ASS A FCETIDA. 35 



I have tried its powers as a vermifuge, 

 and though in some cases it appeared to de~ 

 stroy the worms ; it was by no means uni- 

 form in its effect. In one case where it was 

 given by way of experiment to a glandered 

 horse, it appeared to have destroyed some 

 botts, which were found dead in th^ sto- 

 mach. 



ASS A FCETIDA, a gummy and resinous 

 substance, possessing a powerful and most 

 unpleasant smell. It is much used in hu- 

 man medicine, as an antispasmodic in nerv- 

 ous and hysterical complaints. In veterinary 

 practice it is not so frequently employed, 

 though 1 think 1 have observed good effects 

 from it in spasmodic complaints, and some 

 practitioners speak highly of its virtues. It 

 is said to be serviceable in obstinate coughs, 

 or thickness of wind, and flatulent cholic. 

 It appears to be more efficacious when 

 joined with ammonia, in the form of fa'tid 

 spirit of ammonia^ a preparation kept in the 

 shops. The dose of assa foetida is from two 

 drams to half an ounce or more; it is gene- 

 rally joined with galbanum, ammoniacnmp 

 &c. When employed as an expectorant, 

 sQuill is an useful addition, 



C5 



