OLEUM MORRHUAE—COD LIVER OIL
A fixed oil obtained from the fresh livers of cod fish.
Habitat.—North Atlantic Ocean.
Properties.—A pale yellow, thin, oily liquid, having a peculiar slightly fishy but not rancid odor, and a bland, slightly fishy taste. Cod liver oil is often adulterated with the oil of other fish. Brown oils are not desirable therapeutically.
Dose.—Horses, 2 oz.; cattle, 2 to 4 oz.; sheep, 1 oz.; pigs, 1⁄2 to 1 oz.; dogs, 1 to 4 dr.; cats, 1⁄2 to 1 dr.
Action and Uses.—Nutrient, tonic and alterative; on account of its biliary constituents is easily emulsified and digested. It is indicated in all cases of malnutritions and where the digestive organs are weak; also in animals recovering from debilitating diseases, such as distemper and influenza. It is good in catarrh and bronchitis, as it appears to furnish suitable material for repair of the inflamed mucous membranes. Like other oils it relieves broken wind and is given to man in consumption. It is particularly used for the smaller animals. It is given to dogs and cats during distemper, also in eczema, epilepsy, chorea, rickets and chronic rheumatism.