616. Oleum Morrhuae.—Cod-liver Oil.
616. OLEUM MORRHUAE.—COD-LIVER OIL. A fixed oil obtained from the fresh livers of Ga'dus mor'rhua Linné, or of other species of Gadus (class, Pisces; order, teleostei; family, Gadidae). For tests see U.S.P. Description: A pale yellow thin oily liquid. Peculiar, rancid odor; bland, fishy taste. Specific gravity at 15°C. (59°F.) 0.922 to 0.927. Should be kept in dry, well-stoppered bottles. Constituents: Chiefly olein, palmitin, and stearin. The oil also contains dissolved in it minute quantities of the halogen elements, iodine, bromine, and chlorine, with phosphorus and sulphur. A peculiar substance named gaduin is also claimed to have been found. A crystalline substance, morrhuol, a compound body containing phosphorus, iodine, and bromine, is also said to be among the "active principles" of cod-liver oil. Action and Uses: A nutritive agent, generally of easy assimilation. It has long been used as a stimulant and alterative in rheumatic and strumous diseases. In pulmonary consumption it has for a long time enjoyed a great reputation. Dose: a tablespoonful (½ fl. oz.) three or four times a day.
