614 VEGETABLE DBUGS 



antiseptic; a solution (1-1000) will inhibit the growth of 

 many forms of bacteria. 



Action Internal. — Medicinal doses of benzoic acid exert 

 only an antiseptic action in the alimentary canal. Large 

 doses occasion increased bronchial and cutaneous secretion, 

 with accelerated pulse. Enormous doses cause gastro-intes- 

 tinal irritation, slowing of the pulse and respiration, con- 

 vulsions, general paralysis and asphyxia. Benzoic acid is 

 absorbed into the blood, acts as an antipyretic in fever, and 

 is converted (probably in the kidneys) into hippuric acid 

 and eliminated in the urine as such. It thus renders an 

 alkaline urine acid, and stimulates and exercises an anti- 

 septic influence upon the urinary mucous membrane. The 

 change into hippuric acid is due to combination with a 

 nitrogenous body — glycocoll — but the source of glycocoU is 

 uncertain. 



Benzoic acid HCjHsOj + glycocoll C2H5NO2 = hippuric 

 acid OsHgNOj + water HjO. 



Benzoic acid is somewhat diuretic, but does not alter 

 the composition of the urine in any constant manner, 

 although metabolism is said to be increased. It is elimin- 

 ated by the bronchial mucous membrane, augmenting secre- 

 tion, and acting as an antiseptic in the bronchial tubes. 

 When the vapor of any of the substances under consideration 

 is inhaled in proper dilution, a similar expectorant action is 

 attained. Benzoic acid is likewise excreted by the skin and 

 salivary glands, exciting their functional activity. 



Uses External. — The compound tincture of benzoin is a 

 valuable stimulant and antiseptic application for wounds, 

 sores and ulcers. It is often applied to the part on gauze or 

 lint, followed by bandaging. 



Uses Internal. — Benzoic acid is sometimes given in 

 powder, pill, or ball, as an intestinal antiseptic, and as a 

 remedy for rheumatism. It is inferior to salicylic acid in 

 the latter disorder. The benzoates are said to be equally 

 efficient as antiseptics and have been highly recommended 

 in diarrhoea and dysentery. 



Digitized by Microsoft® 



