Boric lint (lint impregnated with boric acid) is useful as a dressing for wounds, ulcers, and abrasions.
Boric wool is absorbent cotton-wool impregnated with boric acid, and is the most generally useful antiseptic wool.
Bromides.—The bromides generally used are those of potassium, or ammonium. Dose in either case, five to twenty-five grains. They are sedatives, and are used in convulsions, epilepsy, and delirium; they relieve headache, especially if taken with sal volatile, and may be combined with chloral (see [Chloral]). The bromide of ammonium is less depressing than the bromide of potassium.
Calcium sulphide, i.e., sulphurated lime.—Dose, a quarter to one grain three times a day. Useful for those who are suffering from boils or carbuncles.
* Calomel, or subchloride of mercury.—Dose, two to five grains. Calomel may be used in almost all cases requiring an aperient; its action will be assisted by giving fruit salt, or citrate of magnesia, four hours later. In cases of insensibility or delirium it is specially useful, for the powder may be placed on the back of the tongue, and it will be swallowed unconsciously.
Four grains of calomel may usually be given with advantage, at the beginning of a malarial attack.
In syphilis, one grain may be given two or three times a day; but its action should be watched, and if it causes salivation, tenderness of the gums, and a coppery taste in the mouth, it should be discontinued until these symptoms disappear.
Camphor.—Dose, two to five grains. Is a stimulant, and an antispasmodic; it helps to calm the nervous system. It is used in cholera and in fevers, and is taken for colds in the head.
Camphor is slightly soluble in water, and this solution makes a cooling lotion, which is useful for inflamed or painful parts. A lump of camphor is a good repellent for sand-flies.
Spirit of camphor consists of one part of camphor in ten of alcohol; the dose is ten to twenty drops.