382 PRINCIPLES OF VETERINARY SCIENCE 



Gentian is dispensed either in the powdered form or as a fluid 

 extract. It acts as a stomachic and tonic. It is used in condi- 

 tion powders to stimulate the appetite and aid digestion. The 

 dose is % to 1 ounce on the feed or by the mouth. 



Iron sulphate or copperas is strongly astringent when applied 

 externally. In combination with charcoal and salt it finds use 

 as a tonic and helps to keep the bowels free of worms. Most 

 tonic powders, prescribed and proprietary, contain iron sulphate. 

 On account of its astringent action, iron sulphate should be 

 mixed with other agents when administered. The dose is 1 

 dram. 



Lead acetate is a white powder, commonly known as sugar of 

 lead, which acts as an astringent. It is used externally in the 

 form of white lotion for its cooling and soothing action as an 

 application to inflamed tissues. 



Lime water is made by slaking fresh lime in water and allowing 

 it to stand. The supernatant fluid is poured off and is used for 

 diarrhea in young animals by diluting their milk one-third with it. 



Linseed oil is expressed from flaxseed without the use of heat. 

 The raw oil is a valuable purgative and tissue softener. For 

 horses it is given in pint doses. For calves and pigs castor oil 

 is preferable and is given in 1 to 2 ounce doses. Mixed with 

 creolin or a coal tar disinfectant in the proportion of 14: 1, linseed 

 oil is a very useful remedy for skin diseases. 



Magnesium sulphate is a saline cathartic. It is commonly 

 known as Epsom salts. The salt is very soluble in water. It is 

 best adapted for cattle and sheep. The dose is ^ to 1 pound. 



Mercuric bichlorid is an active disinfectant and poison com- 

 monly termed corrosive sublimate. It is dispensed in tablets 

 which are dissolved in water to make solutions of desired strength. 

 For the treatment of wounds a 1 :1000 solution is used. 



Nux vomica is sold in the powdered form; also as fluid extract. 

 Its action is that of a stimulant and tonic. It is used for general 

 weakness, poor nutrition, paralysis, and collapse. The active 

 principle is strychnin. The dose is 2 to 4 drams. 



Oil of turpentine acts externally as an irritant and is a frequent 

 constituent of liniments. Internally turpentine is an antifer- 

 ment and vermifuge. It is used for colic, bloating, and intestinal 

 worms. The dose is from 1 to 2 ounces mixed with raw lin- 

 seed or other heavy oil. 



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