748 ORD. XLVI. Liliacee. SCILLA MARITIMA, 
there is an effusion of water into the cavities, and therefore that 
less water goes to the kidneys, we are of opinion, that neutral salt, 
accompanying the Squill, may be of use in determining this more 
certainly to the kidneys: and whenever it can be perceived that 
it takes this course, we are persuaded that it will also be always 
useful, and generally safe during the exhibition of the Squills to 
increase the usual quantity of aaiak: “te 
The diuretic effects of Squills have been supposed to be pro- 
moted by the addition of some mercurial ; and the less purgative 
preparations of mercury, in the opinion of Dr. Cullen, are best 
adapted to this purpose ; he therefore recommends a solution of 
corrosive sublimate, as being more proper than any other, because 
most diuretic. 
_ Where the prime vie abound with mucous matter, and the lungs 
are Tend with viscid — this medicine is likewise in 
general estimation. 
As an expectorant, the Squill may be supposed not oiity to 
_ attenuate the mucus, and thus facilitate its ejection, but by stimu- 
lating the secretory organs and mucous follicles, to excite a more 
copious excretion of it from the lungs, and thereby lessen the 
congestion, upon which the difficulty of respiration very generally 
depends. Therefore in all pulmonic affections, excepting only 
those of actual or violent inflammation, ulcer, and spasm, the 
Squill has been experienced to be an useful medicine. 
The officinal preparations of Squills are a conserve, dried 
Squills,* a syrup, and vinegar, an-oxymel, and pills. Practitioners 
= Cullen, 7. c. 
* “ We must not, however, miss to observe here, that the drying of the Squill 
is a business that requires much attention, as it may be readily over done, and 
thereby render the Squill entirely useless. This over drying in one way or other, 
happens more frequently than our apothecaries are aware of; and has led me to 
allow, that some operation on the stomach, some nausea excited by the Squill 
is a necessary test of the activity of the portion of it employed.” Cullen, J. c. 
