Linimentum Aconiti.—Aconite Liniment.
Related entry: Aconitum (U. S. P.)—Aconite
SYNONYM: Linimentum aconiti radicis.
Preparation.—Take of aconite root, in powder, 4 ounces; glycerin, 2 fluid drachms; alcohol, a sufficient quantity. Macerate the aconite with ½ pint of alcohol for 24 hours, then pack it in a small percolator, and add alcohol gradually until a pint of tincture has passed. Distill off 12 fluid ounces, and evaporate the residue until it measures 12 fluid drachms. To this add alcohol, 2 fluid drachms, and the glycerin, and mix them. This preparation was offered by W. Procter, Jr., as a substitute for aconitine as an external anaesthetic application. It is twice the strength of the root, and is exceedingly active. The glycerin is added for the purpose of retarding evaporation after application of the liniment to the skin, and which may be further secured by using oiled silk.
Aconite liniment, based on Procter's formula, was official in the U. S. P., 1870. A similar liniment may be prepared by mixing together ½ fluid ounce of glycerine with 4 fluid ounces of fluid extract of aconite root. Evaporate to 4 fluid ounces.
Action and Medical Uses.—This liniment may be used in all cases in which aconitine would prove useful, as in gout, neuralgia, and rheumatism. It is to be used as follows: Cut a piece of lint or muslin of the size and form of the part to be treated, lay it on a plate or waiter, and by means of a camel's hair brush, saturate it with the liniment. Thus prepared, it should be applied to the surface, a piece of oiled silk laid over and kept in place by an adhesive edge, or by a bandage. Care should be taken not to apply it to an abraded surface, and in its use the patient should be informed of its character, and avoid bringing it in contact with the eyes, nostrils, or lips.
