Chap. XXXVI. Of Powders.

609

The addition of the opium renders this a more powerfulremedy than the carbonate of lime alone, especially where thediarrhoea proceeds from irritation of the intestinal canal.

PlJLVIS CONTRAYERViE COMPOS1TUS. Lotld.

Compound Powder of Contrayerva.Take of

Contrayerva root, in powder, five ounces ;

Prepared oyster-shells, one pound and a half.Mix them.

This medicine has a very good claim to the title of analexipharmic and sudorific. The contrayerva, by itselfproves very serviceable in low fevers, where the vis vita; isweak, and a diaphoresis to be promoted. It is probable^thatthe carbonate of lime is of no farther service than to dividethis active ingredient, and make it sit more easily on thestomach.

PlJLVIS IPECACUANHA ET OPII. Ed.

Pounder of Ipecacuan and Opium.Take of

Ipecacuan, in powder,

Opium, of each one part;

Sulphate of potass, eight parts.Triturate them together into a fine powder.

PULVIS IPECACUANHA COMPOSITUS. Lond.

Compound Powder of Ipecacuan.Take of

Ipecacuan root, in powder,

Hard opium, in powder, each one drachm ;

Sulphate of potass, in powder, one ounce.Mix them.

The sulphate of potass, from the grittiness of its crystals,is perhaps better fitted for tearing and dividing the tenaciousopium than any other salt; this seems to be its only use inthe preparation. The operator ought to be careful that theopium and ipecacuanha be equally diffused through the wholemass of powder, otherwise different portions of powder mustdiffer in degree of strength.

This powder is one of the most certain sudorifics, and assuch was recommended by Dr Dover, as an effectual remedyin rheumatism. Modern practice confirms its reputation,not only in rheumatism, but also in dropsy, and several other

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