544 VEGETABLE DRUGS 



Action and Uses. — Linseed oil exerts a laxative, or mild 

 purgative effect by its mechanical action in lubricating the 

 bowels and their contents. It is suitable for horses when a 

 derivative or depleting action is not desirable, as in faecal 

 impaction or overloaded bowels in weak animals, and in 

 those suffering from inflammatory diseases of the respiratory 

 tract or digestive organs ; diarrhoea, dysentery, and in preg- 

 nancy. Aloes, on the other hand, would be contraindicated 

 in these conditions. Carron oil (linseed oil and lime water, 

 equal parts), is particularly appropriate as a remedy for 

 " heaves " in horses ( 3 ii.-iv,), and is one of the best cathar- 

 tics for foals, lambs and calves ( 3 ii.-iv.). The laxative and 

 antacid properties of this preparation tend to combat intes- 

 tinal fermentation which is so common in young animals with 

 digestive disorders and diarrhoea. The same qualities of 

 carron oil prevent flatulence and interference with the 

 already impeded breathing in " heaves " of horses. 



Linseed oil is frequently given to ruminants, although 

 Epsom salts is generally the best purge for them. It is 

 indicated for these animals when a milder operation than 

 that obtained by a full dose of salts is required, and for its 

 demulcent action in irritable states of the digestive organs. 

 By combining linseed oil with croton oil we procure a potent 

 purge for cattle. Castor oil or sweet oil are usually prefer- 

 able to linseed oil in the treatment of dogs. Soap suds 

 enemata are made more effective by the addition of 1 or 2 

 pints of linseed oil (for horses), and 1 or 2 ounces (for dogs). 

 The oil may be given in its pure state, but more uncom- 

 monly is prescribed with gruel, glycerin, mucilage, or 

 molasses. One ounce each of linseed oil and molasses may 

 be given to the larger animals ; or one drachm of either to 

 the smaller animals, as an expectorant in bronchitis. The 

 mixture is often a most serviceable one and probably acts by 

 improving the nutrition of the bronchial mucous membrane. 

 Linseed oil and sweet oil resemble cod liver oil in this 

 respect, and while both are probably inferior to the latter, 

 as expectorants, they are more palatable and cheaper. 



