695. Ether
Ether is a diffusible stimulant, narcotic and antispasmodic.
696. Sulphuric Ether
Sulphuric Ether is used
externally
both as a stimulant and a refrigerant. In the former case its evaporation is prevented by covering a rag moistened with it with oiled silk, in order to relieve headache; and in the latter case it is allowed to evaporate, and thus produce coldness: hence it is applied over scalded surfaces by means of rags dipped in it.
As a local application
, it has been found to afford almost instant relief in earache, when combined with almond oil, and dropped into the ear.