282 SAFFRON. 



has been likewise advocated by some in dysentery, dysuria ? 

 jaundice, and colic. Riverius * speaks of its emmenagogue pro- 

 perty, and some equally recommend it for exciting suppressed 

 lochia. Ettmuller also regards it as a most powerful but dan- 

 gerous remedy for promoting the efflux of the menses, and 

 mentions some instances of formidable haemorrhage resulting 

 from its use. As a diaphoretic, it is said by Murray t to bring 

 out the eruption of exanthematous diseases, with which view, 

 indeed, it is a common custom in this country to give a watery 

 infusion of it at the commencement of small-pox and measles. 



Externally it is sometimes employed in ophthalmia and in- 

 flammation of the eye-lids, to indolent swellings, ecchymoses, and 

 foul ulcers ; but its utility in these affections is very problema- 

 tical. 



Saffron may be taken in substance in doses of ten grains, 

 gradually increased to twenty ; but either the infusion, syrup, 

 or tincture may be substituted. If the powder be pre- 

 ferred, a glass of good wine is the best vehicle, especially 

 when taken for lowness of spirits, faintness, lassitude, &c. 



INFUSION OF SAFFRON. 



Take of Saffron two drachms. 



Boiling water one pint. 



Infuse in a slightly covered vessel for a quarter of an hour, and strain. 

 Dose, from one to two ounces every four hours. 



SYRUP OF SAFFRON J. 



Take of Saffron ten drachms. 



Boiling water one pint. 



Lump sugar three pounds. 



Macerate the saffron in the water for twelve hours, in a vessel lightly 

 covered ; strain the liquor, and add the sugar. An elegant form for ex- 

 hibiting the medicine to children. 



TINCTURE OF SAFFRON §. 



Take of Saffron one ounce. 



Proof spirit fifteen ounces. 



Digest for seven days, and filter. Exhilarant dose, from forty to sixty 

 drops. 



* Oper. ed. Horstii, p. 136. f Murray, App. Med. torn. v. p. 234. 



J Pharmacopoeia Londinensis. § Pharmacopeia Edinburgensis. 



