Absorbents, s. Medicines which neutralise the acid matter in the bowels or stomach. Potash, soda, magnesia, chalk, &c., are commonly employed.
Absterge, v. To cleanse by wiping.
Abstergent, a. Cleansing; having a cleansing quality.
Acacia catechu, s. An extract from the inner wood of the acacia; a powerful tonic and astringent, and useful in diarrhœa and diabetes.
Accident, s. That which happens unforeseen; casualty, chance. (Vide Gun.)
Accipiter, s. A genus of the falcon family thus characterised. Bill short. Nostrils somewhat oval. Shanks elongated and smooth. Shins plated with scales, the sutures scarcely perceptible.—Vigors.
Acetate, s. The salt formed from a combination of acetic acid with alkalies or metallic oxides. Acetates are largely used in veterinary practice, as those of ammonia, lead, &c.
Acetate of Alumine (in dyeing)
Is prepared by pouring acetate of lead into a solution of alum, on which a double decomposition takes place; the sulphuric acid combines with the lead, and the sulphate of lead precipitates in the form of an insoluble powder, while the alumine combines with the acetous acid, and remains in the liquor.
This mordant gives a richer colour than alum.