Botanic Remedies 99 



To produce ferment-action in the intestinal tract, 

 the B. bulgaricus is commonly given in tablet form. 



Pure cultures in aqueous suspension are applied 

 to the nasal cavities and sinuses in putrefactive and 

 suppurative conditions. 



For data upon the products offered in trade, see 

 "New and Nonofficial Remedies." 



BALSAM OF PERU 



An official balsam obtained from Toluifera pere- 

 irae; it is named in every official standard, but is 

 called Myroxylon pereirae in several pharmacopeias. 



Possesses antiseptic properties (probably due to 

 a content of benzoic and cinnamic acids) (q. v.) 

 which are feeble, though the drug is relatively ef- 

 fective as a parasiticide. When large quantities 

 are absorbed resinous bodies appear in the urine 

 which give a precipitate with acids, but which pre- 

 cipitate is re-dissolved by alcohol, thus distinguish- 

 ing from albumin. Extensive applications may 

 give rise to albuminuria and hematuria. Internally, 

 in doses of 5 to 10 grains, it is said to be stomachic, 

 carminative, and expectorant. 



THERAPEUTICS. No well-based internal uses, 

 other benzoate-bearing products being preferable. 

 See "Benzoic Acid." 



Externally useful in scabies as a parasiticide, as 

 an application to indolent fissures and chronic para- 

 sitic skin diseases, and as a stimulant to raw sur- 

 faces of small area. In this latter condition a 

 mixture of one-third Peruvian balsam and two- 

 thirds castor oil is effective; but it may irritate, 

 when 10 per cent solutions may be used. To-day 

 surgeons don't wish to stimulate granulation very 



