In finishing this communication, I must observe that fixed oils, treated in the same way by hypochlorite of lime, do not produce chloroform; however, the reaction which occurs is so strong, and indicative of interesting results, that it induces me to continue my experiments.—Journal de Pharmacie.
ON DRY EXTRACTS. BY DR. MOHR.
Every one is aware of the utility of possessing dry extracts, particularly of narcotic plants, so as to be able to administer them as powders. This able pharmaceutist gives the following {159} formula for their preparation; and as it seems to answer all purposes, and is adopted in Berlin, and other continental towns, it deserves to be made public.
Take of any extract, and of powder of licorice equal parts, mix them well in a mortar; when well mixed, put the paste in an earthenware evaporating dish, and then put this vessel over an iron pan, which has been filled with chloride of calcium, previously dried in the vessel by a strong fire without melting; the iron vessel must have a cover to enclose both vessels, so that the chloride of calcium can absorb the vapor from the extract without communication with the air, and must be put on as soon as the extract has been placed on the chloride of calcium. Let it stand for some days. Remove the extract, and add an equal weight of licorice powder to it in a mortar, mix well, and preserve it in bottles.
EDITORIAL.
PHARMACEUTICAL CONVENTION.
As heretofore, so now, the best and the only prospect of progress in the profession lies in itself. It best knows its necessities and requirments, and it can best devise the remedies that will meet them. It is in the union of its members, in mutual association and intercourse, in the formation of a public opinion of its own, which, {160} operating first upon the members of the profession, will necessarily have its weight upon the public opinion of the community, that lie our best hopes. Pharmacy is at once a liberal art, and a trade. In individuals, particularly in a community like ours, the spirit of trade is apt to be in the ascendant. Science is estimated at its money value, for what it brings in, rather than for what it is. But when the best men of a profession meet together, science resumes its proper position; they are encouraged in their noblest aims, and that encouragement is spread widely among their fellows. Individuals struggling, isolated throughout the country, feel that there is a tribunal to which they can appeal, and by which they will be judged, and its influence will be felt too by another class, as a restraint, if not an encouragement. Success, obtained by worthy means, loses much of its value, when it costs the esteem of those with whom we are most intimately connected.