Decoctum Aloes Compositum (N. F.)—Compound Decoction of Aloes.
Related entry: Aloe.—Aloes
Preparation.—Formulary number, 29: "Extract of aloes (U. S. P.), ten grammes (10 Gm.) [154 grs]; myrrh, seven and one-half grammes (7.5 Gm.) [115 grs.]; saffron, seven and one-half grammes (7.5 Gm.) [115 grs.]; potassium carbonate, five grammes (5 Gm.) [77 grs.]; extract of glycyrrhiza, in powder, thirty-five grammes (35 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 102 grs.]; compound tincture of cardamom (U. S. P.), two hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (250 Cc.) [8 f1℥, 218♏︎]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 f1℥, 391♏︎]. Reduce the myrrh and extract of aloes to a coarse powder, mix this with the potassium carbonate and extract of liquorice in a suitable covered vessel, and pour on six hundred cubic centimeters (600 Cc.) [20 fl℥, 138♏︎] of water; boil for 5 minutes and add the saffron. When cool, add the compound tincture of cardamom, and allow the mixture to macerate for 2 hours; then filter through flannel and add enough water to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl℥, 391♏︎]. This preparation should be freshly made when wanted for use"—(Nat. Form.).
This decoction contains the same ingredients, and varies but little in proportions from that official in the British Pharmacopoeia.
Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Compound decoction of aloes is employed like compound tincture of aloes and myrrh, though the decoction is less stimulating. A gentle cathartic and emmenagogue for atonic states, as constipation and amenorrhoea. Dose, ½ to 2 fluid ounces.
