94 
ON TINCTURE OF KINO. 
AXT. XIV. — REMARKS ON TINCTURE OF KINO. 
By Benjamin I. Ritter. 
Soon after the introduction of the method of displacement, 
I made numerous experiments with the apparatus, and found 
it answered admirably, even better than the high estimate of 
its advantages had led me to expect. In the business in which 
I am engaged, I have used it for more than two years for a 
great variety of purposes, and have never been disappointed 
in the result. Nearly all tinctures may be advantageously 
prepared by this method. The process will soon, I have lit- 
tle doubt, supersede the old plan of decoction in making aque- 
ous solutions of active principles, as all the volatile matter 
may be retained, while they must unavoidably be in a great 
measure dissipated by the heat employed in decoction. In 
this way syrup of sarsaparilla, of very superior quality, may 
be prepared; first, making a strong cold infusion by passing the 
menstruum repeatedly through the ingredients in the apparatus, 
then adding sugar as in any other kind of syrup. 
Having frequently, in the dispensation of medicine, to make 
use of Tincture of Kino, I have been put to great inconvenience 
by not having the article in a state fit for use when prescribed 
by a physician. It is well known that this tincture, made by 
the method directed in the Pharmacopoeia, is subject to a change 
(after standing a short time) which renders it unfit for use. 
In consolidating, its medical as well as sensible proporties 
become altered : it loses nearly all the astringency on which its 
activity, as a remedy, depends, and when allowed to stand 
until it granulates, it is tough, like caoutchouc, and is insoluble 
in water. Under these circumstances, the only alternative is 
to make it in small quantity, when ordered. 
This I found was a very inelegant preparation. It was al- 
ways gritty from the undissolved particles, and never clear - 
and translucent, as it should have been. In this stage of my 
difficulty I thought of the displacement principle, and imme- 
