MYROXYLON PERUIFERUM. 
169 
taste rather sweet and aromatic ; of a reddish brown colour, and of 
a thick tenacious consistence, becoming brittle by age. It is soluble 
in alcohol and ether. In distillation with water, it yields a small 
portion of volatile oil, and impregnates the water with its odour ; if 
the process be continued, a quantity of benzoic acid sublimes. 
When digested in the sulphuric and nitric acids, a considerable 
quantity of pure benzoic acid sublimes, and with the latter some 
traces of Prussic acid is also evolved. It is also soluble in the alka- 
lies. We are told by Mr. Hatchett, that when it is dissolved in a 
very small quantity of the solution of potass, its odour is lost, and it 
acquires the smell of that of the clove pink. 
Medical Properties and Uses. Peruvian balsam is stimu- 
lant and tonic, and has also been regarded as expectorant, hence it 
has been recommended as an efficacious remedy in obstinate coughs, 
chronic asthma, and other pulmonary diseases, when attended with 
an increased secretion of mucus ; but from its heating and stimu- 
lating qualities, it is improper in pulmonary diseases attended with 
inflammation. It has also been recommended in paralysis, chronic 
rheumatism, leucorrhoea, gleets, and seminal weaknesses, in which 
diseases, as well as in some other cases of debility, its tonic powers 
have proved efficacious. Formerly it was much used as a local ap- 
plication to foul ulcers, especially to those of an indolent kind, 
requiring stimulating remedies; and in the hands of the late Mr. 
Whately it appears to have been a very favorite application. It has 
also been recommended to be dropped into the ear, combined with 
ox-gall, in the proportion of one part of the former to three of the 
latter, in fetid discharges of that organ. Peruvian balsam may be 
given in doses of from thirty to sixty drops in any proper vehicle, 
and repeated at intervals according to circumstances. 
Tolu Balsam. This balsam possesses similar qualities to the 
Peruvian balsam, and is appHcable to the same diseases; it is how- 
ever 4ess heating and stimulating, and may therefore be employed 
with more safety. It has been much used as a pectoral, and is said 
to be an efficacious corroborant in disorders of the urinary passages. 
On the whole however it is chiefly used on account of its agreeable 
flavour as an adjunct to more powerful medicines, to render them 
palatable. The dose of the balsam is from ten to thirty grains. 
Off". Balsam of Peru. 
Tolu. 
Ofl^. Pp. Syrupus Tolutanus, L. E. 
Tinctura Toluiferae Balsami, E. 
