity of the chemicals, which was really unnecessary; that
different impurities often depended upon the kinds of vessels or the water used in
manufacturing, and that manufacturers were often greatly obliged for having the
nature of impurities in chemicals pointed out to them 5 the fact was dwelt upon
that the quality of many commercial chemicals was now much better than for-
merly.

Mr. Ince read a paper written by the late Daniel Hanbury, on "The Spices,
Groceries and Wax of a Mediaeval Household, A. D. 1303-10." The paper
relates to a portion of the accounts of the executors of Bishops Richard, of London
(1303), and Thomas, of Exeter (1310). The articles enumerated in the paper,
together with their price, are: Cere, wax; ammigdaU, almonds; ris, rice; zinsiber,
ginger ; sucare, sugar ; canele, cinnamon cassia ; galonge, galangal ; nigrum piper,
black pepper ; granum paradisi, grains of paradise ; crocus, saffron, or, as Mr. E.
M.Holmes thought, probably safflower, the price being £5 9/. yd. for 38 J lbs.;
gariofoli, cloves ; quibibus, cubebs ; macis, mace ; feniculum, fennel ; anisum, anise ;
liquiricia, liquorice ; cyminum, cumin ; pyon, the kernels of Pinus pinea ; pyonad, a
confection of the kernels with white of egg and sugar; gyngebrad, gingibretum or
zinzibratum, preserved or candied ginger ; nux muscata, nutmegs ; zedevand,
zedoary and others.

Mr. Louis Siebold read a paper on " Senna Extracted with Alcohol," a prepara-
tion which is extensively used on the continent of Europe. The author draws from
his experiments the following conclusions :

1. Strong spirit does not remove any of the active principle (cathartic acid) from
senna leaves.

2. The therapeutic action of cathartic acid is assisted by one or more of the con-
stituents yielded by senna to strong spirit, though the latter produce no purgative
effect when taken alone.

3. Senna exhausted by alcohol is a reliable and pleasant purgative, but somewhat
weaker in its action than the unexhausted leaves.

Mr. Groves said that he had prepared pure cathartate of calcium, and found it to
be of a very griping character. The mixed cathartates may be obtained by digest-
ing senna leaves in diluted alcohol, and precipitating them by strong alcohol. Senna
leaves exhausted by alcohol are devoid of the essential oil, and have, therefore, less
taste.

Adjourned to February 2d.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

Editorial.

93

Pharmaceutical Society of Paris. — The pharmaceutical meeting, held
November 3, was mainly occupied by the report by M. Ferd. Vigier on the theses
presented in competition for the prize, which was awarded to M Giraud for his " Com-
parative studies on the gums and mucilages," the " Researches and extraction of
the alkaloids, and Discovery of pterocarpina," of Mr. Cazeneuve, heing honor-
ably mentioned.

At the session held December 1st, a letter by M. George was read, asking, in the
name of the pharmacists of Airne, to have the composition of certain preparations
determined, which have been introduced into medical use since the publication of
the Codex. The subject was referred to a committee of six.

A paper by Messrs. Bretet and Cornillon on " The action of alkalies upon the
formation of urinary sugar " was read. The authors are led to the following con-
clusions :

1. Alkaline medicines act upon the production of glucose in urine, by diminish-
ing the saccharifying power of the diastatic liquids, and consequently by preventing
the introduction of an excess of sugar into the blood.

2. Bicarbonate of sodium acts not only upon the salivary diastase, but also upon
the pancreatic liquor.

3. Its action is much more observable upon the pancreas of the omnivora than
upon that of herbivorous animals.

Mr. Magnes-Lahens read an essay on " Tar," in which he stated that water would
take up a larger amount of soluble matter from tar, which had been rendered pul-
verulent by mixing it intimately with twice its weight of saw-dust. From 9 grams
of such pulverulent tar (equal to 3 grams of tar) 1 litre of water takes up, at the
ordinary temperature, 1 gram of extract in four hours; at 6o° C. (140 F), 2 grams
will be taken up in five minutes, and from 27 grams of pulverulent tar it will re-
tain 6 grams of extract, which is a saturated solution. He also exhibited a new
inhaler, constructed by himself.

M. Guichard spoke of pharmaceutical labels, and exhibited an apparatus for
printing them.

After hearing reports on the transactions of the Academy of Sciences, the So-
ciety adjourned.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

Medical Statistics of Prussia. — A very interesting report on this subject is
before us, and we propose to give in the following a very brief resume of the
same :

At the close of 1873, there were in the kingdom of Prussia 7,923 licensed physi-
cians, 319 surgeons, 245 dental surgeons, 2,344 apothecaries (proprietors), and 16,-
673 midwives. Calculated for the entire population, there was one physician for
every 3,105 inhabitants, one surgeon or dentist for 43,623, one apothecary for 10,-
496 inhabitants, and one midwife for 373 females born between the years 1857 and
1824. However, neither these figures, nor the figures indicating the number of each
class of persons residing in each province give a correct idea of their distribution
This may be arrived at by ascertaining the geometrical mean, which is obtained by

94

Editorial.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Feb. 1876.

dividing them, in each province, first to the geographical square mile and likewise to
each 1,000 of inhabitants, and then calculating the square root from the product
thus ascertained, when the following figures will be obtained :

PROVINCE.

APOTHECARIES.

PHYSICIANS.

Upon 1 geog.
square mile.

For 1,000
inhabitants.

Geometrical
mean.

Upon 1 geog.
square mile.

For 1,000
inhabitants.

Geometrical
mean.

Prussia,

•19

•07

'"5

'49

•18

•297

Brandenburg,

'32

Oo

I OO

I'7°

'43

*55

Pomerania,

•19

•07

•115

69

•24

•407

Posen,

*2 1

•07

*I 21

•48

•16

•277

Silesia,

'32

06

'!39

I '22

•25

•552

Saxonia,

'44

•10

•210

r56

'34

708

Schleswig-Holstein,

•20

•10

•170

1-25

•40

707

Hanover,

•42

,J5

•251

113

•40

•672

Westphalia,

•61

•13

•282

j'Ss

•33

724

Hesse-Nassau,

•70

•14

•313

2-17

'44

'977

Rhenish Province,

74

•10

•272

2*43

•33

•896

Hohenzollern,

•47

•J5

•269

i'37

'44

776

For the State,

•36

•09

•180

122

•31

•615

It will be seen that the supply of pharmaceutical and medical aid varies very con-
siderably in the different provinces. The discrepancies are still greater if the smaller
districts are compared with each other. Looking only at the extreme figures, we
find that the geometrical mean of apothecaries in Berlin is 1*692, in Dusseldorf -503,
but in Gumbinnen only '098, which figure is still lower in Coeslin, being *o88. The
difference in the number of physicians is still greater, the figures being for Berlin
25*311, Cologne 1*373, Dusseldorf 1*203, but only *n8 for Koenigsberg, *i6i for
Gumbinnen and -208 for Coeslin.

Changes in Pharmaceutical Journals. — Mr. A. E. Ebert has retired from
the editorial chair of the " Pharmacist," his business connections requiring his whole
attention. The " Pharmacist " will, as heretofore, be published by authority of the
Chicago College of Pharmacy, the editorial labors having been entrusted to a com-
mittee appointed by the College.

The " Deutsch-Amerikanische Pharmaceutische Zeitung " has been discontinued,
but its publication will be resumed if a sufficient number of subscriptions should be
obtained.

The Tennessee " Pharmacal Gazette " published its last number in November,
1,875.

AmVr;8P76.arm-} Reviews, etc. 9 5

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

Tear-Book of Pharmacy, comprising Abstracts of* Papers relating to Pharmacy, Ma-
teria Medica and Chemistry contributed to British and Foreign Journals from
July 1 j 1874, to June 30, 1875 5 with the Transactions of the British Pharmaceu-
tical Conference at the Twelfth Annual Meeting, held in Bristol, August, 1875.
London: J. & A. Churchill, 1875. 8vo, pp. 652.

This annual publication contains in its first part abstracts of papers of interest to
pharmacists which have appeared during the preceding year, and are grouped under
the three headings mentioned in the title, a fourth part, Notes and Formula?, being
added, but no systematic arrangement being followed, which, however, is in a mea-
sure compensated for by the copious index. The " Year- Book " embraces the first
404 pages. The remainder of the volume is occupied by the usual lists of mem-
bers, associations, the programme for the meeting, the minutes, papers, &c. Of the
meeting we have given an account in our last volume, published abstracts of several
of the interesting papers read, and expect to bring the others to the notice of our
readers in a similar manner.

The volume is creditable to the Association from which it emanates, and which,
though little more than half the age of the American Pharmaceutical Association,
has upon its roll a much larger number of members, a circumstance which speaks
well for the pharmacists of Great Britain. Will American pharmacists profit by
this good example, and unite themselves with the National Association at its twenty-
fourth annual meeting in September next ?

The Identification and Microscopical Examination of Crude Drugs and other Vegetable
Products. By Mark W. Harrington, M. A , Assistant Professor in charge of
Botany in the University of Michigan. Ann Arbor: John Moore, 1876.
pp. 34.

We have been much pleased with the examination of this pamphlet. There has,
as yet, been proposed no systematic course for the study of Materia Medica against
which weighty objections might not be raised; but a system based upon the organ-
ological, physical and structural qualities of the drugs appears to us much more
rational than their- arrangement according to botanical origin, although the latter
has some advantages which the former can never attain. After the labors of Schlei-
den, Berg, Fliickiger (" Pharmakognosie," 1867), and others, the ground has been
well broken, and, as a contribution in the same direction, we welcome the pamphlet
before us and regret only that it is so very brief, a mere skeleton only, which, how-
ever, is the precursor of a more extended work by the same author.

Hermapbrodism, from a Medico- Legal Point of Vienv. By Basile Poppesco. Chi-
cago: W. B. Keen, Cooke & Co., 1875. 8vo, pp. 45. Price, 50 cents.

A translation, by Dr. E. W. Sawyer, Lecturer on Obstetrics in the Rush Medi-
cal College, Chicago, of the author's interesting thesis, presented to the Faculty of
Medicine, Paris.

96 Obituaries. { Am- XT"'

OBITUARIES.

Proffessor Dr. Joaquin DoNDe Ibarra died of consumption, in the city of
Merida, Yucatan, November i, 1875. The deceased was born in Campeche, July
6, 1827, where he received his education, until he removed to Puebla in 1844,
where he studied pharmacy under Prof. Mariano Cal, and graduated with honors
in 1846.

In 1847 he went to the capital of the republic to place himself under the
instruction of Dr. Jose M. Vargas, and passed another examination in 1849, and
subsequently at the university, which conferred upon him the title of Associate.

In 1850 he opened a School of Pharmacy in Campeche, and in 1853 one in
Merida, laboring in the latter until a few months before his demise. During this
time he lectured, for a number of years, on botany in the Catholic Institute, and
since 1870 acted as Director of the class in Industrial Chemistry, founded by the
Society "Jesus Maria." In the same year the State School of Medicine and
Pharmacy was established, he being one of the founders, and elected honorary
professor in 1875. He was likewise active in founding, in 1871, the only Medical
Society in the State, and contributed much towards its usefulness. The Academy
recognized his sterling qualities by making him an honorary member.

At the exposition held in Yucatan, in 1 871, he exhibited chemical products and
was awarded a first-class medal, and received another award for his red phosphorus.
In the manufacture of ordinary soap he introduced various improvements, and
worked out new processes for the tanning of hides, in which he instructed many
artizans, having the public good constantly in view rather than his private interests.
The manufacture of the safety phosphorus matches, in Yucatan, was introduced
by him in 1869.

For many years he was associated, in the pharmaceutical business, with Mr.
Font, laboring principally in the laboratory.

His literary labors comprise a number of articles originally published in the
" American Journal of Pharmacy, 1871 — 73," in "L'Union Pharmaceutique," of
Paris, " La Emulacion " and " La Revista de Merida."

Dr. Donde was a man of sterling qualities, earnest in his labors, but modest and
genial as a companion ; his loss was deeply felt by the community in which he
labored for so many years as a teacher, pharmacist and public benefactor.

Edward H. Andrew died in New York, January 5th, in his 45th year, of
rheumatism of the heart. He was the son of Rev. Sam. R. Andrew, and was born
in Woodbury, Conn., October 14, 183 1. He began his apprenticeship with C. B.
Whittlesey, New Haven, in 1847. But his health failing in 1852, he traveled for
two years, and was then engaged with G. W. De la Vergne, New York, until the
war, when he joined the 9th New York regiment. Subsequently, he engaged with
Caswell, Hazard & Co., and occupied, for thirteen years, an important position, in
which he secured the friendship and confidence not only of his employers, but of
the medical profession and the public, and enjoyed the reputation of being a most
correct and reliable dispenser.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

MARCH, 1876.

ON AN IMPROVED PILL PRESS.

BY JOSEPH P. REMINGTON.

Since the publication of the paper, by the writer, on the " Ready-
made Pills of our day," in the Proceedings of the American Pharm-
aceutical Association for 1875, in which a pill press is described and
figured, various improvements have been suggested, and have been
introduced, which materially assist in facilitating the operation of
compression. The accompanying sketch will illustrate :

The cut represents a
double machine, and with it
two or more sizes may be
made, two and three grain
pills on one, and four and
five grain pills on the other,
one base of cast steel an-
swering for both,
j .3 By turning a conical de-
repression in the top of the
jgcylinder, a sort of funnel is
^ made, which is a conveni-
ence in introducing the powder.

The countersunk depressions in the base, which take the cylinders,
prevent them from slipping away in case a side blow is struck. Some
of the machines have been made with the lower mould stationary, and
no depressions for the cylinders to fit into ; this form has some advan-
tages, but is not believed to be as useful as that described above, for
an unlucky side blow may break ofF the stationary lower mould, as it
is made of hard steel, and this, of course, would be a fatal accident.

The middle depression in the base has an aperture which pierces it
all the way through, and, after the blow is struck and the pill still

7

98

An Improved Pill Press,

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Mar. 1876.

remains in the cylinder, the whole is transferred to this middle depres-
sion, when one blow drives the pill through.

In making a quantity of the pills, the base might rest on two upright
posts, three or four inches high, and a box might be placed between
the posts to receive the pills as they are finished.

The writer still adheres to the opinion expressed in the former
paper alluded to, that compression should not be resorted to as a mode
of making pills, when the powder used is not readily soluble in the diges-
tive fluids, and hence the machine has but a limited use.

For acid or bisulphate of quinia pills, the machine answers very well,
and as many as two hundred may be made in one hour, by having one
operative to weigh the powder, and another to fill into the cylinder and
strike the blow.

Like everything else of this kind, a little practice is necessary before
success is assured in every instance j some difficulty is experienced in
compressing the pills if the powder used be very dry, as in the case of
effloresced sulphate of quinia, subnitrate of bismuth, &c, &c.

The effect of using a powder too dry is to cause the pill to split
transversely, a minute quantity is apt to be blown out of the top of the
cylinder when the blow is struck, and it is almost sure to clog the
piston and render it necessary to clean it frequently, which is an annoy-
ance, to say the least.

If the precaution is taken to slightly moisten, with water or other
suitable liquid, such a powder (and the amount necessary to add to
accomplish the result is soon learned), the difficulties usually vanish.

The pills may be set aside to dry by spontaneous evaporation of the
moisture, or they can be dried artificially, by heated air, in much
less time.

When the piston does adhere, from becoming clogged as above
mentioned, it may be readily released by pouring a few drops of water
into the aperture on to it, which will soften or dissolve the powder.

The machine may then be washed, and the cylinder dried quickly
by passing through it a thick, soft piece of twine.

In conclusion, the writer takes this opportunity to state, in
answer to correspondence and inquiries in relation to this contrivance,
that no patent has been procured for it, no one has the exclusive right
to manufacture, and any who care to, are at liberty to use it, have one
made by their own mechanic, or buy of either of the makers in this city.

Philadelphia, Second mo. Sthj 1876.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Mar. 1876. /

Glycerin Dropper.

99

;lycerin dropper.

BY C. A. BOWMAN.

The arrangement for this purpose, noticed
on page 89 of the February number of the
"American Journal of Pharmacy " as an
invention of my own, is only claimed as a
slight improvement on the original idea of C.
W. Wharton, of Nashville, Tennessee, a
member of the firm of Wharton & Co., of
that place.

The little apparatus consists of a small
morphia or other wide-mouth bottle, having
an aperture bored through the curved portion
of the neck, at an acute angle with the out-
side edge, by means of a small, rat-tail file,
after a notch has been made in the shoulder,
by means of a sharp-edged file, sufficiently
large for the round file to take hold, the ope-
ration being facilitated by the use of turpen-
tine from time to time. Care should be taken to have the bent glass
tube extend into the bottle, as shown in the figure, and fit tightly, as
otherwise the contrivance will work imperfectly on account of escape
of air from the bottle. This precaution taken, the bottle is filled with
the fluid excipient, and a small finger stall drawn tightly over the
mouth, which completes this simple but useful arrangement, making a
convenient and proper medium for the adjustment of liquid excipients
in making pill masses, and where it is necessary to get them of a
proper consistency in order to turn out a good lot of pills. It is free
from the inconvenience of the old mode of adjustment, and has besides
the advantage of neatness, its size making it little in the way on the
prescription counter. By very light pressure on the top of the rubber
shield, the liquid is forced out through the glass tube in single drops,
as shown in the figure, and a continuous stream can be obtained by
continued and harder pressure. The flow ceases instantly on removing
the finger, and air enters through the tube equal to the bulk of liquid
removed.

IOO

Cachets de Pain.

| Am. Jour. Pharm.
'[ Mar. 1876.

CACHETS DE PAIN.

BY HARRY P. LECHLER, PH. G.

For some time past, the attention of physicians and pharmacists has
been directed to the wafer discs found in the market under the name
of " Cachets de Pain," as a method by which the most nauseous
medicines may be administered in a pleasant form. Quinia, aloes^
bromide of potassium and many other remedies are often very objec-
tionable to the patient, on account of the disagreeable taste they
possess, and to cover this without impairing their therapeutical value
has long been a source of trouble and anxiety to the physician. This,,
the inventor of " Cachets de Pain " claims to have accomplished. By
his theory, the patient has neither taste nor smell of any medicine
prescribed, whether unpleasant to the palate or injurious to the teeth>
and the medicinal properties of the compound are not in the least
impaired by the enclosure.

To prepare the " Cachet " for administration, the compound pre-
scribed is first placed in one of the concave discs, the internal surface
of the rim is then moistened with water, another wafer disc is moist-
ened in a similar manner and placed carefully over the first, the mar-
gins are then made to adhere by means of a small lever press. The
medicated " Cachet " is now ready for the patient, who, by first dip-
ping in cold water, placing upon the tongue, and with a draught of
water, is enabled to swallow with ease. Thus, in theory, the " Cachets
de Pain " are all that could be desired, but the question arises, How
will this theory hold in practice ?

In the first place, the time required to prepare twelve " Cachets "
is, at the least calculation, five times longer than that required to dis-
pense an equal number of pills or powders, and often, when the discs
are moistened and pressed, we find them adhering to the press ; this
may be the result of an excess of moisture, or of more pressure than
is actually required \ but they are then to be removed with care, other-
wise they will break where the line of moisture extends, thus entailing
the necessity of preparing another ; and after removing from the press
the " Cachets" require careful drying, otherwise when placed in a box
they will adhere to each other. You make answer, They were not
properly prepared. Manipulate with all the skill at your command,,
you will often have an excess of moisture ; and this, combined with the
pressure exerted upon the thin coating, has a tendency to cause a rup-
ture.

Am [our. Pharm.
Mar. 1876.

Cachets de Pain.

101

Then, in the administration of medicines in this form, we are met
with a very serious objection. When the physician, not being aware
that it is necessary (according to the theory) to dip the " Cachet " in
cold water before placing upon the tongue, fails to convey this fact to
the patient, and often, by want of thought, when in possession of this
fact, does not give directions how to administer, or, of proper manage-
ment on the part of the patient, it is found that, instead of disguising
the compound within, the " Cachet " materially assists in the develop-
ment of the unpleasantness the physician endeavors to conceal \ for,
when administered, the patient discovers that in place of descending
the oesophagus, as expected, it has adhered to the roof of the mouth,
and in his efforts to detach it therefrom, invariably succeeds in break-
ing the thin coating, and then enjoys the felicity of that delectable
experience he would avoid. This is not only my personal experience,
but that of several physicians of this city, who, having submitted this
method to a fair trial, have arrived at the conclusion that ct Cachets de
Pain" are a failure.

Then, again, is it reasonable to suppose for an instant that two sol-
uble salts would retain their separate and distinct characteristics when
in contact with waters ?

And yet the inventor of " Cachets de Pain " states that they allow
the presentation of two separate and distinct salts in one envelope,
which, when dissolved in the stomach, will unite and form a salt in
the nascent state. For the benefit of those who favor this theory, I
state the result of two experiments.

The first " Cachet " was prepared with carbonate of potassium and
powdered citric acid, in a perfectly dry state ; upon dipping for an
instant in water, an effervescence ensued. The other was prepared in
precisely the same manner, with tartaric acid and bicarbonate of sodium.
The result of this experiment was a violent elimination of carbonic
acid, with force sufficient to rupture the coating. If this be the result
of simply dipping in water for an instant, how can the salts unite to
form one in the nascent state in the stomach ? It is impossible, simply
because they have united before entering the stomach.

With the jujube paste capsules of M. Planten, this can be accom-
plished, for the reason that they require some time to dissolve before
the liquid comes in contact with the contents.

These capsules are recommended by physicians for the administra-

102

Tinctura Capsici.

Am. Jour. Pharrt..
Mar. 1876.

tion of concentrated or nauseous medicinal substances, as being far
superior to any method ever invented.

It is to be hoped the day is not far distant when " Cachets de Pain "
will be referred to only as a thing of the past, which, through want of
merit and practicability, fell into disuse.

Note by the Editor. — We can scarcely regard excessive moist-
ening of the rim of the discs, or the omission of moistening the wafer
capsules before swallowing, as sufficient arguments against the use of
the cachets de pain; just as little as the excessive addition of an excip-
ient or the mastication of pills by some patients can be advanced as.
arguments against the administration of medicines in the form of gen-
eral pills. Regarding the premature effervescence which is apt to take
place, if a mixture of an acid and a carbonate is enclosed in the same
wafer capsule, this may be obviated by keeping the two articles separate
in two distinct cells, by inserting between them a flat wafer disc, which
will prevent their coming in contact until the wafer has been com-
pletely disintegrated in the stomach.

TINCTURA CAPSICI.

BY GEORGE W. KENNEDY, PH. G.

Within the last few years many changes have been recommended in
the manufacture of the various pharmaceutical preparations" of the
pharmacopoeia, some writers recommending a change in the men-
struum, others a change in the quantity of solid material to be used,
while others advocate a more expeditious mode of preparation. Of the
first I might allude to the Tincture of Rhubarb, for which glycerin
has been highly commended as an excellent solvent, and it seems to
me that it would make a very desirable addition, as a more permanent
preparation can be obtained, — the glycerin preventing to a great extent
the precipitation of the chrysophanic acid, the cathartic principle of
the drug. On the second point, as to the quantity of solid material to
be used, much has been written in favor of making each pint of fluid
extract represent eight troy ounces of the drugs instead of sixteen, as
at present directed. On the third point, recommending a quicker
method of making certain preparations, I simply desire to mention a
few without discussing the advantages or disadvantages, which is not
my object at this time. In the preparation of tinct. opii camph. it has-

AmMarr;8P76arm:} Tinctura Capsici. 103

been recommended to use spiritus camphorae and tinct. opii in such
quantities as to equal the powdered opium and camphor, as directed
by the pharmacopoeia; and it has also been proposed to make some
tinctures, syrups and infusions from fluid extracts. Some of the
changes recommended are good, and it might be well for the various
committees on the preliminary revision of the pharmacopoeia to pay
attention to this matter and experiment with the new formulas recom-
mended, and, if they prove better than those now in use, to advise a
change, otherwise let them pass by.

Up to the present time, the writer has not noticed in any of the
pharmaceutical journals a recommendation to change the menstruum
used in the making of tincture of capsicum. The present menstruum
is not only pharmaceutically objectionable, but is more especially so in
a medicinal point of view. The object that every pharmacist has, or
should have, in view, is to put forth preparations that fully represent
the active constituents of the drug. To arrive at a definite conclusion
as to what should be the best menstruum and best process of prepara-
tion, requires a large amount of labor and experimenting, and involves
also a loss pecuniarily.

My object here is to advise a change in the menstruum, used in mak-
ing tincture of capsicum, from diluted alcohol to alcohol. I have two
reasons for doing so: 1st, that diluted alcohol does not thoroughly
exhaust the drug, — the authenticity of which can be proven by treat-
ing the dregs left after making the tincture, as now prescribed by the
pharmacopaeia, with alcohol, which will dissolve the hot and stimulating
principle of the drug quite perceptibly ; 2d, that the preparation, when
made of diluted alcohol, as now directed, is rather unsightly, and does
not present that elegant appearance as when made with alcohol ; and
in these days of pharmaceutical elegance, it is requisite to make hand-
some pharmaceutical preparations, so long as it can be done without
sacrificing the medicinal qualities of the drug. It is just as necessary
to make tincture of capsicum with alcohol as tincture of ginger. I
doubt whether there is a pharmacist to be found that would think of
using diluted alcohol for the latter ; and since the active consti-
tuents of both ginger and capsicum are oleo-resins, and, as they are
insoluble in water, we should object to the menstruum of the pharma-
copoeia for tincture of capsicum, and should use only alcohol, which
dissolves the oleo-resin quite freely. I would therefore submit the

104 Bismuth and Iron. {AmA™ S^™'

following for obtaining a more permanent tincture, and one which
fully represents the active constituents of the drug :

Take of capsicum, in fine powder, one troy ounce ; alcohol a sufficient
quantity, moisten the powder with alcohol, pack firmly in a cylin-
drical percolator, and gradually pour alcohol upon it until 2 pints of
tincture are obtained.

Pottsville, Pa., January 20, 1876.

Note by the Editor. — The German Pharmacopoeia directs to
prepare tinctura capsici by macerating for eight days one part of finely
cut capsicum with ten parts of alcohol spec. grav. 0*830 to 0*834.

BISMUTH AND IRON.

BY R. ROTHER.

The normal bismuthous salts are very definite chemicals, and most
of them can be quite easily prepared. There are, though, a number of
bismuthous oxysalts, which in general present great difficulty of pre-
paration, owing to the variable nature of their composition. As several
of these basic compounds are used in medicine, a certain regularity is
aimed at in their constitution. But none of the various methods in use
always yield exactly the same product by the same course of procedure.

Of the normal salts, the citrate has been the most troublesome to
produce in a desirable shape and of constant composition. The writer
believes to have made the first advance towards a satisfactory method
of preparing it. The process was published in the Pharmacist for Sep-
tember, 1872, and consisted in crystallizing the citrate from a moder-
ately dilute and not too strongly acidulated solution of the ammonio-
citrate. Since then, the writer has adopted an entirely new method,
which, for simplicity, rapidity and precision, ranks the process as abso-
lutely perfect. The astonishing simplicity is so remarkable that one
is surprised the process was not discovered long before this, since it is
nature almost directly synthetic.

If the ordinary bismuthous oxynitrate is heated for a few moments
with a concentrated solution of an equivalent of citric acid, the normal
citrate is generated as a heavy crystalline powder, and the nitric acid
entirely freed and easily washed away by decantation. 10 parts of bis-
muthous oxynitrate, 7 parts of crystallized citric acid, and 30 to 40
parts of water are heated together for a few minutes, until a drop of

/

AmMJarUr;8P76rim' } Bismuth and It on. i o 5

the mixture forms a clear solution with ammonia water, the crystalline
mass is then diluted with 8 to 10 times its volume of water, set away
for a short time to let the citrate subside, and the clear liquid then de-
canted. The crystalline sediment is now washed 3 or 4 times in a
similar manner, drained from superfluous water, and either dried on a
water-bath or by exposure in the open air. The yield is about 13 2-3
parts, showing that the salt is anhydrous, and therefore its formula is
Bi"'C,H„07.

The bismuthous citrate, as such, is not much prescribed, but it is un-
doubtedly superior to either the oxynitrate or oxycarbonate, both of
which are medicinally much employed. The ammonio-citrate is con-
siderably used, and as no method thus far proposed for this salt has
been particularly applicable, the writer's new process for preparing the
citrate in a perfectly pure and definite state will make it possible of
producing an ammonio-citrate with great ease and dispatch, and also of
perfect purity.

Dry bismuthous citrate, treated with the ordinary ammonia water, dis
solves to a syrupy liquid, but a part agglutinates to a hard white mass
unaffected by excess of ammonia ; if gentle heat is applied this dissolves
and on cooling, the whole forms a crystalline mass, soluble in water
These crystals, dried over a water-bath, are again soluble in water
The yield from 8 parts of the citrate is nearly 10 parts. This product
shows that there are several modifications of the ammonio-citrate,
which may differ in chemical constitution as well as in physical proper-
ties.

The chemical composition of the ammonio-citrate has not been cor-
rectly given. The writer found that the same quantity of ammonia
was required to form a neutral ammonio-citrate, as was separately re-
quired to form normal triammonium citrate, with the equivalent of
citric acid in combination as bismuth salt, and the decomposition may
be written thus: BiC6H507+3(NH4OH)=(NH4)3C6H507Bi(OH)3.
The compound represented by the second number is assumed to be a
combination of normal triammonium citrate with normal bismuthous
hydrate, and this compound must therefore be looked upon as the true
ammonio-bismuthous citrate, as all other formulae are based upon an
analysis of the scaled salt, which must of necessity be an indefinite sub-
stance.

The writer has also found that normal ferric citrate when treated
with ammonia, absorbs an amount corresponding as normal triammo-

1 06 Bismuth and Iron. {Am ]&!7^

nium citrate, with the equivalent of citric acid contained in the iron
citrate, and hence the true or normal ammonio-feroxycitrate is also
produced as follows :

Fe///C6H5074-3(NH4OH)=(NH4)3C6H5OrFe(OH)3, that is tri-
ammonium citrate combined with normal ferric hydrate. It is, there-
fore, the iron analogue of ammonio-bismuthous citrate.

The writer has also ascertained that besides the normal green ammo-
nio-ferric citrate, two other ammonio-ferric citrates exist, correspond-
ing to the di and mon-ammonium citrates. The formulae for the 3
green double salts are, for triammonio-ferric citrate Fe'"(NH4)32(C6H5
07), for diammonio-ferric citrate Fe"'(NHJ2C6H607.C6H607or Fe"'(N
H4)2H2(C6H507), and for monammonio-ferric citrate Fe//r(NH4)2(C6H&
07) or F///(NH4)H22(C6H507). The first one only is neutral, the other
two are acid salts. If either of these salts is treated with ammonia in
excess, the solution becomes brown, and in some cases, as for instance
with the potassium double citrates, which do not hold the iron as firmly
as the corresponding ammonium salts, ferric hydrate is precipitated.
The reaction, therefore, indicates that a monado-fer-oxy-citrate was pro-
duced. It is, however, remarkable that the addition of citric acid or
an acid monad citrate does not immediately restore the green color>
but in some instances proceeds very slowly, the transition from brown
to green is not simultaneous throughout the solution, but progresses
from the bottom upwards, even if the solution is occasionally shaken, it
resumes this order of progressive action.

The most surprising relationship, is however, evinced when ammonio-
bismuthous citrate and triammonio-ferric citrate are brought together,
and the change of color is the same as when triammonium citrate is
added to the iron salt. The light green solution is further remarkable
for the very important fact that moderate or strong acidulation with
citric or nitric acid fails to separate the bismuthous citrate. This prop-
erty, therefore, renders it possible of holding bismuthous citrate in acid-
ulated solution, providing ammonio-ferric citrate is also present.

The same amount of citric acid in combination as ammonio-bismuth-
ous citrate, is required to change an equal equivalent of the acid com-
bined as ferric citrate into the green ammonio-ferric citrate, as would
be required in the condition of triammonium citrate. Therefore the
result is expressed as follows :

Fe^^C6H507+(NH4)3C6H5OrBi(OH)3=Fe^(NH4)32(C6H507).Bi(OH)3.

That is, one equivalent of triammonio-ferric citrate combined

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Mar. 1876.

Citrate of Iron and Quinia.

107

with one equivalent of normal bismuthous hydrate. This is a most
peculiar compound, and possibly indicates that the normal bismuthous
hydrate (Bi(OH)3) differs in its affinities from the basic or oxyhydrate
(Bi(OH)O) as the normal salts differ from the oxysalts. The com-
pound treated with ammonia in excess becomes brown, but addition of
citric acid again restores the green color, however, similar as in case of
the ammonio-ferric citrate alone, but slowly.

The new compound will doubtless become of pharmacal value, since
the property of retaining the bismuth in an acidulated solution must
strongly recommend it.

NOTE ON CITRATE OF IRON AND QUINIA.

BY J. U. LLOYD.

" Triturate the sulphate of quinia with six fluidounces of distilled
water, and, having added sufficient diluted sulphuric acid to dissolve it,
cautiously pour into the solution water of ammonia, with constant
stirring, until in slight excess. Wash the precipitated quinia on a filter,
and, having added it to the solution of citrate of iron, maintained at
the temperature of 120° by means of a water-bath, stir constantly
until it is dissolved." — U. S. P.

My experience is that the process is objectionable in consequence of
too great a temperatue being employed. Precipitated quinia melts
when added to a solution of the above temperature, and forms a gummy,
sticky mass, which adheres tenaciously to the stirring spatula and sides
of the containing vessel.

When in this form, quinia dissolves very slowly in the solution of
citrate of iron.

To obviate this difficulty, reduce the solution of sulphate of quinia
to the temperature of 500 before precipitating with ammonia. Wash
the precipitate quickly with water of the same temperature. The
result will be a light, friable, porous mass, which, when added to the
solution of citrate of iron, also at the temperature of 500, will break into
small particles when stirred, and quickly dissolve.

When precipitating quinia for other purposes, if cold water is used,
the process will be facilitated, for the precipitate can be easily washed
without forming a mass and sticking to the filter.

Cincinnati, Ohio.

io8 An Experiment on Antiseptics. {Am'jfc!5rm'

AN EXPERIMENT ON ANTISEPTICS.

BY M. S. BIDWELL.

November 15th, 1875, a number of wide mouth 8 oz. bottles were pre-
pared, each containing 4 ozs. of water and \ oz. raw, lean beef. One
of these was left without any addition, 20 of them were arranged in sets
of four, and to each bottle was added 1, 2, 3 and 4 grs., respectively, of
each of the antiseptics under trial, which were carbolic acid (or phenol),
salicylic acid, chloral hydrate and benzoic acid. Four sets of bottles
were thus occupied. The recent statement, that the alkaline salicyl-
ates have no antiseptic power, coupled with the well-known fact, that
putrefaction is usually accompanied by an alkaline reaction, suggested
the fifth series, containing the same quantities of salicylic acid as in the
other series, with the addition of half a drachm of dilute hydrochloric
acid to each bottle. Finally, to the twenty-second bottle was added
the same amount of hydrochloric acid alone, for comparison. The
whole were loosely covered to exclude dust, and set away at the usual
temperature of the store, varying from perhaps 550 to 700. From
pressure of business, but little attention was paid to them, and no record
was kept of their progressive changes ; but, seven weeks later (Jan.
3d, 1876), they were all examined. The following were found more
or less putrid, with an offensive ammoniacal odor, much like that of
stale urine, viz : The phenol, 1, 2 and 3 grs., salicylic acid the same,
benzoic acid 1 gr. and all those containing chloral. In the three contain-
ing salicylic acid, the liquid was covered with a thick coating of mould,
which was not the case with any of the others, illustrating the fact,
which had been previously noticed, that a very small amount of this
acid not only does not prevent, but even seems to favor the growth of
mould. The bottle containing no antiseptic was, of course, quite of-
fensive, but was not mouldy. The following were free from odor, and
apparently unchanged, viz : All that contained salicylic and hydro-
chloric acids combined, the 2, 3 and 4 grain benzoic acid, the 4 grain
phenol, which still preserved, as at first, its slightly carbolic or tarry
smell. In all these the water remained clear, or nearly so, the meat
having a whitish color and a soaked look. In the sample to which
hydrochloric acid alone had been added, the water was clear and inodor-
ous, but had a white, translucent substance, something like coagulated
albumen, floating in it. No microscopic examination was made.

From the results of this experiment may be fairly deduced the fol-

AmMa°ruri876arm- { Basicity of the Phosphorus Acids. 1 09

lowing conclusions, su.bject, of course, to correction by further ob-
servations :

1. Of the four antiseptics mentioned, benzoic acid is effective in
the smallest quantity, phenol and salicylic acids coming next, and be-
ing about equal, while chloralhydrate, at least in the ratio of one part
in 500, has little or no permanent value.

2. Salicylic and hydrochloric acids combined are more effective than
either of the four mentioned. How much of this effect may be due
to each, and how much to the combination, could only be determined
by further trial, as also how small a quantity of hydrochloric acid would
be required. In this experiment, it will be noticed that this was used
in about four times the largest quantity of the other agents, as it was
not expected to act as an antiseptic, but only to aid the salicylic acid,
preventing its extinction by the alkaline products of putrefaction. Yet>
if so small a proportion (less than 1 per cent.) of this acid could so ef-
fectively retard decomposition, the fact might sometimes be used with
advantage, as it would in many cases be convenient and unobjection-
able.

One such experiment, of course, settles nothing ; but these results
are given for what they are worth, with the hope that others may ex-
tend and verify or correct them. The effect of the hydrochloric acid
in this case was certainly unexpected by the experimenter, and would
seem to suggest further investigation. It will be noticed that the fail-
ure of the chloral in this experiment does not at all conflict with the
results reported by T. Roberts Baker to the American Pharmaceut-
ical Association at the last meeting, as the weakest solution that he
found efficient was 5 grs. to the fluidounce, or 25 times the strength
of any used in this case, while he found that a 2 gr. solution only re-
tarded decomposition without permanently preventing it.

Elmira, N. T.9 Feb., 1876,

THE BASICITY OF THE PHOSPHORUS ACIDS.

BY R. ROTHER.

Phosphorus, sulphur, arsenic and antimony are possessed of certain
common characteristics which indicate a very close relationship between
them, and, although various anomalies spring from each particular
member of the series, it is nevertheless plain that they virtually effect
the transition from metals to metalloids, and from metalloids to the

1 1 o Basicity of the Phosphorus Acids. { A%Ja7;8p76arm'

limitless sphere of the nitrogen and carbon compounds. Phosphorus
joins hands, as it were, with the organic and protorganic worlds, con-
stituting a sort of connecting link, forming them into a continuous
series.

The acids of phosphorus mark the transition from the mineral to
the carbon acids. Their basicity, for this reason, is peculiar, showing
the properties of both, and being entirely like neither. Organic or
carbon acids are compounds of oxygenated hydrocarbon radicals with
hydroxyl. The phosphorus acids are, to a certain extent, analogous
to these, hence they may be described as compounds of oxygenated
hydrophosphorus radicals with hydroxyl. The definition, however, is
not capable of general application, by virtue of the fact that the com-
bined hydrogen is wholly and completely typic in one member of the
group, namely, metaphosphoric acid. This acid, however, is the link
adjacent to the mineral acids, in which proximity the hydrogen has
become wholly typic, and hence the definition is not appropriately
applicable in this case.

Assuming that the acids of phosphorus are formed from trihydric
phosphide (PH3) by the interpolation of oxygen, and we have :
Hypophosphorous acid, P02H3=P02H2,H=POH2(OH).
Phosphorous acid, P03H3=P03H,H2==POH(OH)2.
Orthophosphoric acid, P04H3=P04,H3==PO(OH)3.
But comprehending all the acids, and we have, more fully, thus :
Hypophosphorous acid, P204H6=P204H4,H2=(PO)2H4(OH)2.
Phosphorous acid, P206H6=P206H2,H4^PO)2H2(OH)4.
Orthophosphoric acid, P208H6^P208,H6=(P204)H2(OH)4.
Pyrophosphoric acid, P207H4=P207,H4=(P204)H(OH)3.
Metaphosphoric acid, P206H2=P206,H2=(P204)(OH)2.

This arrangement reveals a number of very important facts. It
shows the regular gradation and development of the series in a most
lucid and comprehensive manner, and the gradual evolution from the
hydrophosphorus, PH3, becomes evident in every member. The rela-
tion to the carbon acids is most apparent in the two lowest derivatives,
in which the accumulation of oxygen has not entirely overcome the
direct contact of phosphorus and hydrogen. In the hypophosphorous
acid, only one-third of the combined hydrogen is typic, and in the
phosphorous acid two-thirds. The evolution of phosphorus hydrides
from either of these two acids by means of heat shows that the whole

AmMa"r'x8P76?rm'} Basicity of the Phosphorus Acids. 1 1 1

of their hydrogen is not replaceable, and that only that portion is typic
which is liberated, by means of heat, in combination with oxygen. In
the orthophosphoric acid, the accretion of oxygen has so far progressed
that the direct contact between phosphorus and hydrogen is no longer
maintained, since the balance of affinity now leans strongly towards
the oxygen. Heat now expels hydrogen only in combination with
oxygen, but no amount of heat can expel more than two-thirds of all
the hydrogen combined. The remaining third, constituting the typic
hydrogen of metaphosphoric acid is absolutely beyond the direct influ-
ence of phosphorus, and the powerful affinity of phosphorus for oxy-
gen, on the one side, and oxygen for hydrogen on the other, retains
the compactness of the union beyond the ordinary effects of molecular
vibration.

By this arrangement we also discover the appalling inconsistency
of the new notation in its treatment of the phosphoric acids. The
misconception of the tetrabasicity of pyrophosphoric acid, and the erro-
neous theory of the trivalent radical phosphoryl, (PO)r//, together with
the entire new notation of the phosphoric acids, are thereby wholly
refuted. Trivalent phosphoryl is utterly inapplicable in case of pyro-
phosphoric and metaphosphoric acids, as no satisfactory expression can
be obtained by its use. It is also plain that a trivalent radical cannot
be common to a monobasic, a tribasic and a tetrabasic acid. Further-
more, the inconsistency of the notation must refute itself which rep-
resents the three acids thus :

Metaphosphoric acid, P03H=P02(OH).
Orthophosphoric acid, P04H3=P0(0H)3.
Pyrophosphoric acid, P207H4=P203(OH)4.

Which indicates that there are as many independent radicals as acids,
and that while (P02)' is univalent, (PO)'" is trivalent and (P2Os)iv quad-
rivalent. There is neither sense or reason in such an assumption in
view of the fact that the three acids differ from one another by two
equivalents of hydroxyl less for every equivalent of oxygen in excess
of the radical, P202, as is shown by the following :

Metaphosphoric acid, P204(OH)2=P202(OH)202.
Pyrophosphoric acid, P203(OH)4=P202(OH)40.
Orthophosphoric acid, P202(OH)6=P202(OH)6.

According to the new notation of the phosphoric acids, metaphos-
phoric acid, (P03H), is first, orthophosphoric acid, (P04H3), second,

1 1 2 Basicity of the Phosphorus Acids. {Am'ifc87h6ann'

and pyrophosphoric acid, (P207H4), third in the series. But, as the
first and second members differ by one equivalent of hydroxyl, (OH),
the second and third would vary by the same difference, and hence
pyrophosphoric acid under this law should be written P05H4. This
does not, however, agree with facts, as was exhibited by the com-
parison just preceding.

By the new arrangement as above proposed, which in reality is the
natural and true system of notation for the phosphorus acids, being in
perfect consonance with the typal theory, all the phosphoric acids con-
tain the bivalent radical phosphoryl, (P204)", in two cases in combina-
tion with partially affected or typoid hydrogen and hydroxyl, and in one
wholly in union with hydroxyl. The affected or typoid hydrogen,
being yet distantly influenced by the phosphorus of the radical, does
not assume the function of hydroxyl, and therefore, particularly in the
case of orthophosphoric acid, it ordinarily possesses no salifying power \
consequently this affected hydrogen does not virtually represent basisity.
It is, however, replaceable by bases, under extraordinary conditions •>
but in such instances the highly basic character of the compound
barely admits of classification as a true salt.

Ignoring the indifferent hydrogen, it will then be seen that meta-
phosphoric acid is dibasic, pyrophosphoric acid tribasic and orthophos-
phoric acid tetrabasic. But, admitting the full value of the hydrogen,
then metaphosphoric acid remains dibasic, pyrophosphoric acid be-
comes tetrabasic, and orthophosphoric hexabasic.

For convenience sake, they may be represented as monobasic, di-
basic and tribasic. It is, however, atomically correct that they be
designated as bibasic, tetrabasic and hexabasic, in which case the tetra-
basisity of pyrophosphoric acid, as at present held, would be correct,
but in every other instance it would be, typically considered, utterly
wrong.

But absolute typic value is the perfect index of basicity, therefore
typoid hydrogen is not admissible in a determination of that quality,
and as various indications point favorably that way, it appears that the
correct basic value of the phosphoric acids is shown by the new ar-
rangement, in which they are respectively dibasic, tribasic and tetra-
basic, regardless of typoid hydrogen.

Although fused sodium pyrophosphate is correctly represented by
Na4 (P207), it appears highly probable that the aqueous solution con-
tains it as Na3H (P207) (NaOH.) This expression, in a measure, ex-

Am,ia?.r'i87h6arm'} Ammonium in Diluted Phosphoric Acid. 1 13

plains the fact why the sodio-ferric pyrophosphate precipitated by alco-
hol should yield only 2(Na4P207) (Fe43(P207), instead of 3(Na4P207)
(Fe43(P207)), as which it exists in solution. For if we represent the
sodium salt in solution by 3(Na3H(P207)NaOH) the first effect of the
alcohol will be a tearing away of the exposed alkali ; the immediate
result of this is the formation of a corresponding amount of acid salt,
which also dissolves, while in the mean time the remnant precipitates
in the anhydrous condition. The decomposition is clearly illustrated
by the following :

3(Na5P2Or)+3(OH2=3(Na3H(P207)NaOH).
Na9H3(P207)3(NaOH)3-2(Na4P207)+NaH4(P207)+3(NaOH).
NaH3(P207)+3(NaOH)=Na4P207-r-3(OH2), or,
Na3H(P207)(NaOH)+2(OH2).

AMMONIUM IN DILUTED PHOSPHORIC ACID.

BY HENRY TRIMBLE.

{Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, February 15 )
The process, recently offered by Prof. Markoe, for making diluted
phosphoric acid, has been a fruitful source of controversy among
pharmacists during the past few months, and many objections have
been advanced, and advantages claimed, with the addition of but few
facts to sustain them.

I have endeavored, under the direction of Prof. Maisch, to fully
investigate one of these objections, namely, that in reference to the
amount of ammonium generated during the process.

Two lots of the acid were prepared, one in the proportion of 12
ounces of nitric acid, 4 cubic centimetres of bromine and 2 ounces of
phosphorus. The bromine was dissolved in the nitric acid and the
phosphorus afterward added. The reaction commenced at 650 F.,
and was allowed to continue until the temperature reached 950, when
the flask was placed in water of 6o°, where it remained for 24 hours.
The phosphorus not then being entirely dissolved, heat was applied and
very gradually increased until it reached 1400, at which degree it was
maintained for 2 hours before the solution was completed. The usual
process was then employed of heating in a capsule until free from nitric
acid, and diluting with water to bring it to the officinal strength. In
the second experiment, the same proportions were adopted with the
addition of 12 ounces of water. Little or no reaction occurred, unless

8

1 14 Ammonium in Diluted Phosphoric Acid. {^JgaJIP*'

the temperature was maintained at from ioo° to 1300, and the mixture
was finally boiled to dissolve the last portions of phosphorus.

A third sample was obtained from Dr. Pile, who employed no heat
in the process, but on the contrary, kept the mixture in cool water
until complete solution of the phosphorus was effected. A fourth
sample was procured from a fellow-student, C. S. Hallberg, who
placed the mixture in cool water for 24 hours, during which time about
two-thirds of the phosphorus was dissolved, and then resorted to boil-
ing for completing the solution.

Owing to the impossibility of estimating phosphoric acid by direct
saturation, on account of the very gradual change from an acid to an
alkaline condition, a seemingly intricate, but practically very simple
process was adopted. Half a fluidounce of the diluted acid was super-
saturated with caustic soda, and the mixture placed in a small flask, to
which was adapted, by means of a tightly fitting cork, a bent glass tube,
the end of which was allowed to dip slightly into 10 cubic centimetres
of a decinormal solution of oxalic acid. The apparatus was so con-
structed as to prevent the possibility of any of the alkali passing me-
chanically into the distillate, and, as a further precaution, preference
was given to caustic soda for saturating the acid, so that in case the
smallest quantity passed over, it might be detected by the flame test,
which, however, in every experiment failed to reveal a trace. Heat
was then applied by means of a sand bath, until one-half or more of the
liquid had distilled over. To the mixture of the distillate and oxalic
acid solution, previously reddened with litmus, was added a decinormal
solution of ammonia, the deficiency required for neutralization gave
the cubic centimetres of a decinormal solution of ammonia equal to
that contained in the diluted phosphoric acid, and, from this, the re-
sults in the subjoined table were calculated. With one exception, two
experiments were made with each sample, and when there were any
differences, which, however, were very slight, an average was taken
upon which the calculations were based. From the proportion of
phosphorus directed by the Pharmacopoeia, there are found to be but
56*90 grains of actual phosphoric acid (H3P04) in each fluidounce.
Therefore, the foundation was comparatively small to build the estima-
tion on. The following schedule gives the results, which, small as
they may appear, were, nevertheless, readily obtained by the method
above described.

' } Hydrargyrum Iodidum Rubrum , etc. 115

•

Cubic centimetres
ofdecinormal solu-
tion of NH4 found
in fl. gi of Dil.
Phos. Acid.

Amount of NH4in
fl. of Dil. Phos.
Acid.

*%> >P tj

■s-s <

Percentage of H3
P04 combined
with NHr

sfS •

2 s «
0

Percentage of (N
H4),HP04 in Dil.
Phos. Acid.

1

1 1

No. 1

0.70

.0194 grs.

.0529 grs.

.0926

.0711 grs.

.0147

No. 2

0.20

.0055 "

.0149 44

.0261

.0201 "

.0042

No. 3

i-55

0430 "

.1170 "

.2056

.1576 «

.0327

No. 4

°'35

.0097 "

.0264 "

.0463

.0355 "

.0073

No. 3 yielded a much larger amount of ammonium than any of the
others, which is accounted for by the fact of its having been prepared
at a comparatively low temperature.

A moderate heat was employed in the preparation of No. 1, which,
therefore, gave a smaller amount, while in the case of Nos. 2 and 4,
the boiling temperature was applied, consequently a much smaller yield
was obtained.

It is evident that these results are entirely too insignificant to be of
any practical importance, yet, after all, as has been frequently stated by
others, it is difficult to improve on the first process offered by the U. S.
Pharmacopoeia, against which the principal objection offered is the re-
quisition of constant attention to prevent explosion or breakage j this,
however, is not substantiated by the experience, either of myself or
those of whom inquiry has been made.

HYDRARGYRUM IODIDUM RUBRUM AND OXIDUM FLAVUM.

BY CHARLES L. MITCHELL.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, February i$th.)

The disadvantages arising from the use of mercuric chloride in the
preparation of the above-named mercurials have long been known
to pharmaceutists. Owing to its comparative insolubility in water, a
large bulk of liquid is required in order to obtain any appreciable quan-
tity of product, thus necessitating the use of large vessels when manu-
facturing in any quantity. Heat is also required, in order that the
water shall take up as much of the mercuric chloride as possible, and
thus lessen the disadvantage of bulky utensils. This, however, only
partially removes the difficulty, and runs the additional risk of breakage
of vessels, etc. It seems, therefore, that the corrosive sublimate used
in the officinal processes for making the red iodide and yellow

n6 Hydrargyrum Iodidum Ruhrum, etc, {Km'^;^Xm'

oxide of mercury of the U. S. P., could be replaced with con-
siderable advantage by some mercurial salt or preparation pos-
sessing the advantages of ready solubility, and concentration in small
bulk of a considerable quantity of mercury. For this purpose, I would
suggest the mercuric nitrate. It can readily be prepared by dissolving
mercury in a slight excess of nitric acid, and then can be used either
strong or diluted with water to any degree necessary. For general
purposes, the officinal liquor hydrargyri nitratis answers admirably.
Two troy ounces of liq. hydrarg. nit. (representing 384 grs. mercury)
were diluted with an equal bulk of water, and then 660 grs. of iodide
potassium dissolved in fgiv water gradually added, until no farther pre-
cipitation took place. The resulting precipitate of red iodide of mer-
cury was collected on a filter, washed with cold water, and then dried.
It weighed 868 grs., being a difference of only a few grains from the
estimated theoretical yield, and seemed to possess all the qualities of a
good article. The manipulations necessary for the preparation of this
salt were all conducted in a vessel of 8 ozs. capacity, and with the
expenditure of about ten minutes' attention ; whereas, if the officinal
process had been followed, a vessel at least five times as large would
have been required, and considerably more time needed. Another ad-
vantage can be also found in the fact that the process is considerably
cheaper than that of the U. S. P. In practice, I have found it neces-
sary to use a little more than the theoretical quantity of iodide potas-
sium, in order to allow for moisture in the salt as well as to thorough-
ly insure the decomposition of the mercuric nitrate. On the other
hand, care must be taken not to add a large excess of iodide potassium,
on account of the solubility of the mercuric iodide. For preparing the
mercuric iodide, I would therefore propose the following formula :

R

Mercury, . . • • 1000 grs.

Nitric acid, . • • • 1700 grs.

Iodide potassium, . . . 1662 grs. or q- s.

Distilled water, . . • . q. s.

(Instead of the mercury and nitric acid gv & 9ii of liq. hydrarg. nit.

can be used.)

Dissolve the mercury in the nitric acid by the aid of a little heat (in
laro-e quantities this is not necessary, as the reaction between the acid
and mercury generates sufficient heat), and dilute with an equal bulk of
water. Then add the iodide potassium, dissolved in 8 fluidounces of

AmMari8P76arm'} Presence of Tannin in Gentian Root. 117

water, until no farther precipitation ensues, being careful towards the
last to add the solution very gradually, so as to avoid dissolving the
mercuric iodide in an excess of the liquid. Collect the precipitate on
a filter, wash well with distilled water, drain and dry.

The solution of mercuric nitrate also affords a very convenient way
of preparing the yellow oxide of mercury, and I submit also a formula
for its preparation.

Hydrargyrum Oxidum Flar.

R

Sol. mercuric nitrate (prepared by dissolving mercury in an ex-
cess of nitric acid), . . any convenient quantity
Liq. sodae, . . . . q. s.

Dilute the solution of mercuric nitrate with an equal bulk of water,
and add liq. sodae until in slight excess. Collect the yellow precip-
itate, wash well and dry. Sol. soda is used here instead of sol. potassa,
as directed by the " Pharmacopoeia," on account of its cheapness, there
being no appreciable difference in the quality of the yellow oxide ob-
tained from the two solutions.

For these formulae I do not claim any special originality, but regard
them only as affording, by the aid of a very common and easily-made
preparation, a much more convenient and practicable method of pre-
paring these mercurials than any other process of which I have knowl-
edge. Their greatest merit lies in the fact that they can be prepared
with much economy of both time and space, both important points to
pharmaceutists whose facilities for manufacturing are of a rather limited
character.

ON THE ASSERTED PRESENCE OF TANNIN IN GENTIAN ROOT.

BY JOHN M. MAISCH.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meetings February i$tk, 1876.)

The root of Gentiana lutea, owing to its importance as a medicine,
has been frequently subjected to chemical analysis during the last sixty
years, and none of the investigators have been able to prove the presence
of tannin in it. The long list commences in 1 815, with Schrader
(" Berl. Jahrb. f. Phar.," xvi), who is followed by Henry, and by Guille-
min and Foecquemin in 18 18 ("Jour, de Phar.," v) ; in 1821 by Henry
and Caventou {ibid., vii) ; in 1836 by Denis {ibid., 1836, January) ;
in 1837 bv H. TrommsdorfF ("Ann. d. Phar.," xxi), and by Claude

1 1 8 Presence of Tannin in Gentian Root. {Am£l.ri8P76.arm'

Leconte (uJour. de Phar.," xxiii) ; in 1838 by Dulk (tcArch. d. Phar.,',
xv) ; in 1847. by Baumert ("Ann. d. Chem. u. Phar.," lxii) ; in 1861
by H. Ludwig ("Arch. d. Phar./' clvii), and in 1862 by Kromayer
(ibid., clx). To these investigations must be added the recent ones by
Hlasiwetz and Habermann (" Buchn. N. Repert.," 1874, p. 631 ;
"Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1875, p. 207). It is true that many of these
analyses were undertaken with the principal object of isolating the
bitter principle or the gentianic (gentisic) acid ; but it is hardly to be
supposed that a principle like tannin, the presence of which is so
readily proven, should have been overlooked. More particularly is
this the case with the analyses of Henry and Caventou, Leconte and
Dulk, the two former of which were undertaken for the purpose of
ascertaining all the constituents, and that of Dulk verified the substan-
tial correctness of the results of the former.

The results obtained by these chemists agree perfectly well with the
physiological effects observed by numerous physicians, and which may
be summed up with the words of Pereira : " Gentian is very properly
regarded as a pure or simple bitter ; that is, as being bitter, but without
possessing either astringency or much aroma." Moreover, none of the
works on Materia Medica, in the English, French and German lan-
guages, which the writer had occasion to consult, mentions tannin or a
similar compound in this root.

In the face of these numerous investigations, it must appear rather
startling to learn that Mr. E. L. Patch, in a paper recently read before
the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, asserted that "he found tannin
in the gentian, contrary to the usual statement of works on Materia
Medica" ("Drug. Circ," 1876, p. 48). This assertion seems to be
mainly based on " the incompatibility of the tincture of chloride of
iron and the compound tincture of gentian," although it is stated that
Mr. Patch exhibited numerous preparations of gentian in connection
with his paper. Unfortunately, the gentleman seems to have over-
looked the fact, that the tincture mentioned contains also orange peel,
and that the white parenchyma of the latter is colored of a deep black
on the addition of solution of any ferric salt, which coloration, accord-
ing to Fliickiger and Hanbury (" Pharmacographia," pages 105, 113),
is owing, "probably, to a kind of tannic matter." It will be observed
that the authors mentioned are very guarded in their expression, not-
withstanding the ink-black coloration produced by iron salts.

^'&'S&m'} Presence of Tannin in Gentian Root. 119

But what is the effect of ferric salts upon gentian ? The investiga-
tions mentioned above have thrown considerable light on this point.
Henry already noticed the dark color produced by ferric chloride with
what he supposed to be the bitter principle, but which was subsequently
proven to be merely the yellow coloring principle contained in the root.
Baumert says that the concentrated alcoholic solution of pure gentianic
(gentisic) acid produces with ferric chloride a red-brown precipitate,
and Ludwig found that the aqueous solution of the extract contains a
body 'which, under certain circumstances, imparts a dark-green fluores-
cence. In these observations we have the key for the behavior of
ferric salts with the preparations of gentian, which I shall endeavor to
explain with the following experiments.

Well-dried and bruised gentian root was nearly exhausted by cold
water, first by percolation and subsequently by expression after mace-
ration. The first portion of the percolate gelatinized on standing a
day or two, in consequence of the separation of pectin compounds.
This aqueous infusion is not disturbed by gelatin solution, a pretty sure
evidence of the total absence of tannin ; in the course of a few hours,
a scant light-colored precipitate made its appearance, which, after having
been thoroughly washed with water is merely tinged light-brown by
dilute ferric salts. The infusion, however, strikes with ferric chloride
a dark reddish-brown color, which in reflected light shows a deep
greenish tint ; no precipitate takes place, as the liquid remains perfectly
transparent in thin layers, although a concentrated infusion apparently
becomes opaque on the addition of the iron salt, but after water is
added shows not the slightest sign of a precipitate, even on standing.
If the infusion has been previously diluted with water, the addition of
ferric chloride will scarcely darken it.

Alcohol added to the cold infusion precipitates pectin compounds,
albuminous and gummy matter, and the clear liquid behaves exactly as
the infusion from which it had been made. The infusion preserved by
alcohol was treated with a fragment of fresh hide for 24 hours ; the
behavior of the liquid to ferric chloride showed no difference. The
experiments detailed prove conclusively that the aqueous infusion of
gentian does not contain any tannin.

Gentain root, previously nearly exhausted with water, was now
macerated, and then displaced with strong alcohol. The tincture thus
obtained is of a bright yellow color, quite distinct from the yellowish-

120 Presence of Tannin in Gentian Root. {Am'J^7trm'

brown color of the infusion or tincture prepared directly from unex-
hausted root. It gives, with ferric chloride, a deep brown-green color,
and also a precipitate, if sufficiently concentrated ; on diluting it with
water, the mixture turns muddy from the separation of resin and fat,
its color becoming of a dirty green-brown ; if, instead of water, alcohol
be added to the mixture, a perfect solution is obtained, having a brown
color with a greenish tint. The tincture prepared from the nearly
exhausted root is, therefore, likewise free from tannin.

In order to further elucidate the subject, a portion of the tincture
was evaporated, and the residue washed with cold water to remove the
remaining bitter principle, gentiopicrin. The clear, yellow filtrate
evidently contains gentianic (gentisic) acid in solution, it yields, with
ferric chloride, a deep brown color, without any percepible green
tint. Dilution of the mixture with water revealed the absence of a
precipitate.

The yellow granular mass left, after washing the alcoholic extract
with water, was washed with cold ether to remove adhering resin and
fat ; on evaporation of the yellow etherial solution, a yellow amorphous
mass was left, which, dissolved in a little alcohol, yields, with ferric
chloride, a dark brown-green precipitate, the mixture becoming muddy
on the addition of water, but perfectly transparent by alcohol.

The portion left undissolved by ether, consisting of nearly pure
gentianic (gentisic) acid, was recrystallized by hot alcohol ; but the
quantity operated on being small, the acid was not obtained in an
absolutely pure state. Its alcoholic solution behaved nearly like the
solution of the etherial washings, except that the precipitate of the
latter with ferric chloride, and its solution in alcohol, was of a more
decided green color.

If it is remembered that gentianic (gentisic) acid is slightly soluble
in water, not freely in ether, but readily in alcohol, the dark coloration
imparted to various simple preparations of gentian by ferric salts is
easily explained, likewise the dark-colored precipitate occurring by the
same agent with fluid extract of gentian ; and if it is remembered that
alcohol takes up from gentian root also resin and fat, which are
precipitated on the addition of water, the occurrence of a per-
manent precipitate in the presence of iron apparently remaining on
diluting the alcoholic liquid with water, will likewise become
obvious.

AmMarUr,I8P76arm"} Ready-Made Pills of Our Bay. \ 2 1

In proximate analysis it is of the utmost importance not to place
any reliance upon any single reaction, much less when the test
is applied in such complex mixtures as infusions and tinctures must
necessarily be. While it is true that tannins produce, with iron
salts, blueish - black or greenish - black colorations or precipitates,
according to the state of concentration, it must be borne in mind
that there are numerous other compounds which produce somewhat
similar reactions, without being in the least related to the interesting
group of tannins.

THE READY-MADE PILLS OF OUR DAY.

BY SAMUEL CAMPBELL, OF PHILADE1 PHIA.

A paper bearing the above title appears in the late Proceedings of
the American Pharmaceutical Association, purporting to emanate from
the pen of Joseph P. Remington, Professor of Pharmacy in the
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. Any one reading it carefully will
find that the written statements and tabulated experiments do not agree
as to the awards of merit in his classification of the various ready-made
pills of our day. He writes that his tabulated results show the un-
coated pill to be the most soluble, next in order the sugar coated pill,
then the compressed or lenticular pill, then the gelatin coated pill.
Mr. Remington starts out by making up a special uncoated pill, using as
an excipient glycerin in both cases, which is not a fair or just criterion
of the uncoated ready-made pill of our day. It should have been the
regular officinal ready-made pill of the shop, usually made in strict ac-
cordance with the ingredients and excipients directed in the United
States Pharmacopoeia, and kept on hand for immediate dispensing. Mr.
Remington then prefers the sugar coated pill as second in point of
solubility.

If he will look over his experiments and reflect a moment, he will
observe that he should have given the preference to the compressed
pills, as it appears in his tables they were the only ones dissolved, all
the others were only disintegrated, or as in the case of the cachets de
pain the materials were only shaken out, (disintegration does not
prove solubility),1 and in the acidified solution of Pepsin the compressed

1 We are informed by Professor Remington that the compressed quinia pill dis-
solves gradually without becoming disintegrated 5 it, therefore, presents to the liquid
of the stomach and intestinal canal a limited surface to act upon, while the uncoated

122

Ready-Made Pills of Our Day.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Mar. 1876.

pills were dissolved in the same time as the sugar coated pills. Again,
the compressed compound cathartic pills assert their superiority in
becoming disintegrated 15 minutes before the sugar coated pill. In the
case of the uncoated compound cathartic pill, Mr. Remington uses
the indefinite »and impractical expression of "gone in 15 minutes."
This implies a perfect solution of the pill, and when we take the in-
gredients into consideration, we know that they cannot be wholly dis-
solved in a weak alkaline solution. Another important fact, which Mr.
Remington has overlooked, is that a sugar coated pill must first be de-
prived of its coating before the solvent reaches the pill itself, which he
asserts is from 5 to 15 minutes. Two other points in this paper open
to criticism are the shaking every 3 minutes, which in the case of the
gelatin pills, occupied 18 and 24 hours. Query : How did Mr. Rem-
ington manage to shake the pills every 3 minutes during the night ?
Also, Mr. Remington neglects to state how he maintained a regular
temperature of 8o° and 980 for that length of time. And in order to
further confirm the idea that Mr. Remington really intended to endorse
the compressed pills as superior to ail other ready-made pills of our
day, he represents a machine in a wood-cut at the latter part of his
paper, for making a pill that he has published as a third rate pill in
point of solubility, which machine I find by tracing its history, is
based on a machine found by Professor Remington among the stock
which he purchased from the estate of the late A. Mosely, a
graduate of our college, and his predecessor in business. Machines
made after this model have been offered for sale by different parties,
one of them by Messrs. H. C. Blair's Sons, styled the " Remington
Pill Press." The machines, four of which I have experimented
with, and find that they are not practically up to the standard for
doing what they represent to do. A pill may be made by the machines
with materials of a heavy or moist character, but not so readily with
light dry substances, as I found that the machines required cleaning
between every one or two pills made, with the chance of breaking
them between the dies^ and in my judgment, endorsed by the

and sugar coated quinia pills being disintegrated, present the quinia in the state of
powder, and consequently with a very large surface, so that its chances of dissolving
rapidly in the stomach, appear to be far better than those of the compressed pill. —
Editor Amer. Jour. Phar.

1 I have, however, seen an improvement in one of the machines made at Mr.
Remington's suggestion, which obviates the difficulty mentioned, as far as I had
time to determine. — S. C.

AmMarrz876arm } Ready-Made Pills of Our Bay. 123

experience of several pharmacists with whom I have conversed, that
the waste of time and labor involved by their use, will ultimately
consign them a place among the rubbish of drug stores.

I have thus criticised this paper from the fact that I have been en-
gaged on this subject for some time past, deeming it one of importance
to the members of both professions and the community. The follow-
ing table of experiments were made from the various pills taken from
stock ort hand in my store, and were conducted conscientiously with
a view of arriving at a true solution of which is the best ready-made
form of pill for immediate dispensing by the retail pharmacist.

The following list of pills embrace all the known standard ready-
made pills of our day, viz. : The officinal ready-made pills ; the solu-
ble pills from Schieffelin & Co., of New York ; the sugar coated pills
from many well-known houses ; the gelatin coated pills from Keasbey
& Mattison, of Philadelphia and from McKesson & Robbins, of New
York ; the compressed pills from Jacob Dunton and John Wyeth &
Bro. ; the medicated globules or pearls from E. Fougera & Co., of
New York ; also the cachet de pain, a French wafer, first introduced
into this city by L. Dursse, of Baltimore, and thence through myself
to the medical profession of this citv. The points to be considered in
such experiments, are the maintenance of a regular temperature, and to
get a solution as nearly representing the gastric juice as possible, which,
according to the latest authorities on physiology, consists of about 5
parts acid to 15 parts of pepsin, with traces of the chlorides of sodium,
potassium, calcium and ammonium ; also phosphates of lime, magnesia
and iron, in 1,000 parts of liquid. In my experiments I used a hot
water oven, in which heat was maintained at a regular desired tempera-
ture, by means of a Bunsen gas regulator as long as required, day and
night. The pills were placed in small cylinders of tin, inches in
diameter by J inch deep, having gauze bottoms, and suspended in /
tumblers holding 12 fluidounces. The solvents used were water kept
at a steady temperature of ioo° Fahrenheit, and a mixture correspond
ing to the gastric juice, as before described, and previously tested to
prove its digestive power by its action upon albumen, also maintained
at a temperature of ioo° Fahrenheit, with the following tabled results :

124

Ready-Made

Pills of Our Day.

( Am Jour. Pharm.
\ Mar. 1876.

I found that all the pills described, with the exception of the Dunton
compressed pill, contained excipients of some kind to keep them in pill
form.

The Wyeth compressed pill was submitted to same test as the Dun-
ton pill, but required one-fourth longer time to dissolve, whilst the
solution of the quinine pills was ' cloudy, and had a very perceptible

Am'MJa0rUrx8P76arm } Ready-Made Pills of Our Day. 1 1 5

odor of grease, evidencing the fact of the presence of some foreign
matter in their composition. The objection that the pressure used in
making a compressed pill renders it so compact and hard as to inter-
fere with its solubility, was met by a microscopical examination, which
shows that they are quite porous, which fact must practically aid in
their solution or disintegration. The soluble pills, so-called, from
Schieffelin & Co., of New York, are a handsome-looking pill, but are
open to the same odjection as the gelatin coated pills, viz., irregularity
in dissolving, requiring from 6 to 24 hours, swelling up in some in-
stances as large as raisins, thereby materially interfering with the action
of the solvent. The sugar-coated pills were taken from stock recently
purchased from Messrs. Bullock & Crenshaw, W. R. Warner & Co.
and Hance Bros. & White, all of this city. They required from 15
to 60 minutes to remove the coating, with evidence, in the iodide of
potassium pills, of the presence of gum tragacanth and extract of
gentian as excipients, swelling up after five hours as large as hazel nuts.
The pill proper was, in all casses, hard and brittle, which must neces-
sarily happen on account of the heat employed in coating the pill.
Hence is it practical to suppose a sugar-coated pill to be as readily dis-
solved as one made without coating, with the ingredients merely pressed
together without any adherent substance ? The globules or pearls from
E. Fougera & Co., of New York, are gelatin capsules, with the in-
gredients in a powdered form, free from excipients, and required from 30
to 60 minutes to dissolve their coating. Their size is an objection,
however, yet they include in their list liquids such as apiol, turpentine,
ether, phosphorated oil, &c, and the pearls should be classified with
Cachet de Pain, and not as pills. They are perfectly reliable, and
worthy the attention of the profession. The Cachet de Pain is, no
doubt, an elegant mode of giving medicine, yet it is already murmured
around by patients that they make a bulky dose.

The method of agitation also engaged my attention, as the one
adopted by Mr. Jos. P. Remington to prove the solubility of the pills.
I took four 6J oz. bottles, each containing 4 fluidounces of water at

700 F. In each bottle I placed a 2 gr. sulphate of quinia pill one

made with glycerin as an excipient, another B. & C.'s sugar coated
another McK. & R's gelatin coated, another Dunton's compressed.
The bottles were attached to the eccentric rod of an upright steam
engine, and speeded up to 350 revolutions a minute, with the following
results : The Dunton compressed was dissolved in five hours, the

126

Iodo-Sulphate of Chinioidin.

Am. Jour. Pharm .
Mar. 1876.

uncoated in seven hours, the sugar coated in eight hours, the gelatin
coated in seven hours. I differ on this point also with Mr. Remington,
as the digestive process of the stomach is not agitation, but more pro-
perly a churning or a circulatory displacement process, quiet but con-
tinuous in its mode of operation ; hence my plan of suspending the
pills in a large bulk of fluid arid allowing the bulkier portion to be
below the pills. Hence, after going carefully over the ground described,
and as my tabled results will show, T find that in point of solubility the
Dunton compressed pill surpasses all others. The second in point of
solubility is the uncoated or officinal pill ; third, the sugar coated ;
fourth, the gelatin coated. Although there is some difference between
the two latter, yet they may be placed on the same footing, as the fact
of their being coated excipient pills must create in the mind of any
practical pharmacist or intelligent physician a doubt as to their more
rapid solubility over a non-excipient or uncoated pill.
Philadelphia, Feb. 14M, 1876.

ON IODO-SULPHATE OF CHINIOIDIN AS AN EXCELLENT RE-
AGENT FOR THE QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE
DETERMINATION OF QUINIA.

BY DR. J. E. DE VRIJ.

Since I applied Herapath's discovery1 of the remarkable compound
of quinia with iodine and sulphuric acid to the quantitative determina-
tion of quinia in a mixture of Cinchona alkaloids,2 it has often occurred
to me that the use of an alcoholic solution of iodine has many incon-
veniences, for it requires a great deal of practice to add the right
quantity. A slight excess of iodine is necessary to precipitate all the
quinia ; but if this excess is too great, a compound containing more
iodine is formed, which is very soluble in alcohol. It appeared to me,
therefore, desirable to abolish, if possible, the use of free iodine, and
to obtain the same result by using a compound of iodine. For this
purpose I tried the most soluble of the crystallizable iodo-sulphates
described in Herapath's paper, viz., the iodo-sulphate of cinchonia.
The alcoholic solution of this compound added to a solution of quinia
in alcohol acidulated with sulphuric acid, really produces a precipitate
of iodo-sulphate of quinia (herapathite), but the bulk of the reagent
required to precipitate all the quinia was too great to answer my pur-

1 " Pharmaceutical Journal," [1] vol. xi, p. 448, and vol. xii, p. 6.

2 u Ibid," [3] vol. ii, p. 642. " Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1853, p. 137.

AmMan'i87h6!rm'} Iodo-Sulphate of Chinioidin. 127

pose of applying it to the quantitative determination of quinia. After
some experiments with the iodo-sulphate of chinioidin (wrongly called
amorphous quinia,) I found that this compound is perfectly adapted
for the required purpose, as its solubility in cold alcohol is great enough
to make a concentrated alcoholic solution containing 16 per cent, or
even more of it. This reagent is made as follows :

Two parts of sulphate of chinioidin,1 are dissolved in 8 parts of
water, containing 5 per cent, of sulphuric acid. To this clear solution,
contained in a large capsule, a solution of one part of iodine and two
parts of iodide of potassium in 100 parts of water, is slowly added under
continuous stirring, so that no part of the solution of chinioidin comes
into contact with an excess of iodine. By this addition, an orange-
colored flocculent precipitate is formed of iodo-sulphate of chinioidin,
which either spontaneously or by a slight elevation of temperature, col-
lapses into a dark brown-red colored resinous substance, whilst the
supernatant liquor becomes clear and slightly yellow-colored. This
liquor is poured off,2 and the resinous substance is washed by heating
it on a water-bath with distilled water. After washing, the resinous
substance is heated on the water-bath till all the water has been evap-
orated. It is then soft and tenacious at the temperature of the water-
bath, but becomes hard and brittle after cooling. One part of this
substance is now heated with 6 parts of alcohol of 92 or 94 per cent,
on a water-bath, and is thus dissolved, and the solution allowed to
cool. In cooling, a part of the dissolved substance is separated. The
clear dark-colored solution is evaporated on a water-bath, and the resi-
due dissolved in 5 parts of cold alcohol. This second solution leaves
a small part of insoluble substance. The clear dark colored solution
obtained by the separation of this insoluble matter, either by decanta-
tion or filtration, constitutes the reagent which I have now used since
the beginning of 1875, under the name of iodo-sulphate of chinioidin,
both for the qualitative and quantitative determination of crystallizable
quinia.

To determine the. quantity of quinia contained in the mixed alkaloids

1 Identical with " Sulphate of Amorphous Quinia, prepared according to Dpt de
Vrij's process, by Messrs. Howard & Sons, Stratford.

2 To prevent the use of an excess of iodine, I have prescribed on purpose not
enough iodine to precipitate all the chinioidin in the form of iodo-sulphate. There-
fore this liquor contains still chinioidin which can be obtained in a very pure state,
if a little sulphurous acid is added before precipitating the alkaloid by caustic soda.

128

lodo-Sulphate of Chinioidin.

J Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ Mar. 1876.

obtained from a sample of cinchona bark, 1 part of the alkaloids is dis-
solved in 20 parts of alcohol of 90 or 92 per cent., containing i'6 per
cent.1 of sulphuric acid, to obtain an alcoholic solution of the acid
sulphates of the alkaloids. From this solution, the quinia is separated
by adding carefully, by means of a pipette, the above-mentioned solu-
tion of iodo-sulphate of chinioidin, as long as a dark brown red pre-
cipitate of iodo-sulphate of quinia (herapathite) is formed. As soon as
all the quinia has been precipitated, and a slight excess of the reagent
has been added, the liquor acquires an intense yellow color. The
beaker containing the liquor with the precipitate, is now covered by a
watch glass and heated on a water-bath till the liquid begins to boil.2
After cooling, the beaker is weighed, to ascertain the amount of liquid,
which is necessary in order to be able to apply later the above-men-
tioned correction. For although the quinia-herapathite is very little
soluble in alcohol, it is not insoluble,3 and, therefore, a correction must
be applied for the quantity which has been dissolved both by the
alcohol used for the solution of the alkaloids, and the alcohol contained
in the reagent. The liquor is now filtered, to collect the iodo-sulphate
of quinia, on a small filter, where it is washed with a saturated solution
of herapathite in alcohol.4 After the washing has been completed, the
weight of the funnel with the moist filter is taken, and the filter
allowed to dry in the funnel. As soon as it is dry, the weight is taken
again to ascertain the amount of solution of herapathite which remained
in the filter, and which left the dissolved herapathite on the filter after

1 This quantity is quite sufficient to transform the alkaloids into acid sulphates,
and ought not to be increased, for an excess of acid would increase the solubility of
the herapathite in alcohol.

2 If during the addition of the reagent to the solution of the mixed alkaloids, the
liquid is not continuously stirred, it may happen that, if cinchonidia is present in
large proportion relatively to quinia, as in Indian red bark, an orange-colored
gelatinous precipitate is formed of an iodo-sulphate of cinchonidia If this happens,
the liquid must be heated till this gelatinous precipitate disappears, before adding
more of the reagent to precipitate all the quinia.

3 Alcohol of 92 per cent., saturated with herapathite at a temperature of 24*5° C.
left by evaporation 0*133 gram of herapathite.

4 For my bark analysis, I always keep a supply of this solution, made by putting
an excess of herapathite dried at ioo° C. into alcohol of 92 per cent., and shaking
from time to time. The temperature of the laboratory in which the analysis is
made, is quite indifferent, provided that it is noted and does not change during the
operation. It is clear that the amount of herapathite dissolved at that temperature
in the alcohol must be ascertained, as this quantity varies with the temperature.

*Sfc87h6!rm'} 'Iodo-Sulphate of Chinioidin. 129

the evaporation of the alcohol. This amount is subtracted from the
total amount of liquid, and, for the remaining, the correction is calcu-
lated with reference to the temperature of the laboratory during the
time of the analysis. The dry iodo-sulphate of quinia is taken from the
filter and dried on a water-bath, in one of a couple of large watch-
glasses closing tightly upon each other, so that the weight of the sub-
stance contained in the glass may be taken without the access of the
air. When, after repeatedly ascertaining the weight, it remains con-
stant, this weight is noted down, and to it is added the product of the
calculated correction. The sum of this addition is the total amount of
iodo-sulphate of quinia obtained from the mixed alkaloids subjected to
the operation, and from this weight the amount of crystallizable quinia
can be calculated by the use of Hauers's formula, 2C40H24N2O4, 3(HO,
S03), 3 I (old notation), which I have found to be correct. Accord-
ing to this formula, I part of iodo-sulphate of quinia dried at ioo° C.
represents 0*5509 part of anhydrous quinia or 07345 part of pure
commercial disulphate of quinia.1

The accuracy of this determination* may be proved by the following
examples :

0*294 gram of anhydrous crystallized quinia, kindly presented to me
by Dr. O. Hesse in October, 1873, gave °'54I gram of herapathite
dried at 100° C. =0*298 gram of quinia.

According to Hauers's formula, I ought to have obtained 0.5336
gram of herapathite=o*294 gram of quinia.

1*048 gram of bitartrate of quinia gave 1.224 gram of herapathite=
0,674 gram of quinia.

According to the formula of the bitartrate C^H^N^C^, C4H6Os+
Aq=492 ; 1*048 of bitartrate represent 0*69 of quinia, so that I ought
to have obtained 1*255 gram of herapathite.

1 Although, as Mr. Umney stated at the Pharmaceutical meeting on Wednes-
day, November 3, 1875, "manufacturers only believed in the crystallizable sulphate
of quinia which they could see and weigh," I suppose they will equally be satisfied
by seeing and weighing the quinia herapathite obtained by the analyst from a cer-
tain amount of bark ; for, not only can this compound be easily distinguished from
the similar compounds of the other Cinchona alkaloids, but by dissolving it in
sulphurous acid and precipitating the solution by caustic soda, quinia is obtained,
which may be easily transformed into crystallized sulphate.

9

1 30 lodo-Sulfhate of Chinioidin. { Am£rur^7earm'

Notwithstanding the different circumstances in which the reagent
was applied, the results seem to me satisfactory.

The two following experiments were made with pure quinia, dried
at ioo° C, at which temperature it still retains water, under identical
circumstances :

1*0664 gram of hydrated quinia gave 1*7266 gram of herapathite=
164*5 Per cent.

1*055 gram of the same hydrated quinia gave 1*7343 gram of hera-
pathite=i64*3 per cent.

Although I feel convinced that this process of estimating the amount
of quinia in a mixture of Cinchona alkaloids, is not one which, even in
the hands of inexperienced persons, shall give accurate results in a short time,
I have some hope that in the hands of experienced analysts, it may
prove a satisfactory one, if, before applying it, they study, as I have
done, the action of the reagent upon solution of 1 gram of quinia,
quinidia, cinchonia and of cinchonidia, each of them separately in 20
grams of the above-mentioned acidulated alcohol. If they do so, they
will find that the iodo-sulphates of quinia and of quinidia, thus
obtained, have an analogous composition, and are identical with the
compounds described by Herapath,1 whilst the iodo-sulphates of cin-
chonia and cinchonidia have a different composition from the former,
and both require more iodine to be transformed into the optical iodo-
sulphates described by Herapath. In the meantime, they will find that
of all these iodo-sulphates, that of quinia is the most insoluble in alcohol,
as has been stated already by Herapath in the paper above quoted, and
is therefore precipitated the first of all and alone by a judicious addition
of the iodo sulphate of chinioidin.

I do not in the least pretend to have exhausted the subject, but on
the contrary, I hope that my paper may lead to a still better process.
Thus, for instance, I feel some hope that it may be possible to apply
the alcoholic solution of iodo-sulphate of chinioidin to volumetric
analysis, and, therefore, I presented a specimen of it to Mr. Sutton,
the author of the valuable work " On Volumetric Analysis," when he
was so kind as to call upon me at the Hague last summer. — The Phar.
Jour, and Trans., December 11, 1875.

1 " Proceedings of" the Royal Society," vol. ix, p. 10.

AmMa?.ri876.arm'} Gleanings from Foreign Journals. 131

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THF EDITOR.

Preparation of pure Iodide of Potassium. — If an aqueous solution of potassium
iodide, containing iodate, is treated with sulphuretted hydrogen, the iodate is
reduced, some sulphuric acid being formed at the same time, so that the iodide may-
contain 1 to 2 per cent, of sulphate, which may be decomposed by barium iodide.
A simpler and more interesting method of purification consists, according to G.
Pellagri, in shaking a warm solution of the impure iodide with iron filings, which
produces complete reduction of the iodate, no iron being dissolved, nor is iodine
found in the ferric oxide formed. In a concentrated solution, the ferric oxide will
ultimately exert an oxidizing influence upon the iodide, and the complete reduction
of the iodate is only possible if the liquid is filtered and repeatedly treated with
fresh iron filings. Complete reduction of the iodate is effected in the cold by
immersing in the liquid an iron and a copper plate, and forming them into a
galvanic element by uniting them, outside of the liquid, with a wire ; the iron only
becomes oxidized, but no loss of iodine or contamination with iron or copper takes
place. Potassium bromate is likewise promptly reduced by the iron-copper couple,
but the chlorate is but incompletely acted upon.

Powdered zinc acts, at first, energetically upon potassium iodate, but does not
effect complete reduction — Schiveiz. Woch.f. Ph. 1875, No 50, from Ber. Chem. Ges.

The De<vorati-ve Capsules, noticed on page 31 of our January number, appear to
be made principally of gelatin. In a warm place, or if handled with moist fingers,
they readily become adhesive and lose their gloss, at least in the places touched.
They are folded neatly with difficulty only, and are, for the apothecary, very incon-
venient, much more so than the wafer capsules, which are readily closed with a very
simple apparatus. Another disadvantage of the new capsules is their unsightly
appearance, due to their greyish color. — Ibid., No. 51.

Iodinized Cotton. — Cotton, if dipped into a concentrated solution of iodine in
ether or carbon bisulphide, retains, after drying, only traces, but no definite amount
of iodine. Mehu impregnates cotton with 5 or 10 per cent, of iodine, by sprinkling
it over layers of cotton, contained in a bottle, which is then warmed in a horizontal
position in a sand or water bath. As soon as the warm air has been expelled, the
bottle is tightly closed ; the vapors of iodine penetrate the fibres and color the
cotton yellow, the color gradually becoming deeper, finally resembling roasted
coffee, when the operation, which requires about two hours, is finished. — Zeitschr.
Oesterr. Apoth. Ver., 1876, No. 3, from Jour, de Phar. et de Chim.

Examination of Volatile Oil of Mustard. — Hager observes that the solubility of
this oil, in water, is variable ; old oil required only 120, fresh oil about 230 parts of
water of medium temperature for solution. Agitated with three times its volume
of concentrated sulphuric acid, the mixture remains clear and becomes thick like
syrup, after 12 hours, or is converted into a crystalline mass. — Phar. Cent. Halle,
1875, No- 43-

Elisa Galeers liquid for promoting the growth of the hair is a filtered mixture of
15 grams ammonia water, 20 grm. glycerin, 50 grm. alcohol, 10 drops each of the
oils of rue, lavender and bergamot, and 200 grms. of water. — Ibid.

132 Gleanings from Foreign Journals. {Am'li*l'S%£m~

Insoluble Cement for Glass is obtained, according to Prof. H. Schwarz, by dissolv-
ing one part of bichromate of potassium for every 5 parts of gelatin, or glue, in a
solution containing from 5 to 10 percent, of the latter. After having been applied to-
the glass, the cement, on exposure to the sunlight, loses its property of swelling and
dissolving in water, in consequence of the partial reduction of chromic acid. —
Ibid., No. 45.

Estimation of Vanillin in Vanilla. — F. Tiemann and W. Haarmann exhaust finely
cut vanilla with ether, the solution is somewhat concentrated by evaporation, and
then repeatedly agitated with two portions of a mixture consisting of equal volumes
of water and concentrated solution of sodium bisulphite. The mixed aqueous-
solutions, containing the vanillin, are treated with some sulphuric acid, the liberated
sulphorous acid is expelled by a moderate heat, and the vanillin extracted by agita-
tion with ether. On the evaporation of the ether, and drying over sulphuric acid?,
pure vanillin is left behind.

The authors obtained, by this method, from Mexican vanilla 1*69, from Bourbon
vanilla 1*91 and 2-48, and from Java vanilla 2*75 per cent, of vanillin, which, in
the two last named varieties, is associated with an oil of a disagreeable odor,,
whereby its flavor is modified. — Ibid., No. 47, from Ber. Chem. Ges.

Soluble Blood Powder is obtained, according to G. LeBon, by evaporating the blood
under decreased pressure and at a temperature not exceeding that of the body. The
author submitted a sample, 18 months old, to the Paris Academy. By agitation
with water it was, in a few minutes, converted into a fine red solution, possessing
all the properties of defibrinated blood, showing the same behavior in the spectro-
scope and coagulating on boiling. It is soluble in an acidulated solution of pepsin,,
and is recommended as very nourishing. — Chem. Centralbl., 1875, No, 51, from
Compt. rend.., lxxxi.

A good Copying Ink jrom Extract of Logwood is obtained by treating 250 grams of
coarsely powdered American extract of logwood in a suitable bottle, with
3 kilos distilled water. When this is completely saturated with the soluble coloring
matters, say in about one or two weeks, the clear solution is carefully decanted
from the sediment, about 20 grams of acetate of manganese, dissolved in a little
water, are added to the liquid, the whole is well mixed, and solution of acetate of
iron carefully dropped in, until a deep violet-blue color is obtained. It is advisable
to set the mixture aside for a few days to ascertain the change of color produced.
The ink must be protected from the influence of the sunlight, and instead of gum
arabic, solution of dextrin or sugar is preferably added to it. — Ibid., No. 52, from
Ind. BL, xii

Solubility of Oils in Glacial Acetic Acid. — Mr. Barnes' experiments on this
subject (see page 29 of January number), were made with an acid solid at 480 F.
Mr. W. H. Symons, using acetic acid, remaining solid up to 6o° F., found that one
volume of it will dissolve in 4 vols, of almond, olive, cod liver and 'linseed oil, and
mix in all proportions with the oils of turpentine and lemon. He also gives the
following formulas for

Linimentum Terebinthina Aceticum : oil of turpentine, 4 fluidounces $ glacial
acetic acid, solid at 6o° F., 1 fluidounce, and camphor liniment, 4 fluidounces.

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
Mar. 1876. j

V arieties.

133

The following furnishes a liniment which is miscible with spirit in the proportion
of one to seven, and with oils in any proportion, and which retains its transparency
at a temperature considerably below the freezing point of water: camphor, 240
grains; oil of turpentine, 2 fluidounces ; dissolve, filter and add castor oil, 2
fluidounces, and glacial acetic acid, solid at 6o° F., 4 fluidrachms. — Pharm. Jour,
and Trans.) 1875, Oct.

Ammoniacum, according to Prof. W. Dymock, is received, at Bombay, in bales
■containing all parts of the plant, broken up and encrusted with the gum resin,
which appears to exude from every part, even the fruit being coated with it, and to
be collected after the plant his matured its fruit. In Bombay it is picked and
usually sorted into three qualities, large, middle-sized and small tears, the latter
often containing dirt and other refuse. If kept during the monsoon, the tears get
soft and unite into a lump.

Dorema root is an article of commerce in Bombay, being imported from Persia
under the name of Boi, and used in the Parsee fire temples as an incense. It has a
thin, papery bark, like sumbul root, but is compact and has a resinous section, its
texture becoming loose and spongy by age and the ravages of insects. Some years
ago it was sent to Europe as Bombay sumbul, after having been cut up and
impregnated with musk. — Ibid., Oct. 23.

Tellurium a probable impurity in bismuth salts. — Mr. Charles Ekin, having called
attention to the intolerable smell of garlic imparted to the breath of patients, after
having taken a simple bismuth mixture, publishes extracts from some letters, show-
ing that similar observations have been made by others. Mr. Geo. Brownen
attributes this effect to the presence of tellurium, and both gentlemen are now
•engaged in further investigating this subject. — Ibid., Dec. 25.

VARIETIES.

Balsam Peru Adulterated with Alcohol. — A. Gavalowski recommends
the following test as being easier of execution and as reliable as the distillation
test: Add a few drops of the balsam to a solution of potassium bichromate in a
test-tube, and then add concentrated sulphuric acid. In the presence of alcohol
aldehyd will be formed, the smell of which (somewhat similar to that of rotten
apples) will be distinctly perceived, since it quite covers that of the balsam itself.
Even mere traces of alcohol are said to be recognizable. — Pharm. Ceniralh. in Ny
pharm. Tid., 1875, P- 345- H. W.

Mistura Glycyrrhiz^e Composita — A. F. W. Neynaber proposes in the
" Druggists' Circular " for February, the following modification of the officinal
formula :

"Take half a troyounce of best Calabria liquorice, cut it into slices about J inch
thick, introduce it into a glass percolator or funnel, using cotton and linen at the
bottom and short straw as a layer between the liquorice, and having closed the out-

T34

Varieties.

Am. Jour. Pharm,
Mar. 1876.

let with a cork, provided with a little notch on the tapered end (if the apparatus has
no stop-cock), pour upon it 12 fluidounces of cold distilled water, set it aside for
24 hours, then loosen the cork so as to allow the liquid to fall in drops, and let it
percolate through, adding water in sufficient quantity until 13 fluidounces have been
obtained. To this add half a troy ounce of gum arabic, bruised, stir occasionally.,
and when it has dissolved, add half a troy ounce of sugar 5 stir, heat the mixture to
the boiling point, strain, and allow it to cool off, adding, if necessary, distilled water
to make it weigh 1 3 J troyounces. To this perfectly clear liquid add camphorated
tincture of opium, 2 fluidounces, wine of antimony, 1 fluidounce, spirit of nitrous
ether, ^ fluidounce, and mix.

" By this process starch and other impurities will be left behind in the funnel or
percolator, the mass retaining almost its original shape (being merely a skeleton).,
while the liquoiice will be exhausted."

It will be observed that this is essentially the same formula suggested by Mr.
Wilder on page 97 of our last volume, differing mainly in the recommendation to
boil the solution of extract, gum and sugar.

Lactopeptin. — The following formula for this preparation is copied from the
" Oil, Paint and Drug Reporter,"" of January 26th :

Sugar of milk, . . . .20 ounces

Pepsin, pure, ... 4 ounces

Paucreatin, pure, . . . .3 ounces

Ptyalin or diastase, ... 1 drachm

Lactic acid, . . . 2^ fl. drachms

Hydrochloric acid, . . zj fl. drachms
Powder and mix.

Quinetum. — A preparation of the whole alkaloids, separated from East India
red bark, has been used for some time in the Indian hospitals, as well as in private
practice, with great success. The concurrent testimony of medical men in our In-
dian possessions is to the effect that quinia is not so greatly superior to the whole
alkaloids as to make it worth while to separate the sulphate in its pure state. Mr.
Thomas Whiffen, of the Quinine Works, Battersea, now offers to the profession a
similar preparation, which he calls quinetum. It is in the form of a fine granular
non-adherent powder of a pale buff color. The proportions of the various alkaloids
present will, of necessity, vary with the sample of bark used, but we think not so-
much as to be of moment therapeutically. Sulphate of quinetum is a white crystal-
line body with a faint pink tinge, greatly resembling sulphate of quinia ; and we
are informed that the preparation can be supplied to the profession at about one-
half of the cost of quinine. — Medical Neavs, Jan., 1876, from Brit. Med- Journ.y.
Nov. 27, 1875.

Thermic Researches on Phosphoric Acid. By MM. Berthelot and Louguin-
ine. — M. Thomsen, having repeated the experiments of Graham in 1869 (" Pog-
gendorfPs Annalen," cxl, 90 and 94), concluded that phosphoric acid was not a
true tribasic acid, but rather a bibasic and triatomic. The authors, having re-ex-

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Mar. 1876. J

Varieties.

l3S

amined this subject, conclude that the three equivalents of" base successively united
with phosphoric acid are combined in different manners, the first being comparable
to the base of the nitrates and chlorates, the second to that of the carbonates and
borates, and the third to the base of the alkaline alcoholates. — Chem.. Nevus, Dec.
3i, 1875.

Constitution of the Phosphates. By MM. Berthelot and Louguinine. — In
this memoir the authors examine the formation of an insoluble phosphate, that of
baryta ; they undertake an alkalimetrical study of phosphoric acid ; and, finally,
they seek to define the displacements and reciprocal distribution of an alkaline base
among phosphoric acid and the nitric, hydrochloric and acetic acids. They con-
clude that phosphoric acid is not a tribasic acid of the same kind as citric acid, as
the third equivalent of a soluble base is separated from phosphoric acid by the
feeblest actions, and even by dilution. With ammonia it happens that the third
basic equivalent does not combine with phosphoric acid, or if it combines at first it
does not remain definitely united to the acid, but is gradually separated spontane-
ously and completely. Neither is phosphoric acid a bibasic acid in the same sense
as are the sulphuric, oxalic or tartaric acids. The second base, as alkalimetrical
operations show, is not neutralized by phosphoric acid, and is entirely separated
by the hydrochloric and nitric acids, and gives indications of division even with
acetic acid. In short, the three equivalents of base united in the phosphates con-
sidered as normal, are combined in different and unequal manners. Phosphoric
acid must be regarded as a monobasic acid of a mixed function. — Chem. Nevus., Jan.
7, from Compt. Rend.

American

Quicksilver. -

-Mr. J. B. Randol, General Manager

, gives the pro-

duction of the

New Almaden

mine for th

e year 1875, in flasks of 7

6\ lbs. each, as

ollows :

Months.

Flasks.

Months.

Flasks-

January,

850

July,

1,220

February,

800

August,

1,100

March,

1,033

September,

1,20-0

April,

850

October,

1,250

May,

1,095

November,

1,700

June,

1,050

December,

1,500

Total,

13,648

The total product of the mine for 1874 was 9,084 flasks, making the increase
this year 4,564 flasks, or nearly 50 per cent. — Scientific American, Feb. 26, 1876.

Constituents of Wood-tar Creasote. By Ferd. Tiemann and Benno Men-
delsohn.— The portion of Rhenish wood- tar creasote boiling at 2000 — 2300, was
dissolved in ether and the solution agitated with potash. The aqueous liquid, after
separation from the ether, was acidified, and the oil thereby liberated was separated
by fractional distillation into two portions boiling at 1950 — 2120 and 2170 — 226°
respectively. The latter consisted of phlorol and creosol.

Methylcreosol {Dimethylhomopyrocatechin). — This body was obtained thus: The

i36

V arieties.

(Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ Mar. 1876.

foregoing mixture of phlorol and creosol, dissolved in alcohol and mixed with a
slight excess of potash, was evaporated till it began to crystallize, and the crude
creosol-potassium salt thereby formed was dissolved in methyl alcohol and boiled
with excess of methyl iodide. The product was a dense oily body, distilling for the
most part at 2140 — 21 8°.

Methylcreosol is a transparent, heavy liquid, of not unpleasant odor when pure,
insoluble in water and dilute alkalies, but easily soluble in alcohol and ether.

Dimethjlprotocatechuic Acid. — Methylcreosol was oxidized by heating it with a
dilute solution of potassium permanganate. The product was an acid, crystallizing
in long prisms, dissolving sparingly in water and freely in alcohol and ether, melting
at 1 74°, and having the composition of dimethoxybenzoic acid. By gentle fusion
with potassium hydrate it was converted into pyrocatechuic acid. This decompo-
sition and its melting point characterize the body as dimethylprotocatechuic acid.

Creosol is therefore a derivative of protocatechuic acid, and must be regarded as
methylated methylpyrocitechin or homoguaiacol.

Indifferent Oils of Wood-tar Creasote. — The etherial solution above mentioned
contained an oil boiling at 2 140 — 2180, which was separated by fractional distilla-
tion. This body yielded by oxidation dimethylpyrocatechuic acid, and therefore
consisted of methylcreosol or dimethylhomopyrocatechin. Other oils present in the
etherial solution are being examined by the authors. — Journ. Chem. Soc, [Lond.],
Jan., 1876, from Deut. Chem. Ges. Ber., viii, 11 36-1 139.

Reactions of Saccharine Matters. By M. Vidau. — A mixture of equal
parts of commercial hydrochloric acid and of a fatty oil, but especially of oil of
sesame, is a very delicate test for sugar, glucose, levulose, honey, &c. The oil and
acid are shaken together for some minutes, and the mixture is heated until the acid
liquid begins to boil, then the acid is allowed to subside and its colo.r is observed.
When oil of sesame is used, the subsequent addition of one-tenth of a milligram of
inverted sugar suffices to produce a characteristic rose color. The reaction is dis-
tinct with a liquid containing one 20,000th of inverted sugar, and detects a milligram
of that substance when dissolved in a cubic centimeter of normal urine. — Ibid., from
J. Pharm. Chim., [4], xxii, 33.

A New Preparation of Santonin. — Albuminated sodium santonate has
recently been much recommended as an anthelmintic. It is prepared by gently
heating in a porcelain dish a mixture of four parts of sodium bicarbonate, one part
of santonin and two parts of dried, soluble egg or blood albumen with a small
quantity of water, until a solution is effected 5 this is evaporated to dryness and
subsequently redissolved in a sufficient quantity of warm water 5 the filtered solu-
tion is evaporated, at a gentle heat, to dryness. The remaining albuminated sodium
santonate forms colorless, shining scales, readily soluble in water, rendering an alka-
line solution which, upon addition of acids, separates santonin with the evolution of
carbonic acid from an excess of sodium carbonate. — Med. and Surg. Reporter, Feb.
19, 1876.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Mar. 1876.

Varieties.

*37

Pharmacopceia of the Philadelph
Linimentum Terebinthina Compositum.

R

Olei terebinthinas,
Aquas ammoniae fortioris, ad f 3 i
Linimenti saponis, f^iv
Fiat linimentum.

Liquor Bromini.

Bromini, ,^1
Aquae, f^ii
Potassii bromidi, q.s. ut fiat solutio.
Signa — For physicians1 use only.

Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis cum Opii.
(Leadwater and Laudanum.)

i

Tincturae opii, fjii
Liquris plumbi subacetatis diluti,
q. s. ad Oii

Misce.

Mistura Antirheumatic a

gtt.jri
f §vi

Potassii nitratis,
Vini colchici radicis,
Spiritus astheris nitrosi,
Syrupi guaiaci,
Olei gaultheriae,
Aquas, q. s. ad
Misce. Signa — Dose, a tablespoonful
every two hours.

Mistura Arsenicalis Composita.

f

Liquoris arsenici chloridi, f§ss
Tincturas ferri chloridi, f^iss
Cinchonias sulphatis, 3'u
Strychniae sulphatis, gr. ii

Syrupi,

Aquas, da q. s. ad f^vi

Fiat mistura Signa — Dose, a teaspoon-
ful.

Mistura Astringens .

R

Acidi sulphurici aromatici, f^ii
Extracti hasmatoxyli, gii
Tincturas opii camphoratas Qjss
Syrupi zingiberis, q. s. ad f'^vi
Misce secundem artem. Signa — Dose,
a tablespoonful.

Mistura Cosmetica.
(GoddarcTs Cosmetic Lotion.)

R

Tincturas benzoini, f^ii
Hydrargyri chloridi corrosivi, gr. vi
Aquas rosas, fjvi
Fiat mistura.

ia Hospital. (Concluded.) —

Mistura Creta Composita.

R

Tincturas catechu,
Tincturas opii camphoratas, ad f3vd
Acidi carbolici, gtt. xii

Mistura cretas, q. s. ad f^vi

Misce secundum artem. Signa — Dose,
a tablespoonful.

Mistura Ferri Chloridi Composita.
[Bashanis Mixture.)

R

Liquoris ammonii acetatis, f*3 i ii
Tincturas ferri chloridi, f^iiss
Acidi acetici diluti, fgi
Curacoa vel alcohol, fgii
Syrupi,

Aquas, «a q. s. ad f^vi

Fiat mistura. Signa — Dose, a table-
spoonful.

Mistura Ferri cum £>uinia!.

R

Quinias sulphatis, £i
Acidi phosphorici diluti, q. s.

Ferri pyrophosphatis, ^ss
Mistura aromaticas, q. s. ad f^xxx
Misce secundum artem. Signa — Dose,
a tablespoonful, containing 1 gr. of
quinia and 4 grs. of iron.

Mistura Soda.
{Soda Mint.)

R

Sodii bicarbonatis, gii
Spiritus ammonii aromatici, gtt.

[xxxvi

Aquas menthas viridis, fjfviii
Misce. Signa — Dose, one or two table-
spoonfuls three times a day.
Mistura Soda Composita.

R

Sodii bicarbonatis, gii
Creasoti, gtt. xii

Syrupi acacias, f^ii
Spiritus lavandulas compositi, f^iss
Aquas, q. s. ad f^vi

Fiat mistura. Signa — Dose, tablespoon-
ful two hours after meals.

Mistura Zollickofferi.
( Zollickoffers Mixture.)

R

Potassii iodidi,

Pulveris guaiaci resinae, da ^iiss
Vini colchici radicis, £3 iss

Aquas cinnamomi,
Syrupi, da. q. s. ad Oi

Fiat mistura. Signa — Dose, a table-
spoonful.

Varieties.

Am. Jour. Pharm.

Mar. 1876.

Be

Chlorodyne.

Chloroformi, fgss

Spiritus aetheris sulphurici, f^iss

Olei menthae piperitae, gtt. viii

Oleoresinae capsici, gtt. ii

Extracti cannabis indicae, gr. vi

Morphiae muriatis, gr. xvi

Acidi hydrocyanici diluti, mjxv

Acidi hydrochlorici diluti, fgi
Glycerinae,

Mellis, cm q. s. ad 15 iv

Fiat mistura secundum artem. Signa —
Dose, 1 <5 to 20 drops.

Pilulae Aloes Composite.

Pulveris Aloes Socotrinae, 5SS
Ferri sulphatis exsiccatae,
Terebinthinae albae, ad

Misce et fiant pilulae cxx.

Signa — Each pill contains 2 grs. of

aloes and one gr. each of iron sulphate

and turpentine.

Pilulae Antineuralgicae.

Acidi arseniosi, gr. iv

Strychnia? sulphatis, gr. iii

Extracti belladonna?, gr. xxiv

Cinchoniae sulphatis, ^iii
Pilulas ferri carbonatis, ~Jv

Misce, et fiant pilulae cxx.

Signa — Each pill contains i-3oth gr.

of arsenic, i-4oth gr. of strychnia, i~5th

gr. of belladonna, gr. of cinchonia,

and i\ gr. of Vallet's mass.

R

Pilulae Cinchonia et Arsenici.

Cinchoniae sulphatis,
Ferri redacti, ad ^ss

Extracti nucis vomicae, gr. xxx
Acidi arseniosi, gr. vi

Misce, et fiant pilulae cxx.

Signa — Each pill contains i-2oth gr.
of arsenic, \ gr. of nux vomica, and 2
grs. each of iron and cinchonia.

Pilule Colocynthidis cum Belladonna.

R

Extracti belladonnas, gr. xv

Extracti colocynthidis compositi,
Pulveris aloes socotrinae, da £iii
Olei anisi, gtt. xxx

Misce, et fiant pilulae cxx.

Signa — Each pill contains §■ gr. of

belladonna, and 1^ grs. each of aloes

and colocynth.

R

Pilulce Cinchonia Composite.

Cinchoniae sulphatis,
Ferri redacti, da ^ss

Extracti nucis vomicae, gr. xxx
Misce, et fiant pilulae cxx.
Signa — Each pill contains \ gr. of nux
vomica and 2 grs. each of iron and
cinchonia.

R

Pilula Opii cum Plumbi Acetate.

Pulveris opii, gr. xl

Plumbi acetatis, §ss
Misce, et fiant pilulae cxx. Signa — Each
pill contains ^ gr. of opium, and 2 grs.
of acetate of lead.

R

Pilulae Podophylli Composite.

Resinae podophylli, gr. xx

Extracti colocynthidis compositi,
Extracti hyoscyami, da Z'n

Misce, et fiant pilulae cxx.
Signa — Each pill contains i-6th gr. po-
dophyllin, and 1 gr. each of colocynth
and hyoscyamus.

Pilulae Rhei et Gentianc

R

Pulveris rhei, ^ss

Extracti gentianae,

Extracti hvoscyami, da gii

Misce, et fiant pilulae cxx. Signa — Each
pill contains 2 grs. of rhubarb, and
1 gr. each of gentian and hyoscyamus.

R

Pul<vis Glycyrrhizae Compositus.

Pulveris sennae,

Pulveris glycyrrhizae radicis, da !§vi
Pulveris foeniculi,

Sulphuris loti, * da %in

Sacchari albi, ^xviii
Misce. Signa — Dose, a teaspoonful at
bed-time.

AmMa"r'i876.rm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 139

B

Pul<vis Soda Compositus.

Bismuthi subnitratis, gr. v

Sodii bicarbonatis,
Pulveris zingiberis,
Pulvcris calumbas, aa gr. iiss

Misce.

Syrupus Chlorali.

B

Tinctura Aromatica ,

Chloralis hydratis,
Tinctura? cardamomi,
Syrupi,

Aquae cinnamomi,
Misce. Signa. — A teaspoonful contains
10 grs. of chloral.

Syrupus Guaiaci.

►)lxiv

>
fa iv

ad Oi

B

^xxxii

Pulveris guaiaci resinae,
Liquor is potassas, f§ss
Sacchari albi, fbi, (avoird.)

Aquas, f§ viii

Fiat syrupus. Signa — Dose, a teaspoon-
ful, containing 5 grs. of guaiacum.

Syrupus Pectoralis.

R

Ammonii chloridi, ^ss
Syrupi senegas, r^i
Misturas glycyrrhizae compositae, q s.

[ad f^viii

Misce. Signa — Dose, a dessert-spoonful.
Syrupus Potassii Iodidi.

B

Potassii iodidi, ^i
Syrupi sarsaparillas compositi, q. s.

[adfgvi

Misce. Signa — Dose, a dessert-spoonful,
containing 20 grs. of iodide.
Syrupus Potassii Iodidi Compositus.

B

gr. 11

Hydrargyri chloridi corrosivi,
Potassii iodidi, £i
Syrupi sarsaparillas compositi, q. s.

[ad fSvi

Misce. Signa — Dose, a dessert -spoonful,
containing 1-12 gr. of mercury, and
20 grs. of potassium iodide.

B

Coriandri fructus, ^ii
Angelicas fructus, ^iiss
Glycerinas, f^v
Syrupi, fjvi
Alcoholis diluti, q. s. ut riant tinc-
tura, Oii
Signa — A pleasant vehicle for adminis-
tering nauseous remedies.

B

Tinctura Ferri Composita.

Cinchonias sulphatis,
Strychnia? sulphatis,
Tincturas ferri chloridi,

;r. 11

m

Syrupi,

Aquae, aa q. s. ad f^viii

Misce secundum artem. Signa — Dose,
a teaspoonful 3 times a day.

B

Tinctura Saponis Viridis cum Pice.

Picis liquidae,
Saponis viridis,
Spiritus methylici,,
Misce cum leni colore.

aa £1

B

Tinctura Styptica.

Potassii carbonatis, 31

Saponis, gii

Alcoholis, f§iv
Fiat mistura secundum artem.

B

Unguentum Plumbi Oxidi.

Emplastri plumbi,
Olei olivas,
Misce cum leni calore.

fgii

B

Unguentum Zinci Oxidi Benzoatum.

Zinci oxidi,
Tincturas benzoini,
Adipis,
Fiat unguentum.

3*

gtt. xl

3vn

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

The meeting was called to order at 8.15 P. M. The President and Registrar being
absent, their offices were filled by the election of Mr. A. P. Brown and Richard V.
Mattison to their respective positions.

14-0 Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. {Am'^'J^m-

The minutes of the previous meeting were read, corrected and approved, the
correction being that the glycerin dropper, exhibited at our last meeting, was not
the invention of Mr. Bowman, but of Mr. H. W. Wharton, of Nashville, Tenn.

(See p. 99).

Prof. J. M. Maisch presented, from the British Pharmaceutical Conference,
*' The Year Book of Pharmacy," and also a pamphlet, by Prof. Mark W. Har-
rington, of the University of Michigan, on " The microscopic examination of
crude drugs," which were accepted with the thanks of the meeting.

Prof. Maisch then presented a specimen of nut galls, forwarded from Texas, by
Mr. Vcelcker, of New Braunfels. They resemble, in structure, Aleppo nut galls,
differing, however, in being lighter in color, having a smoother surface and contain-
ing less tannin.

Prof. Maisch also presented a handsome specimen of monobromated camphor,
prepared by Mr. T. C. Linthicum, a member of the present class.

Mr. Morris, of Edw'd S. Morris & Co., was then introduced, and presented
specimens of palm nuts, from which palm oil is obtained 5 also, palm oil, made from
the pulp around the kernel, of a reddish orange color, and also a white oil,
obtained from the kernels themselves. A specimen of palm soap, made in
Liberia, from the fresh oil, by this firm, was then exhibited, and specimens of coffee,
the entire fruit, from Liberia and Brazil, donated to the cabinet.

Mr. Morris then spoke of the manufacture of indigo, as prepared by his firm j
instead of exposing the juice to the air, as usually practiced, they force air, by a
steam pump, directly into the expressed juice of the plants, thus allowing oxidation
to proceed with great rapidity, with the consequent great saving of time and labor,
the granulated precipitate of indigo is then spread upon trays, and dried by means
of hot air.

Mr. Trimble read a paper on " The presence of ammonium in phosphoric acid,"
prepared by Prof. Markoe's process, (seep. 113), the conclusions of the writer
being that the amount of ammonia formed is so small as to be of no practical
importance. Some remarks followed, in which Prof. Markoe's process was warmly
commended, no objection, however, being found to the first process of the
Pharmacopoeia.

Mr. Chas. L. Mitchell read a paper on the preparation of the red iodide and yellow
oxide of Mercury (see p. 115), and exhibited specimens prepared by the processes
recommended. Prof, Maisch said that in case of the mercuric iodide, the use of
mercuric nitrate had been objected to, owing to the free nitric acid necessary to
keep the nitrate in solution, tending to liberate iodine ; Mr. Mitchell's manipula-
tion, however, seems to obviate this difficulty, the specimen exhibited appearing to
be unobjectionable.

Prof. Maisch then read an interesting and valuable paper on "The asserted
presence of tannin in gentian root," clearly showing the absence of tannic acid in
this drug (seep. 117). The infusion is not at once precipitated by gelatin, and
yields, with a chemically neutral solution of ferric chloride, a blackish color, due to
gentisic acid, and to a body producing a green fluorescence, the color being, of
course, destroyed by an acid from the decomposition of the ferric gentianate.

AmMa°rUri8P76rrm' } Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, 141

The papers were accepted and referred. Some discussion ensuing in regard to
the time of holding the meetings 5 on motion it was decided to hold the next meet-
ing on March 21st, at 3 P. M.

On motion, the meeting then adjourned.

RICHARD V. MATTISON, Registrar, pro tern.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

The Connecticut Pharmaceutical Association was organized at New
Haven, February 9th, nine cities and towns being represented by 30 apothecaries.
A Constitution and By-laws were adopted, and the following officers elected for the
ensuing year: President, N. Dikeman, of Waterbury 5 Vice-Presidents, H. H.
Osgood, of Norwich, and Henry Woodward, of Middletown ; Secretary, Alfred
Daggett, of New Haven, and Treasurer, G. P. Chandler, of Hartford. An Ex-
ecutive Committee and a Committee on Queries were appointed, and the following
delegates chosen to represent the new association at the next meeting of the Amer-
ican Pharmaceutical Association in September next : Samuel Noyes, New Haven j
A. F. Wood, New Haven 5 S. R. McNary, Hartford 5 W. W. Mosher, West
Meriden ; Henry Woodward, Middletown. The annual meeting will be held
in the city of Hartford on the first Wednesday of February, 1877. -

The New Hampshire Pharmaceutical Association held its second annual
meeting in Manchester, on October 12th, Mr. Chas. S. Eastman, of Concord, in
the chair. The proceedings, an account of which we have received in a neatly-
printed pamphlet covering 48 pages, consisted in the reading of the officers'' reports
and discussions on the Pharmacy Law of the State and- on apprenticeship, besides
the usual routine business. The officers for the present year are Chas. F. Hildreth^
of Suncook, President ; P. J. Noyes, of Lancaster, and B. B. Weeks, of Man-
chester, Vice-Presidents ; H. B. Foster, of Concord, Treasurer 5 G. F. Underhill,
of Concord, Secretary 5 T. L. Smith, of Dover, Auditor, and P. J. Noyes, Reporter
on the Progress of Pharmacy. The delegation to the next meeting of the Amer-
ican Pharmaceutical Association consists of Messrs. Geo. F. Underhill, Chas. S.
Eastman, Chas. F. Hildreth, H. B. Foster and Thos. L. Smith. The Association,
whose next annual meeting will convene in Nashua on the first Tuesday of October,
has 87 members and 23 honorary members, six of the latter residing in Europe.

The New York Alumni Association of the Philadelpaia College of
Pharmacy met February 1st. After transacting the usual business, Mr. Plummer
spoke of the generally bad condition in which herbs are found in most retail stores,
especially in the smaller ones, and such herbs as have but little demand. He stated
that they are not unfrequently kept until they become thoroughly musty and mouldy,
and, though once pressed, become loose, and exhibit the change so much as to en-
tirely efface the labels. In many stores in this city and throughout the country,
drugs of this character could be found which have been in stock for a number of

142 Pharmaceutical Colleges und Associations. {Am\l™? J^™'

years, and are yet offered for sale. There ought to be a limit to the practice, as
there are but few botanical drugs which do not deteriorate by time and exposure.
This class of drugs is not so important a department of the pharmacist's stock as
formerly, yet it behooves us to be guarded as to the quality of all drugs passing
through our hands, and it ought to be somebody's business to look after it.

Mr. Messing said, if parties engaged in putting up herbs, etc., were required to
print the date of growth on each package, it would be an important precaution.
Most druggists thoughtlessly allow an old stock of herbs to accumulate, forgetting
their age 5 but he thought it not warrantable in any case that they be kept longer
than two to five years, even in proper receptacles, while man}' druggists keep them
in paper or cigar boxes or loosely piled upon shelves. It was suggested that the
remarks would as well apply to some pharmaceutical preparations which, being
little used, stand on the shelves for years, becoming entirely unfit for use, yet they
are dispensed. The appointment, by the College of Pharmacy or by the Board of
Health, of an inspector was suggested, who should be an expert of recognized abil-
ity, and vested with power to condemn all drugs which, after faithful examination,
prove to be inert, sophisticated or adulterated. The report of the Committee on
Adulterations and Sophistications, made at the last meeting of the American
Pharmaceutical Association, shows that quite a variety of such drugs find their
way into the pharmacies, either through the ignorance or carelessmess of pharma-
cists. The discussion was extended to some length, bringing out many interesting
facts upon this important subject, showing that many drugs pass through our mar-
ket that would be much more fitting in accompaniment with the wares of Shakspeare's
woe-begotten apothecary of Mantua than to the stock of an American pharmacy.

The next meeting will be held Tuesday evening, March 7th, when nominations
are to be made for officers for the ensuing year.

The Maryland College of Pharmacy held a pharmaceutical meeting,
February 16th, at which Mr. W. S. Thompson read a paper on hydrobromic acid,
and Mr. J. F. Hancock one on saffron, giving a sketch of its history, &c. We are
pleased to learn that this College has purchased from the city of Baltimore one of
the school-houses, which is located in a pleasant and quiet neighborhood, and has a
lot 74 feet front by no feet deep.

Cincinnati College of Pharmacy. — The first pharmaceutical meeting for the
year 1876 was held February 9th, President Eaton in the chair. The attendance
was unusually large, and much interest was manifested. Prof. Judge gave the result
of his experiments on discolored syrup of iodide of iron, and recommended hypo-
phosphorous acid as the agent to restore the altered syrup, in preference to hyposul-
phite of sodium, which, on being added to discolored syrup, passes into sodium
sulphate, and precipitates one-half of the sulphur it contains, leaving the syrup as
unpleasant in appearance as before the addition. Hypophosphorous acid, having
the same affinity for oxygen, would effect the same change as the hyposulphite,
leaving, however, the syrup clear and of the proper color.

Prof. E. S. Wayne exhibited a specimen of Indian mallow [Abutilon Anjicenna)
nat. ord. Malvaceae, which is a troublesome weed. Paper, he remarked, was made

AmMa"ri8Aarm"} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 143

from the whole stock of the plant, which yielded also an exceellent flax-like fibre,
that had been woven into fabrics and made into twine and cordage. The Professor
presented to the cabinet a beautiful specimen of " chimaphilin," and three specimens
of true balsam of copaiva.

On motion, thanks were returned for the donations and remarks. Adjourned, to
meet March 8th, 1876, at 3 o'clock P. M. Louis Schwab, Cor. Sec.

Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. — President T. H. Hills occu-
pied the chair at the pharmaceutical meeting held February 2d. Mr. James Deane
read a paper entitled " The best form of blistering liquid " The Liquor epispas-
iicusy Br.P., is made by incorporating 4 fluidounces of acetic acid with 8 oz. of pow-
dered cantharides, and percolate the mixture, after 24 hours, with ether, until 20
fluidounces are obtained; from 2 fluidounces of this preparation o*8 grains of can-
tharidin were obtained. Exhausting the cantharides with sufficient acetic ether to
obtain 20 fluidounces of percolate, 2*2 grains of slightly impure cantharidin were
obtained from 2 fluidounces. The same amount of another preparation, made by
moistening the cantharides with a solution of glacial acetic acid in ether, and per-
colating with ether, yielded i*8 grains of cantharidin 5 350 grains of cantharides,
representing 2 fluidounces of the above liquids, yielded 2 grs. of pure cantharidin.
The author is therefore in favor of one of the last two menstrua, the question as to
which is the better being medical rather than pharmaceutical. The officinal prepa-
ration being stronger than necessary, a reduction of the powdered cantharides to 4
or 5 ounces is advocated.

Mr. Harold Senier read a paper on " The Composition of Pilula Hydrargyri,
Br.P." A number of samples were analyzed, with the view of determining the
amount of metallic mercury and of mercurous frhd mercuric oxides. The results
showed that the latter gradually increased in quantity with the age of the blue
mass, which, 18 hours after preparation, was found to contain but a trace of mercu-
rous oxide 5 after three months, '24 per cent, mercuric and '62 per cent, mercurous
oxides were obtained, and in another sample, -44 and i'6o per cent, respectively.
After two years, i*8o mercuric and 4*22 mercurous oxides were present. The
amount of mercury in the nine samples examined corresponded with the require-
ments of the " Pharmacopoeia."

In the discussion following, Professor Redwood called attention to his researches,
made 14 or 15 years ago, upon Hydrargyrum cum creta, which was found to be
more rapidly oxidized than blue mass, particularly if made by machinery instead of
in the mortar. Mr. Greenish referred to the paper of Dr. Squibb ("Amer. Jour.
Phar.," 1857, P- 388), in which the proneness to the oxidation of mercury in Hy-
drarg. c. cret. is attributed to its often being too finely divided.

Mr. John Moss read a paper on Vaseline, showing that this term must be regarded
as a distinctive name for a mixture of paraffins obtained by a known process, and
recommended as a substitute for lard and other similar substances for pharmaceu-
tical purposes.

Mr. A. W. Gerrard followed with a paper in which he favored the preparation of
suppositories, using four parts of vaselin and one of paraffin as a base. The advan-
tages over cacao butter are that the former melts slowly into an unctuous mass,
which is cleanly and causes no inconvenience to the patient ; that it does not become

144

Editorial.

Am. Jour. Pharm,
Mar. 1876.

rancid, and that owing to its great power of contraction the suppositories leave the
moulds with greater ease.

Preparations made with vaselin were shown by several gentlemen. Considerable
difference of opinion was expressed as to the adaptibility of paraffin mixtures for
suppositories. Messrs. Allchin and Williams opposed the use of paraffins in oint-
ments, because they would not be absorbed by the skin, in which respect lard was
by far superior.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

Centennial Bureau — It will be of interest to those of our readers who con-
template exhibiting goods at the approaching international exposition, to learn that
the house of Peter Wright & Sons, agents for the transatlantic steamers running to
Philadelphia, has established a bureau for the purpose of attending to the interests
of exhibitors, and will undertake the transportation of goods from Liverpool or
Antwerp, their reception at this port, their proper installation, the general care dur-
ing the exposition,' their disposal or repacking and return. The labor will be
divided among experts and firms of acknowledged reputation in the leading depart-
ments of industry and arts, Messrs. Bullock & Crenshaw taking charge of drugs,
chemicals, chemical apparatus and perfumery. • If it is desired, competent persons
will be engaged to give their exclusive time to the exhibition and explanation of
goods.

Having received several inquiries in regard to such or similar arrangements, it is
likely that other readers of the "Journal," in this and foreign countries, may avail
themselves of such an opportunity.

Female Apothecaries. — During the past session two ladies have been attend-
ing the lectures at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. At the December exam-
ination of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, Isabella Skinner Clarke
passed the major examination, and was duly registered as " Pharmaceutical
Chemist."

The Growth and Uses of Benzoin. — Under this title, our last number con-
tained an essay which was duly credited to the journal in which we found it pub-
lished, without reference to any other source. Our thanks are due to several corres-
pondents who called our attention to the fact that the paper in question is almost
literally copied from Fliickiger and Hanbury's " Pharmacographia," and should,
therefore, be credited to that excellent work.

Pancreatin. — The last, volume of the "Proceedings of the American Pharma-
ceutical Association" contains an interesting paper on this subject, from the pen of
Prof. E. Scheffer, of Louisville. In the last sentence on page 731 we find a typo-
graphical error, whereby the author is made to say the opposite of what the results
of his experiments point to; the sentence in question should read: "The foregoing
experiments .... prove the uselessness (not usefulness) of pancreatin as a
therapeutical agent, as it will be decomposed when brought into the stomach."

THE AMERICAN •

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

APRIL, 1876.

ASSAY OF ATROPIA IN EXTRACTS OF BELLADONNA.

BY JOSEPH LE ROY WEBBER, PH.G.

[Extract from an Inaugural Essay.)

In order to determine the relative value of inspissated juices and
alcoholic narcotic extracts, commercial and officinal, an assay of the
alkaloid in one of the most important of this class, namely, the extract
of belladonna, was made with care and accuracy.

Extracts of belladonna were purchased, representing the principal
houses of this country, and those of Europe which have a very
extended sale in this country. When purchased, each package had on
it the manufacturer's label, and was in the original package. The
process for determining their value was as follows : 10 grams of the
extract was treated with an equal weight of water, and subjected to a
gentle heat until the extract was reduced to a syrupy consistence.
90 c.c. of alcohol was then added, digested and strained, and the
residue treated, 3 times successively, in a similar manner. To the
mixed liquids 4 grams of lime was added, previously hydrated and in
powder, and the flask frequently shaken during twelve hours. The
lime decomposes the salt of atropia, and removes the organic acid and
coloring matter by subsequent filtration. The filter was washed with
alcohol ; diluted sulphuric acid was then added to the filtrate, until
the liquid acquired an acid reaction, and the precipitate of sulphate of
calcium and coloring matter removed by filtration, and the filter
washed. The alcohol was then removed by evaporation, in divided
portions, at a gentle heat, water added to the mixed liquids and thrown
on a wetted filter, and sufficient water added to the filter to make the
solution of sulphate of atropia measure 100 c.c. The atropia having
been separated from much of the coloring matter, the quantitative
results were obtained by Mayer's process, namely, a volumetric
solution of iodohydrargyrate of potassium, or rather of corrosive

10

146 Assay of Atropia in Extracts of Belladonna, {Km^\;I£t™'

sublimate, in excess of iodide of potassium, the strength of which
solution was 13*546 grams of corrosive sublimate, and 49*8 grams of
iodide of potassium, per litre. Of this solution 1 c.c. will precipitate
•0145 of a gram of atropia. Experiments were first made with a
known quantity of pure atropia, dissolved in water and dilute sulphuric
acid, in order to become acquainted with the process and to insure
correctness with the solution prepared. In each case not less than three
titrations were made.

TABLE OF RESULTS.

MANUFACTURER.

Test solution requisite

Indicating

Percentage of

lor 100 c.c. 01 extract solution.

atropia.

atropia in extract.

Extr. Belladonna? Alcoh. U. S. P.

17-732

'2571

2-571

Lazell, Marsh & Gardiner,

i7"33

•2511

a«5 11

Parke, Davis & Co.

16-264

•2358

2-358

Burrough Bros.

16*264

•2358

2-358

Henry Thayer & Co.

12-666

•1836

1-836

Tilden & Co.

I2'4

•1798

1-798

Chas. Ellis1 Son k Co.

12-133

•I759

1*759

McKesson & Robbins,

11-71

•1697

1-697

E. Merck (alcoholic extract),

1 0*26

•1488

1-488

Geo. Allen & Co.

973

•I4II

V4.1t

Herrings & Co.

8*133

•"7.9

1-179

Mt. Lebanon, N. Y. (inspissated ji

jice, 6

years old),

6*24

•0904

•904

E. Merck (aqueous eqtract), made

1869,

r9

•0275

•275

These results lead to the following conclusions :

1st. That the American extracts of belladonna contain a larger
percentage of atropia than the imported, the reason for which, doubt-
less, is the mode of manufacture ; while the former are generally-
made from the imported leaves, by the use of alcohol and subsequent
evaporation, the latter are made from the expressed juice.

2d. That the extracts which stood lowest in the list of assays were
aqueous extracts. The two lowest containing but -9 and '2J of one
per cent, of atropia, and since the date of manufacture of both was
1869, it tends to show the unstability of such preparations. There
can be no doubt but that, at a recent date of manufacture, aqueous
extracts of belladonna, and, perhaps, of hyoscyamus and conium, are
of better quality, but if, in a few years, they deteriorate to worthless
extracts, is there not good ground for saying that the class of inspis-
sated juices of narcotic plants are unstable, unreliable, unsafe and not
worthy a place in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia ? I say unsafe, for, if a

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
April, 1876. j

Veratrum Viride.

H7

worthless article is used by a physician, and he does not perceive the
desired effect, he will increase the dose until obtained, and conse-
quently give much larger doses than if he were dealing with an
extract of good quality ; but when he obtains the extract of good
quality, the continuation of the same large doses might prove fatal.

In closing this paper, I would suggest a similar examination of the
extracts of hyoscyamus and conium, as this is a subject of interest
and importance to the medical and pharmaceutical profession.

DOES VERATRUM VIRIDE CONTAIN AN ALKALOID OTHER

THAN JERVIA?

BY CHARLES BULLOCK, PHILADELPHIA.

While engaged on the experiments with jervia, published in Vol. 47,
page 449, of this Journal, my attention was directed to the circum-
stance that the portion of the alkaloid taken up by ether (veratroidia),
when dissolved in acetic acid gave a copious precipitate on addition of
a solution of nitrate of potassium. This reaction appeared to indicate
that the greater part of this product was jervia, which, under some
favoring conditions, had dissolved in the ether.

With a view of investigating the subject, as also to look more care-
fully for veratria, if any existed in the drug, the old method of obtain-
ing the alkaloid as described in my paper, Vol. 37, page 321, was
retraversed, with some modifications which afforded better results in
the amount of product obtained.

The fluid extract of veratrum viride was poured into water, acid-
ulated with acetic acid (free from sulphuric and hydrochloric acids),
the resin separated by filtration, and the clear liquid concentrated by
evaporation until all the alcohol was expelled. Precipitation was then
effected by caustic soda (in place of carbonate of soda).

The resin was dried, powdered and digested in warm water acid-
ulated with acetic acid, and the filtered solution precipitated by soda.
Finding the resin still contained some alkaloid, it was treated with a
warm solution of caustic soda, which dissolved the resin readily, leav-
ing a sediment, which was thrown on a filter and washed until the
washings were without color. This precipitate was dissolved in dilute
acetic acid and reprecipitated by caustic soda. From the resin repre-
senting one pound of the root eight grains of impure alkaloid were

148

Veratrum Viride.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Mar. 1876.

obtained. The whole of these impure products were mixed together,
dried, redissolved in acetic acid and precipitated by caustic soda. After
washing and pressing between folds of bibulous paper, it was dissolved
in alcohol, digested with animal charcoal, filtered, and evaporated to
dryness. A semi-crystalline mass was obtained, weighing thirty grains
(from one pound of root).

The alkaloid was powdered and digested with washed ether. The
ethereal solution left on evaporation a light-colored resinous coating
adhering to the upper surface of the capsule, with a crystalline deposit
at the bottom.

This product weighed eight grains, and represents the supposed
^Veratroidia" existing in the drug, and should also contain veratria, if
any was present. An examination of its character was made as fol-
lows : .

Treated with warm dilute acetic acid, it afforded a turbid solution,
with finely divided insoluble matter held in suspension. After filtra-
tion, it was precipitated by caustic soda, and the precipitate washed in
a filter with a warm solution of soda. The alkaline washings (A) were
reserved, and the alkaloid washed with water to remove the alkali,
pressed and dried.1

Character of the Precipitate. — When dry, it had a light yellow color.
A portion dissolved in acetic acid (the acid being in excess) gave with
a solution of nitrate of potassium an abundant precipitate characteristic
of jervia. This precipitate dissolved on heating the solution, and crys-
tallized out on cooling.

Heated on platinum foil, it charred and left a residue when incinerated
to whiteness ; the grey ash dissolved without effervescence in dilute
nitric acid ; this solution was divided into two portions. To one was
added ammonia and oxalate of ammonia ; the usual reaction of lime
was obtained. To the other acid portion a solution of molybdate of
ammonia was added ; after standing two hours, a deposit of phospho-
molybdic acid was obtained.

The alkaline washings (A), after neutralization with hydrochloric
acid, were evaporated to dryness, the product powdered and exhausted
with ether. The ether left, on evaporation, a small amount of resin-
ous matter, which gave the following color reactions :

1 An after examination of the soda by alcohol used, showed it to contain traces
of alumina and magnesia.

Am Jour. Pharm.
April, 1876.

Veratrum Viride.

149

With hydrochloric acid, 2l light pink color in the cold ; on heating, the
color passed to a brownish-yellow.

With sulphuric acid, a turbid yellow color, soon changing to a mahog-
any color, passing eventually to brown.

Heated on platinum foil, it burned with a smoky flame, and left no
residue.

At this stage of proceeding the question arose, Can veratria be recog-
nized by color tests in the presence of an excess of jervia ? To deter-
mine the question, ten parts of commercial veratria were intimately
mixed with one part of crystallized jervia. The color reactions were
as follows :

With concentrated sulphuric acid, gives a yellow color, changing to a
reddish-brown, surrounded by a margin of green.

With hydrochloric acid, in the cold, a faint pink seen on the upper
margin ; on heating, a brownish-yellow color. The purple-red color
of veratria does not appear, neither does the greenish hue given by jer-
via alone.

The reactions of veratria were so masked by the jervia that no cor-
rect judgment could be expressed that veratria was present.

Veratria is soluble in ether ; according to Fresenius, less soluble
than in alcohol, when the veratria is pure.1 Jervia, when pure, is
almost insoluble in ether, but in the presence of the associated resin it
dissolves to a limited extent ; hence a separation of the two alkaloids
by ether cannot be effected so long as resin is present. The jervia
must first be removed ; to effect this object, I took advantage of the
insolubility of nitrate of jervia in a solution of nitrate of potassium.
One part of pure jervia in 1000 parts of water (acetic solution) is pre-
cipitated almost immediately on addition of a solution of nitrate of
potassium in excess ; complete precipitation is not effected if any resin
is present. The precipitate is not soluble in excess of acetic acid ; it
dissolves on heating the solution, and crystallizes out on cooling.

Veratria, when dissolved in acetic acid, one part in sixty, the solu-
tion containing excess of acid, is not disturbed by addition of a solu-
tion of nitrate of potassium. If a large excess of the potassium solu-
tion is added, it causes a slight cloudiness, which does not disappear on
the application of heat. After standing twenty- four hours, no precip-
itation of the alkaloid takes place.

1 See Fresenius1 "Qualitative Analysis," American edition, 1865, page 404.

i5o

Veratrum Viride.

( Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ April, 1876.

A portion of the " veratroidia " was then digested in a solution of
caustic soda to remove as much resin as possible ; after washing, it was
dissolved in dilute acetic acid, precipitated by soda, washed, again dis-
solved in acetic acid, and a solution of nitrate of potassium added
(causing an immediate precipitate). After standing twelve hours, the
solution was filtered to free it from nitrate of jervia j addition of caustic
soda now produced but a small amount of precipitate, this had a light
yellow color and reacted as follows :

With sulphuric acid, an evanescent purple, changing immediately to
brown, then passing to a mahogany red.

With hydrochloric acid, in the cold, an immediate purple-pink ; on
heating, the color becomes greenish-yellow.1

The remainder of the product was then dissolved in acetic acid,
addition of nitrate of potassium again afforded the jervia reaction.

The color reactions, as shown, are of little value in determining the
presence of veratria mixed with jervia ; the continued precipitation
caused by nitrate of potassium, as the resin is more perfectly removed,
points to the conclusion that jervia and resin make up the product
called " veratroidia."

Experiment Second. — Having ascertained that muriate of jervia,
as also muriate of veratria, were soluble in a menstruum composed
of alcohol, one part, and water, two parts, acidulated with hydrochloric
acid, the following method of obtaining the products from the drug
was tried :

PART FIRST.

Take of Powdered veratrum viride root, . . 5 pounds

Clean sand, . . . 10 "

Alcohol, 95 per cent., . . .10 pints

Water, . . . 20 "

Hydrochloric acid, . . * • 7j fluidounces

The powdered root mixed with the sand was moistened with the
menstruum. After standing twenty-four hours it was transferred to a
glass percolator and displaced with the remainder of the menstruum.
Displacement was then continued with water until thirty pints of per-
colate was obtained. The alcohol was distilled off and the watery
solution evaporated to five pints. To this a solution of caustic soda
was added to decided alkaline reaction, to dissolve the resin and pre-

1 Pure veratria gives no color when dissolved in hydrochloric acid in the cold.

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
April, 1876. J

Veratrum Viride.

cipitate the alkaloids, and the whole thrown upon a filter of strong
paper. After draining off the dark liquor, the contents of the filter
were washed until the filtrate was almost without color. The solid
matter in the filter was then partially dried and digested in a warm
solution of acetic acid. After filtration the acetic solution was precip-
itated by soda, washed, pressed between folds of bibulous paper, and
digested in hot alcohol, with addition of a little animal charcoal. The
alcoholic solution was evaporated until precipitation commenced. On
cooling it formed an almost solid crystalline mass. When dry, this
product weighed eighty grains.

It was dissolved in dilute acetic acid, and an equal volume of cold
saturated solution of nitrate of potassium added, causing an abundant
precipitate. After separating the nitrate of jervia, the mother-water
was precipitated by soda, the precipitate washed, dried and digested in
washed ether. The etherial solution yielded a residue on evaporation
weighing about two grains. An examination of this product proved it
to be jervia mixed with resin.

PART SECOND.

After draining the liquid from the drug in the precolator displace-
ment was continued with strong alcohol, until the root was exhausted ;
two pints of water were added to the precolate, and the alcohol re-
moved by distillation. The resinous residue left on evaporation was
treated with a warm solution of caustic soda until the resin was dis-
solved, then diluted with water and set aside to settle. After decant-
ing the dark supernatant liquor, the precipitate was thrown upon a
filter, washed, treated with a solution of warm acetic acid, and the
acetic solution precipitated by soda. After washing and pressing be-
tween folds of paper, the precipitate was dissolved in hot alcohol and
digested with animal charcoal ; the alcoholic solution, on evaporation
and cooling, deposited the alkaloid in fleecy prismatic crystals, having
a rosy tinge of color. Washing in a filter, when nearly dry, with ether,
removed the coloring matter and left the product almost colorless. The
amount of alkaloid obtained was 42J grs. ; this added to the 80 grs.
obtained by the first process with hydrochloric acid and dilute alcohol,
gives 1 22 J grs. crystallized jervia as the yield from five pounds of root.
The examination for veratria was conducted as follows :
After most of the jervia had crystallized out from the alcoholic solu-
tion, and resinous and coloring matter commenced depositing, the solu-

I52

Veratrum Viride.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
April, 1876.

tion was evaporated to dryness, the product dissolved in warm dilute
acetic acid, and precipitated by a solution of nitrate of potassium. After
standing 24 hours to allow the nitrate of jervia to crystallize out, the
solution was filtered and precipitated by caustic soda, and the precipi-
tate washed with a warm solution of the alkali, which removed con-
siderable coloring matter. It was then redissolved in acetic acid, the
jervia again separated by nitrate of potassium, and the mother- water
precipitated by soda. This operation was performed the third time,
after which nitrate of potassium no longer caused a precipitate. When
heated on platinum foil the product burned with a smoky flame and
left a residue ; in dilute hydrochloric acid, it dissolved without effer-
vesence. Addition of ammonia (containing so little carbonate as not
to disturb a solution of acetate of lime) afforded an immediate precipi-
tate ; after separation of the precipitate, oxalate of ammonia afforded
the usual reaction for lime. The product was therefore lime-salts^
resin and some alkaloid. To separate these, the product was dissolved
in alcohol, filtered and evaporated to dryness ; this was treated with
ether until exhausted, and the ether allowed to evaporate spontaneously.
The residuum insoluble in the ether was fixed when tried in the flame.
The ether left, on evaporation, a central portion of white crystalline
product, with the upper margin surrounded by a non-crystalline, light-
colored resinous-looking matter. An examination of both of these
products separately gave no indication of the presence of veratria. The
whole of this ether product was then treated with dilute acetic acid ; a
turbid solution was obtained, with finely-divided insoluble matter sus-
pended (resin). After filtration, addition of a few drops of a solution
of nitrate of potassium gave an immediate precipitate of nitrate of jervia.

The Resin, which was dissolved by the solution of caustic soda,,
was precipitated by dilute sulphuric acid, well washed, dried, pow-
dered, and treated with rectified petroleum benzin ; the benzin solu-
tion left on evaporation a light-colored, fatty matter, which solidified
on cooling.

The resin was then treated with washed ether until exhausted ;
on evaporation, the ether left a dark red translucent resin. (This resin
was entirely insoluble in warm dilute acetic acid, but when triturated
with precipitated carbonate of lime, a portion afterwards dissolved with
the lime in acetic acid, and was precipitated with the lime on addition
of caustic soda, containing a little carbonate ; excess of soda did not

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
April, 1876. J

Veratrum Viride.

153

remove all the resin from the precipitated carbonate of lime. After
drying the precipitate, it yielded the resin to ether. This experiment
demonstrates the manner in which this resin follows the alkaloid con-
taining earthy salts in dissolving in acids, and precipitating with it on
addition of alkalies.)

The resin was dissolved in alcohol and digested with animal char-
coal, until most of the color was removed. The alcohol left, on evapo-
ration, a soft resin. This resin reacts with strong sulphuric acid*in a
manner well calculated to suggest the presence of veratria, — giving a
brownish-red color passing to a cherry-red, and finally to a mahogany
color. After standing some hours the solution looses its color and
carbonized particles separate.

To hydrochloric acid in the cold, this resin imparts a light pink
color.

The resin was treated with warm acetic acid, and found to contain
no alkaloid.

As the result of these experiments we find jervia to be the only alka-
loid in the root of veratrum viride. The so-called veratroidia is a mix-
ture of jervia with a light-colored resin ; the larger the amount of this
resin present, the greater will be the proportion of jervia taken up by
ether. In the first experiment we had eight grains dissolving in ether
out of thirty ; in the second, where the resin was more completely re-
moved by caustic soda, eighty grains yielded but two grains to ether.

The reaction of the alkaloid with sulphuric acid, hitherto considered
to indicate the presence of veratria, is due to a resin which is taken up
by ether, and which adheres with great persistence to the alkaloid, dis-
solving and precipitating with it.

The interesting question arises, to what are we to attribute the
marked difference in the physiological effects shown by experiments
made with jervia and " veratroidia ?" It must be attributed to the
resin — either per se or as modifying the effects of jervia. The subject
is worthy of further investigation.

To obtain jervia entirely white, the nitrate is decomposed by digest-
ing it with a solution of caustic soda, washing, redissolving in acetic
acid, precipitating by soda, dissolving in hot alcohol, evaporating and
crystallizing. It crystallizes in white prismatic crystals resembling sul-
phate of morphia. These crystals fuse at 3800 to 3850 F., and are
insoluble in ether. From acetic solution caustic alkalies, including

154 As arum Canadense. {AmXJPXx876.rm'

ammonia, precipitate jervia completely ; — the precipitate is insoluble in
an excess of these precipitants.1

ASARUM CANADENSE AS AN INDIGENOUS AROMATIC.

BY ALBERT H. VAN GORDER, PH.G.

[Extract from an Inaugural Essay.)
This officinal drug, which has been placed in the secondary list of
our " Pharmacopoeia," is known under the popular names of wild gin-
ger, Indian ginger, colt's foot root and Canada snake root, and is used
instead of ginger by the country people in some parts of New Eng-
land. On account of its medicinal properties, it has been noticed by
all our writers on native medicines ; but further than occupying a place
in our Materia Medica, it seems to be very little used in regular prac-
tice.

That the rhizome possesses properties adapting it to be classed with
the aromatic stimulants, is shown by its constituents, as given by Big-
elow, Rushton and Procter. According to Rushton, it contains gum,
starch, resin, fatty matter, chlorophyl, volatile oil, salts of lime, potassa
and iron, to which may be added lignin. Of the volatile oil he says :
" It is of a light greenish-yellow color, having a warm, slightly bitter-
ish aromatic taste, and contains all the virtues of the plant."

Wm. Procter, Jr., has extended our knowledge concerning the
volatile oil, and medicinal properties of the root. He says : u The
essential oil seems the most energetic element ; the root possessing
neither emetic nor cathartic properties, but is an aromatic stimulant
with diaphoretic powers. It contains neither asarite or asarum cam-
phor, nor substances analogous to them." It is thus seen to possess
none of the emetic or cathartic properties of its congener, the Asarum
Europaeum, which would render it unfit for use as an aromatic.

It would seem strange that, possessing, as this root does, such pleas-
ant and strongly aromatic properties, its use should be so limited.
Doubtless, this neglect is, in a great measure, owing to the want of

1 After completing these examinations, my friend, George J. Scattergood, kindly
placed in my hands his original notes, with samples of the products obtained by
him from Veratrum viride in 1862. The products marked " veratria," I found to
be jervia mixed with the peculiar resin which gives a mahogany red color with sul-
phuric [acid. They correspond with the product called " veratroidia," an exami-
nation of which was one of the objects of the present investigation.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
April, 1876. j"

As arum Canadense.

suitable pharmaceutical preparations which might be offered to the
physician. If the aromatic properties of this drug, which is easily ob-
tainable, can be exhibited in such a way as to be substituted for the
more costly ones now used in so many of our officinal preparations,
there can be no reason why it should not be done, for it would cer-
tainly afford these preparations at a much less cost to the pharmacist.

Joseph L. Lemberger (" Proceedings Am. Pharm. Asso.," vol. xvii,
page 382) recommends the substitution of asarum and calamus for the
cardamom in extract, colocynth. comp., and says, " We can easily dis-
pose of cardamom, and substitute some of our indigenous aromatics."

With a view of making some pharmaceutical preparations of asarum
which might serve the physician as a vehicle or adjuvant, the writer
has made several experiments, the results of which he submits to ex-
amination. Before attempting the preparations, however, experiments
were made, in order to become better acquainted with the constituents
furnishing the aromatic properties of the root.

Eight ounces of the dried root was ground, and macerated with five
pints of water for twenty-four hours ; introduced into a copper still,
and two pints distilled over. This distillate was of a milky appear-
ance, having a layer of volatile oil on top. The volatile oil being
separated, the water was saturated with sodium chloride and redistilled
as long as the second distillate came over odorous — amounting to one
and a-half pints. The second distillate was slightly milky, having
small oil globules on the surface. The oil being separated by means
of a pipette, the water was again treated with sodium chloride, and dis-
tilled. This time twelve ounces were obtained, having odor and taste
of volatile oil. The small portion of oil floating on this distillate was
separated, and the water, for the third time, saturated with sodium
chloride and distilled. After four ounces were recovered, the water
passed over odorless and tasteless. The oil floating on this fourth dis-
tillate was in such minute quantity as to be with difficulty separated.
The volatile oil thus obtained amounted to 2 per cent, of the root
employed, and corresponded to the description given of it by Rushton
and Procter.

The mother-liquor left in the still after each operation, consisting of
a saturated solution of sodium chloride, was found to still contain or-
ganic matter. Four portions were agitated with ether, chloroform,
gasolin and bisulphide of carbon, respectively, each separated, and

G

As arum Canadense.

{Am. Jour. Pharm.
April, 1876.

evaporated spontaneously, leaving, in each case, a slight residue. Ether
appearing to be the best solvent, the whole of the mother-liquor was
agitated with it, the supernatant liquid separated, evaporated spon-
taneously, residue dissolved in alcohol, and again evaporated. A soft
resinous product was thus obtained, neutral to test-paper, having a
strong, agreeable odor, entirely different from the volatile oil, and pe-
culiar to itself. It possessed a warm, pungent taste, quite lasting. The
amount of this principle obtained was too small to institute any further
experiments. It would seem from this, however, that we are not to
look upon the essential oil as the only volatile constituent representing
the aromatic properties of the root ; for this new volatile principle,
although in very small quantity, exhibited its characteristics in a very
distinct manner, thereby being easily distinguished from the volatile oil.

In addition to these volatile principles, asarum also contains con-
siderable amount of a resin which is by no means inactive. In pre-
paring a fluid extract and tincture, alcohol was used as menstruum, for
the purpose of obtaining all this resin. Using ether as menstruum, an
oleo-resin was first prepared.

Eight troyounces of the dried root, sufficiently fine to pass through
a No. 40 sieve, was precolated with stronger ether, until the precolate
passed through colorless. The greater portion of ether was recovered
by distillation, the remainder evaporated spontaneously, leaving an oleo-
resin of a liquid consistence, amounting to 10 per cent., by weight, of
the root employed, and possessing all the properties of the drug.

A fluid extract was made according to directions given by Parrish,
in his second-class of fluid extracts.

Several tinctures were prepared, using different proportions of alco-
hol and water ; but alcohol (sp. gr. '835) seemed to afford the best
menstruum. The strength of the tincture made was four ounces to
the pint.

From the fluid extract two syrups were made, one possessing the
virtues of the resin, as well as the volatile oil, while the other was
deprived of the resin by trituration with magnesium carbonate. A
marked difference was to be observed in the taste as well as appear-
ance of these two syrups. The one freed from resin was, of course,
much the handsomer, being transparent and of a dark amber color,
while the one containing the resin, although of a lighter color, was
hardly transparent. The first syrup would be the best for use where

Am. Jour.Pharm. )
April, 1876 /

Syrup of Ferrous Iodide.

J57

only a flavoring ingredient is wanted ; but where something is needed
to disguise the taste of a medicine prescribed, the syrup containing the
resin would answer an excellent purpose, as it has a very strong taste,
precisely like that of the root, and at the same time so pleasant as to
be agreeable to the taste of almost every one.

The preparation of the above syrups may be comprised in the fol-
lowing formulae :

Syrup of As arum (first process).
Fl. ext. of asarum, . . . . f^i

White sugar, ..... ^xv
Water, ..... f^viii

Triturate one-half the sugar with the fluid extract, and heat moder-
ately to evaporate the alcohol. Add the remainder of the sugar, then
the water ; raise to boiling point, and strain.

This gives rather more than a pint of syrup of a light color, and
with only a slight turbidity.

Syrup of Asarum (second process.)

Fl. ext. of asarum, ..... f^i
Magnesium carbonate, .... grs. cxx
White sugar, ..... ^xv

Water, ..... f 3 viii

Rub the fluid extract with the carbonate of magnesium and a small
quantity of sugar, and then with the water, gradually added, and filter.
To the filtered liquid add the remainder of the sugar, dissolve with the
aid of a gentle heat, and strain.

NOTE ON SYRUP OF FERROUS IODIDE.

BY J. F. JUDGE.

(Read before the Cincinnati College of Pharmacy.)

When proper care is taken in the preparation of Syrup of Ferrous
Iodide, a product is obtained of a pale green tint, which, if kept in full
and well stopped bottles, does not change color ; but it occasionally
happens that from some defect or other in the process, the syrup does
not retain its pale green, but assumes a brownish hue.

Some years since, hyposulphite of sodium was proposed as an agent
capable of restoring the syrup, when discolored, to its normal tint. In
producing this change, sodium hyposulphite, by its affinity for oxygen,
passes into sodium sulphate, and in so doing parts with one-half of
the sulphur it contains, thus : Na2S203+H20+I2=Na2S04+2HI+S.

Syrup of Ferrous Iodide.

Am. Jour. Pharm:
April, 1876.

The sulphur precipitates in minute division and remains suspended in
the syrup, rendering it turbid and nearly as unsightly as before the
treatment with the hyposulphite.

About two years ago, I had some syrup of ferrous iodide which had
changed color, and desiring to restore it to its original greenish tint, I
did not feel disposed to use hyposulphite of sodium, because of the
precipitate of sulphur already mentioned. In thinking upon the matter,
I concluded that hypophosphorous acid, having like affinity for oxygen,
would perform a similar work to that effected by the hyposulphite. I,
therefore, added to a sample of my colored syrup a few drops of
hypophosphorous acid (P. & W.'s), shook the bottle, and allowed it to
stand a short time, and examined it, when it was found to have re-
sumed the proper color, and the syrup was perfectly clear; I then
treated the whole of the discolored syrup with hypophosphorous acid
with like satisfactory results. The chemistry of these reactions will
be readily understood by the following equations :

HPH202+I2+H20=2HI+H3POs, or
HPH202+I4+2H20=4HI+H3P04, or
HPH202-f2Fe2OI4=4FeI2+H3P04.
There are on the table two small bottles of syrup of ferrous iodide
taken from one lot ; to one has been added a few drops of hypophos-
phorous acid, and its color is normal, the other is exhibited for com-
parison, showing the change of color.

If, after making syrup of ferrous iodide, it is observed that it has a
slight olive tint in place of the pure pale green ; this may be removed
by the addition of a small quantity of solution of hypophosphorous acid,
and upon introducing some clean, small nails or wire, and allowing it to
stand awhile, small bubbles of gas (hydrogen) will be observed accumu-
lating on the surface of the nails, and if the bottle is moved these will
pass up through the syrup ; the nails react with the hydriodic acid
(formed as explained in the foregoing equations), with the liberation of
hydrogen and production of ferrous iodide. Syrup thus treated is not
prone to become discolored soon again.

It is not my intention to propose that hypophosphorous acid be in-
troduced as a regular constituent of syrup of ferrous iodide, for I am
opposed to tampering with officinal formulas ; but I do suggest it as a
remedy for the difficulty, when syrup of the iodide of iron changes
color.

AmXJPrii%P876a.rm-} The Pill Subject. i 59

4

THE PILL SUBJECT.

BY JOSEPH P. REMINGTON.

The article, by the writer, on the "Ready-made Pills of our day,"
which was published in the recent Proceedings of the American Pharm-
aceutical Association, seems to have caused a disturbance in the
ranks of the pill fraternity, more particularly, however, to some inter-
ested in the high-pressure lenticulars, who no doubt, find it up-hill
work to force them upon the market, and who grow restive under
criticism.

The results, as published in the paper above mentioned, having been
the subject of so much misconstruction, it has been deemed best to
reproduce the principal portions of the paper, in order that a clearer
understanding may be had concerning it.

After the preface, the following occurs :

" Realizing the fact that a fair absolute test of solubility that would
be applicable to all the varied conditions of the fluids of the stomach,
whether acid, alkaline, or neutral, would be an impossibility, it was
thought best to take temperature, acidity, alkalinity, and digestive
power into consideration, and from this range a tolerably fair judgment
might be arrived at.

" Taking, then, fair samples of the best pills that the market afforded
the following experiments were made : (See page 160.)

" An examination of the results as tabulated shows that the plain
un coated pill is to be preferred in point of solubility ; that next in order
the sugar-coated pill comes ; then the compressed, and lastly the
gelatin-coated.

" It was thought advisable to try, along with the comparative
tests, the Cachet de Pain under the same circumstances, and it
will be seen that this method of coating powders and pills is
superior to any in point of permitting the medicine to dissolve or digest
readily."

A careful examination of these remarks in connection with the table
of Relative Solubilities, which is reprinted just as it occurs in the " Pro-
ceedings," will convince most of the readers of the u Journal " who
take sufficient interest in the subject, that the conclusions arrived at
were correctly deduced from the results of the experiment ; and it is
the intention to pursue the inquiry further, and report at a future time.

A recent review of the article by a friend and neighbor (page 121,
March number, "Am. Jour. Pharmacy ") contains some inaccuracies,
which may be usefully corrected.

160 The Pill Subject.

("Am. Jour Pharm.
( April, 1876.

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
April, 1876. j

The Pill Subject.

161

This critic complains, firstly, that a pill made with glycerin as an
excipient, is not a fair criterion of the uncoated ready-made pill of our
day. In reply to this the writer would say that he has taken the trou-
ble to inquire of a number of pharmacists as to the excipient used by
them for pills which they expect to keep for a greater or lesser length
of time, and he finds that the majority use glycerin, either by itself or
in combination, and the reason is obvious — to keep the pill in a soft or
friable condition, so as to secure ready disintegration, and the belief
that this method of making a pill, represented the best kind of ready-
made pill of our day, has been further confirmed.

He states, secondly, " that he should have given the preference to the
compressed pills, as it appears in his tables that they were the only ones dis-
solved; all the others were only disintegrated.

This statement in point of fact is not correct, as a glance at my
table will show, the word dissolved having been used twice, not in rela-
tion to compressed pills, but in the last column of the Pil. Quiniae
Sulph. table the word will be seen twice, connected with the plain and
sugar-coated pill.

The reason the word was used at all, in alluding to the compressed
quinia pill, is simply because this form of quinia pill could not possibly,
under the circumstances, be forced to disintegrate. is a hard mass,
and it is its habit to dissolve slowly from the outside, the pill growing
smaller and smaller until it finally disappears, whilst the plain and
sugar-coated pills usually disintegrated quickly.

The disintegration of the pill must soon be followed by solution or
digestion, if the stomach contains any fluids (as most stomachs do), and
the mass of which the pill is composed is capable of being acted upon.

The next complaint is, "In the case of the uncoated compound cathar-
tic pill, Mr. Remington uses the indefinite and impractical expression of
Gone in fifteen minutes. This implies a perfect solution of the pill, and
when we take the ingredients into consideration, we know that they cannot
be wholly dissolved in a weak alkaline solution.

My friend has been led astray again. Here, the expression " Gone
in 15 minutes" expresses the fact exactly. The pill, as a pill, was
gone. My table has it, Plain uncoated pill, gone in 15 minutes. It
had disappeared. There is no warrant whatever for his statement that
a a perfect solution of the pill was implied" and the only object of using
this admittedly odd expression was to avoid the incorrect one of dis-
solved.

1 1

i6i

The Pill Subject.

J Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ April, 1876.

But let us look for a moment at my friend's table, on page 124 of
the March number (before quoted). It is headed, Comparative table,
showing the time required for dissolving1 the different makes of pills, as
enumerated, in water, at 10001 Fahrenheit, and in a solution corres-
ponding to the gastric juice, at ioo° Fahrenheit.

Under it, by casting the eye down the first column, we see, not only
the compound cathartic pill dissolved 'in plain warm water, without the use
of even weak alkali, but rhubarb, compound rhubarb, and, worse than
either, aloes and mastiche ; and this error is repeated in many places,
in these and in other cases throughout his table.

How was the solution of the rhubarb, mastiche, calomel, etc., etc.,
in plain water accomplished ?

A curious error in this connection occurs again in my critic's table, on
page 124. The second pill on the list is called Pil. Quiniae bisulph., 2 gr.,
and it is under the column officinal. (?) The time taken to dissolve this
pill is set down as 45 minutes, in water, temp. ioo°.

He himself defines a regular officinal ready-made pill of the shop as
one usually made in strict accordance with the ingredients and excipi-
ents directed in the United States "Pharmacopoeia." See page 1 21
(12th line in article).

Now, in what edition of our national authority does he find this pill
officinal ? and how could he use officinal ingredients and excipients for
it, when such a pill does not exist in our " Pharmacopoeia" ?

The next attempted criticism is in relation to the shaking every
three minutes in the case of the gelatin coated pill. It will be observed
that the time referred to here (18 hours) is in the first case connected
with a distinct sentence, for it says, Quinine not all dissolved in 18
hours, and in the second case, Pill retains its shape for 24 hours.

It may be said, also, that as this was a comparative test, as soon as
the position of the pill was determined in the race the point was set-
tled, and although the time occupied in making the experiments did
extend far into the night, the terms 18 and 24 hours do not fully express
the full time that it did take to disintegrate the pills in their respective
liquids, the actual time being much longer, but are added as explanatory
notes.

The next point as to how temperature can be maintained is not
worthy of consideration, and was not stated in the paper because the
writer believed that every member of the American Pharmaceutical As-
sociation knew how to manage such a simple thing as this.

1 Italics, mine.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
April, 1876. J

The Pill Subject.

163

My critic's next subject of attack — the object of the representation
of the cut of the pill machine for making the third-rate pill — is best
answered by quoting from the original paper the statement, which is (re-
ferring to the compressed pill), that

" The powerful pressure, often brought to bear to cause the dry materials to co-
here, often operates unfavorably in this variety of pill, except in a few instances
where the ingredient is readily soluble, as bisulphate quinia, bromide or iodide of
potassium, etc., etc.

" It may not be known that this variety can be made readily by the pharmacist
himself, if he so desires, by having a mechanic make a simple piece of apparatus.
" Take a solid cylinder of iron," etc., etc.,

and then follows a description of how to make a pill-press.

How my friend can construe the above, so as to cause him to make
the statement, " That Mr. Remington really intended to endorse the
compressed pills as superior to all other ready-made pills of our day,"
is a mystery.

My friend objects to the opinion advanced that the pressure used in
making a compressed pill interferes with its solubility, and puts forward
a microscopical examination to prove his position, and he finds that
under the microscope they are quite porous. What does " quite
porous " mean, were the pores measured by a micrometer ? Did he
try the plain, sugar-coated or gelatin- coated pill, under the same
power, for relative porosity, and, if so, why were the results not
given. The fact is that pores are very plainly visible {without the use
of the microscope), when either the plain, sugar-coated or gelatin-
coated pills are broken open, as any one may prove easily.

The last point which my neighbor finds fault with is the simple
process of shaking, employed by the writer.

It was not pretended that the pills were subjected to exactly this
method of treatment when in the stomach, but it was believed that if
" fair samples of the best pills that the market afforded " were placed
in various liquids, and all agitated in a similar manner, that a tolerably
fair comparative test would be afforded. Yet, how inconsistent is my
friend. He objects to agitation, and yet attaches four bottles, loaded
with quinia pills and water, to the eccentric rod of an upright steam-
engine, speeded up to 350 revolutions a minute, and of course it ends
in bringing out his favorite so-called patent pill ahead of all others ;
but does he not entirely stultify his results by his next few sentences,
when he says " the digestive process of the stomach is not agitation,
but more properly a churning or circulatory displacement process, quiet
but continuous in its mode of operation " ? Would it not follow
most naturally that if these were his conscientious views on the sub-
ject of digestive or peristaltic action, that, instead of the eccentric rod
of an upright steam-engine, speeded up to 350 revolutions a minute,
the proper apparatus would have been an old-fashioned churn revolving
once, say, in '350 minutes, quiet and continuous in its mode of opera-
tion, or a circulatory displacer ?

164

Cachets de Pain.

< Am. Jour. Pharm
I April, 1876.

CACHETS DE PAIN.

BY ANDREW BLAIR, PH.G.

I have read the article in the March " Journal " headed " Cachets
de Pain," by H. P. Lechler, Ph.G., and extend my sympathy to him
in his unfortunate experience with the article. He has described
correctly the manner of preparing these wafers, but his manipulations
have not been successful ; still he should not on this account condemn
the whole arrangement, when hundreds of others will testify to their
success in preparing them and the great satisfaction given both to phy-
sicians and patients by the use of them. I desire to add a word on the
subject which my friend <c hopes will be referred to as a thing of the
past." I do not intend or wish to argue that these wafers will be or
ever were intended as a substitute on " all " occasions for the usual
pills or powders ; but there are cases, not unfrequent, where the phy-
sician wishes to give a nauseous or bitter dose, the taste of which he
would like to disguise. In such cases these wafers answer the purpose
admirably. I will refer to the different points mentioned by Mr. Lech-
ler, who I feel has not been correctly informed as to the proper way of
preparing and giving directions for taking these wafers, hoping it may
enable those who have had like experience with him to dispense the
article with more satisfaction to themselves and their customers.

Mr. Lechler declares that it takes at least five times as long to pre-
pare twelve cachets as to prepare the same number of powders or pills.
Our experience has been very different. We have prepared thousands
of them since they were first introduced, and the time required has
been very little if any more than for folding the same number of pow-
ders. The complaint that the discs adhere to the press, indicates that
the dies are not clean, or have become wet by the excess of moisture
spoken of by Mr. Lechler. All kinds of apparatus and machinery,
ever so complete and perfect in their different parts, require more or
less skill and judgment on the part of the operator. Sealing corks
with a metal stamp and sealing-wax is a very simple operation, and
makes a beautiful, smooth impression, when properly done ; but by
continued use the stamp gets warm, and the wax begins to stick to it ;
now, if the operator persists in trying to make a good impression, he
will fail every time till he cleans and cools the stamp. So, also, in
using the wafer machine. Careful drying after they are removed from
the press is not necessary if properly prepared. I have seen quinine

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
April, 1876. t

Cachets de Pain.

165

wafers prepared by the hundred and thrown into a large bottle imme-
diately as they were taken from the press, without adhering to each
other in any instance. There is no occasion at any time to have an
excess of moisture on the rim of the wafers if the proper appliances are
used. There is to be had what is called a " Cachet Machine," which
has among its several parts a "Wetter," suited to each of the three sizes
of wafers ; also, a " Wetting Pad," by the use of which just the proper
quantity of moisture is applied, and in just the proper place around the
rim of the wafer. If my friend has used a brush to accomplish this
(as I have known some to do), I can easily account for the excess of
moisture he speaks of.

The tendency to cause a rupture, as referred to, is very rare, if ua
little " care is used in handling them, and it is taken into consideration
that a slight pressure of the hand on the press is all that is needed to
secure the edges of the discs to each other. In regard to the direc-
tions for the patient — "to simply dip the wafer in water, then with
the fingers put it on the tongue, and swallow with a draught of water,"
is not correct, and will occasion many failures in attaining the object
for which they are intended. The mere dipping in water is not suffi-
cient to make them soft and pliable ; and if they are held long enough
to accomplish this, they become so glutinous that the least pressuse of
the finger would cause a rupture.

The proper directions are : Place a wafer in a spoonful of water,
let remain a few seconds, till soft, then swallow altogether. " If nec-
essary," it might be well to add " the patient need not swallow the
spoon." In regard to the physicians not giving the proper directions
for taking them, this can, and should be remedied by every intelligent
apothecary, namely, have the above directions printed on a small label,
and placed on the box, in addition to the usual ]^ label. Given accord-
ing to these directions, Cachets become soft and pliable, accommodate
themselves to the shape of the throat and afford no discomfort or
inconvenience to the patient. A child can take the large size without
trouble.

Any one, physician or patient, seeing a new thing, for the first time,
without any explanation, in many cases will be perfectly ignorant of
its use or mode of operation, and, for want of a proper explanation,
it may fall into disrepute. This, no doubt, has often been the case
with Cachets.

i66

Practical Notes.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
April, 1876.

I heard an intelligent physician, when shown these wafers the first
time, remark, " Why, you don't expect any one to swallow those big
buttons, those rough edges would scratch a man's throat," but when it
was explained how they were used, and he had actually swallowed one,
he changed his tune and left the store with the remark, " They are
excellent for the purpose they are intended."

The claim of the inventor of Cachets, that, by their use, two
separate salts can be introduced into the stomach, and there form
another salt, is verily true. The combinations made use of by Mr.
Lechler have enabled him to show (in these instances only), the
absurdity of the claim. I do not know if any of his friends in the
medical profession are in the habit of directing a Seidlitz powder to be
taken thus, the white powder to be taken first, and the blue one imme-
diately after, in order to have the tartrate of soda in a nascent state in
the stomach. I do not recollect any instance where a physician has
desired to prescribe mixtures that would produce such evolution of
carbonic acid in the stomach as those mentioned by Mr. Lechler, and,
therefore, do not consider it a fair test. There are many instances
where the claim can, and has been, successfully brought into use.

I have written these lines solely with a desire to show the friends in
pharmacy that there are some good qualities in these wafers, and that
they answer an excellent purpose in many cases.

PRACTICAL NOTES.

BY GUSTAVE C. RACHER.

Medicated Waters. — As medicated waters are very apt to spoil, I
conceived, two years ago, the idea of substituting glycerin for magne-
sia. I was successful with the experiment so far, and therefore lay it
before the profession for consideration. The formula is the following :

Volatile oil, ..... %ss

Glycerin (pure), %n
Mix by succussion, add

Distilled water, ..... ^ii

Mix and transfer to a filter, adding through it the requisite quantity
of water.

Adulteration of Balsam of Peru. — A simple test, by which even a
small addition of castor oil to the balsam may be detected, is the fol-
lowing :

Am. Jour. Pharm. ")
April, 1876. J

The Division of Poisons.

167

Put ten drops of suspected balsam in a mortar, and rub it quickly
with half a fluidrachm of sulphuric acid for one minute ; add then half
a fluidounce of water, keeping rubbing briskly for two minutes longer.
Take the resulting black mass out, put it on a piece of filtering-paper,
in order to detach the adhering diluted sulphuric acid. When the
balsam is pure, it will give a quickly-hardening black, after an hour,
brittle mass ; but when the balsam is mixed with castor oil, the re-
sulting mass will stay tenacious, stick to the fingers, and resemble soft,
black pitch.

Carrollton, La., February, 1876.

THE DIVISION OF POISONS.

BY WALTER E. BIBBY, PH. G.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, March 2.1st.)

As a large number of the medicines prescribed by physicians of the
present day are very poisonous, it devolves upon the pharmacist to exer-
cise the greatest care and caution in compounding prescriptions contain-
ing such poisonous substances as strychnia, hydrarg. chlor. cor.,
arsenious acid, narcotic extracts, etc. It often occurs that physicians
prescribe these remedies in minute doses for children, aged persons and
delicate females ; it is, therefore, exceedingly important that they should
not receive a fraction over the quantity prescribed.

The greatest care and attention should be given to this class of
prescriptions, so that, when a third is prescribed, a half grain may not
be given, which, in all probability, would result very seriously, or pro-
duce a condition of affairs entirely different from that anticipated by the
physician ; moreover, the uncertainty attending the weighing of frac-
tions of grains by ordinary scales, renders it necessary for the pharma-
cist to first weigh one grain and then divide this into the quantity
prescribed, in other words, virtually guess at the quantity.

To remedy this, and at the same time, secure to physicians and
pharmacists absolute certainty, I would recommend that trituration of
the poisons in common use be made of such a strength that each grain
of the trituration shall represent a certain quantity of the poison, and
the trituration be made only with sugar of milk. The reasons for
using this substance are various. In the first place, sugar of milk is
a harmless, hard, gritty, odorless and almost tasteless substance. It is

1 68 Remarks on Iron Salts. { Am^

less liable to attract moisture from the atmosphere than any other sub-
stance; in fact, it posesses all the qualities desired for making a perfect
trituration. The proportion I would suggest are one grain of the
poisonous substance to seven grains of sugar of milk, making in all,
eight grains, — the whole to be thoroughly triturated. The process of
trituration is too well known to pharmacists to require elucidation in
this article, and they are also well aware how important it is to carry
out this process in an exact and careful manner.

Now, when a physician writes for a quarter of a grain of arsenious
acid, all that is necessary is to weigh two grains of the trituration, and
you have the quarter of a grain desired. This method I hold to be
the safest in weighing poisons — a method by which very small frac-
tions of grains may be obtained, — and where children, the aged or very
delicate are interested, to be one of precision. The physician can also
prescribe with a feeling of certainty when using those poisonous sub-
stances in this trituration, and he may have the assurance that, when
he prescribes the one quarter of a grain, he obtains that amount, — for
the reason, that two grains of any substance will turn the beam of an
ordinary scale more readily than a quarter of a grain. I have, seen
scales in some of our first-class stores on which the half of a grain
could not be weighed with any degree of certainty, but on which two
or four grains could be weighed with accuracy.

Likewise, the pharmacist can be more expeditious in dispensing his
order, thereby rendering the sick a prompt, safe and reliable prescrip-
tion, and one exactly in accordance with the physician's wants.

REMARKS ON IRON SALTS IN THE FORM OF SCALES.

BY G. H. CHAS. KLIE.

These preparations are all obtained by spreading the thick, syrupy
liquid of the several salts on glass or marble, and letting it dry in the
open air, or, which is preferable on account of being more expeditious,
in a drying chamber. They are handsome and elegant in appearance^
and their successful preparation gives great satisfaction to the preparer.
In the following, I desire to give some of my observations regarding
these preparations, noted down while making them.

The " U. S. Pharmacopoeia " gives formulae for the preparation of
seven. They are : Ferri citras, ferri et ammonii citras, ferri et am-

Am. Jour. Pharm.
April, 1876.

Remarks on Iron Salts.

169

monii tartras, ferri et potassii tartras, ferri et quiniae citras, ferri et
strychniae citras and ferri pyrophosphas. There are others, obtained in
the same form as these, but not officinal. I propose to confine my re-
marks to the above-mentioned, exclusively.

Except pyrophosphate of iron, they all have oxide of iron for base.
This is made from the solution of tersulphate of iron, by precipitating
with water of ammonia. To obtain a perfect oxide of iron free from
discoloration, a solution of tersulphate of iron is used, in which all
sulphate of iron is perfectly oxidized. In preparing the solution, this
is ascertained by taking a small quantity, diluting with water, and add-
ing water of ammonia in excess. If a clear, reddish-brown precipitate
results, oxidation is complete, but, if it is discolored, brownish-black,
with dirty gray, nitric acid is added to the hot solution, drop by drop,
until the disengagement of nitrous acid gas ceases, when the oxidation
will be found to be complete, and the precipitate obtained without dis-
coloration. The precipitated oxide of iron is washed until the wash-
ings pass nearly tasteless, or if wanted perfectly pure, first wash with
water, and finally with distilled water, until the washings cease to pro-
duce a precipitate with chloride of barium.

The magma of oxide ^of iron is dissolved in citric acid at a temper-
ature not exceeding 1400 F., and evaporated at the same temperature,
to form citrate of iron. This salt dissolves with difficulty in cold, but
more readily in warm water.

Ammonio-citrate of iron is prepared by adding a sufficient quantity of
water of ammonia to neutralize the acid solution of citrate of iron.
This neutralization renders an otherwise difficultly soluble salt readily
soluble in cold water.

In tartrate of iron and ammonium, oxide of iron is dissolved in a
neutralized solution of bitartrate of ammonium. The " Pharmacopoeia "
says, " slowly soluble," which is so, it being rather slowly soluble.

Tartrate of iron and potassium is made by dissolving oxide of iron
in the free tartaric acid of bitartrate of potassium or cream of tartar.
The " Pharmacopoeia " says, " wholly soluble in water." I find it,
prepared strictly according to the formula, slowly soluble in cold water,
the solution depositing a copious precipitate.

Citrate of iron and quinia is prepared by dissolving a certain quan-
tity of quinia in solution of citrate of iron. The iC Pharmacopoeia "
says of the salt, " slowly soluble in cold water," which is in truth so ;
in fact, it is too slowly soluble.

170

Remarks on Iron Salts.

( Am. Jour. Pharm.
t April, 1876.

In citrate of iron and strychnia, strychnia is dissolved in a solution
of citrate of iron and ammonium. The dry salt is readily soluble in
cold water.

For pyrophosphate of iron, instead of water of ammonia a solution
of pyrophosphate of soda is used as precipitant. The precipitated
pyrophosphate of iron is thoroughly washed, for if any considerable
quantity of sulphate of sodium should remain, it will, when the salt is
dried, effloresce and destroy its characteristic appearance. The mag-
ma of pyrophosphate of iron is dissolved in a neutral solution of citrate
of ammonium. Although the " Pharmacopoeia " says, " it is wholly
and freely soluble in water," I find it, in reality, very slowly soluble
in cold water.

I have often made these several preparations, and those that dissolve
readily in cold water always gave entire satisfaction ; but the tartrate of
iron and ammonium, tartrate of iron and potassium, citrate of iron and
quinia and pyrophosphate of iron, although made strictly according to
the formulae of the "Pharmacopoeia," and were unexceptional in ap-
pearance, still their solubility, when compared with that of the same
preparations purchased from the wholesale manufacturing chemist, was
invariably found inferior. This proved very discouraging, and for a
long time I could not find out how to remedy the defect. All the
certainty I gained was, that the wholesale manufacturing chemist had
a method of making these preparations readily soluble in cold water, of
which the " Pharmacopoeia " mentioned nothing. All at once the
thought occurred to me : If citrate of iron, so difficult of solution in
cold water, is, by the addition of water of ammonium, rendered readily
soluble, why should not the other salts, having the same defect, be
rendered just as soluble by the same addition ? I followed up the idea,
and found it entirely successful. The water of ammonia is invariably
added after final filtration, before evaporating to a syrupy consistence.
Care must be taken, however, not to add too much, especially to
citrate of iron and quinia. If too much is added to this preparation the
quinia will be precipitated, although it may be redissolved by the grad-
ual addition of small quantities of citric acid. If the solutions of the
different salts are tested before evaporation, before making the addition
of water of ammonia, they will be found to react decidedly acid, and
it seems this free acid occasions the difficult solubility of the dry salt.

If the quantities in the formula for tartrate of iron and potassium of

Am- fc xP876arm' } So- Called Tasteless Iron Compounds. 1 7 1

the " Pharmacopoeia " are taken as given, it will require about 3 fl. ozs-
of water of ammonia for neutralization of the free acid, and rendering
the salt soluble, the product weighing about 8 ozs. avoi. It requires
about the same quantity for the others, but litmus paper is the surest
and best test.

N. St. Louis, Mo., March 19th, 1876.

THE INVERSE SYNTHESIS OF THE SO-CALLED TASTELESS IRON

COMPOUNDS.

BY R. ROTHER.

The theory that a ferric salt, as, for instance, the chloride, should
directly combine, upon the principle of salification, with a normal
monad salt of a polybasic vegetable acid, conflicts with all chemical
laws, and neither the old dualistic hypothesis or the new typal theory
can embrace or comprehend it. It is equally a failure on the plan of
the compound salts, since double, triple and quadruple salts, properly
so called, are respectively derived from dibasic, tribasic and tetrabasic
acids when each unit of equivalency is separately saturated by a distinct
basilous radical. It is likewise inadmissible of classification with an-
other category of compound salts, the reverse of the preceding, which
the writer denominates secondary, tertiary and quarternary, according
to the atomicity of the basic radical, whose independent units of equiv-
alency are separately saturated by corresponding acid radicals.

By the laws of chemical affinity, ferric chloride in aqueous contact
with normal potassium citrate, can no longer exist as such, because the
ferric molecule, feebly replacing the basic hydrogen of the chlorhydric
acid, finds itself superseded by a more perfect base, whose affinity is
greater for the stronger chlorous than citric radical. Therefore potas-
sium chloride and ferric citrate must result. A mixture of ferric chlo-
ride and tripotassic citrate in certain proportions becomes green, and it
was found that twice the equivalent amount of monad citrate was
required to produce that result. Nothing was, however, mentioned of
the intermediate change, and the belief was permitted to prevail that
the final green is the only color that appears. The writer has, how-
ever, noticed that the pale yellow ferric chloride solution assumes, in
contact with the citrate, a preliminary red, which, by continued addi-
tion of the citrate, gradually and completely changes into green. Ow-
ing to the rather strong character of the citric radical and its tendency

172 So-Called Tasteless Iron Compounds. \Km^^T'

to form double salts, the latter property is exerted before entire double
decomposition is effected ; hence, in order to insure this completely,
sufficient monad citrate must be present to form double salt with the
ferric citrate to be produced. This is very clearly seen from the fol-
lowing equation :

Fe2Cl6+4(K3C6H507)=6(KCl)+2(FeC6H5OrK3C6H607).

On evaporating the solution containing the mixture represented by
the second member of this equation, a greenish-white granular mass is
obtained. Since potassium chloride is not sufficiently soluble in alco-
hol to effect a separation, the writer proposed to eliminate it by means
of dialysis. A capacious parchment filter, containing the concentrated
solution, was suspended in pure water, and after a few moments a
strong exosmotic current of heavy liquid was seen descending from
the apex of the cone. After about six hours, the powerful endosmotic
current had nearly filled the dialyser which at first was scarcely one-
third full. The diffusate had assumed a yellowish tint, showing that a
trace of iron had also passed ; but on concentration the potassium
chloride began to crystallize abundantly, and on evaporation to dryness
a crystalline residue of potassium chloride was obtained, corresponding
to over § of the theoretical yield. Having found the parchment filter
too inconvenient, the writer again concentrated the liquid in the dia-
lyser, placed it into a capacious wide-mouthed bottle, then tied over
the mouth with pig's bladder previously washed in very dilute ammo-
nia, and inverted the bottle into a vessel containing pure water. The
dialysis now proceeded more satisfactorily, since the endosmotic cur-
rent was nearly overcome by the tension of the atmosphere within the
bottle. A slight increase of the volume of the diffusum was, how-
ever, noticed, and the consequent compression of the enclosed air dis-
tended the membrane considerably.

The dialysis was discontinued after about 48 hours, having in the
mean time changed the diffusate frequently. The colloidal remnant of the
diffusum was then tested for chlorine with argentic nitrate, after strong
acidulation with nitric acid, when only an opalescence appeared, show-
ing that complete removal of the potassium chloride had taken place,
whilst the green color of the residual liquid remained unchanged.

The iodide was then subjected to dialysis. As the writer had already
separated the potassium iodide by means of alcohol, a trial with dialy-
sis seemed really superfluous ; but, as it had been intimated that free

AmAp°r^x876a.rm'} So-Called Tasteless Iron Compounds. 173

iodine made its appearance in the diffusate, the writer undertook the
experiment. The compound was prepared, but it was observed that,
owing to the carbonaceous character of the iron filings, a small quan-
tity of iodine had been converted into iodhydric acid, which caused
effervescence long after the iodine color had disappeared. By now
adding the remaining third of the iodine, a liquid resulted which, by
reason of part of its iodine being united to hydrogen, instead of iron
yielded a mixture of ferrous iodide, free iodine and iodhydric acid, con-
taining less iron than is required to form Fe2I6, by an amount equiv-
alent to the iodhydric acid that was formed. On now treating this
solution with potassium nitrate, that part of the iodine only was con-
verted into potassium iodide which corresponded to Fe2I6, the rest
remaining free. Hence, if such a solution is dialysed, free iodine must
necessarily appear in the diffusate. Before dialysing this liquid the
writer concentrated it by evaporation, and thus got rid of the free
iodine. The solution, on being treated like that of the chloride,
yielded, after a dialysis of four hours, a diffusate faintly yellow from a
trace of iron, but containing no free iodine. This liquid, on evapora-
tion, gave a white crystalline residue of potassium iodide, representing
nearly f of the iodine originally used. The second diffusate rendered
up the remaining complement.

The officinal ferric pyrophosphate was next tried, but, although a
yellowish diffusate appeared, no decided amount of residue was ob-
tained ; accordingly it must be inferred that no crystalloid is present,
and therefore dialysis cannot effect a separation.

The ammonio-citroferric orthophosphate was then prepared (" Phar-
macist," August, 1 871), and a concentrated solution precipitated by
alcohol. The filtrate contained a trace of iron, and on evaporation
yielded quite an appreciable syrupy residue, which, on the addition of
ammonia in excess, congealed to a crystalline mass of triammonic
phosphate. Dialysis of another portion of the concentrated solution
gave a yellow diffusate, from which a small amount of saline residue
was obtained. This result also points to a colloidal condition of the
mixed compounds.

The writer in his paper on Ferric Iodide (" Laboratory," February,
1876) proposed to show that the officinal ferric pyrophosphate could
be more conveniently and economically prepared by mixing certain
proportions of ferric citrate and ammonium pyrophosphate. On the

174 So-Called Tasteless Iron Compounds. {^ApS'iSS*3*

same plan, it was also proposed to construct the orthophosphate by
mixing ferric citrate with triammonic phosphate. Trial showed that
mixtures of these two kinds resulted in products having the appearance
of the preparations made by the usual methods. It was, however,
ascertained that the precise imitation by inverse synthesis, was impos-
sible, since, in each of these two cases, by the usual methods, an ex-
cess of the ferric phosphates was absorbed.

By an inspection of the officinal formula for ferric pyrophosphate, it
was discovered that ferric pyrophosphate and triammonic citrate react
upon each other in the proportion of one equivalent of ferric pyrophos-
phate to three equivalents of triammonic citrate, producing ammonio-
ferric pyrophosphate, ammonio-ferric citrate and free ferric citrate,
thus : 2(Fe,3P20,)+6(NH4)3C6H507) = Fel3P207-3(NH4)4P207)+2

(FeC6H607.(NH4)3C6H607)+2(FeC6HA.)

This shows that the officinal salt is a rather complex compound, and

that the presence of uncombined ferric citrate is the cause of the pecu-
liar tint described as apple green. It also explains why dialysis can
not separate the mixture, as all three of the constituents are uncrys-
tallizable, and, therefore, colloidal. The nearest approach to this
compound, by means of inverse synthesis, is four equivalents of ferric
citrate and three of ammonium pyrophosphate, which produces only
ammonio-ferric pyrophosphate and ammonio-ferric citrate, thus : 8(Fc
C6H507)+6((NH4)4P207) = Fe43P307.3((NH4)4P207) + 4(FeC6H507.
(NH4),C6H5Or)

This is also equal to 2(Fe43P207)+8((NH4)3C6H507), that is one
equivalent of ferric pyrophosphate and four equivalents of triammonic
citrate, and differs from the officinal by one equivalent of triammonic
citrate in excess.

Otherwise, the difference in the two compounds may also be shown
as follows : 4<Fe43PI0,)+"ftNHj,C,H.OI)=F»«3PA+3(4(FeC,
H507)+3((NH4)4P207.)

This indicates that the officinal salt is equal to one equivalent of
ferric pyrophosphate and three of the imitation salt.

The salt, or rather mixture produced by retrograde decomposition,
has the bright green color peculiar to ammonio-ferric citrate, but addi-
tion of a certain proportion of ferric citrate generates the apple green
tint. By mixing two equivalents of ferric citrate and one of ammo-
nium pyrophosphate a mixture exactly analogous to the officinal salt is

Amxi°rnr;a^-rm*} So-Called Tasteless Iron Compounds. 175

obtained, containing a like quantity of ammonio-ferric pyrophosphate
mixed with twice as much ammonio-ferric citrate and free ferric citrate
as the officinal salt contains.

The writer thinks that in the next revision of the Pharmacopoeia the
now officinal ammonio-pyrophosphate should be dropped and replaced
by a sodium salt represented by two equivalents of ferric citrate and one
of sodium pyrophosphate thus :

2(FeC6H50?)+Na4P207.

Inverse synthesis can not exactly produce the ammonio-citroferric
orthophosphate as no mixture of ferric citrate and triammonic phos-
phate can approach any nearer than equal equivalents of each. The
writer, however, believes that also in this case a sodium compound is
better. Ferric citrate and disodic phosphate will produce perfectly
green compounds in proportions that do not exceed 4 equivalents of
the former to one of the latter.

Ferric orthophosphate reacts upon triammonic citrate in the propor-
tion of two equivalents of the first and one of the second, producing
a solution which is brown red by transmitted and green by reflected
light. Addition of citric acid, monammonic or diammonic citrate to
this solution discharges the red color mostly, and forms a solution
which is also green by transmitted light. By evaporating the red so-
lution to a syrupy consistence and spreading it on plates of glass or
porcelain beautiful brownish green scales are easily obtained. Similar
treatment of the acidulated solution as readily yields greenish scales
which cannot be distinguished by appearance from the officinal pyro-
phosphate. The reddish brown color of this compound points to a
basic condition due to the presence of free ferric hydrate, hence its
formation may be written thus :

4(FeP04)+2(NH1)3C6H607+3(OH2)=FeC6H507.(NH4)3C6H5Or+
2(FeP04).(NH4)3H3(P04)2+Fe(OH)3.

This result assumes the generation of an ammonio-ferric orthophos-
phate in which one equivalent each monammonic and diammonic phos-
phate unite to form a neutral phosphate as follows :

(NH4)2HP04+NH4H2P04=(NH4)3H3(P04)2.

In such a mixture the writer attempted to dissolve freshly precipi-
tated ferric orthophosphate, but failed, no solution taking place. How-
ever a trial with ferric citrate succeeded perfectly, and a new salt of a
brown-green color was obtained. Equal equivalents of ferric citrate

176 So-Called Tasteless Iron Compounds. {AmAJp°rir;x876.rm'

and ferric phosphate unite to produce a soluble compound, the solution
of which, when evaporated and scaled, yields a beautiful secondary salt,
having the formula : Fe2(C6H507)(P04).

This ferric citrophosphate is undoubtedly superior in various respects
to the complex mixtures obtained from the ferric phosphates by the
use of monad citrates. This salt is entirely ferruginous, and must
therefore rank medicinally with the normal or primary ferric salts in
which only one acid radical is combined. Its formation is also remark-
able, in that it cannot be produced by treating ferric phosphate with
citric acid, no combination taking place. If however ferric citrate is
treated with a certain proportion of orthophosphoric acid a green liquid
results, but if an excess of phosphoric acid is added all the iron is pre-
cipitated as ferric phosphate, which the liberated citric acid fails to re-
tain in solution.

A convenient method of preparing ferric citrophosphate will be to
treat a concentrated solution of ferric sulphate with an amount of di-
sodic orthophosphate sufficient to convert half the iron into phosphate
and then adding disodic carbonate in excess, washing the mixed phos-
phate and oxy-carbonate by decantation and dissolving it in an amount
of citric acid sufficient to convert the ferric oxy-carbonate into ferric
citrate.

Ferric chloride, sulphate, iodide, etc., remain unchanged in presence
of ferric citrate, for the reason, that radicals of the same basicity can
only form compound salts of this order ; hence, only ferric salts of
tribasic acids can directly unite with ferric citrate.

As a general rule all the amorphous ferric salts, or mixtures of them
with other amorphous salts, can be obtained in transparent scales, but
a mixture of an amorphous ferric salt with some other crystallizable
salt, will invariably produce an opaque granular mass iususceptible of
crystallizing or scaling. Therefore, if the result of a reaction between
a ferric and some other salt, yields on drying, a granular mass ; a crys-
talline constituent can positively be inferred, but if such a decomposi-
tion results in a transparent, scaly compound, the absence of crystalline
bodies is unfailingly pointed out.

All the green compound ferric citrates when treated with alkalies in
excess, become brown or red, and all such compounds which have been
either reddened by alkalies or obtain this color as the result of the reac-
tion which produced them, will become green after the addition of

AmkJP°Xx876arm } So-Called Tasteless Iron Compounds. 177

citric acid or an acid monad citrate. Mixtures of ferric chloride, sul-
phate, iodide, citrate, etc., with sufficient monad citrate acquire a uni-
form green color. The officinal ferric pyrophosphate has a green color
of a different shade, due to an excess of ferric citrate ; addition of
triammonic citrate changes it to the green of the other mixtures.
Ammonio-citroferric orthophosphate is'green only by reflected light and
red (derived from the presence of free*ferric hydrate,) by transmitted ;
addition of either di- or monammonic citrate causes a change to the
green of the other mixtures.

If ferrous salts have a marked affinity for nitrogen dioxide, much
more have the ferric salts for nitrogen trioxide and tetroxide. Ferric
salts retain these gases so firmly that prolonged boiling of their solutions
fails to expel them, and even the dried compounds must be maintained
at a comparatively high temperature Jfor a considerable time before
complete separation is effected. In consideration of this fact the use
of potassium chlorate in place of nitric acid is greatly preferable.
Furthermore, the writer has ascertained the important fact (" Phar-
macist," October, 1872,) that there is a chemical difference between
ferric salts produced by nitric acid, and those generated by means of
potassium chlorate.

From the chemical and physical differences of the ammonio-ferric
sulphates, obtained from the two modifications of ferric sulphate, the
writer infers that through the action of nitric acid, probably aided by
heat, the constitution of the ferric molecule itself is altered. For this
reason the writer proposes to designate the normal condition of mole-
cule as orthoferric, and that in the modified state as metaferric. All
the orthoferric salts are distinguished by their lighter colors. Ammo-
nio-orthoferric sulphate is beautifully yellow and of greater stability than
the ammonio-metaferric sulphate, which has a violet color. Formerly,
tincture of ferric chloride was prepared from a ferric hydrate, obtained
by exposing ferrous carbonate to the air until the conversion was
effected. The reputation of tincture of ferric chloride was built upon
this preparation, which had not sustained the action of nitric acid or
heat. Neither did this tincture possess the etherial odor which
characterizes the new officinal tincture, in which the presence of
nitrogen oxides generates ethyl nitrite, upon which this odor depends.
Tincture of ferric chloride, recently prepared and treated with potas-
sium citrate so as to form the so-called tasteless tincture, will also

12

178 Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. {Am^^lrm

acquire the etherial odor, for the reason that the nitrogen oxides are
unaffected by this addition, and perfectly free to react upon the alcohol.

Tincture of ferric chloride, prepared with potasium chlorate, does
not attain the etheral fragrance, and if ethyl chloride, also called
hydrochloric ether, is generated, its by no means pleasant odor would
certainly become perceptible. This tincture, however, has a pure,
spirituous odor, and is otherwise analogous to the older tincture which
represented an orthoferric salt.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

The fifth regular meeting of the session was held March 21st, 1876, Dillwyn
Parrish in the chair. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

Prof. Maisch donated to the cabinet a cone from the Pinus pinea, of Southern Eu-
rope, being the same species which yields the pine-nuts exhibited at a former meet-
ing.

Henry Trimble exhibited an unknown substance, which had been sent from Mary-
land to this city, to be sold for powdered ergot. It has no resemblance to that drug.

Prof. Remington read a paper on a singular reaction occurring in a medicine com-
posed of syrups of wild-cherry and squill, spirit of nitre, tincture of lobelia and
sulphate of morphia, which turned green on standing, as was stated in a letter re-
ceived from J. W. Hall, of Nashville, Tenn. The color reaction did not take place
immediately, but after some hours, and appears to be due to the presence of traces
of iron in spirit of nitre and acetic acid, from which the syrup of squill had been
made. The conclusion arrived at by the experimenter was, that extreme nicety
should be observed in the apparatus for handling such liquids. Prof. Remington
proposes to continue his experiments, and report at the next meeting.

Dr. Pile had frequently observed cases in which a variation in the order of mix-
ing the ingredients would determine different colored solutions.

J. T. Shinn had been surprised to find, upon attempting to prepare a prescription
containing sulphate of iron, sulphate of magnesium and chloride of Sodium, a pre-
cipitation of a red iron compound would take place, and nothing but the addition
of sulphuric acid would prevent it.

Dr. Pile had recently seen a prescription for Pulvis Membranse Galli ; the opin-
ion was held that it was a mystification symbolic of pepsin.

J. C. Biddle submitted samples of powdered squill, the usual caking of which is
prevented by the use of sugar of milk in the proportion of 1 part to 3 of the squill.
The first sample had bee prepared 18 months ago, and had received such care only
as is customary with a dispensing bottle. The other had been exposed to the air
on a paper for one month, without having lost its pulverulent condition. The use
of sugar of milk for this purpose had been suggested to him by W. F. Bender,
Apothecary to the Philadelphia Hospital.

AmAprT^76?rm*} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 179

W. H. Mattern exhibited a suppository mould made of plaster-of-paris and
suppositories made in it, and stated that it worked satisfactorily. The mould was
made in a manner similar to that proposed on page 5 of "Am. Journ. Pharm.
1873"

Dr. Miller read a paper, by Walter E. Bibby, entitled, " The Division of
Poisons." (See page 167.)

Prof. Maisch approved of the suggestion, and said the method is recognized in
the Pharmacopoeia Germanica, for preparing powdered narcotic extracts, and in
stores where much dispensing is done, it is customary to keep many poisonous
articles, triturated to a uniform powder with milksugar, and many salts in solution
of a definite strength.

J. T. Shinn desired to know the experience of the members in preserving solu-
tions for hypodermic use. Prof. Remington had tried many of the methods that
had been recommended, but still met with difficulties, and, as these solutions are,
from the nature of circumstances, at times, liable to cause irritation, had abandoned
the idea of keeping a stock ready made. Prof. Maisch called attention to the
remarks of Prof. C Johnson, of Baltimore, in " Am. Journ. Pharm.," 1873, P- 200,
suggesting the use of sulphurous acid.

Compressed pills being spoken of, Prof. Remington said the paper prepared by
him, and read before the American Pharmaceutical Association, at Boston, was
made public two weeks before Mr. Dunton had procured his patent, and that his
second paper was published before that gentleman procured his second patent. J.
T. Shinn reminded the members that compressed pills were no new thing, he having
seen some made more than 20 years ago.

Prof. Maisch desired to have, if possible, our meetings continued over the
coming summer.

The thanks of the meeting were voted to the donors and exhibitors. On motion,
adjourned to meet on April 18th, 1876, at 3 \ P. M.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. — On Monday, February 28th, the
fifty-fifth course of lectures was closed, and the examinations commenced on the
following day, lasting until Friday, March 4th, one set of the following questions
being given to the candidates on each day, the written answers being required with-
in five hours :

QUESTIONS IN CHEMISTRY.

1. What is Chlorine ? Give a method by which it may be obtained, state its
properties and mention the officinal articles of the U. S. and Br. Pharmacopoeias,
in forming of which gaseous Chlorine is used.

2. What compounds of Lead are officinal ? State the mode of preparation of each
and give a formula (in symbols) of the reaction of any one of them.

3. What are the present chemical and officinal names of the Carbonates of Sodium ?
Give and explain the methods by which they are produced, and state the character-
istic properties of each and tests of their purity.

] 80 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {Am$%; $6™'

4. What are the officinal names (U. S. and Br. P.) of Muriatic Acid ? Give and
explain the method by which it is produced, the forms in which it is used in medi-
cine and pharmacy and any impurities found in the acid of commerce.
^5. What compounds of Silver are officinal? Give their mode of preparation,
their properties and adulterations.

6. What Tartrates are officinal ? Give the mode of preparation common to
nearly all, and any special cautions and reasons therefor required in some.

7. How is Corrosive Sublimate prepared ? Explain the process, give its compo-
sition, properties and officinal names.

%:.■ 8. By what tests may the salts of Magnesium, Zinc and Cadmium be distin-
tinguished from each other?

9. What are the Antidotes for the Mineral Acids, and how do they act ?

10. Under what circumstances is Water liable to become contaminated with
Lead ? State what salts, often present in river water, will prevent this contamina-
tion.

QUESTIONS IN MATERIA MEDICA AND BOTANY.

1. Describe briefly the development of the Axis of Plants, and how its growth
differs from that of the leaves.

2. Give the name, natural order and habitat of the plant yieLding the officinal
Hhatany Root. What are the physical characteristics, chemical constituents and
medicinal properties of the drug, and how may it be distinguished from the roots of
■other species of the same genus ?

3. Name the plants, with their natural order, yielding the European and the
American Veratrum ; describe the growth, structure and dose of the officinal por-
tion, and state in what respects the two drugs differ from each other in their physi-
cal and chemical properties.

4. Give a brief description of the most important characteristics of the officinal
varieties of Cinchona ; name the plants from which they are obtained, and the alka
loids predominating in each variety.

5. Give the name, natural order and habitat of the Aconite Plant; describe the
officinal parts, give their doses and name the characteristic alkaloids and acid found
in them. From what common acid may the latter be obtained by the influence of
heat ?

6. What are Cloves ? Give the name, natural order and habitat of the plant
yielding the drug, its structural characteristics, and approximately the percentage of
its most important constituents.

7. Hops. Give the name, natural order and part of the plant used ; describe the
drug, and state to which portion and which constituents the medical properties are
mainly due.

8. Give the name, natural order and habitat of the plant yielding Colchicum
Seed, and the time of their collection. Describe them, and give their medicinal
properties and dose, and the characteristic tests for their alkaloid.

9. What are Turpentines, and what causes the opaque sediment in some varie-
ties ? State how the different kinds are procured and how the officinal resins of
Coniferae are prepared.

10. Give the characteristics of the natural order of Lobeliacea, and describe the
officinal herb of this order, giving name and habitat.

QUESTIONS ON PHARMACY.

i. Define Specific Gravity, and state its uses in Pharmacy. A bottle holds half
a pint of the liquid adopted as the sp. gr. standard, it holds at the same temperature
4,557 grains of an officinal liquid ; what is that liquid? Show the method of obtain-'
ing your answer.

AmAi°rii"'i876.rm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 181

2. What is the value in English weights and measures of the Gramme, Litre and
Metre ? Give the names and value in the metrical system of the prefixes usedjn
multiplying and dividing the Gramme. -~ j.

3. Define the process of Percolation. State the reason why certain kinds of drugs-
are required to be finely powdered and others coarsely powdered, naming examples
of each.

4. Give three officinal methods of preparing Medicated Waters, illustrating each
with an example from the " Pharmacopoeia." I

5. What is an Emulsion ? Give the ingredients in Mistura Asafoetidas, Mistura
Chloroformi and Mistura Ferri Comp. State what chemical reaction takes place in
the latter preparation.

6. Give the ingredients in the following officinal preparations : Compound In-
fusion of Gentian, Aromatic Syrup of Rhubarb, Compound Tincture of Benzoin,
Compound Powder of Rhubarb, Wine of Opium.

7. Why are the following substances used in their respective preparations ? Car-
bonate of Magnesium in Syrupus Zingiberis j Boiling Hot Water in Unguentum
Potassii Iodidi ; Compound Spirit of Lavender in Liquor Potassii Arsenitis ; Nitric
Acid in Liquor Ferri Chloridi ; Aromatic Sulphuric Acid in Infusum Cinchona?
Rubra?.

8. Give the process for preparing Atropia, the test for it and its principal use in
medicine.

9. State the proportions and doses of the officinal Liquid Preparations of Opium.

10. What are the best tests for recognizing Gallic Acid, Conia, Meconic Acid,
Strychnia and Quinia ?

QUESTIONS BY THE EXAMINING COMMITTEE.

1. Why is Aqua Ammonias used in the preparation of Purified Muriate of Am-
monia ; Muriatic Acid in Purified Animal Charcoal 5 Soap in Pills of Aloes ; and
Sulphate of Potassium in Dover's Powder ? Give the reason why Blistering Cerate
is kept in the liquid state for half an hour..

2. From what plant are Belladonna Leaves and Root obtained ? and what alka-
loid do they contain ? Give an outline of the formula for the production of all the
officinal preparations, with the exception of the alkaloid, and the doses of those used
internally.

3. Describe Mercury as found in the shops ; state four of the different prepara-
tions it enters into in the metallic state ; and specify the ingredients contained in
each.

4. Give the locality, natural order and officinal name of the plant yielding Cop-
aiba. State how it is obtained and what are its two principal constituents. Name
its two officinal preparations.

5. State what doses of the following maybe administered, and name the antidotes
for poisonous doses of the same : Extract of Opium, Nitrate of Silver, Lupulin,
Sulphate of Sodium, Sulphate of Iron, Acetate of Lead.

6. State the proper methods of detecting adulterations of Oil of Wintergreen
with Alcohol, Chloroform with Alcohol, Oil of Lemon with Castor Oil, Yellow
Wax with Paraffin, and Iodide of Potassium with Bromide of Potassium.

7. State the composition and correct officinal title of the following : Brown
Mixture, Seidlitz Powders, Compound Extract of Colocynth and Compound Cath-
artic Pills. Write the Pharmacopoeia formula for the latter in Latin, avoiding
abb reviations.

8. State the formula for preparing Liquor Ferri Subsulphatis. Give its color,
consistency, taste and specific gravity. Does it mix in all proportions with Water
and Alcohol without decomposition ? What effect is produced by the addition of
Aqua Ammonia? ? By what popular name is this solution known ?

182

Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations.

f Am Jour. Pharm.
t April, 1876.

9. State whether the following prescriptions A. B. C. D. are proper to be dis
pensed, and if not, give the reason why ?
A.

R — Strychnia? Sulphatis, gr. xxx.

Syrup. Zingiber., . . f^i.

Aquae, . . . . fjv.
Misce.

Sig. A teaspoonful thrice daily.

B.

For Dysentery.
R— Pulv. Opii.
Pulv. Ipecac.

Hydrarg. Bichlorid : . aagr.iii.
Pulv. Acacias.

Syrup. . . . aaq.s.
Misce et fiat massa in pil. iii dividenda.
Sig One to be taken at bed-time.

10. Translate the following :

E.

R — Quinias Sulphatis

Ferri Sulphatis Exsiccati ad,gr.\.
Extract. Nuc. Vomicae, gr.|
M. ft. pilula ; dentur tales doses No. xx.

C,

R — Ammoniae Muriat., • %
Antim. et Potass. Tart.,
Tine. Opii Deod.,
Mist. Glycyrrh. Comp.,
Misce flat mist.

Sig. A dessert spoonful every three
hours.

gr.i
%ii.
f^viii.

R — Hydrarg. Chlorid. Mit.,

Pulv. Ipecac. Comp ,
Misce.

Sig. Take at bed-time.

gr.v.
3i.

F.

Transpose this into Troy Weight.

Grammes.

ft — Aloes Pulv 2.

Hydrarg. Chloridi Mit. 0.75
Resin. Podophylli 0.125

M. ft. pil. No. xii.

The specimeus submitted for recognition
were as follows :

Medica.

G.

R — Extract. Belladonnae,
Tinct. Ferri Chloridi,
Syrupi, . .
Mucilag. Acaciae,

gr.111.
fSiv.
f^ss.
f^iv.

Sig. Take a teaspoonful on going to
bed.

N. B. — Give your opinion of this pre-
scription, and state what will be its con-
dition when compounded.

H.

Write out a prescription having for a
basis four fluid ounces Syrup of Tolu,
containing in each teaspoonful one-
eighth of a grain of Sulphate of Morphia
and four minims of Tincture of Aconite
Root.

, 15 minutes being allowed for each set,

Chemistry.
Acid, nitromuriaticum
Potassii bromidum.
Potassii nitras.
Sodii carbonas.
Sodii hyposulphis.
Ammonii chloridum.
Magnesii sulphas.
Cupri sulphas.
Plumbi acetas.
Alcohol.

Materia Medica. Pharmacy.

Calumba. Ergotae pulvis

Scilla. Infus. Rosae comp.

Guaiaci lignum. Acetum Scillae.

Juglans. Syrup. Pruni Virg.

Hyoscyami folia. Ext. Taraxaci fluid.

Senna, Bombay. Liquor Calcis.

Anisum. Spir. Ammoniae arom.

Sinapis alba. Ung. Zinc oxidi.

Sabadilla. Acid, tannicum.

Kino. Cinchoniae Sulph.

The following gentlemen, having passed a successful examination, were recom-
mended for the degree of Graduate in Pharmacy (Ph.G.). The names are in the
order of merit, as ascertained from the examinations :

Names. State. Subject of Thesis.

1 Joseph LeRoy Webber, Massachusetts. Assay of Atropia.

2 Henry Schroeder, Illinois. Triosteum.

3 John Ritter, " Syrup of Wild Cherry Bark.

Examining Committee.

Potassii chloras.

Sodii boras.

Uva ursi.

Coriandrum.

Pulv. Jalapae Cp.

Mist. Potassii Citr.

Tinct. Cinchonae comp.

Tinct. Opii Camph.

Extr. Sennse fluid.

Ung. Hydrarg. oxidi rub.

AVPn}i"'i87h6arm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations 183

4 Louis Emanuel, Pennsylvania.

5 Albert Hapgood Van Gorder, Ohio.

6 Isaac Rouland Diller, Illinois.

7 James Oscar Burge, Kentucky.

8 William Poole, Delaware.

9 John Alfred Witmer, Pennsylvania.
10 Henry Trimble, "

William Duffield Robinson, "

Joseph John Brown, Ohio.

John Chrysostom Martin, Pennsylvania.
William Peiffer Weiser, "
Howard Buckman Sides, "

16 Walter Adolphus Taylor, Georgia.

17 Theodore Corson Wheaton, New Jersey.

18 Louis Von Cotzhausen, Wisconsin.

19 William Wesley Trout, Pennsylvania,

20 Francis Marion Murray, Ohio.

21 Daniel Conrad Gentsch, "

22 Wm. Norwood Kelly Boileau, Pennsylvania.

23 Thomas Albert Huston, Ohio.

24 Hugh White, Pennsylvania.

25 Ebenezer Miller Wells, Mississippi.

26 William Ruff, Ohio.

27 Charles Augustus Brotherline, Pennsylvania.

28 William Henry Righter, Jr. Delaware.

29 George Joseph Mitsch,

30 Flavius Saunders Case,

31 Hugo Franklin Baur,

32 Walter Theron Baker,

33 Charles William Tobey,

34 Emil Louis Boerner,

35 Charles Albert Daniel,

36 Joseph Collard Rogers,

37 Carl Swante Nicanor Hallberg,

38 Clarence Henderson Risk,

39 Henry Tower Hayhurst,

40 Carl Heinrich Marquardt,

41 George Blake Holden,

42 Philip Jacob Laver,

43 John Behlar,

44 Francis Abraham Roepper,

45 Charles Griffith,

46 Charles Moenkemoeller,

47 Andrew Richard Porter,

Minnesota.
Ohio.

Wisconsin.
Pennsylvania.
Ohio.
Iowa.

Pennsylvania.
New Jersey.
Sweden.
Pennsylvania.
Iowa.

Wisconsin.

Massachusetts.

Ohio.

District Columbia
Pennsylvania.

West Virginia.
Indiana.

48 Charles Williams Warrington, New Jersey.

49 Joseph Wayne Merritt, "

Glycerin as an Excipient for
Pill Masses.

Asarum Canadense as an In-
digenous Aromatic.

Tinctura Ferri Chloridi.

The Chemical Laboratory.

The Strength of Saccharated
Pepsin.

Tobacco.

Benzoic Acid as an Antiseptic.
Tinctura Cinchona Composita.
The Alcoholic Strength of Wine.
Pharmaceutical Science.
Eucalyptus Globulus.
Chemical Action.
Extractum Gossypii Radicis

Fluidum.
Carya Porcina.

Coumarin— its uses and sources.
Aqua Medicata.
Agave Americana.
Glycerin.

Wax — Adulteration and Phar-
maceutical uses.
Polygonum Punctatum.
Pyrethrum Roseum.
Cinch 0 Quinine.
Iodine.

Phosphorus Pills.

Preservation of Syrup of Ipe-
cacuanha.

Patent Medicines and an Ana-
lysis of Face Lotion.

Salicylic Acid.

Mucilago Acacia.

Medicinal Waters.

Pharmacy

Ricinus Communis.

Preparations of Calamus.

Domestic Remedies.

Pharmaceutical Notes.

Dispensing Poisons.

Effervescing Preparations of
Sodium Tartrate.

Iris Versicolor.

Oleum Morrhua.

Solubility of Drugs.

.Pimpinella Anisum.

Iron and its Properties.

A Substitute for Volatile Lini-
ment.

Cinchona and its Alkaloids.
Sium Latifolium.
The Privacy oj the Prescrip-
tion Department.
Salicylic Acid.

184 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {

Am. Jour. Pharm
April, 1876.

50 Benjamin Thomas Creighton, Ohio.

51 Clayton Kerper Smith, Pennsylvania.

52 Charles Drum Lippincott,

53 Harry Calvin Watt,

54 Frank Edward Stewart,

New York.

55 Alphonso Albert Willits Bley, Pennsylvania.

56 Theodric Linthicum, Arkansas,

57 Richard Miller Sommers, New Jersey.

58 Henry Louis Von Wittkamp,Jr.Pennsylvania.

59 George Washington Kram, "

60 Charles Eugene Hornberger, Germany.

61 Alvin Henry Keller, Pennsylvania.

62 Ernest William Herrman, "

63 John Dowling Groves, Pennsylvania.

64 Philipp Henry Dilg, Wisconsin.

65 William Fullerton Fleming, Canada.

66 Theophilus Niblow Corbyn, Pennsylvania.

67 Oliver Paschal Hooper, Maryland.

68 John Henry Evans, Pennsylvania.

69 Franklin Pierce Louderbough, Delaware.

70 John William Sonnick, New York.

71 Willis Brenton, Pennsylvania.

72 Thomas Swaim Armstrong, New Jersey.

73 C. Massey Cresson Durborow, Pennsylvania.

74 George Lewis Sandt,

75 Robert August Koempel,

76 Jacob Loudenslager Kolp,

77 Irvin Railey,

78 William Henry Robbins,

79 Howard Granville Shinn,

80 Frederick Stryker Boisnot,

81 Leon Joseph K. Graber,

82 Edmund Rudolph Gatchel,

83 Louis Philip Carbonell,

84 David Abraham Rosenthal,

85 John William Quinn,

86 Zachary Taylor Anstett,

87 Jeremiah Dull McFerren,

88 Ezra Heiry Gingrich,

89 Albert Livingston Thorn,

90 James Henry Sheridan,

Germany.
Pennsylvania.
Kentucky.
Pennsylvania.

New Jersey.
<<

Pennsylvania.
a

Cuba.

Pennsylvania.
Ohio.

Pennsylvania.

New Jersey.
Pennsylvania.

91 Morrison Wright Webb, Ohio.

92 Winfield Scott Taylor,

93 Daniel Albert Bowen,

94 Francis Henry Poley,

New Jersey.
Pennsylvania.

The Culture of Tobacco in Ohio.

The Relation and Commercial
Value of Fluid Extracts.

Fixed and Volatile Oils.

Fluid Extract of Ipecacuanha.

Lac Vaccinum — its Adultera-
tion and Preparation.

Honey.

Monobromated Camphor.
Menispermum Canadense.
Pharmacy.

Disguising Disagreeable Reme-
dies.

The Discovery of Glass.

The Science of Pharmacy in the

Country.
Tin Scrap.
On Iodine.

Euphorbia Ipecacuanha.
Cortex Liriodendron Tulipi-
fera.

Proprietary Medicines.

Phytolacca.

Carbon.

Solubility and Uses of Salicylic
Acid.

Syrupus Rhei Aromaticus.

Cryolite.

Guar ana.

The Deterioration of the Drug-
gists'" Stock.
Styrax Benzoin.
Red Wine.

Gelsemium Sempervirens.
The Apothecary.
Turiones Asparagi.
Convolvulus Panduratus.
Suppositories.

Opium, its Uses and Abuses.
Amylum.

Acidum Lacticum.

The Wholesale and Retail

Druggist.
Opium.

Aristolochiacea.

Responsibilities and Require-
ments of a Pharmacist.
Chemical Changes.
Adulterations.

Manufacture and Uses\ of Ox-
ide of Zinc in Medicine.

Patience and Care vs. Knowl-
edge.

Dispensing Pharmacy.

Podophyllum.

Aesculus Hippocastanum.

AmAi°rir;i^6.rm:} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 1 8 5

95 Milbourn Asbury Toulson, Maryland. Arnica Montana.

96 Robert McNeil, Jr., Pennsylvania. Prescriptions.

97 Otto Fiirchtegott Koehler, Germany. Jodinum.

98 Charles Lashell, Pennsylvania. Botany.

99 Isaiah Henry Schuyler Kindig, " Percolation.

100 William Wood Stockton, New Jersey. Trifolium Pratense.

101 Charles Green Harris, Iowa. Tinctura Ferri Chloridi.

102 Wilbur Winthrop Fry, Pennsylvania. A Thesis Dedicated to the Cen-

tennial Class.

103 Allen Spengler, " Preservation of Syrups.

104 John Rufus Barr, ». . ■ " Triticum Repens.

Mr. Chipman Botsford, Canada (Podophyllum peltatum), passed the examina-
tion, entitling him to the Certificate of Proficiency in Chemistry and Materia Med-
ica, which was granted by this College for the first time.

The Academy of Music was well filled with an appreciative audience on the
evening of March 14th, to witness the Commencement ceremonies, which were
enlivened by excellent music from the Germania Orchestra, George Bastert, Con-
ductor. Many Commissioners representing foreign countries at the approaching
Centennial Exposition were present upon the stage. The President of the College,
Dillwyn Parrish, conferred the degree upon the above-named gentlemen, after which
Professor Bridges presented the Procter prize, which had been awarded to Mr.
Joseph LeRoy Webber, of Springfield, Mass. The requirements for obtaining
this prize have been fixed by the Board of Trustees as follows : The candidate must
have obtained the highest average in the class 5 the examinations in each one of the
three branches and by the Examining Committee, as well as the recognition of spe-
cimens, must have been attended with such success as to merit, in each case, the
predicate very satisfactory j in addition thereto, the candidate must have presented a
satisfactory thesis. The prize consists of a gold medal and a certificate, with an
appropriate inscription and a representation of the medal.

The valedictory address was delivered by Professor Remington, after which Mr.
T. S. Armstrong, on behalf of the graduating class, presented to the College a
complete polariscope attachment for the oxy-hydrogen lantern in use for illustrating
the lectures. Vice-President Chas. Bullock received the gift on behalf of the Board
of Trustees.

A large number of bouquets, books and other presents, which had been sent upon
the stage, were distributed at the close of the exercises.

The Alumni Association of the Philadelphia Collfge of Pharmacy
held its annual meeting on Thursday, March 9th, when the following officers were
elected : President, G. W. Kennedy ; Vice Presidents, E. M. Boring and Samuel
Campbell ; Recording Secretary, Wallace Procter ; Corresponding Secretary, Chas.
L. Mitchell ; Treasurer, Edw. C. Jones ; to fill vacancies in the Executive Board,
A. W. Miller, M.D., and Howard G. Jones ; Trustee of the Sinking Fund, Thos.
S. Wiegand.

On the evening of March 13th, the Association tendered a reception to the gradu-
ating clrss and their friends, at the hall of the College, the retiring President, Dr.
A. W. Miller, in the chair. The recent graduates, having been formally admitted

i 86 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, {AraxiXi87h6arm"

to membership, Chas. L. Eberle, Ph.G., delivered the annual address. The alumni
prizes were then distributed, Mr. J. L. Webber receiving the gold medal, and
Messrs. H. Schroeder, L. Emanuel and J. Ritter the Alumni Certificates, for hav-
ing received the highest average in Chemistry, Materia Medica and Pharmacy. To
give to the older graduates and other friends present an opportunity of witnessing
the working of the oxyhydrogen lantern as a means of instruction, Professor Rem-
ington exhibited with it a number of crystallizations and color reactions, and Prof.
Maisch photographic representations of starches and other pulverulent drugs, and,
with the microscope attachment, sections of a number of drugs. Mr. Bullock enter-
tained the company by showing a large number of scenes of this and of foreign
countries.

The New York College of Pharmacy held its Forty-sixth annual com-
mencement on the evening of March 21st, at Chickering Hall, when President P.
Balluff conferred the degree of Graduate in Pharmacy upon the following gentle-
men :

Adolph Basora, Santiago, Cuba, Alexander M. Linnett, Newark, N. J.,

Lewis Blumauer, Portland, Oregon, William Maass, Ixonia Center, Wis.,
Clarence F. Booth, Newport, R. I, Thomas J. Magee, New York,

James P, Boyle, New Canaan, Conn., Ewen Mclntyre, Jr., New York,
Augustus R. Castano, New York, James Millar, New York,

H. Lieber Coit, Newark, N. J., James K. Morrill, Holyoke, Mass.>

Albert Dovell, Newark, N. J., Adrian Paradis, Union Hill, N. J.,

George Eberhardt, Rutherford Park, N.J. , George F. Payne, Macon, Ga ,
Frank H. Falkenreck, Elizabeth, N. J., Henry F. Pembleton, Brooklyn, N. Y.,
George C. Fountain, Jersey City, N. J., Benjamin F. Quackinbush, New York,
Otto T. Frohwein, Elizabeth, N. J., Gustavus Rothe, Jersey City, N. J.,
Albert T. Gunther, Newark, N. J., Henry C. Schranck, Milwaukee, Wis.,
John C. Heidingsfelder, New York, Peter J. Schumann, Atlanta, Ga.,
Adolph Henning, Union Hill, N. J., Theodore A. Spear, New York,
Frederick Huehne, Rondout, N. Y., Louis L. Staehle, Newark, N. J.,
Gilbert P. Knapp, New York, Henry A. Striker, Amsterdam, N. Y.,

Otto G. Laue, Passaic, N. J., Theodore Thieme, Fort Wayne, Ind.,

Henry Lehman, New York, Joseph E. Tomas, Brooklyn, N. Y.,

William J. Liell, New York, William H. Townsend, New York,

John H. Wenzel, New York.
The Alumni Prizes were awarded by Professor Bedford, after which Professor
E. Curtis, M.D., delivered an address, and Mr. H. L. Coit the Valedictory Ad-
dress on behalf of the graduates.

The Alumni Association of the College of Pharmacy of the City of
New York held its fifth annual meeting, Wednesday evening, March 15th, 1876,
President Geo. C. Close in the chair. Some fifty members were present, and nine-
teen of the class of 1876 joined the Association.

The President, the oldest living graduate, read his annual address, and gave an

AmA&r'i87h6!rm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 187

interesting account of the apothecaries and doctors who were prominent in this city
when he graduated in 1831.

The Treasurer, Theobald Frohwein, reported $205.80 cash on hand, and $46.42
in the reserved fund. An election of officers was then held, which resulted in the
choice of the following gentlemen : President, Ewen Mclntyre. Vice-Presidents
—Starr H. Huebler, Charles A. Robbins, Ph.D., Henry C. Schranck. Secretary,
Prof. P. W. Bedford. Treasurer, Theobald Frohwein. Registrar, Lucien M.
Royce. To fill vacancies in the Executive Board — Byron F. Mclntyre, Thomas
F. Main and Edward W. Runyon. Delegates to the American Pharmaceutical
Association— Geo. C. Close, Theo. Frohwein, B. F. Mclntyre, S. H. Ambler and
L. M. Royce.

The President appointed the following Committees : On Papers and Queries —
Messrs. Creuse, B. F. Mclntyre and Runyon. On Publication — Messrs. Royce,
Creuse and Ambler.

A letter of greeting from the Alumni Association of the St. Louis -College of
Pharmacy was read, and the Secretary was directed to write an appropriate reply,
reciprocating the kind feelings expressed.

Prof. Bedford offered a resolution that the Association give in the future three
medals, of gold, silver and bronze, to the students rating, respectively, first, second
and third at the annual examination. The resolution was passed unanimously.

Mr. Creuse read a paper entitled "A New Explosive Mixture," which was refer-
red for publication.

The meeting then adjourned to the College cabinet, where a bountiful collation
had been prepared.

Prof. Bedford, on behalf of the Association, welcomed the class of 1876, who
were the guests of the evening, telling them that on this occasion they might forget
the caution taught by their motto, ca^vendo tutus, as there were no poisons here.
After an hour very pleasantly spent, the company separated, well pleased with the
work of the Committee on Entertainment.

The next meeting of the Association will be held in June, when the officers elect
will be installed.

The New York Alumni Association of the Philadelphia College of
Pharmacy held its monthly meeting March 7th, President Levering in the chair.
Mr. Mitchell was elected a member. Nominations were made for officers, the
election being held at the next meeting, April 4th.

Mr. Wood stated that hydrobromate of quinia, often erroneously called bromide
of quinia, has been attracting attention of late, because of its ready solubility.
Mr. Wellcome called attention to a paper read by Mr. Bullock, before the Ameri-
can Pharmaceutical Association, in which formulas are given for the preparation of
many bromides and hydrobromates, the latter term being used for the compounds
with alkaloids. Having been called upon to prepare a concentrated solution of
quinia, to be used hypodermically for a patient unable to endure any other method
of administration, he made a solution of arabinate of quinia, three minims con-
taining one grain of the salt, which was used with convenience, causing no unpleas-
ant effects locally, and giving satisfactory results in its action.

i88

Editorial,

{Am. Jour. Pharm
April, 1876.

The subject of ointments was discussed at some length in relation to a suitable
substitute for lard or simple ointment. Mr. Ritter (of the class of 1876, present
on this occasion), had found a combination of white wax and castor oil to be not
readily impaired, and furnishing a good substitute for compounds very susceptible
to change. Glycerite of starch and glycerin, solidified with gelatin, were also
discussed in this connection.

Mr. Wellcome reported the case of Hon. L. Porter, of Minnesota, who drank
from a bottle supposed to contain currant wine, but when too late discovered that
he had taken a draught of solution of corrosive sublimate, kept for killing bed-bugs,
and containing about 15 grains of the poison. The administration of white of
eggs, lard, &c, under the direction of skilled physicians, proved unavailing, and the
patient died after five days1 suffering.

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. — At the annual meeting, held March
6th, the following officers were elected : President, Samuel M. Colcord 5 Vice-Pres-
idents— Charles A. Tufts, Thomas L. Jenks 5 ^Corresponding Secietary, George F.
H. Markoe; Recording Secretary, Daniel G. Wilkins; Treasurer, E. L. Patch j
Auditor, W. S. Folger ; Trustees — James S. Melvin, Henry W. Lincoln, B. F.
Stacy, I. T Learey, I. B. Patten, Henry Canning, S. C. Tozzer and George H.
Cowdin. The affairs of the College were reported to be in a good condition. A
new charter has just been obtained from the Legislature.

The St. Louis College of Pharmacy held its tenth annual commencement
March 23, when President F. X. Crawley conferred the degree of Graduate in
Pharmacy upon the following gentlemen : Flor. C. Schmidt, Robt. Hunstock, A.
Ph. Kaltwasser, J. N. Washington, F. Westmann, O. E. H. Truetler, L. Ries-
meyer, Chas. Luedeking, N. Guhmann, Jr., Paul Nake, Gust. Brandau, H. Schwarz,
Herm. Brandt, Jr., and H. Harnisch.

Prizes were awarded by Prof. Good, and valedictories delivered by Prof. Fay on
behalf of the faculty, and by Mr. Washington on behalf of the class.

The graduates were then received by the Alumni Association, and the exercises
terminated with an oration by Francis Hemm, Ph.G.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The Asserted Presence of Tannin in Gentian Root. — In a paper bearing
this caption, published in our last number, we took occasion to refer to the report
on a paper read before the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, from which we
were led to infer that the assertion concerning the presence of tannin in gentian
was mainly based on the incompatibility of the tincture of chloride of iron and
compound tincture of gentian. Mr. E. L. Patch has kindly sent us the paper read
by him, from which it is evident that the report referred to above was very incom-
plete, and that the experiments with gentian alone were in reality the most impor-
tant of his investigations, the results of which agree entirely with those related in
our last number. Mr. Patch had not overlooked the fact that orange peel produces

Editorial. 189

an inky coloration with salts of iron ; he ascertained, even, that its infusion yields a
slight precipitate with gelatin; he likewise noticed that the same reagent produces
with infusion of gentian a slight precipitate, which at first sight may readily be mis-
taken for tannate of gelatin, since, after draining, it will be colored nearly black by
iron salts ; this color, however, is completely removed by washing with cold water.
A very interesting experiment, which, in our opinion, likewise disproves the pres-
ence of tannin, was performed by Mr. Patch, by exhausting moistened gentian with
washed ether and evaporating ; the resulting extract was treated with alcohol, and
this solution was found to behave to iron salts in a similar manner as tannin ; yet,
on throwing it into water and filtering, the clear liquid, which should contain any
tannin present, was not precipitated by gelatin. In his paper Mr. Patch stated that
he did not regard his experiments as concluded, but would continue his investiga-
tions. Since then, Mr. L. D. Drury has read a paper before the Massachusetts Col-
lege of Pharmacy, in which he arrived at the same conclusion as the paper pub-
lished in our last number.

The Pill Question. — On February 18th, we received a communication from
Mr. Dunton, which we could not notice in our last number, and in which he objects
to the conclusions arrived at by Mr. Remington in his paper read before the Amer-
ican Pharmaceutical Association. The points relating to the question at issue are
contained in the following:

In 1869 I called the attention of the medical profession to the advantages of the compressed pill, viz.

that-
First. No extraneous substances are added to produce cohesion, such as gum, sugar, starch, soap,

&c, which are usually employed in making up pill masses, and often detract from the solubility of the pill,

while they add to its bulk.

Second. Their form is lenticular instead of round ; they consequently present a larger surface to be

acted upon, and are more promptly effective. Experience has shown, also, that pills in this shape are

very easily swallowed.

This statement in reference to the solubility of the pill was made after a full examination of the sub-
ject, by frequent comparative tests, made by myself or under my supervision, with pills made from every
excipient known to us, and also with those purchased from leading pharmacies. Never, in any instance,
did we find, under like circumstances, an excipient pill dissolved as soon as the non-excipient or com-
pressed pill.

To avoid the republication of the entire paper, Prof. Remington has, at our
request, embodied in his reply to Mr. Campbell the essential portions of his paper,
so as to enable every intelligent reader to form a judgment, or to repeat the com-
parative experiments for himself. With these remarks we feel that we can leave the
matter to the decision of our readers.

The Druggists of Minnesota, we have been informed, are taxed under a
State law ten dollars each, for the support of the State Inebriate Asylum. Why the
Solons of that State have specially selected the druggists for such forced contribu-
tions is unknown to us. It cannot be that, as a class, they are guilty of keeping
tinpling-houses, nor because, under the internal revenue law of the United Sfates,
apothecaries and druggists are compelled to take out a liquor dealer's license. The
druggists have recently assembled at Minneapolis to protest against that law as an
outrage ; and in their attempt to secure its repeal de.serve the good wishes of all.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
April, 1876. J

9o Reviews, etc. {^jgftSg*-

REYIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

Medicinal Plants ; being Descriptions with Original Figures of the Principal Plants
employed in Medicine, and an Account of their Properties and Uses. By Robert
Bentley, F. L. S., and Henry Trimen, M. B., F. L. S. Philadelphia: Lindsay &
Blakiston, 1876. Price of each part, $2.00.

Parts 2d and 3d of this valuable work, now before us, contain figures and descrip-
tions of the following North American plants : Lobelia inflata, Gaultheria prccum-
bens and Sanguinaria canadensis. The remaining plants noticed in the two parts
are Theobroma cacao, Rhamnus catharticus, Prunus amygdalus, Pyrus cydonia, Cin-
namonum zeylanicum, Papaver rhoeas, Barosma crenulata, Citrus aurantium, Olea
europaea, Juniperus communis and Iris florentina.

We notice that the fusing point of cacao butter is given at i22°F., and its specific
gravity "961. Other authorities give the spec. grav. "891 to "91, and the fusing point
at about 300 C.,(96°F.) — See also Trojanowsky, next page. While it is not unlikely
that different varities of cacao, expressed at different temperatures may yield fats
varying in fusing point and density, we are not aware of any comparative experiments
undertaken with the view of ascertaining the causes producing the differences which
are noticed between the cacao butter of former investigators and that usually met
with in commerce.

Among the constituents of sanguinaria, puccina and sanguinarinic acid are given,
the former of which Hopp proved to be (Amer. Jour. Phar., 1875, p. 193,) sanguin-
arina mixed with a little resin, and the latter to consist mainly of citric and malic
acids.

The representations of the plants and the descriptive letter-press are very com-
mendable.

Gmelin — Kraufs Handbuch der Chemie. Anorganische Chemie. Sechste
umgearbeitete Auflage. Heidelberg : Carl Winter's Universitats Buchhandlung.

We have before us Nos. 6 to 10 of vol I. part I j Nos. 5 and 6 of vol. II, and Nos.
17 to 20, — the conclusion of the third volume.

The five numbers belonging to the first volume contain the continuation of the
general and physical chemistry, among which is the chapter on crystallography and
an exposition of the physical laws bearing on solids and liquids, and relating to elasti-
city, expansion, density, influence of and behavior to heat, dissociation, capacity of
absorption and solution, etc.

The two numbers of the second volume are devoted to the metals of the alkaline
earths barium, strontium and calcium, and the concluding numbers of the third
volume to the metals of the platinum group, namely, platinum, palladium, rhodium,
iridium, ruthenium and osmium. The preparation of the last volume for the press
consumed a period of over four years, and has been in the hands of Professor S. M.
Jorgensen, of Copenhagen, who has admirably fulfilled his trust to bring the work
up to the time of publication, which, in view of the numerous additions and of the
more extended and perfected theoretical knowledge necessitated the re-writing of
the greatest portion of the work. The same must be said of the second part of the
first volume, containing the non-metallic elements, which was finished some time
ago, having been revised by Professors H. Ritter and Carl Kraut. What remains
to be finished is the first part of the first volume, containing the general introduction
into chemical science, and the second volume embracing the metals of the alkalies,
alkaline earths and earths. The former, of which now ten numbers (608 pages)
have been published, is entrusted to Professor A. Naumann, of Giessen, a scientist
eminently qualified for the task from his connection with the " Jahresbericht der

Am. Jour. Pharm. >
April, 1876. J

Reviews, etc.

191

Chemie," (annual report on the progress of chemistry) for which he has elaborated
the same branch since 1867. The second volume is in charge of the editor of the
entire woik, Professor Kraut, of Hannover, who completed Gmelin's organic chem-
istry with its supplements in 1870. The completion of the inorganic chemistry
may now doubtless be looked for in a short time.

Ueber die nvesentlichen Bestandtheile <von Gehemium sempernj'irens. Von Dr.
Chas. A. Robbins. Berlin, 1876.

On the proximate principles of Gels, sempervirens.

The results of the author agree in the main with those previously obtained
by Professor Wormley (Amer. Jour. Phar., 1870, p. 1,). The gelseminic
acid of the latter was found by Dr. Robbins to be identical with aesculin,
and the amorphous gelseminia, for which the empirical formula CnH19N02 was
obtained, was observed to have the reactions noticed by Wormley 5 but a solution
of gelseminia in concentrated sulphuric acid acquires, on the addition of
potassium bichromate, particularly at the place of contact, a very characteristic
cherry-red color having a tint of violet and changing to blueish-green. The
sulphuric acid solution of gelseminia spread over a porcelain plate acquires, on the
addition of ceroso-ceric oxide, a rose-cherry red color surrounding the oxide, and
spreading over the entire surface after stirring with a glass rod. This reaction is
quite characteristic and very delicate.

The resins, freed from gelseminia, were found to be destitute of poisonous action
upon rabbits and pigeons.

Ein Beitrag zur Phartnacognostichen und Chemischen Kenntniss des Cacaos. Von
Piers Trojanowsky. Dorpat, 1875.

A Contribution to the Pharmacognostical and Chemical Knowledge of Cacao.

This inaugural dissertation, for which the experiments were made in Prof. Dra-
gendorff's laboratory, treats, in the first part, of the pharmacognostical relations, giv-
ing brief historical notes, botanical accounts, notes on the culture and descriptions
of the twenty commercial varieties investigated by the author.

The second, or chemical part, contains a review of the various analyses, which is
followed by the quantitative determination of theobromina. This was effected by
first treating the coarsely powdered material with petroleum benzin, to remove fat j
the residue is then rubbed with powdered glass and water to a fine powder ; mag-
nesia is added, and the mixture dried below 700 C. This residue is exhausted with
two portions of boiling alcohol, and the filtered solution evaporated 5 a little fat and
a minute amount of a crystallizable body are removed by petroleum benzin, the un-
dissolved portion washed upon a tared filter with alcohol until the filtrate is nearly
colorless, and the residue weighed as theobromina j to this weight is added the
amount of alkaloid dissolved in the alcoholic washings (1 in 1460). In this man-
+ ner the author obtained from the cotyledons of a Domingo cacao I'aqf; and from
an African cacao 4-652 per cent, of theobromina. Different samples of the same
commercial varieties yielded, however, very different amounts. The shells of the
same varieties, mentioned before, gave respectively 2*056 and 4*540 per cent, of the-
obromina, the smallest yield being obtained from the shells of a Soconusco cacao
=o*866 per cent.

The amount of fat obtained by petroleum benzin varied between 39*30 per cent,
from a Carracas and 52*05 per cent, from a Surinam cacao. The fusing point of
the cacao butter, determined in capillary glass tubes, varied between 300 C.=86° F.
(Brazil cacao) and 32*8° C.=9i° F. (St. Lucia cacao). To determine whether
cacao butter has been adulterated with other fats, the author recommends the pro-
cess proposed by^ Bjorklund, in 1864. Two grams of the fat are dissolved, by agi-
tation, in a strong glass tube; in 4 grams of ether of 170 C (62*6 0 F.) ; the tube is

192

Reviews, etc.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
April, 1876.

then immersed in water of o° C. (320 F.) Pure cacao butter commences to sepa-
rate granules after three (Para c.) or five minutes (Puerto Cabello and Caraccas c),
or the solution began to become turbid after eight (Trinidad, Guayaquil and Suri-
nam c), or fifteen minutes (Domingo c.) The solutions of Martinique and Bahia
cacao butter remained clear after twenty-five minutes. If the cacao butter had been
mixed with 5 per cent, of tallow, the etherial solution became turbid in one minute;
5 per cent, of suet rendered it turbid in 2^, 10 per cent, in 2, and 20 per cent, in
one minute ; with 40 per cent, suet, the solution became turbid at once in the cold
water.

The amount of starch was determined as sugar, and found to vary between 2*23
(Para c.) and 6-65 per cent. (Soconusco cacao).

The author has also examined the behavior of the alcoholic tinctures of the dif-
ferent varieties to various reagents, and, based upon his results, suggests a method
of determining the commercial variety of cacao from its behavior to such reagent.

The amount of ashes obtained from the cotyledons varied between 2*08 (St. Vin-
cent c.) and 3-93 per cent. (Guayaquil c). The shells yielded from 4-67 (Domin-
ica c.) to 19.27 (Carracas c.) per cent, of ashes.

To determine the quality of chocolate, the amount of ashes must not much
exceed 3 per cent., the fat (to be tested with ether, as above stated) not less than 40
per cent., and the starch not over 7 per cent., in all cases after deduction of the
sugar.

Beitrage zur Chemie der Eichen-, Weiden- und Ulmenrinde. Inaugural Dissertation
von Edwin Johanson. Dorpat, 1875. 8vo, pp. 94.

Contributions to the Chemistry of Oak, Willow and Elm Barks.

By his interesting experiments, the author has proven that the tannin of oak and
willow bark? may be made to yield a crystalline body which possesses all the reac-
tions of gallic acid. Wagner's distinction, made in 1866, between a pathological
and physiological tannin is therefore incorrect. By a similar treatment of the tan-
nin from Ulmus campestris no crystalline body could be obtained. In the course of
his investigation the author obtained from willow bark benzohelicin, which Piria
gained in 1852 from populin by treatment with nitric acid. This is the first obser-
vation of the existence of this body in a plant.

Proceedings of the Seventh Annual Meeting of the California Pharmaceutical Society ,•
also, of the "Third Annual Meeting and Commencement Exercises of the California
College of Pharmacy. San Francisco, 1875. 8vo, pp. 76.

The pamphlet before us contains, besides the minutes, officers* reports, prospec-
tus, &c, two papers, read before the Society: "On Ethics of the Profession," by
E. Painter, and " On Suppositories," by G. G. Burnett, the latter advocating their
preparation from powdered cacao butter, by hand, with the aid of a spatula. A
third paper, " On Syrup of Ferrous Iodide," by M. Tschirner, was published in «
this Journal last year (p. 249).

The commencement was noticed on page 572 of our last volume. In the pam-
phlet we find the valedictory address by Prof. Searby, and abstracts from two theses:
" On Sesame Oil," by R. C. Meyers, and " On Oxytropis campestris," by T. D.
Graham.

Wildungen, its Baths and Mineral Springs. By Dr. A. Stoecker. Translated from
the German by Chas. Harrer, M. D. London: Triibner & Co.; New York:
E. Steiger. 1875. Pp. 40.

The pamphlet gives a brief account of these well-known spring*, their medicinal
properties, composition, &c.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

MAT, 1876.

ON SOME MEDICINAL PLANTS OF GREECE,

BY PROF. X. LANDERER, ATHENS.

Allium. — Garlic was used in ancient times for culinary and medicinal
purposes, and has preserved its reputation to the present day. The
bulb, ^tifMBed was originally used as a prophylactic against witchcraft
and enchantments, and god-fathers attached it to the bodies of babes
named after them. The species of allium cultivated in oriental coun-
tries are Allium sativum, A. subbirsutum, A. descendens, A. Porrum, A.
Schoenoprasum, A. Cepa and A. Moly, the latter having been extensively
used as a protection against the evil influences of the renowned enchan-
tress, Circe. The onion is largely consumed in the Orient ; together
with bread, it forms the principal nourishment of the poorer classes,
and, with grapes, tomatoes, olives and wine, it constitutes the suste-
nance of thousands of travelers in the summer time from morning till
night.

Asphodelus racemosus and bulbosus are interesting plants, known from
the remotest time. Being found in cemeteries, it was consecrated to
Persephone and the divinities of Hades. Its principal use was against
the bites of venomous insects, snakes and scorpions, and in inflamma-
tion of the testicles. A very strongly adhesive substance is prepared
from these bulbs, in Turkey, by exsiccating them thoroughly, in suit-
able ovens, when they acquire the glutinous properties of dextrin, and
are employed as paste by bookbinders and shoemakers. Pythagoras
called the plant Ilavy.p6.Ttov, pancration, a plant governing all, or pos-
sessing all properties. This name was adopted by Linnaeus for Pan-
cratium maritimum, which grows near the sea coast, and the bulb of
which is not unfrequently exported as an admixture of squill ; its flow-
ers are very beautiful and have a delicious odor. The bulb of it and
of Scilla maritima, boiled with honey, are esteemed as excellent reme-

13

1 94 Medicinal Plants of Greece. {AmA?y,

dies in chronic bronchitis and pulmonary consumption, and it is said
that by the use of these remedies Pythagoras had extended his life to
134 years. From Theognis we have the proverb " e scilla non nascitur
rosa." The name scilla, not squilla, is derived from the Greek veib
SuXkltv, because the bulb can be readily divided into small pieces or
scales.

Lagoecia cuminoides is commonly called lagokoimitia or hare's bed
(kayoq, hare), because the young hares are said to be always found hid-
den under this plant, which is esteemed in the Orient against nephritic
lithiasis.

Ceterach officinarum, Willd. — Many years ago, when I was examined,
the question was asked, whether sterility could be produced, to which
I answered, u No, except by abortifacient medicines, such as savin,
ergot, powerful drastics and emmenagogues." Some years ago a mid-
wife was accused of Laving given to a rich lady some medicine to pre-
vent her bearing children. Several plants having been sent to me for
examination, I found among them the one mentioned above, which is
the Asplenium Ceterach, Lin., and which appears to be employed for the
purpose indicated ; its effects, however, remain to be examined.

Dictamnus creticus. — This plant is indigenous to the island of Crete,
where the flowers and leaves are collected, tied up in small bundles,
and sold as an excellent remedy against dysmenorrhoea and amcenor-
rhoea of young women. In ancient times it enjoyed a very great rep-
utation in many ailments of women, and it is to be regretted that it,
like many other useful plants, has been neglected in modern times in
favor of others not possessing the same virtues ; but it is still employed
to some extent as a reliable emmenagogue, together with the well-
known and highly esteemed Ruta graveolens.

Sonckus oleraceus. — The ancient name (sonchos) of this plant is derived
from ^(oyvxeeiv, life-giving. It has enjoyed a high repute for its medi-
cinal properties among the ancient authors, Theophrastus, Pliny, Dios-
corides, &c. " Sonchus quod succum salubrem fundit qui stomachi
rosiones lenit et nutricibus lac augit." For these reasons, the plant is
boiled and eaten with oil, and nursing women apply it in the form of
cataplasms, with the view of augmenting the secretion of milk. The
plant is greatly esteemed in diseases of the liver, particularly in jaundice.

Cuscuta epilinum, Toad flax, is a parasitic plant found upon Satureja

Am•]^0auyr;x87h6a.rm,} Medicinal Plants of Greece. 195

and Thymus, the latter of which is frequently completely covered
with it. It occurs, also, often upon the flax (Aivov), whence is derived
its specific name, epilinon. It was recommended by Pliny in dropsi-
cal affections, in which it is still employed, also in angina and gouty
complaints.

Nerium Oleander. — This beautiful plant is called in Greece rhodo-
daphne (from ^podov, rose, and ddcpv/j, laurel or bay), or rose bay, and
picrodaphne (niKpoz^ bitter), or bitter bay ; the name nerion, vqptov, is
derived from i^/>oc, humid, and indicates a water-loving plant, because
it grows in moist places. When taken internally, the extreme bitter-
ness nearly always produces nausea ; but, after long-continued use, it
has been found to be of some value in epilepsy, by reducing consider-
ably the frequency of the paroxysms, although not effecting a complete
cure.

Anagyris fcztida is a leguminous tree, the leaves of which have pur-
gative properties, and are employed by the peasants like senna, under
the name of pseudo-sinamiki, false senna leaves. When the leaves
are rubbed between the fingers, their very offensive odor is developed,
which is likewise perceived when the tree is shaken either by hand or
by the wind. This is the origin of the Greek proverb, "Avdyupcv
Kwic<7 — pLjj avdyopcv" which has been in use from very remote times,
and which signifies (Do not shake the anagyris), to avoid stirring up
unpleasant affairs which in the course of time have been forgotten.
The fruit having a resemblance to beans, they are called agriophaselo,
or wild beans, in the island of Cyprus.

Atractylis gummifera, by the ancient Greeks called chamaileon, is a
handsome, thistle like plant, yielding an exudation, which is collected
by women and children, and sold as pseudo-mastich or acantho-mastich.
The pieces, consisting of agglutinated tears, are oblong in shape, and
usually about two inches in length by one inch in thickness. Its root bears
some resemblance to celery and parsnip, and is occasionally mistaken
for these esculent roots. In the island of Melos four children were
poisoned and died last year from eating the root of this plant, and
another case had occurred, a few years ago, in the island of Mykonos.

The holy plants Verbena. — Not only the genus which at present bears
that name, but medicinal plants generally, were in olden times known
by the name of verbena, i. e., hpo fioraw], hierobotane, or holy plants,

196

Medicinal Plants of Greece.

Am Jour. Pharm.
May, 1876

because they enjoyed great reputation amongst the Greeks and Romans
against execrations, apparitions, witchcraft and other demoniacal influ-
ences. The priests using these plants were called verbenarii.

Arum Dracunculus, maculatum, &c. — All plants which, in their flow-
ers or roots, either by color or form, have some resemblance to a snake
or scorpion, are called ophidochorton (o<pcq, a snake), ophidobotanon,
or skorpidochorton. Such plants are Heliotropium hirsutum, Scolopen-
drum officinale, Lithospermum apulum, Echinum vulgare, and principally
Arum dracunculus, so named from its resemblance in color to the skin
of some serpents and the tiger ; its horrible odor resembles that of the
cadavers of some animals. All the above-named plants are used in
the Orient by the common people as a prophylactic as well as a cure
of the bites of venomous snakes and scorpions, which, in Greece, have
frequently resulted in death.

Eruca sativa is extensively cultivated in oriental countries as a pot-
herb and salad. The seeds, which have a biting flavor when masti-
cated— hence the name from spuco, I draw — are collected in Macedo-
nia and often exported to France, where they are probably used as an
admixture to white mustard.

Cataplasms are almost universally employed in all oriental countries,
and are popularly resorted to as the beginning of the treatment in nearly
all complaints. The principal articles used for this purpose are flax-
seed and mallow flowers, okra fruit (Hibiscus esculentus\ Corinthian
raisins and figs ; a mixture of wax and honey is likewise frequently
used. Against the bites of venomous snakes and scorpions, the leaves
of Solanum Mehngena, called meltsanes, are used in the form of cata-
plasms, besides the various parts of plants mentioned above, which
appear to be used mainly on the principle : Similia similibus curantur.
Cataplasms are often made with wine, and with wine must and milk.

A very curious cataplasm was used during the visit of the plague for
accelerating the suppuration of the buboes ; it consisted of a mixture
of caviar and flaxseed, and was used with good success, upon the advice
of the nurses, in my own case, after having been infected by a pesti-
lential cat in the island of Paros, where I had been sent by the gov-
ernment to assist in arresting this horrible disease.

The fever plant, thermochorton, in the times of Hippocrates was the
lesser centaury, Erythrcea centaurium, which is still used with marked

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
May, 1876. J

Pressed Herbs.

l97

success in the chronic fevers of oriental countries ; it is made into a
strong decoction together with the leaves of the olive tree. The name
of the plant is supposed by some to be derived from Kivraupoc, cen-
taur, while others refer its origin to the words centum, a hundred, and
aurum, gold, signifying a plant worth a hundred gold pieces.

In this connection it may be stated that there are annually consumed
in Greece about 20,000 kilos, and in all the oriental countries over
500,000 kilos of sulphate of quinia.

PRESSED HERBS.

BY J. U. LLOYD, CINCINNATI, O.

Herbs are pressed to reduce their bulk, they then are compact, re-
quire but little space for storage, and are easily handled. If I mistake
not, I have named about the only advantages pressed herbs possess
over loose.

My experiments teach me that they deteriorate nearly, if not quite,
as rapidly when pressed as loose. In either case, they are exposed to
the action of the atmosphere, and the decomposing effects of the
moisture with which it is usually laden. Insects attack both. Pressed
herbs, without a doubt, mould quickest. Excepting the mere matter
of bulk there is no inducement for pressing herbs. Common paper
bags, or even cotton sacks, will preserve them as well. The desidera-
tum of the day is a process for preserving the delicate medicinal
principles of our herbs from season to season. If this can be accom-
plished, in conjunction with compactness of form, so much the better,
otherwise let us choose quality first, even though it be at the sacrifice
of convenience in handling.

In the proceedings of the Amer. Pharmaceutical Association, 1875,
we find an article from the pen of Mr. A. W. Miller, upon an im-
proved method for preserving herbs, said improvement being the sub-
stitution of pasteboard boxes for paper. The herbs, instead of being
pressed by the dealers into compact masses, as is now customary, are,
by the pharmacists themselves, firmly packed into the box by hand,
remaining loose enough to admit of examination at any time. In my
opinion, the important point in connection with dried herbs is preserva-
tion, not convenience. Is there any advantage to be derived, in this
respect, from the substitution of pasteboard boxes for our machine

Pressed Herbs.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
May, 1876.

presses, or even paper or cotton bags ? Will boxes prevent the rav-
ages of insects, or preserve the delicate organic principles upon which
many of our herbs depend for their medicinal values ? This is the
direct issue, not convenience in packing and the value of shelf room.

Personally, I have met with many aggravations respecting loose and
pressed herbs, barks and roots, as found upon the market. Necessity
has compelled me to experiment upon their preservation. The subject
is very important to every druggist and pharmacist, and I feel that a
brief description of the most successful of my experiments will be of
interest to many readers of the " Journal." To preserve herbs with any
satisfaction, I was compelled to use air- tight tin cans. Gather the
herb when in its prime, quickly and carefully dry it, then, by hand,
press it into the can, sprinkle upon it chloroform, in the proportion of
half an ounce to each pound, replace the cover immediately and ren-
der the can air tight by painting the edges with melted beeswax.
Herbs like peppermint, spearmint, &c, which depend for their virtues
mostly upon delicate essential oils, can be nicely preserved in this way.
Roots and herbs that are particularly liable to the attacks of insects,
e. g., parsley root, burdock root, motherwort, will show no sign of
their presence. Is there any objection to chloroform in this connec-
tion ? I think not ; it is quickly dissipated when exposed to the
atmosphere ; it certainly is of much value, insect life being destroyed
by its vapor ; without it, even though in air-tight cans, specimens will
be attacked. Aside from this, I believe the vapor of chloroform
exerts a preservative influence over most of the delicate proximate
principles of our plants.

Any druggist can have tin cans made to order, at small expense y
with careful handling they will last many years, being refilled each
season. Of course the process necessitates some trouble, and when
the customer is waited upon, a little time must be consumed in replac-
ing and waxing the cover. It is time well employed, however, for
the majority of customers will prefer paying double the price of ordi-
nary herbs for those preserved in this manner.

The season is now approaching for replenishing the stock of botani-
cal specimens. This stock must last until next year. Druggists can
gather many articles they will otherwise be compelled to purchase.
Pharmacists who knowingly will not allow a grain of other inferior
and adulterated medicines to enter their stores, are compelled to dis-

AmMaT'18P7h6?m-} Modern Methods in Pharmacy. 199

pense from their counters, each year, a large amount of old and
worthless pressed herbs, often mouldy, and usually full of stems,
sticks, dirt, &c. They must take what the market affords, unless they
gather prime articles at the proper season. But it may be well to
remember that prime herbs in August are entirely different materials
the following January, unless precautions are taken to preserve them.

The process of preserving herbs in tin cans, by means of a little
chloroform, was suggested to me by the late Prof. W. B. Chapman,
of this city, who had met with remarkable success in applying it to
ergot-

MODERN METHODS IN PHARMACY.

BY JOHN F. HANCOCK.

In considering a subject, the mind should not be fettered by preju-
dice, nor should a new method or invention be condemned before the
application of careful tests. The pharmacist who desires his profes-
sion to be progressive, should encourage invention and discovery, and
adopt methods which lighten his labors by facilitating neatness and
accuracy in manipulation and expedition in the dispatch of business.
The term " Elegant Parmacy " is frequently misapplied, but we often
notice elegance in quality and style of many preparations, which mark
a striking contrast between old and new methods. Elegance consistent
with accuracy, should be aimed at by all pharmacists who hope to ex-
cel in their calling. The primitive forms in which medicines have
been presented, are very much modified through the influence of
science and education. The old-fashioned decoctions and infusions
have been displaced to a great extent by tinctures, fluid and solid ex-
tracts ; but these preparations, though vastly superior, were not much
favored at first. The increase of chemical knowledge has developed
methods by which crude drugs have yielded their active principles in a
pure and concentrated form.

The old style " bolus " has lost its repulsiveness by the process of
extraction, and its offspring, the modern pill, in being prepared of
extracts, alkaloids, resinoids, etc., is unobjectionable in size, and ren-
dered more acceptable by the process of coating with sugar or gelatin,
so that in its transit to the stomach, the palate is not offended. The
forms of medicines known as granules, pearls, dragees, globules, cap-
sules, cachets and compressed sugar and gelatin coated pills, are of

200 Modern Methods in Pharmacy. {A\ty,\lXm'

recent introduction, and mostly of French origin. Thus by modern
methods in pharmacy, nauseating remedies are relieved of disagreeable
taste. Medicines in powder form are now placed between two concave
wafer discs, and in the cachet thus formed, can be swallowed without
the slightest inconvenience. Another important class of modern rem-
edies are the chemicals. Many of these are administered in the form
of solution, which is sometimes objectionable in many cases, owing to
their disagreeable taste. The essential oils and balsams are also fre-
quently objectionable on this account, in consideration of which the
artistic pharmacists of France devised new methods which have been
largely imitated in this country by manufacturing pharmacists.

An English writer, referring to the practice of pharmacy in France,
calls it the " Pharmacy of Sugar." Careful inquiry will disclose the
fact, that the pharmacy of science and art would be the more appro-
priate term ; for they not only include sugar largely in their prepara-
tions (thus wisely employing the confectioner's art, when practicable), but
have taken an original step in the introduction of soluble gelatin or
gluten capsules, as a vehicle for the administration of nauseous reme-
dies. Although this art is being imitated in the United States, the
results do not compare with those of the French ; at least, we have
not met with medicated gelatin capsules made here with liquid contents
that favorably compare with those furnished by the importers of French
medicines. Those who examine these medicated globules are pleas-
antly impressed with their neatness of finish, regularity of size, trans-
parency, and the complete manner in which each globule is filled. The
attractive form in which French remedies are presented constitute them
formidable rivals of the delectable homoeopathic granules. French
pharmacists employ the culinary art also — even that of sacred origin ;
for, doubtless, the use of unleavened bread, suggested medicine wafers
which idea has been brought to a high degree of perfection by M.
Limousin, of Paris, in the introduction of concave wafer discs. The
preparation of u cachets de pain," is a new method in pharmacy of
utility and importance, which when understood, will be generally
appreciated. These envelopes of bread afford the most convenient
means extant for the extemporaneous and tasteless administration of
medicines in powder form. With the press and wafers, prescriptions
can be conveniently and expeditiously dispensed in a tasteless form,
when it would be impossible to do so by any other convenient means.

AmM?y,r'i8^!rm'j Modern Methods in Pharmacy, 201

A review of the history of the introduction of " cachets de pain " in
this country, will explain the opposition that has been urged against
them. If we are correctly informed, a pharmacist of a Western city,
on a visit to Paris, saw the cachets, and being informed of their pop-
ularity, obtained from M. Limousin a lever press and wafer discs,
which he successfully introduced into his own trade. Recognizing
merit in the method, he imported more of the discs, with a view of
selling them to the profession ; but instead of importing the presses of
Limousin, and continuing to import his wafer discs, which leave noth-
ing to be desired, arrangements were made to supply presses and discs
of home manufacture, greatly inferior to the French, and at prices
higher than Limousin's should have been sold for.

This condition of things engendered opposition, and, in our opinion,
prevented the general adoption of the method, or at least, made it un-
popular with some. The press and wafers of American manufacture,
which we have seen, are not to be compared with Limousin's ; hence,
we are not surprised that the former should not be received with favor.

The time consumed in the preparation of cachets is urged as an
objection to their use. This, time and experience will overcome, for
it matters not how skillful the operator, the application of any new
method will be found troublesome at first. Skill is the result of
observation and experience. In this connection we will briefly review
an essay on "cachets de pain," in the "American Journal of Phar-
macy," vol xlviii. No. 3, p. 100. The writer refers to them as "wafer
discs found in the market under the name of cachets de pain." To be
correct, the wafer discs are the material used in preparing cachets de
pain (envelopes of bread). These, when enclosing medicines, are
known as medicated cachets (cachets medicamenteux). The writer
calls the method the "theory of the inventor," which is incorrect, for
when a fact is demonstrable, as this is, it cannot be called a theory.

The writer's directions for preparing the cachets, and his mode of
administration, deserve notice. The edges of each disc should not be
moistened, as he recommends, but the marginal edges of one only, and
that very slightly (experience is worth something at this point), and in
taking the cachets, if properly moistened, no trouble is experienced in
swallowing them. If properly prepared, they will not adhere to the
press, nor to each other when placed in a box, as mentioned by the
essayist ; neither will they "cleave to the roof of the mouth" if properly

ioi Modern Methods in Pharmacy. {Km^;™6.m '

moistened. He mentions the time necessary for their preparation as
being five times greater than that required for preparing pills and pow-
ders. Such has not been our experience, hence, we conclude from his
remarks, that he is not skilled in the art of preparing cachets, and for
fear that fallacious impressions may be made on the minds of those
who have not examined the subject for themselves, we deem it expedi-
ent to controvert his statements.

The word theory is again used in his endeavor to condemn cachets
de pain. In concluding the dissertation, in order to strengthen his
objections, he observes : " This is not only my personal experience,
but that of several physicians of this city, who, having submitted this
method to fair trial, have arrived at the conclusion that cachets de pain
are a failure."

We were the first to prepare cachets de pain in Baltimore, and at a
period previous to their introduction in any of the Eastern cities ; the
press and wafers of Limousin only being used. They have been regu-
larly dispensed since their introduction, and are highly esteemed by
physicians. After a little trouble at first, no inconvenience has been
experienced with them, — the time consumed in their preparation being
very little more than that required for pills and powders ; and accidents,
such as recorded by the writer, we have never encountered.

We concluded to repeat the experiment of the writer with cachets
containing effervescing salts. One cachet was prepared with a mixture
of tartaric acid and bicarbonate of sodium, another with citric acid and
carbonate of potassium. As usual, after joining the edges of the discs,
they were quite dry in a few seconds. On being placed separately in
water, they became perfectly flacid, but several cachets could have
been swallowed before any sign of rupture or effervescence was noticed.
The recommendation of Planten's jujube paste capsules, as a prefera-
ble means of administering medicines in a tasteless form (particularly
if in powder), convinces us of the writer's lack of familiarity with this
method. The capsules will not compare with the wafer discs in point
of economy or convenience, nor can they be as expeditiously prepared.
However, they answered an excellent purpose, until Limousin placed
his unique press and concave wafer discs within the reach of pharma-
cists, and even now, may be preferred in a few cases. Therefore, we
cannot conclude with the writer, that cachets de pain, of the kind we
dispense, "will soon be referred to as a thing of the past," but, on the
contrary, like many other innovations, strongly opposed at first, will in

AmMa^87h6!rm'} Modern Methods in Pharmacy. 203

time receive a most favorable notice, and be largely employed in
dispensing the preparations of physicians.

Another method which meets with opposition, but promises to grow
in favor, is the process of preparing compressed pills, for which a con-
venient and inexpensive machine has recently been placed within
reach of the entire profession. No doubt, compressed pills will be of
limited application, but for such substances as bicarbonate of sodium,
bicarbonate of potassium, bisulphate of quinia, and the like, it is prefer-
able to the old method. This form of pills is not new, as in England
and the United States they have been known for many years/but here-
tofore they had been prepared exclusively by the few.

Lastly, though not least, of the methods in pharmacy, which may be
termed modern, is the moulding of suppositories. These are not a new
class of preparations. We have before us the Dispensatory of Valerius
Cordi, published in 1571, in which we find a formula for purgative sup-
positories, but from the very nature of the formula, we do not suppose
them to have been the pretty things which are now called " supposi-
tories," with due respect to those who prefer hand-made suppositories.
We value the modern method of moulding as a great advancement in
the art. Every pharmacist should endeavor to be supplied with the
means of conducting his manipulations, according to the most approved
scientific and artistic methods. Those who are not willing to incur the
expense and inconvenience, should not throw obstacles in the way of
progress. Who would be content to employ themselves in a shop
furnished after the best model of the last century ? No gas, no coal,
no water, and destitute of a hundred other conveniences which science
and art have brought to our aid. The old shop, with windows of bot-
tled snakes, jars of rancid dog lard, snake oil, human fat and numerous
other repulsive and unnecessary remedies, through the influence of
science and art have been displaced by the modern palatial pharmacy,
replete with chemical and pharmaceutical apparatus, and the introduc-
tion of new methods.

CACHETS DE PAIN.

BY WILLARD M. RICE, JR.

The use of these articles, comparatively new to American pharma-
cists, seems to be increasing to so great an extent, that I have thought
a few practical notes on the subject would not be unacceptable to the

204 Cachets de Pain.

readers of the " Journal," although it has been so lately and so well
treated of by others.

About the only possible objections to their universal introduction
and use are those put forward by Mr. Lechler in the number for
March last of this periodical, and as these objections have been suc-
cessfully answered and refuted by Mr. Blair (April number), there is
no need of further reference to them.

One objection to the general introduction of the use of cachets has
hitherto been the cost of the press considered necessary for their pre-
paration. I wish, therefore, to suggest a cheap, " home-made " appa-
ratus, which, while it may not take the place of the more costly presses
with those who may prefer and can afford them, will yet enable even
the poorest in the ranks of our proverbially poor profession to possess
a press, at a cost of only a few cents, which will turn out the cachets
equal to the best.

I have prepared a great many cachets by the following- described
machine:

A piece of hard wood, about six or eight inches long by four inches
wide, serves for the base of the machine. In this fasten the lower
dies (the brass buttons for stair-rods, as suggested by Mr. Mclntyre,
answer an admirable purpose, and can be had of exactly the proper
sizes), one for each size of cachet. They should be sunk in the wood,
so as to be on a level with the top. Similar dies are to be screwed to
wooden handles, and the machine is complete. These handles, neatly
turned, can be purchased at any hardware or house-furnishing store.

It will be seen that this machine differs from that figured in the
"Journal" for January last, in having the upper dies attached to han-
dles separate from the rest of the press. In using it, all that is neces-
sary is to place an empty wafer on the die, place the medicine on it,
cover it with another cachet, properly moistened, apply to this the
upper die, and a very slight pressure upon this, or a tap with the handle
of a spatula, is sufficient to cause them to adhere. In this way any
number of complete cachets may be made in a very expeditious
manner.

One word in regard to the proper moistening of the upper disk.
There is no need of any complicated "wetter" for this purpose. A
piece of flannel or muslin, wet and then wrung out, and folded two or
three times, will be found to answer every purpose. Several of the
disks may be laid upon this damp surface, to be taken up one by one

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
May, 1876. J

Glycerin as an Excipient.

for the press, and they will be found to have absorbed sufficient moist-
ure to make them adhesive, but none too much. My practice is to
put them immediately from the press into a bottle, and I have never
had to complain of too much moisture.

The polished brass dies are very easily kept clean, and the whole
machine possesses the advantage of great simplicity, and will last for
years, u with no expense for repairs."

The public are always ready to encourage legitimate enterprize, and
in these days of elixirs, sugar pellets, &c, every pharmacist will find
it conducive to his interests to introduce the cachets de pain to the
notice of physicians and his customers.

I think the cachets may also be found useful for enveloping minute
doses of liquid medicines, provided they exert no solvent action upon
the envelope. I have never seen this suggested, but see no reason to
doubt its practicability.

Philadelphia, April, 1876.

GLYCERIN AS AN EXCIPIENT FOR PILL MASSES.

BY LOUIS EMANUEL, PH G.

[From an Inaugural Essay.)

As an excipient for pill masses, glycerin has been recommended in
combination with starch or tragacanth for pills generally, and without
any combination for pills of quinia and other chemicals. The latter
was suggested by Dr. T. E. Jenkins in the "Amer. Journ, Pharm,,"
1869, p. 119. However, little or nothing has been said of its advan-
tageous use as an excipient for pills generally. I have used it in com-
pounding prescriptions for the last three years, and now am confident
of its superior properties, and feel safe to recommend its use by every
pharmacist whenever it is applicable. I prefer to use it without any
intermixture, for it answers all purposes and is more convenient to use ;
being a liquid, it can be dropped from a vial, which is done with greater
rapidity, accuracy and cleanliness than if combined with starch or
tragacanth, which combinations being semi-fluids would have to be
used with a spatula, and if the requisite quantity be known, would have
to be weighed. Syrup of acacia is most frequently used, over which
glycerin has two important advantages. Pills made with syrup of
acacia are all larger, and, if kept for a while, become very hard, while

2o6

Glycerin as an Excipient.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
May, 1876.

those made with glycerin never become perfectly hard, although they
are firm and retain their shape, and, when held between the fingers for
a while, and worked, they become very pliable. The amount of syrup
of acacia necessary is invariably larger than that of glycerin, as will be
seen by the following formulas ; though trifling in some, the difference
is sufficient to show that more syrup is required :

R

Acid, tannici,
LJ Glycerinae,

(or syrup, acaciae,
M. ft. pil., No. viii.

B

Pulv. opii,
Pulv. camphorae,
Acid, tannici,
Glycerinae,
(or syrup, acacias,
M. ft. pil., No. x.

gr. xvi
gtt. iii
gtt. iv)

gr. v
gr. x

gr. xxv
gtt. v

gtt. x)

R

Acid tannici,
Pulv. opii,
Glycerinae,
(or syrupi acacias,
M. ft. pil., No. v.

R

Pulv. opii,
Pulv. plumbi acet.,
Glycerinae,
(or syrup, acaciae,
M. ft. pil., No. xvi.

gr. xv
gr. iii
gtt. ii
gtt. v)

gr. vin
gr. xl
gtt. i

gtt. ii)

R

Aloes socot.,

Ferri sulph. exsic, aa gr. xii

Glycerinae (containing 10

per cent, of alcohol) gtt. ii

(or syrup, acaciae, gtt. vi

If glycerin alone is used with these substances, the mass will be ap-
parently adhesive, but upon rolling, it will crumble, and cannot be
formed into pills j this difficulty is overcome by the small quantity of
alcohol.

R

Quiniae sulph.
Ext. colocynth. co.,
Pulv. capsici,
Glycerinae,
M. ft. pil., No. xxiv.

. gr. xxiv
gr. xviii
. gr. xii
gtt. v (or syr. acac, gtt xii)

The quantity of glycerin in this formula seems insufficient, but upon
working with considerable pressure, it will be found to be just enough
to form a very good mass.
R

Quiniae sulph., . . , • gr. xxiv

Pulv. capsici, gr. xviii

Glycerinae, . . gtt. xii (or syr. acac, gtt. xii)

AmMly"ri8P76arm} Effervescing Preparations. 207

The quantity of glycerin required in this one seems quite large when
compared with the one just before it, which is due to the absence of
an adhesive substance ; for if two grains of powdered acacia be added,
only eight drops are required.
R

Quiniae sulph., . . . gr. xxx

Ferri. sulph. exsic, ... gr. xv

Strychnia? sulph , . . . gr. i

Glycerinae, . . gtt. xii (or syr. acac, gtt. xv)

M. ft. pil , No. xxx.

First rub the sulph. strychnia with a drop of water, add the other
ingredients and mix the whole thoroughly together ; then add the
glycerin, and triturate briskly until an even mass is formed, which
divide into pills as quickly as possible. When done slowly, the mass
becomes very brittle, and cannot be rolled out. In the above formula
I first noticed the great advantage of knowing the exact quantity of
this excipient for forming a mass, for which purpose eighteen drops
may be added on a slow operation.

I have a list of formulas similar to the above always within reach at
the dispensing counter, to which I can refer to ascertain the amount of
glycerin necessary to form a mass, and also write the amount used on
the prescription. The glycerin is best dropped by means of a glass
tube drawn out at one end to an aperture of J- inch (or by means of the
apparatus figured on page 99 of this volume).

EFFERVESCING PREPARATION OF SODIUM TARTRATE.

BY HENRY T. HAYHURST, PH.G.

[From an Inaugural Essay.)
Within a few years past, an effervescing solution of sodium tartrate1
has been slowly gaining confidence among physicians as an active
cathartic and purge, superior to solution of magnesium citrate, among
the people as a cooling beverage and agreeable cathartic, and among
pharmacists as an elegant, permanent and profitable preparation. Its
superiority over solution of magnesium citrate lies principally in the
following qualities : It does not debilitate the bowels, and leave them
in a weakened condition. It does not produce tenesmus, and therefore
can be used with much less pain, as a purge, where hemorrhoids are

1 See "American Journal of Pharmacy," 1873, P- z%9-

208 Effervescing Preparations. {Am£y%87h6arm'

present, than the magnesia solution. It is a permanent solution, and
does not precipitate nor became cloudy, after a few days, as the mag-
nesia solution frequently does. It is as palatable and pharmaceutically
elegant as the magnesia solution, superior to it in medicinal value,
and of much more profit to the pharmacist in manufacturing.

The formula which I have ascertained to give the most stable pro-
duct and gratifying results is the following, viz :

Take of sodium carbonate, . . . £1

acid tartaric, in crystals, . . . £vi

oil of lemon, . . . gtt. iii

simple syrup, .... f^iss
pure water, . . . q. s. ft. f^xii

The operation is as follows : reduce the sodium carbonate to pow-
der, rub the oil of lemon intimately with it, and then add water
sufficient to dissolve ; to this solution add five drachms of the tartaric
acid, and stir occasionally till the acid is dissolved. Filter this solution
to remove any impurities which may be present, or any cloudiness
resulting from the introduction of the oil of lemon. To this filtrate
add the syrup, agitate thoroughly, then add one drachm of tartaric
acid (the remaining amount), cork and tie immediately to preserve the
carbonic acid gas ; finally, agitate the contents of the bottle occasionally
till the acid is all dissolved, and keep in a cool place cork downwards.

The reasons for using the acid in crystals for producing the tartrate,
are these : The commercial powdered acid usually contains impuri-
ties, and sometimes adulterations, not present in the crystals ; to powder
them previously to adding to the alkaline solution would be an unnec-
essary occupation ; finally the reaction is performed much slower and
more regularly than where the powdered acid is used, an object, I
think, greatly to be desired in processes evolving much carbonic acid
gas. The last portion of the acid could be added by dissolving it first
in the syrup and adding this solution, but in doing this the reaction is
severe and instantaneous, so that much gas is often lost, while with
the crystals the reaction is moderate, and sufficient time is given for
inserting the cork, and for the gas to dissolve in the liquid.

Prepared in this manner, effervescing solution of sodium tartrate is
a very agreeable beverage, and can be preserved unimpaired for most
any length of time, samples having been kept through the hot months
uninjured.

I have found such a wide difference in samples of sodium carbonate,

^i^S^T'} Syrup of Ferrous Iodide. \o9

obtained from different establishments, in regard to purity, efflorescence
and amount of water of crystallization, that I have purified and
recrystallized this salt, much to my satisfaction, and it will fully repay
pharmacists to adopt the following plan :

Dissolve the large crystals of common sal soda in pure water, allow
all the insoluble impurities to subside, filter this solution and evaporate
at a moderate heat till a pellicle forms over the surface of the liquid,
and set aside for two or three days to crystallize. A small proportion
of mother liquor remains, which, if sufficiently pure, may be still
farther evaporated and crystallized, if desired. These crystals should
now be dried on a linen strainer in a moderately warm air-chamber,
much care being necessary in this operation, as the crystals effloresce
readily in the atmosphere, and too much heat will easily liquify the
salt again. This process yields beautiful, clear, oblique-rhombic,
prismatic crystals, which should be preserved in well-stopped jars. It
may contain some sodium chloride and sulphate, which, however, if
in minute quantity only, do not detract from its medicinal value.

An effervescing granular salt of sodium tartrate may be formed by
heating, on a sand bath, anhydrous sodium carbonate and pure pow-
dered tartaric acid, in the proportion of three parts of the alkali to four
and a quarter of the acid. Care must be taken to do this in a vessel
not affected, chemically, by tartaric acid, and to keep the chemicals
well stirred and scraped up from the bottom, or they will become yel-
low and carbonized. This gives an agreeable, slightly acid salt, very
•soluble in water, which solution effervesces briskly, and forms a conve-
nient and pleasant cathartic and cooling drink. This preparation
keeps well and does not attract moisture, as do many effervescing
granular salts.

For a cooling drink the solution may be taken in tablespoonful
doses hourly, as a mild cathartic one half a bottleful and for a brisk
purge a whole bottleful. The granular salt may be taken in teaspoon-
ful or tablespoonful doses, dissolved in sweetened water.

THE EFFECT OF LIGHT ON SYRUP OF THE IODIDE OF IRON.

BY CLEMMONS PARRISH, PH.G.

My attention was called, in making syrup iodide of iron, U. S. P.,
to a change occurring in the same lot under different circumstances.
The syrup was made in accordance with the officinal process, care

14

2 1 (J* Tinctura Ferri Chloridi. {A\llyjj6arm'

being taken to follow out minutely the " Pharmacopoeia " directions as
to temperature, &c. The result convinced me that the effect of light
on the preparation has little or nothing to do with the chemical change
resulting in the discoloration so often seen in this syrup, but is the
result of atmospheric change in the bottle, caused by careless stopping
or defective corks.

From the syrup six one-ounce vials were filled ; three of these were
corked ; three were glass-stoppered vials, in one of which the stopper
was coated with paraffin. The syrup in two of the corked bottles
retained the desired appearance. The portion in the glass-stoppered
vials met with a change in one instance ; the stopper coated with paraf-
fin and another fitting securely, remaining unchanged. These bottles
were all placed in a window, exposed during the greater part of the
day more or less directly to the sun's rays, remaining in this state for
about one month.

I have found that the addition of either phosphoric or citric acid, as
suggested by Mr. Thos. B. Groves ("Am. Jour. Pilar.," 1868, page
265), to be of great benefit in preserving the syrup from atmospheric
action, resulting in altered properties and unsightly appearance.

Philadelphia, March 25, 1876.

Note by the Editor. — That the discoloration of syrup of ferrous
iodide is due to the oxidizing influence of the atmosphere, and not to
light, has been repeatedly discussed in this Journal since 1854.

TINCTURA FERRI CHLORIDI.

BY ISAAC R. DILLER, PH.G.

[From an Inaugural Fssay.)
The specific gravity of this tincture is '990, and each fluidounce
should yield, when treated with ammonia water in excess, precipitate of
ferric oxide, weighing, after washing, drying and igniting, 28*8 grains.
Each fluidounce should also contain 39*5 grains of anhydrous hydro-
chloric acid. It should give no dark coloration on addition of a crystal
of ferrous sulphate and sulphuric acid (absence of nitric acid), and no
blue precipitate with potassic ferridcyanide (absence of ferrous salt)
To see how near the tinctures kept in the shops might coincide with
these figures in regard to amount of ferric oxide and anhydrous acid
contained in them, and also their action with the officinal tests given

Am. Jour. Pharm.
May, 1876.

A Singular Reaction.

21 1

to ascertain their freedom from or the presence of the various impuri-
ties to which it is most liable, several samples, from some of the lead-
ing pharmacists of this city, were examined, with the following results ::

No. of

O 4.1 1 J 1 U1C.

Amount of

Ferric
Oxide to f^i.

Anhydrous
Hydrochloric
Acid to f^i.

Nitric Acid.

Ferrous Oxide.

Precipitate

formed
on standing.

I

22*6

grs.

35-2 grs.

Absent

Absent

None

2

27-4

«

40-3

tt

Present

(<

Slight

3

287

a

35'7

tt

Absent

tt

None

4

26-9

a

33*8

tt

tt

a

•

a

5

28-9

a

44-8

a

a

Trace

it

6

17*5

a

30-1

a

a

Considerable

Slight

7

32-2

a

37-o

tt

Trace

Absent

None

8

307

a

46*3

tt

it

it

Considerable

9

27-9

a

35'4

tt

a

a

None

10

23'4

a

34*9

a

Absent

it

n

From the above table it will be seen that the samples examined do
not vary very greatly in regard to ferric strength, except in one case,
while in two samples the ferric strength exceeded the officinal stan-
dard. The difference in the color of the samples was quite noticeable,
varying from pale lemon to rich brownish-orange, the depth of shade
varying with the proportion of the iron and the amount of acid. Ac-
cording to the present process, there is no excuse for any great deficiency
in strength, as by further addition of the liquor it can readily be brought
up to the standard, if from any cause the liquor should be wanting in.
that direction.

A SINGULAR REACTION.

BY JOSEPH P. REMINGTON, PH.G.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, April i$th.)
The following prescription was sent to Prof. J. M. Maisch by Jos.
W. Hall, of Nashville, Tenn., who states in his letter that he noticed
a reaction of a very singular nature take place when the various in-
gredients were mixed together ; when first prepared the color being
a dark-red, but changing in a few hours to a beautiful dark-green. It
is as follows:

212 A Singular Reaction. \ Amd™rJ%!rm-

Syrup, pruni virg., .... f^ii
Syrup, tolu.,

Syrup, scillae, . . . ad f^i

Tinct. lobelias,

Spt. aether, nitrosi, . . . .ad f£ii

Morphias sulph., . . , . gr. i

M. ft. solut. Sig., a teaspoonful.

The writer was requested to look into the subject, and this was done
with considerable interest as one point after another was developed.

1st. The prescription was compounded as given above, when the
effect of the change in color was distinctly observed, as noticed by
Mr. Hall.

2d. The various ingredients were put together without the syrup of
wild cherry. No change in color was discovered on standing twenty-
four hours.

3d. All of the ingredients were mixed together, leaving out syrup of
tolu. The change in color takes place on standing ; the mixture
darkens and assumes a green tint.

4th. In this, syrup of squill was omitted — all of the other ingredi-
ents combined. The liquid becomes darker red, but does not change
to green.

5th. Tincture of lobelia was left out in this experiment. The
change took place readily, the mixture becoming quite as green as in
No. 1.

6th, All of the ingredients were mixed together except the spirit of
nitrous ether. The reaction did not take place — but little change was
noticed.

7th. Sulphate of morphia was omitted. The change in this case
very decided. The mixture assumes a dark green color.

These results pointed to the fact that syrup of wild-cherry, spirit of
nitrous ether and syrup of squill were alone concerned in the reaction,
with little if any interference on the part of tincture of lobelia.

Spirit of nitrous ether and syrup of wild-cherry, when mixed to-
gether, acquired a greater depth of color, but did not become green.
When syrup of squill was added, however, the green tint began to de-
velop, and when allowed to stand as long as in No. I, the shade was
nearly the same.

From the peculiar coloration and its method of development, the

Am. Jour. Pharm.
May, 1876.

A Singular Reaction.

213

presence of iron in minute quantity was suspected in the syrup of
squill and spirit of nitrous ether ; and, on applying the tests for this
metal to the two preparations, as obtained from various sources, dis-
tinct evidences of a minute quantity of iron were obtained.

In order to show with what ease this contamination (it can hardly be
called an adulteration) creeps into the preparation of spirit of nitrous
ether, a small quantity was placed in a glass vessel and stirred for a
few moments with an iron spatula, when a drop or two of solution of
ferrocyanide of potassium was added — a characteristic blue precipitate
resulted. The explanation is simple, sufficient acid being usually pres-
ent in spirit of nitrous ether to act upon the metal and form a soluble
salt. When a partly-worn tinned iron measure is used by the manu-
facturer or wholesale dealer in measuring this preparation (as is often
the case), a trace of this metal would surely be left in it, particularly if
the liquid was allowed to stand in the measure any time. Commercial
acetic acid, and even some of the finer grades, were found to contain
slight traces of iron ; and hence, in syrup of squill, we have the metal
present in minute quantity.

Now, why does the green coloration appear ? Wild-cherry bark
contains tannic and gallic acid, and these give, with small quantities of
an iron salt, a dark-green coloration in the presence of an acid like
acetic.

In order to show that the tannic and gallic acids were concerned in
producing the color, an infusion of wild-cherry was prepared carefully,
by the U. S. P. formula, to which was added spirit of nitrous ether
and syrup of squill in the same proportion as in the prescription. The
same play of colors took place ; first, a deepening of the red, then
gradually changing, until the dark-green appeared. The subsequent
addition of a trace of iron still further deepened the coloration.

Part of the same infusion was deprived of tannic acid by shaking it
with hydrated sesquioxide of iron, until a small portion of the filtrate
failed to give a coloration with a weak solution of an iron salt. When
to this infusion the same proportion of spirit of nitrous ether and syrup
of squill was added, as in the prescription, no change in color was ob-
served, even after standing.

The presence of a slight excess of acid favors the formation of the
green coloration ; and when an alkaline solution is added, the green
coloration disappears, and a slight precipitation takes place.

214 Uva Ursi and Sprit of Nitre. {Am^%f^m-

The examination of this subject furnishes another illustration of the
necessity for the most scrupulous care, not only in making prepara-
tions, but in guarding them from contamination after they are made.
Although in this particular case, practically, no harm could possibly re-
sult from the presence of the trace of iron, yet we see in it a cause for
annoyance, and the prescription would very likely be returned by the
patient with suspicions of an error in compounding.

UVA URSI AND SPIRIT OF NITRE.

BY M. S. BIDWELL, ELMIRA, N. Y.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting April 18.)
Two communications have recently appeared in the " Druggists'
Circular," asserting that sweet spirit of nitre and fluid extract of uva
ursi would form, in some cases, an explosive mixture. Other ingre-
dients were mentioned — syrup in the one case and fluid extract of buchu
in the other, but the two former were supposed to be the dangerous
agents. As every pharmacist has frequent occasion to mix these in-
gredients, and no disturbance has ever before been made public, I was
skeptical as to the reality of the startling phenomenon, and paid no
attention to the first statement, but on the appearance of the second,
proceeded to the following simple experiments, which any one can
verify :

1. Fluid extract of uva ursi, of my own make, about twenty months
old ; sweet spirit of nitre, also of my own make, about a month old,
and kept standing on crystals of potassium bicarbonate, to prevent
any acidity. Two drachms of each were mixed, with no perceptible
action of any kind.

2. Fluid extract, made by Squibb, several years old ; spirit of nitre,
as above, and result the same.

3. To each of these mixtures was added about one drachm of dilute
nitric acid, U. S. P. ; a decided effervescence at once occurred, the
surface of the liquid being nearly covered with minute bubbles, with a
decidedly nitrous odor. The reaction continued perhaps ten minutes,
and would very likely have been more energetic in a larger quantity of
the materials.

It seems fair to conclude, therefore, that the liquids mentioned will
not produce any disturbance if the spirit of nitre is in good condition ;

AmMJa°yi;ri8P76?rm } Simple Cerate.— Extr. Pruni Virg. FL 215

but that if it is old atid strongly acid, effervescence will be produced
which, if the ingredients are in considerable quantity and in a closed
bottle, might amount to an explosion. As to the chemical reaction, I
can offer no suggestion.

SIMPLE CERATE AND OINTMENTS IN GENERAL.

BY HANS M. WILDER.

The pharmacopoeia (and all works on pharmacy) tells us, after hav-
ing melted and strained (if necessary) the cerate, to " stir constantly
until cool."

This method serves a good purpose for simple cerate, and may be
used for nearly all ointments.

For some time past I have been using a method recommended to
me, years ago, by an old apothecary (and said to be employed by per-
fumers in making pomatum), which consists in letting the melted mass
cool down undisturbed, and, when perfectly cold, with a pestle gradually
work your way from the top (by rubbing) down and through the mass.
The ointment treated in this way is softer, never gets hard on its sur-
face, and, as asserted by physicians, is more quickly absorbed by the
skin than when made by " stirring constantly till cool which injunc-
tion, by the way, seldom is complied with.

There will, of course, be raised one great objection to this method ;
with lots of more than a couple of pounds it becomes rather a hard
task to move the pestle round at last.

EXTRACTUM PRUNI VIRGINIANS FLUIDUM.

BY ISAAC W. SMITH, PH.G.

Having experienced great difficulty in obtaining a satisfactory fluid
extract of wild cherry bark, it occurred to me that a modification of
the officinal process might with advantage be adopted, to obviate the
difficulty, and herewith I present the following formula, which yields
an extract superior in its sensible properties to that of the " Pharma-
copoeia " :

Take of Wild cherry bark, in coarse powder, . 64 oz. (troy)

Water, .... 2 pints

Glycerin, . . . .1 pint

Alcohol, 95 per cent., . . sufficient quantity

Sweet almonds, blanched, . . 8 oz. (av.)

i\ 6 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {Kmu^r,'lj6TTti'

Mix glycerin and water, moisten the bark with 2 pints of the mix-
ture, allow it to stand in a closely covered vessel for four days, then
pack in a conical glass percolator and pour on the remainder of the
mixture ; when this has disappeared from the surface, gradually pour
on the alcohol until 48 fluidounces have been obtained, and set this
portion aside. Continue the percolation with the alcohol until 80 fluid-
ounces more have been obtained. Evaporate this by means of a water-
bath to 16 fluidounces ; allow it to cool. The almonds having been
reduced to a smooth paste, mix this last portion with them and add to
the first portion reserved, in a closely stopped bottle, and agitate the
whole together. Allow it to remain in contact for 48 hours, with fre-
quent agitation ; then prepare some paper pulp, and place in a filter in
a glass funnel, adding the mixture gradually to the pulp, stirring upon
each addition, so as to get the mixture thoroughly incorporated with
the pulp, observing to keep the funnel closely covered during the pro-
cess— the result being an extract of a brilliant reddish-brown color,,
possessing all the virtues of the bark in a very marked degree.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Combination of sulphate of quinia with phenol. — Mr. S. Contot has
noticed, some time ago (Lyon med. XIX. 480 and 666), the existence
of such a compound, and now gives a fuller account, from which we
take the following :

A solution of carbolic acid, in an equal weight of 80 to 93 per cent,
alcohol, is added to a saturated alcoholic solution of quinia sulphate ;
in a short time the new compound will commence to crystallize in
wart-like masses. It is also obtained by adding to an alcoholic solu-
tion of carbolic acid and quinia some sulphuric acid. The names of
carbolated (phenated) sulphate of quinia, or sulphate of phenol-quinia are-
suggested to distinguish it from the sulpho-phenate of quinia. It
crystallizes from water in star-like groups composed of short needles,
has neither the odor nor the caustic properties of phenol, after having
been washed with ether and recrystallized, and by the action of
chlorine water and ammonia, barium chloride, and concentrated nitric
acid, followed by ammonia, indicates the presence of quinia, sulphuric
acid and phenol, in the latter case by the color of ammonium picrate ->
but neither hypochlorites, bromine or hypobromites indicate the pres-

AmkJa°y,ri8^6arm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 217

ence of phenol, nor is the quinia salt affected by ammonia, in certain
proportions. The salt, which possesses considerable antiseptic proper-
ties, has the formula C20H24N2O2,SO3.C20H24N2O2,C6H6O+7H2O,
the water is given off at a temperature of 1500 C (3020 F.). It is
more soluble in water than quinia sulphate, but almost insoluble therein
in the presence of free phenol ; sulphuric acid renders the salt very
soluble without separating phenol, but diminishes the fluorescence con-
siderably.

The insolubility of sulphate of phenol-quinia may serve to separate
this alkaloid from cinchonia, the sulphate of which does not produce
an insoluble compound with carbolic acid. — V Union Phar., 1876, pp.

75-78.

To color arsenic for ordinary sales as a rat's bane, Grimaud of
Poitiers proposes to mix 98 parts of arsenious acid, and one part each
of ferrous sulphate and potassium ferrocyanide, all in the state of fine
powder. The mixture assumes a light blue color and is said to possess
an odor of bitter almonds, without interfering with the poisonous
properties of the arsenic. — Bull. Comm. del' Union Phar., 1876, 16.

Fowler's Solution. — Having observed a gradual deposition of arsenious
acid, Mr. Ch. Meniere kept 100 grams of this preparation for three
years, and then collected from it 15 centigrams of arsenious acid, which
had been deposited in the form of needles upon the separated volatile
oil. — Rep. de Phar., 1876, 65.

Quinia in Hypodermic Injections. — S. Limousin has found that the
acid hydrobromate of quinia has the composition C20H2iH2O2,2HBr.
3H20, and is soluble in 9 parts of water at 150 C (59°F). The neu-
tral salt C20H24H2O2.HBr.H2O is less soluble than the ordinary quinia
sulphate. The corresponding sulphovinates, however, which the au-
thor proposed for use in hypodermic injections in 1 873^ contain about
the same amount of quinia as the corresponding hydrobromates (75 to
76 per cent, quinia in the neutral, and 56 to 60 per cent, in the acid
salt) ; but they are more soluble than the latter, which, however, are
preferable in all such cases, where the effects of bromine are likewise
needed. — Ibid., 113, 115.

Salicylic Acid in Solutions for Hypodermic Injections. — S. Limousin has
observed that a solution of 0*20 grams of morphia hydrochlorate in 10
grams of distilled water, was spoiled in three weeks with the separation

218 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {Am^ay"'i57h6arm*

of numerous crystals and slimy flocks, while a solution of the same
strength remained clear and limpid after the addition of 2 centigrams
of salicylic acid, which the author regards as superior to the various
agents previously recommended for the same purpose. Salicylate of
morphia, requiring about 150 parts of water for solution, is not adapted
for hypodermic injections. — Ibid., 129.

Sodium Copaivate is prepared according, to L. Geza, by distilling
copaiva balsam with water to remove the volatile oil and purifying the
resulting resin by repeated solution in rectified petroleum and strong
alcohol. The crystallized copaivic acid is then combined with soda.
This compound has been successfully tried by Dr. Zlamal, in the form
of pills made by using 2 parts of sodium copaivate with 1 part of dex-
trin and aromatising with oil of sandal wood. — Phar. Post., 1876, No. 6.

Chlorinated Lime and Glycerin. — In preparing an ointment composed
of 10 grams of the former and 30 grams of the latter, Schiedmeyr
triturated the dry chlorinated lime with about its own weight of gly-
cerin, when heat and a yellowish-brown gas, having a penetrating, but
not disagreeable odor, was evolved, and a hard, brown mass was left in
the mortar. If all the glycerin was added at once, a similar effect was pro-
duced, except that the mass had the consistency of an ointment. By
using moist chlorinated lime, the brown compound is not formed, and
the ointment retains the odor of chlorine. Chlorinated lime should
therefore be first triturated with water before the glycerin is added. —
Zeitschr. Oest. Apoth. Ver., 1876, No. 9.

Syrupus ferri lactophosphatis. — C. Jehl dissolves 50 grams of ferrous
sulphate and 150 grams sodium phosphate, each separately, in 750
grams of water, mixes the solutions, washes the precipitate rapidly, and
dissolves it in 60 grams of concentrated lactic acid ; sufficient water
is now added to make the weight of the solution 1,882 grams, and the
syrup made with the addition of 3,586 grams of sugar. The syrup
may be flavored with 50 grams of spirit of lemon. Twenty grams of
the syrup contain o*i gram of ferrous phosphate.

Syrupus ferri et calcii lactophosphatis. — The same author prepares a
solution of ferrous phosphate from 9-25 grams of ferrous sulphate and
2775 grams of phosphate of sodium, in 11 grams of concentrated
lactic acid ; also, a solution of 13*3 grams of phosphate of calcium in
24 grams of the lactic acid and 100 of water. The two solutions are

AmMa0yU,ri8P76?rm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 219

mixed, sufficient water added to make 388 grams, and the syrup
finished by the addition of 625 grams of sugar and 15 grs. of spirit of
lemon. Twenty grams of the syrup contain 0*2 phosphate of calcium
and o*i of ferrous phosphate.— Schwei%. Woch. f. Phar., 1876, No. 7.

Indelible Ink. — 200 grams tartaric acid are dissolved in 1 litre of hot
water; in one-half of the solution dissolve 100 grams of oily anilin ;
add the other half, and then 100 grams of chlorate of potassium.
Allow the solution to cool and subside until next day ; filter from
the bitartrate, and bring the liquid to the density of 70 B. Thicken
sufficiently with gum arabic, and add to each litre 20 grams of copper
sulphate, dissolved in little water. This ink may be at once used for
printing muslin and other fabrics, upon which the black color will be
perfectly developed by bleaching liquids. Chlorate of copper is also
used for writing upon zinc used for signs and labels exposed to the
weather. — Ibid., No. 10.

Liquid Glue. — One part of phosphoric acid, specific gravity 1*120,
diluted with 2 parts of water, is nearly neutralized with ammonium
carbonate, one part of water added, and then, in a porcelain vessel,
sufficient glue dissolved in the liquid to obtain a syrupy consistence. It
must be kept in well-closed bottles. The addition of glycerin or sugar
would cause the glue to gelatinize. — Chem. Centralbl., 1876, No. 6.

To prevent the cracking of glue by heat or extreme dryness, the addi-
tion to the solution of some calcium chloride is recommended, which
retains sufficient moisture to obviate this inconvenience. Thus prepared,
glue can also be used upon glass and metallic surfaces. — Ibid., No. 9.

Waterproof varnish for paper, &c, is obtained by precipitating a solu-
tion of tallow or resin soap by aluminum, iron or copper sulphate, and
dissolving the precipitate in a liquid hydrocarbon, or in carbon bisul-
phide.—/^., No. 8.

The estimation of tannin, by Carpene's method, has been modified by
J. Barbieri as follows, whereby correct results are obtained : The tan-
nin solution is precipitated by an excess of an ammoniacal solution of
zinc acetate, the entire mixture heated to boiling, evaporated to
two thirds, and filtered after cooling ; the precipitate is dissolved
in diluted sulphuric acid, filtered, if necessary, and then titrated with
solution of potassium permanganate, which has been previously titrated
with commercial tannin. The results are said to be exact. — Apoth.
Zeitung, 1876, No. 8, from Ber. d. d. Chem. Ges.

2io Selections from the Banish Journals. {AmkJa0>u)rl8p76arrn'

SELECTIONS FROM THE DANISH JOURNALS.

BY HANS M. WILDER.

'Telegraphy by means of Tuning-Forks. — P. la Cour (Denmark) has invented a new
telegraph apparatus (June, 1874),1 which bids fair to play an important role at no
distant future. . It is based on the fact that when a tuning-fork, by its vibrations,
closes and opens an electrical circuit, another tuning-fork, connected with it by the
wire — provided it have the same pitch — will be made to vibrate. Any number of
differently pitched tuning-forks may be connected with others by the same single
wire, and only the corresponding ones (the isochronous) can be made to vibrate.

The practicability of the above method of telegraphing was demonstrated on the
wire between Copenhagen and Fredericia (390 kilometers, about 250 miles). (The
description of the instrument, the advantages accruing from its use and the detailed
experiments will be found in "Ann. de Chim. et de Phys.," 1875, P- 284). — Arch,
for Ph., 1875, P- 466.

A New Kind of Spontaneous Combustion. — " Pharm. Centralh.," 1875, No. 25,
reports a case of spontaneous combustion arising in a box of chipped logwood,
which probably had been packed in a moist state. — Ibid., p. 480.

Arsenic. — Prof. Binz, in Bonn, calls, again, attention to Bettendorff's test (see
"Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1871 (xliii), p. 222) for arsenic, as the easiest for the physi-
cian. Put a piece of the suspected substance in a test-tube, pour over it concent-
rated muriatic acid, add a few crystals of protochloride of tin, and heat 5 arsenic,
if present, will be reduced, and thrown down as a dark-brown powder. — Ibid.,
p. 483.

Caoutchouc in Affections of the Lungs. — Electuary of caoutchouc has again been
recommended in phthisis, etc., by Drs. Varick and Calver. Dissolve, by macera-
tion, 30 grams finely cut caoutchouc in 60 grams oil of turpentine 5 strain, and mix
l\ grams with 45 grams of sugar and 75 grams of honey. One teaspoonful of this
electuary contains about 0*12 gram of caoutchouc. It is said to prevent night-
sweats, blood-spitting and emaciation. — Ibid., p. 495, from Fharm. Centralh., 1875,
No. 41.

Infants^ Food. — Dr. H. Muller has examined into the quality of the different kinds
of food for infants, and came to the following results : Liebigs food is somewhat
difficult and tedious of preparation, so that, as a rule, the soup is seldom properly
made. The different modifications that exist are much more easy to use, but they
do not keep as well, and do not taste as agreeable as the original food. One serious
objection is found to Liebig's food — its exclusive use predisposes children to rachitis,
since it does not contain sufficient bone food.

Nestles mother s milk and (still more, a modification of it) Faust and Schuster's
Gottingen infant meal, Dr. M. considers the best substitute for mother's milk. It
contains in 100 parts: n'51 protein substances, 79*61 carbohydrates, i*8o inorganic

iThe same or a similar apparatus has recently been on exhibition at the Franklin Institute, in Phila-
delphia.— Editor Amer. Jour. Phar.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
May, 1876.

Centennial Exhibition.

121

salts, 673 water (von Uslar and Polstorff). The inorganic salts contain in 100
parts: 3170 phosphoric acid, 29*78 potash (Freitag). — Ibid., 1876, p. 12.

Restoration of Faded Writing. — Moisten the paper a little with water, and brush

over it a solution of sulphydric ammonia. Since most inks contain iron, it is easy

to understand that there will be formed sulphide of iron, which is black. — Ibid.,
p. 22, from Industrie-El.

Arsenical Poisoning. — Scolosuboff has found that, both in slow and rapid poison-
ing, the arsenic accumulates chiefly in the brain, spinal marrow and the nerves. On
the contrary, comparatively little will be found in the liver and muscles generally.
A dog had, in thirty-four days, taken, in increasing doses, from 5 mgrms. to
15 cgrms. arsenious acid. On examination, was found:

In 100 grams, muscles, 0*00015 grams.

" liver, 0*00271 "

" brain, 0*00885 "

" spinal marrow, 0 00932 "

or 1 : io*8 : 36*5 : 37*3. — Ibid., p. 24, from Pharm. Centralh., 1875, No. 45.

Dita Bark. — ("Am. Jour. Phar.," 1873 (x1v)j P- 3*6) Jobst and Hesse have exam-
ined this bark (from Echites scholaris, L. 5 Alstonia scholaris, Brown), and reported
their results at some length in "Ann. d. Ch. und Ph.," vol. 178. After a descrip-
tion of it, they mention ditain obtained by Gruppe in Manilla, and then detail their
chemical investigation. The following new alkaloids, acids, etc., are found by them :
Ditamin, echicautchin, echicerin, echicerinic acid, echitein, echiretin.- — Ibid., p. 27,
from Pharm. Centralh., 1875, No. 49.

Action of Borax as an Antiseptic. — Dumas and Schnezler state that they have found
that borax coagulates the protoplasm of the cells, and in this way kills lower organ-
isms; it becomes, then, easy to understand how it can act as an antiseptic. — Ibid.,
p. 30, fr ora Ann. d. Ch. et d. Phys., 1875, P« 543*

Pharmacy in Denmark. — The Royal Board of Health, in reply to numerous peti-
tions about permission to start new pharmacies, expresses its conviction that the
public will undoubtedly be benefitted by competition even of drug stores, under cer-
tain restrictions, and with due regard to existing regulations about surveillance, etc.

It has been resolved to revise the existing poison-law, particularly with respect to
the manifold uses active poisons of late years have been put to, both in manufactures
and in the household. — Ibid., p. 39, etc.

CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION !

The Philadelphia College of Pharmacy will open their rooms for the convenience
of visitors on the 8th of May. An Actuary, speaking English, French and Ger-
man will be in attendance, between the hours of 9 A. M. and 6 P. M , to give such
information as may be desirable to strangers visiting Philadelphia.

Committee on Reception.

222

Minutes of the College.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
May, 1876.

MINUTES OF THE COLLEGE.

Philadelphia, March 27th, 1876.

The annual meeting of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy was held this day
at the Hall of the College, No. 145 North Tenth street.

The President, Dillwyn Parrish, occupied the chair, and twenty members were
present.

The minutes of the meeting of December, 1875, were read and, on motion,,
adopted.

The minutes of the Board of Trustees since the College meeting in December
were also read by the Secretary of the Board, William C. Bakes, and, on motion,
adopted.

The annual report of the Librarian was read by him, and, on motion, accepted.

The Librarian respectfully reports that since last report he has bound the theses of the class that
was graduated in the Spring of 1875.

There are now fifty volumes of these in the Library.

During the past year the arrangement of the entire Library has been completed, each book ticketed
and numbered, and a new registration of the books has been made ; the books are arranged in five
classes, to wit :

Vols.

Class A — Encyclopaedias, Public Documents and Reports 344

Class B — Chemistry 220

Class C — Pharmacopoeias, Dispensatories, Formularies, Materia Medica, Pharmacy, Botany 255

Class D — Miscellaneous 313

Class E and F — Serial publications 1131

There have been added during the past year about sixty volumes, many of them being exchanges
made with the "Journal of Pharmacy," and of a character suitable for our Library, while in other
instances a number of volumes have been purchased to complete sets which were in part already on our
shelves.

Our Library now comprises about twenty-three hundred volumes, not counting duplicates; several
works we have in a number of editions, but the committee would be glad if any of the members can
furnish some of the older editions of the United States Dispensatory, there being only three of the
thirteen editions issued now catalogued by us.

The arrangement alluded to in the early part of this report will enable any one to ascertain whether
any treatise upon a particular subject is in our Library with but little trouble, and it is hoped that the
labor which has been bestowed upon the Library will be found conducive to the advantage of those of
our members who may require to consult the volumes. THOS. S. WIEGAND, Librarian.

March 27, 187b.

Wm. B. Webb alluded to the labors of the Librarian, and recognized the value
of his services in that department. He hoped that gentlemen would express their
appreciation of the work performed. Several members joined in this opinion, and
a general recognition of the value of his services was expressed.

Professor Remington, Curator, offered the following report, which was read and
accepted :

The Curator would report progress in the work of refitting and adding to the cabinet. Although
much still remains to be accomplished, it is confidently hoped that in a few months it will be in a present-
ible condition.

The thanks of the College are due to Powers & Weightman for their liberal offer to refit the chemi-
cal cases, and to Hance Brothers & White for their gift of many valuable specimens of indigenous drugs,
and to Messrs. Webber, Taylor and Holden, members of the class of 1876, for their assistance in arrang-
ing the specimens in the bottles. JOSEPH P. REMINGTON, Curator.

March 27, 187b.

AmM^,r',f76ar,n" } Minutes of the College, 223

The Committee on Publication, through Professor Maisch, presented the follow-
ing report of their labors during the past year, showing a very satisfactory result.
The report was accepted.

To the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy :

The Publishing Committee respectfully report that they have attended to the various duties incum-
bent upon them, as will be seen from the annexed reports. From the Editor's report it will be seen that
the number of original essays published in the "Journal" during the twelve months was ninety-six, of
which number ten were abstracts from theses. The number of original papers considerably exceeds that
of former years, and the committee bespeak for the "Journal" a continuance of this gratifying interest
on the part of its readers, and more particularly of the members of this College. At the Pharmaceutical
Meetings twenty papers were read, and the request made last year is herewith renewed, that the members
not only endeavor to make it convenient to attend these meetings, but likewise that, if possible, they give
notice beforehand to the Registrar of such subjects which they may intend to bring forward for discus-
sion. Such previously given notice has invariably resulted in a full attendance and participation in the
discussions.

The financial affairs of the "Journal" may be called satisfactory. For further particulars the
committee refer to the Editor's and Business Editor's reports.

HENRY N. RITTENHOUSE, Chairman Publishing Committee.
Philadelphia, March 27th, 187b.

The Editor's report to ihe Publishing Committee was read, and as it gives a
general account of the number of original essays which appeared in the "Journal,"
its publication will be a matter of interest and serve to stimulate members and
others to continue their contributions to its pages.

To the Publishing Committee :

The Editor respectfully reports that the "Journal" has been promptly issued every month and that
the interest manifested in it by its readers has b~en considerably in excess of former years, as will be seen
by the comparative account given below, and by the fact that several numbers were issued consisting almost
exclusively of original matter. The Pharmaceutical Meetings have contributed very essentially to this
gratifying result, not less than twenty papers of more or less interest and importance having been con-
tributed to the "Journal" from this source alone. The Editor would urge upon the members of the
College to continue their interest in the Pharmaesutical Meetings and the "Journal" by reporting their
observations either verbally or preferably in writing, and thereby contribute to the general stock of knowl-
edge. It may safely be expected that during the coming summer ample opportunities for study and obser-
vation will be afforded through the International Exposition, and it is to be hoped that this opportunity
will not be lost sight of by the members. The invitation extended last year to report to the Registrar
the subjects of the papers to be read, in advance of the meetings, has only in a few instances been respon-
ded to; it is now renewed in the hope that in the future members will more frequently avail themselves
of the opportunity to give notice in advance of the subjects intended for discussion.

During the year closing with the March number, there have been published in the "Journal," ex-
clusive of authors' printed communications, original translations, abstracts and editorials, ninety-six
original papers, which is seventeen and twelve papers more than appeared in the "Journal" during the
two preceding years. Among these numbers are included abstracts of ten theses, against sixteen and
eighteen during the preceding years. The total number of original essays, exclusive of theses, were, there-
fore, for the year ending March, 1874, sixty-six ; March, 1875, sixty-three, and March, 1876, eighty-six. Of
the latter number, twenty of which were read at the Pharmaceutical Meetings, sixteen treated of subjects
belonging to materia medica, twenty to chemistry, thirty-five to pharmacy and fifteen to subjects of more
general interest. Of the ten theses seven were devoted to subjects of materia medica, two to pharmacy
and one to chemistry. The total of ninety-six papers were contributed by seventy-two authors, against
fifty-two up to March, 1875, and sixty to March, 1874. During the past year, three authors contributed
five papers each, two authors three papers each, and eight authors two papers each, the remaining fifty-
seven papers having been written by as many contributors. Sixteen of the authors are members of the
College and contributed twenty-seven papers.

The amount of original matter which was placed at the Editor's disposal during the past year ren-
dered the condensation of most of the interesting material found in other journals necessary ; and if, as is
to be hoped, the interest of original contributors in the "Journal" does not slacken during the coming
year, there will be much of original matter available ; for, as far as can be judged from a hasty examina-
tion of the theses presented at the last examination, a larger number than'usual appear to be adapted for
publication in the iorm of abstracts.

224 Minutes of the College.

In this eonnection it is proper to mention that, aside from the reports of their meetings, two papers
have been published after having been read before the New York Alumni Association of the Philadelphia
College of Pharmacy, a body composed of graduates of this College residing in the city of New York
and vicinity. JOHN M. MAISCH, Editor.

Philadelphia, March 24th, 187b.

The Business Editor's report to the Committee on Publication, detailing all the
operations of his department, was read by Mr. Bullock. It is a very satisfactory
exhibit, and continues to show the judicious management of Mr. Wolle.

Mr. Bullock further read the rep,ort of the Treasurer of the Publishing Com-
mittee. It shows a sound financial condition, and exhibits a steady improvement
from year to year.

The report was, on motion, accepted.

The chairman of the Committee on the Sinking Fund was rendered by Thos. S.
Wiegand, showing a balance in his hands of $907.94.

Mr. Bullock, on behalf of the Committee on the Centennial, reported subscrip-
tions nearly sufficient to accomplish their purposes, and with a slight effort on the
part of those who have not yet contributed, the amount necessary would soon be
obtained. It was the intention of the committee to fit up the College generally.

A gentleman, a native of this city, had been engaged by them to attend daily at
the College during the Exhibition, who is conversant with the French and German
languages.

The committee would request the members to interest themselves, and call at the
College and witness the work being performed.

A printed letter from the " National College of Pharmacy,'''' dated Washington,
March 22d, 1876, and addressed to this College, was read. This letter treated upon
the disagreement which has lately arisen between some colleges of pharmacy
in the United States, relative to the conferring of degrees and titles. The matter
was commented on by Messrs. Maisch, Bullock and Remington, but as the subject
was thought to be one requiring more mature deliberation than could be given to it
at this meeting, a motion was made and adopted to refer the letter to the Board of
Trustees for their consideration.

George W. Earl, a member of the College, placed at the disposal of the Com-
mittee on Centennial Preparations one hundred pounds of white lead, which was,
on motion, accepted, and Mr. Earl is entitled to the thanks of this College for the
donation.

A letter from William Stahler, of Norristown, Pa., communicating the intelli-
gence of the death of J. Howard McCrea, a member of the College, was read and
referred to the Committee on Deceased Members.

The Treasurer reported the name of a member who was five years in arrears to
the College 5 on motion his name was ordered to be stricken from the roll.

The Treasurer further reported that August Hohl had sent in his resignation,
which was, on motion, accepted.

Prof. Remington, in a few suitable remarks, presented to the College, from a
number of members, a portrait in oil of the late Professor Procter, stating that it
was previously the intention to have had a bust prepared, but owing to some difficul-
ties, which finally proved insurmountable, the project was abandoned, and the

f Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ May, 1876.

Mmi^^m'} Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. 225

portrait was substituted in its stead. He alluded to Mr. Andrew Blair as having
assisted in the undertaking.

On motion of Mr. Boring the portrait was accepted, and the thanks of the Col-
lege were ordered to be tendered to Prof. Remington and those who assisted him
in the matter.

Prof. Maisch called the attention of the College to the Annual Meeting of the
American Pharmaceutical Association in September next, and suggested the ap-
pointment of a committee of five to act in conjunction with the Local Secretary of the
Association, Dr. A. VV. Miller, in making such arrangements as may be necessary
for the accommodation of the association.

The motion was adopted, and the President appointed Messrs. J. M. Maisch,
E. M. Boring, Wm. Mclntyre, Andrew Blair and Joseph P. Remington the com-
mittee. On motion of Mr. Bullock, the committee were authorized to employ such
help as they might deem necessary.

Prof. Maisch again appealed to the members present, as well as to those absent,
to come forward and help to arrange the Herbarium, which was now in an advanced
state of progress. Mr. Mattison moved thit Prof. Maisch be empowered to employ
such help as he might think proper to complete the undertaking, which motion was
adopted.

This being the annual meeting, an election for officers, trustees and standing
committees was ordered. Charles Wirgman and Albert P Prown, acting as tellers,
reported the following gentlemen unanimously elected to the various positions
enumerated below :

President — Dillwyn Parrish.

First Vice President — Charles Bullock.

Second Vice President — Robert Shoemaker.

Treasurer — Samuel S. Bunting.
Recording Secretary — William J. Jenks.

Corresponding Secretary — Alfred B. Taylor.

Board of Trustees— Robert Bridges, M.D., John M. Maisch, Daniel S.Jones, Thomas S. Wiegand,
James T. Shinn, T. Morris Perot, William B. Webb, Joseph P. Remington.

Publication Committee— John M. Maisch, Henry N. Rittenhouse, Thomas S. Wiegand, James T.
Shinn, Charles Bullock.

Sinking Fund Committee— Thomas S. Wiegand, T. Morris Perot, James T. Shinn.

Editor— John M. Maisch.

Librarian — Thomas S. Wiegand.

Curator — Joseph P. Remington.

There being no further business to claim the attention of the meeting, then, on
motion, adjourned. William J. Jenks, Secretary.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

The seventh regular meeting of the session was held April 18th, 1876, A. P.
Brown in the chair. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Prof. Maisch made the following donations to the library and museum : "Proceed-
ings of the Seventh Annual Meeting of the California Pharmaceutical Society, also
of the Third Annual Meeting and Commencement Exercises of the California Col-

15

226 Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. {AmMJay,r'i8?6.rm'

lege of Pharmacy, etc." And "The Little Book of German, a High School Primer,"
by C C. Schaeffer, late Professor of the German language in the University of
Pennsylvania. From Geo. W. Kennedy, Pottsville, " Cylindrical Specimens of
Rock Borings from the Pennsylvania Diamond Drill Company." From J. U,
Lloyd, Cincinnati, resin of podophyllum, — fluid extract gossypium herbaceum
from fresh bark, crystals from prickley ash bark, some roots illustrating a bale of
hydrastis canadensis, and carbonate of potassium which had been sold (probably
by mistake) for bromide of sodium. In regard to these Mr. Lloyd writes : " The
resin exists in podophyllum peltatum, and is distinguished by being soluble in ether,
while that prepared by the U. S. P. will but partially dissolve in this menstruum.
It is being experimented with to ascertain its value as a medicinal agent.

"The crystalline substance marked from ' prickley ash bark1 is a proximate or-
ganic substance which exists in considerable amount in the barks of xanthoxylum
fraxineum. It has never been experimented with as a medicine that I am aware of.
It is tasteless, colorless, insoluble in cold water, very slightly soluble in boiling water j
somewhat in cold alcohol ; quite soluble in boiling alcohol. Nitric acid turns it yellow,
and dissolves a small amount, turning yellow. Sulphuric acid dissolves it freely,
forming a beautiful transparent deep-red solution; water added to the solution pro-
duces a white precipitate; the liquid in which it is suspended is colorless. The
precipitate presents the exact properties of the original substance. At 2120 F. the
sulphuric acid solution decomposes, sulphurous acid being evolved freely and a
black precipitate formed. : When water is added and the mixture thrown on a filter*
the filtrate passes colorless. It will not reduce an alkaline solution of sulphate of
copper. When boiled with dilute sulphuric acid, and tested for glucose, there is no
reaction with the copper solution. It will not form salts with dilute acids. Solu-
tion of caustic potassa does not seem to affect it.

"The fluid extract of gossypium is a specimen of 160 bottles I have distri-
buted to practicing physicians in our hospitals and over the country. I trust to be
able to learn something definite in regard to the preparation to present in my report
to the American Pharmaceutical Association."

" A lot of about 500 lbs. of hydrastis canadensis was recently offered for sale in
Cincinnati. Upon examination, it proved to be about half beth root (trillium pen-
dulum) ; while mixed throughout the entire mass was serpentaria, cypripedium,
sanguiniaria, may-apple and other substances. The question is: 'Can njje ever do
avjay voith this loose business Will there ever be a universal demand for prime
indigenous botanical medicines? Must those who will furnish good medicinal roots
and barks be compelled to compete with traffickers of this description? The above
example is but one of many."

Prof. Remington read a paper on "a singular reaction in a prescription" (see
page 211). The Professor had continnued his experiments, and the opinion ex-
pressed at the last meeting was confirmed. The presence of some free acid is neces-
sary, and if neutralized, the color will disappear ; the green color is due to the
yellow color of the syrup, and to the blue of the tannin and iron reaction.

Prof. Maisch exhibited a sample of belladonna ointment, which, at the house of the
patient, had separated into a bright, pale-green lower layer, the upper stratum be-
ing of a brownish color. It had, probably, been subjected to changes in temperature.

AmMay,r'i87h6!rm"} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 227

Prof. Maisch exhibited, from Walter E. Bibby, ammoniac in powder, retained in
this condition by admixture with sugar of milk ; also mercury one part and sugar of
milk two parts, rubbed together in a dry mortar without any. further addition. The
extinction of the mercury being rapid, and little labor required, this process suggests
itself as a convenient way of getting the various preparations of mercury. Mr.
Bibby will continue these experiments and report at the next meeting.

Dr. Miller exhibited spermaceti obtained from oil of rose, one fluidounce, pur-
chased as the best oil in the market, having yielded eight grains of the adulterant.

J. T. Farr inquired for a process for keeping powdered camphor. The use of
glycerin has recently been recommended, but for large quantities the process of
sublimation into a large chamber, as suggested by J. C. Lowd (" Proc. Am. Phar.
Asso.", 1871, p. 441), appears to be the best known.

Prof. Remington called attention to the fact that mustard would sometimes fail
to act from the skin being insusceptible.

The statements by two writers to the Drug. Circ, reporting the occurrence of an
effervescence on mixing spirit of nitre and fluid extract of ura uris, being referred
to, Prof. Maisch read a paper on this subject, which he had just received from M.
S. Bidwell, Elmira, N. Y. (See page 214.)

Dr. Miller exhibited gold-beater's skin, prepared in such manner as to be opaquj
also, hog bladders thoroughly cleansed for druggists1 use.

Prof. Remington spoke of a new kind of lint which is prepared by a physician of
this city. It is corrugated, thick white paper, strong and elastic, absorbent, and
may be made styptic.

On motion, a vote of thanks was given to the contributors of specimens and
papers.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

American Pharmaceutical Association — The following report has been
made by the Committee on the Ebert Prize :

To the President of the American Pharmaceutical Association :

The Committee on the "Ebert Prize" respectfully report that they have exam-
ined the papers presented at the last meeting of the Association, and found the
majority of them to be creditable to their authors and to the Association in whose
"Proceedings" they have been published.

The conditions governing the award, as stipulated by its founder, are such that
the majority of the papers offered to the Association, although valuable and instruc-
tive, do not come within the scope intended, as competing for the award. A criti-
cal examination of the papers resulted in limiting the number to those on phos-
phoric acid and on pancreatin. Regarding these, the committee would respect-
fully offer the following remarks:

On phosphoric acid three valuable papers were presented, one of which, by Prof

228 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {Amji^876am'

Markoe, suggests a new process for preparing diluted phosphoric acid by the action
of bromine upon phosphorus in the presence of nitric acid. This is an important
modification of Pettenkofefs process, proposed in 1866, wherein the oxidation of
the phosphorus is effected by the agency of iodine and subsequently water, some
nitric acid being finally used to effect the complete oxidation of any phosphorous
acid present. While the committee acknowledge the entire safety of the new pro-
cess, if properly managed, yet they cannot refrain from taking into consideration
the slowness of the process if conducted without very frequent supervision, but
more especially the introduction of a new element of danger, requiring certain pre-
cautions j and they cannot admit that any danger is connected with the more expe-
ditious " Pharmacopoeia " process, even when carried out on a large scale, if the
directions of the " Pharmacopoeia," particularly in regard to the strength of the
nitric acid, are adhered to.

Mr. Louis Dohme's and Prof. Remington's papers treat substantially of the same
subjects, though the former enters more deeply into the conditions connected with
the conversion of one into another variety of phosphoric acid. Both papers point
out a notable difference in the strength of the dilute phosphoric acid as prepared by
the two processes of the " Pharmacopoeia," and notice again the presence of impu-
rities (soda) in the commercial glacial acid, which retard but do not prevent its
complete change into orthophosphoric acid.

Graham, in his classical investigations of the phosphoric acids, has shown that
the glacial acid may become contaminated with impurities from the vessels in which
it may be prepared, and such impurities were proven to exist in commercial acid
as early as i860, ("Amer. Jour. Phar.," i860, p. 193). The introduction of soda
for the purpose of hardening glacial phosphoric acid was first noticed by Brescius
in 1867, and subsequently confirmed by Prof. Prescott and by the authors of the
two papers mentioned. Regarding the conversion of meta- and pyrophosphoric into
orthophosphoric acid, Graham has observed that it may be done by boiling their
aqueous solutions, more rapidly in the presence of free mineral acids. The conver-
sion with water alone is best effected, according to Littleton Thompson (1874),
by heating the concentrated solution, for which purpose Mr. Dohme finds a temper-
atureof from 280° to 3000 F. to be required.

The aqueous solutions of metaphosphates were found by Graham to be converted
gradually into orthophosphates, but to effect a similar change of the pyrophosphates
the presence of a mineral acid was found necessary, and, according to Weber, the
most rapid change is produced by sulphuric acid. Reynoso, however, succeeded in
1852, in changing the meta- and pyrophosphates readily into orthophosphates by
exposing their solutions to a temperature of 2800 C. (5360 F.) As far as the
behavior to ferric chloride is concerned, the conversion may be completed by pro-
longed boiling in the presence of nitric acid.

The function of the pancreatic liquid, according to Lehmann, was first recog-
nized by Valentin to consist in transforming into sugar such starch which may arrive
in the duodenum in an unaltered condition. The discovery, by Claude Bernard,
that the pancreatic liquid is capable of decomposing neutral fats into fatty acids
and glycerin, has been admitted by all subsequent investigators ; but the availability
of this property for the purpose of digestion, as asserted by Bernard, has been

AmM?y,r'i8>76arm' } Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, 229

denied, Bidder and Schmidt, among others, proving that the decomposition of fats
is prevented by the presence of acids and of the digestive fluids of the stomach.
Dobell, in 1868, found the pancreatic liquid of pigeons always to possess an acid
reaction, and to have the power of emulsionizing lard, but not to decompose it. In
most cases, however, and more particularly after feeding, the reaction of the pan-
creas is alkaline, and this condition, or the absolute absence of free acid, appears to
be necessary to effect the decomposition of the neutral fats. Whether this is or is
not an important function of the pancreas in the animal economy seems to be of
minor importance for the question before this committee 5 but, since pancreatic
preparations have been recommended and used in medicine, it was important to
know whether or not the pancreatic liquid would lose its identity or remain unal-
tered when in contact with the digestive principles of the stomach, and this ques-
tion appears to be decided by the experiments of Prof. Scheffer, proving that the
presence of free mineral acid, or of pepsin and free acid, not only prevents the ac-
tion of the pancreatin, but that the latter is destroyed.

The committee deem this short criticism (made in a friendly spirit) as necessary
to explain the conclusion to which they have arrived, viz., that the results attained
to by the authors of these papers have been foreshadowed by the investigations of
previous writers to such an extent that they do not, in the judgment of the Com-
mhtee, fairly come within the provisions prescribed by Mr. Ebert in founding the
" Ebert Prize."

Chas. Bullock,
W. H. Pile,
John M. Maisch.

Philadelphia, March 17, 1876.

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. — The tenth annual commencement
was held at Parker Memorial Hall, April 20th. After some introductory remarks,
by President S. M. Colcord, an address was delivered by Francis Wharton, LL.D.
The degree of graduate in pharmacy (Ph.G.) was conferred upon the follow-
ing gentlemen : Benjamin F. Bradford, Wm. A. D. Cragin, Eugene F. Dunbai
and Thos. R. A. Shannon, of Maine; Chas. D. Chase, Ashton E. Hemphill, Wm.
M. Howes, Edward O. Punchard, Benjamin F. Smith and Duane B. Williams, ot
Massachusetts, and John E. GrofF, of Rhode Island. The valedictory address was
delivered by Prof. J. M. Merrick, B. Sc.

New York Alumni Association of the Philadelphia College of
Pharmacy. — At the annual meeting, held in Plimpton Hall, President P. W.
Levering in the chair, several amendments were made to the constitution, and the
following officers elected to serve the ensuing year : President, Henry S. Well-
come; Vice Presidents, J. W. Wood, R. J. C. Williams; Secretary, Edward
Plummer; Corresponding Secretary, Wm. Wilson; Treasurer, A. J. Ditman ;
Members of the Executive Board, to serve three years, T. B. McElhenie, J.
Messing ; Delegates to American Pharmaceutical Association, B. F. Fairchild, H.
S. Wellcome, J. Jungmann, F. C. Von Weber, M. D., Wm'. Wilson, J. W.
Wood. The retiring president delivered the annual address, giving a brief review of

230 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {^£"^6*""'

the progress of pharmacy during the past century, and of this association during
the past year, offering suggestions for extending the usefulness of it, after which
the president elect, Mr. Wellcome, took the chair with acknowledgements. He
presented some specimens of " Goa Powder," the remedy for ringworm which has
been the object of some attention in the medical and pharmaceutical press during
the past year Regarding the subject of stale and adulterated herbs he said that he
had received communications from different sources verifying the statements made
at a previous meeting on the subject (see page 141 of this volume). He exhibited
a specimen of fluid extract of Eriodyction Califomicum, and stated that recent reports
showed it to possess positive action in bronchial affections, and that it promised
to become a valuable remedy.

Mr. Wood read an interesting paper on the application of glycerite of starch,
and urging its use in the place of Ung. Simplex, U. S. P.

A note, by J. P. Routh, on the following prescription was read, some difficulty
having been experienced by some in dispensing it : R, phosphorus, gr. vi, mucil.
acacia, f^iii, oil gaultheria, f£i, tinct. nux vomica, f^vii, ferric tartrate, gx. He
melted the phosphorus in absolute alcohol, agitated it until it became divided into
minute globules, placed the test tube under a stream of cold water, continuing a
brisk agitation until it was reduced to an almost pulverent form 5 this was added to
the tartrate of iron, previously reduced to a fine powder, and triturated until the
alcohol was entirely driven off ; next the oil of gaultheria and mucilage were
added, then gradually the tincture of nux vomica 5 the result was a permanent
mixture.

The meetings of the association will hereafter be held quarterly, next one being
in July, this best suiting the convenience of members.

Alumni Association of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. — The
Twelfth Annual Report, we are informed, is nearly ready for distribution, and will
be sent to all members in the course of a few days. Any graduate, desiring a copy
of it, can obtain it by addressing the Treasurer, E. C. Jones, Fifteenth and Market
streets, Philadelphia.

The Maryland College of Pharmacy conferred the degree of Graduate in
Pharmacy upon the following gentlemen at the Commencement, held in the Con-
cordia Opera House, March 29th : Frank Dorsey (thesis, Lead and its compounds),
Millard S. Gore (Paullinia sorbilis), H. Kornmann (Oxygen), Rich. B. Winder,
Jr. (Sodium), Frank A. Meikle (Toxicology), Chas. W. Gardner (Percolation),
Wm. G. Hurd (Tobacco), Henry Dietrich (Fluid extracts), Gust. A. Knabe
(Aeon. Napellus), Wm. Geo. Danim (Anthemis nobilis), Martin Lappe (Hydro-
gen), Edward Jones (Cytisus scoparius), Frank P. Zimmer (Phosphates), J. C.
Michael (Carbon), Frank L. Wallis (Nickel and its salts), Henry O. Damm (Asa-
rum Canadense), J. Br. Baxley, Jr. (Datura Stramonium), John H. Brooke (Fluid
extracts), and John Stauff (Glycerin). The degrees were conferred and the College
prizes distributed by the President, Dr. Jos. Roberts, and the Alumni prize by Mr.
L. Dohme. Prof. J. F. Moore delivered the Valedictory Address.

A Vay"ri8>76?rm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 231

At the regular meeting, held April 13th, the Hall Committee reported the pur-
chase of the building and grounds heretofore known as the Grammar School, No.
3, which will be fitted up for the permanent use of the College.

At an adjourned meeting, held April 19th, Mr. J. F. Hancock read a paper on
Modern methods in pharmacy (see p. 199), and exhibited a number of the modern
preparations treated of.

Mr. W. S. Thompson exhibited samples of pills of dried sulphate of iron, made
with gum syrup and with glycerin, the latter being much smaller and handsomer.

The precipitate from a mixture of Creuse's tasteless tincture of iron and phosphoric
acid was exhibited, and, after some discussion, referred to Mr. L. Dohme for inves-
tigation.

The National College of Pharmacy at Washington, D. C, at its fifth
annual meeting, received the reports of the various standing and special committees,
and adopted the recommendation of Prof. Oldberg, to consolidate the offices of
recording and corresponding secretary. The president, Mr. R. B. Ferguson, then
delivered his annual address, after which the following officers were elected to serve
during the ensuing year : President, R. B. Ferguson ; Vice Presidents, Chas.
Becker and D. P. Hickling ; Secretary, J. C. Fill ; Treasurer, Wm. S. Thompson ;
Curator, H. E. Kalussowski ; Board of Trustees, J. A. Milburn, W. G.
Duckett, R. A. Bacon, W. B Entwisle, Walter Drew and J. R. Major. At an
adjourned meeting the report of the Committee on Pharmaceutical Education, was
after due consideration, referred to the Board of Trustees, and the chair announced
the various standing committees for the current year. A report on amendments
to the constitution and by-laws was discussed and referred back to the special
committee.

Cincinnati College of Pharmacy. — The annual commencement took place
at College Hall, on the evening of March 9th, the Germania Orchestra being in
attendance. The exercises opened with prayer by the Rev. Henry D. Moore, after
which the President, Dr. F. L. Eaton, conferred upon the following gentlemen the
degree of graduate in pharmacy, (Ph.G ) :

Chas. H. Angevine, J. A. Koller, Ed. A. Schmidt,

Anton Boehmer, H. J. Marshall, W. G. Sheickner,

Chas. Diehl, William Rendigs, C. D. Wangler,

Geo. T. Greer, E. M. Roberts, Albert Wetterstroem.

Emil Heun, J. W. Rossiter,

The address on behalf of the Board of Trustees was delivered by Mr. S. A.
Miller, whose excellent remarks on " The relation of pharmacy to other profes-
sions " were well received. Prof. Fennel's medal, for the best examination in
pharmacy, was awarded to William Rendigs 5 Prof. Wayne's, for the highest
average in Materia Medica and botany, to Geo. T. Greer, and Prof. Judge's, for
the best examination in chemistry, to J. W. Rossiter. The Alumni medal, for the
best general average, was presented to George T. Greer, by the President of the
Alumni Association, Mr. Jos. H. Feemster. Dr. Eaton, chairman of the Board of

232 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {AmMJa0y,ri^76arm"

Trustees, then stated that in the contest for the Alumni prize it occurred that the
averages of the two highest were so close that by only one-half per cent, difference
did the fortunate contestant carry away the honor. In view of this fact, and of the
sterling ability exhibited by Albert Wetterstroem (the unlucky contestant) during
his collegiate career, the Board of Trustees had decided to award him a medal for
general proficiency.

The address, on behalf of the faculty, was delivered by Prof. E. S. Wayne, and
the valedictory, on behalf of the graduating class, by Mr. Wm. Rendigs.

The presentation, by Chas. Angevine, on behalf of the class, of one hundred
dollars, to be appropriated to the building fund of a new college building, was a
pleasant feature in the evening's programme. The exercises then closed with
benediction by the Rev. Henry D. Moore.

Later in the evening the Alumni entertained the new graduates, the faculty,
board of trustees, and a number of invited guests, at their annual banquet.

Alumni Association of the Cincinnati College of Pharmacy. — The
following officers were elected at the annual meeting : President, Louis Schwab 5
Vice Presidents, W. J. Rattcliff and Wm. Rendigs ; Treasurer, Theo. F. Nor-
wood ; Secretary, A. W. Bain ; Corresponding Secretary, John E. Martin 5 Execu-
tive Board, W. B. Strang, John Rielag, Geo. F. Greer and Anton Boehmer 5
Delegates to the American Pharmaceutical Association, Jos. H. Feemster, Chas.
F. Keener, L. Schwab, Theo. F. Norwood and Chas. P. Rendigs.

Louisvill College of Pharmacy. — The following gentlemen, having passed
a successful examination according to the rules of the College, were by the Board
of Directors declared "Graduates in Pharmacy," March 13th. C. W. Newton,
W. H. Patterson, George Stauber, H. Huecker, H. Langenhan, J. B. Baird, M.
Von Beust, L. R. Williams and H. Vonderbeck (examined June, 1875).

At the meeting of the Board of Directors, chosen at the annual meeting in March,
the following officers were elected, viz., President, C.Lewis Diehl 5 Vice-Presidents,
Emil Scheffer, Vincent Davis; Recording Secretary, Fred. C. Miller; Corresponding
Secretary, Wm. G. Schmidt; Treasurer, Edward C. Pfingst ; Curator, James A.
McAfee ; Directors, F. Lingelbach, C. Tafel, John Colgan, Wm. W. Smith and
S. F. Dawes.

Chicago College of Pharmacy. — The commencement exercises took place
at the First M. E. Church, March 13th. The degree of Graduate in Pharmacy
was conferred by President J. W. Mill upon the following candidates: Julius H.
Wilson (oxide of zinc), Fred. C Werner (wild Tyam root), James M. Kirkley
(glycyrrhizate of ammonium), La Motte Lovett (Pharmacopoeia), Geo. W. Hoyt
(Tinct. chloride of iron), J. Leonard Mulfinger (Mercury), Alvin G. Hammer
(Syr. Ferri Iodidi), Geo. H. Loesch (Calomel), E. Geo. F. Bischoff (Emulsions) ,
Almon R. Thurber (Medicated Waters).

Addresses were delivered on behalf of the faculty by Prof. H. D. Garrison, and
on behalf of the graduating class by Mr. J. H. Wilson.

AmMay^76.rm' } Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 233

The Western Wholesale Drug Association is the title of a new associa-
tion composed of" Wholesale Druggists in the Western States, and constituted in
Indianapolis, March 15th and 16th, under the presidency of Mr. James Richardson,
of St. Louis ; Messrs. A. B. Merriam, of Cincinnati, and N. H. Collins, of St. Louis,
acting as Secretaries. Various committees appointed at the first session reported at
the subsequent sessions. The employment of commercial travelers found no favor,
but the total abolition of the system being impossible now, various rules in regard
to these were adopted. The following resolution relating to sales on credit was
adopted :

Resolved, That this convention recommend that all credits be shortened as soon as possible, and as
much as practicable, and that, as a rule, the goods sold for the least profit should be sold on the shortest
time.

The following recommendations from the Committee on Legislation were adopted :

1. That, on the formation of a permanent association, the necessary steps be at once taken to put our-
selves in communication and co-operalion with Philadelphia and other Eastern drug exchanges to secure
such tariff regulations or charges, as may best promote our mutual interests, and that similar action b6
taken regarding the matter of stamp tax, to render it as simple and as little burdensome as possible.

2. That a united effort be made to relieve wholesale druggists selling alcohol, wines or liquors for medi-
cinal purposes only (so far as they can control it) from the necessity of exhibiting the wholesale liquor
dealer's sign, now required under the general law, and so far as possible to secure exemption from unin-
telligent or unjust local enactments, or ordinances in regard to licenses.

3. That the law now in operation in New York and some of our Western States, requiring those desir-
ous of practicing pharmacy to pass a competent examination before being allowed to do so, is a protection
to the wholesale druggist, as well as to the public, and we, therefore, seek to extend its benefits to those
States which have not yet adopted it.

4. That we emphatically condemn the adulteration of drugs and chemicals, especially such as are used
as medicinal agents, and that we pledge ourselves to use our influence and our efforts to discourage it,
and to elevate the standards of purity and excellence in such cases.

After the adoption of the constitution and by-laws, Mr. James Richardson was
elected President ; A. Peter, of Louisville, R. McReady, of Cincinnati, R. Brown-
ing, of Indianapolis, Thomas K. Lord, of Chicago, and John Ewing, of Pittsburgh,
Vice Presidents ; A. B. Merriam, Secretary ; and S. M. Strong, of Cleveland, Treas-
urer 5 Board of Control — C. F. G. Meyer, St. Louis, chairman 5 C. C. Riekirt, Cin-
cinnati ; R. A. Robinson, Louisville ; Henry W. Fuller, Chicago j D. R. Noyes,
St. Paul.

On motion of Mr. Noyes, of St. Paul, the following resolution was adopted :

Resolved, That the association is in hearty sympathy with the retail drug trade, and seek to promote
their interests as well as our own.

The next meeting will be held in Chicago, on the second Wednesday of Febru-
ary, 1877.

Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. — At the pharmaceutical meet-
ing held March 1st, Mr. Rees Price read a paper on the preparation of ferrous phos-
phate. The British " Pharmacopoeia " directs to precipitate 3 oz. of ferrous sul-
phate by t\ oz. of sodium phosphate, in the presence of 1 oz. of sodium acetate,
to stir well and filter, the acetate being added for the purpose of neutralizing the
sulphuric acid set free, and liberating acetic acid, in which the ferrous phosphate is
less soluble. The author found that, by following this process, 28*2 per cent, of
iron remained dissolved in the filtrate, which could be precipitated by the further

234 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {Km^;^xm'

addition of sodic phosphate ; and he proposes to omit the acetate and increase the
phosphate to nearly three times the weight of the iron salt (42 parts of the former
and 15 of the latter were found necessary), when the filtrate will scarcely contain
traces of iron.

Prof. Attfield was not previously aware that so large a proportion of iron could
be lost by the " Pharmacopoeia " process, and explained the action of the excess of
the phosphate used, as suggested by Mr. Price, by the conversion, through the lib-
erated sulphuric acid, of the ordinary sodic phosphate Na2HP04 into NaH2P04.
This monosadium phosphate could be reconverted into the ordinary or disodium
salt by reaction with carbonate of sodium.

Mr. Brownen had obtained almost pure ferrous phosphate as a white crystalline
magma by acting with phosphoric acid upon iron filings or turnings, and straining
the solution.

Mr. John Moss read a lengthy and very interesting paper on the structure and
development of Pareira stem, which cannot well be abstracted. It is printed with
two wood-cuts in the London " Pharmaceutical Journal," March 4, pp. 702 — 707.

Mr. W. A. H. Naylor read a paper on Cosmolin, referring therein to the investi-
gations of Dr. A. W. Miller, apparently without being aware of the later experi-
ments ("Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1875, P« 257)- Mr. Naylor's object being to deter-
mine its composition, he found it to consist of hydrocarbons with a little (-69 per
cent.) moisture, and traces ("04 per cent.) of ash. By dissolving it in warm ether
and collecting the portions separating on exposing the solution to different degrees
of low temperature, he obtained fractions melting between the extremes of 16*5 and
53'5° C. Similar results were obtained with each of the two portions of cosmolin,
soluble and insoluble in boiling alcohol. By fractional distillation, portions having
different melting points were likewise obtained. The author concludes from his
experiments that cosmolin is a mixture of paraffins.

At the last meeting of the session, held April 5th, Mr. T. H. Hill presiding,
Professor Attfield called attention to a sample of foreign crystallized glycerin. To
obtain it, it appeared to be necessary that the glycerin should be perfectly pure,
fairly cold, and subjected to considerable vibration. The crystals, it was said, could
be used for purifying slightly impure glycerin, in which they would grow, leaving
the impurities in the mother liquor.

Mr. E. M. Holmes stated that the leaves and flowers sent, under the name of
Garrya elliptica, by Prof. Maisch (see "Amer. Jour. Phar.,"i 875, p. 279), appeared
to belong rather to Garrya Fremontii, in having the leaves smooth underneath and
not undulated. A living specimen of G. elliptica was exhibited for comparison.

A paper by T. H. Powell and J. Bayne was read, in which experiments were
detailed, made for the purpose of ascertaining the nature of the product obtained
by the action of hydrocyanic acid upon calomel. After giving the observations of
Scheele, Regimbeau, Soubeiran and others upon the black powder formed by the
two compounds, the authors ascertained that the presence of free hydrochloric acid
prevents the dark coloration. On adding hydrocyanic acid to calomel, a liquid
results which contains free hydrocyanic and hydrochloric acids and mercuric chlo-
ride and cyanide 5 if the remaining powder be repeatedly acted upon by fresh portions
of hydrocyanic acid, a black powder remains, which becomes grey on drying, and

Am'M°ayr;i876a.rm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations 235

which is probably metallic mercury. Prof. Attfleld did not agree with this conclu-
sion ; metallic mercury was obtained by sublimation, but that the residue was noth-
ing but metallic mercury had not been proven. He hoped that the authors would
continue their researches

Mr. W. Willmott read a paper on Linimentum Saponis, Br. P., <with special refer-
ence to its employment in hospital practice, in which the directions contained in the
various editions of the London and British "Pharmacopoeias" are discussed, and
compared with the formulas in use by five of the London hospitals; the author sug-
gests the following modification of the formula: 16 oz. of soft soap (free from caus-
tic potash), 8 oz of camphor, and 2 fl. oz. of oil of rosemary are mixed with 5 pints
(100 fl. oz.) of rectified spirit (spec, grav., o'838), the mixture is occasionally stirred
during twenty-four hours, strained or filtered, and mixed with 3 pints (60 fl. oz.) of
distilled water. The spirit rapidly disintegrates the soap, and dissolves the neutral
portion only, leaving behind the irritating alkaline matter, which is soluble in water.
The liniment remains clear and free from sediment at all temperatures.

In the discussion which followed, the speakers expressed themselves against the
substitution of soft for the hard soap ordered by the " Pharmacopoeia." The excess
of soap used in the British " Pharmacopoeia " process could be utilized by pressing
it in a mould, and using it for washing.

Pharmaceutical Society of Paris. — Mr. Coulier presided at the meeting held
February 2d, at which Mr. Planchon gave an account of the recent researches on
the various transformations of the larvae of cantharides.

Mr. Legrip read a note on Dietheralysis,1 which is the name given by him to a
new method for extracting vegetable juices ; it consists in mechanically dividing the
fresh plants or their parts, collected during the period of their greatest activity, and
then subject them, in a suitable apparatus, to the direct action of the ether. Two
layers of liquid are formed, the upper green one being a solution of chlorophyll and
fat in ether, the lower aqueous layer being thick and brown, and containing all the
proximate principles, dissolved or not, which have been expulsed from the cells with
the vegetable fluids under the pressure of the ether. Even odorous juices retain,
under the ether, their peculiar perfume.

The facts stated can be readily demonstrated by making a number of perforations
in a test-tube, enclosing in it a fresh leaf and suspending the tube in a larger vessel
containing ether, and closing the latter hermetically. The ether will soon begin to
assume a green color, and the juice to separate in minute brownish drops, and the
leaf will finally be left completely decolorized. It is evident that the constituents
will by this process be obtained in their natural condition, without any alteration.

Mr. Limousin observed that ether would dissolve many proximate principles ; but
Mr. Legrip regards the action of the ether to be mechanical rather than solvent.

Mr. Limousin called attention to an observation made by A. Duhomme, accord-
ing to which a hydrometer does not indicate for a time the correct density of the
liquid, if this should run over either during or after the immersion of the instrument.

1 From Sia, through, by means of; niQup, ether; xw«f/f, separation, or h6a>, to dis-
charge, loosen.

236 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, {hm£?J£™'

The phenomenon was explained by Mr. Coulier to be due to the superficial tension
of liquids, which has been studied by Mr. Plateau.

A paper on Dragon s blood and its falsifications, by Mr. Henry Bretet, was read.
True dragon's blood is not scratched by the finger-nail, yields a red, non-adherent
powder, when heated gives of red vapors, and is found to contain very little iron.
False dragon's blood, which appears to be made by mixing oxide of iron with resin,
differs in each of these particulars, but sometimes imparts a purple-red color to alco-
hol, proving that some true dragon's blood had been used in manufacturing the
imitation.

Mr. Guichard made some remarks on fluid and syrupy extracts, and noticed more
particularly the fluid extracts officinal in England and the United States. For con-
venience in dispensing, he has used for some time preparations which, while repre-
senting solutions of solid extracts, are prepared by concentrating infusions of the
drug to a certain extent, adding some glycerin, and evaporating until the residue
represents approximately a solution of one part of extract in an equal weight of
glycerin. The author prefers this method to the solution of the solid extract in
glycerin or other solvents, and regards the addition of some glycerin, even to ordi-
nary extracts, to be advantageous. Mr. Desnoix coincided with these views, but
Mr. Mialhe considered the addition of glycerin unnecessary.

Mr. Petit gave a summary of his researches of the action of pancreatin upon albu-
minoid substances, whereby crystallizable compounds, leucin and tyrosin, analogous
to the products of excretion, are formed. The residue from the action of pepsin
upon albuminoids is always amorphous.

At the meeting held March ist, a note by Mr. Frebault, of Meursalt, was read,
on the use of alkaline picramates as a test for acids and alkalies. The picramates
(dinitramidophenates) of the alkalies and of calcium have a magnificent red color,
which by free acid is changed to greenish-yellow, the red being restored by an alkali.
A solution of the ammonium salt is readily obtained by acting with an excess of
sulphhydrate of ammonium upon an alcoholic solution of picric (trinitrophenic)
acid. The calcium picramates keep very well, and may be employed in solution or
with paper like litmus.

Another paper, by the same author, was on The action of iodine upon carminic acid
and the coloring principle of logwood. An infusion of cochineal with distilled water
is not affected, but on the addition of a little alkali, or by using ordinary water, is
instantly decolorized. The same reaction takes place with an infusion of logwood.
Free acids prevent the reaction ; the most convenient reagent is a solution of iodine
in potassium iodide. The author believes this reaction to be available for the rapid
valuation of cochineal, carmine and logwood, and for the estimation of iodine.
Fuchsin and the coloring principles of red poppy, mulberries and wine are not
decolorized.

A discussion ensued on the yield of extracts, Mr. Hoffmann believing that notable
differences in the yield from the same material were not obtained, provided the pro-
cess was not changed. Mr. Guichard, however, cited the experience of several
authors, proving the variability of the yield.

To detect the presence of fuchsin in moine, Mr. Yvon recommended to treat the
suspected wine with animal charcoal, which retains the fuchsin, and from which it
may be afterwards obtained by the aid of alcohol.

Am. Jour. Ph. arm
May, 1876

Editorial.

237

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The International Exposition at Philadelphia will have been opened (May
loth) by the time the present number reaches some of our readers, who are un-
doubtedly to some extent familiar with the extent which it promises to assume.
That there will be much of interest to the pharmacist to see and a great deal to
learn, may be expected. Many new and old remedial agents, which are but partial-
ly or not at all known in this country, many new or improved apparatus and de-
vices bearing upon the drug business, will doubtless be found among the multitude
of articles which have been collected in FaJrmount Park from all sections of the
globe. While it can scarcely be expected that everything 1 elated to pharmacy,
more especially all the numerous chemical and pharmaceutical preparations and
appliances should be of sufficient importance to claim the same attention, yet much
will be noticed possessing lasting intrinsic value. While our readers will not look
for minute descriptions of all the features of this Exposition, it will be our aim to
select from that which will be presented such matters for more detailed considera-
tion which may appear to be more especially adapted to the wants, or serve for com-
parison with the products of the American pharmacist.

In this connection, we desire to direct the notice of our readers to the arrange-
ments made by the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, for the convenience of those
visitors more or less directly connected with the drug trade. The Actuary is now
daily present at the College building, and prepared to give information and assist
strangers in their endeavors to most profitably spend the time which may be at their
disposal on the occasion of their visit. The pharmacists, druggists and chemists,
from whatever par-t of the globe they may hail, will be welcome.

The Philadelphia Drug Exchange, we are informed, are likewise prepared to
show similar civilities to druggists, so that no one visiting during the Exposition
need feel embarrassed for want of advice to further his object.

The Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the American Pharmaceuti-
cal Association will be held in Philadelphia, September 12th, and many mem-
bers will postpone their trip to the International Exposition until that time, when
they may expect to see what may be new and interesting in the pharmaceutical and
chemical line, in connection with others who are interested in the same pursuit. An
interchange of ideas may thus be had, for which rarely any better opportunity will
be afforded. The Committees of Arrangements, appointed by the National Asso-
ciation and the Philadelphia College, are actively at work, and we understand that
it will be among their main endeavors to so arrange matters as to afford every attend-
ing member the best opportunities of examining minutely and profitably such goods
in which, as pharmacist or druggist, he may expect to be most deeply interested, with-
out, in his search after all the novelties, being compelled to neglect the sessions of
the Association. The ladies who may accompany the members will also be well
cared for by the ladies of this city.

Reviews, etc.

f Am. Jour. Pharm
\ May, 1876

The present year of" the Centennial independence of the United States is also of
special interest to the pharmacists of this country. Five years ago, the Philadelphia
College of Pharmacy celebrated the semi-centennial anniversary of its foundation ;
three years hence, the New York College will have attained its fiftieth year since its
organization 5 35 years have passed by since the Maryland College ' obtained its
charter, and 20 years since it was reorganized, and on the 15th of October next it
will be twenty-five years since, in New York, the first Conventionof Pharmacists
and Druggists met, which took the initiatory steps to organize the American
Pharmaceutical Association.

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

Proceedings of the Vermont Pharmaceutical Association, at the sixth annual meet-
ing, held at St. Johnsbury, October 13th and 14th, 1875. Rutland: 1876, 8vo.
pp. 40.

On page 570, of our last volume, will be found a brief account of this meeting ;
the pamphlet before us contains the various reports in full. Of particular interest
to us is the report on legislation, which gives the draft of a plain pharmacy bill, in
which, with the least possible complication, sufficient competency of the pharma-
cists, and their assistants, is aimed at. The bill passed the House by more than a
two-thirds vote, but failed in the Senate through the treachery, as the committee
tell us, of the Senator from Burlington, a patent medicine dealer, who promised to
" take care of the bill," and labored faithfully to defeat it. Our friends deserve
better luck next time.

Two papers, on displacement apparatus and on fluid extracts, have been published
in the pamphlet 5 the latter speaks of the faulty officinal formulas for various of the
kinds, but unfortunately omits to point out either the faults or remedies therefor.
The process recommended in the paper is the same as that patented by Mr. Spencer
Thomas, in 1865 ("Am. Journ. Pharm.," 1865, p. 85, 1866, p. 218, containing
also Prof. Procter's comments).

We regret to learn that all the books, records, papers, &c, of this association
were consumed by fire, February 16th, which totally destroyed the Secretary's, Mr
A. W. Higgins', store.

Formula for non-officinal preparations in general use in the District of Columbia. —
Published by E. L. Duvall. Washington : 1875, 8vo. PP« 4^-

As this formulary has been prepared by a joint committee of the Medical Society
of the District of Columbia and the National College of Pharmacy, an authority
is attached to it, at least for the district in which the national capital is situated.
Speaking of it as a whole, we are much impressed with the practicability of the
formulas framed ; but we regret that the joint committee did not see fit to adhere
more closely to the formulas for elixirs adopted by the Amer. Phar. Asso. The
name of elixir aurantii is very appropriate for the simple elixir, and the absence of
the slight amount of cinnamon is immaterial. We object, however, to such names

%T-\ Reviews, etc. 239

as elixir calisayae, when the preparation is made with the sulphates of the four
commoner cinchona alkaloids, and calisaya bark is not used. The deviation, in
strength, of some formulas from those of the Amer. Phar. Asso., of 1875, is ex-
plained by the former having been adopted as early as last August.

Liquor ergotse should have been called tinctura ergotse, being made from ergot,
with alcohol of about 30 per cent. Syrupus calcii lactophosphatis is directed to be
made with lactophosphate of calcium, but a formula for the latter is not given.
For making syr. ferri oxidi the saccharated oxide of iron of the German Pharma-
copoeia is used, without giving a formula for its preparation. If it was intended to
refer the apothecary to that pharmacopoeia, then formulas for compound liquorice
powder and breast tea were likewise unnecessary.

We shall endeavor to make room, in our next issue, for some of the formulas
which have not heretofore been published in the " Journal "

Filth diseases and their prevention. By John Simon, M.D., F. R. C. S. Boston: Jas.
Campbell, 1876, i2mo, pp. 96.

The author of this masterly essay, being Chief Medical Officer of the Privy
Council and of the Local Government Board of England, has had unusual facili-
ties to familiarize himself with the subject, and gives many practical suggestions for
the prevention of typhoid fever and allied diseases, the origin of ' which may be
traced to the accumulation of filth. Properly regulated sanitary work being, here,
still in its infancy, the Massachusetts State Board of Health have done well to
republish this essay and to recommend its being read, and the suggestions heeded
by every intelligent person.

Lecciones de Botanica arregladas segun los principios admitidos por Guibourt,
Richard, Duchartre, De Candolle y otros. Por Joaquin y Juan Donde (padre e
hijo), farmaceuticos titulados, quimicos y naturalistos. Merida de Yucatan : 1876,
i2mo, pp. 259.

Lessons in botany.

Without pretending to be familiar with the literature of Yucatan, we should
regard the volume before us as a valuable addition to other available works, on
account of its simple and systematic arrangement and the general correctness and
conciseness of the manner in which the researches in morphological, physiological,
pathological and systematic botany have been treated. To our readers it will be
of interest to learn that one of the authors, of whom we brought a biographical
sketch on page 96, of this volume, was formerly a contributor to the " Journal."

Bulletin of the Bussey Institution (Jamaica Plain, Boston), part v. Cambridge : Press
of John Wilson & Son, 1876, 8vo, pp. 100.

Of the eight papers contained in this part, three are from the pen of Prof. F. H.
Storer, viz : Composition of date-stone and of the stones of peaches and prunes,
analyses of potassic fertilizers and occurrence of ammonia in anthracite ; four
papers on the disease of olive and orange trees in California, on grape-vine mildew,
on the black knot and a list of fungi near Boston, by Prof. W. G. Farlow, and a

240

Reviews, etc.

' Am. Jour Pharm.
\ May, 1876.

report on the Arnold arboretum by the Director, C. S. Sargent. Six well-executed
lithographs accompany this pamphlet, which concludes the first volume of the
series.

Report of the Board of Administrators of the Charity Hospital to the General Assembly
of Louisiana, session of 1875. New Orleans: 8vo, pp. 105.

Besides the special reports and statistical tables, which may be looked for in such
a publication, we find a historical sketch of this institution, by James Burns, M.D.,
which goes back to the times of Louis XIV and of the foundation of the colony,
but, as may be expected, enters more into the details of the operations during the
years last past.

The reception, from the authors, of the following reprints is hereby acknowl-
edged :

Studies upon essential oils. By G. Dragendorff.

Structure and developement of Pareira stem, Chondodendron tomentosum R. et. P. By
John Moss.

Vaseline. By John Moss.

On further researches on the dissociation of Molecules in solution. By Chas. R. (J.
Tichborne.

The Opium habit and " Opium-mania cures." By Stanford E. Chaille, A. M.,
M.D., &c.

This last pamphlet exposes the criminal doings of a doctor, with whose practices
the readers of the "Journal" have already become acquainted, on page 464,
volume for 1873. The Ext. Picus porteana appears to have been changed now into
an " opiumania cure," and the composition was most likely changed also, since
Mr. J. Johnson reports it to contain " a good deal of substance in solution " and
found only about five grains of opium in half a fluidounce, whereas Prof. Wayne
obtained 4.-4. grains of morphia in the same quantity.

OBITUARY.

Zadoc Douglass Gilman died in the city of Washington, D. C, March 15th,
in the 60th year of his age, after a brief illness. He was a native of Alexandria,
Va., but removed with his parents to Washington, where, after having received a
good education, he entered the drug business with Mr. Seth Todd, remaining with
his employer as assistant. After the death of the latter, Mr. Gilman purchased the
store and business, which he conducted until his demise. He was one of the first
members of the various local societies organized in the National capital for the pro-
motion and advancement of pharmacy, and liberally contributed to their support.
Energetic, yet amiable and courteous in conducting his business, he was devoted to
his family, and an active and useful member in the various public organizations
in which he interested himself. Within less than two years, the National College
of Pharmacy has lost in him by death, the third member of its first Board of Trus-
tees.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

JUNE, 1876.

POWDERED DRUGS UNDER THE MICROSCOPE.

BY MARK W. HARRINGTON, M.A.

Assistant Professor of Botany in the University of Michigan.
I. PRELIMINARY.

The writer proposes, in this and, perhaps, several succeeding arti-
cles, to point out to pharmacists the utility of the microscope as a
means of identifying powdered drugs, and of ascertaining their purity.
He does this because he is convinced that, notwithstanding the writings
of Hassall, Pocklington, Fliickiger, Planchon and some others, the
practical usefulness and ready availability of the microscope as a means
of organic analysis, is not fully appreciated.

This instrument is especially useful in the examination of organic
bodies. One would expect that when two parts of plants differ in
external appearance, corresponding differences would exist in the
minute structure as well, and such is found to be the case. It is not
too much to say that, for those having the necessary previous
knowledge, it is no harder to distinguish two powders under the micro-
scope than it is to distinguish the two bodies from which the powders
are derived. There is no more difficulty in telling ground mustard
from ground horse-radish, and, where they are mixed, in picking the
one out from the other, than there is in telling the mustard-seed and
the horse-radish-root. Wherever any powdered drug has traces of
organic structure, the microscope can identify them and ascertain their
source. In these cases the use of the microscope can properly accom-
pany the work of chemical analysis. It can precede and indicate what
the chemist is to look for, or it can follow and verify the results of
his work. In some cases, indeed, microscopical analysis can do
successful labor in fields where chemistry is powerless. Chemistry,
for instance, cannot distinguish between the various starches — wheat-
starch, corn, potato, arrow root, sago starch, etc.; it can only show

16

242 Powdered Drugs under the Microscope. \Amj^J7^rm'

that amylaceous matter is present. The microscope, on the other
hand, can easily distinguish between them.

One great advantage in the use of the microscope is the readiness
with which results can be obtained from it. But a moment is needed
by the skilled microscopist to distinguish the various starches, or to
analyze the various proprietary flours, prepared foods, farinas, etc. ;
and even such complicated mixtures as the tooth-powders can be
unraveled in a short time. The chemist would have to spend much
time over the latter, if, indeed, he could succeed in performing it
at all.

For the work contemplated in these papers a complicated and costly
instrument, with all the modern expensive appliances, is not required;
an inexpensive microscope, with a magnifying power of 200 or 300
diameters, is sufficient. One of the cheaper compound microscopes,
with an inch objective, can be made to answer, a half inch or a
quarter inch objective should be added as soon as practicable, as it
will be sometimes needed. They can be obtained of any reputable
maker or dealer at prices varying from $25.00 to $150.00, depending
on the character of the workmanship and number of objectives and
accessories.

Instructions concerning the use of the microscope must be looked
for in books devoted to that subject. With cleanliness, care and
some patience any one can use the instrument successfully. When
the tissue of a drug is to be examined, it should be softened by soaking
in water, or some other fluid, and then as thin sections as possible be
taken in several directions. The sections can be transferred to a
glass slip by means of a camel's hair brush. They should be deposited
in a drop of water and covered by thin glass when they are ready for
examination. If greater transparency is required, the sections can be
placed in glycerin ; still greater transparency can be obtained by placing
dry sections in Canada balsam. If a powder is to be examined, a
very small part of it should be placed on the glass-slip in water,
glycerin or Canada balsam.

II. STARCHES.

The starches form powders of a simple nature, with which the
unpractised observer will do well to begin. They vary very much
in form, size and structure, and to some extent in chemical charac-
teristics.

Amjine"'I87h6arm*} Powdered Drugs under the Microscope. 243

The color of starch is usually pure white. In some cases a tinge of
blue can also be seen, as in some wheat-starch, while the starch from
the potato has a slightly yellowish cast. The fineness of the starch
powder depends on the size of the individual grains, except where the
grains are artificially agglomerated, as in sago and tapioca ; the former
is in small, round, brownish grains, while tapioca is in larger, irregular,
white fragments. The individual starch grains vary much in size,
though they are pretty constant for any given species. The various
sizes will be described in the special descriptions to follow ; here it is
sufficient to say that oat, rice and rye starches represent the smallest
grains, while those of corn starch are not much larger. The medium
size is found in the grains of wheat and arrow-root starch. The
largest grains are found in potato and canna starch. In the last two
the unaided eye can distinguish the largest individual grains, but in
nearly all others they can be seen only under the microscope. The
specific gravity is more than that of water, though it varies much with
the state of dryness of the starch. Its average is given, by Wiesner,
at 1*5. It, however, varies with the different species of starch. The
grains contain considerable water — as high as 30 per cent, when fresh,
reduced sometimes to 7 per cent., when air dry.

The grains, when exposed under the microscope to hot water
(1400 F. or above) swell, then burst, and finally form a homogeneous
paste. The same process occurs, and can be easily observed, micro-
scopically, when they are tested with dilute alkalies or mineral acids.
They are insoluble in cold water, alcohol and ether. The grains turn
blue when brought in contact with a solution of iodine, a simple solu-
tion of iodine in water is sufficient for this very delicate test. This is
a very satisfactory test for microscopical use, as it will betray at once
the smallest proportion of starch in the tissue under examination. The
iodine solution can be applied in this way : the tissue or powder to be
examined is placed on the glass slide in a drop of water, and a thin
glass cover is placed over it ; it is then placed under the microscope
and focussed, the stage of the microscope being tilted a little, if prac-
ticable ; a drop of the iodine solution is then placed on the slide, at the
upper edge of the cover. It will gradually spread in the water and
through the tissue examined ; meantime the eye at the microscope
watches the changes it causes. Should it not draw through readily,
a bit of blotting paper, placed at the opposite edge of the glass cover,

244

Powdered Drugs under the Microscope.

Am. Jour. Pharm,
June, 1876.

will take up the water, and the iodine solution will come in to take its
place. The color of the starch grains affected by iodine, although
usually blue, may vary, according to the amount of the iodine, from a
light violet, through blue, to blue-black.

Under the micros-
cope the starch-grains
present the form of
minute grains, of a
form and structure
characteristic for each
species. They are us-
ually bounded bycurved
surfaces, — spherical,
elliptical, egg - shaped^
lens-shaped, etc., but
sometimes they have
flat surfaces as well.
They usually contain
a dark spot, line or
cross within, which is
sometimes central,
sometimes eccentric.
This spot is called the
nucleus and is usually small and round in starch found in fresh tissues^
slit or cross-shaped in grains which have been dried (Fig. i).1

The position and character of the nucleus affords a valuable means
of describing the grains. The grains, also, frequently show a series
of rather faint lines concentric about the nucleus. When present,,
they sometimes can be distinguished only with careful focussing and
close examination, and in many starches they are entirely absent.
Sometimes the grains have more than one nucleus (Fig. 1, a) in which
case they are said to be compouud. The compound grains may con-
sist of only two simple ones, as in tapioca, or three, as usually in
sago, or of a great many, as in rice, oat and buckwheat.2

1 All the figures in these papers were drawn from nature, by Louisa M. Reed, of
Ann Arbor, Mich., whose work is accurate and careful, as can be tested by com-
paring it with the actual objects.

2 For those who wish to study the microscopical characters of starch more in

Fig.

. Grains of potato starch, a and £are from a
fresh potato, the others have been dried.

Amjine>r"i876arm'} Powdered Drugs under the Microscope. 245

Having given the general characters of the starch powders, we will
now pass on to the consideration of the species of interest to the
pharmacist.

I. POTATO-STARCH (Fig. i).

This starch is not officinal, but the ease of obtaining it and the size
of the grains make it the best and most convenient form for the
inexperienced microscopist to begin with. Besides, it is frequently
used and still more frequently named as an adulterant of other powders
and is, consequently, important to the pharmacist. For examination
fresh, it can be easily obtained from the potato, nearly the whole of the
interior of which is made up of it.

It forms a fine, white, glistening powder, with small, irregular,
pulverulent masses intermixed. It crackles slightly when rubbed
between the fingers. When examined carefully, it can be seen to have
a yellowish cast of color. It has a slight taste like raw potato, and a
faint acrid odor. The latter is brought out more decidedly by the
application of alcohol or chlorhydric acid.

The grains vary much in size, due, probably, to unequal develop-
ment, the youngest being smallest, the greatest length attained is about
50//.1 The form is usually oval, egg-shaped, elliptical or round-trian-
gular. The smallest and youngest grains are nearly spherical. The

detail, the following references may prove useful : HassalPs Adulteration in Food
and Medicine, Soubeiran, Dictionnaire des Falsifications; Wiesner, Rohstoffe des
Pfianzenreiches, pp. 239-289 5 Planchon, Determination des drogues simples, Vol. II,
chap. XIII ; Harrington, American Naturalist, April and June, 1875, v°l- PP-
193-198, 339-346.

For the examination of starch, Thomas Greenish recommends especially the
following :

" Saturate distilled water with creosote, and take of
the filtered solution, %v
Spirit of wine, ..... giss
Glycerin, . . . . . 3iss-"

The starch could, probably, be preserved, in this solution, as a permanent micro-
scopical specimen.

1 tf=ten-thousandths of an inch. For information as to methods of measure-
ment, the works on microscopy must be consulted. Where the pharmacist has not
access to them, the measurements given will be useful to him by indicating the rela-
tive size of the bodies measured. The writer uses the small unit tt. so that fractions
can be avoided, and the comparison of length can be made readily, without reduc-
tion. Fractions of inch are used because they are much more generally used and
understood in this country than millimeters.

246 Analysis of Cine ho- Quinine.

nucleus is near the smaller end. The distance from it to the smaller
end is usually \ to \ of that to the larger end. The grains are almost
invariably simple, but occasionally one with two nuclei is found (Fig.
I, a\ and very rarely one with three nuclei.

Potato-starch is much used in the arts for making a stiffening paste,
and for other purposes. It is said to be sometimes surreptitiously
replaced by poor grades of wheat- starch (Wiesner). It is also some-
times mixed with ground fibre (probably woodv), and is adulterated with
earthy matter (Soubeiran). Its use as an adulterant of arrow-root and
other starches and drugs has already been mentioned.

In the next number, the most important of the other pharmacat
starches will be described and figured.

ANALYSIS OF CINCHO-QUININE.

BY EBENEZER M. WELLS, PH.G.

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

Several years ago, a preparation called Cincho-Quinine was thrown
upon the market, which is represented as having all the constituents of
cinchona-bark in their alkaloidal condition, and as being fully equal to
sulphate of quinia in therapeutical effect, when given in the same dose.
By diligent and profuse advertising, and being sold at a lower price than
sulphate of quinia, it has, in many localities, gained considerable favor,
and is frequently prescribed by some practitioners as a substitute for
sulphate of quinia, solely upon the testimonials in the circulars, which
accompany each bottle, and from wThich it appears that many have
used this nostrum with success.

This nostrum was analyzed in 1870 by Wm. T. Wenzell, in 1874 by
Albert E. Ebert, in 1875 by Profs. Scheffer and Diehl, and in 1875
by Profs. S. P. Sharpies, F. A. Genth and others. Neither Wenzell
nor Ebert were successful in determining the presence of quinia, Profs.
Scheffer and Diehl found quinia, quinidia, and probably cinchonidia
("Amer. Journ. Pharm.," April, 1875) in very small quantities. The
other analysts succeeded in determining the presence of quinia, qui-
nidia and cinchonidia, besides cinchonia (" Drug. Cir.," April, 1875, p.
85) ; but the amount of each is not stated, which in justice to the pub-
lic at large should have been done.

What is cincho-quinine ? Does it really contain quinia, and how

ArijJne)ri8P76!irm" \ Analysis of Cine ho- Quinine. 247

much ? are questions which have often been put to me by both phy-
sicians and customers. I could not give the desired information, and
have therefore determined to subject this nostrum to a chemical analysis.

I used for my experiments two samples of cincho quinine, which I
shall designate as " new " and " old." The new sample had been ob-
tained from the manufacturers through Powers & Weightman, from
whom I purchased it in December, 1875. The old sample I procured
through Prof. J. M. Maisch, from Mr. J. L. Lemberger, of Lebanon,
Pa., who obtained it from a New York agency July 1 8th, 1873. The
experiments were made in the laboratory of the Philadelphia College of
Pharmacy, under the supervision of Prof. Maisch.

The qualitative examination of cincho-quinine was conducted in the
same manner as detailed by Profs. SchefFer and Diehl in the paper re-
ferred to above, and gave the same results, proving the presence of
ammonium sulphate, cinchonia sulphate and cinchona alkaloids, also a
small quantity of organic matter, which could not be dissolved in alco-
hol, but remained behind with the ammonium sulphate, and with it
was soluble in water.

To determine the amount of the various constituents of this nos-
trum, De Vrij's method for separating the cinchona alkaloids was first
tried ; but it soon became apparent that this method would not yield
correct results, in consequence of the great excess of cinchonia pres-
ent. Mixtures of the alkaloid, in approximately the same proportion
as they exist in this preparation, according to the published essays,
were made ; and, after trying several modifications, the following pro-
cess was found to yield satisfactory results, and was therefore used in
assaying both samples of cincho-quinine :

Six grams of the mixed cinchona alkaloids were dissolved in dilute
hydrochloric acid, the solution precipitated by ammonia, the precipitate
washed upon a filter with cold water, and then dried. The washings
were evaporated to dryness, and the residue treated with ether ; after
evaporating the latter, a small quantity of alkaloid was left behind
which was added to the larger portion, giving the total amount of al-
kaloids present, the loss from the original weight taken indicating non-
alkaloidal compounds. The saline matter insoluble in ether was dis-
solved in water, in which it was readily soluble, and the sulphuric* acid
present determined in the usual manner by precipitating with chloride
of barium. About one-half the dried alkaloids was then rubbed to a

248

Analysis of Cine ho- Quinine,

( Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ June, 1876.

fine powder — the other portion being reserved for verifying the results
obtained — and macerated for thirty hours with sufficient ether to cover
it, afterwards transferred to a filter, and washed with ether until at least
four fluidounces of filtrate were obtained, which were evaporated in a
beaker, the result indicating the total amount of alkaloids soluble in the
quantity of ether employed. On treating this residue with 76 times its
weight of ether, a residue was left, which, after dissolving in water by the
aid of sulphuric acid, was not afFected by chlorine water and ammonia,
proving the complete absence of quinia and quinidia, nor could a pre-
cipitate be obtained on the addition of a concentrated solution of pure
Rochelle salt and setting aside for two days ; cinchonidia was there-
fore likewise absent, and the undissolved portion was cinchonia.

The etherial solution was again evaporated to dryness and the resi-
due weighed, afterwards treated with 40 times its weight of water and
sufficient sulphuric acid to obtain a solution, which was carefully neu-
tralized by ammonia.

With the old cincho-quinine a perfect solution was obtained, but
the new cincho quinine left some greenish resinous globules behind,
which would likewise not dissolve in boiling acidulated water. The
filtered solution of the sulphate was treated with tartrate of sodium and
potassium, and the precipitated tartrate of cinchonidia collected after two
days, washed and dried ; one part of this tartrate representing '804
part of cinchonidia, the actual amount of this alkaloid present, is easily
calculated.

The filtrate and washings from this precipitate were concentrated
to the original measure and mixed with strong solution of potassium
iodide in excess. On the following day, the precipitated hydriodate of
quinidia was collected, washed and dried, and its weight multiplied with
0*718, to ascertain the total amount of this alkaloid.

The filtrate from the foregoing precipitate contained all the quinia.
To avoid the solvent action of the chemicals previously added, upon
the herapathite, it was determined not to estimate the quinia in this
form, but to weigh it as pure alkaloid. Accordingly, the liquid was
evaporated and the dry mass treated with ether, on evaporating the
ether, iodide of ammonium was found in the residue. It was therefore
dissolved in water, boiled with sufficient sulphuric acid to eliminate all
hydriodic acid, precipitated by ammonia, and repeatedly agitated with
fresh portions of ether, which, on evaporation, left pure quinia.

The amount of moisture contained in cincho-quinine was ascer-

Amjine)r'i76arm'} Analysis of Cine ho- Quinine. 249

tained by drying a weighed sample at about 1500 F., and the ammo-
nium by treating another portion of cincho-quinine with boiling alcohol,
and weighing the undissolved portion as ammonium sulphate.

The results of these assays, calculated for 100 parts of material,
were as follows :

New sample. Old sample.

Sulphuric acid (S03), 6 516 5-016

Ammonium (NHJ, 1-360 1-380

Water, determined by heat, 4*098 3'174

Loss (mainly water of crystallization), o"359 0*040

Total non-alkaloid matter, I2'333 9-610

Quinia, 0*466 0-240

Quinidia, 1-250 1-820

Cinchonidia, 0717 0920

Resin and loss, 0*583

Cinchonia, i'384 2*440

Total am't dissolved by ist treatment with ether, 4*400 5'42°
Cinchonia left undissolved on ist treatm't with ether, 83*267 84*970

The total amount of cinchonia, a portion of which is combined with
sulphuric acid, was therefore 84*651 per cent, in the new, and 87*410
per cent, in the old sample, while the quinia was present in one case
to the amount only of less than one-half, and in one sample less than
one-quarter of 1 per cent.

Remarks by the Editor. — It will be of interest to recapitulate,
in connection with the above essay, the quantitative results obtained in
previous analyses, more particularly the amount of the three higher
priced alkaloids, present in cincho-quinine, which form the correct
basis for estimating its commercial as well as medicinal value. Wenzell
obtained 2*5 per cent, Scheffer and Diehl (see "Amer. Jour. Phar.,"
1875, p. 205), from four samples, 3*00, 3*25, 2*15 and 3*10 per cent.,
and Wells (4*400 — 1*384=) 3*016 and (5*420 — 2*440=) 2*980 per
cent. ; the average of these seven assays gives 2*86 per cent, of higher
priced cinchona alkaloids, from which figure the lowest amount on
record differs by '71 or 25 per cent., and the highest amount recorded
by *39 or nearly 14 per cent., while the proportion of the lowest to the
highest figure, 2*15 and 3*25, is as 2 : 3.

A still greater variation is observable in the percentage of quinia,
small as it is ; the lowest one found (Wells) being '24, and the high-

250

Analysis of Fluid Extracts,

Am. Jour. Pharm.

June, 1876.

est (Scheffer and Diehl) -612 per cent., their proportion is nearly as 2 : 5,
Mr. Wells has estimated the amount of ammonium from which the
ammonium sulphate in the two samples proves to be 5*44 and 5*52
per cent., representing respectively 3*40 and 3*45 of the sulphuric acid,
which, deducted from the assayed amounts of the latter, leave 3*116
and 1*566 per cent, of SOs in combination with alkaloids. Allowing
this to be combined with cinchonia, we find the following percentage
of cinchonia sulphate (which contains io*66 per cent. SOs) in Wells'
old sample 14*69, and in his new sample 29*23 per cent., or, within a
slight fraction, double the amount. The amount of alkaloidal sul-
phate, approximately estimated by Scheffer and Diehl by treatment
with cold water, varied in four samples between 1 1 '75 and 22 per cent. ;
a variation nearly as great as found by Mr. Wells.

If the figures, as obtained by the different analysts, are averaged for
the various compounds actually contained in cincho quinine, and the
ammonium sulphate be entirely omitted, a preparation closely resembling
the average composition of the article in question, may be obtained by
intimately mixing

Quinia, alkaloid, 5 grains, or Quinia sulphate, 7*5 grains

Quinidia, alkaloid, 15 grains, Quinidia sulphate, 20* grains

Cinchonidia, alkaloid, 10 grains, Cinchonidia sulphate, 12.5 grains

Cinchonia, alkaloid, 770 grains, Cinchonia sulphate, 180' grains

Cinchonia sulphate, ■ 200 grains, Cinchonia, alkaloid, 780* grains

1,000 grs. 1,000 grs.

Those who desire a still closer representation, may incorporate with
either of the above mixtures 54 grains of ammonium sulphate, which
will not enhance the cost, but increase the weight of this, as some
medical journals tell us, valuable nostrum.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF CERTAIN FLUID EXTRACTS BY
IODO-HYDRARGYR ATE OF POTASSIUM.

BY HENRY C SCHRANCK, PH.G.

(Fr-om an Inaugural Essay, presented to the Nenv York College of Pharmacy.)

The writer of this essay selected the fluid extracts of nux vomica,
stramonium, belladonna, conium, hyoscyamus and veratrum viride as
those most suitable for his purposes, and in each case obtained original
packages from the several manufacturers for the purposes of examina-
tion.

Am juneT'i87h6arm* } Analysis of Fluid Extracts. 1 5 1

The test solutions used were as recommended by Prof. DragendorfF
and Prof. F. F. Mayer, and in every case were tested, with great care>
with the pure alkaloids or alkaloidal salts. The test solution which
was adopted by the essayist was that of the 1-10 normal solution as
suggested by Prof. Mayer, but for convenience he calls it in his essay
"normal," while that which he calls 1-10 normal is really equivalent
to 1-100 normal, as used by Prof. Maver. The detailed experiments
are very elaborate ; in the following a brief abstract of the manipula-
tions is given:

50 cc. of the fluid extract of nux vomica were evaporated to a syrupy
consistence, acidulated with sulphuric acid, and while warm mixed
with 50 cc. of water, then filtered to separate fatty matter and diluted
to 100 cc. On testing this solution, it was observed that the final
reaction with iodohydrargyrate of potassium was not sharply defined ->
accordingly, the fluid extract was treated as before, the solution some-
what concentrated and potassa added ; after 24 hours the crystals of
brucia and strychnia were collected and separated by repeated washings
with warm water. On concentrating the mother lye, a further crop
of crystals was obtained, the remaining alkaloids being obtained by con-
centrating the mother liquor, treating with sulphuric acid, filtering
from resin, and again precipitating by potassa. The small amount
of alkaloids, mainly strychnia, remaining in the mother waters was sep-
arately estimated by the test solution.

The fluid extract of stramonium leaves was acidulated, carefully evap-
orated, mixed with water, filtered from resinous matter, and diluted to
double the original measure. The solution being too dark for correct
observations, the fluid extract was precipitated by plumbic acetate, the
precipitate well washed, the filtrate freed from lead by hydrogen sul-
phide, and the filtrate evaporated to three times the original bulk.

Another method gave the same quantitative results. The alcohol
was evaporated from the fluid extract, potassa was added, and the liquid
repeatedly agitated with fresh portions of chloroform \ the chloroformic
solution was evaporated in contact with acidulated water and filtered.

The same processes were used for the fluid extracts of belladonna
root, belladonna leaves and hyoscyamus.

For testing the fluid extract of conium fruit it was found necessary to
first separate resin and oil, by acidulating, evaporating, diluting with
water and filtering. The filtrate was now concentrated, and the conia

252 Analysis of Fluid Extracts. {Am-jL™;I8&rm'

removed by repeated agitation with fresh portions of ether. In one
case, treatment like the extract of stramonium was found necessary in
order to obtain a liquid free from turbidity.

Fluid extract of veratrum viride was acidulated,1 evaporated to a
syrupy consistence, diluted with water, and filtered.

This table shows the number of cc. of the test solution used to pre-
cipitate the alkaloids from 100 cc. of the various fluid extracts, the
percentage amount of alkaloids in each sample, and the specific gravity
of the several fluid extracts examined :

Nux V

omica.

Stramonium.

Belladonna.

CC,

Strychnia.

Brucia.

0

ft

(S)

CC
used.

Atropia. |

Sp. Gr.

CC
used.

Atropia.

Sp. Gr.

E. R. Squibb, M.D

96

07

i*6

0-855

io-8

0-19

0-856

12-8

0 22

I'OTO

(seed)

20-8

80

0-56

o-9

0-968

3"o

0-05

1-055

(.root)

o'37

0"953

(leaf)

13-6
(leaf)

0*24

1*023

90

o-6

0-97

1 000

2-4

0*04

ro6o

I2'0

0.21

I "09 I

(leaf;

I-082

50

0-38

0-857

7 '2

0'12

1 029

11*2

0"2

(seed)

84

0-15

1 006

16-0

O 28

0-983

(seed)

(root)

76-8

0-58

0-82

0*894

3-6

o"o6

1 '04 1

12-8

0*22

i'o57

(leaf)

6-4

o'n

0-951

(leaf)

Conium.

Hyoscyamus.

Veratrum viride.

CC

u

CC.

yam a.

in*

CC.

oids.

used.

'8

0

O

used.

a

p

O

used.

Ikal

O

U

ft

X

ft

if)

<

19-2

o-8

1-030

8-0

0-05

1-018

3°'o

o-8

0-925

15-2

0-64

I 050

7-2

0*05

i"o54

20'0

o*5

0-977

60

0*04

1 070

2O'0

o*5

0-965

8-o

0-3

I 057

4-8

0.03

1-082

12 *o

o*3

I'020

Tilden & Co

I2"0

05

0-997

42

0*02

0-976

12*8

o-34

0-883

5*3

0'2

ro86

5-6

°'°3

i- 020

i8-4

049

0-942

(leaf)

4-8

0-03

0*980

20*0

o*5

0-908

1 Jervia is precipitated from its aqueous solutions by free mineral acids. — Editor
Amer. Jour. Phar.

Tobacco Culture in Ohio. 253

THE CULTURE OF TOBACCO IN OHIO.

BY BENJAMIN T. CREIGHTON, PH.G.

[From an Inaugural Essay.)

The culture of tobacco, in Ohio, differs somewhat from the de-
scription given in the United States Dispensatory, this latter applying
to the mode of cultivating the plant in Virginia. A large amount of
the finest tobacco found in our eastern market is from the fields of
Ohio, hence some knowledge of its growth may be deemed inter-
esting.

The eastern and southeastern part of the State affords the best soil
for tobacco growing, and in these districts this product has become a
staple article, affording the main crop of the farmer, and, as a rule>
rarely failing pecuniarily, for even in seasons when the yield is small,,
the price of the article is proportionately large.

In growing this much-used vegetable, the first step is the preparing
of the ground for sowing the seed, by burning logs of wood or brush
on the section of land chosen for tobacco beds. This is done to warm
the soil, as well as to supply the ashes needed in nourishing the young
plants. The burning takes place either in the fall or spring previous
to sowing. If in the fall, the ground is slightly reburnt in the follow-
ing spring. The time required for burning the beds, if logs of wood
are used, is generally from two to three days. If brush be used, a
much Jess time. The earth is then dug up and raked to a proper
consistency. After the seeds have been deposited, the bed is thor-
oughly tramped or walked over, in order that it may retain sufficient
moisture. In about three weeks the young plant makes its appear-
ance, but it remains quite small for a considerable length of time, and,
in fact, the growth is scarcely noticeable from the time of its appear-
ance above ground (about the first of April,) until shortly before trans-
planting, which is generally about the latter part of June. It then
grows with astonishing rapidity, as, when transplanted, it may have
been but from 1 to 2 inches in height, when ready to collect (latter
part of August) it generally measures from 3 to 6 feet, and not unfre-
quently 10 feet in height. The transplanting of tobacco is not unfre-
quently attended with much difficulty, dry weather being very
detrimental to the plant, and too much moisture equally as injurious.
In the former case, the young plants wilt and die, and in the latter
instance, the earth becomes hardened and baked around the roots of

Am. Jour Pharm. ^
Jnne, 1876. J

2S4

Tobacco Culture in Ohio.

f Am. Jour. Pharm.
{ June, 1876.

the vegetable, thus killing it. The ground is considered to be of the
proper consistency for transplanting after it has been thoroughly mois-
tened by rain.

Tobacco is collected from the last of August until the last of Octo-
ber, until frost, and, if planted late, this unwelcome visitor often finds
a large crop not matured, and which is, consequently, worthless after
the first touch of its icy breath. In collecting tobacco the first leaves
gathered are called " bottom leaves," being from five to seven of the
lower leaves of the plant, after which the plant is topped, thus produc-
ing larger leaves, and causing maturity in a much quicker time. This
topping process strengthens the plant materially, as, after its perform-
ance, new shoots or branches will almost always spring from the axils
of the leaves nearest to where the tops were broken off, and often
afford leaves large enough to be gathered. The next in order are the
middle leaves, which are collected in about two weeks after taking the
bottom leaves ; they consist of from ten to twelve leaves from the cen-
tral part of the plant, and are the largest as well as the most valuable
ones of the plant. Finally, the top leaves are collected, in from three
to four weeks after taking the middle ones, providing there is no frost
to injure them. These are smaller than the middle leaves, and
resemble very much those taken from the bottom part 'of the plant,
but are much cleaner than these latter, which often become very much
soiled from their close proximity to the soil.

Among other points in cultivating tobacco, we mention the worming
process, which, to most persons, is an exceedingly unpleasant task.
The worm which is found on the plant is not very attractive in
appearance, nor agreeable to handle. It is of a green color, and, when
full size, measures about an inch in circumference and from two to
three inches in length. They are very destructive, a single worm
often consuming an entire plant in a few days, if unmolested. They
are also found to be quite numerous, inasmuch as the tobacco has to
be thoroughly cleaned of them several times during a season. To kill
them, the worm is grasped with the thumb and finger by the head,
and thrown, with considerable force, on the ground, which has the
effect of mashing them ; when agitated, while taking them from the
plant, they will often eject a greenish liquid from the mouth, which is
very offensive to the sight, and reminds one somewhat of the tobacco
chewers of a higher order.

Amj™"i8Arm'} Tobacco Culture in Ohio. 255

After collecting the tobacco, it is taken to the tobacco house, and
strung upon sticks (by means of a large needle and twine), called
" tobacco sticks." Women are employed for this work, who string
from one hundred to one hundred and twenty-five sticks per day. It
is then placed on the tobacco scaffold, in the open air, until wilted,
when it is placed in the " tobacco house," where a gradual heat is ap-
plied until it assumes a yellow color. A higher degree of heat is
then immediately applied, for twenty-four hours, to " kill it," as the
farmer terms it, meaning the expulsion of all moisture from the leaves.
The doors of the house are then thrown open, and the floor often
sprinkled with water, in order that the leaves may again become suffi-
ciently moistened to permit manipulation. It is now rolled in bundles
ready for market.

The main object sought for by tobacco growers is the color, which
is influenced by various causes, among the leading ones are the modes
of drying and the soil upon which it was raised, as the first crop of
tobacco on any soil is invariably the finest. The " yellow spangle "
is considered the finest color, and, consequently, brings the highest
price. The " light red " also stands high in the list, and is deemed
a valuable color. There are several other colors beside the two
named which go to make up the tobacco seen in commerce.

Ashes. — After careful experiments with an extra fine quality of tobacco,
furnished by an Ohio grower, the following results have been ob-
tained, being the relative per cent, yielded by bottom, middle and top
leaves :

Bottom leaves 18 4, middle leaves 14*2, top leaves 14*8 per cent.

In obtaining these results, the tobacco was dried by means of heat
until it ceased to lose weight, one thousand grains were then weighed
out and subjected to smothered combustion, until charred, after which
they were completely incinerated, and the product again Weighed,
yielding, respectively, 184, 142 and 148 grains of ashes.

These amounts are much smaller than obtained by other experimen-
tors, and I can only attribute the different results to the following,
namely : The bottom leaves of tobacco invariably grow on or near
the ground, and, tobacco being of a very glutinous nature, become
strongly impregnated with the soil. This foreign matter adheres so
tenaciously to the leaves that it cannot all be removed, nor can it be
recognized with the naked eye. In view of this fact, it is but fair to

256 Tobacco Culture in Pennsylvania. \Am)]^;^T.m'

suppose that the large amount of ashes which some have obtained
may have been due, in part, at least, to'the bottom leaves having been
used in their experiments.

TOBACCO CULTURE IN PENNSYLVANIA.

BY JOHN ALFRED WITMER, PH.G.

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

The cultivation of tobacco was not carried on to any great extent in
Pennsylvania previous to the late civil war ; since that time it has
increased very considerably. The author's personal acquaintance with
the culture of this commodity is limited to Lancaster county, Pa.

The seeds which have been collected the previous autumn are sown
(in early spring) in cold frames. These frames consist of large oblong
boxes, without bottoms, two or two and a half feet deep by three feet
wide, and covered with glass. They are prepared in autumn by being
filled with rich earth and fertilizers. In selecting a site for these
frames, a sheltered spot having a southern exposure is preferred. They
are additionally protected from the weather by being covered with
straw, &c. Persons making " plant-raising " a specialty, sow as early
as the 15th of February. After sowing, the frames are covered with
glass alone during the day, and sheltered at night. The earth being
kept moist, the seeds soon sprout, and the little plants appear. Addi-
tional care must now be taken to admit the sun during the day and to
protect from the frosts at night. Persons not desirous of having plants
early or for sale do not take the precautions above enumerated, nor do
they sow as early. A warm, sunny spot, having a rich soil, or one
enriched by fertilizers, is sufficient for their purposes. When quite
young, the plants are frequently infested by the " plant-louse," an
insect belonging to the genus "Aphis." When the plants have attained
the height of several inches, they are transplanted to the fields. This
is rarely done before the 15th of May to the 1st of June. The fields
are plowed the previous autumn, as by so doing it is thought that some
of the insect enemies are destroyed. In the spring the soil is loosened,
and then plowed in such a manner as to form ridges one-half to one
foot high, at a distance of four to five feet apart. The plants are
planted on the tops of these ridges, at a distance of two to three feet.
A wet day is chosen, as the plants require much moisture to continue

AmjuJneTi8P76arm } Tobacco Culture in Pennsylvania. 257

their growth without interruption, for at best a large percentage die,
owing to want of sufficient care in planting or the ravages of the
u cutworm " (different species of the genera Agrotis, Gortyna, &e.)r
which is the principal enemy at this period of its growth. They are
concealed in the earth during the day, and go on their errands of
destruction at night, cutting off the plant while it is young and succu-
lent. The only means of preventing the ravages of this enemy is to
seek for him in his hiding-place, and when found kill him. These
belong to the order Lepidoptera, or scale-winged insects.

After the plants have been thoroughly rooted, one of the principal
objects is to keep down the weeds, which grow luxuriantly in the rich
soil. This is accomplished by hoe-harrowing and the hand hoe until
the plant grows too large to admit the passage of a horse and harrow
without injury to the leaves, after which the plant is strong enough to
suppress the weeds, when it grows very rapidly, soon attains the height
of three or four feet, and puts forth the flowering head. This is
broken off when leaves are the object of the cultivator, but whera
seeds are desired, the inflorescence' is left to develop. Cultivators dif-
fer as to the proper time to top or break off the flower- head ; some pre-
fer to top when the stem has six or eight leaves, while others think ten
not too many. After being topped, axillary branches are put forth,
which are popularly known as " suckers." These are broken off as
soon and as often as they appear. The whole plant is now covered
by a viscid, resinous substance, commonly called " gum," which ren-
ders it very unpleasant to handle.

About this time tobacco's greatest enemy makes its appearance,
namely, the " tobacco-worm " [Sphinx Carolina, Linn., different spe-
cies of genus Macrosilla and others). This, the larva of the "grey
American hawk moth," is a green worm, sometimes as large as a man's
finger. Allied to this is the Sphinx quinquemacu/ata, of Stevens (also
referred to Macrosilla), the larva of which sometimes infests tobacco,
but more frequently the tomato and potato. These moths hide them-
selves and sleep during the day, and at night they go forth to deposit
their eggs, in patches of six or more, on the leaves. During the early
hours of summer evenings they may be seen hovering over the flowers
of the " Jamestown weed " {Datura stramonium), from which they
extract the exuding juice. By the introduction of some virulent poi-
son into these flowers, numbers of them might be destroyed. These^

17

258 Tobacco Culture in Pennsylvania. {^i™;?*™'

also, belong to the order Lepidoptera. The larvae are very destruc-
tive to the leaves, and I have known instances in which one worm has
eaten an entire plant in a single night. They are watched very closely,
picked off by hand, and destroyed.

Of late years a very destructive enemy, in different species of
4t Arma " (Arma modesta, macula, &c), has been noticed. These belong
to the order Hemiptera, or half-ringed insects, and deposit their eggs
in patches of thirty to fifty. When the young are hatched, they
puncture the leaves, and suck the juices of the plant. When a leaf
has been punctured by these insects, it rapidly withers, and presents
the appearance of having been scalded. As yet no practical method
has been adopted for the destruction of this enemy.

When tobacco is ripe, or fit to cut, it assumes a peculiar yellowish-
green color, and when the under side of the leaf is bent it is brittle,
and breaks easily. When in proper condition to be gathered, it is cut
off close to the ground, and hung up to dry. Various methods have
been proposed for hanging it up, but the most approved, and the one
generally adopted, is to pierce the base of the stem by a steel spear, in
which is fitted an ordinary plastering lath. By this means five or six
stalks are slipped on one lath, and handled and hung up as easily as one.
The largest growers have sheds built purposely for drying and curing.
These are closed in by alternate boards hung on hinges, so that they
may be opened for the free circulation of air on favorable days. To-
bacco, when dried and cured, is of a brownish-yellow color, very crisp
and brittle, and easily broken when handled, but when moistened it
becomes quite pliable.

After the 1st of Deccember the tobacco is "stripped." By this is
meant the separation of the leaves from the stems. They are then
assorted into two grades, viz., " fillers " and <c wrappers." The for-
mer consists of " ground " leaves, and those which have been torn or
worm-eaten ; the latter, wholly of fine, perfect leaves. These names
are derived from the relative positions the grades take in cigars. The
different grades are then bound into small bundles, by wrapping one
leaf around the bases of a dozen others. After being pressed in cases
it is ready for market. The term " stripping," as applied by the culti-
vator, should not be confounded with the same term used by the man-
ufacturer, which refers to the separation of the midrib from the leaf.

I

An>n0eU,ri8P76arm'} Spiritus Mtheris Nitrosi. 259

ANALYSIS OF SPIRITUS MTHERIS NITROSI.

BY GEORGE W. KENNEDY, PH.G.

Within the last decade, or since I first began to take an interest in
pharmacy, numerous complaints have been made by pharmacists as to
the quality of spirit of nitrous ether, as furnished by manufacturing
chemists, and also that which is found in the market, and represented
to be made by reliable manufacturers. Some of the many complaints
are that the preparation is deficient in nitrous ether, and that it con-
tains too much water, besides acetic and nitrogen acids, aldehyd and
ethyl chloride. My first attempt towards examining commercial spirit
of nitre was made about a year or two ago, after having purchased a
small quantity from a wholesale drug house in New York city, which
I considered enjoyed an excellent reputation, and from which I thought
pure and unadulterated preparations could be obtained. My attention
was directed to the color and odor of the article ; it was almost color-
less, and comparatively destitute of the nitrous ether odor character-
istic of the preparation. Pure nitrous ether is of a decidedly yellow
color, and, as spirit of nitre contains between four and five per cent,
of it, the officinal spirit must necessarily have a yellowish color.
Although exposure to light would soon make it colorless, I am under
the impression such was not the case with the preparation just alluded
to, as, upon examination, it was found to contain but 1*8 per cent, of
ordinary ethyl nitrite, and its specific gravity was but 0*920, indicat-
ing a large addition of water. The writer would here take the liberty
to suggest to the readers of the " Journal " that it is absolutely neces-
sary that some change should be made in the preservation of this highly
important and valuable preparation. Those pharmacists who manufac-
ture it themselves, I take for granted, know why it should be excluded
from light and air, and kept only in small bottles.

The blame cannot and should not always be placed on the manufac-
turing chemists, of putting a worthless article of this kind in the mar-
ket, as, by the writer's analysis of some of the more prominent brands,
it will be observed that one of them was in excellent state of preser-
vation, while some of the others bear a good examination, and are thus
out of the reach of critics. That obtained from retail sources, and
procured from pharmacists living in my vicinity, was, in the majority
of cases, entirely unfit for use, and should not be dispensed as a medi-
cine. This would seem to reflect on the probity of some of our
wholesale and retail dealers where the sophistication was made. Which

260

Spirit us JEtheris Nitrosi.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

of the two would be guilty of such an ignominious transaction I am
not prepared to say, as all the nitre that I examined was obtained from
retail druggists, with the exception of those marked otherwise.

It is greatly to be regretted by all those interested in the promotion
of the science of pharmacy that so many incompetent or unskilled per-
sons are allowed to practice it. By way of exemplification, I desire to
give the readers some idea of a class of druggists that the pharmacists
in this country have to contend with. In conversation with a drug-
gist on the above subject, he laughed at the idea of a pharmacist offer-
ing for sale spirit of nitrous ether. " Why," said he, " I sell the pure
nitrous ether itself, and it is the only thing that should be sold when
spt. nit. aeth. is called for." A friend of mine, representing a whole-
sale drug house, from Philadelphia, informs me that he called on a
druggist for the purpose of selling him a bill of goods. It was about
the time the new " Pharmacopoeia " was published. He asked the
druggist if he did not want one. The druggist wanted to know what
it was ; thought it was some new medicine or quack nostrum, and
refused purchasing for those reasons. When informed that it was a
book of great value to druggsits, and that it should be in possession of
every one, his reply was that he could get along without so many
books.

I must not get off my subject ; but I simply referred to this class of
druggists to show the necessity of reform, and of having none but
qualified and competent pharmacists. I am satisfied, if we had a more
intelligent body of pharmacists, spirit of nitrous ether could be obtained
of a far superior quality, as considerable of it spoils owing to the inse-
cure condition in which it is kept ; and of course the same will apply
to almost any other drug. I know of a retail druggist who buys spirit
of nitre by the carboy, and, not knowing the injurious and destruc-
tive influence of atmospheric air and moisture, takes no pains to see
that the carboy is securely stoppered, but simply drops the stopper
loosely into the neck of the carboy, and allows it so to remain. In
justice to the pharmacist, and more especially to the patient and physi-
cian, manufacturers should not fill it in carboys, but in half-pound or
pound bottles, similar in style to that in which Dr. Squibb puts it up.
From my investigations I would come to the conclusion that it would
be advisable for pharmacists to make their own nitre ; prepare it in
small quantities, as wanted, and see that it is well preserved. Recently,
I have been making all I needed, and find it economical as well as a

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

Spiritus Mtheris Nitrosi.

261

pleasure, with the satisfaction, in addition, to know that it thoroughly
represents the article required by the " Pharmacopoeia." The officinal
process is simple, the directions explicit, and the expense but trifling in
purchasing a Liebig's condenser, a retort and thermometer — all the
apparatus required.

uadBj
snuiii^ uo uonoy

Light
Red

Active

Light
re(

•J3AIJS JO #

ppy 3u}ij<[ tjiim pa

None
A trace

Light_
deposit

A trace

A trace

•ppy 'K^FS PUB
uojj jo "qdjng qiiAY
pajna-n uaiiAV uAvoqs
sb sppy uaSojj;^;

No change
noticeable

Light olive

Dark olive
color

Pale olive

color

Dark olive
color

Light olive
color

No change

•OBienQ -jdui x u; pa
-S-iaiuui; AisnoiAaid
jadej Aq uMoqs
sb sppy uaSoaj;^;

Faint blue
color
produced

A decided
blue color

Dark blue

color

Blue color

Light blue

color

•pXqapjy joj
bssbjoj jo uoiin[og
qjiAV pajBaai U3HA\

No deposit, light
red solution

No deposit, red
solution

Heavy deposit,
dark red solu-
tion

Light deposited
solution

Heavy deposit,
dark solution

No deposit, light
solution

No deposit, light
red solution

•ajBUoqjBOig uinip
-og qi;^ pa?Baj; uaq^.

No effervescence
perceptible

Slight effervesc-
ence produced

Effervescence

quite active

Effervesces

slowly

Effervesces

briskly

Very slight effer-
vescence per-
ceptible.

No effervescnce

•aiuiij^
l£q?3 jo 'luao jaj

•Aiiabjq oypadg

'tnoaj

pauiBjqo .to Aq apBf\[

o c

The last examined was prepared by the writer, and was examined
shortly after it was made.
Pottsville, Pa., May id, 1876.

262 Extract of Jalap. {Amj^S£m-

EXTRACT OF JALAP.

BY G. H. CHARLES KLIE.

The formula of the UU. S. Pharmacopoeia" for the preparation of
the extract of jalap is :

Take of Jalap, in moderately fine powder, 12 Troyounces,

Alcohol, 4 pints,

Water, a sufficient quantity.

Introduce the powder, previously mixed with 3 fluidounces of alco-
hol into a conical percolator, and gradually pour upon it the remainder
of the alcohol. When the liquid ceases to pass, pour sufficient water
upon the residue to keep its surface covered, until 4 pints of tincture
have passed. Set this portion aside, and continue the percolation until
6 pints of infusion have been obtained. Distill off the alcohol from
the tincture, and evaporate the infusion until the liquids respectively
have been brought to the consistence of thin honey ; then mix them,
and evaporate them to the proper consistence.

The expression, "introduce into a percolator is rather indefinite. It
leaves the operator to guess whether to use light, heavy or no pressure
at all. I find, that in the first part of the process, where the jalap is
exhausted with alcohol, no matter how firm it is packed, the alcohol
will pass freely, and without difficulty. The trouble commences when
the water is poured on. According to how the powder was pressed
in the percolator, the water will penetrate ; if firmly, very slow ; and
when it has penetrated two-thirds, which takes about ten days, it is so
overcharged with extract that it will not advance perceptibly. When
the powder is loosely packed, the water penetrates somewhat faster ;
but, when two-thirds of the mass is penetrated, the same difficulty
occurs. The line between the alcoholic tincture and water is well
defined — the latter in its descent becoming charged with extract, as-
sumes a dark-brown, almost black color. If the apparatus is now left
to itself, it may stand months, and still percolation will not be finished.
To accelerate the process, I found the following to be about the best
method : I poured water on the powder until it stood above the latter
five inches, and then, at intervals, stirred the mass down to the line of
separation. The stirring re-incorporates the thick, viscid, dark-colored
line of separation, and gives the thinned liquid a better chance to pen-
etrate. By this mode the alcoholic tincture was driven out in a com-
paratively short time. The tincture measured 3 pints and 14 fluid-

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

Extract of Jalap.

263

ounces, showing a loss of 2 fluidounces. The process was conducted
in a common J gal. glass percolator, without air-tight lid. The orifice
of the percolator was then closed, the mass well stired, and poured on
a star filter. Gradually pouring water on the filter, after twelve hoursy
4 pints of infusion had been obtained, and the jalap was almost ex-
hausted, at least so much so, that the additional extract to be gained
would not compensate further percolation and cost of subsequent evap-
oration. After concentration and evaporation to the proper consistence,
the product was found to weigh ounces — being 54 per cent, of the
jalap employed.

To see whether percolation by water would proceed more favorably
with coarse powder, • since moderately fine powder, as seen above,,
whether firmly or loosely packed, or only loosely placed in the perco-
lator, when left undisturbed would not let the water pass ; I took one
pound of jalap root, ground so as to pass through a sieve of sixteen
meshes to the linear inch, moistened it with 4 fluidounces of alcohol,
and packed it very tight in an air-tight glass percolator, and poured on
alcohol gradually, until 4 pints had been used. From the use of this
quantity of alcohol the jalap seemed to be exhausted ; water was then
poured on, and it took about an hour to displace the remaining alco-
holic tincture. The tincture measured 3 pints, 15J fluidounces, show-
ing that only J fluidounce of alcohol had been lost. The dark line
between the alcoholic tincture and the water could not be well dis-
cerned until the latter had penetrated very near to the bottom. As
already mentioned, it took an hour for the water to penetrate the jalap.
Dropping was at first slow — the infusion being thick like honey — but,
by-and-by, it got thinned, and the drows fell faster. When 2 pints of
infusion had been obtained, percolation ceased altogether, — the powder
in the percolator having in the mean time swollen to two and a half
times its original bulk, and would not let any more water pass. The
respective liquids were evaporated, mixed, brought to the proper consis-
tence, and the product was found to weigh 7 ounces, or 43*75 per cent,
of the root employed.

There is another method for preparing the extract, obviating the
drying and the very disagreeable work of powdering the root. It is :
To place the whole root in a vessel with a perforated bottom, and to
suspend it in a vessel of water in such a manner that all of the root
will be immersed in it. The heavy infusion will sink to the bottom,

264

Extract of Jalap.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

and, after some time, all of the water will be saturated, whereupon,
the root must be suspended in a fresh quantity of menstruum, and this
repeated until it is exhausted. Now the root is superficially dried,
pounded into a fine mass, packed moderately firm in a percolator, and
displaced with alcohol. For one pound of root 4 pints of alcohol will
be found amply sufficient. When percolation ceases, the alcoholic
tincture remaining in the mass is displaced by water, which only
takes a short time. The yield by this process was found to be 9
ounces of extract from one pound of root, or 56 per cent.

Passing the three different methods in review, the conclusion is ar-
rived at, that, although the product by the first process is satisfactory in
amount, still the last mentioned is superior on account of the greatest
yield of extract, and the least difficulty in handling the ingredients.

There is one fact in regard to extract of jalap to which I wish to
draw particular attention, viz. : the great difference in the price be-
tween it and the root. The former is quoted at from $4.50 to $5.00,
and the latter can be bought for $0.30 a pound. If it is taken into
consideration, that from two pounds of the root one pound of extract
is easily obtained — the disproportion in price is at once apparent. The
following accounts will explain this more minutely : In account No.
1, 7 pints of alcohol is regained by distillation; in No. 2, all the alco-
hol is lost by evaporation.

No. II.

Wholesale price of one pound of

extract, $4-5°

Cost of Material.
2 lbs. Jalap root, @ $0.30, . #0.60

1 gal. alcohol, 2.30

Fire cost of 15

Total, $3.05

Difference, $3-464 Leaves difference, $1-45

The above shows that when the alcohol is regained by distillation,
one pound of extract can be made for $1.03 J, and, when it is lost, for
$3,05, leaving in the former case $3.40^, and in the latter $1.45 net
profit, as compared with the wholesale price.

Lowell, N. St. Louis, Mo.

No. I.

Wholesale price of one pound of

extract, #4-5°

Cost of Material.
2 lbs. Jalap root, @ #0.30, $0.60
1 pt. lost alcohol, (a) $2.30, . o.28|
Fire, 15

Total, $i-°3f

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
June, 1876. J

Extract of Jalap.

26s

REMARKS ON EXTRACT OF JALAP.

BY JOHN M. MAISCH.

The preceding valuable and practical paper, by Mr. Klie, suggests
some remarks on the necessity of modifying the officinal process on
the occasion of the next revision of the " Pharmacopoeia."

Pereira, in commenting upon the process of the former " London
Pharmacopoeia," after which that of the " U. S. Pharmacopoeia " was
modeled, states : " It was, formerly, and, indeed, is now, by many
persons, supposed that the combination of these ingredients (/. f., the
resin and gummy extractive,) was necessary for the full cathartic
effect of jalap. It is, however, well known that the watery extract is
inert as a purgative, though it is said to be diuretic ; the only advan-
tage, therefore, that can attend the mixture of the two extracts (the
watery and the alcoholic) is that the resin is intimately divided, and
thereby prevented from causing violent irritation and griping in any
one part of the intestinal tube. But it is obvious that the same advan-
tage can be obtained by mixing the resin with some mild agent (as
almonds, sugar or saline matter)."

In 1864, Mr. Alfred B. Taylor reported to the American Pharma-
ceutical Association the result of some experiments (see " Am. Jour.
Phar.," 1865, p. 219), according to which the aqueous extract, ob-
tained from jalap, previously exhausted by alcohol, is without any
laxative or diuretic effect.

Most of the Pharmacopoeias of continental Europe have long since
(some for more than fifty years) discarded the extract and introduced
in its place the resin of jalap. The few Pharmacopoeias in which an
extract of jalap is still officinal, prepare it (we believe with the sole
exception of the U. S. and British Pharmacopoeias) similar to the
French codex, by exhausting the powdered root with alcohol, and
evaporating the tincture. Thus prepared, the extract of jalap is nearly
identical with the resin, or rather it consists of resin with a compara-
tively small quantity of matter soluble in water, amounting, in all, to
perhaps ten per cent, of its weight. In this portion will be found,
besides some sugar, a body having some resemblance to resin, but
differing from this class of bodies by being soluble in water. It is not
unlikely that to this principle must be ascribed the mild purgative and
diuretic properties, which, according to some old works on Materia
Medica, are ascribed to the aqueous extract.

266

A Suggestion to Physicians.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

Some eight or ten years ago the writer, while preparing a larger
quantity of the resin, by the officinal process, saved the washings, and,
by evaporation, obtained an extract, which was employed by several
physicians, and found to possess some advantage as a mild laxative.,
more particularly applicable for children and feeble adults. Whether
these properties are of sufficient importance to warrant retaining as
officinal, an extract and resin of jalap, remains to be determined by
further investigations, to which we would herewith direct the atten-
tion of the readers of the "Journal." But the point appears to be
well settled that the gummy extract obtained from jalap, by water,
after previous exhaustion by alcohol, is destitute of medicinal proper-
ties, and should be omitted in the next revision of the " Pharma-
copoeia."

(" This prescription must not be renewed"}
A SUGGESTION TO PHYSICIANS.

BY HANS M. WILDER.

The above words (or something of similar import) are familiar to
every dispenser, and are to be found printed on nearly every kind of
prescription blanks. I would respectfully suggest that said words be
written every time when found necessary, in order to save the dis-
penser a great deal of trouble.

The trouble comes in this way : Suppose a physician prescribes a
very active preparation (and perhaps in an unusual dose) which he does
not wish to be renewed ; he relies on the printed formula and on the
dispenser's common sense.

Suppose, further, that said medicine has done the patient a great deal
of good, and he wants it made over again, he comes again himself or
sends somebody to the drug-store. There now ensues a conversation
somewhat in the following fashion :

The dispenser expresses his regret that he cannot comply with the
wish of the patient ; but the physician does not want it done.

" How do you know ?"

" Why, you see here, this prescription must not be renewed."

u Well, but that means nothing, I am sure. You see it is printed,
and will, of course, apply to everything written on the prescription
paper. Suppose the doctor had prescribed sweet spirits of nitre, for
instance, you could surely not refuse to renew that."

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

Wafer Machine and Press,

267

The dispenser admits this point, but still refuses to renew the pre-
scription, and tries everything to convince the customer that he is
bound not to do it. All the thanks he gets for his pains are something
like the following :

. " I must tell you, sir, that you are a very disobliging man. I shall
never come to you again !" Exit.

If, now, the physician had written said words, the customer would
have been able to understand that the dispenser did but his duty when
he refused to renew the medicine.

A WAFER MACHINE AND PRESS.

BY WILLIAM MCINTYRE, PH.G.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting held May 23^.)

Numerous writers have advocated the advantages of wafer capsules,
and while doing this, have condemned those of American manufacture ;
the objection urged is their appearance, it being not denied that they
are quite as suitable for the intended purpose as the imported article.

The apparatus exhibited herewith presents in a compact form all
that is required to manufacture from wafer sheets, concave wafer discs
and a press to seal them for use. It consists of two metallic dies of
the same size, one of which has one of its faces turned to the proper
concave form ; the other has a corresponding convex face, and on the
opposite side a hole is bored to allow of the insertion of a wooden
handle. These dies are moderately heated, a flat wafer disc is inserted
and pressure applied for a moment, when upon separation of the dies,,
the disc will be found to have the desired shape.

The flat discs are cut from sheet wafers by a punch similar to a
cork borer — the other end of which is arranged so as to form the
wetter.

The addition of a duplicate concave die will furnish the press, and
complete the apparatus.

THE PHARMACEUTICAL VALUE OF SUGAR OF MILK.

BY WALTER E. BIBBY, PH.G.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, held May 23^.)
At the Pharmaceutical Meeting, held in the College hall on the
21st of March, Mr. J. C. Biddle recommended the incorporation of

268

Sugar of Milk.

f Am. Jour Pharm.
\ Jnne, 1876.

sugar of milk with powdered squill, in order to prevent caking. This
ted me to believe that this substance could be used to attain the
same effect in a large number of the gum resins that are often required
in the state of powder, and which cannot be reduced unless previously
heated, which process is very liable to endanger or completely subvert
the therapeutical value ; or, if powdered by any other means, it fails
to reach the wants of the pharmacist, by reason that the state of
powder is merely temporary. Belonging to this class of substances
are ammoniac, assafoetida, galbanum, guaiac, myrrh and a large number
of others.

Now, to preserve these substances in the state of fine powder, and
in a condition that they may be dispensed on the prescriptions of physi-
cians in a thoroughly pharmaceutical manner, I would recommend that
sugar of milk be added and triturated in the proportion of either
three parts of the gum resin to one of sugar of milk, or of two of the
former to one of the latter, — the powder to be preserved in well-
stoppered bottles.

For guaiac resin and squill, I use 90 parts to 10 of sugar of milk. It
may be well to state, that the cooler the weather the less time is re-
quired for trituration. To preserve camphor in a form of powder, I
find sugar of milk answers better than any other substance that has
been recommended. Below is given the quantity of sugar of milk
required :

Take of camphor, .... 90 grains.

alcohol, . . . . -30 drops,
sugar of milk, . . . 10 grains.
Rub the camphor first with the alcohol, until reduced to a fine powder, then with
the sugar of milk.

The sample on the table was powdered in this manner, about two
months ago.

At the suggestion of Prof. John M. Maisch, I was induced to try
sugar of milk in preparing mercurial pill and mercury with chalk, which
two preparations are very seldom manufactured by the apothecary, for
the reason, of the great difficulty encountered in extinguishing the
mercury. In preparing blue pill, I find, to my entire satisfaction, by
substituting sugar of milk for powdered liquorice root, and with a
slight modification of the officinal process, this difficulty can be readily
overcome. I recommend the following process for

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

Sugar of Milk.

269

Pilula Hydrargyri: Take of mercury,

confection of rose,

sugar of milk, . . . ad %i
Rub the mercury with the confection of rose and sugar of milk, until metallic
globules are no longer visible.

Blue mass, prepared in this manner, has about the same pilular
consistence as when prepared by the formula of the " U. S. Pharmaco-
poeia." The blue pill is often wanted in the state of powder ; this has
led to quite a number of suggestions. Some have recommended
rubbing together mercury with honey, until globules of mercury cease
to be visible, and then incorporating other ingredients, the whole to be
set aside in a warm place to dry, and then reduced to powder. Others
recommend rubbing the mercury with syrup and sugar, and dry by the
aid of heat. I may here state that both of these processes are exceed-
ingly objectionable, as when heat is employed or when left in contact
with the air, the mercury becomes oxidized, and renders the prepara-
tion entirely too active. Also when honey or sugar are employed,,
the preparation is liable to attract moisture from the atmosphere, which
causes it to cake together and become hard.

To remedy this, and at the same time produce a perfect division of
the mercury, I would suggest the following method for making
Pul'vis Pili Hydrargyri. — Take of mercury,

sugar of milk, Sjii

Triturate the mixture thoroughly until the powder will pass through a fine sieve,,
or fine bolting cloth.

Prepared in this manner, powdered blue mass is a light-grayish pow-
der, and incapable of attracting moisture ; and so thoroughly is the
minute state of division, that globules of mercury cannot be seen with
the aid of a lens. This preparation is also well suited for conversion
into the pilular form.

Mercury with chalk, made according to the formula in the " U. S.
Pharmacopoeia," does not come up to the wants of the physician, on
account of the imperfect division of the mercury ; and, owing to this
fact, it has fallen considerable into disuse. After trying various means>
none answered so well and was as convenient as sugar of milk. I

prepare it in the following manner :

Hydrargrum cum Cretd : Take of Mercury, . . . ^iii

Prepared chalk, . . ^iv
Sugar of milk, . .

Rub the mercury, prepared chalk and sugar of milk into an impalpable powder,
and pass it through a fine sieve.

270 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {Am-j{Ter;x87h6arm-

The above formula, although not containing the same amount of
prepared chalk, contains the metallic mercury in the same proportion
(3 in 8) as called for in the " U. S. Pharmacopoeia," and I think is
more efficacious as a remedy, as the mercury is more thoroughly
divided.

In the above, I state the result of my manipulations with sugar of
milk and those substances that are required to be in a very minute
state of division ; and I feel confident that those who will employ this
substance in the manner and for the purpose I have described, cannot
fail to acknowledge that sugar of milk is preferable to all other sub-
stances. Being perfectly harmless, of a hard, gritty nature, and chemi-
cally a perfectly definite material, I feel certain that it will supercede the
old practice of employing heat in powdering the gum resins. More-
over, in dispensing emulsions, sugar of milk materially assists in the
formation of a perfect emulsion, by reason of the minute state of di-
vision of the gum resin, induced by the trituration of sugar of milk
with the drug.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

The Decomposition of White Precipitate by Iodine, Chlorine and Bromine.
— V. Schwarzenbach has observed that iodine may be triturated with
white precipitate, or heated with it in a crucible, without any other
result being observed, especially in the latter case, than the formation
of beautiful red crystals of mercuric iodide. But, if alcohol be added
to the mixture, in an open vessel, after some time (about 35 minutes)
a smart explosion takes place, which inevitably destroys the vessel, if
it be of glass, but only to the exact height reached by the surface of
the liquid. Up to the time of explosion no rise in temperature was
observed, and the inserted thermometer remained uninjured when the
vessel was destroyed. In direct sunlight, the explosion followed more
rapidly, frequently in 9 or 10 minutes. Among the products, scat-
tered by the explosion, were red mercuric iodide, and strongly detonat-
ing particles of nitrogen iodide of considerable size ; the gas evolved
was identified as nitrogen. If chloroform or amylic alcohol are used,
instead of ethylic alcohol, and the iodine is increased .to six atoms
for two molecules of white precipitate, strong detonations occur in
the liquid.

Atoj^ne,ri876arm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 271

When powdered white precipitate is dropped into an open flask,
filled with chlorine, it becomes strongly heated, after a few minutes,
and assumes an appearance of ebullition, followed either by an explo-
sion or, more frequently, by the appearance of a greenish flame, free
nitrogen, nitrogen chloride and mercuric chloride being formed.

The action of bromine, upon white precipitate, was found to be
very analogous to the foregoing. — Pharm. Jour, and Trans., 1876,
March 11, from Ber. D. Cbem. Ges., vol. viii.

Mr. Charles Rice, having observed detonations occurring while
triturating white precipitate with tincture of iodine, reports, in
" New Remedies," for February, that the addition of carbolic acid
prevents the explosion and generates some iodoform, equal to about
two per cent, of the iodine employed. Without alcohol, iodine and
white precipitate produce no iodide of nitrogen, nor does a solution
of iodine in carbolic acid, without alcohol, produce iodoform. The
investigations were instituted on noticing that, while making an oint-
ment composed of Tinct. iodinii 3ss. Hydrarg. ammon. gr.ii, and
Ung. acidi carbol. ^i, a sudden fading of color took place, and the
resulting ointment was entirely white.

An assay of persian opium was recently made by W. D. Howard ; it
had been sent to England as " perfectly pure," and yielded, not pre-
viously dried : morphia, crystallized from alcohol, 10*40 ; codeia
(anhydrous), 0*29 ; narcotina, 2*50 ; thebaina, 0*57 ; cryptopia, 0*09 per
cent., and a trace of papaverina. — Pharm. four, and Trans., 1876,
March 11.

Impure Potassium Iodide. — Thos. F. Best has found, in five samples,
the following excess of alkali, consisting chiefly of carbonate: 5*44,
5*35, 2*32, 1*78 and 0*53 per cent. Commercially pure iodide should
not contain more than from 0*15 to 0'20 per cent. — Ibid.

Detection of Free Mineral Acids in Vinegar. — Witz has proposed
methylanilin-violet for this purpose. A. Hilger, in experimenting
with it, observed that pure vinegar does not affect the color, but on
the addition of sulphuric acid the color is changed, with one-fifth per
cent, to blue, with one-half per cent, to blue-green, and with one per-
cent, green. Similar changes occur with muriatic acid, one-tenth per
cent, producing a blue, one-fifth per cent, a green color, and with one
per cent, the color disappears. Much smaller quantities of free min-

272 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {Amji/™-x8p3Jfnn-

eral acids may, however, be detected by evaporating the vinegar, with
some of the violet, to a small bulk.

The color solution was made by dissolving O'Oi grm. methylanilin-
violet in 100 grm. of water, and 2 to 3 drops of this solution are used
for 25 cc. of vinegar. The method is not applicable for the quantita-
tive determination of the free mineral acids, the change to violet, on
neutralizing with alkali, occurring gradually. — Archiv d. Pharm , 1876,,
March, 193-196.

Chloral- Chloroform, which was, several years ago (see " Am. Jour.
Pharm," 1870, p. 319 and 409 ; 1871, p. 410), recommended as being
preferable to ordinarily prepared chloroform, on account of its not
being decomposed by light, has again been examined by Dr. Schacht>
and found to alter in the light as rapidly as the latter, unless preserved
by the addition of a little alcohol. — Pharm. Zeit., No. 26.

The quantitative separation of morphia from sugar cannot be effected
by the processes recommended for the quantitative estimation of that
alkaloid. Dr. Schacht has made numerous experiments on this subject,,
and is continuing his investigations. — Ibid.

Butyl chloral. — Dr. Oscar Liebreich states that Kramer and Pinner
have ascertained that the substance commonly called croton-chloral
contains 2H more than was supposed, and is, in fact, butyl-chloral.
Soda decomposes it, forming chloride and formiate of sodium, and
bichlorallylene. According to Liebreich, chloral causes death by
interfering with the cardiac ganglia ; butyl-chloral, by its action on the
respiratory centre. With the latter, anaesthesia commences at the
head, while reflex action can still be excited on the limbs. Doses of
butyl-chloral, sufficient merely to produce anaesthesia of the head, do
not essentially affect the pulse and respiration. In insane adults, 5
grams were found to produce sleep and anaesthesia of the head, with
maintenance of the muscular tonus, and of reflex action in the
trunk, so that the patients remained sitting, while the head was per-
fectly anaesthetic.

Liebreich orders it in the following form : butyl-chloral hydrate,
5 to 10 parts ; glycerin, 20 parts ; distilled water, 130 grams ; the
mixture to be shaken before being used. The dose is half an ounce,
to be followed, in five minutes, by a second, and, in ten minutes, by a
third. It is well to commence with a small dose, to avoid producing

Amjune%P876arm} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 273

hypnotism, where the anaesthetic effect alone is desired. To produce
sleep, one, two or three grams, according to the patient's constitu-
tion, are to be given at bed-time. — Pharm. your, and Trans., 1876,
February 19.

Myrrh, according to W. Dymock, comes to Bombay from Berberav
where it is purchased by agents residing at Aden or Makulla. The
bags or bales, when opened in Bombay, are found to be made up of, 1 y„
a large proportion of roundish masses of fine myrrh ; 2, a considerable
proportion of small semi-transparent pieces of myrrh, of irregular shape \,
3, numerous pieces of dark-colored myrrh, mixed with bark and other
refuse ; 4, a small proportion of an opaque gum resin (Bdellium opaquey
of Guibourt ?) ; occasionally small pieces of resin (juniper ?) are also
met with. The contents are sorted, the best myrrh going to Europe,
the darker pieces forming a second quality, and the refuse being
exported to China, where it is probably used as incense. True myrrh
is known in the local market as karam, the opaque bdellium as meena
h&rrna. The latter is used for the extraction of the Guinea worm ; it
resembles ammoniacum ; is yellowish-white and bitter, with hardly any
odor.

The Arabian myrrh of the " Pharmacographia " is received from
Makulla and Aden, and is known as meetiga ; no true myrrh is ever
received from Arabia.

Bdellium comes also from Berbera. Besides the ordinary bdellium,,
the bales contain a small quantity of a perfumed kind, occurring in
irregularly shaped pieces, more or less flat, some of them having frag-
ments of thick bark adhering. The color of the gum is dark reddish-
brown, but opaque yellowish-white streaks are frequently met with in
the semi-transparent mass. The odor, on fresh fracture, is powerful
and pleasant, not unlike a lemon lollipop. The Arabic name is h&bak
hadee.

Indian bdellium comes chiefly from Deccan ; in form and appear-
ance it resembles the African drug, the pieces often having pieces of a
papery bark attached to them ; but the color is greenish, and the odor,
though similar, is more faint. Its value is one-third less than the
African bdellium. — Pharm. Jour, and Trans., 1876, Feb. 19.

Damiana. — The three varieties of Damiana ("Amer. Jour. Pharm.,"
1875, p. 518) have been examined, as to their botanical origin, by Mr.

18

274 The International Exposition. {Amjine,r'x876arm-

E. M. Holmes. That of Helwick & Co. comes from a plant of the
genus Turnera, nat. order Turneracece, allied to Turnera microphylla,
D. C. The San Francisco damiana appears to be a hairy variety of
the same plant, and has a taste recalling that of confection of senna
(not sage like, as stated on page 519 of last volume). The third kind
of damiana is the Aplopappus (now called Haplopappus) discoideus, D. C,
the leaves of which taste like sage. — Pharm. 'Jour, and Trans. , 1876,
Jan. 22.

Dr. J. T. Rothrock, of Wilkesbarre, Pa., published a paper on the
last mentioned variety of damiana in the " Phila. Med. and Surg. Re-
porter," March 4. He arrived at the same conclusion, and gives the
following synonyms for the plant : Linosyris mexicana, Schlechtendal ;
Baccharis veneta, Humboldt, Bonpland and Kunth, and Bigelovia veneta,
Gray. It is a common plant in Mexico, and another closely allied
species, which by some is considered identical with the preceding Bige-
lovia Menziesn, Gray, is found in California and Arizona. Prof. Gray
has confirmed these conclusions.

NOTES ON THE INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION.

BY THE EDITOR.

The International Exposition in Philadelphia, which was formally opened by the
President of the United States on the tenth of May, is the seventh which has
taken place during a period of twenty-five years. The first one being inaugurated
in London, it was followed by the one in New York in 1853, which, although a
failure in more than one respect, nevertheless exerted a powerful influence upon the
development of arts and industries in this country, and served likewise to make the
United States better known in foreign countries. Paris followed in 1855, London
again in 1862, Paris in 1867 and Vienna in 1873. Several international exhibitions
of special industries having in the meantime been held in various other European
cities, a grand fair of the entire industries of all civilized nations was undertaken in
commemoration of the centennial anniversary of the independence of the United
States, and Philadelphia, from which place the declaration of independence ema-
nated, was selected as the most fitting place to celebrate the one hundredth anniver-
sary of that historical event.

The ground chosen for the grand gathering is in West Fairmount Park. The
park takes its name from that portion of the public grounds where the principal
water-works and the oldest of the present reservoirs have been built, which are still
known as the Fairmount water-works and basins. From these works the present
Park extends in a northerly and westerly direction, on both banks of the Schuylkill
river, following afterwards the circuitous bed of Wissahickon creek, comprising,
altogether, an area of 2,991 acres, and being divided by the Schuylkill into an east-

Amiune)r'i8P76arm*} The International Exposition. 275

ern and western section. In the latter portion, from Girard avenue north, the hills
rise suddenly to 116 feet above the Schuylkill, forming the extended Lansdowne
Terrace upon which the Exhibition buildings have been erected.

These buildings are, altogether, over 190 in number, a few of which are still
unfinished at this date. The largest number of these have been erected for special
purposes, special exhibits, and for the accommodation and special interest of the
various nations and States represented. Those buildings which are intended to
accommodate the arts and industries of all nations are few in numbers, but neces-
sarily very extensive.

The Main Exhibition Building forms a parallelogram 1,880 feet in length and 464
in width, and covering upon the ground floor an area of 20*02 acres, or 872,320
square feet. Nearly the whole structure forms one story, with a central height of
70 feet, the sides being 24 feet high. In the projections and towers are upper floors,
with an area of nearly 64,000 square feet, or almost i\ acre.

Machinery Hall is located west of the former, and has a length of 1,402 feet, and
a width of 360 feet, with an annex of 208 by 210 feet. It covers a ground space
of 558,440 square feet, or 12*82 acres.

Memorial Hall accommodates sculptures, paintings and other products of the fine
arts, and has been erected with a view to permanence, no wood having been used in
its construction, and every portion of the building being fire-proof. It occupies the
most commanding portion of the plateau, and is 365 feet in length by 210 feet in
width, and 59 feet in height, over a basement 12 feet high, and surmounted by a
dome rising to 150 feet from the ground. It covers an aiea of 1*5 acre.

The Horticultural Building, which covers the same area as Memorial Hall,
and, like it, will not be taken down again, is situated north of it, has a length of
383 feet, a width of 193 feet, and an extreme height of 72 feet. It consists of a
central conservatory, 230 by 80 feet, and 55 feet high, and has on each of its long
sides two forcing-houses, 100 by 30 feet, covered with curved roofs of iron and
glass. The heating arrangements, etc., are in the fire-proof basement.

The Agricultural Building is still farther north, and consists of a long nave,
crossed by three transepts, the central one being 100, each of the two lateral ones
80 feet wide. The nave has a length of 820 and a width of 120 feet 5 its extreme
height, like that of the central transept, is 75 feet, the end transepts being 5 feet
less. It covers an area of 10*15 acres.

The buildings mentioned above comprise all the general Exhibition buildings.
We have deemed it necessary to give a brief description of the si%e of these struc-
tures, so that our readers may form some idea of the immense amount of products
on exhibition. Those which are of greatest interest to the pharmacist and druggist
will mostly be found in the Main Building, a few in the Agricultural Building,
some plants yielding drugs in the Horticultural Building, and those pharmaceutical
apparatus which, for successful manipulation, require steam-po-zver, in Machinery
Hall.

Articles of more or less pharmaceutical interest will, however, also be found in
the extensive building erected by the United States Government and in the Women's
Pavilion.

The arrangement in the Exhibition halls is national, that is, a certain space has

»

276

Varieties.

J Am. Jour. Pharm .
I June, 1876.

been allotted to each nation, and within this space the exhibits are arranged so as
to show the most important industries to best advantage. To find and examine all
that is important or of special interest to pharmacy requires, therefore, a journey of
many miles within the Exhibition grounds.

All the goods on exhibition have been placed in twenty-eight classes, the most
important of which for us is Class III : " Chemistry and Pharmacy, with the appa-
ratus/' for which the following international Jury of Awards has been appointed :

American — Professor C. A. Joy, New York; Professor F. A. Genth, University
of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pa. ; Professor J. Lawrence Smith, Louisville, Ky. ;
Professor C. F. Chandler, New York ; Professor J. W. Mallet, University of Vir-
ginia, Charlottesville, Va. Foreign — Dr. Odling, F.R.S., Great Britain; Dr. R.
von Wagner, Germany; M. Kuhlmans (fils), France; Mr. Dewilde, Belgium.

Articles of more or less interest to the drug trade will doubtless be found in some
of the other classes.

VARIETIES.

Sassafras as an Antidote to Vegetable Poison. — The Cincinnati " Lancet
and Observer " for April, has a paper by Dr. A. W. T. Lyle, of Castleton, Ind.,
in which attention is called to the statement by Dr Thompson, of Nashville, con-
cerning the antagonistic properties of sassafras to henbane and tobacco. Dr. Lyle
mentions the case of a child four years old who had eaten stramonium flowers, and
showed symptoms of poisoning. After the administration of emetics, ten drops of
oil of sassafras were given every half hour until six doses had been taken, when con-
sciousness returned, and, after taking a dose of castor oil, the child was playing the
next day, and free from all pains or disturbances following poisoning.

Hair Tonic. — The " Med. and Surg. Rep." for March 18th, gives the follow-
ing from Erasmus Wilson's book on skin diseases, under the title of Lotio capillaria
stimulans : Oil of almonds and strong ammonia water, each 1 oz., spirit of rose-
mary 4 oz., balm water, 2 oz.

Resolvent Ointment. — According to the " Med. and Surg. Rep.," the follow-
ing ointment is employed with great success by Dr. Noel Gueneau de Mussy r
Camphor one, ammonium chloride four, and lard thirty grams.

Cure eor Corn. Bind raw cotton on your corn at night before going to bed,
and then saturate the cotton with oil of turpentine. It will remove the most ob-
stinate corn, either hard or soft, in four or five applications. The skin will be apt
to peel off the toe, but this is rather an advantage, as it helps to remove the corn,
— Correspondent of Scient. Amer.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

V arieties.

Solution of Salicylic Acid. Prof. Emlen Painter proposes the following
formula, whereby two grains of salicylic acid can be given in ateaspoonful of solu-
tion. Dissolve salicylic acid gr. xxxii in liquor, aramon. acet. f^ii. The solution
may be made without heat, is not unpleasant to take, and possesses quite percepti-
bly the sweetish taste of the acid. Besides, solution of ammonium acetate would
be likewise indicated in most cases where salicylic acid would be prescribed for in-
ternal uses. Its cumulative action (see "Amer. Jour. Phar." 1876, p. 68), should
not be lost sight of. — Pacif. Med. and Surg. Jour. 1876, April.

The following notes are taken from the <s Leaflets for the Scrap-book," issued
by Mr. M. S. Bidwell, of Elmira, N. Y., which were noticed in our December
number :

Hints to Prescribers. — Much perplexity might be saved to dispensers, and the dan-
ger of error materially lessened, by the observance of the following simple sugges-
tions :

1. If the remedies prescribed are officinal, use the officinal terms; if not officinal,
describe them unmistakably. The writer has heard of three different liquids called
chloric ether, and has known Tully's Powder to be made of three very different de-
grees of strength.

2. Do not abbreviate so closely as to cause ambiguity ; hyd. chl. may mean calo-
mel, corrosive sublimate, or chloral hydrate.

3. Write the directions for use as they are to be put on the label.

4. Give the patient's name, and mention if a child or infant.

5. After writing the prescription, look it over and see if there is anything, espe-
cially in the numerals, that a careless or ignorant druggist might misunderstand.

Solubilities. — The following list gives approximately the number of grains of the
salts mentioned, that can be readily dissolved in one ounce of water at the ordinary
Semperatare. If this limit is much exceeded, a clear solution cannot be expected.

Potassium iodide 500

Ammonium bromide ........ 300

Potassium bromide ......... 240

do bicarbonate . . . . . . .120

do nitrate . . . . . . . . .100

Sodium borate ......... 40

Potassium chlorate ......... 30

Mercury bichloride . . . . . . . . 25

It should be remembered that the bulk of the solution exceeds that of the sol-
vent; thus an ounce of water and an ounce of potassium iodide make about an
ounce and a half of solution.

Curious Incompatibility. — Chlorate of potassium and iodide of potassium are both
entirely harmless in suitable doses. Furthermore, these two salts do not react upon
each other in solution, even at a boiling heat. Yet it has been proved that when
they are administered together, they do combine in the stomach, producing iodate
of potassium, which is poisonous. M. Melsens found that dogs could take the chlo-
rate or iodide in doses of five to seven grams with impunity, but that a mixture of

278 Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. {Am'^;a^

the two killed them in a few days, with the symptoms of poisoning by iodate of
potassium. This combination must therefore be avoided. Indeed, as a general
rule, the chlorate is so unstable, and so ready to give up its oxygen, that it cannot
safely be combined with any substance capable of oxidation.

Notes on Disinfectants. — Salicylic acid loses its power entirely in an alkaline solu-
tion, the salicylates not destroying fermentation germs.

It has been taken internally to the amount of 1/5 grams (23 grs.) daily, without
injury. About 3 grs. a day have been given as a prophylactic against diphtheria^
with apparent good result.

Carbolate of Lime. — Chemical examination has shown that five out of six sam-
ples in the market were nearly worthless, containing hardly any phenol, but owing
their smells to various tar oils possessing little or no disinfectant power. An excel-
lent carbolate may easily be made by mixing one part of crude carbolic acid with
eight parts of slaked lime.

Chloral hydrate is a powerful antiseptic, and has been used with special success in,
preserving anatomical specimens.

Beech Wax. By F. A. Fluckiger. — On the bark of beech trees there occurs a
greyish film, formed by insects, fatty to the touch, and consisting, as shown by the
microscope, of fine threads, which are easily broken up. The substance composing
it is scarcely acted on by water. It gives up to boiling carbon bisulphide about
one third of its weight of a wax crystallizing in white laminae, melting at 8i° — 82°5.
and having the composition of cerotic acid, C^H^O.,. The wax, however, when
dissolved in alcohol, does not redden litmus, as does cerotic acid, nor is it
attacked by prolonged boiling with aqueous or alcoholic potash. — Jour. Chem. Soc*
[Lond.], from Arch. Pharm. [3], vii, 8.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING,

The eighth regular meeting of the session was held May 23d, 1876, Edward
Gaillard in the chair. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and ap-
proved.

Mr. Edward Lindewald, of Stockholm, Sweden, was introduced and invited to
participate in the meeting. Prof. Maisch donated to the cabinet, from Daniel B.
Smith, some additional plants for the herbarium, and the press with which they had
been pressed. They were accepted with thanks.

The Registrar read a paper by Walter E. Bibby on the Pharmaceutical value of
sugar of milk (see page 267). Prof. Maisch had remarked upon a former occasion
that the observations made by the writer were of great importance to practical
pharmacy and would repeat the statement. The sample of powdered myrrh ex-
hibited, although apparently somewhat agglomerated, when rubbed between the
fingers would be found to be in a fine state of division, and to judge from the odor,,
contains the entire amount of volatile oil. The mercury with chalk, under an ordi-
nary lens, appeared as a powder perfectly uniform in color, and was, to all appear-
ances, free from oxides. The paper suggested numerous applications. Mr. Bibby
stated, in answer so a suggestion, that he had made numerous experiments with asa-

Arajun°e,ri8P76arm '} Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting, 279

foetida, with variable results, but found that by the addition of an equal amount of
sugar of milk a permanent powder could be produced.

The Professor remarked he could well see the cause of the variable results,
which must be due to the variable composition of commercial asafcetida, which,
according to Prof. Dymock, of Bombay (see "Amer. Jour. Phar." 1875, 320), is
generally more or less adulterated.

Prof. Remington thought it advisable to find out the smallest possible amount of
sugar of milk required in the case of each drug.

Mr. Bibby thought in preparing emulsions with these powders a mortar should
be used, mere agitation in a vial not always yielding good results.

William Mclntyre read a paper on a wafer machine and press, (see page 267)
illustrating its use in actual practice. All the apparatus necessary for making one
size of wafer disks and capsules had cost $3.

Prof. Maisch showed a handkerchief with initials marked thereon eleven months
ago, by placing upon it the lower surface of a leaf of Magnolia glauca and tracing
the letters upon the upper surface with a pointed instrument, using some pressure ;
he stated that his attention had been called to this property by C. E. Hornberger, a
member of the last graduating class. The handkerchief exhibited had been
frequently washed, without affecting the marking.

A. P. Brown exhibited an inhaler for gaseous chloride of ammonium, which has
been devised by H. P. Reynolds, of Plainfield, N. J., and may be prepared from an
ordinary wide-mouth bottle, closed with a tightly fitting perforated cork, so as to
admit of two tubes. One of these is a glass syringe tube, passing nearly to the
bottom and filled with small pieces of sponge 5 while the longer, which is bent to
be applied to the mouth, may have its origin just below the bottom of the cork.
When it is wanted for use, the cork is removed, and after placing three or four
drops of chemically pure muriatic acid in the bottle, and the same quantity of strong
aqua ammonia? in the syringe tube containing the sponge, the mouth-piece of the
inhaling tube is taken between the lips for the purpose of inhalation. In drawing
air through the apparatus, the ammonia combines with the muriatic acid, and the
air becomes charged with vapors of ammonium chloride.

Prof. Remington described a convenient way of inhaling substances which are
usually added to hot water — a rubber tube is slipped over the small end of a funnel
which is placed as a cover over a tin vessel containing the water and drug.

Prof. Maisch exhibited the seeds of Paullinia sorbilis, which are used in South
America in the preparation of guarana ; Strassburg turpentine, Terebinthina argen-
toratensis from Abies pectinata, which is similar in appearance to Canada balsam,
and used in Europe for similar purposes ; Dita bark from Echites scholaris, which
has attracted some attention as a febrifuge ; the rind of the fruit of Garcinia mangos-
tana, recommended as a reliable remedy in dysentery ; Goa powder, which contains
much chrysophanic acid, and is stated to be very useful as an external application in
ringworm and other skin diseases $ the fruit of Myrcia acris, resembling allspice,
but more oblong in shape, which is used with the leaves of the same plant in the
distillation of bay-rum ; a white crystalline saccharine principle, which has been
isolated by Prof. E. S Wayne, from American bitter-sweet, the bark of Celastru
scandens, and the highly-aromatic volatile oil of spice-berry, the fruit of Benzoin.

Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, {AmjJne%P76arm*

A. P. Brown exhibited aromatic waters of cinnamon, peppermint and spearmint,
and Edward C. Jones samples of cinnamon water, made by various processes, and
desired information as to how many pharmacists prepared the water from Ceylon
cinnamon, and to what extent cassia was used. A. P. Brown having recently given
some attention to this subject, thought but few used Ceylon cinnamon.

This being the last regular meeting of the session, and it being the opinion of the
members that it would be profitable to still continue them, a motion was adopted to
adjourn to meet upon the 20th day of June.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. — Since the close of the examination,
in March last, the building has been thoroughly renovated, and a number of per-
manent and temporary improvements have been added, the latter being more
particularly intended for the convenience of the visiting pharmacists from this and
foreign countries, who are expected to visit Philadelphia during the next four or five
months. Adjoining the laboratory, a one-story brick building has been erected
some months ago, with the view of accommodating Prof. Maisch, and furnishing
additional conveniences for his labors in connection with the "Journal" and as Secre-
tary of the American Pharmaceutical Association 5 it is likewise used as an
analytical balance room. Amongst the alterations made in the laboratory may be
mentioned the removal of the fume-closet to an adjoining building, recently put
up. The old cabinet cases have been taken from the meeting room to furnish
better accommodations for the private collections of the professors. The cabinet
of Materia Medica and Chemistry has been entirely refitted by the curator, Pro-
fessor Remington, and now presents not only a very attractive appearance, but,
what is of greater importance, it contains many interesting and valuable specimens
carefully preserved. The general herbarium of the College, the nucleus of which
consists of the valuable collection presented, many years ago, by the late Elias
Durand, has been classified and partly catalogued ; while the herbarium recently
presented by Daniel B. Smith (" Amer. Pharm. Jour.," 1875, P- 5I4-)> has been
arranged in the cases provided for it. The library has been put in thorough order
by the librarian, T. S. Wiegand, and now offers ready convenience for consulting
it. The alterations in the lecture rooms consist mainly of improvements in
the means of ventilation, and additional facilities for illustrating the lectures.

Amongst the transient preparations is to be mentioned the erection of a tem-
porary building, in which the closets and wash-baisins, desirable for the convenience
of visitors, have been placed.

The formal opening of the renovated building took place on the evening of
May 23, when, in response to the invitation of the hall committee, a large number
of members, visiting pharmacists and other guests, with their ladies, assembled in
the lower hall, which appeared like a tropical garden, from the numerous plants

AmjJneU,ri8P76ann' \ Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, 28 1

judiciously arranged therein. Most of the plants, which were kindly loaned for
the occasion from the hot-house of Prof. Geo. B. Wood, represented some officinal
articles, such as sago, sugar, coffee, tea, cinnamon, &c. The entrance hall had
been handsomely decorated with the flags of the nations represented in the inter-
national exposition, a glass tablet, with the following greeting, being suspended
from an arch in the centre of the hall :

*' Collegium Pharmaceutic™ Philadelphiense arti Medicamentari^e
operam dantes ubicumque gentium salutat."

In the lower lecture room the company was treated to an exhibition with the
College stereopticon, the oxy-hydrogen lamp being, for the evening, in charge of
Mr. D. S. Homan, of the Franklin Institute ; J)r. J. G. Hunt exhibiting a number
of Microscopical preparations ; Mr. Charles Bullock following with an exhibition
of American and foreign sceneries. The company, afterwards, repaired to the
lower hall, where an acceptable collation of ice cream and cakes had been pro-
vided, and small bouquets were handed to those present. After further social
intercourse, the company dispersed.

Great credit is due to the hall committee (Messrs. C. Bullock, T. S. Wiegand
and Wm. Bakes) for the manner in which the improvements were made, and the
very satisfactory arrangements for this opening reception.

The Alumni Association of the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy
has elected the following officers for the ensuing year : Edward S. Kelly, Presi-
dent ; Chas. M. Howe and James S. Whall, Vice-Presidents; S. A. D. Sheppard,
Secretary ; Jas. C. Lowd, Treasurer, and Wm. W. Bartlett, auditor.

At the annual supper, at the Revere House, on April ai, more than eighty were
present ; speeches were made, and harmony and good feeling prevailed until the
hour of separation arrived.

The New Jersey Pharmaceutical Association held its sixth annual meet-
ing in the assembly room of Masonic Hall, New Brunswick, on Wednesday, May
17th, 1876. The meeting was called to order by the President, J. L. DelaCour,
and, after delivering his annual address, an election for officers for the ensuing year
was held with the following result : President, H. P. Reynolds, of Plainfield ;
Vice-Presidents, A. S. White, Mount Holly, and Wm. M. Townley, Newark ;
Treasurer, Wm. Rust, New Brunswick ; Recording Secretary, A. P. Brown,
Camden; Corresponding Secretary, C. B. Smith, Newark; Standing Committee,
G. A. Mangold, Trenton ; J. H. Van Deursen, New Brunswick; Charles Holz-
hauer, Newark ; R. J. Shaw, Plainfield.

On account of the Centennial Exposition, in Philadelphia, the local committee
were unable to prepare an exhibition of drugs, but invitations were extended to
visit the hard and soft rubber factories, the brussels carpet factory and the hosiery
factory, and, after the morning session, the members, with their ladies, spent about
two hours in examining the above-named places.

The next annual meeting will be held in Newark, and the Association decided
not to hold any summer meeting, and not to issue any proceedings this year.

2$.2

Editorial.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

Cincinnati College of Pharmagy. — The third pharmaceutical meeting was
held May 10th, F. L. Eaton in the chair. After the approval of the minutes, the
following donations were made to the cabinet. From H. F. Reum, select specimens
of Ceylon cinnamon, cassia lignea and cassia barks, from Saigon, Batavia, China
and Java. Mr. Reum, in his remarks, criticized, very severely, the substitution of
the cassia bark for the real Ceylon cinnamon, when prescribed.

Prof. Wayne presented the two alkaloids of veratrum viride, veratroidia1 and
jervia ; also arbutin, prepared from uva ursi 5 the oils of stramonium and lobelia
seeds, the root of the osage orange and the crystallizable resin of the fluid extract of
eucalyptus.

The Professor also submitted a formula for New Orleans mead, which he had
used for years, and the product of which had always met with a readv sale. It is
as follows : eight ounces each of sarsaparilla, liquorice root, ginger and cassia
barks, two ounces of cloves and three ounces of coriander, suitably cut and bruised,
are boiled for fifteen minutes, in eight gals, water, allowed to cool and settle, and then
strained through flannel. To this is added, in the fountain, i| gal. syrup, ^ gal.
honey, four ounces each of tincture of ginger and solution of citric acid, and^
afterwards, sufficient water to make ten gallons, when it is charged with carbonic
acid gas.

At the next meeting, Prof. Judge will read a paper on dilute phosphoric acid, and
Prof. Fennel one on a new series of alums.

The board of trustees having, at their last meeting, unanimously elected Prof.
Wayne to the degree of Doctor in Pharmacy, the President, at this meeting, con-
ferred the degree and presented the diploma. Prof. Wayne, in receiving this
unsolicited honor, responded in appropriate terms.

The Pharmaceutical Association of the Province of Quebec— At the
Spring examination, fourteen candidates presented themselves for the degree of
Certified Clerk, and two for the degree of Licentiate in Pharmacy, six were rejected
in the minor and one in the major examination.

This Association is the sole examining and licensing body in the province, being
incorporated by act of parliament. In order to furnish instruction by lectures, the
association has organized a College of Pharmacy (see "Amer. Jour. Phar." 1875,
p. 427), which institution has not the power to license.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The Sanitary Condition of Philadelphia is of general interest during the
present year, when many visitors will be attracted to this city by the International
Exposition, and reliable information on this subject will for this reason be welcome
to all contemplating to view the grand collection of the products of nature and of

1 Veratroidia, according to Mr. Bullock's recent investigations (see April No., p. 153), is merely jtrvia,
contaminated with resin.— Editor Amer. Joxtr Pharm.

Am. Jeur. Pharm. \
May, 1876. j

Editorial.

art and science from all parts of the globe. The following communication will
furnish this information :

United States Centennial Commission— International Exhibition, 1876, Philadelphia— Bureau of
Medical Service. — Owing to the very large number of persons who contemplate a visit to Philadelphia
during the coming summer, it seems important that the utmost publicity should be given to all facts bear-
ing on the sanitary condition of the city.

The following statistics, which have been obtained from the most authentic sources accessible, repre-
sent the mortality in some of the chief cities of the world during the past four or five years :

Number of Years.

Average Population.

Average Total
Mortality.

Average Death Rate
per Thousand.

5

648.560

20,424

31*42

5

994-458

29.601

29-93

4

9 50, 000

28,420

29-91

5

3,284,488

76,74i

23*33

4

1,851,792

42,724

23*06

5

744,831

i6,573

22-27

While thus showing an average rate of mortality more favorable than that found in any other city con-
taining over 500,000 inhabitants, Philadelphia has recently (1874) attained a degree of healthfulness
almost unparalleled, viz., with a population at that time of 775,000, the number of deaths was but 14.966,
giving a death rate of only 19*3 per thousand. These very favorable results are largely due to the abun-
dant and cheap water-supply, and to the opportunities given, even to the poorest citizens, for the enjoy-
ment of pure country air in the great Fairmount Park, which contains 2,991 acres. The extent to which
this is valued by the citizens may be inferred from the fact that during the year 1875, the Park was vis-
ited by over eleven million persons.

The most powerful influence of all, however, is the absence of that overcrowding of the population,
which is the most fruitful source of sickness and death in many quarters of nearly all other large cities.
This will be more clearly comprehended when it is remembered that the 817,488 inhabitants of Philadel-
phia are spread over an area of 129% square miles, which are traversed by more than one thousand miles
of streets and roads; and that the city contains, in addition to other kinds of buiidings, 143,000 dwelling-
houses occupied by families, — a number exceeding by over 40,000 that of any other city in America.

The climate of Philadelphia is also, on the whole, a favorable one, although presenting many of the
peculiarities common to inland localities. The mean annual temperature of the last ten years is 53 730
Fahrenheit; the average annual rain-fall is about forty-five inches.

The following table exhibits the mean temperature of each month for the past ten years, showing that
the range is far less extreme than is found in many other less favorably situated localities :

Mean Temperature [Fahrenheit) of Each Month during the Past Ten Tears.

January 32-72° F.

February 33'12 "

March 39-16 "

APril 53*36 "

May 63-24° F.

June 73-54 "

July 78-74 "

August 75'92 "

September 67*72° F»

October 5603 "

November 43'34 "

December 33'92 "

It is thus seen that only during the months of June, July and August does the mean temperature rise to-
a high point. During this period there are very rarely any prevailing epidemic diseases ; and the chief
mortality occurs among children, especially among the poorer classes.

The health of Philadelphia at present is unusually good. Timely efforts have been made to secure an
abundant water-supply to meet the great increase in the demand which must be expected this summer as
compared with previous years. Constant watchfulness will be exercised by the authorities to maintain
cleanliness, and to avoid or remove every possible cause of disease.

284

Editorial.

Am. Jour. Pharm:
June, 1876.

Within the Exhibition grounds a rigid sanitary inspection will be maintained, under the control of the
Bureau of Medical Service ; and thus a guarantee will be afforded that no cause of infection or disease
will be allowed to occur through neglect of this important duty.

The object of this circular has been to call attention to the unusual sanitary advantages of Philadel-
phia, and to the preparations which have been made to insure the highest possible degree of healthfulness
during the approaching Exhibition season. It is proposed to issue at certain intervals other circulars,
announcing in an official and accurate manner the sanitary condition of the city, so that entire security
may be felt by all who desire to visit the Centennial International Exhibition.

jjth April, 1876. WILLIAM PEPPER, M.D., Medical Director.

Solution of Tartrate of Sodium has, to some extent, replaced the citrate of
magnesium as a laxative medicine. The various formulas which have been pub-
lished direct the combination of tartaric acid with crystallized carbonate of sodium,
a salt which, on exposure to the air, readily parts with a considerable proportion of
its water of crystallization, and is therefore with difficulty kept of a uniform com-
position, unless it be dehydrated. In view of this, it is rather surprising that the
employment of the more stable and uniform bicarbonate of sodium has not been
proposed heretofore. Mr. H. M. Wilder informs us that he has made the solution
for some time, by combining sod. bicarb, £vss with acid, tartar, ^ivss, using four
pints of water for dissolving them. Into each bottle is put i£ fluidounces of simple
syrup, 2 or 3 drops of spirit of lemon, the bottle is filled with the solution of sodium
tartrate, after which 45 grs. of crystallized citric acid are added, and the bottle corked.

The taste of this solution differs from that of magnesium citrate, and appears to
be more acceptable to the majority of patients, while in laxative effects the two are
probably about alike.

American Chemical Society. — At the " Centennial of Chemistry," celebrated
by a number of American chemists at Northumberland, Pa., August 1st, 1874, it
was proposed to form a national chemical society. The proposition was not then
favorably entertained \ the establishment of a chemical section in connection with
the American Association for the Advancement of Science, appeared to the ma-
jority of those present to meet all necessities. The advantages of a national chemi-
cal society, however, have been so apparent in England, France and Germany that
the proposition of reveral New York chemists to form a similar society in this coun-
try met with such a hearty response from all sections of the United States, that dur-
ing the past month the American Chemical Society was established with 53 resi-
dent (within a radius of thirty miles from New York) and 80 non-resident members.
The officers for the current year are : Prof. J. W. Draper, New York, President ;
j. L. Smith, Kentucky, F. A. Genth, Pennsylvania, E. W. Hilgard, California,
J. W. Mallet, Virginia, C. F. Chandler, New York, and Henry Morton, New
Jersey, Vice Presidents ; George F. Barker, Pennsylvania, Corresponding Secretary ;
Isidor Walz, New York, Recording Secretary ; H. M. Habirshaw, New York,
Treasurer, and P. Casamajor, New York, Librarian.

The objects of the Society are the encouragement and advancement of chemistry
in all its branches, in furtherance of which monthly meetings will be held in the
city of New York on the first Thursday of every month, and it is contemplated to
hold one meeting in each year outside of New York city, at such a time and in such

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
June, 1876. J

Reviews, etc.

285

a place as to make attendance on the part of non-resident members more convenient
and representative. It is likely that the first one of these meetings will be held in
Philadelphia during the approaching summer.

Chemists desirous of becoming members of the American Chemical Society,
should address the Committee on Nominations, Post-office box, 1,396, New York
City.

The Liebig Monument. — We learn from German papers that the collections
for the proposed Liebig Monument amount thus far to 140,000 marks (nearly
$35,000). It is intended to erect the monument upon the Dult Place in Munich,,
but neither has the artist been selected, nor has a design been formally adopted.

Murderous Attack in a Laboratory. — Prof. Otto, of the Polytechnic School
at Brunswick, Germany, was attacked by an employee at the pharmaceutical and
chemical laboratory and seriously wounded, toward evening of April zzd. It ap-
pears that the professor had censured the man for carelessly breaking an apparatus^
and was afterwards assaulted by him with some blunt instrument, probably a pestle,,
receiving eight wounds about the head. Fortunately the wounds, although very
serious, are not absolutely dangerous, and there is hope of the ultimate recovery of
Prof. Otto. The perpetrator of the dastardly act was soon after arrested, and
lodged in prison, where he put at end to his life by hanging.

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

C. H. Hobbs" Botanical T ?xt-book of common, local, English, Botanical and Pharmaco-
pceial Names, arranged in alphabetical order, of most of the crude Vegetable
Drugs, &c., in common use ; their Properties, Productions and Uses in an ab-
breviated form. Especially designed as a reference-book for Druggists and
Apothecaries. In Three Parts. Compiled and published by Chas. E. Hobbs,.
Boston: 1876. Large 8vo, pp. 271. Price $3.50.

The very lengthy title of this book is almost sufficient to give a synopsis of its
contents. The first part, which is headed English, contains three columns, re-
spectively marked Common, English and Botanical, the latter containing the botanical
names of the plants, and the second column the English names more generally em-
ployed, while the first column aims at giving all the English names of more local
use, and including likewise the names found in the second column. We fully re-
cognize the difficulty of such an arrangement, and it could hardly be otherwise but
that discrepancies should be found here ; thus for instance for the common name of
acorn the English Fruit of the oak is given, while for Anise, common the English
Anise [Seed is used. We rather expected the second column to contain the defi-
nition of the word of the first column, an idea which is really carried out in some
portions of the first part, like under the head of oils, where the second column usu-
ally defines the nature of the oil, whether fixed, expressed, distilled, &c, and the
part of the plant from which it is obtained.

286

Reviews, etc.

Ana. Jour. Pharm.
June, 1876.

The second part, entitled Botanical, likewise contains three columns, in the first
of which the botanical names and some of their synonyms are given in alphabetical
order; in the second the common English names, and in the third the part of the
plant employed and its medicinal properties. The latter portion is given abbreviated
and an explanatory table of the abbreviations used precedes the second part.

The third part, headed Pharmacopceial, has in the first column the names as
officinal in the United States, British or German pharmacopoeias, or as still occasion-
ally employed. In the second and third columns are found the corresponding com-
mon and botanical name. The first column may serve to some extent for compar-
ing the system of nomenclature adopted by the three pharmacopoeias, as for instance
Gentiana, Gentianse radix and Radix Gentiana; are the names of the U. S., Br. and
Ger. pharmacopoeias indicating the same drug, viz., the root of Gentiana lutea.

An appendix contains an alphabetical list of the German names of the crude
vegetable substances officinal in the German pharmacopaeia, a second column giving
the Latin officinal and a third column the botanical name.

The mechanical part of the work is satisfactory. The types are clear, and al-
though we have observed occasional misspelling, we have not observed any incor-
rectness.

We have entered thus extensively into the arrangement and character of the
work before us, because we believe it to be a very valuable one for druggists as well
as pharmacists, the first part being perhaps the one of greatest practical value in de-
termining the meaning of the numerous common names of mere local use, of which
names not less than 8,000 are enumerated in the first column ; and yet full and com-
plete as this list is, we have incidentally observed that one reference has been over-
looked, and mention this here merely for the purpose of referring to an erroneous state-
ment published twenty-one years ago which has remained uncorrected ever since. Hav-
ing had occasion recently to refer to a communication by H. G. and L. B Hotchkiss
in the "Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1855, p. 222, the statement attracted our attention that
the weed most commonly found in peppermint plantations was " by some called
broomweed, by others mare's tail (Hippuris vulgaris.)" The plant mentioned,
however, is rather rare in this country and is newer found in mint plantations be-
cause it is an aquatic plant; mare's tail is merely one of the numerous synonyms
by which Erigeron Canadense is known in some localities (see "Amer. Jour. Phar.,"
1870, p. 121.)

Jahresbericht uber die Fortschritte der Pharmacognosies Pharmacie und Toxicologie,
bisher herausgegeben von Dr. A. Wiggers und Dr. A. Husemann, fortgesetzt
von Dr. G. Dragendorff, ord. Prof, der Pharmacie in Dorpat. Neue Folge ; 9
Jahrgang, 1874. Gottingen : Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht's Verlag, 1875. 8vo, pp.
549-

Annual report on the Progress of Pharmacognosy, Pharmacy and Toxicology, for
1874-

We have seen this annual report only recently, through the kindness of Mr.
Wilder, else it should have received an earlier notice. After the publication of the
report for 1873, tne venerable Prof. Wiggers declined its further preparation, owing
to his advanced age, and Prof. Husemann found his time so much occupied as to

Am Jour. Pharm.l
June, 1876. J

Reviews, etc.

287

be unable to contribute the compilation of the toxicological researches. Prof. Dra-
gendorff then agreed to furnish the report, and although the time for accomplishing
this has been very limited, he has, aided by Messrs. E. Masing, E. Johannson,
Nentwich and Prof. Morel, succeeded in producing a volume which is in every way
a worthy successor of the long series of thirty volumes edited by Prof. Wiggers.

The arrangement of matter remains nearly unaltered, and the selections are as
complete and the references to the various journals as full and accurate as to leave
nothing to desire. We confess, however, to have been somewhat surprised in find-
ing enumerated in the bibliographical list a work on new-school remedies, by the
notorious Dr. Paine, which would not have received the same compliment on this
side of the Atlantic.

Twelfth Annual Report of the Alumni Association of the Philadelphia College of Phar-
macy. 1876. 8vo, pp. 46.

The pamphlet contains Prof. Remington1* Valedictory Address, Mr. Eberle's
Annual Address, the President's Report, an account of the Annual Reception in
March last, Minutes of the Meetings of the Association and of the Executive
Board, etc. We learn from the minutes that, in addition to the Alumni prizes
mentioned on page 186 of our April number, a silver medal has been awarded by
the Executive Board to Mr. Henry Schroeder, of Chicago, besides the certificate of
proficiency received by him in March 5 also, a certificate of proficiency in chemistry
to Mr. J. C. Martin, of Allegheny City.

OBITUARIES.

Antoine Jerome Balard, member of the Paris Academy of Sciences and
Professor of Chemistry at the College de France, died in Paris, last April, after
a short illness, which, for several months, had been preceded by a gradually-in-
creasing debility. Balard was born at Montpellier in 1802, received a thorough
pharmaceutical education, and was afterwards attached, as Preparateur de Chimie,
to the School of Pharmacy and Faculty of Sciences of his native city. While labor-
ing in this capacity, he liberated from the ashes of seaweed a new element, to which
he gave the name of bromine. The essay announcing this discovery was published
in 1826, and contained extended researches by which the young discoverer proved
its chemical analogy to the previously -discovered elements, chlorine and iodine.
This discovery was made only a short period after the opposition against the ele-
mentary nature of chlorine had ceased ; its effect upon the alkalies and alkaline
earths, however, could not be harmonized with existing theories, until in 1834 Bal-
ard announced the discovery of hypochlorous acid, and explained the chorinated com-
pounds mentioned as mixtures of chlorides and hypochlorites. Amongst Balard's
researches which were destined to have an important bearing upon industrial arts,
should be mentioned yet his investigations upon the salts of sea-water, with a view
of utilizing, besides the sodium, also the potassium salts.

288

Obituaries.

Am. Jour. Pharm
June, 1876.

The gradual development of the theories relating to organic chemistry was ma-
terially aided by Balard, among the most important of his discoveries in this direc-
tion being the preparation (1841) from binoxalate of ammonium, of oxamic acid,
the representative of the limited class of amin acids, and (1844) ^e separation of
polymeric compounds of amylene, while attempting to prepare the latter from amylic
alcohol.

In 1842, he was called to Paris to fill the chair of Chemistry in the Faculty of
Sciences, formerly occupied by Thenard, and since 1851 he labored in a like capaci-
ty at the College de France.

Balard's researches were characterized by great exactness a»d minuteness, leaving
to others very little, if anything, to correct. Amongst the pharmacists whose sci-
entific labors have, directly or indirectly, created great industrial pursuits, his name
stands among the first ranks. He was an honor to his profession and to the science
to which his inclinations were directed ; kind of disposition and free from envy or
jealousy, he was always ready with valuable advice to aid the investigations of others,

Michael Donovan, M. R. I. A., died in Dublin, March 2.7th, at the advanced
age of 85 years. His name is well known to American pharmacists as the origi-
nator, in 1839, °f Donovan's Solution, the Liquor Arsenici et Hydrargyri IodidiP
of the "U. S. Pharmacopoeia." In former years, Mr. Donovan paid much attention
to electricity and electro-chemistry, but at a later period was almost exclusively de-
voted to pharmacy, contributing quite a number of papers to several journals, several
of which were reproduced in the earlier volumes of this journal. Amongst the
more recent ones may be mentioned the " Historical sketch of the dismemberment
of pharmacy from physic" (1868), " On the process for preparing James' powder"
(1869) and " On tincture of hyoscyamus " (1871).

Dr. Jean Francjois Vleminckx died at Brussels, March, 17th, in the 76th
year of his age. The deceased was widely known for his researches in hygiene,,
and had labored for many years in the sanitary service of the Belgian army, in
which service, at the time of his demise, he held the honorary position of Inspector-
General. He was one of the founders and President of the Royal Academy of
Medicine, since 1864 a member of the Chamber of Deputies, and held many other
positions of trust and honor.

Dr. J. S. Unzicker died at Cincinnati, April 18th, of apoplexy, aged 63 years-
He was a native of Germany, but had been practising medicine in Cincinnati for
many years. He was a member of the Cincinnati Academy of Medicine, and al-
ways took a lively interest in the progress of pharmacy.

Joseph N. Hendershott, a native of Bloomsburg, Pa., and during last winter
a student at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, was suddenly taken sick on the
evening of the Commencement, March 14th, and died of typhoid fever on the 20th
of the same month, aged 22 years. He was an active and promising student, and
of a genial disposition.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

yuiry 1876.

ON RAPID FILTRATION.

BY E. C. H. HILDEBRAND.

Though much has been said and written on this subject, still it does
not seem to be exhausted yet, not long ago new suggestions having
been made in that direction. Viewing this matter from a practical
standpoint, it appears to me that we should not aim so much at the
utmost gain of time in filtering and washing out precipitates, but
rather at a more uniform good result of these operations. In accord-
ance with this view, the following described apparatus will be found
both convenient and effective enough to shorten the filtering process,,
and the drying of the filter and its contents quite considerably.

It is composed of Weil's filtering tube, and Scheibler's drop aspirator,,
to which I have added a vacuum regulator. The filtering tube
(recommended by Weil about 16 or 18 years ago) allows to filter
under a pressure of 1 to 2 feet of water column, without any other
support of the filter exeept the funnel itself. It allows, further, to
filter into any kind of receptacle, which will be found a great conveni-
ence. On the other hand, Scheibler's drop aspirator, used as a filter-
ing pump, is by far the most perfect one in reference to the effect pro-
duced by a given quantity of water, while its absolute effect is likewise
very satisfactory for filtering purposes. The vacuum regulator is
intended to prevent the rarefaction of air surpassing a certain degree.

Before entering into a more detailed description of the whole ar-
rangement, it may be well to make a few remarks about funnels and
filters.

It has been laid down as a rule, that the sides of a funnel should
have an angle of inclination of 60 degrees, in which case a filter,
folded at right angles, will fit exactly into the funnel. I found that a
filter adjusted into a funnel of a more acute angle offers remarkably
greater security against breaking, provided, of course, the body of the

*9

290

Rapid Filtration

J Am. Jour. Pharm.
I July, 1876.

funnel approaches as nearly a perfect cone as possible. In this case
the transition of the cone into the tube is marked by a distinct
angle, formed by the meeting of two straight lines. The opening at
the bottom of the funnel must not be too large, its diameter should
not surpass \ inch.

A filter inserted into a funnel of 50 degrees, moistened and brought
in perfect contact with the glass by pressing with the finger, will stand
the pressure of a column of water ij feet high with safety. Filters
supported by funnels of 30 degrees did not rupture by the weight of a
column of water 3 feet high. Funnels over 50 degrees require the
introduction of another but smaller paper filter, inside of which, and
over-reaching it, the main filter is inserted.

1. The filtering tube (see sketch C) consists of a wider upper part,
carrying the funnel, and a lower narrower part, reaching almost to the
bottom of the receptacle, and dipping into the filtered liquid. By
srarefaction of the air in C> the filtered liquid is raised to a certain height,
and therefrom results an increased pressure on the liquid in the funnel,

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
July, 1876. /

Rapid Filtration,

291

and an accelerated filtration. The total length of the tube is 20
inches, width of the upper part I J inches, its length 6 inches. The
narrow side tube w, is I inch below the rim of C« Internal diameter
of lower part j% inch, its length 14 inches. The lower part must be
wide enough to allow air bubbles to rise or overcome the capillary
attraction exerted by the sides of the tube upon the liquid. The tube
is closed by a perforated India rubber cork, receiving the neck of the
funnel, the opening of which reaches 1 or 2 inches below the little
side tube m. The whole is held in position by a retort-stand, burette-
holder or the like.

2. The aspirator A. Upper part 1 inch in diameter and 6 inches
long, the bottom forming a cone, connecting it with the lower part e,
which has J inch internal diameter, and is 1 or more inches long. To
this we attach a rubber tube/^ 5 or more feet long, and of the same
internal diameter of J inch. The narrow side-tube h is 1 inch below
the top of A- A perforated rubber cork, provided with a glass tube d,
is inserted, as seen in the sketch. This tube has j\ inch internal
diameter, extends downward about 3 inches, upward 1 or 2 inches.
To this upper end a rubber tube g is attached, destined to supply the
water for the aspirator, from an elevated vessel. If the flow of the
water is so regulated (by means of a faucet or pinchcock) that it
leaves tube d drop by drop, these drops falling into the narrow tube ey
and its continuation f, perpendicularly beneath it, and, filling out its
entire width, act the part of the piston in a pump, as, by their motion
downwards, they carry with them the air enclosed in the tube between
the single drops. In, this way the air in A> as well as in any vessel
connected with it by the communication tube is rarefied. The
aspirator — equal lengths of time taken into consideration — draws less
air if the drops follow each other slower, but then a higher effect is
produced by a certain quantity of water, whilst if the drops fall
quicker, the apparatus draws more air in that time, but the effect of
the same quantity of water is diminished. Thus, 1 volume of
water draws from 10 to 25 times its volume of air.

3. The vacuum regulator B. After several experiments, I found a
mercury valve of the construction shown in sketch B5 working as well
as could be wished. B has ij inch or more internal diameter and is
about 6 inches long. The narrow side tubes k and / are opposite each
other, and 1 inch below the rim. A good soft cork, free from holes,

2()2

Rapid Filtration.

f Am. Jour. Pharaoh
\ July, 1876.

is selected and perforated for the reception of tube i. The latter has-
about -j\ inch internal diameter by 9 inches in length. Its lower end
is cut off obliquely and provided with marks showing J inches, and
beginning at the obtuse angle of the oblique cut. Tube B is filled up
with mercury to a height of about 2 inches, then 2 inches of water
are given on the top of this. The working of this valve is easily
understood. By moving tube /, downwards or upwards, its lower end
is, to a larger or smaller extent, immersed in the quicksilver, and if
suction is applied to one of the side tubes, the other being connected
with a closed vessel, the rarefaction of air in B? and in the vessel con-
nected with it, will reach a certain maximum degree, beyond which it
cannot go ; air entering by way of tube /, and penetrating the mer-
cury, it maintains that status in the apparatus to which the valve has
been adjusted. If the end of tube i is cut off obliquely, as directed,
the passage of the air through the quicksilver goes on more quiet, not
so eruption-like, and the supernatant water prevents entirely the spat-
tering of the metal. Several physical causes unite to give the gradua-
tion on tube / only an empirical value. Under the circumstances
named, f inch immersion of tube / will create in C a water-column of
about 15 inches height.

4. The connection of the single parts is effected by rubber tubing,,
which need not be of the heaviest kind, as it is not exposed to any
high external pressure. Aspirator and mercury valve are best mounted
on a board (as seen in the sketch) and hung in a proper place on the
wall, within reach of the hand.

If this apparatus is to be constructed out of material on hand in
every laboratory, we may take a chloride of calcium tube for the
aspirator (Scheibler), and a large test-tube, or any wide-mouthed bot-
tle, for the regulator, in which case the communication of the single
parts is brought about by perforations in the corks.

In case it should be preferred to make use of Bunserfs platinum
funnels, we can proceed a little different from Bunsen's method, as
such an exact fit as needed in high pressure is not wanted in our case.
Divide a round piece of moderately thin platinum foil, about \\ inch
in diameter, into two equal halves, and shape them into cones, the centre
of the circle forming the apex of the cone. In funnels of less than
60 degrees the sides overlap, in funnels of 60 degrees they meet
exactly, but can even then be soldered together in one point about the

Am. Jour. Pfearm.)
July, 1876. J

Hydrobr ornate of Quinia.

middle of the cone by a grain of gold and a little borax. I cut off
the point of the cone to create a small opening there, as I also per-
forate the sides of the cone near its apex with a pin.

Before leaving this subject, I will mention, with a few words, a
most simple device which I have frequently used to promote filtration,
and which consists of a piece of rubber or glass tubing, about 1 foot
long, fastened into the tube of the funnel when the arrangement is
ready for use. The internal diameter of this tube should be, at the
most, of an inch. A tube similar in shape to Weil's filtering tube,
but of different dimensions, looks more elegant and meets the objec-
tion against bringing the filtered liquid in contact with India rubber.
The upper wider part is 3 inches long, the lower narrow part is made
of a barometer tube, and of the length first named. This little
device meets moderate expectations very^well, and will often be found
a good help.

For washing out precipitates, on a larger scale, I use large funnels,
half filled with coarse glass powder (glass heated to redness, thrown
into cold water, powdered and the finest powder sifted off), on the
evened surface of which is placed a round piece of filtering paper, in
close contact with the sides of the funnel, for the reception of the
precipitate. As a receptacle, I use a Woolf's bottle of proper size ;
the filtering pump has an evacuation-tube of 12 feet length.

SOLUTION OF HYDROBROMATE OF QUINIA FOR HYPODERMIC

INJECTION.

BY WILLIAM SILVER THOMPSON.

The commercial " bromide of quinia " is not sufficiently soluble
to make a concentrated solution for hypodermic use ; and having been
requested by Prof. William T. Howard, to prepare such a solution,
containing four grains in twenty minims, or ninety-six grains in each
fluidounce, I, at first, availed myself of the reaction between quinia
sulphate and calcium bromide, but not being satisfied with the process,
I devised the following, which has since been used with success, and
gives a satisfactory result :

Take of Quinia sulphate, . 96 grains.

Distilled water,

Diluted sulphuric acid,

Water of ammonia, and

Hydrobromic acid, of each a sufficient quantity.

Spirit of Nitrous Ether.

f Am. Jour. Pharm,
\ July, 1876.

Dissolve the quinia sulphate in four fluidounces of distilled water,
with sufficient diluted sulphuric acid. Mix one hundred and fifty
minims of water of ammonia with four fluidounces of distilled water,
add to the solution of quinia, constantly stirring, and transfer the
whole to a muslin filter. The solution of ammonium sulphate, which
passes through the filter, should be tested, and if the presence of
quinia is indicated, add a little more water of ammonia to the whole of
the solution and return it to the filter.

After the quinia is drained, wash it with distilled water ; transfer
the moist magma to a tared capsule and add, gradually, just sufficient
hydrobromic acid to dissolve it. Evaporate the solution thus obtained
on a water bath until it is reduced to a transparent mass, the weight
of the quinia hydrobromate is thus ascertained, while, at the same
time, any excess of hydrobromic acid is driven off.

Lastly, dissolve the mass in a sufficient quantity of distilled water,,
so that each fluid drachm shall contain twelve grains. The resulting
solution will measure about one fluidounce.
Baltimore, Md., June, 1876.

NOTE ON SPIRIT OF NITROUS ETHER.

BY J. U. LLOYD.

The attention of every one connected with the drug trade must
frequently have been directed to the various prices of the different
spirits of nitrous ether thrown upon the market. Very often it can
be purchased for less than the actual cost of the ingredients composing
the U. S. P. article.

In September, 1874, I examined several specimens of the commer-
cial article, all of which proved to contain a large amount of water.
The specific gravity of four samples were '890, '910, '930 and '940.
The U. S. P. directs it to be -837.

I believe it is generally understood that the substitution of water
for alcohol, in making sweet spirit of nitre, governs the price of the
article, and not the proportion of nitrous ether ; that the manufacturer
who sells spirit of nitre at less than the cost of production for pure,
decreases the alcoholic strength of his preparation proportionately, and
for every cent of deduction takes out a cent's worth of alcohol and
substitutes water in its place. What is the meaning of the terms 3^

A V^ST* } Spirit of Nitrous Ether. 295

and 4f. so generally used ? The expressions are not recognized by
the " Pharmacopoeia there is no authority upon this subject in any
standard work with which I am acquainted. They are merely expres-
sions, denoting that one is more largely adulterated with water than
the other. An increase or decrease of etherial strength to any reason-
able degree will not materially affect the cost of production, and, as
far as I can learn, water in \i. nitre, and more water in explains
their meaning.

Undoubtedly, manufacturers accommodate themselves to circum-
stances. A certain profit must be made. • The nitre is adulterated in
accordance with the price at which it is sold. But, perhaps, spirit of
nitrous ether may be adulterated fifty per cent, with water, and not
be altered in regard to its etherial strength, as is well known, the
distillate is much stronger than necessary, and is directed, by the U. S.
P., to be mixed with alcohol to reduce its strength. Some think that
water, substituted for alcohol, merely changes the form of the diluent ;
that alcohol only serves the purpose of a diluent, and water will do
as well and be inexpensive. I have no doubt many manufacturers
conscientiously believe the therapeutical value of the article is not
altered in the least by this subterfuge. Experiments, instituted by
myself, with a view of finding if this really is the case, demonstrate,
to my satisfaction, that the addition of water causes the spirit to
decompose very much faster than is the case where the U. S. P. is
adhered to.

Nitrous ether, as is well known, rapidly disintegrates, forming acetic
acid, nitric acid and other products. Alcohol exerts a preservative
influence over it ; water hastens the change. I will not intrude upon
the time of the reader by giving a full description of my experiments.
I will only say that all the specimens examined, upon the market,,
marked and 3f. spirit of nitrous ether, contained water and were
strongly acid. Upon making the ether perfectly free from acid,
distilling it in an atmosphere of carbonic acid, and diluting it with
water and alcohol, in different proportions, I found that decomposition
proceeded faster with the specimens containing water. The more
water the more rapid the change. (See also Th^nard's results, in
44 Gmelin's Chemistry.")

I believe manufacturers should take the matter in hand, and discoun-
tenance the substitution of even the smallest amount of water, and

296 Powdered Drugs under the Microscope } Amjftuirl8P76arm-

endeavor to make the preparations upon the market conform to the
requirements of the u Pharmacopoeia." I have not spoken about the
etherial strength of the commercial articles. This I believe to be
unnecessary while the stuff is made as it is, for even if the full amount
of nitrous ether is present when the article is sold, it will not long
remain reliable while in contact with twenty-five or fifty per cent, of
water. I do not wish to be understood as saying that every manufac-
turer is making adulterated spirit of nitre. I believe, however, that
one hundred pounds of the adulterated article is sold upon the market
to one pound of pure. Let our retail druggists, over the country, test
the preparations upon their shelves and judge for themselves, and let
us endeavor, in some manner, to reform this disreputable business ;
for such I must consider it until convinced that the U. S. P. is wrong
in directing the specific gravity of spirit of nitrous ether to be '837.

POWDERED DRUGS UNDER THE MICROSCOPE.

BY MARK W. HARRINGTON, M.A.

Assistant Professor of Botany in the University of Michigan.
[Continued from page 246.)
2. TAPIOCA (Fig. 2).

A starch from the root of Manihot utilissima, a poisonous plant of
the Spurge family, from South America and the West Indies.

The grains are unusually compound, the two, sometimes three or
four, grainlets of which are generally separated from each other in the
preparation of the article for market. The grainlets differ consider-
ably with the direction from which they are viewed. From the side,
they appear rounded at one end, cut off at the other, and contain an
apparently conical cavity, of which the nucleus is the apex and the flat
side of the grain the base. Seen from the end, the grains appear cir-
cular, with a round, central nucleus. The lay-
ers are not distinct, though sometimes one or two
can be made out. The diameter of the grains
varies from itt. to 16//.

The tapioca of the markets is in small, white
masses, tough, slightly elastic, odorless, and with
a slight taste. The grains of starch are distorted,
more or less, by the heat used in the preparation
of the article. A careful examination, however,
will show many grains of the original form.

1 Figures 2 and 3 are taken from Vogl's " Nahrungs- und Genussmittel " j the
remainder are by Miss Reed.

Fig. 2. Tapioca
starch.1

Am jfc^7h6arm- } Powdered Drugs under the Microscope.

297

Several other species of Manihot are said to furnish a part of the
tapioca in the trade. Their starch-grains are much like those just
described, and, in the present state of our information, it is not practi-
cable to distinguish them.

Tapioca is said to be adulterated with potato, sago and wheat-starch.
It is, itself, used as an adulterant of arrowroot.

3. SAGO (Fig. 3).

The starch from the stem of several species of palm-trees, gene-
rally Sagus Rumphii.

The grains are ovate or oval, with the margins sometimes slighlty

concave. The rings are evident, and
there is a round or star-shaped nucleus
nearest the larger end. Many of the
grains are singularly compound, consisting
of a large grain, with one or more much
smaller ones forming protuberances on it.
In commercial specimens, the grainlets of
the compound grain are usually separated
from each other, and show only the flat-
tened surfaces where they were in contact. The length of the grains
is from jtt. to 24//., usually above 14^.

Granulated sago is made into small, round masses by being passed
through a sieve and subjected to heat. The masses are brownish in
color. The starch-grains are but little altered by heat.

Pearl sago is in larger, white, spherical masses, which in the course
of preparation have been subjected to considerable heat, and afterwards
bleached. The grains of starch in this case are swollen and distorted,
and the nucleus is bulging.

The principal adulteration of sago is by means of potato starch.
From it a false sago is made, which resembles the real article very
closely. The microscope will readily show the difference between
them. Sago is employed as an adulterant of several other starches.

4. ARROWROOT, OR MARANTA (Fig. 4).

The starch from the root- stock of Maranta arundinacea and, per-
haps, other species of the same genus.

It is a powder, with small scattered, irregular masses, of a dead-

Fig. 3. Sago starch.

298 Powdered Drugs under the Microscope. } Am jify r"If76arm*

white color, but glistening a little when examined closely, crackling
slightly when rubbed, inodorous and insipid.

The grains are simple, egg shaped, or oblong. The rings are fine

and concentric or eccentric. The
nucleus is large, shaped like a
point, or a slit crossing the grain
or two slits crossing each other.
It is in the center, or nearer the
larger end of the grain. The
length of the grains is from itt.
to 24//.

Other varieties of arrowroot
are described, from the European
trade, though the writer has never
seen them in the United States,
with the exception of potato-
arrowroot, which is occasionally
found. It can be easily distin-
guished by the examination of the starch-grains already described.

Curcuma arrowroot is known by starch-grains which are rather larger
than those of maranta, and which have the nucleus on the margin of
the grain, frequently on a projecting point. Canna-arrowroot, or tous
les moisy consists of starch-grains from 16//. to 50//., which are there-
fore about twice as long as the grains of maranta. The larger grains
are flat and more or less egg shaped, with the nucleus near the smaller
end. The concentric lines are fine, regular and very numerous.
Tacca or Tahiti arrowroot consists of grains \tt. to 15//. long, and
shaped much like the grains of sago-starch. They are partly convex,
partly with flat surfaces, rather hemispherical or pear-shaped. The
nucleus is nearly central, and star-shaped. Arum or Portland arrowroot
consists of very minute grains, something like those of Tacca, but
only itt. to 8//. in diameter.

The above can be considered in the light of commercial varieties.
Fraudulent substitutions or adulterations of maranta with any of the
cheaper starches may be expected. Potato, sago and tapioca starches
are especially used for this purpose.

5. AMYLUM (Fig. 5).

Under this name, the "U. S. Pharmacopoeia" calls for wheat-starch,

Fig. 4. Maranta.

Amjulyl;ri876arm,} Powdered Drugs under the Microscope.

99

that is, starch taken from the grain of the cultivated wheat. As a
matter of practice, pharmacists usually sell corn- starch under this name.
As the latter, when well prepared, is an excellent article, perhaps supe-
rior to wheat-starch, there is no objection to this substitution, if it is
well understood.

Wheat-starch is in slender, brittle, irregular prisms, or in a powder.
It is of a dead-white color, odorless and insipid. Like most starches,
when rubbed between the fingers it crackles slightly.

The grains are of two sizes, with but few intermediate. The larger

ones are lens-shaped, and
present only indistinct traces,
if any, of nucleus and rings.
When these do appear, the
former is central, the latter
concentric. They are from
14//. to 16//. in diameter.
The smaller grains are spher-
ical, and usually less than
3//. in diameter.

The starch grains of rye
and of barley are much like
those of wheat, and it is
sometimes desirable to dis-
tinguish them. In rye, the
larger grains are from 16//.
to 21//. in diameter, and have frequently a distinct star-shaped nucleus,
while the smaller are decidedly smaller than those of wheat. In bar-
ley, the larger grains are about 11//. in diameter, with, often, rings and
nucleus, while the smaller grains correspond closely to those of wheat.

Wheat starch is a prominent constituent of "Imperial Granum,"
" Baby's Cereal Food," Ridge's u Cereal Food," and many similar
proprietary substances. They are powders of no great complexity,
and the determination of their constituents would be excellent prac-
tice for the pharmacist inexperienced in this line of his work.

6. CORN STARCH (Fig. 6).

This starch is derived from the grain of corn, and comes in a form
like that of wheat starch. Its powder, however, is glistening, while
that of wheat is dull.

Fig. 5. Wheat starch.

3oo

Analysis of Face Lotions,

7.

| Am, j'oui Ph ut>)

uly, 1876.

The grains of starch are quite small, not surpassing 12//., and usu-
ally lying between 6 and 9//.
They are simple; the gen
eral shape is spherical, but the
sides are more or less flat-
tened, and the grains mis-
shapen by mutual pressure.
In the starch from the cen-
tral white and mealy part of
the kernel of corn, the grains
have more flat sides, due to
the greater pressure ; while
in the more hyaline outer
part of the kernel, the starch
grains are rounder. There
are no rings visible. The
nucleus is central, and is a
round point in the fresh starch grain, star-shape in that which has been
dried.

Corn starch is extensively sold under the names of " Maizena,"
Maizone," as well as that of amylum.

Fig. 6. Corn starch.

ANALYSIS OF FACE LOTIONS.

BY GEORGE JOSEPH MITSCH, PH.G.

[From an Inaugural Essay.)

The author selected Hagan's Magnolia Balm and Laird's Bloom of
Youth for his analysis. Both are put up in opaque white glass bottles,
and consist of a liquid precipitating a white sediment on standing,
which is readily suspended again on shaking.

One bottle of Hagan's Magnolia Balm was found to contain 3J
iluidounces of liquid and 262 grains of insoluble portion. The clear
filtrate was not acted upon by either sulphuretted hydrogen, sulphhy-
drate, carbonate or phosphate of ammonium, and on evaporation left
two drachms of a syrupy residue which was proven to be glycerin.
The insoluble powder was dissolved in hydrochloric acid with effer-
vescence. The solution was not precipitated by sulphuretted hydro-
gen, but after having been rendered alkaline by ammonia, with which

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
July, 1876. j

Agave Americana.

301

it yielded a clear solution, gave a white precipitate with sulphhydrate of
ammonium. The precipitate was zinc, and the filtrate, when evap-
orated and ignited, left no solid residue. Carbonic acid was the only
acid found in the powder, which had been colored with J grain of
carmine. The liquid was flavored with lavender and bergamot.

One bottle of Laird's Bloom of Youth was found to contain 2J
fluidounces of liquid and 212 grains of insoluble powder. Tested in.
the usual manner, the liquid responded to the tests for small quantities
of iron and calcium, and on evaporation left half a fluiddrachm of
glycerin. The powder was dissolved in hydrochloric acid, efferves-
cence being produced, and the solution treated with sulphuretted
hydrogen, which produced a black precipitate, due to bismuth. The
filtrate treated with ammonia and sulphhydrate of ammonium, gave a
white precipitate, due to zinc, and the filtrate from it yielded, with am-
monium carbonate, a white precipitate, due to calcium.

Besides carbonic acid, the presence of hydrochloric acid was proven
in the nitric acid solution by silver nitrate.

A quantitative estimation of the insoluble portion yielded —

31*204 grains of . . . . oxychloride of bismuth,

149*792 « « carbonate of zinc,

50*004 " u .... carbonate of calcium.

Total 211*000 grains $ actual weight, 212 grains.

The powder was colored with \ grain of carmine, and the liquid was
perfumed with lemon and bergamot.

AGAVE AMERICANA LIN. AND ITS USES.

BY FRANCIS MARION MURRAY, PH.G.

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

To the curious and interesting plants of the genus Agave, the name
Century plant was given from the gardener's fable of its requiring one
hundred years for them to produce their flowers. That they flower
but once in a century is true, since they propagate their species by
flowering but once, when they wither and die.

Being indigenous to tropical America, and from the fact that they
were for many years confounded with the genus Aloe, the plants of
which, when young, may be mistaken for them, they have received the
general appellation —American Aloe.

J02

Agave Americana,

f Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ July, 1876.

The generic name " altered from the Greek, dyauoz, wonderful, is
not inappropriate as applied to A. Americana " (Gray), or to the A.
pulque, or Mexicana, which has for many centuries been known to the
Mexicans as the Maguey, or tree of wonders.

The term, " Sisal hemp," is more especially applied to the species
Americana; Sisal, Yucatan being the principal port of exportation for
the fibre or hemp prepared from the leaves.

This evergreen multennial of the order Amaryllidaceae, produces
from the crown of a very short cylindrical base a vast cluster of fleshy,
stiff, oblong-lanceolate leaves, having short spines on the edges, and
terminating in a strong black spine. The leaves are from 3 to 8 and
even 10 feet in length, the first being the shortest, from 3 to 7 and
even 15 inches in width, and 1 to 4 inches or more thick.

After the growth of the plant has sufficiently advanced and nearly
all the leaves have unfolded, there pushes forth from the center, with
rapid growth, a gigantic flower-stalk, from 3 to 8 inches in diameter at
the base, which, in Florida, reaches the height of from 15 to 30 feet
within a few months. When this shoots up, it carries with it the
small innermost leaves, which at regular intervals are produced as ap-
pressed, lanceolate-pointed bracts. These bracts are from 4 to 6 inches
apart on the lower part of the stalk, becoming closer together as it in-
creases in height, until at the extreme top they quite adjoin each other.

The upper third of the stalk is branched, each branch, or arm,
being repeatedly divided into three branchlets, the branches becoming
gradually shorter above, so that the inflorescence presents the form of
a circular pyramid of perfect symmetry, each branchlet bearing a cluster
of small, erect liliaceous flowers, of a greenish-yellow color.

A surprising fact is, that the roots of so large a plant should be so
few and small, being apparently insufficient to retain it in an upright
position. They are cylindrical and wavy, \ to \ inch in thickness, 6
to 24 inches long, having a thin, brownish epidermis, under which is
a second thin tissue of a deep red color; the rest consisting of a bun-
dle of strong white woody fibres, with little parenchyma. All the roots
of a full grown plant will scarcely weigh 4 ounces.

It is propagated by seeds and suckers, both being produced simul-
taneously. It is viviparous, the seeds always germinating on the plant.
The young plant, or " onion," as it is called, frequently grows 4 to 6
inches high before dropping from the parent plant. Mr. E. C. Howe,

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
July, 1876. i

Agave Americana.

303

of Key West, Florida, informs me that he has counted as many as
2,000 onions on a single plant ; the average number is 1,000. The
suckers are comparatively few.

The author is of the opinion that the Agaves generally are vivipar-
ous, and states that on the island of Key West there are three rather
marked varieties. First, the common green American aloe, with but
few marginal spines ; 2d, the same, with narrower and more spinous
leaf ; 3d, a very spinous variety, having a broader leaf than either, and
a bright silvery-green color. John Ambercrombie, in UA Gardener's
Pocket Dictionary,'' vol. iii, enumerates a variety having a gold-striped
leaf. When young, the plants seem to be equally spinous, but in the
course of development the spines on the common green variety gradu-
ally disappear, until, when the plant has matured, the leaf margins are
almost uninterrupted. The other varieties retain their spines.

This august plant flowers in from 2 to 10,50 or more years, accord-
ing to climate and soil in which grown, and attention received. Mr.
Howe has, by careful culture, caused the flower-stalk to shoot up in
two years from the time the young plant dropped from its parent. On
Key West Island there is an area of about seven acres covered with
A. Americana, growing in soft rock of oolitic formation, covered with
a thin layer of recent humus. The plant is uncared for, and flowers
in from 5 to 8 years.

It usually requires about 8 months after the flower-stalk makes its
first appearance for the plant to attain its full growth, immediately after
which it begins to wither and soon dies, stem, leaves and roots.

The author cites from "Amer. Journ. Sc. and A.," 1833, a letter
from Henry Perrine, then U. S. Consul at Campeche, and the state-
ment of M. Bazire, with which he concurs, in assuming the species
yielding the pulque of Mexico to be distinct from A. Americana, which
grows well in sandy or calcareous soil near the sea level. The differ-
ences may, however, to a great extent be due to long-continued culti-
vation, which may have caused the coarse fibres of the leaves to dis-
appear under the effect of rich soil and genial temperature.

A. Americana is indigenous to the intertropical region of America,
and has been introduced into most sub-tropical and warm, temperate
climes of the earth. It was brought to Key West by Mr. H. Perrine
in 1838, and was then introduced to Indian Key, Cayo Largo and the

304

Agave Americana.

(Am Jour. Pharnu
( July, 1876.

mainland, where it grows as far north as lat. 280. It grows also in
Southwestern Texas and Southern New Mexico.

Uses. — The growing plant is used for hedges ; the dried flower
stems constitute a thatch, perfectly impervious to the heaviest rain,,
and split longitudinally, the stem makes an excellent substitute for a
razor-strop. But the most important part of the plant is the fibre of
the leaf. This is rather coarse, silky-white, harsher and not quite so
strong as manilla, but makes beautiful, clean, glossy cordage. The
" yashqui," or prickless (common green) variety is most used for this
purpose. The reason why such a comparatively small quantity of this
excellent fibre has been thrown into the market, is because of there
being, as yet, no ready means of separating the pulp from the fibre.

The rude mode of bruising and steeping the leaves in water, and
afterwards beating and shaking the pulpy matter off, is very slow and
unsatisfactory. Dr. Mease tells us that in Yucatan it is prepared " by
means of two sharp corners, made by hollowing out the ends of a
wooden tool like a flat ruler ; the fleshy leaves are slit in two or three
longitudinal strips, and the pulpy substance being scraped off, the
fibrous material appears, which is then shaken loose, tied in a knot,
and, when dried in the sun, is put up in bales for exportation." Seve-
ral machines have been invented for separating the fibre ; the most
efficient is one by Mr. G. D. Allen, of Key West, but he found much
difficulty in ridding the leaf, in an expeditious manner, of a thin epi-
dermis, which adheres closely on both sides. His idea was to express
the juice by passing the leaves between steel rollers, ferment the juice
for the 10 per cent, of alcohol which it will yield, place the expressed
leaf in water for three or four days, dry,. shake off the pulp and utilize
it for manure, and clean the fibre for cordage. But, being too far from
a market, he was compelled to abandon it, after having sustained heavy
losses. One stalk, or plant, produces from 75 to 100 leaves fit for
cutting, and thirty tons of green leaves make one ton of fibre. The
fibre is finer and easier separated before the flowering stalk shoots up.
" Great quantities are sent to Cuba to make coffee-bags, and since
1825 numerous cargoes have been imported into the United States, and
worked up into hawsers, running-rigging and small ropes " (Dr. Mease).
Also, a coarse kind of 41 thread, twine and hammocks are made from
the fibre. The ancient Mexicans made from it a coarse kind of paper,,
and the Indians use it for oakum." (Chambers' Cyclop.) " The

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
July, 1876. /

Salicylic Acid,

leaves are employed for scouring pewter, kitchen utensils, floors, etc..
In Algravia, when pasture is scarce, they are cut in thin, transverse
slices, and fed to cattle " (Rees). On the island of Key West, in very
dry season, cattle chew the leaves for thirst. Chickens eat the inner
tender leaves with avidity. The juice has a bitter, mucilaginous, some-
what nauseous taste, a turbid green color, and an odor that is truly the-
41 stinkingest of the stinking kind." It passes very rapidly from vinous;
to acetous fermentation ; yeast, raisins, whiskey, etc., have been used!
with little retentive effect.. It seems all that is necessary to make " cen-
tury plant " cultivation a very lucrative business is something to pro-
duce rapid and permanent vinous fermentation. It ferments in about
30 hours after expression. The average amount of juice yielded is 2
ozs. per leaf, which, strained and evaporated to a thick consistence in
the sun, may be made into cakes or balls with ashes, and used for
washing ; they will lather with salt as well as fresh water.

Dr. G. Perin, of the U. S. Army, has found the juice to be an ad-
mirable remedy in scurvy, and it is much lauded by Mexican sailors as
an antiscorbutic. The pulp, made into an ointment, was recommended
by Lenoble as an epispastic, and has been used in veterinary practice
as a rubefacient. Laxative, diuretic and emmenagogue properties have
been attributed to the juice.

CONCENTRATED SOLUTION OF SALICYLIC ACID.

BY C. L. MITCHELL.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, held June 2,0th.)

A strong solution of salicylic acid, for convenience in both dispensing
and prescribing, has long been a desideratum, and until recently no
practical way of overcoming the difficulty has been known.

Salicylic acid itself is very sparingly soluble in cold water, and
though readily dissolving by the aid of heat, nearly all separates on
cooling. Its alcoholic solution is not adaptable to the purpose — for when
diluted with water, the acid immediately separates.

Various methods have been recommended for rendering the acid
more soluble, namely : the use of various salts, such as sodium ortho-
phosphate, calcium chloride, ammonium acetate, etc.; and also by dis-
solving it in glycerin. None of these modes of procedure give a solution
which contains more than \ per cent, salicylic acid. The desideratum

20

Salicylic Acid,

/ Am. Jour. Pharm.
1 July, 1876.

seems to be a concentrated solution which will bear dilution with water
to any extent. Recently, a writer in the " Druggists' Circular," has
recommended the use of sodium biborate and glycerin in the propor-
tions of 1 part each of salicylic acid and the biborate to 16 parts glyce-
rin. This gives a solution containing about 6 per cent, salicylic acid,
and is freely miscible with water in all proportions.

While recently experimenting with this formula, it occurred to the
writer that probably a still stronger and more concentrated solution
might be obtained by some slight modifications. After several experi-
ments the following formula was adduced :

Acid, salicylic, pur., ..... gij

Sodii biborat., .......

Glycerinas, . . . . . . » q s.

Mix the acid and borax with f3iv glycerin, heat gently until dissolved,
then add q. s. glycerin to make the measure f^i. This solution con-
tains 25 per cent, salicylic acid, and can be diluted with either glycerin,
alcohol or water to any degree desired.

The advantages of a concentrated solution of this description can
scarcely be overestimated, as it affords a very convenient mode of both
prescribing and dispensing salicylic acid.

June 20th , 1876

ON SALICYLIC ACID.

BY CHARLES BECKER.

The addition of the phosphates of ammonium or sodium has been
recommended to increase the solubility of salicylic acid in water, but
these agents really amount to but very little, as a solvent of 1 part of
the acid in three of either phosphate, and fifty parts (by weight) of
water throws down a precipitate in less than twenty-four hours. An
addition of two parts of sulphite of sodium to one of salicylic acid, in
fifty parts of water, precipitates in a few hours. Borax in the propor-
tion of two parts to one of salicylic acid, and fifty of water, precipitates
slightly after twenty-four hours ; a solution of one part each of salicylic
acid and borax, in five parts of glycerin and twenty-five of water, is
permanent ; while the same proportion of borax, acid and glycerin, in
fifty parts of water, will precipitate after twenty-four hours. A solu-
tion of one part of acid to two of borax, in twelve parts of glycerin,
made with heat, is permanent ; but when one part of this solution is

\

RHEUM OFFICINALE, Baillon.
rom Neues Repertorium, 1876, January.

Amji?y,rI|>76arm-} Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale. 307

diluted with three parts of water, which makes it two parts of salicylic
acid, four of borax, twenty-four of glycerin and ninety of water, a
cloudiness appears in a few hours. One part of salicylic acid with one
part of water of ammonia (200) forms with ten parts of water a perma-
nent solution ; — this has a light-brownish color, a very faint odor of
ammonia, a very distinct, sweet taste of the acid, and a slight acid
reaction on litmus paper.

Salicylic acid is soluble in ten times its weight of dilute alcohol, at a
temperature of about 8o° F., in one and a half times its weight of
alcohol (0*835 sp. gr.), and in twice its weight of sulphuric ether It is
nearly insoluble in cold oil of turpentine, but hot turpentine dissolves
about 5 per cent, of its weight. Its alcoholic solution has a decided
acid reaction on litmus paper. An addition of one-fifth of 1 per cent,
of salicylic acid to aqueous infusions will preserve them for weeks ;
and the same proportion added to syrups made with fruit juices, while
it will not arrest fermentation after such has set in, will prevent the
same.

The acid used in the above experiments was of Schering's make, and
perfectly white and inodorous.

When one part of salicylic acid and two parts of olive oil are heated
together they form a homogenous mixture, admirably adapted for ap-
plication to surfaces. The oil will separate to some extent on standing
for a time, but agitation will easily combine it again.

REMARKS UPON RHUBARB AND RHEUM OFFICINALE.

BY F. A. FLUCKIGER.

In recent years the French missionaries have gained the advantage
of being able to seek for the rhubarb plant in Southeast Thibet, and
already in 1863 the apostolic vicar of the district, Monseigneur Chau-
veau, knew where to procure it. But it was in 1867 that Dabry, the
French Consul at Hankow, was first able to forward to the Society of
Acclimatization in Paris a living root, which, although it arrived in a
very bad condition, was, through the care of the Secretary, Dr. Sou-
beiran, grown in the garden of the Medical Faculty. The plant was
at once recognized by Baillon as belonging to a new species which was
described by him in the "Adansonia."1 After the plant had flowered,

1 "Adansonia," x (1868), 246. Descriptions appeared in this journal 1872, p. 546,
and 1874, p. 1 54.

308 Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale. {Amji°yu,r;8P76arm'

the description was supplemented by a figure in the " Proceedings of
the Association Frangaise pour l'Avancement des Sciences," for 1871.
It was also figured in the " Botanical Magazine," 1874, t. 6135.

In the summer of 1874 the author received roots from the late Mr.
Daniel Hanbury, and in 1875 the plant flowered for the first time in
Germany in the garden of the Pharmaceutisches Institut of the Uni-
versity of Strassburg, forming a stately, elegant plant. The flower
stalk reached its full height about the 25th of May, when the flower,,
which was at first almost horizontally drooping, appeared. The flower
opened on the 27th of May, and on the 9th of June it stood upright,,
and was in full bloom. In this case it was not, however, as described
by Baillon, " pallide virescens," but white. Fruit had appeared on the
20th of June, and by the 26th the flowering had nearly ended and the
stalk had attained its greatest height, i\ metres. Most of the fruit was-
ripe on the 20th of July, but the quantity in proportion to the number
of flowers was small. Professor Fllickiger says the flower and fruit of
Rheum officinale present no characters which distinguish it from other
species of Rheum.

At the author's request, Mr. Hanbury also distributed the Rheum
officinale to Messrs. Rufus Usher & Sons, the owners of the large rhu-
barb plantations at Bodicott, in Oxfordshire, the rhubarb cultivated
there being probably R. Rhaponticum. Professor Fllickiger has now
had an opportunity of comparing a root of R. officinale grown by him-
self with one of the gardens of the Paris School of Pharmacy, supplied
by Professor Planchon, and one obtained by Messrs. Usher & Sons,,
and treated and dried in the same way as their rhubarb for the market
is usually prepared. After this comparison, Professor Fluckiger is
able to say that the root of R. officinale undoubtedly bears the characters
of true Chinese rhubarb, and he thinks that with suitable treatment it
would yield a product identical in external appearance.

The first epidermis of the subterranean portion of R. officinale is re-
markable for a very bright brown-red color ; the roots of other species,,
at any rate those of R. Rhaponticum and R. Emodi, are only yellowish
or yellow-brown. But what still more distinguishes R. officinale is the
strong development of the root-stock, a large part of which occasion-
ally projects conically from the ground, and is provided with not very
numerous secondary roots of the thickness of a finger. Only the root-
stock approaches the marbled structure of the true rhubarb; the sec-

'Amj^y,rx8P76arm*} Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale, 309

ondary roots show the ordinary regular structure of this kind of axis,
and no trace of the star-like spots or knots which give the drug its
special appearance.

Dr. Schmitz, of Halle,1 was the first to point out the signification of
these knots, and to show that the official rhubarb is a root stock, which
for one year grows as a tuberous, thickened short stem, producing a
flower-stalk that dies off" completely, and that on this short stem ap-
peared numerous lateral buds that grow in a similar manner to the stem
from which they are produced. The knots, however, which Dr.
•Schmitz looks upon as starting from the medulla, appear, Professor
Fluckiger thinks, to be related to the vascular bundles of the leaf. In
consequence of the close arrangement of the leaves round the root-
stock the irregular net-like interwoven fibres stand very close together,
so that a tranverse section at the base of the leaf-stalks also give the
characteristic circular distribution of the knots. The fibres increase in
thickness independently, the inner portion of each separate knot con-
sisting of parenchyma, which behaves as bark tissue, and is surrounded
by a cambium ring. Outside the latter the fibre has the character of
the woody portion (xylem) to the extent that well perfected vessels ap-
pear in it.

The knots are, however, by no means peculiar to the true officinal
rhubarb, as they appear also in the so-called European rhubarbs. But
there is this very great difference, that they are to be found much more
plentifully and in a dense though irregularly arranged zone in the true
officinal drug as well as in the root-stock of Rheum officinale. But a
small number of isolated knots occur not unfrequently in the French or
English rhubarbs. This fact led Schmitz to say that the root-stock of
R. Emodiy Wallich, also possesses the characteristic markings of true
Chinese rhubarb, a statement that the author thinks needs limitation.
Especially, a remark connected with this, that probably a portion of
the Himalaya rhubarb obtained in the country of R. Emodi, might be
derived from that plant, is, Professor Fluckiger thinks, put beyond con-
sideration by the fact that no Himalayan rhubarb occurs in European
commerce. After careful consideration of the English and Indian
markets, Fluckiger and Hanbury felt bound not to perpetuate the name
*' Himalayan rhubarb " in their " Pharmacographia." Together with
innumerable other drugs, probably the roots of R. Emodi and other

1 Session of the Naturforscher Gesellchaft at Halle, Dec. ia, 1874.

310 Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale. }AmjJu?;,r-I8P7^rm*

nearly allied species which grow in the Himalayas and Thibet, are to be
met within the Indian bazaars, and once a couple of chests of such
Himalayan rhubarb strayed to England. These, however, as well as
authentic pieces of the root which were supplied by Wallich himself^
were deficient in the characters of true rhubarb.1 Practically, therefore,,
we have no varieties of rhubarb from the Himalayas. The brothers
Schlagintweit, in their journey through the western part of the Hima-
layas, met with Rheum Emodi, R. Moor cr oft1 anum, Wall., and R. aus-
trale, Don., but not with the collection or cultivation of true rhubarb.2

Similar with respect to the rhubarb of present commerce, opinions
are not wanting that it should be considered different from the so-called
Russian rhubarb. Thus, Berg is of opinion that this drug, at present
disappeared from commerce, should be attributed to another plant which
has sometimes been indicated as R. palmatum. To the author's knowl-
edge, however, no Rheum palmatum cultivated in Europe has yielded
roots resembling the true drug. But, in 1872, what appears to be a
more nearly allied plant was collected by Przewalski in the highlands
of Tangut, near the salt lake of Kokonor, in the province of Kansu
(lat. 370 N., long. xoo° E.), and described by Maximowicz as Rheum
palmatum, var. Tanguticum. According to the Russian botanist, this
plant, which is now cultivated at Erfurt, in Germany, is the plant from
which the once preferred Russian rhubarb was derived. Professor
Fliickiger, however, thinks that a decisive opinion upon the relation of
this Rheum Tanguticum to R. palmatum, at present cultivated in Eu-
ropean gardens, on the one hand, and R. officinale on the other, is not
at present possible; Tangut and Thibet lie so far asunder, that some
experience in the propagation of these two plants is desirable.

This uncertainty imparts interest to the notices of the origin and
commercial routes of the rhubarb coming into European trade that have
accumulated in the course of time. It appears probable that the Chi-
nese, in the thousandth year of their annals, which is earlier than our
chronology, employed rhubarb, and that very early caravans went from
Central China to Western Asia, to Bokhara, for instance, so that it is
possible that rhubarb spread westward in very early times. Acquaint-
ance with it in India in ancient times cannot be determined, inasmuch
as the Sanscrit language has no word to describe it. With the ques-

1 Pereira " Elements Mat. Med., II," part i (1852), p. 492.
2"Annales des Sciences Naturelles (Botanique)," vol. vi, p. 334.

Amjui^87h6"m } Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale. 3 1 1

tion whether the Rha pontica, Rha coma or Rha of the later Latin
writers was the drug of to-day, Professor Fluckiger does not deal ; but
he thinks the expression Rheum barbarwn or barbaricum, first appearing
in the sixth century, certainly relates to our drug, and this name ap-
pears to have gradually supplanted Rha ponticum. Probably it is spoken
of in the great geography of China, " Taithsing-i-thoring-tchi," when
it is said that rhubarb, u tai* hoang," a product of the province of Si-
ning-fu [east of the Sea of Koko-nor, already mentioned, in the pres-
ent province of Kanzu], was admitted into Tangut during the rule of
the dynasty of Tang as tribute from the Kouohtcheou district. This
dynasty ruled from A.D. 618 till A.D. 905, just at the time when the
name Rha barbarum was given to the drug in Europe. If there is not here
strict evidence of the identity of the Chinese drug, Tai-hoang, /. e.y
the great yellow [rootj, with Rha barbarum, the author thinks there is
the highest probability.

Esdrisi, the Arab geographer of the middle ages, in his u Geogra-
phy," written in 11 54, and based on oral communications from travel-
ers and the literature of the time, says of a certain district, " It is also
there that the Chinese rhubarb grows, and the root is found there in
abundance ; it is exported to many oriental and occidental countries."
The district indicated was the mountains near Buthink, where, accord-
ing to Esdrisi's account, the nardus (Nardostachys Jatamansi, D.C.)also
grew, and the musk deer lived. Professor Sprenger refers the notice
to the district lying between Hlassa and the Tengri-nor, the great
mountain- lake of Northeast Thibet.

w Reubarbe " is found entered among a large number of North
Asiatic and Indian products in the customs list of St. Jean d'Acre
(11 73 to 1 183). In a note on Marco Polo's Travels (Leipzig, 1855),
Biirk speaks of entire loads which the Dschingiskhan troops met with
at the conquest of the town of Lingtscheu (or Lant-scheu-feu), east of
Sining in 1227, and which were very acceptable. Wilhelm von Ruys-
brock (Rubruquis), who, in 1253 m tne seryice of King Ludwig,
reached the court of the Mongol Khan Mangu, found there u reu-
barba " in frequent use, though he did not reach further than the Kara-
korum mountains. Twenty years later, the famous traveler Marco
Polo pressed much further eastward, and especially among other places
to Tangut, to which province so many notices on rhubarb refer it. In
speaking of Suctur, the present province of Kanzu, Marco Polo says:

3 1 2 Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale. {Am^y%!^'

144 La grant province general, ou ces trois provinces sont, est Tanqut.
Et partoutes les montagnes de ces provinces se trouve le reobarbe in
grant habondance. Et illec l'achatent les marchans et les portent par
le monde." And further, " Ci diet de la cite* de Siguy : Siguy est une

rtres noble cite et grande Et si y a si grant plante* de gent que

H'on n'en puet savoir le nombre, .... mais ils ne sont point hommes
•4'armes, ains sont marchans et gens moult soubtilz de tous mestiers.
jEt si a en ceste cite moult de philosophies et moult de mires [me'di-
<cins ?]. . . . Et es montaignes de ceste cite croist reobarbe et gin-
tgembre aussi a grant plante." Professor Fluckiger does not think with
5Pauthier, Marco Polo's editor and commentater, that by Siguy is to be
^understood Su-tscheu in the province of Kiang-su, but Sining in the
western part of the province of Schen-si. The doubt remains, how it
was possible that ginger (gingembre) could occur together with rhu-
barb ; but that rhubarb was wanting in the comparatively well-known
province of Kiang-su is certain.

As a Venetian, Marco Polo naturally turned his attention to rhu-
barb. It is known that the Venetians as well as their neighbors the
Genoese obtained supplies of Asiatic products not only through the
Red Sea and across Egypt, but that their commercial routes from
Central Asia found an exit also by the Sea of Azov or the Syrian
coasts. In this way, possibly, rhubarb may have been supplied when
the Sultan of Egypt interposed difficulties to transmit through his do-
minions.

During the whole of the middle ages rhubarb does not appear to
liave been a very important article of commerce. " Rabarbara " occurs
rin the commercial police regulations of the city of Bruges in 1380, as
an import from Italy. In 1445, rhubarb was imported into Dantzic from
Riga, and it was one of the valuable drugs which, in 1497, were sought
in the first doubling of the Cape of Good Hope. The Portuguese and
Italians, who reached India at the commencement of the sixteenth
century, obtained from Calicut and Cochin rhubarb that had been im-
ported from China vid Malacca.

Garcia de Orta gives further information respecting the commercial
routes which the trade of that time (1563) struck out. It reached Or-
muz in the Persian Gulf, made its way through Mesopotamia to Al-
eppo and thence to Alexandria, where the Venetians took it in hand.
Garcia states that rhubarb was supplied direct from Canton to Ormuz.

Am'j3^\w™-} Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale, 313

Like other oriental products, rhubarb appears to have been confined
principally to land routes, hence the very high price of the drug. Ac-
cording to Leber, in 1542, a pound of cloves cost 3 livres, pepper 15
-sols., but rhubarb 18 livres 15 sols., whilst saffron was only 4 livres 10
sols. In Ulm, in 1596, rhubarb was of higher value than opium.

In the seventeenth century, also, according to a contemporary notice,
rhubarb reached Europe by the same different routes w across the In-
dian Ocean, through the Kingdom of Cascar (Kashgar), through Tar-
tary, Astrachan and through Russia, or to Moscow, and finally through
the Kingdom of Thibet, Mogor and Persia."

Holland, Smyrna and Constantinople became emporiums for rhu-
barb, so that not only Russian or Muscovitic, but also Holland and
Turkish rhubarbs were spoken of. Gradually this trade was diverted
into other courses. Russia entered into treaties with China, and the
commerce between the two great empires was concentrated at the
market of Kiachta, in Southern Siberia. The good rhubarb henceforth
took its way through Siberia and Russia, whilst only the poorer sorts
were brought for export to Canton, the only port in China at that time
open. The further changes that the commerce in rhubarb have under-
gone have been described elsewhere.1

Professor Fluckiger then proceeds to glance at the more recent
notices which have appeared concerning the countries in which rhu-
barb is collected. The famous description of the Jesuit mission only
states that the native country of the principal kind of rhubarb was the
province of Se-tschueu (Suitschuan) ; also the snow mountains from
Sue-cheu to Leang-tcheou ; and, lastly, Thibet, where, however, only
a poorer root was found. Father J. B. der Halde, to whom we owe
this information, bases it upon the testimony of eye witnesses, who do
not, however, appear to have given any special attention to rhubarb.

More trustworthy information is given in an account of a journey
from Pekin to Sz'tshwan (Oct., 1871 to May, 1872) by F. V. Richtofcn,
who mentions that amongst the products of the province of Sz'tshwan
(or Sui-tschuan, at the head of the great Kiang river) the rhubarb grows
wild only an the highest hills. The central line of its occurrence runs
through the Bayanksra range (southwest of the salt sea of Koko-nor),
where the yellow river (Hwangho) takes its rise. From this range the
rhubarb extends through the highlands north and south. In the south

1 " Pharmacographia," pp. 443-445.

3 1 4 Rhubarb and Rheum Officinale. } Am)l^'J7^rm'

it occurs on the hills in the more immediate neighborhood of Kwan-
hien, but the better sorts begin first ten or twelve days' journey further
north.

The principal markets for rhubarb are Sining-fu (just as in Marco
Polo's time) in Kansu and Kwanhien in Sz'tshwan. That which comes
from the first named place is known as Schensi rhubarb, and obtains
the highest price, notwithstanding that the inhabitants of Sz'tshwan are
convinced that they produce a better sort. In the western part of the
plain of Tshing-tu-fu a kind of rhubarb is cultivated in the fields ; but
it is far inferior to the wild plant which does not allow of cultivation,
and resembles that which is produced in the frontier hills between Sz'
tshwan, Hupe and Shensi.

Evidently, therefore, the rhubarb plant is distributed through an
immense tract of country in the central provinces of China ; it is con-
sequently quite possible that several species yield the same drug.

Von Richthofen's statement that the best sorts are obtained from
wild plants is remarkable, as formerly it was generally accepted that
the plants were cultivated. The contradiction is probably explained in
a letter received by Collin1 from the missionary Biet in 1871, accord-
ing to which the rhubarb plant succeeds best, at any rate in Upper
Thibet, in the land richly manured by cattle surrounding the mountain
huts and stables. The same thing may be said of Rumex alpinus^ so
nearly allied to the species of Rheum, in the mountains of Germany,
where it grows most luxuriantly in such land, although it is not the sub-
ject of special culture.

In 1870, the apostolic vicar Chauveau reported from Thibet that
the export of rhubarb from that land had almost ceased, and that no-
body cultivated it. It appears, therefore, that the principal seat of the
rhubarb production must be considered still to lie in regions mentioned
in the middle ages. The natural central point for its export is the city
of Hankow in the province of Hupe, on the upper Kiang, or Yan-tse-
Kiang. Nevertheless, the yearly export from Hankow to Shanghai
does not exceed 250,000 kilos, and it is probable that the general con-
sumption of the drug is falling off.

From the foregoing, Professor Fluckiger draws the following con-
clusions :

luDes Rhubarbes" (Paris, 1871), p. 24-

AmjuJCi8P76?rm } Selections from the Banish Journals. 315

1. In Rheum officinale, we possess for the first time a plant, the root-
stock of which agrees with the true rhubarb.

2. This kind grows in Thibet, the northeast district of which prob-
ably formerly yielded good rhubarb, but appears to do so no longer.

3. Whether Rheum officinale occurs in Sui tschuan, Schensi and
Kansu, from which provinces the true rhubarb is obtained, remains to
be seen.

4. Also, we require more exact information respecting R. palmatumy
var. Tanguticum. The ofKcial rhubarb formerly came from the provinces
mentioned under 3, at one time by land, at another through Canton,
reaching the sea at Ormuz, Syria, Asia Minor or South Russia, ac-
cording to existing political relations.

5. Only when China became more accessible, this drug took its
natural way to Hankow, the chief market of the Chinese Interior, and
from thence to the sea. — Pharmaceutical Journal and Transactions, 18765,
April 29, from Neues Repe-t.f Phar., Jan.

SELECTIONS FROM THE DANISH JOURNALS.

BY HANS M. WILDER.

Nitric Acid. — It is customary to reject the first thin distillate which
will contain the hydrochloric acid present. O. H. Schytt calls atten-
tion to the following method which does away with the trouble of
changing receiver and watching the distillate ; heat, till dry, in a sand-
bath (in a porcelain capsule), saltpetre and nitric acid in the proportion
of one fluidounce of acid to every five pounds of the salt. Every
trace of hydrochloric acid will in this way have been removed, and the
distillate from the saltpetre so treated will be pure nitric acid. (The
editor remarks that this method has been recommended, among others,
by J. BischofFin his " prakt. Arbeit, im chem. Labor.," 1862). — Archiv
Jor Pharm., 1876, p. 151.

Extract of Beef — Bouchardat warns against the incautious use of
this extract, under the mistaken notion that an increase of dose will be
followed by a corresponding increase of benefit. Both he and Stuart
Cooper have shown that large doses of the extract are quite injurious.
He further asserts that it cannot at all be compared to meat-juice (ex-
pressed in the cold from raw meat) as a strength giver. — Ibid., p. 160,
from Bull. Thkrap., 1875, Nov.

316 Selections from the Banish Journals. {Am^^rm'

Phosphorus. — The solution of phosphorus in alcohol generally takes
from 12 to 24 hours, and the alcohol has moreover to be kept warm
all the time. It is, therefore, proposed to use glycerin as a solvent.
Phosphorus dissolves quite readily by shaking for several minutes with
warm glycerin ; an addition of warm alcohol will prevent any deposit
of phosphorus in cooling. — Ibid,, p. 162, from Apoth. Zeit.y 1875, No. 35.

Assay of Cinchona. — Handry recommends the following as a very
quick and sufficiently reliable method : Put into a beaker-glass (or
other convenient utensil) 10 grams bark in coarse powder, and 20 grams
ammonia water ; stir for several minutes, and add i$ccm. ether, stir
again, let stand till clear and decant the ether into a bottle. The
warmth of the hand will be sufficient to evaporate the ether remaining
in the mixture. Now repeat the treatment with ether 5 to 6 times,
taking care not to add the ether before the remainder of the former
has entirely evaporated. The difference in the weight of the beaker,
before and after the ether treatment, indicates the amount of quinia.

Cinchonia is estimated by treating this residual bark with chloro-
form in the same way as above. — Ibid., p. 163, from J. de Pharm. et de
Chim., 1876, p. 208.

Antidote to Strychnia. — The East Indian physicians recommend
nicotia as the surest antidote, which is given in exceedingly small
-quantities in sherry several times a day. In default of nicotia, a decoc-
tion of tobacco leaves ( \ ounce to a pint) is given. — Ibid., p. 167.

Adulteration of Arrow Root. — H. P. Madsen, received some time ago,
an original package of arrow root, the appearance of which was all that
could be desired, and stood the test of the Danish Pharmacopoeia, par-
ticularly that with muriatic acid, very well. It did dissolve completely
in boiling water, but did not form a thick mucilage even when a very
large quantity was dissolved. Examined under the microscope, the
arrow root in question presented elliptical grains, about three times
larger than those of maranta, and mostly provided with a well-devel-
oped hilum, which latter characteristic points to tacca fecula from tacca
pennatifida. The grains of canna fecula (from canna coccinea) are of
similar shape and size, but the hilum is quite indistinct. The package
was consequently returned.

He mentions also having received two packages with damaged
arrow root. About the first cask there could not be any doubt, the

Amj-Sy"'i87h6!rm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 317

musty smell pervaded the whole contents; the second cask, however,
presented nothing unusual in the top layer, but the last half of it was
found to be musty. Mr. Madsen, therefore, recommends to examine
the whole package, and not to be satisfied with a small sample from
the top. — Ntj Pharm. Tid.^ 1876, p. 140.

Pharmacy in Sweden. — The new poison law dates from January 7th,,
1876. The following abstract will give a fair idea of fts strict
requirements :

Arsenious acid must not be manufactured except by special permis-
sion, and cannot be imported by other persons than apothecaries and
those manufacturers for whom arsenic is a necessity. It can be re-
tailed only by apothecaries, and then only on a recent prescription (or
order) from a physician, veterinary surgeon or dentist. It may be sold,,
further, to well-known savants and to other people licensed to its use.
It must not, on any account, be sold for poisoning animals, or for con-
servation of corpses.

The sworn assistants (every graduate in Sweden is sworn to his pro-
fession, so to speak, before being permitted to serve as such) can only
sell arsenic on a prescription ; the other sales can only be made by the
apothecary himself.

The responsibility is put somewhat curiously : The pharmaceutical
assistant and the superintendent of a factory are responsible for any
and every transgression ; while the apothecary and manufacturer only
are responsible in so far as they themselves are parties to it. — Ibid.r.

P- J73- •

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Solution of Albuminate of Mercury for Hypodermic Injection. — Prof.
Bamberger dilutes the albumen of hens eggs with 4 times its volume
of water, strains through cloth and passes the liquid through a plaited
filter. Should the filtrate not be perfectly clear, it is mixed with a few
drops of glycerin, well shaken, and after 10 or 12 hours filtered. It
is important that an excess of albumen as well as of corrosive subli-
mate be avoided. To attain this, Dr. Hamberger uses carbonate of
sodium as an indicator. To a small portion of the albumen solution,
a solution of corrosive sublimate of known strength is gradually added,,,
and a drop of the liquid occasionally tested with the soda solution ; the

318 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {Am,jSy%?7^rltt*

appearance of a yellowish or reddish color indicates an excess of cor-
rosive sublimate. Sufficient of the albumen solution is now added
until the precipitate by carbonate of sodium has a purely white color.
The amount of chloride of sodium necessary for affecting a permanent
solution is now ascertained by adding sufficient of its aqueous solution
until merely a faint cloudiness remains. From the figures thus obtained
the necessary proportions are readily calculated. The mixture is set
aside for two days, then filtered and kept in small well-corked vials in
a cool place. The solution is made to contain i per cent, of mercury
albuminate, when iocc. will yield 0*171 sulphide of mercury. — Zeitscbr.
d. oester. Apoth. Ver., 1876, No. 10 and 12.

Solution of Ammonium Acetate. — J. C. Thresh purchased seven sam-
ples, only two of which were colorless aud had a neutral reaction.
They varied in specific gravity between i*ou and 1*018 and the per-
centage of ammonium acetate between 4*6 and 7*9. — Pharm. your,
and Trans., 1876, April 1, p. 781.

Glycerol of Subacetate of Lead is recommended by Balmanno Squire
as a very useful application in chronic eczema and other skin diseases.
It is prepared of the same strength as the liquor plumbi subacetatis, sub-
stituting glycerin for the water. The heating is effected in an oil bath,
care being taken to keep the temperature a little below the boiling
point of glycerin, and when the reaction has been accomplished, the
solution is to be filtered while hot, since after cooling it is too viscid
to pass through the filter. For use it is diluted with from three to
seven times its quantity of glycerin, as occasion requires.— Pbar. Jour,
and Trans., May 6, p. 881.

C. D. Parry proposes to mix equal measures of liquor plumbi suba-
cetatis and glycerin and to evaporate by gentle heat until the water is
driven off.— Ibid., May 27, p. 942.

Phosphorus Pills. — Messrs. Allen and Hanburys suggest the follow-
ing formula as an efficient sustitute for that of the British " Pharmaco-
poeia," which combines the phosphorus with tolu balsam and yellow
wax : 2 grains of phosphorus dissolved in sufficient bisulphide of car-
bon, are mixed with powdered soap and guaiac resin, of each gr. xxxv,
glycerin gtt. xii and powdered liquorice rootgr. xii or sufficient to make
a mass weighing gr. c. The bisulphide evaporates readily, and the
mass formed is of good consistence, easily manipulated, readily misci-

*

Am'jiiy,ri8>76arm'} Gleanings from the Fortigu Journals. 319

ble with other remedies, and what is most important readily soluble. —
Ibid., May 20, p. 921.

Pancreatic Meat Emulsion has been brought to the notice of the
Berlin Apothecaries' Society, by F. Riedel, who obtained from Dr.
Rosenthal the following formula for its preparation : 250 grams of
finely scraped beef are triturated in a mortar with 25 grams of pan-
creatic liquid (from the hog) and warm water, until a homogenous,
light reddish brown emulsion-like mixture results, which is injected
per anum with some pressure, the bowels having been previously
cleansed by warm water injection. It is stated that persons have thus
been nourished, who for months were unable to swallow or digest food
taken in the ordinary way. — Phar. Zeit., No. 18.

The Preservation of Raw Meat is effected by A. Herzen by immers-
ing it for 24 or 36 hours in a solution containing 150 boric acid, 30
borax, 15 table salt and 5 saltpetre in 2,000 parts of water. The
meat retains its fresh appearance and may afterwards be packed in
barrels. — Chem. Centralbl., 1876, No. 15.

Black Varnish for Leather. — Hager gives the composition of a com-
mercial article as follows : 30 parts shellac, 2 p. mastic, 1 p. sandarac,
1 p. Venice turpentine, 1 p. castor oil, 145 p. 95 per cent, alcohol and
sufficient nigrosin (anilin black), — Apotheker-Zeit., 1876, No. 9.

Nickelplating. — W. Baker and J. Unvin use the following compo-
sition of the solution : 100 p. nickel sulphate, 53 tartaric acid, 14 caustic
soda and 100 parts of water. — Ber. d. deutsch. chem. Ges., 1876, 109.

The bark of Rhamnus Jrangula, which has recently been frequently
recommended as a reliable cathartic, has been the subject of a curious
observation by Dr. Lamm, of Stockholm. Finding that a bark required
double or even treble the usual dose, he ascertained that it had been
recently collected, and in comparing it with a bark known to be three
or four years old, obtained much better and prompter results with the
latter. The inefficacy of the fresh bark may account for the disuse
into which Rhamnus frangula has occasionally fallen. Fristedt men-
tions (1873) tnat tne recent Dai"k produces colic and vomiting, and the
last edition of the Norwegian " Pharmacopoeia " requires the bark to
kept for one year before it is used medicinally. — Zeits. Oesterr. Apoth.
Ver., 1876, p. 156.

320 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. }Amjifyu,rl8P76arm-

Hops as a Ferment. — It is usually assumed that the addition of hops
in beer-brewing has the effect or retarding fermentation, in conse-
quence of the precipitation of albuminous substances by its tannin and
volatile oil. Sacc, however, believes that hops support fermentation,
and that they contain a peculiar ferment of greater fermentative power
than beer yeast ; this ferment he assumes to be soluble in water, and
to be not destroyed by boiling. As a proof of this, he cites the man-
ner in which hops are employed in the United States for the prepara-
tion of yeast and in bread-baking. — Pbar. Cent. Halle, 1876, No. 11.

Composition of Malt. — W. G. Valentin reports the following compo-
sition of two samples of pale malt :

Starch, . . . . . .44-15 45*13

Other carbohydrates (60 — 70 per cent, consist of fermentable
sugars), inulin (PKiihnemann's sinistrin), some other bodies
soluble in cold water, .
Cellular matter, ....

Fat, .....

Albuminoids: at sol. in alcohol, sp. gr. -820, and

in cold water, . . -63

bt sol. in cold water, and at 68° C. 3*23
cf insol. in cold, but sol. in water

at 68° C, . . . 2-37

dt insol. at 68 — 700 C, but sol. in

cold water (albumin proper), . '48
e, insol. in cold water, and at 700 C. 6*38

Ash, .....
Water, ....

21*23

19-39

• "'57

10*09

1-65

1*96

•46

3*12

1-36

'37

849

13-09

I3-8?

2-60

I*92

5-83

7 '47

IOO-I2

).

99-76

— Pharm. Jour, and Trans., 1876, April 15, p. 826.

Volumetric estimation of Carbolic Acid. — Landolt has proposed (Ber. d*.
deut. Chem. Ges., iv, p. 770) to estimate this acid by precipitating its
aqueous solution with bromine water, and weighing the washed and
dried tribromophenol which is produced according to the equation:
C6H5.OH-j-6Br.=C6H2Br3.OH-f-3HBr. Owing to the volatility of
the tribromophenol, W. F. Koppeschaar suggests to make a volumetric
determination by adding a known volume of titrated bromine water, which
is more than sufficient to change all the phenol present into tribromo-
phenol, and then titrate the excess of bromine in the usual manner by

AmjuJl0yl^I8P76arm• } The International Exposition. 3 2 r

adding potassium iodide and estimating the iodine by sodic hyposulphite,
with starch as the indicator. It is necessary to avoid the loss of
bromine by evaporation. Practical results have also been obtained by-
using, instead of bromine, a mixture of 5NaBr+NaBr03, made by
acting with bromine in excess upon caustic soda, evaporating to dry-
ness and mixing well by trituration; if pure, '751 grams of this mix-
ture are required for *i gram of phenol. In using this mixture,,
hydrochloric acid is added to liberate the bromine, otherwise, the mani.
pulation is essentially the same as before. A mixture of the corres-
ponding potassium salts appears to be less serviceable. — Phar. Jour, and
Trans., April 15, p. 821-824.

NOTES ON THE INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION.

BY THF EDITOR.
n-

At the Paris exposition of 1867, the exhibits of each nation were arranged ria
spaces radiating from a central building, which was surrounded by several encircling
avenues of an oval outline, these avenues separating the various groups of raw and
manufactured materials from each other. It was thus possible, by passing along
these concentric avenues, to examine all the goods of the same class that were
exhibited by the different nations represented, thus affording great facilities for
reviewing and comparing the natural resources and industries in any special class,,
of all the countries exhibiting. This plan, admirable in theory, proved, however,,
a failure, in so far as many nations could not fill the space allotted for the different
groups, either for the entire want or comparative non-importance of the special
industries, so that the otherwise unavoidable blanks had to be filled with goods
from other groups. Notwithstanding this drawback, the arrangement offered obvi-
ous advantages, which, viewed from another standpoint, are counterbalanced by the
arrangement of the present exposition, whereby the most important industries can
be displayed to the* best advantage, and a bird's-eye view obtained of the total pro-
ductions of each country.

While it must be acknowledged that the general plan of classification, as adopted
by the Centennial Commission of the United States, has, in the main, been adhered,
to also in the arrangement of the special displays, still there are discrepancies,,
which render the systematic study of any particular branch of industry a matter
involving considerable labor, often increased by the long journeys from one build-
ing to another distant one, the intercourse, however, being facilitated by a narrow-
gauge railroad, with frequently running trains, which convey the visitor to within
the immediate neighborhood of all the important buildings. To illustrate the dif-
ficulty hinted at, we may briefly mention that the Main Building contains the greater
portion of the fixed and essential oils, while very important displays of the same
class of goods are also found in the Agricultural Building, where, likewise, liquor-

19

The International Exposition.

( Am. Jour. Pharm
t July, 1876.

^cc root and liquorice from Italy, a number of indigenous drugs, etc , are observed.
These variations in the arrangement are partly due to the prominence assumed by
such articles as products of the soil of some of the countries, partly to the fact that
many exhibitors have brought forward and displayed in their cases goods belonging
to several groups; and, to a considerable extent, they are due to the desire of dis-
playing most effectively the products of one country as an unbroken whole. The
latter is particularly noticeable in the exhibits of several British colonies, Egypt, and
some other countries, where articles of food form an important portion of the dis-
play in their respective departments in the Main Building.

It is not our purpose in these " Notes" to give a list of the exhibitors or enume-
rate all the objects of interest to the pharmacist and druggist, nor is it the intention
of going much into detail, or of attempting to minutely discuss the merits of all. The
latter is possible only for the members of the juries of the different classes, who are
afforded ample opportunities for closely inspecting, and, if necessary, testing every-
thing which has been entered for competition. Visitors are not permitted to handle
the specimens ; but we are under obligations to many private exhibitors as well as
foreign commissioners for courtesies extended to us. The main object of these
;< Notes " will be to convey to the readers of the " Journal " a general idea of the
• main character of the Exhibition, as far as it relates to articles more directly relating
to the drug and apothecary business.

In a country like the United States, where proprietary medicines are largely con-
sumed by the public, the almost total absence of these preparations is quite noteworthy.
Since the admission of nostrums to the Exposition was wisely prohibited by the
Commission, it seems strange that an extensively sold cherry pectoral and other
preparations by the same manufacturer should have been permitted to occupy a
space here. If we except one or two minor nostrums, and perhaps also the largely
represented class of proprietary elixirs, which, in character, are about intermediate
between legitimate pharmaceutical preparations and nostrums, we find nothing in
the American department to mar the pleasing effect of the exhibits in this line ;
even the numerous hair dyes and invigorators are noticeable from their almost com-
plete absence. From some of the foreign countries, however, quite a number of
such specialties have been sent, yet mostly in such small numbers, and often so un-
sightly in external appearance, as to attract little notice. To this there are, however,
some exceptions, and, to judge from the display of a foreign cherry cordial, it may
may be presumed that this nostrum is of some importance in its native country, and
there, probably, takes the place of the numerous bitters and tonics which, in this
country, furnish the necessary alcohol, in the scarcely disguised garb of medicine,
to those who do not consume alcoholic liquids as beverages.

What naturally attracts the prominent attention of the pharmacist and druggist,
is the display of drugs, in which, however, some countries are insufficiently repre-
sented ; others compensate for this shortcoming by exhibiting the medicinal resources
to advantage, and in a manner inviting to closer study. We have noticed but few
exhibits — one in the U. S. Department, and one or two in the enclosure of foreign
countries, which show commercial drugs from foreign countries without any
additional preparation or purification. Alexandria senna, West Indian canella
alba and similar articles, in our opinion, show neither the resources nor the industry

Ann. Jour. Pharm.|
July, 1876. j

The International Exposition.

323

of the United States, unless the former were exhibited, for instance, in connection
with the fluid extract, or the latter with the volatile oil or oleo-resin prepared from it
in this country, the crude being then valuable only as the source of the manufactured
article.

The display of drugs indigenous to the United States, is not as extensive as
might have been expected 5 still there are some very creditable collections, and
more may perhaps be found in the Agricultural building, where we observed a
specimen of the bark of Celastrus scandens, marked Solanum dulcamara, the
parties having been undoubtedly misled by the name of bittersweet, which is com-
monly used to designate both drugs. But we shall speak more fully of our indig-
enous materia medica on a future occasion, and now proceed to the crude drugs of
foreign countries and their various products.

The gem of the exhibit of drugs, in our opinion, is found in the enclosure of the
Dutch colonies, where the cultivation of the cinchonas is shown in an admirable
manner. The introduction of the cinchonas into Java, and subsequently into India
and other countries, is now a matter of history which has recorded also the names
of those who were active in introducing the plants and observing the most favorable
conditions under which the various species are most successfully cultivated. It is
well known that the first attempt on a large scale was made in Java in 1856 by
Hasskarl, while Pahud was colonial minister in the Netherlands. But it was
chiefly after the cultivation was commenced in British India in i860, and the results
of the observations made in the two countries were compared, that the plantations
assumed not only large dimensions, but that also the yield and quality of the bark
gave promise of undoubted success.

Examining these colonial products, we notice first nine photographs, comprising
views of different cinchona plantations in Java, and of a propagating house, where
the young plants are nursed until they are fit for being transplanted to the plantation.
Another photograph shows a number of workmen engaged in stripping the bark,
and the last one the manner in which it is dried and packed. We now turn our
attention to the botanical specimens, of which there are eleven distinct varieties, of each
a flowering branch and one with developed capsules being fastened upon card board,
together with three specimens of bark taken respectively from the branchlets, the
larger branches and the trunk. In addition thereto, each variety is accompanied by
a card, upon which is fastened a transverse and a longitudinal section of the stem,
so that upon the two cards all the characteristics, morphological as well as structural,
can be readily studied. There is also of each variety, a log about two feet in
length, covered with the bark, and one end cut so as to show a longitudinal and
a transverse section of both the wood and bark. Samples of bark of each variety,
several being in bales, complete this interesting collection, which is so handsome
and complete in itself as to challenge the admiration of all interested in this
industry.

The collection embraces eight distinct species of Cinchona, one or two of which
are not rich in alkaloids, namely : C. rnicrantha, Ruiz and Pa<von, C. Hasskarliana,
Miquel, C. lancifolia var. discolor Karsten, C. officinalis Lin., C. caloptera Miq.t
C. succirubra Pauon, C. calisaya Wed. and C. Pahudiana Hoivard. Of the latter
species, there is also the variety lanceolata Miq., and calisaya is represented by no

324

The International Exposition.

f Am. Jour. Pharm,
1 July, 1876.

less than three varieties, namely: 1, raised from seed brought by Hasskarl 5 zr
from seed sent by Schuhkraft, and 3, by Ledger from Bolivia. The branches of
the first variety have broadly ovate leaves with a tapering base; those of the second
are much narrower and lanceolate, and of the third variety, ovate and lanceolate
leaves are presented.

The Javanese exhibition of cinchonas would be incomplete without the display
of the cinchona alkaloids, which together with some of their salts, are shown in var-
ious stages of purity; likewise the mixed alkaloids of red bark which have been
used with good results in the Indian hospitals and Europe (see £>uinetum in March
number, p. 134). These preparations are manufactured in Java, and although they
are not of the dazzling whiteness in which we expect to see them here, no doubt
can be entertained of their purity, a minute quantity of coloring matter excepted.

Adjoining the Netherlands, we find in the enclosure of Mexico an instructive col-
lection of medicinal plants, sent here by the Sociedad Mexicana de Hktoria Naturah
For the present, we notice more especially a dried specimen of Cinchona Calisaya,,
including flowers, fruit and bark. Cinchona seeds were distributed in Mexico in
1866 by the Emperor Maximilian, but for several years afterwards the cultivation*
was not successful (see "Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1870, p. 542). This seems to be differ-
ent now, if we may be permitted to judge from botanical specimens of the plants-
and samples of their barks exhibited by Mr. Hugo Fink, of Cordoba, and which
were grown by him in the neighborhood of that city. Three species are represented,,
namely, Cinchona officinalis, Lin. (S. condaminea), C. succirubra and C. calisaya.
Two botanical specimens (flowering and fruiting branch) are shown of each species.,
and though in beauty of preparation and preservation they are not equal to the Java
specimens, yet, in the absence of the latter, they would be regarded not only as in-
teresting and instructive, but even as beautiful. Specimens of quilled bark ac-
company each species, and of Cinchona officinalis a section of the trunk, 9 years old,,
nearly 2 feet long and about 6 inches in diameter is shown, with the bark still ad-
hering.

Passing westward in the Main Building, we meet cinchona barks again in the
American department in connection with the displays of Powers & Weightman and
of Rosengarten & Sons, where they are shown as the source of quinia and the allied
alkaloids exhibited by both firms in large quantities and in a variety of combinations.
The barks exhibited by Rosengarten & Sons comprise samples of red, Calisaya,
hard Pitaya and cinchona barks, grown in India and Ceylon. Powers & Weight-
man show original packages and separate samples of Calisaya, red and other South
American barks, and samples of their powder; also, East Indian bark from Cinch,
succirubra and C. officinalis, the latter partly of the first crop and partly of the
renewed kind. It will be remembered that in India the bark is partly removed from
one side of the tree in such a manner as not to disturb the cambium layer, after
which the wound is covered up, when the bark will again be formed, and, after
some years, will have attained sufficient thickness to be collected as renewed bark.
Treated in this manner, the tree is made to yield several successive crops of bark.

The cinchona alkaloids and their salts form a prominent feature of the exhibits of
the two Philadelphia firms mentioned, more particularly the sulphates which are
shown in bulk in large quantities ; the weight of the quinia sulphate in one glass

^mjuiy"r;876arm* } The International Exposition. 325

case of Powers & Weightman,s being 1,003 ounces. Chinoidin is likewise to be
found in both places in very considerable quantities.

Among the new or rarer salts exhibited by both firms, may be mentioned the
handsomely-crystallized bisulphates of the four cinchona alkaloids, which are more
•soluble than the sulphates ordinarily employed— the hydrobromates, hydriodates,
hydrochlorates, phosphates, acetates, citrates, etc., of one or more cinchona alka-
loids. Similar salts of the same alkaloids are likewise shown by Ch. T. White &
Co., and amongst them is particularly noticeable a very handsomely-crystallized
sample of valerianate of quinia. In this connection it may not be amiss to again
call attention to the incorrectness of naming the compounds of alkaloids with hydro-
bromic acid bromides; since in these combinations the hydrogen of HBr is not dis-
placed, their correct appellation is hydrobromates.

Directly opposite to the chemical exhibits of the United States is the chemical
section of the German empire, in which we find compounds of the cinchona alka-
loids, exhibited only by Jul. Jobst, of Stuttgart, the other quinia manufacturers being
not represented. Besides several of the salts mentioned above, we find here crys-
talline masses of a compound marked Chininum sulfuricum biacidum (tetrasulphuri-
cum), and which,therefore,appears to be a definite compound of one molecule of quinia
and four of sulphuric acid. The results of Jobst and Hesse's observation, mentioned
in another place (see page 328), are shown in small samples of phenated muriate and
sulphate of quinia, named by them phenylmuriate and phenylsulphate, names which,
at least for pharmaceutical purposes, appear to us to be less desirable than the for-
mer, because one may be confounded with the sulphophenate (sulphocarbolate) from
which it is entirely distinct. Since the new salts liberate carbolic acid very readily
sunder various circumstances, they may probably be destined to become important
•remedies. Salicylate of quinia, the only specimen noticed by us, is exhibited by
the same firm ; also, the handsomely-crystallized compound of quinia with anethol,
•discovered some years ago by O. Hesse. It has the taste of quinia and anise, and
when heated evolves anethol. The conchinin (Hesse's) and its preparations exhib-
ited, are identical with Pasteur's quinidia ; but the chinamin is an alkaloid, discovered
by O. Hesse in the bark of Cinch, succirubra, cultivated in British India, and the
name of which we rendered with quinamina ("Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1872, p. 302),
when noticing Hesse's original papei. The phenylsulphate of cinchonidia, we
suppose, belongs to the same class of compounds noticed above, but we do not e-
snember having met with an account of it.

It will be observed that in this exhibit — notwithstanding the large case and the
small bottles by which attention is first attracted to it — we meet the results of very
considerable original research.

Some distance to the northwest of the former, and just at the entrance to the
exhibits of Jamaica, we observe a stem, 22 feet high, of Cinchona succirubra. We
are informed by Mr. Robt. Thomson, Superintendent of the Government Botonical
Gardens, at Kingston, Jamaica, and commissioner to this exposition, by
whom the very interesting and instructive collection from Jamaica has been very
judiciously arranged, and to a considerable extent furnished, that the cultivation of
cinchonas was commenced there by the government in 1868, the plantation now
consisting of 300 acres, about 40 acres having been planted annually. The

326

The International Exposition.

f Am Jour. Pharm.
1 July, 1876.

cliraatal conditions requisite for this culture are found in the Blue mountains, at a
height of from 4,000 to 6,00c feet above the sea, where the temperature rarely falls
below 500 F. or rises above 700, and where the necessary humidity is afforded.
The first crop of bark is expected to be realized about the tenth year from the time
of planting out, as has been the case in the plantations of India. Mr. Thomson
exhibits, however, the bark from three trees, seven years old, of which C. Calisaya
yielded 3, C. succirubra 4 and C. officinalis 2 lbs. of bark. According to the
analyses, made by De Vrij' and Howard, some time ago, the last named species
does not promise to become rich in alkaloids. Moreover, it does not grow so
vigorously as the two preceding species, and, as will be seen above, yields less bark
in the same period ; for these reasons its cultivation has not been extended for some
years past. The two other species, of which the succirubra is the most rapid
grower, yielded, to the two quinologists named before, very satisfactory results, so
that Jamaica may be expected to produce, in a few years, a steady supply of excel-
lent cinchona bark.

With the above, we have exhausted all the fine specimens of cinchonas and theiir
products. The India department of the exhibition contains, from the India
Museum, at London, an excellent collection of articles of Materia Medica from
the East Indies, which gives a fair idea of the vast resources of that rich country.
In that collection are also samples of Calisaya and red barks from the Neilgherry
mountains and Kangra, but the specimens are small and insignificant as compared
with those enumerated above, nor has an attempt been made to show the extent
and success of the cultivation of cinchonas, as we find it in the departments of
Netherlands, Mexico and Jamaica ; the chemical section of the United States gives
a far better insight into the importance of India in this respect. The other British
colonies, into which the cinchonas have been introduced, make, like India, no
especial display of these valuable barks, nor has Peru sent any samples of these
products of her soil, except a small bottle labeled vascarilla^ without any other
designation, and containing quilled cinchona bark of undetermined origin.

Brazil exhibits a bark, from Matto Grosso, which is labeled Cinchona cuyabensis?
a name which we do not find in WeddelPs " Notes sur les Quinquinas,'1 nor is it
stated whether this bark really contains any cinchona alkaloid.

The chemical products of the cinchonas are likewise not as well represented as
they deserve to be for their industrial importance alone, even firms being absent
whose quinia is sometimes met with on this side of the Atlantic. It is true that
small samples of quinia and other alkaloidal salts are to be found scattered in vari-
ous places of the exposition ; but they have the appearance rather of being sent
here as products of pharmaceutical skill, than to give an idea of the large industrial
pursuits of their countries.

In the above account we have taken no notice of the scale preparations of quinia
and iron, of which there are numerous samples, large and small, on exhibition, not
only by manufacturers of quinia, but also by other manufacturing chemists, manu-
facturing pharmacists and manufacturers of specialties. The scales are either red-
brown, like the salt officinal in the U. S , or green, like that officinal in the " British,
Pharmacopoeia. " All are handsome in appearance.

We have observed only one living specimen of Cinchona in the Horticultural Hall
of the exposition ; it is C. succirubra, and the little tree is about four feet high.

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
July, 1876. J

Varieties.

327

VARIETIES.

New Crystallised Hydrate of Hydrochloric Acid. By I. Pierre and
E. Puchot. — Strong commercial hydrochloric acid may be maintained at a very low-
temperature without any change ; but when into the cooled liquid a continuous
current of nearly dry hydrochloric acid gas is passed, an abundant deposition of
crystals soon occurs, and at the same time the temperature rises from — 220 to —
1 8°, remaining stationary at this last point during the formation of the crystals.
These crystals decompose rapidly in the air, emitting white fumeb ; they very
quickly dissolve in water at ordinary temperatures, but at — 180 the solution is ef-
fected very slowly. Analytical results lead the authors to assign for their compo-
sition the formula HC1.2H20.

They find that mixtures of snow and ordinary hydrochloric acid constitute
powerful and economical refrigerants. With 2 parts of snow to 1 part of acid a
lowering of the temperature to — 320 is readily obtained. — Journ. Chem. Soc.

Influence of various Solutions upon the Rusting of Iron. By A.
Wagner. — Details are given of experiments made upon strips of iron which were
acted upon by water containing various salts, in presence of air free from carbon
dioxide, and of air containing that gas at various temperatures, and also in sealed
tubes, from which air was expelled.

The general results were that pure water in presence of air, causes iron to rust ;
that if carbon dioxide \i also present, the rusting is more rapid ; that the production
of rust is materially increased by the chlorides of magnesium, ammonium sodium,
potassium, barium and calcium, the first mentioned being most active in this respect ;
that iron immersed in evaporated river-water rusts more slowly than iron in distilled
water ; that the presence of oils or fats greatly diminishes the rapidity of rusting 5 that
alkalies prevent the rusting entirely Magnesium chloride solution in the absence of
air attacked iron at a temperature of about ioo0; chlorides of sodium, potassium,
barium, and calcium were without action under the same circumstances. The origi-
nal paper must be consulted for details and measurements. Journ. Chem. Soc. [Lond.]

On the Active Constituent of Ergot of Rye. By R. Buchheim. —
According to the author's experiments, the active constituent of ergot (ergotin) is
a body closely resembling animal gelatin. It is easily soluble in cold water, and
is, therefore, contained in the cold aqueous infusion of ergot. Like gelatin, it
gives precipitates with phenylsulphuric acid, tannic acid, and chlorine. It cannot,
however, be completely precipitated by tannic acid. It is formed by the action of
the mycelium of a fungus on the gluten of rye, by which action the gluten under-
goes a series of transformations, terminating in its conversion into leucin, ammonia,,
and trimethylamin. The decomposition of gluten under the influence of the
fungus is, therefore, analogous to the putrefaction of albumin. In both cases
albuminous substances undergo a series of transformations different from that
which occurs in the healthy animal organism, and the products formed have, in

328

V arieties.

! Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ July, 1876.

consequence, different properties. The end-products, however, are the same in
both series. Ergotin, therefore, belongs to the class of putric products, and the
author thinks it may be possible to obtain from other sources, as for instance putrid
blood, a body having similar properties. — Jour. Chem. Soc. [Lond.], from Arch.
Pharm. [3], vii, 32 — 39.

Combination of Phenol with Neutral Quinia Salts. — J. Jobst and O.
Hesse obtained white shining prisms on adding an equivalent weight of carbolic
acid to a hot aqueous solution of neutral quinia sulphate, or on dissolving the salt
in a hot alcoholic solution of carbolic acid (see also " Amer. Jour. Pharm.," 1876,
p. 216). The salt is readily soluble in boiling water and alcohol, but requires at
1 50 C, 680 parts of water and 74 p. of 80 per cent, alcohol for solution. Ether
and chloroform dissolve only traces of it, but it is freely soluble in a mixture of
2 vols, chloroform to one of 97 per cent, alcohol. At ioo° C. it looses only water
of crystallization ; at 130° C. (2660 F.) some carbolic acid is given off. Analysis
proved its composition to be 2(C20H24N2O2,SO3).C6H6O-{-2H2O, which formula
requires 9 32 S03, 4*17 H.,0 and 75*52 quinia. Salts of similar composition were
obtained with hydrobromate and hydrochlorate of quinia. — Ann. d. Chem .,
clxxx, 248.

Quack-nostrums. — A. Thurmayr, druggist, at Stuttgart, vends a remedy for
enuresis nocturna, consisting of two vials, one of which, intended as an embroca-
tion for the regio pubis, is merely expressed oil of almonds. In the other vial,
containing the internal remedy, a liquid is furnished, consisting of about six
drachms of urine, mixed with an equal quantity of diluted spirit. — Apoth. Zeit.>
No. 9, from Industrie Bl.

Julius Bittner has introduced Schneeberg's consumption herbs, an infallible(? !)
cure for consumption, which are composed of Iceland moss 100 parts, althea and
liquorice roots, each 20 parts j figs, St. John's bread, pearl barley, Corinthian
raisins, ahhea leaves and flowers, mallow flowers, mullein flowers, ground ivy,
liverwort, colt's foot leaves, lungwort (Pulmonaria) and red poppy petals, of each 5
parts. — Ibid., No. 12.

Lebert's American vegetable hair restorative is, according to J. I. E. Popp, a
mixture of 2 grams milk of sulphur, 4^ grams sugar of lead, 25 grams glycerin
and 140 grams perfumed water. — Pharm. Zeit.t No. 14.

Laroche's ferruginous cinchona wine has been examined by Wittstein, and
found-to contain neither quinia, cinchonia or iron 5 it is merely an alcoholic tincture
of orange berries, sweetened with sugar. — Arch. d. Pharm., 1876, April, p. 339.

Anise earth is the name given to a gray clay which occurs in the neighborhood
of Wischau and Kausnitz, in Moravia, and is formed into small roundish granules
by the action of earthworms. In the same neighborhood anise is extensively culti-
vated, and this granular clay is used by the dealers to adulterate the anise fruit to
the extent of 20 per cent. The collectors of this anise earth receive about one

V

N

)
/

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
July, 1876. J

Varieties.

329

guilder (nearly 50 cents) for the hundred weight; the earth is also exported to a
considerable extent for the same purpose. By dropping a pinch of the suspected
anise upon white paper, from the height of about twelve inches, the adulteration is
readily detected, and its amount may be approximately ascertained by picking out
the fruit. — Apoth. Zeitung, No. 20.

Vanillin from Eugenol. — E. Erlenmeyer announces that on treating eugenol-
potassium with potassium permanganate (and it seems as if the same result was
obtained with potassa alone), vanillin may be obtained. During the action a crys-
tallizable polymer of eugenol is formed. After the completion of his researches,
the author will report the results in detail. — Ber. d. Cbem. Ges , 1876, 273.

Eucalyptus globulus. — P. A. Hartzer has obtained the following principles,
from old leaves : an acid resin yielding, with sulphuric acid, a copulated acid of a
handsome carmine color, becoming violet on the addition of ether 5 two resins,
which are not colored red by sulphuric acid ; a new fatty acid, crystallizing in fine
needles, the sodium and potassium salts of which are soluble in ether; cerylic or a
similar alcohol and tannin. The latter yields a red deliquescent crystalline salt on
treating the etherial solution of the alcoholic extract with a solution of potassa in
absolute alcohol. — Ibid.y 314-316.

Pittakal, which was discovered by Reichenbach, 40 years ago, but has not been
observed since, has been recentlv obtained by Gratzel, from the fractions of wood
tar having a high boiling point. Liebermann separated from it orange- colored
needles, which he names eupitton. They dissolve in alcohol and acetic acid with a
brown, in ammonia with a blue and in alkalies with a purple color ; carbonic acid,
or the addition of saline solutions causes blue precipitates which are soluble in pure
water, the precipitates by calcium, magnesium, barium and tinsalts usually having
a beautiful gold lustre. The lead precipitate dissolves in concentrated sulphuric
acid with a red color, which changes to blue on warming.— Ibid , 334-337.

Naphthalin from Oil of Turpentine. — By passing oil of turpentine through
a red-hot tube, G. Schultz observed that much carbon was separated, and hydrogen
evolved, the distillate containing several hydro-carbons. On redistilling the pro-
duct, the portion obtained between 230 and 2320 C. congealed, and, after filtering
and pressing, between bibulous paper, yielded naphthalin, which crystallized from
alcohol, fused at 300 C. (1760 F.), boiled at 2170 C. (422*6° F.) and furnished with
picric acid, a compound crystallizing in yellow needles and fusing at 149° C.
(300*2° F.). — Ber. d. Deutsch. Chem. Ges., 1876, p. 548.

A New Glucoside in the Flowers of Cichorium Intybus has been dis-
covered by Dr. R. Nietzki. The flowers were extrated with boiling 60 per cent, alcohol
the alcohol evaporated in the presence of water, the filtrate slightly acidulated with
acetic acid,and precipitated by acetate of lead. The clear filtrate was treated with sul-
phuretted hydrogen, and then evaporated to a thin syrup, from which the body crys-

33o

Minutes of the College,

/Am. Jour. Pharm.
t July, 1876.

tailized on standing 5 it was washed with cold water and repeatedly crystallized
from hot water, when it formed white stellate needles, which were insoluble in
ether, freely soluble in hot water and alcohol, also with a golden yellow color in
caustic and carbonated alkalies. The warm solution had a very bitter taste. Boiled
with a dilute acid, sugar is produced, and a sparingly soluble crystalline body. —
Arch. d. Pharm., April 327-337.

Salicylate of Sodium, when treated in aqueous solution with carbonic acid,
is decomposed, yielding free salicylic acid. Since carbonic acid is continually formed
by the various tissues, the blood, notwithstanding its alkalinity,contains a certain quan-
tity of carbonic acid in the free or continually dissociating condition, and for these
reasons, Prof. Binz believes that salicylates are not without action when taken
internally. This view is strengthened by the antiseptic action, observed in liquids
capable of putrefaction, urine for instance, when mixed with salicylate of sodium
and carbonic acid. — N. Repert., 1876, 205-210.

MINUTES OF THE COLLEGE.

Philadelphia, June 26th, 1876.

A stated meeting of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy was held this day at
the College Hall, No. 145 North Tenth Street.

In the absence of the President, Professor John M. Maisch was called to the
chair. Sixteen members present.

The minutes of the annual meeting were read, amended, and adopted.

The minutes of the Board of Trustees for the last three months were read by the
Secretary of the Board, and on motion approved.

Wm. C. Bakes read a letter from Professor de Luca, of Naples, donating to the
College, with an order for the goods, some specimens of Chemicals, which are now
on exhibition at the International Exposition.

Also a letter from Mr. Bosisto, President of the Pharmaceutical Association of
Victoria, Australia, donating several specimens of drugs, including a number of
products from the various species of Eucalyptus, also on exhibition at the Cen-
tennial.

On motion, the Corresponding Secretary was directed to acknowledge the re-
ceipt of the letters, and to convey to both the gentlemen the thanks of the College
for their respective valuable donations to the Cabinet.

Professor Maisch stated that on the nth of July he would attend the Interna-
tional Exposition at the request of some members of the Botanical Class, to explain
to them such drugs, chemicals and Botanical specimens as were there exhibited.
He embraced this opportunity to extend an invitation to all students feeling an in-
terest in the matter to be present at the time appointed.

This being the time for an election for delegates to attend the meeting of the
American Pharmaceutical Association in September next, and also for delegates to

Am'jii>y,r'i8>7h6arm'} Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. 331

attend the Conference of Pharmaceutical Colleges, an election was ordered. Ed-
ward C. Jones and E. M. Boring acting as tellers, reported the following gentlemen
elected as delegates to the American Pharmaceutical Association, viz. :

Charles Bullock, Peter Williamson, Thos. S. Wiegand, Samuel F. Troth, Wm.
J. Jenks.

Delegates to the Pharmaceutical Conference: Professors Robert Bridges, John
M. Maisch, Joseph P. Remington. Then, on motion, adjourned.

William J. Jenks, Secretary.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

A meeting for social and scientific purposes in continuance of the regular phar-
maceutical meetings was held June 20th, 1876, James T. Shinn in the chair. The
minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Strangers present were
invited to participate.

Prof. Maisch donated to the library " Ricerche sperimentali sulla Solfatara di
Pozzuoli, per S. Luca " and ten other pamphlets by the same author, which were
sent by him with the specimens donated to the cabinet.

From J. U. Lloyd a specimen of a yellow neutral crystallized principle obtained
from the root of Eupatorium Purpureum. It is quite soluble in hot, slightly so in
cold alcohol, and insoluble in water 5 does not unite with dilute acids, is decomposed
by stiong sulphuric acid, is tasteless and as far as known has no medicinal value.

Wallace Procter presented a specimen of oil of peppermint, 54 years old.

Prof. Maisch read a paper, by Charles L. Mitchell, on a concentrated solution of
salicylic acid. (See page 305.)

J. T. Shinn observed when a solution was made with equal parts of borax and
salicylic acid, the taste was very bitter, when, however, two parts of borax were used
this was not the case.

Prof. Maisch believed if the estimate of Prof. Kolbe and others as to the virtues,
of salicylic acid are to be of value to physicians, they must use it in the free state
as this is the only way in which it is effective 5 if salts are employed to effect a more
ready solution, some chemical change is most probably the result. (See also p. 330.)

E. M. Boring had in common with many others, had trouble with prescriptions
for this acid from physicians laboring under the error in regard to its solubility and
the probable changes produced by the use of chemical solvents. Quite recently
water of ammonia had been used to effect the solution of a large quantity of the
acid in water ; this was only another instance in which the elegant pharmacist gave
the conscientious dispenser a great amount of trouble. He also exhibited honey
which had been obtained by himself from the comb, exposed to direct sunlight ; it
became candied in a short time, whereas a portion of the same lot in diffused light
had undergone no change. He had also examined a sample of yellow wax which
had the concave surface said to be characteristic of adulteration with paraffin, yet
upon testing with sulphuric acid failed to find any.

Prof. Maisch exhibited a small branch of a plant from Oregon, probably a Te-
tranthera, nat. ord. Lauraceae, with a pellucid punctate leaf, having an aromatic ordor,,

33 2 American Pharmaceutical Association. {Amjifyu(rl8P76?rm'

and at first pleasant, but afterwards very pungent to the taste, which seems to indi-
cate that it may possess medicinal properties.

Dr. Pile said that he had made dilute phosphoric acid by the second process of
Prof. Markoe, and succeeded very well, the summer temperature being favorable,
and little attention being required. Other members had found it necessary to op-
erate at a somewhat higher temperature than had been indicated by Prof. Markoe.
Dr. Pile also stated that he found written upon a prescription — " examined and
found correct," and supposed this an additional method of indicating the correct-
ness of an unusual dose.

J. T. Shinn exhibited thick filtering paper, well suited for rapidly filtering oils or
syrupy liquids without being liable to break ; it is sold at 50 cents a pound. Several
members gave valuable hints in regard to filtration, and Prof. Maisch hoped more
attention would be given to some of the devices for rapid filtration which had been
illustrated in the Journal. For filtering large quantities of liquids, where evapo-
ration is not detrimental, Dr. Pile lays the paper flat upon a muslin support, stretched
upon a frame, and thus obviates all liability to break.

Several members, having given careful study to the Exposition, contributed to the
interest of the meeting by calling attention to many drugs and chemicals which are
worthy of notice.

On motion, adjourned to meet on July 1 8th, 1876.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

AMEIjlCA^ PHARMACEUTICAL ASSOCIATION^

The Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the American Pharmaceutical Associa-
tion will be holden in the Hall of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, 145 N.
Tenth Street, in the City of Philadelphia, on Tuesday, September 12th, 1876, at
3 o'clock P. M.

Ample arrangements are being made by the Local Secretary, in connection with
the friends of the Association in Philadelphia, for the comfort and social enjoyment
of the visiting members.

It is important that the meeting of 1876 shall fairly represent the most advanced
results obtained in the art and science of pharmacy during the past year, and, there-
fore, the several " standing " and "special committees " should be ready with their
reports, and the members who have answers to Queries, and those who propose to
read volunteer papers should see to it, that their investigations are finished in time
for presentation of the results at the meeting.

Chairmen of standing committees are reminded of the provision contained in
Article x, Chapter vi, of the by-laws, by which they are required to furnish a
copy of their respective reports, together with a synopsis of the same to the Chair-
man of the Committee on Papers and Queries, Mr. William Saunders, of London,
Ontario. All persons writing papers for the Association must likewise report to
the same chairman, previous to the third session [fuide Article viii, Chapter vi, of
the by-laws).

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Jnly, 1876.

Pharmaceutisal Colleges and Associations. 333

To expedite the business of the Association, it is earnestly requested that all
such papers, with synopsis of the same, be placed in charge of the above named
chairman, before the opening of the first session.

It will greatly aid the Secretary and Treasurer if members will see that the appli-
cations of those whom they propose for membership are properly made out and
signed, and placed in the hands of the Chairman of the Executive Committee in
time to be acted upon at the first session.

The admission fee and the annual contribution ($5.00 each,) should accompany
the applications, in order to place the names on the roll [<vidt Article iii, Chapter
vii, of the by-laws).

In answer to the invitation of the Association, it is expected that the meeting will
be honored by the presence of delegates from European Pharmaceutical Associa-
tions ; this will be an important feature of the meeting, which, together with the
great attraction of the Centennial Exposition, and the many objects of interest in
and about Philadelphia, cannot fail to render a visit to that city an occasion replete
with instruction and with social and intellectual pleasure.

Details with regard to the meeting, and the local arrangements for the reception
of the Association, will be given in the circular of the Permanent Secretary, Prof,
John M. Maisch, 145 N. Tenth Street, Philadelphia.

George F. H. Markoe, President.

Boston, June, 1876.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND. ASSOCIATIONS. .

American Pharmaceutical Association. — Most of the Colleges and Asso-
ciations have informed the Permanent Secretary of the appointment of committees
whose object it will be to give to visiting pharmaceutists such information as may
be desirable to facilitate the object of their visit to this country. A number of
pharmacists from foreign countries have already been visiting the International Ex-
position, and, after extending their trips to various sections of the country, have
returned to their homes. Others will doubtless follow as the season advances, and,
once this side of the Atlantic, will be desirous of seeing as much as possible of the
new world. They may rest assured that fraternal courtesies will be extended to them,
everywhere.

National Collece of Pharmacy, Washington, D. C. — The regular monthly
meeting of the Board of Trustees of the National College of Pharmacy was held
June 13th, Mr. R. B. Ferguson, President, in the chair, J. C. Fill, Secretary.

The Committee on the Progress of Pharmacy, through Mr. Chas. Becker, made
a very interesting report, embracing many recent discoveries in pharmacy and chem-
istry. The committee recommend that conversational pharmaceutical meetings be
held at 8 o'clock P.M. on the second Wednesday in each month, the object being
to discuss more thoroughly the reports of the committee, to secure an interchange

334

Editorial.

Am. Jour. Pharm.

July, 1876.

of opinion as to the value of new remedies and pharmaceutical appliances, and to
read original papers upon subjects germain to the objects of the College. The
report embraced also a synopsis of pharmaceutical and chemical journals in this
country and Europe.

The recommendations were adopted.

Mr. Becker also read a very able paper on salicylic acid. (See page 306.)

The Committee on Weights and Measures recommended that Congress be peti-
tioned to require the use of the metrical system in Government departments.

Letters were read from Profs. E. T. Fristoe, A. M. Read and R. Oldberg, accept-
ing the chairs of Chemistry, Pharmacy, Materia Medica and Botany, to which they
were elected at a previous meeting.

A copy (2 vols.) of the " Medical Statistics of the Provost Marshal-General's
Bureau" was received from Dr. J. H. Baxter. The Secretary was directed to
acknowledge the same, and express the thanks of the College.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

Solubility of Ready-made Pills. — The March and April numbers of this
journal contained several papers on this subject, in which the relative merits of
pills made in the usual manner with an excipient, or subsequently sugar-coated or
made by compression have been discussed. Since then we have received a paper
from Mr. R. V. Mattison, who is a manufacturer of gelatin-coated pills, and speaks
a word in favor of these specialties. We consider it inexpedient to print the entire
paper, since it rehearses portions of the former ones, and shall therefore give a brief
abstract of his arguments.

Mr. Mattison first objects to the expression of "gelatin-coated or more properly
speaking, g/z^-coated, " used by one of the writers ; admitting that practically one
is merely a refined form of the other, he asks : " Was it necessary to appeal to the
prejudices of the readers, and is there not commercially such a thing as glue,
and also such an article as gelatin ?" The proper pharmaceutical association of the
terms, he regards as widely different. Admitting that the gelatin-coated pills " swell
up," he contends that thereby jelly is formed, which in the natural course of diges-
tion is readily disintegrated. A? a simple means of testing the solubility of these
and other kinds of pills, Mr. Mattison suggests to place them upon the tongue, and
moisten them with saliva, imitating as far as possible the action of the stomach ;
manipulating in this manner with sixteen varieties of pills, he found the average
duration of time that the gelatin coating was in dissolving, to be seventy-five
seconds, the shortest being fifty-five and the longest time ninety seconds, when the
pills were removed from the mouth owing to the disagreeable taste developed.

Our readers may repeat the experiments by the several methods suggested, and in
doing so, the different pills should be placed under precisely similar conditions. In
our opinion, rapidity of solution is attainable with pills only, when all the material
composing them is freely and readily soluble ; in the majority of cases, when a
rapid action is desired, the physician will have to prescribe the medicine in the form

Am. Jour. Pharm. >
July, 1876- I

Editorial — Reviews, etc.

335

of solution which is not precipitated by the aqueous liquids of the stomach. In
judging of the activity of pills, their solid condition should never be lost sight of,
and the materials, more particularly the excipients and coatings, if any, should be
such only which in the presence of aqueous liquids are easily dissolved, if the
quickest activity attainable with pills, is desired. Dry gum acacia is freely, but not
readily soluble in water, even with such a " churning", motion as is attributed to
the stomach, and pills made with it are known to have become so hard and prac-
tically insoluble, as to pass through the intestinal canal, without having been affected
to any great degree,- yet such pills (of quinia, &c), when moistened with saliva
and moved about upon the tongue, will in a short time develop a bitter taste.

Sweet Gum. — Some weeks ago, Louis Hughes, Ph. G., has sent us from
Dyersburg, Tenn., specimens of branches, fruit and exudation of Liquidambar
styraciflua, accompanied by the following information, concerning the tree and
balsam or sweet-gum.

" The sweet-gum tree is abundant here, and is found in the Bottoms and highlands.
In the bottoms it is quite large, from 30 to 50 feet high, with rather few and short
branches 5 in the highlands, it is lower and more spreading. Its appearance is
different from what we recogize as the gum-tree in the Middle and Southwestern
States. The wing-like ridges of cork are generally found on the bark of the small
branches of the lower limbs, and more fully developed in trees growing in the low-
lands. The "gum" exudes through cracks in the bark, and wounds in the trunk,
during all seasons of the year, and hardens on exposure to the air. I have found it
soluble in Alcohol and have made a very nice syrup of it, very much like, and
almost as pleasant as Tolu. The "gum" is much esteemed by the resident chil-
dren for chewing, but they select that which is rather hard. During the last three
months, our house has been shipping upwards of 100 pounds per month to a
Chewing Gum Manufactory, and it makes a very pleasant article."

For further information on "sweet gum," the reader is referred to an essay by
W. L. Harrison, in "Am. Journ. Pharm., " 1874, p. 161; and to various other
papers published prior to that.

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

Microphotographs in Histology, Normal and Pathological. — By Carl Seiler, M.D., in
conjunction with J. Gibbons Hunt, M.D;, and Joseph G. Richardson, M.D.
Philadelphia: J. H. Coates & Co. 4to. Monthly numbers. Price, 60 cents
each, or $6 per year.

The object of this publication is, on the one hand, to replace the microscope, as
tar as possible, for those physicians who have neither opportunity nor leisure to
make such observations for themselves, and, on the other hand, to furnish microscop-
ists, for comparison, correct representations of typical specimens in the domain of nor-
mal and pathological histology. The- editors are well known in the medical pro-

Reviews, etc. — Obituary.

I Am. Jour. Pharm .
I July, 1876.

fession for their labors in microscopy, and d priori it might be expected that only
good, reliable and typical specimens will be furnished. The photographs are pre-
pared by Dr. Seller ; the plan of the work and the selection of the specimens is
principally due to Drs. Hunt and Richardson, under whose supervision the descrip-
tive and explanatory text is prepaied. For the present it is purposed to give in each
monthly issue pictures of at least one pathological and three normal specimens, to
illustrate the differences between healthy and diseased structures. The various plates
of the first two numbers, which are now before us, are admirably executed and
elegantly printed ; the descriptive text is clear and concise, and free from theoretical
speculations. The publication, in our opinion, meets the highest expectations, and
deserves to be in the hands of every physician, who does not want to be left behind
in his profession.

Annual Report of the College of Pharmacy of the city of New York, ^dth Session
and Fifth Annual Report of the Alumni Association, 1876, 8vo, pp. 90.
The pamphlet contains the reports of the officers of the college, and of the
board of pharmacy, lists of officers and members of the college and of the associa-
tion, commencement exercises, with the valedictory and other addresses, minutes
of the business and pharmaceutical meetings, and several papers read at the latter.

Centennial Newspaper Exhibition, 1876. New York: Compiled by Geo. P. Row-
ell & Co. 8vo, pp. 300.

The enterprising firm of G. P. Rowell & Co. have undertaken a newspaper exhi-
bition at the Centennial Eposition Grounds. Through the liberality of a number
of proprietors of prominent newspapers, funds were secured to erect a handsome
pavilion for the accommodation of all periodical publications of this country. The
exhibition is quite interesting, and well worthy a visit. The catalogue, whose title
we give above, gives a great deal of information which is of interest to readers and
advertisers, also sketches of the career of a number of prominent papers.

OBITUARY.

Prof. Henry Buignet died in Paris, May 9th, aged sixty years. The deceased
was born at Chelles, and soon after passing, in 1840, the examinations, as " phar-
macien of the first class," purchased the store founded by Planch^ and followed
the apothecary business for several years, without, however, losing sight of scien-
tific pursuits. In 1850, he became connected with the "Journal de Pharmacie et
de Chimie," as one of its editors; in 1855 he was elected general secretary of the
Pharmaceutical Society of Paris, and in i860 he received the degree of doctor in
sciences, having presented a thesis containing important original researches on the
nature, origin and transformation of sugar in acidulous fruits. Since 1842 he had
been attached to the Paris School of Pharmacy as lecturer (professeur agrege), since
1 861 as assistant professor, and since 1 866 as professor of physics ; two years later he
became a member of the Academy of Medicine, and in 1871 of the Council of
Public Hygiene and Salubrity. The majority of his essays relate to the physics of
chemistry 5 of his chemical investigations, conducted either alone or conjointly with
Bussy, we may mention those on the composition of manna, on the influence of
heat upon ferric salts, on the preparation, preservation and estimation of hydrocy-
anic acid, etc.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

AUGUST, 1876.

ON FLUID EXTRACT OF IPECAC.

BY HARRY C. WATT, PH.G.

[Extract from an Inaugural Essay.)

The ; principal use of fluid extract of ipecac is for making syrup,
hence all preparations other than those which will make a good and
permanent syrup, no matter what other good qualities they may have,
should be rejected, and those which will make the most perfect syrup
should be adopted. The officinal fluid extract of 1870 contains the
inert resin 1 in solution, to the removal of which the " Pharmacopoeia '*
of i860 paid so much attention. The prevailing opinion is, that it is
not hard to improve on the present formula, for the preparation soon
becomes very thick upon standing.

The formula of Mr. Richard V. Mattison, published in the "Amer.
Jour. Pharm.," 1873, P* 4^J? furnishes a good preparation, but unless
there is extra care used in manipulation, the proper strength of the
drug would not be represented. Moreover, the preparation itself is
not entirely free from the objections common to this preparation, for
in spite of the most careful manipulation it will precipitate. The syrup
made therefrom shows a resinous separation after standing a long time,
which seems to be the case, to a small extent at least, in the best pre-
parations of this syrup. I believe, however, Mr. Mattison's prepara-
tion to be almost as near perfect as can well be obtained. The work-
ing formula can, however, be improved upon.

The writer prepared fluid extract of ipecacuanha by four different
processes, but in each case the drug was similarly treated as to fineness

1 This so-called resin is most likely a decomposition product of the pectin con-
tained in ipecacuanha. — Editor.

22

338

Fluid Extract of Ipecac.

{Am. Jour. Pharm.
Aug., 1876.

of powder, length of time in maceration previous to percolation (four
days), packing in conical glass percolators, and temperature used in
evaporation, as directed by the " Pharmacopoeia." Calculated for 16
troyounces, which quantity, however, was not used except in one case,
the menstrua and manipulations were as follows :

1st. Acetic acid, f^i ; water, 3 parts ; alcohol, 1 part. The pow-
der was moistened with the whole of the acetic acid, mixed with suf-
ficient of the alcoholic menstruum ; after maceration as above stated,,
exhausted with the menstruum (quantity obtained ?— Editor) ; the per-
colate, after adding glycerin fsi, was evaporated to 1 pt. and filtered.

2d. U. S. P. menstruum, exhausted and evaporated to nearly solid
consistence, added sufficient water to make f^viii ; then added glycerin
f5i, the whole thrown upon a filter and water passed through the filter
till the filtrate measured fsxv, lastly added glycerin q. s. to make 1 pt.
After allowing it to stand 24 hours, again filtered.

3d. Menstruum Alcohol. — Percolated drug till half pt. of percolate
was obtained ; set this aside, and continued the percolation with glyce-
rin and water, 1 part of the former to 7 of the latter, until drug was
exhausted ; the two percolates were then mixed and let stand for 24
hours, the heavy precipitate filtered out and continuously washed ;
filtrate, after standing 24 hours, again filtered, the second filtrate evapo-
rated to syrupy consistence, then fsviii alcohol added to separate gum-
my matter ; evaporated off about two-thirds of the alcohol, upon cool-
ing it gelatinized.

4th. Exhausted by U. S. P. process, threw the percolate into four times
its bulk of water ; filtered at once, let stand 24 hours, and again filtered ;
added the glycerin and evaporated to desired bulk.

In each case the amount of resinous extractive matter, separated from
the various percolates by evaporation or other means before the pre-
parations were completed, was carefully noted as follows :

From No. 1, . . 840 grains.

" " 2, . . 160 "

" u 3, . 265 " (the unfinished prep.)

" " 4, . . 1065 "

In order to test the merit of each menstruum as to its power of ex-
hausting the drug, the dregs of each operation above named were ex-
hausted with alcohol, the percolate evaporated to a solid extract and

Am. Jour. Pharm. I
Aug., 1876. J

Fluid Extract of Ipecac.

339

weighed. From the various dregs I obtained amounts of extract as>
follows :

No. 1, 120 grs., entirely soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water.

" 2, 1 12 grs., soluble in alco., insoluble in water, gummy, resinous..

" 3, 138 grs., contained considerable glycerin, semi-fluid.

u 4? 95 grs*> freely soluble in alcohol, insoluble in water.
Of all these preparations I prefer most decidedly No. 4. The pre-
paration represents the medical virtues of the drug, and the syrup made
therefrom six months ago still remains clear and transparent, having no-
signs of precipitation.

The syrups made with the extract from process No. 1 precipitated
slightly, but fermented ; with No. 2, a precipitate was formed soon
after preparation ; no syrup made with No. 3. Of the fluid extracts,..
Nos. 1 and 2 have copious precipitates, but No. 4 is perfectly trans-
parent, and free from sediment of any kind.

I cannot see that there is any special advantage in using acetic acid ;
there may be a disadvantage, which Prof. Maisch has once hinted at
("Amer. Journ. Pharm.," Feb., 1871). He says " that acetic acid, in
contact with organic bodies, is very liable to undergo decomposition \,
and, since an organic body in such a condition is apt to predispose
others with which it may be in direct contact to similar changes, it is
a matter of great moment whether the addition of acetic acid to our
officinal fluid extract of ergot and ipecac may not be more detrimental:
than useful." On the contrary, Prof. Procter suggested that change
seems to be arrested by the introduction of acetic acid to such prepara-
tions, whose active principle in the natural condition seems to be held
loosely by a weak acid, upon the principle (not entirely proven) of the;
substitution of a more permanent acid for a less permanent one. Dr..
Squibb corroborates this idea in his note on " Ergot," published in the
" Proceedings of the American Pharmaceutical Association," 1873, Pv
641, where he says that the addition of 1 per cent, of acetic acid to the
fluid extract of ergot renders this liquid preparation permanent and
without apparent change in activity, after keeping it for six years. My
experiments with ipecac seem to substantiate the opinion of Prof.
Maisch. The preparation containing acetic acid, after keeping it a
few months, began to change ; both the fluid extract and the syrup,
made therefrom by this time (six months) seem to have undergone^

340 Pharmaceutical Notes. { Am '£j^J^

thorough decomposition, while the other preparations exposed to the
same influences are still in a good condition.

I may as well state here, that Mr. Campbell's process was tried, but
with no success whatever. The drug, it is true, was pretty well ex-
hausted (this is what Mr. C. claims principally for his process), and
very well represented in the product, which was at first very pretty and
transparent, but in a short time the separation commenced and con-
tinued on, until now it is a very muddy and unsightly preparation.

PHARMACEUTICAL NOTES.

BY CARL S. N. HALLBERG, PH.G.

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

Medicated Waters.— The magnesia process has some advantage in
making a clear preparation when finished, but, as the object is to have
a pure medicated water, this process is not desirable, as the water is
mot free from magnesia.

The hot water method has not this objection. I have tried several
modi operandi, of which the following is the most satisfactory :

Pour boiling water in a strong bottle or, preferably, a demijohn, drop
the requisite amount of oil on a folded filter, and put this filter in the
hot water. Upon agitation the filter will be reduced to a pulp, and
the oil readily dissolved. After standing a day or two, occasionally
shaking it, filter, if necessary, through more pulp.

This water is, perhaps, not quite as clear a preparation as the
product of the magnesia process, but is unquestionably superior.

In Camphor Water, the magnesia process may also be dispensed with
to an advantage. I have obtained satisfactory results by powdering
camphor with sufficient alcohol, then triturating with water gradually
added, and filtering after several days.

For Soap Liniment, the use of castor oil soap has been advocated in
some journals, which would, no doubt, answer the purpose admirably.
The following modified formula of the " Pharmacopoeia, " with my
experience has worked well :

Take of Castile soap, . . 4 troy ounces,

water, . . 14 fluidounces,

camphor, . . 2 troy ounces,

ol. rosemary . . • h fluidounce,

strong alcohol, . . 1 J pint.

A\iT!\l^m- } Pharmaceutical Notes. 341

Grate the soap on a common grater, and, having mixed the water
with \ pint of alcohol, pour this on the soap ; with occasional agita-
tion it will dissolve in a short time. Dissolve the camphor and oil of
rosemary in remainder of alcohol. Add this to the solution of soap,
let stand some time and filter. The result is a preparation which will
not precipitate. It is not as strongly alcoholic as the officinal, but it
contains as much alcohol as is compatible (? Ed.) with it as a pre-
paration.

Aromatic Sulphuric Acid. — The writer recommends S. Whittier's
formula (" Am. Jour. Pharm.," 1874, p. 509).

Syrup of Tolu. — In filtering the mixture of tincture of tolu, magne-
sium carbonate and water, nothing but a flavored water is obtained, as
the resin upon which the medicinal virtues depend is left in the filter.
It is, therefore, a sacrifice of the medicinal virtues of tolu for the sake
of getting an elegant preparation. I have tried to combine the medi-
cinal as well as pharmaceutical properties, and believe to have suc-
ceeded, by the following formula : Take the required amount of
tincture of tolu, magnesium carbonate and a small quantity of sugar,
rub them together and, instead of adding water, add simple syrup
(hot), sufficient to make the desired quantity of syrup. After standing
a short time, strain slowly through flannel.

Syrup of Ginger may also be made advantageously by this process.

,Syrupus Aurantii Cortic:s. — As this preparation is mostly used as a
pleasant vehicle to disagreeable medicines, and especially those derived
from iron, I submit a formula, which has the decided advantage in
affording a preparation which will not be discolored by an iron pre-
paration. One precaution is necessary, to use a fresh oil ; the best
plan is to make it up into spirit of orange at once, one part of oil to
fifteen of strong alcohol.

Take spirit of orange, carbonate magnesium, sugar and water, and
proceed in the same manner as for preparing the syrup of tolu of the
" U. S. Pharmacopoeia," using the same proportions.

Aromatic Syrup of Rhubarb, as prepared after the officinal process, is
generally an unsightly preparation.

I have found the officinal process, with some slight modification,
renders a satisfactory preparation. After exhausting the rhubarb, &c.y
with the alcoholic menstruum, rub it up in a mortar with a small
quantity of carbonate of magnesium and some sand. Pack this

342

Essence of Vanilla.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Aug., 1876.

/loosely in a funnel and percolate it with the water that goes to make
up the syrup, mixed with a small quantity of glycerin. Dissolve the
--sugar in this last percolate, and, while still hot, add the aromatic
'tincture of rhubarb. The result is a transparent syrup of a beautiful
.red color, and it will not precipitate.

Syrup of Ipecacuanha. — In simply mixing the fluid extract with syrup
:a very unsightly preparation is obtained, the resin being precipitated.
"The following formula affords a much nicer product : Mix the fluid
extract with water, let stand and filter out the precipitated resin, dis-
solve the sugar in the filtrate, and strain.

Tincture Kino. — The writer recommends R. Rother's process
(" Am. Jour. Pharm.," 1873, P- 398)-

Syrup of Squill. — An important point has been overlooked in the
formula for this preparation. As vinegar of squill contains a con-
siderable amount of albuminous matter, it ought to be first brought to
the boiling point, when the albumen coagulates and can readily be
skimmed off ; the sugar should then be dissolved at a low temperature.

ESSENCE OF VANILLA.

Georgetown, D. C, July 12, 1876.
Editor American Journal of Pharmacy : —

Enclosed please find formula for essence vanilla, which gives me- a
better result than any I have ever tried :

Take of vanilla beans, ... 8 oz.

cut loaf sugar, . . . 72 oz.

dilute alcohol a sufficient quantity. Slice and cut very fine the vanilla
beans, then, with the sugar gradually added, reduce in a wedgewood
mortar to a coarse powder (it should pass freely through a sieve of 20
meshes to the inch), pack this into a cylindrical glass percolator, and
cuery slowly displace with dilute alcohol 1 gallon of percolate. The
"first of this percolate is a dark syrup, and, if the process is carefully
conducted, the last few ounces of the gallon will pass almost void of
color or vanilla flavor. Yours, &c,

Chas. Becker.

Am'AJu0gU.%876arm'} Powdered Drugs under the Microscope.

343

POWDERED DRUGS UNDER THE MICROSCOPE.

BY MARK W. HARRINGTON, M.A.

Assistant Professor of Botany in the University of Michigan.
[Continued from page 300.)

III. NATURAL POWDERS.

By this title is meant powders which have not been made by crush-
ing or grinding. There are two pharmacopoeal substances of this sort
in common use, viz., lupulina and lycopodium.

I. LUPULINA (Fig. 7).

Lupulin is a powder consisting of glands scraped from the surface of
the bracts of the fertile cone of the hop. The powder is light and
volatile. Its color is golden yellow, becoming more orange with age.
It has the odor of hops and a resinous taste. When thrown in a flame
it flashes. It is not wetted by water ; is readily so by alcohol or ether;
with sulphuric acid it gives off a strong odor of hops.

The glands consist each of two cup-shaped membranes, set edge to

edge and enclosing a mass of
brown-yellow resin. In the
figure given three of these cups
have been separated from the
corresponding ones belonging
with them. One of these is
seen from the side. We look
down on the two others. The
fourth has the two hemispheres
set together, but the hinder one
does not appear plainly. The
lower membrane is less conical
than the upper, and is composed
of flattened cells, radially ar-
ranged. Sometimes a short
•stalk is attached to it. The upper membrane is more delicate and less
distinctly cellular than the lower. When fresh it is hemispherical,
but as volatile portions inside the gland evaporate, this membrane con-
tracts until it finally looks like a stem to the lower portion, the whole
presenting the appearance of an umbrella, or rather a thick-stemmed
toadstool. This change in shape in the gland, from nearly spherical to

Fig. 7. Lupulina.

344

Powdered Drugs under the Microscope.

Am. Jour. Pharne
Aug., 1876.

toadstool-like, takes place as the powder becomes old and dried. The
diameter of the glands is about j$tt.

Along with these glands are found fragments of the surface mem-
brane (epidermis), scraped off with them. The figure shows a frag-
ment of this epidermis, with its cells and breathing pores. Separate
fragments of resin, with occasional crystals of the same, are found.
Hairs from the hop are also sometimes present.

The fragments of epidermis and hairs are impurities, and should not
be abundant. Lupulin sometimes contains sand. This can be easily
separated by water, in which the powder floats, while the sand sinks.
When the grains have so far dried as to become toadstool-shaped, and.
orange-yellow in color, the powder has lost its valuable properties.

2. LYCOPODIUM (Fig. 8).

This is a very fine and volatile powder, made up of the spores (seed-
like bodies) of the common northern club moss (Lycopodium clavatum).
The powder is of a light yellow color, odorless and without taste. It
does not mix with water, but readily mingles with alcohol, ether, chlo-
roform, etc. Thrown into a flame, it flashes brightly, but in the mass
it does not fire readily. It does not turn blue with iodine, nor with;
iodine and sulphuric acid.

Each grain or spore is a three-sided pyramid, with a convex base.

It looks as if it was cut out of
a sphere by three planes, each
of which passed through the
center. In one of the grains
represented in the figure we are
looking directly down on the
apex of the pyramid. In two
of the others, we view the pyr-
amid a little from one side. In
the remaining two, we are look-
ing at the convex base of the
grain. A groove runs down
each angle from the apex. The

0 T .. true nature of the markings on,

Pig. 8. Lycopodium. 0

the surface cannot be made out

without some care. When carelessly focussed, the grains appear to

be covered with hairs of peculiar shape, better seen at the edges. If

AmA{g"ri87h6arm'} Powdered Drugs under the Microscope. 345

the grains are flattened out by pressure, it is found that the markings
are really rather irregular six-sided meshes. The same thing can be
seen, at a few points at a time, after the grains have been carefully
brought into focus.

Each grain consists of a single cavity or cell, surrounded by a double
membrane. This is hard to demonstrate, but can sometimes be seen
by crushing beneath the thin glass cover. The outer membrane or
bag is thicker and brittle, and bears the markings ; the inner is thinner
and more elastic and is smooth. Within the membrane is a thick
liquid with drops of oil. The latter are easily recognized under the
microscope. They have a spherical form, and appear bright, especially
at the center, because the light is highly refracted by them.

Lycopodium has the reputation of being frequently adulterated, but
the writer, in the numerous samples he has examined, has always found
it pure, except in one. This contained potato starch, easily recognized
by its turning blue with iodine, and by its microscopical characters. In
the case mentioned, fully one-third of the powder was starch.

The adulterations given by Soubeiran and others will be given and
briefly described, as they may be met in the United States. Ground
wood can be recognized by its microscopical structure. It can be sep-
arated by a fine sieve. Ground talc can be recognized by its shining^
flaky fragments, needing a microscope to distinguish them when ground
fine. It can be separated by water, in which the talc sinks and the
lycopodium floats. Sulphur consists of irregular or crystalline frag-
ments, which have its characteristic yellow color. When lycopodium,
with it as an adulterant, is burned, an odor of sulphurous acid is given
off. When adulterated with dextrin, it becomes lumpy when exposed
to moisture. Benj. Lillard has detected this adulteration in this coun-
try. Lycopodium is also sometimes adulterated with pollen. That
of the pines is characterized by being three-lobed — the larger, arched^
middle lobe connecting the two others. With this adulteration, the
powder has a slight odor of pine. It does not seem to be injured for
the uses to which it is put. One such adulteration, found in Ann
Arbor, has been reported to me. The pollen of cat-tail flag, or Typbar
is said to be also employed. The powder is then less inflammable, and
has a deeper yellow color. The grain of pollen consists of four equal
lobes.

346 Monobromated Camphor. {Xm^Z'^m'

ON THE PREPARATION OF MONOBROMATED CAMPHOR.

BY T. C. LINTHICUM, PH.G.

[From an Inaugural Essay.)

The author has compared three different processes, which have been
recently recommended for the successful preparation of monobromated
camphor, namely, those of J. M. Maisch (" Am. Jour. Pharm.,"
1872, p. 337), J. U. Lloyd (Ibid, 1875, p. 165) and of Ed. Dubois
(u Proc. Am. Phar. Assoc.," 1875, p. 328). The latter process is
similar to that of Gault ("Am. Jour. Pharm.," 1874, p. 587), from
which it differs mainly in the treatment of the crude article with
carbonate of sodium, and in the asserted almost complete absence of
any by-products. According to Dubois, 75 grams of camphor are
introduced into a retort, and 80 grams of bromine at once added.
The two substances unite with a slight elevation of temperature
and become liquid. After standing for two or three hours the mix-
ture is heated by means of a water bath, to 100° C, and when the
reaction is completed the contents of the retort are treated with a
warm solution of carbonate of sodium, then dissolved in boiling
alcohol, filtered and allowed to crystallize.

Having carefully manipulated according to each of the three pro-
cesses, I feel justified in submitting the following results. My first
experiment, made with the process of Prof. Maisch, confirms the
result obtained by him in 1872. By the process of Mr. Dubois I
was unable to obtain crystals of monobromated camphor. But, upon
heating the resulting mass to 1320 C. and treating with hot benzin, I
succeeded in obtaining handsome, large, needle-shaped crystals. In
making the experiment according to Mr. Lloyd, who directs a little
over one atom of bromine to one molecule of camphor, I used an
apparatus constructed upon the same plan as that employed in the first
process, and found that the alkaline carbonate in the receiving vessel
was but slightly affected, owing to the small amount of hydrobromic
acid which was liberated. After many fruitless attempts to crystallize
the brownish, oily mass resulting from this operation, either from
warm alcohol or benzin, I transferred it to a retort, and, after heating
it to 1520 C, crystalized the contents from hot benzin, when crystals
of monobromated camphor were obtained, and a large amount of an
oily product.

The experiments made have satisfied me that two atoms of bromine
are required for one molecule of camphor, and that monobromated
camphor is best formed at a temperature not below 1320 C.

Am'AJu°g.?i87h6arm'} Salicylic Acid— Benzoic Acid.

347

SALICYLIC ACID.

BY FLAVIUS S. CASE, PH.G.

The author's inaugural essay treats of the chemical history of salicy-
lic acid ; of its solubility in various menstrua, its medicinal and other
properties. The results of his experiments, made with the view of
testing its preservative properties are contained in the following table :

Preparation : Kept unchanged for the number of days mentioned below, after dissolving in i fl.oz.

Pure Salicylic Acid. Glycerin. £ gr. Salic

Prepa- , " . ' . Acid

ration. 1-32 gr. 1-16 gr. 1-8 gr. 1-4 gr. 1-2 gr. f 5 1 f 5 ii f5i Glyc.

Mucilago Acaciae 8 days 50 days 75 days 90 days 20 days 35 days

Syrupus Rubi Idaei 10 days 70 days

Syr. Papaveris, Ph. Germ. 6 days 12 days 20 days

Syr. Limonis 7 days 30 days

Infus. Digitalis 10 days 50 days 60 days

In each case the experiments were made -with five or six vials, all of
which were uniformly exposed, the temperature ranging between 700
and 900 F.

BENZOIC ACID AS AN ANTISEPTIC.

BY HENRY TRIMBLE, PH.G.

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)
For the purpose of investigating this property, claimed for benzoic
acid, two samples were employed — one obtained by sublimation,
according to the U. S. P. process, and the other purchased under the
name of " artificial " benzoic acid, supposed to have been prepared
from hippuric acid. A good commercial salicylic acid was also pro-
cured, which, with the above-mentioned samples, formed the basis of
the following experiments, in one-half of which both the sublimed and
artificial benzoic acids were used and found to be identical in antiseptic
power ; the remaining experiments were therefore made with the arti-
ficial acid only. The results of the writer are condensed in the fol-
lowing table :

One part of

Salicylic

acid

Benzoid

acid

2000 parts
Infus. Buchu

Spoiled in i
days

Remained
unaltered
after 60
days

4000 parts
Inf. Buchu

Spoiled in 4
days

Spoiled in 16
days

8000 parts
Inf. Buchu

Spoiled in 5
days

2000 parts
Inf.Colombo

Spoiled in 6
days

Cloudy, but
no change
of color in
16 days

2000 parts
Inf. Gentian,
simpl.

Spoiled in 19
days

Unaltered
after 30
days

1000 parts
Solution of
Albumen

4000 parts
Solution of
Albumen

[1 in 16 water J

Spoiled in 12
days

Unaltered
after 60
days

Spoiled in 10
days

Spoiled in 19
days

348

Sium Latifolium.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Aug., 1876.

To ascertain the power of salicylic and benzoic acids to arrest
decomposition, they were each added in proportion of one part to 2000
of separate portions of cider which had commenced to ferment. In
both cases the fermentation, after twenty-four hours, had entirely
ceased, and both were perfectly sweet at the end of fifty days, without
the appearance of any further decomposition, a rather copious precipi-
tate having separated at the bottom of each.

It must be remembered that the infusions in the above experiments>
without the addition of an antiseptic, would have commenced to decom-
pose in about twenty-four hours, and the solution of albumen in about
forty-eight hours. In all cases the operations were conducted in a
moderately warm place, so as to favor a change as rapidly as possible.

Having carefully compared the above experiments and their results,
the following conclusions are submitted :

1. That benzoic acid, sublimed or artificial, possesses valuable anti-
septic properties.

2. It has the power to arrest decomposition.

3. Tannic acid (of buchu ?) does not interfere with its preservative
properties.

4. As an antiseptic, it is superior, in many, if not in all cases, to
salicylic acid. It also has the advantages of being more readily ob-
tained in a state of purity, of being more soluble, and having a lower
commercial value.

SIUM LATIFOLIUM, GRAY.

BY ANDREW R. PORTER, PH.G.

{Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

An umbelliferous plant, growing in California and along the Pacific
coast, in damp and marshy places, commonly known as wild parsnip,
was brought to the notice of the people there about three years ago, by
a man being poisoned by eating some of the root. The case was
treated successfully by C. B. White, M. D., U. S. A. (see " Amer.
Jour. Phar.," 1873, P- 371)-

The root was subsequently sent to a former student of this College,
Mr. Power, but arriving too late to be investigated during that session
by him, was placed in the hands of Prof. Maisch, who very kindly gave
it to me to investigate, and to obtain, if possible, the poisonous prin-
ciple.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Aug., 1876.

Sium La t if 0 Hum.

349

Sium latifolium has a short, upright root stock, varying in size from
one-half to two inches or more in length, and about the same in diam-
eter, so it becomes almost spherical in outline ; bases of leaves are still
attached to the crown. It presents a very rough, wrinkled appearance,
and is of a gray or yellowish-brown color. It branches at once into a
number of large roots, from four to twelve, and even more. These
are of the same color, from ^ to J or f inch in thickness, and 2 to 6
inches long, very much wrinkled longitudinally, somewhat flattened
and contorted, and nearly uniform in thickness. On soaking in water,
they become about twice as large. The dried root breaks with a very
short fracture, is white inside, with a yellowish, spongy meditullium
and numerous resin cells, which are plainly visible with the naked eye,
scattered irregularly throughout the bark. The root has rather an
agreeable aromatic odor, and a sweetish, aromatic and somewhat pun-
gent taste.

In attempting to separate the proximate principles of the root, an
alcoholic tincture was made, concentrated and precipitated by water.
In the clear aqueous solution, Trommer's test indicated the presence
of much sugar, besides some coloring matter. The precipitated oleo-
resin was distilled with water, the distillate containing some volatile oil,
which was colorless, and had the aromatic odor and warm, pungent
taste of the root. The soft residue was separated by hot petroleum
benzin into a fixed oil and resin. The oil was thick, deep-red, of a
slight odor and disagreeable taste, soluble in alcohol, chloroform, ether,
oil of turpentine, benzin and carbonbisulphide.

The resin was easily rubbed into a reddish-brown powder, which
had a very slight odor and but little taste, fusible when heated, and un-
crystallizble, soluble in alcohol, chloroform and ether, insoluble in
benzin and bisulphide of carbon. This resin appears to be the poison-
ous principle, since a small portion of it, given to a cat, produced in
the course of two hours frothing at the mouth, considerable pain and
then convulsions, from which, however, the cat recovered. This resin
was not quite pure, since caustic potassa dissolved only a part, leaving
a portion insoluble, and not fusible by heat.

The root exhausted by alcohol was found to contain gum, albumen
and pectin, but no starch.

An alkaloid having been searched for, with negative result, in the
alcoholic tincture, a decoction of the root was distilled with caustic

350 Experiments with the Sunflower. {Am"AJug?,r'if76arm'

potassa. The distillate had an alkaline reaction, and its odor reminded
of that of conium ; but, when neutralized with an acid, the distillate
was neither precipitated by tannin nor by iodohydrargyrate of potas-
sium ; it was probably ammonia contaminated with some odorous pro-
duct of decomposition.

SOME PRACTICAL EXPERIMENTS WITH THE SUNFLOWER.

BY G. C. WITTSTEIN.1

Helianthus annuus is largely cultivated in Russia and Hungary, partly
on account of the agreeable fixed oil and partly for the presscakes,
which are a valuable fodder. i6,coo strong, healthy plants can be
raised on one Bavarian acre (Tagwerk), which holds 3,407 square
metres. By numerous experiments, it was ascertained that each indi-
vidual weighs on an average kilos, while fresh, and of this weight
I kilo is due to the seeds, one-half of the remainder (2J kilos) being stem,
and the other half (2J kilos) leaves, receptacles and roots. The yield
per acre is therefore 40,000 kilos of stem, 40,000 kilos of leaves, etc.,
and 4,000 kilos of fruit (seeds). The entire plant, deprived of the
fruit, was cut fine, when, on drying in the air, it lost 68 per cent., and
at iio°C. altogether 72*25 per cent., or nearly three-fourths of its
weight ; the remaining 27*75 parts left on incineration 1*9 parts of
ashes, in which were found 62*199 potassium carbonate, 2*930 sodium
carbonate, 7*000 potassium chloride and 2*772 sodium chloride, or
altogether 74*901 per cent, soluble in water, and 25*099 per cent, in-
soluble in water, consisting of 4*210 calcium carbonate, 13*916 calcium
phosphate, 0*672 aluminum phosphate, 0*323 ferric phosphate, 5*291
magnesia and 0*687 silicic acid. By leeching the ashes and evaporat-
ing the solution the resulting potash should contain 82*83 potassium
carbonate ; however, in consequence of a partial reaction with the
calcium phosphate, the amount of carbonate was found to have de-
creased to 75*50 per cent., yielding still a good commercial potash.

Different samples of fruit yielded from 41 to 60 per cent, of shells,
and from 40 to 59 per cent, of kernels, the latter yielding 16*25 to
28 per cent, of fixed oil, calculated for the weight of the fruit, or 40*6
to 50*5 per cent., calculated for the kernel alone. The oil was ex-

1 Abstract from a paper published in "Archiv der Pharmacie," April, and com-
municated by the author.

AmAJu0gU!:'i876a.rm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals, 351

tracted by ether ; if obtained by pressure, of course considerably less
would be obtained.

From the results obtained, as above, the author concludes that the
cultivation of the sunflower would be profitable, inasmuch as a Bava-
rian acre would yield from the plants (deprived of the fruit) 1,525 kilos
ashes, yielding 1,250 kilos of potash, and from the fruit, by extraction,
870 kilos of oil with 3,120 kilos of residue, or by pressure, 720 kilos of
oil and 3,280 kilos of presscakes.

The air-dry fruit lost at no°C. 6 per cent, of water and yielded
4*173 per cent, of ashes, 20*273 per cent, of which was soluble in
water. It consisted of i4*475K2O,4*7i4Na2O,i*405Na,6*8i iCaO,.
io*Q6oMgO,*227Al203, i.427Fe2Os, 2*i62Cl, 2*o86S03,3i.848P205,
io*8nSi03 and i3*074CO2.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Princewood bark, a febrifuge of the Bahamas. — The name of prince-
wood is given to two small West Indian trees, Cordia gerascanthoides
Kth., nat. ord. Boraginaceae, and Hamelia ventricosa, Sw. nat. ord.
Rubiaceae. Both are noted for their timber, which is lightish brown
with dark brown marking, and used for table and cabinet work. Sam-
ples of princewood bark, recently received at the Kew Museum, were
ascertained, by Mr. John R. Jackson, to be derived from Exostemma
caribceum, R. S., nat. ord. Rubiaceae, which, according to Grisebach,
is a fragrant shrub widely distributed in Jamaica, Antigua, Dominica,
Trinidad, Cuba, Mexico and Guiana. The bark is smooth, of a deep
reddish-brown, but somewhat greyish on the outside ; under an ordi-
nary lens, numerous small crystals are seen distributed over its surface.
It breaks with a short, woody fracture ; in flavor it is at first sweet,
changing to an astringent bitterness ; it readily tinges cold water to the
color of dark brandy, and imparts to it, in a few hours, opaqueness, a
strong, earthy smell and bitter taste. It has been known as the Jesuits'
bark of Jamaica, and is sometimes called the seaside beach.

Exostemma floribundum and brachycarpum, likewise occurring in the
West Indies, are called " quinquina piton," or " China caribaea "
(Grisebach). E. cuspidatum, a small tree, native of Brazil, is there
called lt quino do mato j" E. corymbiferum is a native of the islands of

352 Gleanings from the Foreign Jonrnals. {^m'l°ll'^™m'

Pacific Ocean, and E. philippicum indigenous to the Philippine Islands ;
both have bitter medicinal barks. — Pharm. your, and Trans., 1876,
February 26.

Chelidonium majus. — E. Masing, of Dorpat, has made a large num-
ber of determinations of the moisture and alkaloids contained in the
herb, root and fruit of this plant, which was collected during five
succeeding months, in periods varying from three to ten days. The
amount of moisture varied in the herb between 80*35 and 91.34 per
cent., and in the root between 6676 and 85*26 per cent. The total
amount of alkaloids was determined by digesting 10 grm. of the fresh
part of the plant with 25 cc. of acidulated water and 75 cc. of alcohol
for 12 hours, the tincture evaporated to expel the alcohol and then
diluted with water to 100 cc. 25 cc. of this solution was then titrated
with Mayer's solution Jq, each cubic centimetre of which indicates
0*001675 grm. chelidonina ; a separation of chelidonina and chelery-
thrina was not attempted, owing to the large number of determina-
tions made. The amount of test solution required varied between
4*0 and 13*0 cc. for the herb, 4*4 and 16*2 cc. for the root and 5*3
and 9*7 cc. for the fruit.

The rapid decrease of the alkaloid at the beginning of flowering
and the subsequent rapid increase appear to indicate that the alkaloids
are used up for the formation of albuminous substances, which are
deposited in the ovaries. Another cause of the vacillation is found in
the weather, the consumption of the alkaloids exceeding their produc-
tion during moist and rainy weather. A well-manured soil seems to
favor their production, since the cultivated plant showed about double
the amount of alkaloids, as compared with the wild plant, collected at
the same time. — Archiv d. Phar., 1876, March, 224-228.

Cotoin. — Julius Jobst received coto-bark from London in 1873 (see
Amer. Jour. Phar., 1875, p. 541), and obtained last year a crystalliza-
ble body which appears to be the active medicinal principle of the bark.
To obtain it the powdered bark is exhausted by ether, the tincture con-
centrated by distillation, the residue poured into a capsule and mixed
with six parts of warm petroleum ether (light petroleum benzin).
After the separation of a large quantity of resin, the benzin solution is
poured off and allowed to crystallize. The crystals are collected,
pressed and several times recrystallized from water. Thus prepared,
cotoin forms yellowish-white, light prismatic crystals, has a very biting

Am'AugU^is7h6!rm*} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 353

taste, is sparingly soluble in cold, but more in warm water, and readily
soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform and carbon bisulphide. Benzol
and petroleum benzin dissolve it less readily ; it crystallizes from alco-
hol in large sulphur-yellow prisms, fuses at I24°C. (255*2°F.), and
dissolves in alkalies with a yellow color, being reprecipitated by acids.
Nitric acid dissolves it with a blood-red, sulphuric acid with a brown-
yellow, and muriatic acid with a yellow color. The aqueous solution
is neutral, yields with subacetate of lead a bright, yellow precipitate,
and with iron salts a brown-red coloration or, when concentrated, a
blackish-brown precipitate, and reduces in the cold, silver and gold
salts, also Fehling's solution — the latter rapidly on warming. Its com-
position, according to an analysis by I. A. Todd, is C21H20O6, and
of its lead compound C^H^Og-j^ (PbH202). — Neues Repert. d. Phar.,
1876, 23-28.

Taxina. — W. Marme obtained this poisonous alkaloid by exhausting
the powdered seeds or leaves of Taxus baccata with ether, distilling
off the ether and exhausting the residue with warm acidulated water.
From the colorless filtrate, the alkaloid is precipitated by alkalies in
snow-white flocks, which, when collected, form a white crystalline
powder, which is soluble in acidulated water, alcohol, ether, chloro-
form, benzol and carbon bisulphide, but not in petroleum benzin.
Concentrated sulphuric acid colors it red ; other acids dissolve it with-
out coloration. It is precipitated by all reagents characteristic for alka-
loids, except by the chlorides of platinum, gold and mercury, and by
platino- cyanide of potassium. It contains nitrogen, but crvstallizable
salts could not be obtained. — Chem. Cent"albl., No. 11.

The Inula camphor of J. Kallen (uAmer. Jour. Pharm.," 1874, 298)
has been further examined by the same chemist. It was obtained in
the form of white crystals by distilling elecampane root with steam.
On pressing the crystals between bibulous paper, and distilling the lat-
ter with water, a yellowish liquid, alantol, is obtained, having an aro-
matic taste and the odor of peppermint, and boiling near 2000 C. Its
composition is C10H16O.

The crystals remaining after pressing, are repeatedly crystallized from
dilute alcohol, when they form colorless prismatic needles, of a faint
odor and taste, fusing at 66° C. and sublimable, readily soluble in alco-
hol and ether, but slightly in water. It is the anhydrid of a new
acid (alantsaure) of the formula C15H20O2 ; the acid is C15H22Os, crys-

23

354 Gleanings from the Foreign "Journals. {AmAigU,ri^6arm'

tallizes in fine needles, fuses at 90 — 91 0 C, and yields rather unstable
crystallizable salts. — Ber. Deutsch. Che?n. Ges., 1876, 154 — 157.

Hesperidin. — Emanuele Paterno and Giovanni Briosi have obtained
this principle pure by a modification of Pfefrer's process, The cut and
bruised oranges are covered with diluted alcohol, potassa solution is
added in excess, the liquor filtered after two days and impure hesperidin
precipitated by muriatic acid ; the precipitate is boiled with acetic acid
for 8 or 10 minutes, and, after cooling, filtered from the dark resinous
mass. After two days the filtrate commenced to separate white, fine
needles and spheric crystals of nearly pure hesperidin, the separation
continuing for several months. Four thousand ripe oranges yielded
about 180 grams of hesperidin, which was also obtained from the ripe
fruit of Citrus limonum and C. medica. It fuses between 2430 and
245°C, is nearly insoluble in the simple solvents, but soluble in alkalies
and in anilin, from which it is precipitated by ether. — Ber. D. Chem.
Ges., 1876, 250-252.

Oil of Parsley. — TrommsdorfF obtained from 1 5 kilos parsley fruit
90 grams, and by shaking the aqueous distillate with benzol, 16 grams
more of the volatile oil, which was examined by E. von Gerichten.
It commenced to boil at i6o°C, nearly all the terpen having come
over below 2100. Between 2700 and 2900 a heavy yellowish-green,
very refractive, uncrystallizable liquid was obtained, and above 300°C.
brown decomposition products. By repeated rectification of the first
portion, the pure, colorless terpen was obtained, boiling between 1600
and i64°C, and having an intense odor of parsley. Its specific gravity
at I2°C. is '865, and its rotation power for yellow light and a column
of 100 mm. = — 30*8°. Muriatic acid colors it gradually brown and
destroys the parsley odor. Terpin and solid chlorhydrates could not be
obtained. — Ibid., 258-260.

The Conversion of Brucia into Strychnia by means of nitric acid, as re-
ported by Sonnenschein ("Am. Jour. Phar.," 1875, p. 345), does not
appear to be as readily effected. A series of experiments, made by
A. J. Cownley, led him to the conclusions, that 1, if brucia be treated
with enough dilute nitric acid to acidify the solution, there is no change
in color, and caustic fixed alkalies precipitate the alkaloid ; 2, if enough
acid be used just to form the red color without the aid of heat, there is
a partial precipitation with akali ; 3, if gentle heat be used in presence

AmAJu°g^'i87h6arin'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 3 5

of acid in excess, more than sufficient to color the solution, caustic
alkali fails to produce a precipitation, and if further heat be used after
the acid has been added, yellow crystals soluble in alkali are deposited.
These results point to the production of a nitro-compound, probably
of Laurent's cacothelin ("Am. Jour. Phar.," xix, 237; xx, 115).
The results further prove that the detection of brucia, and even of
strychnia, in an analytical inquiry will become doubtful, if the presence
of nitric acid, even dilute, be permitted. Phar. Jour, and Tram.,
April 22, p. 841. (See also papers by Rosengarten, Am. Jour. Phar.,
xx, 114; Baumert, Ann. d. Chem. u. Phar., lxx, 337, and Strecker,
Co?np. Rend., xxxix, 49.

Amyrin. — Eugene Buri obtained amyrin by treating elemi with cold
90 per cent, alcohol, and recrystallizing the residue repeatedly from
hot alcohol. It forms colorless silky needles, united to globular masses,
fuses at 1 770 C. and congeals, far b^low the melting point, to a trans-
parent, resinous mass, which crystallizes again from alcohol. It is
soluble in ether, and freely in chloroform and carbon bisulphide. 100
parts of alcohol of 92*5 per cent, dissolve at 160 C. (6o*8° F.) 3*6
parts. Its alcoholic solution affects polarized light -j- 4*5°. It is sub-
limable when carefully heated in thin layers. Ultimate analysis gave
results agree'ng with the formula C25H420=(C5H8)5.H20, to which also
the acetyl substitution product points. By the action of nitric acid,
oxalic and an amorphous resin acid were obtained. The products of
destructive destination could not be separated into bodies of uniform
boiling point \ the first portion had an agreeable odor and aromatic
taste. — Buchner's N. Repert., 1876, 1 93-203.

Alkaloid from Capsicum. — J. C. Thresh treated the fruit of Capsicum
fastigiatum, deprived of their non-acrid seeds, with benzin, which
yielded 20 per cent, of a red fatty substance, of intense acridity. This
was dissolved in ether, the solution shaken with dilute sulphuric acid,
t>he free acid partially neutralized with barium carbonate, filtered, evap-
orated, and the oily residue treated with alkali and agitated with ether.
On evaporating the ether, a small quantity of an oily alkaloid was
obtained, smelling somewhat like conium, having a mawkish, persistent,
but not acrid taste, and yielding crystals on being combined with HC1
and S03 The alkaloid is undoubtedly the one observed by Felletar
in 1868, and since then confirmed by Dragendorff and Fluckiger. —
Pharm. Jour, and Trans., May 27, p. 941.

356 Contributions from the School of Pharmacy , etc. {AVu°gTi87h6a.rm'

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE SCHOOL OF PHARMACY OF THE.
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN.

Communicated by Prof. Albert B. Prescott.

I. The Preparation of Liquor Ferri Nitratis. By F. T. Bower, Ph.C.

This solution, made by the U. S. P. process, is variable in two par-
ticulars, namely, in the proportion of iron to the solution, and in the
proportion of acid to iron. From the last-named variation the ferric
salt may be more or less basic or possibly normal. As with other ferric
salts, the more basic the darker its color ; the normal salt in solution
of U. S. P. strength being very light in color, and in presence of free
nitric acid almost colorless. The " Pharmacopoeia " specifies its color
as pale amber ; but if the iron be dissolved in strict compliance with
the directions, the finished solution is darker than pale amber — and this
is true of the solution commonly in use. By the addition of nitric acid
it can be made pale, in proportion to the amount added. The causes
of the variation lie, firstly, in the uncertain action of iron on the cold
dilute nitric acid ; slight differences in temperature and differences in
the equilibrium of the nitric acid change the decomposition products of
the acid and the proportion of ferrous nitrate it can make. Even if
the direction to avoid red fumes be so strictly obeyed that no trace of
nitric oxide is formed, we may have the acid breaking up in at least
three different ways, as follows :

4Fe+i0HNO3=4Fe(NO3)2+NH4NO3+3H2O
4Fe+ioHN03=4Fe(N03)2+N20+5H20
Fe+ 2HNOs= Fe(NOs)2+2H

Again, the action of the second portion of nitric acid, added to change
the ferrous to a ferric salt, will be varied by conditions. The chief
decomposition product is undoubtedly nitric oxide, but other products
may occur to some extent. In using nitric acid to make ferric solu-
tions of sulphate and chloride, we know, by experience, that the only
exact direction is to add sufficient nitric acid, and afterward expel any
excess ; but here, with a variable quantity of ferrous nitrate to act upon
(to oxidize and then make normal), we have no guide but to heat to 1300
and add the two troyounces of nitric acid.

The " Pharmacopoeia " directs that one fluidounce of the solution
shall furnish " from eight to ten grains " of ferric oxide. Five sam-
ples of the solution were assayed, the first two obtained at drug stores,.

AmAJu°gu,ri8>76arm'} Contributions from the School of Pharmacy^ etc. 357

and the last three prepared for the purpose according to the U. S. P.,
but in smaller quantities :

One fluidounce of No. 1 gave 12*69 grains ferric oxide,
cc cc cc 2 u 1 1 *99 " u cC

cc cc cc 2 u 16*93 " c' tc

cc cc cc m cc 11*28 tc " cc

5 " 8-46

CC CC CC r CC W.,.A " CC CC

An attempt was made to prepare the solution of nitrate of iron by
adding solution of tersulphate to an alcohol solution of potassium
nitrate, but it was found that with the precipitate of potassium sulphate
was a precipitate of basic ferric nitrate. This, on warming to expel
the alcohol, became so basic as to be insoluble in water. The experi-
ment was repeatedly varied, without full success.

The following process was then devised by calculation and experi-
ment, and in repeated trials it made a satisfactory liquor, one fluidounce
of which, in each instance, gave very nearly ten grains of dry ferric
oxide :

Take of solution of tersulphate of iron, . . 7 fluidounccs

water of ammonia, . . .8^ fluidounces

nitric acid, . . 3 troyounces and 145 grains

distilled water, . . .a sufficient quantity

To the water of ammonia, mixed with twelve fluidounces of water,
add, stirring constantly, the solution of tersulphate of iron, previously
mixed with twelve fluidounces of water. Filter and wash the pre-
cipitate until the washings render solution of chloride of barium only
slightly turbid. Let the precipitate drain and dry till it can be removed
from the filter without loss. To two troyounces and 250 grains of
the nitric acid, mixed with an equal volume of distilled water, add,
without heat and stirring constantly, the precipitate of ferric hydrate
until it no longer dissolves. Filter the solution, and wash the filter
with repeated small portions of distilled water, adding the washings to
the filtrate. Then add to the solution the remainder of the nitric acid
and (after it has attained a pale amber color) add enough distilled water
to make the liquid measure 36 fluidounces.

One fluidounce of this solution should furnish 10 grains of dry ferric
oxide.

358 Contributions from the School of Pharmacy , etc. {A%^3^m

II. Comparison of four Processes for the Morphiometric Assay of Opium. By James-
Lynn, Ph.C.

Four samples of opium, obtained at different reputable pharmacies,,
were each assayed by the four processes. The opium was dried, to
lose no more weight, at ioo°C.

PERCENTAGES OBTAINED.

No. i.

No. 2.

No. 3.

No. 4

I.

Procter's Staples' process,1

I 1*22

13-62

9-14

12 69

2.

Mohr's process,2

1 1 *40

13-48

9*3°

I2.77

3-

Hager's Jacobson's process,3

n-68

13-86

9-46

12-98

4-

Dragendorff's Mayer's process,4

i2'33

14-00

10-40

13-06

Of the three gravimetric methods, Staples' gives much the purest and
best crystallized morphia, being nearly colorless and readily detached
and gathered. For this reason Staples' is preferred by the operator to
Mohr's or Hager's method, unless time is an important object. Hager's
is the quickest and simplest, being completed in four to six hours,,
while the product is about as pure as Mohr's ; the crystals from both
these methods being imperfect and colored. The yield is greater in
Hager's than in Staples' process, but very likely the amount of absolute
morphia is not much greater.

In any gravimetric method the morphia separates by crystallization
slowly, and, we must suppose, approximately, and that a weighable

luProc. Am. Phar. Asso.," 1870, p. 129; "Am. Jour. Phar.," 1871, p. 65.
(First method given by Procter.) The plan of the U. S. P. preparation of morphia.-

2"Annal. der Chem. u. Phar.," B. 35, S. 1205 " U. S. Dispensatory."
Third method given by Procter, as above quoted.

3 "Hager's Untersuchungen," II, 1765 "Am. Jour. Phar.," 1871, p. 224
Founded on Mohr's.

The Voli metric Method. Mayer, "Am. Jour. Phar.," 1863, p. 20; Dragen-
dorfF, " Werthbestimmung starkwirkender Droguen," p. 86. This method was-
employed as follows : Three grams dried powdered opium were exhausted with
benzene, the adhering benzene fully evaporated, the dry powder macerated in water
for 12 hours, then percolated on a filter with water until the water passed colorless.
The dilute percolate acidulated with sulphuric acid, and the reagent added from
the burette in portions so limited as to prevent excess, allowing the precipitate to
subside after each addition. At intervals, a drop of the clear supernatant liquid is
taken on a dark-colored glass slide, with a drop of reagent from the burette, this
portion being rinsed into the tested solution each time until the addition is com-
pleted. Each c.c. of a solution of 13*546 grams mercuric chloride and 49*8 grams
potassium iodide in water to one litre, precipitates o'02 grams morphia.

A%Ju°gu,;'i87h6arm"} Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. 359

proportion of morphia remains in the mother liquors of the gravimetric
processes is strongly supported by the results of the volumetric method.
Here weighable portions of the alkaloid do not escape determination,
and no non-alkaloidal matter obtains determination. Other alkaloids,
however, may be included, notwithstanding the use of benzene. Also,
the execution of the volumetric process may suffer appreciable variations.
At any rate, it must be held that the greatest exactness is attainable
by the volumetric method.

III. Valuation of Powdered Ipecacuanha Root and Do ver s Powder, as found in
the Market. By T. M. Stewart, Ph.C.

All the specimens were obtained from different retail drug stores in
Detroit and Jackson, Michigan.

The ipecacuanha was assayed by the process lately recommended by
Dragendorff,1 the drug being extracted first by acidulated water, and
then by alcohol, the pectin filtered out from the concentrated solution,
when the alkaloid is either determined volumetrically by potassium
mercuric iodide or extracted by chloroform or benzene in presence of
barium carbonate, and the residue thereof weighed. (One c.c. Mayer's
solution precipitates 0*0189 gram emetia.)

Both volumetric and gravimetric ways were found to give concur-
ring duplicate results, and the two ways gave results corresponding
closely with each other ; but the volumetric method leaves less danger
of loss in operating. Two grams were taken each time.

POWDERED IPECACUANHA.

No. 1. 175 per cent, emetia. No. 5. 1*90 per cent, emetia.

" 2. 1-45 " " " 6. 2*00 " "

" 3. 2-10 " " " 7. 1*90 " "

Average, 1-84 per cent, emetia.
All the numbers were examined microscopically and chemically for
adulterations, especially for almond meal, chalk and antimonium potas-
sium tartrate, but no adulterations were found, except a little extrane-
ous woody fibre.

The compound powder of ipecacuanha was assayed as follows :2
Three grams of the powder were extracted with 85 per cent, alcohol

1 " Werthbestimmung einiger starkwirkender Droguen " (1874) S. 37.

2 " DragendorflTs Werthbestimmung," S. 96.

36o

The History of some Drugs.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Aug., 1876.

(the residue tested for adulterations) ; the dry residue from the alcohol
dissolved in acidulated (sulphuric acid) water, filtering if necessary, and
the narcotina removed by washing the acid solution with ether. After
addition of excess of barium carbonate, the solution is now extracted
with benzene (several portions), the residue from evaporation of the
benzene being weighed as emetia (confirming by dissolving in acid water
and titrating with potassium mercuric iodide). The solution exhausted
with benzene is washed with amylic alcohol (several portions), and the
residue from evaporation of the amylic alcohol weighed as morphia
(confirming volumetrically by potassium mercuric iodide after dissolv-
ing in acidulated water). The ether and the amylic alcohol should be
water-washed.

Dover's powder.

phia.

No.

I, 0'20

per cent.

emetia,

and

1*03 per cent

cc

2, 0'l6

cc

cc

cc

I '00

cc

cc

3, 0-23

cc

cc

cc

i*o6

cc

cc

4,- 0*20

cc

cc

cc

1-03

cc

cc

5, 0-13

cc

cc

cc

°'93

cc

cc

6, 0-13

cc

cc

cc

1 -oo

cc

cc

7, 0-26

cc

cc

cc

1*06

cc

cc

8, 0-23

cc

cc

cc

0*96

cc

Averag

;e, 0-19

cc

IC

cc

1 -oi

cc

U. S. P. standard,

1*00

cc

The average of

0*19 per

cent, in

Dover's

Powder

cent, emetia in ipecacuanha.

All the samples of Dover's Powder were examined for adulterations,
organic and inorganic, but none were found.

CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS THE HISTORY OF SOME DRUGS.1

BY PROFESSOR FLUCKIGER.

In writing our cc Pharmacographia," my late friend Hanbury and
myself have endeavored to trace the history of each substance as far
back as possible, and to ascertain the date of the introduction into
pharmacy of drugs — especially of those furnished by foreign countries.

1 Abstracted from the author's
Halle, 1876, p. 96.

Documente zur Geschichte der Pharmacie.

Am. Jour. Pharnr )
Aug., 1876. i

The History of some Drugs.

361

Many curious facts are connected with the way of their propagation
throughout Europe, both in early and in the middle ages. As to Eng-
land, I am entitled to suppose that there are existing but an extremely
limited number of sources of valuable information about the subject
under notice which had escaped the careful investigation of my lamen-
ted friend. As to the continent, there is in the library of the British

777'C

Museum an interesting volume marked — - — - (Pharmacopoeia), and

entitled " Valor she taxatio omnium materierum medicarum . . . quae in
qfficind pharmaceutica Swinphordiand venundantur" printed at Giessen,
1614. This is the tariff of drugs and compound medicines which were
to be met with in the pharmaceutical shop of Schweinfurt on the Main,
then one of the numerous free cities of the old German Empire. The
establishment (Apotheke) was not a private business, but remained from
A.D. 1412 until the year 1803 the property of the commonwealth of
that imperial town, and was managed — under the superintendence of the
physicians — by an apothecary appointed by the magistrate. The tariff
was therefore settled by this authority. The same may be said with
regard to many other German towns, a fact which, no doubt, depends
upon a good deal of public interest already devoted in those early
times to pharmaceutical matters. Thus the volume alluded to con-
tains not only the " tax " of Schweinfurt, but also those of Bremen
(1644), of Basel (1647), °f Rostock (1659), of Quedlinburg (1665),
and Frankfurt (1669). Daniel Hanbury at once appreciated the useful-
ness of these documents, which we subsequently made free use of, as
may be seen from several pages of the " Pharmacographia " (77, 177,

234).

It was evident that similar medicine tariffs must have been in vigor
throughout the numberless States, so very different in size, which were
formerly termed the German Empire; and not only tariffs, but most
of them had their own pharmacopoeia and medico-pharmaceutical laws.
Since my late friend first drew my attention to the said volume in the
British Museum, I have succeeded in perusing — for the same purposes
— somewhat more than one hundred of similar lists or tariffs of German
towns, ranging from the year 1558 down to the middle of the last cen-
tury. They are scattered in various public libraries throughout Ger-
many, but I learn from A. N. von Scheerer's " Literatura Pharmaco-
poearum," Leipzig, 1822, p. 232, that there are about forty more of

362

The History of some Drugs.

Am. Jour. Pharrci.
Aug , 1876.

the same periods which I have not yet been able to consult. No other
country, as far as I know, can boast of such a number of similar docu-
ments, which I think must be considered as an evidence of a somewhat
advanced state of the pharmacy in those ages, although the fact may
partly be explained by the extreme, and we may say absurd, self-gov-
ernment then prevailing among the Germans. In 1872 at last the way
has been cleared for ever by the " Pharmacopoea Germanica."

In abstracting the said tariffs, I have met with a good deal of informa-
tion which may some day prove useful to any author engaged in the
history of Pharmacy. I have therefore communicated my notes to the
Archiv der Pharmacie, volumes 204 and 205 (1875 and 1876), from
which they are reprinted under the title " Documente zur Geschichte
der Pharmacie," Halle, 1876, 96 pages. A few pages from this pam-
phlet may be permitted to be quoted in this place in order to show that
they afford even some further elucidation to questions which had been
treated with a certain amount of care in the " Pharmacographia." The
sources from which the following facts have been borrowed are pointed
out in the pamphlet :

Balsamum Canadense is stated (" Pharmacographia," p. 553) to have
been noticed in England A.D. 1761, but in my " Documente," p. 92,
it is found to have been sold at Strassburg as early as 1759 as a current
article of the pharmacy of that country.

Balsamum Copaivce. — Its history is somewhat exhaustively traced
out in "Pharmacographia," p. 201, and also (p. 184) that of a certain
white American balsam, the latter being derived from several species
of Myroxylon and Myrocarpus. It would appear from some tariffs
abstracted in the " Documente," pp. 47, 52, 65, 68 and 69, that in
some cases Balsamum Americanum, s. Indicum, s. Mexicanum album was
probably intended for copaiba — for instance, in the private tariff of an
apothecary of the city of Gorlitz, of the year 1629. But in the Phar-
macopoeia of Amsterdam, A.D. 1636, editio sexto, Balsam. Copce. yvez is
distinctly enumerated. The authors of the " Pharmacographia " had
not been able to find it mentioned in English pharmacy previous to the
year 1677.

Balsamum Peruvianum. — Perhaps Balsamum Indicum, of the tariffs of
1605 and J6o7, quoted in the tC Documente," pp. 35 and 36, may mean
Peru balsam ; it is, however, expressly termed Balsamum Peruvianum
in the tax of Mainz (Mayence), A.D. 1609, and what is more curious,

AmAJu0gU^?7h6ar^,"} T^ History of some Drugs. 363

the pods of the tree, Fructus balsami indict, are met with in the lists of
Wittenberg in 1646, and of Nordhausen, 1657. These pods are still
occasionly imported on account of the fragrant resinous contents of the
large ducts around the seed. Their fragrance, which I am told is
much appreciated by perfumers, is quite different from that of the
balsam itself (see " Pharmacographia," p. 184). Balsamum Jndicum
nigrum fluidum is another name frequently applied to Peru balsam
Balsamum Hispanicum ("Documente," pp. 45 and 49) may rather mean
balsam of tolu. It is hardly possible to say what was Balsamum Amer-
icanum s. Indicum verum, p. 41.

Balsamum hispanicum siccum seu americanum resinosum in the tariff of
Schweinfurt, 4th edition, 1644 (" Documente," p. 49), as well as Bal-
samum Indicum durum of Ulm, 1648 (" Documente," p. 53), cannot be
doubted to mean balsam^of tolu. The product of Myroxylon Pereirezy
which is exclusively prepared on the balsam coast of San Salvador,
having been formerly carried to Callao, the chief port of Peru during
the Spanish dominion, the name of Peru balsam was given to it. This
may account for the appellation of Balsamum hispanicum, which appears
to have been bestowed upon the balsam of tolu, inasmuch as it used to
be immediately shipped for Spain — as it is still — from the ports of New
Granada.

The earliest express mention of Balsams tolutawww, I have met
with in pharmaceutical tariffs occurs in that of the city of Frankfurt of
1669, quoted in the "Documente," p. 65. From what we stated in
the " Pharmacographia," p. 177, it is probable that the drug was then
likewise used in England, but there is no proof of the fact as far as I
can see ; I would be glad, however, to be corrected in this opinion.

Benzoin began to be introduced as a commercial article in the begin-
ning of the sixteenth century (u Pharmacographia," p. 362). It was
abundantly obtainable in the middle of that century, for Hieronymus
Cardanus states in his work, " De la Subtilitk," French translation,,
1556, p. 160, that " belzoi est de vile prix 'pour l'abondance." Ben-
zoin, according to the custom of that period, was then submitted to
destructive distillation, by which it yielded benzoic acid, which was
first noticed by the famous French astrologer, Michel de Nostredame,1
about the year 1556. This preparation appears to have quickly come

1 " Excellent et moult utile Opuscule a touts necessaire qui desirent avoir cognois-
sance de plusieurs exquises receptes/'' 1556.

364 The History of some Drugs. {AmZ°gu,r-l8P7h6?rm

into more general use; it occurs in the list of Gorlitz (east of Dresden)
of 1629, under the name of Benzoi /lores.

Arnotto, the pulp of the fruit of Bixa Orellana, the well known dye,
occurs in tariffs of Wittenberg, 1646, Budissin, 1660, Leipzig, 1669,
under the name of Orlian, which it still bears in German.

Cascarilla bark. — The Bahamas having been in the possession of the
English from 1629 to 1641, the authors of the " Pharmacographia" sup-
posed it to have been first introduced in Europe by way of England, but
no evidence at all has been found to prove the correctness of this sugges-
tion. The said islands were occupied in 1641 by the Spaniards, and to
them apparently is due the introduction of this bark. It bears a certain
resemblance to quills of cinchona barks, and was, therefore, first
noticed by the name of China nova, or cascarilla, which designations
were, no doubt, of Spanish origin. It is said, however (" Documente,"
p. 76), that it had first been mentioned in the pamphlet — " De machinis
fumiductoriis," Hamburg, 1686, by J. A. Stisser, Professor in the
University of Helmstedt, near Brunswick. I have not seen this pam-
phlet, nor that of V. G. Salat, of Valencia, Spain — " Unica quaestiun-
•cula, in qua examinatur pulvis de Buarango vulgo Cascarilla in curatione
tertianae." Valentiae, 1692. Both these pamphlets appear to be ex-
tremely rare, the first being not even quoted in Haller's " Bibl. Botan-
iica." But in the list of Minden, 1691 (" Documente," p. 74,) I have
found China nova, together with China de China — /. e., true Cinchona.
There can be no doubt that this refers to cascarilla, for in another tariff
of 1694 (" Documente," p. 74), published at Gotha, Cortex Chinee
noevez seu Schacorillae is quoted as well as in several other lists abstracted
in the " Documente."

Catechu is said in the " Pharmacographia" to have been unknown in
Europe until the latter half of the seventeenth century ; yet in the tariff
of Wittenburg of 1646, Catechu seu t?rra Japponica is met with. It
again occurs in several other tariffs of the same century, and is always
quoted at very high prices.' In 1666, at Magdeburg, catechu was much
more costly than benzoin, balsam of Peru, camphor, opium, mastix,
etc. (" Documente," p. 64). Even in 1780 the wholesale price in
London was .£20 per cwt. ; to-day the commodity fetches about i%s.

The earliest mention of Cinchona bark — China China — is found in
the tariffs of Leipzig and Frankfurt of the year 1669. In England it
had begun to be known about 1655.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Aug., 1876. J

The History of some Drugs.

365

One of the most curious things is the occurrence of coals, carbones
petrce, among the drugs of the tariff of the city of Freiberg, in Saxony,
A.D. 1680.

Cacao seeds and chocolate were to be found with German pharma-
ceutists as early as 1656 and 1683 (" Documente," pp. 53 and 69),,
and Coffee — " Bon Com* Grana" — in 1683 in the pharmaceutical office
of the court of Dresden. It is much more striking to learn from the
tariff of the city of Nordhausen, near Gottingen, that in 1657 — Herba
thece — was there a pharmaceutical aiticle. It also occurs in the tariff
of Liegnitz, in Silesia, in 1662, under its Chinese name, Herba shak ;
it then commanded a most extraordinary price, namely, fifteen florins a
handful.

Gamboge. — I have afforded some new information about the history
of that drug, as may be seen in the u Documente," pp. 41, 43, 44, 46,,
48, etc. In the list of Frankfurt, of 161 2, Gutta gemou (gamboge) is
stated to be a purging dried juice, coming from the kingdom of Patana
in India. The meaning of Gutta gemou is explained in the " Pharma-
cographia," p. 77. Patana is a country and a port on the eastern coast
of the peninsula of Malacca, where the Dutch established a settlement
in 1602, and were followed there in 1612 by the English. Gamboge
may have been imported there from the countries on the opposite shore
of Cambodja, where it is still colleted.1 Its early introduction in
Europe is, no doubt, due to the Dutch. In the tariff of Copenhagen
of 1 6 19, and in many tariffs of German towns down to the eighteenth
century, gamboge is also termed Gummi de Peru, which is, no doubt,,
simply a corruption of the Javanese word gemou, or jamu — i. e., a
medicine (" Pharmacographia," p. 77, note 4).

Iris Florentina. — As may be seen even in the " Divina Commedia,'>
cant, xvi, the ancient arms of Florence were a white iris on a red shield,
which were subsequently altered, the red iris or lily (giaggiold) now be-
ing on a white shield. This probably indicates an early cultivation of
orris root near Florence. In the early ages, that of Illyria was held to
be the best (u Pharmacographia," p. 599), and was still quoted in many
of the German lists under notice. In that of Schweinfurt, in i6i4>
Radix Iridis Florentine, however, is the only one mentioned.

Liquorice. — A list published in 1582 at Frankfurt informs us that
they had then Russian and Spanish liquorice and inspissated liquorice

1 See Pharm. Journ., iv. (1874), p. 803.

366 The History of some Drugs. { Arnx^rl8p76arm'

juice from Candia. In many other tariffs — for instance, in that of
Worms, 1609, and in that of Copenhagen, 1619 — liquorice of Bam-
berg in Bavaria is quoted, and in Conrad Gesner's interesting work,
4C De Hortis Germaniae," Strassburg, 1561, p. 164, the author says
already that near Bamberg of liquorice there was " maximus eius
proventus."

Manna of Brianyon, from Pinus larix, u Pharmacographia," p. 373,
would appear (" Documente," pp. 18 and 30) not to have been so very
rare an article in the second half of the sixteenth century as it is now-
a-days.

Mastiche. — From the very exhaustive information on the history of
mastiche alluded to in the '* Pharmacographia," I was led to suppose
that resin to have always exclusively been produced in the island of
Scio (Chios), but there is evidence (" Documente," pp. 31, 41 and 65)
that it was also collected in the island of Cyprus.

Mu:unae setce — cowhage. — The pods and hairs of Mucuna pruriens
were not much used in England before 1769 (" Pharmacographia," p.
166) ; they appear, however, to have been employed as early as 1714
in Germany, inasmuch as they are contained in the list of Onolzbach,
near Nurnberg (" Documente," p. 84).

Among essential oils that of bergamot is well worth noticing in the
" Catalogus omnium medicamentorum ... in officina pharmaceutica
£ J. C. Scipione ..." This is the private list of a druggist of
Giessen, 1688. There are several lists recorded in my " Documente "
which had been published in the seventeenth century by German pharm-
acists in order to show what stores they offered for sale ; no doubt this
was the case with only the most considerable pharmaceutical estab-
lishments of the time. The earliest notice of oil of bergamot pointed
out in the "Pharmacographia," p. 109, referred to the year 1693,
when it was mentioned in " Le Parfumeur Francois." The " Docu-
mente " now trace it a few years further back.

Oleum cajuputi was to be met in the little town of Hof, east of
Coburg, as early as 1726, a fact which also is no longer in full
accordance with the statements of the " Pharmacographia."

Oleum Matricaria Chamomillce. — This oil, which is so extremely
remarkable on account of its intensely blue tint, had apparently never
been appreciated in England. In Germany it was prepared in 1588

AmAur*x8P7h6arm*} The History of some Drugs. 367

by Joachim Camerarius ; and was to be found in 1608 in the
" Apotheke " of the city of Schweinfurt.

One of the most costly oils used to be that of cinnamon ; it was
even quoted at a higher rate than otto of rose. The latter was a
regular article of pharmacy in Germany as far back as the year 1607,
when it was enumerated in the list of Freiburg.

The oils of sassafras and of cochlearia were sold at Dresden in
1683. Crystallized oil of sassafras appears to have been first obtained
by John Maud, F.R.S., in 1738. He stated the crystals to be as long
as four inches ; I have prepared colorless crystals exceeding that
length and more than one inch in diameter.

Piper cethiopicum, or Piper nigrorum, one of the substitutes for pep-
per, occurs in the lists of Wittenberg, 1646, Nordhausen, 1657,
Magdeburg, 1666. This spice consisted of the fruit bunches of a
tree of the order Anonacece, indigenous throughout Western tropical
Africa — viz., Xylopia athiopica, Richard (Syn. Habzelia ceth., D. C. ;
Unona, Duval ; Uvaria, Guill. et Perrott.). It is figured in Mat-
thiolus " Commentar. in sex libr. Diosc," Venetiis, 1570, fol. 400;
also in Guibourt's " Hist. nat. des Drogues simples," III (1869), p.
736, and described in Lindley's " Flora Medica," p. 27, as well as in
Oliver's "Flora of Tropical Africa," I (1868), p. 30. Nothing
whatever is known about the chemical constituents of this fruit,
which is now entirely out of use.

Saffron. — English saffron has been so abundantly exported in the
seventeenth century that it is found in the tariff of Copenhagen in
1619, and is even termed in that of Celle, in Hanover, 1682, Crocus
communis Anglicus. This agrees well with our statements in the
" Pharmacographia," p. 603.

Sarsaparilla was known in England about the year 1568 ; it appears
to have been sold in Frankfurt in 1582.

Sassafras was sent to England in the beginning of the seventeenth
century, as may be supposed from the facts recorded in the " Pharma-
cographia," p. 483. The drug was well known at Frankfurt in 1582,
and at Hamburg in 1587, when it was termed Lignum pavamum, s.
floridum, s. xylomarathri (fennel-wood).

Serpentary root of Virginia is met with in 1697 (" Documente,"
p. 77) ; in England it was in regular use at least since the year 1650.

368

The History of some Drugs.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Aug., 1876.

Sugar. — Some interesting contributions to its history may be derived
from the " Documente," p. 32. There were in the sixteenth and
seventeenth centuries many sorts and kinds of sugar illustrating the
migration of the sugar cane from India to the new world. Thus,
Saccharum candum, or also sometimes, Sal indum, is sugar of Indian
origin ; Saccharum tabarzeth means in Persian a very hard crystallized
sugar ; Saccharum Melitense alludes to Malta ; whereas, strange
enough, neither Egyptian nor Sicilian sugar is ever mentioned in the
tariffs. From the Mediterranean the plant was introduced into the
Atlantic islands — hence Saccharum Madeirense, Canariense, and at last
sugar from the island of San Tome, in the Gulf of Guinea, Saccha-
rum Thomasinum. In this place the sweet cane had been transplanted:
by the Portuguese about the year 1500, but in a later period they
stopped its cultivation in the island in favor of its introduction into
Brazil. All these various kinds of sugar are mentioned in the Ger-
man lists under examination ; and besides them there is frequently to
be met with Saccharum penidium, or Saccharum turbinatum, the prepara-
tions now known under the names of boiled or pulled sugar, the
amorphous barley sugar of the confectioners.

Zinc seu Spiautr is an article of the tariff of Copenhagen of 1672;
in a German list of 1682 it is distinguished as Marchasita pallida v.
Zinck from Marchasita officinarum, plumbum cinereum — i. e., bismut.

The " Documente," if I am correct, afford a very curious illustra-
tion of the state of pharmacy, especially in Germany, during the
sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, as the above abstracts from my
pamphlet may prove. They, at the same time, furnish many little
contributions to the history of drugs, and are the more remarkable as
similar documents — at least, in so great a number and variety — seem
not to exist in any other country than in Germany, and perhaps a few
other countries where the German idiom is spoken. I thought them
well deserving of a somewhat minute investigation, inasmuch as they
must be considered as a real picture of ancient times, full of actuality.
— Phar. Jour, and Trans., 1876. June 24.

/

AmAu0gu''i87h6arm' } The International Exposition. 369

NOTES ON THE INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION.

BY THE EDITOR.
III.

In addition to the notes on the cinchonas and their products, published in our
last number, the exhibit of Evans, Lescher k Evans, of Liverpool, England,
deserves to be mentioned for the specimens of South American red bark and of the
East Indian barks of Cinchona lancifolia and C. succirubra in connection with
fluid extracts, and some salts of cinchona alkaloids. Cinchona barks are also found
in the department of Venezuela, in the Agricultural Building ; the kinds shown are
those known by the local names of carayaca and barquisimeto, the botanical origin of
which we have not ascertained, and the bark of Cinch, cordifolia <var. rotundifolia,
Weddell. This tree is indigenous to New Grenada, attains a height of 23 to 26
feet and grows at an elevation of 5,000 to 8,000 feet (1,500 to 2,400 metres) above
the sea. Several varieties of this species are found further South in Peru 5 the
variety rotundifolia was discovered not far from Caracas by Dr. Ernst, in 1870,,
after it had been collected by Dr. Vargas, in the same place, in 1829 (see "Am.
Jour. Pharm.," 1870, p. 449). Delondre and Bouchardat obtained from this bark
ra to 1 -4 per cent, of quinia sulphate containing some quinidia, and -5 to -6 per
cent, of cinchonia sulphate. Marcano found much less in the bark from Caracas,
probably in consequence of improper collection.

The mother liquors finally obtained in the manufacture of the cinchona alkaloids
contain the uncrystallizable chinoidin, which is also found in our commerce under
the names of amorphous quinia and precipitated extract of bark. Notwithstanding
it has been repeatedly and urgently recommended as a reliable tonic and efficient
febrifuge, it is comparatively little employed in regular practice, a neglect which, in
our opinion, is not at all deserved, but may, perhaps, be traced to its unsightly
resinous appearance and its difficult manageableness, owing to its insolubility in
water. These objections are entirely removed by a compound exhibited by Fr.
Jobst, namely, the citrate of chinoidin, in the form of transparent scales, resembling
the scale preparations of iron. In this combination chinoidin may be readily given
in any desired form, and, therefore, as conveniently prescribed as any salt of the
more costly cinchona alkaloids. We think that pharmacists should direct the
attention of physicians to this new and handsome preparation.

Another febrifuge drug which has attracted some attention since the Vienna
International Exposition is dita bark, the bark of Echites scholaris Lin., s. Alstonia
scholaris, R. Br., which is exhibited by Jac. Zobel, apothecary at Manilla, under
the names of Corteza de dita or quina Filipina. Gruppe had prepared from it an
amorphous alkaloid called ditaina ("Am. Jour. Pharm., 1873, P- which was

found to possess several advantages, even over quinia in the treatment of fevers.
This ditaina is evidently not a pure alkaloid, and the pecu ^r proximate principles
of dita bark are more numerous (" Am. Jour. Pharm.," 1875 P- 22 1) tnan was at
first supposed. Jobst and Hesse obtained from the alcoholic tincture, by precipi-
tating it with sugar of lead, a crystalline and an oily acid ; by precipitating after-
wards with subacetate of lead, different resin-like products, and subsequently, by

24

37°

The International Exposition.

( Am. Jour. Pharm.
t Aug., 1876.

acidulating and treating with phospho-tungstic acid, an alkaloid ('02 per cent, of
the bark) called ditamina, which yields crystallizable and very bitter salts. By
treating the bark directly with petroleum benzin, several principles were obtained,
of which echicautchin, echicerin and echiretin appear to be compounds of 02 with
respectively 5, 6 and 7 molecules of C5H8, while echitin was found to have the
composition C32H5202, echite'in being C42H70O2. The last named two principles,
handsomely crystallized, are exhibited by Fr. Jobst, together with echicerin. Jobst
and Hesse, however, are of the opinion that the febrifuge properties of dita bark, if
really as powerful and reliable as has been asserted, can hardly be due solely to the
minute quantity of alkaloid contained in it, and that, therefore, the bark promises to
be of little importance as the source of well characterized alkaloidal salts ("Ann.
Chem. u. Phar.," vol. 178).

It may not be uninteresting to mention, in this connection, that several other
species of Echites are medicinally employed in the East Indies, as Ech. malabarica ,
Lam., the root of which is used as a febrifuge and the leaves as an application to
carbuncles ; Ech. caryophyllata, Roxb., the leaves used in arthritic fevers ; Ech.
pubescens, Buch. and Ech. anti dysenteric af Roxb., the bark used as a remedy for
diarrhoea and dysentery. Several Brazilian species, like Ech. Cururuy Mart., Ech.
insignis, Spr. and Ech. longiftora, Desf., are used there for similar affections of the
bowels, and Ech. syphilitica Lin. fil., indigenous to Surinam, is employed there in
syphilitic complaints. It is not unlikely that all species of this genus, perhaps all
the plants of the natural order Apocynacese, possess valuable medicinal properties
to a greater or less degree.

By far greater importance must be attributed to a native tree of Australia,
Eucalyptus globulus, which, during the last six or eight years, has attracted a great
deal of attention in various parts of the world, on account of its reputed anti-
malarial and febrifuge properties (see " Am. Jour. Pharm.," 1869, p. 300 5 1872,
pp. 219, 540, 564; 1873, PP- *33> 281 ; 1874, p. 41 5 1875, P- 4*3 5 1876, pp. 23,
329). It is now extensively cultivated in Southern Europe and Northern Africa,
throughout a large part of the basin of the Mediterranean, nearly all the States of
that section having sent the leaves and volatile oil to the exposition j some also
other pharmaceutical preparations, like distilled water and spirit, tincture, wine,
extract, resin, &c. The Orange Free State of Southern Africa sends a section of
wood, and from American countries Eucalyptus leaves are exhibited by Brazil,
Mexico, Jamaica and the United States. In Jamaica, where the plant has been
introduced in 1870 and raised from seed, has attained a height of fifty feet in five
years ; it is at present grown at an elevation of 5,000 feet above the sea, and the
fresh leaves have yielded the same amount of volatile oil as in Australia, about -75
per cent., some of which is exhibited by Mr. Rob. Thomson, also some wood, the
tree being regarded as very valuable for timber. During the last two years the
tree has become popular in a few localities of South Carolina, and more recently it
has been planted in North Carolina, promising well in both localities. To study
the various species of Eucalyptus, however, more particularly in relation to their
wood and natural exudations, no portion of the exposition offers better opportuni-
ties than the native country of these myrtles, Australia.

The province of Queensland exhibits several large collections of its valuable

\

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Aug., 1876. j

The International Exposition.

37 1

timber, in the form of logs and slabs, partly polished so as to show their grain to
better advantage, and among them are not less than thirty distinct species of
myrtles, belonging to Myrtus, Melaleuca, Eugenia, Eucalyptus and other genera.
Similar exhibits are made by Tasmania, Victoria and other Australian colonies,
and altogether we have noticed timber from over thirty different species of
Eucalyptus, the wood of which varies between a light yellow or brown, some
varieties having a distinct green tint, to a dark brown, red-brown or brownish red,
the alburnum being in all cases of a lighter color, and the duramen, or heart wood,
frequently veined or of a marbled appearance. The vernacular names of blood-
wood (Euc. corymbosa, Sm.), mahogany [Euc. marginata and resinifera, Smith),
yellow box (Euc. hemiphloia^ Muell., and melliodora, Cunn.), and others have refer-
ence to the color of the wood ; the name mahogany is, however, given in Australia
to several other myrtles, and probably to trees of other natural orders having red-
colored wood. The green timber of the Eucalypts is stated to be generally soft,
and to acquire its hardness on drying, many varieties becoming then difficult to
work.

It is, however, not the value of these woods for the builder or cabinet maker
that gives to them their medicinal and pharmaceutical importance, but rather the
so-called gums and the volatile oils which the various species yield, some in very
large quantities. The so-called Botany bay kino is the product obtained by
inspissating the red exudation of Euc. resinifera^ Sm. ; but similar products are
obtained from other species, like Euc. corymbosa, Sm., E. maculata, Hook., E-
rostrata, Schlech., E. hemiphloia, Muel., E. siderophloiz., Benth. and others, and are
exhibited in the colonial departments of Australia. The "gum " of the last named
species is shown in irregular lumps, and likewise in thin transparent garnet-red
scales, resembling the scale preparations of iron. The majority of these products
appear to be closely allied to the pterocarpus kino ; according to Wiesner
(" Zeitschr. Oest. Apoth. Ver.," 1871), who examined the exudation from 16 eu-
calypts obtained from Dr. Moore, director of the Botanical Garden at Sidney, they
contain kinotannic, and small quantities of catechuic and pyrocatechuic acids, but
are free from pectin compounds. Some of these varieties were entirely free from
gum, while others were found to contain small, and a few large quantities of gum ;
the latter is particularly the case with the "gum " from Euc.gigantea, Hook., which
is almost completely insoluble in alcohol.

The separation of a saccharine substance upon the leaves and tender twigs of
some eucalypts has been noticed some years ago (" Am. Jour. Pharm ," 1862, p.
546). This Australian manna appears to be of two kinds, that which is exuded by
Euc. njiminal'tSy Labill., as is supposed in consequence of the punctures of insects,
and the kind called lerp, which is regarded as the secretion of an insect of the
Psylla family upon the leaves of the mallee scrub, the Euc. dumosa, Cunn. Both
kinds appear not to contain any mannit.

The importance of the eucalypts as sources for an almost unlimited supply of
volatile oils of various kinds, has been noticed on former occasions (" Am. Jour.
Pharm.," 1863, p. 451), and, we believe, first attracted attention through the obser-
vations of Baron F. von Mueller, director of the Botanical Garden at Melbourne,

37 2 The International Exposition.

to whom, likewise, the credit is due of having proven the very rapid development,
even on dry snd exposed spots, of Euc. globulus, Labill., Euc. obliqua, L'Herit., and'
other Australian trees (" Am. Jour. Pharm.," 1868, p. 51), upon which quality the
malaria-destroying properties of the blue gum tree (Euc. globulus) appear to
depend. It is, however, not unlikely that the presence of a large proportion of
volatile oil may be quite an important factor in this respect.

Volatile oils are found in all the eucalypts, whether they merely attain the
moderate size of shrubs, like the mallee scrub [Euc. dumosa, Cunn., E. oleosa and
socialis, Muel.), or rise as towering giants to the height of 400 or 500 feet, like the
Euc. colossea, Muel., and Euc. amygdalina, Labill. The vast amount of volatile oil
produced by the Australian eucalypts has been well set forth in a paper read by
Mr. Jos. Bosisto, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Victoria, before the
Royal Society of Victoria, August 10, 1874, from which we make the following
abstract :

The eucalypts agree in this, that they cast their bark ; that the leaves are ever-
green and have translucent oil cells ; that the petiole is half twisted and the plane
of the leaf parallel to the axis of the tree ; that the roots are dispersive and drain
water largely from the soil, and that they contain tannin (tannate gum resin),,
volatile acid and volatile oil. Most parts of the tree contain the two first men-
tioned principles, but the oil is found only in the leaves. Regarding the quantity
of the volatile oil yielded by the eucalypts, the following 8 out of 130 species
enumerated by Baron Mueller are regarded as representative, and 1,000 lbs. of
their fresh leaves (attached to very small branches) yield the quantities of volatile
oil stated below :

1 Euc. odorata, Behr, or peppermint tree, yield 7 fluidounces volatile oil..

2 Euc. viminalis, Labill., or manna gum,

3 Euc. rostrata, Schlech., or red gum,

4 Euc. obliqua, L'Her., or stringy bark,

5 Euc. globulus, Labill., or blue gum,

6 Euc. sideroxylon, Bent., or iron bark,

7 Euc. oleosa, Muel., or mallee,

8 Euc. amygdalina, Labill., or peppermint tree,

The range of the species represented by the first two is limited, while the others
have a wide range. The supply of oil varies, the variation, however, does not
arise from any diminution of leaves, nor does it follow in a cycle of time from
maximum to mimimum, but it is intermittent. The full causes of these peculiari-
ties are not known ; but some are pointed out as follows :

Euc. amygdalina, which varies in size from that of an ordinary willow to over
350 feet in height, occupies chiefly the higher portions of undulating forest lands
and the sides of the ranges, and does not extend over 100 miles inland 5 the ground
where it grows retains a little moisture throughout the summer months, September
to April, the roots run chiefly lateral and are seldom lower than three feet from the
surface ; they are surrounded with a soil evenly cool, but the temperature of the
air has its usual summer range, and during these months the supply of oil from
week to week is very even ; but as the cooler or winter months approach, the

/Am. Jour. Phariru
\ Aug.. 1876.

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^mAJugU!-i?7h6.rm'} The International Exposition. 373

ground becoming moist from rain, and the temperature of the air lower, the supply
of oil falls off.

The mallee scrub is the opposite of all this. These dwarfs of the eucalypts
seldom grow higher than 25 feet, and occupy a flat, dry, hungry country, with but
little growth of grass under them, chiefly dwarf heath bushes. There is little
Tain, but when it comes it is generally in torrents 5 the soil is a reddish sand, in
combination with salt clay ; this, during the long droughts, becomes exceedingly
hard, so much so that a pickaxe is required to turn the soil. The rootlets run
somewhat in a horizontal direction, but the rootlets spread traveling downward ;
and, as the salt water is to be obtained always at from 25 to 40 feet, they are found
resting on the moisture of the salt soil, just above the sandstone rock, which
generally commences about 12 feet above the salt spring. The temperature of the
surface ground, and also that of the air, is very high throughout the summer.
The leaves supply a greater amount of oil during the winter or rainy months than
during the hot summer months.

These circumstances depend partly upon the development of new leaves, which
in the desert species commences in summer (December and January), but in the
amygdal'ina.) globulus and others in winter (July and August). Moreover, the
vigor of the eucalypts is greater in some years than others, and when little
new growth takes place the oil-cells are charged more equally throughout the
whole year.

To illustrate further: In July, 1872, the ground being well saturated with
moisture, the mallee was in fine oil condition, each two tons of rough-cut branches
with their leaves gave two (Imperial) gallons of oil. The dry season set in imme-
diately after, the temperature of the air rose rapidly to summer heat, ranging
between 68 and 92° F., and in November the country was greatly parched and the
only water obtainable was from the river Murray. The yield of oil decreased in
November to 14 pints, in the beginning of December to 12, by the end of the year
to 9 pints, and by the end of summer (March) fluctuated between 8 and 4 pints.
During the same winter (July), the amygdalina yielded only one-fifth of its full
summer supply. The variations during the two preceding years were similar,
but not as rapid, while in 1861 the mallee yielded as much volatile oil in December
as in July 1872, and the coast species kept up a good supply, with little change,
throughout the whole year.

The volatile acid is contained more abundantly in those eucalypts which yield
medium quantities of oil than in those yielding oils either largely or sparingly. In
like manner this applies to the resin bodies. In the amygdalina, when the gum-
resin begins to form and exude, the oil in the leaves is diminished. When the
globulus is extra resiniferous, the acid is abundant and the oil small in quantity.
The rostrata produces little oil, but the volatile acid is very abundant, so that the
red gum wood owes its aroma entirely to this acid. The sideroxylon supplies oil
abundantly, but the leaf surface is small in comparison with other species, and the
enormous bark is everywhere studded with gum resin.

All these characteristics point to the conclusion that the volitile oil is the base of
the other eucalyptic products.

374 The International Exposition. { A Vug%P76arm'

The amount of oil produced by the eucalypts of Victoria and contained in theiir
leaves is estimated as follows :

Area. of ^Tgafono^oil Jotf E®*

for every of volatlle olL

Dense mallee scrub, 5,560.000 acres. 50 square ft. 4,843,872,000 gallons.

Mountainous ranges,densely

wooded with gums, 6,225,000 " 1000 " 271,161,000 "

Open timbered country, 38,922,000 " 4 acres. 9,730,000 M

Estimating the extent of the Mallee country in New South Wales and South
Australia at twenty times the area given above, there are 96,877,444,000 galls, of
oil held at one and the same time in a belt of country massed together, over which
the hot winds pass 5 and considering that the same condition exists throughout the
major part of Australia with the other eucalypts, we cannot arrive at any othep
conclusion than that the whole atmosphere of Australia is more or less affected by
the perpetual exhalation of these volatile bodies and the generation of ozone by the
minutely divided volatile oil.

All the physical and chemical characters of the eucalypts, enumerated above, lead
to the conclusion that they are fever-destroying trees.

An interesting collection of eucalyptus products, which, after the close of the ex-
hibition, will be presented to the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, together with
the other products sent here by Mr. Bosisto, comprise, besides a number of essential
oils, also some pharmaceutical and technical products. The essential oils are those
of blue gum (E. globulus), peppermint gum (E. amygdalina), mallee scrub (E. oleosa)?
red gum (E. rostrata), ironbark gum (E. sideroxylon), peach gum (E. persicifolia)r
sweet-scented gum ot Queensland (E. citriodora), messmate gum (E.fissilis), apple
tree gum (E. stuartiana), and white gum [E. goniocalyx). They vary considerably
in their odor, which is for some, indicated by the vernacular names. Thus the
oils of the various peppermint gums have an odor reminding of mint, the peach gum-
oil, one reminding of bitter almond, etc.

The blue gum is named from the shade of its foliage. The volatile oil is regarded
as tonic, stimulant, antiseptic and anthelmintic; a small dose promotes the appetite,,
a large one destroys it. In doses of 10 to 20 minims it first accelerates the pulse and
produces pleasant general excitement, shown by irresistible desire for moving about,,
and a feeling of buoyancy and strength. It is intoxicating in very large doses, not
followed by torpor, but producing a general calmness and soothing sleep ; any un-
pleasantness arising from an overdose will be removed by a cup of strong coffee.
Internally it is given in doses of 3 to 5 minims in mucilage, syrup or glycerin, and*
as an anthelmintic by enema in quantities of 30 to 60 minims in mucilage of starch.
The portion of the volatile oil called eucalyptol, (" Amer. Jour. Phar." 1870, p. 465),
which, according to Faust and Homeyer, {Ibid. 1875, P« 65), is a mixture of four
different compounds, is employed for inhalation in bronchial and throat affections,
one-half to one teaspoonful being added to half a pint of water in the inhaler.

The powdered leaves of Euc. globulus are employed as an antiseptic cataplasm,,
and the tincture and a liquor as general tonics in doses of 20 to 30 minims, and as
antiperiodics in double this quantity 5 cigarettes made of the leaves have been,
recommended in bronchial and asthmatic affections.

Am. Jour. Pharm. i
Aug., 1876. J

Anilin Colors,

375

The oil of Euc. amygdalina is used externally in rheumatic complaints, and in per-
fumery, for soaps, etc. Dr. Day, of Geelong, recommends as an excellent and
very agreeable disinfectant, deal saw-dust mixed in the proportion of one bushel
with about one to four ounces of the volatile oil ; after keeping the mixture for four
months, he found it to contain a much larger quantity of peroxide of hydrogen,
than it did when first made, and that it continued to accumulate.

The oil of Euc. oleosa is chiefly employed in the manufacture of varnishes, which
are said to be much superior than if oil of turpentine be used ; the oil dissolves
India rubber without requiring the application of heat.

The " red gum " of Euc. rostrata is stated by Mr. Bosisto to be a delicate mucil-
agenous astringent, more effective than catechu in all cases of dysentery, diarrhoea
and throat affections. The sample examined by Wiesner (see above) was readily
soluble in water and alcohol, free from gum, and had a neutral reaction.

Pharmaceutical preparations of Euc. globulus are also exhibited from Egypt,
France and other countries, and if the importance is considered which this species
has attained in many localities within a comparatively short period, it seems that
experiments should be made with it in all sections of the United States which are
free from severe frosts, and that these experiments should not be confined to that
single species, but should also be extended to others which are equally rapid growers
or produce the same or larger quantities of volatile oils.

ANILIN COLORS.

BY CARL RUMPFF.1

By dry distillation (without access of air) of coal, two accessory products are
principally formed — coke and tar. The ammonical waters which are obtained have
recently been largely used for the manufacturing of ammonia and its different salts.
Coal tar forms the starting point for all the anilin colors, and also for alizarin. By
heating it in cast-iron retorts up to a temperature of i8o°C, there result successively
benzol, toluol, cumol and xylol. The two last, as likewise a few other hydrocarbons,
afford only a scientific interest. By nitrifying, i. e.f treating the two first-named
fluids with strong nitric acid at a low temperature, nitro- benzol, best adapted for
red or for blue anilin, and nitro -toluol, are produced. By employing more acid at a
higher temperature binitro-benzol and binitro-toluol are formed. The conveying of
these nitro-compounds into the amido-compounds, viz., anilin oil for red anilin,
anilin oil for blue anilin, and toluidin, is effected by agitating them for a time with
acetic acid and iron borings, in the proportion of about equal weights, and then
separating, through distillation, the anilin or toluidin from the excess of iron borings.

According to a report delivered by Koechlin to the Parisian Academy, the honor
of the discovery of anilin red, or fuchsin, is due to Prof. A. W. Hofmann, formerly

1 This paper gives a succinct amount of the manufacture of anilin and allied colors from coal tar, and
is condensed from a pamphlet issued by Fr. Bayer & Co., of Barmen and Elberfeld, in explanation
of their interesting collection of crude materials and the products obtained therefrom, which are now on
exhibition in Fairmount Park. Another paper on "Aiizarin" will follow in our next number. — Editor
Am. your. Phar.

376

Anilin Colors.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Aug., 1876.

of London, now at Berlin, who, in 1857, first described the effect of tetrachloride of
carbon on anilin. By continued experiments, other chemists succeeded in perfect-
ing this process (which was not adapted for gaining large quantities of this coloring
matter), by finding in place of chloride of carbon the proto- and per-nitrate of
mercury, and finally the most advantageous substitute — arsenic acid.

Prof. Hofmann, by farther investigations, discovered that chemically pure anilin
as well as chemically pure toluidin do not produce any red dye in a workable man-
ner, but that, very peculiarly, a mixture of both does. The proper proportion of
die mixture, 1 part of anilin to 2 parts of toluidin, is sought to be attained as near
as possible in the technical process for manufacturing the fuchsin. The first who
-obtained a patent for the production of anilin red with arsenic acid was Metlok, an
English chemist. The best and most practical method is the following:

A mixture of anilin oil for red and arsenic acid, diluted with water, is heated in
a distilling apparatus from 10 to 12 hours at a temperature of 1800 to i9o°C. The
fused mass obtained in this way is broken into small pieces, boiled out with water
the undecomposed arsenic acid as well as the arsenious acid which is formed is
neutralized with chalk, and immediately after the color is dissolved the liquor is
filtered through felt into the crystallization vessels. After three or four days cool-
ing, the crystallization of the fuchsin has taken place, and the mother liquor is let
off. The crystals, dried and freed from all dust and all the small crystals, repre-
sent diamond fuchsin large crystals, the smaller crystals passed through a sieve
diamond fuchsin small crystals, and the uncrystallized part at the bottom of the
crystallization tub is called fuchsin red [ordinary).

The basis of this peculiar dye, produced as above, Prof. Hofmann has called
roseanilin (rosein base), a name now generally adopted. The combination of this
base with any acid furnishes a number of salts ; for instance, with acetic acid
acetate of roseanilin. The oxalate, sulphate and nitrate of roseanilin are of little
importance for dyeing. For the production of the pure base, the common acetate
of roseanilin is used with the most advantage. The boiling solution, by adding an
excess of ammonia, furnishes a crystalline sediment of a red color, which represents
the base in a tolerable pure state.

About the year 1 856, Perkins, in England, being occupied with experiments to
produce quinia artificially, accidentally discovei ed a violet color, which, having been
improved by several chemists, was for a long time known in the market under the
name of Perkins"" Violet, Anilin purple, Phenamin, Indisin, etc.

After red and violet had thus been discovered and practically employed, endeav-
ors were generally made for producing an anilin blue, to which exertions and experi-
ments the different violets as, violet reddish, violet medium shade (Pensee) and
violet blueish (Panne), all three soluble in alcohol, owe their origin, as the following
method shows :

By heating a mixture of fuchsin and anilin oil (an addition of acetate of soda
facilitates the reaction) five to eight hours at a temperature of 1500 to i6o°C, the
red color of the compound is gradually changed into violet. According to the de-
sired shade, the fused mass is treated with acidulated water, the residue filtered and '
dried, and so the above blueish-violets are obtained.

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
Aug., 1876. J

Anilin Colors.

377

The case is different with regard to blue. If 1 part of fuchsin, 3 to 4 parts of
anilin oil and 1 part of acetate of soda are heated as above, the blue color is formed.
By this process three equivalents of phenyl are taken up by the fuchsin, forming
triphenyl-roseanilin and ammonia, which is given off. Of course, only the pure
anilin is used. The fused mass treated with concentrated muriatic acid, and after-
wards, according to the more greenish or reddish shade which is wanted, with alco-
hol, furnishes the blue colors soluble in alcohol, namely, blue reddish shade (Bleu de
Lyons) and night blue, or Bleu de lumiere.

A great obstacle against a larger consumption of these blues, however, was their
insolubility in water.

Many experiments for their transformation, at last led to a treatment analogous
to the formation of the sulphate of indigo, and the success was a brilliant one, by
the following method : 1 part blue, soluble in alcohol, is dissolved in 5 to 6 parts
of common 66° sulphuric acid 5 the solution is heated to a temperature of 1300 to
i4o°C, then the acid is neutralized with soda or potash, and the precipitate filtered
and dried. The sulphuric acid enters by this process into the blue, and forms
anilin blue-sulphuric acid.

According to the more reddish or greenish shade of anilin blue, soluble in alco-
hol, which is converted, the products differ in shade, and furnish the anilin blues
soluble in water: blue reddish shade (Bleu de Lyons), pure blue blueish, pure blue
greenish and night blue, or bleu de lumiere.

If, instead of soda, lime salts are used for the neutralization of the sulphuric acid,
the blues retain nearly the same shades, but acquire the property of dyeing more
easily on cotton and silk.

The blues soluble in water mentioned so far, contain at least two equivalents of
sulphuric acid (S03). If the sulpho blue solution is heated only to 300 to 40°C,
and then neutralized with soda or caustic lye, the monosulpho salt or alkali blue is
produced, the shades of which are distinguished by the affixes I B to V B.

The newest product in this branch, diphenylamin blue, is distinguished by its pure
greenish tone from all other anilin blues. It results by oxalic acid being heated with
diphenylamin, which furnishes the first product, diphenylamin blue, soluble in alcohol,
the transformation of which into the diphenylamin blue, soluble in ujater, is effected
in the same manner as above mentioned about the other anilin blues.

Through farther investigations, by the action of iodide of methyl or iodide of
ethyl on roseanilin, Prof. Hofmann discovered new violets, named after himself
Hofmann Violets, and shortly afterwards the second important product in this direc-
tion, viz., the iodine green.

These Hofmann Violets, on account of the so far unattained beauty and brilliancy
of their color, ruled the market completely for some years in all primrose or primula
{purple) hues, until by another step in advance they were again improved and sur-
passed in the following manner: Muriate of anilin in crystals, when mixed with
anilin oil and woodnaphtha (pyrolignous spirit), and exposed to a pressure of fifty
atmospheres at a temperature of 2500 to 3oo°C, is converted into dimethyl-anilin,
from which, through a simple oxidation by the assistance of chlorate of potassa or
chloride of copper, the methyl violet results.

Anilin Colors.

Am. Jour. Pharnu
Aug., 1876.

Through further treatment with chloride of benzyl, produced by the action of
chlorine gas on boiling toluol, the bluer shades are obtained, as, methyl 'violet II B
to V B, and by treating them with iodine, the redder hues — methyl violet, I R to V R.

In a similar manner, as the iodine violets were supplanted by the methyl violets,
the iodine green, formerly predominant, and besides the little-known Chinese indigo
(Luh-Chao), the only color in existence for dyeing night-green shades, has been
replaced by the methyl greens, which result, also as a second product, from the pro-
cess of making methyl violets, and are produced with yellowish and blueish hues in
crystals and in powder.

Muriate of anilin in cakes (generally called anilin salt, like the muriate of anilin
in crystals) serves exclusively for the production of anilin black, which, when mixed
with other mordants (chlorate of potassa, sulphate of copper, etc.) and gum or starch
thickening, and printed on cotton through a process of oxidation, gives a black
color hitherto unknown in equal fastness, and therefore has become of very great
importance for all cotton print works.

By introducing nitrous acid into toluidin, and subsequent oxidation by means of
bichromate of potassa, there is formed another valuable color — the saffranin.

Naphthalin, treated like benzol or toluol, as above mentioned, furnishes the nitro-
naphthalin and naphthylamin, from the last of which, by the action of nitric acid, is
produced the Martins yellow.

With the exception of this color, so far the naphthalin colors afforded little in-
terest for industrial use. The possibility is, however, not excluded — in fact, it is
very probable, as this hydrocarbon stands between benzol and anthracene — that in a
short time we may be able to form still other naphthalin colors, which, standing be-
tween the madder and anilin colors, would unite the fastness of the former with the
beauty of the latter.

Phenic acid, likewise produced by the distillation of coal tar, when treated witb
oxalic acid, gives rosolic acid, and this, under pressure with ammonia (NH3), coral-
lin.

The newest and most beautiful member of the family of these dyes is the eosin
(Aurora). It is also a derivative from benzol, and obtained by introducing bro-
mine into the fluorescein (very interesting for its play of colors), for the preparation
of which phtalic acid and resorcin are employed.

The production of eosin is still in its infancy, but to judge from the results dur-
ing the short time which has elapsed since its introduction, it promises to be of great
importance in the future, as it not only fully supplies the place of the shades of
rose-pink colors obtained with carmine of safflower, but surpasses them considerably
in beauty.

The brown, known by the name of <vesu<vin, is a product of oxidation from nitro-
benzol ; it dyes all shades of Havana browns.

We conclude this division with the important product from carbolic acid, gener-
ally known as a yellow dye, the consumption of which is great, especially for all
yellow tints on wool, and which has been introduced into the trade in two
forms, both chemically pure — picric acid in crystals and in amorphous powder
(C6H3(N02)3).

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Aug, 1876. j

Varieties.

379

VARIETIES.

On Anthraflavon and an Accessory Product of the Manufacture of
Artificial Alizarin. By M. A. Rosenstiehl.- -The author showed in 1874
{Comptes Kendusy lxxix., p. 764) that the anthraflavon of Barth and Sennhofer, if
melted with caustic potassa, gives simultaneous rise to two coloring matters, one
of which, soluble in benzin and in alum water, dyes mordanted tissues shades bor-
dering upon those of alizarin, whilst the other, insoluble in the same liquids, ap-
proaches purpurin ; the shades obtained in dyeing are, in brightness and solidity^
comparable to those of madder. The former of these colors is produced in such
small quantities that its examination has not been hitherto possible. The latter is
more plentiful, and is an isomer of purpurin approaching the isopurpurin or anthra-
purpurin of Perkin. Anthraflavon itself is a mixture of two isomers of alizarin?
distinguished by their behavior with bases. The one forms a soda salt very soluble
in water 5 it dissolves in baryta water, which it colors a deep orange yellow, com-
bines with gelatinous alumina to form an orange lake, and if melted with caustic
potash between 1350 and 1500 it forms the isomer of purpurin just mentioned. The
other yields a soda salt sparingly soluble, and readily crystallisable ; it is insoluble
in cold baryta water, does not combine with gelatinous alumina, and if melted with:
potassa at the same temperature it does not give rise to a coloring matter ; a little
only is formed at a higher temperature, with the destruction of a large proportion of
the substance. This second body can be obtained in the form of fine silky needles,,
which in bulk present the yellow color of chromate of lead, and recalls the aspect of
chrysophanic acid. This body is identical with an accessory product of the manu-
facture of artificial alizarin from the works of Przibram & Co., of Praz. — Chem..
News, July 14, 1876.

New Color. — Rosenstiehl has obtained a coloring matter in yellow metallic
lamellae by acting upon dry artificial alizarin with nitrous acid. With alumina it
dyes yellow, and with iron mordants a red-violet, both of which colors can be
brightened with boiling soap lyes. It dyes best in distilled water or with addition
of acetate of lime. Rosenstiehl considers it as nitro-alizarin. — Chem. Neivsr
July 7th.

Resorcin Black. By M. R. Wagner. — If to an aqueous solution of resor-
cin there is added sulphate of copper and then ammonia, enough to re-dissolve the
precipitate first formed, a deep black liquid is obtained which dyes wool and silk
black, and which may possibly be used as ink. — Chem. Neivs, June 23, 1876.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

A Pharmaceutical Meeting was held July 18th, 1876, Edward Gaillard in
the chair. Prof. Remington donated to the Cabinet from Cramer & Small, a stone
jar in which balsam of tolu was imported a box which held 25 musk pods, and a
sample of Persian opium.

j8o Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. {AmAu0gU^i8P76arm'

E. M. Boring exhibited artificial oil of bitter almonds, made by Dr. F. Wilhelmi,
Reudnitz, Leipsic, of which he is the inventor and only manufacturer. This sub-
stance is not to be confounded with mirbane oil, which merely smells like bitter
almond oil, but it is identical as well in its composition as in its physical, chemical
and physiological properties with the natural oil made from almonds, and has the
great advantage over the natural oil that it is free from prussic acid, and is much
cheaper.

C. W. Hancock exhibited re-sublined carbonate of ammonium as made by C. T.
White & Co., which is without empyreumatic odor ; also, solution of acetate of
ammonium made with it, and pure acetic acid from the same firm. From long ex-
perience he finds it very grateful to the sick and much to be preferred over that
made fom ordinary commercial articles — a sample of which was likewise shown for
comparison.

Prof. Bedford was asked as to the use of these materials in New York ; he
agreed with Mr. Hancock as to the advantage of the solution when thus prepared,
but would confess that here, as there, the majority of apothecaries were not aware
of these facts ; he also said that ammonium carbonate was .now made near New
York of excellent quality, and that the English manufacturers were putting down
the price to compete for the trade.

E. M. Boring, having tried the thick filtering paper spoken of at a former meeting,
was not prepared to confirm all the statements made, and was corroborated by Dr.
Pile who thought the ordinary round filtering paper much more serviceable.

Edward Gaillard found the solution of tartrate of sodium, as made by the for-
mula of Mr. Hayhurst ("Amer. Jour. Phar.", p. 208), was too active a purgative,
but when reduced to half the strength answered well. There is a demand for this
preparation, and when properly labeled and sold, will give satisfaction.

Dr. Pile had examined a number of starches on exhibition, and advised the use of
the microscope for this purpose. He found the globules of Jamaica arrow root to
be of the same shape and size as those of a known sample of St. Vincent arrow root ;
while two samples of St. Vincent arrow root obtained from New York gave about
three-quarters of Bermuda arrow root and one-fourth of tapioca farina, the globules
of which are much smaller and rounded; other samples of St. Vincent arrow root,
■obtained in this city, were all right.

Adjourned to meet August 15th, 1876, at 3.30 P.M.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS,

The Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association held its quarterly meeting
July 10th, President Albert L. Calder in the chair.

Am. Jour. Pharm. \

Aug., 1876. ;

Editorial.

381

The following members were elected delegates to the next meeting of the Ameri-
can Pharmaceutical Association : A. L. Calder, Charles Congdon, W. B. Blanding
and W. F. Teston.

After the transaction of some routine and other business, the members with their
ladies and invited guests dined at the Aquidneck House.

New York Alumm Association of the Philadelphia College of Phar-
macy.— The regular quarterly meeting was held on Tuesday, June 27th, in Plimp-
ton Hall, and the attendance of members being small, was more of asocial character.
Some discussion was indulged in regarding Warburg's tincture, which has, of late,
attracted much attention from the medical profession and press. A specimen of
the tincture was presented made according to the original formula of Dr. Warburg,,
containing the confectio damocratis (?) which alone contains 48 different ingredi-
ents. After some further remarks, the meeting adjourned.

Edw. Plummer, Secretary.

The Pharmaceutical Association of South Carolina, which was incorpo-
rated by act of the Legislature, approved by the Governor March 10th, 1876, was
organized at Charleston, July 5th, when'the following officers were elected for the
ensuing year: President, G. J. Luhn, Charleston; Vice Presidents, E. H. Heinitsh,
Columbia; W. C. McMillan, Marion; Secretary, C. G. Erckman, Charles-
ton ; Treasurer, Dr. H. Baer, Charleston ; Pharmaceutical Examiners for Charleston
—A. W. Eckel. Dr. E. H. Kellers, A. H. Schwacke, E. S. Burnham ; Pharmaceu-
tical Examiners for Columbia — C. H. Miot, E. H. Heinitsh, L. T. Silliman, W.
C. McGregor.

The association, through the board of Examiners, has full power to license phar-
maceutists, apothecaries and druggists within the State. Each of the two Boards,
four members of which constitute a quorum, is constituted besides the gentlemen
named above, of two other persons to be appointed respectively by the Medical
College of the State of South Carolina (for Charleston), and by the Medical Faculty
of the University of South Carolina (for Columbia). The Boards are elected to
serve for one year.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the American Pharmaceutical.
Association will be held at the Hall of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy,
commencing September 12th, at 3 o'clock P. M. The notice of the Permanent
Secretary will be issued early in August, and give information in regard to the hotel
accommodations provided for the visiting members. It is not unlikely that the
hotels near the College building may then be well filled, since numerous conven-
tions and society meetings will be held in Philadelphia about the same time. Am-
ple accomodations, however, can be had within a convenient distance from the place

Editorial,

( Am. Jour. Pharm.
I Aug., 1876.

of meeting, with private families and in boarding houses, where full or partial board
mav be obtained ; or rooms may be had without meals. For the convenience of
those desiring such accommodations, a list will be kept at the College building, and
may be consulted by all visiting members, between the hours of 9 A. M. and 6
P. M., when the Actuary of the College will be in attendance to give all desirable
information to strangers, it being the desire of the College, that the build-
ing be used by its friends as a place of rendezvous while the Exhibition is in pro-
gress. Those members who are desirous to secure rooms in advance, may address
the Permanent Secretary, stating full particulars.

The arrangements for visiting the Exposition are ample, there being communica-
tions by steam every few minutes between the centre of the city and the Exhibition
Grounds. The Committee of Arrangements will, at the first session, submit a plan
for visiting the Exposition, with the view of facilitating the examination of the
numerous objects of interest, without conflicting with the business that may be
brought before the Association.

Invitation to the Pharmacists of Foreign Countries. — The following
invitation has been issued, in compliance with a resolution passed by the American
Pharmaceutical Association at its twenty-third meeting. The invitation was sent
to the general or prominent local pharmaceutical societies of the various countries,
and has been brought to the notice of their members. From some acknowledge-
ments received since, it is expected that a number of foreign pharmacists will make
it convenient to visit this country at the time, and be present at the meeting of the
National Association. The document referred to is as follows:

American Pharmaceutical Association,
Office of the Permanent Secretary,

Philadelphia, May, 1876.

To the President of the

Honored Sir— The International Exposition has just been opened in the city of Philadelphia, and
during its progress the American Pharmaceutical Association will hold its Twenty-fourth Annual Meet-
ing in the same city, on the 12th day of September next. It is hoped that many pharmaceutists and
druggists of your State will embrace this opportunity to pay a visit to the United States, and we take
great pleasure, on behalf of our Association, in cordially inviting them, through your honorable society,
to so make their arrangements as to meet this Association at its next Annual Meeting.

It likewise affords us pleasure to inform you and the members of the society which you represent, that
the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy has opened a bureau where information such as may be desired by
strangers will be freely given to all visiting pharmacists and druggists daily, between the hours of 9 A. M.
and 6 P.M.

Hoping to meet you and many colleagues of your country in September next, we have the honor to
remain, dear sir,

With fraternal greeting,

GEORGE F. H. MARKOE,
Pharmacist in Boston, President Amer. Phar. Assoc.
JOHN M. MAISCH,

Permanent Secretary.

Revision of the U. S. Pharmacopceia. — The permanent Committee of the
American Pharmaceutical Association has had this subject in consideration, and
desires the co-operation of all pharmacists who are willing to contribute their ex-
perience or otherwise aid the committee 5 such communications, it is desired, should

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Aug., 1876. j

Editorial.

383

reach Prof. P. W. Bedford, 10 Gold street, New York, before September 1st. The
following circular embraces some suggestions relating to the next revision of the
Pharmacopoeia :

New York, May 15th, I876.
To the Members of the Committee on Revision of the U. S. Pharmacopoeia :

At the meeting of the committee held during the sessions of the Association in Boston, September,
1875, the undersigned were appointed a sub-committee to devise and prepare a plan of revision, which
should bo submitted for the guidance of the committee in their labors.

They respectfully report to the committee the following plan for the work of revision :
Each member of the committee should ask for the co-operation of the College of Pharmacy or Phar-
maceutical Association which he represents in this committee, and secure their aid in the work of the
committee.

Each member of the committee is requested to come prepared to discuss such modifications and
changes in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, as may be deemed advisable by himself, or the Association he
represents.

The committee are requested to meet on the morning of Wednesday, September 13th, at the call of
the chairman, for such business as may be brought before the committee.

Your sub-committee recommend the following changes in the next edition of the Pharmacopoeia, and
suggest to the members of the committee, that whatever work be attempted before the meeting of the
committee, be made to correspond to these recommendations ;

1st. — That all measures of capacity be abandoned.

2d. — That all substances be weighed, and that the quantities be given in parts.
3d. — That all substances in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia be arranged alphabetically.
4th. — That the botanical descriptions be made more exact and complete.

5th. — That the formula for the manufacture of chemicals which are recognized as produced entirely by
manufacturing chemists be omitted, and that a description of the chemical be substituted with such
tests as shall be conclusive as to its identity and purity.

6th. — That it is desirable that there should be a larger number of tables for reference introduced in
the U. S. Pharmacopoeia.

PAUL BALLUFF,
P. W. BEDFORD.

The chairman makes the following appointment of sub-committee :

Botany, Vegetable and Animal Materia Medica.
Prof. C. L. DIEHL, Chairman. Prof. G. F. H. MARKOE. Prof. W. T. WENTZELL.

Chemistry. Pharmacy.
Prof. J. F. JUDGE, Chairman. Peof. P. W. BEDFORD, Chairman.

WILLIAM SAUNDERS, C. A. TUFTS,

A. E. EBERT. J. C WHARTON.

Prof. J. FARIS MOORE, Chairman. W. S. THOMPSON, Chairman.

PAUL BALLUFF, C. H. DALRYMPLE,

A. B. TAYLOR. W. H. CRAWFORD.

P. W. BEDFORD, Chairman.
C. LEWIS DIEHL, Secretary.

Objects of Historical Interest at the Centennial Exposition. The

Franklin Institute of Penna., has opened a reception room at the northwestern end of
Machinery Hall, for the use of all interested in the mechanic arts. Besides files of
the Journal of the Institute and other periodicals devoted to the industrial arts,
which may be consulted by the visitors, the following objects of great historical
interest, have been placed in the room :

1st. Franklins Electrical Machine. — This instrument is doubtless the one used by
the great philosopher in making his wonderful experiments in the science of elec-
tricity. Presented to the Institute by Dr. John R. Coxe.

2d. Oliver Evans' Steam Locomotive Engine. — This interesting model is among
the earliest known, having been built about 1804.

384

Obituaries.

Am. Jour. Pharnx
Aug., 1876.

3d. Oliver Evans"1 High Pressure Steam Engine. — This is the model of an engine
built by O. Evans, about 1804, and is described in Galloway's work on the Steam
Engine, page 101. — London, 1827.

4th. Working Model of a Steam Engine built by W. W. Baldwin, and presented,
by him to the Institute, about 1832.

OBITUARIES.

Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg, the celebrated naturalist, died at Berlin, Ger-
many, June 28th, in his 82d year. He was born at Delitzsch, April 19th, 1795, and
studied at first theology, afterwards medicine and natural science. In 1820 he ac-
companied General Minutoli to Egypt, returning from his oriental travels in 1826,
while his colleague and friend, Dr. Hemprich, died during the voyage at Massaua,
1823. In company with Humboldt and Gustav Rose, he undertook, in 1829, a journey
to Siberia as far as the Altay Mountains. Since 1827 he has been attached to the
University of Berlin, where, commencing in 1830, his various celebrated works on
the infusoria were written, through which he disclosed a new, hitherto almost un-
known world of minute creation. On the occasion of the semi-centennial anniver-
sary of his promotion to the doctorate, November 8th, 1868, the American Pharma-
ceutical Association, in common with many other learned societies of the civilized
world, offered to the celebrated explorer their felicitations

Ehrenberg retained his intellectual vigor and pursued his favorite studies to
the last. His last woik, containing microgeological studies on the minute life at
the depth of the sea, appeared 1873.

William Graham MacIvor, director of the government plantations at Ootaca-
mund, Neilgherry Mountains, East India, died there recently. The great success
from the very beginning of the transplantation of the cinchonas to India is mainly
due to his excellent judgment, close observations and sagacious management.
FKickiger and Hanbury speak of him that, in connection with the Neilgherry plan-
tations the name of him must always be remembered, who, by his rare practical
skill and sagacity in the cultivation and management of the tree, has rendered most
signal services in its propagation in India ; and Soubeiran and Delondre recognize his
services in saying : " Si en effet Mr. Markham a ete la tete de Tenterprise, Mr. Mac-
Ivor en a ete assurement le bras."

Albert C. Curtis. — We regret to learn of the sad fate of this promising young
man, who was murdered about the last of June, near Laramie City, Wyoming
Territory. He hailed from Ashland, Ohio, where he learned the drug business
under the instruction of Dr. W. K. Foltz. In 1871 he graduated at the University
of Michigan, and in 1 872, at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. Subsequently
he served as Assistant in Cleveland, which city he left a little over two years ago,
and owing to failing health removed to Wyoming Territory. An abstract of his.
thesis was published in this journal 1872, p. 485.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

SEPTEMBER, 1876.

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE SCHOOL OF PHARMACY OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN.

Communicated by Prof. Albert B. Prescott.

IV. Examination of the Resinoids Podophyllin, Cimicifugin, and Hydrastin. Also
the Determination of Berberina by Mayer 's Solution. By L. F. Beach, Ph.C.

Samples of so-called Resinoid -Podophyllin, from three manufacturers,
were examined with the following results :

No. 1.

No. 2.

No. 3.

Berberina,1 .....

Traces.

None.

Traces.

Residue (of resin) after treating i gram with 2 f.

oz.

acidified water, ....

0-830

0-698

0-840

Portion soluble by treating 1 gram with 10 cc.

of

water, .

o'o6o

0*163

0*099

No inorganic constituents, no starches,

and

no sugar

could be found

in any of the samples.

• Samples of Resinoid Cimicifugin of two manufacturers were examined
as follows :

No metallic salts, no starches and no appreciable portion of sugars
could be found in either. Both were very nearly all soluble in alcohol.
The solubility of each in water and in benzene was ascertained by
digesting one gram in a flask with 10 cc. of the solvent, then filtering
and washing the residue with 5 cc. more of the same solvent, the
total filtrate being evaporated to dryness and its residue weighed :

Dissolved by the water, from No. 1, 0*035 ; from No. 2, 0*092
" " benzene, " " criio; " " 0*152

No. 1 was examined according to T. E. Conard's directions2 for

1 The amount of alkaloid in Nos. 1 and 3 was hardly sufficient for a precipitate
of potassium mercuric iodide solution, but gave distinct precipitates with phospho-
molybdic acid and a decided reaction with Kluge's test, given in " Proc. Am. Phar.
Asso.," 1875, P* 426-

2 "Am. Jour. Phar." 1871, 151 • "Proc. Am. Phar. Asso.,11 1871, 264.

*5

386 Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. { AmSept ^i??6arm

separating a crystallizable principle from the root of Cimicifuga race-
mosa, and the crystallized principle obtained from the resinoid. It
crystallized in the hexagonal system.

Samples of Resinoid Hydrastin, as sent out by six manufacturers, were
examined. In each case, one gram of the resinoid was exhausted with
boiling water, till the washings gave no turbidity with potassium mer-
curic iodide. The residue was dried and weighed. The water solu-
tion was concentrated, treated with hydrochloric acid, and successive
crops of crystals obtained, dried and weighed as berberina hydrochlorate.
The mother liquor was saturated with ammonia, and its precipitate
obtained as hydrastia. The following percentages were found :

No. i.

No. 2.

No. 3.

No. 4.

No. 5.

No. 6.

Berberina hydrochlorate,

351

21*9

6-9

28-0

36*0

IOO'O

Hydrastia, .

1*7

17-4

6-7

6-8

o*o

Insoluble in hot water, .

25*0

21*1

*3*5

29*6

25*2

In the work on No. 1, trial was made for the third alkaloid found by
A. K. Hale in hydrastis root,1 but none being found, the ammonia was
added in excess for the hydrastia. The filtrate from the precipitate of
hydrastia still gave a slight precipitate by Mayer's solution, therefore
the proportions of hydrastia are all a trifle too low, but suffice for cor-
rect comparison.

A Volumetric and a Gravimetric Method for Determination of Berberina
by Potassium Mercuric Iodide. The precipitation of berberina by this
solution is a close one, but the investigator found no statement of the
amount of berberina precipitated by a cc. of Mayer's standard of the
solution.

Firstly, it was ascertained that a precipitate of berberina, formed by
any excess of the potassium mercuric iodide solution, weighs exactly
twice as much as the pure berberina which enters into the precipitate.
The precipitate should be dried at about ioo° F. One-fyalf the weight
of the precipitate equals the berberina. In determining this value, a
sample of pure berberina was prepared by extracting a solution of well
crystallized hydrochlorate by chloroform in presence of slight excess
of potassa, and evaporating the chloroform. Of the pure alkaloid,
0*050 gram was dissolved in acidified water and the solution divided
into five equal portions. To these portions were added, respective-
ly, J cc, 1 cc, 2 cc, 3 cc and 4 cc of Mayer's solution ; the

1 "Am. Jour. Phar." XLIV. (1873), *47 5 also XLVn- (1875), 4§i

Amsep^'i87h6!rn9'} Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. 387

mixtures warmed on the water-bath, the nicely settled precipitates-
gathered and washed on small tared filters and so dried at near 100° F.
The weight of precipitate in each case came very near to 0*020 gram..
Again, 0*025 gram of the purified alkaloid was taken, and the precipi-
tate found to weigh 0*0495 gram.

Secondly, by noting carefully the number of cc. of Mayer's standard
solution1 required in obtaining the precipitates — then obtaining the
weight of the clean, dry precipitates — it was ascertained that 1 cc. of
the solution precipitates 0*0425 gram of berberina, weighed as base..
The volumetric determination is slow, from the length of time required
for the precipitate to settle after each addition of reagent. Traces of
precipitate are observed by placing a drop on a blue or black glass
slide.

V. Examination of the " Retinoids" Sanguinarin, Leptandrin and Aconitin. By
J. R. Little, Ph.C.

Firstly, as a means of comparing the samples of different manufac-
tures, and as some indication of their constituents, the following de-
terminations of solubilities were made :

SANGUINARIN — 0*500 GRAM TAKEN.

No. 1. No. 2. No. 3.

Residue insoluble in 25 cc. water, . . . 0*327 0*346 °'357

11 " 10 cc. alcohol, . . 0*140 0*205 0*294

" " 10 cc. Decinormal Solution ofPotassa, 0*331 0*312 0*389

" " 10 cc. Ether,2 . . . 0*163 0*345 0-330

LEPTANDRIN — O50O GRAM TAKEN.

No. 1.

No. 2.

No.. 3.

No. 4.

Residue insoluble

in 25 cc. water,

0*310

0*183

0*1*90

0*224

« «

10 cc. alcohol,

0-155

0*265

0*094

0*193

U ((

10 cc. Decinormal Solu-

tion of Potassa,

0*2O2

o-33*

0*078

0*140

« ««

10 cc. Ether,2

0*l87

0*3 16

0*2.17

O'l 16

By Schiel's method 3 for the extraction of the alkaloid from blood-
root, sanguinarin No. I was found to contain of the alkaloid sanguinarina,
6*2 per cent. By another method sanguinarin No. 3 was found

1 J3"546 grams mercuric chloride, and 49*8 grams potassium iodide, in water to
make one litre.

2 The filtrate was made to measure 10 cc.
3"Husemann's PflanzenstofFe," S. 200.

3 8 8 Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. {Am^™r; ?$m'

to contain 6*0 per cent, of the alkaloid sanguinarina. The last named
method was devised as simpler than Schiel's, and is as follows : 0*500
gram of the resinoid is exhausted with ether, till the washings give no
precipitate with phosphomolybdic acid, and the solution fully precipi-
tated by this reagent. The phosphomolybdate precipitate is then
digested with solution of potassa, the mixture exhausted with chloro-
form, and the chloroform solution evaporated — to weigh the residue as
alkaloid.

Sanguinarina No. 3 contained magnesia. It was of lighter color than
Nos. I and 2.

Leptandrin, Nos. 1 and 4, each gave marked qualitative evidences of
an alkaloid, and No. 2 gave slight results for the same. These evi-
dences consisted of precipitates (in acidulated water solution of the
extracted material) by potassium mercuric iodide, phosphomolybdic acid,
metatungstic acid and other general precipitants of alkaloids ; a brown
color with Frcehde's reagent, but no color with sulphuric acid, and with
nitric acid a slight yellow color not affected by stannous chloride. Pre-
paratory to these tests for an alkaloid, the " resinoids " were treated
with acidulated water, and the filtered solution treated with ammonia
and exhausted with chloroform, and the chloroform solution evaporated
to a solid.

Leptandrin No. 1 contained traces of a lead salt, and No. 2 con-
tained 18 per cent, of magnesia. No. 3 was in dark colored vitreous
fragments ; the others pulverulent and of lighter color.

Two manufactures of resinoid Aconitin were examined. No. 1 gave
of the alkaloid aconitia, by Mayer's volumetric method, 3*34 per cent.;
by the gravimetric determination (described below) 4*17 per cent. No.
2 gave, volumetrically, 4*16 p. c, gravimetrically, 4-34 p. c. For
these determinations, the resinoids were extracted by acidulated water.

Owing to the imperfect subsidence of the precipitate in Mayer's
method, it was sought to find the gravimetric value of the precipitate of
aconitia by potassium mercuric iodide solution. A sample believed to be
pure alkaloid was obtained, and O'loo gram dissolved, and treated with
an excess of the reagent, gave a precipitate, which, when dry, weighed
(in three trials very nearly) o* 170* gram. This value was used in ob-
taining the gravimetric results above stated.

Aconitin No. 1 contained 11 p. c. of magnesium carbonate, and No.

Amsep°tu"'Xh6arm'} Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. 389

2 gave abundant qualitative tests for the same substance. No. 1 was
dark colored, moist and sticky.

VI. Analysis of eleven specimens of the "Native Sulphide of Antimony" sold in
Pharmacy. By Wm. C. Sheffield, Ph.C.

These samples of " black antimony," or " black sulphur," as it is
often called, were obtained at as many different retail drug stores, in
four cities in Ohio and Michigan. They were subjected to qualitative
and quantitative analyses, and the following percentages obtained : x

p,

u

rt

'«J

V

4)

3

1/1

rt

a

0

&

_o

C4

6

'5

0 «

3

0

cT .

3

s

t>

ntim
phic

rsen:
ide.

arbo
coal

licio

3

0

<u

alciu

c &<

bJD 3
rt 55

O

<

<

O

In

fa

(J

H

No. 1

315

66

8 9

I7'2

2-5

22'0

7'5

96*2

" 2 -

O'O

1. a

165

73'5

i*5

3'5

i-6

97- *

" 3 - " "

o"o

trace.

I2'5

67'5

4'4

5*5

37

93-6

« 4 -

O'O

4-2

34 7

7-0

6 2

22'0

22'8

96 9

" 5 ~ - "

O'O

1*2

55'5

37'5

2-3

I'I

0'9

98-5

" 6 -

O'O

O.O

n'7

79"3

7'5

O'O

O'O

98-5

" 7 " - -

O'O

O'O

45-6

9-0

1 1

26-6

95'8

« 8 - - - -

O'O

0 0

20'0

77'5

i'i

O'O

O'O

98 6

« 9 - - "

O'O

O'O

28'4

33 8

4-6

20*9

10-3

98-0

" 10-

0.0

O'O

6o-6

i4'3

i-6

14-2

6-6

97-3

Average -

3*i

1*3

29-4

41-6

32-8

ii'6

67

No. 1 1

I Very
I of a

nearly
rsenic.

pure antimonions sulphide, with a trace

These results may be of interest to some one curious to know whether
any dispensing pharmacist ever makes all his antimonial preparations
as provided by the " Pharmacopoeia." Also, they may be of interest to
Mr. Bergh, of New York.

VII. Valuation of eight samples oj Precipitated Sulphur, alias Milk of Sulphur, as
found in the Market. By C. W. L. Dietrich, Ph.C.

These samples were obtained at different dispensing pharmacies, sixr
in Grand Rapids and two in Ann Arbor, Michigan. They were all

390 Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. {AmseJPT(r'I87h6arm'

sold as Precipitated Sulphur, or Lac Sulphur — the distinction between
these terms which the law has enforced in Great Britain not being
regarded here.

No. i contained 43*6 p. c. of calcium sulphate.

No. 2 " 25-9 " " "

No. 3 was free from calcium sulphate.

No. 4 " " cc ct u

No. 5 contained 47*7 p. c. of calcium sulphate.

No. 6 " 47.3 " " "

No. 7 " 46-2 " cc "

INo. 8 u 237 " " "

No arsenic, no free sulphuric acid and no other impurity, save a
third of a per cent, of silicate in Nos. 3 and 4, was found in any of
the samples.

Evidently six of the eight specimens were manufactured by precipi-
tating the lime solution with sulphuric instead of hydrochloric acid (a
process having older than centennial authority1 ) and, therefore, repre-
sent that useful article (having all the virtues of sulphur in a more
eligible form, etc.) which our better regulated British cousins in phar-
macy are permitted by their rigorous magistrates to sell as milk of sul-
phur, but not as precipitated sulphur.

VIII. Analysis of six nostrums sold as Ague-cures. By O. L. Churchill, Ph. C.

Five of these articles were found to contain one or more of the cin-
chona alkaloids (chiefly the cheaper alkaloid) ; the remaining one con-
tained no alkaloid. None contained arsenic, strychnia, or mercury.

The quantitative determination of the alkaloids, from well known dif-
ficulties, is presented as only approximate. The following was the
general plan of separation, modified in several particulars as found
necessary for each mixture. From a weighed portion of the mixture,
the alcohol, if any, was evaporated ; the residue diluted with acidified
water and filtered (more than once if need be) ; the filtrate precipitated
by a slight excess of caustic soda ; in most cases, the precipitate dis-
solved in acidified water, the solution concentrated and dissolved with
strong alcohol, the filtrate evaporated and the residue dissolved with
water. Care was taken to avoid loss, by well washing the residues of
extraneous matter, and not washing the precipitates of alkaloids at all

1 " The London Pharmsecopoeia" of 1720.

Amsep?r;i876arm'} Contributions from Ihe School of Pharmacy, etc, 391

or but slightly. Taking a final precipitate by caustic soda, the alkaloids
were then approximately separated from each other by use of ether as
a solvent, potassium iodide to precipitate quinidia, potassium sodium
tartrate to precipitate cinchonidia, etc.1

1. " Ayer's Ague-Cure." Each bottle contains six fluidounces of
a dark red syrupy liquid, with a very slight white sediment. Taste,
very bitter and slightly peppery, with a slight taste and odor of winter-
green oil. An alcoholic extract (tincture) of cinchona bark, with ad-
ditional and amorphous cinchona alkaloids (chinoidin), heavily saccha-
rine and slightly aromatized. It contains a resin which presented the
physical properties and gave apparently the physiological effects of
podophyllum resin, but it was not so far separated from cinchona con-
stituents as to be positively determined. It has free and combined sul-
phuric acid and the white sediment is calcium sulphate (from the cal-
cium salts of the bark). In one fluidounce :

Amorphous alkaloids (Chinoidin), . 3*2 grains.

Cinchonia, .... 3*0 "

Cinchonidia, .... 0*7 "

Quinia, .... o*8 "

Quinidia, . . . i*o "

Total, ... 87 "

The cost of a bottle will not exceed 35 cents — the price being at
wholesale, 65 cents, and at retail $1.

2. " Wilhoft's Antiperiodic Fever and Ague Cure." The bottle
contains four fluidounces of a thin, dark-red liquid, with the odor of
cinchona bark, a very bitter and acid taste, and acid reaction. It con-
sists essentially of an infusion of cinchona bark made with water con-
taining aromatic sulphuric acid (like those of the U. S. P.), and probably
with an addition of quinia sulphate. One fluidounce contains 3*0 grains
of quinia and 5*4 grains of free and combined sulphuric acid (1*5 grains
free). Cost of a bottle, not over 25 cents ; price, $9 per dozen, $1.50
per bottle.

3. " Christie's Ague Mixture." A bottle contains seven fluid-
ounces of a very dark, syrupy liquid one-fourth filled with sediment,
and having a very bitter and peppery taste and an odor of common
molasses. The sediment was powdered capsicum and a little resinous

Fliickiger & Hanburys Pharmacographia, 327.

392

Notes on the Genus Teucrium.

( Am. Jour. Pharrn]
X Sept., IS76.

matter. The solution consists of a tincture of cinchona bark (the
alcohol being 30 per cent, by weight), with cinchonia sulphate, and
common molasses. Cost, not over 25 cents per bottle ; price, at
wholesale, 62 cents ; at retail, $1.

4. " Peterman's Michigan Ague Cure." Each bottle contains five
fluidounces of a red, syrupy liquid, with much resinous sediment, a
very bitter taste, and odor of cinchona. Contains an alcoholic ex-
tract of the bark, with chinoidin as the chief medicinal agent, and with
a little sulphuric acid and syrup. Cost, complete, not over 25 cents
per bottle ; price, at wholesale, 60 cents ; at retail, $1.

5. "Jayne's Ague Mixture." In each bottle, seven and a half fluid-
ounces of a mixture having an odor and taste of rhubarb, dandelion andcom-
mon molasses. It contains quinia sulphate and traces of other cinchona
alkaloids, but not enough to render the mixture very bitter. The
alkaloids were, with some difficulty, separated by benzene in presence
of alkali ; other means having failed. Cost, about 35 cents ; price, at
wholesale, 60 cents ; at retail, $1.

6. " Rhodes' Fever and Ague Cure, or Antidote to Malaria." In
each bottle, twelve fluidounces of a black turbid liquid having a sweet
and astringent taste, On standing, the sediment filled one-third of the
bottle. The sediment is charcoal. The solution contains a little
tincture of chloride of iron, partly reduced to ferrous salt by sugar,,
which is present ; also a trace of sulphuric acid, (a trifle of ferrous
sulphate may have been added). Nothing more. u Bottle to be well
shaken," etc.; " one tablespoonful three times a day. "Most people
could take three times the amount without any uncomfortable feelings.
" Persons who find it to bring on unwished-for actions, should place
the contents of two or more bottles in an open dish in their sleeping
apartments." Price, at retail, $1.

NOTES ON THE GENUS TEUCRIUM.

BY JOHN M. MAISCH.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting, held August 15/^.)

In the search for remedial agents, physicians sometimes resort to
drugs -which have been formerly employed medicinally and have fallen
into disuse on account of their indifferent properties, or because other
more active and reliable medicines have taken their place ; occasion-

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
Sept., 1876. J

Totes on the Genus Teucrium.

393

ally a remedy is neglected and forgotten, and its valuable qualities
have to be, as it were, rediscovered, or it comes to the surface once
more, merely, as it seems, for the purpose of proving that we can well
get along without it. Such thoughts came to my mind when, a short
time ago, a prescription was shown to me calling for Extractum Teucrii
scordii fluidum, an almost obsolete European remedy in an American
form.

Teucrium scordlum, Lin., germandree aquatique of the French, La-
chenknoblauch of the Germans, is usually called water germander in
English, because it grows in moist, swampy meadows, near ponds, &c.
It is found in Western Asia and throughout a large portion of Europe.
Forty years ago it was officinal in most " Pharmacopoeias " of conti-
nental Europe, but since then has been dismissed in the revised editions
of nearly all, retaining a place in a few only.

The plant belongs to the natural order of Labiatae, a family of plants
which is characterized by the complete absence of deleterious proper-
ties, the active constituents found in them being chiefly volatile oil,
associated in many with more or less of a bitter, non-alkaloidal prin-
ciple, and occasionally with a little tannin. The medical properties of
the labiatae are therefore mainly carminative and stimulant, and fre-
quently tonic and stomachic. They are mostly indigenous to the tem-
perate regions of the old world, the number indigenous to this country
being comparatively small ; but many species have been introduced here
from Europe, and completely naturalized in some sections of the United
States.

The genus Teucrium is classed with the tribe Jjugoidece, which has
the upper lip short, or deeply notched and turned forward so as to
appear wanting, the four ascending stamens projecting through the slit
in the upper lip. Several of the European species formerly enjoyed a
high reputation, among them the one mentioned, which, together with
the allied species T. scordioides, Schreb., is regarded to be the I-^opdtop
of Dioscorides. The plant is softly pubescent, attains a height of 12
to 18 inches, has sessile, oblong, serrate leaves and rose-colored flow-
ers, two or three of which are found in the axils of the leaves. The
second species differs mainly by being villous and having cordately
ovate, somewhat clasping leaves. Both possess a bitter taste, and, in
the fresh state, a distinctly alliaceous odor ; it was formerly in repute
as an antiseptic and diaphoretic internal remedy for gargles, and as a

394 Notes on the Genus Teucrium. {Arnslptu"'i87h6arm"

dressing for foul ulcers. " The New London Dispensatory,*' printed
in 1676, says of it : " It is Lyptintick, Abstersive, Traumatick, Alex-
ipharmick, Sudorific, Anodyne and Pectoral ; it opens Obstructions of
all the principal Parts, cleanseth the Intrails and old Ulcers ; provokes
Urine and the Terms ; expectorates rotten Matter out of the Chest ;
helps old Coughs, Asthmas, Pleurisies, inward Ruptures, Biting and
Stinging of Serpents, and potently resists Poison, Plague and all pesti-
lential Diseases. It exhilerates the Heart, cures the Bloody-flux, com-
forts the Stomach, and drives out the Small Pox and Measles. Out-
wardly, it cleanseth and heals Wounds and Ulcers, and cures Pains of
the Gout. The Essence is most effectual to the Intentions aforesaid."

Similar but more feeble virtues were attributed to T. Scorodonia,
Lin., s. Scorodonia heteromalla, Moench, likewise a European plant,
which differs from the former in having petiolate, cordate-ovate leaves,
a more distinctly two lipped calyx and yellow corolla.

The fluid extract of water germander may be made by the officinal
process for fluid extract of chimaphila, and may be given in doses of
one-half to one teaspoonful.

The following European species were formerly employed medicinally
for their stimulating and tonic properties, and some still enjoy some
popularity as domestic remedies in localities where they occur.

T. Folium, Lin., with sessile linear-lanceolate, crenate and tomentose
leaves and terminal white flowers.

T. montanum, Lin. Leaves similar, with a revolute margin and ter-
minal yellowish flowers.

T. creticum, Lin., resembling the preceding, but the blueish flowers
axillary and single. The closely allied T. rosmarinifolium, Lam., has
the branches longer and more slender, and the flowers in cymules of
three in the axils of the bracts.

T. flavum, Lin., has its greyish-yellow flowers similarly arranged ;
but the petiolate leaves are ovate and crenate.

T. fruticans, Lin., is the Erba di S. Lorenzo of Southern Italy, and
has entire, oblong or oval, sub-coriaceous leaves, and single axillary
flowers with blueish corolla.

T. chamaedrys, Lin., the Xafiat^puq of Dioscorides ; leaves short
petiolate, ovate to obovate, cuneate at base, crenately serrate ; flowers
1 to 3, axillary with purplish-red corollas.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Sept., 1876. j

Fucus Vesiculosus.

395

T. botrys^ Lin. Leaves triangular-ovate in outline, pinnatified \
flowers axillary, in threes ; corolla pale red, punctate in the throat.

These and a few other species, indigenous to Southern Europe and
the basin of the Mediterranean, most probably do not differ in their
medicinal properties from Teucrium Ganadense, Lin., the wood sage or
germander of the United States and Canada.

Somewhat different properties are met with in T. marum^ Lin., cat
thyme, or Syrian herb mastich, which is found in the countries border-
ing on the Mediterranean. Its leaves are petiolate, ovate or ovate-
oblong, rather acute, white tomentose beneath ; the rose-red flowers
are single in the axils of the bracts, and form a terminal one-sided
raceme. It has a strong aromatic, somewhat camphoraceous odor, and
an aromatic, bitterish and acrid taste. It has been employed internally,
in doses of 20 to 60 grains, in various spasmodic and other nervous
disorders, and externally chiefly for its errhine properties ; it consti-
tuted the active ingredient of the Pulv'is sternutatorius of some old
European " Pharmacopoeias," which was composed of sweet marjoram
3 parts, cat thyme, lily of the valley and orris root, of each one part.
Cat thyme is prescribed in Europe under the name of Herba marl vert.

ON FUCUS VESICULOSUS AND SOME ALLIED SPECIES.

BY JOHN M. MAISCH.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting August 15th.)

Though Theophrastus already, in his history of plants, mentions
several species of marine algae, the sea wrack does not appear to have
been employed medicinally before the first half of the eighteenth
century ; I find, at least, no mention made of it in the new " London
Dispensatory" of 1676. Russell seems to have been instrumental in
introducing it into medicine through his essay, " De tabe glandulari,"
which was published in 1750, and in which he specially recommended
Fucus vesiculosus in the form of charcoal and jelly, the former, known
afterwards under the name of Mthiops vegetabilis, being prepared by
heating the plant in a crucible closed with a perforated cover until
smoke ceased to be given off", while the latter was made by expressing
the mucilaginous liquid, and also by macerating the fucus in an equal
weight of sea-water for two weeks, or until it was converted into a kind
of jelly, which was employed both externally and internally. Upon the

396

Fncus Vesiculosus.

( Am. Jour. Pharm,
\ Sept , 1876.

strength of these observations Fucus vesiculosus was admitted into
several pharmacopoeias, but was afterwards dismissed, the last one
dropping it being the " Dublin Pharmacopoeia," in the edition of 1850.
The beneficial effects in scrofulous swellings and goitre of the vegetable
ethiops and of the sponge charcoal, which had been introduced by Ar-
naud de Villeneuve near the close of the thirteenth century, and the dis-
covery of iodine in the ashes of sea-plants, induced Dr. Coindet, of Gen-
eva, in 1 819, to study the effects of iodine, and led to the introduction of
this element into medicine. Subsequently, Duchesne Duparc, and after
him Godsfrey, stated (1862) that they had found this fucus to possess
valuable properties as a remedy for morbid obesity, an observation
which, by later investigators, does not appear to be confirmed to the
full extent mentioned by the first recommenders in this complaint.

Of late, the bladder wrack, it seems, has been employed medicinally
to some extent in the United States, so that a brief description of this
and some allied species may be desirable.

The genus Fucus belongs to the suborder Fucoideae or Melano-
sporeae of the natural order Algae. As originally constituted by Lin-
naeus, it embraced several genera which have been separated by later
authors, and among which are the genera Laminaria, Sargassum and
Cystoseira, the last-named having the thallus usually inflated into
vesicles which often show a moniliform arrangement, while the
vesicles of Sargassum are stipitate. Fucus has either a cylindrical
(filiform) or flat, usually forking thallus, and the sporocarps inflated and
usually terminating the branches. In their fresh state they have an
olive or brownish-green color, becoming blackish on drying. Several
species have portions of the thallus inflated so as to form hollow
vesicles.

Fucus vesiculosus, Lin., attains the length of 1 to 3 feet, and has a
flat thallus J to 1 inch wide, with the margin entire and a distinct mid-
rib running the entire length of the thallus ; the vesicles are always in
pairs, one being placed on each side of the mid-rib, spherical or oblong
globular in shape, and occasionally attaining the size of a hazelnut. It
grows on rocky sea shores of the Atlantic Ocean, near high-water
mark, and in marshes which are occasionally overflowed by the tide.
Formerly it was known by the name of quercus marina, or sea oak, its
common English names being bladder wrack, sea-wrack, sea-ware, kelp-
ware and black tang. In Scotland and other northern countries it is

Amslpt?i876rm'} 'Fucus Vesiculosus. 397

used in winter for feeding horses, cattle and sheep, and is eaten by deer
when other food is scarce.

F. nodosus, Lin., knobbed sea-wrack, grows in similar localities, but
at or near low-water mark. It attains a length of 4 to 6 feet, and has
a narrower veinless frond, with the branches almost filiform at the
base, the vesicles single in the center of the thallus, or frond, ovate in
shape and usually quite large.

F. serratus, Lin., has a veined and serrate frond, and is destitute of
vesicles.

F. siliquosus, Lin., s. Cystoseira siliquosa, Agardh, has a very narrow
frond, 2 to 4 feet long, with short branches, articulated vesicles and
lanceolate flattened sporocarps.

F. natans, Lin., s. Sargassum bacctferum, Agardh, the gulf-weed of
the Atlantic Ocean, is often found in immense masses floating in the
sea. Its frond is terete, with the branches linear and serrate and the
vesicles globular and aculeate.

All these and many allied species appear to be very similar in their
constituents, of which they contain mucilage, mannit, odorous oil, bit-
ter principle and a considerable proportion of saline matter, varying
from 14 to 20 per cent., calculated for the dry plants. According to
Godeschen, James and others, the variation is just as great for the
bladder wrack as collected in different localities, and it is not impossi-
ble that this may be, at least in part, accounted for by having been col-
lected in different seasons, the plant being assumed to be most active
when collected after the sporocarps have formed, about the month of
July. E. Marchand found (1865) in the ashes of F. vesiculosus 0719
per cent, iodine and 0*603 per cent, bromine ; in F. siliquosus nearly
the same amount, and in F. serratus 0*834 iodine and 1*007 bromine,
while the ashes of the fucoideae Laminaria aigitata, Lamx. contained
5*352 iodine and 0*774 bromine, and Lam. saccharina, Lamx. about
one-half these amounts (see also "Am. Jour. Phar.," 1854, P- 43^).

Bladder wrack has been employed in France in the form of extract,
prepared, according to Dannecy, by exhausting the plant with 54 per
cent, alcohol ; it is stated to represent 15 parts of the fucus (" Proc.
Am. Phar. Assoc.," 1863, p. 66) ; also in the form of syrup, sug-
gested by Potier (Ibid.), by exhausting 150 parts of the powdered plant
with 14 per cent, alcohol, evaporating the tincture to 230 parts and
dissolving in it 370 parts of sugar ; 20 grams (1 tablespoonful) of this

3 9 8 Comparative Price of Preparations. { ^£g;Eg* '

syrup represents 0*6 grm. of the extract and 5 grm.of the fucus, which
is the average dose. A fluid extract might doubtless be prepared by a
process similar to the officinal one for fluid extract of chimaphila ; the
average dose of such a preparation would be about a teaspoonful. If,
however, the virtues depend mainly upon the iodine and bromine pres-
ent, the dose would have to be increased very considerably.

THE COMPARATIVE PRICE OF BOUGHT AND SELF-MADE CHEM-
ICALS AND PHARMACEUTICAL PREPARATIONS.

BY G. H. CHAS. KLIE.

Speaking of the preparations of the u Pharmacopoeia," one often
hears the remark from apothecaries, " It does not pay to make them."
Although this is true in regard to a good many, still there is quite a
number the manufacture of which by the apothecary repays him am-
ply. The table below comprises 50 chemicals and pharmaceutical
preparations, the cost of making which has not been arrived at by
mere theoretical calculation, but by practical experiment. The figures
of the first column give the wholesale price current in this locality ;
those of the second column show what each preparation may be made
for by the apothecary ; the third column gives the difference, and the
fourth shows the percentage of gain or loss.

It must be here remarked, that profit or loss cannot in all instances
be the same, because the prices of drugs fluctuate, and one party is apt
to handle the ingredients more economically than another. The prac-
tice of strict economy in manufacturing has an appreciable bearing on
the profit :

Wholesale

Cost of own

Difference.

Per cent.

Price.

prepara-
tion.

% cts.

$ cts.

$ cts.

Acidum phosphoricum dilutum,

lb.

O 30

O 20

OIO

Pi°f-, 33*33

Ammonii bromidium,

a

I OO

O 75

O 25

" 25-00

Antimonii oxidum,
Calcii hypophosphis,

(t

I OO

I I5|

0 isf

Loss, 15*75

it

3 00

2 63

0 37

Prof., 1233

Collodium,

<(

1 10

O 76^

0 33?

" 30-45

" cantharidale,

tt

3 75

1 3li

2 43?

" 64-93

Extractum aloes aquosum,

<<

2 00

1 10

0 90

" 45'°°

" cannabis indicae,

oz.

1 14

0 60

0 54

" 47-36

" colocynthidis pulv.,

lb.

5 OO

3 75

1 25

" 2500

a «< Cp^ {<

a

3 58

2 80

0 78

" 2178

" conii alcoholicum,

a

1 93

2 06

0 1 3

Loss, -06

" digitalis "

a

2 20

1 36

0 84

Prof., 38-18

AmseJp0t^'i87h6arm:} Comparative Price of Preparations. 399

Wholesale
Price.

Cost of own
prepara-

Difference.

Per cent.

tion.

$ cts.

$ cts.

$ cts.

Exfractum gentianae,

0 75

0 3 0

0 37

Prof, 49-33

" hyoscyami alcoholicum,

a

3 30

2 59

0 71

a

2 1 5 1

" jalapas,

4 50

1 03I

3 46 1

76 94

M nucis vomicae,

oz.

0 55

0 59

0 04

.Loss,
r rot.,

•07

" opii,

M rhei alcoholicum,

2 25

0 9

T 111

1 32f

55 a*

lb.

4 95

2 40

2 55

t(

51-51

" belladonnas fluid.,

1 80

T T 8
I 1 O

(c

65 55

" cimicifugas "

1 10

0 50

O 60

et

54'54

" digitalis "

? 35

0 53

O 52

<(

60 74

" ergotas "

3 15

O 9^

2 17

<<

£8 8 8
Oo 00

" cort. aurantiorum fluid.,

0 82^

0 39

0 43i

a

52-72

" ipecacuanhas

tt

4 13

t 8 e
I 85

2 2o

it

55-20

*' licjuiritias

tt

0 82J

O 40

O 42 \

5I-5I

" gelsemini

<(

2 05

0 73

I 32

tt

64 39

" pruni virginianas

(<

0 88

0 40

r\ A 8
O 4"

(t

54*54-

" rhei

tt

2 30

1 42

O 00

(i

38-26

" sarsaparillas cp.

a

<<

1 372

0 72 1-5

O 65 3-IO

48*21

" sennas

a

0 82^-

0 3b?

O 40

55'75

" senegas

tt

1 93

I 22

O 71

a

36-77

" uvas ursi

(C

"

0 82^

O 39

0 43f

tt

52-72

Ferri citras,

i 45

1 3°4

0 14!

a

10-17

" et potassii tartras,

1 00

O 42f

0 Sli

tt

57 25

" pyrophosphas,

1 35

i o9f

0 25^

tt

18 70-

<c et quiniae citras,

(C

8 50

5 29

3 21

a

37'i4

Hydrargyri iodidum rubrum,
" " viride,

oz.

0 50

0 20

0 30

a

6o-oo

tt

0 45

0 3 2

0 13

tt

28 88

Liquor ferri tersulphatis,

lb.

0 50

0 n£

° 3°2

tt

77*00

Morphia,

oz.

4 75

4 35 2"5

0 39 3-5

tt

0-08

Pilulas quiniae sulphatis, s. c. i

500

4 00

2 45

1 55

tt

3875

Potassii acetas,

\h

1U.

0 60

0 52

O OS

a

i3'33

" bromidum,

a

0 70

0 68^

0 Olf

tt

0'02

" iodidum,

tt

2 75

2 84

O OQ

y

Loss, 0 03,
Prof., C03

" tartras,

tt

0 60

0 58

O 02

Pyroxylon,

OZ.

0 50

016

0 34

<(

68-oo

Quinias tannas,
" valerianas,

tt

2 30

1 27

1 03

tt

44-78

it

6 40

4 65

1 75

tt

27'34

Resina jalapas,
Sodii hypophosphis,

it

0 75

0 41

0 34

tt

45'33

lb.

3 00

2 70

0 30

a

IO'OO

In the cost of own preparation, work has not been calculated.
Where, in the fourth column, ct Loss " is mentioned, it means so much
per cent, cash loss beside the labor.

The average profit, or pay for work, amounts to 37*64 per cent.
Of the pharmaceutical preparations alone, the average is 45*82 per
cent.; of chemicals alone, 25*36 per cent. The average profit on
solid extracts amounts to 36*28 per cent., and on fluid extracts 54*24
per cent., showing that the manufacture of fluid extracts is the most
profitable.

N. St. Louis, Mo., July 17, 1876.

400

Adjustable Support for Funnels.

Am. Jour. Pharm.

Sept., 1876.

ADJUSTABLE SUPPORTS FOR FUNNELS, PERCOLATORS, Etc.

BY E. C. H ■ HILDEBRAND.

The sides of an equilateral triangle coming as tangents in contact
with the periphery of an inclosed circle, mark out in the latter three
arcs of equal lengths ; further, by drawing a line through the triangle
parallel to one of its sides, an equilateral triangle of smaller size is
formed, relating to a correspondingly smaller circle. This, in a few
words, is the theory applied in the construction of the here described
adjustable support or rack for funnels, etc.

An opening of the shape of an equilateral triangle presents a very
solid rest for vessels of a conical or spherical form, and the resistibility
of the round form against an external pressure, exerted in three sym-
metrical points on its circumference is very large, even in vessels made
of thin material. As it is very desirable to have in the pharmaceutical
laboratory a series of supports for funnels, etc., especially now, where
the process of repercolation is so much in use, I think this adjustable
rack will soon prove the many advantages it possesses over similar ar-
rangements of this kind.

From the illustrations it will be seen that this rack represents a frame
consisting of two long pieces of wood — staves of an oblongly square
shape — A B and C D, placed in a divergent position to each other and
united by cross pieces, 1, 2, 3, etc., a part of which is cut out, leaving
an open spoce of 60 degrees (the value of an angle in an equilateral
triangle), which, together with the following crosspiece, forms the
opening for the reception of the vessel. As gradually by the divergence
of the long staves, the successive openings grow larger, they are quali-

1 s

X o SX 3 S X__JL-S *

5 S X

S X 7

J

SX- SX SX SX SX

3 A- 5 _

1 r

1 1

F/C2.

fied to receive larger vessels. Each of these openings is adjustable to
vessels of different sizes. To fit a certain opening to a given vessel,

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Sept., 1876. j

Adjustable Support for Funnels.

401

give the triangular space the required size by interposing quadrangular
staves between the top pieces, across the rack, as shown in Fig. 3.

In order to enable the reader to construct this rack for himself, I sug-
gest as the shortest way, to make first a drawing of natural size in the
style of Fig. I. Pin several sheets of packing paper on a counter, one
in continuance of the other and of the desired length of the rack. Draw
A B and C D, and construct a basis for operation line, O P, in the mid-
dle between A B and C D. Next, make a pattern of pasteboard or
wood, representing an equilateral triangle. This is done by drawing
on the material to be used a circle of about 9 inches radius, carrying
the latter as a cord around the periphery six times, thus marking out
six points, three of which (every second one) are connected by straight
lines. The thus formed equilateral triangle is cut out as a pattern, one
side of which is divided by a lead pencil mark into two halves. This
marked side represents the " base " of the triangle, and the angle op-
posite may be termed the " point." Lay the pattern on the drawing,
point and mark covering line O P. The point standing about two
inehes from O, draw the angle of crosspiece 1, touching the internal
sides of A B and C D. Draw, next, the short lines S S across A B and
C D, and the first crosspiece is finished. Take, now, a pair of com-
passes and describe from line O P the largest possible circle between
the inner sides of A B and B D, and inside of angle 1. This done,
draw line X X at right angle with O P. 7Vo inches from this line,
X, place again the point of the pattern as before, draw the angle of
crosspiece 2, then lines S S, the circle of proper size, and so on as de-
scribed, till all the crosspieces are located as shown in the sketch. The
exact size of all the parts as well as their location being now given, it is
the carpenter's work to execute the whole arrangement out of wood.

The material is pine wood.
The crosspieces are about
three-fourths of an inch
thick and fastened on A B
and C D by means of
screws. There are, further,
a number of staves to be

made as long as the distance
of B to D, and from 1 to 2
inches broad, for the interposition between the crosspieces, Fig. 3.

26

4-02 Ex tr actum Gossypii Radicis Fluid. {AmseJp^876arm"

The whole arrangement, when finished, is saturated with hot linseed
oil and mounted either on four legs or fastened at a distance of about
8 inches to the wall.

To give an illustration, I will mention that the rack in my possession
is 13 feet long and has 12 openings for the reception of vessels*
The inside width at one end is 10J inches, at the other 4J inches.
I can insert percolators from 1 pint to 10 gallons capacity. The
latter ones (made of the heaviest kind of tinned iron) are frequently
charged with 20 pounds of material and the appertaining menstruum,,
and yet they do not show the least impression from their triangular
supports. The packing of the percolators is to be done before putting
them into the rack.

Finally, I recommend the adoption of the principle here represented
also for the well known iron filtering stands, thereby greatly increasing
their usefulness without materially adding to their cost. Large and
even the smallest funnels, evaporating dishes, etc., could be equally
well placed in or on the same support. Figures 4 and 5 show the de-

tails. The side of the triangle next to the stand is provided with a
ridge " a " of such a shape as to form with its trestle a longitudinal
notch for the reception of those pieces of different widths of thin sheet
iron, which are placed across the triangle to adjust the opening to a cer-
tain given vessel.

EXTRACTUM GOSSYPII RADICIS FLUIDUM.

BY WALTER A. TAYLOR, PH.G.

{Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

The supposed emmenagogue effects of the cotton root appear to-
have been observed among the colored race during their bondage in
the South. An old family servant of our family extended me, after
an explanation why I wished to know (for she seemed to be rather

AmsIpt^8P76arm' } Extr actum Gossypii Radicis Fluid, 403

superstitious about it), all the knowledge she had concerning the effects
of the drug in question ; they were in substance as follows : She and
those of her fellow-servants that she knew of, were Li the habit of
gathering the root while the " bole " was either opened or being opened,
taking the bark, often the entire root, cutting in fine pieces, and boiling
with water for a short time, expressing, and allowing the patient to
drink freely of the "tea."

A prominent physician of our city (Atlanta, Ga.) states that, owing
to some unpleasant effects following the use of ergot in a case of labor
(being art hour-glass contraction of the womb), he was induced to try
cotton root ; that the cases in which he has employed it are those in
which he finds the os uteri sufficiently dilated and relaxed with regular
yet ineffectual pains, etc., or, to sum up the whole matter, the presence
of every indication of labor, except the expulsive power ; and that in
these cases he has ever found the cotton root to fulfill every indication^
In the latter part of 1870 he employed it in the casess of two mothers
of several children, who informed him that they had never passed their
previous confinements in less than 36 or 48 hours, but neither one
was then in labor more than four hours ; that result he can safely
attribute to the use of the cotton root ; he has also employed it suc-
cessfully in the sharp, cutting pains which trouble and worry some
women several days and sometimes weeks before regular labor sets in.
He administers the root in the form of fluid extract or tincture, when
he can get a reliable preparation ; but so difficult has it been to procure
them that he often had to resort to a decoction, which he adminis-
tered freely.

The fluid extracts made in accordance with the directions laid down
in the U. S. P. and those that I have seen from many of the pharma-
ceutical manufacturers are not stable, and soon become very unsightly,
either gelatinizing and completely decolorizing the liquid, or forming a
deposit of a peculiar red color, without depriving the liquid entirely of
its color. This latter condition seems to be the result of that made
from the fresh root.

My first experiments were made with the fresh bark collected in the
months of July and August, just six or eight weeks before the picking
season commenced. Using stronger alcohol as the menstruum, the
liquid passing through had a pale-yellow color, but on standing some
time gradually changed into a beautiful red, and after six months has

404 Ex tr actum Gossypii Radicis Fluid. {^sepu^e™

retained that color, and remained free from any deposit whatever.
The preparation made with dilute alcohol underwent the same change
of color, but formed a precipitate in the course of three or four weeks.
Similar changes were observed in the tinctures prepared with the men-
strua named ; but an old bark which had been collected about one year
yielded with stronger alcohol, at once, a deep-red colored tincture, and
the fluid extract prepared from it with this menstruum remained per-
fectly transparent after three months.

To determine whether the menstruum used had taken up the gelati-
nous principle, the residue left after making the fluid extract was dried,
divided into four equal parts, and treated with mixtures of one part of
water, with respectively four, three, two and one measure of strong
alcohol ; the tinctures were of a light wine-red color, and after three
months produced no precipitate. Some of the fluid extract made with
strong alcohol was mixed with an equal bulk of water and filtered from
the resin ; the clear red-colored filtrate soon commenced to separate a
precipitate, which rapidly increased. It seems, therefore, as if the
gelatinous principle was dissolved by strong and diluted alcohol, but
retained in solution by the former.

The gelatinous precipitate from Tilden's fluid extract was found to
be partially soluble in solutions of ammonia, potassa and soda, the
greenish-red color changing afterwards to red.

From the color changing from a pale yellow to red, in making the
fluid extract from the fresh root, and the effect that alkalies have upon
it, the probable existence of a chromogene suggests itself. For decol-
orizing the fluid extract several reducing agents were tried, but it was
found impossible to entirely remove the color. Sulphurous acid
seemed to be the one that had the best effect upon it, but not suffi-
ciently to admit of further experiment ; it is probably best prepared
from the fresh root.

The fluid extract is precipitated purplish black by ferric sulphate,
and similar by plumbic acetate.

When a little alcohol is added to the solutions of mercuric chloride,
silver nitrate, barium chloride and magnesium sulphate, no precipitates
are produced.

Am. Jour. Pharm. \
Sept , 1876. J

Caumerin and its Uses.

COUMARIN AND ITS USES.

BY LOUIS VON COTZHAUSEN, PH.G.

[From an Inaugural Essay.}

In preparing coumarin from tonka beans, they were grated and ex-
hausted by ether ; on evaporating the solvent, crystals of coumarin,
rendered impure by fatty matter, were obtained and purified by repeated
crystallization from alcohol. Sixteen troyounces of tonka yielded 117
grains of coumarin. This is the process of Boullay and Boutron-
Charlard. A somewhat smaller amount was obtained by substituting
petroleum-benzin for the ether, and this solvent is recommended as
being more economical. Coumarin was obtained in a similar manner
also from the dried herbs of Asperula odorata, Lin., Melitolus officinalis,,
Pers., Liatris odoratissima, Willd, and Galium triflorum, Mich.

The last named herb is frequently collected in this country by Ger-
mans under the supposition that it is the Waldmeister (Asperula odor-
ata) of Germany, which is extensively used there in making the pleasant
May-wine, which is prepared by macerating the herb in a cheap quality
of Rhine wine and adding sugar and a few drops of orange or lemon
juice to suit the taste.1 Galium, like Asperula, belongs to the order
of Rubiaceae, on drying acquires a fragrant odor, due to coumarin, and
contains also an astringent principle, a yellow resin, a fatty, rather
unpleasant oil, and grape sugar.

Coumarin is proposed by the author as an ingredient in the following
preparations, taking the place of tonka beans and some of the herbs
mentioned above :

Extr. New Mown Hay. — Coumarin gr.xii., essence of rose 3ss5
cologne spirit ^ii.

Ext*-. Mille Fleurs. — Coumarin gr.x., oil of cinnamon gtt.ii., oil of
rose gtt.iii., oil of neroli gtt.v., oil of lemon gtt.xv., tincture of musk
gr.xv., tinct. benzoin gtt.xx., cologne spirit ^iii.

Extr. Tonquin Musk. — Musk gr.x., cologne spirit ^iii.; digest, filter
and add oil of neroli gtt.i., Coumarin gr.xii., extract of vaniila ^ii.

Fluid Extract of Tonka. — Dissolve tonka ^viii. with strong alcohol,,
reserve the first six fluidounces, evaporate the remainder to 2 fluid-
ounces and mix.

1 Instead of wine, cider is often employed for this purpose, and besides the As-
perula, small quantities of the leaves of the black currant, strawberry, melissa, speed-
well and ground ivy (Nepeta Glechoma, Benth.) are sometimes added.— [Editor.

406 Rhizome of Iris Versicolor. {Ams5?x5S,*L

•

Sachet Mille Fleurs. — Tonka 3i., vanilla 3'rii., cinnamon and cloves
each ^iv., rose leaves 3ii., orris root gv., oils of mirbane, lavender
and rosegeranium each gtt.x., comminute by grating, cutting or bruis-
ing, and mix.

May-Wine Essence. — Coumarin gr.iv., spirit of orange (made with
freshly grated orange peel), water, each fsxii.; dissolve, mix, and if
desirable, color with caramel. A few ounces are sufficient to flavor a
gallon of Rhine or California wine.

EXAMINATION OF THE RHIZOME OF IRIS VERSICOLOR.

BY CARL H. MARgUARDT, PH.G,

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

Eight troyounces of the rhizome, in moderately fine powder, was
exhausted by alcohol, spec. grav. '835, and the alcohol distilled off.
The residue had a very acrid taste, and separated into an upper, dark-
brown, perfectly transparent layer, and a lower one of a more yellow-
ish color ; the former was soluble in alcohol, petroleum benzin, chlo-
roform and ether ; the latter dissolved completely in alcohol, partly in
ether, and not in chloroform or benzin. The entire residue was
exhausted with ether and the solvent evaporated, leaving a dark-brown
oleo- resin, of a slight disagreeable odor and a very acrid, persistent
taste. Ammonia water dissolved a small portion of it, but effected no
complete separation. Treated with cold solution of potassa, a yellow-
ish-white emulsion was formed, from' which an oily liquid separated^
which was purified by dissolving in ether, and had then a light color
and a pleasant, bland taste, which after awhile became acrid.

The potassa solution was carefully neutralized with sulphuric acid,
concentrated by evaporation, and treated with ether, which dissolved a
brown, soft resin, possessing the acrid taste in a very marked degree,
and yielding with nitric acid a beautiful purple colored mass, becoming
yellow and tough after some hours.

The residue left by treating the alcoholic extract with ether was of
a yellow color, had a sweet taste, was soluble in water and alcohol,
and by Trommer's test proved to be glucose.

The dregs exhausted by alcohol, were extracted with diluted alcohol,
spec. grav. '941 ; the light yellow tincture was evaporated to a syrupy
consistence and set aside for a week, when a sweet, solid mass

^sS^™"} Powder for producing Ozone. 407

(remained. Its solution in water was precipitated by subacetate of lead,
and after removing the excess of lead by sulphuretted hydrogen,
Trommer's test indicated in the filtrate the presence of glucose.

The precipitate on being suspended in warm water and treated with
sulphuretted hydrogen, yielded, on evaporating the water, a yellow mass,
having a peculiar, not unpleasant, bitter taste.

The exhausted powder yielded to cold water some albumen, sepa-
rable by heat, and gummy matter, precipitated by alcohol, and the solu-
tion of which formed a jelly with ferric chloride (aqueous solution ?
Editor). Hot water dissolved mainly starch from the exhausted powder.

On distilling the fresh rhizome with water, an opalescent distillate,
of a peculiar odor, was obtained, from which a white camphoraceous
substance separated, scaly in appearance, of a faint odor, nearly taste-
less and soluble in alcohol.

POWDER FOR PRODUCING OZONE.

BY JOHN L. DAVIS.

w In order to produce artificial ozone, Mr. Lender makes use of equal
iparts of peroxide of manganese, permanganate of potassium and oxalic
acid. When this mixture is placed in contact with water, ozone is
quickly generated. For a room of medium size, two teaspoonfuls of
this powder, placed in a dish and occasionally diluted with water, would
be sufficient. The ozone develops itself ; it disinfects the surrounding
air without producing cough."

The attention of the writer was called to the above article as it
appeared in the " Philadelphia Medical and Surgical Journal," under
date of May 20th, 1876. For the purpose intended, it is certainly one
of the best of the published formulas, but on account of the danger
attending its manipulation, should be used with extreme caution. A
prescription with these proportions was taken to an apothecary, who
inadvertantly used a mortar in mixing it, with the result of an imme-
diate explosion ; which would have been attended with disastrous con-
sequences except for the smallness of the quantity employed.

In mixing these ingredients, trituration should not be used at all, but
they should be cautiously mixed with a spatula in small quantities ; and
even then, if they should have been reduced to a fine powder they
cannot be mixed without danger, as the mixture is liable to explode at
.the moment of contact.

408 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {AmsJptu%8P76arm*

Apothecaries who are not deficient in knowledge, are sometimes
deficient in caution, and articles published in reliable journals are copied
and used without hesitation, and the compounder or dispenser is brought
into unlooked-for and unexpected difficulties.

The above article is written solely with a view of placing druggists
and physicians on their guard in using or dispensing a dangerous com-
pound.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Phosphide of Zinc, according to Vigier, is sometimes defective, con-
taining oxide of zinc, probably in consequence of having been prepared
in contact with air. It should form a very fine powder resembling
iron reduced by hydrogen, easily soluble in hydrochloric acid with an
abundant disengagement of phosphoretted hydrogen.' Vigier and Curie
propose the following formulas :

Pills of Phosphide of Zinc. — Phosphide of zinc in fine powder o*8o,
liquorice powder 0*30, and gum syrup 0*90 grams ; for 100 pills, sil-
vered. Each pill contains theoretically 2 milligrams of phosphorus, or
one milligram of active phosphorus. Two to four are usually admin-
istered daily, and can be taken without other inconvenience than allia-
ceous eructations.

Phosphide of Zinc Powder. — Phosphide of zinc in fine powder 0*40,
starch powder 5 "00 grams. For 50 packets, each of which will con-
tain 1 milligram of active phosphorus. — Fhar. four, and Trans., June
10, from I' Union Phar., XVII, p. 41.

Phosphide of Zinc was first prepared by Marggraf in 1740. Formerly
it was made by fusing, in a bath of iron filings, 74 parts of pure zinc,
and adding gradually in small pieces 26 parts of dry phosphorus. This
process gives good results only in small quantities (10 to 20 grams). A
more recent process (probably by Regnault) is to pass vapors of phos-
phorus, in a current of dry hydrogen over fused zinc. The product is a
spongy, gray mass, of metallic appearance, containing rhomboidal crystals,
and resembling somewhat reduced iron when powdered. The metal-
lic particles of zinc should be separated. Its spec. grav. is 472.
When triturated a phosphorous odor is developed. It is permanent at
the ordinary temperature, but at a red heat is fusible and volatile, and
if in contact with air burns to zinc phosphate. It should be completely

Amsep0tu,r'if76arm } Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 409

soluble in dilute mineral acids with the evolution of phosphoretted hy-
drogen. It is given in doses ranging from 0*005 to 0*02 (1-13 to 1-3
grain) three or four times a day. The largest admissible dose appears
to be O'l gram (ij- grains), or 0*4 gram (6 grains) per day. — Hager in
Phar. Cent, Halle, No. 27.

The Reduction of Sulphurous Acid to Sulphur by carbon is not as perfect
as was formerly supposed. P. W. Hofmann observed that sulphur is
readily obtained by passing sulphurous acid gas over calcium sulphide
heated to dull redness, the latter compound being oxidized to calcium
sulphate (gypsum), from which the sulphide may again be easily prepared
by heating it with charcoal. The sulphides of sodium, potassium and
barium will answer the same purpose. — Indust. Ztg.y 1876, p. 65.

New Reagent for the Detection of Sulphur in Organic Compounds. — H.
Vohl recommended for this purpose, in 1863, to heat the compounds
with sodium and prove the presence of sodium sulphide by nitroprussid
of sodium. This method, which was also recommended by Bunsen in
1866, indicates the presence of sulphur in all its combinations ; but the
following reagent is now recommended by Vohl as not producing a
color reaction with the oxygen compounds of sulphur : A mixture of
one measure of distilled water with two measures of glycerin is saturated
at the boiling temperature with slaked lime, and afterwards with recent-
ly precipitated hydrate of lead, or with elutriated litharge ; after coolings
the clear liquid is decanted and preserved in well-stoppered bottles from
contact with carbonic acid. The regent is used by heating it to boiling
with the organic body, which is thereby colored black, if sulphur not
in combination with oxygen is present. Hair, feathers, horn, albumen,,
albuminous urine, etc., readily indicate the presence of sulphur. The
use of lime is preferable to potassa and soda, because the latter darken
many organic compounds at the boiling temperature. — Ber. Deutsch.
Chem. Ges., 1876, p. 875-877.

Instability of sublimed salicylic acid. — J. Biel observed that sublimed
salicylic acid, which was in long silky needles and entirely inodorous,
acquired after a week a rose-colored tint which gradually deepened,
the characteristic odor of phenol becoming likewise apparent. The
presence of the latter could not be demonstrated by chemical reactions,
owing to the presence of undecomposed salicylic acid, but the genera-
tion of free carbonic acid was easily proven by passing air, deprived of

410 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {AmsllZ' S?™™'

all traces of this gas, through the bottle containing the salicylic acid,
and through titrated baryta water. The author cautions against the
use of sublimed salicylic acid, since this mild remedy decomposes
spontaneously into the very caustic phenol. — Phar. Zeitschr.f. Russl.

Preparation of salicylic cotton wadding. — For this purpose a white
wadding completely freed from fat by sodium carbonate is necessary.
E. Rennard saturates in a porcelain mortar 10 parts of this wadding
with a solution of 2 parts salicylic acid in 15 of alcohol and 35 of
water of 25 to 30°C (77 to 86°F.). After the solution has been
completely absorbed, and by means of the pistil uniformly distributed
through the cotton, the latter is subjected to pressure until 25 parts of
the solution are recovered, which may be used for wetting a fresh por-
tion of cotton. If it is desired to avoid expression, only one part of
salicylic acid is employed, but the full quantity of liquid mentioned
above, which is about the smallest quantity with which a uniform
moistening of the cotton can be effected. The wadding is then dried
at ordinary temperature, since a higher heat causes a reddish color.
Thiersch has recommended the addition of some glycerin, in order to
fix the acid more permanently upon the cotton ; but Rennard states
that the addition of 10 and even 20 per cent, of glycerin will not com-
pletely prevent the dusting of the acid on beating the cotton.

The above proportions furnish a wadding impregnated with 10 per
cent, of salicylic acid ; this strength and a wadding containing 4 per
cent, are most generally employed. — Zeitsch. Oester. Ap. Ver.

Diospyros fruit, known in Bombay as timbooree, is intensely astringent
until quite ripe. It is about ij inches in diameter and resembles the
American persimmon in properties. W. Dymock does not give the
.name of the species.

Entada pusaetha, local name gardul, is a gigantic climbing shrub,
bearing legumes three feet long and 4 or 5 inches wide. The seeds,
called pilpatre, are heart-shaped, 2 inches in diameter, with a shining
brown testa, resembling that of the horse chestnut, but i-i6th of an inch
in thickness ; cotyledons white, taste insipid, turns water milky. It is
reputed of being emetic. In Soonda the roasted seeds are eaten.

The galls of Rhus succedanea, called kakrasinghee, are generally single,
sometimes lobed, of a purse-like form and vary much in size. They
come from Northern India, resemble Chinese galls and have a purely
astringent taste. — Phar. Jour, and Trans., June 17.

Amsept%876arm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 411

Oil of Orris. — Prof. Fliickiger has examined the solid oil which is
prepared in Europe from orris-root by distillation. By repeated crys-
tallization from alcohol and treatment with animal charcoal, inodorous
crystals were obtained, having the composition (C14H2802) and proper-
ties of myristic acid, while the odorous principle remained in the
mother liquor, so that oil of orris must be regarded as myristic acid,
impregnated with some volatile oil. The acid does not pre-exist in
orris-root, and is probably liberated from a fat by the influence of
steam. — Archiv d. Phar., June.

The behavior of castor oil to petroleum benzin was observed by Hager
eight years ago, and recently subjected to further experiments. After
agitating one volume of castor oil with two of petroleum benzin and
setting the mixture aside, it separates after several hours in two layers,
the heavier of which occupies 1*6 vol. at i6°C. (6o*8°F.)and 175 vol.
at io°C. (50°F.), while the upper layer is benzin, containing about i~30th
of castor oil in solution. In the presence of other fixed oils, the be-
havior is different : if the admixture is small the heavier stratum will
be reduced in volume to 1 or 1*2, and to about 0*4 if the admixture
amounts to 25 per cent. In the presence of still larger quantities
complete solution takes place. The nature of the fixed oil, however,
-exerts some influence so that the amount of adulteration cannot be
estimated from the volume of the heavier stratum. At a temperature
•of 40°C. (i04°F.) separation into three strata takes place.

Pure Benzol, having a boiling point of 8o-85°C. (176-185^.) dis-
solves castor oil in all proportions.

Alcohol of 90 per cent, yields clear mixtures with castor oil in all
proportions at 25°C. (77°F.), but from 3 to 5 volumes are required at
15 to i8°C. In the presence of other fixed oils, much larger quan-
tities of alcohol will not yield clear solutions ; but with 2 vol. alcohol
on standing, separation into three strata takes place, the lowest of
which is usually the foreign oil, the second one castor oil containing
alcohol, and the upper layer alcohol containing castor oil in solution.

On cooling a warm solution of castor oil in alcohol, three layers
are often formed, the lowest containing mainly stearin and the second
chiefly olein. — Ph. Cent. Halle, No. 7, 8.

Aeterpen (abbreviated from aethyl- terpen) is the name of a new com-
pound, given by V. Meyer and F. V. Spitzer to a body obtained by
them in their investigations on the constitution of the terpens, C10Hl6,

412 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {AmsS\f7h6arm*

which, according to recent investigations, are closely related to cymol,
CI0H14. The authors prepared Pfaundler's monochlor- terpen by react-
ing upon camphor with pentachloride of phosphorus, according to the
equation, C10H16O+PCl5=POCJs+HCl+C10H15Cl. A solution of
the chlorinated terpen and of ethyl iodide in pure benzol was added to
sodium kept under benzol and the mixture heated in a water bath, the
flask being connected with a reversed condenser. By repeated frac-
tional distillation and cooling the fractions with ice, crystals were
obtained, which were further purified by expression and recrystalliza-
tion from ether, when they constitute pure aeterpen, C12H20, formed as

follows: C10H15Cl+IC2H5+Na2=NaCl+NaI+C10H15 C2H5. In

appearance, and even in odor, the new compound resembles camphor,
but has about the consistency of wax; it fuses at 63*5° C. (146*3° F.),
boils without decomposition at 153° C. (307*4° F. — uncorrected) and
volatilizes readily at ordinary temperature. It is insoluble in water,
but very soluble in ether, benzol, etc.

The other products of decomposition have not yet been examined.
— Ber. d. d. Chem. Ges., 1876, 877-880.

Extract of Malt with Quinia. — Hager recommends to discard the use
of quinia sulphate in this preparation, which thereby acquires a bitter
taste. This is avoided if quinia tannate, prepared by Rozsnyay's
method ("Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1875, p. 268), is used. One part of
the tannate, dissolved in 100 parts of neutral extract of malt, alters
neither the taste nor color of the latter, and does not separate any
sediment. After diluting it, a slight bitter taste is produced in a day.

For ferrated extract of malt an improvement on the formula of the
German " Pharmacopoeia " ("Am. Jour. Phar.," 1873, I09) ls recom~
mended, whereby the taste is not affected. Three parts of iron sac-
charate {ibid., p. 161) are rubbed up with seven parts of glycerin and
mixed with ninety parts of extract of malt.

Iodinixed extract of malt is made by dissolving 0 0 1 potassium iodide
in 100 of malt extract.

Pepsinated Extract of Malt. — Two parts of saccharated pepsin are
triturated with five of glycerin and dissolved in ninety-three of the
extract. This preparation is probably best made extemporaneously,
since the taste is modified after awhile, without, however, becoming
disagreeable.

Extract of malt with hops may, perhaps, be made by dissolving one

AmsipL^76.rm* } Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 413

part of alcoholic extract of hops in 200 parts of malt extract. (Fluid
extract of lupulin may be advantageously used. — Editor.)

Syrup of ?nalt is an unstable, unnecessary preparation, made by mix-
ing one part of malt extract with nine of simple syrup. — Phar. Cent.
Halle, No. 24.

The constituents of ergot of rye, according to Prof. Dragendorff and M.
Padwissotzky, are, 1, scleromucin, a colloidal substance, containing
nitrogen, but giving no albuminoid, alkaloidal or glucosidal reaction,
insoluble in 45 per cent, alcohol, and after drying only partially soluble
in water ; 2, sclerotic acid, soluble in 45 and in boiling 75 per cent,
alcohol, colloidal in the pure state, containing nitrogen ; 3, sclerery-
thrin, a red coloring matter, soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform and
caustic alkalies (in the latter with a murexid color), but in combination
with lime insoluble in water and alcohol, probably a derivative of
anthraquinon ; 4, scleroiodin, a coloring matter insoluble in alcohol,
ether, chloroform and water, soluble in potassa solution, with a splen-
did violet color ; 5, sclerocrystallin, crystallizing in needles, soluble in
chloroform, with difficulty in ether, insoluble in water and alcohol,
formula probably C10H10O4 ; 6, scleroxanthin, a hydrated compound of
the preceding, yellow and crystalline ; 7, another yellow coloring matter^
amorphous; 8, brownish resin; 9, Wendell's alkaloids ("Am. Jour.
Phar.," 1864, p. 193), probably identical with each other, inactive
upon frogs.

The most active of these compounds^is sclerotic acid, which has
been successfully used by Prof, von Hoist in doses of 0*04 to 0 05
grams injected subcutaneously. Sclererythrin and scleroiodin have a
slight action upon frogs. Tanrefs ergotinin is not a chemically distinct
compound j its action upon frogs and the color reaction with sulphuric
acid depend upon the presence of sclererythrin. — Phar. four, and
Trans., June 17.

Ergotin. — The researches of Professor Salkowski and other German
chemists on the active principle in the preparation of ergotin were re-
cently referred to. Professor Buchheim now writes to the Klinische
Wochenschrift confessing that he also has not succeeded in isolating
completely that principle, though he worked on it for several months ;
and he states his reasons why he thinks that such isolation might be
impossible, and that for practical medical purposes the infusion of
ergot, or the freshly prepared extract, will alone remain available.

414 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals.

The organization of the ergot fungus seems to him so low that its
mycelium cannot build up organic matter, so as to constitute an alka-
loid or glucoside substance from water, carbonic acid and ammonia,,
but feeds, so to speak, more directly on the vegetable material of the
mother plant. He believes that less elementary compounds are taken
up by it from the rye grain, and thinks the gluten the most likely
material from which to form the gelatin-like substance which he isola-
ted partly from ergotin. On this modified albuminous constituent of
the rye, at a certain stage of its metamorphosis, he infers, depends the
peculiar action of the fresh infusion or extract. Any further complex
chemical processes and reactions for the isolation of the active sub-
stance must necessarily have changed it so much in its natural course
of decomposition that it has lost its efficacy, in the same manner, for
instance, as the decomposing albuminous substances of putrid blood
lose their poisonous effects when decomposition has reached to a cer-
tain point.

The freshly prepared ergotin seems therefore to give alone a guar-
antee of success. For subcutaneous application it ought to be care-
fully neutralized by carbonate of soda, as it contains much acid,
especially lactic acid, as Buchheim found, besides quantities of leucin.
— Phar. Jour, and Trans., July 1st.

Remedy for Dandruff. — A French physician recommends to apply a
solution of chloral hydrate containing 5 per cent, of the latter, by
rubbing from h to 1 oz. into the scalp by means of a sponge, and repeating
it every morning. A slight burning sensation and reddening of the scalp
occurs, disappearing after two minutes. If the hair had fallen off in
consequence of the dandruff, it will be renewed in about a month. —
Apoth. Ztg., No. 25.

Fluid Extract of Chestnut Leaves made from the European variety of
Castanea vesca, appears to be gaining favor in Germany as a remedy
for whooping cough. In " Phar. Zeitung," of July 26, Dr. Schmidt, of
Edenkoben, publishes a long list of German towns and cities where it
has been employed, also extracts from numerous letters from physicians
and pharmacists, according to which the preparation, though not a
specific against the disease mentioned, is regarded as a very valuable
medicine, usually relieving in a short time the spasmodic and paroxys-
mal cough and correcting the expectoration ; it has also been found
advantageous in the diarrhoea of children.

Amseptur^76.rm"} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals, 415

A New Acid in Mare's Milk has been discovered by Dr. Duval,,
which is not found in the milk of ruminants, at least not in appreciable
quantity. It crystallizes in scale like needles, is not volatile without
decomposition, has a pungent odor and a peculiar taste. It is combined
in the milk with a volatile base which evaporates on being heated. It
has been named equinic acid. — Cbem. Centra IbL

Preparation of Pure Grape Sugar. — For this purpose C. Neubauer
recommends the process of Schwarz (1872). 500 to 600 cc. of 80 per
cent, alcohol are mixed with 30 to 40 cc. of fuming muriatic acid, and
powdered cane sugar, is dissolved in this mixture to saturation. Large
quantities of grape sugar crystallize on standing in wart-like masses^,
which merely require washing with alcohol and recrystallization from
boiling absolute alcohol. The acid mother liquor may be again saturated
with cane sugar and used as before. — Zeitschr. Anal. Chem.

Impure Persian Opium. — Barnard Proctor recently analyzed a sample
of Persian opium from which he obtained only 0*25 per cent, of
morphia. — Phar. four, and Trans., June 24.

On the Action of Sulphuretted Hydrogen upon Alkaloids. — E. Schmidt
observed (1875) that an alcoholic solution of strychnia, after saturation
with H2S and exposure to the air separates orange-red crystals, which
were found to be 2C21H22N202, 3H2S2, and from which mineral acids
separated a heavy oily body (most likely H2S2) evolving H2S2 in a few
days.

Under the same circumstances brucia yields yellow needles, having
the composition C23H26N204,H2S2, and by a slight modification, ruby
red crystals containing an additional molecule of H2S2.

Quinia,cinchonia, cinchonidia, quinidia, morphia, codeia, papaverina,
narcotia, thebaina, atropia, veratria, conia and nicotia acquire under sim-
ilar circumstances an intense yellow coloration ; but well characterized
compounds have as yet not been obtained. Coffeina and theobromina
appear not to be affected by this treatment. — Archiv d. Phar., June,

478"496-

NOTE ON SO-CALLED WOOD OIL.

BY PROF. F. A. FLiiCKIGER.

In a note communicated to the "Archiv der Pharmacie," for May,,
the author states that he has found that the etherial oil of Dipterocar-
pus balsam, known as Gurgun balsam or wood oil, when dissolved in

416

Notes on so-called Wood-oil.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Sept., 1876.

about 20 parts carbon bisulphide, and a drop of a cooled mixture of
equal parts of sulphuric and nitric acids added, takes a splendid violet
color. A single drop of the etherial oil is sufficient to produce the
reaction, and the color lasts several hours. It is not prevented by the
presence of resin or by copaiva balsam, so that the reaction takes place
with the crude Gurgun balsam, or even when that is mixed with eight
times its volume of copaiva balsam. The reaction can, therefore, be
used to detect the presence of Gurgun balsam in copaiva balsam.
Under the same conditions fish liver and oil of valerian are also colored
a beautiful violet, but only transiently so. In order to exclude fish oil
from the test, it is recommended to distil off the etherial oil, although
on account of its high boiling point (2500 to 2600 C.) this is not an
agreeable task. Only a few drops are required, however, for the test.

Should a wood oil not correspond to this reaction, the author thinks
it might probably be due to the fact that some Dipterocarpus trees
yield a varying balsam. The balsam is obtained in large quantities
from the following species : Dipterocarpus turbinatus, Gaertn. (syn. D.
laevis, Ham., D. indicus, Bedd.\ D. incanus, Roxb., D. zeylanicus,
Thw., D. trinervis, Blume, D. littoralis, BL, D. alatus, Roxb., D. his-
pidus, Thw., D. gracilis, BL, D. retusus, Bl. All these species occur
in India and in the Archipelago, and the last even in the Philippines.
Their resinous juice is used very generally as varnish, hence the name
" wood oil." It is hardly probable that they all yield a resin chemi-
cally and physically identical. The author has found that the oil dis-
tilled by him from undoubtedly true Dipterocarpus balsam is dextrogyre,
whilst Werner, who first examined Gurgun balsam, in 1862, speaks of
it as laevogyre. In all the specimens examined by the author to the
present time, however, he has found the color reaction constant.

Another possible ground for failure in obtaining the reaction is its
confusion with other liquids used for similar purposes. The balsam
obtained from Hardwickia pinnata, Roxb., a leguminaceous plant, is
used in Southern India in the same medical cases as copaiva balsam ;
but an authentic specimen in the author's possession is not fluorescent
like Dipterocarpus balsam, and dissolved in carbon bisulphide gives
only a yellow color with the acid mixture. The author does not
know, however, that it is ever there called " wood oil."

A fat oil, used in enormous quantities in Eastern Asia for paint and
varnish, and also as a drastic medicine, and very generally called " wood

Am. Jour. Pharm)
Sept., 1876. ;

1 he International Exposition.

417

oil," is obtained from the seeds of Aleurites cordata, Muller (syn. Dry-
andra cordata, Thunb., Elaeococca Vernicia, Sprgl., E. verrucosa, A.
Juss.), a euphorbiaceous tree. The tree is common in China and
Japan, of very characteristic appearance, and is known in China as the
*' tung tree." The oils from the seeds of Ricinus and Croton Tiglium
differ in chemical properties and physiological action from most known
oils ; how far such peculiarities occur principally in the Euphorbiaceae
is a question that yet requires answering.

That the^" wood oil " from the Tung tree is a fat worthy of notice
is shown by the experiments of Cloez. This chemist obtained from
the seeds of Aleurites cordata, by means of carbon bisulphide, 41 per
cent, of a fixed oil, forming a solid crystalline mass below 32°C.
When on the [contrary the seeds were treated with ether an oil was
obtained that did not solidify even at 180 C. But what is most sur-
prising is that when prepared either by pressure or by one of the sol-
vents mentioned, and heated in the air to 2000 C, it changes suddenly
into a solid transparent jelly, which is no longer soluble in ether or
carbon bisulphide. 1 This change takes place also after a few days,
when excluded from the air, under the influence of light alone. The
oil dries more rapidly than linseed oil. The principal acid in it was
obtained in crystals that melted at 440, but very rapidly resinifled, and
therefore did not consist of linoleic acid.

In many respects this Chinese wood oil recalls the singular "axin"
or "age" of Mexico, examined by Hoppe-Seyler, in i860.2 The
Nin fat of Yucatan, described by Donde, 3 might also be mentioned
here. All these oils appear to correspond in yielding a peculiar body,
which Mulder describes as linoxyn. — Pharm. Jour, and Trans., July 1,
1876.

NOTES ON THE INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION.

BY THE EDITOR.
IV.

Among the most important staple articles in the line of crude drugs is opium,
which is very well represented at the Exposition in its various commercial varieties,
as well as in some samples showing the result of the experimental culture of the
poppy.

1 " Comptes Rendus," Sept. 1875, P- 4^9> and 1876, p. 501.

2 Gmelin, vol. vii., p. 1471.

3 " Pharm. Journ.," [3], iv., 836.

27

4 1 8 The International Exposition-. { Ams^t7i£7h6arra~

The species of poppy cultivated for the production, of opium is. Papaver,som-
niferum, Lin., of which there are a number of races, the most important of which,
are the varieties rigrum (glabrum, Boissier) and album. The former of these
has usually deep-purple colored petals, varying, however, to almost completely
white, and bears seeds which, though usually blackish-blue, vary likewise in shade
to a pale yellow. The second variety has the flowers and seeds almost always
white, or nearly so. But the most distinctive character between the two varieties is
the capsule, which in the black poppy is always subglobular and occasionally de-
pressed or at the base even concave; the capsule opens by pores, which are of thie-
same number as the rays of the closely sessile stigma. The capsule of the white
poppy is ovate-globose to oblong and indehiscent. -

The collection of the opium takes place after the falling of the petals and before
the ripening of the seeds. The capsules are then scarified by means of a one- or several-
bladed knife, arranged in such a manner that it cannot penetrate through the capsu-
lar wall, which would occasion the loss of the milk juice/ The incisions are made
either longitudinally or transversely, and the exuding juice is scraped from the cap-
sule on the following morning, by which time it has become sufficiently firm ano*
its color has changed from white to brown. Afterwards it is worked up into cakes,
which, in the different countries vary not only in consistence but likewise in shape,
size and the material in which they are packed for the market, or which is employed
to guard against the cakes adhering together.

The variety of opium which is found in the commerce of the United States is
obtained from. Turkey, and usually called Smyrna or Turkey opium ; it is produced
from the black variety of poppy, the incisions being made transversely, or rather
somewhat spirally ; the collected juice is mixed and formed into globular cakes,,
each of which is wrapped into one or sometimes two poppy leaves, arid when suffi-
ciently dry, is packed at first into bags and subsequently, for exportation, into- boxes,
a sufficient quantity of chaff, consisting of the- calyx of a species of: Rnmex,! inter-
mixed with the triangular fruit bei.ng ad4ed to prevent the cakes, from . .running
together. The Ottoman government exhibits 12 cakes of opium, varying in weight
from a few ounces to over a pound, which represent the style in which this* drug Is
prepared in different localities. Larger samples' of Turkey opium, both from Asia
Minor and the European provinces, are shown, in large, handsome bottles;, by H-
A. Holstein, Constantinople, and represent the towns and districts of Angora, Bej-
basar, Geiwe, Konia, Mualitsch, Kiutahia, Saloniki, Seardo, Siwrihissar and Tau-
chanly. . . .

The opium exhibited by the National Museum of Egypt resembles the former ; the
cakes shown vary in size, are rather flattened and show the remnants of the poppy
leaves in which they have been enveloped; but fragments of Rumex chaff are not
observed. The cultivation of opium in Egypt, which was carried on quite' exten-
sively about 50 years ago, was subsequently much neglected, but through the exper'-
iments and exertions of Gastinel Bey, director of the botanical garden-'at Cairo,
has during the last decade considerably increased, the quantity raised being', how-
ever, still insufficient for home consumption, although Egyptian opium-may.be
found in the European market. It is very rarely imported into this country. The
capsules exhibited vary somewhat in shape, one lot being depressed globose in shape,

Am. Jour. Pharm. ~l
Sept., 1876. j

The International Exposition.

while another is ovate, all having white seeds. The incisions appear to be mostly
made with a single knife blade ; they are horizontal or somewhat spiral, several be-
ing made on different parts of the fruit.

A variety of opium which has become of considerable importance of late years
is that produced in Persia, which country is not directly represented at this Exposi-
tion ; but various samples of its opium are shown by Rosengarten & Sons and Pow-
ers & Weightman. The former firm exhibit Persian opium in balls, each oiae wrap-
ped separately in thin white paper 5 the latter firm show a large quantity of it in the
form of globular cakes, the original shape being considerably modified by mutual'
pressure, all packed in so-called poppy trash. This opium is said to be principally
derived from the white poppy by longitudinal incisions ; in collecting the hardened
juice, the scraper is occasionally dipped into oil to prevent the opium from adher-
ing; some of the oil becomes mixed with the juice, and the opium has, therefore,, a*
greasy appearance, the oil often exuding in drops when a cake is cut. Pessiarc.
opium is also formed into short cones and into cylindrical sticks,, which are wrapped:
in paper. It is much more variable in morphia strength and in the amount of mat-
ter soluble in water, than Smyrna opium, and this is due, partly at least, to the vari-
ous admixtures, purposely made for the purpose of moulding it into a peculiar
shape, or of obtaining certain preparations in which forms it is popularly employed;
in that country. It is not met with in this country in the open market, its importa-
tion being permitted only with the view of employing it in the manufacture of
morphia and the other alkaloids.

East India opium is represented only by two specimens from the India museum,,
consisting of a broken round cake of Behar opium, and of a ball of so-called "pro-
vision Opium," which is prepared for exportation to China -y the two represent the-
principal kinds manufactured under the strict supervision of the Indian government.
The white poppy is cultivated in India, the capsules exhibited being globular ovate,,
and bearing the marks of vertical incisions with a three or four-bladed knife. The
petals are carefully collected after they have become sufficiently matured to be read-
ily removed together by slight pulling, and the capsules are scarified vertically with,
a several-bladed knife, called nushtur. The petals are carefully preserved and
assorted, and afterwards serve for the formation of the covering of provision opium.*
which is effected by forming leaves from the petals in a shallow earthen dish, suffi-
ciently heated to render them glutinous, and afterwards agglutinating these leaves^
so as to form a shell about •§ inch thick, in a hemispherical brass mould, by means
of lenva/i, which is a kind of paste made by diffusing opium in the washings or dhol
(water which had been previously used for cleaning the opium' vessels), and, m
order to render it more glutinous, adding a certain portion of.pussenvah or passenva
(drainings from the recently collected poppy juice). When the opium has attained
the standard quality of 700, i. e., contains 70 per cent, of dry opium and 30 per
cent, of moisture, 1 seers 7*5 chittaks (3 lbs.) are weighed out, carefully placed inta
the shell and formed into a ball, the upper half of which is covered by the ends of
the shell, strengthened with some leaves and agglutinated by lewah, after which the
cakes are rolled in poppytrash (the dried plant ground). The finished ball weighs,
fresh, a little over 2 seers 1 chitt. (not quite 4} lbs.), and when dry 2 seers, or about
4 lbs. avoirdupois. The drying requires much care, to prevent the opium from

420 The International Exposition, {Amsep°tu,r'i87h6arm:

^spoiling, and the cakes are finally packed in boxes divided into 40 compartments,
each of which receives one ball, in which state it is exported, principally to China.
The opium used in the East Indies is prepared differently, the juice being evapo-
rated in the sun, when it is formed into square or round cakes ; the Behar opium on
exhibition is of this kind.

Although the cultivation of the poppy for opium has been repeatedly prohibited
"in China ("Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1869, p. 477), and the prohibitory decree has never
been repealed, it appears to have steadily increased, being carried on under the
•eyes, if not with the full knowledge of the authorities. There are two varieties of
''Chinese opium, coming from two ports. The sample which represents the opium
met with at the northern port of Newchwang, is a cake of about the size of a fist,
somewhat flattish globular in shape, rather firm in consistence, light-brown in color,
-and of a good opium odor. The cake is wrapped in thin, white paper and is
.greasy, perhaps rather less than the Persian opium which it closely resembles. It
&as the appearance of being dried without the aid of artificial heat.

The second variety comes from the port of Hankow, and consists of pieces of a
largeT cake, which apparently was originally nearly spherical, or perhaps, cylindri.
cal, is wrapped in white paper, and shows on the outside remnants of vegetable
tissue, but no impressions or remnants of leafvenation 5 there can be no doubt of its
foeing identical with the Hankow opium described by Dr. R. A. Jamieson a few
years ago (see " Pharmacographia," p. 51). It is firm externally, and of a dirty*
yellowish color from the adhering tissue, internally of a deep black-brown, quite
soft, and of a good opium odor. Having an extract-like appearance, it is not un-
likely that heat is employed in evaporating the milk juice, but no empyrematic
-odor is observable.

The poppy cultivated in China is not exhibited, but it is not too much to assume
*that it is the same variety which is employed in India and also in Japan, namely
the white, and that the capsule is incised longitudinally. Chinese opium is reported
i to be infeiior to the Indian 5 but we are not aware of any comparative assays.

Japan has also sent opium as the produce of her soil. The scarified poppy cap-
sules, which are likewise on exhibition, show that the white poppy is here cultivated
for this purpose 5 they differ from the white capsules as ordinarily seen in being
marrow oblong in shape. Several incisions are made vertically, and the opium,
which is in thin, flattened cakes wrapped in paper, is of a dark-brown color, but of
good quality as far as odor and taste are concerned. We could get no information
regarding the extent of cultivation, nor do we know of a morphiometric assay of
.this product.

With the above, the varieties of opium, which are important either for home con-
sumption or in a commercial aspect, have been all enumerated; but several samples
:are likewise on exhibition which prove that a good medicinal opium can' be ob-
tained also in other countries. The sample of opium which was raised in Victoria
and sent by Mr. Joseph Bosisto, was unfortunately lost on the voyage; according
to his statement, it contained 10 per cent, of morphia, a sample of which, made
from the former, has reached here. The poppy capsules have likewise been lost, so
that we have no information as to the variety cultivated or the manner in which the
capsule was treated.

Am. Jour. Pharm.')
Sept., 1876. J

The International Exposition.

421

L. Menchers has on exhibition in the Spanish department several flat cakes of
opium wrapped in poppy leaves, and to all appaarance of good quality. The
opium shown by Fr. Jobst, of Stuttgart, is of good and even excellent quality — the
sample produced in Silesia containing 8 to 9 per cent, of morphia, while that raised
in Wurttemberg is marked to contain between 12 and 15 per cent, of that alkaloid..
The collective exhibit of the Central Pacific Railroad contains specimens of the
white-seeded poppy ; it is known that a good quality of opium may be produced in
California ("Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1874, p. 105), but there has been but little atten-
tion paid to it as yet.

As might have been expected, the exhibition of the various constituents of opium
which are used in medicine is quite extensive, though the samples are, in the majority
of cases, small and insignificant, and in no way indicating the importance of ther
articles for the respective countries. Naturally the United States are well represented,^
and we are pleased to say that the goods are creditable not only in regard to quan-
tity but also to quality. The American exhibitors have confined themselves almost
altogether to the commercial medicinal chemicals; hence we find here besides
meconin merely the alkaloids morphia, code'ia and narcotina in their uncombined
state, and particularly the first one in several of its saline combinations, among which
the hydrobromate and valerianate of morphia may be mentioned, the first one as-
having been recently introduced into medicine, the last one on account of its-
superior appearance, as compared with some samples of a dedidedly brown color.,,
met with in the exhibits of two or three other countries. The large, handsome
crystals of codeia also deserve special notice, likewise the splendid exhibit in bulk
of 700 ounces of sulphate of morphia by Powers & Weightman 5 the last crystalli-
zation of this salt, instead of being broken up in the manner in which it is seen in
commerce, has been simply cut up into rectangular bricks which are piled up in one
large glass case.

The results of original investigations with opium are met with in the exhibits of
T. & H. Smith, of Edinburgh, and of Fr. Jobst 5 quite a large number of new opium
alkaloids have emanated from the latter laboratory, the discoveries of O. Hesse, (see
" Amer. Jour. Phar." 1870 p. 394, 1875, P- 447 5 " Proc- Amer. Phar. Asso 1873,
P- 373) 5 but of the long list laudania is the only one exhibited, besides the older
alkaloids thebaina, pseudomorphia, and morphia, with some of the salts of the latter
ordinarily met with.

A more extensive exhibit of the constituents of opium is made by T. & H. Smith,,
who besides most of the opium derivatives already mentioned, show bimeconate of
morphia, hydrochlorate of narcotina, papaverina as alkaloid and hydrochlorate, nar-
ceina, cryptopia, (" Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1867, p. 421), Hesse's rhoeagenina [Ibid.,.
p. 123), crystallized meconic acid and thebolactic acid, discovered by the manufac-
turers (Ibid., 1865, p. 466). The latter nearly colorless liquid is shown in a large
glass jar, and the cryptopia in considerable quantity, considering its limited occur-
rence, in handsome, well-defined crystals as well as in the form of a mass of cauli-
flower appearance and evidently the result of drying the gelatinous mass which,!
under certain circumstances is formed by the alkaloid and its salts. Several of the
opium constituents are presented in the condition in which they have been crystallized!
in an evaporating dish, the mother liquor having been poured off. Altogether we-

4^2

The International Exposition.

{Am. Tour. Pharra .
Sept.,' 1876.

xegard this as the most interesting and instructive exhibition of the chemistry of
opium, on account of the variety of compounds, the number of rare preparations
-and the results of original investigations.

More limited in the countries of production is camphor, which is furnished by
the laurel Camphora officinarum, Bauh., a stately tree of Japan and the eastern
portion of Asia, where it is obtained by subjecting the cut branches and wood to
a crude distillation in the presence of water; after draining it in vessels having a
perforated bottom, it is met with in the market as Chinese and Japanese camphor,
which varieties are exhibited in their proper departments. The former, or Formosa
camphor, is usually of a light-brown or grey color, the latter is nearly white, or some-
what pinkish, and both occur in their crude state in the form of small grains. "The re-
fining of the crude article appears to be carried on in Europe still in peculiar-shaped
glass flasks, which require to be broken in order to obtain the cake of sublimed
camphor. Of late years the refining of camphor has become quite an industry in
the United States, where it is effected in vessels constructed for the purpose, having
;a movable lid, upon which the sublimate condenses; with this arrangement the ex-
pense of a glass vessel for each cake is saved.

Crude camphor is exhibited by China and Japan as one of their staple articles,
and in the department of the latter country is also found some refined camphor in
large fragments, apparently broken from larger cakes. Circular cakes of the re-
ined article, with the accustomed circular hole in the center, are exhibited by Chas.
Pfizer & Co., of New York, and Kurlbaum & Co., of Philadelphia, the last-named
ifirm collecting also the volatile oil with which the crude camphor is always more
or less impregnated, and which is lost in the old method of purification ; like the
Formosa oil of camphor with which it is identical, it contains variable quantities of

• camphor in solution.

Camphor, as is well known, is extensively employed for protecting clothes from

• the ravages of moths ; the crystalline cakes, in which it is usually met with, con-
tain many fissures, from which the volatilization of the camphor proceeds, the same
as from the surface. It is obvious, that with a decrease of the entire space presented
to the air, the rapidity of evaporation must necessarily be lessened, while its effec-
'tiveness must remain the same if, through the slower evaporation, the confined at-
mosphere may still be kept saturated with camphor. This idea is carried out in
«the compressed camphor, manufactured and exhibited by W. F. Simes & Son. This
/firm distil crude Japanese camphor slowly from a suitable retort, and carry the
^vapors into a large chamber, where it condenses in the form of a very fine crystal-
iiin« powder, which is afterwards compressed by hydraulic pressure into rectangular
blocks of a definite weight. These blocks may also be made directly from the
crude camphor, and then contain also the small percentage of impurities naturally
found therein.

_ Among the chemical derivatives of camphor we notice crystallized camphoric acid,
in the interesting and instructive exhibit of H. TrommsdorfF, Erfurt, and monobro-
mated camphor, by most of the manufacturers of medicinal chemicals of the United
States, Germany and some other countries. If we are permitted to judge from the
number of exhibitors in the various departments, and from the quantities exhibited, this
compound has everywhere rapidly gained the confidence of physicians, and become an

AmseJp0t?x87h6arm } The Chemical Industry of Germany. 423

important* remedy since it was first recommended by Prof. Denefte, a few years ago.
Although all the samples on exhibition are evidently pure and nicely crystallized,
yet, in our opinion, decidedly the handsomest and largest crystals are shown by
Hance Bros. & White, Philadelphia, who have on exhibition 38 lbs. of this com-
pound, the result of one crystallization. We are informed that this firm employ
-essentially the process published in this journal 1872, p. 342, allowing the heat to
rise to 27o°F. (.i32°C.) and even 2800 F. (i38°C), and that other processes, which
were published more recently, did not yield such favorable results. These obser-
vations made on a large scale coincide, therefore, with the experiment of F. C.
Linthicum (see August number, p. 346). The crop of crystals exhibited by the
.firm mentionedj'was obtained from petroleum benzin.

THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY OF GERMANY AT THE CENTEN-
NIAL EXHIBITION IN PHILADELPHIA.

SY THE COMMITTEE OF . THE ASSOCIATED GERMAN CHEMICAL MANUFACTURERS.

I. Technical-chemical and Pharmaceutical-chemical Substances and Fertilising Agents.

This- class comprises the more prominent branches of the chemical major-
industry.

Leblanc's soda process, in spite of the many not unimportant researches con-
cerning it, has, chemically speaking, experienced no important modification. In
the construction of the ovens employed, however, an improvement has been
effected,— the principle so much applied in iron technology, of a revolving oven,
having here found application. Of the many proposed new methods for the tran-
sposition of the salt into soda, only the so-called ammonia-soda process has been
able to procure itself an introduction into chemical industry. In spite of all doubt
•concerning the profitableness of the method, it is a fact that at the present moment
the soda so produced can, as excellent 98 per cent, article, compete with theLeblanc
soda.

But seldom do statistics reveal to us such a great success and such a profound
revolution of an industry as the utilization of the Stassfurt and Leopold Hall
waste salts have occasioned in the potash industry. Although an offspring of most
modern date — hardly ten years old — the decomposition and utilization of these
-salts have as well as superceded all other methods of producing potash salts.

Corresponding to this colossal production, there are employed in this branch of
industry. besides 1,100 miners in the two mines, on the average, 3,000 workmen.

In 1872 were produced :

Potassium 'chloride in various degrees of strength, 80 per cent., 90 per cent., 95
]per cent, and 98 per cent., about 132,000,000 lbs.

Potassium sulphate, by double decomposition of potassium chloride and magne-
sium sulphate, about 1,750,000 lbs. ; Potassium carbonate (potashes) about the same
amount. . Magnesium sulphate, raw and crystallized, about 22,000,000 lbs. Sodium
sulphate, crystallized and calcined, about 13,300,000 lbs. Magnesium chloride,
crystallized and [fused, about 11,000,000 lbs. Boracic acid, about 26,400 lbs.
Bromine and bromine preparations, about 77,000 lbs. Artificial bath-salts, about
320,000 lbs. Potash manures, in various grades, about 110,000,000 lbs.

424 The Chemical Industry of Germany. {AmseJP™?^

A not inconsiderable part in the increase of the Stassfurt and Leopold Hall
industry is taken by the utilization of the potash salts as manures.

About 30 per cent, of the total production of the Stassfurt industry is consumed
at home, while about 70 per cent, is exported especially to England, France, Bel-
gium, and the United States, etc., — a striking proof of the importance of this
branch of industry for foreign countries.

While not twenty years ago the entire amount of potashes coming into com-
merce was made from the ashes of plants containing potash, — whole forests falling
martyrs to this mode of production, — we are now indebted to the disclosure of the
Stassfurt potash industry for a new and advantageous process of manufacturing the
potassium carbonate, so necessary in many branches of industry. This process, as
already mentioned, seems qualified to place all other methods in the back-ground,
and the more so, as the potashes won from potassium sulphate, and containing 92 per
cent, of pure salt, are by far purer than all other potashes which come in the market.
Of the 105,600,000 lbs. total produce, 55,000,000 lbs. are made from potassium
sulphate.

A considerable part of the hydrochloric acid appearing as by-product in the
Leblanc's soda process is used in the preparation of chlorine, which, as chloride of
lime, is brought to a solid form, or is utilized in the manufacturing of potassium
chlorate. While the home production of chloride of lime has not become equal to*
the English, and considerable amounts are yet imported, the manufacture of chlorate
of potash is of equal birth and is not only able to compete with the English pro-
duct, but has, far more, as well as superseded it.

The utilization of the manganese lyes naturally plays an extraordinarily important
role in the profitableness of the chlorine products, and it cannot be denied that
Germany is somewhat behind other countries in that respect. The Weldon-method
used for this purpose (precipitation of neutralized manganese-lyes by lime, and
oxidation of the obtained pap by pressing air through it), is^very generally extended
in England, while in Germany but few manufacturers have adopted it. In a similar
manner, although from another point of view, the Deacon process, dispensing-
entirely with the use of manganite and depending chiefly on the decomposition of
copper oxychloride at a high temperature by leading steam, air kand hydrochloric
acid over it, has, as yet, found no important introduction into Germany.

The bromine production at Stassfurt has suffered a sensible injury by the large
importation of American bromine into Germany, and can only with difficulty be
restored to its former importance.

The chief source of the ammonia production, which is worked up as aqueous
solution as well as sulphate, carbonate and chloride, is the ammoniacal^water of the
gas-works. The sulphate has already procured itself an introduction as a manure,
while a greater demand for caustic ammonia and the carbonate, occasioned by the
influence of many new branches of industry, as for example, the^Carre ammonia-
soda method of manufacturing ice, is to be predicted.

While formerly only the native sulphur formed the raw material for the production
of sulphuric acid, to be later superseded by pyrites, we see to-day a whole series of
other materials being utilized in the manufacture of sulphuric acid. The great
majority of the larger metallurgical works, yielding to the force of circumstances

Amsep?.?i876.rm"} The Chemical Industry of Germany. 425,

and, in most cases, to the influence of Boards of Health, have taken up the utiliza-
tion of the sulphurous acid formerly escaping in enormous quantities into the air.
The residues from the Laming-mixture of the gas-works, containing large amounts
of sulphur, and the sulphur obtained from the soda residues are also utilized with
advantage in the manufacture of sulphuric acid. The ordinary pyrites ovens being
utterly inapplicable to the burning of these substances, it has been sought to con-
struct suitable ovens for this purpose, and it is especially in this field that German
technologists have introduced important improvements.

The introduction of the Glover-tower, first used in England, into the German
sulphuric acid manufacture, marks a further progress. The use of the same allows
not only of a greater saving in the employment of nitric acid, but renders it possible
to apply the heat of the hot sulphurous acid from the washing-ovens to concentra-
tion of the sulphuric acid.

From the remaining chemical-technological products of the major-industry there
remain to be mentioned, nitric acid, yellow prussiate of potash, alum, aluminium-
sulphate, acetic acid and oxalic acid.

The nitric acid has found increased application by its use in the manufacture of
anilin and alizarin-colors, as well as by the increased production of sulphuric
acid, nitro-glycerin, and gun-cotton. Of the salts of this acid, the potassium
compound is by far the most important. It is made in Germany almost entirely by
decomposition of sodium nitrate with potassium chloride.

The yellow prussiate of potash, the starting point of the other cyanogen com-
pounds, finds manifold application as such in the production of blue colors or, in
the form of potassium cyanide, in the most various branches of industry. The use
of Berlin-blue having become, however, confined, the manufacture of the yellow
prussiate of potash, in Germany especially, since animal refuse, owing to the increased
demand for manures, has risen in price, has made but little progress. The many
attempts to produce the nitrogen of the cyanogen compounds from other than
animal sources have as yet not given results of practical value.

The manufacture of alum and aluminium sulphate, which have an extended
application in dyeing, cloth-printing and tawing, as well as in paper-making, has
remained as well as unchanged, except that ammonia has been substituted in the
alum in place of the potash.

Oxalic acid, which a few years ago was almost entirely an English monopoly,,
has lately become the object of an extended manufacture in Germany. The oxalic
acid produced in Germany leaves nothing to be desired as regards its quality, and
can confidently compete with the English product.

The oxidation of alcohol on the one side and the distillation of wood on the
other, remain the methods for the wholesale manufacture of acetic acid and the
many salts of it, finding application in technology.

For the production of lead acetate, the acetic acid from alcohol is used almost
exclusively, as the latter, when intended for this branch of industry, enjoys indem-
nity from duty, and hence, without difficulty, can compete with the pyroligneous
acid. It is different, however, with the other acetic acid preparations, in whose
production the alcohol employed is not free from duty. The present unusually low
price of alcohol alone renders it possible to maintain a competition with the acetic,
acid products made from pyroligneous acid.

4^6 The Chemical Industry of Germany. { ^sfcfsT*'

The large portion of pyroligneous acid is indebted to the very important extension
of the industries connected with the distillation of wood. The large consumption
of methyl-alcohol by the anilin-color works, and the constantly increasing
demands for acetic acid and its salts by the technical industries have occasioned the
utilization of the relatively large forests of Germany to appear all at once so very
profitable in this respect that such works have sprung up like mushrooms. On
account of the decrease in anilin-color production, the demand causing an excessive
production has weakened, so that this branch of industry at the present moment
suffers severely. This is shown especially in the case of acetic acid by its unpre-
cedented fall in price. " - - ' J ••• ; ' ...

We may calculate the production of iod per cent, rnethyl-alcohol in the years
1872 and 1873 as at least 1,320,000 to 1,540,000 lbs. per year corresponding to
about 5,280,000 lbs. of 100 per cent, pyroligneous acid; certainly a large quantity,
and which, in conjunction with the acetic acid produced from alcohol, far exceeds
the demands of Germany.

Apart from the productions of the proper chemical major-industry, lies the
manufacture of a great number of pharmaceutical-technological ' and scientific chemical
substances, which we cannot properly pass by in silence, since it is especially this
manufacture which has been brought to a high degree of perfection in Germany.
This agrees particularly with the considerations already introduced at the beginning,
that the high perfection which the study of chemistry in general has attained in
Germany has made this branch of industry, demanding relatively the largest
amount of chemical knowledge, capable of competing with any of the foreign
manufactures.

Concerning the extent of their production, the amount is far outweighed by the
value of the products, so that a not inconsiderable number of them, as respects
their sale, may be classed among the products of the chemical major-industry.
From the field of inorganic chemistry, we shall only refer to those of the great num-
iber of acids and salts which are used in pharmacy.

The dyeing, printing, galvano-plastic, and pyrotechnical establishments, in short
a large number of technological industries, make the discoveries of science useful
to their purposes, and even of the rare metals but few can be named which as such,
or as some of their compounds, find no application in technology. To see their
Way in this enormous labyrinth, to have a knowledge of the wants of the day, to
keep an open eye and ear for every novelty, is the task of these establishments.
Owing to the daily increasing material, divisions have taken place within the chem-
iical minor-industry. The organic has not only separated itself from the inorganic,
ibut is itself split asunder in all directions.

In regard to the field of organic chemistry, the front place is held by manufac-
tories producing alkaloids. The difficulty of overlooking the drug-market, com-
bined with the extraordinary variations in price, according to the results of the
harvest of many drugs, as opium, cinchona, etc., make a careful observance of the
market a necessary condition, and hence it was in this department that a division
of labor was first perfected.

We find in Germany a whole series of manufactories occupied exclusively with
the production of alkaloids. Unfortunately the statistical material at our disposal

Am^m| Alizarin. 427

is unserviceable in judging of the value and extent of the'total production, so that
we must confine ourselves to referring to this deficiency.

The manufacture of alcohol preparations, more particularly of ether, acetic ether
and absolute alcohol, is confined to a few of the larger manufactories, since the
•difficulties of transportation of these liquids, and furthermore the burdens of duty,
irender an extended export impossible. From its great production of alcohol, hardly
any other country can compare with Germany in the production of these articles.

Indirectly connected with these preparations are fruit-ethers, chloroform, chloral-
hydrate, tannin, pyrogallic acid, iodoform, etc., with which products Germany
supplies Russia, France, England and the United States.

The consumption of chloral-hydrate, which promised to become an article pro-
duced on a large s^ale, does not appear to increase. The export of the substance
as, however, considerable.

Potassium iodide and bromide, although their manufacture in foreign countries is
not inconsiderable, may be mentioned as export articles.

A specifically German industry is the production for science of important and
iinteresting chemical preparations, particularly in the domain of organic chemistry.
The Exhibition gives an agreeable picture of the progress in this field. Even
although the pecuniary results, owing to the small demand, can be but small, yet
they are well calculated to obtain in foreign lands a good name for German
.knowledge and wealth. The bond of sympathy which unites these establishments
with science and its followers bears the latest chemical acquisitions to the remotest
regions, and gives the proper guidance to their technical utilization.

Salicylic acid and its derivatives, and 'vanillin are striking examples of the above.
The first, an ordinary organic acid extracted from the gaultheria oil (winter green),
attracted no attention so long as its price corresponded to the expensiveness of the
raw material. Since a convenient method of preparation from Phenol has been
invented, however, it has become the object of a lively manufacture, and its applica-
tions increase with the ease of its production.

Artificial vanillin which hardly a year ago first became known in chemical
circles, is now in great demand as a substitute for the natural vanilla. While until
then, we obtained the vanilla aroma from tropical countries, we are now able to
produce it in any quantity from the pine forests.

In the manufacture of essential oils, also, the endeavor is made to emancipate
ourselves more and more from the silent operations of the plant, and to utilize
materials more conveniently to be obtained. As examples, may be mentioned the
gaultheria-oil, the bitter-almond-oil, the mustard-oil and the latest of all, the oil of
the Spiraea Ulmaria, the Salicylic Aldehyd. Owing to the cost of the materials
for research, it is but natural that advance in this path is somewhat restrained, but
it is not to be doubted that eventually a large part of the essential oils will be pro-
duced by Synthesis.

ALIZARIN.

BY CARL RUMPFF.

After all the lighter oils used for manufacturing anilin colors are separated from
coal-tar by distillation, by successive heating up to about i7o°C, the temperature of

I

428

Alizarin.

J Am. Jour. Pharm ,
\ Sept ., 1876.

the still is raised to 2io°C, and thereby the important anthracen is obtained, a body
which, in a state of purity, is a hydrocarbon, has the chemical formula C14H10, and
furnishes the raw material for the preparation of alizarin. According to the quality of
the coal used for the manufacture of illuminating gas, the tar contains from 1 to 2 per
cent, of pure anthracene.

The important invention of making it serviceable for the production of alizarin,
resulted by accidental circumstances.

In 1868, Messrs. Graebe & Liebermann, of Germany, experimented with alizarin
(CjjHgOJ, contained in, and centuries since extracted from madder, with the view
of finding improvements for its use in printing on cotton, when they obtained a
compound having the chemical composition represented by C14H10. Finding this
to be also the corrected formula of anthracene from coal-tar, they promptly went
farther on with the right inspiration — that if alizarin from madder could be traced
back to anthracene, it wanted only a practical way for introducing four atoms of
oxygen into, and withdrawing two atoms of hydrogen from, the coal-tar anthra-
cene, to make it alizarin.

This correct idea was their invention. But as is often the case with such im-
portant revolutions, brought about by chemical genius, they had only broken the
ice without opening the river for navigation. The processes they had adopted
turned out to be impractical for cheap production in larger quantities, and only after
experimenting for several years more practical processes have been found by us and
others, which opened the way for the immense production it has reached already,
and affect very materially the cultivation of madder.

The crude distillate is brought into the market in a concentration of generally
25 to 30 per cent, of pure anthracene. It is a doughy, pasty mass, which, besides
anthracene, contains also lubricating oils of high boiling points. In order to pre-
pare this crude anthracene for use at the factory, or, to make it more plain, to free
it from a part of the homologous admixtures which hinder the subsequent process of
oxidation, it is, after previous heating, freed first from part of its oils by hydraulic
pressure, and then shows 40 to 50 per cent, of pure anthracene.

Through further treatment, either by means of solvents — for instance, naphtha,
petroleum ether, etc. — or by sublimation, it is more purified, so as to contain from
68 to 90 per cent. C14H10. For special purposes it is prepared in a more perfect
state by crystallization with 95 per cent. CUH10, or even chemically pure, which, by
sublimation, gives beautiful crystals.

In order to produce alizarin as the ultimate product from anthracene, different
methods may be adopted, either by forming bichlor- anthracene C14H8C12, or,
bibrom-a?ithracene C]4H8Br2, or by oxidizing anthracene with the assistance of bichro-
mate of potassa and sulphuric acid into anthraquinone, which, when chemically
pure, has the formula C14H802, and crystallizes in beautiful needles.

It is, of course, impossible for us to specify the many different methods by which
the point aimed at, viz., alizarin, can be, and is, reached ; but we give the following
way, tested in practice, which renders it possible to obtain a clear insight into the
successive development of the end product.

Both bichloranthracene and bibromanthracene, as well as anthracene chlorinated
by special processes, and also the anthraquinone form when heated with anhydrous

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Sept , 1876. J

Varieties.

429

oil of vitriol a sulpho-acid (a crude anthraquinone product practically workable),
which, according to its subsequent purification or treatment, furnishes a material —
sulphanthraquinonic acid — for the production of alizarin, dyeing with scarlet or
blueish tints.

If the sodium salt of sulphanthraquinonic acid, together with caustic soda, is
heated up to a high temperature, the alizarate of sodium, CuH6Na204, is formed as
a crude fused mass, fit for farther factory purposes. On decomposing this salt by
an acid, the alizarin CuH804 is obtained, which, carefully purified, comes into the
trade as a paste of 10, 11, 15 or 20 per cent, concentration.

The preparation and use in this watery state has hitherto proved to be the most
advantageous and practical form of alizarin, as, if it is furnished in a dry state, a
perfectly equal solution and distribution afterwards in the dyeing bath or in the
thickening for printing, would be found very difficult.

In this respect, also, is shown the essential difference of character between the
alizarin colors and the anilin colors, which latter in dyeing form only a precipitate
on the fibre, and are therefore not fast, especially when exposed to the influence of
the light, whereas alizarin is a fast color, because it is an acid which, in combination
with other mordants, by a process of oxidation similar as is the case with indigo,
develops the red, violet, orange, black or brown tints in the fibre, thereby producing
it fast against light and even the strongest fulling.

Alizarin crystallizes and sublimes in red needles. By a double decomposition of
a solution of alizarate of potassium, or alizarate of sodium and soluble metallic salts,
the corresponding difficulty, soluble alizarates, are obtained.

The most interesting, wonderful fact which will strike our minds with surprise
while investigating the above processes, is that in coal all that remains from the
trees and vegetation of gigantic antediluvian forests should have been discovered a
raw material, and from it a color of exactly the same chemical identity and com-
position as that which so far was extracted only from the root of the insignificant
plant Rubia tinctorum, generally known as madder. After such success, it is quite
natural that efforts have been made to go still a step farther in this direction, and
that we, as well as many others, hammer already for a considerable time at the
solution of another immense problem, viz., the articifial production of real indigo.

VARIETIES.

The Antiseptic Actions of Salicylic and Benzoic Acids on Beer-worts
and Urine. By E. von Meyer and H. Kolbe. — A reply to certain statements of
Fleck in opposition to the views enumerated by the authors of this paper. They
find that salicylic acid acts differently upon yeast when added to worts when the
yeast and acid are added to glucose solutions. Whilst -5 gram salicylic acid in
1,000 cc. sugar-solution checks the action of 15 grams of beer-yeast, the same
quantity of the acid when added to 1,000 cc. of wort has no apparent influence
upon 10 grams of yeast; but '5 gram benzoic acid stops the action of 1 gram of
preserved yeast, whilst the action of this is not checked by -5 gram salicylic acid.

The key to the explanation of this was found in the fact that salicylic acid dis-

43°

Varieties.

{Am. Jour. Pharm-
Sept., 1876.

solves more readily in worts than in a simple solution of glucose ; and it was found
that ether does not extract the whole of the acid when shaken with the former solu-
tion until after acidification with hydrochloric acid. Further experiments showed
that a molecule of disodio-hydric phosphate fixes two thirds of a molecule of sali-
cylic acid, whilst one molecule of the same salt is capable of fixing only half a mole-
cule of .benzoic acid. Since it is only the free acid which exercises an antiseptic
or anti-fermentative influence, and beer worts contain phosphates, the differences in
the behavior of salicylic and benzoic acids respectively to worts receives a ready
explanation.

As might be expected from the richness of urine in phosphates, a larger quantity
of both acids is required to check putrefactive changes in urine than to prevent the
fermentation of saccharine solutions and worts. In both cases '5 per 1,000 of free
acid was about the quantity necessary to effect the object in view.

It is obvious that when antiseptic uses are in view, salicylic acid should not be
employed dissolved in solutions of sodium phosphate, borax, or other alkaline me-
dium.— Jour. Chem. Soc. [Lond.], June, 1876, from J. Prakt. Chem. [2], xii, 178
— 2,03.

An Alkaloid occurring in the Brain and the Liver, and in the Wild
Poppy. By F. Selmi. — In examining the brain or liver for poisonous alkaloids, if
after treatment with ether, it is extrcated with amylic alcohol to ascertain if mor-
phia is present, and the solution is evaporated, a yellowish residue is obtained par-
tially soluble in dilute acetic acid. On adding a drop of iodized hydriodic acid to
this solution after it has been concentrated at a gentle heat, and immediately exam-
ining it under the microscope (650 diameters), brown crystalline plates will be ob-
served, sometimes solitary, sometimes united to form a cross, and rapidly disappear-
ing, being transformed into brown oily drops. The same phenomena are observed
even when the acetic solution has been evaporated to dryness and heated for
some time to 1200, if the residue is again dissolved in water and tested with the
iodized hydriodic acid. As these crystals closely resemble those produced with
morphia by the action of the same reagent, it is always necessary in toxicologieal
researches to apply the iodic acid test. On agitating the amylic extract with water
several times, the alkaloid is dissolved out, yielding an alkaline solution, which after
being acidulated with acetic acid, gives the above-mentioned reaction even more
definitely. The quantity contained in the brain and liver is, however, very small.

When examining the green heads of the wild poppy for morphia, by exhausting
them with alcohol, mixing the extract with baryta, and finally treating it first with
ether and then with amylic alcohol, the author observed that the amylic solution
behaved in a. manner, precisely similar to that obtained from the brain and liver j,
the acidified aqueous extract giving fugitive crystals identical in form and color
with those previously mentioned: no morphia, however, could be detected, neither
did the dried capsules contain any alkaloid giving these reactions. On keeping the
alkaline solution obtained by agitating the amylic extract with water, it lost its
alkaline reaction after a week and no longer gave the same kind of crystals with the
iodized hydriodic acid. The solution, saturated with acetic acid, may, on the con-
trary, be preserved unaltered if mixed with an equal volume of alcohol. The au-
thor gives a list of the reactions of this alkaloid with 13 different reagents, which
reactions are identical, whether it has been prepared from green poppy heads or
from the alcoholic extract of the brain. This should be made with absolute alco-
hol, then precipitated by basic acetate of lead, filtered, and mixed with ether; this
produces a second precipitate which is to be removed, and the clear solution evapo-
rated after. the: lead, has been separated by means of ammonium sulphide.. .The
second lead, precipitate produced by the ether, when decomposed in a similar man-
ner, yields a .substance differing from the new alkaloid, in that it does not give any
precipitate either with the iodide of potassium and cadmium, or with Mayer's
reagent. — Ibid. , from Gazzetta Chimica Italiana^v,,z^%—^.02.j _

Amslp^*i87h6.rm"} Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. 431

Self-preservation of Grapes in Spirit. The Consequence of the manner
of Existence of Cells out of contact with the Air. By G. Missaghi.—
The author found that some grapes which had been left for a considerable tirrre
(eight months) in an atmosphere of carbonic anhydrid confined over mercury did
not decompose, but that acetic acid, formic acid, and alcohol were produced, a
small cavitv which was formed where the stalk is inserted into the fruit being rilled
with the liquid. The rest of the grapes remained in the normal condition, but their
!flavor was similar to that of fruit which had been kept for a longtime in s'trong
alcohol.— Ibid., from ibid., v, 421 — 422.

Determination of Sulphuric Acid and Soluble Sulphates by means of
Standard Solutions. By M. H. Pellet. — The author first precipitates the sulphuric
acjd by chloride of barium in excess, precipitates the excess of chloride of barium
with yellow chromate of potash, and finally determines the chromate with standard
solutions of protochloride of iron and permanganate of potash. — Chem. Nevus,.
July 7th.

New Process for the Manufacture of Dextrin. By M. Anthon [Dingl.
Pol. Journ.) — At present fecula in the separate state is exclusively employed in the
preparation of dextrin, all that portion being wasted which is retained by the fibrous
part of the potato or of the bran. To prevent this loss' the author recommends the
use of the entire potato dried and ground after being freed from its soluble princi-
ples by washing in acidulated or alkaline water. The fecula thus obtained is
sprinkled with hydrofluosilicic acid (0-5 to 1 per cent, of the weight of the fecula) ;
it is then placed in a drying-room at 3 8° to 44°C. till there is no further loss of weight ;
the temperature is then raised to 700 to 750 till no loss occurs, and finally to 900.
The desiccation being thus complete the fecula, whilst still hot, is placed in large
flat sheet-iron troughs which are introduced into large stoves heated to ioo°to 1250.
The transformation into dextrin is known to be complete when a sample taken out,
on being cooled and moistened with cold water, adheres together in little glassy
globules. — Chem. News, June 23, 1876.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING,

A 'pharmaceutical meeting was held August 15th, 1876, Edward Gaillard in the
chair. ' The minutes of the previous meeting were read and corrected so as to
' read, " a stone jar in which balsam of Peru was imported, was presented by Cramer
& Small." ' - '■

Prof. Maisch presented, from J. W. Lloyd, a specimen of willow — Salix Muhlen-
bergiana, a large amount of which was attempted recently to be thrown upon the
market as epilobium augustifolium ; the fraud was happily discovered before it
reached the hands of persons unacquainted with the herb. A herbarium Specimen
of epilobium was exhibited for comparison, and attention called to Gray's descrip-
tion of this species'of ' willow as S.' htimilis. ....

Prof. Maisch read 'a paper entitled Notes' on the Genus Teucrium 5 also one on
'Fuciis Vesiculosus and other allidd species ('see- pages 392 and 395) and dried spec-
imens and colored illustrationsof the plants described in the two paper's were shown
to the members. ' ' ' ~ / ~" ■ - - ' . ' ' '

Prof. Remington exhibited HilTs Consecutive Numbering Machine, and,; illus-
trated its method of working He had examined several appliance's of this kind
with the view of numbering prescriptions .so as to avoid duplications, and believed
this one to possess some advantages over others. It can be started at any

Editorial.

Am. Jour. Pharm.

Sept., 1876

number, and if desired, will make duplicates j the one exhibited will number from
1 to 99,999, and its price is $25.

Dr. Pile said that recently, while preparing diluted phosphoric acid by Markoe's
modified process, during the evaporation the attendant allowed the temperature to rise
to 6oo°F. After making it of the proper strength, it was tested with ferric chloride,
which produced a gelatinous precipitate, from which he inferred it had turned to
the variety which produced this precipitate After a few days it was again
tested, but no precipitate was formed. Thinking that if the diluted acid was pre-
pared from the glacial acid, that by waiting some time the same facts might be
observed, made the experiment and found the precipitate formed would re-dissolve
upon standing, but would always be produced.

The meeting adjourned to meet October 17th, 1876.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The next meeting of the American Pharmaceutical Association promises to be
the largest one ever held. From information received from various parts of the
country, it seems that many of the members have postponed their visit to the Cen-
tennial Exposition to the beginning of September, when the temperature may be
expected to be more agreeable than during the unusually hot summer which is now
near its close, and when the prospect of meeting so many friends from all parts of
this continent will hold out additional inducements to pay a visit to the city where
the International Exposition is being held this year. It is to be hoped that the mem-
bers, who have accepted queries for investigation, will have prepared their reports in
due time, and that those who may know of new or interesting subjects will bring
them forward, either in the shape of a report or as a matter for discussion. Mem-
bers attending the meeting may know beforehand many of the subjects which are
likely to elicit discussion before the association, by consulting the list of queries
which have been accepted for research, and each one may in this way contribute
towards increasing the interest of the meeting.

While under such conditions a few days will undoubtedly be profitably spent,
the many useful and interesting articles which have been sent to Fairmount Park,
from all parts of the globe, will claim the attention of all to a greater or less extent,
and it is these varying interests which require to be harmonized, so that the visitors
may be enabled to derive the greatest possible benefit from their attendance. This
subject in particular has claimed the serious attention of the joint committees en-
gaged in making preparations for their visiting brethren, and it is believed that the
plan which they will submit to the association will meet the approval of the mem-
bers, as it will most likely harmonize the various interests and enable all to derive
the greatest possible benefit from their visit.

The necessary accommodations have been another subject of concern for the
committee, since in September various national conventions and meetings of
societies will doubtless* bring a large number of strangers to this city. This matter
has also been satisfactorily arranged, and if members will notify the permanent
secretary in due time, there will be no difficulty to provide suitable accommodations
for all within a convenient distance of the place of meeting.

And the visiting ladies ? We are sure that during their stay here they will not
lack any attention 5 and that the twenty-fourth meeting of the association will form
another link in those pleasant recollections which bridge over the time from one
meeting to another, and make all participants look forward with unalloyed pleasure
towards the next one.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

OCTOBER, 1876.

THE TWENTY-FOURTH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE AMERICAN
PHARMACEUTICAL ASSOCIATION.

The Committee of Arrangements appointed by the Association in
1875, and the Local Committee of Pharmacists and Druggists had ac-
cepted the offer of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, the Trustees
of which institution had placed the College building at the service of
the Association. It having been found impossible to secure good ac-
commodations for all the expected members at any one or two con-
tiguous hotels, owing to the throng of visitors to the International
Exposition, the College building was selected as the general head-
quarters and place for holding the meeting. The main hall was taste-
fully decorated with exotic plants, most of them yielding medicinal
products, loaned for the occasion from the conservatory of Prof. G.
W. Wood, and served as a general reception and reading-room ; the
adjoining library was arranged as the office of the Actuary and of the
Local Reception Committee, and provided with facilities for writing
letters. The sessions were held in the lower lecture-room, which was
decorated with the coats-of-arms of the United States, the State of
Pennsylvania and city of Philadelphia, and portraits of some of the de-
ceased members of the Association adorned the walls. The upper
lecture-room and the laboratory were thrown open to afford the visitors
ample opportunity to inspect at their leisure the entire building of the
College.

First Session — Tuesday afternoon, September 12.
President Markoe called the meeting to order at 3J o'clock P. M.,
about 300 members being present at the time. J. M. Maisch acted as
Secretary. The chair appointed a Committee on Credentials, con-
sisting of Messrs. Wm. Neergaard, New York \ W. J. M. Gordon,
Cincinnati, and Joseph P. Remington, Philadelphia. While the com-
as

434 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the \ A%JcT^76arm:

mittee was engaged in examining the credentials of delegates, the Pres-
ident read his annual address, in which he reviewed the labors of the
Association accomplished since the time of its organization in 1852;
the present meeting is the twenty-fourth since the organization of the
Association, but the twenty-fifth since the initiatory meeting of the
Colleges of Pharmacy of Massachusetts, New York and Philadelphia
took place in the city of New York, October 15th and 1 6th 1851.

The following invitations were laid before the Association : From
the Academy of Natural Sciences to visit their extensive museum ;
from the Union League to visit their hall on Broad street, the badge
of the Association being in both cases sufficient in lieu of regular ad-
mission tickets ; also, from Mr. James W. Tufts, inviting the mem-
bers to make use, at their pleasure and convenience, of his pavilion
erected near the Globe Hotel, and in the vicinity of one of the princi-
pal entrances to the Exposition ; also, through Mr. Delacour, an in-
vitation to visit the Masonic Temple on Friday forenoon at 10 o'clock.
The invitations were accepted with the thanks of the Association.

Mr. Bullock moved that a committee be appointed, to report at the
next meeting, on the articles of pharmaceutical interest contained in
she International Exposition. Mr. Menninger amended that the com-
mittee report to the Executive Committee, and that the report be pub-
lished in the next volume of Proceedings, but that the publication of
the latter should not be delayed in case the committee should be unable
to complete their labors in time. The motion as amended was carried,
and the number of members to serve on this committee fixed at nine.
The following were appointed at a subsequent session : Prof. Joseph
P. Remington, James T. Shinn and A. W. Miller, of Philadelphia ;
Prof. J. F. Judge, Cincinnati ; Wm. Saunders, London, Ont. ; Prof.
S. P. Sharpies, Boston ; A. P. Sharp and John F. Hancock, Balti-
more, and Prof. Emlen Painter, San Francisco.

The Committee on Arrangements being called upon, Dr. A. W.
Miller read the report, containing, among others, the suggestion that
the iVssociation meet on alternate days, and devote the intervening
days to visiting the International Exposition under the guidance of
some of the local members. This proposition created some discussion,
but was finally adopted with the understanding that the Association
could finish its labors during the same week, and with this object in

AmbJcT,rif76arm } American Pharmaceutical Association, 43 5

view, a motion by Prof. Judge, that evening sessions be held on the
•days when the Association met for business, was carried by 89 affirm-
ative against 57 negative votes. The suggestion of the Committee on
Arrangements to invite to seats on the platform the two surviving
original members of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy was unani-
mously carried ; the gentlemen are Daniel B. Smith, the first Presi-
dent of the American Pharmaceutical Association, in 1852, and Peter
Williamson, the Acting Secretary at the organization of the College
named, in 1821.

The report of the Committee on Credentials was now read. Dele-
gates were accredited from twelve colleges of pharmacy (Philadelphia,
New York, Cincinnati, Massachusetts, Maryland, Chicago, Louis-
ville, St. Louis, National, Tennessee, California and Ontario), nine
State pharmaceutical associations (New Jersey, Rhode Island, Maine,
South Carolina, Georgia, Connecticut, Vermont, Michigan and New
Hampshire), six local associations (Newark, Camden, Washington,
Richmond, Chicago Drug Clerks', and German Apothecaries', of New
York) and nine alumni associations (Philadelphia, New York, New
York Alumni Association of Philadelphia College, Maryland, Massa-
chusetts, Chicago, Louisville, St. Louis and Cincinnati).

Seventy-six candidates for membership were reported by the Execu-
tive Committee, and unanimously elected \ Messrs. E. T. Dobbins
and Wm. Saunders acting as tellers.

The reports of the standing and special committees were called in
and laid upon the table for future consideration. The report of the
Executive Committee being called up, was read by the chairman, Geo.
W. Kennedy. Amongst the work performed by this committee dur-
ing the year was the carrying out of the instruction received at the
previous meeting — to design and get up a badge for the members of
the association ; it consists of a trilobed leaf, upon which is impressed
a mortar and a Liebig's condenser, the latter bearing upon the cooler
the inscription, "Am. Phar. Ass'n ; " finished in nickel-plated metal it
may be obtained from the Secretary, at 50 cents each. The officers
and the committees actively at work during the meeting were likewise
provided with badges.

The Permanent Secretary gave an account of the work connected
with his office, and suggested that several special committees be made
standing committees.

436 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the {Am\fcJ£™'

The two last mentioned reports were accepted, and on motion, re-
ferred to a special committee to consider the suggestions contained
therein, and report at a future meeting. The chair appointed, at a
subsequent session, Messrs. Paul Balluff, New York ; Jno. C. Whar-
ton, Nashville, and E. H. Sargent, Chicago, on this committee.

After the appointment of the Nominating Committee, the associa-
tion adjourned until Thursday morning, at 9 o'clock.

Second Session. — Thursday mornings September \\th.

In the absence of the President, Vice President Fred. Hoffmann,,
called the meeting to order. After the approval of the minutes of the
first session, letters were read from " Danmarks Apotheker Forening,"
" Schweizerische Apotheker Verein " and " Deutsche Apotheker
Verein," acknowledging the receipt of invitations to be present at this
meeting. The letters were ordered to be filed and spread on the
minutes.

Prof. Remington introduced the following gentlemen from Japan :
Messrs. S. Nagayo, Chief of the Imperial Board of Health and Direc-
tor of the Medical College at Tokio ; H. Miyaka, Professor at the
Medical College of Tokio, and Commissioner of the Imperial Board
of Health, and S. Iwanaga, of the Imperial Commission of the Board
of Health. Prof. Th. G. Wormley, of Columbus, Ohio, and Wm.
H. T. Kiersted, President of the Association in 1860-62, were in-
troduced by Dr. Squibb. All these gentlemenVere warmly welcomed,,
and conducted to seats upon the platform.

The Nominating Committee recommended the election of the fol-
lowing officers and standing committees : Charles Bullock, Philadel-
phia, President ; Samuel A. D. Sheppard, Boston ; Gust. J. Luhn,
Charleston, and Jac. D. Wells, Cincinnati, Vice Presidents ; Chas. A
Tufts, Dover, N. H., Treasurer ; John M. A4aisch, Permanent Sec-
retary ; C. L. Diehl, Reporter on the Progress of Pharmacy.

Executive Committee — George W. Kennedy, Pottsville, Pa.; Chas.
H. Dalrymple, Morristown, N. J.; Wm. H. Crawford, St. Louis;
John Ingalls, Macon, Ga., and the Permanent Secretary ex-officio.

Committee on the Drug Market — Wm. Saunders, London, Ont. ;
Wm. H. Wickham, N. Y. ; John F. Judge, Cincinnati; N. G ly
Bartlett, Chicago, and C. F. G. Meyer, St. Louis.

Committee on Papers and Queries — Wm. Mclntyre, Philadelphia ^
Louis Dohme, Baltimore, and Jos. L. Lemberger, Lebanon, Pa.

^m'olZ'rt7trm'} American Pharmaceutical Association. 437

Business Committee — Joseph Roberts, Baltimore ; Henry S. Well-
come and Chas. Rice, New York.

The nominees were severally elected, and Messrs. E. R. Squibb
and Fr. Hoffmann appointed a committee to conduct the President elect
to the chair. Mr. Chas. Bullock assumed Jthe presidency with a few
remarks suitable to the occasion.

The Treasurer read his annual report of receipts and disbursements
during the past year. It was suggested that the balance on hand be
deposited, and an Auditing Committee was directed to be appointed,
for which duty the chair selected Messrs, Shinn, of Pennsylvania ;
Leis, of Kansas, and Ingalls, of Georgia, ItVas likewise ordered that
members dropped for being in arrears, be requested to return their
certificates of membership.

The Committee on the Revision of the By-laws, in compliance with
the direction of the meeting of 1875, presented a printed report, which
was distributed among the members, the consideration being deferred
to a subsequent session.

The Committee on the Ebert Prize read their report (see " Amer.
Jour. Phar.," 1876, p. 227), which was accepted and adopted.

The Committee oh Maximum Doses made a report, showing that
they had conferred with the American Medical Association, by which
body a committee had been appointed to act in conjunction with the
committee appointed by this Association. The report was, on motion,
accepted, and the committee continued.

The report of the Committee on Legislation was read by J. M.
Maisch. It was, on motion, accepted and the Secretary instructed to
incorporate all other modifications of pharmacy laws, passed during the
past year, which may come to his notice.

A report was read by the Committee on the Liebig Memorial and,
since the object has already been accomplished, it was, on motion of
Dr. Menninger, resolved that the funds collected by the committee be
returned to the donors, and that the committee be discharged.

Dr. Hoffmann read the report of the Committee on Metrical Weights
and Measures, advocating the adoption of this system. Mr. Wiegand
presented a memorial arguing against the immediate introduction of the
metric system. The two papers were accepted and referred to a com
mittee of three, to report at a future meeting. Messrs. E. S. Wayne

438 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the {AmSc^'I^Tm'

of Cincinnati, J. F. Moore of Baltimore and Israel J. Grahame, of
Philadelphia, were subsequently appointed to this duty.

The Committee on the Photographic Album presented a report,
which was accepted and referred. On motion of Dr. Menninger, the
committee was discharged and the albums placed in charge of the Per-
manent Secretary.

Mr. A. L. Calder, Chairman, read the report of the committee to
whom had been referred the letter of Mr. B. Lillard, then Treasurer and
acting Secretary of the Tennessee College of Pharmacy. The report:
was accompanied by two letters from the Registrar of that College,
and concluded by stating that the "committee, accepting the written
statements of the Tennessee College of Pharmacy as facts, are of
opinion that that College has not departed from an honorable course in
tendering or conferring its degrees. " After some personal explana-
tions by Mr. Lillard, the report was adopted.

Mr. Eberle read the report of the Committee on Julius Fehr's Com-
plaints, finding " that neither of the Committees (on Specimens and on
Papers and Queries) are in fault, and that the omission from the
printed minutes, of the remarks which Mr. Fehr did make are no
fault either of the Secretary nor of the stenographer " ; and offering
the following resolutions :

1. That the complaints of Julius Fehr against the Association be dismissed.

2. That no patented or proprietary article, or one the composition of which is
held in the least degree in reserve, shall receive official notice at the hands of the
various committees of this Association, without further action on its part.

The report was accepted and adopted, after which, on motion of
Prof. Babcock, Mr. Fehr was allowed five minutes to make some-
explanation. These remarks were of such a nature that Dr. E.
Squibb moved that Mr. Fehr be expelled from the Association for
using indecorous language to its members, committees and officers.
Amendments to this motion, to indefinitely postpone, to permit Mr.
Fehr to apologize, and to lay upon the table, were voted down, and
the original motion was then carried by a vote of 106 in the affirmative
against 19 in the negative.

Invitations were received from Messrs. H. C. Fox Sons & Co., to
visit their glass works, and from the Zoological Society, of Philadel-
phia, to visit the Zoological Garden, located in Fairmount Park, the

^I!7h6arm'} American Pharmaceutical Association. 439

Am. Jour. Pharm
Oct

badge of the Association admitting to the grounds free of charge.
The invitations were accepted, with thanks.

Dr. Squibb read a paper "On the administration of phosphorus," re-
commending a solution in cod-liver oil, containing one per cent, of
phosphorus ; the solution should be carefully made and the air entirely
excluded. This may be effected by displacing the air from the bottle
containing the oil, by carbonic acid gas, and then rapidly dropping into
it the phosphorus, which had been previously cut into small pieces^
chilled by placing it in ice water, and afterwards quickly dried and
weighed. The bottle is at once corked, placed in tepid water, and agi-
tated until the netted phosphorus is dissolved, when the solution, under a
pressure of carbonic acid gas, is syphoned into one-ounce well-stop-
pered vials, taking care to leave the least practicable room for air.
Properly prepared, the oil remains limpid and bland \ exposed to the
air, it becomes covered with a dark-brown pellicle, which protects the
oil beneath from rapid change. It is administered by diluting the solu-
tion with more cod-liver oil, or by emulsionizing the thus diluted solu-
tion with glyconin. A pill may be prepared by mixing in a mortar one
part each of magnesia and powdered soap with two parts of stronger
ether, and when thoroughly wetted adding one part of the phosphorus
solution, the mass to be divided into the required number of pills, and
these dispensed in a vial containing some magnesia and a drop of ether.
The solution may also be dispensed in the form of a damp powder, by
shaking together in a wide-mouth vial 140 grains each of stronger
ether and calcium carbonate, then adding 50 grains of the solution, and
after agitation triturating in a mortar ; before the ether has completely
evaporated the powder is transferred back into the vial and should now
weigh 200 grains, containing half a grain of phosphorus, and may be
dispensed in gelatin or wafer capsules.

The author exhibited the various preparations mentioned in the
paper, and a discussion took place on the use of different oils for dis-
solving phosphorus, some members having attained better results with
almond than with cod-liver oil.

Dr. Squibb presented the following resolution, which was laid over
to be taken up for discussion at the third session :

Resolved, That the American Pharmaceutical Association devote an hour of its
third session to a discussion of its interests in the United States " Pharmacopoeia, 1,1
with a view to the adoption or rejection of the following resolution :

440 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the { Am bJc°tu,r x8P76arm'

"Whereas, By action of the American Medical Association, at its recent meet-
ing in this city, it is proposed to discuss at its next meeting, in Detroit, in June,
1877, a proposition for that association to assume the control of the National
K Pharmacopoeia 1 ; therefore

"Resolved, That this Association offers to the American Medical Association its
hearty co-operation in the work, in any way that the American Medical Associa-
tion may find the services of this Association most useful.

"Resolved, That a copy of this preamble and resolution, with the discussion had
thereupon, be forwarded by the President of this Association to the President of
>the American Medical Association. "

Third Session — Thursday afternoon, September \\th.

The Association assembled again at 3^ o'clock, Messrs. Daniel B.
'Smith and Peter Williamson occupying seats upon the platform. A
vote of thanks was tendered to the retiring officers.

Dr. Squibb's resolution offered at the second session was now taken
cup, the mover presenting his arguments in favor of the resolution.

Prof. Judge, on behalf of the " Pharmacopoeia " Committee of the
Association, brought in a substitute for the former resolution, as follows:

Whereas, While at the time of the formation of the U. S. "Pharmacopoeia," the
method adopted for that purpose and subsequently continued for the revisions of
the same, was adapted to the then existing conditions of the medical profession and
apothecaries of the United States, the time has arrived for the use of better and
'more perfect means for accomplishing the revision of this important work, and

Whereas, The Pharmaceutical profession has advanced to a position, and by
its great interest in the " Pharmacopoeia", is entitled to take a prominent part in the
revision of the same 5 therefore

Resolved, That this Association invite the American Medical Association to
co-operate with us in said revision, and that they appoint a committee to act with
our committee in conducting said revision.

Prof. Bedford moved to amend the resolution, and the amendment
was accepted by Prof. Judge, as follows :

Resolved, That this Association will willingly co-operate with the American
Medical Association in the work of revising the U. S. u Pharmacopoeia."

A lengthy discussion ensued, during which the necessity for a change
in the manner of revising the "Pharmacopoeia" was generally ad-
mitted ; but little unanimity seemed to prevail in regard to the plan to
be adopted, some speakers favoring the creation of a council, under
whose supervision the revision should be accomplished ; others ap-
peared to regard the plan followed until now as merely requiring some

Am'o^8P76arm'} American Pharmaceutical Association, 44 1

modifications, while others desired the medical profession to take charge
of the materia medica part, and to designate the pharmaceutical and
chemical preparations which should be admitted, leaving to the phar-
maceutical profession the entire control of devising the formulas and
and processes. Interesting as the discussions were, the Association
was evidently not prepared for a final vote, and Mr. Sargent's motion
therefore prevailed to lay the subject upon the table until the next
annual meeting, so as to afford ample time for consideration.

The interesting report of the Committee on Adulterations and
Sophistications was then read by the chairman, O. Eberbach, and re-
ferred for publication ; and after the appointment of a committee to
consider and report upon the place and time for holding the next annual
meeting, the Association adjourned until 8J o'clock the same evening.
Messrs. S. M. Colcord, Boston; J. T. Shinn, Philadelphia, and J. F.
Hancock, Baltimore, were appointed this committee.

Fourth Session — Thursday evening, September \\th.

After the reading and approval of the minutes, the report of the
Committee on Revision of the By-laws was taken up. The commit-
tee, evidently opposed to frequent and unnecessary changes, prefer to
carry out the spirit of the laws, and merely recommend to change two
special committees — those on the Ebert Prize and on Legislation — to
standing committees. The requisite change in Chap. VI, Art. I, of
the by-laws, was approved by the Association, and the duties of the
two committees defined as follows :

Article XL The Committee on Prize Essays shall, within six months after the
annual meeting at which the essays are presented, determine which, if any of them,
has met the requirements of the founder of the prize. In all other respects they
shall be governed by the stipulations expressed by the donor. The decision of the
committee, with such comments upon the successful essay only as they may deem
proper, may be published in the journals of pharmacy in advance of the annual
meeting of the Association.

Article XII. The Committee on Legislation shall keep a record of, and compile
for reference, the enactments of the different States regulating the practice of phar-
macy and the sale of medicines. They shall report at each stated meeting of the
Association what legislation has occurred during the year.

The Executive Committee presented the names of thirty candidates
for membership, who were duly elected, Messrs. A. P. Brown and
"Wm. Mclntyre acting as tellers.

442 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the }AmSep?"'i?7h6arm'

The reading of essays being called for, Mr. J. D. Wells read a
paper on " Senega root," in answer to query I, giving a brief history of
its introduction into medicine, and stating that it grows rather sparingly
from Canada and along the Western slope of the Alleghenies through
the valley of the Ohio river, being more frequent in Southern
Indiana, likewise in Iowa and Minnesota, in the Virginias, North
Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee and the northern parts of Georgia,
Alabama and Texas ; but it is scarce in Missouri, and has not been
found between 32 and 450 N. Lat. and from 970 Long, west to the
Pacific coast. No accurate information can be obtained with regard
to the amount of senega exported ; but a leading drughouse of New
York estimates the quantity at rather more than 2,000 pounds annually.

A paper by H. N. Rittenhouse, on uAmmoniacal glycyrrhizin,"
was read, and a handsome sample of the same, in thin, dark-colored
transparent scales, exhibited. The preparation was made by the pro-
cess of Z. Roussin ("Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1875, p. 405-410), omitting,
however, the refining by resolution in alcohol, and precipitation with
ether, which would add materially to the cost. It appears to be well
adapted for masking the bitter taste of quinia and other compounds.

In a paper presented in answer to query 9, Mr. G. W. Kennedy
proposes a fluid extract of guarana (Paullinia sorbilis), which is pre-
pared by displacing the moderately-fine powder with a mixture com-
posed of 8 fluidounces of strong alcohol and 4 each of glycerin and
water, and completing the exhaustion with diluted alcohol ; the first
12 fluidounces of the percolate is reserved, the remaining portion being
evaporated to 4 fluidounces, and mixed with the reserved liquid.

Dr. Pile, in answer to query 8, presented a short paper, in which
he stated that he had been unsuccessful in preventing the change of
syrup of iodide of iron by the addition of citric acid, unless it was kept
in well-filled vials and excluded from contact with the air. Several
members claimed to have been quite successful in preserving the pale-
green color of the preparation, even in partly-filled bottles, by adding
to 20 fluidounces of the freshly-prepared syrup 5 grs. of citric acid.
Other members had used it in larger proportion. In the discussion^
the change of the color of the syrup from pale green to colorless, under
the influence of the direct sunlight, was likewise alluded to.

The Secretary read a paper by J. U. Lloyd on "Fluid extract of

Am"oc°tu,r i8>76?rm" } American Pharmaceutical Association. 443

cotton-root bark," giving an account of many experiments, from which
the conclusion is drawn that old cotton-root bark is without value as
a medicinal agent, and that the fresh or recently dried bark alone should
be used for preparing the fluid extract, which is then often of a brown-
ish color, changing to deep red. In place of the menstruum directed
by the " Pharmacopoeia," a mixture of ten parts of alcohol and six of
glycerin is recommended, to be followed by alcohol. Noticing the
gelatinization of some fluid extracts of cotton-root bark, the author
attributes this to the presence of water in the preparation, but is not
prepared to offer any opinion as to the principle to which the forma-
tion of the jelly is due.

An adjournment was then had until Saturday morning at 9 o'clock.

Fifth Session — Saturday morning, September lb.

After the reading and approval of the minutes, the Business Com-
mittee offered the following :

Resolved, That the Executive Committee be instructed to carefully revise the Pro-
ceedings of this meeting prior to publication, and to expunge therefrom every irre-
levant word and every word conveying any personal imputation.

Messrs. Menninger and Sheppard opposed the resolution, while
Messrs. Roberts, Saunders, Judge, Colcord and Peixotto argued in
favor of its passage. A motion by Mr. J. L. Schofield, to refer it to
the Executive Committee without instruction, was negatived by a vote
of 40 against 18. Dr. Menninger raised the point of order that the
resolution was an amendment to the By-laws ; but the chair referring
to the closing sentence of Art. IV, Chap. VI, ruled the point not well
taken. A vote being had on the motion, 31 members were found to
vote in the affirmative and the same number in the negative. A sec-
ond vote was then ordered, when 51 members voted in the affirmative
and 30 in the negative ; so the resolution was declared to be passed.

Mr. C. L. Eberle moved as an amendment to the By-laws to add
to Chapt. VII, Art. X, the following :

A motion to expel a member of this Association shall be laid over until the ses-
sion next succeeding that at which such motion is made.

Under the rules this amendment was to lie over until a subsequent
session, but not having been called up, it will have to be considered at
the next annual meeting.

444 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the {Am-^\s^rm'

The Committee on the place and time of the next annual meeting
reported in favor of Toronto, Ont., and that the meeting be held on
the first Tuesday (the fourth day) of September, 1877. The recom-
mendations were adopted, and an invitation was then extended by the
delegation from Cincinnati to meet in that city in 1878.

An invitation from the Pennsylvania Salt Manufacturing Company,
to visit their works, at Greenwich Point, on Tuesday morning, at 9
o'clock, was accepted, with thanks.

Mr. Richard M. Shoemaker, Chairman of the Committee on the
Drug Market, read the report of that committee, giving an account of
the condition of the drug market during the past year. It was supple-
mented by a report from the Pacific Coast, written by Mr. Henry
Steele.

Prof. Diehl read the very interesting introduction to the Report on
the Progress of Pharmacy, in which a review is given of the most
important observations and investigations made during the year. This
portion, together with the voluminous report belonging to it, was
referred for publication.

Professor E. SchefFer read an instructive paper, in answer to the
query, What is lactopeptin ? From his numerous experiments, the
author concludes " that lactopeptin is an acidulated, saccharated pep-
sin, contaminated with a number of inert substances, and that in its
digestive strength it is inferior to the saccharated pepsins of the mar-
ket." The elimination of pancreatin and diastase from lactopeptin
had been attempted by macerating the latter in water, neutralizing the
solution by calcium carbonate, and precipitating by alcohol ; the pre-
cipitate showed none of the properties of either pancreatin or diastase.

A paper presented by the same author and entitled " Notes on pan-
creatin, diastase and ptyalin," supplements the preceding ; the experi-
ments detailed therein lead to the conclusion upon which all physio-
logical authorities agree, that pepsin acts in like manner upon all albu-
minoids, and converts them into pepton.
- The itching principle of squill (query 18) was the subject of a
paper by Mr. E. D. Chipman, who believed with Tilloy in the exist-
ence of two active principles in squill, one yellow and bitter and the
other a very acrid resinoid, to the latter of which was due the itching
and tingling sensation when applied to the skin. It was stated, how-

Am'octu""i87b6arm'} American Pharmaceutical Association. 445

ever, that Fliickiger, in his " Pharmakognosie " (1867, p. 187), and
Fliickiger and Hanbury, in their " Pharmacographia " (page 629),.
attribute the irritation produced by squill to the presence of very
sharp and brittle crystals of oxalate of calcium.

The Chairman of the Committee on Papers stated that a paper " On
the presence of sulphuric in commercial tartaric acid " (query 24) had
been mailed but not yet received ; it was referred to the Executive
Committee.

Mr. Louis Dohme read a paper " On the presence of arsenic in phos-
phorus " (query 26). It appears that at present only two brands of phos-
phorus are sold in this market, one made by Gibbs & Deacon, Mount
Holly, N. J., the other by Albright & Wilson, Oldbury, England. A
sample of the former was found to be free from arsenic ; two samples
of the latter were found to contain 0*562 and i#o66 per cent, of the
metal named. The arsenic was weighed as arseniate of magnesium,
and ammonium.

The Association adjourned until i\ o'clock.

Sixth Session — Saturday afternoon, September 16.

The session was opened, Vice-President Sheppard occupying the
chair. The appointment of a special committee of three to report on
adulterations and sophistications was ordered, and Prof. E. Painter of
San Francisco, E. H. Sargent of Chicago and W. H. Pile of Phila-
delphia appointed.

The report of the committee appointed to consider the suggestions
contained in the annual report of the officers, recommended the appro-
val of the action of the Executive Committee in providing badges for
the officers and the standing committees on active duty during the
meetings of the Association ; the report was adopted.

Mr. Henry J. Rose, of Toronto, was nominated and duly elected
Local Secretary for the ensuing year.

A paper by Mr. M. S. Bidwell, " On liquor ferri chloridi dilutus "
(query 31), was read and referred; it argues in favor of reducing the
alcoholic strength of the present tincture of ferric chloride to one-half.

Prof. Sharpies read a paper " On the substitution in the ' Pharmaco-
poeia ' of parts by weight for absolute quantities " (query 30) ; the
author, by his examination of the subject, had arrived at a conclusion

446 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the { Am-jc°tujr i8p7h6arra-

directly opposite to his opinion before investigating it, and argued in
favor of retaining absolute quantities by weight and measure. Several
members spoke in opposition to these views, and cited the practice of
continental Europe, where preparations are made from formulas direct-
ing parts by weight, and where also the prescriptions are written and
■dispensed by weight only. It was suggested that the question be con-
tinued for another year.

The Auditing Committee reported having examined the Treasurer's
books and finding them correct, there being a balance in his hands
amounting to §941.33.

Mr. Wellcome's paper " On damiana " (query 35) gave an account
of the different herbs that have been used under this name ("Amer.
Jour. Phar.," 1875, p. 518 ; 1876, p. 273).

Dr. Hoffmann exhibited a pharmaceutical microscope made by Edw.
Messter, Berlin, Germany, and imported by him at a price of about $15,
gold. Several members discussed the advantages of the use of the micro-
scope by the pharmaceutical student, and the Committee on Queries
was requested to prepare a suitable query on this subject for investiga-
tion.

Mr. Sharpies read a paper u On graduated measures," in which he
condemned the conical graduate as an instrument of precision, and
recommended the tumbler-shaped graduate for general use ; but for
accurate work the burette, pipette or flask should be used ; also, that
each person should at least make a rough test of his measures before
using them, and not rely on the name of the maker alone.

Prof. Bedford read a paper by E. Gregory " On emulsions" (query 30).
After describing his experiments, the author concludes that three
drachms of acacia in fine powder are necessary to emulsify one ounce
of any of the volatile oils, and that a little less (about two drachms)
will answer for the fixed oils and balsams ; that to this quantity of gum
four drachms and a half of water must be added (no more and no less),
and that either the water or the oil may be added first to the gum ; but
it is quickest to add the oil first, and well triturate before adding the
water. Less gum can be made to yield a good result by a careful
operator, but as a general practical working rule it may be said that
three drachms are necessary for one ounce of oil.

A paper by Mr. G. A. Zwick, "On medicine wafers/' (query 40), was

Amoctu,ri876?rm'} American Pharmaceutical Association. 447

read, describing a patented process and baking-irons and moulds for
producing the wafer discs.

The detection of adulterations in oleum theobromae (query 44),
formed the subject of an essay by Mr. G. Ramsperger, who experi-
mented with cacao butter, made by himself from Caracas cacao, by ex-
pression, by ether and by bisulphide of carbon. The three samples
varied in their specific gravities (0*850, 0*970 and 0*958) and in the
fusing points (31 to 320, and 33 to 340 C). Though not infallible,
ether appears to be the best test to detect adulterations. Dissolved in
two parts of ether (spec, grav.?) at 400 C, cacao butter yields a solution
remaining clear on cooling, but becoming turbid if adulterated, either
at once or after standing, or separating on spontaneous evaporation,
little crystals and grains which do not dissolve again in twice their
weight of ether. A similar efFect upon cacao butter has anilin, and
next to ether and anilin, the taste appears to be the best test.

Mr. Wm. Saunders read a paper " On American species of Can-
tharis and allied Insects " (query 47), illustrating the subject by the
exhibition of specimens of the insects, and tendering the use of a litho-
graphic plate prepared at his expense, for the forthcoming Proceedings.

Mr. O. Eberbach exhibited quite a number of samples of santonin
crystallized by him from different solvents, also commercial santonin
in thick prismatic and in flat crystals. The result of his inquiries into
this variation is the conclusion that the form of crystals is due more
to the quantities operated on, and to the conditions under which the
crystallization takes place, than on the menstruum used as a solvent.

Prof. Sharpies read a paper on the Adulteration of Milk, and the
method of detecting it by analysis, describing the method used by him
and giving the results of numerous assays of pure and adulterated milk.

An adjournment took place until 7f o'clock.

Seventh Session — Saturday evening, September 16th.

The minutes of the previous session having been read and approved,
the Nominating Committee presented the following nominations for
the newly created standing committees.

For Committee on Prize Essays — Charles Rice, New York ; Geo. C.
Close, Brooklyn, and Edward P. Nichols, Newark, N. J.

For Committee on Legislation — John M. Maisch, Philadelphia ; Sam'l
M. Colcord, Boston, and Wm. H. Crawford, St. Louis.

448 Twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the {A%Tc^8P7lrm~

The nominees were duly elected ; also eight applicants for member-
ship reported by the Executive Committee, Messrs. Jos. Roberts and
J. F. Hancock acting as tellers.

Mr. Hancock read a paper on the arrangement of the dispensing
department (query 49), expressing the views that in case of limited
assistance it is very convenient to have the prescription department on
the front counter; but that it is objectionable to place it in a separate
room where the operator is hidden from view and cannot superintend
the dispensing counter ; he advocates to arrange the prescription depart-
ment so that the compounder shall be in full view of the front store>
and at the same time, sufficiently retired to prevent interruption; a rear
counter, or even a separate room, may be arranged to serve this
purpose.

A paper by Edward C. Jones, " On cinnamon water" (query 17),.
states that the cinnamon water of the shops is generally made from the
oil of Chinese cinnamon, instead of the oil of Ceylon cinnamon, as
directed by the " Pharmacopoeia," and that, aside from the different
taste, it was of little importance — it being used merely as a vehicle.
In the discussion following, the superiority of distilled medicated waters
over those made by merely dissolving the oil, was generally ac-
knowledged.

Mr. Charles Mohr, of Mobile, presented a paper " On Pycnanthe-
mum linifolium " and its chemical constituents, which he found to be
volatile oil, a coutchouc-like resin, chlorophyll, a bitter resin of green-
ish-yellow color, soluble in 65 per cent, alcohol, and not a glucoside ;
a granular reddish-brown coloring matter, gum and some sugar, but no
organic base. The plant has been used by the negroes in Alabama in
all disorders arising from a debilitated state of the digestive organs ; it
was recommended in 1875 by Dr. E. M. Vasser, of Alabama, and
since then has been found by other practitioners to be of value in the
treatment of atonic dyspepsia.

Mr. Geo. Leis read a paper on a " Fragrant antiseptic lotion "
(query 29), and exhibited several preparations. The discussion follow-
ing had reference to the disinfecting action of several agents, and to
the value of perfumes in the sick chamber. Madame Hutin's Cologne,
which is still used in and near New Y^ork, was alluded to. Of this
preparation Mr. Geo. C. Close says, in ?. communication to the " Pro

Amoc°tu,rx876?rm'} American Pharmaceutical Association. 449

ceedings of the Alumni Association of the New York College of
Pharmacy, 1874 :"

Used by Madame Hutin (afterwards Madame Labasse) about 1830. She was a
celebrated French dancer on the stage in New York.

Oil of lavender, ^vi ; oil of lemon, £vi ; oil of rosemary, ^ii 5 oil of cinnamon,
gtt. xx ; alcohol, 6 pints.

This, although very weak, was doubtless refreshing when used, as it probably
was, freely to wash with after severe exertion.

A well-informed perfumer says that it would answer the original design of cologne
water, viz., as an application for the relief of headache, or for the use of the sick-
room, where the ordinary sweet colognes are only deleterious. He says that oils or
lavender and rosemary are always refreshing, while the sweet perfumes are often
sickening to a weak person.

Mr. W. Saunders read a lengthy paper entitled, " Notes on per-
fumery," and exhibited a large number of the preparations for which
formulas were given. Mr. Vogelbach stated that perfumes were always
improved by the addition of as much water as could be taken up by the
spirituous liquid without precipitating the flavoring principles.

Dr. A. W. Miller read a paper on the " Manufacture of chemicals
in the United States " (query 36). The paper gives an interesting ac-
count of some chemical manufacturies ; but it is to be regretted that
the author's efforts to obtain reliable information from all or the large
majority of manufacturers, were unsuccessful.

A paper by Mr. C. A. Heinitsh on " Wine of tar " (query 34) was
read. A good preparation, particularly if intended to be prescribed in
mixtures, can be made by triturating \\ ounce of tar with \ ounce
carbonate of magnesium and 1 pint of sherry wine ; but, if intended to
be used as a substitute for the well-known preparation suggested by
Prof. Procter, and made by the fermentation of malt, honey and yeast,
and adding the tar, the author proposes to infuse 8_ounces of tar in 3
pints of beer, at a sufficiently warm temperature to keep the tar liquid,
and stirring frequently during 24 hours.

The subject of " Factitious Opium " > was brought forward in a
paper by Prof. Remington, who had received from Kansas a sample of
so-called opium, said to have been raised in Michigan. It resembled
extract of lettuce, and contained no morphia.

A paper by Charles L. Mitchell, entitled " Ergotin," reviews the
various attempts at isolating the active principle of ergot, and gives a
formula for what the author designates as Concentrated extract of ergot.
This is made by moistening 8 troyounces of powdered ergot with a

29

450 Twenty-fourth Meeting Amer. Pharm. Asso. {^m'(]°tu%^6.rm'

mixture of 8 fluidounces of water and 2 fluidrachms of acetic acid ;
after standing twenty-four hours, it is packed tightly in a percolator and
exhausted with water ; the liquid is evaporated to 4 fluidounces, mixed
with the same quantity of alcohol, after several hours filtered and then
evaporated to an extract. It has been tried to some extent in the hos-
pital of the University of Pennsylvania, with gratifying success.

A paper " On the condition of pharmacy," by D. Benjamin, and a
communication by Chas. Becker, were read ; the latter referred to the
necessity of a proper apprenticeship, and suggested the appointment of
a committee with the view of securing uniformity therein and in the
proper tuition and acquirements of apprentices. No action was had
on the proposition.

A paper by J. D. O'Donnell, "On deodorized tincture of opium,"
treats of the exhaustion of the opium by percolation after mixing it
with white sand, and the manipulation by which the concentrated
aqueous liquid can be conveniently separated from the ether.

A communication by Messrs. J. Dunton & Co. was referred to the
Executive Committee, with power to act, and a lengthy paper by Prof.
C. G. Wheeler, entitled " Pharmacy in South America," was ordered
to be published in the Proceedings.

The Committee on Papers and Queries presented their report, con-
taining the queries which have been accepted for investigation during
the ensuing year.

The Business Committee presented the following resolutions, which
were severally adopted.

Resolved, That the thanks of the American Pharmaceutical Association are due
and are hereby tendered to the papers of Philadelphia for their thorough reports of
our proceedings.

Resolved, That this Association thank their presiding officers, their Secretary and
their Treasurer for the very able manner in which they have discharged the duties
of their several positions.

Resolved, By the visiting members, that we, in behalf of ourselves and of our
ladies, do most heartily thank our Philadelphia brethren and their ladies for the
very cordial reception they have extended to us, and assure them that we will carry
home with us many pleasant recollections of their beautiful city and its kindly
inhabitants.

On motion, the Association then adjourned, to meet again at
Toronto, Ontario, on the first Tuesday (the 4th day) of September,

1877-

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Oct., 1876. j

Megarrhiza Calif brnica.

45 1

MEGARRHIZA C ALIFORNIC A — ( Torrey).

NAT. ORD. CUCURBITACE/E.

BY JOHN P. HEANEY, PH.G., SAN FRANCISCO.

[Abstract from an Inaugural Essay presented to the California College of Pharmacy.')

This plant, better known by the synonyms of the " big or giant
root" and umanroot," is a herbaceous, climbing and succulent vine,
growing abundantly throughout the State. It is closely allied to the
echinocystis of the Eastern States, and also to a new genus called
iC marah muricatus" or California balsam apple, which has been de-
scribed by Dr. Kellogg in the proceedings of the California Academy
of Natural Sciences (Vol I). It is found both in dry sandy and rich
soil. In the former it grows in bushy tufts about two feet high and
four or more wide, being evidently somewhat stunted, but in rich soil,
when well shaded, its annual stem climbs thirty to forty feet over
trees and acquires its largest growth. It flowers in March and
April. The remarkable feature of this plant is its gigantic root, which
is perennial, tubero-fusiform, externally of a yellowish-gray color, and
rugose j within white, succulent and fleshy, of a nauseous odor, which
is lost in a great measure by drying, and of a bitter, acrid and disagreea-
ble taste, which leaves a feeling of acrimony in the fauces. The In-
dians are said to use this root as a drastic purge in dropsy- It has also
been used by domestic practitioners, in the form of decoction, both as
a laxative and cathartic with good results. On drying, the root lost
from 70 to 75 per cent, in weight. The dried root is externally of a
yellowish-brown color and longitudinally wrinkled ; internally of a
white color, becoming somewhat darker by age, concentrically striated,
light, brittle and readily pulverizable, yielding a whitish powder.

A preliminary examination made with the aqueous, alcoholic and
etherial extracts of the fresh root led to the following conclusions,
namely : That the root contained a bitter principle soluble in water
and alcohol, but more readily in the latter ; also a resinous, fatty mat-
ter and an organic acid, probably of a fatty nature, which was soluble
in and extracted both by alcohol and ether. The probable presence of
gum and pectin was likewise indicated, as well as the absence of
albumen, sugar and volatile oil.

Examination of the Dried Root. — A quantity of the powdered dried
root was first treated with ether until thoroughly exhausted by this
menstruum, in order to remove the fatty and resinous matter. The

452

Megarrhiza Californica.

/Am. Jour. Pharm,
\ Oct., 1876.

etherial tincture had a lemon-yellow color, and left, on evaporation, a
a yellowish-brown residue, which possessed the characteristic odor of
the root, a slight bitter taste, was brittle and had an acid reaction.

To determine the nature of the free acid, the residue was treated
with a weak solution of sodic carbonate and filtered from the insoluble
portion. To the filtrate a sufficient quantity of tartaric acid was added,
when whitish, oily globules were observed on the surface of the liquid.
These had an acid reaction, possessed a disagreeable odor, and gave to
paper a stain unaffected by heat ; the author names it megarrhizic acid,.
The portion insoluble in sodic carbonate was treated with a solution of
caustic potash in order to effect the saponification of the fatty matter,
and the insoluble resinous substance was removed by a filter, washed,
dried and reserved to be examined subsequently. To the solution of
soap obtained was added a sufficient quantity of tartaric acid to decom-
pose it. Ether was now added, and the mixture agitated. After a
few hours the supernatant etherial liquid was removed and allowed to
evaporate spontaneously, when it was found to possess properties char*
acteristic of fatty acid bodies. The insoluble resinous substance
obtained before was first boiled with water, then thrown on a filter^
well washed and dried. It was afterwards dissolved in ether, and the
solution decolorized by animal charcoal. The filtrate was evaporated,
the residue redissolved in alcohol and then allowed to evaporate spon-
taneously, left a deposit, exhibiting under the microscope, a rhomboidal
crystalline structure ; it is evidently a resin. This megarrhi%itin is-
soluble in alcohol and ether, and is unaffected by alkalies and solution
of cupric sulphate.

The root previously exhausted by ether was next treated with alco-
hol (sp. grav. 0*835), until deprived of its bitter taste. The tincture
was evaporated to a small bulk, then thrown into water to remove
traces of fat or resin, and afterwards filtered. The liquid was heated
to expel the spirit. To the resulting aqueous fluid was added a con-
centrated solution of tannic acid. A bulky gelatinous precipitate was
obtained. This, being removed by a filter, was well washed and
dried. It was now dissolved in alcohol (95 per cent.), the tannin
thrown down by plumbic subacetate, the excess of lead removed by
H2S, and the liquid filtered and evaporated. The residue veil washed
with ether yielded the bitter principle pure. This proces. was adopted
from that of Dr. Waltz, as mentioned in his analysis of colocynth.

Amoc°tu!'x87h6arm-} Megarrhiza Calif ornica. 453

To the principle thus obtained, the name of megarrhizin is given. It
is of a brownish color, somewhat transparent, brittle and friable, yield-
ing a yellowish-brown powder. It is fusible below ioo° C, inflamma-
ble, more soluble in alcohol than in water, both solutions being
intensely bitter. It is insoluble in ether. The following reactions,
with reagents, were obtained: H2S04, disssolved it slowly with the •
production of first a bright red and afterwards a brown color ; HC1
gave a faint violet color ; HNQ3, a yellow, dull color. An aqueous
solution of it produced with ferric chloride a deep color, but no precip-
itate ; with plumbic acetate and subacetate, mercuric chloride, solution
of iodine, potassa or its carbonate, or argentic nitrate, no change ; with
tannic acid, a bulky, gelatinous precipitate, and .with bromine water, a
white, insoluble precipitate. Boiled with baryta water, decomposition
ensued ; treated with dilute H2S04 or HC1, no change was observed in
the cold, but upon boiling, immediately decomposition took place,
yielding glucose and an insoluble substance, which may be called
megarrhizioretin.

This megarrhizioretin when washed and dried possesses a dark- brown
color, a resinous appearance and is somewhat brittle. Alcohol dis-
solves it, but ether is only a partial solvent of it, leaving an insoluble
portion behind. It is, therefore, a complex body.

The ashes showed, on analysis, the presence of magnesia, lime, iron,
potassa, soda, chlorine, sulphuric and phosphoric acids, also a silicious
residue.

It will be seen from the foregoing that megarrhizin belongs to that
class of substances known as glucosides, to which belong also colo-
cynthin and bryonin, and that it agrees with these two in many of their
chemical and physical properties. But megarrhizin differs from colo-
cynthin in the fact that colocynthein, the insoluble resinous substance
obtained from the boiling of it with diluted acids, is soluble in ether,
while megarrhizioretin is but partially soluble in that liquid, thereby
agreeing with bryoretin. But it differs from bryonin principally in the
behavior to sulphuric acid, which dissolves megarrhizin, yielding a
brown color ; while bryonin produces with it a blue color. Therefore,
it was concluded to be a distinct principle.

Physiological Investigation. — A sample of an extract prepared from an
alcoholic tincture, and also some of the bitter principle, were sent to a
physician in this city to be examined physiologically, and the following
note received :

454

The Quinine-Flower.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Oct., 1876.

" Your note with samples of the alcoholic extract and bitter princi-
ple of Megarrhiza californica, for the purpose of ascertaining their
physiological action on the animal organism, have been received. I
would state that the extract in large doses is a powerful irritant, caus-
ing gastro-enteritis and death. It produces griping pains in the
• stomach, nausea, vomiting and profuse diarrhoea, violent strangury,,
with other symptoms of renal and vesical irritation. Given in J to J
grain doses, the extract is a drastic hydragogue cathartic, causing
nausea, sometimes vomiting, griping pain and copious watery stools.
In smaller doses, frequently repeated, it is a diuretic and laxative.
Notwithstanding its activity, I should deem it a safe and convenient
purgative, and should consider it useful in all cases where it is desirable
to produce an energetic influence on the bowels. To obtain large
evacuations its hydragogue properties must prove beneficial in dropsies.
It also augments the urinary discharges. In intestinal inflammations
it should not be used. The above is the result of a series of experi-
ments made upon myself and others. Its toxicological action on a dog
was undertaken, but proved a failure in so far as it caused emesis.
Five grain doses of the bitter principle were repeated every 15 to 30
minutes, until 30 grains were administered. However, purging and
frequent desire to urinate followed, but, otherwise, the animal showed
no symptoms of disturbance. The following day, I again adminis-
tered 5 grains of bitter principle, which was also ejected. Finding that
nothing would be retained in the stomach (not even food), the animal
was killed for examination, which was conducted immediately after its
death. The chief morbid appearance observed was a patch of redness
in the mucous membrane of the stomach near its cardiac orifice. The
intestines were found to be slightly inflamed, as also the bladder, which
was nearly empty. There was also a marked congestion of the
kidneys."

THE QUININE-FLOWER.

BY J. DABNEY PALMER, M.D., MONTICELLO, FLA.

The Quinine-fiower is an annual from twelve to eighteen inches
high, has an erect green stem, linear leaves of about one-half to one
inch in length, and small white flowers. The root consists of numer-
ous slender fibres.

It is a native of Florida, and is found most abundantly in flat pine

Amoc^'i87h6!rm } Remarks on the Quinine- Flower. 455

woods, in a moderately dry soil, making its appearance in March or
April, and flowering from July to September. The specimens fur-
nished me were gathered three or four miles south of Monticello, in
Jefferson county. In the lower portions of the county it is very abun-
dant, and is successfully employed by those living in its vicinity for the
cure of different types of malarious fever, the whole plant being used,
either in the form of decoction or extract, and given ad libitum, or un-
til the patient feels the effects of quinine in his head. It is a curious
fact that persons brought under the influence of this remedy experi-
ence similar sensations — such as tension or fullness in the head, ringing
in the ears or partial deafness — as when under the influence of Quinia,
and hence its name. Its reputation as an anti-periodic was established
during the late civil war, when, owing to the scarcity of Quinia, every
opportunity was offered for testing the relative value of various substi-
tutes.

The Ouinine-flower is intensely and permanently bitter, yielding its
properties to water and alcohol. A saturated tincture in doses of one
teaspoonful every two hours was found sufficient to break the paroxysm
of intermittent fever. Larger quantities, however, may be given in
obstinate cases, or in the remittent form of the disease.

REMARKS ON THE QUININE-FLOWER.

BY THE EDITOR.

At our request Dr. Palmer has sent us some of the flowering plants
referred to in the preceding paper. The plant was found to belong to
the naturalorder of Gentianaceae,and to the sub-order Gentianeae, having
the corolla lobes twisted (contorted) in the bud; the distinct style being
deciduous, it must be placed into the section to which Erythraea and
Sabbatia belong. Its botanical characters agree with those of the last-
named genus, and more particularly with the group which has the
white or purplish flowers scattered on alternate peduncles, and the co-
rolla five-parted. On comparing it with the American species in the
College herbarium of Dan. B. Smith, it was found to correspond with
a specimen of Sabbatia Elliottiiy Steud., which is marked ex herbar.
Chapmani. This plant is described in " Chapman's Flora of the
Southern United States " as follows :

Stem low, terete, paniculately much branched from near the base, the branches

45^

Remarks on the Quinine-Flower.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Oct., 1876.

diffuse ; leaves small, sessile, the lowest obovate, the upper linear} lobes of the co-
rolla 3 to 4 times as long as the short filiform calyx-lobes. (S. paniculata, Ell.)
Open pine barrens, Florida to South Carolina. Aug. and Septb. — Stems J to i|
feet high. Leaves 3 to 6 lines long. Corolla 8 to 10 lines wide.

In both the herbarium specimen and the plants sent by Dr. Palmer,
the calyx lobes are more prominent than might be supposed from the
description given, but they are evidently described as short, in compari-
son with the much longer calyx lobes of Sabbatia stellaris, gracilis and
allied species, in which they are about equal in length to the corolla,
while in the species under consideration they are about one-third the
length. The lowest leaves are obovate, those a little higher on the
stem oblanceolate, with an acute point, and become rapidly narrowed
to a linear shape. The stems of the plants recently received are from
20 to 24 inches high, and consequently rather exceed the height as
given by Chapman.

The herb has at first an herbaceous taste which gradually develops
into a pure and persistent bitter, free from astringency.

The popular name quinine flower appears to be confined to a small
locality, probably to only a portion of Florida ; at least, I have not
been able to find it in any of the floras or popular botanical works of
the United States. Porcher's ct Resources of the Southern Fields and
Forests," p. 556, however, mentions Gentiana quinqueflora under
the names of Indian quinine and ague weed — and states that " this and
the G. saponaria are esteemed fully equal to the imported gentian ; in
large doses they are said to be laxative ; Dr. E. P. Wood, of Wiscon-
sin, has given this plant with success in intermittent fever." He also
gives a detailed account of the medicinal properties of Sabbatia angu-
laris, the American centaury, and states that Sab. stellaris and Sab.
gracilis possess properties similar to the former.

This genus of North American plants is closely allied to Erythraea,
of which several species (E. chilensis, centaurium, linarifolia, etc.) are
still employed in different countries as tonics, and sometimes as anti-
periodics ; but we do not remember that effects resembling quininism
have been ascribed to any of those plants, such as Dr. Palmer states
are experienced from the quinine flower of Florida.

Am"oJc0",r,i8Aarm'} Metrical Weights in Prescriptions. 457
THE USE OF METRICAL WEIGHTS IN PRESCRIPTIONS.

BY PROFESSOR JOHN M. MAISCH,

Of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy.

The desirability of uniform values of the weights and measures in
use among civilized nations, and the admirable simplicity of the French
or metrical system, are so apparent that this standard is now not merely
legalized, but has been adopted, and is actually used, by a large major-
ity of the nations of Continental Europe. The inconveniences attend-
ing such a change are more due to the alteration .of values than to the
introduction of the system with which, through the Arabic numera-
tion, every one is familiar, and the practical application of which we
have in our monetary system. The intimate acquaintance with the
latter must doubtless facilitate the comparison of values, the multiples
and divisions of which are based upon the same system of decimal
numeration. While the general introduction of the metrical system
in the United States must be regarded merely as a question of time, it
cannot be denied that considerable progress toward this end would
have been made, if, in accordance with a resolution passed by the Na-
tional Convention of 1870, for revising the " Pharmacopoeia," the
Committee of Revision had "abandoned in the c Pharmacopoeia '
measures of capacity, and expressed the quantities in all formulas, both
in weights and in parts by weight." Coupled with, the direction, " to
include some part of the metrical system in the list of officinal weights
and measures," the parts by weight could scarcely have been expressed
otherwise than upon the basis of the metrical system.

The different value of the grain1 as formerly used occasioned many
difficulties in adapting formulas and doses to the weights of other
countries ; and for similar reasons the use of local values in measures
and weights have long since been abandoned in all physical sciences,
in favor of the metrical system. Medicine and pharmacy only lagged
behind until a few years ago, when it was adopted also in the two
branches named by nearly all civilized nations, except those speaking
the English tongue, and the labor of translating the values contained
in formulas and prescriptions is now almost exclusively confined to the
systems of the troy weight, and the English and American apotheca-
ries' measures, as arraigned against the metrical weight.

1 The variation from our troy grains ranged in different countries between — n
and -f* 46 per cent.

458

Metrical Weights in Prescriptions.

Am. Jour. Pharm
Oct., 1876.

It may be remarked in this place tbat the "Pharmacopoeias" of
Continental Europe and the prescriptions of physicians in those coun-
tries express all quantities by weight only, whether the material directed
be solid or liquid. The greater exactness of gravimetric over volu-
metric measurement needs scarcely any argument, if the variation in
volume under the influence of temperature is considered, and the diffi-
culty of exact measurement in glass vessels of large diameter is taken
into account. Moreover, weighing is more convenient, and those who
have accustomed themselves to this method will only reluctantly change
it for measuring again, if compelled to do so.

From long custom, physicians are apt to over-estimate the difficulties
of writing prescriptions for liquid medicines by weights instead of
measures. Medicines can be given in absolutely definite doses only,
if divided by the apothecary ; but their division by him is impracticable
in case liquids are employed, and the familiar tea-, dessert- and table-
spoons are then resorted to for dividing the medicines at the bedside.
How widely these approximate measures differ from each other, and to
what extent the difference is increased by the manner of measuring
with them, is well known. The apportioning of doses of liquid med-
icine would, therefore, offer no greater difficulty as long as these conve-
nient and handy, but variable, measures must be employed in the sick-
room.

Of the officinal liquid preparations which are prescribed for internal
use, the alkaline solutions (of soda, potassa and ammonia), the diluted
acids, and the solutions of some salts (ammonium acetate, potassium
citrate, etc.), do not differ materially in bulk from an equal weight of
distilled water, this difference being less, particularly for the quantities
representing their medicinal doses, than the variations of the popular
approximate measures by which liquid medicines are taken. Tinctures
and fluid extracts vary to a great extent in density, not only from
water, but likewise among themselves. The apportioning of their
doses by weight, however, would be an easy matter if the resolution
of the National Convention above referred to had been carried out \
for a given weight of the preparation would then represent a definite
weight of the drug, and the proportion of the weight of the drug to
that of the preparation would, for tinctures, most likely be I : 5 or
1 : 10, the standard generally adopted in Europe. Our present tinc-
tures made with alcohol and diluted alcohol, in the proportion of two

Amoc°tu,r'x8P7h6arm'} Metrical Weights in Prescriptions. 459

troyounces to the pint, are very nearly of the strength 1 : 6| and 1 : 7
respectively ; and those containing three troyounces to the pint, 1 ; \\
and 1 : 5. Tinctura opii is in the proportion of 1 : and tinctura
opii camphorata, 1 : 250 (for opium). It will be observed that the
changes necessary in the officinal formulas to bring them in harmony
with the metrical system are by no means as great and revolutionary as
is sometimes supposed, particularly if the necessary, or at least desir-
able, change in the alcoholic strength of the menstruum is taken into
consideration.

A uniform standard of strength for fluid extracts would most likely
be the proportion of 1:2; or, to give it in the metrical system, 5:10;
for the proportion 1 : 1 is unattainable in all cases where sugar or much
glycerin is requisite for preservation ; and it appears to be desirable to
adhere to an adopted standard, also, for those in the preparation of
which alcohol or stronger alcohol is exclusively employed.

Of the remaining liquid medicines, the doses by weight can be as
easily acquired as by minims or fluidrachms ; but for those who have
already become conversant with the measures now in use here, the
following observations will offer all requisite facilities for converting
them into weights. Ether, having the specific gravity '750, occupies
precisely the same volume as \\ time its weight of water, and the dif-
ference in the volume of stronger ether (specific gravity '720) is con-
siderably within the limits of variation of the approximate measures 5.
or, in other words, three parts by weight of ether occupy the same
space as four parts by weight of water. The relation of the weight
of spiritus aetheris compositus (specific gravity '815) and spiritus aethe-
ris nitrosi (specific gravity '837) to volume is very nearly as 4 : 5, that
is to say, four parts by weight of the preparations named occupy (a
little less than) the same space occupied by five parts of water.

Glycerin (specific gravity 1*25) has a proportion of weight to vol-
ume as 5 : 4 ; syrups (specific gravity 1*317) nearly as 4:3; chloro-
form (specific gravity 1*48) nearly as 3:2, z. \\ part by weight of
glycerin, ij part of syrup, and \\ part of chloroform, occupy, approx-
imately, the same volume as 1 part of water.

If the relative density of the officinal liquids is not lost sight of, it
will be seen that there is no great obstacle in the way of prescribing
by metrical weights even the preparations of our present " Pharmaco-
poeia," except in the cases of fluid extracts, which vary so consider-

460 Metrical Weights in Prescriptions. {Amuctur'I8P76arm'

ably that no reliable rule can be given for their relative proportion of
weight to volume. But, with this exception, the task is comparatively
easy, if it is remembered that for all practical purposes one gram equals
15 grains — that two tablespoonfuls, /. 1 fluidounce, of water weigh
455*69 troy grains, or (within less than 8 grains) precisely the same as
30 grams (463 grains). 15 grams of water or its equivalent in bulk of
other liquids is, therefore, to be taken as equal to the tablespoonful ;
7*5 to ^ grams of water or its equivalent to the dessertspoonful; and
3*7 to 4 grams to the teaspoonful.

Applying these values to the heavier and lighter liquids, it will be
seen that —

15 X f = 1 1 '25 grams ether,

15 X f = 1875 grams glycerin,

15 X | = 22-50 grams chloroform,

I5X|=I2 grams spir. aether, comp. (or nitr.),

l5 X f = 20 grams syrup,

are, in measure, equal to about half a fluidounce, and that the devia-
tion from this measure is in each case considerably less than the differ-
ence in the amounts obtained by scant and full measurement with the
same tablespoon, or between different patterns of that useful domestic
utensil.

The average doses of these liquids, expressed in metrical weights,
are, therefore —

Ether 11.25 : 8 = 1*40 grams or \ teaspoonful.

Spr. seth. comp , and

Spr. asth. nitr., 12 : 4 = 3-00 " or 1 "
Chloroform, 22*50 : 8 = 2-80 " or \ "
Glycerin, 1%'75 '■ 4 = 47° " °r 1 "

Syrups (some), 20 -4 — 5 " or 1 "

For the conversion of grain weights of solids into grams, close
approximations to the correct weight, within the fraction of ^4, are
obtained by dividing the number of grains by 15. The error resulting
from this rule is best appreciated by comparing the results obtained
with the larger weights, thus :

Correct Difference,
weight. Grams. Grains,
grs. lx give -f-f = 4-00 3-887 0*113 17436
" -4T85°- = 32*00 31*100 0*90 13*89

The actual difference obtained by the above rule amounts, therefore,

AmoJc°tu,r'i8P76?rm'} Metrical Weights in Prescriptions. 46 1

to rather less than a plus of if grain for the drachm, and 14 grains for
the troyounce.

A few examples may yet be added to show the insignificance of this
difference for smaller weights ; thus we obtain for —

Actual

Difference.

weight.

Gram. Grain.

grs

x,

1 0

IT

= o-66

0-648

.0-012 less than |

grs.

viii,

tV

= o'53

C518

0-012 " ^

grs.

in,

3

13"

= 0*20

0794

0-006 " yq

grs.

i5>

2
T3"

= 0'13

0-129

o'oox nearly g1^

grs.

>>

1

TT

= o*o66

0*065

o-ooi " JT

In prescribing by metrical weights, the amounts should in all cases
be expressed in grams and decimal fractions of grams, and with Arabic
numerals, in which case no signs or abbreviations are required ; a few
examples of prescriptions, written in the usual manner, with their
(practical) equivalents in metrical weights, will readily explain this, and
show the greater clearness of the latter method, and the less liability
to error from indifferently made signs and Roman numerals.

R. Potassii iodidi, . . . 8 00

Iodinii, . . . . gr. ii 0-13

Aquae, .... fjfss 15*00

Syr. sarsap. comp , . . . f^iiiss 140*00

Dose. — One tablespoonful, containing one gram (15 grains) potassium iodide,
and 0*016 gr.) iodine.

R. Potassii nitrat., . . . ^iss 6*oo

Vin. antim,, . . . . rn^xl 2*66

Tinct. digitalis, . . . f^i1 3*50

Mucil. acacias, . ' . . f^ss 20*00

Aquas, .... ffiii 90*00

Syrup, aurantii, . . . f^i 40*00

A tablespoonful of this mixture contains o'66 (10 grains) of potas-
sium nitrate, 0*0012 (-^ grain) tartar emetic, and 0*055 (j grain) digi-
talis.

R. Morphias sulphat., . . . gr. i 0-066

Pulv. digitalis, . . gr. vi 0*40

Sacchari albi, .... ^iss 2-00 M,

Divide in chart. No. 12.

Each powder contains 0*0055 (A gram) morphia, and 0*033 (i grain)
digitalis.

1 Representing 7^ grains of digitalis; menstruum diluted alcohol.

462 Union of Chloral Hydrate and Camphor, {AmbJc°u,rx87h6arm-

R. Quiniae sulph., . . . . gr. xii o-8o

Pulv. opii, . . gr. iii 0*20
Syrupi, • • . . q. s.
Fiant pil. No. xii.

Each pill contains 0'o66 (1 grain) quinia, and 0*016 (J grain) opium.

R. Atropiae, . . . . gr. ss 0-033

Alcohol., . . . . . q. s.

Adipis, . . . . 4"oo M.

Atropia ointment.

It is the writer's opinion that physicians could very materially pro-
mote the introduction of the metrical weights, since by writing their
prescriptions in the manner indicated, they would at the same time
compel apothecaries to procure a suitable set of weights, which would
save them the trouble of calculating the grams into grains and troy-
ounces ; such a movement would be a great step toward carrying out
the resolution of the Convention of 1870, and toward harmonizing
the strength of the various pharmaceutical preparations with those of
other " Pharmacopoeias," or at least bringing them into a simpler rela-
tion.— Med. and Surg. Reporter, Sept. 9.

THE UNION OF CHLORAL HYDRATE AND CAMPHOR.

BY EARNEST C SAUNDERS, MONTREAL.

It has long been known that a mixture of hydrate of chloral and
camphor, in equal parts, formed a liquid, but it has, I believe, never
been settled as to whether the result is due to chemical combination or
to the solvent power of one article over the other. The following
notes of an investigation into the subject may be interesting, and throw
some light upon it.

Four ounces of chloral hydrate and the same weight of camphor, in
lumps, were put into a bottle and allowed to stand, being occasionally
shaken. In 48 hours both were completely liquefied, forming a syrupy
fluid, smelling of both ingredients, and of specific gravity 1*243. Five
ounces of this were placed in a flask, fitted with a wide tube leading
into a receiver immersed in ice-cold water, and having a thermometer
passed through the cork, the bulb reaching into the liquid. Heat be-
ing applied, the temperature rose to 2240 F., at which point the liquid
boiled freely. The temperature rose gradually up to 3000, from which
point it rose more rapidly to 4020, when the liquid distilled unchanged.

T'i8^rm"} Union of Chloral Hydrate and Camphor. 463

Am. Jour. Pharm
Oct

The distillate was separated into two parts, the first being collected up
to 3000, the other being that which passed over between that point
and 4020. The vapor which passed over at this temperature solidified
in the tube before reaching the receiver.

The first distillate was a soft greenish mass, consisting of small
crystals mixed with liquid. It was found to consist of chloral hydrate,
with a very small quantity of camphor, and owed the color to a minute
quantity of a greenish oil, apparently the result of some chemical
action having taken place between the chloral and camphor. This oil
could not be obtained in sufficient quantity to be examined.

The second distillate was a thick oily liquid, having a pungent odor
of chloral hydrate. It combined with a small proportion of water, but
was insoluble in a larger quantity. It was miscible with alcohol, of
specific gravity '937 and '838 in all proportions, and proved to be
hydrate of chloral with about enough camphor to liquefy it.

The residue in the flask, which boiled at 4020, was found to solidify
at 2480, and was almost insoluble in water, but freely soluble in alco-
hol, sp. gr. '838, was plainly camphor.

The original solution was decomposed by water, the camphor float-
ing on the surface, while the filtered liquid gave abundant evidence of
chloral hydrate on being tested.

Judging from these facts, it would seem certain that no chemical
action takes place when the two articles are mixed in the cold. Both
are volatile at ordinary temperatures, and the following experiment,
which was performed to ascertain which was the solvent, conclusively
proves that it is the vapors which act upon each other. Two lumps,
one of chloral hydrate and one of camphor, were placed about an inch
apart on a porcelain plate, and covered with a bell glass. In fifteen
minutes the surface of the camphor was quite damp, but the chloral
was quite dry. In three hours the chloral was still dry, while the
camphor was quite wet and standing in the midst of liquid. In twelve
hours the liquid had reached the chloral, the upper surface of which
was still dry, while in twenty hours both lumps were half liquefied,
and the inner surface of the bell glass was covered with moisture.
This would almost seem to point out that the vapor of the chloral was
the solvent, but it was found while one part of camphor would form a
permanent liquid with three and a-half parts of chloral hydrate, one
part of chloral, dissolved by the aid of heat, with two parts of camphor

464 Crystallized Hydrobromate of Conia. {Am'Jc°",r,I£h6aim'

solidified to a soft crystalline mass when cold, from the camphor crys-
tallizing. It is most probable that the camphor is the solvent, which
would also seem likely, as camphor is an essential oil, and is known to
render other bodies fluid. The change of color, with the formation of
an oily liquid, would seem to point to chemical action occurring when
the mixture is subjected to strong heat.

The following notes of the solubility of the mixture in various arti-
cles may be serviceable to any who are called upon to dispense it, or
to physicians who feel inclined to try the effects of it.

It is miscible in all proportions with alcohol, sp. gr. '838, bisulphide
of carbon, ether and olive oil. It is soluble in eleven parts of alco-
hol, sp. gr. '937. It is insoluble in water. It forms a clear mixture
with one and a-half parts of chloroform, but a further addition of three
parts of chloroform renders it turbid. Camphor forms a permanent
liquid with three times its weight of chloral hydrate. The experi-
ments were conducted with the atmosphere at a temperature of about
8o° ; the fact is mentioned as fit may have influenced the solubility
slightly. — Phar. Jour, and Trans., July 29, 1876.

CRYSTALLIZED HYDROBROMATE OF CONIA.1

BY M. MOURRUT.

In a paper recently read before the Society de Therapeutique the
author described some attempts to obtain crystalline salts of conia.
His first experiments were made with various acids upon the ordinary
brown conia, from which crystals were obtained, but they were con-
taminated by a brown matter which could not be removed without
great loss. The German conia, which is nearly white, was therefore
substituted, and this readily gave crystals. The salt obtained most
easily was the hydrobromate, by simply treating the alkaloid with the
acid. When brown conia was operated on there was a rise of tem-
perature, an evolution of white vapors, and the characteristic odor of
conia became manifest ; thej mixture then became green, and finally
black with a reddish tinge. After a short time crystals commenced to
form ; they were contaminated by the brown-black substances that
colored the liquid, but by repeated crystallizations they were obtained
colorless. There was, h wever, much loss with the impure alkaloid.

In operating upon the v. ■ te conia the author places it in a crystalliz-

xRepertotre de Pharmacie, June 25, p. . 369.

Am'Jc0t"ri876?rm"} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 465

ing vessel with a fragment of blue litmus paper, and dilute hydro-
bromic acid is added drop by drop, until the litmus paper commenced
to turn red, the liquid which was at first yellow has then a rose tint.
The crystallization quickly commences, and the evaporation may be
expedited by a gentle heat ; there will no longer be any smell of conia.

The hydrobromate of conia crystallizes in colorless prismatic nee-
dles that are very soluble in water and alcohol, but less so in ether and
chloroform. The crystals are not deliquescent; they are odorless and
have only a slight taste ; but when crushed between the fingers they
give off a strong odor of conia. When exposed to the air the salt is
colored red, like many other hydrobromates, but does not decompose ;
in the dark it remains white. It supports a tolerably high tempera-
ture, melts at about ioo°C, and above that point volatilizes, giving off
an odor of conia. It contains about one third its weight of bromine,
but the author has not yet made an exact analysis.

The salt is reported to have been administered in hourly doses of 2
milligrams to infants one year old suffering from whooping-cough, with
good results, and in 5 milligram doses to a child three years old. Dr.
Regnault has also injected equal to 5 milligrams in the case of an adult
suffering from sciatic pains, repeating the dose at an interval of three
days, after which the pains ceased. — Phar. Jour, and Trans., July
8, 1876.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Ferric Phosphate with Citrate of Sodium. — In a paper, commenting on
Creuse's tasteless iron salts ("Am. Jour. Phar.," 1873, P- 2I4-)> J»
Martenson recommends as especially useful the above combination,
for the preparation of which he gives the following directions : 358
parts of crystallized phosphate of sodium are dissolved in 10 to 15
times the quantity of hot water, the solution is precipitated by a solu-
tion of ferric chloride, excess being avoided, and the precipitate well
washed. It is transferred to a porcelain capsule, 137 parts of citric
acid are added and a moderate heat applied \ the liquid is neutralized
with sodium carbonate, and the heat continued until complete solution
is effected, after which it is filtered, and by means of a water-bath
evaporated to dryness. The anhydrous compound contains 25 per
cent, of ferric oxide, but is capable to combine with more ferric phos-

30

466 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. { A%Jc^8P76arm'

phate, until it has nearly the composition represented by the formula
2(Fe203P05)+(3NaO,C12H5On), which requires 28*57 Per cent- °f
ferric oxide.

The taste of the solution is slightly saline, not in the least ferru-
ginous ; by the addition of citric acid it becomes agreeably acidulous.
The aqueous solution passes completely through parchment paper and
animal membrane, which is not the case with the soluble saccharated
oxide of iron and the ferrum dialysatum. The two preparations named
have been completely superseded in the children's hospital of St.
Petersburg by the soluble phosphate mentioned. — Phar. Zeitschr. f.
Russl., No. 10.

Detection of Alkaloids. — A. Cazeneuve recommends to mix the pow-
dered and moistened material with half its weight of slaked lime, and
to dry one-half of the mixture in the water-bath, the other half by ex-
posure to the air. Each portion is then separately treated with ether,
and a portion of each etherial solution evaporated spontaneously ; the
residues are examined by the microscope, and by dissolving in acidu-
lated water.

Other portions of the etherial liquids are tested with an etherial
solution of oxalic acid, whereby many alkaloids are precipitated as
oxalates insoluble in ether, but dissolving again on the addition of
water. If combinations of lime with fatty or resinous acids were
present in the ether, the precipitate will be insoluble in water.

It must not be overlooked that other principles besides many alka-
loids are soluble in ether. — four, de Phar. et de Chim., 1876, p. 201.

Raffinose, a new saccharine substance, has been obtained by D.
Loiseau in his investigations of molasses. It forms white crystals, is
nearly insoluble at 200 C. in 90 per cent, alcohol, dissolves at the same
temperature in 7 parts of water, but at 8o° C. in all proportions. It
has a greater rotating power than sugar (100 : 159), and loses at ioo° C.
(2I2°F.) 15-1 per cent, of water; its formula seems to be C18H32016
-f-5H2G.— Phar. Cent. Halle, No. 33.

Detection of Nitroben%ol in Oil of Bitter Almonds, etc. — Jacquemin
uses for this purpose a solution of stannous chloride in caustic soda.
If a few drops of the suspected liquid are added to this alkaline solu-
tion, sufficient anilin is formed to produce the blue color of erythro-
phenylate of sodium, after the addition of one drop of phenol and a
little hypochlorite of sodium. — Chem. Centralblatt, No. 28, from Jour,
de Phar. et de Chim.

Amo^x87h6arm' } Gleanings from the Foreign Journals, 467

Piperin and Chavicin. — R. Buchheim obtained these two principles
by washing the alcoholic extract of black pepper with water and treating
it with ether. The residue was treated with little potassa to remove
an acid resin, dissolved in alcohol, decolorized with animal charcoal
and repeatedly crystallized from petroleum benzin. The piperin thus
obtained was in nearly colorless quadrangular prisms, which in alco-
holic solution had a peppery taste.

The etherial solution was- agitated with a little potassa solution to
remove chlorophyll, fatty acids and resin, the ether distilled off, and
the residue dissolved in alcohol, treated with animal charcoal, and evap-
orated. By repeatedly dissolving it in little ether, the piperina was
nearly entirely removed, and a little petroleum benzin separated the
last portions of fat. The chavicin remaining behind was a yellowish-
brown mass of the consistence of turpentine and an extremely acrid
pepper taste. Its alcoholic solution, boiled with potassa, yielded an
alkaline distillate, which proved to be piperidina, while the residue in
the retort, after dissolving in water and acidulating with hydrochloric
acid, yielded chavicic acid as an amorphous resinous mass.

Piperina may be regarded as a piperidina, N,H,C5H10 in which one
H is replaced by piperic acid, thus : N,C12H9O3,C5H10, and chavicin
may in like manner be viewed as a piperidina in which one H is re-
placed by chavicic acid.

Neither chavicin nor piperin yield salts with acids. — Pbar. Cent.
Halle, Nq. 35, from Buchn. N. Repert.

Hops as a Ferment. — The fermentative principle which Sacc believes
to be in hops (see "Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1876, 320) does not exist,
according to F. Soxhlet ; a fermentable solution of sugar mixed with
a decoction of hops, then boiled to destroy the organized alcohol fer-
ments, and left in contact with filtered air only, does not undergo fer-
mentation. The porosity of bread is produced through alcoholic fer-
mentation ; but besides this, secondary processes, and particularly lac-
tic fermentation, are observed. Hops act as a preservative against the
latter, but do not prevent the former, and are added to yeast for simi-
lar pui poses as they serve in beer, namely, to prevent the secondary
fermentation, for which purpose the addition to beer of a little salicylic
acid has been recently recommended. — Chem. Centralbl., No. 19.

The Presence in Beer of a Substance resembling Colchicia. — E. Danne-
berg stated recently that he had obtained from beer an alkaloid resem-

468 The Chemical Industry of Germany. { Am •0Jc0tu>r-l8p7h6arm"

bling colchicia in its reactions ("Arch. d. Phar.," 1876, May). H.
van Geldern, of Leeuwarden, Holland, has obtained the same body,
in 1874, by the method of Stas and Otto, and found then that it could
also be obtained from a mixture of unadulterated hops and gelatin.
The latter body is always present in beer, and is possibly the cause of
the precipitates formed with the general reagents for alkaloids, and
which are not produced if pure hqps alone be employed for the experi-
ment.— Arch'vu d. Pkarm., July.

THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY OF GERMANY AT THE CENTEN-
NIAL EXHIBITION IN PHILADELPHIA.

BY THE COMMITTEE OF THE ASSOCIATED GERMAN CHEMICAL MANUFACTURERS.

II. Painters'1 and other Colors, Pigments, Coloring Materials, Turpentine, Oils, Var-
nishes, Printers'' Inks and Lithographic Inks, Writing Inks and Boot-Blackings.

Of the mineral-colors, the ultramarine plays the most important part in the Ger-
man export. Germany produces about four times as much ultramarine as all other
countries, and exported in 1874, 5,060,000 lbs. Germany's production of zinc-
white and lead-white may also be termed very considerable, as in 1874 it was ex-
ported 15,070,000 lbs. Concerning Germany's export of other mineral and earth-
colors, Berlin-blue, Schweinfurt-, chromium- and Guignet-greens, cadmium- and
zinc-yellows, cinnabar, etc., are no statistics at hand. The fact, however, that so
large a number of the works producing this plenty of products, exhibit at the Cen-
tennial, is sufficient proof, that in this branch of German industry, the manufac-
turers lack no faith in the excellence and powers of competition of their products.

Among the products derived from coal-tar are benzol, toluol, anthracene and
carbolic acid the most important as starting-points in the manufacture of colors.
Unfortunately the German dying industry is as yet dependant on England, since
the only partially developed tar-industry of Germany furnishes but i- of the amount
consumed in that country.

With the progress of the anilin-color industry, greater demands were made on
the manufacturers of anilin oil, and hence, it has become the endeavor of the Ger-
man anilin oil manufacturers by a proper choice of the raw products (benzol-toluol):
to improve the qualities of the anilin.

An important export article for Germany is the anilin oil for calico printing.

Preparations whose manufacture is successfully carried on by many works are
methyl- anilin for preparation of anilin-<violet, diphenyl-amin, methyl- diphenyl-amin
for preparation of the finer anilin- blue, naphthyl-amin and Phenylene-diamin.

The participation of anilin colors and alizarin industries in the exhibition corres-
ponds but little to their great importance to Germany. Hardly a quarter of the
existing manufactories are represented, and yet the largest part of the coal-tar colors
used in America are produced in Germany. In 1874 Germany exported 673,200
lbs. of anilin colors, and altogether furnishes about three-quarters of the total anilin
and alizarin colors in the world's market.

Ann. Jour. Pharm.
Oct., 1876.

} The Chemical Industry of Germany.

469

The production of arsenic-free fuchsin (rubin) by the so-called nitrobenzol pro-
cess may be considered as established. Aside from the undoubted results which
two German manufactories have obtained by the new method, the former objection,
that it could not compete with the old in cheapness, vanishes.

The manufacture of methyl-njiolet by oxidation of dimethyl-anilin, by means of
copper salts, has found general introduction, and has almost entirely superseded
the Hofmann violet made with iodine, so that the iodine violet is only employed
for a few special purposes. In the same manner the iodine -green has been replaced
by the methyl-green produced from methyl-violet. The necessity of using large
amounts of iodine, the laborious regaining and the fluctuating price of this expen-
sive body, as well^as the more beautiful shades and the cheaper prices of the violet
and green colors produced without iodine, have caused the rapid abandonment of
the old methods of manufacture.

The use of the various anilin-blues in the dying industry increases from day to
day, and with it the number of sorts occurring in commerce.

The finer blues prepared from diphenyl-amin have as yet, it is true, only found a
limited application in dyeing, but on account of their great purity will doubtless soon
attain a better introduction.

In spite of its impurity, safranin is still used for certain purposes, especially for
dyeing silk and cotton.

Corallin still finds extended application in silk-dyeing and for the preparation of
paper and carpet-lacs.

Among other tar-colors manufactured in Germany, are Martius -yellow, phosphin,
picric acid, bismarck-brotun and nigrosin to be mentioned. These colors occur in
commerce under the most various names.

One of the latest discoveries in the field of coal-tar colors is the eosin, which at
present is manufactured in many German works. It promises to become a not un-
important competitor of cochineal and safflower.

Perhaps, hardly any field of chemical industry has been more severly affected
from the state of the times than the production of artificial alizarin, whose manu-
facture, although so recent, yet on its first introduction in Germany increased so
rapidly. In its struggle for existence against the natural color, the madder, although
it has not been entirely conquered, still in the last two years has suffered severe
blows. The considerably larger yield, which, of late, it has been found, may be
obtained in the manufacture of alizarin, will doubtless remove these difficulties.

In the working-up of vegetable colors into fine color-extracts and lacs, Germany
does not stand behind England and France. Indigo, cochineal, safflower carmin,
orseille preparations and color extracts, en pate, as well as the colored lacs for the
colored paper and carpet industries, are produced in numerous German establish-
ments on the largest scale, but they are very incompletely represented at the
Exhibition.

III. Extracts, Essences, Perfumes, Pomades, Medicinal Mixtures, etc.

Essential oils are manufactured in Germany on an extended scale, Leipsic being
in a certain measure the chief manufacturing city.

47o

Minutes of the College.

Am. Jour. Pharzo.
Oct., 1876.

The wild and cultivated plants, which by proper climatic conditions are rich irs
powerful aromas, form the basis of this branch of industry, which is so developed
through the use of perfected apparatus, that not only the domestic, but many of the
foreign plants, are distilled with advantage. The extension of this business is illus-
trated by the fact that Leipsic alone prepares and exports 1 10,000 lbs. of caraway-
seed-oil yearly.

The essential oils are used in pharmacy, perfumery and particularly in the manu-
facture of liquors.

In intimate relation with the fabrication of essential oils stands the preparation of
essences (extracts of aromatic vegetables), which has reached a great development
in Saxony.

The fruitful bottom of Middle-Germany produces a large number of medicinal
plants, a part of which grow wild, while a part are carefully cultivated, and supplies
foreign countries, particularly North America, with large amounts.

In many places extracts and medicinal mixtures are prepared. The capability and
trustworthiness of the representatives of this branch of manufacture have obtained
a good name for their products in foreign lands.

England and France still remain the chief furnishers of perfumes, pomades and
toilet articles, but it is not to be denied that this branch of industry has increased
in Germany since the export of these articles, among which is to be included
cologne-water — maintaining its fame during two centuries — was in 1874, 1,898,000
lbs., having a value of 168,750 dollars.

MINUTES OF THE COLLEGE,

Philadelphia, September, 25th, 1876.

The semi-annual meeting of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy was held this
day at the College Hall.

Dillwyn Parrish, President, occupied he chair, and seventeen members were in
attendance.

The minutes of the meeting in June last were read, and, on motion, approved.

The minutes of the Board of Trustees, for the last three months,, were also read'1
by the Secretary of the Board, and, on motion, adopted.

These minutes make mention of a present to the College Cabinet of a large and
interesting collection of carbolic acid compounds, which are now in the Centennial
Exposition, the property of Messrs. F. C. Calvert & Co., of Manchester, England,

On motion, it was resolved that the Secretary be requested to tender the thanks
of the College to Messrs. F. C. Calvert & Co., of Manchester, England, for their
very valuable and acceptable gift to the College, at the close of the Centennial Ex-
position, consisting of carbolic acid and its various compounds, together with other
chemicals.

The committee appointed by the College to attend the annual meeting of the
American Pharmaceutical Association, made the following report :

Amo?tu"*i87hrm'} Minutes of the College. 471

To the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy :

The delegates appointed to attend the annual meeting of the American Pharmaceutical Association
respectfully report that they attended to the duties assigned them, some of their number being present at
all of the sessions held.

The usual routine of business was pursued, and many interesting papers were read, eliciting appro-
bation from those present.

A large number of members were in attendance, consequent in part upon the Centennial Exposition.

The Committee of Arrangements selected by the Association, in conjunction with a similar committee
appointed by this College, arranged a social entertainment, in which most of the members of the Asso-
ciation present, with their ladies, participated. It was a thoroughly enjoyable affair, and passed off in a
manner reflecting credit upon the good taste of the committee.

A drive throughout the Park, for the entertainment of the visiting ladies, and an excursion to the
Switchback were also a part of the entertainment devised by the committee.

Invitations were received by the Association from the officers of the Union League, Zoological
Garden, the Academy of Natural Sciences, Masonic Temple and other places of interest, for members
of the Association to visit their several institutions, all of which were accepted with thanks.

The Centennial Exhibition seemed to claim much of the attention of members from a distance.

Your delegation had the honor of having its chairman, Mr. Bullock, elected to the post of President
of the Associalion during the ensuing year.

The Association adjourned to meet in September next at Toronto, Canada.

Signed, W. J. JENKS,

September- 21st, 187b. On behalf of the delegation.

Prof. Maisch, on behalf of the committee appointed to attend the Conference of
the Pharmaceutical Colleges, made a report as follows :

To the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy :

The delegates appointed to attend the Conference of Schoolt of Pharmacy respectfully submit the
following report :

The seventh Conference of Schools of Pharmacy was held in the library of the Philadelphia College
of Pharmacy on the evenings of September 11,12 and 15, three sessions being held altogether. Ail
Colleges of Pharmacy in the United States, conferring the degree of Graduate in Pharmacy, were repre-
sented. Delegates were accredited from the Chicago, Cincinnati, Louisville, Maryland, Massachusetts,
New York, Philadelphia and St. Louis Colleges, and Professor Emlen Painter of the California College
of Pharmacy was invited to take a seat and participate in the deliberations.

Mr. Chas. A. Tufts of the Massachusetts College was elected President and John M. Maisch of the
Philadelphia College, Secretary for the ensuing year.

The questions submitted for discussion by the Philadelphia and Louisville Colleges were as follows :

1. Can a progressive course of lectures be suggested, differing from that followed in most Colleges
of Pharmacy, and if so, what branches and in what order should they be taught? — or is it advisable to
adhere to the present system, extending perhaps, the sessions ; and to require junior students to pass an
examination before they may be regarded as second-course students ; and in the latter case what amount
of knowledge should be demanded at the junior examination?

2. Is it advisable to make one or more courses of practical instruction obligatory as part of the regular
course of instruction in pharmacy, and if so, to what extent should such a course embrace analytical
chemistry, preparation of chemicals, preparation of pharmaceuticals and extemporaneous pharmacy?

The first session was devoted principally to the discussion of the first question, and a general inter-
change of views on this subject was had, the experience and observations made by the different Colleges
being related. That a graded course is preferable to the present system of teaching was admitted; also,
that such a graded or progressive course must ultimately be adopted. But to effect such a change at once
was, in the judgment of the delegates, unfeasible, though the object to be attained should be continually
kept in view.

The questions were finally referred to special committees for elaboration, and their reports formed the
basis for discussion and action at the subsequent sessions.

The committee on the first query submitted a scheme for a progressive course, as follows :
FIRST, or ELEMENTARY COURSE.

1. Chemistry — Physics as applied to Chemistry; Chemical Philosophy; General properties of the

elements and their compounds ; General review of the groups of organic compounds.

2. Pharmacy — Physics as applied to pharmacy ; manipulations; extemporaneous pharmacy.

4?2

Minutes of the College.

Am. Jour Pharm.
Oct., 1876.

3. Botany and Materia Medica — Morphology, histology and organology : systematic botany ; description
of medicinal herbs and flowers.

SECOND, or ADVANCED COURSE.

1. Chemistry — Systematic Chemistry, both inorganic and organic.

2. Pharmacy — Pharmaceutical Chemistry and its application to the various processes.

3. Materia Medica — Special pharmacognosy.

It was the opinion of the committee that, while such a course of instruction was very desirable,
the time had not yet arrived when it could be successfully introduced in all the Colleges ; a practical
substitute would under the present system of instruction be found

1. In the increase of the number of lectures, whereby the lecturer can devote more time to the
elementary subjects ; and

2. - In holding annually an examination of the first-course students, such examination to be optional
with them ; and thus stimulating them to further study and preparation for the second course. These
examinations might embrace such subjects as would be embraced in the elementary course referred to.

The report was freely discussed in its various bearings, and a resolution was then passed recommend-
ing to the Colleges the introduction of such first-course examinations, with the request to report to a
future conference on the success of the same.

The committee on the second query reported as follows :

" Believing that the grand aim and object of establishing schools of Pharmacy was to furnish the
public with able and skillful exponents of the science, and that to secure this end, practical instruction
is of the highest importance ; and whilst the didactic system of teaching is undoubtedly useful [experience
having proved it], yet they would recommend a practical course of instruction which would so instruct
the student that he would be prepared to stand an examination embracing questions which would compel
him to have sufficient knowledge of analytical chemistry to qualitatively determine a 'Pharmacopoeia'
chemical ; of the preparation of such chemicals as can readily be produced in a retail pharmacy ; of the
preparation of any pharmaceutical preparation of the ' Pharmacopoeia,' and so thorough an acquaintance
with extemporaneous pharmacy that he would have no difficulty in producing creditable specimens of
skill in the various branches of this portion of science before a competent board of examiners ;

"And they do further recommend that as a practical plan to stimulate the acquisition of this kind of
pharmaceutical knowledge, the student be required, as part of his examination, to prepare himself, before
the professors and examining committee, suitable evidences of his practical knowledge."

After a full interchange of views the Conference passed a resolution recommending to the Colleges to
establish laboratories for the practical instruction in chemistry and pharmacy; and then adopted the
report of the committee, with the view of recommending the practical examinations.

A query referring to the advisability of subjecting pharmaceutical students to a preliminary examina-
tion previous to admitting them to the College courses, was introduced and after some discussion laid
upon the table, the same question having been disposed of by the conferences of 1870 and 1873.

Questions relating to matriculation, the procuring of lecture tickets and other routine business of the
Colleges were discussed to some extent, with the view of securing uniformity by all institutions.

The Colleges of New York and of California were selected to prepare questions for consideration at
the next Conference, and after resolving that the eighth Conference convene at ten o'clock on the morning
preceding the first session of the twenty-fifth meeting of the American Pharmaceutical Association, the
Conference finally adjourned.

JOHN M MAISCH.
JOSEPH P. REMINGTON.
ROBERT BRIDGES.

This being the semi-annual meeting, an election for eight trustees and a Com-
mittee on Deceased Members was ordered.

Samuel S. Bunting and Wm. B. Webb, acting as tellers, reported the following
gentlemen elected to fill the positions for one year, viz. :

Trustees— Dr. Wilson H. Pile, William C. Bakes, William Mclntyre, Albert P.
Brown, Edward C. Jones, Richard V. Mattison, Robert England, A. W. Miller.

Committee on Deceased Members — Charles Bullock, Alfred B. Taylor, Joseph P.
Remington.

There being no further business then, on motion, adjourned.

William J. Jenks, Secretary.

3cr,'i876rm'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, 473

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

British Pharmaceutical Conference — The Meetings at Glasgow. —
It may appear to be but a repetition of what has been said in former years to an-
nounce that the latest meeting of the British Pharmaceutical Conference, held at
Glasgow on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 5th and 6th, has been at least as
successful as that of any former year. But this is not a mere formal statement.
Glasgow pharmacists may even boast of having been able to secure for this year's
scientific meetings larger and more evenly sustained audiences than have supported
the readers of papers on any previous occasion, whilst it is no wonder that, with the
beauties of the Clyde, to say nothing of other inducements, they were able lo tempt
a large company to take part in the excursion. But to the serious business first.

The Executive Committee was again able to present a favorable report, showing
an income during the year in excess by about £240 of the expenditure, including
the cost of the Year Book and the grants in aid of research. With respect to this
latter branch of the operations of the Conference, we are informed that the Execu-
tive Committee has made the following fresh grants: £5, extended, if necessary, to
£10, to Mr. J. C. Thresh, F.C.S., for the purchase of materials in connection with
an extended research on the active principle of capsicum fruit ; £10 to Dr. Arm-
strong, F.R.S., for the purchase of strychnia, etc., with which to conduct a re-
search on the oxidation products and bromo derivatives of that alkaloid ; £20 to
Dr. Tilden, F.C.S., for the purchase of essential oils, and £50 to Dr. C. R. A.
Wright, F.C.S., Mr. J. Williams, F.C.S., and Mr. T. B. Groves, F.C.S., to defray
expenses in connection with extended researches on the aconitines.

The President's address amply justifies the cordiality with which it was received.
In it Prof. Redwood sets forth in an extremely clear and definite manner his views
respecting the position that can be taken justifiably by pharmacists, in respect to
giving advice as to the use of the drugs they handle daily, and this portion of the
address forms a valuable contribution to the literature of a subject which has been
too frequently discussed under a cloud of self-interest. Good service in another
direction is done by the interesting illustration of our comparative ignorance respect-
ing much of the history of the Materia Medica, and there can be no doubt that the
suggestion as to the application of some of the scientific energy and the funds of
the Conference for the testing and comparing of results already obtained by various
investigators, if effectively carried out, would at least clear the ground of
some of the confusions and contradictions with which it is now covered. During
the reading of the address the large room of the Royal Hotel was filled with an
evidently much interested audience, nor was the President less successful when in
inviting discussions upon the several papers, he showed in a few lucid and sugges-
tive sentences the bearing which each had on pharmacy.

Twenty-eight papers were read. In the first, Mr. B. S. Proctor described the
strength of four samples of liquid extract of pareira as varying between one and six.
This result he attributed to the vagueness of the words " coarse powder," used for
indicating the degree of comminution, although it might well be due to the crude

474 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. { Am\££\?7h6arm'

materials not having had an identical origin. During the discussion, the President
expressed an opinion in favor of a clearer definition of the degrees of fineness of
powders in the next edition of the " British Pharmacopoeia." The next note was
by Mr. Stoddart, an the action of hydrochloric acid on the coloring matter of Cro-
cus sat'vvus in the presence of sugar. Five papers on opium followed. Mr. Dott,
induced by variations he had met with in the morphia strength of opium prepara-
tions, expressed himself strongly in favor of the use of definite chemical principles
instead of crude drugs 5 Messrs. Proctor and Cleaver gave some valuable informa-
tion respecting the assay of opium 5 Dr. Wright described his continued research on
the opium alkaloids, and Mr. Brown announced the presence of free acetic acid in
opium. Next, the use of gum tragacanth and glycerin for a pill excepient was ad-
vocated by Mr. Welborn 5 afterwards Mr. HafFenden described his method of mak-
ing phosphorus pills. Jaborandi this year furnished but one paper, that in which
Mr. Gerrard described the action of various solvents upon "some salts of pilocarp-
ine j" these he appeared to look upon as compounds of the alkaloid to which Mr.
Kingsett recently attributed a definite formula, but Mr. Kingsttt hardly acquiesced
in the assumption. The next paper, by Dr. Wright, showed that with respect to
the aconite alkaloids also, there still exists considerable haziness. In the last paper
read on Tuesday, Mr. Thresh gave some further information respecting the active
principle of capsicum fruit, and described some painful physiological experiments he
had performed upon — himself. s

The second day's proceedings opened with Mr. Kingsett's fourth report on the
oxidation of essential oils, a research which the author indicates will probably even-
tuate in the manufacture commercially of a valuable antiseptic. Mr. Muir made a
preliminary report on oil of sage. A preliminary report was also made on the
chemistry of ivy by Mr. Davies. Dr. Tilden summarized the results obtained from
the administration of the varieties of aloin to patients in the Bristol Hospital, an
account of which has already been published in this Journal. Mr. Andrews sug-
gested a formula for a glycerinum cinchona?. Mr. Gerrard recommended the sub-
stitution of Canada balsam for the resin and suet in the B. P. cantharides plaster,,
which he considers to be insufficiently adhesive and flexible. Mr. Brown proposed
a solution of citrate of iron and quinia, to be preserved by addition of chloroform.
Such an addition, however, was generally disapproved of, and it was stated that a
strong solution could be kept without it. Mr. Howie now submitted to the Con-
ference the importance of deciding what should be considered the standard strength
of the compound syrup of the phosphates. Mr. Greenish described the constituents
met with in various filtering papers, and exhibited a specimen of Japanese filtering
paper, prepared from the liber tissue of the paper mulberry [Broussonetia papyrifera).
Three papers had for their subject salicylic acid. In consequence of the impurities
met with in commercial salicylic acid, and the difficulty experienced in purifying
by recrystallization, salicylate of soda prepared from it, Mr. Williams' attention has
been turned to the sulphosalicylate of soda. This salt gives, with perchloride of
iron, the purple color characteristic of salicylic acid, from which Mr. Williams in-
fers that the salicyl radicle remains in it unchanged. Mr. Hunter has confirmed, by
fresh experiments, the antiseptic properties of salicylic acid. Some experiments,
made by Mr. Benger, to ascertain the condition in which salicylic acid is excreted

Amoct,rx8P7h6?rrn'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 47 5

by patients, seemed to indicate that it then was no longer in an active or uncom-
bined state. Mr. Siebold sent two papers, one on the preparation of a pure sulphur
prascipitatum by only partial precipitation ; the other, on the strength of tincture of
nux vomica. Mr. Groves exhibited a specimen of so-called Pekoe " Flower," con-
cerning the origin of which Mr. Greenish contributed some information. This was
the last of the papers.

The Conference then proceeded to the election of officers. Prof. Redwood was
re-elected President, and it was decided to accept an invitation to meet next year at
Plymouth. Enthusiastic votes of thanks to the Local Committee and to the Presi-
dent closed the proceedings.

On Tuesday evening an interesting gathering took place at the Royal Hotel,
where many visitors to the Conference sat down to supper with a large number of
the junior pharmacists of the city. The Chairman, in a few well-chosen words, in-
troduced successively to his young friends the representative pharmacists present,
and they in their turn addressed the company. The plain speaking of Prof. Red-
wood will no doubt be relished in many quarters, and equally disliked in others.

Soon after 6 o'clock on Thursday morning, pharmacists and their friends began
to make their way to Glasgow Bridge, near where the Eagle lay at her moorings..
By 7, a numerous company was on board, and to the music of the band and the
pipers of the Cameronian Regiment, the boat made her way down the Clyde to the
western coast, visiting successively the beautiful lochs that lay in her way. If any-
thing could have repaid the Local Committee for their unbounded kindness during
the whole meeting, it must have been the manifest appreciation on the part of their
visitors of this crowning hospitality. And when the company met in the cabin
after dinner, there could be no mistaking the enthusiasm with which they toasted
the health of their hosts, and especially of those upon whom the work had princi-
pally fallen — Messrs. Davison, Frazer, Kinninmont, Stanford and Fairlie.

We have but little space left to speak of the other meetings of the week, but we
must not omit to call attention to the admirable address with which on Wednesday
evening Professor Andrews inaugurated at the Glasgow University the meeting of
the British Association for the Advancement of Science. It is true that one of the
local journals ventured to stigmatize it as " bald disjointed chat about science," un-
suited for a Glasgow audience; but we venture to say that the motive for such an
attack must be sought for outside the address itself. At any rate, the passage where
Dr. Andrews speaks of the clouds of smoke which darken the atmosphere of our
manufacturing towns, and even of whole districts of country, as indications of waste
arising from imperfect combustion, and alludes to the depressing effect of this atmos-
phere upon the working population, is a passage which appears to us to be worthy
of the particular attention of the citizens of Glasgow. The remarks of Dr. An-
drews respecting the endowment of research are well worth pondering. He is not
so enthusiastic as some are as to the benefit to be derived from endowing a body of
men devoted exclusively to scientific research, without the duty of teaching or other
occupation, and he confesses that after careful consideration he fails to discover how
such a plan could be worked so as to secure the object in view. Moreover, he
thinks that great injury would be done by thus separating the influence of the mas-
ter intellects of the country as teachers from the flower of its youth.

47 6

Editorial.

1 Am. Jour. Pharm.
( Oct., 1876.

On Friday morning a meeting of the newly-formed Chemists and Druggists'
Trade Association was held in the Royal Hotel, Glasgow, when it was announced
that the society now numbers twelve hundred members. A Secretary and Solicitor
have been appointed. The society aspires to be thoroughly representative and
claims the support of the whole trade. Some of the speakers pointed out that a
difficulty in this respect had prevented the Pharmaceutical Society from exercising
protective functions. The task which the Association undertakes is that of uniting
the trade in regard to trade interests, and thus supplementing the efforts of the
Pharmaceutical Society and Conference. — Fhar. Jour, and Trans. , Sept. 9th, 1876.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The Last Meeting of the American Pharmaceutical Association was
as well attended as had been expected, over 400 members having been present
altogether, many of them accompanied by their ladies and other members of their
family. The great attraction was the International Exposition in Fairmount Park,
and the local committee, keeping this in view, had, after mature deliberation,
decided to recommend that two days of the week be devoted to visiting the
Exposition, a number of members, well acquainted with it, having volunteered to
act as guides, and the resident ladies to show the same courtesy to the lady visitors.
The number of visitors who availed themselves of these offers was not as large as
appeared desirable for their own convenience, and this was in a great measure due
to the visiting members living at different hotels and private houses, and to their
inability to meet the guides at the designated places upon the Exposition grounds.
Many of the exhibitors had very obligingly offered to open, on this occasion, the cases
under their charge, and thus afford an apportunity to better inspect the drugs and
chemicals. Later in the afternoon, on Wednesday, about one hundred met by
appointment, at the German restaurant, located within the enclosure, for dinner,
and all returned to the city at an early hour to rest somewhat from the fatigue,
and be prepared for the reception which was tendered to the Association by the
druggists, manufacturing chemists and pharmacists of Philadelphia and vicinity.

St. George's Hall had been selected for this entertainment, at which over 800
persons were present. An address of welcome was delivered by the local secre-
tary, Dr. A. W. Miller, and without any other formality those present enjoyed
themselves, forming new acquaintances and renewing old ones. The capacious
dining rooms of the building being insufficient to hold the throng, the entire com-
pany could not, at the same time, partake of the refreshments provided 5 but while
a portion did ample justice to the good things upon the table, the others enjoyed
themselves with dancing to the excellent music discoursed by Hassler's orchestra,
many remaining until a late hour.

On Thursday three sessions were held by the Association, and while the evening
session was in progress a party of ladies, unfortunately smaller in consequence of
the rain than would otherwise have been the case, enjoyed themselves in the main
hall of the College, which, from the numerous living plants and flowers, had the
gay appearance of a sub-tropical garden. A piano had been provided, and instru-
mental and vocal music was the order of the evening until it became necessary to
return home, regardless of the continuing rain.

Friday was devoted by smaller parties to visit the various places from which
invitations had been received ; the Masonic Temple, Fox's Glass Works and the
Zoological Garden were inspected; but to many the Exposition proved to be the
stronger attraction.

On Saturday afternoon, at 2 o'clock, nearly two hundred ladies, accompanied by

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Oct., 1876. j

Editorial.

477

the committee on entertainment, started from the College building in carriages, for
a drive through Fairmount Park, entering it at Green street and passing over
Girard Avenue bridge to Lansdowne and George's Hill, at the foot of which the
exhibition grounds are located, affording an excellent bird's-eye view of this
locality, and further in the distance of the beautiful banks of the Schuylkill river,
with a portion of Philadelphia in the back-ground. The drive was resumed to
Belmont, the Schuylkill re-crossed at the Falls, and the romantic valley of the
Wissahickon entered and followed up to near Indian Rock. On the return the
party passed through a portion of the East Park to Strawberry Mansion, where a
collation was served 5 night had set in when the excursionists returned to their
city homes.

The incessant rain on the following Sunday, September 17, made that day one
of rest } but upon the following morning the sun rose upon a cloudless sky, and
about ninety ladies and gentlemen went on the excursion to Mauch Chunk, passing
first through a fertile rolling country to Bethlehem, from whence the road follows
the tortuous windings of the Lehigh river, the valley becoming continually nar-
rower, so that there is scarcely any room left there, besides what is occupied by the
tracks of two railways. In the mean time the sky had become overcast, a drizzling
rain fell occasionally and the atmosphere was quite chilly, so that the warm rooms
of the Mansion House were quite inviting. After dinner the weather had become
sufficiently stationary to venture on the trip to the Switch-back, first in coaches
through Mauch Chunk, which is located in a narrow ravine, and up a steep hill to
the foot of Mount Pisgah. From here the car is drawn up an inclined plane to a
height of 864 feet from its starting point, and a foot path brought the party then
to a still higher point, where, from a rustic pavilion, a beautiful view was had over
mountain tops, into wild ravines and through a portion of the narrow Lehip-h
valley. Re-entering the car, it dashes along an inclined plane, propelled by its
own gravity, a distance of six miles to the foot of Mount Jefferson, to the top of
which, 462 feet high, it is again pulled by a stationary engine, thence to descend
again through the force of its own gravity to the mining village of Summit Hill,
located at an elevation of 975 feet above the Lehigh river. Here the "burning
mine" and the "ice cave" were visited. The former has been burning since
1843, and, though filled in and closed soon after, smoke still issues from the ground,
several acres of which are searingly hot and vegetation upon it totally blighted.
Within the distance of less than a quarter of a mile is the cave in which, during
the winter, large quantities of ice are formed, much more than even the prolonged
high temperature of the past summer could melt.

The descent from Summit Hill is made solely by the gravity railroad, often at a
dizzy speed along high cliffs and around short curves; and after again reaching
Mauch Chunk the inclement weather forbid a visit to Glen Onoko, and a return to
Philadelphia on the same evening was decided upon. A delay of the train would
have caused some unpleasant inconvenience if the forethought of the entertain-
ment committee had not, by telegraph, provided for substantial refreshments at
Bethlehem.

On Tuesday, September 19, between 40 and 50 members with ladies, embarked
on a steamer for a visit, down the Delaware river, to Greenwich Point, in the
southern part of Philadelphia, where a branch of the works of the Pennsylvania
Salt Manufacturing Company are located. The officers conducted the visitors over
the grounds and through the buildings, and gave all facilities for inspecting the
processes, as carried on here, of manufacturing sulphuric acid, carbonate and
bicarbonate of sodium, caustic soda, alum and so-called concentrated alum. A
trip to League Island, and, after returning to the city, a pleasant intercourse at the
office of the company closed this day's proceedings, the last one in which the visi-
tors to the 24th annual meeting participated.

At a meeting of the visitors to Greenwich Point, Prof. E. Painter, of San Fran-
cisco, was called to the chair, and Prof. John M. Maisch, of Philadelphia, elected
Secretary. Messrs. Chas. S. Eastman, of New Hampshire, and R. V. Mattison, of

47»

Reviews, etc.

Am. Jour. Pharm:
Oct., 1876.

Pennsylvania, having been appointed a committee, reported the following preamble
and resolutions, which were unanimously adopted :

Whereas, Those members of the American Pharmaceutical Association, and their ladies, who have
this day visited the works of the Pennsylvania Salt Manufacturing Company, located at Greenwich
Point, have, with pleasure and great profit to themselves, examined the various processes carried on
there ; rJ herefore, be it

Resolved, That we tender our hearty thanks to the officers and managers, of the Pennsylvania Salt
Manufacturing Company for their courtesy and many facilities extended to us in showing and explaining
the conversion of the crude materials into the finished products of their manufacture ;

Resolved, That we feel greatly indebted for the generous hospitality of the officers, and for their
kindness in placing a steamboat at our disposal for an excursion down the Delaware river to Greenwich
Point and to League Island.

The joint committee, on arrangement, have held a meeting since the adjourn-
ment of the Association, and, though the accounts could not then be completely
settled, it was ascertained that several hundred dollars would remain in the
Treasurer's hands. It was unanimously determined that the surplus left should be
invested, and then presented to the American Pharmaceutical Association, as the
foundation of a fund, the interest of which should be expended solely for the pur-
pose of aiding original investigations.

In conclusion, we may be permitted to say that the members of the joint
committees have spared no labor to make the sojourn of their brethren here as
pleasant and profitable as possible, and that the entertainment committee had
perfected all the arrangements entrusted to their special care in a praiseworthy
manner, which, we feel sure, is heartily appreciated by all who were present.

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

Beitrage zur Lehre uber den Sauerstoff-Bedarf und die gahrungserregende Fahigkeit
der Hefepilze. Von Dr. Adolf Mayer. Heidelberg: Carl Winter's Universitats-
Buchhandlung, 1876. Large 8vo, pp. 27.

Contributions to the Knowledge on the Requirement of Oxygen and the Fermen-
tative Capability of the Yeast Fungi.

The pamphlet is issued by the author as an addition or appendix to his " Chem-
istry of Fermentation,'1 and while it reviews briefly the various views held by differ-
ent investigators on this subject, bases the arguments on the older experiments and
the modifications and perfections of the methods of investigation adopted by Bre-
feld, as published in 1874. Through his critical comparisons, the author arrives at
somewhat different conclusions, which, however, appear to be well founded, as far
as light has been thrown upon this difficult subject. We may condense his results
in the following :

1. The breathing of oxygen is not necessary for the cellular growth of all groups
of low organisms.

2. The growth of the beer yeast fungus, in the absence of oxygen, is insignifi-
cant, and the occasional admission of oxygen is necessary.

3. The continued absence of oxygen causes a cessation of its growth, but not of
its vitality, unless

4. This absence continues for a sufficient length of time, when all vitality ceases.

5. A continued excessive supply of oxygen causes the fungi to vegetate, without
inducing fermentation 5 usually, however, the same individuals sustain fermentation
and vegetate in consequence of a moderate supply of oxygen.

6. Fermentation may be viewed as a sort of substitute for oxygen breathing; it
is induced to a greater extent by vital cells, the more the supply of oxygen is lim-
ited, keeping in view the possibility of an organism to retain its vitality for some
time through fermentation alone and with the total exclusion of oxygen.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Oct., IS76. /

Reviews, etc.

579

The conditions of successful alcoholic fermentation as they have been found out
by practice, it appears to us, are contained in the conclusions drawn by the author
under No. 2 and the last half of the fifth deduction.

Tables for Systematic Qualitative Chemical Analysis. By John H. Snively, Ph.D.,
Professor of Analytical Chemistry in the Tennessee College of Pharmacy.
Nashville: C. W. Smith, 1876. Price, Ji.

The views of teachers are apt to differ on the methods and means for instruction,
and still good results may be obtained Our partiality for analytical tables like
those of Will, or the more condensed ones found in Attfield's Chemistry, does not
preclude a good opinion for tables arranged on a different plan ; those named, how-
ever, we regard as much more convenient than the tables now before us.

Analytical chemistry deals with facts well ascertained as far as examined, and
upon such facts depends the treatment to which an unknown compound is subjected
in order to ascertain its composition. A student of analytical chemistry can, there-
fore, work intelligently only if he has a thorough knowledge of the behavior of the
individual compounds, and the composition and behavior of the precipitates obtained
in a systematically performed analysis becomes, for these reasons, of great impor-
tance. The happy combination of such essentials makes the admirable work of
Prof. Attfleld so valuable to a student who has but a limited knowledge of chemis-
try when he enters a chemical laboratory.

The Hot Springs of Arkansas, as they are. A History and Guide. By Chas. Cut-
ter. Hot Springs, Ark., 1876. 8vo, pp. 88. Price, 50 cents.

A new edition of the pamphlet noticed in this journal, 1874, p. 447.

Ready Reference List for Physicians. By Rich. J. Dunglison, M.D. Philadelphia,
1876. 8vo, pp. 54.

Besides advertisements, it contains the Hippocratic Oath, directions for treating
the apparently drowned, and tables on poisons and their antidotes, on doses, approx-
imate measurements, weights and measures.

State Hospital for the Insane, Danville, Pa.

The annual report for the year 1874-75, by the Superintendent, S. S. Schultz.

Thirty-third Annual Report of the Managers of the State Lunatic Asylum, Utica, N. V.
Albany, 1876.

This report for the year 1875 was transmitted to the Legislature in January of
the present year.

The reception of the following reprints is respectfully acknowledged :

Specimens of Milk from the Vicinity of Boston. By S. P. Sharpies, S. B.

A contribution towards our knowledge of the variations in the composition of
milk.

ScheeWs Green, its Composition as usually prepared, and some Experiments upon Arse-
nite of Copper. By S. P. Sharpies, S. B.

The composition of pure Scheele's green is probably Cu3As2062 H20 ; but it is
almost impossible to obtain a perfectly constant product, from the strong tendency
to form basic sulphates and arsenites.

480 Reviews, etc. — Obituaries. {A"'j2%,£r""

Contributions from the Laboratory of the [Missouri) State University. Part I. Deter-
mination of Baryum. By Prof. P. Schweitzer, Ph.D.

This is the first of a series of essays on the various methods of separating and
determining barium, strontium and calcium, and treats of the determination of
barium as sulphate, chromate, carbonate, silicofluoride and oxalate.

An Address on some of the leading Public Health Questions, with Remarks on the
Extent of Swamp Lands in the United States and their Reclamation as a Sanitary
and Economic Measure. By J. M. Toner, M.D.

The address was delivered before the American Public Health Association, at
its third annual meeting, at Baltimore, November 9th, 1875.

A Report on Dermatology. By Prof. Lunsford P. Yandell, Jr., M.D.
Read before the Kentucky State Medical Society, April, 1876.

A Clinical Lecture on the Use of Plastic Dressing in Fractures from Lower Extremity.
By Prof. David W. Yandell, M.D.
From the "American Practitioner," of July.

Orthopedic Surgery: Deformities of the Lower Extremities. By Van S. Lindsley^
M.D.

Read before the Medical Society of Tennessee, April, 1876.

A Plea for Principles and Conservatism in the Treatment of Diseases peculiar to
Females. By Prof. Wm. Abram Love, M.D.
From the Atlanta " Medical and Surgical Journal," July, 1876.

Sulphate of Cinchonidia a Substitute for Sulphate of Quinine. By Prof. J. W. Comp-
ton, M.D.

Read before the Kentucky State Medical Society, April, 1876.

On Strictures of the Male Urethra, its Radical Cure. By Prof. Fessenden N. Otis,,
M.D.

On the Treatment of Incipient Stricture by Otis' Operation. By Prof. Berkeley HilL
Together with Explanatory Remarks on the Treatment of Stricture and Gleet,
By Prof. F. N. Otis.

From the London "Lancet," April 8, June 3 and June 10, 1876.

OBITUARIES.

Robert P. Southall, a native of Virginia, died at Washington, D. C, August
26th, at the age of 40 years. He had practised pharmacy for over 21 years, princi-
pally in Richmond, Baltimore and Washington.

Francis S. Gaither died suddenly at Washington, D. C, on the evening of
September 12th, from hemorrhage of the lungs, at the age of 40 years. He was
born in Georgetown, D. C, and learned and practised his profession in Washing-
ton, where he became a charter member of the National College of Pharmacy, in
which he was elected to the chair of Theory and Practice of Pharmacy, but, his
health failing, was compelled to resign. His studies were mainly devoted to phar-
maceutical chemistry.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

NOVEMBER, 1876.

ON THE SEEDS OF RICINUS COMMUNIS.

BY EMIL LOUIS BOERNER, PH.G.

(From an Inaugural Essay.}

The acrid principle of ricinus seeds is but in a slight degree extracted
in the expression of the oil, and the residual marc, as left by the man-
ufacturer of castor oil, would, therefore, contain the greater portion of
it, and was the material operated upon.

The coarse particles, which were liable to interfere with percolation,
being rejected, four different portions, of 1,000 grains each, were
treated respectively with gasolin, bisulphide of carbon, ether, and alco-
hol, until exhausted ; the various menstrua evaporated, and the resi-
dues weighed, yielding from gasolin 6*9 per cent.; bisulphide of car-
bon, 11*77 Per cent-j ether, 14 per cent., and alcohol, 2I'2 per cent.
The first three appeared to be pure oil, and were of a light yellow
color, while the alcohol residue was much darker, and contained con-
siderable coloring matter, which was deposited upon standing.

The marc which had been exhausted with gasolin was further
treated with bisulphide of carbon, resulting in an additional 5*37 per
cent, of oily residue from which, after a few days' standing, acicular
crystals separated, which were insoluble in gasolin, partly soluble in
ether, and in alcohol. A second attempt to obtain the crystals was
unsuccessful. That portion of marc which had been treated with
bisulphide of carbon yielded nothing to gasolin upon subsequent treat-
ment with this menstruum.

A portion of exhausted marc was macerated with water until decom-
posed, requiring for the process about fourteen days. It was then
strained, to separate coarser particles, and distilled \ the distillate, hav-
ing an acid reaction and an odor resembling that of decayed cheese,
was treated with carbonate of zinc and filtered ; upon concentration of
the filtrate, crystals of butyrate of zinc separated. Both crystals and

31

482 Seeds of Ricinus Communis. { A Vov" -jgfc"*

mother-liquor, when shaken with sulphuric acid and alcohol, immediately
developed, in a marked degree, the odor of butyric ether. A portion
of this ethereal liquid neutralized with ammonia, was unaffected by the
addition of ferric chloride, thus indicating the absence of an acetate.

An experiment was made similar to the one of Prof. Tuson, in
which he found a crystallizable substance supposed to be an alkaloid.

A portion of the marc was boiled with successive portions of water,
the several liquids strained through muslin, and the resulting decoction
evaporated to the consistence of a soft extract, which was exhausted
with boiling alcohol. Upon standing, a substance of a resinous appear-
ance, but soluble in water, separated from the filtrate, and was removed
by a second filtration. The filtrate was concentrated, and, as no crys-
tals separated, magnesia was added, the mixture evaporated to dryness,
again exhausted with boiling alcohol, and filtered, when, upon concen-
tration and a few days' standing, colorless crystals, having the form of
rectangular prisms and tables, separated, answering to the appearance
of those obtained bv Prof. Tuson. These crystals were slowly solu-
ble in hot water. In an acidulated solution of the crystals, phospho-
molybdic acid, tannic acid and iodohydrargyrate of potassium produced
neither a precipitate nor a coloration ; while in the mother-liquor pre-
cipitates were at once formed by the two first-named reagents, but by
the last one only after some hours, and in amount about one-eighth that
formed by phosphomolybdic acid. The mother-liquor, when heated
with solid hydrate of potassium, developed the odor of ammonia.
From these the writer concludes that the crystalline substance in ques-
tion is not an alkaloid.

A substance resembling emulsin was obtained by forming an emul-
sion of the marc with water, adding an equal bulk of ether, and agitat-
ing repeatedly during twenty-four hours, when, upon standing, the
liquid separated into two layers ; the supernatant liquid being removed,
alcohol was added to the other, which precipitated the emulsin. This
emulsin, with amygdalin, in the presence of water, developed the odor
of hydrocyanic acid after several days' standing. The result of Mr.
H. Bower (" Amer. Jour. Phar.," 1854, p. 208) is confirmed by this
experiment.

The residue obtained from the alcoholic percolate having deposited
a semi-solid portion, largely composed of coloring matter, was agitated
with ether, which took up the oil. The part left undissolved by the

Am. Jour. Pharm. i
Nov., 1876. J

Sium Latifolium.

483

ether was treated with successive portions of alcohol until but a few
grains were left ; this, containing a number of minute crystals, and
having a very sweet taste, was dissolved in water. The application of
Trommer's test proved the presence of sugar. A drop of the aque-
ous solution, placed on a microscope slide, and evaporated, plainly
revealed the presence of cane sugar.

As the best authorities agree in placing the amount of fixed oil
obtained from the kernels of the seeds at less than 50 per cent., it
would seem that, as more than 1 1 per cent, is obtainable from the
marc as rejected by the manufacturer by treatment with bisulphide of
carbon, the latter oil could be produced at a less cost than an inferior
quality of the expressed article, and answer the same purpose for use
in the arts.

The writer intends making further experiments to determine the
amount of butyric acid obtainable from the marc, by a process similar
to the one above described.

SIUM LATIFOLIUM,

[Water Parsnip, nat. order Umbellifera, Gray.)

BY NATHAN ROGERS, PH.G.

{Abstract from an Inaugural Essay presented to the California College of Pharmacy.)

Attention having been recently directed to this plant (see "Amer.
Jour. Phar.," 1873, p. 371), the writer concluded from its stated
marked poisonous properties to subject the plant to a chemical exami-
nation.

The water parsnip is an aquatic plant very common in the swamps
and along the water courses of the valleys of the Pacific slope. Its
root is creeping,1 stem erect, angular, leaves pinnate, leaflets ovate,
lanceolate, sessile smooth, serrate, sometimes pinnatifid \ flowers white,
large rayed, involucres many-leaved, umbels terminal. The leaves. of
the plant, when found growing in water, are generally bi-pinnatifid. In
appearance, growth, odor and taste it is closely allied to its innocent
congener, the Pastinaca sativa. On account of this resemblance, it
has frequently been productive of dangerous results, when eaten through
mistake for the harmless and nutritious tuber of that edible species.

1 This statement does not agree with the brief description given by Mr. A. R.
Porter on page 349 of this volume. The root examined by the latter had been sent
by Dr. C. B. White, U. S. A., to Mr. F. B. Power.— Editor.

484

Sium Latifolium.

f Am. Jour. Pharm-
\ Nov., 1876.

The root being considered the most active part of the plant, it was
deemed proper to subject that part to a chemical examination.

A portion of the root, cut up fine, was introduced into boiling water,,
contained in a retort, and a volatile oil obtained, which had a light-
straw color, neutral reaction and possessed a pungent odor, resembling
somewhat the peculiar odor of carrots. A cold infusion of the fresh
root, acidulated with hydrochloric acid, and filtered, to separate a pre-
cipitate, failed to give a precipitate with iodohydrargyrate of potassium ;
but when distilled with an excess of potassa solution, a perfectly clear
and colorless distillate was obtained, possessing a strong alkaline reac-
tion and a peculiar mouse-like odor, somewhat similar to that of con-
ium ; after neutralization with hydrochloric acid, however, not the
slightest precipitate was accasioned by phosphomolybdic acid, iodo-
hydrargyrate of potassium or potassium cadmic iodide.

The neutralized distillate was next concentrated on a water-bath,,
and then allowed to evaporate spontaneously over sulphuric acid, which
resulted in the deposition of long, slender, colorless needle-shaped
crystals. On the addition of milk of lime a peculiar alkaline volatile
principle was instantly liberated from its combination, and distinctly
recognized by its disagreeable mouse like odor, and the property of
restoring the blue color to reddened litmus.

Following Wittstein's process for preparing pastinacina, the alkaline
distillate was freed from the volatile oil, neutralized with sulphuric
acid, evaporated and treated with etherized alcohol to remove ammo-
nium sulphate, the filtrate evaporated to a syrupy consistency and dis-
tilled with solution of potassa, gave a distillate which possessed an
alkaline reaction, a urinous odor and a pungent taste. After neutral-
izing with sulphuric acid, needle-shaped crystals were obtained. This
alkaloid appears to be analogous to pastinacina.1

A spirituous tincture of the root was mixed with water, and the
alcohol and volatile oil distilled off ; the dark reddish-brown resin re-
moved from the aqueous liquid was soluble in ether and alcohol, and
produced in the throat an unpleasant, burning sensation. Weak am-
monia dissolved from this two acid resins^ which were precipitated, the
one by acetate, the other by subacetate of lead. The portion insoluble
in ammonia consisted in part of an indifferent resin. It was dissolved

1 Wittstein's pastinacina has an insignificant (unbedeutend) and scarcely some-
what acrid (scharf ) taste. See " Buchn. Repertorium," vol. 68, p. 18. — Editor.

AmNo0vU"'i87h6!rm" } Root °f Euphorbia Ipecacuanha. 48 5

in alcohol, precipitated by a spirituous solution of lead acetate, the pre-
cipitate decomposed by sulphuretted hydrogen, and the sulphide of
lead treated with boiling alcohol, from which, on cooling, shining
colorless needles of a neutral principle separated, which were insoluble
in pure and acidulated water, but soluble in ether, and from platinum
foil volatilizable without charring. The aqueous filtrate from the resin
obtained above was evaporated, and the residue incinerated ; the ashes
contained salts of potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium.

On examining a section of the root under the microscope, starch
granules wefe found to be quite plentifully around the medullary sheath
and near the cortical portion. They polarized but feebly, were oblong,
different in size and quite small. Sugar, albumen and gum were found
in the cold infusion by appropriate tests.

Medicinal Effects. — From experiments made upon dogs, the volatile
alkali and the neutral crystallizable principle were both found to be
perfectly inert, while the resinous mass, in ten-grain doses, was found
to lessen the frequency and the force of the heart's beat, producing
also dizziness, vomiting and purging, with slight convulsive movements.
These poisonous symptoms having gradually disappeared, the animals
were left in a prostrate, weakened condition, from which they slowly
.recovered.

San Francisco, Cat., February ioth, 1876.

ON THE ROOT OF EUPHORBIA IPECACUANHA.

EY PHILIPP H. DILG, PH.G.

(Abstract from an Inaugural Essay.)

The author collected the root in New Jersey late in September, and
on repeating some of Mr. Petzelt's experiments (see " Amer. Jour.
Pilar.," 1873, P* 25^) did not obtain any reaction for glucose until
after the decoction had been boiled with an acid.

The alcoholic extract obtained by spontaneous evaporation was of a
light-brown color and contained some crystals ; ether extracted from it
some oil and waxy matter, and a compound, which, on evaporation
from petroleum benzin, yielded clusters of radiating crystals.

On percolating the root with petroleum benzin and evaporating the
menstruum, a yellow tenacious mass, intermingled with thin colorless
needles, was obtained. This benzin extract was completely dissolved
by chloroform and bisulphide of carbon, the latter solution being tur-

486 Gentian Root said to contain Tannin. {Km^Z.;J^rm-

bid \ ether dissolved it partially, leaving a white flakey residue, and
alcohol acquired a yellow color without affecting the shape of the ex-
tract, which appears to consist mainly of caoutchone. From the al-
coholic solution a warty crystalline mass was obtained, which responded
to the test for euphorbon as given by Fliickiger (u Pharmacographia,"
p. 504).

The author did not succeed in isolating the emetic principle, and in
concluding his essay, he states that only two houses in this city quote
Euphorbia ipecacuanha in their price lists, but one only haa1 it in stock,
charging for it 75 cents per pound. On examining a dozen price lists
from eclectic druggists in different parts of the country, one from
Boston was the only one quoting it, and from that house a package
was obtained, marked Euphorbia Americana, but containing the root of
Gillenia stipulacea.1 If it was ever used to any extent, the drug has
evidently become obsolete and might well be dropped from the-
" Pharmacopoeia. "

GENTIAN ROOT SAID TO CONTAIN TANNIN.

BY JOHN M. MAISCH.

In a paper published in the March number of this journal (p. 117-
121), the writer has discussed the question, whether gentian root con-
tains tannin, and from his experiments and the investigations of others,
arrived at the conclusion that tannin is entirely absent, and that the
inky coloration, occurring on the addition of ferric chloride to a strong
infusion of gentian is due to gentianic (gentisic) acid and to the pres-
ence of a body producing a dark green fluorescence.

A brief abstract of the paper, giving the principal results, has found
its way into the " Pharmaceutische Centralhalle " of July 13, and is there
accompanied by a statement from Dr. Hager, of which the following
is a translation :

" Gentian root is collected from different species of Gentiana. It
is therefore explainable that one sample may be free from tannin,,
while another may contain it. This observation has been repeatedly
made in the preparation of Hager's quinia and iron pills ; hence the
remark in Hager's " Phar. Praxis," vol. II, p. 23 : ' the roots of some of

1 Our experience has been similar to that of Mr. Dilg ; several years ago we were
unable to find this root in the market, and on several occasions were supplied with,
the root of Gill, stipulacea. — Editor.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Nov., 1876.

Syrup of Liquorice Root.

487

the mentioned species of gentiana contain also iron blueing tannin. "
It must not be surprising if pills containing iron with gentian are ob-
tained from one apothecary's store of a brown, and from another of a
black mass."

On referring to the new work by Hager, we find only the brief state-
ment quoted above, without any further indication as to the observa-
tions upon which the conclusion is based. The species mentioned as
yielding some of the commercial root are G. purpurea, Lin., G. pan-
nonica, Scopoli, and G. punctata, Lin., the same species which are
usually enumerated in works on materia medica as being sometimes
collected with G. lutea, Lin. Since they appear to have been medi-
cinally employed for a long time, one being even officinal in Austria, it
would seem surprising that the presence of tannin in one or the other
should not have been observed before. If the variation in color of pills
containing a salt of iron, and prepared with extract of gentian, has led
Hager to the above statement, it seems to be precisely as correct to as-
sume that the extract had been prepared from a carelessly collected
gentian root, in which the presence of some foreign astringent root had
been overlooked.

The root of Gentiana crinita, FroeL, which had been collected last
year near Philadelphia, is free from tannin, and the same must be said
from a root very similar in appearanee, and which was received from
North Carolina as the root of G. Catesbsei, Walt. We are therefore,
it seems to me, justified to regard the medicinal gentian roots as being
free from tannin, until positive proof to the contrary is produced.

ON SYRUP OF LIQUORICE ROOT AND BROWN MIXTURE.

BY A. P. BROWN, PH.G.

[Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting October ijth.)

A short time ago, having occasion to make some ammoniacal glv-
cyrrhizin, it occurred to me that the use of ammonia in preparing
syrup of liquorice root would be an advantage, I therefore devised the
following formula :

Take of Liquorice root, ... 4 troyounces
Cold water, . . , . q. s.

Water of ammonia, . . 1 fluidounce
Granulated sugar, . . .13 troyounces.
Grind the root in a mill, and place it in a wide-mouth bottle, with a

48 8 Mixtures of Quinia and Ammonia. { Amd™'^rm-

tightly-fitting stopper, pour upon it one pint of water, mixed with the
water of ammonia, macerate for forty-eight hours, then transfer it to a
funnel and allow the liquid to drain from it, and add sufficient water
until two pints of liquid has passed ; allow it to stand until the particles
have subsided, then decant and evaporate to eight fluidounces, filter
and, having added the sugar, dissolve it with the aid of heat.

Experiments were made with the ordinary liquorice root and the
Russian peeled root, and of the two the syrup made from the Rus-
sian root is decidedly the finest. The cortical portion of liquorice
root is acrid, without possessing the peculiar virtues of the root, the
Russian root, being deprived of the epidermis, will, of course, make
the best preparation.

The syrup thus prepared is of a dark-brown color, and contains all
the sweet principles of the root without the starch and other inert
matter. It is used to mask the bitterness of quinia, and is well adapted
for children.

Sulphate of magnesium, iodide and bromide of potassium loose most
of their taste when mixed with this syrup.

I have prepared brown mixture from liquorice root and ammonia by
the following process :

Take of Liquorice root, ... 4 troyounces
Water of ammonia, . . 1 fluidounce
Water, . . . . q. s.

Proceed in the same manner as for syrup of liquorice root, but in-
stead of evaporating to eight fluidounces, evaporated to twelve fluid-
ounces, and mix this with the gum arabic, sugar and other ingredients.
Lastly, add water of ammonia until a clear solution is obtained, taking
care not to add an excess.

Brown mixture, prepared by the above process, is of a brownish-
vellow color, and almost entirely free from sediment.

MIXTURES OF QUINIA AND AMMONIA.

BY WILLIAM MciNTYRE, PH.G.

( Read at Social Meeting of Alumni Association of the College of Pharmacy, Oct. 5, 1876.)

While quinia and^ammonia are incompatible, an excess of the latter
will determine a solution, and a pharmaceutical preparation of this
character is not an impossibility.

Am . Jour. Pharm )
Nov., 1876. J

Practical Notes.

489

Several formulae have been published, and with the view of calling
renewed attention to the subject, they are re-produced.

Liquor quiniae ammoniatus (Bastick).

Take of Sulphate of quinia thirty-two grains j

Alcohol, 49 per cent., three and a half fluidounces ;
Water of ammonia, half a fluidounce.
Diffuse the quinia in half the spirit, add ammonia to the remainder, and mix
all together.

Tinctura quiniae ammoniata (Ince).

Take of Sulphate of quinia, thirty-two grains 5

Alcohol, 49 per cent., three and a half fluidounces ;
Spirit of ammonia, half a fluidounce.
The increased alcoholic strength is considered an improvement by
the author.

Liquor quiniae ammoniatus (Squire).

Take of Sulphate of quinia, thirty-two grains ;

Stronger water of ammonia, one fluidrachm 5

Alcohol, 49 per cent , sufficient to make four fluidounces.

Mix as in the first formula.

Tinctura quiniae ammoniata (Curtis).

Take of Quinia (alkaloid) thirty-two grains $

Aromatic spirit of ammonia, four fluidounces.
The quinia will readily dissolve in the spirit, and the strength of the
preparation can be increased, if desired.

These solutions are permanent; with water they make turbid mix-
tures, and are too pungent to be taken undiluted.

Note by the Editor. — The following, which is taken from
Squire's cc Pharmacopoeias of the London Hospitals," agrees with the
three first formulas in quinia strength, but is notably stronger in ammo-
nia and alcohol.

Liquor ^hiinicz Ammoniatus. — Sulphate of quinia, twenty-four grains ;
strong solution of ammonia, four drachms ; rectified spirit (sp. gr., 838)
to three ounces. Dose, 30 to 60 minims.

PRACTICAL NOTES.

The following notes are gleaned from some of the essays presented
to the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy last spring :

Lactate of Iron. — Instead of the officinal ferrous lactate, Louis P. Car-
bonell recommends the ferric lactate, which he succeeded to obtain in

Practical Notes,

{Am. Jour. Pharm.
Nov., 1876.

light-brown transparent scales by following the process for the other scale
preparations of iron, taking particular care to fully saturate the acid and
to avoid high temperature during the whole operation. If the first pre-
caution be overlooked, a more or less pasty mass will be the result, and
if the temperature rises too high, a pulverulent salt will be obtained.
The scaled salt is freely soluble in water and alcohol. 1

Lactate of iron and quinia and lactate of iron and strychnia may also
be obtained in brown scales, have a bitter ferruginous taste and are
soluble in alcohol and water.

Phytolacca. — Oliver P. Hooper gives the following formulas for
preparations of the poke :

Tinctura phytolaccte baccce concentrata.

Take of Poke berries, dried, . ^xvi

Alcohol . . .Oii

Macerate for 14 days at a temperature of 900 F., express and filter. Dose for an
adult, half a teaspoonful.

Alcohol extracts none of the red coloring matter, and the above
tincture has a brown color like tincture of aconite root. The writer
had known the tincture of poke berries employed with success in
chronic rheumatism, in doses of about twenty drops, and combined with
compound syrup of sarsaparilla and small doses of potassium iodide and
wine of colchicum.

Tinctura phytolaccte radicis compost ta.

Take of Poke root, ground, . 5vi

Cardamom, powdered, .
Diluted alcohol, . . Oii

Macerate for 14 days and filter. Dose, as an alterative, 10 to 20 minims.

Unguentum phytolaccce radicis.

Take of Fresh poke root, . . 5ii

Lard . . . -

Bruise the root until of a uniform pasty consistence, and mix with the lard. Has
been recommended in scalled head and similar diseases.

The root roasted in hot ashes until soft, and then mashed and ap-
plied as a poultice, is unrivaled in felons and humors of various kinds.
Cream of Camphor. — Charles Griffith offers the following formula for

1 Ferric hydrate dissolved in warm lactic acid, according to Wittstein, is grad-
ually in part reduced to ferrous salt. According to Berzelius, ferric lactate is in-
soluble in alcohol. — See " Gmelins Chemistry." — Editor.

AmNo°vU"-I87h6!rm- } Solubility of Iodide and Bromide. .49 1

a liniment, which is applicable in cases similar to those in which vola-
tile limiment is used :

Take of Castile soap, . . ^iss

Water of ammonia, . . f^iss

Camphor, . . £vi

Oil of turpentine, . . f £vi

• Chloride of ammonium, . ^iss
Water, . . . f^xii

Dissolve the soap shavings in one-half the water previously mixed with the am-
monia, and the ammonium chloride in the other half ; mix the solutions well, and add
the camphor dissolved in the turpentine ; then agitate briskly until the liquids are
united and form a perfect emulsion. 1 Other active medicines may be added when
indicated.

SOLUBILITY OF IODIDE AND BROMIDE OF AMMONIUM IN

ETHER.

BY E. M. WELLS, PH.G.

During an investigation, I observed that iodide of ammonium is sol-
uble in ether. Being desirous to know the extent of its solubility, I
examined several standard works, but found nothing written on the
subject. " Gmelin's Chemistry" (edition 1872) merely states that the
salt is very deliquescent and easily soluble in water and alcohol, and
similar statements are met with in other works.

From the results of the determinations as given below, it seems that
both iodide and bromide of ammonium are not insoluble in pure ether^
and that their solubility increases very considerably as the ether
becomes weaker through the presence of alcohol.

An excess of the respective salts was put into a flask with a quan-
tity of ether, and allowed to stand several hours, and was well shaken
at short intervals. The temperature was from 6o° F. to 650 F. The
ethereal solutions were carefully poured in a tared beaker, well covered
and weighed, then set aside to evaporate to dryness and re-weighed.

The results of the several experiments are given in the following
table :

Grs. of Ether,
sp. gr. -715.

Grs. of Ether,
sp. gr. -742.

Dissolved grs. Iodide
of Ammonium.

Dissolved grs. Bro-
mide of Ammon.

Per cent.

•218

•5

•22

'225

Amount very small

'345

9

2'6o

•249

•5

•20

1 For a formula for a similar preparation see "Am. Jour. Phar.," 1875, P- 257 — "
Editor.

49 2 Gleanings from the Danish Journals. {AVo°v?4h6arm*

GLEANINGS FROM THE DANISH JOURNALS.

BY HANS M. WILDER.

Enameled Iron Pots. — Werner-Cronquist and Eggertz found until
38 per cent, lead in the enamel. In a pot of 8 cubic inches capacity
was boiled, for 3J hours, 450 grams vinegar (10 per cent.), and yielded
0 0 14 grams lead. — Arch, for Pharm., 'j6 p. 248, from Hygiea, 1876.

Blaud's Pills. — Ae recommends to keep on hand a mixture of ferri
sulphas 15 parts, potass, carb. 15 parts and sugar 3 parts. If pills are
prescribed to be made, for instance, from 15 parts each of sulph. ferri
and pot. carb., 33 parts of the above mass is taken and made into pills
with about 6 parts powdered marshmallow root. Pills thus made keep
their shape and are easily digested. — Ibid,, p. 256, from Arch. d. Ph.

Whether Trees have been Cut at the Right Season. — Prillieux recom-
mends iodine, which colors the cross section of trees cut in winter
time yellow, with blueish-black lines. Trees cut at any other season
will only be colored yellow by iodine. — Ibid., p. 289, from Dingier.

Pharmacopoeia Danica. — The second supplement contains the fol-
lowing additions : Acid, salicylic, bals. styrax, caffeina, iodoform ; of
preparations : Aqua chamomillae concentrata. 100 parts recently dis-
tilled chamomile water are mixed with 2 parts alcohol, and therefrom
distilled 10 parts. Likewise elder-flower water and linden-flower
water. — Ibid., p. 299.

Pure nitrogen. — Knapp produces it in short time and in quite con-
siderable quantities by slightly heating a concentrated solution of 53*5
chloride of ammonium and 69 nitrate of sodium. — Ibid., 356, from
Buchner, 1876, p. 5.

THE DIFFERENT SYRUPS OF THE PHOSPHATES IN GENERAL USE.

BY ERNERT C SAUNDERS.

The difference in the quality and strength of different samples of the
preparation known as Parrish's Chemical Food, as found in the market
at the present time, has been the subject of considerable discussion
during the past few months, but as, with the exception of Mr. W. L.
Howie in his useful and practical paper, all seem to have devoted their
energies more to finding out faults in ordinary samples of the prepara-
tion than to remedying them, I venture to submit the following re-

AmNJo0vU^87h6!rm•} The different Syrups of the Phosphates. 493,

marks on this article, and the somewhat similar one of Easton's Syrup,
which is also difficult to make and to keep in good condition. I begin
with Parrish's Syrup as perhaps the most difficult to make according to
the ordinary formula.

The chief reason for the difference met with in the various makes of
this preparation is to be found in the fact that the principal published
formula, that in Parrish's " Pharmacy," is an utterly unpractical one.
It is well known that glacial phosphoric acid, uncontaminated with
phosphate of soda, is hardly to be found in the market at present ; but
even if it were, it is next to impossible to obtain a good preparation
with it, as it is a monobasic acid, while the direction to add " quantum
sufficit " of hydrochloric acid is exceedingly vague. But apart from
this, it is evident that the formula cannot be strictly followed, as if the
quantity of ferrous phosphate directed to be present in each fluidrachm
of the completed syrup is attended to, 32 troyounces of sugar
will have to be made into 36 fluidounces of syrup — a manifest
impossibility ; while, if the quantity given as the amount of solu-
tion to be formed for the sugar to be dissolved in is adhered to, the
result will be about 46 fluidounces of syrup, which will not contain the
requisite amount per drachm of iron and lime. All the formulae at
present in use seem merely modifications of that given by Parrish. In
the following form the author has only followed Parrish as far as the
result to be obtained is concerned, viz., that the finished syrup shall
contain in each fluidrachm 1 grain ferrous phosphate Fe3P208,
grains calcic phosphate Ca3P208, and traces of sodic and potassic phos-
phates, with free phosphoric acid.

Take of Iron wire, clean, No. 20, . . 240 grains 5

Syrupy phosphoric acid (sp. gr. i-75), 3 oz. by weight 5

Water, distilled, ... 4 fluidounces.

Mix the acid and water, and dissolve the wire in the mixture in a
flask, loosely stopped with tow ; the hydrogen evolved then protects
the solution from oxidation. When all action has ceased, heat to
boiling point, and filter through paper in .a funnel with a long neck
reaching to the bottom of a beaker containing a little syrup, which
floating on the iron solution will effectually prevent any oxidation.

Slaked lime, fresh, . . 923 grains ;

Phosphoric acid (sp. gr. 175), . 9^ oz. by weight.

Water, distilled, . . . 14 fluidounces.

494 The different Syrups of the Phosphates. {AmJ0Tj^rm-

Mix the acid and water, and dissolve the lime in the mixture. Filter
the solution.

Crystallized sodic carbonate, . . 54 grains 5

Potassic carbonate, . . 72 grains ;

Phosphoric acid (sp. gr. 1*75), . . \ oz. by weight;

Distilled water, ... 1 fluidounce.

Dissolve and filter. Then mix all the solutions, and, having added
distilled water to make the solution measure 28 fluidounces, dissolve in
it with heat sugar, 3J lb. ; powdered cochineal, 85 grains ; and strain
while hot. When cold, add orange-flower water, 2 fluidounces, and
sufficient distilled water to make the whole measure 64 fluidounces.
The product is a nice clear syrup, entirely free from sulphate of soda
or ammonic chloride, both of which are by no means uncommon im-
purities, from the difficulty of washing the precipitates when the syrup
is made in the old way, while the whole process will be found very
much less troublesome and tedious. Calcic hydrate is generally suf-
ficiently pure as commonly obtained, though where the chemist has
the facilities for doing it, it is best for him to make the lime himself,
by igniting precipitated chalk in a crucible, at a full red heat, for an
hour.

I may remark here, though it does not exactly bear on the subject,
that the last edition (1872) of Pereira's "Materia Medica " contains
the astonishing information, on page 213, that " Hypophosphite of lime
is an important constituent in Parrish's Chemical Food a statement
that is liable to mislead physicians in a serious manner.

Easton's syrup is another preparation that is frequently badly made,
and very often deficient in iron. The precipitate so frequently met
with, in the form of phosphate of quinia, is, I think, always owing to
the use of an acid containing metaphosphoric acid. I have never been
troubled with a precipitate since I have taken pains to use only ortho-
phosphoric acid, H3P04. The change in color is due to exposure to
the air, chiefly from oxidation of the iron salt, but partly to the quinia
changing color. It may be entirely avoided, as has been often re-
marked, by completely filling the bottles in which the syrup is kept,
and corking so as to have as little air left in the bottle as possible.

No trouble will be found in making a satisfactory preparation if the
following form be strictly followed, and care taken to avoid exposure to
the air of the iron solution.

AmNJo°v.r;x876rin'} The diferent Syrup of the Phosphates. 495

Take of Iron wire (No. 20), . . 240 grains

Phosphoric acid (sp. gr. 1*75), . 3 oz. by weight

Water, . . . .4 fluiduonces

Dissolve with the precautions directed above in the formula for
Parrish's syrup.

Quinia sulph., .... 625 grains

Liq. ammon.,
Distilled water,

Dilute sulphuric acid, . . . oa q. s.

Precipitate the quinia, secundum artem, and wash on a filter with
a pint of very cold distilled water, press strongly, and dissolve in half
an ounce, by weight, of phosphoric acid, diluted with an ounce of
water in which 16 grains of strychnia have been dissolved. Mix with
the solution of iron, add enough distilled water to make the whole
measure 10 fluidounces, and mix thoroughly with 54 fluidounces of
simple syrup. The resulting syrup will contain in each fluidrachm 1
grain ferrous phosphate Fe3P208, 1 grain quinic phosphate (C20H24N2
02)32H3P04, and ^ grain of strychnia.

These two syrups afford good examples of two classes of syrups that
present considerable difficulties in manipulation with the formulae in
general use, which, I think, are quite removed in the two just submitted,
both have now been tested on a large scale for some time, and found
very satisfactory in their products. No originality is claimed in the
use of metallic iron in place of precipitated ferrous phosphate ; it was,
I believe, first suggested by Mr. W. H. Jones, in the columns of the
" Pharmaceutical Journal." The chief point that I would press, is the
importance of using tribasic (ortho) phosphoric acid, H3P04 ; both
metaphosphoric acid, HPOs, and pyrophosphoric acid, H4P207, if
present in the acid to even a small extent, are certain to cause trouble.
The precaution given as to filtering the solution of ferrous phosphate
will be found useful in many other cases ; a beakerful of solution of
ferrous iodide filtered in a similar manner, with a layer of syrup the
eighth of an inch thick floating on the surface, can be left exposed for
24 hours without injury to the solution. It is, of course, necessary
that the solution should have the greatest specific gravity. — Pharm.
'Journ. and Trans., July 15, 1876.

496 Variation in Strength of Opium Preparations. { A Vov^X^""

THE VARIATION IN STRENGTH OF THE OPIUM PREPARATIONS.

BY D. B. DOTT.

In the following communication, the subject of which is one of those
suggested for investigation by the Conference, I give the results of an
examination of a number of the official opium preparations. It was
not thought necessary to test samples of all these preparations, but
only of the tincture, extract, and liquid extract ; the morphia-strength
of which will probably afford a sufficiently accurate idea of the quality
of the opium preparations at present supplied to the public. All the
samples examined were procured from druggists of good standing in
London, Dublin and Edinburgh.

In the first place I give the assays of a variety of opiums, with the
amount of extract obtained from each. The percentage of extract
was not found directly, but by subtracting the percentages of water and
insoluble residue from 100, the difference being the percentage of dry
extract. The proportion of the morphia in the extract is calculated
from the result of the opium 'assay.

It will be seen from this table that the richest extract obtained would
contain 34*4 per cent, of morphia, while the poorest would contain
13*7 per cent. Whence it is manifest that two chemists, starting with
opiums perfectly answering the " Pharmacopoeia " tests, and strictly
following the officinal process, might succeed in preparing extracts,
one of which would be more than twice the strength of the other.

Description of
Opium used.

Morphia
per cent.

Water
per cent.

Aqueous
extract per
cent.

Residue
insoluble in
water per ct.

Morphia in
extract per
cent.

1 .

Turkey

10-75

19*6

47*80

32 60

22*4

2.

<(

12*30

20*0

51*15

28-85

24*0

3-

<«

I0"20

26*0

48*05

25'95

21*2

4-

«<

7'57

21*2

54-90

23-70

i3'7

5-

<<

960

22'0

47*05

30-95

20*4

6.

««

1 169

18*4

56>I5

*5'45

20-8

7.

«<

12*30

19*2

54'9o

25*90

22'4

8.

(«

12*30

20*4

45-40

34-20

27-0

9-

(<

6*76

27-2

37-00

35'8o

18*2

10.

«<

9*80

21*2

40*00

38*80

24-5

11.

tt

8*85

22.8

47-50

29*70

i8*6

12.

««

6*93

* iv*

20-10

47*90

34-4

13-

Persian

6.00

14*0

59-20

26*80

IO*I

14.

(<

8*50

12*0

6o'6o

27-40

14 0

15-

(<

2*IO

1 6*o

58-10

2590

3-6

16.

" in sticks

traces

15*6

73'9°

10-50

traces

17-

Malwa

7'3o

15 2

60*70

24*10

12-0

18.

<<

5-80

13 6

61*10

25-20

9-5

19.

Egyptian

7-00

14-8

56*90

28 30

12*3

A\3ovr,'^Xm'} Variation of Strength in Opium Preparations. 497

In the next table I give the estimation of several samples of Extrac-
tion Opii.

Water per cent.

!M[orpriia. per cent.

Morphia per cent>

No.

1

19*2

19-4

No

7

22-8

No.

2

2 I "2

197

No.

8

No.

3

26-8

16-2

No.

9

20-5

No.

4

l8'4

19*6

No.

1 0

15*4

No.

5

23*2

19 7

No.

1 1

20'4

No.

6

22*0

l8'2

The difference between the maximum 22'8 and the minimum 15*4
is equal to a variation in the morphia-strength of about 3 to 4J. The
average percentage is 19*7.

I next give a list of the samples of Extractum Opii Liquidum exam-
ined, with their specific gravities and the amount of morphia in the
fluidounce.

No.

Spec. Grav.

Grs. Morphia in fl. oz.

No.

Spec. Grav.

Grs. Morphia in fl. oz

I.

II.

mean

I

II.

mean

1

0-987

3-82

4-08

3-95

9

0-985

4-68

4 34

451

2

0-992

4'02

3"95

3*98

10

i -ooo

4-17

4-01

409

3

0 986

2-66

2-87

2-76

1 1

0-989

3-68

375

376

4

0993

3*o4

3-89

3'46

12

37i

5

0-996

373

3-12

3'42

*3

2-28

6

0-995

2*26

2*o6

2-16

14

o-6i

7

0-992

r78

i-63

i-66

15

2'22

8

0-996

4'33

2'34

4'33

It will be observed that in these fifteen samples the grains of mor-
phia in the fluidounce varied from o*6 to 4*5, the average being 3*12,
Only one estimation of the last four was made, as these were exam-
ined some months ago, without any intention of publishing the results.
In one or two cases it would have been advisable to repeat the deter-
mination of the morphia, but the quantity of each sample admitted of
only two estimations being made.

In the following table I give the assays of eighteen samples of the
Tinctura Opii, with thsir specific gravities.

49 8 Variation of Strength in Opium Preparations. {Am^

No.

u u ^ v . \J lav •

Grs. Morphia in fl. oz.

No.

Spec. Grav.

Grs. Morphia in fl. oz.

I.

II.

mean

I.

II.

mean

i

•922

3"3°

3'5°

3 4o

10

•960

3'5°

3'57

3*53

2

•938

2-80

2-70

275

12

•953

3-04

3

•955

2"IO

2"IO

2'IO

1 1

•936

3"9°

4

•940

2*90

37°

3-30

13

371

5

•956

2-05

2,IO

2'07

14

4"37

6

"937

2-08

2 23

2-I5

15

2'02

7

•929

3'12

3'28

3'20

16

0-83

8

•957

3*62

3 '45

3*53

17

I-9I

9

•962

1 '40

1-59

1 '49

18

0-55

In this, the most important of the opium preparations, the variation
of morphia strength extends from 4^37 to 0*65 grs. in the fluidounce \
the average being 2*66.

The method employed in all the above-noted assays is a modification
of that recommended in the British " Pharmacopoeia." I find that the
precipitate of crude morphia obtained in that process is equal on an
average to T70ths of its weight of the pure base. It is a process which
I have every reason to believe gives at least as accurate results as those
obtainable by any of the recognized methods.

I think the most obvious conclusion to be arrived at from the fore-
going experiments, and from those of other observers, is that the opium
preparations are not remedies to be relied on. When one considers
that a physician who prescribes for his patient one drachm of laudanum,
intending that the latter should receive thereby J of a grain of mor-
phia, may in reality be only giving him ^th of a grain, it is manifest
that this indicates a condition of things demanding amendment. It
has been proposed by Dr. Squibb (reported in the " Year-Book for
1870") to prepare a strong tincture, assay it, and then dilute to the
proper strength, or at least to prepare the tincture, etc., from assayed
opium. I am afraid, however, that there would be great, if not insup-
erable, difficulty in getting this system brought into general use. The
trouble involved in following such a plan would deter the majority of
pharmacists from adopting it. For my own part, I believe the ultimate
solution of the difficulty will be the abolition of all the galenical pre-
parations of opium from the " Pharmacopoeia." Indeed, unless opium
possesses therapeutical properties which are not possessed by its alka-
loids, there can be no reason for retaining it. That is a question, of
course, to be decided by medical men. Still, I venture to think that

AVo°vu>r'i87hSrm'} Assay of Opium for Morphia. 499

our knowledge of the physiological effects of opium and its constitu-
ents is sufficiently complete to enable us to affirm that all the objects
for which opium is prescribed can be attained equally well by the use
of its alkaloids. Among these only three can be said to have any
practical importance, viz., morphia, codeia and narceina, which are all
hypnotics, and seem to differ from one another mainly in the amount
required to produce the desired effect. The other bases are either inert
in ordinary doses, or exist in such minute quantities that the proportion
of them in a large dose of laudanum could only produce a physiologi-
cal effeet in the imagination of a homoeopathist.

I believe that the chief work of pharmaceutical chemistry for a
long time to come will consist in the perfecting of processes for the
isolation of the active principles of the vegetable remedies, so that in
due time all the mediaeval tinctures and decoctions of the " Pharmoco-
poeia " will become obsolete, and be superseded by preparations of defi-
nite and invariable strength. It is my sincere hope that this paper,
meagre and imperfect though it is, may in some small measure be the
means of hastening such a desirable consummation. — Pharm. four, and
Trans. [Lond.], Sept. 16, 1876.

REPORT OF AN ASSAY OF OPIUM FOR MORPHIA.

BY EDWARD LAWRANCE CLEAVER, F.C.S.

In order to thoroughly criticize the different processes in present use
for the estimation of morphia in opium it is necessary to have a thorough
knowledge of the following points :

1. What are the constituents of opium ?

2. In what state of combination do they exist ?

3. The action of solvents and reagents on these principles.

4. The action of solvents on opium.

5. The action of alkalies on solutions of opium.

6. The action of heat, acids, etc., on morphia.

This paper will therefore be divided into two parts. The first con-
sists of remarks on the foregoing heads ; the second of the application
of these remarks to point out the advantages and disadvantages of the
existing processes used for opium analysis.

Part I. — The principal constituents of opium are as follows : Mor-
phia, narcotina, narceina, codeina, thebaina, papaverina, a substance

500 Assay of Opium for Morphia, {Ami/C™ a**™"

resembling caoutchouc, probably two resins, meconic acid and calcium
salts, and a substance we will designate by the name of extractive.

Of these the morphia in all probability exists combined with the
meconic acid to form soluble meconate of morphia.

The narcotina is either entirely free or partly combined with acid.

The remaining alkaloids are probably in a state of combination.

The meconic acid is partly free and partly combined.

The action of different solvents and reagents on the principles of
opium are as follows :

Water {distilled}. — Morphia is soluble to the extent of one part in
1,000 ; narcotina in 10,000 ; narceina is sparingly soluble though more
so than morphia ; the meconic acid is freely soluble ; the resin, caout-
chouc, etc., are insoluble.

Alcohol. — -Morphia is sparingly soluble in cold alcohol, freely in boil-
ing. The remaining alkaloids, resin and caoutchouc are soluble.

Fusel Oil. — All the alkaloids are freely soluble in fusel oil. The
resin is also slightly soluble.

Ether, Benzol, Bisulphide of Carbon. — Morphia is soluble to the ex-
tent of one part in 2,000 ; the remaining alkaloids are freely soluble.
The resin is insoluble ; caoutchouc soluble.

Acids. — The whole of the alkaloids and resins are soluble in acids.

Fixed Alkalies. — Morphia is freely soluble in solutions of fixed alka-
lies, narcotina is insoluble. In the presence of morphia narcotina is
dissolved by lime water; narceina is soluble. The remaining alkaloids
are insoluble. The resin is partly soluble.

Ammonia. — Morphia is sparingly soluble in ammonia, a I per cent,
solution dissolving five parts in 1,000. The narceina and codeina are
soluble. The remaining alkaloids and resin are insoluble.

Action of Solvents on Opium.

It follows from the foregoing remarks that when opium is treated
with water the solution contains meconate of morphia, salts of narco-
tina and other alkaloids ; resin, taken into solution by the free acid
present ; calcium salts, meconic acid and extractive.

An a1 oholic solution will, in addition to the above, contain more
narcotina, caoutchouc, fat and resin.

The question here arises as to whether water will thoroughly exhaust
the opium of its morphia. Opinions on this point are divided, but I

Assay of Opium for Morphia. 501

believe that, provided the solution produced be acid, water will effect-
ually exhaust the marc.

It may be said that opium, after prolonged treatment with water, has
a bitter taste, thus proving some constituent to be present ; but that
this bitterness is not due to morphia may be proved by treating the
marc with benzol, ether or bisulphide of carbon, when the bitterness is
entirely removed. Preliminary treatment with one of the above men-
tioned solvents is recommended by some authors, and this plan has the
advantage that the quantity of water required for the after treatment of
the opium is much less than if the preliminary exhaustion be omitted,
and also that the narcotina being nearly all removed, the point of ex-
haustion is more easily noticed by the solution dropping through devoid
of bitterness. It must, however, be remembered that a slight loss of
morphia is entailed by the preliminary treatment, but the amount may
be calculated by adding '005 gr. for every 10 cc. of solvent used to the
amount of morphia afterwards found.

Hot water is also recommended by some, but I do not think much
advantage is gained by its use, as the following experiment will prove :

No. 1. 100 grains of dried powdered opium were treated with hot
water. It yielded 69 per cent, of extract and 12*2 per cent, of brown
crystalline morphia.

No. 2. 100 grains of the same opium were treated with cold water
by percolators ; five fluidounces of water were used and then the solu-
tion had a very bitter taste. It yielded 54*3 per cent, extract and 11*9
per cent, of colored crystalline morphia.

No. 3. 100 grains were treated first with boiling benzin and after-
wards percolated with water. It required under three ounces of liquid
to render the marc tasteless, whilst in the previous experiment five
fluidounces were required, and even then the solution obtained was
slightly bitter. The liquid yielded 547 per cent, of extract and 12.2
of colored crystalline morphia.

It will be seen from these experiments that although hot water dis-
solves more from opium than cold water, yet the yield of morphia is
not greater. The effect, however, of first using benzin is more marked,
and the increased yield of morphia I believe to be due to the fact that less
water being used, less time was required to evaporate the solution, and
thus destruction of the morphia by heat is avoided. I also tried the

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Nov., 1876. J

502 Assay of Opium for Morphia. {AmNo0vl!!**i8P76arm'

effect of mixing opium with chalk, and then adding water, and per-
colating.

ioo grains of opium, as before, yielded 45 per cent, of extract, which
gave ii*9 per cent, of brown crystalline morphia.

The difference in extract yielded by the plan is due to the fact that
the free acid being neutralized by the chalk, the meconic acid, part of
resin, the whole of the meconate of calcium, and part of narcotina, are
removed from solution and so diminish the weight of extract obtained.

The results obtained by this process, compared with others, will be
given further on.

Action of Alkalies on Infusion and Tincture of Opium.

Ammonia. — If excess of solution of ammonia be added to infusion
of opium a precipitate is obtained, which consists chiefly of morphia,
but contains small quantities of narcotina and other alkaloids, meconate
of calcium and resin. This precipitate is either crystalline or amor-
phous, accordingly as a solution was hot or cold when precipitated. If
the solution be concentrated until about equal to twice the weight of
opium employed, and ammonia added to the boiling liquid, with constant
stirring, the resin is precipitated, melts and adheres firmly to the sides
of the containing vessel or to the glass rod used for stirring. The liquid
can then be poured off immediately, when the morphia, etc., will begin
to be precipitated owing to the change of temperature. The crystals
so obtained are free from the resin and light-brown in color. The
morphia is not entirely precipitated by ammonia from infusion of opium,
owing to the solubility of morphia in water and in ammonia. If the
ammonia be added in slight excess only, and the liquid allowed to stand
until the smell of the ammonia has disappeared, then the amount of
morphia left in solution should correspond to the amount of liquid used,,
unless there be any constituent in the infusion of opium which prevents
the complete precipitation of morphia. This, according Prof. Dragen-
dorff, is the case. The following experiments, however, tend to prove
that, provided the excess of ammonia be nearly driven off, the amount,
of morphia left in solution is in direct accordance with its solubility in
water.

6*48 grams of dried Turkey opium were exhausted with water, and
concentrated to 35 cc. It yielded *8oo gram of morphia. The solu-
tion, which with the wash water measured 70 cc, was shaken repeat-
edly with fusel oil; fusel oil removed and evaporated. The residue

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Nov., 1876. j

Assay of Opium for Morphia.

was treated with dilute acid and precipitated with ammonia. This last
operation was performed entirely with about 10 cc. of liquid. It yielded
•067 gram of morphia, which with *oio to be added for loss of morphia
in the 10 cc. of liquid, gave '077 or only '005 gram in excess of the
theoretical quantity, which may be accounted for, as the morphia was
not quite free from color.

Five grams of Persian opium treated as above yielded '460 gram of
morphia, and 50 cc. of liquid was used. This, treated by amylic alco-
hol, gave '053 gram of morphia.

6*480 grams of a very rich sample of Persian opium gave .907 of
morphia, 6*8o cc. of wash water were used. This, by treatment with
amylic alcohol, yielded '087 gram of morphia.

There is, however, one point in connection with the precipitation of
morphia by ammonia to which special attention must be paid. It is
that solutions of opium from which the morphia has been precipitated
by slight excess of ammonia, if left to stand until the smell of ammonia
has disappeared, redissolve a large quantity of the precipitate, so that
care must be taken that the liquid should always have a slight excess of
ammonia present. It is, I believe, to the neglect of this fact that Prof.
Dragendorff has made the statement that opium contains some ingre-
dient which hinders the precipitation of the morphia.

When, however, ammonia in strong excess was allowed to remain in
the liquid, the amount of morphia extracted by amylic alcohol was
much greater, in one case as much as 3 per cent.

If the opium before treating with water has been mixed with chalky
then the precipitate obtained by ammonia consists of morphia, narco-
tina and resin, the meconate of calcium being entirely got rid of. If
the opium has been treated with boiling benzin, bisulphide of carbon or
ether, previous to infusion, then the precipitate consists of morphia,
meconate of calcium, resin and minute quantities of other alkaloids.
The following experiment will illustrate the difference in composition
of the precipitate under these different circumstances.

No. 1. 6*480 grams of dried opium treated with cold water, the
solution evaporated to half an ounce, ammonia added in slight excess
and allowed to stand twenty-four hours, gave 1*695 gram of precipitate ;
of this 1*506 was soluble in boiling alcohol. The alcoholic residue,
etc., treated with bisulphide of carbon, lost -358 gram. The remain-
der dissolved in dilute acid, and treated with slight excess of ammonia,
yielded '870 gram of morphia.

504 Assay of Opium for Morphia. {%fc!£a^

No. 2. 6.480 grams mixed with chalk, and treated as above, gave
1*258 of precipitate by ammonia ; of this 1*200 was soluble in alcohol,
•267 soluble in bisulphide of carbon and '858 of morphia.

No. 3. 6"4.8o grams treated with bisulphide of carbon, and afterwards
exhausted with water, yielded 1*332 gram of precipitate by ammonia,
of which 1 '137 was soluble in alcohol, and *oo8 in bisulphide of carbon
and yielded '880 of morphia.

From this it will be seen—

1

2

3

4

Precipitate by Ammonia, .

26 06

19*6

20-5

183

Portion soluble in Alcohol, .

• 23-08

i8-5

17-2

16-1

" c.s2 •

S'S

4' 1

O'l

Morphia contained in precipitate, .

. 13-28

13 25

13*59

137

That a large quantity of morphia escapes precipitation by ammonia is
a point strongly to be remembered, as in the case of a bad opium con-
tainining only from 2 to 4 per cent, of morphia, more morphia might
remain in the liquid than was precipitated.

It has been proposed to take the weight of the precipitate given by
ammonia as a criterion of the goodness of opium, and good opium
should certainly not give less than 14 to 15 per cent, of it, but it
should be borne in mind that it does not contain more than half its
weight of morphia.

If ammonia be added to infusion of opium (which has been acidified
with hydrochloric acid) until exactly neutral, the resin and meconate
of calcium are precipitated, whilst soluble hydrochlorate of morphia re-
mains in solution ; the precipitate can then be filtered off and then
ammonia be added to the filtrate in slight excess ; a light- colored pre-
cipitate is obtained, which consists of morphia and narcotina in a very
pure form.

Potash, soda and lime, added to infusion of opium, cause a precipi-
tate of narcotina, and resin, and meconate of calcium, but the mor-
phia is dissolved by the excess of alkali present. If the solution be
filtered quickly the morphia soon separates out, and is in a very pure
form, but there is some loss in the process, as I have never been able
to recover by this means as much morphia as by other processes. Lime
water also dissolves narcotina to some extent, provided morphia be
present.

Action of Heat on Morphia. — If morphia or its salts be boiled with
water for some time the solution becomes colored ; if acids in excess

AmNJo°Ci8P76arm*} Assay of Opium for Morphia. 505

be present the action is more marked, whilst with alkalies the action is
stronger still, and a flocculent-brown precipitate is soon formed. The
following experiments may prove useful as showing that, provided allow-
ance be made for the solubility of morphia in water, the precipitate is
complete :

I took '583 gr. of pure morphia, dissolved in acid and treated with
slight excess of ammonia. After twenty-four hours the precipitate was
collected, dried and weighed ; it gave '552 gr. of morphia; the wash
water was 30 cc, equivalent to "030 of morphia, thus making the total
•582 gr.

•113 gr. of pure morphia, treated as above, gave *ioo gr. of precipi-
tate and 13 cc. of liquid, which would correspond to '013 gr. of mor-
phia, thus making the total '113.

Ammonia added to tincture of opium, or to an alcoholic solution of
the precipitate produced by ammonia, produces a precipitate of part
of the morphia and part of the narcotina present, the amount remaining
in solution depending on the strength and quantity of the alcoholic
liquid ; if the liquid be tincture of opium, then the precipitate contains
meconate of calcium.

Part II. — In commencing my criticisms on the processes in use I
will begin with the most simple, and then proceed to describe others
more complicated.

Arnoldi's process (" Jour. Chem. Soc," 1874). Opium is ex-
hausted with water, the solution treated with animal charcoal, concen-
trated and precipitated by ammonia. The precipitate is collected, dried
and weighed as impure morphia. The author states that good opium
should yield above 14 per cent.

The objections are :

1. That the morphia is not entirely precipitated by ammonia.

2. That the precipitate, though called impure morphia, does not
contain much more than half its weight of ammonia.

3. The use of animal charcoal ensures loss of alkaloid, as the under-
mentioned experiment will prove :

2*435 grams of pure morphia were dissolved in acid and boiled with
animal charcoal. The morphia was precipitated, and the amount
obtained, allowing for loss by solubility, was 2*405 gr., thus indicating
a loss of over 1 per cent.

A second experiment showed even a higher loss.

506 Assay of Opium for Morphia {^J™J£jg!mm

The process given by Professor Fliickiger in the " Pharmacogra-
phia " is better, but far from perfect. It is as follows : Opium is
exhausted by boiling ether, the residue dried, treated with water, and
precipitated by ammonia. This precipitate recrystallized from boiling
alcohol.

Professor Fliickiger himself describes the process as imperfect, and
gives his reasons. He is one of the very few who seem to have taken
notice of the loss of morphia by virtue of its solubility and of its
destruction by heat. The chief objections to the process are :

1. The long continued boiling with ether (twenty or thirty times
repeated with fresh quantities) takes away some of the morphia, and
care must be taken that the ether employed is free from alcohol and
water.

2. The loss of morphia by virtue of its solubility.

3. In crystallizing from alcohol much morphia remains in solution,
but the crystals deposited are very pure.

The small proportions of morphia found by Professor Fliickiger
tend to prove the correctness of these statements.

Guibourt's process ("Journal de Pharmacie et Chimie") consists in
exhausting opium with water, precipitating by ammonia, and washing
the precipitate first with dilute alcohol to remove narcotina and color-
ing matter, and afterwards dissolving the morphia by means of strong
alcohol. The alcoholic solution is evaporated, dried and weighed.

The objections to this process are loss of morphia by washing the
precipitate with dilute alcohol, and in the precipitation with ammonia.

The residue obtained by the evaporation of the alcoholic solution is
not pure morphia, but contains narcotina and resin.

Schacht's process ("Archiv der Pharmacie," 1863). The process
is an improvement on the last mentioned. It consists in exhausting
opium with water by two or three macerations, treating with animal
charcoal, concentrating, and adding ammonia. The precipitate is
weighed, treated with ether, and the etherial solution evaporated and
weighed. The portion insoluble in ether is treated with strong alco-
hol, the alcoholic solution evaporated, dried and weighed ; or it is
washed with water and dilute alcohol and again weighed, the weight
being taken as pure morphia.

This process has the following objections :

I. The amount of water used by macerating three successive times

AmNJo0^r-x8P76arm-} Assay of Opium for Morphia. 507

necessitates long applications of heat for evaporating, which tends to
destroy the morphia. The meconic acid present is also split up and
forms other colored matters, which help to make the morphia impure.

2. The animal charcoal used retains alkaloid.

3. If the alcoholic solution be evaporated, the results are high, as it
contains coloring matter and resin.

4. If washed with alcohol (dilute) and water, morphia is dissolved
away.

5. No mention is made of the morphia lost in precipitating.

It is, however, the best of those processes in which water is used
alone as a solvent, and by slightly modifying, as follows, can be made
to produce very good results.

The solution from which the morphia has been precipitated by am-
monia should either be measured and allowance made for the morphia
dissolved, or it should be treated with amylic alcohol as before
described.

1. The opium should be first treated with benzin, as by that means
less water is required for exhaustion, and the marc should be perco-
lated, not macerated.

2. The use of animal charcoal should be precluded, the morphia
being purified by being dissolved in acid, made neutral, filtered, and
then adding ammonia.

The process devised by Merck, consists in exhausting with water,
and precipitating by means of carbonate of soda and heat. The pre-
cipitate is dissolved in acetic acid and made neutral, filtered, and excess
of ammonia added.

This process has the following objections :

1. The alkali and heat cause destruction of the morphia.

2. No account is taken of the loss by precipitation. It has the
advantage that the method of purification proposed avoids loss of
morphia.

Guillermond's process consists in treating opium with alcohol, and
adding ammonia to the alcoholic solution. The morphia so produced
is very pure, but as a large quantity remains dissolved in the alcohol,
it is only a comparative method. The precipiate also contains meco-
nate of calcium.

The process of Staples, which consists in adding alcohol to concen-
trated infusion of opium, then after filtration mixing more alcohol and
ammonia, is also open to the same objections as the last.

508

Assay of Opium for Morphia,

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Nov., 1876.

The process of Mohr which has been adopted, with slight modifica-
tions, by the compilers of the B. P., consists in exhausting opium with
water, mixing with milk of lime and boiling ; the filtered liquid is
mixed with hydrochloric acid and concentrated. It is then made
exactly neutral with ammonia, filtered, and mixed with exeess of
ammonia ; the precipitate dried and weighed. This process, if pro-
perly and carefully carried out, is one of the best, as, by the use of
lime, the resin and meconate of calcium, also meconic acid, is removed
from solution. The objections to it are :

1. That the large quantity of water used and the subsequent evap-
orations cause loss of morphia.

2. That no account is taken of the loss of morphia by non-precipi-
tation.

The modifications I would introduce are as follows :

1. The opium should be first treated with bisulphide of carbon or
benzin.

2. The dried residue should then be mixed with its own weight of
lime and two or three times its bulk of some inert powder, such as
pumice or glass. It is then to be percolated with water, the first part
of percolate being returned as fast as it runs through. , By this means
much less water will be required to exhaust the opium than would
otherwise be the case. After the opium is exhausted, which will be
known by the liquid dropping through devoid of taste, the solution
should be exactly neutralized with dilute sulphuric acid and filtered and
the precipitate washed. The clear solution is then to be evaporated
over a water-bath until its bulk is about half an ounce, and again
filtered if requisite ; then ammonia is to be added in slight excess, and
the liquid allowed to stand twenty-four hours. The precipitate can
then be collected, washed with ether, and dried, and to the amount
found must be added the amount corresponding to the quantity of
water used in precipitating and washing. The morphia obtained by
this process is of a dull white color, crystalline, perfectly soluble in
alcohol, acids and alkalies.

In concluding these few remarks, which I hope may prove useful,
-as indicating which methods are most likely to give correct results, I
beg to state that I do not consider the subject in any way exhausted,
and that I still intend to work upon opium analysis, and hope to com-
municate further results at another meeting of the Conference.

*

AmNo°vU,r"z?7h6"rm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 509

Table showing amount of morpnia obtained by different processes
on samples of dried powdered opium :

a

*6

0

ba

■g >

S 0

a

Cm %

"o
<

Fliicl

Guibc

Schac

Guille

pq

6

Turkish,

26

9'5

IO*2

I I'O

I2'8

9-8

I2'I

13-0

Persian,

25

8-o

9-0

n *o

13-0

87

I2'3

Indian,

J5

3*o

3-6

4-0

5'2

3'2

4-9

5'6

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Vanillin from Wood-tar. — Reimer observed a reaction which is com-
mon to all phenols, by which the latter are transformed into aromatic
aldehyds. Phenol is mixed with chloroform and an excess of soda
solution ; after the reaction the excess of undecomposed chloroform is
distilled off and an acid added, when salicylic aldehyd is produced, which
may be purified by combining with sodium bisulphite and liberation by
an acid. Guaiacol treated in the same way yields vanillin, the aldehyd
of vanillic acid. Gorup-Besanez found (1867) guaiacol to be one of
the constituents of beech wood-tar creasote. — Pbar. Cent. Halle,
No. 31.

To distinguish beech-tar creasote from coal-tar creasote, Professor R.
Boettger recommends to dissolve one drop of the creasote in 40 cc.
(10 fluidrachms) of distilled water, and add a few drops of a concen-
trated solution of ferric chloride. The appearance, after a few minutes,
of a dirty brownish yellow coloration indicates the presence of Reichen-
bach's beech-tar creasote, while a faint blueish violet coloration is
proof of the presence of carbolic acid. — Phar. Cent. Halle, No. 33.

The tanifuge properties of pumpkin-seed, according to Heckel, reside
in the perisperm. Ferd. Vigier, however, states that the seeds lose
nothing of their activity by being deprived of their perisperm, accord-
ing to his experiments made with the seeds of Cucurbita maxima,
which is the species most frequently met with in Paris. He prepares
an emulsion from 60 grams of the seeds deprived of the perisperm, 20

510 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {AmNo0vU%87h6arin'

of sugar, io of orange flower water and 160 of distilled water. This
potion is to be followed by a purgative. — V Union Phar., June.

Bowdichia major, Mart., is a large tree of Brazil, where it is known
under the names of sicopira, sebipira, subupira, etc. An exudation
appears in the spring, and hardens to pieces resembling Senega gum.
This sicopira gum was described by Peckolt in 1862, and contains be-
sides 14 per cent, of moisture, 4 resin, 3 tannin, 31 gum and 44 of a
bassorin-like substance. It is used in diarrhoea.

The soluble constituents of the wood are tannin, gum and resin.
The trunk-bark contains much tannin and some of the constituents
found in the root-bark. It was formerly employed medicinally, but
has fallen into disuse, while the more active bark of the root, intro-
duced by Dr. J. A. Vieira de Mattos, is successfully employed in
Brazil in various skin diseases ; it is given in the form of alcoholic
extract, in doses of 0*15 gram, 3 to 6 times daily, and as alcoholic
tincture (1 bark to 4 alcohol), by mixing 30 grams with 300 grams of
syrup, in tablespoonful doses, repeated thrice daily.

Th. Peckolt, of Rio, describes the root-bark as either red-brown
(sicopira vermelha) or flesh-colored (sic. branca), the latter coming
chiefly from the Campos region, district of Serro, province of Minas
Geraes. The latter is very difficult to obtain, but is preferred for
medicinal use.

On treating the red-brown etherial extract of the bark with cold
alcohol of 320, a fine crystalline mass of sicopirin is left behind, which
has a bitter somewhat biting taste, is soluble in ether and boiling alco-
hol, but almost insoluble in water ; when treated with diluted sulphuric
acid it yields glucose. Prof. Geuther found its elementary composi-
tion to be C16H12Os.

The fresh root-bark from the province of Rio de Janeiro yields only
0*019 per cent, of sicopirin. Peckolt found also 9*1 per cent, of bit-
ter principle and extractive, soluble in alcohol and water, 8*88 per cent,
of resins and smaller quantities of gum, starch, tannin and albumen.

The bark from the Campos region contains more sicopirin, and if
this should prove to be the active principle, would obviously be more
active than the red-brown bark. — Zeitschr. Oest. Ap. Ver., No. 19.

The therapeutic value of the crystalline principles of aloes has been the
subject of investigation, by Nelson C. Dobson and Wm. A. Tilden,
who arrived at the following results :

AmNiv"ri?r6*rm'} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 511

Barbaloin, nataloin and zanaloin are more or less aperient in doses
of two grains, barbaloin being, apparently, rather more active in com-
bination with hard soap than with conserve of roses. They are, each
of them, decidedly uncertain and variable in their action ; the time
which elapsed after the administration before there was any perceptible
action varied from 2 J to 15 hours. The crystalline principle did not
appear to be more potent than a similar dose of aloes, nor was any ad-
vantage discovered over a similar dose of aloes, except, perhaps, that
griping was less common than when aloes alone was given. — Phar.
Jour, and Trans., Aug. 19, from Med. Times and Gaz., Aug. 12.

Adulterated Arrowroot. — H. Wm. Jones states that a considerable
quantity of arrowroot, adulterated with cassava starch, is in the
(English) market at the present time. Similar adulterations have been
previously noticed in France, by Guibourt. — Phar. Jour, and Trans.,
July 8. '

Estimation of Quinia from Ferri et ^uinice Citras. — A. N. Palmer
observed that the quinia in this preparation cannot be reliably deter-
mined by ammonia and ether. But by employing chloroform as the
solvent for the alkaloid, the whole amount can be obtained, even in
the presence of sugar, glycerin or ammonium citrate. If ammonia is
used for liberating the quinia, the liquid will show an alkaline reaction
long before the whole of the quinia has been precipitated. — Ibid.,
July 29.

A. J. Cownley, however, shows that the failure of ether to extract
the whole of the quinia is, most likely, due to the solubility of this
liquid and water, and that, practically, the whole of the quinia can be
obtained if the liquid is repeatedly agitated with ether. — Ibid., Aug. 5.

Soluble Prussian blue, in a durable liquid form, is obtained by dissolv-
ing 5 grams of ferrocyanide of potassium, 5 grams of iron potassa alum
(KFe2S04. I2H20) and 1 gram borax, in 200 grams of distilled water,
adding 5 or 6 grams of pure diluted nitric acid, and afterwards 2 grams
of liquor ferri sesquichlorati, "Phar. Germ." (spec. grav. 1*480 to
1-4845 contains 15 per cent, of iron). — Apoth. Zeit., No. 31.

Codliver oil with ferrous iodide is prepared by triturating in a mortar
I part each of iodine and pulverized iron and 20 parts of codliver oil ;
the mixture is then heated in a water-bath until the brown color of the
iodine has completely disappeared and given place to a deep purple

5 1 2 Medicinal Gum Resins of Persia. { AmNJ0°vu%87h6arm'

color, when 60 parts more of the oil are added, and the liquid, after
standing, is decanted and kept in well-corked bottles sheltered from
the light.

It differs in taste but little from the ordinary medicinal codliver oil-
Exposed to the light, it changes after a few days to a red brown color,
indicating the liberation of iodine. Taste and color furnish a good
criterion for its condition. It is well not to prepare too much in ad-
vance.— Phar. Jour, and Trans., July 8th, from Nieu Tydschr. voor de
Phar. in Nederland.

Colorless Tincture of Iodine. — Schonbein states that ammonium hypo-
iodite is formed when iodine acts upon an excess of ammonia. The
hypoiodite reacting with alcohol produces iodoform in the same manner
as chloroform is formed by the action of calcium hypochlorite upon
alcohol. In preparing the colorless tincture from iodine, ammonia-
water and alcohol, Wm. H. Darling has separated some iodoform, and
attributes the efficacy of this tincture, for the most part, to the iodo-
form.— Ibid, July 15.

MEDICINAL GUM RESINS OF PERSIA.
Ammoniacum [Dorema Ammoniacum, Don )

This resin is called Uschekh in Persia. The plant grows on plateaux
and mountain slopes in the cold climate (Serdesir or Jeylak). I found
it on the far-stretching plateaux between Mahiar and Yezdechast,
especially between Aminabad and Yezdechast, where, together with
some Salsola, it nearly covered the whole plain. But it also grows in
an easterly direction from Ispahan, in the district of Ardistan, by the
station Najin (on the route to Yezd). According to the authority of
the inhabitants, it puts forth leaves and sprouts towards the end of
March ; the leaves develop quickly, dry just as rapidly, and serve as
excellent food for sheep, which eat them with avidity. When I passed
through the plateau on the 25th of June, 1859, I on^Y saw fallen leaves,
resembling those of celery, blown about by the wind. The stems, how-
ever, attain a height of about six feet, and I could easily reach the tops of
them on horseback. The blossoming season was already over, but the
sticky seeds were still young, round and full of sap (not flattened as at
the end of the journey) ; above all, there were on the plants and tops
small tears of gum resin. The bare stems, about one and a half to

%^'i7h6?rm- } Medicinal Gum Resins of Persia. 5 1 3

two inches thick, which I cut through, were so full of resin that a
thick sap ran over ; later on, after exposure to the air, it thickens and
becomes of a yellowish-brown color. There are, however, some
plants which give no gum and bear no fruit. The inhabitants call
these male plants, while they term the fruit-bearing ones female plants.
The maximum temperature on this day was 25°C. The saline well-
water boiled at 94j°C. On my return journey, on the 1st of August,
I found, in the same place, that most of the seeds had been blown
away by the wind, but many of the plants still bore their fruit, so that
I succeeded in obtaining several pounds without dismounting ; ripe as
they were, and carefully as I guarded them, they would not germinate
in Europe. On this day the temperature after sunrise was 15°, the
maximum 20,°C. Gum ammoniacum is in this district abundantly
gathered, and sold in Ispahan. In the country it is much used as an
inward medicament, and also frequently for greasing the spinning-
wheels, as it is very cheap. The plant is, above all, an.excellent food
for sheep. At the Vienna Exhibition there was a lump of gum am-
moniac, shown in Morocco, stated to be obtained in that country.

Galbanum resin [Ferula ga lb anum) is called Barzed and Baredsche
in Persian, and Khasni in Turkish (though the name Khasni is also
used in some Persian districts). This plant requires a greater eleva-
tion above the level of the sea than the ammoniacum. I found it at a
height between 7,000 and 8,000 feet on the mountains adjoining the
Valley of the Laar, where I collected a few ounces of the best gal-
banum. It is also frequently found on the mountains by the village of
Dehgirdu, at an elevation of 6,000 feet. The leaves resemble the
other ferulas in their structure. When I passed by the village on the
27th of June, 1859, tne leaves had already fallen, but the flowers had
not yet developed their light orange color. The plants were covered
with tears of resin ; the root was of a roundish form and about the
same size and shape as a large black radish, with two spreading shoots.
The temperature on Jthis day (27th of June) was, in Dehgirdu, before
sunrise 7°C, at mid-day 2i°C. Water boiled at 92j°C. Galbanum
is frequently used for plasters, and inwardly for menstrual illnesses, in
the country ; it is also exported from the above district to Constan-
tinople under the name of Khasni.

Ferula Asafoetida, Lin. — In Persian the resin is called Anguze
(from which the abbreviation asa. may have been derived). In Arabian

5 H Medicinal Gum Resins of Persia. {^$Z*W*m'

it is called Heltit mumtin. In former times it was very frequently
found on the Trachyt mountains, between Ispahan and Mahiar, to
which place the collectors came from Mischhed in Khorassan. At
the commencement of spring they surrounded the stem with a wall of
stones, placed a pot over it, and thus collected the resin. Gradually
the collectors became fewer and fewer, as hardly any 'plants remained
for propagation, and at last it was entirely deserted. It is, however,
found in abundance between Abadeh and Murg2b. Round about
Abadeh, where in spring-time the sheep feed on the leaves, the milk
and the butter are of such a disgusting odor, that only the natives can
use them. It is also abundant from Dschendak in Khorassan to Herat.
An Englishman brought me sprouts, which were covered all over with
asafoetida tears. In the district of Herat the gum is collected in a
regular manner : in spring the plants are dug round, about the 20th of
May the stalk near the roots is cut through the middle, and after three
days the resin is scraped off. Three days later a horizontal segment is
again cut off, and then the resin is collected in three days. This pro-
cess is repeated four times. It appears that this plant requires a warm
climate and a low sea level.

The uses of the resin are manifold. The largest quantity is ex-
ported to India, where it is employed for culinary purposes ; it is a
frequent ingredient in the sauce for pillaus. The Turcomans are very
fond of the young shoots dipped in vinegar. Its medical uses in Perisa
are very numerous. I know people there who are so accustomed to the
anguze for nervous complaints, that it is, like opium to opium-eaters,
one of the necessaries of life. Its excellent antispasmodic qualities
are too little known in Europe. I have also heard that in many dis-
tricts the fields are surrounded with anguze, in order to protect the
plants from the depredations of insects.

Ferula Sagapenum. — This gum is called Sagbinedsch in Persian, from
which sagapenum is derived. I could only learn that this plant is
common in the mountains of Luristan, and the gum is collected at that
spot. The character of the resin, which resembles the Asa dulcis, as
well as the seeds which are found in the resin, is characteristic of the
family of Ferula. — Jour of Appl. Sdn Aug. I, 1876.

AmNo°Ci^arm' } Serum- and Egg- Albumin. 5 1 5

SERUM- AND EGG-ALBUMIN AND THEIR COMPOUNDS.

BY A. HEYNSIUS.

After recapitulating the results of his former paper (Jour. Chem.
Soc. [2], xiii, 469), the author brings forward objections to Schmidt's
view, that albumin is a substance of itself soluble in water (see this
Journal [2], xiv, 87 — 89). Schmidt obtained by dialysis a neutral liquid,
which did not coagulate on heating, and contained no soluble ash-con-
stituents. The author's objections to Schmidt's conclusion are :

1. A neutral reaction does not necessarily mean entire absence of
alkali, inasmuch as alkali can combine with egg-white without causing
the reaction to become alkaline. This is proved by experiment. After
long-continued dialysing a liquid was obtained, which became turbid
at lower temperatures than that obtained after a shorter process of
dialysing ; because in the former case the alkali was more completely
removed.

2. The failure of Schmidt to obtain any soluble salts from the liquid,
which he regarded as a solution of pure albumin, is ascribed to the
small quantity of material employed. It is shown by experiment that
an amount of alkali, which is so small as to be unrecognized in the ash
of such quantities of liquid as Schmidt employed, is sufficient to pre-
vent coagulation of albumin (blood-serum and egg-white) on heating.
A minute trace of acid also prevents coagulation.

^-ths cc. of ro0(j normal alkali (=0*0000124 grm.) caused
dialysed blood-serum to remain clear on boiling. 2 cc. of the same
solution (=0*000062 grm. alkali) prevented coagulation of dialysed
egg-white. Totns and Totns °f cc* °f lio normal acid solution respec-
tively prevented coagulation in blood-serum and in egg-white.

It is further urged that the small quantity of alkali present in
dialysed albumin will most probably be found in the insoluble ash, inas-
much as it is known that alkali — especially soda — when heated with
phosphates of the earths, gives insoluble double salts.

The author concludes that, after the most careful dialysing,
there is obtained : — 1. A compound of albumin with calcium (and
magnesium) phosphate, which is soluble in water, and from which
albumin is precipitated on boiling. 2. That albumin free from salts
cannot be obtained by dialysis, and that we are not therefore justified
in saying that albumin is of itself soluble in water. 3. That with
this compound there is associated (in the case of blood-serum, at

I

5 1 6 Serum- and Egg- Albumin. { AmN{Tj£rm

least) a small quantity of albumin combined with soda, which alkali
prevents to a greater or less extent, occording to the quantity in which
it is present, the coagulation alike of the albumin combined with itself,
and of that combined with calcium phosphate, when the liquid is
heated.

The compound of albumin with calcium (and magnesium) phosphate
is possessed of the following properties :

1. It is decomposed by acids and by alkalis, the albumin remaining
in solution ; the more concentrated the solution, the total quantity of
albumin remaining unchanged, the greater is the quantity of alkali or
of acid needed for decomposition.

2. It has an extremely faint acid reaction, becoming visible only
after many hours.

3. Probably different compounds are formed, accorditag as serum or
egg-albumin is employed.

4. The compound is decomposed by warming ; the longer dialysing
has been continued, the lower is the temperature of decomposition ;
500 was the lowest point noticed when distilled water was used in
dialysing.

5. The decomposition temperature is raised not only by the addition,
of acid or alkali, but also by neutral salts.

There is no difference between the albumin obtained from this com-
pound by the action of alkalis, and that found combined with alkalis
in genuine egg-white.

The third part of this paper discusses the influence of alkalis and
of acids upon albumins. It is shown that the quantity of acid or of
alkali required to keep alb.umin in solution, on boiling, is influenced by
the presence of neutral salts (NaCl was chiefly examined) ; that with a
small quantity of sodium chloride the solvent influence of acids is
marked, but with a large quantity of sodium chloride alkalis exercise
a more distinctly solvent action. The albumin remains in these cases
in the uncoagulated form. The stronger acids, as nitric, exercise a
more marked solvent action than the weaker, as acetic, in the presence
of an unvarying quantity of sodium chloride. Tables are given, con-
taining the results of experiments with different acids and varying
quantities of salts, especially sodium and calcium chlorides, upon al-
bumin.-— j^our. Chem. Soc, August, from Pfluger's Arch. f. PhysioL
xii, 549-596-,

Am. Jour. Pharm )
Nev., 1876. J

Varieties.

VARIETIES.

517

French Pharmaceutical Statistics. — According to the recent statistics,
quoted in the last issue of the Bulletin Commercial, there are at the present time in
France 2,121 pharmaciens of the first class and 4,089 of the second class being a
total of 6,210 pharmaciens. Ten years since, in 1866, there were 2,457 of the first
class, and 3,346 of the second, or altogether 5,803 pharmaciens. Next to the depart-
ment of the Seine, in which alone there are 820 pharmaciens (495 first class and 325
second), the departments having the highest number of pharmacists are the Bouches-
du-Rhone, Gironde, Nord, Seine-Inferieure, Seine-et Oise, Var, and Haute-Garonne.
Between trie 1st of January, 1803, and the ist]of January, 1876, the superior schools,
the medical juries, and the preparatory schools of pharmacy have conferred no less
than 16,650 degrees of pharmacien of which 6,462 have been of the first class and
10,188 of the second. On the average there is now in France one pharmacy to
10,000 inhabitants and a territorial area of 2,000 hectares. — Phar. Jour, and 'Trans ,

The Number* of Pharmacies in St. Petersburg is leagally regulated, so that
for every 12,000 inhabitants one apothecary store may be established, and each store
should on an average of three succeeding years, put up 30,000 prescriptions. Ac-
cording to statistical computations of the Russian department of the Interior, the
inhabitants of St. Petersburg are only 3,471 in excess over the number fixed for the
apothecary stores, and the prescriptions compounded by the latter, during the three
years, 1873 to x^75 inclusive, averaged only 29,785 5 the establishment of new stores
will for these reasons, at present, not be permitted. — Apoth. Zeit., No. 21.

Medical Statistics of Wurttemberg. — In 1866 the number of physicians
was 447, residing in 191 communities, or one for every 3,970 inhabitants; towns
and cities of over 5,000 inhabitants had one physician for 1,334, and the country one
for' 5,898 of the population. In 1876 the number of physicians had increased to
500, who resided in 194 localities; 1,464 of the population of towns and cities, and
5,971 of the country population, have now one physician. — Phar. Zeitung.

M. J. Schleiden, the well-known botanist and pharmacologist, celebrated the
fiftieth anniversary of his doctorate, August 20th.

Sulphide of Carbon as an Insecticide. — The use ©f carbon sulphide Is,
recommended by J. B. Schnetzler, of the Lausanne Academy, as a means of destroy-
ing the inserts which infest herbaria and entomological collections. The Academy
collection ®f Swiss flowering- plants having been attacked by Anobium paniceum, M«
Schnetzler had a wooden box made large enough to contain five fasciculi of the
herbarium, each composed of about 200 plants. Four ounces of carbon sulphide
were poured into the five fasciculi ; the box was tightly closed, and the whole left
for a month. All tlae insects were destroyed, and no injury was done to the speci-
mens, or to the papers to which they were fastened. The expense of the operation

5i8

Varieties.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Nov., 1876.

is very small. M. Schnetzler recommends that the boxes should be placed under a
shed, as in case of the escape of vapor there might be danger of explosion. The
same process may be employed for collections of insects. — Pop. Set. Mo.., Oct., 1876.

Ointment for Burns. — Dr. Bedford Brown, in an article on burns, recom-
mends the following treatment to allay pain and promote the process of healing :

Take iodoform, . . . 2 dr.

Spermaceti ointment, . . . 1 oz.

Extract of coniuxn, . . . i<} dr.

Carbolic acid., . . . .10 drops.
This, spread on fine linen, is applied twice daily to the inflamed surface, and then
enveloped in oiled silk, no other dressing being required. In cases where there is
great dryness of surface from destruction of vitality and want of exhalation, the
wound, before applying the ointment, should be coated with the common linimentum
calcis, which affords a soft and moist dressing, and in no wise interferes with the
action of the iodoform. The iodoform acts as a certain and most effective sedative
on the painful and exposed surface, and at the same time as an antiseptic. It re-
duces inflammation and suppuration, when in excess, in a remarkable manner,
promptly converting a most painful and irritable wound into one that is compara-
tively painless. It is also an excellent promoter of healthy action and the healing
process, and has besides the great advantage of rendering the use of anodynes
unnecessary. — Philadelphia Medical Times.

Test for Bilious Urine. — O. Rosenbach recommends in "Med. Centr. Bl.,"
the following as the easiest and a very reliable test for bile in urine :

Urine is filtered through white filtering paper ; if it contains bile the paper will
be colored lively yellow till nearly brown. Now let one drop of pure concentrated
nitric acid run down the side of the still moist filter ; it will, in the presence of bile,
leave a yellow streak, which soon turns orange with a violet border, and outside of
this dark-blue and emerald-green. These colors stay sometimes for hours.

Urine, otherwise dark-colored, but not containing bile, does not show this display
of colors.— Ny Phar. Tid., 1876, p. 195. H. M. W.

Artificial Coloring of Wines. — Since the vintage of 1875, tne artificial
coloring of wines in France has attained such a development as to raise fears not
only for the good name of French wines, but also for the public health. The
Syndicate of wine merchants of Paris has taken the matter up and urged it upon the
attention of the French Government in a vigorously written memorial, in which it
is roundly asserted that the sole object of the coloring is so to treat a wine, at an
insignificant cost, that it may be sold considerably above its real value. Formerly
coloring was only done to a small extent and with vegetable and comparatively
inoffensive matters, but now it is stated, hundreds of kilograms of arsenical fuchsin
and other equally poisonous substances are used for the purpose and the sale of such
preparations is openly advertised. The Syndicate urges that it is useless to discuss
in chemical laboratories whether fuchsin itself, or asenical fuchsine when diluted to

-j£Z-%Sr} Varieties. 519

a certain extent, is poisonous or not, there being no guarantee against the greediness
of the wine colorer. One result of the agitation has been that the officers of octroi
have been ordered to take samples, for analysis, of all red wines coming into Paris. —
Phar. Jour, and Trans., Sept. 23.

Preservation of Syrups by Salicylic Acid. — Mr. Lajoux, a Paris pharmacien,
has been making some experiments with the object of ascertaining the minimum
quantity of salicylic acid by which the fermentation of syrups can be prevented dur-
ing the summer. The syrups experimented upon were red-currant, cherry, mul-
berry, capillaire, gentian and compound ipecacuanha. It was found necessary to
add a quantity of salicylic acid equal to one thousandth part of the weight of the
sugar in the syrup. Syrups thus prepared were kept simply covered with a sheet of
paper at a mean temperature of about i7°C.% At the end of two months they were
intact, whilst the same syrups, placed in the same conditions, but without salicylic
acid, were completely altered. — Phar. Jour, and Trans., Sept. 16.

Test for Sugar. — Vidau has observed that a mixture of equal parts of hydro-
chloric acid and oil of benne [01. Sesami), either in the cold, or when slightly
heated, assumes a distinct rose-color in the presence of cane or grape sugar, pro-
vided not less than o'ooi gm. (-6^ gr.) of sugar is present for every c.c. (16*3 min.)
of mixture. — Journ. de Ph. et d. Chim.

Chromic Inks. — As long ago as 1848, Professor F. Runge invented what he
called a chromic ink, from its containing chromate of potash. His directions for its
preparations, published at the time in Dinglers Journal, were as follows : A deco-
ration of logwood is first made in the proportion of 10 to 80, that is 10 lbs. of log-
wood is boiled with enough water to produce 80 lbs. of the decoction. To 1,000
parts of this logwood extract, when cold, is added 1 part of yellow chromate of
potash, stirring rapidly. It is ready for use at once. Gum and other additions are
injurious, he says, to this ink.

The following year W. Stein proposed an improvement on Runge's ink, saying
that the great fault of this ink was that it soon became thick, like sour milk. This
he overcame by adding four grains of corrosive sublimate to each bottle. This
would restore thick ink to its pristine quality, and improve its color changing it
from deep indigo blue to pure black.

In 1867, C. Puscher described a new ink similar to the above, made as follows :
Boil 10 ozs. of logwood in 20 ozs. of water, then boil again in 20 ozs. more of water,
and mix the two decoctions ; add 2 ozs. of chrome alum and boil another quarter of
an hour. One oz. of gum arabic is added, and we have 25 oz. of deep black ink.

Bottger says that a simple method of preventing gelatinizing in chromic ink is to
add to the water in which the extract is made some carbonate of soda. His method
of operation is as follows : Dissolve 15 parts of extract of logwood in 1,000 parts
of distilled water to which 4 parts of carbonate of soda has been added at boiling-
heat, and add 1 part of yellow chromate of potash, dissolve in a little water. — Sci-
entific American, Nov. 4th.

520 Minutes of the. Pharmaceutical Meeting. {*md™;$t™'

Soap-Root. — A large commerce is carried on from California in a fibrous sub-
stance known as soap-root. It is obtained from a lily-like plant, a species of Phalan-
gium [Chlorogalum pomeridianum, Kunth,) which is met with about the mountains,
and attains a height of eight feet. The heavy bulb is covered with many coatings,
consisting of fibres, which are used for cushions, mattresses, etc. Large contracts
are entered into for the supply of this material on a very extensive scale. The
inner part of the bulb serves as a substitute for soap, and it might be tried whether
it can be utilized for technological purposes like the root of saponaria. — Drug. Cir.
and Chetn. Gaz,

A Panic among Sponge Divers. — Advices from Beyrout state that the last
crop of Turkey sponge was very deficient, and prices of ordinary and common
sponges have greatly risen in consequence. The deficiency is attributed to a panic
among the divers, caused by the appearance in the neighborhood of Batroun, Mount
Lebanon — the chief sponge fishing locality — of a sea monster, alleged to have been
equal in size to a small boat. Its actual depredations among the divers appear at
the present time to have been limited to one man, whom he is said to have swal-
lowed whole. — Drug. Cir. and Chetn. Ga%.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

The first meeting of the session was held October 17th, 1876, Prof. Remington
in the chair. An election for Registrar was held, resulting in the re-election of
William Mclntyre. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The
chairman introduced the strangers amd students present, and urged all to continue
their attendance. The following presentations were made : From the Chinese
Commission to the Centennial Exposition, the Catalogue of the Chinese Imperial
Maritime Customs Collection at the United States International Exhibition, Phila-
delphia, 1876. From Henry S. Wellcome, a handsome framed drawing of Eriodyc-
tion Californicum, the " Yerba santa " or "mountain balm" of California, which
is recommended as an efficient remedy for lung diseases.

A. P. Brown read a paper describing a new method of preparing Syrup of Li-
quorice Root and Brown Mixture (See page 487.) He had also made and used Am-
moniacal Glycyrrhizin to mask the bittter taste of quinia; two drachms of the
glycyrrhizin are dissolved in one pint of sprup, then to each fluidrachm is added
one grain of quinia sulphate. In making ammoniacal glycyrrhizin care must be
observed to use chemically pure sulphuric acid in the precipitation, and in the pre-
paration of the compound mixture of liquorice, by the process suggested, an excess
of ammonia must be avoided.

In answer to an inquiry as to what is sweet syrup of quinia as used in Balti-
more, the chairman suggested that it might be a mixture of syrup and tannate of
quinia, the objections to which he stated, or one of undissolved sulphate of quinia
in very thick syrup.

AVo°vU%87h6arni'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 521

P. P. Fox exhibited a sample of ground flaxseed made in a Swift's drug mill. It
had occurred to him that a rough way of estimating any admixture of cake meal
was by measurement — the ground flaxseed bemg lighter than the calcemeal, one
quart of the former, loosely measured, was found to weigh iz^ to 14 ounces, and
of the latter 16 ounces avoirdupois. Prof. Remington said a more accurate way
would be the determination of the amount of oil in the sample.

C. J. Biddle stated that the Philadelphia Hospital calcemeal is always used with
the addition of olive oil in making the cataplasms.

Boldo bark and leaves were exhibited by C. J. Biddle, who read a number of
articles from various journals, descriptive of the drug and its tonic properties, with
a decided action upon the liver; in this country it was stated to have been experi-
mented with by Dr. Zaremba, of Chicago.

On motion, adjourned, to meet on November 21st, 1876.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

Alumni Association of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. — A
stated monthly meeting was held at the College Hall, October 5th, 1876. President
Kennedy stated that the object of the meetings of which this was the first, was to
elicit by informal discussion the various practical hints derived from the experience
of each one, which, as a whole, contribute so materially to the knowledge of the
competent pharmacist.

A paper was read from Mr. Wm. McIntyre, on the solubility of quinia in mix-
tures of ammonia and alcohol, and formulae given from several authorities. (See
p. 488.) Salicylic acid claimed some attention. Salicylated cotton wadding, the
process for which was given by Mr. Mitchell, is a convenient mode of applying that
agent; it contains two per cent, of the acid.

Mr. Kennedy apoke of a fajse fucus sold for the true gulf weed, Sargassum bac-
ciferum. Changes in prescriptions, syrup of wild cherry and othe*r subjects occupied
the meeting until its adjournment.

Wallace Procter, Secretary.

Maryland College of Pharmacy. — The building recently purchased was
formally dedicated October 13th, Hon. L. H. Steiner, M. D., of Frederick, who
was formerly Professor of Chemistry in the College, delivering the dedicatory ad-
dress in. his usually eloquent style. He reviewed the past history of the College ;
congratulated the members on their valuable possession, and prophesied a bright and
useful future for the College. A goodly number of ladies were sprinkled through
the audience and several distinguished persons occupied seats near the speaker. On
the conclusion of Prof. Steintefs address, Mayor Latrobe spoke in the highest com-
mendation of the institution and expressed satisfaetion in having aided the Trustees
in the consummation of the purchase, and expressed the belief that the present school
was even of morse public benefit than the one which recently occupied the building
After benediction was pronounced by Dr. Dalrymple, the company repaired to

522 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. { A Vo0v^87h6arm"

Guy's Hotel, where a sumptuous feast had been prepared, which was highly enjoyed
by those present.

The building, though the oldest public school edifice of Baltimore, is still in
excellent condition, having been erected in the most substantial manner. It is com-
modious, well ventilated and pleasantly located, and in every way well suited for
the uses of the College, The lot is 74 ft. x 100 ft., the building 45 ft. x 75 ft. It
was erected in 1830 for Male Grammar School No. 3, and was latterly occupied by
Female Grammar School, No. 3. It was purchased at the very reasonable sum of
$2,000, with an annual ground rent of $109, in consideration of the uses to which
it was to be applied, and in order to secure this advantage Messrs. Sharp & Dohme
volunteered to advance the necessary sum as a loan to the College ; but before the
time to make the payment the entire amount had been secured by subscription, and
enough more to put the building in good repair. Thus the College has entered on
a new era, out of debt, and in a building well adapted for lecture and other neces-
sary purposes.

We congratulate our Maryland friends at their success, and hope that the other
pharmaceutical colleges which are still without a habitation of their own may soon
be equally successful in securing a permanent home.

The Netherland Pharmaceutical Society held its twenty-eighth annual
meeting at Amsterdam, June 22d. It consists at present of 190 members, with Mr.
A. J. Rijk, of Amsterdam, President. A resolution was passed declaring that the
advertising of remedies for diseases was in conflict with the true and dignified prac-
tice of pharmacy. A plan submitted by Mr. Opcoijrda, endeavoring a greater uni-
formity in the charges for prescriptions, was adopted.

The German Apothecaries' Society held its fifth annual meeting at Stuttgart^
Sept. 6th and 7th, Director Wolfrum, of Augsburg, presiding. The report of the
Directory gives an account of its activity during the past year ; it advocates a repre-
sentation of the Society in the administrative departments of the State and each dis-
trict, and gives a copy of the draft of a. law concerning the establishment and mov-
ing of pharmacies, which had been submitted to the various governments 5 also, a
memorial to the governments in relation to the proposed trade law. The Society
has now 2,750 members. The vacancies in the Directory occasioned by the resig-
nation of Messrs. Schacht and Hartmann were filled by the election of Messrs. Brau-
weiler and Wimmel. A resolution was passed recommending a permanent commis-
sion on the " Pharmacopoeia."

In accordance with the proposition of Dr. Leube, the Society voted for each dis-
trict (19 in number) a contribution of 10 marks to the Hanbury memorial in Lon-
don. Resolutions were passed admitting the pharmacists of Alsace and Lorraine
on favorable terms; appropriating money, if necessary, to promote the exhibitions
in connection with the annual meetings ; charging the Directory with the prepara-
tion of a memorial concerning the traffic with secret medicines, and with its presen-
tation to the proper authority ; recommending the separation, at the various univer-
sities, of the professorship of pharmacy from that of general chemistry, and the ere-

AVovu,ri57h6ar™} Editorial. 523

ation of a chair of practical chemistry, which should be filled by a practical phar-
macist 5 also, one declaring in favor of saleable concessions for pharmacies, and of
their limitation according to the actual need.

Two scientific lectures were delivered by Prof. Fraas on the geology of Wurt-
temberg, and by Prof. Reichardt on the examination of atmospheric air for ozone
and hydrocarbon.

The next meeting wilJ be held at Leipzig.

French Pharmaceutical Society. — At the Congress of the Local Pharma-
ceutical Societies of France, held at Clermont, August 17th to 19th, the formation
of a general pharmaceutical society was resolved upon, and a resolution passed
recommending the extension of the apprenticeship to four years, and the compulsory
examination of assistants.

Pharmaceutical Society of New South Wales. — We learn from the
" Pharm. Journal " that such a society has been established for the purpose of
uniting the chemists and druggists in that colony " in one ostensible, recognized and
independent body for protecting their general interests, and for the advancement of
pharmacy by furnishing such a uniform system of education as shall secure the pro-
fession and the public the safest and most efficient administration of medicines. "

The new society has speedily obtained legislative recognition, and an act has
been passed entrusting to a Board of Pharmacy, elected from the council of the
society, power to control all matters relating to the conduct of pharmacy, sale of
poisons, etc., throughout the colony.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT.

The Sanitary Condition of Philadelphia during the International
Exhibition. — In the June number, p. 283, we published a circular from the Bureau
of Medical Service, organized in connection with the Centennial Exposition, in
which the average mortality, during the past four of five years, of six cities of over
500,000 inhabitants was given, showing that the average death rate was lowest in
Philadelphia. This condition has not been materially altered during the past sum-
mer months, notwithstanding the protracted heat during a part of that time, and
although the influx from strangers was quite considerable,- the following circular,
issued by the same bureau, will give further account:

Bureau of Medical Service. — In a former circular issued from this Department, the exceptionally
favorable position which is occupied by Philadelphia, in comparison with the other great cities of the:
world (z. e., cities containing over 500,000 inhabitants), in regard to its sanitary advantages and average
rate of mortality, was shown by carefully prepared statistics. In anticipation of the unusually large
number of visitors who would undoubtedly be present in the city during the continuance of the Interna-
tional Exhibition, great efforts were made by the municipal authorities as well as by those in charge of
the Exhibition Grounds, to obviate every cause of disease. '1 he details of these arrangements will be
published in the official reports of the various departments, which will appear after the close of the Ex-
hibition.

It is owing to their thoroughness that, despite the very severe and prolonged heat of June and July,
and the vast number of unacclimated strangers constantly present in Philadelphia since the 10th of May,
the general health of the city has been remarkably favorable. With the exception of the four weeks end-
ing July 22, the range of temperature for the past five months has been about the average. Thus, for
the entire period of 20 weeks since May 10, the mean daily temperature has been 71*30° F., while the
average for the same months during the past ten years has been 71-82° F. The mean temperature of the
four weeks referred to (ending July 22), on the other hand, was 8o°, 83°, 83° and 8i° respectively, giving
an average for the month of 81-75° against 75-5° F., the mean temperature of the corresponding period of
the previous year.

The following table, showing the relative mortality of Philadelphia and some of the larger American
and European cities, has been prepared with strict care from the official records. The periods selected
for comparison correspond as closely as possible. It will be seen, on careful examination, that the past
season has not been an unfavorable one.

5*4 Editorial. { ^^•J*"'

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Sept. 23d, 1876.

17 weeks, from week
ending May 13th
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Sept. 9th.

18 weeks, from week
ending May 13th
to the week ending
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19 weeks, from week
ending May 13th
to the week ending
Sept. t6th, 1876.

26 weeks, including
the quarter ending
June 25th and Sept.-
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19 weeks, from week
ending May 13th
to the week ending
Sept. 23d, 1876.

18 weeks, from week
ending May 13th
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Sept^ 16th, 1876.

26 weeks, including
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Ara^o0vU:-,?76a"°-} Reviews, etc. 525

It will be further observed that, as in the table published in the former circular, Philadelphia occupies
an exceptionally favorable position. With the exception of London, whose rate of mortality is nearly
identical, Philadelphia presents a considerably lower rate than any other of the great cities, while, in
comparison with its nearest neighbors, New York and Brooklyn, its superiority is both striking and sug-
gestive.

In calculating the rate of mortality in Philadelphia during the past twenty weeks, the population has.
been estimated at 900,000. Those who have carefully studied the movement of its population, expect,
however, that, in consequence of the large influx of visitors, this estimate is below rather than above the
mean daily population. It must further be borne in mind that, while a considerable portion of its more
favored classes were, as usual, absent from Philadelphia during the summer months, the lower classes,
among whom the mortality is always greater at this season of year, were largely reinforced. If, in addi-
tion to this, it be considered that a comparatively large amount of sickness mighj; have been expecbed
among the vast throngs of unacclimated visitors reaching the city after long and hurried journeys, and
exposed to excitement and excessive fatigue, the full significance of the remarkable table above given
will, it is hoped, be appreciated by all. As one of the most important factors in the maintenance of pub-
lic health, is the purity of the water supply, it is with great satisfaction that we learn from the official
report furnished by Dr. Charles M. Cresson, the distinguished analytical chemist, that the purity of the
water supplied from the Schuylkill River to the Exposition Grounds and the neighborhood is fully up to
the standard of the past four years.

As the summer months, during which time alone any fears could be entertained for the development of
wide-spread disease, have passed with such gratifying results, it is not premature to express the feeling of
thankfulness and congratulation that during this important year Philadelphia has been favored with the
same exceptionally low rate of mortality she has so long enjoyed.

WILLIAM PEPPER, Medical Director.

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

Chemistry: General, Medical and Pharmaceutical, including the Chemistry of the
" U. S. Pharmacopoeia.11 A manual on the general principles of the science and
their applications in medicine and pharmacy. By John Attfield, Ph.D., F.C.S.,
etc. Seventh edition. Philadelphia : Henry C. Lea, 1876. nmo, pp. 668.

Since 1871, when the first American edition of this work v\ as published, two more
editions have been issued in this country, the volume before us being the third,
leaving four editions which appeared in England between the years 1867 and
1875. The favor with which this work has been received in both countries is alone
proof of its great utility ; and, after having used it as a text-book in the laboratory
of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy during the last five years, we can speak,
from our own experience and testify to its intrinsic value in the practical instruction
of the student. The more we have used it, the more we were pleased with it, and on
the appearance of anew revised and enlarged edition, we take occasion to again
cordially recommend it, believing that for the practical instruction of pharmaceuti-
cal students in chemistry it has no superior in the English language.

This seventh edition is considerably enlarged and improved, and is embellished
with eighty-seven illustrations, each one being of practical utility in aiding the
student in the performance of investigations. On page 386 we notice an omission
to notice an improvement introduced in the last " U. S. Pharmacopoeia.1' It is
stated there, that in the process for preparing resina podophylli no acid was ordered.
This was correct for the former " Pharmacopoeia,11 but not for the present one.

Chemia Coartata, or the key to modern chemistry. By A. W. Kollmyer, A.M.?
M D., Professor of Materia Medica and Therapeutics at the University of
Bishop's College} Professor of Materia Medica and Pharmacy at the Montreal
College of Pharmacy, and late Professor of Chemistry, etc. Philadelphia : Lind-
say & Blakiston. pp. m. Price, cloth, $2.25.

The author intends this work as a useful aid to those who, from business occupa-
tion or from any other circumstance, may not have sufficient time at their disposal
to consult more voluminous works, and it has therefore been his main object to
compress into as small a space as possible everything connected with chemistry that
deserves attention, and to give no more explanatory matter than is actually re-
quired. This aim has been well carried out, the text leaving nothing to desire in
regard to briefness and, at the same time, sufficient clearness, to enable the ad-
vanced student to comprehend the intention of the author. The information given

5^6

Reviews 3 etc.

{' Am. Jour. Pharm.
Nov., 1876.

is on the whole correct, but it may well be questioned whether for the production of
some of the rarer metals other more productive processes should not have been in-
dicated 5 whether for the preparation of carbonic acid gas, instead of chalk, and
sulphuric acid, the (in the laboratory) more convenient source from marble and
hydrochloric acid should not have been mentioned, and whether, in view of the
immense production of bromine from the mother-liquors of the salt brines, that
source should not have been given in addition to sea water.

Inorganic chemistry occupies the first 72 pages 5 the following 30 pages are de-
voted to organic chemistry, and this is followed by a synopsis of poisons, their
antidotes and general treatment. The tabular arrangement has been adopted
wherever practicable, and a ready and convenient way is thus afforded for com-
parison.

The work is very well adapted for the purposes for which it has been prepared,
and it will be found very useful by those who have learned the old notation and
wish to become acquainted not only with the new notation, but also with the prin-
ciples and theories which have led to the very general adoption of what is called the
modern system of chemistry. We would not recommend it to students for general
use, but we commend it to their careful examination with the view of learning
therefrom how comprehensible and, at the same time, concise notes and excerpts
from larger works may be made, so as to profit as much as possible from a close
application to study.

Micro- photographs in Histology, Normal and Pathological. By Carl Seiler, M.D., in
conjunction with J. Gibbons Hunt, M.D. and Joseph G. Richardson, M.D.
Philadelphia : J. H. Coates & Co. Price, 60 cts. per number, $6,00 per annum.

Parts IV and V contain hepatic cells from liver of a fly, leukaemia of the liver,
blood corpuscles of man and of the ox. fat cells from mesentery of a cat, kidney of
a mouse, chronic nephritis, Malpighian tufts and crystals of urea. The plates are
well executed, and each one is accompanied by descriptive text.

Du M 'Boundou on Poison d^epreuve du Gabon. Par Leon Kauffeisen. Montpellier,
1876. 4to, pp. 55.

On the M'Boundou, or the ordeal poison of Gabon.

A very creditable thesis, presented and publicly sustained before the Ecole su-
perieure de Montpellier, August 14, 1876, for obtaining the degree of Pharmacist of
the first class.

The rn boundou, also known as casa, icaja or boundou, is a shrub indigenous to
equatorial Africa, and has been variously referred to the family of Apocynacese and
Loganiaceae, the latter view being taken by Duchaillu, Griffon du Bellay and John
Torrey, of New York, and seems to be the correct one as far as can be judged from
the results of the author's chemical investigation, which resulted in the isolation of
strychnia, while brucia appears to be absent.

In the first chapter of his essay, the author gives some notes of the uses to which
the article is put in its native country, and states that large doses of palm-oil are
there known to act as an antidote, or rather, as a preservative against its toxical
effects. Descriptions of the roots and leaves are likewise given.

Chapter II refers to the physiological experiments made with boundou in France,
and gives the yield of 13 extracts made with different menstrua from the wood,
bark and leaves. The experiments made with these preparations upon rabbits and
frogs, detailed in the third chapter, proved that 0*025 gram °f tne extracts resulted
in the death of the frog after five minutes with the aqueous, and in ten minutes with
the etherial extract of the bark. The remaining extracts were somewhat weaker,
and the etherial and alcoholic extracts of the wood produced the same effect only
after 6 hours and 23 minutes and 7 hours and 45 minutes respectively.

The last chapter treats of the chemical examination, the principal result of which
has been mentioned above.

Am. Jour, Pharm.
JSIov., 1876.

Reviews, etc.

527

Specimen Fasciculus of a Catalogue of the National Medical Library , under the direc-
tion of the Surgeon-General U. S. A. at Washington, D. C. Government Print-
ing-office, 1876. 4-to, pp-. 72.

The praiseworthy efforts which have been made to establish as complete as pos-
sible a National Medical Library has been so far successful, that at the beginning of
the present year it contained about 40,000 volumes and about the same number of
single pamphlets. It is the Medical Section of the Library of Congress, and now
under the direction of the Surgeon-General U. S. A., in connection witk the Army
or National Medical Museum. To make such a library really as useful as it should
be, a good catalogue is absolutely necessary, and the specimen fasciculus now before
us proves that its preparation has been entrusted to competent hands. It is to be hoped
that Congress will appropriate a sufficient sum of money to have the whole catalogue
printed, which will doubtless be very voluminous, its comprehensiveness being such
that page 72 closes with the subject Air [atmospheric).

The Library includes, also, works on pharmacy, and there are at present missing
in it only the January and July numbers of the "American Journal of Pharmacy,"
for 1857, to make that serial complete. If any of our readers should be able to
supply them, the Librarian, Surgeon John S. Billings, U. S. A., will either pay a fair
price for them or furnish in exchange from the valuable publications of the Surgeon-
General's Office.

Niichterne Betracbtungen iiber die in Frage stehende Reform des Pharmaceutischen
Lehrplanes in Oesterreich. Von P. R Stolzissi, Apotheker in Waizenkirchen.
Wels : Joh. Haas, 1876. 8vo, pp. 37.

Sober considerations on the projected reform of the pharmaceutical education in
Austria.

This pampelet is more than of local interest, since it discusses a question which
has on several occasions also come up in this country, namely, the relation and
sequence of the practical instruction in the store and the theoretical instruction at
a college or university.

A plan had been proposed for Austria, according to which the apprenticeship of
the pharmacist was to be reduced to two years, to be followed by one year's in-
struction at a special school, and subsequently by a prolonged attendance at a uni-
versity. As might have been expected, such a plan aroused the opposition of those
pharmacists who do not take lightly the duty of training the young apprentices en-
trusted to their care, and who naturally expect a fair and equitable recompense for
their care and trouble. But the question is of far deeper importance, involving the
possibility of becoming a good and reliable pharmacist in the short space of two
years, even though the standard of preliminary education be as high as it is de-
manded in many European countries, and likewise the possibility of remaining a
reliable pharmacist after having discarded the practical business duties for several
years' theoretical study at the university. Mr. Reithammer addressed letters of inquiry
to a number of the most prominent apothecaries and pharmaceutical teachers. Schroff"
had proposed a greater extent of store practice, and his views like those advocated
by Reithammer and the author are, in the main points, coincident with those expressed
in the answers of such well-known men as Danckwortt, DragendorfF, Duflos
Fliickiger and many others. The pamphlet contains in full the answers received
from Wittstein, Hager, Landerer, Hirzel,.Lade and of one teacher at a pharma-
ceutical institute of a university, whose name is withheld, but can, we think, be
readily guessed by those who are acquainted with his valuable contributions to sci-
ence. With singular unanimity they advocate an apprenticeship of not less than
three years, and afterwards a service as assistant of from one to three years previous
to the academical course. The duration of the latter should, in the opinion of the
majority of those named above, not be fixed at more than three semestres preceding
the admission to the examination ; indeed, Hager lays particular stress upon a long

528

Reviews, etc. — Obituary.

/Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ Nov.,i376.

service in the business, and points out the fact that many of the best and learned
(German) pharmacists had attended but two semestres' university instruction after
their apprenticeship, and a service as assistants in different places of from 5 to 10
years ; and he closes his letter with the following proposition, which is well worthy
of consideration : Experientia est optima rerum magistra !

Medicinal Plants, being descriptions with original figures of the principal plants
employed in medicine, and an account of their properties and uses. By Robert
Bentley, F.L.S. and Henry Trimen, F.L.S. Philadelphia: Lindsay & Blakiston.
Price, $2.00 per part.

Parts IV and V of this instructive and useful work contain the handsomely-ex-
ecuted colored plates, together with the descriptive text of the following medicinal
plants : Brassica nigra and alba, Linum usitatissimum, Ruta graveolens, Citrus
limonum, Paullinia sorbilis, Dorema Aucheri, Boissier (a plant not previously
figured, which affords very good ammoniacum), Helleborus niger, Chondodendron
tomentosum, Haematoxylon campechianum, Brayera anthelmintica, Datura stra-
monium, Atropa belladonna and Ficus carica.

The descriptions of the botanical characters, habitat, properties and uses are, as
in the preceding numbers, full and accurate.

OBITUARY.

Alexander King and Samuel B. Spence, both promising young men and
members of the graduating class of 1874 °f tne Philadelphia College of Pharmacy,
died recently, the former at Canandaigua, N. Y., on September 10, the latter at
Fond du Lac, Wis., on October 8, both being in their twenty-sixth year, and falling
victims to that scourge, pulmonary phthisis.

Mr. King was born at Jersey City, and lost his father, Rev. David King of the
Old Wall street church, New York, at the age of three years, and soon afterwards
also his mother. He was reared by his father's parents, and educated at the Canan-
daigua Academy. At the age of fourteen he entered the store of his uncle, Wm.
King, Jr., at Buffalo, and in 1872 came to Philadelphia to attend the College of
Pharmacy. After graduation, he returned to his unele, and remained with him
until a few months ago, when hi< health began to fail rapidly, admonishing him to
seek rest and change at his former home, where he succumbed.

Mr. Spence learned the drug business with Kalk & Kent, of his native city, and
after spending two winters at Philadelphia, and graduating, returned to Fond du
Lac, where soon after symptoms made their appearance inducing him to seek for a
change of climate in California, hoping that the mountain air might stay the advan-
ces of the disease Not attaining the desired relief, he returned home last summer
to die among his kindred.

Both deceased were of retiring disposition, quiet and unobtrusive in their
demeanor, and left records of uprightedness behind them. Both wrote, on gradua-
tion, creditable theses, the one by Mr. King, announcing the discovery of morin
and mori-tannic acid in Maclura aurantiaca, having been published in this journal
in June, 1874.

John B. Cresson, aged 59 years, a member of the Philadelphia College of
Pharmacy, died October 23d, 1876. His entire life was spent in this his native city.
He was much respected for his moral worth and uniform gentlemanly bearing.

Marshall S. Cowperthwaite died July 29 of pneumonia at Burlington, N.J.,
and was buried near Medford, his native place. He was opprenticed to John A.
Vandegrift, Burlington, and last winter attended the lectures at the Philadelphia
College of Pharmacy, giving promise of future usefulness.

THE AMERICAN

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

DECEMBER, 1876.

SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF FLUID EXTRACTS.

BY G. H. CHAS. KLIE.

The " Pharmacopoeia " gives formula for quite a number of fluid
extracts, with mode of preparation circumstantially described, and
apparently all proper precaution taken to insure efficient preparations.
An experienced operator, if he uses good drugs, will no doubt gener-
ally make good fluid extracts. What the " Pharmacopoeia " fails to
give is a standard to measure the strength of the fluid extracts by.
If such an one had been adopted, very likely, more uniformity in
strength would result in this class of preparations.

Of the different methods to find the strength of fluid extracts,
specific gravity, presumably, is as good as any. Its adoption as the
standard would force the preparer, if he wanted to attain it, to use the
prescribed menstrua. Another point in its favor is : it is easily ascer-
tained and in a comparatively short time.

Precipitation is very accurate in estimating the strength of fluid
extracts, but it consumes more time and does not indicate the
menstrua.

To understand the specific gravity of the different extracts properly,
that of the menstrua, with which they are severally prepared, must be
taken into consideration, or rather, in what approximate proportion the
menstruum exists in the extracts when done. The " Pharmacopoeia"
directs the use of six different primary menstrua, viz. : Alcohol alone,
and alcohol, glycerin and water in 5 proportions, and several secondary
menstrua of alcohol and water. Six primary menstrua are given in
the list below, one of them being diluted alcohol, which alone is not
directed in any of the fluid extracts. The specific gravity in the list
of extracts marked " purchased" seems to indicate that one of them
was made with alcohol and the others with dilute alcohol. One of

34

53o

Specific Gravity of Fluid Extracts.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Dec, 1876.

the menstrua of alcohol, glycerin and water is not represented in the
list.

The strength of a fluid extract is indicated by the difference between
its own specific gravity and that of the menstruum. What is required,
therefore, is to know the specific gravity of the approximate menstrua,
not as they are used for percolation, but as they are likely to exist in
the extract when done.

I have ascertained the specific gravity of the fluid extracts which I
have on hand. Below I give the list with the specific gravity of each
annexed. 28 are officinal and 18 non-officinal, 39 are of own make
and 7 purchased. Before each series of fluid extracts the approximate
menstruum and its specific gravity has been placed. As a matter of
course due regard has been paid, during process of weighing, to the
temperature of the extracts and the state of the atmosphere, the ther-
mometer showing 6o° Fahrenheit and barometer 30 in.

Alcohol, -825

Extract, buchu fluid. . . '895

" cimicifugas fluid. . '890

" damianae fluid. purchM, '935

" cubebas fluid. . . -871

" gelsemini fluid. . '904

" serpentarias fluid. . -910

" Valeriana? fluid. . -975

Alcohol dilutum, . . . -942

Extract, lactucas fluid, purch'd, "992

" pareiras brav. fluid. " '975

" sennas comp. fluid. " 1*025

" apocyn. cannab. fluid. '982

" hyoscyami fluid. " 1*025

" grindel. robust, fluid." 1*028

Alcohol, pts. 6

Glycerina, " 1 )■ . -957

Aqua, " 1

Extract, colombas fluid. . . 1*012

" hydrast. can. fluid. . '971

" rhei fluid* . . 1*086

Alcohol, pts. 7

Glycerina, " 4

Aqua, " 5

Extract, belladonnas fol.

" caffeas

" collinsonias

" cort. aurant.

" cinchonas rubr.

" alni rubr.

" digitalis

" ergotas

" eucalypt. glob.

" gossypii

" gentianas

" kalmias latit".

u kousso

" lappas

" liquiritias

" pruni virg.

" pteleas

" stillingias

" sambuci

" sumbul

" senegas

" taraxaci

" uvas ursi

" scillas comp.

fluid.

1*004

1*098
1*124.
1*045

I*IOI

1*092
1*044
1*075
1*071
1*073.
1*023
1*085
1*095
1*091
1*132

1*101

1*095

1*043
1*055

I'IOZ

1*031
1*091

1*121
1*131
1*163

Am

. Jour. Pharm. \
Dec, 1876. J

Preparations of Malt.

Glycerina, pts. 4

Aqua, parts z y . . 1*056
Aloohol, pts. 3

Extract, sarsapar. cp. fluid. i'°93

Alcohol, pts. 5 ^

Glycerina, " 8 f- . . 1*087
4j7*«, " 3 .)

Lowell, N. St. Louis, Nov. $th, 1876.

Extract, sarsaparillae fluid.
" sennas "
" sennae etspigel. "
" spigelian "

Glycerina, pt. 1 >
" 1 )

Extract, ipecacuanhas fluid.

531

1*121
I.I4.1
1*127
I'llg

PREPARATIONS OF MALT.

BY RICH. V. MATTISON, PH.G.

(Read at the Pharmaceutical Meeting November 21.)

For several years past there seems to have been an observed ten-
dency among physicians toward the use of a class of preparations more
or less representing the saccharine and albuminoid constituents of
malted barley, and a number of medicinal preparations have been
gradually introduced, some of which have found considerable favor
among the profession as a slightly-tonic and valuable nutrient food, em -
ployed in dyspeptic and other stomachic disorders, caused by the norr-
assimilation of starch food.

Probably the most widely known in this country is the " HofF's
Malt Extract," which most of the members present may remember
particularly, on account of the great difficulty experienced in being able
to obtain it during the late Franco-German war, and the notoriety
which one of our eminently-respectable houses at that time attained,,
through being able to supply, as genuine, a preparation put up in the
ordinary London Stout bottles, with fac simile German labels. The
genuine preparation does not seem to the writer to be^properly called
an extract of malt, since it certainly partakes more of the nature of a
malt liquor, the principal difference being that it is of sweeter taste and
less spirituous — more sugar and less alcohol than the ordinary malted
liquors of commerce. The fact, however, of its containing a notable
proportion of alcohol renders it, in the opinion of the writer, an ob-
jectionable article ; not objectionable as a malt liquor, understand, but
as an extract of malt, since a large portion of the sugar has been con-
verted by fermentation into alcohol.

The nutrient properties of a good malt extract consist in the amount
of malt sugar, diastase, etc., that is obtainable therefrom by the^assimi-

Preparations of Malt,

l Am. Jour. Pharm.
t Dec , 1876.

lative organs of the human system, and to insure the proper amount of
these principles depends upon the proper observance of four rules, viz. :
1st. The barley must be malted properly and carefully, to insure the
formation of as large a quantity of diastase as possible, that by its action
in mashing all the starch may be converted into sugar. The chemical
change may be thus represented, the starch taking up the elements of
water :

Starch. Glucose. Dextrin.

3C6H10O5+H2O = C6H12Oe + 2C6H10O6
2d. The ground malt must be mashed carefully, with due regard to

the temperature, so as to insure the largest amount of sugar being

extracted with the smallest amount of water.

3d. The evaporation of the extract with a low degree of heat, to

avoid charring any of the delicate constituents of the extract.

4th. The most scrupulous cleanliness must be observed at all times

in and about all mash-tubs, kettles, capsules or other vessels used in

its preparation.

A word as to the object of the preparation may not be out of place.
It is well known that in the human economy the salivary glands and
the pancreas secrete analogous principles, each having for its object the
conversion of amylaceous principles into saccharine, that existing in the
salivary secretion being known as ptyalin and that of the pancreatic juice
as pancreatin. In the malted barley there is found a substance an-
alogous to these, and having just as strong and subtle power of chang-
ing starch into sugar as the pepsin in the gastric secretion has the
power of converting albuminous substances into peptone. This sub-
stance in malted barley is called diastase, and is formed during the pro-
cess of germination or malting. A small portion of this substance has
the power of converting an almost indefinite proportion of starch into
sugar.

These facts being known, it is obvious that when the animal system
is incapable, through deficiency of the natural secretions, of convert-
ing starch food into sugar, we must add some artificial saliva, as it were,
to perform the work and make good the deficiency, and hence it is
that the heavy feeling in the stomach observed after eating heartily of
potatoes, corn-starch and other graminaceous or amylaceous food, is
promptly removed by taking a small quantity of a good extract of malt.

Barley grown in high latitudes like Michigan, Canada and the like,

AmbJe°cu,r ^rm'} Preparations of Malt. 533

is generally the best, because of its containing more starch, which, in
the process of mashing, is converted into sugar, and of course, there
being more sugar, the yield of extract is larger, thus making the opera-
tion more successful, pecuniarily, to the manufacturer.

The process of malting we need not describe, being familiar to us
all, and for the purposes of the malt-making pharmacist may be prac-
tically ignored, it being better to purchase the malted barley of a pro-
fessional maltster.

The barley, then, being properly malted, is ground coarsely, and a
tub, preferable of cedar, with a false bottom, perforated, and of a capa-
city of say 20 gallons (an old-fashioned upright churn answers very
well), is filled with about 14 gallons of water, at a temperature of from
1680 to 1720 F. Into this tub about half a bushel of malt is added,
little by little, until the whole is well stirred in. The tub is then well
covered and set away in a warm room, and allowed to remain perfectly
at rest for a period of three or four hours, taking care that the temper-
ature does not fall below I50°F.

This is the process of mashing. At the expiration of the allotted
time, the stop-cock below the perforated diaphragm is opened, and
water of a temperature a little above the extract, which is now being
drawn off below, and which we shall now call the wort, is sprinkled by
means of a sieve or plant sprinkler, upon the top of the malt until the
wort being drawn off below is almost tasteless or of so low a specific
gravity that it will not pay the cost of evaporation. In large opera-
tions this sprinkling is done by means of a patented revolving instru-
ment called a "sparge," and which much resembles a lawn-sprinkler,
that revolves by the pressure of the water being ejected from each side
in opposite directions, the water being supplied from a large tank in
which it is heated by steam, and the exact temperature being easily
controlled by valves commanding abundant supplies of both cold water
and steam. This wort that we have drawn off from our mash-tub or
percolator, we now place in the capsule or copper kettle, and evaporate
by means of a water-bath to the required consistence ; the first run
should have a high specific gravity, and contain about a pound of malt
sugar to the gallon of wort. We present samples of this evaporated
wort, which is now our malt extract.

A word now regarding cleanliness. The mash-tub and all other
wooden or metal utensils should be washed out at least once a week

534 Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. {AmDJeGcU,r"i87h6arm'

with dilute solution of caustic potash or soda, and any barrels, tubs,
etc., should be kept filled with lime water when not in use, as the ten-
dency of the wort which may be left in them is very great toward fer-
mentation, and a few grains of malt accidentally left in the tub, and
which have undergone putrefactive change, may completely spoil the
subsequent batch of malt at the next mashing.

Extract of malt with iron is easily prepared by the addition of a
syrupy solution of ferric pyrophosphate, in the proportion of four grains
to the tablespoonful.

Extract of malt with pepsin has been proposed as a valuable prepara-
tion in dyspeptic troubles, since it would certainly have valuable diges-
tive properties, acting upon both amylaceous and albuminous sub-
stances.

Extract of malt with cod liver oil is proposed as the acme of all
emulsions of cod liver oil. When we reflect on the fact of cod liver
oil being simply food and not medicine, and then combine this with a
preparation having of itself the property of transforming non-assimila-
ble food into that which may be easily assimilated, beside being a
valuable nutrient, we have as an emulsion (and it makes a perfect
emulsion without the use of any gum, sugar or other vehicle) a prepara-
tion of double the nutrient value of the ordinary emulsions of cod
liver oil. A preparation, also, that is very pleasant to the palate as well
as the stomach, a fact that, in these days of elegant pharmacy need
not be overlooked.

Samples of this preparation, consisting of 50 per cent, each of cod
liver oil and extract of malt, are here presented. It is easily prepared,
is both pleasant and permanent, and may be mixed with water without
separating the oil.

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE SCHOOL OF PHARMACY OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN.

Communicated by Prof. Albert B. Prescott.

IX. Precipitations by the Phosphoric Acids. By James W. Morgan, Ph.C.

This investigation was to ascertain what normal metallic salts, in
solution, will form precipitates by addition of solutions, respectively, of
rree orthophosphoric, pyrophosphoric and metaphosphoric acids. Far-
ther, in cases of such formation of precipitates, what quantities of
certain acids are needed to dissolve them ; and, in cases of non-forma-

Am.jour. Pharm.j Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. 535

tion of precipitates, what proportion of the phosphoric acids must be
neutralized by alkalies in order to cause the precipitates ?

All the metallic salts and all the acids were obtained and used in
solutions of known strength.

The orthophosphoric acid was prepared by the first process of the
U. S. u Pharmacopoeia " for the diluted acid, and was used of the
strength of that preparation, near 10 per cent, of acid. 1

For the pyrophosphoric acid, ordinary sodium phosphate was fused
to pyrophosphate ; the solution of the latter precipitated by lead acetate
solution, and the washed precipitate transposed with hydrogen sulphide.
The filtrate was freed from gas by evaporation in vacuo at ordinary
temperature. The solution was found free from sodium salt and from
extraneous acids. One cc. contained 0*0608 gram of the acid.

The metaphosphoric acid was prepared by evaporating the solution
of orthophosphoric acid to dryness and gently igniting the residue. Of
this, 10*550 grams were dissolved in 300 cc. of water, or 0*035 grams
of acid to one cc. of water. Heat was avoided in dissolving, and the
solution was used fresh.

Solutions of the following metallic salts were prepared, each in three
degrees of strength, 5 per cent., 1 per cent, and J per cent.

Barium chloride, absolute ;
Calcium chloride, absolute ;
Magnesium sulphate, cryst. ;
Aluminium sulphate, cryst. ;
Ferric chloride, absolute ;
Tincture of chloride of iron ;

Ferrous chloride, absolute 5
Ferrous sulphate, cryst. 5
Lead nitrate, cryst. ;
Lead acetate, cryst. ;
Silver nitrate, cryst.

The nitric acid used for dissolving precipitates was 35 per cent, of
hydrogen nitrate ; the hydrochloric acid, 24 per cent. ; and the soda
solution used to neutralize phosphoric acid and produce precipitates was
7 per cent, of sodium oxide.

Another solution of same strength was prepared from common sodium phosphate
by precipitation with lead acetate, and decomposition of the lead phosphate with
hydrogen sulphide, the filtrate being freed from the gas. This solution was found
to have a trace of sulphuric acid from contamination of the sodium phosphate with
sulphate ; the testing of this salt having been neglected until the preparation was
completed. The process worked well.

536 Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. {Am*Decr,'i^76rnl'
With ten per cent, solution of orthophosphoric acid :

Four cc. of the salt solutions treated
with 1 cc. of the orthophosphoric
acid.

Barium chlor., 5 p. c.

" " 1 p. c.
Calcium chlor., 5 p. c.

" " 1 p. c.

Magnesium sul., 5 p. c.
Aluminium sul., "
Ferric chlor., 10 p. c.

" " 5 p. c.

" tincture
Ferrous chlor., 5 p. c.
Ferrous sul., "
Lead nitrate, 5 p. c.

" " 1 p. c.

" " I p. c.
Lead acetate, 5. p. c.

" " 1 p. c.

" " £p. c.
Silver nitr., 5 p. c.

" " 1 p. c.

" " I p. c.

No pre.

Resulting pre-
cipitates dis-
solve d by-
adding :

In 1 cc. salt sol. with 3 cc.
phos. acid sol.

5/3 <u s
■a "2

O o
C/3

Pre.

No

pre.

8 cc. nitr. ac.
2 cc. "

1 cc. "

6 cc. "

2 cc. "
I cc. "

7 cc. ortho. ac.

I'O cc.
1-5 cc.

12 CC.

i*6 cc.
3-0 cc.
i-6 cc.
I'O cc.
3*0 cc.

3-0 cc.

13 cc.

£ O rt Z

OHO

36 p. c.

o'i 16

59 "

0 133

43 "

0*177

59 <<

0-300

100 4e

0-177

59 "

O'I 10

36 -

0*300

100 "

0300

100 "

0-143

47 "

The lead precipitates were insoluble in excess of the orthophos-
phoric acid solution.

With six per cent, pyrophosphoric acid solution no precipitates were
formed with any of the salt solutions named above, except those of
ferric chloride, lead nitrate and acetate, and silver nitrate, which were
formed as follows, on adding 1 cc. of the pyrophosphoric acid to 4 cc.
of the salt solutions :

Ferric chloride, tincture ; precipitate thick.

" " 10 p. c.j pre. soluble in 20 cc. of pyro. ac. or 5 cc. HCI.

« « 5 « « <t 5 cc< « or 3 cc< a

« « j « « « 2 cc a or j-5 cc> «

" " not soluble in pyro. acid, sol. in 1 cc. nitric.
" " " « " 0-3 cc.

Lead nitrate,

Lead acetate,

Silver nitrate,

015 cc.
3 cc.
o'8 cc.
0-4 cc.
0-5 cc.

no pre.

1 The neutralization was predicated on formation of two-thirds metallic salt.

AmbJe°c"ri8576arm' } Contributions from the School of Pharmacy, etc. 537
With three and a half per cent, solution of metaphosphoric acid:

Four cc of the salt solution-
treated with 1 cc. of the meta-
phosphoric acid :

Barium chlor., 5 p. c.
Calcium chlor., 5 p. c.
" " 1 p. c.

« J p. c.
Magnes. sul., 5 p. c.
Alumin. sul., 5 p. c.

Ferric chlor., 10 p. c.

« " 5 p. c.

" " 1 p. c.

" " tincture
Ferrous chlor., 5 p. c.
Ferrous sul., 5 p. c.
" " 1 p. c.

Lead nitrate, 5 p. c.

" " 1 p. c.
« " i P. c.

Lead acetate, 5 p. c.

1 p. c.

i p. c.

Silver nitrate, 5 p. c.
" " 1 p. c.

No pre.

Resulting precipi-
tates dissolved
by adding:

Precip.

cc

No pre.

Precip.

No

f 12 cc meta. ac.
{ oriocc. HC1

5 cc. meta. ac.
( 2 cc. meta. ac.
\ 1 cc. HC1
large excess HC1

10 cc. meta. ac.

1 '4 cc. nitric ac.

2 cc. meta. ac.
o'7 cc. meta. ac.

5 cc. meta. ac.

07 cc. nitr. ac.

1 cc. meta. ac.
0-4 cc. meta. ac.
J 8 cc. meta ac.
[ 5 cc. nitric ac.

In 1 cc. salt sol. with 3 cc.
metaphos. ac.

M -a

0*4 cc.
0*4 cc.

1*7 cc.

2*0 CC.

S"Sfi

0-076 grm
0*076 "

0*307
0*361

I'o cc 0-180
o*5 cc. 0*090
ro cc. o*i8o

.2 © £ts

o •+< o £
«■; o cs

74 P-

74 '

292
343

171
171

With the ferric chloride tincture, the thick white precipitate was
only made gelatinous by addition of excess of the metaphosphoric
acid.

In production of metallic precipitates, the sharpest distinction between
the phosphoric acids appears to be, with ferric salts, between orthophos-
phoric acid and the other two. Both ferric pyrophosphate and ferric
metaphosphate are soluble in excess of their respective phosphoric
acids, if in water solution, but, in case of metaphosphate, not soluble
in the alcoholic solution of the pharmacopoeial tincture. Lead and
silver salts are precipitated by each of the three forms of phosphoric
acid ; the lead metaphosphate being soluble in excess of metaphos-
phoric acid (a distinction from both the other phosphoric acids). The

538 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals, {AmbJe°cU,r'J7h6arm'

distinction between ferrous and ferric salts, by metaphosphoric acid, is
well defined.

The large excess of alkali required to give a precipitate in the mix-
ture of metaphosphoric acid and certain salts, as aluminium and mag-
nesium salts, may be due to the formation of soluble double metaphos-
phates, representing polymeric modifications of the monobasic acid.

The proportion of neutralized phosphoric acids (sodium phosphates)
which can be present in solutions, without causing precipitates in salt
solutions, is a question of interest, because of the presence of alkaline
phosphate in the glacial acid and solutions made therefrom.

It was to determine this question, and also to settle some doubts as
to how far the metallic precipitates, stated in the books for the free
phosphoric acids, have been due to unknown presence of alkaline phos-
phates, that these experiments were made.

University of Michigan, November 14, 1876.

GLEANINGS FROM THE FOREIGN JOURNALS.

BY THE EDITOR.

Composition of Xanthium Spinosum. — Yvon and Nocard have obtained
from 100 parts of the air-dry plant 11*828 water, 76*518 of organic
and 11*654 parts of inorganic matter. Among the organic constituents
was found 10*632 starch, 0*808 glucose, 2*040 chlorophyll and resin
soluble in ether, the remaining 63*038 consisting of cellulose, acids and
probably an alkaloid. The mineral constituents were those usually
found in plants, lime (2*454 p.) and magnesia (2*436 p.) preponderating.
Not a trace of alkaloid could be detected in the decoction with acidu-
lated water, which had been treated with milk of lime, and the precipi-
tate digested with alcohol and chloroform ; but by using alcohol, and
following the process of Stas, liquids were obtained, which yielded
precipitates with several of the general reagents for alkaloids. But
similar reactions may be obtained on treating sandarac, olibanum and
other resins in a similar manner. — Rep. de Phar., 1876, p. 546.

Olive-tree bark as a febrifuge is recommended by L. Thibon, of
Tournai, who has prepared from it a principle named oliverin, which
he prepares as follows : The aqueous decoction of the bark is evapo-
rated to a syrupy consistence ; this is precipitated by strong alcohol,
and the filtrate again by the careful addition of oxalic acid. The

Am De°cutr'i8>76arm' } Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 539

nitrate from the last precipitate deposits the oliverin on slow evapora-
tion. After washing with cold water it forms yellow granules, which
are slightly odorous and very bitter. Dr. Fabry reports remarkable
cures with this substance, which is given in the dose of o'io to 0*30
grams four or five times a day ; the author requests physicians to try
it in all cases where quinia is indicated. — Ibid., 558.

Veratria. — Ernst Schmidt and R. Koppen have again examined this
alkaloid as prepared by themselves from sabadilla,and from commercial
alkaloid, and obtained results which in the main agree with those
originally obtained by Merck (uAmer. Jour. Phar.," 1856, p. 134),
except that they find its formula to be C32H50NO9 (O— 16). They
also found Weigelin's observation (187 1) correct regarding the existence
of a veratria, which is soluble in water and may be obtained by precipi-
tating a veratria salt by ammonia in the cold and washing it with cold
water in which it gradually dissolves, but is reprecipitated by heat. On
evaporating the solution in vacuo, a yellowish amorphous mass is
obtained, which is again readily soluble in water and has the .compo-
sition of the crystalline modification. The resinous mass, which is
dissolved from the crude veratria by cold dilute alcohol, is another
modification of the same alkaloid, differing from the first by not being
crystalline, and from the second by the sparing solubility in water ; the
first and the last are gradually converted into the second modification
by precipitating them in the cold and prolonged washing with cold
water.

The authors have also examined samples of commercial veratria from
six manufacturers, and found them pure and free from sabadillia and
sabatrina, which are rather freely soluble in water ; they dissolved com-
pletely in ether, in which sabadillia is insoluble. — Ber. d. deut. Chem.
Ges., 1876, 1115-1221.

The bark of Erythropheum guineense, the mancone of the Portuguese,
contains an alkaloid, which was obtained in a crystalline state by E.
Hardy and N. Gallois by exhausting the bark with alcohol acidulated
with muriatic acid, evaporating, dissolving in water and decomposing
by ammonia in the presence of acetic ether. The erythrophein is crys-
talline, sparingly soluble in ether and chloroform, but readily in acetic
ether. Physiologically, it acts as a muscular poison, acting primarily
upon the heart, arresting its action in systole. The bark of E. cuminga
contains an alkaloid having a similar physiological action. — Chem.
CentralbL, No. 40, from Bull. Soc. Chim.

54° Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {^i^gS1**

Hops as a Ferment. — L. Pasteur has also made experiments with the
view of throwing light upon the assertion of Sacc that hops contain a
peculiar ferment (see this journal, pp. 320 and 467), and arrives at the
conclusion that the presence of hops has no influence upon the fermen-
tation of dough, and that its principal office appears to be, to impart to
the bread a peculiar bitterish taste which may be relished by some
persons. — Ibid.^ No. 41, from Comp. rend., vol. 83, p. 107.

Adonis vernalis, Lin. — F. Linderos obtained from the dried leaves of
this plant, which are medicinally employed in some parts of Europe
on account of their drastic properties, nearly ten per cent, of aconitic
acid, which appears to be combined with calcium and patassium.- —
Ann. Chem., vol. 182, p. 365.

Betulin was obtained by U. Hausmann from the light corky layer
of the European birch bark, after exhausting it with hot water, by
precipitating the alcoholic decoction with an alcoholic solution of lead
acetate, heating the mixture to boiling and precipitating the hot filtrate
with ammonium carbonate. On cooling, it formed a crystalline magma
which was pressed and purified by repeated washings with little ether
and recrystallizations from hot alcohol. It forms colorless long prisms,
compressible to a shining felt-like mass, is easily rubbed to powder
between the fingers, inodorous, tasteless, fusible at 2500 C. (corrected
2580 C), and partly sublimes in thin needles. It is insoluble in water,
but dissolves in alcohol, ether, benzol and choloroform. Its composi-
tion is C36H60O3, and with acetic anhydrid forms betulin-diacetate, a
crystallizable ether. By dry distillation, oily products are obtained,
which possess in a high degree the characteristic odor of Russian
leather. — Ibid., p. 368-380.

Glycyrrhizin was observed by Gorup-Besanez (1 861) to be a
glucoside, being split, when boiled with water, into sugar, and into the1
brown-yellow resinous glycyrretin. P. Weselsky and R. Benedikt
have treated the latter with fusing potassium hydrate, and obtained from
the fused mass paraoxy-benzoic acid (C7H603.H20) as the principal
product of decomposition.— Ber. d. deut. Chem. Ges., 1876, p. 1 158.

Vanillin is the sole odorous principle of vanilla, according to the investi-
gations of F. Tiemann and Wm. Haarmann. The aqueous liquid
which is obtained in the estimation of vanillin by their process (see
page 132), yields to pure ether an organic acid, which was recognized

AmDe°cTi8P76arm-} Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 541

as vanillic acid, while the etherial tincture which had been agitated
with the solution of bisulphite of sodium, contains a fat which is
occasionally rancid and a resin possessing, particularly when heated, a
characteristic odor of castoreum, which is readily covered by the odor
of vanillin. This was found to be the case with Mexican, Bourbon
and Java vanilla ; but the so-called vanillon, which has an odor
resembling heliotrope, yielded besides vanillin and vanillic acid, an oil
possessing the odor of oil of bitter almonds, and which is probably
benzaldehyd. — lbid.^ p. 1 285-1 292.

Occurrence of glucose in alcohol. — G. Salomon has obtained from
commercial alcohols residues which reduced oxide of copper. In one
case he obtained from one litre 0*13 grams glucose, which impurity
was most likely dissolved from the barrel in which previously other
liquors may have been kept. This impurity is of particular importance
in analytical investigations. — Chem. Centralbl., No. 33.

The acids of the juice of unripe grapes. — Erlenmeyer and Hoster have
rendered it very probable that the juice ©f unripe grapes contains
glycolic and oxalic acids ; Schwarz has found malic acid in it, and
H. Schwarz and R. Brandenburg now announce the presence of
succinic acid. If glyoxylic acid should be also discovered in the juice,
the production of the acids can be explained by the reducing influence
of light as follows :

2(CH2Os)+H2 = Oxalic acid C2H204-f 2H20
C2H204+H2 = Glyoxylic acid C2H203+H20
C2H2Os-|-H2 = Glycolic acid C2H403
2(C2H2Os)+H2= Tartaric acid C4H606
C4H606-f-H2 = Malic acid C4H605+H20
C4H605-fH2 = Succinic acid C4H604+H20
— Ber. d. deut. Chem. Ges., 1876, 982.

Reagent for Glucose. — A. Soldaini recommends to dissolve 15 grams
of precipitated carbonate of copper in a warm solution of 416 grams
potassium dicarbonate in 1400 c.c. of water. The reagent is reduced
by grape- and milk-sugar, but not by cane-sugar, dextrin or starch-
paste, unless they contain glucose. Normal, urine, tartaric and uric
acids are without action, but tannin and formic acid produce, when
heated, a separation of cuprous oxide. — Phar. Cen. Halle^ No 42.

Honey Artificially Colored. — A curious sophistication has been exposed

542 Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. {A%J™^7h6?rm'

by Ch. Meniere. It appears that the more or less deeply colored
honey from Bretagne is preferred in France for certain purposes j
being rather scarce this year, it is manufactured in Paris by incorporat-
ing with honey a sufficient quantity of roasted bread, particularly the
crust, which gives a yellow powder. By dissolving the honey in
water the added powder mav be collected upon a filter, and by this
means the author has collected this novel adulterant in quantities rang-
ing from io to 20 per cent, of the weight of the honey. — Rep. de
Pbar.y p. 6 io.

At the International Exhibition, just closed, there was some artificial
honey, which appeared to be merely syrupy glucose flavored with a
little honey.

Preparation of Artificial Wax. — A French patent, obtained by Pau-
vert, Moussay and Chauvin, gives the following directions :

1. Two parts of colophony (rosin) and one part of paraffin, or a
similar hydro-carbon are fused together at io8° C.

2. Three parts of colophony are fused with one part of soap or
stearic acid, and then washed with potassa solution. A little copal or
vegetable wax may be added. — Chem. Centralbl., No. 33, from Bull.
Soc. Chem.

Preservation of Volatile Oils. — Well corked bottles, particularly if
the cork is securely wrapped with thin gelatin, is recommended by E.
Tornbory, of Jassy. As an instance of the security of the oils under
corks, it is stated that, on digging a well at Salzwedel, there were
found behind a wall, which probably belonged to the cellar when the
building was destroyed by fire 200 years ago, two bottles containing
oil of rosemary and of cloves, both being in a good state of preserva-
tion, although the corks were rotten and the oil of cloves of a brown
color. — Apotheker Zeit., No. 38.

Drying of Plants for the Herbarium. — As it is well known, the suc-
culent plants (orchideae, pinguicula, etc.) give the greatest trouble in
drying, inasmuch as they easily lose their colors and become black,
through incipient decomposition. It has been recommended to draw
the plants slowlv through a warm solution of 0*5 grm. salicylic acid in
300 grms. alcohol, shake well and dry in the usual manner in warm
blotting paper, which has to be changed at least once a day.

Plants treated in this way dry quickly and preserve their colors

AmbJe°cUri87h6arm*j Gleanings from the Foreign Journals. 543

wonderfully. Orchis morio, Orchis militaris, Syringa alba, Asperula
odorata, Pinguicula vulgaris, Gymnadenia conopsea, Rhinanthus,,
Cephalanthera, CEnothera biennis, Verbascum thapsus, Petasites albus,
Juglans regia, Pedicularis palustris, all of which generally turn black in
drying, keep their colors, especially the red and violet ones. — H. M.
W., Ny Pharm. Tid., 1876, p. 328.

New -Method for the Volumetric Estimation of Silver. — Acid solutions
of silver produce, with sulphocyanides, a white, curdy precipitate,
resembling chloride of silver in appearance. In the presence of a ferric
salt a blood-red coloration will be produced on the addition of every
drop of the sulphocyanide solution, and quickly disappear as long as
any silver remains in solution. The permanent appearance of the red
color indicates the complete precipitation of the silver. This method^
which has been proposed by Prof. J. Volhard, of Munich, is capable
of very extended application, particularly for the estimation of chlo-
rine, bromine, iodine and similar bodies, which are precipitated by
silver from acid solutions. — Phar. Cent. Halle, No. 39, from four. f.
prakt. Chem,

Recovery of Silver from Solutions of Silver Cyanide and on the Reduction
of Silver Chloride. — Ernst Von Bibra has examined the various methods
proposed, and recommends to precipitate the solutions with sulphuric
acid, ignite the precipitate, digest with nitric acid and precipitate by
hydrochloric acid. The precipitated silver chloride is treated by
Grager's process by adding ammonia and digesting with zinc. The
greyish or whitish precipitate gradually becomes deep grey, almost
black, and then contains zinc, which is extracted by dilute sulphuric
acid, or better, by boiling with dilute hydrochloric acid, when pure
silver is left behind. — Jour. f. rpakt. Chem., 1876, pp. 185-192.

Notes on Sumbul. — The Euryangium sumbul is found in large quantities
in the neighborhood of Chabarowka, a military post on the river Amur,
in the province of Kusten, East Siberia, 9,000 versts from St. Peters-
burg. It is a perennial umbellifer, and grows to the height of from 3
to 5 feet. Its root is branched, fleshy, about 11 inches in circumfer-
ence at the base, and 3! inches in diameter, with numerous rootlets,
and covered with a brown bark. The root has a strong smell of musk,,
which, by moistening with water, is considerably increased. The
stalk of the plant is always fleshy, equal in circumference at the base

544 Basis for Cant har ides Plaster. {Am'i^r;^m'

with the root, becoming gradually more slender towards the top. The
leaves are more than twice pinnatifid, the pinnae lancet-shaped, sharply
serrate, the umbels with 30 to 50 rays, the flowers white and small.

Besides the Euryangium sumbul, the author has met with another
umbellifer, which resembles it very much in its entire habit, but may
be distinguished by its smaller size, lighter leaver, and the absence of
the musk-like smell of the root.

The Eastern Russian inhabitants call the Euryangium sumbul "Baren-
klaue " (bear's claw), and use the root as a medicine. The Chinese
living in the district use the root of the plant against various diseases,
and call it " Lsouma-tschen-tuk." It is also used by the natives
internally as a remedy for swellings ; with them it bears the names
" Ofuokgi " and " Ouchi."

The author promises a future communication, giving the results of
an examination of the separate constituents of the root as it is found in
the district of Chabarowka. — Karl Wittmann, Phar. Journ. and
Trans., Oct. 2r, from Ph. Zeitsch.f. Russland, vol. xv, p. 545.

A NEW BASIS FOR CANTHARIDES PLASTER.1

BY A. W. GERRARD.

Teacher of Pharmacy to University College Hospital.

In a report upon the official plasters presented by me before the meet-
ing of our Conference held in London in 1874, the cantharides plaster
was omitted from the list, as my experiments upon it were not then
concluded. Mr. T. Groves, who was the president of the Conference
for that year, remarked, in his discussion of my report, that the blister
plaster was the only one in which he believed, therefore I thought it
too important a matter to overlook, and am now in a position to lay the
subject before you.

The basis of our present cantharides plaster, as is known, consists of
a mixture of wax, prepared suet, resin and lard. In my experience
with this basis, the most important faults it possesses are insufficiency
of adhesiveness and flexibility, and by reason of this, after it has been
spread a few days, and more especially during the winter months, it
becomes brittle, cracks and peels from the surface of the material
upon which it is spread. To overcome these objections it was neces-
sary to alter the proportions of its present ingredients, or seek a new
iRead before the British Pharmaceutical Conference.

AmDe°cUri8P76frm'} Basis for C ant har ides Plaster. 545

formula. I chose the latter, for I considered the presence of a granular
body like mutton fat a quite unnecessary and useless ingredient, and to
be the main cause of the objections urged. After numerous trials with
mixtures of various proportions of wax, resin, fats and oils, most of
which answered my object but indifferently, I tried Canada balsam, and
found that when mixed with wax and lard in the following proportions
it gave a very good result :

Take ot

Cantharides in fine powder ....... 6 ounces.

Canada Balsam ........ 8 "

Yellow Wax 5 "

Lard 4 "

Dissolve the wax, lard and balsam over a water-bath, add the can-
tharides, and allow them to macerate at a gentle heat for one hour, then
stir till cold ; during the winter months the lard may be doubled with
advantage.

In deciding upon the above proportions, I have borne in mind that
the plaster should be only just sufficiently adherent that on its removal
from the patient the blister is not torn.

Plaster prepared according to this form has been on its trial for some
time, it produces a good blister in from four to eight hours, and I have
had no complaints concerning it. For experiment I placed a small
plaster of this formula, and one of the B.P., upon my own arm, the
former was seven hours and the latter nearly eight hours producing the
desired result.

Canada balsam is, I consider, well adapted for the purpose I have
chosen it, as from its terebinthinate character it has a solvent action
upon the wax, which imparts to the mixture the desired qualities of
adhesion and flexibility ; it is also probable that it aids the extraction of
the cantharidin from the flies.

A German pharmarcist, whose name I am unable to call to mind,
has stated that an advantage is gained by treating the cantharides by the
following process before making them into plaster : Digest the powdered
flies with caustic soda, cantharidate of soda is formed, neutralize this
with hydrochloric acid, cantharidin is liberated and chloride of sodium
produced ; the mass is then dried and mixed with the basis, the chloride
of sodium being in no way detrimental. I tried the experiment, but
obtained no apparent advantage.

35

546 Salicylate and Sulpho salicylate of Sodium, { AmbJe0cu,r x8P76ariri

A blistering plaster may sometimes fail from the bad quality of the
flies, and in this matter if there is any suspicion, I think the judgment
would be much aided by the use of a microscope. There are other
causes of failure, such as the plaster being insecurely applied, or the
patient's skin may be of that nature that vesicants will not affect it ;
these matters are outside our control. I have only attempted that
which is within it, and believe the form I have given for cantharides
plaster will be found an improvement on that to which we have been
accustomed.

NOTE ON SALICYLATE AND SULPHOSALICYLATE OF SODIUM.1

BY JOHN WILLIAMS, F.C.S.

Salicylate of sodium has been much employed lately as an internal
remedy.

It is made by neutralizing a solution of salicylic acid with caustic
soda, and evaporating to dryness. It can be purified by crystallization
from alcohol ; the crystals formed are, however, very small and indis-
tinct, and this method of purification is not generally adopted.

Complaints have appeared in the medical journals that the salt some-
times produces irritative effects when administered medicinally, and it has
been suggested that probably a trace of carbolic acid may occasionally
be retained by the salicylic acid made by artificial means, and thus the
salt prepared from such acid is impure.

An examination of the salicylic acid made from carbolic acid by
Kolbe's process soon proves that the product is not always to be
depended upon as a pure homogeneous article ; indeed it can hardly be
otherwise, when we consider that the carbolic acid from which it is
made is itself not an absolutely pure or definite article. Still, I must
observe that the salicylic acid now being supplied is much purer and
more definite than that which was at first sent into the market by the
German makers.

Thus salicylate of sodium — made from the artificial acid — and from
the great difficulty of purifying it by recrystallization — is liable to be
more or less impure, and indefinite in composition. It thus appears
desirable, if possible, to obtain a salt which can be purified, and obtained
of definite constitution.

Sulphosalicylic acid appeared to offer such a compound. It was

1 Read before the British Pharmaceutical Conference.

AmDe°cU,r*x8P76?rm'} Salicylate and Sulphosalicylate of Sodium. 547

discovered many years back by Cahours,and has been further investigated
by Mendius. The process described for its production is, however, one
of considerable practical difficulty.

The vapor of anhydrous sulphuric acid is passed over salicylic acid
kept cool ; gradually a sticky, gummy mass is produced, which contains
the new acid, and can be separated by appropriate means.

I have made several attempts to produce this conjugated acid by
means of ordinary sulphuric acid, and have at length succeeded in doing
so, but not without several failures. I find the following process to
answer :

The salicylic acid must be very pure ; the unpurified commercial
acid, when treated with sulphuric acid, simply yields a black mass,
giving off sulphurous acid, and yielding no sulpho-salt capable of giving
definite crystals.

If pure acid is employed, then about twice its weight of sulphuric
acid is quite sufficient. The mixture must be gently heated in a sand-
bath up to about ioo° C, when action will commence in the liquid, and
•considerable heat be developed. The beaker must be removed from
the sand-bath, and the contents stirred, so as to regulate and keep down
the temperature ; but the cooling must not be sufficient to altogether
check the reaction. If the temperature exceeds the proper point, little
or no sulphosalicylic acid is produced, but apparently bisulpho-carbolic
acid, which does not yield definite crystallizable salt.

When the reaction has been properly maintained, at the end of ten
minutes or a quarter of an hour the temperature begins to fall and in a
short time the whole becomes a solid mass, generally of a light brown
color ; this will speedily deliquesce if left exposed to the air ; but it
can be dissolved in water at once, and treated with carbonate of barium
in the usual way. I may mention that as the sulphosalicylate of barium
is not a very soluble salt, it is necessary to employ a considerable quan-
tity of water, and filter the liquid while still hot. This solution of the
barium salt, decomposed by an equivalent quantity of sulphate of sodium,
which yields a solution of the sulphosalicylate of sodium upon evapo-
ration to a small bulk, yields crystals ; these crystals must be pressed
from the mother liquor and purified by recrystallization two or three
times from hot water.

When pure, sulphosalicylate of^sodium forms hard white prisms ; it
is not deliquescent, although very soluble in water. It is almost insol-

548

Excretion of Salicylic Acid,

Am. Jour. Pharm»
Dec, 1876.

uble in alcohol, has no caustic, but a slightly bitter taste, and is alto-
gether a salt well adapted, I think, for medicinal use.

Salicylic acid and its salts give, as is well known, a striking reaction
with perchloride of iron, producing a dark purple coloration. The
sulphosalicylates produce exactly the same reaction, proving that the
salicylic acid radical is still intact in these compounds, and it is fair to
infer that the medical properties of these sulpho-salts will be found in
practice to be identical with, or perhaps superior to, the simple sali-
cylates.

We have in the analogous case of the carbolate and sulphocarbolate
of soda an instance in which the sulpho-salt possesses great advantages
over the simple salt, and such may prove to be the case with the
sulphosalicylates.

The acid itself is crystallizable, but deliquescent ; the zinc salt is
also very deliquescent. I have not paid any attention to the other salts
as yet.

NOTE ON THE CONDITION IN WHICH SALICYLIC ACID IS EX
CRETED BY PATIENTS.1

BY F. BADEN BENGER, F.C.S.

The question whether or not salicylic acid ever exists in a free, and
therefore active condition, in the urine of patients being of some
importance, the following experiments were made, and the results are
offered as a small contribution towards a settlement of the point.

The urine of a patient who had taken 60 grains of salicylic acid
during the day was collected in the evening and the following morning,
It was slightly acid to test paper, and gave the purple reaction with fer-
ric chloride characteristic of salicylic acid and its salts. A portion
shaken with bitter almond meal in the proportion of two grains to the
fluidounce immediately developed the odor of bitter almond oil. In a
similar portion treated with two grains of mustard flour to the fluidounce^
the odor of mustard oil was at once perceptible ; mixed with forty
grains of sugar and half a grain of German yeast to the fluid ounce,
fermentation rapidly took place. Five fluidounces were evaporated to
half an ounce, thoroughly shaken with its bulk of ether, the ethereal
solution evaporated to dryness, and the residue dissolved in one fluid-
ounce of sweetened water ; to this half a grain of yeast was added^

^ead before the British Pharmaceutical Conference.

AmbJe°cu:'x?7h6.rra' } Excretion of Salicylic Acid. 549

and fermentation immediately commenced. A portion set aside in a
warm place decomposed with the same rapidity as another specimen of
urine containing no salicylic acid or its salts.

Parallel experiments were then made with urine in which salicylic
acid had been dissolved in the proportions of \ grain, \ grain, 1 grain
and 2 grains, to the fluidounce. Sweetened with sugar, and half a
grain of yeast to the fluidounce added, the \ grain and \ grain solution
fermented more or less rapidly, the 1 grain solution slightly in twenty-
four hours, whilst that containing two grains to the ounce remained
unaffected. Mixed with bitter almond meal, two grains to the fluid-
ounce, the \ grain solution prevented the production of bitter almond
oil, but with mustard flour in the same proportion a slight odor of mus-
tard oil was apparent, nor did the 1 grain solution entirely prevent its
production. Similar experiments were then made with aqueous solu-
tions of salicylic acid, and \ of grain of acid to the fluidounce was
found to be sufficient 'to prevent the action of \ grain of yeast on
1 fluidounce of sweetened solution. Smaller quantities only slightly
retarded the action. A larger proportion of salicylic acid was required
to prevent the action of yeast on sugar than has been recorded by some
experimenters, and, as might be expected, more acid was required to
produce the same effect in sweetened urine than in sweetened water,
some of it probably combining with the alkaline phosphates present ;
nevertheless, these experiments, as far as they go, seem to indicate
that, at all events in the case under observation, the acid was not
excreted in an active condition.

In connection with this subject, some experiments were made with
urine in which salicylate of sodium had been dissolved in the propor-
tions of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 grains to the fluidounce, 40 grains of sugar
and half a grain of yeast were added to an ounce of each. The one
grain and two grain solutions fermented rapidly, the three and four
grain solutions less rapidly, and the five grain solution remained unaf-
fected by the ferment.

Solutions of salicylate of sodium in urine appeared to exert no retard-
ing action on the production of oil of mustard, or oil of bitter almonds.
Aqueous solutions of salicylate of sodium acted in a similar manner.

It has been stated that the salts of salicylic acid do not possess anti-
septic properties, but it is evident that salicylate of sodium is capable of
preventing fermentation if present in the proportion named.

550 An Alkaloid obtained from Jaborandi. { Am-D{T"'J7tTtn'

ON AN ALKALOID OBTAINED FROM JABORANDI, ITS PLATINIC
COMPOUND, AND THEIR FORMULA.

BY CHARLES T. KINGZETT.

In 1875 an alkaloid was isolated from the leaves and stalks of jabo-
randi (Pilocarpus pennatifolius, of Lemaire), almost simultaneously and
quite independently by Mr. A. W. Gerrard and M. Hardy (" Amer,
Jour. Phar., 1875, pp. 214 and 315). There is another kind of
jaborandi, a species of Piper, from which Parodi has isolated an alkaloid
of the formula C20H12N2O6.

To the alkaloid upon which M. Gerrard worked, the name of pilo-
carpina has been given. He has detailed the methods of extraction,
and states that it forms crystallizable salts with hydrochloric, nitric
and sulphuric acids. He further exhibited some crystals of the
so-called hydrochloride in a dark-brown mother-liquor, at the last meeting
of the Pharmaceutical Conference, but neither at that time nor since
has he, or M. Hardy, or any other observer, "published any formulae
for the alkaloid or its compounds. Mr. Gerrard has further stated
his opinion that there are at least two alkaloids in jaborandi, and that
the one upon which he worked gave no precipitate with phospho-
molybdic acid. Several other papers relating to this subject will be
found in the " Year Book of Pharmacy" for 1875.

More recently Hardy states that he has obtained from the distillate
of an aqueous extract of the leaves of jaborandi a quantity of crude
oil, containing a terpene which gave a crystalline di-hydrochloride*
But the boiling point of 1780 C, which he attributes to the hydrocar-
bon, would rather point to cymene than to a terpene. He also obtained
a solid, colorless substance, which was not further examined (" L'Union
Pharmaceutique," vol. xvi, p. 365). My first experiment was conducted
upon the leaves of the plant. These were thoroughly extracted with
water of 700 C, and the extract concentrated to a small bulk, filtered
from deposited matters, rendered acid by hydrochloric acid, and fully
precipitated with phosphomolybdic acid. The bright yellow precipi-
tate, after thorough washing, was decomposed after the method of
Sonnenschein, that is by heating with excess of baryta, and the excess
of barium was removed by carbonic acid. The filtrate was strongly
alkaline, and was found to contain barium. This barium was carefully
removed by sulphuric acid, and the filtrate, which gave the character-
istic reactions of an alkaloid with various reagents, was converted into

AmDec.?i876.rm' } Alkaloid obtained from Jaborandi. 551

hydrochloride, but all attempts to obtain crystals by concentration on
a water-bath, or in a vacuum over sulphuric acid, or by spontaneous
evaporation, proved vain.

In the next experiment I took the stems and twigs of jaborandi, and
extracted them after they had been cut up into small fragments, with
boiling water, until the last extract contained no appreciable quantity of
matter.

The extract was distilled to a small bulk, and it was observed that
the first few litres of distillate came over milky, and that on standing
yellow oily drops deposited. The small quantity and its volatile
nature defeated an attempt made to isolate it. The concentrated
water-extract obtained as above was treated with an equal volume of
strong alcohol, which threw down dark- colored albuminous matter,
&c. From the filtrate the whole of the alcohol was distilled ofF, and a
great part of the water. The syrup of 300 cc. was now extracted
with much ether. Next ammonia was added, as Mr. Gerrard stated
in a letter to me that he had found the alkaloid in the water extract
was combined with an acid, and the whole was again extracted with
ether. Finally the syrup containing ammonia was extracted with
chloroform.

The first ether extracts were strongly colored ; the after ones only
faintly ; the chloroform ones not at all. From all these extracts the
solvents were distilled, and after many and various unsuccessful
attempts to get the residues combined separately in a crystalline form
with hydrochloric acid, no sign of crystallization ever being obtained,
all the products were united, ammonia added, and the whole again
extracted by chloroform. The chloroform extracts on distillation left
a colored aqueous syrup, which was rendered strongly acid with nitric
acid, and gave a bulky yellow precipitate with phospho-molybdic acid.
This precipitate was passed through the same treatment as that
described above in the first experiment. The free base was found to
contain barium, which was removed exactly by very dilute sulphuric
acid, after which the whole was concentrated to a syrup of a pleasant
nutty odor. The product was now acidified faintly with hydrochloric
acid, and another attempt made to get a crystallization, both by evapo-
ration on a water-bath and in vacuo, etc., but as before, quite in vain.

I therefore now removed the hydrochloric acid by dilution with
water and agitation with oxide of silver, and evaporated the filtrate to

552

An Alkaloid obtained from Jaborandi.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
' Dec, 1876.

dryness, after digestion with charcoal, which removed much of the
color. The residue was dissolved in absolute alcohol, filtered from a
trace of reduced silver, and again evaporated to dryness, and the dry-
ing completed in an air-pump over sulphuric acid during a fortnight.
The product was now analyzed, all cumbustions being effected in
platinum boats, as the matter was soft and plastic, like gum.

(a.) 0*0204 grm. gave by combustion in vacuo with CuO and metallic
copper, 2 1 '8 cc. C02> and 1*8 cc. N normal, showing the relation
of the N : C to be i : 6.

(b.) 0*1872 grm. gave by combustion with PbCr04 and metallic
copper, 0*3762 grm. C02, and o I404grm. H20 = 54'8o per cent,
carbon, and 8*33 per cent, hydrogen.

Synopsis of Analysis.

-T- at. wgts. -5- N = 1. ]

C = 54'8o 4*566 5*!?b

H = 8*33 8-33 10-50

FranklancTs process N = 11-03 '787 i'o

O = 25*84 1*615 2'°

IOO'OO

After the above analysis was completed, the rest of the alkaloid
was dissolved in 87 per cent, alcohol, and treated with alcoholic platinic
chloride, when a bulky precipitate was produced, but slightly soluble in
cold, readily soluble in hot water. The yellow solution on concentra-
tion gave a crop of reddish-yellow octohedral crystals, which were
isolated, rinsed with water, dried at 8o° C, and analyzed.

(a.) 0*0404 grm. gave by cumbustion in vacuo with CuO and Cu,
26*2 cc. C02, and 2*3 cc. N normal, giving as the relation of N : C
1 : 5*7; and the percentage of N = 7*12.

(b.) 0*3532 grm. gave with PbCr04 and metallic Cu 0*412 grm.
C02, and 0*142 grm. H20 = 31*81 per cent. C; and 4*46 per cent. H.

(c.) 0*2120 grm. gave 0*0496 grm. platinum, and 0.2128 grm.
AgCl — 23*39 per cent. Pt, and 24*83 per cent. CI.

Synopsis oj Analysis.

or C23H35N404.2HCl.PtC!#.

-r- at. wgts.

-r- Pt = I

c =

31-81

2-65

22-4

H =

4-46

4-46

377

N =

7-12

•508

4 3

Pt=

*3'39

•118

1 0

Cl =

24-83

•669

5-6

O =

8-39

•524

4*4

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
Dec, 1876. J

Lycoperdon Solidum.

553

Now the analysis of the free alkaloid led to C5.8H10.5NO2. Multi-
plying this by 4, and deducting 4.H20, we obtain the above formula
derived from the analysis of the platinum salt :

C23H34N404.(4H20) = as dried in 'vacuo.
C23H35N404 — as combined with PtCl4.

In conclusion, I have to express my indebtedness to Dr. Thudichum
for having kindly placed his laboratory at my disposal during the prose-
cution of the foregoing research. — Jour. Chem. Soc, Oct., 1876.

CHEMICAL EXAMINATION OF FUH-LING [Lycoperdon Solidum) FROM

CHINA.

BY J. L. KELLER, OF CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA.

Among a number of interesting specimens which Mr. Justus Eck,
of London, was kind enough to present, some two or three years ago,
to the laboratory collections of this University, was one of this curious
material, accompanied by the following extract in reference to it from
the late Mr. D. Hanbury's " Notes on Chinese Materia Medica :"

" Fuh-ling ; Pa.hyma cocos, Fries [Fungi) ; Lycoperdon solidum, Gro-
novius ; P^-fo-linn, Cleyer {Med. Sin., No. 189), Tafarinov (Cat, Med.
Sin., pp. 2-23) ; Puntsaon ; Indian Bread ; or Tuckahoe. A very
large remarkable substance resembling ponderous rounded tubers having
a rough blackish brown bark-like exterior, and consisting internally of
a compact mass of considerable hardness, varying in color from cinna-
mon brown to pure white. These tuberiform bodies, which in weight
vary from a few ounces up to several pounds, are found attached to
the roots of fir trees, or sometimes buried in the ground of localities
where firs no longer grow. They occur in South Carolino, 1 in some
of the northern and western provinces of China, and in Japan. Their
true nature is sufficiently perplexing. The older writers considered them
to be a sort of China root (Smilax), a supposition which their outward
appearance certainly favors, but which is immediately negatived when
we find them to contain no trace of starch. Loureiro and Endlicher
are content to describe them as tubers found upon the roots of fir

1 They are by no means peculiar to this State. I have seen specimens found at
various points from Virginia to Alabama on the Atlantic side of the country, and,
as will be seen by the quotation from Report of the Department of Agriculture, they
extend as far west as Kansas.

554

Ly coper don Solidum.

Am. Jour. Piiarm.
Dec, 1876,

trees. Other botanists have placed them among fungi ; Gronovius
and Walter in the genus Lycoperdon ; Schweinitz in Scleroticum ; Okur
and Fries in Pachyma. The latest observations on the subject are some
which were submitted to the Linnean Society by Mr. F. Currey and
myself last year (1861) and published in the Linnean Transactions.
The opinion there expressed is that these tuber-like bodies are an
altered state of the root of the tree, probably occasioned by the pres-
ence of a fungus, the mycelium of which traverses, disintegrates or
even obliterates the wood and bark. This mycelium appears under the
microscope in the form of fine threads usually more or less mixed with
bodies of irregular shape, somewhat resembling starch granules, but
which are apparently celis of the woody tissue in a more or less
advanced state of disease and distortion. Nothing is known of the
more developed form of the fungus represented by the mycelium. The
American Fuh-ling has been examined chemically by Professor Ellett,
of South Carolina College, who has stated it to consist entirely of pure
pectin of Braconnot, but I think its composition deserves some further
investigation. I find that the pure white internal substance (which is
quite insipid and inodorous) is very slightly soluble in cold rectified spirit
and in cold water, and not more so when boiled in water, the solution in
each case yielding a flocculent precipitate with acetate of lead. When
boiled in a weak solution of carbonate of soda the substance dissolves
rather more freely, and the solution affords a scanty gelatinous precipi-
tate (pectic acid) when treated with an acid, or (pectate of lime) with
a solution of lime. In China the Fiih-ling is made into edible cakes,
which are frequently sold in the streets ; it is also reported medicinal
in a variety of disorders. In America it has also been used as an article
of food, whence the name Indian bread."

The Report of the U. S. Department of Agriculture for 1870 (p. 423J,
in an article upon materials used as food by the North American
Indians, has the following notice of this substance :

" Tuckahoe or Indian Bread {Lycoperdon solidum). — Two specimens of
this fungus are in the collection of the Department of Agriculture —
one from Nottoway Co., Virginia (fig. 1, plate 10), the other
from Leroy, Kansas (fig. 2, plate eo). These singular fungous
growths are subterranean and parasitic on the roots of large
trees. A piece of root is often inclosed in the mass. The form is
irregularly globose, about the size of a man's head. It is very rugous

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Dec, 1876. j

Ly coper don Solidum.

555

and filled with cracks ; the color externally is ashy black, in the interior
white or nearly so, of a starchy appearance, very firm, and breaks into
irregular masses. The Kansas specimen is rounded in shape, with a
black, rough exterior, and a white and compact interior. When broken
it has the appearance of a mass of dried dough, full of fissures and very
granular.. Booth and Morfit's Cyclopedia of Chemistry gives the follow-
ing under the article of ' Picquotaine,' a highly nutritious plant useci
as food by Indians. It results from a disease of the Psoralea esculenta*
Its composition is as follows : Nitrogenous matter, 4*09 ; mineral-
substances, i*6i ; starch, 8i*8o; water, I2'50." The following-
remarks relative to the Tuckahoe are furnished by Dr. John Torrey :
" It was first brought to the notice of the public by Dr. Clayton, who
sent it to Gronovius under the name of Lycoperdon solidum, and as such de-
scribed it in the Flora Virginica about one hundred and twenty years ago.
Next it was described by the late Dr. von Schweinitz, in his ' Synopsis
of the Fungi of North Carolina,' under the name of Scleroticum cocos*
About the same time Dr. Macbride, of Charleston, South Carolina,
sent to the Linnean Society of London his observations on that fungus.
Without being aware of having been anticipated by Schweinitz, I
described it in the ' New York Repository ' about the year 18 19, under
the name of Scleroticum giganteum. I gave also a chemical analysis of
it, showing that it is chiefly composed of a singular substance which I
named sclerotin. Braconnot some years after this described the same
, principle, which he called pectin. In the Synopsis Fungorum of Fries.,
the fungus is called Pachyma cocos. In the Proceedings of the Linnean
Society of London is an account by Rev. M. J. Berkeley of a large
subterranean fungus that is sold as food in the streets of Shanghai,
undoubtedly the same as the Tuckahoe."

And in the Report of the same Department for 187 1 (p. 98) occurs
the following from R. T. Brown, Chemist to the Department :

" Tuckahoe or Indian Bread. — This curious fungus (Scleroticum gigan-
teum) is quite common in many parts of the Southern States, where it
is frequently used as an article of food.1 To determine its nutritive

1 This is certainly an over-strong way of stating the facts. Specimens of the
material in question are not very rare, and they are occasionally eaten by the negroes
of the Southern States, but the substance can by no means be said to be common;,
or commonly used as an article of food. In the analysis there is obviously a little
error of statement in reporting elementary nitrogen and accounting for all that
remains of 100 per cent, in non-nitrogenous material.

55 6

Ly coper don Solidum.

J Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ Dec, 1876-

value a specimen from Columbia, Virginia, was subjected to careful
analysis in this laboratory, with the following results :

" Moisture .... 14*16

" Glucose (fruit sugar) . . . 0*93

" Gum 2*60

" Pectose i7'34

" Nitrogen in an insol. combination 0*36

" Woody fibre .... 64*45

"Ash 0-16

IOO'OO

41 This analysis does not sustain the high reputation of this substance
as a food material."

The substance received from Mr. Eck being from China, while all
the above statements as to chemical composition refer to material from
America, and these statements differing so widely from each other, it
^eemed well to make a new analysis, which was done by Mr. Keller.

The specimen of Chinese Fuh-ling examined was kidney-shaped,
about 6 inches in longest diameter, and 3J inches in shortest, and
weighed about two pounds and a quarter. The rough, brownish-black
bark-like exterior was about an eighth of an inch thick, verging
gradually into the perfectly white uniform mass inside. The whole
was compact and firm, but easily cut with a saw, and the fragments,
after removal of the exterior crust, showed but little toughness and
were easily crushed in a pestle and mortar. A sufficient quantity was
reduced to fine powder, passed through a sieve, and thoroughly mixed.
This powder yielded little soluble matter to either cold or hot water,
but was much more freely dissolved by a dilute solution of hydrate or
carbonate of sodium, the liquid produced in each case giving a floccu-
3cnt gelatinous precipitate (corresponding in character to pectic acid)
when treated with an acid or alcohol, such precipitate proving ex-
cessively difficult to wash. Starch and cane-sugar were carefully tested
for, but none could be found.

The quantitative analysis was made as follows : Water was
determined by prolonged exposure to no°C. ; albuminoid matter was
calculated from the amount of nitrogen, determined by combustion
with soda lime. For the organic matters soluble in water the powder
was exhausted with water by repeated boiling, keeping the flask full of
steam so as to exclude air ; the liquid rapidly filtered, and evaporated
I in a retort exhausted by a Bunsen's pump) to a small bulk. The

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Dec, 1876. J

Lycoperdon Solidum.

557

solution was then divided into two parts, continuing the evaporation of
the one to dryness at ioo°C, weighing the residue as soon as it
ceased to lose moisture, incinerating, and weighing the ash left ; while
the other was separately evaporated to dryness, exhausted with dilute
alcohol (which took up a little glucose), and the residue dried at ioo°C.
and weighed ; this being burned and the weight of ash plus the pre-
viously determined weight of albuminoid matter deducted, the quantity
of gum was found by difference. In the dilute alcoholic solution
glucose was determined by Fehling's copper solution. The pectous
material was dissolved out from what water had left by repeated boiling
with a dilute (1 \ per cent.) solution of sodium hydrate, and precipitated
by dilute sulphuric acid and alcohol, but it was found to be almost
impossible to wash the slimy precipitate, and it could not have been
relied upon as unaltered in weight from the original insoluble pectous
material, so that this was estimated by difference. The cellulose left
undissolved by the sodium hydrate was treated with very dilute sul-
phuric acid (in the cold and for a short time only), then thoroughly
washed with water, thrown on a weighed filter, dried at ioo°C and
weighed j after burning the weight of the ash was deducted. The
results were :

Glucose ....
Gum (with a trace of acid) .
Albuminoid matter .
Pectose ....
Cellulose ....
Mineral matter, sol. in water

" insol. in water

Water .

0-87

2- 98
078

77 27
376
008

3- 56
1070

Org. matter —
Sol. in water

Org. matter —
Insol. in water

Ash- .
Water

4'6s

81-03
3*64
107a

These figures, especially if taken in connection with Mr. R. T.
Brown's results, are strongly suggestive of the correctness of the
opinion of Messrs. Hanbury and Currey as to the general nature of
the substance, viz. : that it represents woody fibre altered by the inter-
penetration of a fungus mycelium. In the specimen analyzed by the
Chemist of the Agricultural Department the alteration seems to have
been incomplete, leaving a good deal of unchanged cellulose ; in the
case now under notice the cellulose has nearly disappeared. The very
small amount of nitrogen renders the notion of the whole mass being
simply an independent and developed fungus very unlikely.

558

Analysis of Tea.

/Am. Jour Pharm.
\ Dec , 1876.

Mr. Keller also made an analysis of the ash, to obtain which about
100 grms. of the substance was incinerated at a very low temperature
in porcelain crucibles placed each within another of sheet iron serving
as a hot air bath. The ash was tolerably free from remaining char-
coal. Chlorine, carbon dioxide and silica were determined from the
whole amount used ; and after dividing the solution into two portions,
sulphuric oxide and the alkalies were obtained from the one, and phos-
phoric oxide, ferric oxide, lime and magnesia from the other. The
analysis afforded :

Crude Ash.

Pure Ash.

K20 . . . . .

2*062

^j-vcuuciiiig oana, i^narcoai

and Carbon

Na20 ....

0-967

Dioxide.)

CaO

2-280

K20 ....

4*675

MgO ....

5-017

Na20 ....

2-192

Fe9(X .

5-208

CaO ....

. 5-169

PA ....

. 8-725

MgO

11-375

so3

0-700

Fe2Os . . . .

. 11-808

CI .

. 0-724

P205 . . .

19.781

SiO, .

18*424

S03 ....

• 1-587

co2" .

2-813

CI ...

1-642

Charcoal ....

2-209

Si02

. 41*771

Sand . .

. 50-546

IOO'OOO

99-675

Deduct 0 equiv. to CI

0-370

Deduct 0 equiv. to CI

0-163

99-512

99-630

The large amount of sand is not caused by want of care in remov-
ing the exterior portions of the mass. With a lens sparkling little
siliceous grains can be detected on a perfectly clean cut surface of the
interior. This again accords with the idea of a fungoid growth push-
ing its way in a sandy soil into disintegrating woody tissue, and cannot
at all be conceived of as a result of simple independent vegetable
growth. Part of the large percentage of silica found to be soluble,
and perhaps of the iron also, may very likely be also mechanically
derived from the soil, but how much we have no means of deter-
mining.— Chem. News, Oct. 20, 1876.

ANALYSIS of FIFTEEN SAMPLES of TEA. ALSO, an INVESTIGA-
TION of METHODS of DETERMINING the TANNIN of TEA.

BY J. T. CLARK, PH.C.

In estimation of the portion soluble in water, one gram of the tea was
boiled briskly1 for fifteen minutes with 50 cc. of water and the clear
1 Wanklyn : " Tea, Coffee and Cocoa Analysis," p. 15.

Am jour. Pharm. )
Dec, 1876. (

Analysis of Tea.

559

solution carefully decanted ; the residue boiled again with the same
quantity of water and the clear solution decanted ; the residue then
dried on the water-bath and weighed, the loss being taken as the
quantity sought.

The determination of the tannin in the decoction was tried by four of
the numerous methods in use, without obtaining very nearly concur-
rent results from triplicate operations with each method. The method
recommended by A. H. Allen,1 — precipitation by standard solution of
lead acetate, in presence of potassium ferricyanide as an indicator, was
used for No. 1, — 19 per cent, being the mean of three estimations,
with a variation of nearly 5 per cent. The diffculty consisted in per-
ceiving the pink color made with the indicator, masked as it is by the
color of the tea decoction. The result given for No. 2 is the average
of three varying determinations by Wagner's method with a standard
solution of cinchonia.2

The variation was due to the difficulty in recognizing the red color
of the indicator in the solution, distinct from the colored precipitate, in
presence of the tea color. No. 3 is given in the table as the average
of three trials of the method of Hager,3 by the diminution of density
from removal of the tannin by copper oxide. The results were widely
divergent — showing that this method which was proposed for oak-bark
is not applicable to tea. No. 6 was worked volumetrically by solution
of gelatin (MUller's method) ; three determinations giving consider-
able differences.

A volumetric method for tannin was then tried, with use of standard
solution of cinchonia sulphate in excess, titrating back in the filtrate with
standard solution of potassium mercuric iodide. Triplicate operations
were tried on No. 4 and No. 5 — the results for each number differing
but slightly. The remaining numbers were worked by the same
method: Nos. 10 and 12 being confirmed by closely agreeing dupli-
cate results. The solution of cinchonia sulphate is Wagner's standard
(before quoted) : 4*523 grams cinchonia sulphate, with 0*5 gram sul-
phuric acid, in water to make one litre. The potassium mercuric
iodide solution is Mayer's standard : 13*546 grams mercuric chloride

1 " Chem. News," xxix., 169, 189.
2"Zeitsch. f. anal. Chem.," v., 4, 8 \ vii., 139.
3 " Untersuchungen," II., 115.

560

Analysis of Tea.

f Am. Jour. Pha rnfl
1 Dec, 1876

and 49*800 grams potassium iodide in water to make one litre. To
the clear and dilute decoction of one gram of the tea, obtained as
above described, the cinchonia solution is added from the burette to
slight excess and the quantity noted, the mixture filtered and the residue
washed. Unless some means for "rapid filtration " be used, this part
of the operation is very slow, but with any " filter pump " it is
altogether satisfactory. To the filtrate with the washings the iodide
solution is added, stirring until the precipitate is complete. The pre-
cipitate subsides quickly, and a drop of the clear solution on a blue or
black glass slide treated with a drop of the reagent (from the burette)
will show if farther precipitate can be obtained (the drops so taken
being then rinsed into the mixture tested). Each cc. of the iodide
solution precipitates 0*0102 gram of cinchonia, or 0*0124 gram of
cinchonia sulphate, or 2*74 cc. of Wagner's standard solution of cin-
chonia sulphate. Each cc. of the last named solution precipitates o*oi
gram of tannic acid. Having the decoction of one gram of tea : cc.
cinchonia sol. — (2.74XCC iodide sol.)=per cent, of tannin . (in its
equivalent of tannic acid).

The reports of the proportion of tannin in tea show remarkable
differences. A. H. Allen, by volumetric determination with lead
acetate as previously described, finds about 20 per cent, tannin in green
tea and an average of 10 per cent, in black tea. G. W. Wigner
("Phar. Jour. Trans." [3], vi., 281), by same method, found in
Assam 33 per cent, and 45*5 per cent.; in Young Hyson 39 per cent,
and another 39 per cent.; in mixed Caper 42*3 percent. The Young
Hyson giving 45*5 per cent, was a mixture of six samples. Dragen-
dorfF (" Werthbestimmung," 1874, p. 60) quotes green tea at 12*32
and 12*70 per cent, of tannic and boheic acids, and a sample of black
tea 9*42 per cent. Mr. Allen and Mr. Wanklyn take the average of
tannin in black tea at 10 percent, for a basis of calculation of presence
and proportion of spent tea.

The total ash was obtained by the incineration of one gram of tea
in a weighed crucible. For the soluble ash, the total ash was washed
on a filter with hot water till the washings gave no residue, the residual
ash dried and weighed, and the difference of weight taken.

The samples were obtained from the retail trade in Michigan.

AmbJe°cu:-x87h6arm- } The Gums of Senegal. 56 1

Price

Portion

Ash

No.

Name.

per
pound.

soluble in
water.

Tannin.

Total Ash.

soluble in
water.

TaDan.

$0*65

i 6* c

I Q"

j

2

Young Hyson,

080

■7 0 • 9
iy 0

I 2'4

5 u

1

5

Japan, ...

41 a

9'5

0 3

3'9

A

Black',

0*90

44*5

106

5'5

C

Young Hyson, .

0'7C

j /

16-

6-7

6

I "OO

At 'n

20" 1

1 ' T
/ 1

3 5

7

/

tt «

C85

tt y

T7'f

5 7

g

T

japan,
Oolong,

35*7

6l

9

0-40

29-4

8O

67

i'7

H.n cr 1 ten Rtpq lr fa

5 0

5'2

J*3

1 1

Japan Sittings, .

0-50

397

IO'I

7-6

1 2

Japan,

0*40

23'4

7'6

4'8

09

13

Young Hyson, .

0*40

36-9

12*3

6-7

14

"Am. Tea Co." .

41*5

167

56

J5

Oolong,

39-6

89

6-4

The results in Nos. 10 and 12 indicate spent tea. By Allen's for-
mula, the per cent, tannin indicates 55 per cent, of spent tea in No.
10, and 30 per cent, in No. 12. By Wanklyn's formula, the amount
of soluble extract indicates 36 per cent, of spent tea in No. 10, and 28
per cent, in No. 12. The infusion of No. 10 had a very disagreeable
odor. The low per centages of soluble ash in Nos. 10 and 12 also
correspond with those of spent tea.

The fifteen samples were subjected to microscopic examination for
foreign leaves. In No. 9, a considerable number of foreign leaves were
found. These foreign leaves had an epidermis composed of small
tabular cells ; stomates mostly on the under side ; the interior com-
posed of an incomplete parenchyma of round cells and numerous
intercellular passages. — Amer. Chemist, August, 1876.

NOTE ON THE GUNS OF SENEGAL.1

BY DR. A. CORRE.

In commerce the gums of Senegal are distinguished according to the
district which yields them or the port from which they are exported.2
They are (1) Gommes bas-du-fleuve (Bas-du-fleuve, Degana and Podor ;

1 " Journal de Pharmacic" [4], vol. xxiv, p. 318.

2 These gums are not very often met with in general commerce, the greater part
of them being imported into and used in France. — Ed. " Ph. J."

36

The Gums of Senegal.

(Am. Jour. Pharm.
1 Dec, 1876.

gums from the desert of Bounoun and the country of the Braknas) ;
and (2) Galam gums, or Gommes haut-du fieuve (Galam, Podor, Bakel
and Medina). These gums, when carefully sorted, yield very different
.products, which the author classifies as follows :

A first group includes the gums in round pieces (en boules, so-called
because of their form). The subdivisions of this group are regulated
by the degree of consistence and resistance, size and color of the balls.

A. Hard gums (Gommes dures), of firm consistence, with large, clear,
shining fracture: — (1) grosse blanch e : pieces large or medium sized,
entire, white or yellowish white ; (2) petite blanche : pieces small, entire
or in fragments, generally whiter than the preceding ; (3) grosse blonde :
pieces large or medium sized, entire, yellowish or reddish yellow ; (4)
petite blonde : pieces small, entire or in fragments, yellowish or reddish-
yellow ; (5) deuxieme blonde: pieces more or less large, entire, or in
fragments, reddish; (6) fabrique : pieces more or less large, entire or
in fragments, reddish or brownish, moderately limpid, grumous or tear-
like on the surface, with a fracture often resinoid, uneven and dull.

B. Soft or friable gums (Gommes molles ou friables): (7) blanche^ (8)
blonde, (9) fabrique.

In a second group the author places the gums occurring in elongated
masses, a form which results doubtless through delay in the solidifica-
tion of the gum upon the tree, caused by rains or humidity of the
atmosphere : (10) larmeuse : in mammillated or undulated masses, clear
light yellow color, shining at the surface, fracture clean, hard ; (11)
-vermicelle : rather dull white, surface corrugated, fracture pretty clean
and shining, friable; this gum is remarkable for its convolute form,
which resembles that of vermicelli.

To a third group belong the gums in fragments and powder, the
debris and residue of the preceding : ( 1 2) gros grabeaux ; ( 1 3) moyens
grabeaux ; (14) menus grabeaux; (15) grabeaux tries; (16) grabeaux
fabrique ; (17) poussilre.

To a fourth group is allotted (18) marrons or bois, a largish gum, fre-
quently of resinoid aspect, yellowish or brownish, mixed with, or
adherent to, fragments of bark.

The Senegal gums are collected from a great variety of plants. The
acacias (Acccia nilotica, Verek, Adansonii, albida, dealbata, Sing, Seyal,
etc.) yield the greater part and the finest qualities. They are also
obtained from the Khaya senegalensis, certain Spondias, some Sterculiacece,
and perhaps Bassia, etc.

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Dec, 1876.

The Gums of Senegal.

563

As the result of the study of the mode in which the gum is produced
from the verek, the author is of opinion that the starting point is cer-
tainly in the cambium. When a transverse incision is made in a young
branch, there is observed at first a sort of exudation, badly defined,
between the wood and the bark* As the exudation becomes more
considerable it raises the bark, and makes its way to the exterior through
any cracks or fissures. But as there are two layers in this zone-^a
Jigneous and a cellular layer — the question arises, In which layer does
the gum take its origin ? For the following reasons the author be-
lieves it; to be formed in the lingneous layer, at the expense of the crude
sap circulating therein.

(1) Upon different specimens of verek he has observed that at the
level of the base of, the gummy exudations the exterior woody bundles
become deviated in the form of a capsule, and present traces of an
erosive or destructive action. In , very young branches, by the aid of
a microscope, these bundles may be distinguished, dissociated and
jagged, in the midst of the gummy matter.

(2) , The balls of gum are frequently marked with very regular cavi-
ties, similar to those produced in a viscous mass by blowing air into it
through a slender tube. These cavities cannot be due to the penetra-
tion of a gas coming directly from without, for they face inwards, /.
towards the base of the exudations ; they could only be produced by
the air from the vessels of the sap wood, ruptured and dissociated at
the same time as the woody fibres.

(3) The mineral elements of gum (lime, etc.) belong to the crude

Sap. • • • ^^^■■•■■^■■■^ ~n< . ■ , z>:r'i •: : ;; • . ■ \-

Gum, however, is not simply water charged with salts, neither is it
a highly concentrated saline solution. It is a product that presents
great analogy of chemical composition with lignose. The author,
therefore^ considers gum to be the result of a kind of liquefaction of
the elements of the sap wood by the crude sap,

It is incontestable that the formation of gum is connected with an
anomalous state, due to excess of nutrition. It is observed more par-
ticularly at the points of budding and at the bifurcation of the branches,
and it acquires a remarkable development upon abnormal nodosities —
in fact wherever the nutritive action exists in the greatest intensity.
Beyond certain limits, this energy in the rising of the sap is accom-
panied by a slackening of the circulation, which leads to a stagnation

5^4

Varieties.

Am. Jour. Pharm„
Dec , 1876.

of the liquid through the engorgement of the channels ; hence, per-
haps, by absorption, leading to the softening and liquefaction of the
fibrous and vascular element of the sap wood.

In this phenomenon the easterly winds have a share, their high tem-
perature and dryness favoring the determination of the sap to the
exterior. Their influence is not, as often stated, limited to the pro-
duction of cracks in the bark. It will be seen that there is a great
analogy between the mode of the formation of a verek gum and that
of the gum of Rosaceae, as described by Tr£cul.

Recently an important part in the production of the Senegal gums,
has been attributed to a loranthaceous parasite, which is met with fre-
quently in Eastern Africa, not only on gum trees, but also on guava
trees, palms, etc. The author has never observed the least exuda-
tion of gum at the points of implantation of this parasite, which itself
takes up sap, and leaves no excess for the plant on which it is devel-
oped. The nodosities, which have probably been attributed to the
action of this parasite and thus led to the suggestion, the author con-
siders to be the results of insect punctures. — Pharm. Journ. and Trans. >
Oct. 21, 1876.

VARIETIES.

Etching on glass. — By E. Siegwart. — Since hydrofluoric acid can be sold
cheaply, it seems to be more and more used for the decoration of glass. This can
be easily understood, as glass articles, when sufficiently etched, will have a much
better appearance than engravings on glass. The best decorations are obtained by
etching several portions of the glass surface with ammonium fluoride slightly acidi-
fied with acetic acid. If plates of glass are to have an ice-like lustre, the glass is,
in the first place, covered with a layer of very small shot, over which very dilute
hydrofluoric acid is then poured. Results similar to etched photographs are ob-
tained by exposing any negative picture on a layer of gum or caoutchouc-layer
rendered sensitive by potassium bichromate, and then dusting it with red lead. The
red negative thus obtained is fixed as usual, and burnt in, and the more soluble lead
glass thus obtained is treated with concentrated nitric acid, whereby a dull white
picture is produced, appearing positive when looked through. — Jour. Chem. Society
[Lond.], from Dingl. polyt. J., ccxx, 479-480.

On the Preparation of Some Colored Fires (Bengal Lights) Used in
Pyrotechny. — By Sergius Kern, St. Petersburg. — In preparing colored fires for fire-
works by means of the usual formulae given in many manuals of pyrotechny it is
often very necessary to know the quickness of burning of colored fires, so as in

Am. Jour. Pharm.
Dec, 1876.

V arieties.

565

some cases, as decorations and lances, they must burn slowly, in other cases, as
■wheels, stars or rockets and Roman candles, they must burn quicker. Working
for some months with many compositions of such kind, I prepared three tables of
colored fires (red, green and violet), where every formula with a higher number
burns quicker than a fire with a lower number. For instance, No. 5 burns quicker
than No. 6 and slower than No. 4. These tables will, I think, be of much assist-
ance in the preparation of fireworks.

Green-colored Fires.

Potassium
Chlorate.
Per cent.

Barium
Nitrate.
Per cent.

Sulphur.
Per cent.

Red-colored Fires.

No

I.

36

40

24

T>

40

39

18

3

29

48

23

2.

32

46

19

2

3-

24

53

23

3-

27

5i

20

2

4.

21

57

22

4-

23

55

20

2

5*

18

60

22

5-

20

58

20*5

I*5

/:
0 .

16

62

22

6.

18

60

21

1

7-

14

64

22

7-

16

6l'6 21*2

1*2

it

!3

66

2 1

8.

J5

63

21

1

9-

12

67

2 1

9.

13

64

22

1

S O.

11

68

21

10.

12

65

22

£ I.

10

69

21

1 1

66

22

I

12.

9'5

69-5

21

12.

10

67

22

*3-

9

70

21

n-

10

67*25 22

075

44.

8-5

7°'5

21

14.

9'*5

68

22

0 75

35.

8

7i

21

!5-

9

68.

35 22

O.65

Violet-colored Fires.

Violet-colored Fires.

^0.

Potassium Calcium Malachite,
Chlorate. Carbonate, powdered.
Percent. Percent. Percent.

Sulphur.
Per cent.

Potassium Calcium
No. Chlorate. Cerbonate.
Per cent. Per cent.

Malachite,
powdered.
Per cent.

Sulphur.
Per cent.

52 29

4

15

9-

51

16

18

15

2.

52 28

5

15

10.

51

15

19

15

3-

52 26

7

I5

51

13

21

15

4-

52 24

9

J5

12.

5i

1 1

23

'5

5-

52 23

10

15

13.

5i

10

24

J5

6.

52 21

13

15

14

5i

8

26

r5

7-

51 20
5I 18

14
16

J5

15

5i

6

28

*5

Potassium
Cholorate.
Per cent.

Strontium
Nitrate.
Per cent.

Percent. perC6nt.

Chem. News, Sept. 29, 1876.

The Physical Properties of Gallium. — M. Lecoq de Boisbaudran, in a
recent note to the French Academy of Science, states that he has prepared about 7^
grains of gallium. In liquid state, the metal is a beautiful silvery white ; but in
crystallizing it turns blue, and its brilliancy becomes greatly diminished. The
point of fusion is fixed, for the metal melts very slowly at 86*27° Fah., and crystal-

$66 Varieties. {Am^I?^rm'

lizes very slowly at 86*09°. The density of the specimen is 5*935. Gallium crys-
tallized under water crepitates sometimes on heating. — Scient. Amer., November
ii, 1876.

Chemical Reactions of Gallium.— By M. Lecoq de Boisbaudran. — 'Solutions-
of pure gallium, mixed with acid acetate of ammonia, are not rendered turbid by
sulphuretted hydrogen, but if zinc is present the sulphide of this metal is charged
with gallium, but the liquid is not entirely freed from it. If the salts of zinc are-
not plentiful enough to draw down at once all the gallium precipitable by sulphu-
retted hydrogen, it must be added in small portions until these products no longer
give the ray Ga a 417*0 in the spectroscope. Only slight traces of gallium remain
then in the liquid. On proceeding thus, the amount in the precipitates appears to
remain at first almost constant, or at least to decrease slowly, and then more an$
more rapidly : it does not, therefore, seem to be a function of the amount of gallium
in the liquid. Is there not here an indication of a combination between the two-
substances, or perhaps more probably a surface-attraction analogous to the fixation
of a coloring matter upon a mordant. It is known that salts of zinc slightly acid
are precipitated by sulphuretted hydrogen, the action being limited by the quantity
of strong acid set at liberty. If the experiment is made with a chloride of zinc
containing gallium, a notable quantity of this metal falls along with the sulphide of
zinc. An ammoniacal solution of the salts of gallium and zinc is precipitated by
hydrosulphate of ammonia. An excess of the reagent does not remove the gallium,,
unless, indeed, the sulphide of zinc is in such small quantity as to dissolve also.
The case is different when the salt of gallium is pure. The ammoniacal solution
is not rendered turbid by the sulphide of ammonium. If a neutral or slightly acid
solution of the chlorides of zinc and gallium is submitted to fractionated precipita-
tion with sulphide of ammonium containing free ammonia, the gallium is concen-
trated in the first products. If an ammoniacal solution of zinc and gallium is
submitted to the same treatment, the gallium, on the contrary, accumulates in the
last precipitates. — CJiem. Ne-zvs, October 27, 1876.

Contributions to the Theory of Luminous Flames. — By Dr. Karl Heu-
mann. — In this part of his treatise the author arrives at important results, both theor-
etical and practical. He shows that the carbon in the flame exists as a solid body,,
and not, as Frankland assumes, in the state of vapor. He finds that gas-jets of steatite
are decidedly preferable to those of iron, since they consume less gas for an eqnal
strength of light. Metallic jets, in general, notably enfeeble the light. He refers
to the result obtained by the Commission of the English Board of Trade who
reported, in opposition to the view of Vogel, that a refrigeration of the gas does not
decrease the amount of light, and considers that they must have experimented with
a kind of gas poor in hydrocarbons capable of condensation. On the contrary, he
finds that if the jet and the outflowing current of gas are both strongly heated the
luminous effect is increased to an extraordinary degree.— -Chem. Ne=wst Nov. 10, 1876.

Am. Jour. Pharm. 1
Dec, 1876. /

Varieties.

567

Chloride of Lead Disinfectant —The London Lancet directs attention to
the value of chloride of lead as a deodorizer. The manner of its use is to dissolve
half a drachm of the nitrate in a pint of boiling water, and pour this solution into a
bucket of water in which two drachms of sodic chloride (common salt) have been
dissolved. After chemical action has taken place, the clear supernatant liquid is an
odorless saturated solution of chloride of lead. If this solution be thrown into a
sink or vault from time to time, the disagreeable odors will soon be destroyed. A
ship's bilge was completely disinfected in this way by simply dissolving half an
ounce of nitrate of lead in boiling water, and pouring it into the bilge water, which
itself supplied the necessary sodic chloride. Cloths wet with this solution, and hung
in fever and accident wards of hospitals, are said to keep the atmosphere sweet and
healthy. — Scient. Amer.> December 2, 1876.

To Distinguish between Cotton and Wool in Fabrics. — Ravel out the
suspected cotton fibre from the wool and apply flame. The cotton will burn with
a flash, the wool will curl up, carbonize and emit a burnt, disagreeable smell. Even
to the naked eye the cotton is noticeably different from the filaments of wool, and
under the magnifier this difference comes out strongly. The cotton is a flattened,
more or less twisted band, having a very striking resemblance to hair, which, in
reality, it is ; since, in the condition of elongated cells, it lines the inner surface of
the pod. The wool may be recognized at once by the zigzag transverse markings
on its fibres. The surface of the wool is covered with these furrowed and twistedi
fine cross lines, of which there are 2,000 to 4,000 in an inch. On this structure-
depends its felting property. Finally, a simple and very striking chemical test may
be applied. The mixed goods are unraveled, a little of the cotton fibre put into one
dish and the woolen in another, and a drop of strong nitric acid added. The cot-
ton will be little or not at all affected; the wool, on the contrary, will be changed
to a bright yellow. The color is due to the development of a picrate. — Scient.
Amer.j December 2, 1876.

Distinctive Reaction between Reds from Artificial Alizarin and
those from Extract on Madder. — By M. J. Wagner. — The author finds that
extract reds are very much injured by a mixture of soda and potassic ferricyanide,
whilst artificial alizarin-reds are scarcely affected. This difference is doubtless due
to the presence of purpurin in the extract which is destroyed by this reaction. —
Chem. Neivs, Oct. 27, 1876, from Bulletin de Mulhouse.

English Dealings with Food Adulterations. — If there is any one subject
on which the British public is extremely sensitive, it is the quality and purity of its
food and drink. No country, we believe, has such stringent legislative enactments
against adulterations ; and the legal formalities for their enforcement are made so
few and simple that the aggrieved consumers now waste no time in vain denuncia-
tions, but summon the offending grocer or butterman forthwith before the nearest
magistrate to answer for the fraud.

568

Varieties.

{Am Tour. Pharm.
Dec, 1876.

An excellent instance, showing how persistently warfare against spurious materials
is waged, is found in attacks now being made in England on artificial butter. It is
a well-known fact that, until recently, attempts to produce even a moderately pala-
table artificial butter have failed, and although the product has been made of fair
savor while fresh, a day or two's keeping has turned it into mere tallow. In Eng-
land, however, the fraud has not ended at this. Conscienceless individuals have
sold as butter, it is said, horrible concoctions of old lubricating tallow, and even old
tallow candles minus the wicks, which an official analyst describes as " supplied to
the poor in the last stages of rottenness." One factory was detected making this
delectable product at the rate of two tons a day. This and many other like cases
being well known, it is but natural that the British public should cordially detest
"grease butter/' The London Grocer has lately printed long reports of trials of
sellers of the adulterated material ; and to show how rigidly the penalties against
the adulterations are enforced, we note that a retailer who purchased grease butter,
innocently supposing it to be genuine cream butter, and who sold it to a customer
as the latter, was nevertheless fined $50, and further proceedings were ordered to be
taken against the wholesale merchant from whom he obtained his supply.

We have frequently remarked this same severe dealing in England with every
other species of food fraud. At the same time, no one need remain in ignorance
as to what constitutes fraud, because the parliamentary reports on the subject, even
in respect to tobacco and other unnecessary luxuries not classified as food, contain
reliable and full information relating thereto. The whole matter is a suggestive
one for us in this country. Here the prosecution of a retailer by a private citizen,
because of the former selling f lb. of grease for 1 lb. genuine butter, as in the above
cited instance, would be considered extraordinary. Our main reliance for protec-
tion is in the vigilance of health boards, whose jurisdiction is local and limited in
authority. Hence, in most cities, we may look in vain for either frequent prosecu-
tions or reports of adulterations prepared under official auspices, although the possi-
bility of such reports being compiled is plainly indicated by the admirable yearly work
of the Massachusetts State Board of Health. Reports, however, can merely warn us
of evils in the shape of food adulterations, under which we shall probably continue
to suffer until penalties are enforced, as rigidly here as they are in England, against
each and every retailer who wittingly or unwittingly sells a spurious article. — Scient.
Amer.t December 2, 1876.

Varnish for Silverware. — Gum elemi, 30 parts ; white amber, 45 ; charcoal,
30; spirits of turpentine, 375. It must be used in a heated state, the metal to
which it is to be applied being also heated. — Scient. dmer., Nov. 11, 1876.

MINUTES OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MEETING.

The second meeting of the Session was held November 21st, 1876, Dillwyn
Parrish, President, in the chair. The minutes of the previous meeting were read
and approved.

AmbJe0cU,r'I8P76arm•} Minutes of the Pharmaceutical Meeting. 569

Dr. W. W. Lamb was introduced, and the chairman stated it gave him pleasure
to see the room so well rilled with members in attendance.

The following donations to the library were announced by Prof. Maisch, and
upon motion of C. L. F.berle, the thanks of the College were returned to the donors.
From Prof. Alfonso Herrera, Mexico : Nueva Farmacopea Mexicana de la Sociedad
Farmaceutica de de Mexico, 1874; Aguas potables de Mexico, 1869; also some
numbers of Gaceta Medica de Mexico. From Mr. W. Thiese : TrommsdorfF s
Pharmaceutische Waarenkunde, 18065 Dulk's Pharmacopcea Borussica, 18295
Geigefs Handbuch der Pharmacie, 1833 ; The Botanico-Medical Recorder, 1840.

R. V. Mattison read a paper on Extract of Malt (see page 531), and exhibited a
sample of the product and also an emulsion of cod-liver oil and extract of malt
containing 50 per cent, of oil, its odor disguised with almond and wintergreen. It is
readily prepared, no gum or other emulsifier being required. It readily mixes with
water, but separates the oil as a creamy layer upon standing, and upon again
shaking the mixture is restored.

A. P. Brown stated the same facts were true where an infusion of malt was used
in this manner — the oil being emulsified by simply agitating it with the infusion.

Prof. Remington exhibited specimens of Russian Isinglass obtained from the
Russian Commissioners. They comprise various kinds of sturgeon, carp and silure
isinglass from astrachan, consisting of leaves in various thicknesses, circular pieces
and long cords tied together 5 also, so-called " crumbs."

Prof. Maisch exhibited Dugong Oil, also pure Gelatin in sheets, made in Hanau,
Germany, by Otto Lindenbauer, and a sample-card of colored Gelatin made by
Carl Spatz. The raw material used is the residues from the bone-button works .
The gelatin is of the finest quality — the samples exhibited, in addition to the white,
were of many beautiful colors.

At our next meeting it is expected the Committee on Cabinet will be prepared
to show many interesting specimens.

On motion, adjourned, to meet December 19th, 1876.

William McIntyre, Registrar.

PHARMACEUTICAL COLLEGES AND ASSOCIATIONS.

Alumni Association of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. — The
econd social and conversational meeting was held in the College Hall, November
2d, 1876, at 3 J P. M. Thirty-four members present.

Among the subjects of interest presented was oil of Ceylon cinnamon leaves,
which Dr. Miller stated was much lower in price and very pleasant in odor, though
differing from the oil of the bark in its resemblance to cloves. This resemblance,
suggesting the presence of eugenic acid, Mr. N. A. Kuhn volunteered to ascertain
by the appropriate tests.

570 Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations, {km^;^m'

Oil of Florida cedar was shown by Dr. Miller, who had had it offered him as an
excellent adulterant for oil of sandal wood, which it resembled in odor.

Mr. Boring stated that tincture of columba could be made perfectly clear by
percolating the root without previous moistening.

The use of paraffin in the process of enfleurage, as practised in the French
flower farming districts, was alluded to, and in connection with it French oil of rose,
as exhibited at the Centennial, the first made in that country, worth twenty-five
dollars an ounce in gold.

Mr. Mclntyre stated that Irish dulse was used largely for food in his neighbor-
hood, being esteemed alterative in its effect. It consists of two species of algae,
which are common on the coasts of Ireland and Scotland, namely : Halymenia
(s. Fucus, s. Rhodomela), edulis and palmata, Agardh.

President Kennedy gave the outlines for a process for making diluted hydro-
cyanic acid, in which the concentrated acid is made as usual, but stronger alcohol
used as the diluent. This, he stated, seemed to keep perfectly unchanged.

A discussion ensued on the means of preservation of ointments, after which
the meeting adjourned. Wallace Procter, Secretary,

Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. — At the pharmaceutical meet-
ing held November ist, President John Williams in the chair, Prof. Archer made a
few general remarks about the chemical and pharmaceutical sections of the Centen-
nial Exhibition, and gave an account of the exercises at the commencement of the
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, at which he had been present.

Mr. Thos. Greenish read a paper containing suggestions for an improved method
of making mistura guaiaci and similar mixtures. In endeavoring to dispense an
emulsion of copaiba resin, the author had met with unexpected difficulties, which
he overcame by triturating the resin with some milk-sugar, then adding alcohol,
and afterwards gum arabic in place of the mucilage ordered, the mixture, being
finished by the requisite amount of water ; the quantities were as follows: Res.
Copaibas ^iss ; Sacch. lactis ^iii ; Alcohol 5iii 5 Pulv. Acaciae £v ; Aquae ad 3vi. m.
This suggested a slight alteration in the officinal guaiacum mixture, which the
author proposes to make in a similar manner, by using powdered guaiacum, sugar
of milk and gum arabic, of each half an ounce ; rectified spiiit 5 fluid drachms and
cinnamon water sufficient to make one pint (imperial).

A question by Mr. Gerrard, as to whether copaiba resin was not frequently
contaminated with copper, led to several statements that the resin attacked copper
and lead, and should, therefore, not be prepared in metallic stills ; moreover, it
should not have a green color. In the discussion the purity of different varieties of
guaiacum resin, and the cause and nature of the change of its color to green were
referred to ; also the necessity of extended researches on emulsions, natural as.
well as artificial, and the changes occurring during and after mixture with certain
liquids.

Mr. Martindale exhibited several varieties of spread plasters, prepared by an
American firm, and alluded to their very adhesive basis and great flexibility. Great

AmbJe0c^'i8P76^m'} Pharmaceutical Colleges and Associations. 571

superiority of india rubber was claimed by Mr. Gerrard over gutta percha for this
purpose.

Mr. Holmes exhibited a specimen of a more translucent benzoin, which yielded,
by sublimation, beautifully white benzoic acid, and was said to come from
Zanzibar ; it was considered, by Prof. Bentley, to resemble most nearly Pereira's
translucent Siamese benzoin, which Dr. Royle conjectured to be derived from Styrax
Finlaysonianum. The great peculiarity of the specimen exhibited was the translu-
cency of the white tears, which are generally opaque.

A specimen of olibanum, with some of the papery bark adhering, was also-
exhibited. It was the variety called by the natives, Lufran matti, was derived from
Bosnvellia Frereana, Birdw., and distinguished from other varieties by a peculiar
whitish efflorescence on the surface and stratified opaque layers in its interior.

Professor Bentley called attention to the blue fluorescence shown by water
in which galbanum had been macerated for an hour or two, and to which a drop
of ammonia was then added. Asafcetida would cause a similar fluorescence, but
not to the same extent ,• and with ammoniacum it was scarcely observable. The
fluorescence is due to the presence of umbelliferon in the gum resins.

Pharmaceutical Society of Paris. — At the meeting held October 4th, the
death of Mr. Gobley was announced (see page 576).

Dr. Jaillard exhibited a sample of adulterated sulphate of quinia which had
recently been sent to Algiers, the adulteration consisting of about 70 per cent, of
potassium nitrate. It is not observable to the eye, but on heating a portion,
deflagration takes place and a white ash is left.

Mr. Yvon reported on researches on Xanthium spinosum (see page 538), and
stated experiments made with the view of determining its alleged prophylactic
action in hydrophobia, had given decidedly negative results.

The General Belgian Pharmaceutical Association has remonstrated with
the government against the granting of pharmaceutical degrees by universities at
which no pharmacists are acting either as professors or examiners, and has, at the
same time, petitioned for the establishment of a pharmaceutical school, which, like
in other countries, should be under the control of pharmacists.

Swiss Apothecaries1 Association. — The Thirty-second Annual Meeting was
held at Neuchatel, August 24th and 25th, Prof. E. Schaer, President, in the chair.
Besides the interesting address of the President, the usual routine business and the
consideration of some local affairs, the following subjects claimed the attention of
the meeting: Assaying of milk by various methods; a new apparatus for sealing
wafer capsules, patented by Digne, of Marseille ; Leube's Creosozon, the mineral
water of Noivaigne, and a number of new and rare drugs, exhibited by Prof.
Schaer. The so-called creosozon is a mixture of from 1 to 3 parts of sulphuric
acid with 100 of water, and has been recommended for the preservation of animal

572

Editorial.

< Am. Jour. Pharm.
\ Dec, 1876.

substances, such as meat, etc. Perrenoud explains its preservative action by the
neutralization of the organic bases which are formed on the putrefaction of animal
■matter, and by the prevention of such a change.

The Apothecaries' Society of Berlin, at its session, held October 24th,
ilistened to a discourse by Mr. Holtz, on the Centennial Exposition at Philadelphia.

Dr. Schacht proposed as basis for bougies and suppositories a mass consisting of
so parts glycerin, 25 water and 6 gelatin.

A curious substitution for black pepper was shown, introduced in consequence
of its high price ; it consisted of cubebs which had been completely deprived of
ttheir stalks.

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT

The Journal closes with the present number its forty-eighth volume. During
the year which is about to close, as in former years, it has been a welcome visitor to
many pharmacists at home and abroad, and we trust will hereafter not only continue
to number them amongst its readers, but will likewise make many new friends. Our
friend and colleague, the Business Editor, reminds us, however, that the publication
of the Journal requires monthly a considerable outlay, and that a number of our
readers have — perhaps in the pressure of business — omitted to make the usual
annual returns. We are sure that it needs only this gentle hint to recall the unpaid
bills to their minds and to remit promptly the arrears not only, but likewise, if the
money can be spared before the holidays — and we imagine the Journal to be a
very good holiday present — the subscription price for the ensuing volume. Most
of our readers, we are glad to say, bear in mind our mutual obligations ; the few who
ihave overlooked one side of the question, will doubtless follow their example.

Our readers are aware that the pages of the Journal are open for the discussion
of all subjects having a pharmaceutical interest, and we bespeak for the next volume
as many original communications as we had the pleasure to receive before.

It should be stated yet that for the essays published on pages 544. to 549 we are
indebted to the Pharmaceutical Journal and 'Transactions (London), September 30th.

Sweet Gum. —On page 335 of the July number we gave some information
•obtained from Mr. L. Hughes, Dyersburg, Tenn., of some of the uses to which this
exudation of Liquidambar styraciflua is put. In another communication the same
correspondent states that he has employed its solution in ether, in which it dissolved
rapidly and entirely, for the purpose of cutting the mercury in preparing mercurial
ointment. Mixed with a little fixed oil of almonds it acted admirably, the mercury
being extinguished in a short time. Our correspondent remarks that, in his opinion,
the " sweet gum " would answer all the purposes of the more expensive tolu balsam,
and that it can be obtained for about $1 per pound.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Dec , 1876. J

Editorial. — Reviews, etc.

573

Opium Antidotes. — On page 464 of this journal for 1873, De found the
analysis of a "cure for the habitual use of opium," manufactured in Cincinnati,,
and containing a considerable amount of morphia. Similar preparations are made
elsewhere, as will be seen from the annexed report made to the Cumberland Medical
Society, Ind., which we copy from the " Boston Med. and Surg. Jour." for Oct. 26 5,
we desire to direct the especial attention of our readers to it so that they may use
their influence to expose this and similar frauds.

The committee to whom was assigned the duty of investigating the so-called "opium antidote "preparec
by Mrs. J. A. Drollinger, of La Porte, Indiana, beg leave to report that a sample bottle of the article,
which was obtained directly from the manufacturer, was sent to Dr. Edward R. Squibb, of Brooklyn, N .
Y., for quantitative analysis. His onerous engagements rendered it impossible for him to conduct the
investigation in person, but he sent the specimen to Messrs. Walz and Stillwell, chemists, New York, a
firm which he thoroughly confides in and indorses. So deeply interested did he become in the project
that he insisted upon bearing the expenses of the analysis, in spite of the committee's expressed unwill-
ingness to have him assume such a tax.

Walz and Stillwell report that " this sample is glycerin colored with anilin red, and containing in
solution crystallized sulphate of morphia 1*383 per cent, by weight" — about seven grains to the ounce.
_ While this investigation was progressing, the committee found another alleged " opium antidote,"
prepared by " Dr. S. B. Collins, the Great Narcologist of the Age," likewise of La Porte, Indiana. A
specimen of this was submitted to Dr. Henry Carmichael, Professor of Chemistry in Bowdoin College
and Assayer of the State of Maine, who arrived at the following conclusions : —

" (1.) The opium antedote contains morphia.

"(2.) The morphia is combined with sulphuric acid.

"k(30 The sulphate of morphia amounts to 3-2 per cent., or fourteen grains to the ounce."

Dr. Walz says that he made an analysis of Collins's " antidote" in 1871, and found that it contained
morphia, though he did not ascertain the quantity.

In conclusion, your committee respectfully suggests that the society take some action which will
result in the wide dissemination ofth* information which has been acquired concerning these dangerous
preparations.

FREDERICK HENRY GERR1SH, )

GEORGE F. FRENCH, l Committee.

THOMAS A. FOSTER, J

REVIEWS AND BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTICES.

A systematic Handbook of Volumetric Analysis, or the quantitative estimation of chem-
ical substances by measure, applied to liquids, solids and gases. Adapted to the
requirements of pure chemical research, pathological chemistry, pharmacy, metal-
lurgy, manufacturing chemistry, photography, etc., and for the valuation of sub-
stances used in commerce, agriculture and the arts. By Francis Sutton, F.C.S.?
etc. Third edition. Philadelphia: Lindsay & Blakiston. 1876. 8vo, pp. 430.
Cloth, price $5.50.

The author first gives a table of the commonly-occurring elements with their
symbols and atomic weights, and gives then a concise explanation of the technical
terms employed in volumetric analysis, such as normal solution, titration, etc. Part
I is devoted to the general principles upon which this method of quantitative analysis
is based, the description of the instruments and apparatus, the preparation of the
solutions and the explanation of the direct and indirect processes of analysis.

Part II describes the analysis by saturation or neutralization, embracing the vari-

574

Reviews, etc.

(Am. Jour. Pharm
t Dec, 1876.

ous methods of estimating free and combined acids, alkalies and alkaline earths.

Part III treats of the methods of analysis based upon reduction or oxidation by
hyposulphite of sodium, arsenious acid, iodine, permanganic and chromic acids.

Part IV is devoted to the analysis by precipitation with and without the use of
an indicator.

The general descriptions of the different methods of volumetric assay is then fol-
lowed in Part V by the application of these principles to the analysis of special
substances, to the determination of which they have been ascertained to be .applica-
ble} and, in Part VI, by the special application to the complete quantitative analysis of
wine, soils, manures, natural waters and sewage.

Part VII, which has been contributed by Prof. McLeod, treats of the volumetric
analysis of gases, describing the necessary apparatus and methods to be followed.
The Appendix contains a few additional processes for the estimation of nitrites and
three or four metals, and several tables for corrections for temperatures in the analysis
of gases.'

The work being intended for those who are sufficiently advanced in chemistry,
its pages are not filled with minute descriptions of elementary manipulations } but
the descriptions of the processes and manipulations are characterized by keeping an
acceptable middle between the former and inconvenient conciseness. They are
clear, and enter, particularly in the special applications, sufficiently into detail to
avoid misconception, and, wherever necessary, excellent cuts facilitate exactness of
understanding. We regard the work as very well adapted to the purposes for which
it was written, but must remark that the pharmaceutical requirements are limited
to the estimation of inorganic elements, some organic acids, tannin and sugar, the
estimation of alkaloids, for instance, not being embraced in the scope of the volume.

Illustrations, typography and paper leave nothing to desire ; and if we add that
the proof-sheets have been evidently read with great care, and that a good index has
been prepared, it will be seen that the book can be consulted and used with profit
and dispatch.

Medicinal Plants, being descriptions with original figures of the principal plants em-
ployed in medicine, and an account of their properties and uses. By Robert
Bentley, F.L.S., and Henry Trimen, M.B., F.L.S. Philadelphia: Lindsay &
Blakiston. Parts 6, 7, 8. Price, $2.00 each. <%.

The parts of this excellent work now before us contain plates with the usual
descriptions of Anamirta paniculata, Canella alba, Barosma betulina and serrati-
folia, Physostigma venenosum, Pterocarpus marsupium and santalinus, Hemides-
mus indicus, Illicium anisatum, Polygala Senega, Camellia Thea, Melaleuca minor,
Uncaria Gambir, Chimaphila corymbosa, Ophelia Chirata, Schcenocaulon officinale
(Sabadilla), Althaea officinalis, Balsamodendron Opobalsamum, Exogonium purga,
Nicotiana Tabacum, Ricinus communis, Pinus Larix and Canna edulis.

Dissertation sur les Caractlres specifiques du Genre Colchicum et sur quelques esplces
nowvellement decowvertes en GrZce. Par Theo. G. Orphanides, Professeur a l'uni-
versite d'Athenes. Florence, 1875. 8vo, pp, 11.

Dissertation on the specific characters of the genus Colchicum and on several species
recently discovered in Greece.

Am. Jour. Pharm. )
Dec, 1876. J

Reviews, etc.

575

The author enumerates 43 species of colchicum, three of which, contained in the
herbarium of the Museum of Florence, are as yet undetermined. Of the four species
recently discovered by him in Greece, one, which he names Colch. £oissieriy has a
horizontal rhizome, similar to Anemone nemorosa 5 the three other species are C.
eubceuntj C. Parlatoris and C polymorphum, the latter being allied to C. neapoli-
tanum, Tenore, and may perhaps be a variety of it. The author directs special at-
tention to the very variable characters of the leaves and the different parts of the
flowers in most of the species, considerable variations being frequently met with in
the same plant. Five of the species enumerated belong to Africa, 21 are found in
Europe and Asia, 7 are indigenous to Greece and other parts of Europe and 10 are
characteristic of Greece.

Recherches experimentales sur le role physiologique et therapeutique de la Pancreatine.
Par Th. Defresne, pharmacien, etc, Paris: A. Delahaye, 1875. i2mo,pp. 102.

Experimental researches on the physiological and therapeutical action of pancreatin.

After a brief review of the literature on the pancreatic juice, the author states that
in its dried state it is usually called pancreatin 5 he has succeeded to preserve the
juice, which is otherwise readily altered, for over three weeks, by mixing it with half
its volume of ether. This preservative property of ether has been utilized for the
preparation of pancreatin as follows : Fresh pancreas, after being bruised, are intro-
duced into a suitable vessel together with ether, and kept at a temperature of 45°C.
for 24 hours, when the glands will be completely disintegrated, the fibrous tissue
floating upon the surface. The etherial juice is now rapidly evaporated in a current
of air at a temperature of 4o°C, and the residue powdered.

Thus obtained, pancreatin forms a pale-yellow powder, which is very soluble in
water, forming a viscous solution of an animal flavor and coagulating by heat, like
albumen. Alcohol precipitates from the solution the pancreatic ferment, while the
liquid portion is inert. Pancreatin is destroyed by heat at about 70°C, also by
strong acids and alkalies ; tannin, as well as metallic salts, give insoluble precipi-
tates with it 5 very dilute acids and alkalies do not disturb the solution, and the salts
of the alkalies neither alter the pancreatin nor lessen its action.

The author then considers the action of pancreatin upon the nitrogenized aliments,
starch, fats and mixed food, and finally its medicinal uses. It may be given in soup,
a little bread or some sweetened water, in doses of 0*50 to 0*75 grams (7 to 12
grains) ; or in pills prepared from 4 grams pancreatin, 0*50 honey and sufficient of
an inert powder to make 20 pills, three to five of which may be taken just before
meals. The pancreatic elixir should not contain over 8 per cent, of alcohol, and if
necessary the wine should be completely freed from tannin by egg albumen. It is
made of 4 grams pancreatin, 120 white wine, 175 crystallized sugar and 10 tincture
of coffeej dose, a tablespoonful, containing o 25 gram. (4 grs.) pancreatin. Pan-
creatic emulsion of codli^ver oil (or other oil) is made by digesting at a moderate heat
for 24 hours 1,000 grams codliver oil, 40 powdered pancreatin and 300 simple
syrup. It is now perfectly miscible with water (cherry laurel or other aromatic
water may be used for diluting it), and may be given in chocolate, milk, coffee or
broth to suit the taste.

576 Reviews, etc. — Obituary. { Amf^lljr,f^!nn'

The pamphlet concludes with a number of reports from hospitals, in which these
preparations of pancreatin have been tried.

The Physicians Visiting List, for 1877. Philadelphia : Lindsay & Blakiston.

This being the twenty-sixth year of its publication, is sufficient proof of its use-
fulness for the medical practitioner. As usual, it is published so as to be adapted
for the records of from 25 to 100 patients a week.

Letters about the Exhibition. New York : Office of the Tribune. Large 8vo, pp. 72,
double columns. Price, 25 cts.

This is a republication in pamphlet form of the letters written by the special cor-
respondent of the New York Tribune, and originally published in that paper. They
are written with good judgment and in an acceptable style.

OBITUARY.

Th. Gobley, a distinguished pharmacist of Paris, died recently at Luchon, and
was buried in Paris. He entered as apprentice with Mr. Guerin, his brother-in-
law, who had succeeded Robiquet, and after obtaining the title of pharmacien at
the Paris school, commenced business, where he soon established a considerable
reputation. In 1842 he became attached to the school of pharmacy as professor, and
in 1868 he was made a member of the council of public hygiene, in both of which
positions he labored assiduously. Many of his scientific investigations are of con-
siderable importance, and have been noticed in full or in abstract also in this journal.
The deceased repeatedly held offices of public trust, and was a member of the com-
mission for the revision of the new Codex. Having been married to a daughter of
Robiquet, he was happy in his family circle, where he enjoyed the fruits of a long
and useful life.

Henry Etienne St. Claire Deville died suddenly on October nth. The
deceased was born on the island of St. Thomas in 181 8, and was for many years
professor of chemistry at the College de France at Paris, and a member of the
French Academy of Sciences. He enjoyed a high reputation as a scientific investi-
gator, and became widely known through his researches on the platinum metals,
magnesium, aluminum, silicium, boron, the artificial production of crystallized
minerals, etc. Many of his valuable contributions to science have been noticed in
former volumes of this journal.

INDEX

TO VOL. XLVIII (VOL. VI, FOURTH SERIES) OF THE
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACY.

Acid, acetic and formic, mutual displacement of, . . .36

glacial, combination of, with oils, . . . 29, 132

aconitic, in adonis vernalis, .... 540

alantic, . . . . . -353

arsenions, colored for use as rat's bane, . . . 217

precaution in selling, in Sweden, . . -317

benzoic, as an antiseptic, . . . 3^7, 429

carbolic, detection of, in oil of cloves, . . . 7 . 66

estimation of, . . . .320

carminic, action of iodine upon, . . . .236

chrysophanic, in raiz del indico, . . . .50

equinic, in mare's milk, . . . . -415

formic and acetic, mutual displacement of, . . . 36

gelseminic, identical with sesculin, . . . . 191

hydrochloric, detection of free, in chlorides, . . .65

new crystallized hydrate of, . . .327

use of, as by product, . . . 424

hydrocyanic, action of, upon calomel, . . . .234

preservation of, . . .234

molybdic, solution in sulphuric acid, as a reagent, . .21, 40, 59

nitric, preparation of pure, . . . . 319

phosphoric, ammonia in, . . . . 39, 113, 140

investigations on, . . . Z28, 332, 432

thermic researches on, . . . . 134

phosphorous, constitution of, • • « . . . . 87

salicylic, antiseptic properties of, 347, 429

excretion of, by patients, . . . .548

instability of sublimed, . . . 409

pharmacy of, . . . .67

probably obtained from buchu, . . .18

solubility of, . . . . 306

solutions of, ... 277, 305, 331

for hypodermic use, . . . 217

•sulphocarbonic, test for compounds of, . . . .30

sulphuric, aromatic, ..... 341

determination of, . . . -431

preparation of, . . . . . 424

sulphurous, reduction of, to sulphur, . . . 409

tannic, asserted presence of, in gentian, . 117, 140, 188,486
estimation of, ..... 219

in tea, . . . -559

37

Index.

Acids, mineral, detection of, in vinegar, . ... z-jx

phosphoric, precipitations by, . . . 534-

phosphorus, basicity of, ... . , 100

picramates, as a test for, . . r . .236

Aconite roots, alkaloids of, . . . . -77

Aconitin, examination of the resinoid, .... 38S

Adonis vernalis, aconitic acid in, . . . 540

JEsculin in gelsemium sempervirens, . . . .191

-^terpen, or aethyl-terpen, . . . . . . 412

Agave americana and its uses, . . . . .301

Ague cures, analysis of six nostrums sold as, . . . 390

Alantol, . . . . . . -35 5

Albumin, serum and egg, and their compounds, . . . 515

Alcohol, glucose in, . . . . . 54E

Alizarin, artificial, ...... 427

distinctive reaction of, from the reds of madder, . 567

new color from, . , . 379

Alkalies, picramates as a test for, . . . .236

Alkaloid occurring in the brain, liver and in wild poppy, . . . 430

Alkaloids, action of sulphuretted hydrogen upon, . 41 5

detection of, . = „ . . 466

Alkaloids of aconite roots, . . . . . .77

cinchona at the International Exposition, . . . 324.

opium at the International Exposition, . . .421

Alkaloids of veratrum, . . . . . 1, 147

Allium, species of, used in Greece, . . . . 193

Aloes, therapeutic value of the crystalline principles of, . . .51a

Aloin, preparation and properties of, . . _ . 24, 37

Alumni Association, Cincinnati College of Pharmacy, . , . 232

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, . . 281

• New York College of Pharmacy, . . .186

New York, of Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, .

39) 91* Hij 187, 229, 38r
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, 185, 230, 521, 569
American Chemical Society, ..... 284

American Pharmaceutical Association, report on Ebert prize, . . 227

twenty-fourth annual meeting of,

*37, 332> 381, 432, 433) 47$
Ammoniacum, commerce of, . . . 131, 512

in powder, ...... 227

Ammonium bromide, solubility in ether, . . . . 491

carbonate, re-sublimed, . . . . .380

chloride, inhaler for, . . . . 279

iodide, solubility in ether, . . . . 491

molybdate, composition of, . . . .40

salicylate, preparation of, . . . .66

Amyrin from elemi, ...... 355

Anagyris foetida, properties of, . . . . . 195

Anilin colors, . . . . . • 375

Anise, adulteration of, with earth, ..... 328

Anthelmintics, cucurbitaceous, . . . .87

Anthraflavon, . • • • • • • • 379

Antiseptics, an experiment on, . 108
Antimony sulphide, analysis of eleven samples of, . . . 389

Apothecaries, female, . . . . . *44

Aqua cinnamomi, oil used for preparing, .... 448

Index. 579

Aquas medicatae, preparation of, . . . . 166, 280

Arnotto introduced into Europe, ..... 364-

Arrowroot, adulteration of, . . . 297, 316, 380, 51 1

Arsenical poisoning, . . . . . .221

Arsenic chloro-phosphide, ... 91
test for, ....... 220

Arum dracunculus, use of, in Greece, . . . .196

Asafcetida, commerce of, . . . . . 513

Asarum canadense, constituents and preparations of, . . 154-

Asphodelus racemosus and bulbosus, . . . . . 193

Atractylis gummifera, mastich from and properties of root, . . 195

Atropia, assay of, in extracts of belladonna, . . . .145

Ayer's ague cure, analysis of, . . . 391

Balsam Peru, adulterated with alcohol, . . \ . . 133

castor oil, . . . .167

introduction of, into Europe, . . . .362

Balsam Tolu, factitious, . . . . 51, 89

introduction of, into Europe, . . . . 363

Bdellium, origin and properties of, . . . .273

Beach, L. F., examination of podophyllin, cimicifugin and hydrastin 5 also, de-
termination of berberina, .... 385

Becker, Chas., on salicylic acid, . . . . .306

on essence of vanilla, .... 342

Beckett, G. H., and C. R. A. Wright, alkaloids of aconite roots, . . 77'

Beech wax, nature of, . . . . . 278

Beer, alkaloid in, resembling colchicia, .... 467-

Belgium, General Pharmaceutical Association of, . . 57 s

Benger, F. B., excretion of salicylic acid by patients, . . . 548

Benzoin, growth and uses of, . . . . 74, 144

introduction of, into Europe, . . . . 363

variety of, . . . . .571

Berberina, determination of, by Mayer's solution, . . .386

Berlin, Apothecaries' Society of, . . . . . 572

Betulin, . . . . . . 540

Bibby, Walter E., division of poisons, . . . .167

the pharmaceutical value of sugar of milk, . 267, 278

Bidwell, M. S., a new ink, . . . . .54

experiment on antiseptics, . . . .108

uva ursi and spirit of nitre, . . . 214

Bismuth and iron, compounds of, . . . .104

salts, tellurium a probable impurity in, . 133

Blair, Andrew, cachets de pain, . . . . .164

Blood powder, soluble, . . . . .132

Boerner, E. L., seeds of ricinus communis, . . . .481

Borax as an antiseptic, . . . • . .221

Borax, solubility of, in glycerin, . . . . .30

Botanical models, ...... 38

Bowdichia major, s . . 510

Bower, F. T., liquor ferri nitratis, . . . 356

Bowman, C. A., glycerin dropper, . . . . .98

British Pharmaceutical Conference, grants by, . . .41

thirteenth annual meeting, . . 473

Brown, A. P., Syrup of Liquorice Root and Brown mixture, . . 487

Brown, Jos. j., importance of garbling drugs, . . 52

58° Index.

Brucia, conversion of, into strychnia, . . . .354

Buchu, researches upon, . . . . . .18

Bullock, Charles, the alkaloid of veratrum viride, . . .147

Butyl-chloral, properties of, ..... 272

Cacao, analysis of commercial varieties of, . . .191

introduced into Europe, . . . . 365

Cachets de pain (see Wafer capsules).

Campbell, Sam., ready made pills of our day, . . . 121

Camphor, Chinese and Japanese, at the Exposition, . . . 422

monobromated, preparation of, . . 346, 423

powdered, ..... 227, 268

union of, with chloral hydrate, .... 462

Caoutchouc in affections of the lung, .... 220

Capsicum, alkaloid from, ..... 355

Capsules, devorative, for administering powders, . . 31, 131

soluble gelatin or gluten, . . . . 200

Carbon sulphide as an insecticide, . . . . . 517

Cascarilla bark introduced into Europe, . . . . 364

Case, Flavins S., Salicylic acid, ..... 347

Cataplasms, material for, in Greece, . . . .196

Catechu introduced into Europe, ..... 364

Cement, insoluble, for glass, . . . . .132

Centennial bureau, ...... 144

Ceratum simplex, preparation of, . . . .215

Ceterach officinarum, a reputed abortifacient, .... 194

Charta arsenicalis composita, . . ■ ; . . 88

Chavicin in black pepper, ...... 467

Chelidonium majus, amount of alkaloids in, 352
Chemical industry of Germany at the Centennial Exposition, . . 423

Chemicals, preparation of pure, . . . . .92

Chicago College of Pharmacy, ..... 232

Chinoidin citrate, . . . . . ... 369

Chloral hydrate, union of, with camphor, .... 462

use of, in dandruff, . . . .414

•Chlorodyne, . . . . . . .138

Chloroform prepared from chloral, behavior to light, . . 272

•Christie's ague mixture, analysis of, . . . . 391

'Churchill, O. L., analysis of 6 nostrums, sold as ague cures, . . 390

Cichorium intybus, new glucoside in flowers of, ... 329

Ciraicifugin, determination of, . . . 385

Cinchona, assay of, .... 40, 316

barks and preparations of, at the International Exposition, 323, 369
introduced into Europe, ..... 364

Cincho-quinine, assay of, ... 246, 316

Cincinnati College of Pharmacy, . . 91, 142, 231, 282

Clark, J. T., analysis of, and determination of tannin in tea, . . 558

Clearer, E. L., assay of opium for morphia, . . ". -499

Coffee introduced into Europe, . . . . 365

Collodion for freckles (Coll. antephe'lique),' , . . .67

Cologne water, Madame Hutin's, ; 449

Conia hydrobromate, crystallized, ..... 464

Connecticut Pharmaceutical Association, .... 149

Copaiba, introduction of, into Europe, . . . . 362

Copaiba resin, contamination of, with copper, . . .57°

Copper sulphate, cauterizing pencils of, . . . -67

Corns, cure for, ...... 276

Index.

581

Corn starch, ....... 299

Corre, A., the gums of Senegal, . . . . .561

Cosmolin, composition of, . . . . 234-

Cotoin, preparation and properties of, . . . . 352.

Cotton, iodinized, . . . . . .135

Cotton and wool, to distinguish, . . . . .567

Cotton wadding, salicylic, . . . . .410

Cotzhausen, L. Von, coumarin and its uses, .... 405

Coumarin and its uses, ...... 405

Cowhage, early use of, in Germany, . . . ,366'

Cream of camphor, ...... 490

Creasole, constitution of, . . . . . 135

distinguished from coal tar creasote, . . * . 509

Cretghton, £. T., culture of tobacco in Ohio, . . . -253,

Creosozon for preserving meat, . . . . .571

Croton-chloral is butyl-chloral, ..... 272

Cuscuta epilinum, medical properties of, . . . .194

Damiana, chloride of potassium in, . . . . 23

Dandruff, origin of, . . . . . .273

remedy for, . . . . . .414

Davis, John L., powder for producing ozone, .... 407

Denmark, pharmacy in, . . ... . 221

Dentriflces, . . . . . . . 6&

Dextrin, manufacture of, . . . . .431

Dictamnus creticus as an emmenagogue, . . . . 194

Dietheralysis for extracting vegetable juices, . . 255

Dietrich, C. IV. L., valuation of eight samples of precipitated sulphur, . 389

Dilg, Phil. H., the root of Euphorbia ipecacuanha, . . .485

Diller, Isaac R., assay of tinctura ferri chloridi, . . . .21c

Diospyros fruit, Indian, properties of, . . .410

Disinfectants, notes on, . . . . . .278

Dispensing department, arrangement of, . . . 448

Dispensing, facilities for, ..... 167, 179

Dita bark, constituents of, . . . . . 221, 369

Dorema root, . . . . . . 133

Dott, D. B., variation in strength of opium preparations, . . 496
Dragon's blood and its falsifications, ..... 236

Dropping bottle, . . . . . . 90, 98

Druggists, tax upon, . . . . . .189

Drugs at the International Exposition, , 323, 369

contributions towards the history of some, . . .360

importance of garbling, . . . . 52, 89

powdered, under the microscope, . . 241, 296

Dulse, Irish, . . . . . . .570

Eberbach, O., vinegar bitters, . . . . 27

Echites scholaris, composition of, ... 221, 369

use of several species of, . . . 370

Elemi, preparation of amyrin from, . . . . 355

Elixir, pancreatic, ...... 575

Emanuel, L., glycerin as an excipient for pill masses, . . 205

Emplastrum cantharides, a new basis for, .... 544

Emulsion of meat, pancreatic, . . . . .319

Emulsions of gum resins, preparation of, . . . .66

pancreatic, . . ... 575

Enamel of iron pots, ...... 492

Index.

Entada pursseta, properties of, . . . .410

Ergot, active constituent of, . . . 3*7

constituents of, . . . . . .413

Ergotin, properties of, . . . . . 414

Eriodyction californicum, uses of, . . . .91

Eruca sativa, use of the seeds, ..... 196

Erythrasa centaurium in chronic fevers, . . . .196

Etythropheum guineense, bark of, . . . • 539

Essence of May wine, . . . . . . 406

vanilla, ...... 342

Eucalyptus globulus, crystalline resin in, . . . .23

composition of leaves of, . . . . 329

properties and uses of several species, . . . 370

Eugenol converted into vanillin, ..... 329 •

Eupatorium purpureum, crystalline principle from root, . . 331

Euphorbia ipecacuanha, constituents of, . . . 485

Eupitton in wood tar, . . . . . . 329

Exostemma caribasum, floribundum, etc., . . . . 351

Exposition, International, at Philadelphia, . 221, 237, 274, 321, 369, 383 419

Extract of new-mown hay, mille fleurs, etc., .... 405

Extracts of belladonna, assay of atropia in, . . . .145

syrupy and fluid, . . . . . 236

yield of, . . . . .236

Extractum belladonna?, conii, hyoscyami, etc., fluid., assays of, . .251
carnis, injurious effects of, . . . . 315

castaneae fluid., in Germany, .... 414

ergotae concentratum ..... 449

gossypii radicis fluid., . • . . . 402, 442

ipecacuanhas fiuidum ..... 337

jalapae, preparation of, . . . 262, 265

malti cum ferro, quinia, etc., .... 412

paullinias sorbilis fiuidum, . . . 442

Pruni Virginianae fluid., modified formula for, . . 215

tonca; fiuidum, ...... 405

vanillae fluidum, . . . . . 342

veratri viridis fluid., assays of, . . . .252

Ferric phosphate with sodium citrate, .... 465

Filtering paper and filtration, .... 332, 380

Filtration, apparatus for rapid, . . . 289

Fires, colored, preparation of some, ..... 564

Flames, theory of luminous, ..... 566

Flaxseed, ground, estimation of pure, .... 520

Fluckiger, F. A , contributions towards the history of some drugs, . 360

note on so-called wood oil, . . . . 415

remarks on rhubarb and Rheum officinale, . . 307

Fluid extracts, comparative analysis of, . . . .250

specific gravities of, . . . .529

Food adulterations, English dealings with, . . . . 567

Foot powder, salicylic, . ... . .68

Froehde's reagent as a test, . . . . . 21, 59

Fruit, preservation ofr . . . . • .87

Fuchsin, detection of, in wine,- . . . . . 236

Fucus vesiculosus and some allied species, .... 395

Funnels, adjustable supports for, ..... 4°°

Gaibanum, commerce of, . . . . 5X3

Gallium, a new metal, . . . . • .87

properties and reactions of, .... 565, 566

Galls of Rhus succedanea, . ...... 410

Index.

583

Gamboge, historical notes on, ..... 365

Garrya Fremontii, ...... 234

Gelsemium sempervirens, proximate principles of, . . .191

Gentian, asserted presence of tannin in, . . 117, 140, 188, 486

Gentiana Catesbaei substituted by Triosteum root, . . -39

German Apothecaries' Society, fifth meeting ot, . . 522

Germany, chemical industry of, at the Centennial Exposition, . 423,468

Gerrard, A. W., new basis for cantharides plaster, . . . 544

Glass, etching on, ...... 564

Globules, medicated, ...... 200

Glucose, preparation of pure, . . . . . 415

reagent for, ...... 541

Glue, liquid, and to prevent cracking of, # . . . .219

Glycerin and chlorinated lime, behavior of, . . .218

as an excipient for pill masses, .... 205

dropper, ...... 90, 98

solubility of borax in, . . . . 30

Glycerita olei ricini, . . . . . . 88

Glycerol of subacetate of lead, . . . . .318

tar, . . . . • . 66

Glycyrrhizin, ammoniacal, . .... 442

derivatives from, . . . . . 540

Goldbeater's skin, opaque, ...... 227

Goodman, F. M., pill coating, . . . . .69

Graduated measures, ...... 446

Granular effervescent sodium tartrate, . . . . . 209

Grapes, acids in unripe, ...... 541

preservation of, in spirit, . . . . . .431

Great Britain, Pharmaceutical Society of, . . 40, 92, 143, 233, 570

Grindelia robusta and squarrosa, . . . . .40

Gum resins, medicinal, of Persia, . . . . . 512

Gums of Senegal, . . . . .561

Gurjun balsam, note on, . . . . . . 415

Hagan's Magnolia Balm, composition of, . . . 300

Hair, liquid for promoting the growth of the, . . . 131

tonic, ....... 276

Hallberg, Carl S. N., pharmaceutical notes, . . . 340

Hancock, John F., modern methods in pharmacy, . . . 199

Harrington, M. IV., powdered drugs under the microscope, . 241, 296, 343
Hayhurst, Henry T., effervescing preparations of sodium tartrate, . . 207

Heaney, Jno. P., Megarrhiza Californica, . . . .451

Helianthus annuus, experiments with, ..... 350

Herbs, preservation of, ..... 142, 197

Hesperidin, preparation ©f pure, . . . . .354

Heynsius, A., ^erum and egg albumin and their compounds, . . 515

Hildebrand, E. C. H., adjustable supports for funnels, percolators, etc , . 400

on rapid filtration, . . . . 289

Hoffmann, Fred., relations of pharmacists to physicians, . . .10

Hofmann, A. IV., development of the chemical arts, . . . 31, 79

Hops as a ferment, ..... 320, 467, 540

Hydrargyrum ammoniatum, decomposition of, by iodine, bromine and chlorine, 270
cum creta, preparation of, . . . 269

Hydrastin, examination of the resinoid, . . . .386

Hydrastis canadensis, adulterated, .... 226

Hydrogen, industrial uses of, . . . . . 31

Hydrometers, incorrect indications by, . . . 235

584 Index.

Incompatibility, a curious, ...... 277

Indigo, manufacture of, . . . . 140

Infants' food, quality of, . . . . . 220

Infusum sennae compositum, . . . . .88

Inhaler for ammonium chloride, ..... 279

Ink, copying, from extract of logwood, . . . 133

indelible, ...... 219

new, from anilin black, . . . . .54

Inks, chromic, . . . . . . -519

Inula camphor, ...... 353

Invitation to the pharmacists of foreign countries, . . .382

Ipecacuanha, valuation of, . . -359

Iris florentina, historical notes on, . . . . . 365

oil of, . . . , .411

versicolor, examination of the rhizome of, . 4CJ6
Iron (see, also, Ferrum).

citrate of, and quinia, preparation, . . . .107

compounds, inverse synthesis of so-called tasteless, . . .171

lactate,. ....... 489

phosphate, preparation of, . . . . 233

salts, in form of scales, preparation of, ... 168

solutions, influencing the rusting of, . . 327

Jaborandi, alkaloid from, and its composition, . . '55°

Jayne's ague mixture, analysis of, . . . . . 392

Jervia, in veratrum, properties and tests, .... 4,148
Judge, J. F., note on syrup of ferrous iodide, . . . . 157

Keller, J. L., chemical examination of Lycoperdon solidum, . . 553

Kennedy, Geo. W., analysis of spiritus aetheris nitrosi, . . • 259

tinctura capsici, . . • .102

Kingzett, Chas. T., alkaloid from jaborandi, . . . . 550

Klie, G. H. Chas., extract of jalap, .... 262

iron salts in the form of scales, . . . .168

specific gravities of fluid extracts, . . . 529

the comparative price of bought and self-made preparations, 398

Laboratory, murderous attack in a, . . . .285

Lactopeptin, ...... 134. 444

Lagoecia cuminoides in lithiasis, . . . . . 194

Laird's bloom of youth, composition of, .... 300

Landerer, X., on some medicinal plants of Greece, . . . 193

Laroche's ferruginous cinchona wine, composition of, . . 328

Lead chloride as disinfectant, . . . . .567

Lebert's Amer. vegetable hair -restorative, . . . . 328

Lechler, Harry P., cachets de pain, . . . . .100

Leptandrin, examination of the resinoid, .... 388

Liebig monument, ... ... 285

Lilly, Eli, new process for phosphorus pills, . . . 56

Lime, chlorinated and glycerin, behavior of, . . .218

Linimentum camphorae, ..... 490

chloroformi compositum, . . . .88

iodoformi, .... .40

saponis, . . . . . -34°

for employment in ho;pitil practice, . . 235

viridis, . . . .88

terebinthinae aceticum, .... 133

Index.

Linimentum terebinthinae compositum, . . . . 137

Lint from paper, ..... 227

Linthicum, T. C, preparation of monobromated camphor, . 346

Liquidambar styraciflua, use of sweet gum from, . . • 335,572-

Liquor ammonii acetatis, assay of, . . . . .318

Liquor bromini, . . . . . .137

epispasticus, . . . . . 143

ferri chloridi dilutus, . . . . .445

ferri nitratis, preparation of, . . . . 356

hydrargyri albuminatis for hypodermic injection, . . 317

plumbi subacetatis cum opio, ..... 137

potassii arsenitis, separation of arsenic from, . . . 217

quiniae ammoniatus, ..... 489

quiniae hydrobromatis for hypodermic injection, . . 293

sodii tartratis, ..... 208, 284, 380

Liquorice, historical notes on, ..... 365

Lithium bromide, preparation of, : . . 29

citrate, preparation of crystallized, . . .28

Little, J. R., examination of sanguinarin, leptandrin and aconitin, . -387
Lloyd, J. U., citrate of iron and quinia, . . . .107

pressed herbs, . . . . . 197

spirit of nitrous ether, .... 294

Logwood, spontaneous combustion of chipped, .... 220

Lotio capillaria stimulans, . . . . .276

Louisville College of Pharmacy, . . . . .232

Lozenges, salicylic acid, . . . . .69

Lupulina under the microscope, ..... 343

Lycoperdon solidum, chemical examination of, . . 553

Lycopodium under the microscope, ..... 344

Lynn, James, morphiometric assay of opium, . . . 358

Magnolia glauca, leaves of, use for marking linen by, . . • -79

Maisch, JohnM., asserted presence of tannin in gentian, . 117, 188, 4S6

fucus vesiculosus and some allied species, . -395

gleanings from foreign journals,

28, 64, 131, 216, 270, 317, 351, 408, 465, 509, 538
notes on the genus Teucrium, . . . 392

notes on the International Exposition, . 274, 321, 369, 417
notes on the quinine flower, . . . 455

remarks on cinchoquinine, .... 249

remarks on extract of jalap, . . .2 65

use of metrical weights in prescriptions, . . - 457

Malt, composition of, . . . . . . 320

preparations of, . . . . . . 531

Manganese lyes, utilization of, , . . . 424

Manna of Briangon, early use of, . , . . 366

Maranta starch, ...... 297

Marquard, C. H., examination of the rhizome of Iris versicolor, . . 406

Maryland College of Pharmacy, . . . . 142, 230, 521

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, .... 188,229

Mastic, production of in Cyprus, . . . . 366

Mattison, R. V., factitious balsam tolu, . . . . 51

preparations of malt, . . . 5 3 1

Maury, M., the pharmacy of salicylic acid, • . . -67

McElhenie, Thos D., linimentum chloroformi, . . .40

Mclntyre, JVm., mixtures of quinia and ammonia, . . .458

586

Index.

Mclntyre, Wm., wafer capsules for administering medicines, . . 25

wafer machine and press, . . 267, 279
Mead, formula for New Orleans, ..... 282

Meat, administration of raw, . . . . 30

preservation and pancreatic emulsion of, . . • 319

by creosozon, . . . . 571

Megarrhiza Californica, analysis of, . . . . . 451

Mercury albuminate, preparation of, for hypodermic injection, . 317

Mercury, American, . . . . . . 135

corrosive chloride, poisoning by, . . ' . 188

extinction of by milk sugar, . . . . 227

sweet gum, .... 572

iodide, red, ..... 110,140

oxide, yellow, . . . . 117

Metal, a new, gallium, . • . . . '87

Mistura antirheumatica ; M. arsenicalis comp. ; M. astringens, %. 137

cosmetica, M. cretae comp. ; M. ferri chlor. comp. ; M. ferri c.

quinia, . . . . . • J37

glycyrrhizae composita, ..... 133,187

guaiaci, . . . . . . -57°

sodae; M. sodae composita; M. Zollickofferi, . . 137

Mitchell, Chas. L., aloin, . . . . . . ' 24

hydrarg. iodidum rubrum and oxidum flavum, . 115
solution of salicylic acid, .... 305

Mitsch, Geo. Jos., analysis of face lotions, . . .300

Mixture, Basham's, ..... 90, 157

explosive, * . . . . . . 4°7

Morgan, Jas. W., precipitations by phosphoric acids, . . • 534

Morphia, Froehde's reagent as a test for, . . . 21, 59

quantitative separation of, from sugar, . . . 272

Mourrut, M., crystallized hydrobromate of conia, . . . 464

Mouthpaste, antiseptic, ... . . 69

Mucilage of fleabane and linseed, . . .36

quince, . . . . • • 35

Murray, Franc. M., agave americana and its uses, . . . 301

Myrrh, commerce of, . . . . -273

Naphthalin from oil of turpentine, .... 329
Nerium Oleander, used in epilepsy, ..... 195

Netherlands Pharmaceutical Association, . . 522
New Hampshire Pharmaceutical Association, .... 141

New Jersey Pharmaceutical Association, , . . .281

New York College of Pharmacy, . • • .186

Ntynaber, A. F. W., extemporaneous coating of pills, . . . 71

Nickel plating, . . . . • ' 3^

Nicotia as an antidote to strychnia, . . . .316

Nitrogen, preparation of pure, . 492

Nostrums, composition of some, . . ... • 32&

Nostrums, physicians and pharmacists, their relations, . . .10

Numbering machine, Hill's, . . . • 43 1

Nutgalls from Texas, . . . . . . 140

Obituary — Andrew, Edward H., . . • .96

Balard, A. J., . . . . . •

Buignet, Henry, . . « . 3 36

Clayton, R. P., . . . • -44

Index.

587

Obituary — Cresson, John B., . . . . 528

Cowperthwaite, M. S , . . . . 528

Curtis, Albert C, . . . . .384

Deville, H. E. St. Claire, . . . .576

Donde, Joaquin, . . . . .96

Donovan, Mich, ..... 288

Ehrenberg, Christian G., . . . 384

Gaither, F. S , . . . . . . 480

Gilman, Z. D., . 240

Gobley, Th., ...... 576

Hendershott, Jos. N., .... 288

Hlasiwetz, H. H., . . . -44

King, Alexander, . . . . . 528

Maclvor, William G., . . . . .384

Southall, Robert, ..... 480

Spence, Samuel B., ... 528

Unzicker, J. S., . . . . 288

Vleminckx, Jean F., . . . . 288

Oil, castor, behavior of to petroleum benzin and benzol, . . 411

codliver, emulsion of, with malt, .... 534,569

with ferrous iodide, . . . . 511

bitter almonds, artificial, ..... 380

detection of nitrobenzol in, . . 466

cinnamon leaves, ...... 569

cloves, detection of carbolic acid in, . . . . 66

mustard, examination of, . . . . 131

orris, composition of, . . . 4ri

parsley, behavior of, . . . . -354

rose, adulterated, ..... 227

theobroma, detection of and adulterations in, . . . 447

fusing point and yield of, ... 190, 191

turpentine, naphthalin from, ..... 329

olive, examination of, . . . .64

palm, ....... 140

Oils, combinations of glacial acetic acid with, . . . 29, 132

determination of mixed, . . . . • 73

volatile, early use of some, . . . .366

preservation of, .... 542

Ointment, resolvent, ...... 276

Ointments, base for, ..... 143, 188

preparation of, . . . . .215

(see Unguentum).

Ointment for burns, ...... 518

Olibanum, new variety of, . . . . . 571

Opium, at the International Exposition, . . . -417

constituents, exhibition of, . . . .421

factitious, . . . . . • . 449

morphiometric assay of, . . . 358

Persian, assay of, ..... 271,415

preparations, variations in strength of, . . . 496

report on an assay of, for morphia, .... 499

so-called antidotes for, . . • . . . 573

Ozone, powder for producing, ..... 407

Painter, J. Dabney, the quinine flower, .... 454

Pancreas, investigations on, ..... 22.8

588

Index.

Pancreatin, action upon albuminoid substances, . . .236

diastase and ptyalin, ..... 444
preparation of, . . . . -575

Pareira brava, development and structure of, . . . 234

Paris, Pharmaceutical Society of, . . . 235, 571

Parrish, Clemmons, effect of light on syr. ferri iodidi, . . 209

Pencils, cauterizing, . . . . . -67

Peppermint plantations, mare's tail in, . . . 286

Percolators, adjustable supports for, ..... 400
Peterman's Michigan ague cure, . 392

Pharmaceutical journals, changes in, . . . . . 94

statistics, . . . . ' ' .517

Meetings, minutes of, 37, 89, 139, 178, 225, 278, 331, 379, 431,

520, 568

Pharmacists, their relations to physicians and nostrums, . . 10

Pharmacopoeia U. S., revision of, .... 382, 439, 440

Pharmacy, modern methods in, . . . . .199

Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, catalogue of class, 1 875-76, . . 45

examination, graduates1 commencement, 179
formal opening of the renovated building, 280
minutes of meetings, 88, 222, 330, 471

the Procter prize, . . .185

Philadelphia, the sanitary condition of, . . . 282, 523

Phosphates, constitution of, .... 112, 135

Phosphorus, administration of, .... 439

preparation of an emulsion of, . . .230

a solution, . . . .316

presence of arsenic in, . . . . . 445

Physicians, pharmacists and nostrums, their relations, . . 10

suggestion to, . . . . . . 266

Picramates as a test for acids and alkalies, . . .236

Pill coating, ...... 69, 71

masses, glycerin in, .... 205

press, an improved, . . . . 97, 179

Pills, Blaud's, ...... 492

phosphorous, . . . . . 56, 318, 439

pancreatin, . . . . . -5 75

ready-made, of our day, . . 121, 159, 1-9, 189, 203, 334

zinc phosphide, ..... 408

Pilula hydrargyri, composition of, . . . . 143

preparation of, and powder, . . .269

Pilulae aloes comp. ; Pil. antineuralgicae, . . .138

cinchonia? comp. 5 P. cinchoniae et arsenici, . . .138

colocynthidis cum belladonna, . . . .138

opii cum Plumbi acetate, . . . . .138

Podophylli comp. ; P. rhei et gentianae, . . . .138

Pinus pinea, yield so-called pine nuts, . . . .178

Piper aethiopicum, ...... 367

Piperina, constitution of, . . . • 467

Pittakal, crystalline principle in, . . . . 329

Plants, drying of, for the herbarium, . . . 542

medicinal, of Greece, ..... 193

Plasters, spread, India rubber in, .... 570

Podophyllin, examination of the resinoid, . . . • 385

Poisons, the division of, . . . . .167

vegetable, sassafras as an antidote to, . . . • 276

Index.

589

Porter, Andrew R.3 Sium latifolium, .... 348

Portugal, pharmacy in, . . . . -41

Postal matters, . . . . . .41

Potash industry of Stassf'urt, . . , . , 42+

Potassium chloride, from damiana, . . . 23

iodide, impure, . . . . . .271

preparation of pure, . . . .131

Potato starch, . . . . ... . 245

Preparations, comparative price of bought and self-made pharmaceutical, 398
Prescotf, A. £., contributions from the School of Pharmacy, University of

■. Michigan, 356, 385, 534

r noehde s reagent as a test for morphia, . . • 59.

Prescribers, hints to, . . . . . . 266, 277

Prescriptions, reactions in, ..... 178,211, 214

Princewood bark, a febrifuge of the Bahamas, . . 35 z

Prussia, medical statistics of, . . . . -93

Prussian blue, soluble, . . . . x

Pulvis glycyrrhizae compositus, . . . . .138

sodse compositus, . . . . 139

Pumpkin seeds, taenifuge properties of, .... 509

Pycnanthemum latifolium, analysis of, .... 448

Quebec, Pharmaceutical Association of the province of, . . . 282

Quercitrin and Quercetin, formulas of, . . . .65

Quinetum, the alkaloids from red bark, . . . -134

Quinia, estimation from ferri et quinias citras, . . .

in hypodermic injections, . . . . 217, 293

iodo-sulphate of chinioidin as a test for, . . .126

mixtures of, with ammonia, . . . . -458

phenyl-nmriate and phenyl-sulphate, . ■ . 3^

salts for hypodermic use, . . . . .187

sulphate, adulterated with potassium nitrate, . .

consumption of, in Greece, ... . . jyj

phenated (carb'olated), . . . .216, 328

Quinine flower, . . . . . . 454, 455

Racher, Gust. C, Practical Notes, . . . .166

Raffinose, a new sugar, . . . . . .466

Raiz del Indico, analysis of, . „ . , ^

Reaction, a singular, . . . . . .211

Remington, Jos. P., an improved pill press, . . . .97

a singular reaction, . . . .211

the pill subject, . . . .159

Resorcin black, . . . . . . 379

Reviews — Alumni Association Phila. Coll. Phar., twelfth annual report of, 287
Attfield, John, chemistry, general, medical and pharmaceutical, . 525
Bentley, R. and H. Trimen, medicinal plants, . 190, 528, 574

Bulletin of the Bussy Institution, V, . . , < 2^

Centennial newspaper exhibition, . . , ^^6

Charity hospital of Louisiana, report of the administrators, . 240

Defresne, Th., Recherches sur la pancreatine, . .

Donde Joaquin, y Juan, Lecciones de botanica, . . . 239

Dragendorff, G., Jahresbericht der Pharmacie, . . 286

Filth diseases and their prevention, , 239
Flint, Austin, Jr., Text-book of human physiology, . . 4.3

Formulae for non-officinal preparations in the Dist. of Columbia, . 238

Index.

Reviews — Gmelin-Kraut's Handbuch der Chemie, . . . 190

Harrington, M. W., Microscopical examination of drugs, . 95

Hobb's Botanical text-book, .... 285
Johanson, E., Chemie der Eichen-, Weiden- und Ulmenrinde, . 192
Kaufteisen, L., Du M' Boundou ou Poison d'epreuve du Gabon, 526
Kollmyer, A. W., Chemia coartata, . . . 525

Mayer, Ad., Sauerstoff und Hefepilze, . . . 578

National Medical Library, specimen fasciculus of catalogue of, . 527
New York College of Pharmacy, report of, and of Alumni Asso., 336
Orphanides, T. G., Sur les caracteres du genre colchicum, . 574.

Popular Health Almanac, Fr. Hoffmann, editor, . . 42

Proceedings of the American Pharmaceutical Association, twenty-
third meeting, . 43
California Pharmaceutical Society, . .192
Vermont Pharmaceutical Association, . 238
Robbins, Ch. A., Bestandtheile von Gelsem. sempervirens, . 191
Seiler, Carl, J. G. Hunt and J. G. Richardson, microphotographs in

histology, . 335, 526

Snively, J. H., Tables for qualitative analysis, . . . 57^

Stolzissi, P. R., Pharmaceutischer Lehrplan, . . 527

Sutton, Francis, Volumetric analysis, . . . • 573

Trojanowski, Piers, Zur Kenntniss des Cacaos, . . 191

Wittstein, G. C, Taschenbuch der Geheimmittellehre, . . 42

Year-Book of Pharmacy and transactions of the Brit. Phar. Conf., 95
. Rhamnus frangula, inefficacy of fresh bark of, . . . • 3J9

Rheum officinale, remarks upon, . . . . 307

Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Association, . . . 90, 380

Rhodes'" fever and ague cure, analysis of, . . . 392

Rhubarb, historical notes on, ..... 307 /

Rice, Willard M., Jr., cachets de pain, .... 203
Ricinus communis, on the seeds of, . . . . .481

Rogers, Nathan, Sium latifolium, . . . .483

Rother, R., basicity of phosphorus acids, . . . . . 109

bismuth and iron, . . . . .104

inverse synthesis of tasteless iron compounds, . . .171

Rumpff, Carl, Alizarin, ..... 427

Aniiin colors, ..... 375.

Sabbatia Elliottii, the quinine flower, ..... 455

Sachet millefleurs, ...... 406

Saffron, early use of, . . . . . 367

Sagapenum, derivation of, . . . .514

Sago starch, . . . . . ■ 297

St. Louis College of Pharmacy, . . . . .188

Sanguinarin, examination of the resinoid, . . . . 387

Santonin, a new preparation of, . . . . .136

Sarsaparilla, early use of in Europe, ..... 367

Sassafras as an antidote to vegetable poison, . . . 276

introduction into Europe, ..... 367

Saunders, E. C, the different syrups of the phosphates, . . 492

union of chloral hydrate and camphor, . . . 462

Schools of Pharmacy, Seventh Conference of, . • . . 471

Schranck, H. C, analysis of certain fluid extracts, . . . 25b

Senega root, occurrence of, . . ^ . 443

Senna, extracted with alcohol, . . . . • 92

Serpentaria in Europe, . . . . . 367

Index, 591

Sheffield, Wm. C, analysis of eleven specimens of native sulphide of antimony, 389
Silver, recovery of, from solutions, .... 543

stains, removal of, from clothes, . . . .65

volumetric estimation of, . . . . 543

Sium latifolium, constituents of, ..... 348,485

Smith, Isaac W , extractum pruni Virginianas fluidum, . . . 215

Soap root from California, . . . . .520

Soda, processes for making, . . . . . 423,

Sodium citrate with ferric phosphate, .... 465

copaivate, preparation and use of, . . . .218-

salicylate and sulphosalicylate, .... 546-

salicylate, properties of, . . . . . 33a

Sodium tartrate, effervescing preparations of, 207, 284

Solubilities, table of, . . . . . 277

Solutions for hypodermic use, preservation of, . . .179,187

Sonchus oleraceus, use of, . . . . . . 194

South Carolina Pharmaceutical Association, . . . 381

Spices, groceries and wax of a mediaeval household, . . .92

Spirit of nitre and uva ursi, ..... 214

analysis of, . . . . . 259

note on, .... . 294

Squill, acrid principle of, . . . . . 444

adulteration of, with Pancratium maritimum, . . . 193

powdered, preservation of, . . . .178

Starches under the microscope, .... 242,296,380

Stassfurt and Leopold Hall waste salts, . . . -423

Stewart, T. M., valuation of ipecacuanha, . . . -359

Strychnia, antidote to, . . . . . . 316

conversion of brucia into, .... 354

Sugar, action of alkalies upon the formation of urinary, . . -93

historical notes on, ..... 36S

of milk, pharmaceutical value of, . . 267, 278

Sugars, reactions of, . . . . . .136,519

Sulphocarbonates, test for, . . . . . -3°

Sulphur, reagent for detection of inorganic compounds, . . 409

valuation of eight samples of precipitated, . . -389

Sumbul, notes on, ...... 543

Sunflower, some experiments with, . . . . . 350

Supports, adjustable, for funnels, percolators, etc., . . . 400

Suppositories, base for, paraffin and vaselin, .... 143

Suppository mould, . . . . . .179

Sweden, pharmacy in, . . . . • 3J7

Swiss Apothecaries'" Association, . . . . .571

Syrup of quinia, sweet, ...... 520

Syrups of the phosphates in general use, . . . 492

preservation of, by salicylic acid, ... 529

Syrupus acidi salicylici, ..... 69

asari canadensis, . . . . . • T57

aurantii corticis, . . . . . 341

calcii lactophosphatis, . . . . -58

chloralis, . . . . . .139

ferri et calcii lactophosphatis, . . . .218

iodidi, effect of light on, .... 209

preservation of, . . . . 142, 157, 442

lactophosphatis, . ■ . . . .218

quinia? et strychniae phosphatis, . . . • 57

Index.

Syrupus glycyrrhizae radicis, . . . . .487

guaiaci, . . . . . . .139

malti, extemporaneous preparation of, . . .413

pectoralis, . . . . . . 139

potassii iodidi and potas. iod. comp., . . 139

rhei aromaticus, preparation of, . . . ■ . 341

scillae, preparation of, , . . . 342

tolutanus, preparation of, . . . 30, 341

zingiberis, preparation of, ... . 341

Tapioca starch, ....... 296

Tar, solubility of, in water, . . . . 93

Taxina, preparation of, . . . , . 353

Taylor, Walter A , extractum gossypii radicis fluidum, . . 402

Tea, analysis of, and assay of tannin in, . . . . 558

Telegraphy by means of tuning-forks, .... 219

Tellurium a probable impurity in Bismuth salts, . . . 133

Terebinthina canadensis introduced into Europe, . . . 362

Teucrium, notes on the genus, ..... 392

'Thompson, Wm. S., solution of hydrobromate of quinia in hypodermic injection, 293

Tinctura aromatica, ...... 139

capsici, . . . . . . 102

ferri chloridi, assay of, . . . . 210

ferri composita, . . . . .139

iodinii decolorata, . . . . . .512

kino, preparation of, . . . . 342

Phytolacca; baccae concentrata and radicis, . . . 490

quinia? ammoniata, ..... 489

saponis viridis cum pice, . • . . . . 139

styptica, . . . * . 139
rob^rco culture in Ohio, . . . . . .253

Pennsylvania, .... 256

Trimble, Henry, ammonium in diluted phosphoric acid, . . . 113

benzoic acid as an antiseptic, . . . 347

Triosteum perfoliatum root substituted for Gent. Catesbaei, . . 39

Unguentum (see, also, Ointment).

acidi salicylici, . . . . .68

belladonna", separation of, .... 226

phytolaccae, ..... 490

plumbi oxidi, . . . . . . 1 3 9

zinci oxidi benzoatum, . . . .139

Urine, bilious, test for, . . . . . .518

Uva ursi and spirit of nitre, ..... 214

Fan Gorder, A. H., Asarum canadense as an indigenous aromatic, . . 154

Vanilla, vanillin the sole odorous principle of, . . 540

Vanillin, estimation of, in vanilla, . . . • .132

from wood tar, . . . . .509

Varnish for leather, . . . . . • 3I9

silverware, . . . . . .568

Vaselin, uses of, . . . . . • 143

Veratria, composition of, . . . . • 539

in veratrum album and viride, . . . .2

Veratroidia is jervia with some resin, . . . . . 150

Veratrum album, alkaloids of, . . . . .1

viride, alkaloids of, . . . i> 147,

«

Index. 593

Verbena?, the holy plants, . . . . . .195

Vinegar Bitters, analysis of, . . . . • 27

detection of free mineral acids in, . . . .271

Voelcker, R. F. G., Raiz del Indico, . . . . -49

Vrij, J. E. de, iodosulphate of chinoidin as a test for quinia, . 126

Wafer capsules, administration of medicines in, . • . 4°> 100, 164
preparation and sealing of, . 25, 38, 201, 203, 446

press and machine for making, . . 267, 279

Washington, National College of Pharmacy at, . . 231, 333

Waters, medicated, preparation of, . . . . 340

Watt, H. C, fluid extract of ipecacuanha, . . . -337

Watts, Jno. W., formulas for so-called elegant preparations, . . 57

Wax, detection of resin, .... .65

preparation of artificial, ..... 542

Wayne, E. S., laboratory notes, . . . . .23

researches upon buchu, . . . . .18

Webber, Jos. L., assay of atropia in extracts of belladonna, . . 145

Weight, substitution of parts by, for absolute quantities, . . . 445

Weights, metrical, use of, in prescriptions, . . . 457

Wellcome, Henry S., molybdic in sulphuric acid as a reagent, . . 21

Wells, E. M., analysis of cinchoquinine, .... 246

solubility of bromide and iodide of ammonium in ether, . 491

Western Wholesale Drug Association, .... 233

Wheat starch, ....... 298

Wilder, Hans. M., selections from the Danish Journals, . 220, 315, 492

simple cerate and ointments in general, . . 215

suggestions to physicians, . . . 266

Wilhoffs antiperiodic fever and ague cure, analysis of, . . 391

Williams, John, salicylate and sulphosalicylate of sodium, < . 546

Wine, detection of fuchsin in, .... 236

Wine of cinchona and salicylate of quinia, . . .69

salicylic, . . . . . . .69

tar, . . . . . .449

Wines, artificial coloring of, . . . . .518

Witmer, J. A., tobacco culture in Pennsylvania, . . .256

Wittstein, G. C, some experiments with the sunflower, . . -35°

Wood oil, note on so-called, . 415

Wormley, Th. G., alkaloids of veratrum, . . . .1

Wright, C. R. A., and G. H. Beckett, alkaloids of aconite roots, . 77

Writing, restoration of faded, . . . . .221

Xanthium spinosum, composition and uses, . . . 538, 571

Xanthoxylum fraxineum, crystalline principle from, . . • 226

Xylopia aethiopica, early use of, . . . -367

Zinc phosphide, preparation and properties, . . . 408

Zinc, use of in Europe, . . . . . 368

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