A fixed oil obtained from the fresh livers of cod fish.
HABITAT.--North Atlantic Ocean.
PROPERTIES.--A pale yellow, thin, oily liquid, having a peculiar
slightly fishy but not rancid odor, and a bland, slightly fishy taste.
Cod liver oil is often adulterated with the oil of other fish. Brown
oils are not desirable therapeutically.
DOSE.--Horses, 2 oz.; cattle, 2 to 4 oz.; sheep, 1 oz.; pigs, ¹⁄₂ to 1
oz.; dogs, 1 to 4 dr.; cats, ¹⁄₂ to 1 dr.
ACTION AND USES.--Nutrient, tonic and alterative; on account of its
biliary constituents is easily emulsified and digested. It is indicated
in all cases of malnutritions and where the digestive organs are weak;
also in animals recovering from debilitating diseases, such as distemper
and influenza. It is good in catarrh and bronchitis, as it appears to
furnish suitable material for repair of the inflamed mucous membranes.
Like other oils it relieves broken wind and is given to man in
consumption. It is particularly used for the smaller animals. It is
given to dogs and cats during distemper, also in eczema, epilepsy,
chorea, rickets and chronic rheumatism.