ON ALCOHOLIC TINCTURES. 25 
manner we can explain the difference of the results at which 
I have arrived in the case of several substances, as we shall 
see in the account of the experiments I shall presently men- 
tion. 
Thus, therefore, no sufficiently correct experiments exist 
to legitimatise the three degrees of strength of the alcohol 
recommended by the " codex." 
Neither is there anything that enables us to ascertain 
precisely whether the relative quantity of alcohol recom ; 
mended is sufficient to dissolve, entirely, the active princi- 
ples of the substances submitted to its action. • 
It is for the purpose of removing the obscurity that exists 
on these two principal points, that the Societe de Phar ma- 
de has mooted the following two propositions to " ascertain 
by precise experiment what is the most proper strength of 
alcohol for the preparation of alcoholic tinctures." 
" What is the relative quantity of alcohol necessary to 
dissolve the medicaments most generally employed?" 
If the numerous experiments I have made do not lead to 
a definite conclusion/and perhaps we may give the present 
state of science as the reason, they will at least serve, as I 
believe, to dissipate to a great extent the obscurity that ex- 
ists in the preparation of alcoholic tinctures, and decide de- 
finitely, in the case of a great number of them, the proper 
strength of the alcohol as well as the necessary proportion 
of that liquid to dissolve under the most favourable circum- 
stances, and the most completely, the active principles of the 
substances used in these preparations. 
These experiments are of two kinds: — L. To ascertain 
if the proportionate quantity of alcohol employed at the pre- 
sent time is sufficient to dissolve entirely, or at least as 
nearly as possible, the principles contained in these sub- 
stances, or otherwise ; and to discover what is the best pro- 
portion to employ. 2. To ascertain, also, the strength of 
alcohol most fitted to dissolve the active principles of these 
substances. 
3 
