Scilla. Scilla maritima.

Synonym—Squill

CONSTITUENTS—

Scillitin, skalein, calcium oxalate, sinestrin, scillipicrin, scillitoxin, scillin.

PREPARATIONS—

Acetum Scillae, Vinegar of Squills. Dose, from five to thirty minims.

Extractum Scillae Fluidum, Fluid Extract of Squills. Dose, from one to five minims.

Syrupus Scillae, Syrup of Squills. Dose, from half an ounce to two ounces.

Therapy—This agent is best known for its action upon the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. It increases expectoration and is actively nauseating.

For this effect it is given in severe bronchial coughs without secretion, in dry, harsh irritating coughs, the sputum scanty and tenacious. It has a soothing influence over bronchial irritation.

Squill is an active diuretic. Given in non-inflammatory conditions where there is lack of tone, reflection of the mucous membrane, with debility, it stimulates the entire urinary structures. It has long been given in dropsy for the removal of the fluid, its action being prompt and efficient, partly because it stimulates the action of the heart, improves the circulation and strengthens the pulse.

It may be given in conjunction with apocynum, digitalis or crataegus, with all of which it acts harmoniously.

The American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy, 1919, was written by Finley Ellingwood, M.D.
It was scanned by Michael Moore for the Southwest School of Botanical Medicine.