Extractum Gentianæ. L.E.D. The bitter principle suffers no deterioration in the process: it is used principally as a vehicle for metallic preparations. Form. 36, 53, 103. Dose, gr. x to ℈j.
Extractum Glycyrrhizæ. L.D. It is usually imported from Spain; in the coarser kinds, the pulps of various plums and of prunes are added; it should dissolve in water without leaving any feculence.[[501]]
Extractum Hæmatoxyli. L.E.D. The astringent properties of the logwood are preserved in the extract, but it becomes so extremely hard, that pills made of it very commonly pass through the body without undergoing the least change. Dose, grs. x to ʒss dissolved in cinnamon water: it sometimes imparts a bloody hue to the urine of those who have taken it.
Extractum Humuli. L. The bitter taste of the hop characterises this preparation; whether it possesses, or not, any anodyne properties, seems very doubtful. Dose, grs. v to ℈j.
Extractum Opii. L.D. As it contains less resinous matter than crude opium, it is supposed to produce its effects with less subsequent derangement. See Opium. Dose, gr. j to v, for an adult.
Extractum Papaveris. L.D. It is a weak opium. Dose, grs. ij to ℈j.
Extractum Sarsaparillæ. Notwithstanding the reputation which this preparation has acquired, it is very doubtful whether it possesses any medicinal powers. Dose, gr. x to ʒj in pills, or dissolved in the decoction.
Extractum Stramonii. This extract was first recommended by Stöerck, as a powerful remedy in maniacal affections; its probable value in such diseases appears to have been suggested by a very curious process of reasoning, viz. that as it deranged the intellect of the sane, it might possibly correct that of the insane. Experience has certainly not confirmed the very sanguine report of Stöerck with regard to its powers, but it has satisfactorily shewn its occasional value in violent paroxysms, in quieting the mind, and procuring rest. I am informed by my friend Dr. Davy, that, for such an object, it has been very frequently and successfully given, in the Lunatic Military Hospital at Fort Clarence. He farther states that he has himself made many trials with the extract of Stramonium, prepared by Mr. Barry (in vacuo) as well as with the common extract; and that he finds the former to be uniformly more powerful. “In most diseases,” says he, “this medicine would seem uncertain in its operation, sometimes occasioning an anodyne effect, and, at other times, producing irritation, and preventing sleep; I have, however, seen very beneficial effects from it in asthma, and in coughs that have a nightly exacerbation, in doses of from gr. 1/4 to gr. 2, daily.”
Extractum Taraxaci. L.D. The medicinal powers of Dandelion are asserted to exist unimpaired in this preparation, but it becomes inert by keeping. See Taraxacum. Dose. grs. x to ʒj, in combination with sulphate of potass.
2. Spirituous or Resinous Extracts.