GLYCERINE. 
141 
a compound of glycerine and starch. The proportions he 
employs are — 
Glycerine, f^j ; 
Starch Powder, gr. lxx. 
To cause their union, the ingredients are to be mixed together 
cold, and then gradually heated to about 240° Fahr., con- 
stantly stirring. 
The compound thus formed, Mr. Schacht proposes to 
designate Plasma , the word amylo-glycerine, expressive of its 
constitution, being somewhat inconvenient, on account of its 
length. He states it to possess the following properties : 
“Its consistence is good, and does not vary with changes 
of temperature ; it is soluble in water, and may consequently 
be removed from tender surfaces with the greatest ease ; it 
dissolves and thoroughly mingles with all materials that are 
soluble in water, and therefore presents such remedies in the 
condition most favorable for their absorption ; and, lastly, it 
is not liable to become rancid.” The only drawback yet 
met with is, that by long keeping the compounds become 
softer. 
It is not recommended that this plasma should entirely 
supersede the use of fats and oils, but be principally employed 
for such agents as are insoluble in these substances, since, 
when it is otherwise, absorption may possibly be promoted 
by them. 
A few “ plasmae,” we are of opinion, may be formed by the 
veterinary surgeon with advantage, such as — 
Plasma Antimonii Potassio-tartratis, 
„ Belladonna, 
„ Creasoti, 
„ Gallse, 
„ Hydrargyri NitricrvOxidi. 
„ Opii, 
„ Sulphuris Iodidi, 
„ Zinci Oxidi, &c. 
Some persons may think the above a refinement that is 
uncalled for by us ; yet there are some affections of the skin, 
such as herpes, erythema, chronic urticaria, &c., in which it 
is imperative that no irritation be excited, and solutions are 
often less effective than more viscid compounds, from the 
action of the last-named being longer kept up. 
