DERIVATION.--The solution resulting from the lixiviation of wood ashes
is boiled to dryness and the resultant mass is the potash of commerce.
This is purified to some extent by burning in ovens, forming pearlash, a
mixture of the hydrate and carbonate. Water dissolves mainly the
carbonate which is obtained by evaporation of the aqueous solution.
PROPERTIES.--A white, granular powder, odorless and having a strongly
alkaline taste; very deliquescent. Soluble in water; insoluble in
alcohol.
DOSE.--Horses and cattle, ¹⁄₂ to 1 oz.; sheep and pigs, ¹⁄₂ to 1 dr.;
dogs, 5 to 20 gr.