FAMILY: PHYSICIAN. 141 
properties are extracted, and t ir volatile or ar- 
omatic virtues are dissipated. By this process 
the peculiar properties of many plants may be 
wasted, and the preparation ee less effica- 
cious, than if made by infus 
~ In nfiusions or teas are made b pouring. hl 
either hot or cold, upon the sul 
ing bruised, came steeping it a proper ine in a 
covered vessel, e it be poure ‘Strained 
ng vola- 
off for use. When iy 
tile qualities are to be use 
tions, they should be adde di 
the other articles is nearly finished. 
Syrups differ from decoctions only, in the 
addition of ie a and spirits, by ‘which 
they become more palaia able, and will keep 
longer without fermen 
It should be sscolinctod that the efficacy of 
medicine depends much on its ness and 
purity; and@that any alteration made b fer- 
mentation, or freezing, renders them not only 
useless, but very hurtful. ‘The water used in 
reparing ietpenatige™ | pure.— 
Biew Wu ter is purest, and |much to be preferred. 
Next to this, is distilled, or rain water, and last 
ly, spring water, when no better can be had. 
$s are eae sage) prepared in earthen 
