1868 The complete Practical Distiller

SULPHURIC ETHER.

193

rit of wine, alkaline lixivia, volatile alkaline

spirits, or

but is a powerful dissolvent for oils, balsams, re-

acids ;

sins, and other analogous substances. It has a fragrant odour, which, in consequence of the volatility of the fluid, is diffused through a large space. Its medicinal virtues are, too, well known ; it acts on the nervous system with great power, rendering the person entirely insensible if taken by inhalation; and when taken into the stomach, in combination with other sub- stances, has a soothing influence, easing pain and procur- ing rest. It is an excellent remedy for headache, used in combi- nation as follows : Some of this mixture should be put into a saucer or other suitable vessel ; then linen cloths should be soaked in it and laid on the temples, or whatever part of the head may be affected. It is also a pleasant disinfecting agent, used in the sick- chamber : cloths dipped in it and laid over any part where there is pain will have a grateful influence, temporary if not permanent, and thus give time for the exhibition of other remedies with a view to removing the cause or causes of the particular affection. It can be taken internally in doses of from 5 to 40 drops, according to the age of the patient or the exigency of the case ; it should be taken in a mixture of wine and water, and swallowed imme- 17 Take of Sulphuric ether 1 ounce, " Chloroform J " " " " Cologne i Laudanum 1 tea-spoonful.