DECOCTUM ALOES COMPOSITUM. It resembles the well known _Beaume de vie_,
although less purgative, and is a scientific preparation, constructed
upon the true principles of medicinal combination. Aloes is the base, to
which are added, 1st, sub-carbonate of potass, 2ndly, powdered myrrh,
3dly, extract of liquorice, 4thly, saffron, and after the decoction is
made, 5thly, compound tincture of cardamoms. By the 1st ingredient the
aloes is rendered more soluble; the 2d and 3d suspend the portion not
dissolved, and at the same time disguise its bitterness; the 4th imparts
an aromatic flavour, and the 5th not only renders it more grateful to
the stomach, but prevents any spontaneous decomposition from taking
place. Its taste is improved by keeping. It is a warm, gentle cathartic.
_Form: 80._ DOSE, f℥ss to f℥j. Its operation is different from that of
simple aloes. See _Aloes_. The following substances are incompatible
with it; _strong acids_, _oxy-muriate of mercury_; _tartarized
antimony_; _sulphate of zinc_; and _acetate of lead_; and those salts
which are decomposed by sub-carbonate of potass.
DECOCTUM GUAIACI COMPOSITUM. E. Commonly called _Decoction of woods._
This decoction has fallen into disuse, and deservedly, for it can
possess but little power, except, as a diluent, or demulcent; the water
takes up from the guaiacum only a small portion of extractive matter,
and the virtues of sassafras, if any, must be dissipated. DOSE, f℥ss to
f℥j.
DECOCTUM HORDEI COMPOSITUM.[490] An elegant and useful demulcent, with
an aperient tendency.
DECOCTUM SARSAPARILLÆ COMPOSITUM. L.D. This decoction, which is an
imitation of the once celebrated _Lisbon Diet Drink_,[491] differs
materially from the _Decoct: Guaiaci comp:_ from the addition of the
mezereon root, which renders it diaphoretic and alterative, and useful
in the treatment of secondary syphilis, and chronic rheumatism. DOSE,
from f℥iv to f℥vj three or four times a day.