BALM. 41 



syncope, paralysis, asphyxia, &c., and is recommended by 

 Hoffman in hypochondriasis ; by Riviere in mania, and by Fo- 

 restus in palpitations of the heart. In certain cases of obstructed 

 menses it has been singularly efficacious. This aromatic plant 

 must not, however, be administered in diseases which are at- 

 tended with acute pain, much heat and thirst, and other signs of 

 irritation. 



Its virtues as a sudorific are well known to the country 

 people, who make it into tea, which is drunk freely in hysteric 

 affections, head-aches, and indigestions. A conserve is some- 

 times made, which is taken in doses of two drachms or more. 

 The essential oil is given in the quantity of one to four drops 

 upon sugar, and the distilled water from one to four ounces. 



There is a compound spirit of Balm, which formerly enjoyed 

 great reputation, and deservedly so, under the name of Eau dcs 

 Carmes, or Carmelite water; it was prepared thus : 



Take of fresh leaves of Balm four ounces ; 



Outer rind of Lemon, fresh (grated) two ounces ; 

 Nutmegs, and Coriander Seeds, of each one ounce ; 

 Cloves, Cinnamon, Angelica Root, of each half an ounce ; 



Having bruised the leaves and pounded the other ingredients, put them 

 with a quart of brandy into a glass retort, stop the mouth and set it in a 

 warm place for two or three days. Add then a pint of simple Balm water, 

 and shake the whole well together ; after this distil in a sand-bath, till the 

 ingredients are left almost dry, and preserve the spirit in bottles well 

 stopped. 



