_Ferrum Ammoniacale, P.L._ 1787. _Flores Martiales._
_P.L._ 1745. _Ens Veneris. P.L._ 1720.
QUALITIES. _Form_, crystalline grains, which deliquesce; _Colour_,
orange yellow; _Odour_, resembling that of saffron; _Taste_, styptic.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION. This is very variable; depending upon the degree
of heat and length of time employed for its preparation. It seems to be
a mixed mass, consisting of sub-muriate of ammonia and sub-muriate of
iron, the metal being in the state of red oxide; and, Mr. Phillips
states that in the London preparation a portion of sub-carbonate of
ammonia is necessarily present. The same chemist has also shewn that the
proportion of Peroxide of iron in 200 grains is not more than three
grains. Its equivalents will be seen in the Medicinal Dynameter.
SOLUBILITY, f℥j of water dissolves ʒiv of it; it is also very soluble in
alcohol. INCOMPATIBLE SUBSTANCES. _The Alkalies, and their Carbonates_;
_Lime water_, and _Astringent vegetables_. MEDICINAL USES. It is tonic,
emmenagogue, and aperient, but it is so uncertain in its composition and
effects that it is rarely used. OFFICINAL PREP: _Tinct: Ferri Ammon:_ L.
_Form: 36, 43, 95._ IMPURITIES. These are indicated by the dull and pale
yellow colour of the salt; it may be purified by resubliming it.