TOPICAL AGENTS. 301 



Linum, flaxseed or linseed. 



Semen Lini, the dried seeds of Linum usitatissi- 

 mum. 



Oleum Lini, the oil expressed from the seeds. See 

 under Oleum Lini. 



Farina Lini, Semen Lini Pulvis, flaxseed meal, 

 linseed meal. The ground seeds. 



Linseed cake, the residue left after the oil has been 

 expressed from the seeds, is used as a food for cattle 

 and sheep in some localities, and in smaller quantities 

 is fed also to horses. Linseed gruel or tea is nutri- 

 tious as well as demulcent and lubricant; hence 

 is given to animals recovering from debilitating 

 diseases; also as a vehicle for medicines which 

 might irritate the alimentary canal during their 

 administration or action. Linseed meal is used as 

 a poultice, retaining both heat and moisture very- 

 well. The oil is given for its cathartic qualities as 

 well as its lubricant and demulcent action. See under 

 Oleum Lini. 



Adeps Suilli, lard ; Adeps Lance, wool fat or lan- 

 olin, as well as most fixed oils (see under Oils and 

 Fats), also answer the same purposes. 



Glycerinum, glycerin, glycerol, prophenyl hydrate. 

 A liquid obtained by the decomposition of fats or 

 fixed oils, and containing not less than ninety-five 

 per cent, of absolute glycerin (CjHJHOjs). It is a 

 clear, colorless liquid, of syrupy consistence; oily to 

 the touch, hygroscopic, odorless, very sweet and 

 slightly warm to the taste, and neutral in reaction. 

 It is soluble in all proportions in water and in alcohol, 



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