Unguentum Cetacei.—Ointment of Spermaceti.
Botanical name:
Related entry: Cetaceum (U. S. P.)—Spermaceti
Preparation.—"Take of spermaceti, 200 parts by weight; white beeswax, 80 parts; almond oil, 720 parts; benzoin, in coarse powder, 20 parts. Melt together the spermaceti, beeswax and almond oil; add the benzoin, and, frequently stirring the mixture, continue the application of heat for 2 hours; remove from the source of heat, strain, and stir the ointment constantly until cold"—(Br. Pharm., 1898).
Action and Medical Uses.—This is a mild emollient ointment, employed as a dressing for excoriations, wounds, vesicated surfaces, etc. Owing to its disposition to rancidity, but a small quantity should be prepared at a time. This change is retarded somewhat by the benzoin.
