OF PURGATIVES, AND PHYSICKING OF HORSES. 603 



liquid than those produced by aloes, consequently we sup- 

 pose it is also much more weakening. The capsule of the 

 croton seed, we believe, has been found, if our informa- 

 tion be correct, unworthy of much dependence. Mr. 

 Youatt tried it with variable effect ; but altogether he did 

 not appear prepossessed in its favour. Several others, we 

 know, have also tried it, without being able to come to a 

 direct conclusion relative to its properties. Mr. Field has 

 however found, that two drachms of the capsule have pro- 

 duced the same effects as forty grains of the farina ; which 

 last is the remains of the kernel of the seed, after it has 

 had the croton oil expressed from it. This farina, when 

 genuine, appears to possess more certainty of action. Mr. 

 Field estimates that thirty grains of it are equivalent to six 

 drachms of Barbadoes aloes. The croton oil is equally 

 certain in its action with the farina. Mr. Percivall suggests, 

 that from twenty drops to half a drachm might be found 

 the quantity necessary to fully purge. There is, however, 

 one objection to the use of croton nut or oil. It has the pro- 

 perty of sadly blistering the mouth, unless made into a ball. 

 The nut, divested of its envelope, maybe given in doses from 

 ten to twenty grains. The oil, in doses from eight to six- 

 teen drops ; and the farina, which is sold in cakes, may be 

 administered in doses of from sixteen to thirty grains. 

 Therefore when we read of such or such doses being recom- 

 mended, it is necessary to learn which of the preparations the 

 writer refers to. It appears consequently, at present, aloes 

 is likely to remain the base of the purgative ; and we 

 proceed by offering the formulae of the several strengths 

 formed of Barbadoes aloes. 



No. 1. — Barbadoes aloes (finely powdered) two drachms. 



Oil of caraways one scruple. 



Extract of gentian a sufficiency. 



No. 2. — Barbadoes aloes (finely powdered) three drachms. 



Oil of caraways a scruple. 



Extract of gentian a sufficiency. 



No. 3. — Barbadoes aloes four drachms, with extract 



of gentian, a sufficiency. 



Mix. 



No. 4. — Barbadoes aloes five drachms, -with extract 



of gentian, a sufficiency. 



Mix. 



When it is thought proper to give mercurial physic, one 



